Page 45 of Rescuing Sophia

As I enter the bullpen, I’m greeted by the familiar sights and sounds of my team at work. Computer screens flicker with data, the low hum of conversation punctuated by the occasional burst of laughter.

“Well, well, look who finally decided to grace us with his presence.” Gabe looks up as I approach, a grin spreading across his face.

“Some of us have lives outside of this place, you know.” I roll my eyes, dropping into my chair.

“Oh, we know. How’s the little woman settling in?” Walt chuckles from his desk.

“She’s good. Things are moving along at Jenna’s café.” The term ‘little woman’ grates on me, but Walt doesn’t mean any harm.

This piques everyone’s interest. Ethan looks up from his computer, eyebrows raised.

“No kidding? That’s great.”

“Yeah, she’s excited about working there. Nervous but excited.” I can’t suppress the pride in my voice.

“Good for her,” Rigel chimes in. “It’ll be nice to have decent coffee around here for a change.”

This sparks a debate about the merits of various coffee shops in the area, and I sit back, letting the familiar banter wash over me. As I boot up my computer and start reviewing the day’s intel, a profound feeling of contentment settles over me.

Sophia is finding her place and building new friendships, but the threat against her remains. Jonathan Greaves is still out there, threatening our happiness.

As the team settles into work, discussing strategies and analyzing data, my mind drifts back to Sophia. I picture her at the café, learning the intricacies of coffee-making, laughing with Jenna and Malia. The image brings a smile to my face.

“Earth to Blake.” Gabe’s voice cuts through my thoughts. “You with us, lover boy?”

I snap back to attention, clearing my throat. “Yeah, sorry. What were you saying?”

As Ethan outlines our latest lead, I knuckle down and focus. There’ll be time for daydreaming later. Right now, I have a job to do, but even as I immerse myself in the work, a part of me counts down the hours until I see Sophia again.

The day stretches ahead, full of potential and promise. Sophia is experiencing new beginnings, the team is facing ongoing challenges, and I am facing the exhilarating task of balancing it all.

FOURTEEN

Blake

The week leadingup to The Guardian Grind’s grand opening flies by in a blur of anticipation and routine. Each morning, I walk Sophia to work, our hands intertwined as we navigate the bustling streets of Guardian HQ.

The air grows cooler with each passing day, autumn subtly making its presence known along the Northern California coast. The scent of salty ocean breeze mingles with the earthy aroma of damp soil and coastal flora, creating a serene, refreshing atmosphere.

Sophia’s excitement builds with each step closer to opening day. Her chatter becomes more animated, her gestures more expansive as she describes the progress at the café.

I’m swept up in her enthusiasm, marveling at the transformation not just of the space but of Sophia herself.

“You should see the espresso machine.” Sophia’s eyes light up one morning, her breath fogging in the cool air. “It’s like something out of a sci-fi movie. All gleaming chrome and flashing lights.”

I chuckle, squeezing her hand. “Sounds impressive. Are you getting the hang of it?”

“Malia’s a great teacher. I think I’ve finally mastered the perfect foam for cappuccinos.” She nods vigorously, her ponytail bouncing.

“That’s my girl.” Pride swells in my chest.

As we approach the café, the sounds of final preparations reach us. The whine of power tools and the shouts of workers create a feeling of anticipation. Sophia’s steps quicken, her eagerness palpable.

“I’ll see you tonight.” She rises on tiptoe to plant a quick kiss on my cheek. The scent of her shampoo, floral and fresh, lingers as she pulls away.

I catch her hand, pulling her back for a proper kiss. Her lips are soft against mine, tasting faintly of the mint toothpaste we share. When we part, her cheeks are flushed, and not just from the chill in the air.

“Tonight,” I agree, my voice husky. “Have a great day, sweetheart.”

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