Page 10 of Dragon King’s Duty Bride

She looked exactly as she had from behind. The pale blue suited her. It was the sort of color Dian used to favor in the spring. The comparison made him stiffen.

“You’re up early,” he said finally, the words feeling insufficient the moment they left his mouth.

Sia offered a polite smile. “I’ve always preferred the mornings.”

He nodded, as though this were new information. It wasn’t. He had known her for years. He had simply never searched for footing in her presence.

“You slept?” he asked.

Her fingers tightened on her mug. “Enough.”

He knew that tone. It was the same one she had used at Dian’s funeral when well-wishers had asked if she was managing.

He gestured toward the tea. “It’s hibiscus."

“I remember.” She reached for the pot, then hesitated. “Would you like me to pour it for you?”

He nodded. “I don’t take sugar.”

“I know.”

Another silence.

The tea poured in a thin stream. The scent rose between them, tart and fruity.

Lucas sat opposite her at the long table. The space between their chairs felt absurdly wide for two people legally bound in marriage.

“You look…” He stopped himself.

Like her sister.

“…well,” he finished.

“Thank you.” Her voice was gracious. Controlled. “The seamstresses were very attentive.” She gave a slight shrug. “Very quick about it, too.”

The staff had wasted no time adjusting to reflect her position.

“They seem eager,” he said.

“Yes.” She picked up a slice of toast but did not eat it. “I think they’ve been waiting.”

“For a queen,” he clarified.

“For stability,” she corrected gently.

He looked down at his plate. “I don’t know what to say. I never meant—”

She interrupted. “You don’t have to explain, Lucas. I understand why we’re here.”

The practicality of it pierced him more than accusation would have.

“That doesn’t make it easier,” he said quietly.

“No.” She finally took a small bite of toast. “It doesn’t.”

A servant approached with plates of eggs. The young man’s hands trembled slightly while his eyes darted between king and queen as if he expected sparks.

Lucas forced himself to soften his posture. “Thank you, Tomas.”