Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 58

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

**Chapter 58**

Sophia cast one last look over her shoulder, her heart pounding with a mix of frustration and determination, before she turned on her heel and strode away, leaving Stella simmering in her wake. The air between them crackled with unspoken words, but Sophia had made her choice, and there was no turning back.

Three days slipped by like shadows at dusk, and then Ambiance Gallery released a formal statement online regarding the devastating fire at the convention center. The news had spread like wildfire, igniting conversations and speculation across the city.

Sophia had just settled back into her routine at work when the phone rang, jolting her from her thoughts. It was Yves, his voice smooth and professional.

“Ms. Roth, I hope this finds you well. I’m calling to confirm that we’ve successfully processed your transfer. The signed certificate from the artist is ready for you to collect at your convenience.”

Sophia could hear the faint rustle of papers on the other end as Yves continued, “Additionally, we’ve made our official statement about the incident. Have you had a chance to review it yet?”

With a few clicks, Sophia navigated to the gallery’s website. “Yes, I see it now. I’ll swing by soon to pick up the certificate. Thank you for keeping me updated,” she replied, her tone appreciative yet focused.

After ending the call, Sophia turned her attention to Emily, who was busy organizing files on her desk. She handed over the freshly dry-cleaned suit and the antique painting she had picked up during her visit to the mall.

“Emily, once you’re done with your meeting at the Maritime Authority, could you drop these off at Foster Group for Gordon? I’ll text you his contact details,” she instructed, her voice steady.

“Absolutely, Ms. Roth,” Emily replied, accepting the items with a curious glance. The antique painting caught her eye, and she recognized it as a thoughtful gift for Easton. However, the suit jacket seemed somewhat out of place amidst the other items.

Noticing the question in Emily’s gaze, Sophia felt compelled to explain. “There was a minor mishap at the gallery that day. Mr. Foster’s jacket got a bit dirty during the chaos, so I had it cleaned. Just include it with the painting when you drop it off.”

Emily nodded, recalling the incident she had heard about. However, she hadn’t realized that Easton was involved.

Before leaving, Emily added, “By the way, Mr. Roth is back from his trip and is currently waiting in his office to see you.”

Sophia acknowledged this with a quiet nod, her mind already shifting to the documents she needed Julian to sign. She knocked gently on his office door, and his voice called out, “Come in.”

As she stepped inside, she found Julian hunched over a mountain of paperwork, his suitcase still perched by the sofa like a silent sentinel of his recent journey.

“When did you return?” Sophia asked, concern lacing her voice. “You should have gone home to rest first instead of diving straight into work.”

Meanwhile, Gordon was wrapping up his tasks at Foster Group when Emily’s voice chimed through from the building’s lobby.

“Mr. Lowell? I’m Emily, Ms. Roth’s assistant,” she introduced herself as she stepped forward, her demeanor professional yet friendly, just as he emerged from the elevator.

“Hello, Ms. Carter,” he replied, shaking her hand with a polite nod.

“Ms. Roth had the suit dry-cleaned, and this gift is from Crestview Group’s Angel Fund for Mr. Foster. Would you be so kind as to ensure he receives both?” she requested, her tone earnest.

“Of course,” Gordon replied, accepting the items with a grateful smile. “Thank you for bringing them over.”

Emily returned the smile, pleased to facilitate the exchange.

Successfully unlocked!

With that, Gordon made his way back to the top-floor executive office, the suit and gift in hand, just as Easton returned from his meeting, his expression a mix of anticipation and curiosity.