Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 32

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

**Chapter 32**

As Sophia made her way past the caregiver, her gaze was drawn, almost magnetically, to the woman’s hurried actions. The caregiver, sensing the scrutiny, quickly adjusted her mask, her hands busying themselves with the monotonous task of folding blankets and organizing supplies. There was something about her demeanor that struck Sophia as peculiar, but she brushed it aside, choosing instead to follow the doctor into his office.

Inside, the doctor began to outline several critical points regarding Irene’s care. Sophia leaned forward, her focus unwavering, as she absorbed every word he spoke. Each detail felt significant, a thread in the fabric of her grandmother’s well-being that she was determined to remember.

Upon returning to Irene’s room, a wave of emotion washed over Sophia. There lay Irene, her complexion pale and her body seemingly drained against the pillows. The sight tugged at Sophia’s heartstrings, and without hesitation, she settled into the chair beside the bed, gently taking her grandmother’s hand in her own. “How are you feeling, Grandma Irene? Are you experiencing any pain or discomfort?” she asked, her voice laced with concern.

Irene managed a weak smile, her voice barely rising above a whisper. “Don’t trouble yourself with me, dear. I only wish I hadn’t dragged you out here so late,” she replied, a hint of guilt lacing her words.

Sophia felt that familiar pang of sadness in her chest. Irene always seemed to find herself caught in a perpetual struggle—yearning for their company while simultaneously fretting over the burden she believed she imposed. “Don’t worry about a thing, Grandma. Just focus on getting your rest,” Sophia reassured her, her tone soft yet resolute. “I’ve spoken with the hospital staff. They admitted their mistake and promised it won’t happen again.”

Irene’s hand gave a grateful pat against Sophia’s. “Thanks, dear. I never have to worry when you’re on the case,” she said, her eyes shimmering with affection.

Later, Sophia assisted Irene in washing up, coaxing her to eat a few bites of food before tucking her back into bed. She remained vigilant, checking Irene’s temperature repeatedly, her heart racing with each moment she waited for the fever to break. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she allowed herself to exhale, the tension that had been coiling in her shoulders beginning to dissipate.

“You should get some rest, Mrs. Foster. I can keep an eye on her tonight,” Grace murmured softly, her voice barely above a whisper as she stepped beside Sophia.

As soon as the jet landed, Gordon navigated through the quiet, dimly lit streets, driving straight to the nursing home with a sense of urgency. It was two in the morning when Easton, still feeling the weight of his rushed journey, gently pushed open the door to Irene’s room.

He paused in the doorway, taking in the serene scene before him. Irene was peacefully asleep in her bed, and beside her, Sophia had also succumbed to sleep, her arms cradling her head as a makeshift pillow.

Stepping closer, Easton pressed his hand against Irene’s forehead, a wave of relief washing over him as he discovered her fever had indeed broken. With a tender touch, he then moved to Sophia, carefully scooping her up and laying her gently on the nearby sofa, covering her with his own jacket as a protective gesture.

From the doorway, Gordon watched in complete astonishment, rubbing his eyes in disbelief. Easton, who was typically so distant and reserved with everyone, was now exhibiting a rare tenderness, gently settling Sophia onto the couch and draping his jacket over her.

What astonished Gordon the most, however, was the unexpected softness that filled Easton’s eyes as he looked at Sophia, a look that spoke volumes of unspoken feelings and a connection that ran deeper than mere friendship.