**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 303**
The morning sun struggled to break through the thick, gray clouds hovering over Mighatan, casting a somber shadow over the city. Chase’s sleek black car glided to a halt in front of the imposing Callister Group building, its glass façade reflecting the gloomy sky. A chill wind whipped through the air, biting at his skin, but the discomfort he felt was rooted far deeper than the weather. It was an unease that had nestled itself in his chest over the past week, a burden of unspoken worries and unresolved thoughts that felt heavier than any winter chill.
Yet, amidst the turmoil, a flicker of relief sparked within him. Soon, he would be reunited with Josh. The boy had spent his entire school break at Daven’s house, and while Chase had missed him dearly, his visit today had a dual purpose. He needed to see Daven, yes, but there was also a project that had been left in limbo, waiting for their attention.
As he stepped out of the car, the cold air filled his lungs, and he took a moment to steel himself before entering the building.
Upon reaching the top floor, Chase was greeted by Daven’s secretary, who offered a respectful nod.
“Mr. Callister is still tied up in a meeting, but it should wrap up shortly, Mr. Miller.”
“Understood,” Chase replied, his voice steady.
“If you’d like, you can wait in the lounge. He won’t be long,” she suggested, her smile polished and professional.
“Alright,” he said, moving towards the lounge with measured steps. The space was bright and airy, with glass walls that provided a panoramic view of the city. A coffee machine hummed softly in the corner, surrounded by shelves lined with an array of beverages designed to keep visitors comfortable during their wait.
Minutes slipped by slowly, the ticking of the clock on the wall a constant reminder of the time passing. Just as he began to lose himself in thought, the door swung open, and Daven strode in, clad in a tailored gray suit that accentuated his tall frame. His expression was as inscrutable as ever, but there was a flicker of surprise in his eyes when he spotted Chase.
“Chase?” Daven’s brows arched slightly. “You’ve come by unexpectedly. What’s the occasion? I thought you were buried in preparations for the new school year.”
Taking a seat across from him, Daven settled into the moment, curiosity etched on his face.
“Did I catch you off guard by dropping in unannounced?” Chase asked, attempting to keep his tone light.
Daven chuckled softly. “Do I look like I mind? It’s always a pleasure to see you.”
Their laughter mingled in the air, easing the tension that had built up around them.
“How’s Josh doing? He’s not being too much of a handful, is he?” Chase inquired, taking a sip of the steaming coffee that the secretary had just delivered. “And what about Arsen? I haven’t spotted him lately.”
“I sent him to meet with our legal team. Something important came up that required his attention,” Daven explained, his tone casual yet focused.
Chase nodded, absorbing the information.
“Regarding Josh, you know he’s no trouble at all. We’ve genuinely enjoyed having him around. Felicia is planning to drive him back home tomorrow afternoon,” Daven continued.
“In that case, let him come home with me instead. I should be finished with my work by tomorrow morning,” Chase suggested, a sense of eagerness creeping into his voice.
Daven regarded him thoughtfully, his gaze lingering on Chase’s face. There was something different about him today, an undercurrent of tension that was hard to ignore. “Are you… alright, Chase?”
Chase turned his head slowly, allowing a faint smile to grace his lips. “I’m fine. At least, I am for now.”
But Daven could see the worry etched in the lines of his friend’s face.
“Actually, there’s something personal I need to discuss with you,” Chase said, his voice dropping to a more serious tone.
“What is it?” Daven asked, leaning forward, his curiosity piqued.
Chase met his gaze directly, his blue eyes piercing and intense—the same shade as Josh’s. The resemblance between father and son was becoming increasingly undeniable, a reflection of shared lineage that tugged at Daven’s heart. “It’s about Althea.”
Daven’s composure faltered, a flicker of concern crossing his features. “What happened? Is she alright?”
“She’s fine,” Chase reassured him quickly. “But I’m not so sure about myself.”
“Don’t start talking nonsense,” Daven interjected, his tone laced with concern. “If this is about her pregnancy, the doctor confirmed she’s stable now, right?”
Chase offered a faint, weary smile, the corners of his mouth lifting just slightly. “You’re right. But what if I can’t ensure that any longer?”
“Chase.” Daven’s voice sharpened, a hint of urgency creeping in. “What do you mean?”
Rising from his chair, Chase moved toward the expansive window, gazing out at the sprawling Mighatan skyline. His reflection in the glass appeared distant, almost like a stranger staring back at him.


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