White House – State Dining Room
The long, polished table gleamed under the warm chandelier lights. Crystal glasses, fine china, and candlelit elegance set the mood, but the atmosphere in the room was far from relaxed.
Chris sat at the head of the table, his posture unshaken, unreadable. To his right sat Skylar, her presence deliberate, undeniable. Across from her, Princess Isabella of Spain maintained her regal poise, her emerald gown shimmering under the light.
Surrounding them were key political figures, foreign diplomats, and top advisors.
It was more than just a diplomatic dinner.
It was a power play.
The room's tension wasn't just from political alliances—it was personal. The unspoken battle between Skylar and Isabella had already begun.
Chris picked up his wine glass, taking a slow sip before speaking.
"Let's begin."
---
The Dance of Words
Isabella was the first to break the silence.
"Mr. President, I must say, your leadership has been… compelling. Spain is eager to discuss further economic cooperation."
Her tone was smooth, professional—but her gaze flickered toward Skylar, as if subtly questioning her presence.
Skylar, to her credit, didn't flinch. Instead, she calmly picked up her own glass, taking a measured sip.
Chris smirked slightly. He could see the silent challenge between them.
"Spain has always been a valuable ally," Chris replied smoothly, setting down his glass. "But cooperation should be built on trust and mutual benefit, don't you think?"
Isabella tilted her head slightly, her smile never faltering. "Of course. And trust is earned through consistency… and strong partnerships."
Chris leaned forward slightly, his fingers tapping against the table.
"Then let's make one thing clear—my partnerships are already decided."
Isabella's smile didn't waver, but her grip on her fork tightened slightly.
Skylar, without missing a beat, simply rested her hand on Chris's arm.
A small gesture—but a statement to everyone in the room.
Chris didn't move away.
The message?
Skylar wasn't going anywhere.
---
A Quiet Victory
As the dinner continued, conversations shifted to international policies, economic strategies, and global stability. But the undercurrent of tension remained.
By the time dessert was served, Chris had made his position clear.
When the dinner ended, Isabella offered one last polite smile.
"It was a pleasure, Mr. President. I look forward to future discussions."
Chris nodded. "Likewise, Princess."
Then, Isabella turned to Skylar—offering a soft but pointed smile.
"And you, Miss Skylar… enjoy your evening."
Skylar met her gaze, unshaken.
"I already am."
With that, Isabella turned and left, her guards following.
As the doors closed behind her, Skylar finally exhaled, turning to Chris.
"She wanted to make a point."
Chris smirked. "And so did we."
Skylar arched a brow. "We?"
Chris leaned in slightly, his voice lower.
"You're here, aren't you?"
he studied him for a moment, then simply shook her head with a small smile.
"I guess I am."