EJ's anger simmered as he and Robin made their way to Marshall and Ted's apartment. Robin, ever the voice of reason, tried to keep him calm with gentle humor.

"Come on, EJ, it's not like they're planning a surprise wedding," she teased, hoping to lighten his mood.

EJ huffed, running a hand through his hair. "It's not about that. It's just...they should've told me."

They arrived at the apartment, and EJ wasted no time knocking on the door. When it opened, he saw Marshall and Brooke kissing on the couch. The scene made him stop in his tracks, feeling a mix of awkwardness and frustration.

"Hey, EJ!" Marshall greeted with an overly bright smile, quickly disentangling himself from Brooke.

"Hey, big bro," Brooke said, her tone light but wary.

EJ crossed his arms, his expression unimpressed. "So, this is what you've been hiding?"

Marshall tried to play it off, chuckling nervously. "Oh, you know, just...hanging out."

Brooke rolled her eyes. "EJ, I can date who I want."

EJ's eyes narrowed. "I don't care who you date, Brooke. But the fact that no one told me? That's the part that sucks."

Brooke sighed. "I knew Mom couldn't keep her mouth shut."

EJ's frustration grew. "It was actually Dad who spilled the beans."

Brooke raised an eyebrow. "Really? That doesn't seem right."

"Yeah, it was really—That's not the point!" EJ snapped.

Marshall stepped forward, trying to smooth things over. "EJ, man, I'm sorry. We should have told you."

EJ shook his head, feeling the weight of betrayal. "It's not just you, Marshall. It's everyone. Two of my friends are dating my sisters, and I'm the last to know."

Just then, the door opened, and Ted and Grace walked in, laughing from their night out. Their smiles faded as they saw EJ standing there, clearly angry.

"Hey, EJ," Ted said cautiously.

Grace's eyes widened in fear. "EJ..."

EJ turned his glare to them. "You too, Ted? Really?"

Ted swallowed hard. "We were going to tell you, I swear."

EJ's voice rose, frustration boiling over. "When? After the wedding? How long were you going to keep this from me?"

Grace stepped forward, trying to explain. "EJ, it's not a big deal. We're adults. We can date who we want."

EJ's eyes flashed with anger. "It's not about who you're dating. It's about the fact that no one thought I should know. It's about respect."

Grace crossed her arms defensively. "It's none of your business, EJ."

EJ scoffed. "It becomes my business when it's my friends and my sisters sneaking around."

The argument grew more heated, voices overlapping in a chaotic mix of explanations and accusations. Finally, Grace snapped, blurting out, "It's not as weird as Ben sleeping with Robin!"

The room fell silent. EJ turned slowly to look at Robin, his eyes filled with hurt and betrayal. "Is that true?"

Robin looked guilty, her voice soft. "EJ, it was months ago. Before we even started dating. I was drunk. It didn't mean anything."

EJ's shoulders slumped, the weight of everything crashing down on him. "It's not about when it happened. It's the fact that nobody tells me anything."

He turned to leave, ignoring Brooke and Robin's calls to stay. He needed space, time to process everything.

Robin reached out, her voice desperate. "EJ, please..."

But EJ shook his head, his voice firm. "I need to be alone. For now."

He walked out of the apartment, leaving behind a stunned and regretful group, each one grappling with their own part in the unfolding drama.

———

EJ left Marshall and Ted's apartment, his mind swirling with anger and confusion. He needed to find Ben, to confront him about what he'd just learned. After a few quick texts, he found out Ben was at the bar. With Robin trailing behind, still trying to calm him, EJ stormed out into the night.

When they reached the bar, EJ spotted Ben sitting at a table, nursing a beer. He took a deep breath and approached, his footsteps heavy with determination. Ben looked up, surprised to see him.

"EJ, hey—"

EJ cut him off, his voice tight with barely controlled anger. "We need to talk. Now."

Ben's expression shifted from surprise to concern. "Sure, man. What's going on?"

EJ sat down, his jaw clenched. "I heard about you and Robin. Months ago."

Ben's face fell, and he sighed deeply. "EJ, I can explain."

EJ held up a hand. "I don't care about what happened. What I care about is that nobody told me. Robin is my girlfriend, Ben."

