Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 81

The message couldn't have been clearer.

Because Claire was used to hardship, having endured it since childhood, she was deemed destined to become a pawn in a marriage alliance, continuing to suffer for life.

If Claire heard this, despite having long given up on this family, the idea of being manipulated as a pawn would still fill her with anger and resentment.

Adah's tears turned into laughter as she gently stroked Vanessa's hair. "Vanessa, don't be upset. You're engaged to Brian, so there's no way you'd be sent off to marry into the Foster family. Just focus on being Brian's fiancée. Once the Eastborough project stabilizes, your father and I will discuss your wedding with the Cole family."

Vanessa blushed at her mother's words, feeling both shy and anticipative.

Nathan watched the tender scene between mother and daughter, a smile finally breaking through on his face. "Brian is still outside. Why don't you two go and keep him company? Ethan and I have matters to discuss."

Adah and Vanessa left the room.

Ethan watched their retreating figures, a sense of unease creeping in as he thought about Claire's impending arranged marriage. He wanted to say something but, opening his mouth, found the words wouldn't come.

After they left, the study descended into an oppressive silence.

know you're worried about Claire, but we have no choice. The rise and fall of the Linwood Group depend on this. We're all caught up in circumstances

"I understand..."

not to see Brian

Brian emerged from the depths of the first-floor

paused, startled. Why would Brian

realization dawned on her, sparking surprise in

that hallway was Claire's

hatred welled up within her

you try to seduce Brian right under my nose? Clearly, the lesson you've been taught wasn't

smile on

"Just wandering around. It's getting late, so I'm heading out." His

"Stay for lunch at

thanks." With that, Brian left the Linwood household without a backward

until his silhouette

at the end of the hallway, narrowing her eyes as jealousy slithered through her