HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 67

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 67**

“No, but… now I don’t feel like I have to anymore.”

Daven stifled a chuckle, the corners of his mouth twitching in amusement. “Well, once we get you all patched up, you should definitely give it another shot. Holding it in can lead to a tummy ache, you know.”

“Really?” Josh’s eyes widened, curiosity flickering across his youthful features.

Daven nodded earnestly as he continued down the hallway, following the directions given by the staff. The private medical room awaited them, a serene oasis nestled within the bustling main hall. Gently, he set Josh down on the plush sofa, ensuring the little boy was comfortable.

“I can handle the treatment, Mr. Daven,” a staff member interjected politely, stepping forward with an air of professionalism.

Daven raised a hand to stop him. “No need for that,” he replied quickly, wanting to take charge of the situation. “Could you please call my assistant? He’s likely still engaged with the Ambassador. Would you mind?”

“Of course, Mr. Daven,” the staff member replied, retreating with a nod.

As soon as the door clicked shut behind them, Daven removed his blazer, draping the luxurious fabric over the back of the sofa. He rolled up his sleeves, revealing strong forearms as he prepared to attend to the boy in front of him—Josh, with his cautious eyes watching closely, uncertainty etched across his small face.

“This might sting a little. Think you can handle it?” Daven asked, his voice a soothing balm as he opened the first-aid kit. He soaked a cotton ball in alcohol, the sharp scent filling the air, and reached for an antiseptic salve, ready to ease the boy’s discomfort.

Josh kept his gaze downcast, his tiny hands quivering slightly. Every so often, he peeked up at the stranger who was about to treat him, apprehension evident in his wide eyes.

“Are you scared?” Daven inquired gently, wanting to reassure him.

Josh hesitated, his brow furrowing as he considered. Finally, he shook his head almost imperceptibly. “No, it’s just… Mommy and Aunt Lydia said I shouldn’t talk to strangers.”

A soft chuckle escaped Daven’s lips, the tension in the room easing slightly. “That’s wise advice,” he agreed, carefully straightening Josh’s leg. Thankfully, the boy was dressed in knee-length shorts, making it easier to access the wound. “And you’re absolutely right to be cautious, but I promise, I’m not here to kidnap you.”

Josh’s gaze flickered to Daven, still uncertain. “Then why are you helping me?”

“Because when you see someone in pain, it’s only right to lend a hand, don’t you think?” Daven replied, gently dabbing the cotton against Josh’s scraped knee.

Josh winced, a small sound escaping him. “Ugh!”

“Just a little longer, alright? We’re almost done,” Daven encouraged, his voice calm and steady.

Josh nodded, squeezing his eyes shut tight as he braced himself for the sting.

“So, is your name really just Josh?” Daven asked, hoping to distract him from the discomfort.

“I’m not supposed to tell strangers my full name,” Josh replied, his voice small yet resolute.

Daven smiled warmly at the boy’s response. “Fair enough. Well, I’m Daven. You might not care to know my name, but it feels polite to introduce myself.”

He let out a soft laugh as he finished tending to the injury, his hands moving with care. Not only did he clean Josh’s knee, but he also bandaged the little palm that had suffered a scrape during the fall.

“There. All done,” he announced, stepping back to admire his handiwork.

Josh glanced down at his newly patched knee, then at his hand, still tender yet now treated. “Th-thank you, Mr. Daven,” he stammered, a hint of relief in his voice.

“She’s absolutely right about that,” Daven replied, his heart warming at the boy’s innocent confidence.

“But I used to think they were weird. At school, I’m the only one with eyes like this.”

Daven chuckled, the sound light and genuine. “Well, you’re not alone anymore. I’ve got the same eyes, don’t I?”

Their laughter mingled in the air, a spontaneous connection bridging the gap between two strangers. Josh, who had appeared tense and guarded just moments before, now radiated ease and comfort. And Daven… Daven felt a shift within himself, a stirring he hadn’t anticipated.

There was something undeniably captivating about this child—this bright, inquisitive little boy who had already managed to capture his attention back on that stage. Josh. A student from a kindergarten associated with the charity event of the Japanese Embassy.

Daven’s thoughts began to wander, a strange longing creeping in. For a fleeting moment, he found himself wishing that Josh didn’t have parents. What a ridiculous thought, he chided himself. Yet, the urge lingered—an inexplicable desire to take the boy home, to keep him close. Was it for companionship? Or perhaps something deeper?

It was irrational, absurd even. But the thought wouldn’t dissipate.

And then—

“Mr. Daven.”

The staff member he had sent to find Arsen returned, and this time he wasn’t alone. Arsen trailed closely behind him…

And standing right next to him—

“Josh?!”