Ben ran a hand through his hair, clearly uncomfortable. "It was a mistake, EJ. A heat-of-the-moment thing. It didn't mean anything."

EJ's eyes narrowed. "Then why not tell me? Why keep it a secret?"

Ben looked away, guilt evident in his eyes. "We didn't want to make things awkward. Between us, between you and Robin. We thought it was best if you didn't know."

EJ shook his head, frustration boiling over. "You thought it was best? You thought keeping me in the dark was the best option?"

Ben tried to reach out, but EJ pulled back, his anger still raw. "EJ, it wasn't about hiding it from you. It was about avoiding unnecessary drama. We didn't want to hurt you."

EJ's laugh was humorless. "Well, congratulations. You managed to do the exact opposite. All I ask for is honesty, Ben. How am I supposed to trust you, trust any of you, when you're keeping secrets?"

Ben's face fell, remorse clear in his eyes. "I'm sorry, EJ. We really thought we were doing the right thing."

EJ stood up, his decision made. "I need to be alone. Away from all of this. I can't deal with you or anyone else right now."

Ben stood up too, trying to stop him. "EJ, you don't have to do that. We can talk this through."

EJ shook his head, stepping back. "Not right now, Ben. I need space. I need to clear my head."

Without waiting for a response, EJ turned and walked out of the bar, leaving Ben standing there, guilt-ridden and helpless. Robin followed him out, but EJ shook his head at her as well.

"EJ, please, we can—"

"I need to be alone, Robin. Just for a while."

Robin nodded, understanding the pain in his eyes. "Okay. I'll be here when you're ready."

———

Robin watched EJ walk away, her heart heavy with guilt and worry. She turned to Ben, who was still standing by the table, looking just as upset.

"We really screwed up, didn't we?" Robin said softly.

Ben nodded, his expression somber. "Yeah, we did."

Robin sighed, taking a seat. "He deserves better from me. From both of us. I should have told him. I just... I didn't want to hurt him."

Ben sat down across from her, leaning forward with his elbows on the table. "I know. I thought the same thing. But keeping it a secret only made it worse. We should have been honest from the start."

Robin looked down, fiddling with her hands. "He's such a good guy. He trusts us, and we betrayed that trust. I can't believe I didn't see how much this would hurt him."

Ben reached out and placed a hand on hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "We need to give him time. He's angry, and he has every right to be. But he'll come around. He just needs to process everything."

Robin nodded, but her eyes were still filled with regret. "I hope so. I really care about him, Ben. I don't want this to ruin what we have."

Ben gave her a small, encouraging smile. "It won't. EJ's a strong guy. He'll get through this, and so will we. We just need to be there for him when he's ready to talk."

Robin sighed again, feeling a little more at ease but still worried. "Yeah, I guess you're right. I just... I wish we'd handled this better."

Ben nodded in agreement. "Me too, Robin. Me too."

———

EJ decided he needed some distance. From his friends, from the drama, from the hurt. He was still in touch with Robin, but their conversations were short, awkward. He needed a break, a fresh start, even if just for a few days.

One evening, he wandered into a new bar in Midtown, a place called The Apex. It had a modern vibe, with sleek lines and dim lighting that created an inviting yet mysterious atmosphere. As he approached the bar, he spotted a familiar face in the crowd.

"Kieran?" EJ called out, his voice tinged with surprise and relief.

Kieran, an old college friend known for his enthusiastic and often reckless betting on F1 races, turned around and broke into a wide grin. "EJ! Man, it's been ages!"

They embraced in a quick, enthusiastic hug, and soon they were at the bar, catching up over drinks. Kieran introduced EJ to a few more of their old college buddies who were also there. Some of them hadn't really grown up, still living life with a carefree attitude that, at this moment, felt like a breath of fresh air to EJ.

"Remember that time we snuck into the pit at the Grand Prix?" Kieran laughed, clinking his glass against EJ's. "I thought for sure we were getting arrested."

EJ chuckled, the memory warming him. "Yeah, and you bet that insane amount of money on the underdog. You were out of your mind."

"Out of my mind and rich by the end of the race," Kieran replied with a wink. "Speaking of which, I've got some bets going this weekend. You in?"

EJ considered it. He hadn't bet on races since college, but maybe this was exactly what he needed. A distraction. "Why not? Count me in."

