Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 26

**The Case of the Bleeding Shadows by Emma Blackwood**
**Chapter 26**

This morning had barely begun, and Sophia was just settling into her office when her phone vibrated insistently on her desk. It was May, calling with an urgency that made Sophia’s heart race.

“Oh, come on, Sophia! Are you really going to marry into the Shaw family for that southern development project later this year?” May’s voice was a mix of disbelief and excitement.

Sophia sighed, rubbing her forehead in frustration. “May, we’ve been through thick and thin together. You really think I’d entertain those ridiculous tabloid rumors?”

“Well, your denial is comforting, but honestly, they even published an engagement date! How can I not believe it?” May exclaimed, her tone half-joking yet laced with genuine concern.

Sophia couldn’t help but laugh, albeit with a hint of exasperation. “That’s the most absurd part of it all.”

May paused, her tone shifting as she considered the implications. “Do you think it’s possible that the Shaw family fabricated this rumor themselves?”

Sophia quickly grasped May’s insinuation. With the Prosperity Group’s influence growing in Jenston, it seemed unlikely they would need a marriage alliance with Crestview Group. The thought crossed her mind that perhaps it was Vincent who had set his sights on her, stirring the pot for his own amusement.

“So, what’s your game plan?” May pressed, her curiosity piqued.

“I think I’ll just let it be for now. Trying to clarify things would only make us appear guilty,” Sophia replied with a calm demeanor. “Besides, Crestview Group and Prosperity Group are now partners. We can’t afford to ruffle any feathers.”

“And let’s be honest, this is just media hype. It’ll all blow over in a few days. As for Vincent, I intend to keep my distance as much as possible.”

Crestview Group was finally beginning to find its stride after months of relentless effort. Sophia was determined not to let some unfounded rumors derail their progress. She had learned long ago that Vincent was a man who often acted on impulse, driven by his desires. She knew precisely how to navigate the waters of their complicated relationship.

—

Sophia had made a promise to Irene, vowing to visit her on weekends to provide companionship and cheer.

When Saturday morning arrived, she was true to her word, arriving at Irene’s place with a spring in her step.

As Easton concluded his call, he walked over to the sofa, his tall frame commanding attention. At six-foot-three, he was an imposing figure, and Sophia couldn’t help but notice how the room seemed to shift around him.

Irene glanced up, her annoyance palpable. “What are you standing there for? Either sit down or get out,” she commanded, her tone leaving no room for argument.

With a resigned sigh, Easton complied, settling onto a separate sofa, crossing his legs with a grace that seemed almost effortless.

Throughout the conversation, Sophia didn’t spare him a single glance. Yet Easton’s gaze remained fixed on the two women, his curiosity piqued as they delved into a discussion about the books.

Sophia guided Irene through each step of the process, her voice soothing and encouraging. The kindness in her tone caught Easton off guard, and for a moment, he found himself captivated.

Grace approached Easton, handing him a cup of warm water. “Mr. Foster,” she said with a hint of concern, “your stomach isn’t doing great. Maybe you should ease up on the coffee and cut back on the smokes, alright?”

The atmosphere in the room was thick with unspoken tension, yet amidst it all, Sophia’s laughter and Irene’s enthusiasm created a warm bubble of camaraderie, one that Easton found himself reluctantly drawn into.