The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 179

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The toy store loomed before us, a kingdom of childhood dreams. Colorful displays filled the large windows, and the sound of laughter and excitement reached our ears even before we stepped inside. We entered the store, and the magic of the place washed over me.

As we walked down the aisles, our footsteps echoing on the linoleum floor, I couldn’t help but wonder about Timothy’s earlier confession. The kind words had touched my heart, and despite the winter cold, the warmth from them only seemed to spread.

Turning to Timothy, I couldn’t contain my curiosity any longer. “Timothy,” I began tentatively, “how is it that you didn’t know about Olive before? I mean, she’s Stella’s niece. She never mentioned her?”

Timothy’s gaze shifted towards the colorful array of toys, his expression troubled. “I barely know anything about Stella, Evie. We’ve only met a few times over the years, purely as eye–candy for the tabloids, and we weren’t close. I hardly knew she had a sister until Scarlett sued her.”

My eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “So you two were going to get married while hardly knowing each other? That sounds…hopeful.”

Timothy’s shoulders slumped, and a shadow passed over his face. “It does sound strange when you say it out loud, doesn’t it? I never intended for things to go in this direction.”

Timothy’s words echoed in my mind. “Timothy,” I began, my voice tinged with concern, “it’s not just strange that you didn’t know about Olive. If Stella can’t even tell you about her own family, there’s probably other things she’s hidden. Like-”

“-Like her affair.” Timothy’s gaze shifted to a colorful doll on the shelf, his expression troubled. “I know, Evie. I probably should’ve expected it all

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along.”

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His admission hung heavily in the air, and I couldn’t help but feel angry for him. “But now that you know, you can get yourself out this. Family is important, Timothy, but not if you have to sacrifice your livelihood.”

knew all about sacrifices when it came to family. Of course, some choices were more selfish than others. I couldn’t imagine abandoning my child, but escaping my step–brother that one terrible night was necessary. Timothy‘ situation didn’t sound

his voice tinged

continued our search for the perfect gift for Olive. The shelves were brimming with possibilities, and as we strolled through

dolls, and Timothy’s eyes landed on one with braided pigtails and a bright smile. “I

isn’t into dolls. She’s more of an action figures and adventure kind of girl.” Timothy blinked in

action figure stood, its packaging adorned with vivid colors and bold illustrations. “That’s more her style. She loves space adventures and superheroes. But

tag, and he hesitated, concern etching his features, “I can cover it, Evie. It’s

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reluctant to accept his offer. “I appreciate that, Timothy, but it’s a bit expensive. I don’t want you to feel like you have to spend so much. Timothy’s determination shone through as he insisted, “I want to

my lip, feeling a mix of emotions. Timothy’s willingness to help was heartwarming, but I didn’t want to burden him with the cost. “Alright, but I’ll pay you back,”

filled with warmth.

“Ah. So you’re aware that I’m a charity case.

and took a dramatic sniff before

hide the shiver down my spine as he smiled at me.

I highly doubt you’re wallowing in poverty,” he added, grabbing the action figure off the shelf. “Certainty won’t be

good to

perfect gift complete. The conversation about Timothy’s family had left me with a lingering sense of

with tissue paper and a

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winter wonderland. Snowflakes drifted gently from the dark sky, blanketing the world in pristine white. The streetlights cast a soft glow on the snowy landscape, and

snowflakes fall. The cold air nipped at my cheeks, and I couldn’t