Chapter 349: The Selection Begins

Chris stood in his private study, his eyes scanning the confidential files Ethan had laid out before him. Each file represented a candidate—daughters of the world's most powerful families, each with a pedigree worthy of the Blackwood name.

The stack was thick, but Chris knew the truth—only a handful would be seriously considered.

"These are the strongest options," Ethan said, stepping back as Chris flipped through the profiles.

The first file belonged to Isabella Von Austerlitz, heiress to one of Europe's most influential banking dynasties. Educated at Oxford, fluent in five languages, and with an impeccable reputation, she was the ideal choice on paper.

Chris barely glanced at the file before setting it aside. Too predictable.

Next was Valentina De Luca, the daughter of a powerful Italian political family. Sharp, strategic, and rumored to have her own quiet influence over government affairs. She was known for her ambition and loyalty—but also for her ruthlessness.

Chris tapped the edge of her file thoughtfully before moving on.

The third name made him pause. Amira Al-Fayad, the only daughter of a Middle Eastern royal family. With her nation's vast oil reserves and close diplomatic ties, securing her hand would further solidify Blackwood control on the global stage.

Ethan watched his reaction. "She's already shown interest," he noted. "Her family sees this as an opportunity."

Chris nodded but didn't commit. He turned to the next file.

Celeste Beaumont, the French media empire heiress. More than just a socialite, she had the power to control narratives, influence public perception, and shape global discourse. A strategic move—if she could be controlled.

He set her aside as well.

The last profile belonged to Katarina Volkov, the daughter of a Russian oligarch with deep connections to military industries. Intelligent, fiercely independent, and rumored to have a dangerous past, Katarina was a wildcard in this selection process.

Chris leaned back, his fingers tapping against the desk.

"Do we have background intelligence on their relationships?" he asked.

Ethan nodded. "Most are single or in strategic courtships that can be dissolved. No complications."

Chris smirked slightly. "Except for Classic."

Ethan remained silent, but Chris knew what he was thinking. Classic had made his choice—but that didn't mean it would stand.

Chris exhaled, closing the files.

"Begin the vetting process," he ordered.

Ethan nodded, gathering the documents.

The courtship of Classic Blackwood had officially begun.