An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Chapter 31

Dustin drove over to the Nicholsons‘ home at noon. The villa was in a secluded neighborhood, with flowers and hedges decorating the front yard.

Dahlia was right outside. Dustin tried to avoid her but was still spotted.

“Stop right there! I need to talk to you!”

“What is it?” Dustin asked. Their backs were to each other as they spoke.

“I haven’t told Granddad about our divorce because of his condition.”

“Do you think we can keep him from finding out?”

“I’ll find a chance to tell him after, just not today.”

“Alright. Anything else?”

“Nope.” Dahlia turned and went inside the house without another word.

never once looked at each other, acting like complete strangers.

breath and went in as well, wine in hand. The living room was filled with people, including most of the

absent, still

was sitting in his usual seat this time, an outsider

rude to have us elders wait on him like this,” Florence

mean.

He hadn’t let go of what had happened yesterday. The bruises were still visible on his face.

have dinner.” Henry Nicholson announced, beaming at

Dustin smiled in return and helped the old man to his seat.

eyes burning

doted on Dustin. James was

let us all drink!”

wine. “Chris brought this beautiful wine over, a fine Grand Cru from La Romanee Conti. We

this!”

a really expensive vintner,

it is. It was 100 thousand dollars a bottle!”

dollars a bottle?!” everyone

been way beyond

even they hadn’t had a chance to try