An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

Tristan, Matthias, and Nathaniel weren’t fools. They understood the unspoken message loud and clear.

Their purpose for this trip was to take advantage of the opportunity to offer their condolences and win the Ballard family’s support. Should it work, all the better. If not, they’d at least make a good impression.

The key was that as long as the Ballard family didn’t pick a side or turn against them, there was still room to make things work. No need to rush into anything.

Tristan spoke first. “You’re being too kind, Duke of Lachshire. We’ve always admired Mr. Jovian’s loyalty and courage. We’re simply here to pay our respects-nothing more.”

Matthias added, “That’s right. Your family has a lot to deal with right now. Plus, you’re not as young as you used to be, so don’t wear yourself out over this. We won’t take up more of your time today.”

He gave a respectful nod, then turned to leave.

“Duke-”

Nathaniel opened his mouth to speak, but Tristan interrupted. “That’s enough, Nathaniel. The Duke is tired, so let’s not overstay our welcome. Let’s go,” he said.

There was no way he’d let Nathaniel keep talking. His brother could talk a mile a minute, so smooth with words that he’d probably raise the dead to join his cause. Give him another minute, and he’d have the Ballards on his side for the throne.

If Tristan couldn’t secure the Ballards’ support, he naturally wouldn’t let Nathaniel have a shot at it.

“Come on. I’ve got something to tell you. Let’s talk outside.” Matthias said.

hand on Nathaniel’s shoulder and dragged him out. Whatever Nathaniel had planned to

please accept our condolences. We’ll take our leave now,” Tristan said with a nod before following the others out of the mourning

same page. They needed to get Nathaniel to

his hand still planted on Nathaniel’s shoulder, Matthias steered him out of the

while Nathaniel’s face was twisted

“Matthias, that’s enough.”

second they stepped outside, Nathaniel shrugged off Matthias’ hand. He snapped, “You’re

to push your agenda. People are already

knows what you’re really up to?” Nathaniel

just lost his son and is in no shape to handle political matters. Why

“Fair. But tell me how’s what you’re

None of them had good intentions. And none of them had any right to call

want to see you go down the wrong

to hide his irritation. “Whether I do or not is

flick of his sleeve, he turned and walked away without

before he named

power, and the other to destruction. If one of the princes succeeded, he’d claim the throne

They had to give everything they had and play as dirty as

the three of us, he’s always been the