HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 146

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 146**

Chase’s gaze was unwavering, as if he were a hawk surveying its territory. There was an unmistakable intent behind his question, a sense of purpose that suggested he had been biding his time, waiting for the opportune moment to broach this topic ever since their discussions about the project had begun. Daven, in that instant, understood that this was likely the kind of strategic maneuver the Millers—especially Chase—had been angling for from the very start.

Daven inhaled slowly, allowing the air to fill his lungs before exhaling with a composed demeanor. “I have no objection if that’s what you want, Mr. Miller,” he replied, his voice steady, but internally he felt the weight of the implications.

“Excellent.” Chase’s smile was smooth, yet his eyes remained keen and calculating, as if he were weighing every nuance of their exchange. “You grasp the situation well. I assure you, this can be mutually advantageous for both of us.”

Chris, who had been silently observing the unfolding dialogue, had been piecing together the intricate web of unspoken intentions that lay beneath the surface. It was evident now why Chase had insisted on being part of this meeting; there was a clear motive tied to his future brother-in-law, and Chris felt a stirring curiosity. He would need to confront Chase later to uncover the full story behind this unexpected alliance.

For the moment, Chris was determined not to remain a passive participant. “This negotiation feels more intense than any boardroom discussion I’ve ever been part of,” he interjected, his tone light but laced with an undercurrent of seriousness.

Daven allowed a faint smile to cross his lips, a flicker of camaraderie in the charged atmosphere. “Isn’t it interesting how personal matters can often be more intricate than business dealings?” he mused, his mind racing through the complexities of their situation.

“I suppose… this time, I’ll concede to your point, Mr. Daven,” Chase responded, his voice smooth as silk. “But I’m confident we can navigate this without overstepping any personal boundaries. Right, Mr. Daven?”

Daven straightened his posture, feeling the gravity of the moment. “Then… shall we proceed to discuss what transpired? No more secrets. I need clarity before I put pen to paper on that contract with Harold.”

***

The lunch gathering was set in a semi-open restaurant nestled in the bustling heart of the city, where the aroma of freshly prepared seafood wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation. A round table, laden with a tempting array of dishes, served as the centerpiece, but the dialogue flowed with a relaxed ease that had been absent during their earlier meeting.

“That’s pretty much what we experienced back then,” Chris concluded, spearing another morsel from his plate. “Ah, I take it your assistant did some background research on this place, didn’t they?”

Daven’s lips curled into a subtle smile, a flicker of pride shining through. “We aimed to make a favorable impression—especially after our earlier discussions. Honestly, I’m eager to set the wheels in motion.”

“You truly are a man of action, yet you calculate every move with precision,” Chase observed, his tone a mix of admiration and intrigue.

“I’d argue that experience has taught me to operate this way,” Daven replied, his voice steady. “Isn’t experience the most invaluable teacher of all?”

To Daven, Chase embodied the essence of a strategist, someone who thrived in the shadows. Yet, when he offered insights or highlighted angles Daven hadn’t even contemplated, his clarity was undeniable. Chase had a remarkable ability to foresee potential pitfalls before they materialized, sketching out scenarios that could easily spiral into chaos.

This was precisely why Daven understood the weight of their agreement. He had already run the numbers in his mind. Vanessa herself didn’t intimidate him, but if she ever chose to meddle in Althea’s life, it could lead to complications he wasn’t prepared to face.

Vanessa had a knack for conjuring unnecessary drama. She could create turmoil for her own advantage, and that turmoil could easily disrupt his work—especially the new project he was on the verge of finalizing in SunCity. His deal with Mayor Harold was merely the first step. He had just begun negotiations for something far grander than the apartment project.

Chase retrieved his phone from his pocket, his expression shifting as he glanced at the name flashing on the screen. A wide smile broke across his face, but it was short-lived.

“Althea.” Chase swiped to answer, his tone instantly softening. “What is it, sweetheart?”

“Chase!” The voice on the other end was tinged with urgency and panic.

In an instant, Chase’s demeanor shifted, his posture becoming tense as his senses heightened. “What happened?” he asked, his voice firm yet steady.

“It’s about Lydia. She—”

Chase was already moving away from the table, his voice resolute. “Don’t panic. Stay calm—I’m on my way.”

Chris and Daven exchanged a glance, the tension palpable. Chris’s expression tightened with concern, while Daven’s gaze followed Chase’s retreating figure, his curiosity ignited by the mention of Althea’s name, coupled with Chase’s sudden alarm.

Had something happened? Was Althea in danger? Or was it Josh?