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An Understated Dominance Chapter 264
"Dustin, we've already let her go, so it's your turn!" Edwin tried his best to suppress his rage. If not for Dustin pulling such dirty tricks, he wouldn't be in this situation! "I didn't say anything about letting anyone go." Dustin obviously wasn't going to let the matter slide. "You abducted Ms. Harmon and harmed members of the Harmon family. Do you think I'll let you off the hook so easily?" "Rhys, I'm warning you—don't take this too far!" An ugly look crept onto Edwin's face. "This is the Hummer family's territory; you're dreaming if you think you can walk out of here unscathed! Now, I'm giving you a chance. Let Josh go, and I won't begrudge you for everything that's happened before this. Otherwise, you won't step a foot out of here without getting injured!" Jade added, "He's right! Let Josh go, or you'll be making an enemy out of the Grant family!" Dustin didn't say anything and glanced at Natasha. If she were to give the order, he'd behead Joshua without batting an eye. H
An Understated Dominance Chapter 265
As they walked out of Hummer Villa, Natasha, who'd put up a strong front earlier, suddenly felt her knees buckle under her. She almost fell flat on her face. Dustin quickly caught her and asked worriedly, "Are you okay? Do you feel sick?" "No, I'm just out of strength. My knees feel like jelly." She shook her head. She'd been on edge earlier; now that she could relax, she felt weak. "Ms. Harmon, I'll carry you!" Isfrid stepped forward and volunteered to help her. "I don't want to inconvenience you when you're seriously injured," Natasha said. "I'm fine. These injuries mean nothing." Isfrid patted her chest to show she was okay. "You're seriously injured if I say so!" Natasha's tone suddenly became stern. She glared at Isfrid. "Huh?" The realization dawned on Isfrid when she glanced at Dustin. "Oh, uh, yeah. I feel really dizzy." "I'll do it." Dustin looked helpless as he swept Natasha into his arms. She had a strong personality but was only an ordinary woman—she had to be
An Understated Dominance Chapter 266
The following morning, at Peaceful Medical Center. Dustin got up early, washed up, and started preparing breakfast. As usual, it was his signature dish, deviled eggs. It was simple but smelled amazing. He'd just brought the food to the dining table when someone walked in. "Wow, that smells great!" It was Dahlia. Today, she wore a smart suit and heels. Her hair was in a ponytail, revealing her fair and slender neck. She looked happy to see the food. "Are those deviled eggs? How did you know I hadn't had breakfast yet, Dustin? Since you prepared this for me, I won't stand on ceremony!" She sat down and started to dig in. "This isn't—" Dustin was about to say something when his bedroom door swung open to reveal a gorgeous woman standing there. "Darling, I'm starving. Is breakfast ready yet?" It was Natasha. She had on an oversized shirt. As she stretched, it dipped to reveal her cleavage. "Hmm?" She and Dahlia met each other's gaze. They were both equally stunned. "What are you
An Understated Dominance Chapter 267
Natasha shrugged and sat at the dining table. She pulled the deviled eggs to her and said with a smile, "Thank you for breakfast, darling. You're so considerate!" "That's where you're wrong. These eggs are mine." Dahlia pulled the eggs back. "It's been three years, but I've yet to fall out of love with Dustin's cooking. Besides, he knows I love deviled eggs." "Ms. Nicholson, stop thinking so highly of yourself. What's in the past is just that—the past. These eggs belong to me now." Natasha didn't back down. She dragged the eggs to herself again. "Ms. Harmon, robbing someone of something they love isn't the best habit to have. These eggs have been cooked to my taste; they only suit me!" "What makes you think I don't like deviled eggs? I love anything Dustin cooks!" "Hmph! Just because you like them doesn't mean they suit you!" "It's up to me to decide whether they're suitable!" The conversation between the two women became increasingly heated as they dragged the plate of d
An Understated Dominance Chapter 268
"Ms. Nicholson, did you come here because you wanted something from me?" Dustin asked when he saw how tense the atmosphere was. "What, do I have to have a reason for coming here?" Dahlia glared at him. "I didn't mean that." He looked awkward. "Whatever. Let's get down to business—you know Dr. Rowan Cross, right? I want to ask him to examine someone." Dahlia stopped beating around the bush. "Examine someone?" Dustin sized her up, then checked her pulse. Confused, he said, "Aside from your period being a little out of whack, you're fine. You just need to control your emotions and diet." "You're the one who's out of whack!" Dahlia glared at him again, her face turning red. "I didn't say I was the one who needed an examination—it's for a relative of mine who suddenly fainted yesterday. She's been complaining of a headache, but the hospital said she's fine. She wanted Dr. Cross to examine them just to be sure." "I see." Dustin nodded. "There's no need to bother Dr. Cross for som
An Understated Dominance Chapter 269
"It's you!" Dakota was momentarily taken aback when she recognized Dustin. Similarly, he looked at her funny with a hint of astonishment. Never had he expected that the two bitches were the relatives that Dahlia had mentioned to him. What a small world! "Oh, did you know each other?" Dahlia's quizzical gaze traveled between the two. "Not only are we acquainted," Dakota hissed through clenched teeth, "He's also the guy who beat us up yesterday!" "What?" Everyone was surprised to learn that. "Um, Dakota, did you get the wrong person?" Florence questioned cautiously. "No! How could I? I'd recognize him even if he turned into ashes! I also suspect my mom's gotten a headache from his slap!" Dakota seemed merciless. "Right! I must have fallen sick because of that slap! Get someone to arrest him!" Jane was bellowing in bed. She had been unable to put yesterday's events behind her, and she was extremely furious upon meeting her enemy again. "Dustin, what's the matter? Why did you
