Chapter 316: The Moment Before the Storm

Chris' POV

Chris Blackwood sat in his office, fingers steepled, as he listened to Ethan's report.

The name Elena Carter wasn't new to him. He had heard of the Carters before, but they were insignificant in his world—or so he thought.

Now?

They had his attention.

"The Cortez family?" Chris repeated, his voice calm but laced with something darker.

Ethan nodded. "Her father has been meeting with them. The details aren't clear yet, but the fact that he's involved with them at all?" He exhaled. "That's a problem."

Chris leaned back, his mind already moving ahead.

Classic was young, and like any teenager, he wanted to make his own choices. Chris had allowed him that much freedom—but not at the cost of a potential enemy standing beside him.

"What's your recommendation?" Chris asked, knowing Ethan would have already considered solutions.

Ethan's expression was unreadable. "We remove her. Quietly."

A simple solution.

A clean solution.

But Chris didn't answer immediately. He tapped a finger against his desk, his gaze focused but unreadable.

Christiana was the one who had uncovered this. His daughter had always been sharp, always watching. She wouldn't bring this to him unless she was sure.

But Classic?

Would he see this as protection—or control?

Chris exhaled slowly.

"Not yet."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Sir?"

Chris's voice was quiet but firm. "She's playing a game. Let's see how far she's willing to take it."

If Elena was truly a threat, she'd reveal herself soon enough.

And when she did?

Chris Blackwood wouldn't need to remove her.

She'd eliminate herself.