Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom

Chapter 458

As Claire drifted into her thoughts, Mrs. Tempest spoke up again.

"But there's still some time before your birthday party begins. Why don't I take you to the lounge to rest for a while? When it's time, we'll come back."

"Okay, Mom."

Claire, Mrs. Tempest, and Orion made their way toward the lounge together.

Once inside, Mrs. Tempest turned to Claire with a solemn expression. "Claire, sweetheart, there's something I'd like your opinion on."

Claire looked puzzled. "What is it?"

She was only five-what could possibly require her input?

"Claire, you're part of the Tempest family now. After today, everyone in Northcrest's high society will know that you're my daughter. So, I was thinking of changing your last name to Tempest. You'd be Claire Tempest from now on. What do you think?"

Frankly, the Tempests didn't really need to consult a five-year-old about

something like this. But out of respect for their child, they truly cared what Claire thought.

Mrs. Tempest's face was full of hope and nervous anticipation.

those words, was deeply

past life, what she longed for most

Linwood household, no one had ever cared about her feelings. They'd hurt

five years in prison had been even worse. She hadn't just

at only five years old, she was finally receiving the respect she'd always dreamed

adults wouldn't bother with a child's opinion. The Tempests, though, gave her all the respect and sense of belonging she could wish

Claire threw her arms around Mrs.

because you don't want to change your name? If you don't like it, we

her head, silent tears

want to be Claire Tempest. I want to be a part of this family. I'm

must've suffered so much at that orphanage to be moved to tears so easily. She was

her handkerchief and tenderly wiped Claire's

eyes get all puffy, you

sniffled, then looked up at Mrs.

daughter smiling again,

thirsty? Hungry? Let me get you

so she wasn't

I have