HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 74

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 74**

“Althea, are you feeling alright?”

The question caught Althea off guard, and she instinctively brushed her fingers against her cheek, glancing at the older woman standing before her. Confusion swirled in her mind, clouding her thoughts. “Me? Unwell?” she echoed, her voice barely above a whisper, as if the very idea was foreign to her.

“Yes,” Mrs. Yoshida replied, her brow furrowing with genuine concern. “You appear rather pale. Perhaps you haven’t been sleeping well?”

Althea managed a faint smile, a flicker of warmth amidst her uncertainty. “I suppose that’s true. Thank you for your concern, Mrs. Yoshida. But honestly, I’m fine.”

Mrs. Yoshida let out a small sigh of relief, the tension in her shoulders easing. “I’m glad to hear that, Althea. Just remember to take care of yourself.”

“I wish the same for you, Mrs. Yoshida,” Althea replied, her voice softening.

The older woman returned her smile, a warmth radiating from her eyes. “It’s such a pity I can’t linger in town a bit longer. There’s so much I wish I could accomplish while I’m here.” Her smile dimmed slightly, revealing a hint of wistfulness. “And I didn’t even get a chance to sample your cooking.”

“If you ever decide to visit SunCity again, please do let me know. I would be more than happy to whip up something special for you,” Althea offered, her heart lifting at the thought.

“Oh, I’ll definitely hold you to that promise,” Mrs. Yoshida said, her expression brightening once more. “Especially after hearing Chase rave about your incredible culinary skills.”

Althea blinked, momentarily taken aback. “Wait… oh, goodness!” She gently slapped her forehead, a gesture of disbelief. “Why would he share something so unnecessary?”

Mrs. Yoshida chuckled, a melodic sound that filled the air between them. “Unnecessary? I think not! Chase was genuinely enthusiastic about sharing your talents, Althea.”

An awkward smile crept onto Althea’s face. “It’s really nothing special. I just prepare simple meals.”

“Chase mentioned that you make the best lasagna he’s ever tasted,” Mrs. Yoshida replied, her eyes sparkling with delight.

“Ah, that principal of mine is far too generous with his compliments,” Althea said, a hint of embarrassment creeping into her tone.

Mrs. Yoshida chuckled again, bringing her chamomile tea to her lips, savoring the warmth as it slid down her throat. “Speaking of Chase, it seems the two of you share a close bond. I assumed there might be something… more between you.”

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