Marked By the Pureblood Alpha (Deanna and Luis) novel Chapter 341

**The Heart I Buried for You by Serene Lockwood**
**Chapter 341: Fated by Nyra**

In a moment thick with anticipation, the air hung heavy around Deanna as she absorbed the low, gravelly voice of the man beside her. “Back when I didn’t even understand what love was. Probably a long time ago.” His words seemed to drift through the space between them, echoing with a nostalgia that made her heart flutter.

Deanna instinctively tightened her grip around his hand, feeling the warmth radiate from him, a stark contrast to the chill of uncertainty that had enveloped her thoughts.

Baz, ever the curious one, leaned in, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “A long time ago? Don’t tell me it was when you were kids. So you and Ms. Wiley were childhood sweethearts?” His question hung in the air, creating vivid images in the minds of those present—a whimsical tale of young love, filled with innocent laughter and stolen glances.

Luis raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing on his lips as he observed Deanna, his demeanor relaxed yet attentive. “Something like that,” he replied, a smirk forming as he twirled a loose strand of her hair between his fingers, a playful gesture that sent a shiver down her spine.

Deanna’s brow furrowed in confusion; she suspected he was merely indulging the interview’s lighthearted atmosphere, but a flicker of something deeper danced in his eyes.

Baz pressed on, eager to delve deeper into the topic. “Then, can we ask what you like most about Ms. Wiley?”

Luis’s gaze shifted back to Deanna, his teasing smile morphing into something more genuine. “She’s very pretty,” he said, his voice laced with warmth.

Heat rushed to Deanna’s cheeks, a blush blooming across her face.

This man never could maintain a serious facade for long, she thought, a mix of exasperation and affection swirling within her.

Baz chuckled softly, his tone measured as he navigated the delicate conversation. “No doubt Ms. Wiley is beautiful, but the world is filled with beautiful she-werewolves.”

Luis’s playful demeanor shifted abruptly, his expression growing unexpectedly earnest. “Her smile is beautiful. Beautiful enough to make this world feel worthwhile. As long as she’s here, I don’t see anyone else.” The sincerity in his voice wrapped around Deanna like a warm embrace, leaving her momentarily speechless.

Once the interview wrapped up, Luis found himself immediately swarmed by the executives of Firelight Scoop, each vying for a moment of his time, eager to impress and ingratiate themselves with him.

Meanwhile, Deanna emerged from the restroom, her heart still fluttering from the interview, and made her way back to the hall.

As she approached the exit, she spotted Malcolm standing tall and still, his posture radiating a sense of purpose as he awaited her return.

Deanna hesitated for a brief moment, her heart racing as she walked over to him.

Malcolm’s gaze met hers, and a hint of regret colored his voice. “I’m sorry. I caused trouble for you today.”

“You were just worried about me, that’s all,” she replied, her tone softening as she tried to ease the tension.

“Deanna.”

The way he said her name sent a shiver down her spine, his deep voice carrying an undercurrent of something profound, something he was hesitant to express.

Deanna looked up, locking eyes with Malcolm. His gaze was deep and quiet, reminiscent of the ocean—vast, filled with unspoken words and emotions that threatened to spill over.

She quickly averted her gaze, feeling the weight of his stare pressing against her.

“Are you really getting married?” he asked, his voice dropping to a whisper, as if afraid his words might shatter the fragile moment.

Deanna understood he was referring to the recent announcement from the Mooncrown Corporation about her impending marriage to Luis.

“If nothing unexpected happens, yes,” she responded, striving for a calmness she didn’t quite feel.

Malcolm met Luis’s challenging gaze with a calm demeanor, finally stating, “Mr. Eaton, I didn’t lose to you. I lost to Deanna.”

“Is that so?” Luis replied, a disdainful smile curling his lips as he absorbed Malcolm’s words.

“I’m her fated mate. Nyra herself marked our bond. If you’re smart, you’ll stay away from her.” The declaration was firm, a warning wrapped in confidence.

Malcolm’s usually gentle eyes flickered with surprise, a wave of realization crashing over him. So they are fated mates?

No wonder, he thought, feeling the sting of defeat. No matter how gentle, steady, and sincere I try to be, I can never reach her heart. No wonder, even when Luis hurts her, Deanna’s soul remains tethered to him, refusing to let go.

Deanna noticed Malcolm’s reaction, and feeling a mix of embarrassment and protectiveness, she nudged Luis playfully in the chest with her elbow. “He’s got a temper. Don’t mind him.”

Luis bristled, the corners of his mouth twitching in annoyance.

I’ve got a temper? he thought incredulously. So Malcolm’s some gentle saint?

Tonight, I swear I’m gonna show this woman how gentle I can be!

But as he met Deanna’s clear, slightly reproachful gaze, all his bravado melted away.

Fine! Whatever she says goes.

After all, she’s my woman.