Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 277

Second Floor, The Sewing Room

All it took was a gentle push of the window, and the entire garden below stretched out before her in a riot of color and fragrance.

It was Sean's idea to set up the sewing room directly overlooking the garden. He'd thought that whenever Claire grew weary from her needlework, she could simply stand by the window, breathe in the fresh air thick with the scent of blooming flowers, and let herself relax, if only for a moment.

Right now, Sean lounged lazily by that very window, his gaze following Claire and Mandy as they moved about the garden below.

He listened to their conversation drifting up to him, his deep-set eyes narrowing slightly, a hint of amusement flickering across his face. He couldn't help but lift an eyebrow, an intrigued smile curling at his lips.

May really had raised an astute daughter.

He'd always assumed the biggest threat to Claire would be the men outside, circling like hawks. Who would've thought it'd be Mandy who managed to spirit her away instead?

Still, he showed not a trace of annoyance. Instead, he watched with a calm, almost indulgent interest, eavesdropping on their every word.

He heard Claire hesitate, then say softly, "I... I promise."

"Really?" Mandy's face lit up in an instant. She bounced forward, throwing her arms around Claire in a tight hug, her voice bright and barely able to contain her excitement. "Claire, when should we leave?"

"How about tomorrow? I'll book our tickets in a bit."

what she whispered against her ear, but she was sure Mandy was already bubbling

gentle push, adding, "I'll go

Mandy's smile faltered, anxiety flickering in

quietly, "I promised Mr. Foster I'd finish embroidering 'Radiant Beauty' for Grandma. At her birthday party, Mr.

with guilt and

the one who pulled me back.

ended up in the hospital, unable to handle it, and

after another-she'd kept close

Mr. Foster more than

into fists. She'd never imagined Claire had once been

was deeply grateful Claire had met Sean. If not, Mandy might

repaid Mr. Foster, let's go

gentle smile played

support herself

eyes-a smile as fathomless as a midnight lake, impossible to

never agreed to let you run away from

already decided you're her

slipped my mother's