HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 306

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 306**

That afternoon, the atmosphere inside Althea’s home was unusually vibrant, almost electric with anticipation. The gentle SunCity breeze meandered through the backyard, carrying with it a soothing melody that hinted at tranquility and warmth. Just as this serene air wrapped around the house, a sleek black car rolled to a stop at the front gate, its polished surface gleaming under the soft sunlight. From the vehicle emerged Kate Callister, her presence as commanding as ever, alongside her daughter, Kalina. Each of them cradled a large cake box, their arms adorned with a bouquet of fresh, fragrant flowers. Behind them followed their driver and assistant, juggling a handful of wrapped gifts, each one a promise of joy.

Althea, seated comfortably on a garden chair, a book resting in her lap, felt a spark of surprise ignite within her. Though her movements had slowed, a gentle reminder of her six-month pregnancy, she rose with an eagerness that belied her condition. “Mrs. Kate? Kalina?” she called out, her voice bubbling with delight. “What a wonderful surprise!”

Kalina’s laughter rang out like a sweet chime as she quickly approached, handing the bouquet to the ever-present housemaid who hovered nearby, always ready to assist Althea. “I’ve missed you so much,” she said, wrapping Althea in a warm embrace that felt like a soft blanket on a chilly evening.

“I hope we’re not interrupting your rest,” Kate chimed in, her tone laced with genuine concern.

“Not at all,” Althea replied, her smile brightening the afternoon. “These flowers are absolutely stunning.” She inhaled deeply, allowing the sweet fragrance to envelop her senses. “Please, could you arrange them in a few vases?” she gently instructed the maid. “One for the dining table, another for the living room, and one here in the garden, if you don’t mind.”

As the maid busied herself, Althea turned back to Kalina, a playful grin dancing on her lips. “You brought such an enormous bouquet! Did you buy out the entire flower shop?”

Kalina chuckled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “I asked for the best one they had. Josh mentioned you adore the scent of roses, so I insisted they create something special just for you.”

“I also asked the staff to set up the gifts we brought,” Kate added with a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with excitement. “I truly hope you’ll like them.”

Althea blinked in mild disbelief, a wave of gratitude washing over her as she struggled to find the right words. “Oh, Mrs. Kate, you really shouldn’t have gone through all this trouble. You’re making me feel rather guilty.”

“What are you talking about?” Kate feigned a pout, her playful demeanor lightening the mood. “The gifts aren’t for you, my dear; they’re for your baby girl. Josh told me the doctor confirmed it’s a girl, didn’t he?”

Soon, they settled together in the cozy embrace of the backyard, where the maid served light snacks and steaming cups of lemon tea, the warmth of the beverages perfectly complementing their lively conversation.

“Yes, Mrs. Kate,” Althea replied softly, her hand instinctively resting on her round belly, caressing it as if to soothe the tiny life within. “The doctor said it’s very likely my second child will be a girl.” There was a radiant glow in her eyes, a reflection of pure, unspoken happiness that filled her heart. She felt profoundly thankful for the outpouring of kindness and affection surrounding her.

Kate’s smile broadened, her eyes twinkling with admiration. “Just look at you, Althea—you’re the most beautiful pregnant woman I’ve ever seen.”

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