Then come the ripple effects: awkward encounters, damaged trust, strained friendships, or the quiet humiliation of being reduced to a story others whisper about. Add to that the very real fear of STIs or an unplanned pregnancy, and what seemed like a harmless escape becomes a life-altering burden. Choosing who you share yourself with isn’t about being perfect; it’s about protecting your peace, your health, and the story you’ll have to live with when the lights are off and no one else is there.
