Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 433

Claire clung tightly to Mrs. Tempest, her small body trembling as tears slid down her cheeks, soaking Mrs. Tempest's shoulder.

Mrs. Tempest's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she gently patted Claire's back, her voice thick with emotion. "Oh, sweetheart, you don't have to be so polite with me. This is your home now, and anything you want, I'll make sure you have."

Claire turned her face and planted a kiss on Mrs. Tempest's cheek. "You're the best, Mom."

That tiny kiss melted Mrs. Tempest's heart completely.

She knew, without a doubt, that adopting Claire was the best decision she'd ever made.

Look at her-Claire was so considerate, so sweet. She even gave her a kiss! Oh my goodness, being shown affection by such an adorable little girl was the most wonderful feeling in the world.

Hmph! Unlike Orion, that little rascal-always so serious, face like a block of ice, not the least bit cute.

Overcome with excitement, Mrs. Tempest hugged Claire even tighter, planting a big smacking kiss on her cheek before snuggling her close, breathing in that warm, milky scent only young children have. She felt utterly content.

Mr. Tempest watched the touching scene between mother and daughter, a pang of envy tightening in his chest.

So far, his little girl had never hugged or kissed him.

He cleared his throat and crouched down in front of Claire, his eyes shining with anticipation.

I even oversaw all the renovations myself," he said, almost as if he were asking for

off guard, not sure if she was

hurt deeply by those who called themselves her parents. She'd poured her heart out for them, and got nothing back but coldness, mockery, and criticism. They'd chipped away at her confidence so much, she'd stopped even trying to guess what they wanted-every time

with such careful hope, just waiting

were

believed her affection

Summoning her courage, Claire

with her

hands, cupped Mr. Tempest's

to his cheek.

gentle face,

instantly, his smile spreading wide with undisguised delight and

people say daughters are their fathers' precious little angels-

Tempest felt

going off, but

to hold back his

wnovel

fear of startling

help scooping her up and spinning her