The Scorned Heiress: No More Mercy novel Chapter 218

A ruthless glint flashes through Jake's deeply calculating eyes. "Jade, your birthday gala is next week. You've been working so hard on set, so make sure you take the night to really celebrate with your friends."

"I will! Thank you for checking on me, Jake," Jade replies with sugary sweetness.

"I'm also having Lucinda come," Jake adds, casually watching Jade's reaction. "I want you to spend some time with her. Build a good relationship. She's going to be your sister-in-law, after all."

"That's wonderful! I've always loved Lucinda," Jade beams, her eyes wide with manufactured excitement. "She's such an incredible dancer. I can finally ask her for some tips!"

Jovani had drilled one golden rule into Jade's head: No matter how much you despise someone, never let it show on your face. Jade has perfected the art of burying her true feelings. Even a shrewd businessman like Jake fails to spot a single crack in her facade, his lingering doubts instantly evaporating.

"Absolutely. Lucinda is the principal dancer of her company. She'll definitely give you some pointers," Jake says with a satisfied nod.

He mentally scoffs. Tara was clearly trying to sow discord between him and Jade with those absurd accusations. Jade is openly thrilled about Lucinda; there is no way she possesses the manipulative malice Tara described.

A breathtaking smile graces Tara's lips as she reads the text. This man truly understands her. He always steps in at the exact right moment.

[That's amazing news. Knowing I have you in my corner puts my mind completely at ease.]

Tara accepts his intervention without a shred of guilt or hesitation. Danny is her partner, and they are firmly on the same side. While she is more than capable of handling the theater executives herself, having a billionaire titan clear the path for her saves unnecessary headaches. Only a fool would refuse that kind of leverage, and Danny is undeniably the ultimate ace up her sleeve.