Chapter 162: The Next Move

Chris didn't have to wait long.

Less than an hour after the Kremlin's call ended, his secure line buzzed again. This time, the voice on the other end was different—sharper, colder. A direct line from Russia's military command.

"Mr. Blackwood," the officer's voice was firm. "You've made your presence known. Now tell me—what do you really want?"

Chris smirked slightly, leaning against his desk. "For now, an answer."

A pause. "To what?"

Chris's voice remained calm, but his words carried weight. "Your soldiers on the Ukrainian border. What are they doing?"

The Russian officer's breathing slowed. "You already know."

Chris tapped his fingers against the wood. "I know what the world sees. But I want to hear it from you."

Another pause, this one longer. Then, finally— "They are securing our interests."

Chris chuckled softly. "'Securing interests'—is that what we're calling invasions now?"

The officer's tone darkened. "Watch your words, Blackwood."

Chris's smirk didn't fade. "No, you watch yours. Because right now, I'm the one deciding whether to escalate this further."

A heavy silence stretched between them. Then the Russian officer exhaled. "If you're looking for a fight, Mr. President, you'll get one."

Chris's voice dropped slightly. "I don't start fights. I just make sure I finish them."

Another silence. Then, the officer spoke again, more controlled this time. "The Kremlin will respond soon."

Chris let the call end without another word. He placed the phone down, meeting Ethan's gaze.

Ethan exhaled. "They're testing you."

Chris nodded. "Then let's give them something to think about."

His fingers hovered over the phone again, this time dialing another secure line.

"Mobilize our assets in Eastern Europe. I want every move they make watched. If they push forward…" He paused, his voice steady.

"We push back."