The days following the tumultuous night at Tyler's childhood home cast a heavy shadow over Jean's conscience. Guilt, like a relentless specter, trailed her every step. The weight of almost crossing a line with Tyler gnawed at her, and the burden of secrecy added an extra layer of complexity to her emotions.
Back at college, Jean found herself avoiding Alex. The mere thought of facing him filled her with a sense of dread and shame. Every passing glance, every accidental encounter, became a reminder of the almost-moment she shared with Tyler. The guilt, like an uninvited guest, took residence in her heart, making each interaction with Alex a tightrope walk of concealed emotions.
In an attempt to find solace, Jean retreated into a self-imposed isolation. She threw herself into her studies,
