face the music

face the music  {v. phr.},  {informal}

To go through trouble or danger, especially because of something you did; accept your punishment.

The boy was caught cheating in an examination and had to face the music.

The official who had been taking bribes was exposed by a newspaper, and had to face the music.

George knew his mother would cry when he told her, but he decided to go home and face the music.

Compare:

MAKE ONE'S BED AND LIE IN IT,

PAY THE PIPER,

TAKE ONE'S MEDICINE.