Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 37

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

**Chapter 37**

May felt an overwhelming urgency as she attempted to push through the throng of chaos to reach S. However, she soon found herself ensnared by a cluster of elderly onlookers who had formed a tight circle around her. With a surge of determination, she wrenched her arm free and turned to confront the source of the disturbance. “Just who do you think you are, causing such a scene on Crestview Group’s property? Don’t you have any fear of the police?” Her voice sliced through the tumult like a knife.

The protester sneered, his disdain palpable. “Fear the police? Not a chance. I’m here because I refuse to be intimidated. I demand answers from you con artists—you’ll get what’s coming to you.” His words dripped with venom, igniting the tension in the air.

In a sudden, shocking move, he pulled out a bottle filled with a murky liquid and hurled its contents straight at Sophia.

“Watch out!” May screamed, her heart racing as she witnessed the scene unfold in slow motion. But before Sophia could react, a woman—clearly a sales agent from Crestview Group—leaped forward, her instincts kicking in. She shoved Sophia aside with a powerful thrust, sending both of them tumbling to the ground.

The liquid splattered across the gleaming marble tiles, releasing a noxious, acrid scent that sent a wave of horror rippling through the crowd.

“That’s acid!” a panicked voice shouted, cutting through the chaos like a siren.

In an instant, security guards surged into action, surrounding the assailant and wrestling the remaining bottle from his grasp.

Julian and May rushed to Sophia’s side, their expressions a mix of concern and relief as they helped her to her feet.

“Are you alright, Sophia?” Julian asked, his voice thick with worry, scanning her for any signs of injury.

Sophia shook her head, taking a moment to regain her composure before turning her attention to the saleswoman who had risked herself for her safety. “What about you? Are you okay?” she inquired, her voice laced with genuine concern.

The saleswoman managed a faint, yet reassuring smile. “I’m fine. Please, don’t worry about me.”

But as Sophia prepared to express her gratitude, her gaze fell upon the stark, vivid stain of blood blooming across the woman’s white sleeve. The sight was jarring, a stark contrast against the pristine fabric.

Once the doctor finished his work, Sophia gently assisted the young woman with her blouse, careful not to disturb any of the bandages. “May I ask your name?” she inquired softly, wanting to connect with the brave soul who had saved her.

A delicate blush crept across the girl’s cheeks as she replied, “I’m Emily Carter. I work in the sales department.” Her smile was warm, despite the circumstances.

Sophia nodded appreciatively, her respect for Emily growing. “Thank you for your bravery today, Emily. I’ll ensure HR grants you a few days of paid leave to recover properly at home.”

Emily quickly waved off the suggestion, her determination shining through. “Please, that’s really not necessary. It’s just a minor scrape. Besides, this is the most crucial sales period for Crestview Group’s project. My team would be stretched too thin without me. To be honest, this is when we salespeople make most of our earnings.”

Sophia couldn’t help but admire Emily’s tenacity and practical outlook. Recognizing the strength of her resolve, she chose to respect Emily’s wishes and not press the issue further.

Outside, the sales center lay in disarray, remnants of the chaos still lingering in the air. The protester had been removed, but the panic had sent most guests fleeing in terror.

Julian, taking charge of the situation, called for an emergency meeting to address damage control and prepare for a press conference aimed at countering the day’s tumultuous rumors.