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-"

need to speak with Tsuneo immediately!

let out a frustrated groan. The sound rattled through me. It was the first time I'd heard him make such a noise, and it sent a shiver down my spine, a mix of fear and a strange sense of arousal. He was really frustrated. Whatever his plans were for me

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 than a pair of loose pants. He paused for

CH53

he commanded, his voice leaving no room for

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

I heard the main door open. Then, Ari, seemingly oblivious to his anger, pushed her way into the room, a smug smile plastered

in bed at this ungodly hour. Have you completely forgotten your duties?" Her eyes

of the palace

is none of your concern, Ari," he

you already! You used to be up with the sunrise, ready to tackle the day. Now, thanks to her, she said, the word dripping with sarcasm, "you've adopted

unleash his fury, the guard stationed outside cleared his throat and spoke

addressed Tsuneo, I will gladly remove Lady R from your chambers. Simply say the

the guard. There was no way I was letting Ari get away with her accusations and intrusion. And I was glad that

allow Ari to

voice echoing into the chamber through the palace. Ari looked 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

the heat rushing through me and the

be informing the King about Lady Ari's behavior

expression faltered for a moment, a flicker of ear crossing her eyes. But she quickly

her chin

that Tsuneo is prepared for his coronation!