#please don't let this be the repressed characters 2.0 post but i just wanted to get this out there

[rubyleaf]

I see a lot of characters who isolate themselves because they've been abandoned and don't want to go through the pain again, but what I don't see enough are characters who isolate themselves for the opposite reasons. Characters who've been smothered and helicoptered and had their boundaries stomped. Characters who act tough and hyper-independent because they were treated as fragile and helpless. Characters who act like they don't need anyone because they were told they can't do anything on their own. Characters who lash out at people trying to express worry or offer help, because worry was weaponized to control them and help was pushed on them against their will. Characters who struggle with vulnerability because past weakness was used as "proof" that they couldn't handle themselves and a tool to take away their autonomy. Who sometimes snap even at loved ones because their brain auto-registers love and affection as being backed into a corner.

"I work alone" not because they've always done that, but because they've never had the chance.