An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2469

Huxley’s words.”

Austin looked at Huxley, trying to gauge his sincerity. “But you were involved in the argument, weren’t you?”

“Yes, but it was just a heated discussion. We didn’t mean any harm,” Huxley insisted.

Axel observed quietly, sensing the tension in the room.

“Tell me more about this argument,” Austin pressed, taking a sip of tea.

Huxley hesitated for a moment. “Jovian was upset about something. We tried to talk it out, but he left in a hurry. I thought he just needed some space.”

“And you didn’t follow him?” Austin asked, raising an eyebrow.

“No, Your Highness. I stayed back with my family,” Huxley replied, looking earnest.

Austin leaned back in his chair, contemplating Huxley’s words. “If what you’re saying is true, then something might have happened after you parted ways.”

Huxley nodded slowly. “That’s what I fear too. I wish I could have done more.”

“Very well,” Austin said, folding his hands. “I’ll need to speak with your family to confirm your story. In the meantime, I want you to stay close. If anything comes to light, I will expect your full cooperation.”

“Of course, Your Highness,” Huxley said, relief washing over him.

Axel motioned for Huxley to leave, and as he walked out, Austin remained deep in thought, the mystery of Jovian’s disappearance weighing heavily on him.

Austin looked at Axel with a cold smile. “Mr. Thatcher, we both know better than to play games with each other. Don’t try to fool me.”

He continued, “I’ll give you one last chance. If you confess and admit your mistake, I will spare you. But if you keep denying it, you will only bring trouble to yourself and your family.”

Huxley, with his head bowed, replied humbly, “Your Highness, I have always been dedicated to serving West Lucozia and the royal family. I believe I’ve done nothing wrong. Please, I ask you to investigate this matter thoroughly.”

Austin’s tone remained cold as he responded, “Don’t worry, I plan to investigate thoroughly. I offered you a chance, and you refused it. There is nothing more to discuss. Axel, take him away.”

“Sir Thatcher, this way,” Axel said quietly as he led Huxley out of the meeting room.

As they walked back, Huxley frowned, feeling anxious. He could sense that Austin was truly angry this time. If any evidence was found against him, the results could be severe—he could lose his job or, worse, face execution.

Even though Huxley had worked closely with Warrick to cover their tracks, he couldn’t shake the feeling of guilt. Now, all he could do was hope that Austin found nothing and that the issue would eventually fade away.

After dropping Huxley off at Room A2, Axel returned to the meeting room.

Austin was deep in thought, holding his teacup. He suspected that Warrick and Huxley were working together, which explained their confidence in escaping punishment.

With their skills and resources, they could eliminate any evidence if they decided to harm someone. Even if the enforcement team was called in, it would be almost impossible to find solid proof.

Austin realized he needed a different strategy.

“Axel, release them,” he suddenly said after a long silence.

“Release them?” Axel asked, looking puzzled. “Your Highness,

“They’re the main suspects. Why let them go?”

“Without evidence, we can’t do anything right now. It’s better to release them and try a different method to get them to reveal something,” Austin replied.

Axel furrowed his brow. “What do you mean by ‘reveal something’?” he asked, struggling to keep up with Austin’s thoughts.

“Just do as I say,” Austin said firmly. “I won’t just let them go. I’m going to invite them to a grand feast. Let me explain how it will work.”

Austin motioned for Axel to come closer, and Axel leaned in eagerly.

After a few whispered instructions, Axel’s eyes brightened. He quickly grasped the plan, and his expression changed from confusion to admiration.

“That’s a brilliant idea! I would never have thought of that. You’re a genius, Your Highness,” he said excitedly.

“Enough with the compliments. Get to work,” Austin urged.

“Don’t worry, Your Highness. I’ll make sure everything is perfect. I won’t let you down,” Axel promised before rushing out of the room.

Austin took a sip of his tea and gazed at the setting sun outside the window.

He softly said, “Good advice doesn’t change a stubborn fool. I gave you a chance to confess, but you didn’t take it. This time, don’t blame me for making an example of you.”