The Dragon King's Substitute Bride

Chapter 24

CH24

Morgan

Sunlight speared through the gaps in the heavy curtains, dappling my face with warmth. I blinked, the remnants of a strange dream clinging to the edges of my consciousness. A dream filled with flickering firelight, a comforting warmth against me, and a voice - Tsuneo's voice murmuring

reassurances.

Disorientation washed over me as I realized where I was tangled up with Tsuneo. My breath hitched. Memories of the previous night flooded back - the ridiculous drinking game, the inexplicable chill, and then...nothing. How had I ended up here?

A quick glance at Tsuneo revealed him still fast asleep, his chest rising and falling with each deep breath. He looked different this morning. Gone was the rigid tension that had characterized his sleep the first time we shared a bed. Now, his face was relaxed, a hint of a peaceful smile playing on his lips. The darkness in his skin, which I figured was a result of the poison, had also faded considerably.

Blessed by the Phoenix, indeed.

For a moment, I couldn't help but be mesmerized. He was undeniably handsome, even in sleep. But the moment was fleeting, replaced by a wave of self-consciousness. Shame burned hot in my cheeks as I realized the compromising position I was in with our legs twined together and my face buried in his chest.

Without further ado, I disentangled myself from the sheets, careful not to wake him. My head throbbed with a dull ache. What the hell had been in the goblet? I don't see why anyone would ever willingly drink so much.

Leaving Tsuneo, I made my way out of the room, the lingering warmth of his body a stark contrast to the cool air of the antechamber. I grabbed the robe I'd dropped off the floor and put both layers back on. A knock sounded on the door, and I let Maa inside. A worried frown creased her brow.

"Good morning, Your Majesty," she greeted, her voice laced with concern. "How are you feeling?"

"Like I've been trampled by a particularly enthusiastic horse," I mumbled, forcing a smile. "Specifically, my head."

Maya chuckled softly. "I wouldn't be surprised. Golden wine is quite strong, though I was told you did very well. The previous queen would be proud.

I smiled. "Your aunt?"

CH24

learning more

then, she was bringing in breakfast. A soft knock came through the main door. I let it open and smiled at Doctor Shang. His usually stoic face was etched with worry. In his arms, he cradled a small, whimpering child. And behind him, a young woman with dark eyes glared at me with undisguised hostility. She'd been at the dinner. Doctor Shang looked exhausted. "Doctor Shang?

her mother, one of the king's concubines," he explained, his voice

you to deliver the next batch

like

breakfast? Take a load

door behind her. Doctor Shang sank into a seat with a sigh, letting

and she's the

"I can tell."

tray laden with fresh fruit, warm pastries, and a steaming pot of tea. I couldn't help but wonder what the day ahead held. I'd be meeting with the Elders and the king soon, I was sure, but that would have to wait. Maya brought the final. tray of steaming

Maya," I said, sitting across from Doctor Shang. I made myself some

of the headache with

yellow,

want some?" Doctor Shang

her a plate with a bunch of fruit and set her up in his lap to eat, leaning against him. He

2/4

CH24

is being prepared. Do you plan on going

nodded. "Soon, probably.

door. I sighed and willed it open. Ari charged in, and Keiji sauntered

something you need?" I asked, looking at both of them, my voice laced with a hint

steel.

"Just taking note of what to report to the king about

rolled my eyes, but my eyes started to throb. I looked at the little girl as she stuffed something soft and juicy into her mouth with

not denying it?" Ari