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.

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