HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 51

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 51**

“Try to relax,” Chase murmured, adjusting his stride to match Althea’s as they navigated the staircase together. His voice was low, almost conspiratorial, as if he were sharing a secret meant just for her ears.

“I assure you, I’m not the type to get flustered,” Althea replied, a lightness in her tone that belied the slight flutter in her stomach.

Chase let out a soft chuckle, his eyes twinkling with warmth. “Exactly! That’s one of the many things I admire about you.”

Althea couldn’t help but hope that was indeed true. If only this nagging worry could dissipate as easily as a morning fog.

***

As they entered the main hall, the atmosphere was electric, alive with the chatter of students and faculty who stood neatly aligned, ready to greet the distinguished guests of the day. Althea found herself at the forefront of the gathering, her attire—a delicate pastel blue blouse paired with tailored slacks—was understated yet exuded a quiet elegance that suited the occasion perfectly.

“I believe they’ve arrived,” Hans, the biology teacher, announced, his gaze shifting toward the entrance. The whispers among the gathered crowd grew, a low murmur that crescendoed as the sound of footsteps approached.

First to step through the doors were two men, their presence commanding in sleek black suits, tall and broad-shouldered, exuding an air of authority. Following closely was the focal point of the delegation: a woman whose poise was striking, dressed in a modern golden-beige kimono that flowed gracefully with her every movement. She walked with an unhurried elegance, her posture remarkably upright.

“Is she a special guest?” a teacher whispered, curiosity lacing her tone.

“Shh! Isn’t that… the ambassador’s wife?” another voice chimed in, barely above a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might shatter the moment.

At the front of the line, Althea bowed in respect like her peers, yet when her eyes inadvertently met the woman’s, time seemed to freeze. For a fleeting instant, their gazes locked, and an unspoken connection flickered between them, sending a ripple of recognition through Althea.

“Welcome to SunCity Elementary School,” Chase announced, stepping forward with his signature warmth that enveloped the room. “It is a true honor to host a representative from the Japanese Embassy—Mrs. Yoshida Sugimura.”

“Thank you,” the woman responded, her smile radiating kindness. Her voice was soft yet carried an undeniable authority. “I’m truly delighted to be here. It’s wonderful to witness firsthand the school involved in our student exchange program.”

“Before we take you and your delegation on a tour,” Chase continued, his polished demeanor unwavering, “we would like to present a brief welcome—a small token of our appreciation for your presence.”

Yoshida Sugimura nodded graciously. “Of course. We are honored.”

A group of students from the art class stepped forward, their faces alight with excitement, each holding vibrant bouquets. They began to sing a welcome song in Japanese, a melody they had practiced tirelessly for the past week. Althea stood at the forefront, her steady gaze guiding the children through the performance with quiet confidence.

Yet, amidst the beauty of the surroundings, an undercurrent of tension flowed between them.

There was a subtle shift in their pace, a hesitance in how they exchanged glances, as if they were both searching for confirmation that their memories were not deceiving them.

“I truly didn’t expect to see you here,” Yoshida finally broke the silence, her voice tinged with genuine surprise.

“Nor did I,” Althea replied softly, her heart racing. “I had no idea you would be visiting today, Mrs. Sugimura.”

“Please, just call me Yoshida. There’s no need for such formality. We’ve met before, haven’t we?”

Althea’s gaze fell to the floor, a wave of memories flooding her mind. “Yes.”

Another pause hung heavily in the air, thick with unspoken words, until finally—

“How have you been, Althea?”