Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom novel 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.

Claire, hearing those words, was deeply moved.

In her past life, what she longed for most was not just love, but respect.

In the Linwood household, no one had ever cared about her feelings. They’d hurt her whenever they pleased, shouted at her, and treated her worse than a dog.

Her five years in prison had been even worse. She hadn’t just lost respect—she’d lost every shred of dignity, ground into the dust.

Now, at only five years old, she was finally receiving the respect she’d always dreamed of.

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

Eyes brimming with tears, Claire threw her arms around Mrs. Tempest’s neck in a fierce hug.

Mrs. Tempest, startled, quickly asked, “Honey, why are you crying? Is it because you don’t want to change your name? If you don’t like it, we won’t do it, all right? Please don’t cry.”

Claire shook her head, silent tears streaming down her cheeks.

“Mom, I want to be Claire Tempest. I want to be a part of this family. I’m just… so happy.”

But peace never lasts—not when thoughtless people barge in and ruin the mood.

“Oh, I’m exhausted. Why hasn’t the party started yet? I don’t want to walk anymore.”

“Vanessa, look—a lounge! Let’s go in and rest for a bit.”

The door swung open at the sound of voices.

Claire and Orion looked up to see Ethan and Vanessa strolling in.

Claire frowned. How had those two gotten in?

The Tempests had reserved the entire Celestial Aerie, and only invited guests were allowed inside. She was sure the Linwoods hadn’t been invited.

Orion’s face darkened as soon as he saw them—he hadn’t forgotten how they’d tried to steal his sister’s dress the day before. He shot up from his seat, glaring at them.

“How did you get in here? Get out. Now.”