**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 225**
Arsen cast a quick glance into the rearview mirror, ensuring his employer remained engaged with the conversation. “I’ve managed to secure tomorrow’s meeting with Mr. Chris, sir. Unfortunately, he won’t be available until after lunch. If I may offer a suggestion, it would be prudent to utilize that time to convene with the management and legal teams regarding the cancellation of several matters tied to Mr. Harold’s project. As for the board members and other managers, I believe we can defer those discussions for now.”
In the mirror’s reflection, Arsen noticed that Daven remained perfectly still. The man sat there, his posture rigid, eyes glued to the window, though the view offered nothing more than a blur of buildings rushing past. Yet, there was a palpable sense that Daven had left something significant behind in that fleeting landscape, something only he could still feel tugging at his heart.
“What else can I hope for?” Daven finally murmured, his voice barely rising above a whisper. “You’ve already exerted yourself to the fullest, Arsen. I’ll adhere to whatever guidance you provide. You understand better than I what course of action I should pursue when I’m in this state.”
Arsen exchanged a knowing look with Andy, who sat silently beside him. No words were exchanged, but the understanding was mutual—they both recognized the burden that had been pressing heavily on Daven’s shoulders lately.
“Very well, sir,” Arsen replied, inclining his head slightly. “I recommend you retire early tonight.”
“You’re right,” Daven conceded, pressing his fingers against his temples as if trying to massage away the tension. “Perhaps a good night’s sleep will help me forget, even if just for a fleeting moment.”
This city felt worlds apart from Mighatan, the place he once proudly called home. SunCity thrummed with life—constantly bustling—but Mighatan had been a whirlwind of activity, even more frenetic. Yet, SunCity possessed its own unique rhythm. Outside, the streets sparkled with vibrant lights, the city alive with an electric energy. But for Daven, all that brilliance felt like a distant star—glimmering yet unreachable. Inside, he wrestled with a hollow ache that seemed to grow deeper with each passing day.
***
The following morning, Daven found himself standing before the towering headquarters of TnC Group, the nerve center where Miller Group orchestrated its operations. He carried an air of quiet confidence as he stepped into the lobby, where several staff members were already poised and waiting for him. They guided him toward the twenty-seventh floor, where Chris Miller was expecting him.
“I just dispatched the email outlining our discussion points with Mr. Chris,” Arsen murmured quietly beside him. They were in the private executive elevator, flanked by two courteous staff members who had greeted them with polite smiles downstairs.
Daven responded with a curt nod, his mind racing as the elevator ascended swiftly, the silence thick with anticipation.
“This way, Mr. Daven,” one of the staff instructed once the doors slid open, revealing a sleek corridor bathed in soft light.
He and Arsen followed the staff down the polished hallway until they came to a halt before an imposing door. A gleaming plaque announced the title: CEO, TnC Group.
“Please, Mr. Chris is expecting you,” one of the staff said as they pushed the door open.
“Sounds perfect,” Daven agreed, feeling a sense of relief wash over him at Chris’s more relaxed demeanor—especially after the harrowing hostage situation he had endured.
“So… what do you need to know?” Chris asked once they settled into their seats. The atmosphere carried a thin edge of tension, the weight of unspoken concerns hanging in the air.
“Any updates on Harold’s whereabouts?” Daven inquired, his tone serious as he leaned forward slightly.
Chris shook his head, a frown creasing his brow. “I’ve deployed a lot of resources to track him down. That old fox knows how to remain hidden.”
Daven nodded, the frustration bubbling beneath the surface. “Even though I chose to engage with Harold, it’s been a challenge to keep the board and our investors patient during this ordeal.”
Chris let out a tight laugh. “That’s precisely why we’ve repeatedly asked whether you were ready, Mr. Callister. This is the worst-case scenario stemming from that partnership. Harold didn’t just meddle with one or two projects—he left a trail of chaos: corruption, data manipulation, even meticulously fabricated funds. It’s as if he intended to sow discord.”
“Is there a concrete plan to ensnare him?” Daven asked, his tone shifting to one of determination.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back)