Chapter 304: The Call

Classic leaned against a tree, away from the campfire's glow, his phone pressed to his ear. The line barely rang twice before his father picked up.

"You don't usually call unless it's important."

Chris Blackwood's voice was calm, controlled—always expecting the next move before it happened.

Classic didn't waste time.

"Victoria Laurent just threatened to shut down your European banks."

Silence.

Then—a low chuckle.

"And what did you say?" Chris asked, the amusement clear in his tone.

"That if she tried, I'd take down her entire family's fortune."

Another pause. Then Chris exhaled, almost proud.

"Good answer."

Classic rubbed his temple. "Are you involved with the Laurents? Why does she think she has that kind of leverage?"

Chris's voice shifted, becoming slightly more measured. "The Laurents have always been useful, but they like to believe they hold more power than they actually do. Her father controls significant assets, but he's not in a position to start a war with me."

"Then why did she act like she could?"

Chris was silent for a moment.

"Because she's testing you, Classic."

Classic clenched his jaw. He had known it, but hearing it from his father confirmed it.

"She wants to see what kind of Blackwood you are." Chris continued. "Whether you're weak enough to be manipulated or strong enough to be respected."

Classic exhaled sharply, his mind already working ahead. "So what now?"

Chris's tone was almost amused again. "Now? You decide what kind of Blackwood you want to be."

Classic ended the call without another word.

Victoria wanted a game?

Fine.

 She was about to learn that he didn't play. He won.