Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 411

He didn't even bother to filter his words-if anything, he raised his voice just for Claire's sake, eager to put her in her place right from the start.

Claire's cheeks flushed a deep red. She lowered her head, standing there awkwardly, unsure what to do with herself.

She didn't argue or try to explain. Instead, she simply trailed behind the others and got into the car, silent as a shadow.

During the whole ride, she sat perfectly still, as if any movement might provoke another round of scolding from him.

When they finally arrived home, Claire stood in front of the sprawling mansion, gazing up with awestruck eyes. For a moment, her face shone with wonder. "Is this really my new home? Am I really going to live in a place like this? Mom, Dad, Liam... I feel so happy, like I'm dreaming."

But he didn't spare her a shred of kindness. With a cold laugh, he sneered, "Look at you—so naïve, gawking at a house like you've never seen anything better. It's just a place to live, no need to get so worked up. Let's be clear, you came here for the money, didn't you? Well, let me tell you, this house belongs to my mother. Even if it ever gets signed over, it's going to Vanessa, not you. Don't get any ideas."

Claire's face went pale; a flicker of pain crossed her eyes.

She dropped her gaze, voice barely above a whisper. "I'm not here for the money.

I just wanted a family."

He scoffed, dismissing her words entirely, and said nothing more.

He watched as Claire stepped into the mansion, her small, fragile figure looking especially lonely in the sunlight.

In that moment, Ethan felt nothing for her-not a trace of pity, only icy indifference and contempt.

how much

sleep, Ethan leafed through her old diary. All those little details he'd ignored before now

smile Claire forced was a silent

trying to fit

was wrong," Ethan whispered, tears slipping

long time to pull

2007. Saturday.

day living with

I got up early and made breakfast for

really want to fit in here. I

Vanessa would have an allergic reaction after breakfast― her

Dad, and

They just

me... there was

in their

know it was my fault. If not for me, Vanessa wouldn't

me, I didn't say a word

believe... if I give them my

about me.

drifted back to that