Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 51

**Title: The Case of the Bleeding Shadows by Emma Blackwood**
**Chapter 51**

A subtle smile played on Easton’s lips, a mix of amusement and satisfaction. “It seems we’re practically partners in this little adventure, and let’s not forget, I just saved you from what could have been a rather unpleasant fall.”

Sophia cast her gaze downward, a hint of sarcasm curling her lips. “I already expressed my gratitude, Easton. Since we’re now in this together, let’s keep things strictly professional. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”

As she pivoted to leave, Easton’s voice cut through the air, firm yet inquisitive. “What’s your connection to Evan at Rothea Designs? You’re the one who aided my father’s museum years ago, aren’t you?”

Sophia halted abruptly, her body tensing as she processed his words. After a moment of silence, she finally replied, a cautious edge to her tone, “What exactly are you insinuating?”

Easton stepped closer, his expression earnest. “I visited Rothea Designs recently and noticed your photograph prominently displayed there. It was you who persuaded Evan to assist in restoring my father’s museum, wasn’t it?”

Sophia hesitated, her mind racing, but she didn’t contest the claim. “It’s just that…” she started, her voice trailing off as uncertainty flooded her thoughts.

Suddenly, Stella’s voice broke the tension, ringing out from nearby. “Easton, there you are!”

Easton had been poised to delve deeper into his conversation with Sophia when he noticed Stella striding towards them, a TV crew shadowing her every move.

A shadow of concern crossed Easton’s face. “I didn’t realize you were the one conducting the interview today,” he remarked, his voice dropping to a more subdued tone.

Stella’s face brightened, her smile infectious. “Yes! My colleague had a few personal issues to handle, so I’m stepping in. I spotted Gordon outside and had a hunch I’d find you here.”

Easton merely acknowledged her with a noncommittal grunt, already turning back to where Sophia had stood, only to discover the space was now empty.

A flicker of irritation sparked within Stella as she noticed Easton’s previous company, though she felt a swell of gratitude for Minnie’s boyfriend, who had tipped her off about Easton’s visit to the orphanage.

Watching Sophia’s retreating figure, a sense of triumph washed over her.

The intimacy of the gesture was so conspicuous, so deliberate, that it was impossible for anyone nearby to overlook it.

“Look, isn’t that Stella from the news? So she really is involved with our boss,” an employee from the Foster Group whispered to Katherine, her surprise barely contained.

Though her voice was low, Sophia was close enough to catch every word, her heart quickening at the implications.

Katherine glanced at Sophia, quickly shifting the topic. “Let’s head inside, Sophia. The sun is getting intense, and we’re almost finished here anyway.”

Understanding her friend’s subtle attempt to redirect the conversation, Sophia offered a faint smile. “You’re right. It is getting rather warm.”

Easton glanced up just in time to see Sophia walking away, a frown creasing his brow. He gently moved Stella’s hand aside, his tone suddenly cool and detached. “I can handle this myself,” he asserted, a hint of annoyance threading through his words.