Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 12

Five years had passed, yet Vanessa seemed unchanged.

"Are you saying that just because your brother is worried about you, he can accuse me without evidence?" Claire's expression was as cold as ice, her eyes piercing like frosty stars, and her entire presence sent chills down one's spine.

"No, that's not it at all." Startled by Claire's aggressive demeanor, Vanessa shrank into Adah's embrace, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Sister, how could you misunderstand me like this?"

Adah, feeling a pang of sympathy for Vanessa, hugged her tightly and sighed, "Claire, you've really misunderstood Vanessa. She's always been sensible, not at all like you claim. It's Vanessa's birthday today; just apologize and wish her a happy birthday, and let's put this behind us."

Claire raised an eyebrow. "This isn't the first time something like this has happened. Do you truly not know, Mrs. Linwood, whether I misunderstood her or not? Do I need to remind you of five years ago...?"

"Enough." Adah's face went pale, guilt written all over her features. "Please, don't say any more."

A derisive laugh escaped Claire's lips, dripping with sarcasm.

Her own mother was just like five years ago, unwaveringly choosing Vanessa over her.

for Vanessa to suffer even the smallest grievance, yet she could heartlessly allow her own daughter to endure endless

Claire felt utterly disenchanted.

coursing through her body, she straightened her

a couple of steps, a strong hand gripped her arm firmly. "Explain." Claire turned, her gaze meeting Ethan's

Claire's eyes made his heart clench. His anger was swallowed, and he spoke as calmly as he could manage. "What's the deal

chunk of feathers

clenched, her body

think I deliberately damaged your sister's dress?"

were the only one who had access to my car, the only one with

tears fell anew, her voice choked with emotion.

upset, but she couldn't bring herself to blame Claire either. She sighed again, speaking softly, "Claire, I know you have grievances in your heart which led you to this, but

laugh cut through Adah's words. Claire fixed her eyes on Adah, speaking each word with deliberate emphasis, "Mr. Ethan's car has

Ethan, "To prove my innocence, I demand that Mr. Ethan