Chapter 324: The Fall

Classic's POV

Classic was on edge.

The first two tests had been calculated—but this last one? This was the kind of move his father made when he wanted to break someone completely.

And Elena?

She wasn't ready.

Chris Blackwood finally made his approach. Slow. Measured. Absolute control. Conversations died as he neared, the weight of his presence making people step aside without a word.

Elena straightened, clearly aware that she was now standing in front of the most dangerous man in the room.

"Elena Carter." Chris' voice was calm. Almost amused.

"Mr. Blackwood," she greeted, her voice steady. But Classic could see it—the slight hesitation.

Chris gestured toward the empty chair at his table. "Sit."

Classic clenched his jaw. He knew this move.

The Blackwood table was never just about a conversation. It was an interrogation seat.

Elena hesitated for a fraction of a second. Mistake.

Chris noticed. He always did.

Still, she sat down, crossing her legs carefully, keeping a poised expression.

Chris leaned back, watching her like a puzzle he was about to dismantle.

"Tell me, Elena—do you know why you're here?"

She smiled slightly. "Classic invited me."

Chris tilted his head. "Did he?"

A sharp answer, wrapped in a trap.

Elena didn't catch it.

"Yes," she said simply.

Wrong.

Chris gave a slow, knowing smile. "Classic invited you to the gala. I'm asking if you know why you're sitting at my table."

Silence.

Elena's expression faltered for half a second. She didn't know.

And just like that—she had failed.

Chris picked up his glass, swirling the whiskey. "You don't belong here."

Elena stiffened. "Excuse me?"

Chris didn't repeat himself. He didn't need to.

Classic exhaled sharply. This was bad.

Elena was scrambling to recover, but the damage had been done. Chris had seen through her.

She wasn't prepared. She wasn't strong enough.

And in this world?

That meant she was nothing.