Chapter 2 INTENSE ALTERCATIONS

The grand, golden door swung open, revealing Vincent Blackwood, the formidable business tycoon. In his forties, he emanated an imposing aura of power and aloofness. Adorned in a meticulously tailored suit, he exuded an air of authority that commanded respect. His piercing, cold, and calculating eyes unveiled a man who would stop at nothing to achieve his ambitions. Vince, as he is commonly known, held the position of the exceptionally intelligent CEO of a powerful conglomerate.

Vincent Blackwood, an individual of immense influence, presided over a vast empire, comprising a multitude of companies spanning various sectors. From technology and healthcare to oil and gas, Vincent's acumen in the business realm knew no bounds. Yet, his aspirations extended beyond mere corporate conquests as he ventured into the realm of academics. Within the bustling confines of New York City, Vincent Blackwood took immense pride in owning and overseeing the largest college in the metropolis. Aptly named Blackwood College, this esteemed institution stood as a testament to Vincent's unwavering commitment to education and intellectual growth. As Vincent cast his piercing gaze upon them, clutching his office bag tightly, Adrian, stuttering nervously, inquired, "F-father, w-what brings you here at this hour?" "What do you mean? Can I not even visit my own house whenever I desire?" Vincent bellowed, his voice resonating with authority. "No, that's not what he meant, Vince," Judith interjected, defending her son. "Considering how frequently you travel for extended periods, sometimes for two to three months, and the fact that you only left home last week." "And who granted you the audacity to talk back to me?" Vincent yelled at Judith. "No, Vince, I was merely stating-" Judith attempted to explain, but Vince abruptly silenced her with a vulgar outburst. "Silence, you wretched woman!" "Dad, please, do not be angry with Mum. It is all my fault," Adrian pleaded. Vince shot him a deadly glare. "I have no business with this woman. I returned tonight for an important meeting tomorrow morning, and I am taking you along to introduce you as the heir to Blackwood Holdings," he declared to Adrian. "But, Dad, I do not wish to be involved in this," Adrian expressed, already feeling disheartened. "And I did not ask for your permission," Vincent retorted, striding away. "Mum, can you see what Dad is doing? He is forcing me to attend the meeting, and I have no interest in it," Adrian confided in Judith. "My son, listen to your dad and comply with his wishes. Do you want him to blame me? Do you want people to point fingers at me?" Judith queried. "No, Mum, I do not wish to cause you any more trouble. I will heed your advice," Adrian said. "Alright, finish up and retire to bed," Judith instructed before departing from the dining area. **VINCENT'S CHAMBERS** Judith took a deep breath, summoning her courage, and gently knocked on Vince's door. Despite their numerous disagreements, she still believed that through open communication, they could salvage their relationship. With hope in her heart, she yearned for Vince to be willing to listen. "Nervously, Judith uttered, "Vince, can we please have a conversation? It is crucial that we address our issues and find a way to reconcile." Vince responded arrogantly, "Oh, it is you. What could you possibly want to discuss? I have more important matters to attend to than wasting my time with you." Trying her best to remain composed, Judith implored, "Vince, I implore you, please. I firmly believe that if we communicate openly, we can find a path towards resolution. Our relationship is worth fighting for." Mocking laughter escaped Vince's lips. "Worth fighting for? Do you truly believe that? You are delusional if you think I have any interest in repairing things with you." Judith's heart sank, wounded by Vince's dismissive and arrogant demeanor. She had hoped that he would be open to at least having a conversation, but his response only fueled her frustration. Maintaining a steady voice, Judith persisted, "Vince, I beseech you, please, just listen to what I have to say. I yearn to comprehend your perspective and find common ground between us." Angrily, Vince retorted, "Find common ground? There is no common ground, Judith. It is abundantly clear that I operate on an entirely different level than you. I have no time for your trivial matters." Feeling her patience wane, Judith mustered her strength. "Vince, this relationship requires the effort of two individuals. We must work together, listen to one another, and seek a compromise. This is how a healthy relationship thrives." Sarcastically, Vince interrupted, "A healthy relationship? Spare me the clichés, Judith. You simply aren't worth the effort. Now, kindly depart before you further waste my