Chapter 321: The Queen Watches

Skylar's POV

From her place on the upper balcony, Skylar Blackwood watched the unfolding scene below.

The grand ballroom was a sea of wealth and power—men in tailored suits discussing silent wars, women in designer gowns smiling through hidden rivalries. The Blackwood Gala had always been a show, but tonight?

Tonight was different.

Her eyes settled on Elena Carter.

The girl moved with careful grace, perfectly aware that she was being watched.

Skylar leaned against the railing, sipping her champagne. She knew what this was. Chris had set a trap, Christiana had helped bait it, and now—Elena was the one being measured.

But Skylar wasn't convinced yet.

What if she was just another girl caught in the Blackwood orbit?

Or worse—what if Classic actually liked her?

Her gaze flickered to her son. He looked relaxed, but she knew better. Classic was playing it cool, but the way he glanced at Elena—he was paying attention.

And that?

That was dangerous.

A Blackwood's emotions were their greatest weakness. Chris had learned that the hard way. Would Classic?

Skylar's grip tightened around her glass.

If Elena Carter thought she was ready for this world, she was wrong.

Because the moment she misstepped?

Skylar would make sure she never got the chance to recover.