An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2738

Chapter 2738

“Don’t worry,” Natasha said with a relaxed smile. “I’ve been keeping a low profile lately and rarely show my face. I’ve already sent people to handle the company matters.”

“That’s good,” Dustin replied with a nod.

A few days after Kennedy’s departure, Dustin’s life gradually returned to its familiar rhythm.

Natasha began visiting the villa more often. Unlike before, when work constantly pressed in on her, she now deliberately set aside time to enjoy a simple, ordinary life with Dustin.

That weekend, she arrived early in the morning, carrying several large bags.

“The weather’s perfect today,” Natasha said brightly, eyes alight with anticipation. “Let’s go on a picnic! I had the chef prepare bento boxes, plus fruit and desserts.”

Dustin glanced at the sunlit courtyard and nodded. “Alright. Where to?”

“There’s a place not far from here—a meadow with a beautiful lake view.”

They drove out of the city, winding along the mountain road for about half an hour before reaching a quiet hillside.

The view was expansive. Below them, an artificial lake shimmered under the sunlight, while the distant city skyline lay faint and hazy beyond the mist.

Natasha unloaded the picnic basket, spreading a blue-and-white checkered blanket, and began pulling out the food—sandwiches, fruit salad, roasted chicken wings, small cakes, and a pot of freshly brewed floral tea.

“That’s quite a feast,” Dustin said as he helped arrange the items.

“It’s rare for you to relax like this,” Natasha replied, smiling as she handed him a sandwich. “Try it. I had the chef add your favorite sauce.”

Dustin took a bite and nodded. “Delicious.”

They sat side by side on the blanket, gazing into the distance as the breeze carried the fresh scent of grass and wildflowers.

“You know,” Natasha said suddenly, leaning closer, “sometimes I think it would be nice if you really were just an ordinary person.”

Dustin turned to her. “Why?”

“Because then you could always stay by my side.” She rested her head on his shoulder. “We wouldn’t have to worry about fighting or danger. We could live a normal life—go to work, come home, buy groceries, cook together, and have picnics on weekends.”

Dustin was quiet for a moment before gently wrapping an arm around her. “I want that too.”

“Really?” Natasha looked up, her eyes bright.

“Mhm.” He nodded. “During this time, even without my cultivation, I’ve realized I actually like this kind of peace. Making breakfast, reading, taking walks, and waiting for you to come home from work.”

“Then it’s settled!” Natasha straightened and extended her little finger. “Pinky promise—once everything’s resolved, we’ll live like this.”

Seeing her serious expression, a warm feeling rose in Dustin’s chest.

He hooked his finger with hers. “Alright. Pinky promise.”

The afternoon sun was gentle, neither hot nor harsh. They lay on the grass for hours, watching clouds drift slowly, chatting about trivial things, sometimes falling into comfortable silence.

They didn’t pack up until the sun began to set.

On the drive back, Natasha’s phone suddenly rang.

She glanced at the screen, frowned slightly, hesitated, then answered.

“Hello?”

A calm, cool voice came through. “Natasha. It’s me.”

“I know,” Natasha replied, her tone instantly returning to its usual aloofness. “What is it?”

Dustin glanced at her, questioning with his eyes, but said nothing.

Natasha mouthed a single name—Dahlia.

Dustin raised an eyebrow but remained focused on the road.

“The investigation has results,” Dahlia said bluntly. “The suppression of Dash Corporation wasn’t my doing, nor was it an official order from Prince Mosey’s Mansion.”

“Then who was behind it?” Natasha asked sharply.

“Frost Bane,” Dahlia said. “My sworn brother. You’ve heard of him.”

Natasha’s eyes narrowed. “Prince Mosey’s adopted son? Why would he do that?”

“He secretly mobilized part of the mansion’s resources and forged orders without my godfather’s knowledge,” Dahlia replied, her voice carrying a trace of fatigue. “It took days to pry the truth out of one of his confidants. He was extremely cautious—even I was almost fooled.”

“What does he want?” Natasha asked.

“He wants to bypass my godfather and make direct contact with a certain force.” Dahlia paused, then continued. “I’m still investigating the details, but this force isn’t simple. It may be connected to some… special figures that have recently appeared in Oakvale.”

Her tone grew more serious. “In short, you need to be careful. There are undercurrents within the Mu family mansion right now. Even I can’t see the full picture.”

Natasha fell silent for a moment, then suddenly asked, “Why are you telling me all this? If something happened to me, wouldn’t that benefit you?”

The line went quiet.

Several seconds later, Dahlia’s voice returned, steadier, resolute.

“I know Dustin likes you. I owe him too much. I don’t want to hurt him.”

She paused, then added, “And what I want is fair competition—not winning through underhanded means. I, Dahlia, would never stoop that low.”

Natasha was momentarily stunned. A faint smile curved her lips.

“You’ve earned a bit more of my respect,” she said softly.