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

enthusiastically. "Yes, I

at her new

your big brother, Orion Tempest," Mrs. Tempest

turned to Orion, her wide eyes blinking, her voice soft and sweet.

his face serious and reserved. But when Claire called him "big brother" in that honeyed voice,

replied,

arched an eyebrow-her new brother was a shy

That simple gesture made his ears turn bright red, though he kept his

contrast only made him look more adorable in

finished up the adoption paperwork, the family piled into their car, with Claire

the whole ride, the

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

our home isn't in Cresthaven. We live in Northcrest City. We're taking

froze at the mention of Northcrest

City? Wasn't that where

see him again. The thought made her