The Dragon King's Substitute Bride

Chapter 49

CH49

Morgan

I was a bit nervous about dinner. It was odd that he was calling us to dinner like this. Tsuneo, thankfully, seemed oblivious to my sudden unease.

"Thank you, Captain, he replied, his voice smooth. We will be there shortly."

He gave a curt nod and disappeared down the hallway. Left alone, I looked up at Tsuneo, apprehension clouding my joy.

"Everything alright, Morgan?" he asked, his brow furrowed in concern.

"It's just..." I hesitated, struggling to find the words. "Is everything alright, you think?"

Tsuneo's lips curved into a reassuring smile. "Don't worry," he said, his voice calm. "It's just dinner."

Taking a deep breath, I forced a smile. He knew more about court politics than I did.

With a nervous flutter in my stomach, I allowed Tsuneo to lead me down the hallway. Relief washed over me as we entered the familiar haven of his chambers. The whirlwind of the day, the joy of returning with Tsuneo, and the looming uncertainty of the king's dinner had left me emotionally drained.

"I think I'll freshen up before dinner, I announced, sinking down onto the plush chaise lounge.

Tsuneo nodded, his gaze lingering on me for a beat longer than necessary. "Of course," he said, his voice a husky murmur. "Would you like some assistance?"

The possessiveness in his tone sent a shiver down my spine. "I can manage," I replied. "Though... maybe if you could... pick something appropriate for dinner?"

his arm. It wasn't a robe that looked mostly black except for the aurora like

to see me in your clothes,

hungry sound in his chest.

CH49

The idea was

a shy smile, I took the robe from

to freshen up and

feet, the sleeves hanging loose over my hands. I tied

he said, his

my cheeks. "Thank you," I mumbled again, unsure

he

Together, we left our

hall.

eyes turned to us, their expressions a mix of curiosity, disapproval, and...

long table beside the King, was Ari. Her face was flushed, her eyes narrowed with a fury that sent a jolt of unease through me. The king's consorts, a gaggle of women adorned in shimmering silks and jewels, also glared in my

they were mad that my words about bothering the staff went for them as well. I looked across the table. The food hadn't been served yet, but I couldn't imagine it would be that bad. Ignoring their hostility, Tsuneo escorted me to the head of the table.

static electricity. But Tsuneo, oblivious to the undercurrent of animosity, took his rightful place beside me. He looked... happy. Relief flooded his features, a stark contrast to the worry

to share Tsuneo's joy. His eyes, though weary, held a spark of warmth as they met

back." He bobbed his head and

respectful that the chair was still there but no one spoke about why it was empty. As if he

is wonderful to be back among

so. Then, dinner started. The oppressive silence was broken

loud bang. A woman, her face. contorted with rage and grief, stormed into the room. Her eyes were

it you? Are you the human wretch pretending to be queen!" she shrieked, her voice laced with venom. "Are you the one that