Nine Hot Therians and Their Only One Queen novel Chapter 491

**When She Opened the Door to the Life She Was Afraid to Live by Nora Vale Kingsley**
**Chapter 491: Slow and Steady**

“Emma!” Corvin’s voice rang out with unrestrained joy the moment he spotted her, his excitement palpable as he released Alaric from his grasp. “You remember when I mentioned that my studio has been on the lookout for new hires? Things have been a bit rocky on that front, but Alaric just informed me that he knows someone who might be perfect for the job.”

“Is that so?” Emma replied, her curiosity piqued.

Edric, who had accompanied her, cast a quick, scrutinizing glance at Alaric upon hearing Corvin’s revelation.

“Then you should make sure to extend your gratitude to Mr. Wynn for his assistance,” he remarked, his tone carrying a hint of seriousness.

“Absolutely,” Corvin replied, nodding with a sense of determination. “Once the contract is finalized, I’ll be sure to send him a gift basket to show my appreciation.”

“Emma.” Alaric stepped forward, his demeanor shifting as he extended his hand toward her. “I just came by to give Lucien a check-up. Since you’re already here, it saves me the trouble of making another trip. Please, give me your hand. I’ll transfer some ability to you. Just one transfusion should stabilize your condition.”

Emma hesitated, not wanting to impose on him any further, but eventually nodded and placed her hand into his warm palm.

Alaric’s fingers enveloped hers with a gentle warmth, a sensation that felt both comforting and reassuring.

In an instant, a wave of warmth surged from his fingertips, coursing through her body like a soothing balm.

Emma felt her tense muscles begin to unwind. “Thank you, Alaric,” she said, her voice filled with genuine gratitude.

“There’s no need for formalities,” Alaric replied, withdrawing his hand but maintaining eye contact, his expression turning serious. “You’re pregnant now, Emma. It’s crucial that you take extra care of yourself from this point on. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet, with plenty of energy-rich foods, but steer clear of anything too greasy.”

He continued, his voice softening with concern, “Keep your spirits high. A happy mother leads to a happy baby. If you ever feel unwell or have any cravings, don’t hesitate to let me know immediately. You’re not a burden; your health is paramount.”

Alaric fell into a brief silence, his brow furrowing slightly as he added, “You’re carrying a child, and your well-being is of the utmost importance.”

Emma nodded earnestly, her heart swelling with appreciation for his care. “I understand.”

As they exchanged words, Edric remained quiet, observing the interaction with an inscrutable expression. A flicker of something unnameable crossed his features as he turned his gaze toward Alaric.

He couldn’t deny that Alaric had abilities that none of them possessed. Having a doctor among Emma’s close friends was undoubtedly advantageous.

Alaric caught Edric’s almost imperceptible glance, then turned back to Emma with a warm smile. “I need to take my leave now. Stella is waiting for me.”

He was wise enough not to linger, offering her a gentle smile before stepping away. Alaric understood that the race was won by those who moved slowly and steadily.

Once Alaric departed, Emma made her way directly to Lucien’s room, her heart racing with concern. She had seen Alaric exit those doors not long ago, and her mind was filled with worry that Lucien might be experiencing nausea again.

With a deep breath, she carefully pushed the door open.

The room was enveloped in a serene quiet. Marcus was sprawled on the couch, his eyes closed in a moment of rest.

The realization that he was suffering because of her own struggles only deepened her heartache.

“I’m not really that hungry at the moment,” he tried to sound casual, but she could hear the underlying strain. “Really, don’t worry about me. I’m fine. Alaric said what I’m experiencing is normal. He also mentioned that the nutrient fluids will suffice for now. I’ll be back to my old self after your first trimester.”

Emma, unwilling to accept his reassurances without action, reached into her storage band and retrieved several more fruits.

She had selected the ones that Calum and Corvin had given her.

“These are for you,” she said, offering them to him. “I can eat now, so I don’t need these as much.”

Her heart ached at the thought of him not having enough to eat, and she couldn’t help but provide him with a variety of fruits since he could stomach them now.

“Alright,” Lucien acquiesced, not turning down her generous offer.

“Emma, it’s getting late. You should get some rest. Marcus will be here to keep watch, so I’ll be fine. Besides, I’m exhausted and could really use some beauty sleep,” he joked, attempting to lighten the mood despite the fatigue weighing him down.

Though he was feeling unwell, he was doing his best to suppress it, not wanting to add to her worries.

Emma chose not to press further, especially after hearing his admission of tiredness.