Losing to My Substitute (Katerina and Joshu)
Substitute 85

Chapter

15

Her words revealed the purpose of her visit-only for Mr. Snow, nothing else mattered,

Not wanting to linger, Jean finished her prayers and turned to leave, but Winni blocked her at the

entrance.

With an air of authority, she said, "Do you have an invitation? Do you think you can just waltz into

the Snow family?"

"You're just a charity case of the Snow family. It's already a blessing that they've kept you around Berton for years."

Joy's haughty tone made Jean uncomfortable; she wasn't one to be bullied.

"And what about you? What's your identity? The future mistress of the Snow family? I haven't heard of any engagement between Berton and you.

Even if he's unwilling, my previous identity was acknowledged by him. What about yours?"

"Don't tell me you're the one trying to force yourself into this!"

Miss Byron, since Berton hasn't married you yet, you'd better hurry up and push him to propose!"

As soon as the words left Jean's mouth, Winni's face turned pale. The fact that Berton wouldn't marry her and didn't acknowledge her was her sore spot.

No matter how she pretended to be pitiful or schemed, Berton seemed resolute in not taking the next step. Everyone could see their unclear relationship, but she still lacked a formal title.

A few days later, Jean returned to the country not only to see Mr. Snow but also to work on a project assigned by her mentor, John.

Coincidentally, she was responsible for the design of the hot spring resort that the Snow family had secured from the city government.

She handled the behind-the-scenes design, while her mentor John's team managed the initial communications, avoiding any encounters with Berton.

But at the celebration banquet that night, John insisted that she attend.

Seeing her design come to fruition filled Jean with a sense of accomplishment, so she agreed to her

86.6%

Chapter 15

mentor's request.

Dressed in a black gown that accentuated her curves, Jean's style had become more daring after living abroad for a few years, learning to utilize her advantages. Duke wrapped his arms around Jean's slim waist from behind. "What should I do? I want to keep you hidden, just for myself."

Jean jokingly replied, "Then what should I do? I won't go."

Duke knew this design was her hard work, and she had to attend the celebration. "Oh, that won't do. You must go."

He helped her select a pearl necklace to wear.

The banquet was held at a hotel owned by the Snow family. As night fell, glasses clinked, and everyone chatted merrily.

When Jean made her entrance, all eyes were on her.

Some who had never seen her before thought she was a fresh face and were eager to strike up a

conversation.

But soon, familiar voices recognized her: "Isn't that the little deaf girl? She's actually back!"

"Hey, I didn't notice until you mentioned it. It really is her! Didn't she go abroad?"

"I told you, how could she bear to give up the Snow family fortune? Berton wouldn't still want to marry that little deaf girl, would he?"

"Let's keep it down; she must have her hearing aid in. We don't want her to overhear!"

The discussions reached Jean's ears, but unlike the timid and insecure girl from three years ago, she held her head high and refused to endure any longer.

She picked up her glass and walked toward the group gossiping at the banquet, remembering that they were Berton's friends, people she had encountered before.

As Jean approached, the men exchanged confused glances, and before they could react, she splashed

a glass of red wine all over them, leaving them in a mess.

"What are you doing?!"

They glared at her, angry and bewildered.

86.9%

Chapter 15

Were we wrong? Isn't it true that you've clung to Berton all this time just because you saved his life? Little deaf girl!"

Jean looked at them with a smile.

The men felt uneasy under her gaze,