The night progressed with drinks, laughter, and stories from their college days. EJ felt a weight lifting off his shoulders. These guys weren't burdened by the complexities of adulthood. They were living in the moment, and right now, EJ needed to do the same.

At one point, they gathered around a pool table, forming teams and engaging in a rowdy game. EJ found himself partnered with Kieran, and they quickly fell into the easy camaraderie they had shared years ago. The banter flowed effortlessly, and EJ couldn't remember the last time he had laughed so hard.

"Man, I needed this," EJ admitted as he lined up a shot. "Things have been... complicated."

Kieran nodded, understanding without needing the details. "Life has a way of doing that. But tonight, we're just a bunch of guys, no complications, no drama."

As the night wore on, they moved to a booth in the corner, ordering another round of drinks. EJ found himself talking about his current situation, how he felt betrayed by his friends, and the struggle to find his footing again.

Kieran listened, nodding thoughtfully. "You've got to take care of yourself first, EJ. It's great that you're giving yourself space. Sometimes, you just need a new perspective."

EJ felt a sense of gratitude. These weren't his usual friends, but they were helping him in a way he desperately needed. They were a reminder of simpler times and provided a much-needed escape.

As they finally wrapped up the night, making plans to meet up again soon, EJ felt a sense of clarity. He knew he couldn't avoid his old friends forever, but for now, this was enough. He said his goodbyes and headed home, feeling lighter than he had in days.

EJ's phone buzzed with a text from Robin as he stepped out of the bar. He looked at it, hesitating before opening the message.

"Hope you're okay. Miss you."

He sighed, tucking his phone back into his pocket. He wasn't ready to respond just yet. He needed to sort through his emotions, to figure out what he really wanted and how to move forward. But tonight, thanks to Kieran and the guys, he felt a little closer to finding that clarity.

———

The usual buzz at McLaren's felt oddly subdued. The group—Robin, Ted, Marshall, Lily, Ben, and Barney—had gathered as they usually did, but the absence of EJ loomed over their conversations like a cloud. Robin had sent the text to EJ days ago, and the group had been reflecting on the situation, trying to make sense of their actions.

Barney, never one to miss an opportunity for a wisecrack, took a sip of his drink and grinned. "You know what they say: A friend is someone who knows all about you and still puts up with you. Except when you forget to tell them you're dating their sister. Then they might just start avoiding you."

Ted sighed, swirling his drink thoughtfully. "Barney, can you be serious for once? This isn't funny."

"Hey, come on, Ted. If you're looking for a sympathetic ear, you're in the wrong bar," Barney shot back, a smirk playing on his lips.

Lily, ever the peacemaker, put a calming hand on Ted's arm. "Look, we all messed up. We should have been honest with EJ, and now he's taking some space. It's probably for the best."

"I know, I know," Ted said, shaking his head. "But the thought of losing a friend over this is just—"

"Sad?" Barney interjected, his tone almost too casual. "It's not like you're never going to see him again. Besides, he's hanging out with old college buddies. I hear they still think 'LOL' is a valid response to everything."

Marshall raised an eyebrow. "Really, Barney? Can't you be a little more empathetic? We should be focusing on making things right, not making jokes."

"I am empathetic," Barney replied with mock seriousness. "I'm the most empathetic person I know. I even feel sorry for myself sometimes."

Ben, who had been quiet, finally spoke up. "I'm thinking about going over there to talk to EJ. Maybe if I explain things, he'll understand."

"Ben, don't," Lily interjected. "It's been three days. He needs space. If you confront him now, it might just make things worse."

Just then, Kieran walked into McLaren's, still buzzing from his bar-hopping adventures. He spotted the group and made his way over, his face lighting up with recognition.

"Hey, guys!" Kieran greeted them. "What's up?"

"Hey, Kieran," Ted replied. "Just... thinking about EJ."

"Oh yeah," Kieran said, taking a seat. "I saw EJ earlier today. We were out at that new bar in Midtown. He was having a good time with some old college buddies."

"Seriously?" Ben asked, his curiosity piqued. "What's he up to?"

Kieran shrugged. "Just catching up. I haven't seen him like that in years. We talked about old times, hit up a few bars, and he seemed... I don't know, relaxed. Not the stressed-out guy you're all worried about."

