HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 319

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

**Chapter 319**

The rain fell gently outside, a soothing symphony that drummed softly against the windowpane. The earthy scent of damp soil wafted through the small crack in the glass, mingling with the warmth of the room.

In the cozy embrace of the living room, Althea was nestled on the sofa, a soft blanket pulled over her lap like a protective cocoon. Her eyes were drawn to the flickering flames of the fireplace, their golden glow spilling warmth into the dimly lit space. Grace, her little bundle of joy, stirred slightly in her arms but remained blissfully asleep, her tiny breaths creating a rhythm of tranquility. Across the room, Josh was deeply engrossed in his sketchbook, his brow furrowed in concentration as he brought his imagination to life on paper.

“Mommy,” he called out, his voice barely above a whisper, filled with the innocence of a child. “Can I add Papa to this picture?”

Althea turned her head slowly, a soft smile gracing her lips. “Of course, sweetheart. Your Papa should be part of it.”

Josh’s face lit up, a shy grin spreading across his features. “But Daddy should be here too. He’s the one who planted the tree at school, right?”

A delicate warmth spread through Althea’s heart, her lips curving faintly even as her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. “Yes, sweetheart. Daddy’s the one who planted it.”

“Then… they both belong here,” Josh declared, pointing emphatically at the page, his voice brimming with childlike certainty. “Because I love them both.”

Just as Althea was about to respond, the doorbell rang, its sound slicing through the peaceful atmosphere.

Taking a deep breath, Althea cast a quick glance at the clock on the wall.

Daven.

When she opened the door, there he stood, his dark gray suit clinging to him, dampened by the relentless rain. In one hand, he held a folded umbrella, while the other cradled a small box of food.

“Morning, Thea,” he greeted softly, his voice low and soothing. “I brought chicken soup. Lydia mentioned you haven’t eaten since this morning.”

Althea’s eyes darted to him, a hint of surprise dancing in her gaze. “You didn’t have to go through all that trouble.”

“It’s not trouble if I wanted to,” he replied, a gentle smile touching his lips.

Before she could muster a response, Josh dashed up behind her, his excitement palpable. “Papa!”

Daven’s expression transformed, a smile blooming on his face—a small yet warm gesture that lit up his features. He crouched down, arms open wide, and Josh leaped into his embrace.

“Have you eaten, buddy?” Daven asked, his voice rich with concern.

“I did! But Mommy hasn’t,” Josh chimed in, his words tumbling out in a rush.

Daven turned his gaze toward Althea. “You heard that.”

She sighed, the corners of her mouth twitching in a reluctant smile. “You two are exactly the same.”

“I can get the plates!” Josh announced with pride, his little chest puffed out. “Papa, you’ll eat with Mommy, right?”

“Of course,” Daven assured him, his tone gentle, his gaze softening as he looked at Althea.

As Josh scampered off toward the kitchen, Daven turned back to Althea. “He’s looking more like me every day.”

“Yes,” she replied, a hint of exasperation in her voice. “And just as stubborn as his father.”

“Which one?” Daven’s lips quirked into a teasing smile. “Me or Chase?”

Althea held his gaze for a long moment, the weight of unspoken thoughts hanging in the air before she lowered her eyes. “Both.”

They settled at the dining table, Grace securely in her baby chair beside Althea, while Daven helped Josh arrange the spoons and napkins. The atmosphere felt oddly serene—almost too serene for a household that had recently experienced such a profound loss.

“Papa, when can I visit your office again?” Josh asked eagerly, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “I want to see the big meeting room!”

Daven chuckled, a warm sound that filled the room. “Do you want to see the meeting room, or the coffee machine you like?”

“Both!” Josh beamed. “But don’t forget—I want to sit in your chair too.”

“Alright,” Daven replied with a soft laugh. “But only for a little while. That chair’s not quite big enough for two.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify