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?"

closet, emerging a moment later with a garment draped over his arm. It wasn't a robe that looked mostly black except for the aurora like patterns sewn

see me

a low, hungry sound in his chest.

CH49

it was both. The idea was both thrilling and

from him. "Thank

the bathroom to freshen up and change. The silk

feet, the sleeves hanging loose over my hands. I tied the belt tightly around my waist

he said,

I

look, he gestured towards the door. "Shall

we left our

hall.

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

the 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

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

of animosity, took his rightful place beside me. He looked...

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

bobbed his head and pointedly did not look at

about why it was

is wonderful to be back among the walking again,

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

her face. contorted with rage and grief, stormed into the

to be queen!" she shrieked, her voice laced with venom. "Are you the one that killed my