An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori Chapter 1349
“Oh?” Pablo followed Cody’s gesture and focused his attention on Dustin. He observed Dustin closely, and his eyes glinted with interest. “You’re a very impressive young man.
“Don’t just stand there; take a seat. I want to talk to you about something.” He sat on a nearby couch and took a sip of red wine from a waiter, looking confident.
“Dustin, this is the renowned Mr. Hans. I’ve brought you here to make sure you make a good impression. Don’t miss out on this opportunity,” Cody said with a half-smile.
“So, you brought me here for him?” Dustin asked casually.
“Mr. Rhys, Cody called you here because I want to make a deal with you.
Pablo took a long drag from his cigar and exhaled a smoke ring. It drifted lightly towards Dustin’s face, dissipating about a foot away from him, vanishing into thin air.
“A deal?” Dustin remained unfazed. Are you talking about the Dew balm formula?”
“Good! I appreciate talking with smart people,” Pablo snapped his fingers and grinned.
“Now that you know what I’m looking for let’s get down to business. How much do you want? Just tell me the price, and I won’t try to negotiate.”
“Mr. Hans, I can’t sell you that formula, “Dustin firmly declined. “Why? You think I can’t afford your price?” Pablo asked, his eyes narrowing.
“Dustin, a third of South City’s economy is in Mr. Hans’ control, and his wealth is beyond your imagination, “Cody interjected.
“Yes, I’m only interested in a few things. Not many can negotiate with me. Now, it’s your chance to get ahead, so take it.” Pablo smiled, a hint of warning in his eyes.
“It’s not about the price; I’ve already sold the Dew balm formula,” Dustin revealed.
“What? You sold it?” Cody’s eyes widened, and he was surprised.
“To whom? Why didn’t you just tell me earlier?”
He had gone to great lengths to get Pablo to buy the formula. Cody had not expected Dustin to sell it to anyone else.
“I sold it to the Welch family; so sorry to disappoint you.” Dustin shrugged.
“The Welch family?” Cody asked, and his eyebrows furrowed. The Welch family was one of the eight families in Oakvale, and they were notorious for not giving up their possessions easily.
“So, how much did they pay you? I’m willing to offer double,” Pablo chimed in. With his influence and powerful backers, he had no qualms about dealing with the Welch family.
“This is business. Once I sell the formula, I can’t take it back. If Mr. Hans wants it, you can negotiate with them,” Dustin said.
“Mr. Rhys, if you can sell it to the Welch family, you can sell the formula to me, too. One formula, twice the money. Sounds appealing, doesn’t it?” Pablo smiled.
“That’s right! Your deal with Mr. Hans will remain discreet, and the Welch family will never know. “Once you give me the formula and get the money, you can travel and live your life without worry.” Cody sweetened the deal.
“If the Welch family finds out I’m selling it again, I won’t live long enough to enjoy the money.” Dustin shook his head.
“Don’t worry, I’ve got your back, and they won’t dare to harm you,” Pablo assured him confidently.
“Mr. Hans, would you go against the Welch family for someone like me?” Dustin asked intently.
“You are very clever.” Pablo extinguished his cigar and placed it in the ashtray. “I won’t pick a fight with them, but I can ensure they don’t find you. It’s the only way to keep you safe.”
“Mr. Hans, I can’t trust someone else with my safety, so I must decline.” Dustin shook his head.
“Hmm?”
