The Dragon King's Substitute Bride

Chapter 53

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Morgan

My heart hammered against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat against the sudden shift in atmosphere. His words held a double meaning, both a playful instruction to continue our game and a serious command that left me breathless.

Before I could even respond, his lips brushed against mine, a feather-light touch that sent a jolt of electricity through my body. My breath hitched, caught between surprise and a dawning desire. He groaned, licking at my lips as if planning to have more, but the moment was shattered before it could truly begin. A loud banging sound erupted from outside the door, followed by a shrill voice that pierced the morning calm.

"Tsuneo! Open the door!" It was Ari, her voice laced with a sharp urgency.

A growl ripped from Tsuneo's throat, low and dangerous. He pulled away from me abruptly, his expression a stormy mix of frustration and barely contained anger.

I scrambled to sit up, pulling the silken robe tighter around myself. I hadn't even noticed that it had fallen open. My cheeks burned. What had been about to happen? Would I have let it happen? The raw heat in his eyes felt like it would melt through any resistance I thought I might have.

"That girl... Tsuneo muttered, his voice tight with annoyance..

The banging on the door continued, accompanied by a heated argument between Ari and the guard stationed outside.

"Who are you to stop me? You're just a knight!"

"I am under orders from His Highness-"

me! Move! I told you; I need to speak with Tsuneo immediately! It's a matter of utmost

a shiver down my spine, a mix of fear and a strange sense of arousal. He was really frustrated.

some more. From the sound of it, she wasn't going away. With a sigh of resignation, Tsuneo threw back the covers and strode towards the door in nothing more

CH53

voice leaving no room for

watched as he opened the door and walked out into the main chamber. He

oblivious to his anger, pushed her way into the room, a smug smile plastered

intimate moment. Maybe she expected that she had and was glad for it. "There you are, Tsuneo. Wallowing in bed at this ungodly hour. Have you completely forgotten your

eyes of the palace the way his eyes

husband and wife is none of your concern, Ari," he

She's mortal! And look what she'd done to you already! You used to be up with the sunrise, ready to tackle the day. Now,

Tsuneo could unleash his fury, the guard stationed outside cleared his throat

addressed Tsuneo, I will gladly remove Lady R from your

was letting Ari get away with her accusations and intrusion. And I was glad that at least

couldn't allow Ari to continue to harass and

up and around, looking shocked and terrified. The guard looked deeply impressed. I caught Tsuneo's eye through the crack in the door. His eyes were blazing with heat. I could feel how much he wanted to shove them both out and pick

steading my voice despite the

King about Lady Ari's behavior this morning. Get

for a moment, a flicker of ear crossing

chin jutting

was simply ensuring that Tsuneo is prepared for his coronation!