From Reader to Ruler: The Forgotten Prince's Rise through Harem-Chapter 15: A Warm Morning and an Unexpected Invitation

Chapter 15: A Warm Morning and an Unexpected Invitation

Dani slowly opened his eyes to the sight of Leena curled up beside him, her soft hand resting on his chest. The golden morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over her peaceful face.

Her ears twitched slightly in her sleep, and her bare skin pressed against his. The memory of last night sent a smirk to his lips. She really gave in to me completely...

Carefully, he sat up, trying not to wake her, and reached for his pants. As he dressed, he glanced at Leena one last time—still sound asleep, looking completely at ease.

She's finally free from all the suffering she went through... That's all that matters.

After slipping on his shirt, he rang the bell for a maid. Moments later, a young woman entered, bowing respectfully.

"Prepare a bath for me," he ordered.

The maid nodded and hurried off. A short while later, the bath was ready, and Dani made his way to the bathing chamber. He immersed himself in the warm water, letting the heat soothe his body. After a thorough wash, he stepped out, dried himself, and dressed in a fresh set of clothes.

When he returned to his room, Leena was still sleeping. He chuckled, shaking his head.

She really wore herself out, huh?

Laying back down beside her, he watched her up close. Her gentle breaths, her soft features—it was a stark contrast to the broken girl she used to be.

Right now, she isn't burdened by her past. She's just... living.

A warmth spread through his chest. He had given her happiness, and in return, she had become a source of joy in his life.

But after a while, boredom crept in. He didn't want to wake her just yet, so he decided to go see his mother.

---

A Morning with Family

Dani found his mother sitting at her usual spot on the balcony, overlooking the palace gardens. Lucian was there too, sipping tea beside her.

"Dani, it's unusual to see you awake this early," Lucian remarked with a smirk.

Dani stretched and took a seat with them. "Well, I've been getting good rest these days."

His mother gave him a knowing smile. "That's predictable. Ever since you found your little cat, you've changed quite a bit."

Dani felt his face heat up. "Mom, come on... It just happened. I'm really happy with how things are going. More importantly, Leena is happy. That's what matters to me."

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This time, it was his mother who looked a little surprised. Even Lucian raised an eyebrow.

His mother chuckled. "You really do have a way with words, Dani. Quite the charmer, aren't you?"

Dani scratched his cheek, embarrassed. "I-I wasn't trying to flirt... I meant every word."

His mother smiled warmly. "As long as both of you are happy, that's all that matters to me. I won't interfere in how you choose to live your life. But remember—you carry the blood of the king. Every action you take will be judged. Just make sure your happiness doesn't come at the cost of others."

Dani and Lucian both nodded in understanding.

Not long after, the servants brought in breakfast. The three of them enjoyed a peaceful meal together. Dani rarely spent time like this with his family, but sitting with them now, he felt an unfamiliar sense of comfort.

I feel... safe with them.

Once the meal ended, Lucian stood. "I'll be heading to the training grounds."

Dani nodded. "See you later."

Now alone with his mother, she turned to him with a thoughtful look. "Will you be attending this month's banquet?"

Dani blinked. "The banquet?"

Every month, the royal family held a grand banquet where the king, his wives, concubines, and all their children gathered. Dani rarely attended—it wasn't really his thing.

"I haven't decided yet. Still 50-50 on it."

His mother leaned back. "Well, it's up to you. But I think it would be a great occasion for Leena."

Dani frowned. "Leena? Why?"

His mother smiled. "You've barely introduced her to the household. Most of the royal family hasn't even seen her. This banquet would be a perfect opportunity to introduce her properly—to show them her beauty and worth."

Dani considered it. It was true that Leena hadn't been seen by many. If he brought her to the banquet, it would make a statement—one that said she was important to him.

"...I'll talk to her about it first," he said.

His mother nodded approvingly. "Good."

After spending some more time with her, Dani returned to his room.

---

A Lazy Cat and a Teasing Morning

Leena was still asleep when he entered. He sighed. She's slept long enough.

With a mischievous smirk, he flicked his fingers right above her head.

She stirred, her ears twitching before she finally opened her eyes.

"Ow..." she groaned, rubbing her forehead. She looked up at him with sleepy eyes. "Dani...? What was that for?"

"Stupid cat, wake up. You've been sleeping too long."

Leena pouted, stretching her arms above her head. The sheets slid down slightly, exposing her bare shoulders. "Mmm... But my body is tired... You were so rough last night."

Dani's face turned red. "Tch... Don't say things like that so casually."

She giggled, her tail flicking playfully. "Why? It's true."

Dani rubbed his temples. "I swear, you—"

Leena smirked. "If you want to do it again, just do it. Why do you always ask or warn me first?"

Dani clenched his jaw, controlling himself. This girl was getting bolder by the day.

He smirked. "You better be careful, or I might actually take you up on that offer."

Leena purred, stretching again. "Go ahead, then."

Dani exhaled sharply. "My perverted cat... If it were night, I'd eat you up again. But I just took a bath—I don't feel like washing up again."

Leena grinned. "Then I'll be prepared for tonight. The night will be very, very loud."

Dani groaned, throwing a pillow at her. She just laughed, catching it with ease.

This girl...

He shook his head but smiled. With her by his side, his days had become a lot more... interesting.

And now, with the banquet approaching, things were only going to get more eventful.