HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 99

**Shadows of the Past – By Emma Clarke**
**Chapter 99**

“Beyond his role as the founder of the SunRise Foundation—an organization that generously supports a multitude of schools—Mr. Chase Miller is also the proud owner of several lucrative assets, securing his place among the most affluent bachelors in SunCity. While he may not command a vast commercial empire like his two younger brothers, Chase’s influence in SunCity is undeniably significant,” Rio explained, his voice steady yet laced with an undercurrent of intrigue.

A momentary silence hung in the air as Rio’s words settled in.

Daven remained quiet, allowing himself a moment to absorb the breathtaking view of SunCity, illuminated under the vast expanse of the night sky. The shimmering lights below twinkled like stars fallen to earth, each one representing a life, a story, a dream. If he weren’t preoccupied with pressing business matters involving the city’s mayor, he might have sought out Althea and Josh immediately, driven by an urgent curiosity that tugged at him.

The encounter with Josh had been unexpected, a fleeting moment that felt like a gift from fate. Daven had sensed a connection, a thread leading him closer to the truth he desperately sought. But now, that opportunity had slipped through his fingers, and he couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret.

“In essence, Mr. Chase Miller was brought up in a privileged environment,” Rio continued, his tone informative. “However, his educational background and accomplishments are nothing short of impressive. As the eldest son of the Miller family, he carries a heavy burden of expectations and responsibilities. From what I’ve learned, his parents often introduced him to women from elite social circles—potential suitors—but Chase has never shown any real interest.”

“So, this is the first time he’s genuinely serious about someone?” Daven inquired, a hint of surprise creeping into his voice.

“Indeed, Mr. Daven,” Rio confirmed, his tone unwavering.

“Good. Just keep doing your job,” Daven replied, his voice firm. “And if any opportunity arises to gather more information about Josh—anything at all—you report to me immediately.”

“Understood, Mr. Daven,” Rio affirmed before the call abruptly ended, leaving Daven staring at the screen for a moment longer.

Setting his phone down, Daven rubbed his temple, a deep sense of frustration washing over him like a tide. The joy that had surged through him upon seeing Josh had dissipated the instant he faced Althea… and Chase.

“I know him, Mommy,” Josh exclaimed, his eyes bright with excitement as he pulled Althea’s attention back to the present. “He’s the one who helped me when I got hurt at City Hall! And Mr. Handsome came to my school that day, too!”

Josh had yearned to embrace Daven again, but with his mother holding him tightly, all he could do was share his memories aloud. “Even Uncle Chase knows him, right?”

“We meet again, Mr. Chase,” Daven said smoothly, a polite smile gracing his lips as he extended his hand in greeting. “I didn’t expect to cross paths with you here.”

“Have we met before?” Althea interjected, her tone icy and unfriendly, as if she were guarding herself against any emotional intrusion. She shot Chase a glance, subtle yet deliberate, almost as if she was encouraging this conversation to unfold.

“I don’t know you, Mister… Handsome, is it? That’s what my son called you, didn’t he?” she said coolly, her demeanor unwavering. “He mentioned bits and pieces—that you were a kind man who looked after him when he was hurt. As his mother, it would be rude of me not to express my gratitude.”

“It’s nothing,” Daven replied, though her denial caught him off guard. He wasn’t mistaken; he knew that face all too well. No matter how much brighter or lighter she appeared now, no matter how composed she seemed, he couldn’t tear his gaze away.

Althea had never looked this beautiful before.

And she wasn’t even wearing anything designer.

Seven years had transformed her—of that, he was certain. It felt as if the world she inhabited had been entirely separate from his own. But how could she not recognize him? How could she forget?