HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 143

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 143**

“I have to say, your mom is a real piece of work compared to your dad. She calls me practically every day, asking, ‘When will you set a date? There’s so much to prepare! Don’t leave us scrambling at the last minute!’” Chase mimicked his mother’s voice perfectly, capturing the frantic tone she used on the phone, and Althea couldn’t help but chuckle at his impression.

The tension in the air had peaked just the night before, during a family dinner that felt like a pressure cooker ready to blow. Riana Miller, with her usual enthusiasm, didn’t waste a moment before tossing that question into the mix—right when everyone was gathered around the table, forks poised mid-air.

“Looks like they’re more eager to see us at the altar than we are,” Chase remarked, a smirk playing on his lips.

Althea nodded, a hint of anxiety creeping into her expression. “That’s true. But I really need to take my time with this, Chase. We can’t just rush into it. There’s so much to think about and prepare, you know?”

He raised an eyebrow, contemplating her words with a seriousness that made her heart flutter. “You’re absolutely right. But, Althea, I’m leaving this decision completely in your hands. If you believe we should wait, I’m okay with that. A year? Two years?”

His gaze was piercing, locking onto hers as he rested his forehead against the steering wheel, his hands gripping it tightly. The intensity of his stare made her feel a mix of warmth and nervousness, prompting a slightly awkward smile to break across her face.

“Really? You wouldn’t mind at all?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Just tell me how long you plan to keep me waiting,” he replied, his tone light yet serious.

“What if… three years?” she teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

Chase’s expression shifted dramatically, his mouth forming a dramatic pout. “You’re pulling my leg, aren’t you?” He took her hand, holding it firmly as if anchoring himself to her. “Don’t make me wait that long. Yes, you’ve given me one thing—the reassurance that your heart is finally leaning toward me. But three years? That’s just downright cruel!”

Althea laughed, her fingers intertwining with his in a gesture of comfort and connection. “Alright, fine. Give me one week to think about when we might actually get married.”

Chase leaned in closer, stealing a quick, sweet kiss at the corner of her bright pink lips. The unexpectedness of the gesture made her eyes widen in surprise, her heart racing.

“Thank you, sweetheart. And don’t worry about the wedding preparations—Mommy and Aunt Ruth will definitely make sure you’re not overwhelmed,” he assured her, a playful grin on his face.

He was absolutely right. Those two women would never let her shoulder the burden alone. But deep down, Althea longed to be involved in every aspect of the planning. She wanted this wedding to be a personal milestone, a reflection of her own vision. Yet, now wasn’t the time to voice her thoughts—Chase seemed lost in his own world.

Perhaps she would share her ideas once she had decided on the month for their wedding.

“Not letting go of me, huh?” Althea lifted their joined hands, glancing at the clock. “My shift’s about to start. I can’t exactly ditch my students just to go on a date with you, can I?”

Chase chuckled softly, the sound warm and inviting. “Alright, I’ll let you go this time.” He pressed a gentle kiss to the back of her hand, a gesture that sent a shiver of delight through her. “But wait for me to pick you up later, okay?”

“Of course,” she replied, her heart fluttering as she reluctantly released his hand.

—

As soon as Althea slipped into the school building, Chase turned the ignition and guided the car toward downtown. He had business to attend to at the TnC Group headquarters—the towering glass and steel structure that served as the heart of their family’s empire.

Last night, Chris had shared some crucial intel about Daven Callister, and Chase had conducted his own research to keep a close eye on the man’s movements. He had a personal stake in ensuring that his youngest sister’s interactions with the well-known businessman remained firmly under control.

“I’ve just received a message, Mr. Daven,” Arsen said, slowing his pace slightly as he caught up. “I think… you should read it yourself.”

Daven turned, irritation flickering in his eyes. “Why is it that every time you say something like that, it feels like you’re hinting at something bad about to happen?”

Arsen offered a sheepish smile. “I wouldn’t dare, Mr. Daven.”

Daven extended his hand. “Phone.”

As soon as Arsen handed it over, Daven’s gaze dropped to the screen. A message from Vanessa flashed in bold letters.

**Mrs. Vanessa:** Tell Daven that if he’s truly serious about divorcing me, I’ll demand plenty in compensation. Be ready to prepare a lot, because I have never—ever—accepted this divorce.

Then came another message that sent his temper soaring.

**Mrs. Vanessa:** Besides, what makes me any different from Daven? We’re both guilty of stepping outside our marriage, aren’t we?

An attached photo loaded beneath the text. Whether it had been captured from the perfect angle or manipulated to tell its own story, it showed Daven engaged in conversation with Althea, close enough to appear intimate.

**Mrs. Vanessa:** Imagine if this photo went public. I’m sure the news would spread like wildfire, wouldn’t it? Think about it. Give me a chance to change and withdraw your petition—or I’ll find my own way to destroy you.