Chapter 10: Calling Off the Engagement

Caleb indeed did as he said.

Very soon he sent in a formal card and was invited by my dad up to Phoenix Ridge, high above the pines near Flagstaff.

The family’s mountain home was a real slice of the Southwest—thin high‑altitude air, volcanic cinder underfoot, aspen stands flashing green—perched atop the world. The invitation arrived with a courier, and Caleb showed up in his best suit, boots polished, nerves jangling.

He stated his reason directly and wanted to dissolve the engagement with me.

Dad flew into a towering rage and ordered someone to summon me over.

"My child, why are you wearing a veil on your head?"

Dad looked in puzzlement at me with my face covered tightly, and for a heartbeat he debated ripping it off versus respecting me—jaw flexing before he let it be.

Caleb let out a sneering laugh: "Naturally it's that her looks are ugly and she doesn't dare show people."

He had always been a proper gentleman, yet before me he repeatedly broke character, pressing aggressively.

It seemed he truly detested me.

Dad’s frown deepened, his hands gripping the arms of his chair. The room grew colder with every passing second.

"Absurd!"

Dad glared with knitted brows. "Our Phoenix clan all have outstanding looks; my child even more so."

Caleb only took it as a salesman hyping his own product and didn't take it to heart.

"Even if you're drop‑dead gorgeous, here's the thing—I’m not your guy."

I followed up: "It seems the Archmage has someone else he loves?"

"To tell the truth," he placed a hand over his heart and made a solemn bow to my dad, "my heart delights in your niece, Miss Aubrey."

The attendants carrying platters dropped bowls and dishes all over the floor.

The crash echoed like a shotgun blast, silverware clattering in a chaotic pile. Even the kitchen staff peeked around the corner, eyes wide.