Dahlia was going over some documents while drinking coffee. Suddenly, her office door was pushed open. Florence and Julie rushed in energetically, their expressions filled with happiness.
“Mom? Didn’t you go back to Swinton already? Why are you back so soon?” Dahlia was confused. “Dahlia, tell me truthfully, have you been chosen as the next matriarch?” Florence asked with a sense of urgency.
“How did you find out?” Dahlia was surprised.
“Hahaha… It is real!” Florence was extremely excited. “Last night, your grandfather told me you were going to be the matriarch of the Nicholsons. I didn’t believe him at first, but I can’t believe you’ve come this far! This is amazing news!”
“Congratulations on your achievement, Dahlia! From now on, you are the queen of the aristocrats!” Julie flattered. While she was jealous and unyielding toward Dahlia in the past, it has now been replaced with flattery.
The Glenstead Nicholsons were the most wealthy and influential aristocratic family, and Dahlia’s sudden rise to wealth and power was something most could only dream of.
“I don’t think you should call me that. I’m still learning. It’ll take a long time for me to truly be able to lead the Nicholsons.” Dahlia had a clear head. Although the Nicholson matriarch title sounded good, she considered it merely a facade. She still required Regulus‘ guidance and support to succeed.
“No need to be humble, Dahlia. The patriarch already chose you as his successor, and that is enough proof of your skills. Sooner or later, the Nicholson family will be yours!” Florence looked proud, taking pride in her role in raising an exceptional daughter.
“That’s right! Next time, we will be able to enjoy these fortunes with you!” Julie said with a grin. Since Dahlia had become the matriarch of a wealthy family, their entire family would also bask in the glory.
“Dahlia, it has only been a few days since we last met, yet you’ve become the matriarch. Congratulations.” At that moment, Dustin walked into the office, and the smiles on everyone’s faces disappeared instantly.
“Rhys! Why are you here?” Florence’s expression darkened, and her gaze was hostile.
“Hmph! Did you find out Dahlia is now of a different status and came here on purpose to suck up to her?” Julie looked at him in disdain. Only a vile person would come and curry favor right after they heard the news!
“I said I would catch James‘ murderer in five days. I’m here to fulfill my promise.” Dustin gestured as he spoke. Soon, Nelson and a few more people dragged a bloody Hank into the
office.
“He’s the murderer!” Dustin grabbed Hank by his hair and lifted his head.
“Mr. Hoffman?” Dahlia frowned when she saw him.
“Hmph! Enough with the tricks! Do you think you’ll be able to clear yourself of guilt just by capturing a random person? Dream on!” Florence’s expression was filled with hatred.
“That’s right! Who knows if you’ve found a scapegoat? Julie chimed in.
“Hank, why don’t you tell them what happened?” Dustin shot him a cold glance.
“Hoffman! If you tell the truth, the worst you’ll face is around ten years in jail. If you lie, don’t blame me for being merciless!” Nelson glared at him fiercely.
“I’ll talk, I’ll talk…” Hank eyed his surroundings and freed himself when nobody noticed. He threw himself at Dahlia’s feet and cried out. “Ms. Nicholson, save me! I beg you. Please save me!
“It’s Dustin! Dustin is framing me! He asked me to take the blame. When I refused, he beat me up and tortured me! Look at my hands. He cut them off! I didn’t do anything, Ms. Nicholson! I know nothing about what happened! Dustin did it; he killed your brother. He is the real murderer!”
Dahlia and the others‘ expressions darkened as he spoke.
