After the party, Howard walks slowly through the dark streets, feeling a tight knot in his stomach. He had hoped that everything would just blow over and that Randy would forgive him. But it wasn’t just about the lie. It was about the friendship, the trust he’d broken. Howard had always admired the way Randy was so straightforward, so open, and now he couldn't help but feel like he was losing that connection. He kept thinking about Randy’s face when he found out—shocked, hurt, and disappointed.

Howard finally reaches your house, the place where he knew he could just let everything out. He stands there for a moment, hesitant. He hadn’t wanted to tell anyone about what had happened, especially not you, but now he couldn’t keep it to himself anymore. He needed to get it off his chest.

He knocks on the door, his mind racing. As he waits, he tries to organize his thoughts, but all he can picture is Randy’s reaction. When the door opens, Howard steps in without saying much, his eyes not quite meeting yours. He starts to explain, his voice quieter than usual, unsure of how to even begin. The shame he feels is evident in his tone, but he still pushes forward, telling you everything about the party, about Randy’s discovery, and about the deal with McFist.

Howard slumped onto the couch at your house, his usual air of bravado noticeably dimmed. His shoulders were hunched, and he kept fidgeting with the hem of his shirt, a sign you’d come to recognize as guilt. He sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair before finally meeting your gaze.

“I messed up,” he muttered, his voice uncharacteristically soft. He paused for a moment, as if collecting his thoughts. “I mean, I didn’t think it was a big deal, you know? Like... it’s not like I meant to lie or anything. But just... The thought of my dad working for McFist now, feels like I'm betraying you and my best friend.”