Chapter Fifty-Two—Michael’s Confession

“Honestly? It was everything you did. But that came later. In January, once the party ended and I regained my sobriety, I could reflect on what had occurred. The situation didn't align with my expectations. I couldn't figure out why my past relationships couldn't fill the void in my life. I, uh, found myself coming home to get what I previously searched for from my other, uh, encounters.” He couldn’t believe how embarrassing it became to admit to Julie about his lovers and how it changed for him. “Until Aria, I hadn't had any encounters. I wasn’t interested in anyone else. As for Aria, I regret it because I know it has opened a door with her. She won’t let this end, and I’m afraid she’ll say it’s not over. You know how Aria is like a bad penny. She’ll keep turning up repeatedly.” He rarely admitted to having regrets, but in this case the regret ruined his life and his plans going forward. “I don't want anything from her anymore. The toxic nature of her life and the games she plays with