Mated To The Alpha King (Raven and Ethan) novel Chapter 234

Chapter 234

Chapter 234

Reven’s Pov

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39

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Derick led me and the kids through a narrow path lined with trimmed hedges and glowing lanterns that flickered gently in the evening breeze.

The faint scent of jasmine filled the air, mixing with the soft rustle of leaves as our footsteps echoed along the stone pathway.

From where we stood, I could already see the warm golden hue of candlelight scattered around a long table ahead, draped with ivory linen and crystal glasses that shimmered under the moonlight.

“Is this where the dinner is being held?” I asked quietly, my voice low, almost uncertain, as my eyes followed the light ahead.

He nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Yes. My mother loves outdoor dinners. She says, Nature makes conversations honest.”

Honest. The word pricked my chest like a thorn.

I didn’t know what kind of honesty tonight would bring, but I could already feel the tension crawling beneath my skin.

I looked down at the twins Lyra holding her little brother’s hand, both of them dressed neatly, looking so innocent and unaware of the storm I feared was about to unfold.

Their eyes glowed softly from the reflection of the lanterns, curious but calm.

Derick squeezed my hand gently, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. “Everything will be fine, okay? Don’t overthink it. Just be yourself.”

I wanted to believe him. I really did.

But his parents were Alphas powerful, respected, and proud. And I was just… me. A single mother with two kids, a past filled with shadows, and no noble bloodline to boast of.

As we approached, I could make out three figures already seated.

A man and a woman Derick’s parents and a young girl who looked no older than twelve. The girl’s laughter faded the moment she saw us, her curious eyes moving from me to the twins.

“Mom, Dad,” Derick greeted, his tone respectful yet steady. “Sorry for keeping you waiting.”

The woman’s gaze was the first to meet mine sharp, assessing, almost piercing. She was graceful, her dark hair pulled back in a perfect bun, her posture straight like a queen on her throne.

The man beside her had a calm but powerful presence, his eyes the same steel–gray as Derick’s. He didn’t smile, didn’t frown just watched.

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Chapter 234

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“Good evening,” I said softly, forcing a polite smile as I bowed my head slightly. “It’s nice to meet you both”

Derick’s father gave a small nod, but his mother said nothing, her gaze sliding down to the twins who stood quietly beside me.

“Please,” Derick said, pulling out a chair for me first, then helping the kids into theirs. I murmured a soft thank you and sat down, trying to still the flutter in my chest.

Derick cleared his throat lightly. “Mom, Dad… this is Raven. The girl I’ve been telling you about.”

A heavy silence followed, the kind that made even the soft wind sound too loud.

His mother blinked slowly, turning her attention to him. “The one you said you want to marry?” she asked, her voice smooth but carrying an edge that could cut glass.

“Yes,” Derick replied firmly.

Her brows lifted slightly, then her eyes returned to me, scanning me from head to toe as though measuring my worth. I could feel my palms growing damp beneath the table.

I tried not to squirm under her stare, but the weight of it pressed against my chest. I swallowed, straightening my posture, silently telling myself not to let her see how nervous I was.

Dinner was served soon after the maids brought in dishes one after another, setting them carefully before us.

The clinking of cutlery and soft murmurs filled the air.

The twins, thankfully, were too engrossed in the small tablets Derick had given them earlier to pay attention to the uneasy atmosphere around us.

Derick’s father finally broke the silence, his voice deep and controlled. “So… Raven.” He paused, glancing briefly at Derick before continuing. “You have children.”

1 froze. I had been expecting that question, dreading it, actually. I opened my mouth to speak, but before 1 could, Derick spoke up.

“They’re my kids,” he said, his tone calm but certain.

His father’s head turned sharply. “Your kids?” he repeated slowly, as though tasting the words,

Derick nodded once. “Yes”

The man leaned back in his chair, his brows furrowing. “Don’t lie to me, son. It’s clear you’re not their father. So why?“”Because I accept them as mine,” Derick interrupted, his voice steady, his jaw tight. “And that makes them my kids.”

Another silence. Longer this time. He didn’t back down, and neither did his father.

I looked toward the twins again. They were too busy tapping on their screens, giggling softly to themselves, oblivious to the conversation that could decide our future. Relief washed through me, even if it was temporary.

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Chapter 233

“It doesn’t?” I repeated, frowning slightly.

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“No,” he said firmly this time, taking a step closer until the warmth of his body brushed against mine. “It doesn’t. Because I’ve already accepted them. They’re mine as much as they are yours. My parents‘ opinion won’t change that.”

