The first strike wasn't delivered with fists or bullets—it was waged in the world of business.
A multi-billion-dollar deal with a European syndicate was at stake. It had been arranged under his older brother's authority—a deal that was meant to prove he was worthy of being the Blackwood heir.
But the moment Vincent returned, his father changed the game.
"You both will handle this deal," his father announced at the long dining table, where the Blackwood family had gathered. His voice was calm, yet it carried a finality that left no room for argument. "Let's see which of you is truly fit to sit at the top."
Silence.
All eyes turned to Vincent's older brother, who visibly stiffened at the challenge. He had prepared for this negotiation for months—analyzing market trends, studying financial risks, calculating the best possible offers.
But Vincent had just arrived, without warning, without preparation.
Yet, he didn't look surprised at all.
If anything, he looked bored.
His brother clenched his fists. He refused to lose to the sibling who had abandoned the family for a meaningless entertainment career.
"Vincent has been gone for too long. He has no idea what this deal is about," his brother told himself. "There's no way he can beat me."
But he had underestimated Vincent.