The Human Girl Who Tamed Alpha King Chapter 160

ARIA

As we drive into Black Forest Pack territory, dread pools in my core. Weird to think this place was my home for most of my life. Now I'm back, but everything's different. I fled this place over a year ago and somehow ended up as Jace's mate, a mother to Aurora and Atlas, and the freaking Ancient Moon Shadow's Queen. Talk about a plot twist.

The SUV bumps along the forest road, bringing back memories with every curve. Gabriel sits beside me, looking out the window with that distant expression he gets when he's remembering the past. I can't help but fidget with the hem of my jacket.

"Don't worry, little deer," Gabriel says, noticing my nervousness.

"I know, Dad. I just..." Words fail me as we get closer to the Pack House.

"Nervous," he finishes for me.

I nod. "Yeah."

"Relax," Gabriel says, his voice carrying years of wisdom. "Remember, this used to be our home. Alpha Dylan is our friend and ally."

Lucas turns from the front seat, offering a reassuring smile. "Plus, Marcus and I are here, sis."

Marcus, sitting quietly beside Lucas, adds, "We'll keep you safe, Queen."

"Thanks, guys." I take a deep breath. "Alright, let's do this."

The SUV pulls up to the packhouse, where Dylan stands waiting with several pack members. My throat goes dry. I spot familiar faces—guards I trained with, people I grew up around. Now they're looking at me like I'm royalty. Which, technically, I guess I am.

When the vehicle stops, Jaspar rushes to open my door. He offers a hand to help me out, bowing his head respectfully.

"Queen Aria," he murmurs.

"Thanks, Jaspar," I say, trying to sound more confident than I feel.

Caleb approaches, standing straighter than I remember.

"Caleb, it's good to see you," I say, attempting to break the tension. "How are Emma and the pups?"

His posture relaxes slightly. "They're doing well, Luna. The little ones are healthy and Emma sends her regards."

"I'm glad to hear it." I touch his arm briefly. "Thank you for being here."

"You're our Luna. It's my honor to ensure your safety," he responds formally.

I look around at the assembled guards, all standing at attention. "That goes for all of you. I appreciate you being here, especially now."

Gabriel, Lucas, and Marcus exit the vehicle, positioning themselves near me. Dylan approaches, his head bowed deeply.

"My queen," he says reverently.

"Alpha Dylan, please stand straight," I say quickly. "Everyone, please. We're guests here. This is your territory."

Dylan straightens, something like relief crossing his face. "Having you here is our honor."

"We're grateful for your invitation." I gesture to my family. "This is Gabriel, and Lucas. I believe you're already acquainted with Marcus."

"Yes, of course." Dylan nods. "Welcome, all of you."

I introduce the guards one by one: "Our protection detail includes Caleb, Jaspar, Ethan, Calvin, Jonathan, Eli, Conner, Oliver, Liam, and Christopher."

Dylan's posture shifts to business. "I've cleared the entire east wing on the second floor. Your guards have my permission to prevent anyone from approaching that area."

"Thank you, Alpha," I say, genuinely grateful for his thoughtfulness.

Dylan leads us inside the imposing Pack House. The scent of pine and earth hits me immediately—smells I'd forgotten but now bring back a flood of memories. We climb the grand staircase to the second floor, where he shows us to our wing.

"In ancient times, this section was reserved for pack leadership," Dylan explains, gesturing to the hallway of rooms. "But we haven't hosted distinguished guests like this for generations, so I'm afraid they're just ordinary guest rooms now."

"That's perfectly fine, Dylan," I assure him. "None of us are picky, and it's only for a few days. My guards will secure the area."

"Of course. I've also doubled security around the perimeter," he adds.

"Everything looks great. I'm sure you've thought of everything."

Dylan nods, seeming pleased. "I'll let you rest then. Dinner will be served at 6:30."

"Thank you, Alpha. We'll see you then."

After Dylan leaves, Lucas takes charge of settling the guards while Marcus helps Gabriel to his room. I watch them go, feeling a wave of gratitude for my family.

"I'll make sure everyone gets settled," Lucas tells me. "You should rest, Aria."

Caleb brings my bag to the largest room—clearly meant for me. "My queen, is there anything else you need?"

"No, thank you, Caleb. Go get some rest yourself."

Once alone, I sit on the edge of the bed, feeling the distance between me and Jace like a physical ache. Being separated from him and the kids makes my chest hurt. After only a moment's hesitation, I pull out my phone and call him.

"Baby, hey," Jace's voice comes through immediately, warm and familiar.

"Hey, Jace." I smile despite myself. "You sound like you've been waiting for my call."

"I admit, I have been," he says, and I can hear the smile in his voice.

"I miss you and the kids already." The admission comes out softer than I intended.

"We miss you too, baby. They're taking their nap right now, but I'll make sure you can say goodnight to them later."

"Sounds good."

"Everything going okay?" he asks, trying to sound casual but I hear the concern underneath.

"Yeah. Dylan cleared out a whole section for us. We're resting before dinner at 6:30. Just wanted to let you know we arrived safely."

"Thanks, baby. Sounds good." He pauses. "I'll let you rest. I'll call around eight so you can say goodnight to Aurora and Atlas."

"Perfect. Thank you." I swallow against the sudden tightness in my throat. "I love you, Jace."

"I love you too, my mate, my wife, my queen."

After we hang up, I stretch out on the unfamiliar bed, staring at the ceiling. My mind races with thoughts of home, of Jace's arms around me, of Aurora's giggle and Atlas's little hands. Despite my exhaustion from the journey, it takes me a long time to finally fall asleep.