An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2547

“But… I still can’t accept this,” Nathaniel said, his jaw tightening as fury burned in his eyes.

He had been just one step away from success—so why would Valon interfere now, of all times?

Did this mean his father had never truly intended to name him crown prince? Had all those years of apparent favoritism been nothing more than a performance?

“If you truly want to achieve something great, you must learn patience. You can’t afford to rush,” Cynthia said firmly.

She continued, “A single setback doesn’t mark the end, and a few lost treasures aren’t worth fretting over. As long as you’re still standing, there will always be another opportunity. I’ll support you—and so will the Spanner family.”

Nathaniel’s expression finally softened.

Even without the Dracan essence to solidify his claim to the throne, he still had his mother, the Spanner family’s backing, and the powerful network he had spent years cultivating. With that, he was more than capable of challenging Matthias and Tristan.

“What’s done is done. Don’t dwell on it,” Cynthia advised. “Logan has great potential, and there’s a real chance he may be named the next Prince of West Lucozia. Your father holds him in high regard.

“Even if he’s crossed you, you must act as though nothing happened—for the greater good. Show goodwill. Try to win him over. Tolerance is an essential trait for any crown prince.”

Nathaniel took a deep breath to calm himself, then gave a steady nod. “I understand, Mother. Thank you for your guidance. I know what I must do now.”

“You’ve always been clever,” Cynthia said with a faint smile. “With effort and the right mindset, there’s nothing you can’t achieve.”

Her son had everything—wisdom, strength, and exceptional talent. His only shortcoming was his lack of tolerance. If he could overcome that, his path to the throne would become much clearer.

The following morning, Nathaniel brought Felicia with him to visit Dustin. Unlike the day before, his expression was no longer stormy. His face now wore a bright, warm smile.

He strode briskly into the courtyard, and upon seeing Dustin, bowed respectfully and said, “Logan, I owe you an apology for my behavior yesterday. I hope you won’t hold it against me.”

Dustin, caught off guard, quickly set his book aside and stepped forward, puzzled.

“Your Highness, what’s this about? I assumed your actions were for the security of your estate. I couldn’t possibly hold a grudge.”

Nathaniel straightened and met his gaze with sincerity. With a sigh, he said, “I acted rashly and nearly made a serious mistake. That’s why I’ve come today to offer my apology and ask for your forgiveness.”

He then motioned for Felicia to step forward and added, “I’ve brought Felicia along as well. I know she’s quite capable. If she stays with you, she could provide good company.”

Dustin quickly raised his hands in refusal. “Your Highness, I can’t accept this. Ms. Thorns is your consultant—I wouldn’t dare take someone so important from you.”

His confusion deepened. Just yesterday, Nathaniel had looked ready to kill him. What could have caused such a drastic change? Was there an ulterior motive?

“No need to be so modest,” Nathaniel said with a grin. “I have plenty of talented people around me. Her absence won’t matter much. But if she serves you, her skills might finally be used to their full potential.”

With that, he gently nudged Felicia forward, his smile widening even more.
She kept her head lowered, gripping the hem of her sleeve so tightly her knuckles turned white.

Felicia cautiously raised her gaze, casting a pleading look at Dustin. Her eyes shimmered with a mix of hope and anxiety, silently begging for a chance to escape the life she no longer wanted.

Dustin’s heart softened at the vulnerability in her expression. Remembering how she had helped him before, he gave a reluctant nod.

“If Your Highness insists, it would be rude of me to refuse,” he said.

Nathaniel let out a hearty laugh. “Excellent! I knew you’d agree. If you ever need anything, just say the word—I’ll do whatever I can to assist.”

Dustin maintained a neutral expression, but his suspicions only deepened.

He had expected Nathaniel to be resentful over the stolen treasure, maybe even seek retribution. Instead, not only had he let it go, he’d gone so far as to offer Felicia as a gesture of goodwill. Something didn’t add up.

“I’ll take my leave, then. Treat Ms. Thorns well,” Nathaniel said with a courteous nod before departing with his entourage.

Once they were gone, Dustin turned to Felicia and murmured, “What’s going on with him?”

“I’m not sure,” she replied, shaking her head. “He dragged me here early this morning to apologize and insisted I come with him to meet you.”

“Is this some kind of honey trap?” Dustin asked, narrowing his eyes.

He couldn’t make sense of it. Maybe Nathaniel was trying to do him a favor—assuming, after last night, that he had some interest in Felicia?

“Whatever he’s planning, this arrangement doesn’t seem so bad for either of us,” Felicia said with a sly smile.

If Dustin accepted her, her status would rise instantly—no more forced smiles or daily humiliation. And even if he didn’t, she had earned her freedom.

With the wealth she’d saved, she could now live the rest of her life in comfort.