HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 197

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

**Chapter 197**

“For now, I’ll be staying at my mother’s house. If there are any files left in my apartment, feel free to collect them at your earliest convenience,” Daven stated, his tone firm yet laden with the weight of his decision.

“Of course, Mr. Daven,” Arsen replied, his voice steady and respectful. “In that case, I sincerely hope you have a wonderful weekend with your family.”

With a sense of duty, Arsen led Daven to his car, a gesture that felt almost ceremonial. It was a rare occasion for Daven to grant him the rest of the day off, a small reprieve that felt monumental in the relentless grind of their work. The past few months had been a whirlwind, akin to sprinting through a forest with wolves snapping at his heels, each deadline looming like a shadow. The exhaustion had seeped into his bones, draining him of energy and enthusiasm.

“You too. Enjoy your weekend,” Daven replied just before he slid into the back seat of the car, a hint of genuine warmth in his voice. Arsen bowed slightly, acknowledging the gesture, and as the vehicle glided away from the office lobby, Daven felt a flicker of relief wash over him.

That afternoon, after meticulously wrapping up the last of his business affairs, Daven finally made his way home. It felt like an eternity since he had set foot in the house where his mother still resided. Yet, the thought of returning sent a shiver down his spine, for it meant facing her questions—questions he was not entirely prepared to answer.

One query was bound to arise, and that was Althea. Surely, his mother had seen the headlines that had reverberated through Mighatan like a thunderous storm.

“Let’s hope I can manage her inquiries without too much trouble,” he muttered under his breath as the car sped toward its destination, the familiar streets blurring past him. The journey seemed to pass quicker than usual, or perhaps he was simply allowing himself to savor the moment. Still, his thoughts raced, cycling through unfinished business, particularly his dealings with Harold. That was a loose end he couldn’t afford to ignore.

Before long, the car came to a halt at the gates of a place rich with memories, each brick and stone steeped in his past. The grand house loomed before him, stately and inviting, a fortress of familiarity. As he stepped through the entrance, a figure emerged at the door—a woman with silver hair, her smile bright and welcoming. The gentle breeze that swirled around the Callister estate was cool and soothing, enveloping him in a comforting embrace he had longed for.

“Daven, I half-expected you to be buried under a mountain of reports,” Kate Callister teased, her voice a delightful melody, though it quivered with the weight of longing. She didn’t need to speak of it; the unspoken understanding of the burdens he carried hung thick in the air. Without hesitation, she opened her arms wide, a silent invitation to share in the warmth of her embrace, perhaps to alleviate even a fraction of his heavy heart.

Kate watched intently as her son lifted his spoon, her heart fluttering with hope. “How is it?” she asked, her voice laced with anticipation.

Daven nodded, savoring the first bite, swallowing slowly. “Delicious,” he declared, unable to hide the spark of joy lighting up his eyes. “It’s been far too long since I’ve had food this good. Truly.”

Kate’s smile faltered slightly, her eyes reflecting a deeper understanding of her son’s life. She knew Daven often dined at high-end restaurants or attended business banquets, where meals were more about networking than nourishment. She never worried that he would go hungry—Arsen would always ensure he was well-fed. Yet, nothing could ever replace the warmth and love that accompanied a family meal.

After that, they ate in a comfortable silence, the air filled with an unspoken bond rather than distance. Occasionally, Daven inquired about his sisters—Felicia and Kalina. Kate spoke with lively pride about their ventures, expanding their line of handbags and shoes. Daven listened, a proud smile gracing his face. “I’m glad to know they’re forging their own paths. At least I don’t have to worry about them depending on anyone else.”

Once the meal concluded, Kate gently patted the back of his hand, a gesture filled with affection. “Come, let’s talk in the family room.”