The Dragon King's Substitute Bride

Chapter 53

CH53

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-"

to speak with Tsuneo immediately! It's a matter of utmost importance!" Ari's

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 had really been

a sigh of resignation, Tsuneo threw back the covers and strode towards the door in nothing more than a pair

CH53

his voice

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

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

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

of the palace the way his eyes narrowed into

happens between a husband and wife is none of your concern, Ari," he growled, his voice dangerously

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

unleash his fury, the guard stationed outside cleared

will gladly remove

away with her accusations and intrusion. And I was

couldn't allow Ari to

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

swallowed, steading my voice despite the heat rushing through me and the

the King about Lady Ari's behavior this morning. Get out,

a moment, a flicker of ear crossing her

chin jutting out

simply ensuring that Tsuneo is