An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“I see,” Dustin muttered as his gaze fixed on the chessboard.

He nodded and said, “You’ve helped me tonight. That puts me in your debt. If you ever need anything, just say the word.”

Dustin lived by one rule-return what was given, whether kindness or vengeance.

Felicia hadn’t exposed him earlier. She had even covered for him. That was a debt he intended to repay.

“Mr. Rhys, you truly are a man of principle. I admire that,” she said.

She dipped her head with a playful smile, and that gesture carried an elegant charm.

“But I’m still curious about what brought you here tonight. Did you already suspect me?” Dustin asked.

“Anyone who wants to get close to Nathaniel usually wants one of three things -power, fame, or money. I can see it in their eyes, but you’re different,” Felicia said with a smile.

She continued, “You came here and offered the Dracan essence, but didn’t ask for a title or recognition. You even turned down the company of women, which only makes me suspect you have another motive. Of course, that’s just my suspicion.

“Tonight, though, was purely a coincidence. I came here to learn how to play chess, but you weren’t in the courtyard. It wasn’t until the commotion started that I finally understood what you were truly after.”

“Ms. Thorns, you’re sharper than I gave you credit for.”

Dustin had first thought Felicia was just another pretty face with little to offer. But then, he realized she was much more intriguing and capable than he’d imagined.

she replied. ” Still, you should be careful. Nathaniel

no evidence, he can’t do anything to me,” he

Nathaniel couldn’t act on any suspicions.

what you’re doing, that’s all that matters. It’s getting late, so

slight nod, she

Nathaniel stood in the center of

him, Lycas and Bryce were reporting the

Highness, we’ve searched the mansion three times. We even combed through the pond carefully, but still didn’t find any trace of that thief. Perhaps the thief… has managed

could continue

ordered the mansion sealed off before the secret chamber was breached. Even if that thief grew wings,

his waist. It was a gift from Valon. But at that moment, it felt less like a symbol

right, Your Highness. The thief might still be

for a response, he rallied the exhausted guards and led them toward a secluded storage

again would be pointless. If the thief had managed to enter the mansion without a sound, they

Nathaniel in a foul mood, he knew arguing wasn’t an option. All he could do was carry out the

rising sun, Nathaniel’s face darkened as he headed toward

knew catching the thief seemed unlikely for the time being. His biggest worry now was how much of the treasure

theft or damage to them

started with shovels

through the night. By dawn, they had barely uncovered the outline of the chamber’s ceiling. Excavating the entire