Chapter 468: Months Later

Chris Blackwood – The King's Decision

Months had passed, and by now, there was no way Rhea didn't know. A woman knows when she carries life inside her.

Yet, she had said nothing.

Neither had I.

I sat in my study, swirling a glass of whiskey as I watched the city skyline. The air was thick with unspoken words, unmade decisions. Then, my phone vibrated. Ethan.

"Your Majesty."

"What does the constitution say about heirs born outside of marriage?" I asked, my voice cold.

Ethan paused. He knew where this was going.

"According to the Blackwood Constitution," he began, "any child born of a ruler is recognized as a Blackwood, regardless of legitimacy. However, legitimacy affects succession rights. An heir born outside of wedlock has no claim unless formally acknowledged by the King."

I smirked. So, it all depended on me.

"And if I choose to acknowledge the child?"

"Then they become part of the official line of succession."

I leaned back, exhaling slowly. This was my decision to make.

"And if I don't?"

"Then the child has no claim. They would be nothing but a Blackwood by blood, without power, without title."

Silence stretched between us. I could practically hear Ethan waiting for my decision.

"Find out if Rhea plans to come forward with this," I finally ordered.

"And if she does?"

I smirked. Then, she would be playing a game she wasn't ready for.

"You'll inform me first," I said. "Before she makes a move."

Ethan didn't hesitate. "Understood, Your Majesty."

As I ended the call, my fingers tapped lightly against the glass.

The question wasn't just whether I would acknowledge the child.

It was whether Rhea dared to challenge me for it.