My breath caught at his words. There was such conviction in his tone, such fierce protectiveness, that for a moment. I forgot how to respond. I stared up at him, trying to read the sincerity in his eyes, and found nothing but truth staring back at me.

“Derick…” I whispered, my voice trembling slightly.

He smiled faintly, reaching up to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. “Stop overthinking, Raven. Everything will be fine. You’ll see.”

Before I could say another word, he leaned forward and pressed a warm, gentle kiss against my lips, so sudden and so soft that it sent shivers down my spine. It wasn’t demanding or rushed; it was comforting, reassuring, and a promise.

When he pulled back, his voice was low. “Get some rest. I’ll come get you when it’s time.”

And with that, he turned and left the room, closing the door quietly behind him.

For a moment, I stood there frozen, my fingers touching my lips where his kiss still lingered. My heart was beating faster than it should, my thoughts tangled between fear, confusion, and the faint flicker of something warmer that I dared not name.

With a shaky breath, I turned toward the suitcase the guard had left and decided to unpack later. I was too drained to do anything that required thinking.

Instead, I grabbed a towel and made my way into the bathroom.

The bathroom was just as beautiful as the rest of the room, with marble tiles, golden fixtures, and a large mirror that reflected every flaw I wanted to forget. I stared at myself for a while, at the tired eyes and the faint dark circles that had settled beneath them, the small lines at the corners that hadn’t been there five years ago.

The trip had taken a toll on me, not just physically but emotionally. Coming back here had opened old wounds, memories I thought I’d buried for good. But maybe my wolf was right; maybe this was a chance to heal.

As the warm water cascaded down my body, I felt some of the tension fade away. My wolf stirred inside me, her voice calm and soft. Change is the constant thing in life, she said, her tone soothing. You can’t hide from it forever, Raven. Maybe it’s time you change how you see yourself too.

I closed my eyes, letting her words sink in. She was right. I’d spent years carrying guilt, fear, and shame. Maybe it was time to let some of that go. Maybe it was time to believe I deserved happiness again.

After my shower, I wrapped myself in a towel and stepped back into the room. The air felt cooler now, brushing against my damp skin. I walked over to the bed and sat down, feeling the exhaustion of the day finally catch up to me.

I didn’t

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Chapter 233

just in case. Then, with a small sigh, I lay down, letting the soft sheets pull me into their warmth.

Before long, my eyelids grew heavy, and the world faded into a peaceful blur.

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When the alarm finally went off hours later, the shrill sound startled me awake. I groaned softly, stretching my limbs as sunlight filtered through the curtains, painting golden streaks across the room.

For a moment, I didn’t move. My body felt rested for the first time in what felt like forever. The air smelled faintly of pine and something sweet, maybe the scent of the forest carried in by the wind.

Then my phone rang.

I blinked, reaching for it on the nightstand. The caller ID flashed Derick.

I cleared my throat before answering. “Hello?”

“Hey,” his voice came through, smooth and calm as always. “Dinner’s in twenty minutes. You should get dressed.”

“Alright.” I said, rubbing my eyes. “I’ll be ready soon.”

“Good,” he replied, and I could almost hear the smile in his tone. “I’ll come get you when it’s time.”

“Okay,” I murmured before hanging up.

I sat up, exhaling slowly. Twenty minutes.

I stood and walked over to my suitcase, which I still hadn’t unpacked. Kneeling beside it, I unzipped it and began searching for something appropriate to wear. My fingers brushed against soft fabric, the red dress.

I pulled it out, and a small smile touched my lips. It had been a gift from Derick, one I hadn’t dared to wear before The moment I unfolded it, I knew why he’d chosen it: it it was elegant and bold at the same time, the kind of dress that drew attention without trying too hard.

When I slipped it on, it hugged my curves perfectly, the fabric smooth against my skin. The deep red color contrasted beautifully with my complexion, and the neckline added a subtle touch of sophistication. I walked over to the mirror and stared at my reflection.

For the first time in a long time, I saw someone different. Someone confident. Someone who looked… beautiful

I let my hair down, the waves falling freely to my waist, then reached for my small makeup bag. I didn’t want to overdo it just a little concealer, a hint of blush, and lip gloss that gave my lips a soft shimmer.

When I was done, I took one last look in the mirror. My wolf purred in satisfaction. You look stunning, she whispered.

A soft knock came at the door.

I walked over and opened it to find Derick standing there, his eyes sweeping over me slowly, from my hair down to my dress. For a moment, he didn’t speak, and he didn’t have to. The way his gaze softened said it all.

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Chapter 233

“You look beautiful,” he said finally, his voice low.

“Thank you,” I replied, feeling a blush creep to my cheeks.

He smiled, offering his arm. “Ready?”

