Chapter 159: Sealing the Pact

A quiet weight settled over the room. The King had spoken, but the decision was not just his—it carried the future of Spain with it. Chris saw it in Isabella's eyes, the unspoken concern, the calculations running through her mind. She understood the consequences.

Chris didn't expect her to fully trust him—not yet. Trust was built over time. But loyalty… loyalty could be secured through necessity.

The King straightened, his expression unreadable. "If Spain stands with you, I expect assurances."

Chris gave a slow nod. "Of course. You'll have access to Blackwood Industries' full support—economic, strategic, and military if necessary." He paused. "But make no mistake, Your Majesty, this is a two-way commitment."

The King's brow lifted slightly. "You expect loyalty, yet you offer no crown. No title."

Chris's smirk was subtle. "I don't need a crown. I need results."

Ethan stepped forward, setting a small tablet on the table. He swiped the screen, revealing detailed reports—economic projections, security analyses, internal threats within Spain's government.

"This is what's coming," Ethan said smoothly. "Your Majesty, Spain is already at risk—whether you acknowledge it or not. External players are positioning themselves to take advantage of any weakness." He glanced at Isabella. "The moment they see an opportunity, they will move."

The King's jaw tightened. He knew it was true.

Chris leaned forward slightly. "With us, you dictate your own future. Without us… someone else will."

The King exhaled, his fingers drumming lightly against the table. Then, at last, he extended a hand toward Chris.

"Then consider this our pact."

Chris grasped it firmly. "A wise choice, Your Majesty."

Isabella, however, remained silent, her gaze lingering on Chris as if trying to read beyond his words. She was not convinced.

Not yet.

But that was fine.

Because soon, she would see exactly what standing with Christopher Blackwood truly meant.