Mary's expression turned cold. "Cindy, watch what you say."
Cindy's face paled.
Octavia, aching for her daughter, stepped in. "Mom, please don't blame Cindy. She's just worried sick."
"She certainly is worried," Mary remarked, her tone ambiguous.
Even if Octavia wanted to explain further, no one was paying attention to her.
She glanced at Cindy and gave a subtle shake of her head.
Biting her lip, Cindy apologized. "I'm sorry, Claire. I spoke out of turn."
Claire couldn't even be bothered to look at her. "It's fine. You didn't mean anything by it."
Cindy was speechless. Why did that sound so sarcastic?
Octavia signaled for Cindy to stay quiet, and the girl finally shut her mouth.
Claire followed Mary into the consultation room.
The specialists were already waiting.
Everyone had been anticipating Claire's arrival.
Whether they actually believed in Mary, trusted Barry, or just wanted to watch the drama unfold was anyone's guess.
"This is Claire," Mary introduced her to the room.
Some of the doctors recognized Claire's face from the news.
They had to admit, she was a stunning young woman.
But that didn't mean they trusted her medical skills.
She simply looked far too young.
"Claire, Dr. Mary mentioned you have experience in both traditional and modern medicine. Why don't you take a look at this patient's condition and see if you can propose a treatment plan?"
Seeing the others silently waiting for a show, Vice President Sterling took the initiative to speak.
In truth, a test like this wasn't very effective.
They truly hadn't expected her to come up with a completely new approach.
"I understand you're young and perhaps a bit reckless."
"But even Dr. Mary isn't entirely confident in this plan. Are you sure you can handle it?"
"We're all seasoned surgical specialists here, and none of us would dare guarantee a flawless procedure."
"If the patient suffers massive blood loss halfway through your proposed plan, how will you salvage the situation?"
Claire understood the specialist's doubts and the reason for his loud, aggressive tone.
This man obviously wasn't fond of Mary, and that animosity had extended to her.
He seemed desperate to pick apart every flaw in both her and Mary's plans.
But Claire was never intimidated by questioning, for true skill could withstand any scrutiny.
"I know you doubt that severe surgical bleeding can be stopped in time."
"You're a surgical expert, which means your focus is modern medicine. May I ask your opinion on traditional medicine?"

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Billionaire's True Heiress From Fake Jewel to Real Crown