I nodded, slipping my hand into his. His warmth was grounding.

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As we walked down the hallway, he spoke casually, as if sensing my nervousness. “We’re not using the main dining room tonight. My parents wanted something more… personal.”

“Oh,” I said softly, though my pulse quickened.

We stopped at the twins‘ room on the way. Lyra was already dressed in a cute white gown with a pink bow, and Liam wore a little shirt and jeans that made him look too grown for his age. When they saw me, their faces lit up.

“Mommy, you look so pretty!” Lyra said, running to hug me.

Thank you, sweetheart,” I said, smiling. “You look beautiful too.”

Liam grinned. “Are we going to meet Grandpa and Grandma now?”

Derick chuckled, kneeling to fix Liam’s collar. “Yes, champ. And don’t worry – they’re going to love you both.”

His words were meant for the kids, but I knew they were also for me.

As we started walking toward the dining hall, Derick glanced down at me and said softly, “Don’t be worried. It’s going to turn out perfect.”

1 wanted to believe him, to let his confidence calm the unease twisting in my stomach, but as we neared the comer where the warm light spilled into the hall, I couldn’t help the flutter of nerves rising inside me.

Because on the other side of that door waited the people who could decide everything.

Whether we’d be truly accepted here… or not.

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18:09 Fri, Oct 10

Chapter 234

Chapter 234

Reven’s Pov

:

(39)

E55 vouchers

Derick led me and the kids through a narrow path lined with trimmed hedges and glowing lanterns that flickered gently in the evening breeze.

The faint scent of jasmine filled the air, mixing with the soft rustle of leaves as our footsteps echoed along the stone pathway.

From where we stood, I could already see the warm golden hue of candlelight scattered around a long table ahead, draped with ivory linen and crystal glasses that shimmered under the moonlight.

“Is this where the dinner is being held?” I asked quietly, my voice low, almost uncertain, as my eyes followed the light ahead.

He nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Yes. My mother loves outdoor dinners. She says, Nature makes conversations honest.”

Honest. The word pricked my chest like a thorn.

I didn’t know what kind of honesty tonight would bring, but I could already feel the tension crawling beneath my skin.

I looked down at the twins Lyra holding her little brother’s hand, both of them dressed neatly, looking so innocent and unaware of the storm I feared was about to unfold.

Their eyes glowed softly from the reflection of the lanterns, curious but calm.

Derick squeezed my hand gently, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. “Everything will be fine, okay? Don’t overthink it. Just be yourself.”

I wanted to believe him. I really did.

But his parents were Alphas powerful, respected, and proud. And I was just… me. A single mother with two kids, a past filled with shadows, and no noble bloodline to boast of.

As we approached, I could make out three figures already seated.

A man and a woman Derick’s parents and a young girl who looked no older than twelve. The girl’s laughter faded the moment she saw us, her curious eyes moving from me to the twins.

“Mom, Dad,” Derick greeted, his tone respectful yet steady. “Sorry for keeping you waiting.”

The woman’s gaze was the first to meet mine sharp, assessing, almost piercing. She was graceful, her dark hair pulled back in a perfect bun, her posture straight like a queen on her throne.

The man beside her had a calm but powerful presence, his eyes the same steel–gray as Derick’s. He didn’t smile, didn’t frown just watched.

18:10 Fri, Oct 10

414

Chapter 234

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“Good evening,” I said softly, forcing a polite smile as 1 bowed my head slightly. “It’s nice to meet you both.”

Derick’s father gave a small nod, but his mother said nothing, her gaze sliding down to the twins who stood quietly beside me

“Please,” Derick said, pulling out a chair for me first, then helping the kids into theirs. I murmured a soft thank you and sat down, trying to still the flutter in my chest.

Derick cleared his throat lightly. “Mom, Dad… this is Raven. The girl I’ve been telling you about.”

A heavy silence followed, the kind that made even the soft wind sound too loud.

His mother blinked slowly, turning her attention to him. “The one you said you want to marry?” she asked, her voice smooth but carrying an edge that could cut glass.

“Yes,” Derick replied firmly.

Her brows lifted slightly, then her eyes returned to me, scamming me from head to toe as though measuring my worth. I could feel my palms growing damp beneath the table.

I tried not to squirm under her stare, but the weight of it pressed against my chest, I swallowed, straightening my posture, silently telling myself not to let her see how nervous I was.

Dinner was served soon after the maids brought in dishes one after another, setting them carefully before us.

The clinking of cutlery and soft murmurs filled the air.

The twins, thankfully, were too engrossed in the small tablets Derick had given them earlier to pay attention to the uneasy atmosphere around us.

