I can understand it isn't easy, ... I think most of us, if not all, feel bad for you too. So I guess that puts us in the same boat ;0)

I know it's not exactly the same, but still...

If you would have dragged everyone by their hair and would have forced them to start playing... yes, then I think you would have the right to feel bad. But - for all I know, at least - I don't think you have. Of course, I could be wrong about this ;0P

Try imagining cici, and all the fun she's having in her shop, playing while serving to her customers... Her hubby being happy that's she's happy...

I know you feel responsible, but allow me to let you in on a secret: we all did this because we wanted to, not because you wanted us to. As always, you did all you could - and even more - to make the best out of this for everyone - because that's just what you do. And I can't speak for others in this case, but I am very grateful for that.

It's not your fault that Bert and Ernie had a hidden agenda...
As someone mentioned in this thread, there were plenty of red flags. And with every red flag, everybody had the choice to either get out, or ignore the flag.
I'm still in because I deliberately chose to ignore the flags, and I don't have to tell you I have seen them all over the place. Maybe even when there weren't any.

All you did - we did - was believe in people. Believe that they would be honest, and fair.
Don't ever feel bad about believing in people, because in 90% of the cases, people are capable of so much because others believe in them.
It's just bad luck that Bert and Ernie are part of the other 10%...
;0)