HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 403

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

**Chapter 403**

Cale entered the room with a flourish, his arms wide as he swept his nephew into a warm embrace that lingered just a moment longer than usual. Josh’s eyes widened in surprise, but soon enough, the unexpected affection transformed into a fit of giggles, filling the air with joy. Riana and Nathan exchanged glances, their hearts swelling with gratitude for the warmth that enveloped their home like a cozy blanket.

As if sensing the happy atmosphere, Grace joined the huddle, her presence adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the morning. Althea observed her family with a soft smile playing on her lips, her heart swelling with love. This scene—chaotic, boisterous, and undeniably beautiful—was the essence of her life, a blessing she cherished deeply. “Please, Lord,” she whispered silently, a prayer escaping her lips, “keep them all safe in Your love.”

Lydia, ever the practical one, broke the momentary reverie. “We should probably start eating. We don’t want to be late,” she reminded everyone, her voice laced with urgency as a maid trailed behind her, balancing a platter of golden-brown toast.

“Okay, Aunt Lydia,” Grace chirped, her voice bright and obedient, as she slid into the seat beside Cale. Josh and the others quickly followed her lead, eager to dig into the feast before them.

The dining table soon transformed into a lively symphony of clinking silverware and the cheerful pouring of juice. Conversation flowed effortlessly, weaving through topics like today’s quizzes, Grace’s latest dinosaur drawings, and Josh’s increasingly packed schedule. Cale leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper as he offered Josh some brotherly advice. “Focus on what you truly love, buddy,” he said earnestly. “You don’t want to stretch yourself too thin and lose sight of your studies.”

Josh, caught mid-bite, suddenly asked, “When is Papa coming home, Mom?” His voice held a mix of eagerness and curiosity. “I want to tell him my math grade went up!”

Grace’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she chimed in, “I want to show him too! I learned how to make a mosaic out of paper!” Her enthusiasm was contagious.

Daven will be so happy to hear that,” Althea replied, a smile tugging at her lips as she fought back the urge to beam.

Just as the family was savoring their breakfast, the soft, steady rhythm of footsteps echoed from the corridor, followed by the unmistakable sound of a chair being pulled back.

“Good morning, everyone,” a familiar voice rang out.

Josh was the first to react, his spoon pausing mid-air as he looked up in disbelief. “Dad—?”

Grace’s head whipped around next, her eyes widening in shock. “Papa?”

Standing in the doorway was Daven, his light blue shirt sleeves casually rolled up to his elbows, a broad grin spreading across his tired-but-happy face. As he took in the sight of his two small children frozen in surprise, he couldn’t help but laugh. And then, in a heartbeat, they launched themselves at him like twin rockets.

“DADDY!” they shouted in unison.

Daven crouched down just in time, his arms opening wide to embrace the duo. “Surprise!” he exclaimed, laughter bubbling from his chest.

“You’re home!” Josh practically shouted, his voice filled with joy.

“Since when?” Grace demanded, her arms tightly locked around his neck, as if afraid he might disappear again.

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