The Scorned Heiress: No More Mercy novel Chapter 179

Jade knows exactly how the media works. If she doesn't do something drastic to hijack the narrative, Tara is going to walk away with all the glory. Tara's performance has been flawless, dominating the judges' scorecards and stealing every headline. The thought of her sister taking a clean victory makes Jade physically sick.

An impulsive, desperate plan forms in her mind.

As the finale model, she has the entire stage to herself. Right as she reaches the end of the runway and executes her turn, she intentionally twists her ankle and takes a dramatic, theatrical tumble to the floor.

The impact is instant. The entire room falls dead silent before erupting into gasps and chaotic murmurs.

Sprawled on the runway, Jade scrapes her knees and palms, drawing a thin layer of blood. Ignoring the stinging pain, she immediately contorts her face into a mask of pure, fragile agony. But instead of staying down and waiting for help, she bites her lip, places her trembling hands on the glossy floor, and slowly forces herself to stand.

Playing the role of the tragic, dedicated artist, she limps heroically down the remainder of the runway, her face a portrait of sheer willpower. She wants the world to see her 'bravery' and her unyielding commitment to the show.

The judges politely stand up and rush toward the edge of the stage to check on her.

"I... I just wanted to do so well today," Jade chokes out, her voice trembling with manufactured tears. "I was so nervous, I lost my footing. I'm so terrified my mistake will ruin the show's perfect score."

Her soft, broken voice is perfectly calibrated to trigger sympathy.

Standing off to the side, Tara watches the entire spectacle with cold amusement. She sees right through the pathetic stunt. Jade is using self-sabotage to steal the spotlight back. It is a classic, manipulative move, but Tara knows the public isn't stupid.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify