Ian and TJ are the perfect example of a couple that many “love” but hardly anyone wants to experience.
Their dynamic is to close to reality, where the victim goes back to their abuser because of distorted view of love, toxicity, or maybe because they are scared of being alone, afraid of moving on, afraid of their abuser and what they feel for them, afraid of what could happen if they decide to leave them…
Jo, another example, of a partner or a friend that tries to help you realize that there are healthier alternatives for your life, that love is not looking over your shoulder afraid of what’s going to happen, but rather to the future of a free life. So I am glad Jo is his own free person, he moved on, because at the end you can only help those who want to be helped and it’s so fucking frustrating. But he was free of the weight of the demons of someone else.
So yeah, my dudes it’s fiction yes, but close to a reality. This story isn’t a love story, abuse should never be romanticized in real life, doesn’t matter how rich, good-looking, or change of heart the abuser had. If the abuser changed his behavior, perfect, try now with someone else but leave the victim fucking alone and don’t come back, that’s the best way to show your love.
The whole chapter reminded me of Merida trying to defend her hand for marriage.
You go Tei, defend your strength! You’re no bitch.
٩(๑❛ᴗ❛๑)۶