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-"

Move! I told you; I need to speak with Tsuneo immediately! It's a matter of utmost importance!" Ari's voice

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

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 than a pair of loose pants. He paused

CH53

he commanded, his voice leaving no room

walked out into the main chamber. He left the door

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

was glad for it. "There you are, Tsuneo. Wallowing in bed at this ungodly hour. Have you completely

the eyes of the palace the way his eyes

wife is none of your concern, Ari," he growled, his

voice laced with a sharp edge. "We all know she'll only be here temporarily. 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, thanks to her, she said, the word dripping with sarcasm,

fury, the guard stationed outside cleared his throat and

gladly remove Lady R from your chambers.

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

Ari to continue to harass

I caught Tsuneo's eye

my voice despite the heat rushing through me and the

will be informing the King about Lady Ari's behavior this morning. Get

faltered for a moment, a flicker of ear crossing

her chin jutting out

that Tsuneo is