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?"

a moment later with a garment draped over his arm. It wasn't a robe that looked mostly black

to see me in

a low, hungry sound in his chest.

CH49

it was both. The idea was both thrilling

a shy smile, I took the robe from him. "Thank you, Tsuneo," I

slipped into the bathroom to freshen up and change. The silk

sleeves hanging loose over my hands. I tied the belt tightly around my waist and came out, feeling a little

radiant," he said, his

I mumbled again, unsure

he

deep breath, I nodded. Together, we

hall.

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

fury that sent a jolt of unease through me. The king's consorts, a gaggle of women adorned in shimmering silks and jewels,

across the table. The food hadn't been served yet, but I couldn't imagine it would

took his rightful place beside me. He looked... happy. Relief flooded his features, a stark contrast to the worry and fatigue that had etched lines

however, seemed to share Tsuneo's joy. His eyes, though weary, held a spark of warmth as they met mine. A ghost of a smile played

He bobbed his head and pointedly did

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

to

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

the dining hall burst open with a loud bang. A woman, her face. contorted with rage and grief, stormed into the room. Her eyes were fiery and red-rimmed. Her eyes, narrowed with hatred, landed

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