The Scorned Heiress: No More Mercy novel Chapter 397

"I'm aware of the issue," Tara says smoothly. "That's why I brought a custom-formulated spray designed specifically for this botanical strain and this exact invasive species."

She pulls out a small bottle of specialized formula and lightly mists the leaves. Her movements are gentle and precise, evenly coating the plant's surface in seconds.

"Miss Dennis, what exactly is in this formula?" a senior professor asks, practically leaning in with curiosity.

"It's an organic solution I developed based on the biological traits of both the plant and the pest," Tara explains with a faint smile. "Don't worry, it won't harm the botanicals. It contains specific herbal extracts that act as a highly effective, targeted neurotoxin for the bugs."

The professors nod in unison, murmuring their approval. Their respect for Tara's practical expertise skyrockets.

Watching the scene unfold, a suffocating wave of jealousy washes over Jade. She is being completely marginalized. Every single person in the room is captivated by Tara.

"Tara," Jade interrupts, her voice dripping with forced innocence. "Did you overhear me mentioning the pest issue earlier and hire someone to develop this spray for you?"

She phrases it deliberately, trying to twist the narrative. She wants the research team to believe Tara stole her insight, outsourced the work to an industry professional, and is now taking all the credit.

Tara sees right through the pathetic manipulation. She doesn't hesitate to tear the facade down.

"Even if I did just 'overhear' it and still managed to solve the problem," Tara mocks, her tone razor-sharp, "that's still infinitely better than you being fully briefed on the crisis and doing absolutely nothing about it."

She tilts her head, holding Jade's gaze. "Oh, wait. It's more likely that you knew about the problem, lacked the competence to fix it, couldn't even find someone to outsource it to, and now you're just painfully jealous."

"You aren't a specialist in this field, sir. It might be best if you refrain from commenting."

Watching Nikolai get chewed out by his own employees, Jake swallows the reprimand he was about to deliver. He relaxes, feeling a rush of vindication. See? This is exactly what happens when you defend a manipulative schemer like Jade. No matter how you try to help her, it always blows up in your face. She is a walking disaster zone, and anyone foolish enough to align with her is guaranteed to go down as collateral damage.

Caught in the crossfire, Nikolai's face cycles through shades of pale shock and angry red. He has always prided himself on his stellar reputation within the company and his social circles. This is the first time he has ever been publicly reprimanded by his own subordinates. That final comment—”You aren't a specialist... refrain from commenting”—cuts him to the core. Humiliated and speechless, he snaps his mouth shut.

Jade stares at Nikolai in disbelief. How can he just tuck his tail between his legs and play dead after a few comments from the staff? He's a son of the Dennis Family! How can he tolerate such disrespect? Fight back!

Frustrated, she subtly reaches out and tugs at his sleeve. Her wide, expectant eyes beg him to speak up again. She wants him to rip into Tara and put these arrogant experts in their place.