[pay] the fiddler

to accept the consequences of the things one has done

The idiom "pay the fiddler" is believed to have originated from the world of music and dance. It refers to the idea that after enjoying a period of entertainment or pleasure, one must eventually face the consequences or bear the cost of their actions or decisions. It is used to emphasize the fact that enjoyment or benefits often come with a price, and that price must be paid sooner or later.

After a week of indulgence on vacation, we returned home to pay the fiddler with a pile of unpaid bills.
They threw a lavish party but had to pay the fiddler by dealing with the mess left behind.
Ignoring the maintenance of their car, they eventually had to pay the fiddler with costly repairs.
Enjoying a night out with friends is great, but you'll have to pay the fiddler by dealing with a late start the next morning.
Some people live for the moment, not realizing they'll have to pay the fiddler for their impulsive choices.