The Lycan King and His Dark Temptation Novel

---- Bang, bang...! The clock chimed.

Ilooked up, astonished to realize that between one thing and another, I had been sitting here like an idiot for almost an hour.

Waiter! I called out, and a man immediately appeared from a side door likely leading to the kitchen.

Yes, Your Ladyship? Why hasnt the food been served? Madam, the Duke has not come down to dine.

He is still in his study, and as you know, we cannot serve until the master arrives.

What?! I nearly bit my tongue to keep from screaming.

Then why did you summon me, telling me dinner was ready? I asked, trying to keep my temper in check.

After all, he was only following orders.

Tt is the usual dinner hour, so we informed you.

Everything is prepared for when the Duke comes down...

Twant to eat alone.

Serve me now.

That would be against the rules, an arrogant male voice suddenly cut in.

I turned toward the speakeran impeccably dressed man in a black uniform, square spectacles perched on his face, and silver-streaked hair slicked back rigidly.

The butler and castle administrator, Mr.

Wallace.

T only wish to dine, Mr.

Wallace.

If the Duke is busy, then I will eat ---- alone, I said, matching his haughty tone.

Even my sister had warned me about this man.

He had the Dukes full support and trust, which gave him far too much confidence.

Tm sorry, Duchess, but you must wait Fine, I interrupted, abruptly rising from the table.

I wasnt waiting another second for that idiot to decide he was ready to eat.

Iwas not Rossella, desperate to be by his side.

Then serve my dinner in my room, I said, tossing my napkin onto the table, ready to leave this ridiculous scene behind, heels clicking sharply against the floor.

T cannot do that either, he said behind me, making me halt.

I gritted my teeth.

Damn it, could I not even have a peaceful dinner?! All the food has already been transferred to the dining chamber, he gestured toward the exit, and it cannot be touched until the Duke arrives.

There is nothing left in the kitchen.

«Then tell the damn cook to make something for me, you idiot!» I roared internally but forced myself to count to a thousand and back.

I didnt answer.

I would go to the kitchen myselfI refused to endure this humiliation any longer, only for the little Duke to decide he wasnt even in the mood to eat tonight.

With determination, I threw open the double doorsonly to have my face crash directly into something solid.