Yes I agree. I had to suspend my belief a little to enjoy that part of the story. I speak from experience, going through something traumatic like grief alone stays with you and you never forget who abandoned you when you needed help the most. Personally I wouldn’t have forgiven him and it also wasn’t a good reason either. Loss and illness is the most vital time when a partner is supposed to step in and be there for you IMO.
I completely understand what you mean. I lost my brother suddenly too, so I can relate to what you're saying I don't think I'd be able to forgive someone who abandoned me during such a difficult time either.
I feel like the story keeps making excuses for ml while barely acknowledging how badly he hurt mc being emotionally immature or bad at communicating doesn't excuse ghosting someone for seven years especially when you know they're going through something as devastating as losing their family and mc forgives him way too easily. I don't mind flawed characters, but ml never really seems to take responsibility for what he did his emotional immaturity is constantly used as an excuse and honestly their relationship doesn't feel earned at all.