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?"

draped over 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 said, holding

like to see me in your clothes,

a low, hungry sound in his chest. "I adore

CH49

The idea was both thrilling and

took the robe from him. "Thank you,

into the bathroom to freshen up and

pooled around my feet, the sleeves hanging loose over my hands.

said, his

blush crept up my cheeks. "Thank you," I mumbled again, unsure of what else

final lingering look, he gestured towards

breath, I nodded. Together, we left

hall.

fell silent. All eyes turned to us, their expressions a

Ari. Her face was flushed, her eyes narrowed with a fury that sent a jolt of unease through me. The king's consorts,

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

the tension in the room crackled like static electricity. But Tsuneo, oblivious to the undercurrent of animosity, took his rightful place beside me.

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

heart to have you back." He bobbed his head and pointedly did not look at the empty seat Keiji

oddly respectful that the chair was still there but no one spoke about why it was empty. As if he was acknowledging his sons death and his

is wonderful to be back among the walking

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 nearing the end of the meal, the tension slowly giving

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

be queen!" she shrieked, her