Marshall frowned. "That's just great. He's out having fun, and we're stuck here, feeling like jerks."

Lily tried to lighten the mood. "Well, at least he's not locked in his room, sulking. Maybe this break will help him see things more clearly."

"Yeah, maybe," Ted said, still feeling conflicted. "But it's hard not to feel like we're the villains in this story."

Barney leaned back in his chair, looking around with a grin. "Well, I've always said that life's a stage, and we're all just actors. Except me. I'm the director. And right now, the script says, 'Go make things right.'"

Ted chuckled despite himself. "That's... actually kind of good advice, Barney. Thanks."

———

EJ was in the middle of an impromptu game of pool with his new friends, laughter echoing around the bar as they reminisced about college antics. The camaraderie felt good, a welcome distraction from the whirlwind of emotions he'd been navigating. But amidst the fun, a thought persisted—he was avoiding Robin, and it didn't sit right with him. The anger was still there, but so was a sense of unfairness. He needed to address it.

Stepping outside for a breath of fresh air, EJ dialed Robin's number. The call went through, and after a few rings, Robin answered.

"Hey, EJ," Robin's voice was a mix of cautious optimism. "I didn't expect to hear from you."

"Hey, Robin. I know, I've been MIA," EJ said, trying to sound casual. "I've been out with some old college buddies. We're getting into all sorts of trouble, reliving our glory days."

"I can imagine. Sounds like fun," Robin replied. "You're not calling to tell me about your wild night, are you?"

EJ chuckled. "Well, I was going to mention that we've had a few too many drinks and someone tried to convince us that betting on F1 races is the ultimate thrill. But that's not the point. I've been thinking... I realize I've been a bit of an ass, ghosting you. It's not fair, especially since the whole Ben thing was before we even started dating."

Robin sighed. "I appreciate that. I know we both messed up. I should have told you, and I'm sorry."

"Yeah, and while we're on the topic," EJ said with a grin, "I've got a question for you. Does it make things weird if I ask how you felt about Ben's... uh, performance? Just curious."

Robin laughed. "Oh, really? You're asking about Ben's performance now?"

"Just making sure I still satisfy." EJ teased. "I'm kidding. But seriously, I know it was a mistake, and it's not something I want to dwell on forever. I'd like to come over and talk things through."

Robin's voice softened. "I'd like that. We can talk about everything, clear the air."

"Perfect," EJ said. "I'll head over now. And if you need to make it look like I'm the worst guest ever, now's your chance."

Robin laughed. "I'll try my best to make it look like you're not a total disaster."

"Good," EJ replied, his mood lightening. "See you soon, then."

As he hung up, EJ felt a weight lift off his shoulders. He knew the road ahead wasn't going to be easy, but reconnecting with Robin was a step in the right direction. He rejoined his friends with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to wrap up the night and address what mattered most.

———

EJ had hoped that immersing himself in a new social circle would be a refreshing change from his old routine. The first few days had been a whirlwind of excitement and novelty, with Kieran and his friends engaging in activities that felt like a throwback to their college days. They darted between rooftop bars, tried increasingly absurd dares, and debated the finer points of various sports betting strategies. For a brief moment, it felt like an escape, a chance to forget the complications of his life and enjoy some carefree fun.

But as the days wore on, the new routine started to wear thin. The once-enticing antics of his new friends began to feel repetitive and hollow. The bets on obscure F1 races, the late-night scavenger hunts, and the constant pranks had lost their charm. EJ found himself increasingly detached, watching the revelry with a growing sense of detachment. It was as if the more he tried to fit in, the more he realized how out of place he felt.

By the end of the first week, EJ's dissatisfaction was palpable. The constant noise and chaos that had initially seemed exciting now felt overwhelming. The more bizarre the antics became, the more he longed for the comfort and familiarity of his old friendships. It wasn't just nostalgia; it was a profound sense that something was missing, that the connection with these new friends was superficial compared to the deeper bonds he had with his old group.

One evening, after a particularly wild night involving a questionable contest to see who could drink the most milkshakes, EJ decided to call it quits. He was exhausted, both physically and emotionally. The new group's attempts to drag him into yet another round of bar hopping fell flat. He had had enough.

