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.

words,

she longed for most was not just

feelings. They'd hurt her whenever they pleased, shouted

even worse. She hadn't just lost respect-she'd lost every shred of

five years old, she was

though, gave her all the

arms around Mrs. Tempest's

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

silent tears

want to be a part of

at that orphanage to be moved to tears so easily. She was determined that their family

pulled out her handkerchief

cry. If your eyes get all puffy, you won't

at Mrs. Tempest with a bright,

to see her daughter smiling again, Mrs. Tempest

you thirsty? Hungry? Let me get you something to nibble before the

a bowl of noodles for breakfast, so she wasn't

have some water,