An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel 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. 

With a ding, the elevator doors opened. As soon as he stepped out of the building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him. It was Dahlia’s mother, Florence Franklin, and her brother, James Nicholson. 

“Mom, James, why are you here?” Dustin greeted. 

“Did you and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did not waste any breath. 

“Yes, we did.” Dustin gave her a forced smile. “It’s not Dahlia’s fault, it’s mine. Don’t blame her.” 

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

“Of course it’s your problem. I know my daughter well. If you hadn’t done anything wrong, why would she divorce you?” 

Dustin was stunned. What was this? Victim blaming? 

“Mom, you know how I’ve treated her over the past three years. I’m pretty sure I’m never done anything to betray Dahlia’s trust in me,” Dustin said. 

“Who knows what you’ve done behind our backs?” Florence snorted again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself. She’s clearly out of your league!” 

“Mom, don’t you think you’re going too far?” Dustin frowned. 

If he hadn’t helped the Nicholson family three years ago, they wouldn’t be where they were today. 

“Too far? So what if I am? Am I not speaking the truth?” Florence crossed her arms. 

“That’s enough, Mom, stop wasting time with him.” Suddenly, James stepped forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you divorce my sister or not, but you’re giving me all the money you got from her.” 

“Money? What money?” Dustin was flabbergasted. 

“Stop feigning ignorance! I know that my sister gave you eight million dollars as alimony!” James said coldly. 

“That’s right! That’s my daughter’s money. You have no right to take it! Give it back!” Florence stretched out her hand in demand.