Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom novel Chapter 1

"You still owe Vanessa an apology."

"Get in the car; I won't say it again."

Claire found those words bitterly ironic.

She had explained it countless times—it wasn't her who pushed Irene Cole; it was Vanessa. But no one believed her. They all chose to side with Vanessa.

Claire was the real daughter of the Linwood family, yet her entire family only trusted Vanessa's version of events.

She felt guilty, indeed—guilty for coming back, for yearning for a family affection that was never truly hers.

She realized her mistake. She would change.

She would walk away, far enough to never compete with Vanessa for her parents' and brother's love, never again be a thorn in their side.

But why was Ethan so displeased?

She subtly pulled her hand away from his, stepping back to put some distance between them.

Her deliberate withdrawal infuriated Ethan, stirring memories of how she used to trail after him like a shadow, desperate for his approval.

He suppressed his anger, striving to soften his tone, "Come home with me."

Claire lowered her gaze, her expression indifferent, as if she couldn't be bothered to look at him.

Her lifeless demeanor only fanned Ethan's temper.

Five years behind bars, and if she hadn't learned anything else, she'd certainly mastered stubbornness.

Just as he was about to explode, a soothing voice interrupted them.

"Claire."

Her body stiffened, and her previously calm heart tightened painfully.

Even after five years, she recognized that voice instantly—it was her childhood friend, Vincent Lewis.

When other kids bullied her, he would fight them off and solemnly promise, "As long as I'm here, no one will hurt Claire."

He had vowed to become a lawyer, to put anyone who harmed her behind bars.

But time and again, when Vanessa wronged her, Vincent would dismiss her concerns with, "Claire, you're too sensitive. Vanessa isn't like that."

He had protected her tormentor and personally sent her to prison.

...

An awkward silence settled over them.

Vincent's smile began to falter, yet he forced himself to extend a hand to Claire, "Claire, I'm here to take you..."

Before he could finish, Claire turned to Ethan.

"You said we were going home. Let's go."