HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 42

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 42**

“Althea?” Lydia’s voice trembled as she leaned closer, her heart racing with a mix of relief and worry. Tears shimmered in her eyes, reflecting the harsh fluorescent light overhead as she searched for signs of life in her best friend’s pale face. “Oh God, you’re finally awake.”

As Althea slowly opened her eyes, the world around her came into focus, albeit hazily. The glaring brightness of the overhead light felt like a spotlight on her disoriented mind. The sharp, sterile smell of antiseptic invaded her senses, causing her to wince slightly. She recognized that familiar voice, tinged with panic, and attempted to muster a smile, though her body felt like it was weighed down by lead.

“Here, let me help,” Lydia said urgently, her hands steadying Althea as she struggled to sit up on the hospital bed. “Careful now, Althea. Take your time.”

“Where… am I?” Althea managed to whisper, her throat dry and scratchy.

“The hospital,” Lydia replied, her voice laced with concern. “You fainted at the cemetery. You scared the hell out of me!” Her eyes widened, recalling the moment when Althea had collapsed, the world around them fading into chaos.

“I’m sorry,” Althea murmured, trying to convey reassurance despite the fog clouding her thoughts.

“I’m going to get the doctor. Stay right here,” Lydia said, her voice firm yet soothing as she hurried out of the room.

It wasn’t long before the door swung open, and a doctor entered, flanked by two nurses. They approached the bed with gentle smiles, their presence a calming balm in the sterile environment.

“Good evening, Miss Grayson,” the doctor introduced himself, his voice warm and inviting. “I’m Dr. Felix, the attending physician tonight. How are you feeling?” He glanced at the chart in his hands, his brow furrowing in concern. “We’ve already performed some preliminary checks and light observation.”

“Still a bit dizzy, but I think I’m okay,” Althea replied cautiously, her gaze darting to the doctor, searching for answers. “What… what happened to me, Doctor?”

Dr. Felix’s expression softened as he regarded her. “You’ve been experiencing significant fatigue, which is concerning. However, that’s not our primary focus at the moment.”

A nurse stepped forward, handing him a test result. He glanced at it, then turned back to Althea, his tone gentle yet serious. “We also discovered that you’re in the early stages of pregnancy. Approximately three weeks along, give or take, but—”

“What?” Althea interrupted, her voice barely above a whisper, disbelief washing over her. “I’m… pregnant?”

Lydia, who had been anxiously waiting beside the bed, immediately turned to the doctor, her expression tense and searching. “Doctor, please explain more clearly.”

“Her condition is very fragile,” Dr. Felix said carefully, choosing his words with precision. “This is a very early, delicate pregnancy. Miss Althea needs complete rest—no stress, no heavy activity, no lifting, and absolutely no driving alone.”

The nurse chimed in, her voice reassuring, “We highly recommend a few days of inpatient care for further monitoring.”

Althea nodded faintly, still reeling from the revelation, her mind racing to comprehend the implications of the news. “I’m… really pregnant?” she echoed, the weight of the words sinking in.

With a dramatic sigh, she crossed her arms, feigning exasperation. “You’re one of a kind, Althea.”

Althea couldn’t help but laugh, even through the tears. “Do I really seem that pathetic to you, Lydia?”

Lydia let out another sigh, softer this time, her expression shifting to one of understanding. “Not pathetic. If this is the path you’ve chosen and it brings you peace, then I’ll always support you. Even if the whole world turns against you, I’ll stay. You’re my best friend, Althea. My family, too.”

A wave of gratitude washed over Althea, filling her heart with warmth. “Thank you, Lydia.”

“No need to keep saying that,” Lydia replied with a playful wrinkle of her nose. “So… what’s the plan from here?”

***

Three days had passed since Althea was hospitalized. That afternoon, she finally received the green light for discharge, but only under the strict condition that she avoid all strenuous activity. The pregnancy was still in its infancy, and her body was far from strong enough to handle any undue stress.

Throughout her stay, Lydia had been a constant presence by her side, juggling her work commitments with visits to the hospital. Althea had insisted she didn’t need to fuss over her, but Lydia had firmly dismissed that notion, her determination unwavering.