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.

subtlety. He slapped a hand on Nathaniel’s shoulder and

Lachshire, please accept our condolences. We’ll take our leave now,” Tristan said with a nod before

on the same page. They needed to get Nathaniel to shut up before he

his hand still planted on Nathaniel’s shoulder,

grinned, all easy charm, while Nathaniel’s face was twisted with

“Matthias, that’s enough.”

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

to push your agenda. People are already

you’re really up to?”

heard what the Duke of Lachshire said earlier. He just lost his son and is in no shape

you’re doing

of them had good intentions. And none of them had any

calmly. “I just don’t want to

irritation. “Whether I

of his sleeve, he turned and walked away without another

long before he named a successor. The power struggle between the three

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

of them could afford to hold back now. They had to give everything they had and

Tristan muttered, “Among the three of us, he’s