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.

at each other, acting like

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

John, Dahlia’s father, was absent, still

sitting in his usual seat this time,

elders wait on him like this,” Florence jeered,

mean.

might get upset and hurt you!” James chirped loudly. He hadn’t let go of what had happened yesterday. The bruises were still

that everyone’s here, let’s have dinner.” Henry Nicholson announced, beaming at Dustin. “Come and sit beside

in return and helped the old man

scowled, his eyes burning with jealousy.

his grandfather doted on Dustin. James was the old

all

James pulled up a decorated box of wine. “Chris brought this beautiful wine over, a fine Grand Cru from La Romanee Conti. We

this!”

Conti? That’s a

100 thousand dollars a

thousand dollars a bottle?!” everyone exclaimed

way beyond their expectations.

they hadn’t had a chance