Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 339

After the first hints of autumn crept in, the air began to cool and dusk settled earlier each day.

Streetlights flickered to life one by one, their soft golden glow spilling across Mandy's face as she waited at the gates of Cresthaven Institute of Technology.

Every so often, she glanced toward the distant road, scanning for Claire and her mother, May.

About ten minutes passed before a sleek black Mercedes eased up to the curb in front of her.

The moment the car stopped, Mandy's heart clenched. She knew this car all too well-it was Liam's.

In an instant, flashes of last night's reckless, dizzying memories surged through her mind, impossible to suppress.

She'd seen the evidence herself that morning in the dorm showers: from her collarbone down, Liam's marks traced her skin, countless and conspicuous, too much to bear looking at.

The only thing she could be grateful for was that he hadn't left any on her neck. Otherwise, she'd have no way to face anyone today.

The last thing she wanted now was to see Liam again. Acting on pure instinct, Mandy spun around and hurried back toward campus.

She'd barely taken two steps when Claire's gentle voice called from behind, "Mandy."

the Mercedes' window had rolled down. Claire and May

was leaning back casually, an enigmatic smile

daughter. It's a pleasure to finally meet you," he drawled,

to skip a beat. Flustered, she quickly dropped her gaze, unable to look directly at

mother would just take a cab. The fact that they'd hitched a ride with Liam of all people left

was this

instinct telling her to avoid getting into

to sense her reluctance. He arched

her daughter's anxiety, urged her on as well. "Mandy,

she had little choice. Bracing herself, she walked

as much distance from Liam

only were Claire and May

ask, Mr. Foster, would you

his eyes again, making it clear he had no

Mandy: ......

Well, that settled it.

perfect unison, May and Claire chimed,