Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 47

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

**Chapter 47**

As the clock struck five, Sophia stepped back into the Crestview Group, just as the last few employees were gathering their belongings and preparing to leave for the day. The atmosphere was filled with the soft sounds of chairs scraping against the floor and the rustle of papers being shuffled into bags. Sophia, however, had a singular focus. She quickly moved to her desk, retrieving a file that she had prepared earlier, her mind buzzing with thoughts of the property sales center.

The recent project launch had been a disaster, and the sales numbers reflected that dismal reality. They had plummeted far below expectations, and whispers of concern rippled through the office. Yet, despite the grim statistics, Sophia remained resolute. She could sense that this was merely a temporary setback, a hurdle they would soon overcome. It was just a matter of time before the tide turned in their favor.

On the main floor, Sophia spotted Emily, who was currently engrossed in a client tour. Emily’s enthusiasm was palpable as she animatedly described the unit’s features, her voice rising and falling with excitement. Sophia watched from the second level, a small smile playing on her lips as she observed Emily’s dedication. The young woman was completely oblivious to Sophia’s attentive gaze, lost in her own world of salesmanship.

From the moment Sophia had met Emily, there had been an undeniable connection. Emily was not just a recent graduate; she was a whirlwind of energy and intelligence, always eager to dive into new challenges. Sophia had witnessed firsthand how Emily tackled her responsibilities with vigor, and she had no doubt that the young woman was ready for a more significant role within the company.

As if reading Sophia’s thoughts, the sales manager approached her, his expression thoughtful. “You know, Emily may have just graduated, but she’s already become one of our most dedicated team members,” he remarked, his tone reflecting genuine admiration. “Everyone in the department holds her in high regard.”

Sophia nodded, her pride in Emily swelling. “That’s wonderful to hear,” she replied, handing him a folder. “Could you please have her complete this and bring it to my office at Crestview Group tomorrow morning?”

“Absolutely, Ms. Roth,” the manager responded, accepting the folder with a sense of purpose. “I’ll make sure she gets it.”

*****

The following morning found Sophia buried under a mountain of paperwork for the port project, her mind racing with figures and deadlines. The familiar sound of a knock on her office door broke her concentration.

“Come in,” she called out, her eyes still glued to the documents sprawled across her desk.

“Ms. Roth,” Emily’s soft voice floated into the room as she stepped inside, taking a moment to absorb the scene before her. The desk was cluttered, a testament to Sophia’s relentless work ethic, and Sophia herself was deeply focused, her brow furrowed in concentration. Finally looking up, Sophia’s expression softened into a warm smile. “Thanks for coming by. Please, take a seat. I’ll just be another minute.”

Later that afternoon, Sophia decided to take Emily to the Maritime Authority, guiding her through each step of the intricate procedure. As they stood in the lobby, reviewing their paperwork, the director emerged from his office, a welcoming smile lighting up his face.

“Ms. Roth,” he greeted, approaching them with a friendly demeanor. “Why don’t you wait in my office while I have your documents prepared? Mr. Foster is here as well. It would be a great opportunity for you to speak with him.”

At the mention of Easton’s name, a flicker of discomfort crossed Sophia’s face, and she quickly shook her head. “I appreciate the offer, but I really need to be elsewhere. Let’s schedule this for another time,” she replied politely, her tone firm but respectful.

The director, sensing her reluctance, nodded understandingly. “Of course, I completely understand. I’ll let you both get back to your work. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything,” he said, his voice warm.

“Thank you,” Sophia replied, her smile genuine as she turned to leave.

Just then, Easton stepped out of his office, his phone pressed to his ear. As Sophia turned to exit, their eyes locked in a moment that felt both startling and inevitable, a silent acknowledgment passing between them.