Chapter 2438
An Understated Dominance
While Dustin was away, Natasha couldnât help but worry about him. She would always keep an eye out for any news about him. But no matter how much she missed him, she wouldnât call him.
She didnât want to distract or cause him to lose focus on the important matters concerning the nationâs affairs. Understanding how busy he was, she kept her feelings in check and buried herself in work to keep her mind occupied.
But when Natasha finally saw Dustin again, all the emotions she had bottled up came rushing out. Months of longing turned into overwhelming affection, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.
Her assistant, Tanya, watched in shock.
She had no idea Natasha-typically the poised, decisive, and commanding chairwoman-was in a relationship.
What surprised her even more was how different Natasha seemed around Dustin. The usually unshakable âqueen 11 now appeared soft and tender in his presence.
Tanya couldnât help but watch Dustin more closely. His looks and charisma were undeniable, and he could easily stand out in the entertainment industry.
But Natasha had always been surrounded by suitors-top executives, influential heirs, even powerful political figures. Despite their perfect appearances and impeccable backgrounds, none had ever caught her eye or won her heart.
Tanya was left wondering who Dustin really was and what it was about him that made Natasha, a woman many considered out of reach, fall for him.
âAlright, enough tears. Iâm back now. Look at you your face is all blotchy.â Dustin lowered his head and cupped Natashaâs face with both hands as he gently wiped away her tears with his thumbs.
Their eyes met, and the room seemed to fill with unspoken emotion.
Natasha stood on her tiptoes and pressed her red lips to his in a passionate kiss. Dustin froze momentarily, and his cheeks turned pink, but he didnât pull away.
When she finally pulled back, satisfaction lit up her tear-brightened eyes. Her voice carried a hint of playful reproach. âHmph! Youâve been gone for so long, and you finally remember to come back? I thought youâd forgotten all about me!â
âHow could I?â Dustin replied with a smile. âI might forget everyone but not you. The moment I got back to Oakvale, you were the first person I came to see.â
âReally?â She raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical.
âOf course. I swear!â Dustin said, raising his hand in a mock pledge.
âHmph! Thatâs more like it.â Natasha smiled with satisfaction. To her, as long as she was in his heart, nothing else mattered.
âItâs been a while since I last saw you. You look like youâve lost weight. Things mustâve been hard for you out there.â She cupped his slightly gaunt face, and her eyes were filled with concern.
âIt was a little rough, but itâs all over now. Iâll be staying in Oakvale for a while to be with you,â he replied.
âYouâd better keep your word. No backing out!â Her eyes lit up with joy.
âIf you donât believe me, letâs pinky swear.â Dustin wiggled his pinky.
âHow childish!â Natasha rolled her eyes but still happily linked her pinky with his.
Seeing how they looked at each other so lovingly, Tanya couldnât help but smile. It was more heartwarming than anything she had ever experienced in her own love life.
âTanya, donât just stand there. Go bring Mr. Rhys some tea,â Natasha said with a wink.
âOh, right.â Tanya snapped out of her daze and quickly excused herself.
âItâs almost dinnertime. Why donât you come over to my place? My grandparents are eager to meet you,â Natasha said with a smile.
âHuh? That soon? I wasnât expecting this at all.â
Dustin felt an unexpected wave of nervousness. It looked like he was about to meet her parents.
âItâs just a simple family dinner,â she reassured him. âDonât worry. My grandfather might have a big reputation, but heâs easygoing. You donât need to stress over it.â
She assumed Dustin was intimidated by Simonâs commanding presence since only a few people in Oakvale outranked him.
âAlright, but we should pick up a gift. What do your grandparents like?â Dustin asked.
âNo need for that,â Natasha replied, shaking her head. âWeâre family. No need to be formal.â
âItâs my first time meeting them, and I donât want to show up empty-handed. I want to make a good impression, especially with your grandparents,â he insisted. 3
âYouâre right.â She nodded thoughtfully. âOkay. Letâs head out and pick something nice for them.â
âWhat about your work?â Dustin glanced at the documents on the desk.
âWork can wait. Youâre way more important. Letâs go,â Natasha said with a sweet smile. She linked her arm with his and held a bouquet in the other hand.
As they walked out of Dash Corporation, all the employees watched in stunned silence.