Chapter 97
“I’m just trying to remind you to think twice before you act. Just because you have support from the higher-ups doesn’t mean you can run amok,” Dahlia said, her expression solemn. “Dustin, you must realize that your worth has to be backed by ability. Currying favor with powerful people can propel you to greater heights, but it won’t last unless you can prove you’re a person of high caliber. So don’t think you’re all high and mighty—consider this a lesson from me.”
Dustin snickered. “How can you be sure I’m currying favor with the powerful?”
“Is that not the case? If it weren’t for Ms. Harmon’s reputation, would the Cobra have let you go so easily?” Dahlia’s remark was blunt.
“Whatever you say. I know that, whatever I do, I’m nothing but a useless prick in your eyes,” Dustin sneered, shaking his head.
First impressions truly were tough to change. Even with the evidence before their eyes, some people would simply refuse to believe it, preferring to scour for excuses to consolidate their prejudices.
“Oh, Dustin, don’t be disheartened. Keep your dignity and utilize your capabilities to carve out your own career and legacy instead of being a lazy bum who leeches off others,” Dahlia urged, her voice deep.
“So what if I’m a bum? Catching easy fish is also a skill. It just means I work smart,” Dustin shrugged.
“You…” Dahlia was becoming annoyed. She had sincerely tried to talk sense into him, but her advice seemed to fall on deaf ears. He didn’t appear ashamed of his behavior at all. It was apparent that some people were beyond saving.
As they argued, a few patrol cars pulled up and blocked the intersection. The patrol car doors swung open, and several uniformed police officers swiftly approached them.
“We’re looking for Dustin Rhys,” one officer said.
“That’s me,” Dustin replied. “Is something wrong, officer?”
“We just received a report that you’ve stolen some valuable objects. Please come with us!” the officer shouted.
“Stolen? Officer, there must be a misunderstanding,” Dustin declared, squinting.
“Alright, may I ask what’s inside this box?”
“Panax root.”
“Then that proves it! Come with us immediately for further investigation!” The officer handcuffed Dustin.
“Officer! What exactly is going on?” Dahlia exclaimed, rushing forward, her face drained of color.
“Who are you?” the patrol officer asked.
“I’m his friend,” she replied.
“Hmph, suspicious! You could be an accomplice. Take her away as well!” The officer quickly handcuffed Dahlia. The incident stunned everyone present.
“Officer, this has nothing to do with her. It’s all me,” Dustin said, frowning.
“He’s right! This is all Dustin’s doing. It has nothing to do with my daughter! If you want to arrest him, then do that! My daughter has done nothing wrong. She’s innocent!” Florence pleaded.
“That’s right, officer! My sister is innocent. She’s a kind soul!” James exclaimed, panicked.
“We’ll find out if she’s innocent once the investigation is over. Take her away!” the police officer barked. With a command from the squad leader, Dustin and Dahlia were escorted into the police cars.
“Wait!” Matt stepped from the crowd. “I’m of the Laney family of Millsburg. Please cut us some slack and let…”
“Any more nonsense, and you’ll all be coming along!” the officer snapped. His cold glare silenced Matt instantly.
There was nothing anyone could do as they watched Dahlia leave.
“It’s over! Goddamn good-for-nothing Dustin, getting my daughter in trouble!” Florence cried, stomping the ground in distress.
“I don’t give a damn if he digs his own grave, but to drag Dahlia with him? What a bastard!” James scowled.
“Now’s not the time for this. Quick, we need to think of a way to save Ms. Nicholson!” Lyra said.
“You’re right! We have to find a way. I know a friend who works at the police station. I’ll give him a call at once!”
“I know a relative who has connections with some higher-ranking police officers. I’ll find out if he can offer any help.”
Suddenly, the air was filled with the excited chatter of the group, gathering assistance from anyone they could think of.