How is Zoey not a live topic? She's back from San Diego, and chatting with MC again, and attending the same parties, and now MC told her she was his first love. And Zoey in general is very important to MC, even if they weren't "dating." MC says it himself, she was his first and only friend until the start of the game. His life sucked, and she helped make it brighter.
The way he shared the story with Bella heavily emphasized how alone he was, while with MJ he focused more on Zoey herself, and their relationship. He can share a shorter version that's akin to the first time, where it's more about himself.
He looks pretty young, like he could be around Neil's age. I mean I guess he's one of the only candidates, but idk.
Is this who you meant?