Chapter 156: A Kingdom’s Worth

The King's words hung in the air like an unspoken challenge.

Chris remained composed, but he didn't miss the way Isabella subtly shifted in her seat, her eyes flickering between him and her father. She was sharp—watching, calculating. He'd have to keep that in mind.

Ethan stepped forward, breaking the silence. "Before we discuss worth, we need to define the stakes."**

The King turned to him, his expression unreadable. "You presume to teach me about stakes, Mr. Calloway?"

Ethan smiled slightly. "Not at all, Your Majesty. I only intend to clarify the reality of the situation." He glanced at Chris before continuing. "Spain, like the rest of the world, is shifting. Your political landscape is more fragile than you let on. The economy is stable but under strain. There are external pressures—alliances that need to be maintained, debts that need to be settled. And then there's the question of influence."

The King's expression darkened slightly. He did not like hearing the vulnerabilities of his kingdom spoken aloud. But he didn't interrupt.

Ethan continued, his voice measured. "You are surrounded by men who smile at you in public but make their own deals behind closed doors. Some of them would rather see Spain align with forces that do not have your best interests in mind. Forces that, if given enough time, will make you a figurehead rather than a ruler."

Chris leaned forward slightly, his fingers tapping the table. "I'm offering you something different, Your Majesty. I don't need to take Spain. I need Spain to understand that standing with me is not a choice—it's the only way to stay ahead."

The King's jaw tightened. "You make it sound as if I have no choice at all."

Chris's smirk was subtle. "You always have a choice, Your Majesty. But not all choices lead to survival."

A tense silence followed. Isabella exhaled softly, but her father remained still, his gaze locked onto Chris's.

Ethan, sensing the weight of the moment, eased back. "This is not a threat, Your Majesty. It's a reality check." He glanced at Isabella. "Spain has history, power, and prestige. But the world moves fast, and sentimentality does not hold empires together. We both know that."

The King drummed his fingers against the table. Then, finally, he sighed. "What exactly do you propose?"

Chris exchanged a glance with Ethan before answering.

"A partnership," he said smoothly. "One that ensures Spain stays relevant in the new world order."

Isabella's gaze sharpened. "And what do you get in return?"

Chris's smile was almost imperceptible.

"Control."