An Understated Dominance - Chapter 97

“I just want to remind you to think carefully before you act. Having support from higher-ups doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want,” Dahlia said seriously. “Dustin, you need to understand that your value must be backed by your skills. While having powerful connections may help you succeed, it won’t last if you can’t prove you’re capable. So don’t get too full of yourself—consider this a lesson from me.”

Dustin chuckled at her words. “How do you know I’m using powerful people to get ahead?”

“Isn’t that what you’re doing? If it weren’t for Ms. Harmon’s good name, would the Cobra have let you off so easily?” Dahlia replied, not holding back.

“Whatever you say. I know I’m just a useless person in your eyes,” Dustin sneered, shaking his head.

First impressions can be hard to change. Even when faced with clear evidence, some people refuse to see the truth and instead look for excuses to support their biases.

“Dustin, don’t be discouraged. Keep your dignity and use your skills to build your own career and legacy, instead of being someone who just takes from others,” Dahlia urged, her voice deep and sincere.

“What if I am a bum? Catching easy fish is still a skill. It means I work smart,” Dustin shrugged.

“You…” Dahlia felt her frustration rising. She had genuinely tried to help him, but her advice seemed to be ignored. He showed no sign of being ashamed of his actions, and it was clear that some people just wouldn’t change.

As their argument continued, a few patrol cars arrived and blocked the intersection. The doors swung open, and several officers stepped out.

Uniformed police officers approached quickly.

“We’re looking for Dustin Rhys,” one of the officers said.

“That’s me,” Dustin replied, worried. “Is something wrong, officer?”

“We just got a report that you’ve stolen some valuable items. Please come with us!” the officer shouted.

“Stolen? Officer, there must be a misunderstanding,” Dustin insisted, squinting his eyes.

“Alright, can you tell me what’s in this box?” the officer asked.

“Panax root,” Dustin answered.

“Then that proves it! Come with us for further investigation!” the officer said as he handcuffed Dustin.

“Officer! What’s going on?” Dahlia exclaimed, rushing forward with fear on her face.

“Who are you?” the patrol officer asked.

“I’m his friend,” she replied.

“Hmph, suspicious! You could be an accomplice. Take her too!” the officer ordered. In one quick motion, he put handcuffs on Dahlia’s wrists. Everyone around them was shocked.

“Officer, this has nothing to do with her. It’s all me,” Dustin said with a frown.

“He’s right! This is all Dustin’s doing. My daughter is innocent! If you want to arrest him, then do that! She hasn’t done anything wrong!” Florence pleaded.

“That’s true, officer! My sister is innocent. She’s a kind person!” James added, panicking.

“We’ll see if she’s innocent after the investigation. Take her away!” the police officer commanded. With that, Dustin and Dahlia were led to the police cars.

“Wait!” Matt shouted from the crowd. “I’m from the Laney family of Millsburg. Please…”

“Any more nonsense, and you’ll all be coming along!” the officer snapped, his cold glare silencing Matt immediately.

Everyone watched helplessly as Dahlia left with the officers.

“It’s over! That good-for-nothing Dustin got my daughter into this mess!” Florence shouted, stomping her foot in frustration.

“I don’t care if he gets himself in trouble, but dragging Dahlia along? What a jerk!” James said, scowling with anger.

“Now’s not the time for this. We need to figure out how to help Ms. Nicholson!” Lyra urged.

“You’re right! We have to do something. I have a friend at the police station. I’ll call him right away!”

“I have a relative with connections to some higher-ranking officers. I’ll see if he can help us,” another friend chimed in.

Suddenly, the group buzzed with excitement, brainstorming ways to gather support and assistance from anyone they could think of.