Jessica counterattacked. In meetings, she constantly questioned Dave: "Dave's technical solution isn't aligned with business goals. I suggest we align our understanding..." Dave learned to fight back: "Jessica's requirements document lacks granularity. I suggest deeper collaboration..." Buzzwords flew across the room. Colleagues exchanged confused looks.
New colleague Tom joined—he was Jessica's former subordinate. Tom privately told Dave: "Jessica did this to me too. She excels at shifting blame and taking credit." Tom revealed Jessica's "achievements" were actually team efforts she claimed as her own. Dave realized he wasn't fighting alone.