The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 200

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While running some errands at the store, | almost missed my phone buzzing in my pocket. | quickly fished it out and my eyes bugged when | saw Timothy’s name pop up on the screen.

| was still recovering from out last conversation, and it almost annoyed me how natural he was acting about it all. “Hello?” | answered.

His voice was chipper as he spoke. “Evie, I’ve found someone willing to represent you in your case. She’s a seasoned lawyer with an excellent track record, and | think she’s the perfect fit for your situation.”

Relief washed over me, and | felt a spark of hope. “That’s incredible news, Timothy, When can | meet her?” “We're actually at her office right now,” Timothy replied. “Can you make it here in about half an hour?” He was there?!?

| drew in a deep breath, wondering how many times he would steal my breath away with his actions. I’d end up suffocating completely and dying before anything happened between us.

“Yes, of course,” | said, forcing my voice into a cool, flat tone. “I’m on my way.”

With a quick goodbye, | hurriedly made my way to the location Timothy had provided. It was a very pristine firm on the edge of town, Robertson and Co. As | arrived, my heart raced with anticipation.

| couldn't help but wonder if this mysterious lawyer would be the answer to my troubles. The last time I'd had assistance, | was iced out of my own case. And | know Timothy meant well, but it seemed all too convenient that he wanted to be there for the meeting after are last conversation.

Timothy was waiting for me at the office entrance, and he greeted me with a warm smile. “Evie, I’m so glad your could make it.”

| returned his smile, pausing just at arm’s length as he reached out to me. “Timothy, hey. Thank you for this, by the way. It means a lot.”

He put a reassuring hand on my shoulder as he guided me inside the building. “You're not alone in this, Evie. I’m 1/15

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here for you every step of the way.”

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We entered the office, and a poised woman in her late forties rose from behind her desk to greet us. Her brown hair was neatly pulled back, and her sharp, analytical eyes bore into mine as she extended her hand.

“Evie, this is Jane Nickles,” Timothy said with a gesture towards the lawyer. “Jane, meet Evie Sinclair, the woman | told you about.”

| shook Jane’s hand, and her firm grip spoke of confidence and competence. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Sinclair,” she said with a warm smile. “Mr. Hayes has spoken highly of you, and I’m eager to hear about your

case.” | returned her smile, feeling a sense of reassurance in her presence. “Thank you, Ms. Nickles. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with you.”

Timothy stepped forward, his enthusiasm almost contagious. “Jane is pretty well-versed in this area of the law. She’s the best person to have in your corner from what | heard.”

Jane nodded in agreement. “I’ve reviewed the information Timothy shared with me, and I’m prepared to take on your case. Please, tell me about your situation and any details you think are relevant.”

| took a deep breath and began to recount the events that had led to my current predicament. The relentless harassment, the false accusations, and the toll it had taken on my personal and professional life. Jane listened intently, her eyes never leaving mine, and her expressions shifting in response to my story.

When | had finished, Jane leaned back in her chair, her fingers steepled in thought. “This is a complex case, Evie, and it will require a thorough investigation and a well-structured legal strategy. But I’m confident that we can build a strong defense.”

| was encouraged by her confidence, and | couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. “Thank you, Jane. I’ve been through a lot, and | just want the truth to come out.”

As our meeting continued, Jane delved into the details of the legal process, outlining the steps we would need to take, the evidence we would need to gather, and the strategies we would employ to build a strong case. Her expertise and professionalism shone through, and | felt a renewed sense of hope.

“We'll need to meet with your employer and his lawyer to discuss the terms of the negotiations,” Jane explained. | will be there to represent you, of course, but you will have the freedom to speak for yourself as well.”

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| nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. | understand.”

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“And regarding the evidence for your case,” she continued” she continued, “It would help your case if your reached out to others who may have experienced harassment from your employer. If there are more victims willing to come forward, it would strengthen our case and increase the likelihood of change within the company.

“About that,” | laced my fingers together and leaned toward her. “I had previously attempted to gather support from my coworkers, but most were unwilling to step forward. sure they were scared of what would happen to their livelihoods, seeing as what happened to mine.

“Compensation should be offered to the victims,” Jane suppested immediately, “so they know they are secure and can even choose to remain anonymous during the process, it important for them to feel that their voices will be heard without fear of repercussions.”

| considered Jane’s proposal, recognizing its merits. That's a thoughtful approach, Jane. And maybe some will come forward and speak directly to the public if they know they won't be sione”

Jane nodded in agreement. “We'll ensure that the terms of the settlement include such provisions. It’s important to create an environment where victims feel safe and supported.”

As we concluded our meeting. | couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude toward Jane. We seemed to be getting off at a great start. | shook her hand, a warm smile on my face. “Thank you. Jane can’t express how grateful | am for your help.”

Jane returned my smile. “You are more than welcome. Evie. Your strength is truly remarkable, and I'll be glad to get you your justice.”

She led us out of her office and into the lobby, and we exchanged goodbyes before she dismissed herself. After Jane’s departure, | turned my attention to Timothy.

“| have to admit that Jane has been amazing so far,” | told him. “She seems to reaily understand the assignment.” Timothy grinned, a playful glint in his eyes. “Oh, Evie, how you doubt me.”

Held under his gaze for far too long, | found myself looking away for my own sanity. My cheeks grew warm, and feared that it would show. “Of course not.”

His smile broadened, reflecting a sense of pride. “Glad to hear it. You needed the best representation, and

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she was the right fit.”

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We walked outside, onto the bustling sidewalk, and Timothy followed me to the underground parking lot. As | dug in my purse for my car keys, he asked, “What do you plan to do about the witnesses, Evie?”

| had already given this matter some thought previously, but Jane had given it some clarity. “I've been considering this, Timothy. | can already guess that Mr. Erickson had some inappropriate interactions with some of my colleagues.”

Timothy's brow furrowed. “But they won’t talk, right?”

| nodded, though | felt a little more hopeful. “Maybe if | appeal to their emotions. People always respond well to food, and I’m sure they will be feeling extra talkative after | pay for their dinner.”

“Ah.” Timothy smiled. “Bribery.”Text property © Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org.

| nudged his arm. “Not bribery. I’m just catching up with them, and if they choose to spill some gossip along the way, who am | to stop them?”

We paused as | reached my car. | unlocked the doors and tossed my purse into the passenger seat before turning to him. “It's never a dull time for me,” | said flatly.

“Hey, I'll support you every step of the way,” he said, holding open my door as | climbed in and started the car. He paused for a moment, his eyes resting on me. When he started to open his mouth, | grew a little nervous.

“Be careful, okay?” he said, though i could tell he wanted to say more. He released the door and backed away, giving me a mischievous look. “Don’t go getting into trouble.”

| shut the door and rolled down the window, beaming up at him. “Since when have | not be careful?”

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