Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 327

The moment Liam said, "I want him," Mandy's heart skipped a beat-no point pretending otherwise.

She hadn't spent much time around Liam, but there was no denying it: she was drawn to him. There was something about that sharp, handsome face-elegant but with just enough edge to make her pulse race.

There were plenty of good-looking guys at college; Mandy saw them every day. But none of them interested her. Only Liam did. That's why, the first time she spotted him at the bar, she'd set her sights on him right away, playing the part of the temptress to get his attention.

But when Mandy discovered he was into men, she'd forced herself to let go.

Now, she placed the bank card gently in his hand. "Relax, I don't want anything from you," she said quietly. "And I'm not about to tell anyone what happened between us."

She hesitated, then added, “Just... please don't mention any of this to my mom or Claire. Especially Claire-her health isn't great, and I don't want her worrying about me."

Mandy looked up, meeting Liam's gaze. His eyes were bright as stars, his eyebrows strong and striking, and with every second their eyes locked, her heart stirred a little more.

She turned away and stood, ready to leave.

Suddenly, Liam reached out and grabbed her wrist.

confusion flickering

in some kind of trouble?" he asked. "If you are, you can tell me. For May's sake and

at her, his pale, graceful neck exposed, Adam's apple moving as he

down, reminding herself: He's gorgeous, sure,

laugh and yanked her hand free. "What trouble could I possibly be in? Worry about yourself. My life isn't any of

caught Liam off guard. Just moments ago she'd been

found this side

his tall frame casting a shadow that

recoiled instinctively; she hated being

only moved closer, clearly

are you backing

not backing away. I just don't like people

out a low, cold laugh. "You don't like people getting close? Funny, because back in Eastborough, you

a jealous edge

second, she thought she saw accusation in his eyes—but that couldn't be right. Liam wasn't interested in her. Why would he care if

your