An Understated Dominance - Chapter 9

“What?” Dustin’s face went blank. He never expected Natasha to say something like that. When he looked at her closely, he saw her beauty was different from Dahlia’s. Natasha was alluring like a goddess, and her smile could take anyone’s breath away. She had a natural charm that captivated men effortlessly.

“Why are you so surprised? I’m just joking,” Natasha said, laughing heartily, her laughter making it hard for Dustin to look away from her curves. The more he stared, the harder it was not to admire her figure.

“Mr. Rhys, back to the matter at hand. I need another favor from you,” Natasha said, her tone turning serious.

“What is it?” Dustin asked.

“All my bodyguards are at the hospital, so I have no one to protect me. Given the recent incident, no one knows when the next attack might happen. I hope you can be my bodyguard and protect me around the clock,” Natasha said earnestly.

“Personal bodyguard?” Dustin raised his eyebrows. “Ms. Harmon, wouldn’t it be safer for you to stay somewhere secure?”

“That’s not possible, Mr. Rhys. The Harmon family is hosting a charity dinner tonight, and as the main organizer, I must be there. What if someone shows up and causes trouble? A person like me would be helpless. Plus, who would bring you the canscora if something happened to me?” Natasha blinked innocently.

“Well…” Dustin hesitated for a moment but then nodded. “Alright, I’ll protect you.”

Although it was a hassle, he felt he had to do it for the canscora. Nothing could go wrong until he got the herb.

“Thank you so much, Mr. Rhys.” Natasha flashed him a sly smile. Honestly, she was more interested in having him as her bodyguard than in the protection itself.

…

It was the

It was evening at the Mirage, the most popular club in Swinton. The building was as big as a hotel and had a Victorian design with gabled roofs, large bay windows, and beautiful sculptures. Inside, it was just as grand, filled with elegance and charm. Outside, the club was surrounded by beautiful gardens, vineyards, and even a man-made lake.

A black Benz pulled up to the entrance of the Mirage, and a stunning woman in a black evening gown stepped out. She had flawless skin and long legs that seemed to go on forever. Her striking features and graceful movements caught everyone’s attention. As she walked in, it was clear she outshone all the other women around her.

“Wow, what a beautiful woman! Is she a famous actress?” someone whispered.

“Her looks are incredible!” another person said.

“Isn’t she the president of Quine Group? She’s one of Swinton’s Four Beauties!” someone else chimed in.

People gathered at the entrance whispered to each other, admiring Dahlia’s beauty. But no one dared to approach her; they were too intimidated.

“I can’t believe how grand the Mirage is! Look at the beautiful designs and sculptures!” Lyra exclaimed as she got out of the car.

“The Mirage is one of the main places owned by the Harmon family, so the design and quality are top-notch. It’s really hard for most people to get an invitation here,” Dahlia said, taking in her surroundings. Even with her high standards, she had to admit that the Mirage was special.

“Dahlia, there you are!” called out a young man in a suit with glasses. It was Chris, the second son of the Nolan family.

“Mr. Nolan, are you here for tonight’s charity dinner too?” Dahlia asked him.

“I’m not just interested in any charity dinner. But this one is organized by the Harmon family, so it’s worth my attention,” Chris replied.

“Wouldn’t you be interested?” Chris said with a smile.

The Harmon family was one of the Mighty Three, the three most respected families in Swinton. They had unmatched wealth and influence. Many people would do anything for a chance to visit the Mirage, let alone attend a charity dinner hosted by the Harmon family.

“Mr. Nolan, are you sure that’s all you want?” Lyra asked with a knowing smirk.

“Of course, I have another reason. I’m here to help both of you,” Chris replied with a chuckle.

“Help us?” Lyra asked, looking puzzled.

“I heard rumors that the Quine Group is being considered as a partner for the Harmon family. It’s not easy to partner with such a powerful group, especially for the Quine Group. That’s why I’m here—to put in a good word for you. This could increase your chances of signing a contract with the Harmon family!” Chris said confidently.

“That would be amazing! Thank you, Mr. Nolan!” Lyra exclaimed, filled with joy.

If the Quine Group partnered with the Harmon family, it would boost the company’s reputation and also raise Lyra’s status as the president’s secretary.

“You’re welcome. Given my relationship with Dahlia, this is no trouble at all,” Chris said with a deliberate smile.

“Of course, we are already like family,” Lyra replied with a smile back.

Meanwhile, Dahlia was lost in her thoughts, not paying attention to their conversation. Her eyes were fixed on a luxurious car in the distance, where a man was standing.

“Could that be Dustin?” she wondered.

Dahlia recognized the man. After learning the truth about the fight, she felt guilty and decided it was time to clear up the misunderstanding since Dustin was right there.

With that thought in mind, she walked up to him.

“Dustin!”

Dahlia was ready to say more, but then she froze. She saw a stunning woman standing next to Dustin. The woman wore a form-fitting, bright red dress that highlighted her slim waist and beautiful curves. Her porcelain skin and striking features gave her an air of elegance, as if she were a queen among her subjects.