HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 208

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

**Chapter 208**

“Forgive me, Mr. Daven,” Andy whispered, his voice barely rising above the tension in the room.

“Just go home. Take some time to rest. Make sure both of you recuperate properly,” Daven instructed, his tone firm yet devoid of any room for argument.

Neither Andy nor his companion dared to offer a rebuttal; they simply nodded and made their way out of his office. The moment the door clicked shut, Daven felt a wave of relief wash over him. He sank back into the plush sofa, allowing himself a moment to breathe deeply, letting the mesmerizing skyline of SunCity envelop him. The twinkling lights danced across the glass, providing a stark contrast to the turmoil he had just faced in that chaotic pine forest.

“Damn you, Harold,” he muttered under his breath, bitterness lacing his words. “To drag me into something like that…”

But the fleeting tranquility was short-lived. His phone erupted with a shrill ring, the name Thomas flashing ominously on the screen. Daven answered without hesitation, urgency edging his voice.

“Any updates?” he inquired, cutting straight to the chase.

“Yes, Mr. Callister. There’s critical information you need to be aware of immediately,” Thomas replied, his tone measured but heavy with gravity.

“Make it good, Thomas. I’m not in the mood for disappointments.” Daven straightened, his gaze locked on the city lights that flickered like distant stars, his mind racing with possibilities.

“Good news is a rare commodity tonight,” Thomas confessed, pausing as if he was weighing the weight of his next words carefully. “Theo Blake has mobilized his forces. Reports are flooding in that several investors are pulling their funds. They’re accusing Callister Group of lacking transparency in its financial dealings.”

Daven’s fist clenched tightly, his fingers drumming an anxious rhythm against the armrest of the sofa. “Pathetic. Is he really resorting to this just because of Vanessa? A parent will always defend their child—even when they know perfectly well who’s truly at fault.”

Thomas remained silent, the tension thickening in the air.

“Blake has overstepped his bounds this time,” Daven growled, his voice steely and resolute.

“Unfortunately, Mr. Theo’s strategy has worked. Three foreign investors withdrew their capital earlier today, and another is now demanding compensation,” Thomas continued, his tone clipped.

“Who is it?” Daven hissed, his irritation simmering just below the surface.

“Hourse Steel. They’re accusing you of breaching the distribution contract,” Thomas replied, his voice steady despite the weight of the news.

“Ridiculous. Every contract we’ve had with them was handled with absolute transparency. Not once did they voice a complaint,” Daven said, rising from the sofa and pacing to the wide window. He stared out at the city lights, which sparkled like diamonds against the dark canvas of the night. “This is all a fabrication by Theo. He wants to see me crumble in front of the public eye.”

“Exactly. And I suspect he deliberately involved Hourse Steel, knowing how vital that market is to the Callister Group,” Thomas added, his eyes reflecting concern.

“Understood. Additionally, the defamation suit Miss Grayson filed against Vanessa is gaining traction. It’s drawing significant attention, and I believe it could be a strategic opportunity for us,” Thomas added, his eyes narrowing with focus.

“Exploit it, Thomas. We can’t afford to slip up—not when Vanessa could easily turn the tide back in her favor, even with the strong evidence we possess,” Daven warned, his tone firm.

“You don’t need to worry, Mr. Callister. We’ve already prepared for the worst-case scenarios regarding this matter,” Thomas reassured him.

Daven nodded slightly, his hand rubbing his chin in contemplation. “Then present me with your full report—”

“One more thing,” Thomas interjected quickly, urgency lacing his voice. “I’ve uncovered indications that Theo has been misusing his ministerial position to secure significant government contracts. The value is in the billions.”

A thin smile crept across Daven’s lips, though his eyes sparkled with a dangerous glint. “I suspected as much, but I never took the time to investigate further. Still, it appears I finally have something substantial to hold over him—should he choose to push me too far.”

“The evidence is still being gathered, and it will take time before it’s legally admissible,” Thomas cautioned.

“That’s acceptable. Just move quickly. I want Theo to be undone by his own weapon. If he thinks he can bury me with rumors, I’ll drag him into court with undeniable proof,” Daven declared, his voice filled with resolve.

“I understand,” Thomas replied, determination evident in his tone. “I’ll deploy the entire team.”