Nine Hot Therians and Their Only One Queen novel Chapter 176

**When She Opened the Door to the Life She Was Afraid to Live by Nora Vale Kingsley Chapter 176: The Enchanter’s Offer**

Lucien stood there, a wave of disbelief washing over him. He truly had no idea. If he had, he would have surely acted differently, never allowing himself to overlook the unspoken expectations that loomed over them like a storm cloud.

Silas, Edric, and Marcus all hung their heads, their expressions a mirror of shame and guilt. It was clear they, too, had been blissfully unaware of these so-called “rules” that dictated their behavior.

Corvin shifted his gaze between Lucien and the others, then turned his attention back to Malrik, who stood beside him. There was something unsettling about the atmosphere, a tension that hung heavily in the air, though he couldn’t quite pinpoint its source. All he could do was follow suit, bowing his head and murmuring a soft, “Sorry, Emma.”

“Enough of this.”

Emma rubbed her temples, feeling the chaos of the morning swirl around her like a tempest. She turned her eyes toward Lucien, her voice steady yet gentle. “I don’t hold any of you responsible for this, and Lucien, you needn’t feel guilty either. Let me clarify—there are no strict rules in this house. My only wish is for everyone here to find happiness and comfort. I want this place to be a sanctuary, and I hope we can all stand together as one.”

With that, she directed her gaze toward Malrik, who was still standing next to Corvin. “Malrik, if you wish to remain here, it would be wise to follow Lucien’s guidance. Whatever plans you have, consult him first.”

What a master manipulator she is.

Merlin observed in surprise how highly Emma regarded Lucien. It made sense now; out of all the suitors vying for her attention, only the second prince had managed to forge a genuine connection with her.

He really is something else…

With his eyes glistening with unshed tears, Merlin looked up at her, feigning humility. “I apologize, Ms. Tibarn. I was unaware. From this moment forward, I will ensure that I consult Prince Lucien before taking any action. I will never place you in a difficult position again.”

He then turned to Lucien, a forced smile plastered on his face. “Please guide me, Your Highness. I sincerely hope I won’t be a burden.”

Lucien met his gaze with an expression that was both flat and unyielding, as if the earlier scene had rolled off him like water off a duck’s back. His tone remained calm and kind. “As you are now one of Emma’s suitors, feel free to approach me with anything. Should you ever need assistance, do not hesitate to ask.”

Silas let out a soft chuckle, the tension easing slightly as he squeezed Emma’s hand affectionately. “Emy, I’m feeling a bit peckish. How about you? Shall we grab some breakfast?”

Edric immediately stepped forward, his enthusiasm palpable. “Emma, I’ve perfected the dumpling recipe you taught me last time. Allow me to prepare some for you.”

Emma’s face lit up with a smile. “Let Corvin assist you. Make a larger batch so we can all enjoy it together.”

Someone like Silas, born a prodigy and Lucien’s equal in military prowess, surely wouldn’t be content to dwell in another man’s shadow.

Silas raised an eyebrow, a cold sneer flickering in his mind, though his face remained impassive. “That depends on what you’re proposing—and whether it piques my interest.”

Merlin stepped closer, lowering his voice conspiratorially. “I can assist you in winning Ms. Tibarn’s affection swiftly. Prince Lucien has already secured the first bond. Losing to him is one thing—but being overshadowed by Corvin, Edric, and that half-dead wolf Marcus? Surely you don’t want to find yourself trailing behind them as well.”

“And how exactly would you facilitate that?” Silas inquired, skepticism lacing his tone.

Merlin produced a small green vial from his storage band, holding it up like a prized possession. “This is the Enchanter Clan’s exclusive potion—the Enchanter’s Draught. If Ms. Tibarn inhales even a trace of it, she will find herself irresistibly drawn to you.”

Silas’ eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint flashing within them. “You’re suggesting I poison Emy?”

“You’re mistaken, Commander,” Merlin replied smoothly, a sly smile creeping onto his face. “It’s termed a toxin, yes, but it’s not true poison. It simply amplifies a female’s desire—completely harmless to her body.”