HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 83

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 83**

“You… you’re not serious, are you?”

Althea exhaled deeply, a weariness settling into her bones as she rubbed her temples, her expression heavy with the weight of unspoken thoughts. The paper she clutched in her hand felt like a leaden anchor, its contents clearly unsettling enough that Chase’s gaze sharpened with a growing concern.

“What’s going on, Althea?” he pressed, his voice tinged with frustration, as if he had asked this very question a dozen times already. “Do I really mean that little to you? That you couldn’t muster a single word before suddenly handing in a resignation letter?”

“It’s not like that,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, laced with exhaustion. “I just… I don’t even know where to start.”

Chase clenched his jaw, a storm of emotions swirling within him, fighting to break free. For days, he had sensed a heavy cloud hanging over her, yet she wore her mask of professionalism so well that it was nearly impossible to discern her true feelings. Was her decision so grave that it warranted this abrupt action?

The truth was, Chase valued Althea’s presence on the team immensely. It wasn’t merely a matter of personal attraction—though perhaps that played a part—but rather her unwavering passion, her dedication, and her remarkable talent that made her an irreplaceable asset.

“What’s causing you so much confusion?” he finally asked, his tone softening, a gentle inquiry instead of an accusation. “Or… is it that you never intended to share this with me in the first place?”

His gaze remained locked on hers, searching for the words she was too afraid to voice. Even a deep breath seemed insufficient to quell the tempest raging inside him. Chase knew Althea well—she was a beacon of professionalism, ambition, and heart. From the moment she had joined the school that his family’s foundation managed, she had stood out like a star in the night sky. Her warmth, her ability to connect with students, and her calming presence had earned her the adoration of her pupils, the respect of her colleagues, and the trust of parents.

Among her peers, Althea had become the go-to person, not just because she listened, but because she provided clarity and comfort. There was a softness about her that drew people in, and a sincerity that left a lasting impression.

So when her resignation letter had unexpectedly landed on his desk, it felt like more than just the loss of a teacher—it felt like losing a vital heartbeat of the school. Chase was acutely aware that he wouldn’t be the only one to feel her absence; everyone who had come to know Althea Grayson would feel the void she left behind.

That realization fueled his determination—he had to do everything in his power to convince her to stay.

“Althea… you know I’ve never intruded into your personal life,” he said, his voice low yet steady, a steady anchor amidst the chaos. “I’ve tried to respect your boundaries, never pushing you with questions you weren’t ready to answer. But this… this is so sudden, and honestly, I can’t just accept it without understanding why. If this decision stems from something you feel you can’t handle alone… then at least allow me the chance to help.”

Althea slowly lifted her gaze, her eyes meeting his with uncertainty and conflict swirling within them.

Chase Miller.

On the surface, he appeared to be the quintessential man—someone who could effortlessly draw attention wherever he went. Tall and composed, he exuded a commanding presence without ever needing to raise his voice. His features were almost too striking to be real, especially when paired with his intelligence and the weight of the Miller family name, one of the most esteemed in all of SunCity.

All her darkest thoughts about him had begun to spiral—loud, intrusive, impossible to ignore. Deep down, Althea feared that if that man—who wielded so much power—ever uncovered the truth… he might come for the one thing in her life that mattered most.

Joshua Grayson.

It could happen, couldn’t it? Even if she fought against him. Even if she pushed him away. Her instincts whispered a singular truth—Daven wasn’t someone you could easily defeat, not if he ever discovered who Josh truly was.

“What I need to tell you… it’s not something I want to discuss in here,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s… too personal.”

Chase nodded, understanding. “Of course.”

He didn’t bombard her with questions. Instead, he quietly moved to the small pantry adjacent to his office and poured two cups of coffee, the rich aroma filling the air. He then gestured for her to follow him, his demeanor calm and reassuring.

“Where are we going?” Althea inquired, a hint of confusion lacing her voice.