An Understated Dominance - Chapter 72
Dustin was shocked by Dahlia’s hurtful words and angry outburst. Tears mixed with the wine on his cheeks and fell to the ground. He felt utterly miserable. It seemed he had been foolish to think their relationship had improved. In reality, it was clear there was nothing left between them.
“What? You think I’m just accusing him for no reason?” Dustin asked, his brows furrowed as he glared at Dahlia. “Do you really see me as such a terrible person?”
“Yes!” Dahlia shouted before she could stop herself. Instantly, she felt a pang of regret but knew she wouldn’t take it back. Her pride wouldn’t let her.
“Finally! You’ve said what you really think of me,” Dustin replied, disappointment clear on his face as he forced a smile. “I must have crossed a line. Who would have guessed that after all these years, you still have feelings for Matt?”
“What nonsense are you talking about?” Dahlia frowned, feeling defensive.
“Am I wrong? You promised you wouldn’t contact him again, yet here you are, enjoying wine with him. Isn’t that a bit hypocritical?”
Dahlia opened her mouth to defend herself, but Dustin cut her off.
“Maybe you’re not even worried about Matt drugging your drink. In fact, maybe you wanted him to do it so you could have an excuse to be together again. Am I right?”
Dahlia was taken aback by his words. She felt a mix of disbelief, disappointment, and regret. She never thought Dustin would think so poorly of her. After three years of marriage, it was clear there was no trust left between them.
“Dustin! I can’t believe you!” she said through gritted teeth. As she turned to leave, she struggled to keep her emotions in check.
Dustin stood frozen in place, feeling both anger and hurt.
At that moment, Matt approached with a smirk that replaced his earlier charming smile.
“Dustin, you were right about everything. I secretly spiked Dahlia’s drink and drank her wine to cover my tracks. I already took the antidote beforehand,” Matt whispered coldly in Dustin’s ear.
“Honestly, it doesn’t matter. Who would believe you now? Dahlia is in love with me, and she will back me up. Nothing you say will change that. What’s the matter? Are you angry and frustrated? Too bad for you; your hands are tied. Thanks to you, my bond with Dahlia has only grown stronger. I’m sure she’ll fall for me and come to my bed willingly. But don’t worry, once I’m bored with her, I’ll hand her back to you,” Matt said, laughing maliciously.
His true nature was finally showing. Compared to the gentleman he pretended to be earlier, this side of him was cruel and snake-like.
Chapter 72
Dustin was furious. He cracked his knuckles, trying to keep himself from punching Matt as he walked away. It was clear that Dahlia still had feelings for Matt. Even though Dustin meant well, Dahlia didn’t need his help. His interference would only make things worse, and it frustrated him to see their relationship.
Just then, Natasha and Duane came out of their booth.
“Mr. Rhys, what happened?” Natasha asked.
“Forget it. I was just meddling in things that aren’t my business,” Dustin replied sarcastically.
“Matt is known for causing trouble and creating chaos. Don’t let him get to you,” Duane said.
“The real issue isn’t Matt; it’s Dahlia,” Dustin said, shaking his head. He knew it wouldn’t help to dwell on it.
Duane looked at Dustin and said, “Don’t get too caught up over a woman! It’s not worth it. There are plenty of women out there. As long as you have money, they will come to you. Now, let’s focus on business.”
“What business?” Dustin asked, tilting his head in confusion.
Duane grinned, “It’s about the Gemiphen! I’ve tried the miracle pill myself. Just one pill could be worth a fortune! You need herbs, so why don’t we team up? I’ll handle the business side if you give me the prescription. We can split the profits evenly. What do you think?”
Dustin shook his head. “I’m not changing my mind. I’m okay with helping you, but I want some rare herbs in exchange for the prescription. Otherwise, it’s a no.”
Duane looked frustrated. “It’s going to take time for me to get the herbs you want. Can’t you be a bit more flexible?”
Dustin stood firm. “Let’s discuss this after you have the herbs.”
Duane frowned at Dustin’s stubbornness. This young man was as hard-headed as they come. Duane had hoped to start a partnership easily, but it wasn’t going as planned. He knew he might need some clever strategies.
Just then, a bodyguard in a suit rushed into the restaurant. “Ms. Harmon! There’s bad news!” he exclaimed.
Natasha looked up, startled. “What is it?”
“It’s Ms. Ruth! She has been kidnapped!” the bodyguard replied urgently.
“What did you say?” Natasha’s face darkened. “Didn’t I tell you to protect her at all costs? How could this happen?”
“We were watching her closely,” the bodyguard explained. “But Ms. Ruth slipped away to a private party. By the time we got there, she was gone!”
“Do you know who’s behind this?” Natasha asked, her brow furrowed. “It might be Sir Hummer. The kidnappers left a ransom note telling Mr. Rhys and you to meet at Hummer Villa.”
“Edwin?” Natasha clenched her teeth in anger. How could he put her family in danger? He had gone too far with his constant provocations, and it was time to teach him a lesson!
“Contact the Harmon family. I need some strong fighters to back me up! If Edwin wants a challenge, I’ll make sure he gets one!”