Chapter 172: The Answer

Volkov's gaze flickered between Chris and Ethan, his fingers still tapping lightly against the polished table. He wasn't a man used to being cornered, but tonight, he had no choice but to acknowledge the weight of the moment.

His delegation remained silent. Mikhailov looked tense. General Orlov's jaw was locked, his hands resting carefully on the table, as if resisting the urge to act. But deep down, they all knew the reality—this wasn't a negotiation. This was a verdict.

Finally, Volkov exhaled and leaned forward.

"Fine." His voice was firm but controlled. "We will begin the withdrawal."

Chris's expression didn't change. He had expected this answer. "You'll begin it immediately," he corrected.

Volkov's lips curled into a faint smirk. "You don't trust me?"

Chris chuckled. "Let's just say I prefer insurance."

Ethan wasted no time, sliding a document across the table. "Sign it. It guarantees a full withdrawal within seventy-two hours. Any delays will be seen as an act of hostility."

Volkov studied the paper. It wasn't just a written agreement—it was a trap. A legally binding document that would force Russia's hand on the global stage. If he signed and then hesitated, the consequences would be swift and unforgiving.

He knew that.

And so did Chris.

For a brief moment, Volkov seemed to weigh his options. But there were none.

He reached for the pen. The Russian delegation watched as their President—one of the most powerful men in the world—signed away his position in the standoff. The ink dried on the page, sealing a decision that would shift the balance of global power.

Volkov set the pen down and met Chris's gaze. "You won this round, Blackwood."

Chris smirked. "I win every round."

A tense silence followed before Volkov stood up, adjusting his suit. "I'll expect your people to stay out of our affairs from now on."

Chris rose as well, stepping around the table until he was just inches from the Russian President. "That depends." His voice dropped to a whisper. "Stay out of my way, and I'll stay out of yours."

Volkov studied him for a long moment before nodding once.

With that, the Russian delegation began to exit, their movements controlled but tense. The twenty armored soldiers remained in position, watching them leave.

As the doors shut behind them, Ethan let out a quiet breath. "That was intense."

Chris smirked, straightening his cuffs. "It was necessary."

He turned to his soldiers. "Stand down, but remain on alert."

Then he looked at Ethan. "Get ready. This isn't over."

Because Chris Blackwood never played defense.