Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 2

"You still owe Vanessa an apology."

"Get in the car; I won't say it again."

Claire found those words bitterly ironic.

She had explained it countless times-it wasn't her who pushed Irene Cole; it was Vanessa. But no one believed her. They all chose to side with Vanessa.

Claire was the real daughter of the Linwood family, yet her entire family only trusted Vanessa's version of events.

She felt guilty, indeed-guilty for coming back, for yearning for a family affection that was never truly hers.

She realized her mistake. She would change.

She would walk away, far enough to never compete with Vanessa for her parents' and brother's love, never again be a thorn in their side.

But why was Ethan so displeased?

She subtly pulled her hand away from his, stepping back to put some distance between them.

withdrawal infuriated Ethan, stirring memories of how she used to trail after him

suppressed his anger, striving to soften his tone,

gaze, her expression indifferent, as if she couldn't be bothered to look

lifeless demeanor only fanned

hadn't learned anything else, she'd certainly

to

"Claire."

and her previously calm

recognized that voice instantly—it was her

shoes enter her line of sight,

congratulations on

she would have graciously replied with a "thank you." But coming

Vincent Lewis, now a renowned lawyer, had represented Vanessa in court, ensuring Claire

suffered. She wouldn't survive prison. Can

it, but

was accustomed to hardship, did that mean she deserved

the true daughter of the Linwood family to prison had made him a star