The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 68

The digital world was abuzz with newfound fascination. Fan accounts dedicated to the enigmatic “Evie” had sprung up like wildflowers after a spring rain. Photos of me, often taken from my public appearances, were paired with heartfelt captions. and hashtags that speculated about my connection to Timothy.

The hashtag #Tevie was trending more than usual, and I could already guess why.

I scrolled through my phone, the glow of the screen illuminating my features in the dimness of my apartment. Aria had texted me earlier, urging me to check out the fan accounts that had cropped up overnight. The attention was frightening, as I had no idea what Maria had revealed to the public.

The next day at the law firm, I was greeted with curious glances from coworkers. and the occasional congratulatory smile. The whispers of speculation followed me like a gentle breeze, making my cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and amusement. I couldn’t help but wonder how something as innocent as sharing at cake with Timothy had sparked such a whirlwind of interest.

I called off work earlier that day, already exhausted by the buzz around me. It didn’t take long for me to run into Timothy once I reached our floor. He was jamming the key in his lock as Duke pranced around him in excitement.

Quickly, he noticed me standing there and his face brightened into a smile. Duke. was already trying to charge toward me before Timothy got a good grip on his collar.

“Evie, hey!” he greeted, grunting when Duke nearly escaped his grasp. He didn’t seem bothered by any of the online commotion, his countenance wholly carefree and loose. It did make me curious if he’d even been online at all.

“Have you seen the fan accounts?” I asked, trying to keep it light.

Timothy nodded, his amusement evident. “Yeah, it’s hard to miss them. They seem to have multiplied overnight.”

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. I was sure that Maria had something to do with it, but feigned innocence anyhow. “Weird how fast news travels.”

Timothy shakes his head. “I hope it’s not too overwhelming for you, being as private as you are.”

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A

Chapter 68

I held his gaze, my heart skipping a beat at the sincerity in his eyes. “I know, Timothy. It’s all a bit overwhelming.”

“Just a little,” I said, looking to the side. “Nothing I’m not used to by now.”

Timothy knelt down and latched a leash onto Duke’s collar. “Well, speaking of overwhelming, would you like to go on a walk with me and Duke? He’s been getting restless from being cooped up inside all day.”

raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “A

in his eyes. “Yeah. We could get

a moment before

***

park was an open area in the center of the city. It had winding dirt trails shaded by thick trees that gave off the scent of fresh pine. Children rode their bikes along the path, greeting us as they

The soft rustling of leaves and the distant laughter of children created a soothing backdrop to our conversation. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment, despite the whirlwind of attention that had enveloped

the excited dog trotted ahead, occasionally stopping to sniff at something

coffee.

after he’d reminisced about the comic book collection he’d had when he was twelve. I almost laughed imagining Timothy as a pre–teen, so innocent and full of

eyes.

let out a hardy laugh. “I can only

of

found myself enjoying Timothy’s company to an alarming degree. Aria’s

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Chapter 68

exchange glances. His presence was both reassuring and exhilarating, a mix of comfort and excitement that I hadn’t experienced

more crowded area of the park. The tranquility was replaced by the cacophony of excited voices. and flashing cameras. Paparazzi and fans alike flocked

over here!” one shouted, his

really a couple?” asked

blossomed while working on

sudden onslaught of attention. The park had transformed into a chaotic frenzy. Timothy’s expression shifted from surprise. to mild irritation, but he managed

a touch of exasperation. “Looks like we’re the

of the situation hitting me.

way.”

eager

fans and persistent photographers. Maybe

valued my privacy, and this sudden intrusion was

we made our way through the crowd, a few fans caught my eye. Some were genuinely excited to see us together, their smiles warm and their words filled with congratulations. But there were also those who looked less enthused, their expressions clouded with

note of

glance with Timothy, his jaw clenched tightly as he held back a frustrated retort. The woman’s words were followed by a flurry of

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