The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 144

TIMOTHY POV

The scent of freshly whipped icing and berry jams tickled Timothy’s nose as he sat amongst the various cakes and pastries scattered about.

He found himself once again dragged into the world of wedding preparations, a realm he had never imagined himself entering so soon. The prospect of cake testing, of all things, seemed incongruous with the chaos that had come to define his life. Yet, there he was, seated in a bustling bakery, surrounded by towering confections in all shapes and sizes.

Stella was the picture of enthusiasm, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she perused the extensive menu of cake options. She had insisted on bringing Timothy along, and he had reluctantly agreed, partly to appease her and partly because he had given his word.

Beside him sat his mother, Lydia, a woman whose presence had become increasingly important in his life. She had insisted on meeting Stella in person before they tied the knot, and Timothy had reluctantly obliged, hoping to bridge the gap between the two most important women in his life.

As Stella engaged in a fervent discussion with the baker about flavors and designs, Lydia sat quietly, her calm demeanor a stark contrast to Stella’s frenetic energy. Timothy watched as his mother observed Stella with a keen eye, her polite smile never wavering.

Stella’s voice cut through his thoughts, pulling him back into the moment. “Timothy, what do you think of this one?” she asked, holding up a sketch of an ornate cake adorned with cascading fondant flowers.

He blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the question. He glanced at the sketch, the intricacy of the design overwhelming his senses. “It looks… impressive,” he offered, his tone lacking enthusiasm.

Stella’s disappointment was evident, and her eyes narrowed as she turned her attention back to the baker. “Let’s go with something simpler,” she said, her voice. tinged with irritation.

Stella’s dismissive attitude toward Lydia had not gone unnoticed by Timothy. She had barely spoken or looked at the woman since they had arrived. He knew that.

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Stella harbored doubts about his mother’s longevity in their lives, assuming that Lydia wouldn’t be around for long.

times than he cared to admit. He couldn’t help but contrast Stella with Evie. Where Evie was grounded and unpretentious, Stella was consumed by a

He longed for the simplicity and authenticity that had defined his connection. with Evie. But he had made

consequences.

sensing his discomfort, finally spoke up, her voice calm but firm. “Stella, you should consider Timothy’s opinions. After all,

Timothy feared that an argument was imminent. “Lydia, I know what I’m doing. I’ve been dreaming of this day for years, and Timothy even told me

and he nodded sadly. “This is her league entirely.

her arms across her chest, grinning at

as the two women leered at each other. As Timothy sat there, his mind in turmoil, he couldn’t help but wonder

“I know you have your condition, so it seems a

words. Stella merely acknowledged him with a disinterested glance before returning to the cake artists‘ sketches. The woman looked slightly uncomfortable, and Timothy gave her a look of sympathy. Somehow, Stella had turned such a

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Chapter 144

colorful pages. As her gaze flickered back to Lydia, she

too well.”

her struggling for breath as the coughs.

gently took her arm. “Mom,

a weak smile. “I’m fine, Timothy.

urgency in his eyes. “Stella, we need

the situation. They left the bakery, the fresh air providing some relief from the

were alone, Timothy turned his attention back to his mother, his concern deepening. “Mom, you don’t look well. Are you sure you’re okay?”

gaze distant. “Timothy, it’s nothing to worry

was more to her condition than she was letting on. “Mom, you can’t brush this off. We need to get

need to run to the doctor every time I so much as

wasn’t a twitch, Mom,” Timothy pressed, giving her back a

and cleared her throat. “I’m sure. Let’s head

away as he attempted to adjust her, mumbling that she can do it herself and didn’t need

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