Marked By the Pureblood Alpha (Deanna and Luis) novel Chapter 230

**Chapter 230: The Engagement is Canceled**

**Deanna’s POV:**

As Silas slipped away from the gathering, a rush of gratitude surged within me, compelling my gaze toward Malcolm. I lifted my wine glass, the gentle chime of crystal breaking the ambient chatter, and said, “Mr. Faulkner, I sincerely appreciate the introduction you facilitated for Silas today.”

The realization that Silas’s presence here was largely due to Malcolm’s influence settled heavily in my heart. It was Malcolm who had graciously arranged for Silas to receive a second invitation, and I felt the warmth of that gesture.

A playful grin danced across Malcolm’s lips, a spark of mischief flickering in his eyes. “Ms. Wiley, do you know what phrase you seem to utter the most when I’m around?”

I furrowed my brow, confusion knitting my features as I blinked at him, trying to unravel his meaning.

“It’s thank you,” he replied, amusement glimmering in his gaze.

I paused, allowing his words to sink in, before laughter bubbled up from within me, escaping as a light, melodious sound that seemed to brighten the atmosphere around us.

Malcolm’s demeanor shifted, becoming more earnest and sincere. “If you truly wish to express your gratitude, just think of me as a friend.”

“Mr. Faulkner, you mean…” I began, but the implication of his words hung in the air, thick with unspoken possibilities and uncharted paths.

“Please, drop the Mr. Faulkner. It feels too stiff and formal. Just call me Malcolm, and I’ll refer to you as Deanna,” he suggested, his voice warm, almost inviting.

A wave of ease washed over me, and I nodded, sensing a connection beginning to blossom between us that transcended mere pleasantries.

Later, I excused myself to freshen up and made my way toward the restroom. As I strolled down the elegantly adorned hallway, my attention was momentarily captured by a grand door to a lavish private room that swung ajar. An attendant, unmistakably a werewolf, was busily delivering an exquisite array of dishes, the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air.

A familiar scent enveloped me, prompting me to pause and peer through the narrow opening. The scene inside was striking—an opulent room dominated by a long Euronian table, where Luis sat in the company of his grandmother, surrounded by a select group of powerful, sophisticated individuals.

Engrossed in my observations, I failed to notice the attendant approaching until it was too late. He accidentally collided with me, sending a splash of wine cascading onto my clothes.

“Oh no! Miss, I’m so terribly sorry!” The attendant exclaimed, his eyes wide with alarm as he scrambled to assist me in wiping away the spill.

Heat of embarrassment washed over my cheeks, and not wanting to draw more attention to myself, I waved him off with a quick, dismissive gesture. “It’s alright, truly. No harm done,” I said hurriedly, making my exit before anyone else could take notice.

**Luis’s POV:**

Reclining in my chair, I felt a sense of languidness envelop me. The air was thick with anticipation, and when a familiar voice reached my ears, I instinctively lifted my eyelids and directed my gaze toward the door.

There she was—a vision in a crisp white jacket, her slender silhouette and loosely tied wavy hair flowing like a gentle breeze. I couldn’t help but let my eyes linger on her, mesmerized by her presence.

Noticing my distraction, Grandma turned to me, her brow furrowing with concern. “What has you so lost in thought?” she inquired, her voice laced with curiosity.

Ruth interjected quickly, her voice rising with urgency, “Luis, please don’t say such things! Today marks our first official meeting regarding this. You can’t jeopardize it!”

I remained composed, my resolve unwavering as I reiterated, “What I mean is that the engagement is canceled.”

At my declaration, Erick’s face darkened, his brow furrowing deeper as he slammed his palm onto the table, the sound echoing like thunder in the charged atmosphere.

“This marriage has been in the works for over twenty years! You can’t simply call it off like it’s a trivial matter. This isn’t a game!” he thundered, disbelief and fury lacing his voice.

**Conclusion**

In the aftermath of my shocking announcement, a heavy silence settled over the room, punctuated only by the muted clinking of silverware and the hushed whispers of disbelief. Deanna, still reeling from the unexpected turn of events, felt a mix of relief and sorrow wash over her. The weight of her own emotions, intertwined with my bold decision, created a palpable tension that echoed in her heart. As she glanced toward Malcolm, who had been a steady presence throughout the evening, she realized that the bond they had begun to forge was becoming increasingly significant. No longer simply a matter of gratitude, their connection hinted at something deeper, something that could flourish now that the engagement, which had loomed over her life like a dark cloud, was no longer a concern.

For me, the decision to cancel the engagement was not merely a rejection of tradition but a declaration of my self-identity and autonomy. As I faced the furious reactions of my family and the guests, I felt an exhilarating sense of freedom mingling with the heavy burden of responsibility. The room, once filled with anticipation for a union steeped in history, now buzzed with uncertainty and unrest. Yet, in that moment, I caught sight of Deanna through the doorway, her presence a beacon reminding me of the possibilities that lay ahead. With a heart unshackled from the constraints of expectation, I embraced the unknown, ready to carve a new path that was true to myself and, perhaps, to her as well. Together, we stood on the precipice of a new beginning, our hearts finally free to explore the depths of our connection, unencumbered by the past.

**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**

As the dust settles from the explosive announcement of the canceled engagement, tensions are bound to escalate in the next chapter. With me standing firm in my decision, the repercussions will ripple through both the Mooncrown and Blackcreek Packs, igniting a fierce debate about loyalty, tradition, and personal desires. Deanna, caught in the whirlwind of these events, will have to navigate her complex feelings for Silas while grappling with the unexpected connection she has forged with Malcolm. Will she find herself drawn to Malcolm’s friendly charm, or will her heart remain tethered to the past?

Moreover, the fallout from my declaration promises to unravel long-held secrets and alliances. Erick’s fury is just the beginning; expect to see the other pack members reacting, some supporting my bold move while others vehemently oppose it. The stakes are high, and as Deanna witnesses the aftermath, she may be forced to confront her own place within this tangled web of relationships. Will she step into the fray to advocate for what she believes in, or will she retreat into the shadows? The next chapter is sure to deliver intense confrontations, unexpected alliances, and perhaps even a revelation that could change the course of their destinies forever.