**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 331**
“Are you… really serious this time?” Kate Callister’s voice broke the stillness, carrying a weight of emotion that hung in the air like a delicate thread.
Daven’s nod was resolute, his conviction unwavering. “Mom, I’ve never been more certain of anything in my life.”
Felicia’s brows knitted together in disbelief, her eyes widening as the reality of the situation sank in. “A proposal? You’re actually going to propose to Althea? Right now?”
“In just two days,” Daven replied, his tone firm and unyielding. “I want it to be simple, yet profoundly meaningful.”
Kalina placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, her smile gentle and encouraging. “You know, this is the first time you’ve expressed your feelings without a hint of hesitation. It’s refreshing to see.”
A faint smile tugged at the corners of Daven’s lips. “Perhaps it’s because this time, it’s not solely about me. It’s about her—and those two little kids who call me ‘Papa’ every single morning.”
A silence enveloped Kate as she absorbed his words. “Daven, I’m not one to hand out compliments easily, but I want you to know that I’m genuinely proud of you. Althea is a wonderful woman, and those kids… they’ve already woven themselves into the fabric of who you are.”
“Mom,” Daven said softly, his voice barely above a whisper, “I just want to mend what I broke before.”
“Thank you, Mom,” he added, his gratitude palpable.
Kalina’s smile widened, her eyes sparkling with warmth. “You know, I was really angry when your marriage with Althea fell apart. But seeing the two of you together now… it’s different.”
Felicia interjected quietly, “She’s not the same woman she was, and you’ve changed too. Perhaps… this is how it was always meant to unfold.”
Kate’s gaze lingered on her son, her expression thoughtful. “If this is truly what you desire, I will be there for you. I want to witness you fulfill that promise you once made to yourself—to be the man who stays, not the one who walks away.”
Daven lowered his head, a flicker of gratitude shining in his eyes. “That’s the only promise I ever wish to keep for the rest of my life.”
Two days later, in a hotel ballroom softly illuminated by the warm glow of chandeliers, the atmosphere was filled with an enchanting golden light. Althea stood amidst familiar faces—Lydia, Daniel Miller, and even Riana, who had arrived with Cale and their children, adding to the joyous ambiance.
“Daven mentioned this was just a family dinner,” Althea whispered to Lydia, her curiosity piqued.
Lydia shrugged, a knowing smile playing on her lips. “Maybe it is… or maybe it’s something more.”
Suddenly, the music came to a halt, and the lights dimmed, casting an air of anticipation throughout the room. Daven appeared across the ballroom, dressed in a simple black suit, a calm smile illuminating his face. Beside him, Josh and Grace walked, each holding one of his hands, their excitement palpable.
Althea blinked in confusion, her heart racing. “What… what are you doing?”


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