Concept:The correct word should mean formally postponing something to a later time.
Explanation:"Paused" means stopped briefly and then continued.
"Delayed" means made late or held up without planning.
"Deferred" means officially put off to a future date.
"Defaulted" means failed to pay a debt or meet an obligation.
The context clearly requires the idea of postponing an arranged event or action.
Therefore, "deferred" matches this meaning exactly.
None of the other options express formal postponement.
Hence, "deferred" is the most suitable choice.
Answer:C. deferred