Sadly, Erynn really could have avoided this whole misunderstanding If she had not listened to Emily’s bad advice about letting the mc cool down after Ethan pushed him to the ground. If she really cared that much and was persistent, she could have tried again later than night before the mc’s feelings for her turned to anger and bitterness. Likewise, the mc probably should have waited until he could talk to Erynn alone once and for all (maybe call her house to make sure Ethan was gone before going over there).
it just sucks that it was his birthday of days and I’m sure despite Emily telling him to give Erynn another chance, his emotions got the better of him and he literally had the worst luck running into Ethan when he did.