Page 60 of Dragon King’s Duty Bride

One maid’s eyes filled with tears. “We meant no harm.”

“Harm does not require intent,” Sia scolded. “Only carelessness.”

Footsteps echoed behind her that were firm and unmistakable. Lucas.

He took in the scene in a glance with the trembling staff and Sia standing tall before them. His jaw tightened.

“What’s going on?” he asked. His voice carried the edge of a king used to obedience.

The chef dropped to one knee. “Forgive us, Your Majesty.”

Lucas’s gaze sharpened. “Forgive you for what?”

“They were speculating about heirs, or the lack thereof.” Sia answered before they could stumble through it. She kept her tone measured, but there was steel beneath it. “They seem to think that our sex life is theirs to critique and offer opinions.” Vulgar, but she could see the words hit home.

Lucas’s expression darkened instantly. “You dared insult my wife? Your queen?” He turned to Sia. “They will be dismissed, effective immediately. Pray I don’t press charges for treason against the crown.”

The maids gasped and one burst into tears. The chef looked like he was about to pass out.

Sia laid a gentle hand on his arm. “No.”

Lucas blinked at her.

“They have overstepped,” she continued, “but they have also been given a lesson.”

She faced the staff again. “You won’t be dismissed today. Instead, you will return to your duties and deliver a message.”

The three of them looked up cautiously.

“The time for rumors is over.” Sia’s voice rang clear in the corridor. “My marriage is not a public spectacle. My body is not public property. And any further disrespect through whispered conversations in the shadows will be met with consequences.”

“Severe consequences,” Lucas added. “And you should all appreciate Sia’s leniency because I don’t feel the same.”

She held their gaze until each of them nodded. “I know it wasn’t just the three of you, so make sure you spread the word that I’m done with the disrespect.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” they chorused. They scrambled away without so much as a customary curtsy as they retreated.

When they were alone, Lucas looked at her in open astonishment. “Wow. I’m impressed that you have suddenly embraced your role as queen.”

She leaned up and kissed him. “Last night meant a lot to me, so I figured I’d better live up to it.”

“You spared them,” he said as he stroked her cheek. “I’m proud of you for that. I was seconds away from firing all three.”

“I know.” She smiled slightly. “That’s why I stopped you.”

He studied her as if seeing her anew. “You didn’t even flinch with your resolve.”

“I’ve flinched enough in my life,” she replied softly. “I’m finished with it.”

A slow grin spread across his face and pride warmed his eyes. He stepped closer and lowered his voice. “That was exceptional queen-ing.”

She laughed despite herself. “Queen-ing?”

“Yes. Strategic. Merciful. Terrifying when necessary.” He brushed his knuckles along her jaw. “You handled it perfectly.”

Pleasure bloomed in her chest, different from the night before but just as powerful. This contentment was born of strength.

“I suppose I’m learning,” she said lightly.