HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 213

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 213**

“Alright, I’ll leave you to it,” Tania said, her voice steady yet laced with an undercurrent of concern. She turned away, swallowing the myriad questions that swirled in her mind like leaves caught in a gust of wind.

It wasn’t long before the classroom began to clear out, a gentle ebb of students drifting into the hallways. Josh burst out, his laughter echoing through the empty space, a sound that always seemed to brighten the day. But then, in an instant, everything shifted.

“Mr. Handsome?” His face transformed, radiating pure joy. “You’re here?”

For Daven, that moment felt like a burst of sunlight piercing through a thick cloud cover. As Josh dashed into his open arms, Daven welcomed him with a wide embrace, enveloping the boy in warmth. To Josh, it was just another playful hug, a simple expression of affection. But for Daven, it held the weight of a thousand unspoken words—a tidal wave of longing, uncontainable joy, and the profound regret that had haunted him for years.

If only… if only he had treated Althea with kindness instead of cruelty back then. He would have known about her pregnancy. They could have raised Josh together, nurturing him in a home filled with love. Perhaps romance was never meant to blossom between them, but at least he could have poured every ounce of his devotion into his son, shaping a bond that would withstand the test of time.

“How are you, Champ?” Daven asked, his voice softening as he gazed into the ocean-blue eyes that sparkled with innocence—eyes that mirrored his own, leaving no doubt of their connection.

He reached out, gently smoothing down the tousled strands of Josh’s hair, feeling the warmth radiate from the boy’s small frame.

“I’m good! What about you? How are you, Mr. Handsome?” Josh chirped, his enthusiasm infectious.

“What do you think? How do I look?” Daven replied, a teasing smile creeping onto his lips.

Josh erupted into laughter, the sound bright and carefree. “I hope you’re doing well!” His tiny hand rose, brushing against Daven’s cheek with a tenderness that nearly broke him. “At least, don’t be sad like Mommy has been lately.”

That gentle touch sent a wave of emotion crashing over Daven. His heart tightened, battling with the urge to be selfish—to whisk Josh away to Mighatan, to right every wrong he had ever committed. But he knew that doing so would shatter too many hearts. Althea’s heart, especially.

“Is something wrong with your mom?” he asked, his voice cautious, probing.

Josh let out a soft sigh, his vibrant energy dimming as a shadow of sadness crossed his features. “Unfortunately, I can’t really talk about it with you, Mr. Handsome. Uncle Chase will be picking me up soon.”

Daven’s lips curved into a knowing smile, one that hinted at a deeper understanding. “Uncle Chase can’t pick you up today. I came instead. Do you mind?”

“Who wouldn’t love Bumblebee?” Josh exclaimed, hugging the toy box tightly against his chest, still in awe of the gift. “I’m so happy, Mr. Handsome.”

Daven gazed at Josh, his heart a tumultuous sea of emotions. If only that sweet nickname “Mr. Handsome” could be replaced with “Daddy”—that would bring a happiness he could scarcely fathom.

“Josh,” Daven called softly, steadying himself against the storm of feelings swirling within him.

Josh tilted his head back, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Yes?”

“Would you… mind having lunch with me?” Daven’s fists clenched tightly at his sides, a mix of hope and fear coursing through him. No. This was already more than he could have wished for. He couldn’t possibly ask for more—risking everything by wanting too much was a dangerous game.

“Yes! Of course! I don’t mind at all!” Josh exclaimed, his excitement bubbling over as he grabbed Daven’s arm. “I’ll show you a great place to eat. I’m sure you’ll love it, Mr. Handsome.”

The two of them, united in a moment of pure joy, stepped out into the world, leaving behind the shadows of the past as they ventured into the warmth of the future, hand in hand.