invaluable time." "But I love you deeply, Vince. Please, think about our son," Judith pleaded. "I believe you have forgotten your place, woman. You are merely a mistress, not a wife. Do not mistake one for the other, do you comprehend?" Vince roared as he tightened his grip around her throat. "Y-y-yes, please release me. I'm struggling to breathe," Judith managed to utter amidst her tears. Immediately, Vince released his hold on her. "Now, leave my room," he ordered. Coughing heavily, Judith hastily fled from Vince's chamber, desperate for fresh air ... **BLACKWOOD COLLEGE NYC** Amidst the sprawling grounds of Blackwood College, a prestigious school nestled in opulent surroundings, a vision of grandeur and elegance unfolds. Majestic buildings, adorned with intricate architectural details, proudly rise against the azure sky, casting regal shadows upon manicured lawns and vibrant gardens. This institution, known for its affiliation with Vincent Blackwood, exudes both the beauty of education and the splendor befitting a realm of affluence. As the sun bathes the campus in its golden glow, students from privileged backgrounds gracefully traverse cobblestone pathways, adorned in designer attire. Each step they take exudes an air of confidence and entitlement, a testament to the world they were born into. The atmosphere crackles with ambition and entitlement, mingling with the whispers of success that echo through the hallowed halls. Inside the magnificent corridors of Blackwood Academy, the pursuit of knowledge reaches new heights. Luxurious classrooms, adorned with ornate chandeliers and plush furnishings, provide a backdrop where intellectual curiosity thrives. The walls, adorned with masterful artwork and inspiring quotes, serve as constant reminders of the legacy the students are destined to uphold. On a sunny morning at this prestigious institution, the sound of roaring engines fills the air as "The Elite Wheels" make their grand entrance. Jermaine, with his sleek and shiny black sports car, leads the way, exuding an air of confidence that suggests he owns the entire world. Adrian follows closely behind in his metallic silver convertible, the wind gracefully tousling his perfectly styled hair. Lastly, Seth arrives in his vibrant red muscle car, adding a touch of rebelliousness to the group. Jermaine, as he parks his sleek black sports car, smirks at his friends. "Gentlemen, yet another flawless entrance. I can practically sense the envy in the air." Adrian, stepping out of his silver convertible with a confident swagger, chuckles. "Indeed, Jermaine. Wherever we go, we leave an indelible mark. It's simply the way we conduct ourselves." Seth emerges from his vibrant red muscle car, grinning mischievously. "And today, my friends, we have surpassed ourselves. This will undoubtedly be the talk of the school for weeks to come." Jermaine surveys the crowd and raises an eyebrow. "Absolutely. Let them gaze and wonder. We embody the epitome of success, after all." Adrian playfully nudges Seth and teases, "Seth, my friend, you better be careful. Your red beauty might just steal the show today." Seth smirks and responds, "Who needs subtlety when one can turn heads? Making a bold statement is what it's all about, my friends." Just then, Lara Brown, the queen of Blackwood College, makes her entrance, emanating an air of arrogance and haughtiness. She is dressed impeccably, radiating beauty and confidence. Alongside her, Sasha, her friend also enters with pride. "Oh my, Lara looks absolutely stunning," a student compliments. "Sasha is also looking fabulous," another student remarks. The bell rings, signaling the start of class, and students rush towards their respective classrooms. Lara and Sasha arrive at their seats promptly. Lara catches a glimpse of Gilbert, a scholarship student, and confronts him, yelling, "Hey, what are you doing here?" Gilbert replies calmly, "I am here to attend class, just like everyone else." "Shut up and get out! Who gave you the audacity to be in the same class as me? Leave now!" Lara yells, her voice dripping with disdain. "Please, Lara, let me be," Gilbert pleads with her. "Eeww, don't come near me! You stink!" Lara holds her nose in disgust. "Pathetic loser! How dare you speak to Lara Brown?" Sasha chimes in. "Do you see what I mean? I don't understand why Uncle Vince would entrust the management of this school to his mistress. She keeps admitting poor and frustrated people like him," Lara vents in frustration. "Now get your pathetic self out of here!" Lara yelled "He's going nowhere. He will remain seated here in class, alongside all of you," a voice echoes from the back door. Everyone turns to see who dares to challenge Lara Brown. Lara herself is shocked to the core, and so are all the other students. Stammering, Lara manages to utter, "Y-y-you?"