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!”

“Hey, nothing wrong with an extra rinse, right?” I nodded and

much left to the imagination beneath the thin material. His 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 expanse of

seem bothered by it at all, instead giving me a playful wink before passing the dog along to

As he brought Duke into the bath, they began asking him questions about his

fan of dogs,” he told them, giving the retriever a

is my pal, Duke. I figured if he had fun with his Sunday baths,

her shoes as Duke leaped out of

all this!”

no!” Timothy shook his head firmly. His gaze shifted

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Chapter 85

friends really pulled most of the weight. I

of this.”

but I couldn’t help but pause at his words. I hadn’t expected him to credit us for the event, although we hadn’t expected

had begun drawing to a close. I was drying off a very relaxed bulldog when I spotted Penny making her way over to Timothy. She wore her

glint of determination

Timothy turned toward her, his expression more receptive and

but eavesdrop on

ask.

“I wanted to talk to you about the fundraiser, Timothy. The turnout has been incredible, and I’m sure it’s been a whirlwind of emotions

It’s been

to see the

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 gaze drifting over the

describe, Penny, but I guess the best way to put it is that it warms my heart. This

leaving Timothy. “And what about the experience of washing the

might need a few more towels, that’s for

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Chapter 85

incredibly rewarding. Sometimes, it’s as simple

off the dog and gave him a light pat on the back. Glancing over at Timothy and Penny, I couldn’t

notice.

continued, I decided to give them some space and headed over to where Aria and

Did you catch Timothy’s

smile playing on my lips. “Yeah, I did. He really knows how to speak from the heart.” Aria’s eyes twinkled. “He’s got that down for sure. But you

in surprise.

gestured toward the park, where people were still mingling and sharing stories. “This whole event was your doing, Evie. You rallied everyone together, you made the fliers, and you jumped right in there with

felt my cheeks flush. “Thanks, Aria, but this was a team effort. We all played

But you’re the glue