An Understated Dominance Chapter 270
Florence, Jane, and Dakota were delighted by the doctor's presence. They could tell that he came from an impressive background just from how James described him. Jane and Dakota believed they deserved the best, such as seeing a skilled doctor like Fenton Reyes. "James, Dr. Reyes is a legend in Stonia. How did you get him to show up?" Florence asked curiously. James smiled. "Well, it wasn't me. It was Mr. Langford who arranged for Dr. Reyes to see Aunt Jane." "Mr. Langford?" Florence's eyes lit up upon hearing the name. Luis Langford was an aristocrat from Stonia who wielded great wealth and influence. He was also well-connected in the military and the government. More importantly, the Langford family was a close friend of the Nicholson family of Glenstead. Moreover, the Glenstead Nicholsons were greatly interested in an arranged marriage between Luis and Dahlia. In other words, if Dahlia was willing, she could marry into the wealthy Langford family in no time, elevating the ent
An Understated Dominance Chapter 271
Dahlia caught up with Dustin at the hospital entrance and pulled on his arm. "Hey! Stop! You're walking too fast. I almost couldn't catch up!" "I'm really sorry. I can't handle those relatives of yours. You should get some other doctor to deal with them," Dustin remarked coolly. He was aversed to the two difficult women and refused to engage with them. "Did I force you to cure Aunt Jane? Why are you being sensitive?" She rolled her eyes at him. "Well, I thought …" "What? Did you think I'm an unreasonable woman who'd force you to grovel at them?" she scoffed. "No, I didn't." He flashed an embarrassed smile at her, feeling rather uneasy at her newfound considerate personality. "Alright. I know they're in the wrong. Just stay away from them in the future." She dispensed a kind reminder. "They're from a wealthy and powerful family in Glenstead. Even Natasha Harmon couldn't protect you if you get into trouble with them." "Is that so? They sound quite remarkable, then." He smil
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Chapter 2474
The ashen-faced Huxley was dragged away. With his crimes exposed, his fate was sealed. His entire family would be implicated, and their assets would be seized.Those guilty would be punished, and even those who had merely benefited from his corruption would be held accountable. To put it bluntly, Huxley's entire family was about to be annihilated.Austin issued his next order once the bloodstains were cleaned up. "Axel, it's time to bring in the mastermind."With Huxley dealt with, the next step was to confront Warrick. Unlike Huxley, Warrick wouldn't be easy to deal with. After all, he commanded a large number of troops. If backed into a corner, he could become a major threat."Understood!" Axel responded respectfully, then turned to his subordinates. "Gather more men and come with me."Warrick had earned his prestigious position through years of fierce battles. On the battlefield, he was a one-man army, a warrior capable of taking on thousands. His strength was beyond what mos
Chapter 2473
"You bastard! With all this evidence in front of you, what do you have to say for yourself?" Austin barked."Your Highness, please let me explain…" Huxley broke out in a cold sweat, his voice trembling with panic."This is a lie. Someone's trying to frame me! I've always followed the law—how could I possibly be involved in something so vile?""The evidence is right in front of you, and you're still trying to weasel out of it?" Austin shot back. "Looks like you won't confess until death is knocking at your door."He raised his hand and ordered, "Guards, throw him into Grimhold Keep. Use whatever means necessary—let's see how long he keeps up this act.""Yes, Your Highness."A squad of enforcement team members rushed in and surrounded Huxley.Cornered, Huxley finally lost his nerve. He dropped to his knees with a thud and begged, "Your Highness, I admit I made a grave mistake."His voice cracked as he continued, "I wasn't thinking clearly at the time. Please, for the sake of my y
Chapter 2472
Night had fallen. Austin sat in the meeting room, quietly reading a book as he waited for the results of the investigation.After successfully turning Percival against his allies, it was only a matter of time before they uncovered solid evidence of Warrick and Huxley's crimes.For years, the castle had turned a blind eye to their shady dealings. After all, corruption among officials was nothing new.But this time was different. The two had secretly orchestrated Jovian's murder, a direct challenge to the authority and dignity of the royal family. Such defiance couldn't be ignored. If Austin didn't set an example, others would surely follow."Your Highness!"Axel burst into the meeting room, panting heavily. He had clearly run the whole way to avoid any delay.Austin set his book aside and asked calmly, "Well? How did it go?""Your Highness, we've completely shut down all of Warrick and Huxley's illicit operations. Every hidden network they had built over the years has also been d
Chapter 2471
At that moment, Percival truly panicked. Earlier, he had only worried about being implicated. But now, faced with such a serious accusation, he was completely caught off guard."Hmph! The evidence is irrefutable, and you still dare deny it? Do you want me to torture the truth out of you?" Austin barked."Your Highness, I'm innocent!" Percival was so terrified he was on the verge of tears. He raised his hand and swore, "If I had anything to do with Jovian's death, may I be damned for eternity.""If swearing oaths proved innocence, we wouldn't need an enforcement team," Austin said coldly. "Out of respect for your years of service to West Lucozia, I'll give you a chance to come clean and receive a lighter sentence. Tell the truth now, or I'll throw you into Grimhold Keep."At the mention of Grimhold Keep, Percival began to shake uncontrollably. Tears and snot ran down his face as he wailed, "Your Highness, I swear I didn't do anything. Who's the bastard making up these accusations?
