Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 31

**Chapter 31**

“Sophia, it’s been clear to me for quite some time now that you harbor feelings for Easton. That’s precisely why I’ve decided to take him away from you.” Stella’s voice dripped with a mix of determination and malice.

“Sure, I’ve stumbled in the past, but my story isn’t over yet. Once I become Mrs. Foster, Crestview Group and you will be nothing but a distant memory in Jenston,” Stella muttered quietly to herself, her eyes glinting with ambition.

*****

Sophia had been completely immersed in her work at Crestview Group lately, her mind a whirlwind of sketches and designs.

The recent acquisition of a monumental medical facility project by Rothea Designs in Japoria had consumed her every waking hour. Each day found her ensconced in her office, her fingers tirelessly gliding over the paper, bringing her visions to life.

In addition to that, she was still managing the port project, a task that required her to balance multiple deadlines. Thankfully, the Maritime Authority only required quarterly reports; otherwise, she would have been utterly swamped, drowning in the chaos of her responsibilities.

It had been ages since May had seen Sophia. Fresh off a business trip to Florince, she was eager to surprise her friend with a collection of thoughtful gifts for both Sophia and her little one.

Finally, Sophia set aside her sketches and brushes, grateful to carve out a moment to reconnect with May.

Just as they began to discuss dinner plans, the tranquility was shattered by the shrill ring of Sophia’s phone.

“Mrs. Sophia Foster,” Grace’s voice was frantic, “Mrs. Irene Foster has developed a high fever and is currently unconscious. The medical team is administering emergency treatment as we speak.” The urgency in Grace’s tone made her slip into the old honorific before she could stop herself.

Panic surged through Sophia like a tidal wave. “What on earth happened? Where’s Easton? Have you reached him?”

Grace’s voice quivered, revealing her own distress. “Mr. Foster is away on a business trip to Cedarica. He’s likely still in the air, so I haven’t been able to contact him yet. However, I’ve informed the butler at the Windmere Estate to relay the message to Mr. Foster as soon as he lands.”

“Out of nowhere, that cat leaped onto Irene’s foot. It terrified her so much that by the afternoon, she was struck down with a dreadful fever,” Grace explained, her eyes wide with concern.

Sophia nodded, piecing together the situation. It made sense; the shock had likely triggered Irene’s heart palpitations, leading to her alarming condition. Just then, the doctor emerged from the room, and both Sophia and Grace rushed toward him. “Doctor, how is Irene doing?” Sophia asked, her heart racing.

The doctor removed his mask, his expression softening as he spoke. “Don’t worry. She has regained consciousness. You can go in and see her. However, could one of you please visit my office first? I need to discuss some important care instructions.”

“I’ll go,” Sophia responded, gesturing for Grace to enter and be with Irene first.

As Sophia turned to follow the doctor, her eye caught a familiar figure lingering at the periphery.

‘Isn’t that the care worker who collided with me last time with that cart?’ she pondered, a flicker of recognition sparking in her mind.