HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 91

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

**Chapter 91**

“Isn’t it a bit peculiar?” Rose’s voice danced lightly in the air, but the underlying motive was unmistakable. “I mean, just look at how close your wife is with James. They’re practically inseparable—backstage, during promotions, even when Vanessa was under the weather. It’s as if everyone in this industry has grown accustomed to seeing them together. Almost like… a couple?”

“Sick?” Daven thought, the word echoing in his mind. When had she been unwell? Had he somehow missed a significant moment?

Around them, the atmosphere shifted. A few onlookers exchanged glances, some feigning indifference while others leaned in, curiosity ignited by Rose’s insinuation. Her words hung in the air, a thin veil of tension settling over the gathering, palpable and thick.

Daven’s gaze remained locked on Rose, his demeanor calm and inscrutable. He didn’t flinch, didn’t blink. “James is a highly compensated manager tasked with ensuring that Vanessa’s schedule flows seamlessly,” he replied, his tone even, betraying no hint of the turmoil beneath. “And I have complete faith in Vanessa.”

Rose’s smile remained unwavering, almost taunting. “Wow. You really are the epitome of a perfect husband. Not many men possess such… wisdom. Quite impressive, Mr. Callister.”

“Not everyone recognizes what true professionalism entails,” Daven replied coolly, his voice low yet sharp, slicing through the air like a knife. He took a deliberate sip of his drink, as if her probing question was merely a fleeting annoyance in an otherwise monotonous evening. “If you’ll excuse me.”

There were numerous nooks and crannies he could have slipped into, but he craved the solace offered by the garden-facing side of the venue. The cacophony of laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the incessant chatter faded into a dull roar, a meaningless backdrop to the weight of disgust that pressed down on him with every passing second.

“Arsen,” he called, his voice cutting through the noise just loud enough to reach his assistant.

Arsen, who had been lingering nearby, was at his side in an instant. “Yes, Mr. Daven?”

“Prepare the car.”

Arsen hesitated, momentarily frozen as if he couldn’t believe his ears. “Right now, sir? But—”

“Now,” Daven interrupted, his tone brooking no dissent. “If anyone inquires, tell them I had urgent business to attend to.”

“Of course, sir. I’ll arrange for an exit through the back parking access. There are still some reporters loitering near the lobby. I’ll ensure they don’t become too aggressive.”

Daven offered a curt nod, striding out of the ballroom without casting a backward glance at where Vanessa had last been.

Matching his pace, Arsen lowered his voice, urgency threading through his words. “Mr. Daven… there’s something else. About the news that surfaced while you were in SunCity. Gossip accounts are beginning to pick it up.”

“Shut it down,” Daven commanded, his tone icy. “Trace the original source. Pay them off, intimidate them—do whatever is necessary. I cannot allow that story to spread any further. It’s unsettling.”

“Understood.” Though, in truth, Arsen found himself puzzled. Normally, social appearances like fundraisers or charity events served as a platform for individuals like Daven to enhance their public image and forge stronger connections.

Rio.

“Yes?”

“Can we meet tomorrow? I’m on my way to Mighatan. There’s something I need to discuss with you.”

“The DNA test results?”

A pause lingered in the air before Rio responded. “Uh… yes, I suppose that’s part of it.”

“What do you mean?” Daven snapped, impatience flaring in his chest. “Tell me the result. Now.”

“I think… it’s better if you see it for yourself. I—I can’t explain it over the phone.”

Daven’s hand curled into a tight fist, frustration boiling within him. Yet, a surge of certainty coursed through him, compelling him to speak with unwavering resolve.

“Josh is my son… isn’t he?”