HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 161

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 161**

“I’ve already instructed the PR team at Callister Group to manage the influx of reporters who have begun to swarm us. Most are reaching out via phone and email,” Arsen reported, his voice steady yet tinged with urgency.

Since the explosive details of Vanessa’s story hit the media, the phones belonging to both Daven and Arsen had transformed into relentless sources of noise, ringing incessantly. Daven, overwhelmed by the chaos, had finally succumbed to the temptation of silence and switched his off. He needed to preserve the tranquility that was crucial for the many meetings ahead, discussions that required his undivided attention. The antics of Vanessa, no matter how scandalous, could not derail his meticulously planned schedule. He had resolved not to be influenced, even if…

“Have you ensured that every narrative linking back to Althea is buried?” Daven’s tone was sharp, his brow furrowed with concern.

“Yes, Mr. Daven,” Arsen affirmed, his voice calm but resolute.

“Good. We cannot allow anyone to pry into her life. I will not tolerate any disturbance to her peace—or to our son’s.” Daven’s voice was laced with a protective fervor that brooked no argument.

Arsen nodded, understanding the weight of the responsibility placed upon him.

“What’s the next item on our agenda?” Daven asked, shifting gears.

“This evening, we have a significant banquet with the German ambassador. However, I have yet to receive the final details. He is currently en route back to Mighatan after dealing with an unforeseen issue in the U.S.,” Arsen explained, glancing at the notes on his tablet.

“Then we must inform him of a rescheduling. After such a long journey, he deserves a chance to rest,” Daven concluded decisively, closing the last file he had been poring over and pushing it aside, clearing his workspace of distractions.

“Understood, Mr. Daven,” Arsen replied, jotting down the note.

Seeking a moment of solace from the weight of his responsibilities, Daven strolled toward the large window that framed the breathtaking view of Mighatan’s skyline. The city sprawled out before him, alive with a blend of grandeur and relentless activity, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within.

“I’ve just received word that Miss Vanessa has reached out to several major media outlets. She’s claiming to possess ‘photo evidence’ of your relationship with Althea,” Arsen informed him, his tone cautious.

Daven remained unfazed, his back still turned to Arsen. “I can assure you those so-called photographs are nothing more than fabrications,” he replied flatly.

“I believe so as well. However, the public is indifferent to the truth. They only see the images and the narrative she weaves around them. Mr. Thomas was correct; your reputation could be at stake—” Arsen began, but Daven cut him off.

Daven straightened, a steely resolve settling over him. “I know Chase Miller. He’s not the type to sit idly by while the woman he protects is dragged through the mud.” Frustration etched into his features as he rubbed his temples, trying to ease the tension. “Which means… I’ll have to speak to him first.”

Arsen’s tone turned resolute. “Exactly, Mr. Daven. The sooner you do it, the better.”

Daven fell silent for what felt like an eternity. Guilt flickered in his eyes as he lowered his gaze. “This is my fault. I’m the one pulling her back into this mess. She has been striving so hard to create a new life for herself… and I am the reason she’s being painted as guilty once again.”

Arsen hesitated, then spoke softly, “Then protect her this time. Don’t allow the media, Mrs. Vanessa, or anyone else to tarnish her name.”

Daven’s hand clenched into a fist, determination surging within him. “I’ll do whatever it takes, Arsen. Whatever it takes.”

In that moment, he realized that perhaps his assistant’s counsel wasn’t so misguided after all. In times when his thoughts threatened to drown him in chaos, Arsen had an uncanny ability to pinpoint the overlooked details—the subtle elements that could shift the tide.

With renewed purpose, Daven reached for his phone, scrolling through his contacts until he paused at a name he had only recently saved—Chase Miller.