HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 247

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke 247**

**Chapter 247**

Josh pivoted toward Daven, his bright ocean blue eyes sparkling with an innocent trust that warmed Daven’s heart. “Of course I’d love that! But you must ask Mommy and Daddy first.”

The moment those words left Josh’s lips, Daven felt a sharp, piercing pang in his chest. The simple utterance of “Daddy” struck him like a whip, a reminder of the chasm that lay between them. In the eyes of this little boy, he was merely an outsider—a fortunate soul who had somehow managed to carve out a small space in Josh’s vibrant world.

“All right,” Daven replied softly, a hint of resignation in his tone as he nodded slightly. “Then I’ll ask your mother’s permission to take you on a trip.”

Josh’s face lit up, his grin stretching from ear to ear as he nodded enthusiastically. He immediately launched into a whirlwind of stories from past vacations, his voice bubbling with excitement and nostalgia. Daven listened intently, savoring every moment, every unfiltered laugh that spilled from Josh’s lips. He didn’t dare interrupt, fearing that any disruption would shatter the delicate joy that filled the air. As he observed the boy’s animated expressions, he silently longed for a day when their adventures would be centered around each other—when he would no longer be the outsider but a cherished part of Josh’s life.

“I’ll really be looking forward to that, Mr. Handsome,” Josh declared, his grin widening even further. “It’ll be amazing.”

Behind them, Arsen stood rigid, his fingers gripping the hem of his blazer as he watched the scene unfold. The tenderness in Daven’s smile, the way he held Josh’s hand with such care, was a sight that stirred something deep within Arsen. He recognized the depth of Daven’s affection for Josh, a love that ran profound and true. Yet, he couldn’t shake the realization that Althea’s love was even deeper. She had summoned the strength to allow her son to spend time with the man who had once shattered her heart so completely.

If Arsen were in her position, he questioned whether he could ever be so magnanimous. He would have severed all ties with Daven, ensuring that no meeting occurred, that Daven was never acknowledged as Josh’s father—no matter how undeniable the evidence might be.

“Yes, it’ll be wonderful, spending time with you,” Daven murmured, affectionately ruffling Josh’s hair with his gentle fingers. A soft chuckle escaped him as he added, “And here we are. This… is my office.”

Their steps came to a halt before a grand, towering door. With a smooth motion, Daven pushed it open, only to be struck dumb by the sight that awaited him inside.

“Mommy?”

“Why do you look so surprised?”

Daven’s gaze flicked to Arsen, seeking answers, but he found his assistant equally taken aback. It was clear—his mother, Kate Callister, had arrived unannounced. Ordinarily, Daven welcomed his mother’s spontaneous visits with open arms, but in this moment, he felt a swell of apprehension.

“Do you object to your mother’s visit, Daven?”

“Sweet boy…” Kate’s voice trembled as she returned the hug, holding him tightly against her. “I’m fine, darling. Truly.”

Josh’s smile brightened the room. “I’m glad you’re okay. But… am I interrupting, Grandma? Are you here as Mr. Handsome’s guest?”

At that precise moment, the office doors swung open wide. Two servants entered, pushing a trolley laden with an array of treats, refreshing juices, and a steaming cup of coffee intended for Daven.

Josh’s eyes sparkled with delight. “Oh! Is all of that for me, Mr. Handsome?”

Daven’s lips curled into a faint smile, his heart swelling with affection. “Yes, Josh. It’s all for you. Eat as much as you like.”

“Yay!” With uncontainable excitement, Josh dashed toward the trolley, his laughter ringing through the air. Arsen followed closely behind, assisting him with the plates and ensuring he was comfortable as he dove into the snacks with unrestrained joy.

Meanwhile, across the room, Kate turned sharply toward Daven, her eyes sharp and searching as they flicked between her son and the little boy who was now giggling over pastries. “We need to talk, Daven. Now.”