Chapter 2470
Ten minutes later, Warrick was escorted out of Room A1 again.Axel's demeanor had completely changed since their first meeting, and he had become unusually warm."Sir Prescott, Lord Austin has concluded the investigation. It turns out this matter has nothing to do with you. We made a mistake earlier, and I apologize for any offense caused." He smiled apologetically and spoke with a humble tone."Hm?" Seeing the fawning expression on Axel's face, Warrick raised an eyebrow and looked surprised. Just moments ago, the two sides had been at each other's throats. What had caused such a sudden change?"Did you really investigate it thoroughly?" Warrick asked tentatively."Of course! According to our findings, Jovian's disappearance was the result of a personal vendetta from his enemies in Oakvale," Axel said with a straight face.He continued, "He was a tyrant and always stirring up trouble everywhere he went. He got what was coming to him. Lord Austin only launched the investigation
Chapter 2469
"After you, Sir Prescott." With one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, Axel's other hand gestured toward the door."Hmph!" Warrick shot a cold glance at Axel's subtle movement and then turned to leave the meeting room.Even if Austin had his suspicions, Warrick knew he couldn't do anything to him without concrete evidence.Axel escorted Warrick back to Room A1. After closing the door, he went to Room A2 and led Huxley to the meeting room."Your Highness, it is my privilege to stand before you." Huxley entered the meeting room with a respectful salute."Mr. Thatcher, please take a seat." Austin's face remained neutral as he gestured for Huxley to sit, then motioned for Axel to pour him a cup of tea."Do you know why I've summoned you here today?" Austin spoke calmly, and his words carried the same probing tone as earlier."Is it about Jovian's disappearance?" Huxley asked in return."Oh? It seems you're quick on the uptake." Austin raised an eyebrow. "In that case, g
Chapter 2468
The enforcement team worked with remarkable efficiency. Within an hour, Huxley, Warrick, and Percival had been brought back to the castle.Per Austin's instructions, Axel made sure the three met briefly upon arrival, though they were given no opportunity to speak to one another. Afterward, they were taken to separate rooms and were guarded individually.Due to their status, the enforcement team treated them with respect, offering them tea and wine. However, they weren't allowed to leave their rooms and had to wait for Austin to summon them.Warrick was confined to Room A1, Huxley to Room A2, and Percival to Room A3. Their rooms were right next to each other, separated only by thin walls. If they stepped out, they would see one another, but none of them knew how close they were.This, of course, was all part of Austin's plan. He knew that extracting the truth from these three cunning foxes would require unconventional tactics.…Inside Room A1, Warrick sat calmly, sipping his te
Chapter 2467
"Hm?"Even Warrick frowned at the news.The royal enforcement team was rarely mobilized. When they did, it was always for something monumental. The question was, did a minor figure like Jovian Ballard really warrant such attention from Austin?"Mr. Thatcher, are you sure the royal enforcement team has been mobilized? And it's because of Jovian?" Warrick asked skeptically."Of course I'm sure," Huxley replied with a grave expression. "I've just received orders from above. The enforcement team captain will be taking over my duties temporarily. From now on, they'll have full control over the city's defense and investigative operations.""That's strange. Why would Lord Austin go to such lengths for someone so insignificant?" Warrick was confused, his brow furrowing.According to his intel, this was the first time Jovian and Austin had even met. Even if they had crossed paths before, it shouldn't have been enough to justify deploying the enforcement team.It seemed Warrick had undere
Chapter 2466
The next morning, after breakfast at the West Lucozian castle, Austin tried calling Jovian. However, his calls went unanswered. After several attempts, he still couldn't get through."Huh?" Austin was puzzled. They had made plans the previous day to head to Oakvale that day. Why was Jovian suddenly unreachable? Had he stood Austin up?After thinking it over, he found that unlikely. He and Jovian had gotten along well and even called each other brothers. On top of that, they had promised to travel together and watch out for one another.If Jovian had an urgent matter that required him to leave West Lucozia, he would have at least given Austin a heads-up. Jovian wouldn't just disappear without a word."Could something have happened to him?" Austin's unease grew. He quickly summoned his trusted aide. "Go find out where Jovian is. Report back to me as soon as you have any information.""Yes, Your Highness," the aide replied before hurrying off.Austin poured himself a cup of tea
