HIS REGRET (Ex-Husband wants Me Back) novel Chapter 353

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

**Chapter 353**

Riana finally stepped forward, her resolve solidifying within her. She could no longer allow this situation to linger in uncertainty. “Selena, we are not dismissing the evidence you’ve presented. We simply… need more time. Everything is unfolding at an alarming pace.”

Nathan, maintaining an air of calm amidst the tension, interjected, “Before we proceed, I have one question—where have you been residing during your time in SunCity?”

Selena lifted her chin defiantly, a spark of confidence igniting in her eyes. “I’ve rented a modest apartment for the time being, Mr. Miller. It’s conveniently located not far from downtown. Additionally, I’ve been exploring several schools that might be suitable for Eli. I want to ensure I make the right choice for his future.”

Nathan nodded slowly, processing her words. “Until we come to a conclusion regarding Eli’s situation, I must ask for your patience. The information you’ve brought to our attention is significant, Miss Selena. I trust you recognize the gravity of the matter.”

“Absolutely,” Selena replied, her eagerness palpable. “I’m willing to wait—just please provide me with a timeframe. The evidence I’ve submitted is robust. It won’t be easy to dispute. I would prefer to avoid legal action for something the Miller family could acknowledge without any fuss.”

Riana, her voice laced with irritation, interjected, “It’s not that straightforward, Selena. There are numerous factors at play—”

“You’re absolutely right, Mrs. Riana,” Selena responded quickly, her tone earnest. “I completely understand. That’s precisely why I requested this private meeting with all of you. I want to ensure that no one else is aware of Eli’s identity or the history we share. I’m acutely aware that this could lead to chaos.”

Nathan placed his hand gently over Riana’s, providing her with a sense of grounding and calm. Riana released a long, measured breath, her tension easing slightly as she gave him a small nod of acknowledgment.

“While we assess everything,” Nathan continued, “I want both of you to stay somewhere that guarantees your safety. Please don’t misunderstand my intentions—if Eli is indeed a Miller grandchild, I cannot allow her to remain in a place that may jeopardize her well-being.”

“Whatever you require, I will comply, Mr. Nathan. I know that everything you do is for Eli’s best interest,” Selena replied, a radiant smile lighting up her face, perhaps a bit too eager, too ready to comply.

Nathan swiftly retrieved his phone. “Erick, I need you to send someone to prepare the apartment at GreenVilla. Ensure it’s spotless and ready for occupancy. Additionally, assign two staff members to stay there temporarily; the apartment will be hosting guests. I want their needs catered to appropriately.”

“And make your way directly to the Sky Dining Restaurant at Street Hall 16. Bring along a few people to assist our guests in moving their belongings into the apartment. Instruct the staff to tidy up the space and restock all necessary supplies today.”

The call concluded with a decisive click.

“We haven’t acknowledged anything as of yet,” Nathan replied evenly. “We are merely ensuring you have a suitable place to stay. Nothing beyond that.”

Selena’s smile faltered slightly, yet it did not vanish. “Then… when can we discuss the remainder of the issues?”

“After we verify the DNA documentation,” Nathan stated firmly. “And haven’t I already requested your patience? Or is this your true intention?”

“Of course not,” Selena responded quickly, her voice steady. “I simply seek certainty. That is a reasonable desire for a mother wanting full acknowledgment for her child.”

“And if Chris were to elaborate on his father’s current condition,” Riana added sharply, “Eli’s emotional state could become precarious. Imagine having to explain to a child that she might have lost a father she never even had the chance to know. Moreover, if we were to consider various factors, children born outside of marriage do not fall under our responsibilities. You understand that, don’t you, Miss Selena?”

Selena fell silent, the pause stretching out long enough to reveal her internal calculations—should she press harder or take a step back?

In the end, she offered a gentle, inscrutable smile. “Very well. I will await the Miller family’s decision. And thank you—for considering Eli’s feelings, and for contemplating how she will navigate her life under the shadow of her father.”