Chapter 246

"Why did you want to see me?" Linda asked directly. Ida forced a bitter smile. "I always wonder why that fire didn't kill you." "Perhaps fate decided I wasn't meant to die, or maybe your fire wasn't quite up to the task." Linda looked directly into Ida's eyes for the first time. She was surprised that the once scheming eyes were now dull and lifeless. "I hate you, Linda. I might not have ended up like this if you hadn't been so determined to stay by his side." "Why hold onto such a deep grudge? You're a young lady now, with a good life." "But I'm not like you. I can't have everyone's affection and have everything handed to me on a silver platter. Your parents encouraged you to pursue love even at great cost and supported you fully. "I could never imagine having such a life. There were times when I couldn't even get a meal at my own home. "When Joanne offered me the chance to be a stand-in, I accepted without hesitation. It was my only chance for a new life, and I couldn't affor