HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 117

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

**Chapter 117**

“Did you hear what the doctor mentioned, Kalina?” Daven’s voice was soothing, a faint smile gracing his lips as he tenderly brushed his fingers through his sister’s hair. “There’s really nothing to be anxious about. Just keep an eye on how you prepare Mommy’s meals, alright? I’m counting on both of you for that, can I?”

Kalina and Felicia exchanged glances, their heads nodding in unison, albeit with a hint of reluctance.

“Daven,” a voice interjected, slicing through the warmth that enveloped the three siblings. It was Vanessa, her tone demanding attention. “Can we have a word?”

“What is it that you want to discuss?” Daven replied, his disinterest palpable. “I don’t have much time. I still need to—”

“If you’re so occupied, then why even bother coming here?” Kalina’s voice turned icy, her eyes narrowing at Vanessa. “You didn’t have to trouble yourself with a visit to my mother.”

“Exactly,” Felicia chimed in, her tone cutting. “I doubt Mommy even wants you here.”

A frustrated sigh escaped Vanessa’s lips, her patience wearing thin. “I made an effort to come despite everything on my plate—not to engage in your petty arguments. The least I could do is visit my mother-in-law while she’s unwell.”

“Oh, of course,” Kalina scoffed, her sarcasm thick in the air. “Just to maintain your image, right?”

“So everyone can see what a ‘caring’ daughter-in-law you are. But the reality is—”

“Watch your words, Felicia,” Vanessa snapped back, her voice rising as her composure began to fray. “Daven, is this truly how your sisters treat me? I am their sister-in-law!”

“Enough, Vanessa,” Daven interjected, his voice firm, cutting through the tension. “This is neither the time nor the place for this. And if you’re truly that busy, you’re free to leave.”

“Are you really kicking me out?” Vanessa’s eyes widened in disbelief, her heart racing at his coldness. How could he say such a thing so easily, without a trace of warmth?

“Didn’t you just say you’re pressed for time? Then why not take your leave?” Daven’s gaze intensified, sharp as a blade. “You need to manage your commitments, Vanessa.”

“B-but, I need to talk to you, Daven,” Vanessa implored, stepping closer, desperation lacing her voice. “There are so many things I need to ask. Like where you’ve been these past two weeks!”

“And why would I share that with you?”

Vanessa’s eyes narrowed, her frustration bubbling over. “Because I have a right to know! I’m your wife!”

“Lower your voice, Vanessa,” Daven warned, his tone unyielding. “I don’t owe you an explanation about my whereabouts. Why are you so desperate to know?”

He stepped closer, closing the distance between them. His eyes locked onto hers, a storm of anger simmering just beneath the surface. If they weren’t in a hospital room, this confrontation might have escalated into something far more explosive.

Leaning in, Daven whispered coldly, “You need to know my schedule so you can ensure I don’t discover yours, right? Including all the ways you’ve been entertaining yourself with someone else.”

Her mind raced as she reflected on what she might have done to warrant this distance. Was it… that night? The night she had slipped up and uttered the wrong name?

Could that be the cause of this rift?

She had tried to explain herself, had begged for his understanding. But Daven had brushed her concerns aside, as if they were inconsequential. What more could she do?

“You still owe me an explanation, Daven,” Vanessa said, stepping closer to where he sat. She wanted to greet her mother-in-law, but this—this was more pressing. It couldn’t wait.

“And why would I owe you anything?” Daven’s brow furrowed as he looked up at her, irritation flickering in his eyes. “Vanessa, don’t start anything here. My mother is still recovering. If you insist on making a scene, don’t be surprised if one of my staff escorts you out.”

Vanessa’s lips pressed together tightly, her eyes wide with disbelief. “You… you’re really doing this to me?”

“Vanessa,” Kalina interjected gently but firmly. “Please, try not to cause a scene here.”

Vanessa blinked, taken aback. Had Kalina really just suggested she was the problem so easily?

“I think it would be best if you left,” Felicia added, moving closer to Vanessa. “You can come visit Mommy tomorrow.”

“Are you really kicking me out?” Vanessa snapped, her voice rising in indignation.