HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 209

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 209**

“Remember, Thomas, our connections in the international media are crucial. If the headlines are filled with stories about Vanessa and James, investors will see that it’s not me who lacks integrity; it’s them. We’ll shift public perception back to our side, mark my words.”

“It’s already underway. Several major outlets are poised to release a series of articles,” Thomas assured him, his voice steady.

“Excellent.”

Daven reclined in his chair, momentarily closing his eyes to gather his thoughts. “You must understand, Thomas, this isn’t merely about safeguarding the reputation of the Callister Group. This is about my pride. Vanessa Blake has underestimated me, and she’ll soon learn that I’m not someone to be trifled with.”

“She’ll grasp that lesson soon enough, sir,” Thomas replied, his confidence unwavering.

“See to it that you don’t disappoint me. I have no tolerance for failure.”

Taking a deep breath, Thomas responded with resolve, “Every action will align with our strategy. You have my assurance.”

“Good. I expect updates every hour. I want detailed reports. Don’t let me hear any negative news from the media before I hear it from you. Is that understood?”

“Absolutely clear, sir.”

With that, the line went silent. The office was enveloped in stillness once more, punctuated only by the shimmering lights of SunCity that spilled through the expansive windows. Daven’s grip tightened around his phone, his expression hardening with determination.

Theo Blake might think he had rattled the Callister Group with his petty maneuvers, but Daven had already positioned the pieces for a much grander scheme. This battle was merely at its inception, and he was resolute in his intent to emerge victorious.

His gaze fell to the device still clutched in his hand. What he longed for at that moment was Althea’s response.

Althea:

Just remember, Daven—there are limits to how often you can see Josh.

Vanessa froze, the weight of his words crashing down on her, igniting a firestorm of anger. “What? Five million?” She sprang to her feet, her eyes blazing with disbelief. “For what? Does she think I’m some kind of cash cow? This is absurd!”

Her fists clenched tightly, rage flooding her cheeks. “Damn her! That woman needs to be put in her place! What gives her the right to treat me like this?”

Reid maintained his composure, his voice steady. “Miss Blake, this is not solely about the financial aspect. A defamation suit carries significant legal ramifications, especially with the evidence they possess. You—”

“Stop!” Vanessa interrupted, raising a trembling hand, her face flushed with emotion. “Don’t speak as if this is all my doing. Everything that has occurred—they’ve exploited it to tear me down, to corner me until I finally… submit. They’ve attacked me from every angle, and I know it! If I apologize, it means I’ve lost. And I refuse to be a loser!”

Theo, who had remained silent until that moment, finally interjected. “Vanessa, you need to listen to him. Reid isn’t exaggerating. That five million could easily double if the court rules in Althea’s favor. We must consider the worst-case scenario.”

“Papa!” Vanessa turned to him, her eyes blazing, tears welling up and threatening to spill over. “Why are you adding to the pressure? I’m your daughter! You should be supporting me, not pushing me into a corner!” She couldn’t fathom how her father could side against her now, in her moment of need.

“If I acknowledge this, my name gets dragged down with yours, doesn’t it?”