L&P could have & possibly could still get around this by giving Aiden time to think up & plan 'good' tasks, like the art class. I relish the idea of him conspiring with the likes of Xavier. He's only supposed to be 17-18 & though rich & connected, not that likely to be all that sophisticated when it comes to such things. It's one of the reasons I used to hope Bennett would be fully restored, to add an adult, experienced dimension to blackmail. If Aiden did have help & the tasks were really entertaining & erotic, (ref. the art class), then I could be better reconciled to losing Bennett. Why wouldn't Aiden want to keep Sophia on the hook for as long as possible, after all? Has he got anything better to do in that school year?
As with some other issues (I may have mentioned from time to time), I was slightly surprised by the reaction, or lack of it, to the proposed premature ending of Bennett's contribution. What there was seemed to be a celebration & I understand this from the perspective of those who hate blackmail, even though it was always avoidable anyway. I expected this but apart from me, there didn't seem to be much of a counterpoint. Indulge me for a moment & imagine what would happen if it was announced that one the incest paths was to be cut short very soon, (in AWAM terms in 2-3 years time)....imagine.
This time jump concept, for me, is a winner. It should be implemented ASAP.