HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 244

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

**Chapter 244**

Althea chuckled softly, her laughter like a gentle breeze. “Of course, sweetheart. Just take your time. There’s really no need to rush—it’s not good for your stomach, you know.”

The atmosphere between them was imbued with a comforting warmth, a bond that felt almost familial. Mrs. Yoshida animatedly recounted her relentless dedication to organizing charity events aimed at bolstering education, not just in Mighatan but also in the surrounding cities. SunCity, in particular, held a special place in her heart, despite her infrequent visits. Her connections there remained steadfast, as if they were threads woven into the fabric of her life.

Althea listened intently, her eyes brightening with each word. Education was not merely a topic for her; it was a fervent passion that ignited a fire within her soul.

But then, the conversation took a turn.

“And what about you, Althea?” Mrs. Yoshida inquired, her tone shifting slightly.

Caught off guard, Althea froze momentarily, her mind racing. “What… do you mean, Mrs. Yoshida?” she stammered, her heart pounding in her chest.

With a soft chuckle, Yoshida leaned forward, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Who hasn’t heard the news about you? Your involvement with Vanessa… and all the stories swirling around lately.”

A faint, almost reluctant smile tugged at the corners of Althea’s lips. “I’m not quite sure how I should respond to that,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Mrs. Yoshida reached across the table, her hand enveloping Althea’s with a firm yet gentle grip. “What you did was commendable. You demonstrated to the world how a woman should stand up for her dignity.”

Althea fell silent, her thoughts swirling like leaves caught in a gust of wind.

“If only you had taken that stand earlier, I’m convinced your story would have unfolded differently,” Yoshida mused, her voice laced with a hint of regret.

“Perhaps,” Althea replied, her smile deepening, touched by a quiet resolve. “But I don’t wish to dwell on the battles of the past. I am grateful for what I have now, Mrs. Yoshida.”

“Indeed, you are right,” Yoshida agreed, giving Althea’s hand a reassuring pat. “The past is not meant to be mourned. It’s far better to move forward and face the future with courage.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Yoshida,” Althea said sincerely, her heart swelling with appreciation.

“I pray for your happiness—with Mr. Miller. And I truly believe… that man adores your son, doesn’t he?”

“Yes,” Althea confessed softly, a warmth spreading through her at the thought.

“Good,” Yoshida exhaled, a look of relief washing over her features. “You deserve every bit of happiness, Althea. Don’t let the negative whispers surrounding Vanessa’s scandal trouble you. None of them truly understand the struggles you’ve faced all these years.”

Althea nodded, small yet significant, as if accepting the weight of those unspoken truths.

“So then…” Yoshida’s eyes glimmered with playful curiosity. “Will you be coming to Japan? For your honeymoon?”

***

“Do you honestly believe that would happen?” Chase tilted his head, a smile of quiet understanding gracing his lips. His eyes locked onto hers, firm and reassuring. “Josh won’t be confused. He knows who’s there for him, day in and day out. Us. You and me. Not Daven, who’s only been around a handful of times.”

Yet, Althea’s hesitation lingered, her silence heavy with unspoken fears.

“Trust me,” Chase murmured, gently brushing his fingers through her hair. “And if you do allow it, make sure Beni goes along. I trust him to look after Josh.”

“You’re… not offended?” she asked, her voice barely audible, filled with trepidation.

“Offended that Josh wants to see Daven? That he sometimes talks about him with excitement?” Chase chuckled softly, though a hint of vulnerability crept into his tone. “If I’m being honest, yes—it stings a little. I don’t relish hearing Josh talk so animatedly about the fun he’s had with Daven. But what can I do? The truth is, Daven is his father.”

Althea lowered her gaze, guilt weighing heavily on her heart.

“But listen,” Chase continued, his tone a blend of firmness and tenderness. “You don’t have to carry this like it’s a burden. I have countless beautiful memories with Josh—moments that are far richer than anything Daven could provide. That’s something Daven doesn’t have. And I believe he knows his limits. He won’t cross that line.”

“If I allow it… you truly don’t mind?” Althea asked, searching his eyes for reassurance.

“Not at all,” Chase replied, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead. “As long as Beni is by Josh’s side, I have no worries. But if Daven refuses that condition… then no, he doesn’t get permission.”

Althea blinked in disbelief, her heart racing.

“I have the right to set boundaries for my son’s activities, don’t I?” Chase affirmed, his voice steady and unwavering.