HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 84

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 84**

Chase had remained silent about their destination, leaving Althea in a swirl of curiosity as they traversed the unfamiliar hallway. Was this part of the administrative wing? Perhaps it was a hidden corner of the secretariat building—a place she had seldom ventured into until this moment.

As they reached the end of the corridor, Chase turned to her, a subtle smile dancing on his lips. “Welcome to my hideout,” he announced, pushing open the final door on the fifth floor of the administrative building where he spent most of his days.

Althea stepped inside, her breath catching in her throat. “Wow,” she murmured, genuine awe coloring her voice.

“This is where I usually come to clear my head. What do you think?” Chase asked, his tone inviting her to explore the space with her eyes.

Despite the blazing midday sun outside, the rooftop they found themselves on felt like a sanctuary, shaded and serene. A lightweight metal roof provided cover, while vibrant vines and neatly arranged potted plants adorned the edges, giving the area a touch of life. A few wooden tables and rattan chairs were arranged in a cozy, unpretentious manner, creating a small lounge that was simple yet soothing. This wasn’t just a rooftop; it was Chase’s personal retreat, a carefully curated space designed to escape the relentless pace of the day, where he could think, reflect, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee when the world felt overwhelming.

“How am I supposed to describe a place this beautiful?” Althea said softly, settling into one of the rattan chairs. As she did so, Chase handed her the steaming cup of coffee he had prepared for their midday conversation. “Thank you,” she added, her voice barely above a whisper, gratitude evident in her eyes.

They sat facing each other, the quiet stretching between them as Chase patiently waited, allowing her the space to gather her thoughts.

“I’ve never once thought about leaving this school, Chase. Not even once,” Althea finally spoke, her voice gentle yet heavy with emotion. “This place feels like a second home to me. It’s where I can truly be myself, where I can pursue my passion without too many interruptions. The support and kindness I’ve received here have been incredible.” Her gaze fell to her lap, a shadow of uncertainty crossing her features.

“But…” she hesitated, her breath hitching slightly. “Someone from my past has resurfaced.” She exhaled shakily, the weight of her words hanging in the air. “Even though I haven’t actually seen him yet, God, I really hope I don’t have to.”

Chase frowned slightly, a mix of confusion and concern swirling within him, but he remained silent, choosing to let her continue without interruption.

“Daven Callister,” Althea finally whispered, her voice barely audible. “I met him seven years ago, and our relationship… well, it was complicated, to say the least.”

Chase blinked in disbelief, a wave of recognition washing over him. That name—Daven Callister. He had only recently crossed paths with the man, who had shown an interest in education and social causes. The same man who had been present at city hall, assisting Josh. It couldn’t be a coincidence, could it?

“But I forgot one crucial thing.” Her voice turned bitter, laced with regret. “The past… it’s a part of us, whether we like it or not. And sometimes, it comes back just to destroy everything we’ve worked so hard to build.” A sad, broken smile graced her lips as she looked at Chase, holding his gaze for a fleeting moment before turning her face back to the sky, as if seeking answers among the clouds.

“We haven’t even come face-to-face, but the moment Daven stepped into Josh’s school and started showing interest…” Her breath hitched, a wave of anxiety washing over her. “I got scared.” Althea buried her face in her hands, the weight of her fear too much to bear.

“I’m truly terrified, Chase,” she whispered, her voice cracking under the strain of her emotions. “It’s not that I’m afraid of seeing him again. God, no! He’s not someone I fear in that way. It’s Josh. What if… what if he tries to take Josh away from me?”

Chase felt a surge of helplessness wash over him. Words seemed inadequate in the face of such profound fear.

“Josh is everything to me, Chase. My heart, my soul, my whole damn life. I can’t breathe without him. He’s the only reason I wake up every day.” Her eyes met his once more, glistening with unshed tears that threatened to spill over at any moment. One blink—and they would fall.

“I don’t think I could survive it if that ever happened… What choice do I have, Chase? I’d rather disappear than lose him.”