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-"

refuse to see me! Move! I told you; I need to speak with Tsuneo immediately!

threw his head back and 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 had really been interrupted, and

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

CH53

commanded, his voice

walked out into the main chamber.

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

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

the eyes of the

none of your concern, Ari," he growled, his voice

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

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

remove Lady R from

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

allow Ari to continue to harass and

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 heat. I could feel how much he wanted to shove them both out and pick

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

informing the King about Lady Ari's behavior

moment, a flicker of ear crossing

her chin jutting

was simply ensuring that Tsuneo is prepared