An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2535

Chapter 2535

“Mr. Rhys, you’re incredibly generous. I honestly don’t know how to thank you.”

Wynter gently traced the intricate designs on the warm jade box. Her eyes glistened with tears as she looked up at Dustin with genuine gratitude.

“It’s just a small gesture, nothing worth mentioning, Miss Wynter,” Dustin replied with a calm smile. “Besides, it was always meant for His Highness the Third Prince. I’m simply delivering what’s owed.”

“Is there anything you want in return? If it’s within my power, I’ll do it,” Wynter said seriously.

“I have no special requests. I only hope that if I ever face trouble, His Highness will be willing to lend a hand,” Dustin answered.

“So that’s it—I understand now,” Wynter nodded.

He wasn’t asking for riches or treasures, but for a favor from Prince Nathaniel. Considering the prince’s status, that kind of favor was more valuable than gold.

If Nathaniel eventually rose to power and claimed the throne, this one favor could be worth ten or even a hundred times more.

In fact, if Dustin ever committed a serious crime, this favor might be powerful enough to save his life.

It was a smart move—one that spoke volumes about Dustin’s foresight.

“It’s getting late. I shouldn’t keep you up,” Wynter said, rising to her feet and bowing slightly. Then, with a playful smile, she added, “Of course, if you’re still interested, I’d be happy to play chess with you tonight.”

Dustin hesitated for a moment, and Wynter smiled before turning to leave.

Her light pink dress flowed in the breeze like fluttering petals, and soon she disappeared beyond the courtyard gate.

“This woman is dangerously charming,” Dustin muttered with a shake of his head.

He liked to think he had strong self-control, but even he found it difficult to stay composed around Wynter’s subtle teasing.

Now that he had handed over the Dracan essences, all that remained was to wait and see what happened next.

After leaving the villa, Wynter walked briskly to Nathaniel’s study.

She knocked, and upon hearing his voice, she entered quietly.

“Well? How did it go?” Nathaniel asked as he motioned for her to sit and poured her a cup of tea.

He didn’t treat her like a servant, but more like a respected guest—something Wynter had certainly earned.

“Your Highness, the mission is complete. I’ve secured the Dracan essences,” she said respectfully, placing the jade box in front of him.

“Oh?” Nathaniel raised his eyebrows, quickly opened the box, and peered inside.

When he saw the soft glow of the Dracan essences, his eyes lit up with delight. “Excellent! Wynter, you’ve done an outstanding job.”

He held the jade box tightly, as if it were a priceless treasure.

He’d expected the task to be much more difficult, but things had gone far more smoothly than anticipated.

Sending Wynter had definitely been the right call.

“I’m honored to serve Your Highness,” Wynter replied modestly, never letting her pride show.

Though Nathaniel treated her well, she knew better than to get comfortable.

“Since Dustin handed over the Dracan essences, what does he say about joining us?” Nathaniel asked.

“He said he needs more time to consider it. I believe we should be patient,” Wynter said. “He’s clearly aware of Your Highness’s sincerity, but this decision involves his future, so it’s natural for him to be cautious.”

“Fair enough. Now that we have the Dracan essences, we can take our time. Whether or not he chooses to join us, we’ll deal with it then,” Nathaniel said, waving his hand.

He could see that Dustin was waiting to gauge how the political winds would shift before making any commitments.

In other words, Dustin wasn’t someone who could be counted on in desperate times—but he could be a valuable ally when things were going well.

Even so, it was worth keeping up appearances and showing respect.

The night was pitch-black, shrouding the entire mansion in darkness.

Moonlight filtered through scattered clouds, casting a soft silver glow.

Nathaniel, now carrying the Dracan essences close to his chest, walked with two guards toward a hidden courtyard.

The courtyard was surrounded by thorn-covered walls and stood behind tall gates. Two sentries stood watch, their eyes sharp and bodies tense like statues.

“Your Highness,” they said in unison, bowing as Nathaniel approached.

He nodded and spoke quietly, “Open the gate.”

With a heavy creak, the gates slowly opened.

Nathaniel stepped inside, passed down a shadowy path, and arrived at what looked like a plain, unremarkable building.

Two more guards stood at the entrance. After confirming his identity, they let him inside.

The room was dimly lit by only a few oil lamps casting a faint glow.

Nathaniel approached one of the walls and turned a hidden switch. With a deep boom, the wall slowly slid open, revealing a staircase leading underground.

Step by step, he descended into the hidden passage, each footfall taking him deeper into secrecy.

Finally, he arrived in a vast underground chamber.

The secret room was filled with rare and priceless treasures—glittering jewels, ancient weapons that gleamed coldly in the low light, and precious books stacked neatly on shelves.

At the far end stood a massive vault. Its iron door was etched with intricate runes and glowed faintly with power.