HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 242

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 242**

By the time the sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the resort, the trio had finished organizing their belongings. With a shared sense of anticipation, they set off toward the Japanese restaurant that Chase had enthusiastically recommended.

As they stepped into Hoshizora Dining, they were greeted by an enchanting atmosphere. The warm wooden interiors wrapped around them like a comforting embrace, while glowing paper lanterns floated gently above, illuminating the space with a soft, inviting light. Tall glass windows framed a breathtaking view of a serene lake, its surface shimmering under the vast city sky. Despite being situated in the bustling heart of Mighatan, the restaurant felt like a hidden sanctuary, a peaceful retreat from the chaos outside.

“Wow!” Josh exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with wonder. “Mommy, look at the lanterns! And Daddy, you said the lake would be small—but it’s enormous!” His voice was filled with childlike excitement, and the sheer delight on his face made Chase’s heart swell.

Chase’s grin widened as he watched his son’s awe unfold. “I told you it would impress you! I knew you’d love it here,” he responded, his tone playful yet proud.

“Thank you for bringing us here,” Althea added, a gentle smile gracing her lips. It was a small gesture, but it conveyed her appreciation for the thoughtfulness behind the outing.

Chase’s expression softened as he leaned closer, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper, mindful of Josh’s presence. “I wish I didn’t have to leave you two. Honestly, I’d much prefer to stay with you both. But when work calls, I have to answer, right?” His eyes flickered with a hint of regret.

Althea chuckled softly, the sound light and airy. “That’s the price of responsibility, isn’t it?”

“I’ve arranged for Beni and Arthur to keep an eye on you while I’m gone. Just let me know when your meeting wraps up,” he instructed, his tone shifting to one of reassurance.

She nodded, understanding the weight of his words.

“And Josh,” Chase continued, bending slightly so their eyes met, “you need to take good care of your mom while I’m away. You’re the man of the house now, okay, champ?” His voice was firm yet encouraging, instilling a sense of pride in the young boy.

“Don’t worry, Daddy. I’ve got this!” Josh puffed out his chest, a look of determination crossing his face.

“Good to hear! Now, I’ll be on my way. Have fun, you two. I’m sure Mrs. Yoshida has plenty of stories to share—and she’ll want to hear all about your adventures too,” he said, his eyes twinkling with warmth.

To Althea, Chase was a man with a wonderfully open heart and mind. He never confined her spirit or stifled her ambitions. As long as her choices didn’t bring harm, everything was open for discussion. Yet, when situations grew uncomfortable or suffocating, Chase had a knack for setting boundaries with a clarity that was both refreshing and necessary.

Moments later, a woman in her fifties approached them, clad in an elegant kimono that flowed gracefully with her movements. Her face lit up with recognition and joy as her gaze fell upon Althea.

“Althea!” she exclaimed, her voice warm and inviting.

Althea was taken aback, never expecting to encounter this kind, nurturing woman again. Just the day before, while she was savoring her brief holiday, a message had arrived from Mrs. Yoshida Sugimura. The invitation to meet had come as a delightful surprise, and Althea had readily accepted, knowing she still had two days to enjoy Mighatan before her return to SunCity.

Her business was concluded, and nothing tethered her to the past any longer.

As the door slid open, Althea was momentarily breathless. The room was a visual delight, bathed in the soft glow of golden lanterns that cast a gentle light across dark wooden walls adorned with shōji panels painted with delicate cherry blossoms. The air was fragrant with the savory scent of dashi broth and premium soy sauce, a warm and inviting aroma that instantly whetted the appetite.

At the center of the room, a long polished wooden table stretched out, elegantly draped in ivory linen and set with exquisite Japanese porcelain plates, each featuring intricate deep indigo patterns. Every seat was equipped with a plush backrest, creating an ambiance that was both intimate and refined.

The dishes that awaited them were nothing short of culinary masterpieces. Ruby-red tuna, coral salmon, and pale hamachi sashimi were artfully arranged on stone platters, garnished with thin slices of lemon and sprigs of fresh shiso. A tray of nigiri sushi sparkled like precious jewels, each piece crafted to perfection as if it had just been shaped by a master chef’s hands. Nearby, golden shrimp and vegetable tempura lay crisp and airy atop fine paper, ready to catch any excess oil.

But that was merely the beginning. A small pot of shabu-shabu bubbled invitingly, eager for slices of raw wagyu to be swirled through its fragrant broth. Beside it, a generous bowl of steaming ramen sat, crowned with chashu pork, a perfectly half-boiled egg, and a sheet of black nori—tempting, irresistible, and utterly impossible to resist.

At the center of the table, a square wooden tray displayed an array of wagashi—delicate Japanese sweets in soft pastel hues: mochi, dorayaki, and daifuku filled with sweet red bean paste. And right by Josh’s seat, a plate of matcha ice cream awaited, topped with azuki beans and a crisp wafer, clearly prepared with him in mind.

The room exuded a perfect balance of elegance and comfort. Although the dishes were refined, the presentation radiated warmth, as if Yoshida was not merely showcasing her wealth, but genuinely wishing to indulge her guests.

“Wow, can I try everything?” Josh’s wide eyes remained glued to the table, filled with treasures that seemed to beckon him.

“Of course,” Yoshida replied, her satisfaction evident in her smile. “In fact, I was hoping our little gentleman would enjoy it.”

Josh chuckled, turning toward his mother. “Can I, Mom?”