Replacement Bride Left With His Baby (Sophia and Easton) novel Chapter 8

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

**Chapter 8**

As Easton settled into the driver’s seat of his car, a moment of reflection washed over him. He hadn’t paid much mind to the details of his visit to the nursing home earlier, but now, with the engine humming softly, he retrieved the bracelet from his pocket. The sight of it caught him off guard, stirring a mix of surprise and curiosity within him.

Why had he taken the bracelet from the receptionist in the first place? He wasn’t the type to meddle in others’ affairs. *What compelled me to act this way?* Easton pondered, a frown creasing his brow. It was a question that lingered, nagging at the back of his mind.

He turned to Gordon, his trusted aide, and said casually, “Could you arrange for someone to drop this off at the Roth residence? It belongs to her.” His tone was nonchalant, but inside, a flicker of doubt danced in his chest.

Gordon nodded, understanding the unspoken weight of the task.

Meanwhile, Sophia had just finished her visit to the nursing home. With a few work files in hand, she made her way to Crestview Group, her mind racing with thoughts of the day’s events. But as she stepped out of her car at the Roth residence, a sense of dread washed over her. She instinctively reached for her wrist, only to find the bracelet—her beloved bracelet—missing. Panic surged through her as she frantically searched every nook and cranny of the car, her heart pounding with frustration.

*Where could it be?* The bracelet was no ordinary piece of jewelry; it was a custom creation celebrating the first anniversary of Rothea Designs, engraved with the name “Rothea.” It held immense sentimental value, a constant reminder of her journey and achievements. The thought of losing it felt like losing a part of herself.

Her mind raced back through the day. *I remember having it at the nursing home. Did I leave it at Crestview Group? No, that doesn’t make sense. I think it slipped off while I was working. But when exactly did I lose it?* The questions spiraled in her head, each one more frustrating than the last.

Just as she was about to dial Grace for help, her phone rang, cutting through her thoughts.

“Hello, Ms. Roth. This is a call on behalf of Gordon. I’m at the Roth residence, delivering something for you,” the voice on the other end stated, calm and professional.

Sophia’s brow furrowed in confusion. *Why would Gordon send someone here?* She felt a twinge of apprehension as she replied, “What is it?”

“The bracelet you left at the nursing home,” the caller explained, and Sophia’s heart leaped.

“That’s wonderful to hear! Did you receive the letter I sent?” Irene inquired, her tone filled with genuine interest.

“Yes, I did, but—” Sophia started, wanting to mention the bank card, but Irene’s voice cut through.

“Just keep that card, alright? Easton gave it to you, so accept it. If you don’t, he’ll just waste it on that homewrecker,” Irene said with a scoff, her disapproval evident.

“But… I really don’t need it,” Sophia protested internally, her heart whispering that she wanted nothing to do with Easton—no ties, no strings, not even his money.

“Don’t think of it as a handout from him. It’s what you deserve. You’re only 21, Sophia, and there’s so much ahead of you. Use it for your dreams,” Irene urged, her voice a blend of firmness and tenderness.

Sophia felt the weight of Irene’s words settling in her heart. She decided not to refuse the kindness any longer. After a few more moments of conversation, she gently encouraged Irene to rest and ended the call, feeling a mixture of gratitude and resolve.