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.

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

are you here?”

Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did not waste

gave her a forced smile. “It’s not

intended to end his marriage on a pleasant note. However, hearing this, Florence

daughter well. If

stunned. What was

know how I’ve treated her over the past three years. I’m pretty

behind our backs?” Florence snorted again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself.

don’t you think you’re going

Nicholson family three years ago, they wouldn’t be

I am? Am I not speaking the truth?” Florence

Mom, stop wasting time with him.” Suddenly, James stepped forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you

money?” Dustin was

gave

take

take any money

million dollars? Do you take

and give us the money. Don’t make me

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

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

search his pockets!” James said impatiently. He dove straight

Florence followed suit.

have to do this?” Dustin

by the Nicholson family so soon after

the

Mom? Watch your mouth. Who do you think you are?” As she spoke, she continued searching

find what they wanted from

not take any of the money?” James

around Dustin’s necklace and pulled it off

it with you? Did you steal