Chapter 323: The Real Test

Classic's POV

Classic knew his father was watching.

Chris Blackwood never set up just one test—there was always another, sharper one waiting underneath.

And this time?

Classic had a feeling it was going to be brutal.

Elena had handled Aldrich well, but that was easy. He was predictable. The next move wouldn't be.

A waiter approached with a tray of drinks.

Classic reached for a glass, only to hear a voice behind him.

"I wouldn't drink that if I were you."

He turned.

Dimitri Volkov.

A Russian oligarch, dangerous in more ways than one. A man who didn't respect people unless they earned it in blood or power.

And, more importantly—one of his father's favorite weapons.

Classic's jaw tensed slightly. So this was the test.

"And why is that?" Classic asked smoothly.

Volkov smirked. "Because I'm offering you something better."

He snapped his fingers. Another waiter appeared—this time with a bottle of Volkov's private collection. A drink worth more than most people's annual salary.

People were watching now.

Elena glanced at him, unsure. Christiana narrowed her eyes. She knew the game.

If Classic refused, it would be seen as an insult.

If he accepted too easily, it would be seen as submission.

Chris had set this up perfectly.

Classic exhaled slowly. Then, he reached out—but instead of taking the glass, he took the entire bottle.

Checkmate.

Volkov let out a booming laugh. "I like you, Blackwood."

Classic gave a small smirk. "I wasn't asking for approval."

Silence.

Then Volkov grinned. "Good answer."

The tension in the room eased. Conversations resumed. The test had been passed.

But Classic knew—his father wasn't done yet.

Chris Blackwood never stopped at two moves.

The third test would be the deadliest.