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.

didn’t bother with subtlety. He slapped a hand on Nathaniel’s shoulder and dragged him out. Whatever Nathaniel had planned to say died on his

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

and Matthias were on the same page. They needed to get

Nathaniel’s shoulder, Matthias steered him out of the Ballard

grinned, all easy charm, while

“Matthias, that’s enough.”

Matthias’ hand. He snapped, “You’re the one who wanted to leave.

the Ballards are in mourning. This isn’t the time to push your agenda. People

Who knows what you’re really

said earlier. He just lost his son and is in no shape to handle

me how’s what you’re doing any different from what I

playing the politeness game. None of them had good intentions.

to

try to hide his irritation. “Whether I do or

of his sleeve, he turned and walked

worse by the day. It wouldn’t be long before he named a successor. The power struggle between the three princes was already out in

of the princes succeeded, he’d claim the

to give everything they had and play

Nathaniel’s figure disappeared into the distance, Tristan muttered, “Among the three of us, he’s always been the one