Page 16 of Courting the Dragon Prince

ChapterSeven

Onyx stared at his betrothed.

Prince Luther threw back his head and laughed at something his sister, Princess Senta Drachen, said. He stood with three of his older siblings in the ballroom.

Prince Luther dressed in flowing robes of sheer black over dark-green velvet. He wore the gold-and-emerald dragon brooch pinned to the front. His robes hung open, revealing his smooth, muscular brown chest. Elaborate gold and diamonds draped from his throat.

A golden belt cinched his waist. More gold circled his wrists, filigree bracers more decorative than protective, inlaid with emeralds and diamonds. Finally, a golden crown, fashioned to look like dragon horns, sat on top of Prince Luther’s wavy brown hair. Kohl underlined his eyes, and green eyeshadow shimmered above.

Prince Luther was beyond stunning. Everyone in the room seemed to be staring at the dragon prince, unable to look away from the exquisite vision.

And unfortunately, Onyx was amongst them.

Prince Luther had looked so haggard at the meeting, which was the last time Onyx had seen him. He’d been slumped in his chair, hair a mess and eyes red-rimmed.

Onyx assumed he’d spent the night drinking. And probably fucking.

Onyx tensed at the thought. It shouldn’t bother him. They didn’t have soft and tender feelings for each other. They weren’t even married yet. But Onyx doubted Prince Luther would stop bedding others even once they were married. He’d no doubt disrespect Onyx constantly with his wandering dick.

Onyx’s gaze moved over those gathered in the ballroom, taking in the chandeliers of gold and crystal. They hung from a ceiling painted to depict forests in the different seasons as one moved one’s gaze in a circular motion.

Everyone seemed to be in attendance tonight. Monks, royals, nobles, and dignitaries mingled, drank, and ate. Onyx wondered if Prince Luther had spent the night with one of these individuals.

Onyx didn’t expect Prince Luther to be in his bed. But still, to fuck around whilst in the middle of their courtship period was in extremely poor taste. This courtship period was meant to be a time when they got to know each other. Not fuck other people.

Not to mention that Luther not behaving properly threatened the treaty. But since the dragon prince didn’t care about that, Onyx shouldn’t be surprised.

Clearly, Prince Luther cared about nothing and no one but himself. Even tonight, as breathtaking as he appeared, he looked very much like a greedy, self-centred dragon prince, dripping with gold and jewels.

“Warden Onyx,” a voice said behind him.

Onyx turned. “Grand monk, how can I help you?”

“Is your mother here yet? As you are aware, you and Prince Luther should have opened your betrothal ball with a dance, but …” The grand monk’s bushy brows furrowed as he trailed off.

“Yes. Something must have come up. My cousin has gone to check on her.” Onyx paused. “But she will be here soon. I’m sure.”

“Yes. Of course.” The grand monk smiled. “Inform me as soon as she arrives.” Then the grand monk walked towards King Alaric and Queen Consort Adelina.

Would the king think his mother didn’t support the treaty if she didn’t appear soon?

Onyx closed his eyes.Mighty mountain spirit, please let her arrive soon.

Earlier today, he had spoken to his mother. Several times. He’d told her the importance of being here tonight, how important it was for the future of their kingdom. He’d also told her how important it was for him to have his mother be there for his betrothal ball.

His mother didn’t even need to speak tonight. She just had to appear and stand there whilst Grand Monk Ferdinand and King Alaric said a few words. Then Onyx and Prince Luther could dance and his mother could return to her room.

Still, she was not here.

He’d instructed the servants not to provide her with any more lysithea tea until after the ball.

Onyx had really tried to explain to his mother why she had to be here tonight. She’d seemed to understand.

And she’d promised Onyx she’d be here.

Onyx forced his breath to remain even.

She’ll be here. She promised. She’ll turn up any moment. Then Prince Luther and I will dance. Everyone will see that we all want the treaty. The marriage will go forward. The treaty will be signed. The war will end. Peace will reign. Everyone will be happy.