Dustin's adoptive father had been a formidable man; it wouldn't surprise anyone if one of the Seven Clans of Central Harbor pledged service to the Wyatt family, let alone a prominent Lannopolis family. "Fox," Jaxon said threateningly, "if something happens to Phoebe, I'll make sure you die painfully!"
"You don't have what it takes to threaten me," Dustin replied flatly.
Jaxon's gaze sharpened. He lunged forward, intending to grab Dustin's collar, but Elisa quickly intervened, pulling him back. Dustin was a sovereign-grade fighter; Jaxon couldn't hope to beat him.
Elisa then turned to Dustin, a mocking expression on her face. "What's this? Are you here to shop for clothes, too?" she asked, scrutinizing the boutique. "This boutique isn't for just anyone. Every item is exorbitantly priced—beyond most people's means. Perhaps you're in the wrong place? You should shop somewhere… cheaper."
Her words were a pointed provocation aimed at Irene and Dustin. The West family wasn't part of Lannopolis's upper echelon, unable to provide Dustin with much. In Elisa's eyes, he remained destitute, and with Jaxon at her side, she felt emboldened to taunt them.
"Although expensive," Dustin retorted, displeasure evident in his voice, "it's not beyond our means." He pulled Irene inside.
Elisa sneered, following them. "What's the point of pretending to be rich? Do you think I don't know your worth?" She then dragged Jaxon into the boutique.
Once inside, Irene's face stiffened at the price tags. She knew the boutique catered to the elite, but the reality—every item costing six figures or more—was shocking. Irene hesitated. "Why don't we go somewhere else?" she suggested softly.
Her suggestion was overheard. Elisa, pulling Jaxon closer, mocked them. "You don't have the money, do you? You shouldn't have come if you can't afford it. Afraid of embarrassing yourselves? We're all friends here. If you're short, borrow from me; I don't mind a small loan. Though, I do worry about repayment!"
Irene felt deeply uncomfortable.
"There's no need," Dustin said calmly. "Irene, go pick something you like."
Irene felt helpless, unwilling to humiliate Dustin, and began to search for something more affordable. Elisa and Jaxon watched, unhurried, relishing the anticipated humiliation.
I know they're pretending, Elisa thought spitefully. Even if they can afford a few items, we'll see how haughty they act once they're broke. Beside her, Jaxon's gaze was contemptuous. He couldn't fight Dustin, but he could humiliate him financially; the presence of Dustin's woman made it even sweeter. He was confident his family's wealth—they were Lannopolis's top family—would easily crush Dustin. It was also a chance to impress Elisa.