Derick’s father finally broke the silence, his voice deep and controlled. “So… Raven.” He paused, glancing briefly at Derick before continuing. “You have children.”

1 froze. I had been expecting that question, dreading it, actually. I opened my mouth to speak, but before 1 could, Derick spoke up.

“They’re my kids,” he said, his tone calm but certain.

His father’s head turned sharply. “Your kids?” he repeated slowly, as though tasting the words.

Derick nodded once. “Yes”

The man leaned back in his chair, his brows furrowing. “Don’t lie to me, son. It’s clear you’re not their father. So why?““Because I accept them as mine,” Derick interrupted, his voice steady, his jaw tight. “And that makes them my kids.”

Another silence. Longer this time. He didn’t back down, and neither did his father.

I looked toward the twins again. They were too busy tapping on their screens, giggling softly to themselves, oblivious to the conversation that could decide our future. Relief washed through me, even if it was temporary.

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Chapter 234

But the relief didn’t last.

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Derick’s mother finally set down her glass with a quiet clink, her eyes narrowing slightly as she turned to me. “Who had the children?” she asked bluntly.

Before I could even part my lips, Derick reached for my hand beneath the table a silent warning not to speak. He beat me to it again.

“I told you, Mom. They’re mine.”

Her lips twitched, not in amusement but disbelief. “And you expect us to accept that?”

“Whether you accept it or not,” Derick replied evenly, “it doesn’t change the truth I’ve chosen.”

The air grew thick.

His mother leaned back, folding her arms. Her gaze slid to me again, sharp and probing. “Tell me something, Raven,” she said softly, too softly. “Why would you want to pin another man’s children on my son? Do you think we’re fools?”

My heart skipped. The insult stung, even though I had half–expected it.

“I didn’t,” I began, my voice trembling slightly.

But she cut me off, her words dripping with disdain. “That’s always the language of a liar,” she said. Then, with a faint scoff, she added, “Who knows the kind of life you were living before you came here? A woman who gets pregnant out of wedlock can’t be trusted so easily.”

The words hit me like a slap.

I could feel my pulse pounding in my ears, the burn of humiliation creeping up my throat. My fingers tightened around my napkin, the air around me suddenly too heavy to breathe.

Derick’s eyes flashed with anger. “Mom.““No, Derick,” I said softly, shaking my head. My voice was trembling, but I forced myself to meet her gaze. “Let her speak. She clearly has a lot she wants to say.”

His mother smirked slightly, her confidence growing. “You think being defiant makes you strong, dear? You’re sitting here in our home, with children that aren’t even ours to claim, expecting us to smile and accept you? What would people say if they heard? That the Alpha’s son married a stray woman with baggage?”

“Enough!” Derick snapped, slamming his hand lightly against the table. “You don’t talk to her like that.”

But I’d had enough too.

I stood slowly, ignoring the tremor in my knees. My heart was racing, but my anger burned stronger than my fear. “You can call me whatever you want,” I said, my voice sharp now. “You can judge me, insult me, and look down on me but don’t ever call me a liar or a whore. I didn’t ask your son to be with me. I didn’t force him. Derick made his own choice, and he’s old enough to make his decisions without your approval.”

The woman’s eyes widened slightly not in shock, but in challenge. “You dare speak to me like that in my house?”

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Chapter 234

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“I dare because you’ve forgotten I’m human,” I shot back, my eyes stinging. “You’ve treated me like I’m dirt since I walked in here, and I’ve said nothing. But don’t ever mistake silence for weakness.”

The tension in the air was suffocating now. The young girl at the table Derick’s little sister, I guessed looked between us in silent confusion. Derick’s father remained quiet, though his gaze flickered with something unreadable, maybe even reluctant respect.

Derick rose beside me, his voice calm but firm. “I think that’s enough for tonight.”

“No,” his mother hissed. “You think you can just walk away after”

“I’m done with dinner,” I said flatly, cutting her off as I pulled Lyra and her brother gently from their chairs. “Come on, babies.”

The twins looked up at me, confused but obedient, slipping their small hands into mine.

Mommy?” Lyra asked quietly. “Did we do something wrong?”

I forced a small smile, blinking back tears. “No, sweetheart,” I whispered, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. “You did everything right.”

“Raven,” Derick said, his tone low, pained.

But I didn’t stop. My heart was too heavy, my pride too raw. “You can stay if you want,” I murmured without looking back. “I’m done for tonight.”

And with that, I turned and began to walk away.

The sound of my footsteps echoed softly across the stone path as I led the twins back through the garden. I could still feel their eyes burning into my back, judgmental, disapproving, and cold.

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