HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 307

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 307**

Riana regarded Althea with a gentle curiosity, her brow furrowing slightly. “He hasn’t mentioned when he’s planning to leave?”

“Not yet,” Althea replied, shaking her head ever so slightly, a hint of resignation in her tone. “He mentioned he’s still waiting on a few documents. But whenever Chase starts speaking in that serious tone of his, I know it’s a sign—he won’t be around much longer.”

—

Kate leaned back in her chair, her expression shifting to one of contemplation. “You don’t mind this, Althea? I mean… considering your condition?”

Althea managed a faint smile, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I’ve grown accustomed to it, Mrs. Kate. Chase is always restless when it comes to his foundation work. Sometimes it worries me, but deep down, I understand—it’s simply part of who he is.”

Riana interjected softly, her voice filled with warmth, “And that’s also why you fell in love with him, isn’t it?”

Althea let out a soft chuckle, her gaze dropping to the floor as she considered the truth in Riana’s words. “Perhaps you’re right.”

Kalina crossed her arms, a flicker of concern dancing across her features. “I wish there was something more I could do to help. Would you like me to stay with you while Chase is away? I still have plenty of business in SouthLand, and it’s not too far from here.”

“I’ll manage just fine, Kalina.”

Kate exchanged a knowing glance with Althea, her eyes filled with quiet understanding. “Still, Kalina makes a valid point. It might be wise for someone to stay close to you, Althea. I wouldn’t mind being nearby either.”

Althea smiled at the interaction between the mother and daughter, but beneath that smile, a weight settled heavily in her heart. She couldn’t shake the feeling that whenever Chase spoke of this trip, something about him felt… off. His voice was too calm, and his eyes held secrets he wasn’t ready to share.

“You’re incredibly fortunate, Althea,” Riana said, reaching across the table to grasp her daughter-in-law’s hand affectionately. “There’s nothing wrong with being surrounded by those who care for you—especially when Chase is away. I’ll make sure to visit often, so don’t you worry.”

“I really don’t want to be a burden to any of you.”

“We don’t see it as a burden at all,” Kalina and Kate chimed in unison, their voices harmonizing in a way that made Althea smile once more.

Laughter bubbled through the room, filling it with a sense of joy. For a while, the weight of Chase’s impending departure faded into the background, replaced by lighthearted banter about candle scents and creative packaging ideas.

However, as evening approached, Althea found herself standing on the balcony of the second floor, gazing out at the sky as it transformed into a canvas of gold and tangerine hues. The gentle breeze tousled her hair, and she felt a comforting presence beside her as Kate quietly joined her.

“You know, Althea,” Kate began softly, her voice a soothing balm against the evening air, “I used to feel the same way when my husband traveled frequently. The worry can be all-consuming—especially when you’re expecting.”

Surprised by the warmth and empathy in Kate’s tone, Althea turned to face her, feeling a connection deepen between them.

Kate continued, “If you ever sense that something isn’t quite right… trust your instincts. But remember, don’t let fear take the reins.”

A faint smile graced Althea’s lips as she turned her gaze back to the glowing horizon. “I’ll keep that in mind, Mrs. Kate. I just want everything to turn out okay.”

“Whenever you find yourself in need of support,” Kate said softly, her words laced with sincerity, “don’t ever hesitate to reach out to me.”