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 patterns sewn into it. It reminded me of his eyes. "How about this?" he

me in

a low, hungry sound in

CH49

Intimacy? Maybe it was both. The idea was both thrilling and

I took the robe from

up and change. The silk was cool and

designed for his broader frame, pooled around my feet, the sleeves hanging loose over my hands.

look... radiant," he said, his voice a low

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

he gestured towards the

breath, I nodded. Together, we left our chambers and headed towards the

hall.

room fell silent. All eyes turned to us, their expressions a mix of curiosity,

seated at the long table beside the King, was Ari. Her face was flushed, her eyes narrowed with a fury that sent a jolt of unease

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. With a gentle hand on my back, he ushered me towards my

of animosity, took his rightful place beside me. He looked... happy. Relief flooded his features, a stark contrast to the worry and fatigue

however, seemed to share Tsuneo's joy. His eyes, though weary, held a spark of warmth

his head and pointedly did not look at

was still there but no one spoke about why it was empty. As if he was

bowed his head. "It is wonderful to be

said much else. The staff came out with large platters. I recognized a few of them and they smiled at me, placing the dishes on the table. Everything looked delicious and I told them so. Then, dinner started. The oppressive silence was broken only by the clinking of silverware and the murmured conversation of the people further down the table servants. We were

face. contorted with rage and grief,

human wretch pretending to be queen!" she shrieked, her voice