Classicprincecj

At university, Chris is just another student—quiet, reserved, and seemingly ordinary. But behind the scenes, he’s the heir to a hidden fortune, a secret he guards fiercely.

Then there’s Skylar—a girl born into wealth, now watching her privileged world crumble as her family faces financial ruin. When she crosses paths with Chris, an unexpected connection sparks between them.

Skylar falls for him, believing he’s just a regular guy. But when her family pressures her to seek a richer suitor, Chris finds himself at a crossroads—should he reveal his true identity to fight for their love, or let her go to protect his secret?

In a world where love and wealth collide, can their relationship survive the truth?

Masked Affluence

Volkov sat back, running a hand over his beard, deep in thought. The weight of the situation pressed down on him. He was no fool—he knew Chris Blackwood didn't make empty threats.

"You paint a clear picture, Mr. Blackwood," Volkov admitted, his voice measured. "But I don't make decisions based on fear."

Chris smirked. "Neither do I. I make them based on power."

The room remained tense. The twenty armored soldiers still had their rifles at the ready, but they hadn't moved. They didn't need to. Their presence alone was enough to make a statement.

Ethan spoke next, cutting through the silence.

"You have two options, President Volkov." He held up a single finger. "One—You withdraw, and we allow you to control the narrative. No loss of face, no direct consequences."

Then, he held up a second finger. "Two—You push forward, and we respond. Not with sanctions, not with warnings, but with force. And make no mistake, Volkov, when Chris Blackwood says something, the world listens."

Volkov exhaled slowly, tapping his fingers on the table. "And if I say no?"

Chris's smirk didn't fade. "Then my soldiers won't just be standing here next time."

The Russian delegation exchanged glances. General Orlov's jaw tightened, his instincts screaming at him that they were in no position to escalate this fight. Mikhailov's face was unreadable, but his silence was telling.

Chris watched Volkov carefully. The Russian leader was testing him, trying to see how far he was willing to go. But Chris had already made up his mind.

"The world thinks we're playing chess," Chris said finally. "But I'm not playing. I'm deciding who stays on the board and who gets removed."

Another long silence. Then Volkov leaned forward, his eyes sharp.

Chris smiled. "No, Volkov. You'll give it now."

Ethan crossed his arms. "You're not leaving this room until we have an agreement."

Volkov studied them both, then let out a quiet laugh. "You really are dangerous, Blackwood."

Chris didn't blink. "And you're running out of time."

The next few seconds would decide everything.

Chapter 171: The Choice