Responses
It’s more of codependency rather than love. If you re-read chapter 15, it’s implied Ian doesn’t have the same feelings for TJ as used to. And then in ch. 26, TJ stated he’s using Ian’s guilt for him to keep Ian by his side.
So I assume Ian is constantly by his side and caring for him out of guilt and can’t push him away. There’s also that Orion story foreshadowing in ch.15.
Codependency is one explanation for “they hurt each other but can’t stay away from each other”. Their history ties them to a bed together. Ian already knows it’s toxic, but he probably can’t help but feel guilty cause of something I’m not too sure of.
Ian still loves TJ. This intensity of emotion cannot be easily hidden. He cannot even deceive an outsider, let alone himself. I think TJ and Ian both love each other in their own toxic way. He referred TJ as his only family. The same with TJ when he said Ian was his own family. They are both so toxic but at the same time they have a deep condescendance. They hurt each other but also can't stay away from each other. I don't see the point of Ian hesitating to leave TJ when he can't. Why don't they just COMMUNICATE and be honest about their feelings for god sake!! They had 19 years to end up together but still didn't. I only wish Ian to stop playing with Jo's emotion but he's very comfortable with opening up with Jo. The only person that's honest about his feelings and thoughts in the story is Jo. I said before Jo is the therapist for Ian's complicated relationship and life.
For me this particular line actually sounds very hurtful. Jo: are you thinking about that person. At least handsome boy is fully aware now that he has a rival. Sometimes I can't help but feel sorry for him. It's not his fault to fall in love. WS community have been very hard on him for no reason. They already calling him a loser in a losing battle. They actually should thank Jo cause he actually doing something that wasn't achievable between Ian and TJ.