An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 1538

"What are you doing, Mr. Shaffer? There is no need for such formalities! Please get up!" Dustin quickly helped Cinna up from his knees.

"Your Highness, it was my mistake for failing to protect you and the Princess Consort. I am ready to receive my punishment!" Tears rolled down Cinna's face.

"Mr. Shaffer, what are you saying? Had you not risked your life to save me back then, I wouldn't be standing here now!" Dustin consoled him.

"All of our friends in Valiant Troop are now dead. I'm the only one left. I have failed the Prince and the Princess Consort. I have failed all of you!" Cinna choked up.

“Mr. Shaffer, there is no need to blame yourself for what happened. You did your best, and I'm glad to see that you're still alive.

"I was the one who brought all the trouble upon all of you. I'm the one to be blamed.

"Had it not been for me, you would not have laid unconscious for ten years.

"Had it not been for me, our friends in Valiant Troop would not have died. I am the one who should be apologizing to all of you!" Dustin's eyes welled up with tears.

Memories of the incident all those years back were still vivid in his mind.

He had seen with his own eyes how his friends and guards had collapsed in pools of their own blood just to protect him. They had been so courageous and resolute.

He had always remembered the names and faces of each and every one of them.

"You are a royal, Your Highness, and we are your people. It only makes sense for us to die protecting royalties.

"None of our friends who have been sacrificed have died in vain as long as you are well and alive." Cinna wiped away his tears.

"What is this talk about royalties and commoners? That's nonsense! You are all my family and friends. None of you should have died for me. I owe my life to all of you!" Dustin looked guilty at him.

"With your words, I believe our fallen friends must feel at peace even in death." Cinna smiled through tears.

Though it had been a decade since they met, they had changed a lot, but their relationship remained unchanged.

"Mr. Shaffer, this might not be the best time, but I'd like to ask, what exactly happened back then? Who is the main perpetrator behind it all?" Dustin's expression became stern.

"Well …" Cinna hesitated when he heard Dustin's question. A while later, he sighed.