If this person triggers you then it's important that you take steps towards having no contact. You have every right to decide this person is "not" a safe person for you to be around because of how this person invaded your boundaries. The fear you are experiencing that you have described is an alarm that is actually normal in that we are designed to remember the things that pose a danger to us.

You have a right to have a job and work towards your own independence. In your past you came across a toxic person, you are older now though and you are old enough to be able to make the decision that this is a toxic person and you "now" have the power to choose no contact. You started your post with "I had to make contact" with someone that caused you harm. Well, you have to make a decision "now" where you understand in the now "you don't have to make contact".

I am sure that you are a "nice" person QueenCopper, and you were a nice person when this cousin took advantage of you. But it's important that you understand that you can be a nice person yet have a right to choose to "not" be nice to others who have proven to you that they don't deserve to be a part of your life.

All predators look for weakness in prey, it's instinctual. Being "nice" can actually be a weakness and all predators get so they "know" who they can take advantage of. Know that you really don't "have to" be nice or friendly to this cousin at all. Often all that does is encourage a toxic person that the other person is letting their guard down and the toxic person can begin to get closer and intrude. Just because this individual happens to be a cousin doesn't give him ANY right to be ANY part of your life.