Chapter 359: “The Engagement of a Prince”

(Classic Blackwood's POV)

The weight of my decision settled over the room like a storm cloud, but I kept my expression unreadable.

"I accept."

The words left my mouth with precision, echoing in the grand hall. A single statement, yet one that would shape the future of two empires.

King Salman gave a satisfied nod, while Prince Khalid observed me with the sharpness of a man who knew he had just gained a powerful ally—or a dangerous rival.

Princess Amal, my future bride, lowered her gaze. If she had any emotions about this arrangement, she masked them well. But I saw the tension in her shoulders, the careful way she breathed.

She hadn't expected me to agree so easily.

Neither had Christiana.

My sister stood at the far side of the room, arms crossed, her expression unreadable. But I knew her well enough to sense her displeasure.

"It's settled, then," King Salman announced, standing from his seat. "The engagement will be formally announced to the world."

A formality. The real work had already begun.

---

The Engagement Ceremony – One Week Later

The palace was illuminated with golden lights, and the grand ballroom was filled with dignitaries, royalty, and the most powerful figures of our time. Cameras flashed, broadcasting the event to millions.

I stood at the center, dressed in an impeccable black and gold suit, the Blackwood crest embroidered across my chest. Next to me, Princess Amal was adorned in a regal gown, her tiara glinting under the chandeliers.

The engagement was official.

But as I glanced around the room, I could already see the political games at play. Some congratulated us with forced smiles, others whispered behind their glasses of champagne.

And Christiana?

She watched from the sidelines, her expression unreadable. But I knew her well enough. She wasn't celebrating.

She was waiting.

For what? I wasn't sure.

But I had a feeling I was about to find out.