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-"

speak with

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

threw back the covers and strode towards the door in nothing more than a pair of loose pants. He paused for a moment,

CH53

his voice leaving

the door and walked out into the

the room, a smug smile plastered on her face. Ari stomped into the room, her nose

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

see through the eyes of the

of your concern, Ari," he growled, his voice

done to you already! You used to be up with the sunrise, ready to tackle the day. Now,

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

will gladly remove Lady R from your chambers. Simply say

of gratitude towards the guard. There was no way I was letting Ari get away with her accusations

allow Ari to continue

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 up where he

my voice despite the heat rushing through me and the

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

a moment, a flicker of ear

her chin jutting

simply ensuring that Tsuneo is prepared for his