The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 85

That morning, Aria and I bustled around the apartment, making final preparations for the dog wash fundraiser. After a week of planning, the number of likes on Aria’s posts hinted at there being a massive turn out.

“Okay, Aria, do we have enough shampoo and towels?” I called out from the kitchen.

Aria emerged from the bathroom, her hands full of bags of dog shampoo. “Check and check! The shampoo’s all lined up, and the towels are piled high in the car. We’re good to go, Evie.”

I let out a relieved sigh. “Great. I can’t believe it’s finally happening.”

Aria grinned, her eyes sparkling. “It’s going to be amazing, Evie. Just imagine all those happy doggies getting pampered.”

As we exchanged a high–five, I felt a surge of gratitude for all the effort the others. had put in. Aside from being a media stunt, a dog wash seemed like a genuine way to get the community together. With everything in place, we grabbed our coats and headed out the door, ready to meet up with Timothy and Lucas at the park.

As we reached the park, the scene was nothing short of heartwarming. Pet owners had lined up early with their dogs, and volunteers were buzzing around, setting up washing stations and getting

ready for the day ahead. I couldn’t help but smile as I took in the colorful banners and the joyful atmosphere.

“Evie! Aria!” Timothy’s voice called out, and we turned to see him and Lucas waving us over. “Hey, guys!” Aria shouted back.

We joined the guys, and Lucas gave us a thumbs–up. “After they get those banners up, we’ll be ready to roll!”

Aria’s social media campaign had done wonders. The park was packed with people, pet–owners, curious wanderers, and local news stations alike. A reporter stood just a few feet away, microphone raised to her lips as she read her script live to the

camera.

After everything was set up, we split up into teams, each taking charge of a

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Chapter 85

different dog washing station. Timothy and I took the tub at the very end.

51%

As the first pet owner and their dog approached, I grabbed a hose and winked at Timothy. “Ready to get a little wet and wild?”

Timothy laughed, picking up a bucket of shampoo. “Let’s do this!”

The day quickly turned into a whirlwind of soap suds, wagging tails, and cheerful chatter, As dogs of all sizes and breeds lined up for their spa treatment, we got completely soaked and covered in suds.

At one point, I turned to Timothy, both of us soaked from head to toe. “I thought we were washing the dogs, not each other!”

wrong with an extra rinse, right?” I nodded and looked over, falling witness to how Timothy’s. white shirt had begun to cling to the

muscles rippled and flexed as he gave the Terrier a good towel rub. I could see the dark trail of hair that traveled down the

over and caught me staring. He didn’t seem bothered by it at all, instead giving me a playful wink before passing

particular. As he brought Duke into the

probably don’t know, but I’m a huge fan of dogs,” he told them, giving the retriever a playful scratch under his ear. This was probably the first time he was willingly exposing Duke to

my pal, Duke. I figured if he had fun with his Sunday baths, others would enjoy it just as

the splash of water near her shoes as Duke leaped out of the tub. “Certainly seems like it!

all this!”

firmly. His gaze

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Chapter 85

pulled most of the weight. I was

of this.”

but I couldn’t help but pause at his words. I hadn’t expected him to credit us

close. I was drying off a very relaxed bulldog when

a glint of determination in

the crowd. “Mind if I have a moment?” Timothy turned toward her, his expression more

off the bulldog, I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on their conversation. Penny was a seasoned reporter, but I was curious about

ask.

leaned in slightly, notepad in hand. “I wanted to talk to you about the fundraiser, Timothy. The

It’s been humbling community come together like

to see the

her pen poised over a notepad. “Can you put into words how it makes you feel? To see so many people supporting your efforts and contributing to a cause you’re passionate about?” Timothy’s expression softened, his

to describe, Penny, but I guess the best way to put it is that it warms my heart. This charity event wasn’t just about me. It was about everyone coming together

never leaving Timothy. “And what about the

his tone. “Well, I might need a few more towels, that’s for sure. But seriously, being hands–on in this way,

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Chapter 85

Sometimes, it’s as simple

and Penny, I couldn’t help

notice.

headed over to where Aria and Lucas were gathering up the last of the supplies. Aria grinned as

Evie! Did you catch Timothy’s interview

knows how to speak from the heart.” Aria’s eyes twinkled. “He’s got that down for sure. But you know what, Evie? So

in surprise. “What do

and sharing stories. “This whole event was your doing, Evie. You rallied

cheeks flush. “Thanks, Aria, but this was a team

nudged me playfully. “Oh, definitely. But you’re the glue holding this team