An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Chapter 2

In the elevator, Dustin stared at the crystal necklace dejectedly. Even though he had expected it, he was still sad that his marriage had ended just like that. He had once thought that happiness was simple: meals on the table, cheerful days, and simple pleasures. Now, he found out that normalcy was a sin. It was time to awaken from this prolonged daydream.

Suddenly, his phone rang, breaking him out of his trance. When he picked up the phone, a familiar voice came from the other end.

“Mr. Rhys, I’m Hunter Anderson from the Swinton Group. I heard that today your wedding anniversary with Ms. Nicholson, so I’ve prepared a gift for you. I’m just wondering if you have any time today?”

“Thank you for your kindness, but I’m afraid we won’t be needing the gift,” Dustin said.

“Why?”

Hunter was taken aback. He could sense something wrong.

“Is there anything else you’d like to talk about, Mr. Anderson?”

“Actually, yes, there is.” Hunter cleared his throat awkwardly. “I’ve got a friend who contracted a strange illness. He’s seen a lot of doctors, but none of them could do anything about it. I was hoping that you could help.”

“Mr. Anderson, you know my rules.”

“Of course I do! I’m sincere in my request. My friend owns some canscora, which I remember you were looking for. I’m sure he’ll be willing to part with it if you help him,” Hunter said.

“Is this true?” Dustin asked seriously.

“Yes, it is!”

“Alright, if that’s so, then I’ll be willing to take a look.” Dustin immediately agreed to the request.

He wasn’t interested in money or jewels, but rather some rare herbs and plants, as he needed them to save lives.

“Thank you, Mr. Rhys! I’ll send someone to pick you up immediately!” Hunter smiled in relief.

As the president of the Swinton Group and one of the Mighty Three of Swinton, Hunter acted exceptionally timid in front of Dustin.

“Great, one more down, five to go. I should have enough time,” Dustin muttered to himself. His mood was lifted a little by this news.

building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him. It was

James, why are

and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence

a forced smile. “It’s not Dahlia’s fault, it’s mine. Don’t blame

on a pleasant note. However, hearing this, Florence snorted

it’s your problem. I know my daughter well. If

What

three years. I’m pretty sure I’m

snorted again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself. She’s clearly out

think you’re going too

the Nicholson family three years ago, they wouldn’t be where they

far? So what if I am? Am I not speaking the truth?” Florence crossed

I don’t care whether you divorce

money?” Dustin was

I know that my sister gave

have no right to take it! Give it back!” Florence stretched

didn’t take any money from her,” Dustin

pass on eight million dollars? Do you take us as

better be tactful and give us the money. Don’t make me angry!”

Dahlia and ask her if you don’t believe me.” Dustin

matter how much you beg, I’m not letting you leave with a

dense for this. Let’s just search his pockets!” James said impatiently. He

Florence followed suit.

you have to

family so soon after

the ground in

Mom? Watch your mouth. Who do you think you are?” As

didn’t find what they

did he really not take any of the money?” James said,

he spied the crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace

this my sister’s necklace? Why is it with you? Did you steal it?”