Spoiled By My Nine Beast Husbands (Emma Tibarn) novel Chapter 162

**When She Opened the Door to the Life She Was Afraid to Live by Nora Vale Kingsley**
**Chapter 162: The Queen’s Gift**

Lucien’s eyes blazed with indignation as they locked onto Aria. Was she truly his sister? How could she be so audacious as to suggest that his beloved huntress should entertain the idea of mingling with other males—all while he stood right there, watching?

“Emma, don’t mind Aria; she’s just indulging in her usual reckless antics,” Lucien said, gripping Emma’s hand with a sense of urgency. He was acutely aware that his mischievous sister might somehow lead his huntress astray with her playful suggestions.

He gestured for his chief guard to escort Edric and the others toward the banquet hall, then turned his full attention to Emma.

“Emma, let’s go meet my parents first. They’ll be eager to see you,” he said, his voice softening as he looked into her eyes.

Emma nodded, her heart fluttering with a mixture of excitement and nerves, and she followed Lucien and Aria toward the grand royal palace, the residence of Aurelia’s queen.

As they entered, they were greeted by the sight of Queen Amara seated regally upon her throne, an embodiment of grace and confidence that seemed to transcend time. Despite being over three centuries old, she appeared as vibrant and stunning as a woman in her thirties.

Surrounding her were more than a dozen high-ranking male Etherians, their presence commanding and impressive. Below them, two rows of young males stood at attention, each one hailing from Aurelia. They were all in their twenties, each boasting a physique that was the epitome of strength: broad shoulders, narrow waists, and long, powerful legs. And strikingly, they were all bare-chested, displaying their toned bodies with pride.

As soon as Emma and Lucien crossed the threshold, every gaze in the room shifted towards her.

What is happening?

Under the weight of so many eyes, Emma felt an overwhelming rush of vulnerability, as if she were an exhibit on display at a zoo, scrutinized and evaluated by all.

Lucien’s expression darkened as he surveyed the scene. He had expressed to his mother that such a display was unnecessary, yet here they were, thrust into the spotlight of her grand design.

“Lucien, you’re back!” Amara exclaimed warmly, her voice filled with genuine affection as she spotted them.

In a fluid motion, she rose from her throne, her movements imbued with an elegance that was both captivating and commanding.

Amara approached Emma, her gaze a blend of appraisal and approval. “You must be Emma, my son’s huntress,” she said, a smile gracing her lips.

“Good evening, Your Majesty. I’m Emma,” she replied, her voice steady despite her racing heart. “Happy birthday.”

Lucien reached into his storage band, retrieving the carefully prepared gifts Emma had made.

“Mom, these are from Emma. The sea beast dishes and the birthday cake—she crafted everything herself,” he announced, pride swelling in his chest as he introduced her contributions.

Amara’s eyes sparkled with delight as she clasped Emma’s hands in hers. “Emma, how thoughtful of you! I absolutely adore these gifts.”

It wasn’t that Aurelia lacked treasures or extravagant offerings; what truly touched Amara was the effort Emma had put forth for her son’s sake.

“I’m so glad you like them,” Emma replied, her cheeks warming under the queen’s gaze.

Unable to resist the enticing aroma wafting from the boxes, Aria eagerly opened a container filled with spicy grilled sea beast strips and took a quick bite. For a brief moment, she froze, her eyes widening in astonishment before her entire face lit up with joy.

“Oh my stars—this is incredible! Mom, you absolutely have to try this!” she exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over.

In the queen’s private hall, Aria felt free to bypass formalities, her enthusiasm infectious.

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