The next day, he began to distance himself quietly. He started by declining invitations and making vague excuses. Instead of joining them at their usual haunts, he spent more time alone, reflecting on his experiences. He didn't want to make a scene or create any awkward confrontations; he simply needed to step back and re-evaluate.

Kieran noticed the shift in EJ's behavior. The two of them were out at a new sports bar, and Kieran couldn't help but bring up the topic.

"Hey, EJ, you've been a bit MIA lately. What's going on? You seem off," Kieran said, his tone laced with casual curiosity.

EJ took a sip of his drink, trying to choose his words carefully. "Yeah, I guess I've just been... reflecting. I thought this would be a good change of pace, but it's not really working out as I hoped."

Kieran raised an eyebrow. "So, is this about Robin? I know you've been distancing yourself from her, too. Is she the reason you're checking out on us?"

EJ shook his head, offering a tired smile. "No, it's not Robin. She's great. It's just... this whole scene. I thought it would help me clear my head, but it's only made me realize how much I miss my old friends. I guess the change wasn't as refreshing as I thought."

Kieran chuckled, though there was a hint of concern in his voice. "Man, you really are a complicated guy. But if Robin's not the issue, then what's really going on?"

EJ shrugged. "I guess I'm just not as into the chaos as I thought I'd be. I need something more grounded, something that doesn't feel so... forced."

Kieran nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful. "Fair enough. Just remember, if you ever need to come back, we're here."

"I know," EJ said. "It's not about her. I just need to figure things out for myself."

———

EJ sat down with Ben in their apartment, the weight of their recent estrangement heavy in the room. Ben had been anxiously waiting for this conversation, knowing how important it was to clear the air. EJ was determined to address the lingering tension and find a path forward.

"Ben, I get that what happened between you and Robin was before we were together," EJ began. "But you should have told me. I feel like you kept it from me to avoid making things awkward, but it only made it worse."

Ben sighed, nodding. "I understand, EJ. It was a mistake—a one-night stand that we both regretted. Robin and I promised to keep it quiet because we thought it was best. But I should have been honest with you. I'm sorry."

EJ appreciated Ben's honesty. "I can't stay mad forever, especially when it's clear that it was a mistake. But going forward, we need to be honest with each other. We're best friends and roommates—transparency is crucial."

Ben nodded vigorously. "Absolutely. From now on, no more secrets. We need to be straight with each other, no matter how uncomfortable it might be."

EJ offered a small smile. "Good. I'm glad we're on the same page. Thanks for understanding."

After their chat, EJ decided it was time to reconnect with his old friends and clear the air. He headed back to the bar, where Ted, Marshall, and Brooke were gathered, talking and laughing as usual. EJ approached them with a serious expression but a friendly demeanor.

"Hey, can we talk?" EJ asked, his tone serious but calm.

Ted and Marshall exchanged nervous glances. Brooke looked up, concerned. "Sure, what's up?"

EJ took a deep breath. "Brooke, you're my sister, and I want what's best for you. I'm not thrilled that you're dating Marshall, but my real issue was that nobody told me about it. I had to find out from Mom and Dad, and that's what bothered me the most."

Marshall stepped forward, looking apologetic. "EJ, I'm really sorry. I should have told you. It was never my intention to keep it from you. We were just trying to keep things low-key."

Ted nodded in agreement. "I get it. I should have been more upfront too. It wasn't fair to you."

EJ appreciated their apologies. "I forgive you both. Just remember, if either of you hurts Grace or Brooke, I will somehow find a way to get even."

He chuckled, and Marshall and Ted managed a nervous laugh. "Joking, of course," EJ said, though his tone suggested he wasn't entirely kidding. "But seriously, it's important to be honest with each other."

Brooke stepped closer and gave EJ a warm hug. "Thanks for understanding. I really appreciate it."

EJ hugged her back and then turned to Ted and Marshall. "Let's move past this. We're friends, and that's what matters."

With the air cleared, they all headed back to their group of friends at the bar. EJ found Robin amidst the crowd and walked over to her. He gently kissed the top of her head, a gesture that spoke volumes more than words.

Robin looked up at him, a mix of relief and affection in her eyes. "Hey."

EJ smiled softly. "Hey. I missed you."