The Lycan's Forbidden Mate novel Chapter 241

241 A lifetime of happiness

The Kingdom of Fireria was ablaze with excitement as dragons soared through the night sky, their fiery breath brightening the darkness. Cheers, roars, and music filled every corner, casting a vibrant glow over the annual Dragon Fire Festival. The celebration was in full swing, rendering the night indistinguishable from day.

Within the castle’s grand ballroom, Ophelia beamed with joy as she gazed at her mother, surrounded by her siblings: River, Lev, Luka, and Bastian.

“Pregnant or not, I can still take you down,” Ophelia said with a proud smirk, eyeing River.

“Mother, Lia’s picking on me!” River protested, glaring at Ophelia.

Lev shook his head in exasperation. “You two are grown adults; act like it.”

Luka burst into laughter. “You’re telling the wrong dragons that.”

“I actually thought marriage and added responsibilities would mature them,” Bastian teased.

Ophelia and River immediately shot glares at their siblings, who clamped their lips shut, struggling to hold back their laughter.

In this moment, they all felt warm, happy, and normal, being together. Their father’s absence was momentarily forgotten.

“Do not speak to your king with disrespect,” Ophelia chastised, defending

River.

“She’s the Luna of Celestia; hold your tongue,” River countered, standing up for Ophelia.

Their brief, mock–serious exchange ended abruptly as they exchanged a glance, and they all erupted into laughter.

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241 A lifetime of happiness

“I’m truly proud of you, brother,” Ophelia said, her expression sincere. “Your reign has brought such freedom and vitality to Fireria.”

“Exactly!” Elora’s words were heavy with pride. “I knew, I always knew River would make a great king. No more involving your father’s family in royal affairs.”

Ophelia’s soft laughter mingled with River’s proud smile. “I’m glad Uncle Osric agreed not to interfere,” River said. “He’s very different from Esteban

and Father.”

Lev let out a deep sigh of relief. “And that’s a good thing. We’re finally at peace with Antica.” His gaze turned serious. “Although that ice dragon

scares me.”

They all erupted in laughter and murmurs of agreement.

Bastian’s eyes sparkled with excitement as he turned to Ophelia. “Are you really carrying twins?”

Luka chuckled. “Hey, she’s glowing, right?”

“She’s always glowing!” Lev shot them a stern look. “You two have no idea what she’s gone through since you were hidden in the war–free zone towns

of Fireria.”

Bastian and Luka’s smiles faltered, replaced by guilt.

Ophelia immediately intervened, slapping Lev’s arm. “Don’t. It’s not their fault.”

Lev rubbed his arm, wincing in mock pain. “But I returned, and I don’t regret it.”

Ophelia’s soft smile reassured Bastian and Luka. “I’m just glad you two are safe. That’s all that matters.”

Bastian and Luka returned Ophelia’s smile, their faces filled with joy. “We’re

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241 A lifetime of happiness.

glad you’re fine too, Lia,” Bastian said, Luka nodding in agreement.

Ophelia’s laughter was cut short as a wave of dizziness washed over her, causing her to stumble backward. Nikolai’s swift reflexes saved her from falling, his arms wrapping around her waist to hold her in place.

“Careful, Firestorm,” he whispered soothingly into her ear.

Ophelia’s smile faltered, replaced by a yawn. “My energy is depleting so fast.”

Nikolai’s expression turned concerned. “Let’s get you to bed.”

He led her out of the throne room, his focus solely on his wife as he guided her to her chamber. Gently, he helped her sit on the bed, removing her shoes carefully.

“Who knew carrying two baby hybrids would be this hard?” Ophelia slumped back against the bed.

“Should I apologize?” Nikolai watched over her with a warm smile.

Ophelia bursted into laughter. “Yes?”

Nikolai blew her a kiss and she rolled her eyes laughing at him.

“I want a lifetime of this,” she said, settling comfortably into the bed.

“This?” Nikolai’s eyes sparkled with curiosity as he removed his coat and unbuttoned his shirt.

Ophelia’s eyes drifted to his chest, dazed as he climbed onto the bed and pulled her into his arms. “A lifetime of happiness,” she whispered, her hand pressed against his warm skin.

Nikolai’s smile was tender. “A lifetime with you is my lifetime of happiness.”

Ophelia’s cheeks flushed, her eyes shining with adoration. “And I’m falling for you all over again.”

241 A lifetime of happiness

“Darling, every day I fall for you over and over.” Nikolai’s confession was whispered against her lips.

Their lips met in a soft, gentle kiss. Nikolai’s voice was barely audible as he whispered, “But I’m terrified, Firestorm.”

Ophelia’s eyes widened, her hand on his chest frozen. “Of what?”

“Wha.. what if..” Nikolai’s voice cracked with anxiety. “What if I won’t be a good father? I don’t want to end up like my parents.” His words tumbled out in a rush. “But what if… what if I end up like them? What if…”

Ophelia’s finger pressed against his lips, silencing him. A gentle smile spread across her face. “You’re going to be an amazing father, Nik. Just be yourself. You’ll never end up like them.”

Nikolai’s anxiety melted away, replaced by a warm smile. He nestled closer to Ophelia, his nose brushing against hers. “My sweet mate. My precious wife.”

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