busted flush» Anything which ends up worthless despite great potential.
carry a torch for» [2] To harbor feelings of love despite not being in a relationship; generally unrequited or after a relationship has ended, and sometimes implying secret feelings. There is the implication of keeping hope alive.
do without» To manage despite the lack of something.
flat-earther» A person who believes or advocates an outlandish, discredited theory; a person who refuses to acknowledge the truth despite overwhelming evidence.
glutton for punishment» One persistent in an effort in spite of harmful or unpleasant results.
in spite of» Despite, irrespective of, notwithstanding.
pay the piper» To pay a monetary debt or experience unfavorable consequences, especially when the payment or consequences are inevitable in spite of attempts to avoid them.