Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 76

Nathan was caught off guard by her sudden retort, momentarily at a loss for words. He only managed to widen his eyes, glaring at her with an intensity that could bore holes through steel.

Claire curled her lips into a silent, mocking smile and turned to head back to her

room.

But Nathan's voice, commanding and imperious, halted her in her tracks. "Stop right there, Claire. Come down here; we need to discuss something." His tone left no room for argument, as was often the case with his habitual orders.

Every fiber of her being wanted to flee from this pretentious family, whose very presence made her skin crawl. The urge to escape this suffocating house of hypocrisy was almost overwhelming.

Yet, the thought of the ten million dollars made her pause and reconsider. Begrudgingly, she descended the staircase and took a seat on the sofa, her gaze icy as it swept over everyone present.

not getting any younger, Claire. Staying at home isn't a viable option forever. Your mother and I have discussed it. The Fosters of Northcrest are one of the

still our child, and as your parents, we want what's best for you. Naturally, your

tightened abruptly. Nathan's earlier mention of a way to collaborate with The Fosters of Northcrest now made

what Brian wanted to hear. An inexplicable agitation surged within him, and he downed

mask of smiles as she leaned forward, clasping Claire's hand and giving it a gentle pat. "Claire, your father and I will miss you dearly, but you must understand that daughters eventually leave home. Marrying well while you're still young is essential. If you wait too long, the choices will diminish. The Fosters of Northcrest are

her hand,

This was nothing more than an

her to refuse, and she couldn't find a reason to

marry Claire off to the heir

Nathan's expression darkened.

The Fosters of Northcrest isn't easy to deal with, and he―" "Enough!" Nathan cut him off with a furious shout, his eyes full of warning. Ethan clenched his fists. "Claire