Marked By the Pureblood Alpha (Deanna and Luis) novel Chapter 218

**The Heart I Buried for You by Serene Lockwood 218**

In that moment, something in the atmosphere shifted for Clarissa. Perhaps it was merely the way the light flickered across the room, but she could feel a palpable weight pressing down beside her, emanating from Luis. It felt heavier, more oppressive than before, as if the air itself had thickened with unspoken tension.

She turned her head slightly, casting a glance in his direction. What she saw sent a chill down her spine. His gaze was colder, sharper, as if he had drawn a wall between them. The warmth she had once basked in now felt like a distant memory, replaced with an icy distance that made her stomach churn.

Meanwhile, Deanna had already pivoted away from the scene, her hand reaching out instinctively for Violet’s.

Violet, caught off guard, looked at Deanna with a mix of confusion and concern, her eyes silently questioning, “What just happened? Did I miss something significant?”

At that very moment, the lights in the room dimmed, casting a soft, almost ethereal glow. The music shifted, creating an atmosphere that drew everyone’s attention to the stage, where something extraordinary was about to be unveiled.

As the curtain drew back, the audience collectively gasped. There, encased in a glass display, was a breathtaking diamond necklace. It sparkled with an elegance that left everyone momentarily speechless. Each diamond, though modest in size, was exquisitely cut and flawlessly set, creating a radiant spectacle that resembled stars scattered across a midnight sky. The design was sophisticated, luxurious without being ostentatious—a true work of art.

The host’s voice rang out, announcing the necklace’s storied past. It had once belonged to the first female Alpha in werewolf history, a legendary figure known as Lacrima Stella. According to the tales, it had been gifted by Nyra herself, a token of admiration for the Alpha’s wisdom, bravery, and beauty. The starting bid was set at an astonishing 10 million, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting orphaned werewolf pups who had lost their parents in the ravages of war.

Seated close to the display, Clarissa couldn’t help but whisper in awe, “It’s absolutely stunning…”

A voice from the crowd broke the spell. Someone chuckled, teasingly remarking, “Ms. Davison, if you’re so enamored, why not have Mr. Eaton buy it for you? That necklace practically calls your name—graceful and glamorous.”

Another voice chimed in, “Absolutely! And it’s fate, isn’t it? Lacrima Stella sounds just like that movie you starred in—Stellarion Tear. It’s a match made in heaven!”

Clarissa’s eyes sparkled with delight as she turned her attention to Luis, her heart fluttering.

A hint of shyness danced in her expression, a glimmer of hope and playful flirtation that could make any man’s heart race. It was the kind of look that could compel someone to surrender their heart without hesitation.

Luis, however, lifted his eyelids slowly, exuding a lazy confidence that was both alluring and intimidating. His gaze swept over her, and a wicked smirk curved his lips. “You like it?” he asked, his tone casual yet teasing.

Clarissa’s heart raced, nearly leaping from her chest. The thought of owning such a magnificent piece felt like a dream, especially knowing her current financial situation. Yet, if he were to gift it to her?

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That would mean everything.

“Congratulations to the Alpha of Mooncrown Pack for winning Lacrima Stella with a bid of 50 million!”

Nearby, Deanna bit down on her bottom lip, the pain sharp as she broke the skin. It felt as if a knife had plunged into her chest, twisting deeper with each thud of her heart. The ache was relentless, coursing through her like a river of anguish that wouldn’t cease.

She couldn’t endure another moment in that room.

Deanna knew all too well how Luis had the power to make a woman feel cherished, adored. He had once made her feel that way, and now, that affection was being directed toward another.

With a grip that felt almost desperate, she clasped Violet’s hand and turned to flee.

Violet glanced around, confusion written all over her face, desperate to understand what had just transpired.

Then her gaze landed on Deanna’s slim figure, trembling slightly as she hurried toward the exit.

Frustration bubbled within Violet, and she stomped her foot, calling out, “Deanna, what the hell was that? Why is the future Alpha out here buying some other woman a necklace that costs more than most houses?”