HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 375

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

**Chapter 375**

“We’ve arrived, Mrs. Selena,” Smith announced, holding the door open with a courteous gesture.

With her characteristic elegance, Selena stepped out of the car, her expression cool and composed. She cast a brief, assessing glance at the imposing structure looming ahead, offering no further acknowledgment. In stark contrast, the teenage girl beside her, Eli, with her simple yet captivating presence, embodied the essence of politeness—a young lady who understood the value of gratitude.

“I’ll wait for you in the parking area, Miss Eli,” Smith said, his tone respectful.

“Thank you once again, Mr. Smith,” Eli replied, her voice sweet as she offered a small bow, accompanied by a gentle smile that lit up her face.

However, Selena, with a swift motion, grasped Eli’s hand, pulling her closer. “Don’t waste time on unnecessary pleasantries,” she instructed with a hint of urgency in her tone.

Eli fell into step beside her mother as they approached the grand entrance of SunRise Academy. The moment they crossed through the gates, a sense of wonder surged within Eli. The expanse of the academy was nothing short of breathtaking. It was a place where simply being a student felt like an elevation of one’s status. The four-story building loomed large and symmetrical, its pristine facade gleaming in the sunlight, meticulously arranged to exude an air of sophistication.

“Look, Eli. This is SunRise Academy,” Selena said, her voice steady, but the way her fingers tightened around her purse betrayed an undercurrent of anxiety.

Her gaze remained fixed on the magnificent modern structure that emerged from the sprawling grounds, a testament to the generosity of the Chase Miller Foundation.

“This all belongs to your father,” she whispered, turning to Eli with a smile that held deeper meaning. “Chase Miller.”

Eli stepped forward cautiously, her eyes wide with a mix of disbelief and admiration. “I don’t even know what to say. It’s… stunning, Mom. Is this why you were so adamant about me applying here?”

“Yes,” Selena confirmed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Eli’s gaze roamed over the immaculate glass corridors, the digital information boards that flickered with vibrant colors, and classrooms that resembled international lecture halls more than traditional school rooms.

“It’s not just because this school holds prestige,” Selena added softly, her words laced with emotion. “It’s because your father built it. Why shouldn’t his daughter have the privilege of studying here?”

A bittersweet smile graced her lips as she continued, “If only your grandfather had given your future even a fraction of this thought… perhaps I wouldn’t feel this heavy sadness.”

Eli remained silent, her heart heavy with an inexplicable guilt, even though she couldn’t pinpoint what she had done to warrant such feelings. “But… if I follow GrandDad’s wishes and prove myself, I’m sure he would help me get into this school, right, Mom?” she asked hopefully.

“Let’s hope so,” Selena replied, her tone tinged with uncertainty.

As they moved forward, a staff member guided them enthusiastically, pointing out some of the academy’s most iconic features, including the grand sports arena that stood proudly at the heart of the campus.

Once outside again, the sudden eruption of cheers from the basketball court made Eli pause. Drawn by the sound, she drifted toward the railing, her curiosity piqued.

On the court below, a young man with an athletic physique and striking blue eyes was dribbling the ball with a skill that seemed to defy the laws of physics. His jumper was flawless, his movements sharp and precise. The crowd’s cheers reverberated through the sunlit arena, creating an atmosphere charged with excitement.

Eli stood frozen, captivated.

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