HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 71

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

**Chapter 71**

“Care for a splash of vodka?” Chase suggested, his brow arching in playful invitation, a grin spreading across his face like sunlight breaking through clouds.

Althea blinked in surprise, caught off guard by his casual offer, yet a smile tugged at her lips, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. “I doubt you have any ulterior motives with vodka,” she replied, her tone teasing yet light.

“Glad to hear you trust me,” he responded with a smirk, his confidence radiating. “Besides, a little vodka might just untangle that busy mind of yours.”

Chase strode into the kitchen, moving with an effortless grace that suggested he was right at home in this space. He opened the cabinets with assurance, peering into the fridge as if searching for hidden treasures. Within moments, he set out glasses and snacks with the ease of someone who had done this countless times before. In no time at all, two crystal-clear glasses of vodka stood waiting on the modest bar counter, shimmering under the warm glow of the overhead light. Nearby, a bowl of freshly opened potato chips sat enticingly, accompanied by a ceramic dish filled with warm, gently steaming cheese dip that wafted a savory aroma into the air.

“I was going to grate some cheese too, but it seems your stock is a bit on the lean side,” Chase remarked, a teasing smile playing on his lips.

Althea chuckled softly, a hint of guilt creeping into her voice. “I’m sorry. I should have been the one to set all this up.”

“Don’t sweat it,” Chase reassured her, handing her one of the glasses with a flourish. “Tonight, think of me as your personal bartender, at your service.”

They settled across from each other at the kitchen island, the only illumination coming from the warm pendant lamp hanging above them. The soft, golden light spilled across the counter, casting a gentle glow on the vodka that sparkled like tiny stars in the stillness of the evening.

Althea raised her glass, tapping it lightly against Chase’s with a soft clink.

“Can I ask you something?” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid of breaking the fragile moment.

Althea caught his gaze from the corner of her eye, noting the way he lingered in silence, as if gathering his thoughts.

“What’s on your mind?” she prompted, curiosity piqued.

“What’s been weighing on you?” he inquired, his tone gentle yet filled with concern.

Althea hesitated, her heart racing.

“Can’t you share just a little with me?” he pressed, his voice laced with genuine care.

“I know,” she replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “And I’m so thankful for that, Chase. But right now… I just need some time.”

Chase inhaled deeply, nodding in understanding without pushing further. “Alright. But remember, if you ever need anything—anything at all—don’t hesitate to reach out, okay?”

Althea offered him a small, grateful smile that warmed her heart. “Thank you.”

They returned to their drinks and the comfortable silence that enveloped them, the shared snacks becoming a bridge over the weighty thoughts that had lingered in the air. Gradually, the heaviness that had shadowed Althea all evening began to lift, if only a little, chased away by the easy flow of their light-hearted conversation.

“Oh, did I mention,” Chase said suddenly, his tone shifting, “there’s a donor interested in doing a review visit at SunRise Preschool?”

“A review?” she echoed, her brow furrowing in confusion.

He smiled, his enthusiasm infectious. “Yes! They’re looking to contribute—some donations for the school. But there are still a few steps that need to be sorted out. I think Miss Spencer would know more about the process. I don’t usually handle the administrative side of things at SunRise.”

“What’s your take on it?” Althea asked, genuinely intrigued.