HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 289

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 289**

“Josh, take it easy, sweetheart,” Althea said softly, her voice a soothing balm as she raised a slice of juicy melon to his eager lips. The boy chewed with delight, a grin stretching across his face, as if the sweet, refreshing taste could temporarily wash away the pain that made his movements so rigid and guarded.

Nearby, Kate beamed at the sight. “He reminds me so much of myself at that age, Althea. When I found something I loved, I just couldn’t stop eating it,” she reminisced, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia.

Riana Miller chuckled softly, her heart swelling with relief. “I can’t tell you how happy I am to see his appetite returning, Mrs. Callister. Just last week, he looked so pale and withdrawn, but now he seems so much more alive. It’s all thanks to you. The meals you’ve prepared are truly his favorites. I genuinely appreciate your efforts,” she said, her sincerity evident.

“Oh, there’s no need to thank me, Mrs. Miller,” Kate replied, her smile warm yet modest. “I’m just thrilled that Josh enjoys what I whip up for him. It’s the least I can do, especially given my own limitations.”

Riana’s smile widened, radiating warmth. “Oh, don’t be so humble! Everyone who cares for Josh feels the same way, but the truth is, we’re all doing our utmost for him. Isn’t that right?” she affirmed, glancing at Althea for support.

Kate nodded in agreement, her heart swelling with gratitude for the bond they were forming. “Yes, and speaking of doing our best, Josh has his therapy session in an hour. Please, if you can, stay a little longer—join us for dinner, Mrs. Callister. I’ve already asked the staff to prepare something special,” she invited, her voice hopeful.

“Would that… be a bother to you, Mrs. Miller?” Kate hesitated, her brow furrowing slightly. After all, the Miller family was only here temporarily. Yet, in an unspoken way, they had embraced Althea as part of their family, showering her with affection and care that felt like a warm embrace, far removed from the chilly distance she had once experienced as their former daughter-in-law.

She didn’t need to articulate it; she could feel the depth of Riana’s care for her now. It was a stark contrast to how things had been before.

“I agree with Mommy,” Riana chimed in, her voice filled with enthusiasm. “I really hope you’ll join us for dinner, Mrs. Kate. I think it would make Josh so happy. Right, Josh?”

Josh’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Dinner together? Oh, yes! I want that! Can I help choose the menu? Maybe we could have honey-roasted chicken… or shrimp and crab? Hmm… Mommy, what do you think would be better for eating outside in the backyard?” he asked, his voice bubbling with enthusiasm.

“You mean… a barbecue?” Althea replied, her eyes widening in realization.

A radiant grin spread across Josh’s face as he nodded vigorously.

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