**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 244**
Althea chuckled softly, her laughter like a gentle breeze. “Of course, sweetheart. Just take your time. There’s really no need to rush—it’s not good for your stomach, you know.”
The atmosphere between them was imbued with a comforting warmth, a bond that felt almost familial. Mrs. Yoshida animatedly recounted her relentless dedication to organizing charity events aimed at bolstering education, not just in Mighatan but also in the surrounding cities. SunCity, in particular, held a special place in her heart, despite her infrequent visits. Her connections there remained steadfast, as if they were threads woven into the fabric of her life.
Althea listened intently, her eyes brightening with each word. Education was not merely a topic for her; it was a fervent passion that ignited a fire within her soul.
But then, the conversation took a turn.
“And what about you, Althea?” Mrs. Yoshida inquired, her tone shifting slightly.
Caught off guard, Althea froze momentarily, her mind racing. “What… do you mean, Mrs. Yoshida?” she stammered, her heart pounding in her chest.
With a soft chuckle, Yoshida leaned forward, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Who hasn’t heard the news about you? Your involvement with Vanessa… and all the stories swirling around lately.”
A faint, almost reluctant smile tugged at the corners of Althea’s lips. “I’m not quite sure how I should respond to that,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Mrs. Yoshida reached across the table, her hand enveloping Althea’s with a firm yet gentle grip. “What you did was commendable. You demonstrated to the world how a woman should stand up for her dignity.”
Althea fell silent, her thoughts swirling like leaves caught in a gust of wind.
“If only you had taken that stand earlier, I’m convinced your story would have unfolded differently,” Yoshida mused, her voice laced with a hint of regret.
“Perhaps,” Althea replied, her smile deepening, touched by a quiet resolve. “But I don’t wish to dwell on the battles of the past. I am grateful for what I have now, Mrs. Yoshida.”
“Indeed, you are right,” Yoshida agreed, giving Althea’s hand a reassuring pat. “The past is not meant to be mourned. It’s far better to move forward and face the future with courage.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Yoshida,” Althea said sincerely, her heart swelling with appreciation.
“I pray for your happiness—with Mr. Miller. And I truly believe… that man adores your son, doesn’t he?”
“Yes,” Althea confessed softly, a warmth spreading through her at the thought.
“Good,” Yoshida exhaled, a look of relief washing over her features. “You deserve every bit of happiness, Althea. Don’t let the negative whispers surrounding Vanessa’s scandal trouble you. None of them truly understand the struggles you’ve faced all these years.”
Althea nodded, small yet significant, as if accepting the weight of those unspoken truths.
“So then…” Yoshida’s eyes glimmered with playful curiosity. “Will you be coming to Japan? For your honeymoon?”
***

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