The Double ( or More ?) Life of The Fake Heiress

Chapter 168

The Mendozas have been renowned culinary herbalists for generations, with their craft honed within the royal kitchens. Their mastery of medicinal cuisine was unparalleled in the. industry. So, facing critique from someone with a deep understanding of pharmacology was one thing, but from a teenager who looked barely out of high school?

The middle–aged man’s expression soured. This young lady was James‘ guest, but her tone seemed a tad too showy, perhaps even snide.

He opened his mouth to retort when suddenly, Knox burst through the door, his face etched with a mix of shock and bewilderment. “What’s the thought behind adding barley to the mix?” Knox’s gaze locked onto Mirabella, a flicker of excitement barely concealed in his voice.

Mirabella turned to regard Knox, who’d just entered, noting the apron tied around his waist and the white arm gaiters that suggested he was, indeed, the chef James had mentioned. Blinking, she shifted her gaze to the steaming bowl of soup on the table, her voice light, “Barley can help balance the other herbs with the thermal properties of the crab. Barley might seem mundane compared to precious ingredients in the soup, but the art of herbal formulation is about synergy. Even the most common herb can unveil its true potential with the right combination.”

As her words settled, Knox staggered, nearly losing his composure. If not for his hands braced against the table, he might have made quite the scene. The middle–aged man rushed to Knox’s side, offering support, then turned back to Mirabella, unable to hide his irritation despite James‘ presence. “What do you know about herbal pairing, young lady?”

barely contain his frustration. “Do you have any ideal how many years Knox has dedicated to studying pharmacology? The Mendoza family’s expertise

stood before you and made the same

the retort, the middle–aged man stiffened. After a couple of seconds,

conversation might devolve into an argument, Wyatt quickly interjected, “Ms. Mirabella was merely sharing her thoughts, no offense

know what you’re talking about, it’s better to say nothing

significantly as he spoke up, “Does youth preclude one from

expected James to defend Mirabella, and his complexion alternated between flush and pale. After a moment, considering

Chapter 168

apology. “Sorry for being too blunt.” His words carried the tone of an apology, but