Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 431

Ever since Claire had shown extraordinary intelligence at the tender age of one, the headmistress had taken a special interest in her.

For more than four years, the headmistress cared for Claire as if she were her own daughter—and Claire never let her down. She graduated high school at an age when most children were still learning their ABCs, and the entire orphanage basked in her reflected glory.

So now, when Claire burst into tears, the headmistress's heart ached for her. Furious, she finally lost her patience and slapped Vincent hard across the face.

"You're far too young to be spouting such nonsense. What will you become when you grow up?"

She turned and barked, "Someone, take Vincent out of here and make sure he learns a lesson."

At her command, an attendant hurried over and dragged Vincent away.

Listening to Vincent's miserable protests, Claire felt a wave of satisfaction. Now that she was back in this life, she finally had the chance to put Vincent in his place. She couldn't help but wonder-without her around, would Vincent ever manage to become a lawyer this time?

The headmistress shook her head helplessly and turned to the couple before her. "Mr. Tempest, Mrs. Tempest, I'm terribly sorry you had to witness that. Claire is such a bright, well-mannered child. She's always been the pride of our orphanage."

"I truly believe that, with the right guidance, she'll grow up to be someone remarkable."

Mr. and Mrs. Tempest looked at Claire with visible satisfaction.

Tempest softened her gaze and asked gently, "Claire, would you like to come home

nodded enthusiastically. "Yes,

smiled up at her new

your big brother, Orion Tempest,"

blinking, her voice soft and sweet. "Hi,

every bit the little grown-up, his face serious and reserved. But when

sister,” he replied, trying to

new brother was a shy

hand. That simple gesture made

severe expression. The contrast only made him look more adorable in

up the adoption paperwork, the family piled into their car, with Claire nestled between her new parents

quiet the whole ride, the

as they left Cresthaven behind, Claire's curiosity got the better of her. She looked up and asked, "Mom, Dad, where are

passenger seat, turned around with a warmy smile. "Sweetheart, our home isn't in Cresthaven. We live in Northcrest

froze at the mention

Wasn't that where Sean

him again. The thought made her both happy and anxious all at