HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 136

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 136**

**The Miller Residence – SunCity**

“Are you… happy?” Althea inquired, her voice barely rising above the hum of the engine as she prepared to exit the car.

This afternoon had brought with it yet another invitation from Riana Miller-Chase’s mother, beckoning them to visit their home once more. This marked the second occasion for Althea and her son, Josh, to step into the grand expanse of the Miller estate, and to her surprise, Althea felt a wave of tranquility wash over her.

Gone were the judgmental glares, the biting remarks that often lingered in the air, and the subtle gestures that could make anyone feel unwelcome. Instead, the Miller family had welcomed her and Josh with an embrace of unexpected warmth, a stark contrast to the trepidation she had anticipated.

“Of course I’m happy!” Josh exclaimed, his voice bubbling with excitement. “I can’t wait to see Uncle Chase! And GrandDad too! He said he wanted to show me something special. Plus, I want to show him the picture I drew. Miss Spencer said I’m getting better at it!”

Althea’s heart swelled as she affectionately ruffled her son’s hair, a gesture filled with love and encouragement. “Then let’s go see them, sweetheart,” she replied, her smile genuine and bright.

Josh, his enthusiasm palpable, took her hand with a grip that felt like pure joy, practically bouncing as they approached the magnificent, sprawling residence. Along the pathway, a few familiar faces from the staff greeted them, their expressions radiating friendliness and warmth, a stark reminder of the support they had found within these walls.

One of the attendants stepped forward, her demeanor respectful yet inviting. “Mrs. Riana has been expecting you, Miss Althea,” she stated kindly, her eyes glimmering with sincerity. “I believe she’s been eagerly looking forward to your arrival.”

“Has she?” Althea replied, her voice tinged with curiosity, though she maintained a polite smile.

“And Mr. Josh,” the woman added, her gaze softening as she looked at the little boy. “Mr. Miller is waiting for you in the left wing. If you’d like, I can escort you there.”

“Okay!” Josh beamed, his excitement infectious. “I’m going to see GrandDad first, Mom!”

“Maybe you could say hi to Grannie before that?” Althea suggested gently, her tone encouraging. “Didn’t you want to show her something too?”

Josh paused for a moment, his brow furrowing in contemplation, before he nodded in agreement. “All right.”

The attendant chuckled quietly, clearly charmed by the sweet exchange between mother and son, a heartwarming moment that spoke volumes about their bond.

Their previous arrival had stirred quite a buzz among the household staff; after all, Chase Miller was known for being quite private, rarely bringing anyone home. His romantic life was often shrouded in mystery, with little more than whispers circulating about potential relationships, let alone introductions.

For the staff, Chase—the eldest son of the Miller family—was nothing short of extraordinary.

Their curiosity had piqued at the prospect of the woman who had seemingly captured Chase Miller’s heart. Initially, many had harbored skepticism, particularly after hearing murmurs that she was a single mother. Yet, all those preconceived notions about Althea had crumbled upon their first meeting.

There was a unique softness and warmth that radiated from Althea Grayson and her son. Josh was a polite, delightful child, and it was evident that their sincerity was genuine, not merely a façade. Perhaps that authenticity was what had drawn Chase Miller to her in the first place. With the full support of his parents—who had undoubtedly formed their own judgments—it all began to make sense.

“I’m so glad you came,” one of the staff members expressed warmly, her enthusiasm evident.

Althea blinked, a hint of confusion flickering in her eyes. “What do you mean?” she asked, genuinely curious.

“Ah—this way. Mrs. Miller is waiting for you,” the attendant replied, gesturing towards the far end of the patio.

“Wow, that’s incredibly brave of you,” Riana said, turning her full attention to him, clearly impressed. “What kind of cookies do you like best?”

“Blueberry,” Josh answered without a moment’s hesitation. “Mommy makes me blueberry cookies a lot.”

Riana nodded, a gentle smile gracing her lips, before casually asking another question. “What about your dad… does he like baking cookies too?”

The moment the question left her lips, Riana felt a pang of regret. She hadn’t intended to pry; she simply hadn’t thought before speaking.

“Oh, how about you hel—” she began to backtrack.

“I don’t know if my dad could bake cookies,” Josh replied, his voice clear and matter-of-fact. “He’s in heaven now. Maybe he’s learning to cook up there? I’m not sure.”

Riana froze, her hands momentarily still as she held the tray of roasted chicken. The silence stretched between them, heavy with unspoken emotions, before she gently set the tray down and enveloped Josh in a warm embrace. She didn’t attempt to explain her question or retract it; she simply held him close.

“I just wanted to give you a hug,” she whispered softly, her voice tender. “Do you mind?”

Josh blinked at her, taken aback but not upset. “No… it’s just… kind of sudden.”

“Do you miss your dad?” she asked, her tone gentle and inviting, hoping to navigate this delicate conversation with care.