Mated To The Alpha King (Raven and Ethan) novel Chapter 214

Reven’s POV

:

55 vouchers

“You are the best, Derick,” I told him with a soft smile as I leaned forward and gave him a quick kiss. His lips curved into that boyish grin that always made my chest feel lighter, as if he wasn’t this stoic, guarded man but simply my Derick.

He chuckled quietly, brushing a strand of hair away from my face. “You keep saying that, and I’ll start to believe it.”

I rolled my eyes, laughing softly. The moment felt easy, unforced, and that realization struck me deep inside. Things between us had changed.

We walked down the hallway again, his hand brushing mine, until he finally stopped in front of another door. “So,” he asked, turning to me, “which room do you want? This is your home as much as it is mine.”

I bit my lip, my eyes wandering to the kids‘ nursery just a few steps away. “Honestly,” I said, shrugging lightly, “anyone will be okay for me. I don’t need anything fancy… just somewhere comfortable.”

His eyes softened as he studied me, then he gave a short nod. “Okay. Then you’ll stay here.” He turned to the driver, who had just finished placing the last of the luggage in the foyer. “Take her suitcase to the room close to the kids‘ own.”

The driver obeyed, and I gave Derick a grateful smile.

After that long flight, my skin was clammy, my hair sticking annoyingly to my forehead. I excused myself to freshen up and slipped into the bathroom. The warm water was a blessing, washing away the sweat and heaviness of travel.

I closed my eyes as the steam filled the room, imagining for a moment that it could also wash away the worries still lodged in my chest.

When I stepped out, I had a towel wrapped around my chest, water still dripping down my shoulders. I walked quietly into the room, opening my suitcase to pull out a comfortable nightdress.

Since it was already evening, I didn’t bother with anything fancy just soft fabric that allowed me to breathe freely.

The house smelled faintly of spices by the time I padded down to the kitchen. Derick was already there, sleeves rolled up, chopping vegetables with surprising skill.

I leaned against the doorway, watching him for a moment, the corners of my lips tugging upward. He looked so natural, so at ease, as if he belonged in this domestic scene more than anywhere else.

“Need some help?” I asked, stepping in.

He looked up, his eyes crinkling. “Only if you promise not to burn anything.”

I gasped dramatically, grabbing a wooden spoon to swat lightly at his arm. “Excuse you. I’m a great cook!”

8:53 Sat, Sep 27

…

Chapter 214

87

EL 55 vouchers

“Sure you are,” he teased, sliding the board of chopped vegetables toward me. “Then prove it.”

And so we cooked together, side by side. I stirred while he seasoned, and he cut while I mixed. The kitchen filled with warmth, not just from the stove but from our laughter. Every time his hand brushed mine, my heart gave a little leap.

As the aroma filled the air, I couldn’t help but whisper, “Our relationship has changed over time.”

Derick glanced at me, pausing mid–stir. “Changed?”

I nodded, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. “Yes. At first… I wasn’t sure how to feel about you. Everything felt forced. Strange. But now…” I exhaled softly, looking at the simmering pot instead of his eyes. “Now I’ve learned to be comfortable around you.

I don’t feel like I’m pretending anymore.”

Silence stretched for a moment, and then his hand reached out, brushing mine gently.

“I’m glad,” he murmured, voice low.

A flush warmed my cheeks. Words tumbled out before I could stop them. “I don’t mind… accepting you if you ever proposed.”

The air thickened with meaning. He didn’t answer right away, but I felt his gaze on me, heavy and searching.

Then, in the back of my mind, my wolf stirred. But what if you find your second chance? she whispered slyly.

I stiffened. I don’t think I have a second chance, mate, I replied firmly. And even if I do… My eyes softened on Derick, who was still quietly watching me. I’ve learned to love him.

Oh, really? my wolf teased, her tone sing–song. And what if Alpha Ethan is your second chance?

I froze, the spoon slipping slightly in my hand. My chest tightened painfully at the sound of that name. Stop it, I snapped at her. That’s impossible. The Moon Goddess can’t be that cruel to me.

But her laughter echoed in my mind. You never know.

My pulse raced as old memories tried to force their way in.

“Reven?”

Derick’s voice pulled me back like a lifeline. I blinked, realizing I’d been staring blankly at the pot.

“I–I’m fine,” I said quickly, forcing a smile.

He didn’t press further, though his eyes lingered a moment longer before he turned back to the meal.

We finished dinner together, chatting lightly about harmless topics until the food was ready.

The meal was simple but perfect, the kind that made you feel full in your heart, not just your stomach. I laughed more that evening than I had in weeks, and for a while, I let myself believe things could truly be this

8:53 Sat, Sep 27

Chapter 214

simple.

:

A

65 yduchery

Afterward, exhaustion hit me hard. The day’s travel had drained everything from me. I excused myself and went to the room Derick had chosen. The moment my body touched the bed, I melted into it.

Sleep claimed me almost instantly.

But peace didn’t last.

Verify captcha to read the contentVerify