Lana, who was feeling gloomy and distracted, only snapped back to attention when Matteo nudged her arm. She forced a smile, saying, “Dustin, I’ve got some food and drinks ready. Please, come in.”
“Thank you,” Dustin replied with a smile. As they entered, the three exchanged pleasantries. The Camron family seemed unusually calm today, and few people were in the vast estate. They chatted as they walked to the dining room.
Soon, a spread of mouth-watering dishes was brought to the table.
“Ms. Camron, you didn’t just invite me for a meal, did you? Is there something on your mind?” Dustin inquired.
“I “Lana hesitated, momentarily lost for words. She had been in a daze the entire day. She didn’t plan what she was going to say.
Fortunately, Matteo swiftly intervened, deflecting the situation. “Dustin, can’t I invite you for a meal without any hidden agenda?
“Your Dew Balm has done us a great favor, opening the door for us to rise in status. Naturally, we want to express our gratitude.”
“Mr. Camron, you’re too kind. This is a mutually beneficial situation. Let’s toast to each other’s success,” Dustin humbly replied.
“Besides, Lana and I have become friends. There will be more opportunities for cooperation in the future, and I’ll need Mr. Camron’s support.”
“Haha, that’s great!” Matteo laughed and gestured, shouting, “Come, bring that bottle of fine wine I’ve been saving. It deserves to be drunk today with Dustin!”
Then, a cask of aged wine was brought to the table. Upon opening it, the rich aroma filled the air.
“This rich fragrance must be a wine aged for over 50 years, right?” Dustin sniffed.
“Exactly! This cask has been stored for 80 years. It was quite a challenge to acquire, and I’ve been reluctant to open it.
“But today, I decided to bring it out for a distinguished guest like you.” Matteo smiled.
“Oh? So, I’m in for a treat today?” Dustin grinned.
“Come, let me fill your glass!” Matteo was enthusiastic, pouring three glasses -one for each. They raised their glasses and toasted.”
Dustin, here’s to a pleasant collaboration in the future. Cheers!”
“Cheers.” Dustin immediately lifted his glass in response. However, just as it was about to reach his lips, he suddenly stopped and looked at Lana in confusion. “Ms. Camron, what’s going on with you today? You’ve been out of sorts. Are you feeling unwell?”
“W-What? Oh, I’m fine.” Lana forced a smile.
“Little tired from all the recent busyness, maybe?”
Matteo quickly intervened with a laugh. “Don’t worry so much now. Let’s forget our worries and enjoy a drink together!
He then shot a glance at Lana.
Struggling, Lana lifted her glass, her arm trembling uncontrollably. Unbeknownst to Dustin, the colorless and tasteless Tranqurin had been added to the drink-a potent relaxant.
Once consumed, it would leave the person utterly powerless and subjected to the whims of others.
“Ms. Camron, cheers!” Dustin smiled and raised his glass, bringing it to his lips.
“Wait!” Lana’s anxiety surged, making it hard for her to stay silent.
“What’s up?” Dustin looked confused.
“N-nothing… You’ve probably got things to do today, right? Maybe you should take it easy on the drinks,” Lana stammered, uncertain how to explain.
This made Matteo furrow his brows, though he didn’t reveal it.
“This is no big deal. I can handle a few drinks.” Dustin chuckled, undeterred, lifting his glass again.
Lana’s complexion drained as she witnessed this. She swiftly reached out, knocking his glass away, urgently exclaiming, ” Don’t drink it! The wine is spiked!”
