Chapter 352: The Consequence of Refusal

Classic sat in silence, the weight of Ethan's words pressing down on him like a crushing force.

"If you refuse," Ethan repeated, his tone measured but firm, "your sister takes over everything."

Classic's head snapped up, eyes narrowing. "What?"

Ethan remained impassive. "Your father has already prepared the alternative. If you reject this marriage, Christiana will be named the heir to the empire. Not just in title—completely. The Blackwood dynasty, your company, your inheritance... everything. You will be stripped of all authority."

A cold laugh escaped Classic's lips, but there was no amusement in it. "Dad wouldn't do that."

Ethan placed a sleek black folder on the table and slid it toward him.

"He already has."

Classic hesitated before flipping it open. Inside was an official document, stamped with the Blackwood crest. It was a succession decree, signed by Chris Blackwood himself.

If Classic refused the Saudi proposal, Christiana would be declared the primary heir.

His fingers tightened around the edge of the paper. "This is insane."

"No," Ethan corrected, "this is strategy. Your father doesn't gamble with uncertainty. If you won't follow the plan, he will choose someone who will."

Classic's jaw clenched. He wasn't naïve—he always knew his father played the long game. But to strip him of everything? That wasn't just a move; it was a declaration.

A declaration that Chris Blackwood didn't tolerate defiance.

"And Christiana?" Classic asked after a long silence. "She knows?"

Ethan's expression was unreadable. "She's already preparing."

Classic exhaled slowly, his mind racing. He knew his sister. She was ruthless when she wanted something—and if she became heir, she wouldn't hand it back.

If he refused this marriage, it wouldn't just be about losing his title. He would lose everything.

And Christiana would take his place without hesitation.