Losing to My Substitute (Katerina and Joshu)
Substitute 55

Chapter

26

Linda heard the commotion but didn't pay it any mind.

She had no intention of meeting him.

Three Days Later

Eva, the regional steward, knocked on their door.

"Ms. Rachel, Ms. Taylor, that Mr. Martin has been waiting at the entrance of the nursing home and refuses to leave no matter what we say. We even sought help from the police, but he just came back again."

"He claims Ms. Taylor is his wife and says he wants to meet you."

"Of course, unless we have your explicit consent, our nursing home will absolutely not agree to his request. We have a responsibility to ensure the safety of every resident here."

"I felt it was best to inform you of this directly. If you feel threatened in any way, you can reach out to our staff anytime, and we will ensure your safety."

"Additionally, if Ms. Taylor does decide to meet him, our staff can accompany you to ensure your well-being."

Eva, tall and blonde with her hair tied back, spoke with a calm and measured tone that exuded a

sense of security. Over the past three years of living here, she had cared for and looked after every resident like an older sister.

Linda offered her a grateful smile.

"Thank you so much. We'll handle this matter as soon as possible."

After seeing Eva off, Rachel grabbed Linda's arm, her eyes filled with worry.

"Linda..."

Linda patted Rachel's arm to reassure her.

Moments later, Linda, dressed neatly, stepped out of the house.

At the entrance of the nursing home, Ivan stood there.

13:16

Losing to My Substitute

55.7

Chapter 26

The moment he saw Linda, his eyes glistened with unshed tears, though he forced himself to smile.

He tried to call out her name, his throat moving as he swallowed several times, but no words came.

"It's been a while," Linda said.

She wore a loose sweatshirt, her hair tied into a ponytail, no makeup on, her entire demeanor relaxed, natural, serene, and peaceful.

Her gaze toward Ivan was steady and calm, unflinching.

It was precisely this look that made Ivan feel as if his heart had been ripped apart, leaving him breathless with pain.

Her tranquil expression was like a blade, cutting deeply into Ivan's heart, leaving his trembling soul bleeding and raw. Tears spilled from his eyes.

Yet he refused to lower his head, refused to blink, unwilling to miss even a single moment of Linda standing before him.

"Linda..."

He stumbled forward a few steps, but between them stood a door.

This door was betrayal, three years, and an insurmountable chasm.

Linda's expression remained indifferent.

Yet, as she looked at Ivan, so distraught, a flicker of confusion rose in her heart.

Did he really love her so much?

If he loved her, then why had he betrayed her?

Losing to My Su