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.”

gave me an inquisitive look, then nudged his head against my hand, seeking some affection. I happily obliged, scratching behind

with a grin. “You’re

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

looking fondly at his furry companion. “Duke’s been a good pal,

Duke’s chin

didn’t bring him up. He’s special to me, so I

I blurted out. Timothy’s eyebrows rose and I

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

odd considering she’d been around Duke more often than me, assuming she went over to Timothy’s that frequently. Still, I nodded, not wanting to pry too much into his personal life. But the unease lingered, especially since

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

at first. Only when he turned his attention away from Duke

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catch a flash of guilt in his expression.

I’m so sorry,” he said, although his

was so sudden. I don’t really know what happened,” I continued, egging him on. “One moment we’re enjoying coffee,

serious. “You two seemed so close.

pouted my

holding something back. “Well, I might’ve punched him at the club,” he confessed, looking

in shock. “You what?” I exclaimed, trying to sound angry, but unable to

sleeve. “I got a bit carried

no. You’re not getting

more

up.”

do

“Why would you it?”

it. I know it was wrong, and I feel bad about it, but he

can’t go around punching people, Timothy! No matter what the

of his mouth left me feeling the opposite. So he really had wanted to protect me, although I wish he hadn’t punched

let my emotions get the best of me. I should have handled it differently,” he acknowledged. “Is there anything I can

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Chapter 55

a little, trying to be understanding. “It’s good that you’re willing to apologize, but please, be careful with

work on controlling my