**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 151**
As soon as Josh made his request, a radiant smile spread across Daven’s face, illuminating his features. “Absolutely!” he exclaimed, his voice brimming with enthusiasm.
Chris had been on the brink of offering a gentle reminder about the day’s responsibilities, but upon seeing Josh’s carefree demeanor and sensing that there was nothing to truly worry about, he allowed the adult beside him to crouch down to Josh’s level. In that moment, Josh was enveloped in a warm embrace, held tightly as if this farewell might linger longer than usual.
It felt as though they were parting ways for an extended period, an unspoken understanding hanging in the air.
“Have a blast at school, Josh,” Daven said, reluctantly loosening his grip. His heart throbbed with a mix of pride and sorrow, but what could he do? The world outside awaited.
“Of course, Mr. Handsome!” Josh replied, laughter dancing in his voice. “I guess it’s time for me to head in now.” He met Daven’s gaze squarely, his eyes sparkling. “See you soon, Mr. Daven.”
Chris clicked his tongue, feigning annoyance. “What am I, invisible, Josh?”
With a cheeky grin, Josh stuck out his tongue playfully. “Bye, Uncle Chris! After school, we should definitely hit the arcade again.”
“Are you not worried that Uncle Cale will give you a lecture?” Chris asked, raising an eyebrow in mock seriousness.
Josh shook his head vigorously, his confidence shining through. “Last night, he let me play because I answered all the questions he asked. But he did say I needed to visit his office after the arcade. You’ll come with me, right?”
“Sure, sure,” Chris sighed, watching as Josh jogged toward the school entrance, where Miss Spencer, his teacher, stood waiting with a welcoming smile. “Does he think I’m his babysitter or something?”
Daven’s smile was soft and wistful. “I can only imagine how much joy it brings you to spend time with him.”
Chris glanced at him, a brief moment of contemplation passing between them. “Even if he can be a bit of a handful, you’re right. Being around him is truly wonderful.”
Daven’s thoughts drifted as he observed the small figure of his son standing with his teacher and classmates. In the depths of his heart, he whispered a silent prayer, God, just this once… please grant my wish. He’s my son, isn’t he?
“I heard you’re heading back to Mighatan today?” Chris inquired, breaking the spell of silence that had enveloped them.
Daven cleared his throat, shaking off the weight of his thoughts. “Yes, there’s really nothing left for me to do here. My meeting with Mr. Harold yesterday went exceptionally well.”
“Do you mind if we chat at that café over there?” Chris suggested, gesturing toward a quaint little spot that beckoned with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Daven nodded in agreement. “Not at all. I still have some time before I need to head back to Mighatan.”
“Sometimes I forget how busy you are, Mr. Callister,” Chris remarked with a hint of teasing.
“Arsen,” Daven’s voice sliced through the quiet, causing his assistant to shift uncomfortably in his seat.
“Yes, sir?” Arsen braced himself, uncertain of what unexpected direction Daven might take next.
“Clear my schedule for tomorrow. I don’t want to meet with anyone. Not even my family.”
Arsen hesitated, aware that tomorrow’s agenda was packed to the brim.
“I don’t want to hear any objections. You know what needs to be done,” Daven insisted, his tone leaving no room for debate.
“B-but, Mr. Daven—”
“I’ve been working tirelessly these past few months. Can’t I have a moment to breathe?” Daven’s piercing gaze held Arsen in place. “And once we arrive in Mighatan, take me directly to my grandmother’s grave. It’s been far too long since I last visited her.”
With no other option but to comply, Arsen nodded. “Yes, Mr. Daven.”
“And make sure,” Daven added, his voice tightening with an edge of urgency, “that there’s no unusual movement from Vanessa. For someone who thrives on attention, she’s been far too quiet while I’ve been in SunCity.”

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