HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 43

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 43**

“Why do you insist on acting like you’re a burden to me?” Lydia had said, her voice a blend of warmth and firmness. “Focus on getting better for the baby, okay? Don’t worry about me, Althea. I’m here because I want to be.”

That was Lydia in a nutshell—unyielding, fiercely loyal, and always ready to stand by Althea’s side. There were moments when Lydia’s tenacity felt overwhelming, leaving Althea with a dull ache in her head, but deep down, she was profoundly thankful for her presence.

Yet, amid the chaos and the noise of their lives, there were still moments of silence where Althea found herself adrift in her own thoughts. Just like now.

Perched on the edge of her bed, Althea clutched the medical report tightly, her knuckles turning white as she stared vacantly out the window. The world outside seemed to carry on, oblivious to the storm brewing within her. Lydia, engrossed in sorting through a pile of documents, sensed the shift in her friend’s mood. It was unusual for Althea to be so quiet, so introspective.

Just as Lydia opened her mouth to inquire about what was troubling her, Althea broke the silence. “Lydia, can you help me with something important?”

Lydia raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. “What is it?”

“I need everything about my condition to remain confidential. No one—especially not Daven or his family—can know about the pregnancy.”

Lydia’s gaze locked onto Althea’s, the gravity of the request hanging heavily in the air between them. She shifted closer, enveloping Althea’s hand in her own, squeezing it firmly as if to convey her unwavering support.

“Alright. I’ll keep this secret. But only on one condition.”

“What condition?” Althea asked, her heart racing slightly.

“From this moment on, you must stop thinking about Daven. Erase every single memory of him—the good, the bad, all of it. Focus solely on becoming a good mother and creating a new life in a new place, far from that wretched family’s influence, Althea. Remember what Dr. Felix said—you can’t afford to be stressed.”

Althea nodded slowly, a sense of resolve washing over her. “That’s the plan.”

Lydia’s expression softened, a hint of excitement breaking through her serious demeanor. “How about we move to Sun City? I have a friend there who has a unit available that I think would be perfect for you—comfortable and quiet. And don’t worry about your mother’s house; there’s already an offer on the table. I know it’s below market price, but I hope that’s alright with you?”

“Not at all,” Althea replied, relief flooding her voice.

“I’ll ensure your new place is peaceful and safe. This is your fresh start. You deserve that,” Lydia affirmed, her tone filled with conviction.

Lydia’s expression softened as she regarded Althea. “You’re right. And you shouldn’t feel guilty about using it, Althea. She gave it to you—not for the family, not for Daven—but for you. Right?”

Althea nodded slowly, her fingers tracing the edges of the card as if seeking solace in its presence.

“Come on, let’s get you packed up. You’ll stay with me tonight. I’ll take you to Sun City once I’m sure you’re strong enough,” Lydia said, her voice filled with warmth and urgency.

“Thank you again, Lydia,” Althea replied, gratitude spilling from her heart.

“Yeah, yeah, say it as often as you want,” Lydia teased, a smile breaking through her earlier seriousness.

With a wide smile, Althea instinctively placed her hand on her still-flat stomach, gently brushing over it as if offering silent comfort. Her heart whispered a prayer—a plea to protect, to nurture, and to become the mother she now needed to be.

God had granted her one wish. She wouldn’t squander this second chance.

“I must be strong. And you, my little one… let’s live happily—just the two of us.”