HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 57

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 57**

“I completely agree,” Daven responded, his voice steady yet contemplative. “It seems like more and more companies are fixated solely on their profit margins, neglecting the fact that contributing to society is an investment that pays off in the long run.”

Sugimura nodded approvingly, a glimmer of satisfaction in his eyes. “The charity event is set for two weeks from now. Our office will send you all the pertinent details via email—venue, schedule, and the guest list. I sincerely hope you’ll be able to attend in person.”

“I will certainly make the time for it,” Daven assured him, his tone smooth and resolute.

At that moment, the soft sound of footsteps approached from behind, drawing Daven’s attention. Madame Yoshida Sugimura appeared, her presence striking in an ivory kimono embellished with delicate sakura blossoms that seemed to dance across her shoulder. Her smile was gentle, yet her gaze held a subtle sharpness as it assessed Daven with an intensity that made him momentarily uneasy.

“Forgive the interruption, Danna-sama,” she said, her English flowing with an elegant cadence. “You both appeared rather serious.”

“We were just discussing our upcoming social project,” Sugimura explained, turning his attention toward his wife. “Hime, you haven’t yet greeted Mr. Callister.”

Mrs. Sugimura offered a polite nod, her demeanor warm as she turned to Daven. “It’s a pleasure to see you this evening, Mr. Daven. I believe you don’t often attend events of this nature, do you?”

Daven managed a polite smile, though it felt almost awkward. “My apologies for my absence at previous gatherings.”

“Mr. Callister must be quite busy with his schedule, Hime,” Sugimura interjected smoothly, attempting to lighten the atmosphere with his words.

“You’re absolutely right, Danna-sama. I shouldn’t have said that,” Yoshida responded, her smile gracious yet tinged with a hint of regret.

Just then, a few more guests joined their small circle, and one middle-aged man, his face lighting up with recognition, called out to Daven with cheerful enthusiasm. “Mr. Callister! I just watched the latest drama your wife starred in! She absolutely shined—her performance was nothing short of phenomenal!”

Another guest quickly chimed in, eager to add his praise. “She was remarkable in the lead role! Migathan is fortunate to have such a talented actress. You must feel incredibly proud to have someone like Vanessa Callister as your wife.”

Daven offered a small nod, feeling the weight of their compliments. “Thank you for your kind words,” he replied, though inside he felt a tumult of emotions swirling.

Why must they bring this up tonight of all nights? he thought bitterly, frustration gnawing at him from within.

God, I just want to go home, he thought, a wave of longing washing over him.

And then it happened.

The one person he had hoped to avoid tonight emerged from the crowd, gliding toward him with graceful, poised steps, reminiscent of a crane gliding effortlessly across a tranquil lake. All eyes seemed magnetically drawn to her presence—elegant, captivating, and undeniably radiant. She came to a halt directly in front of him.

“Hi, darling,” Vanessa cooed sweetly, her voice a melody that usually warmed his heart. “I’m so glad you made it. It’s always such a challenge getting you to break away from your usual routine.”

Normally, Daven would have found that tone endearing. The way Vanessa clung to him, playing the role of the doting wife in front of their peers was something he cherished. But tonight… tonight felt different. There was an emptiness behind her words, a hollowness that echoed in the space between them.

“Would you like something to eat?” Daven asked, his tone flat, devoid of the enthusiasm he usually felt. “I’m sure Mr. Sugimura has arranged quite the spread. Interested?”

Vanessa blinked, momentarily taken aback by his lack of warmth, but her smile quickly returned, bright and unwavering. “Sure! I haven’t had dinner yet. Have you, sweetheart?”