The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 55

As I approached my apartment, I was surprised to see Timothy standing there. His face lit up when he saw me, and I couldn’t help but smile back, despite the Linda issue.

“Hey, Evie! It’s been a while. How are you?” he asked warmly.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond. I wasn’t ready to be honest with Timothy, but I didn’t want to seem distant either.

“I’ve been okay,” I finally replied, trying to sound casual. “Just been busy with work and stuff.”

Timothy studied my face for a moment. “Are you sure you’re okay?” he asked, concern in his eyes.

I nodded quickly. “Yeah, yeah, I’m fne,” I assured him. “Just in a bit of a rush right. now, that’s all.”

He didn’t seem fully convinced, but he let the subject drop for the moment.

As much as I tried to resist, curiosity got the better of me. “I didn’t know you had a dog,” I blurted out, feeling a little embarrassed after.

He smiled, seemingly delighted by this insight. “Yeah, I got Duke a few months. ago. He’s been a great companion, especially during my recovery,” he explained, his eyes lighting up with affection as he talked about his furry friend.

“Well, if you have a few minutes, you should come over and see Duke,” he said brightly.

“I’d love to meet him,” I replied, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. I knew spending more time with Timothy might stir up emotions I wasn’t ready to confront, but I couldn’t resist the opportunity to see Duke.

“Cool! Follow me.” Timothy said, gesturing toward his apartment door. “He’s a big sweetheart, I promise.”

I followed him to his apartment, my heart beating a little faster with each step. Once we reached his door, he unlocked it and motioned for me to enter first.

As I stepped inside, a wave of familiarity washed over me. Timothy’s apartment

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was cozy and well–decorated, with a touch of his personality evident in every corner. I noticed a few hockey–related items scattered around, a testament to his passion for the sport.

“Duke! Come here, buddy,” Timothy called out, and a few seconds later, a golden retriever came bounding over to us. He was a handsome dog with a friendly demeanor, and his wagging tail instantly made me smile.

“This is Duke,” Timothy said proudly, patting the dog’s head. “Duke, this is Evie.”

seeking some affection. I happily

Timothy observed with a

interaction with Duke. “I’ve always loved dogs,” I admitted. “They’re such loyal

really are,” Timothy agreed, looking fondly at his furry companion. “Duke’s been a good

boy,” I replied, scratching under Duke’s chin as he barked.

up. He’s special to me, so I don’t

blurted out. Timothy’s eyebrows rose and I

discomfort, he merely grinned and shook his head. “Uh, Linda’s… fine,” he

frequently. Still, I nodded, not wanting to pry too much into his personal life.

I admitted, deciding to steer the conversation away from Linda. “I split

Only when he turned

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the eyes did I catch a flash of guilt in his expression. He frowned and

really? I’m so sorry,” he said, although

him on. “One moment we’re enjoying coffee, then

turned serious. “You two seemed

pouted my

could tell he was holding something back. “Well, I might’ve punched him

what?” I exclaimed, trying

“I got a bit carried away,” he admitted. “But don’t worry, I’ll talk to him

no. You’re not getting off that easily,”

to something more fearful. “I know.

up.”

do

“Why would you it?”

some other guy at the club, and I just lost it. I know it was wrong, and I feel bad about it, but

go around punching people, Timothy! No matter what the reason is, that’s not how you handle things,” I scolded, trying

really had wanted to protect me, although I wish he hadn’t punched my friend. Of course, he didn’t know that

best of me. I should have handled it differently,” he acknowledged. “Is there anything I

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softened my tone a little, trying to be understanding. “It’s good that you’re willing to apologize, but please, be careful with your temper. You don’t want to end up

right, Evie. I need to work on controlling