Dear T,
I'm glad those things I've shared haven't bothered you and that there's nothing on the scroll behind my head. I think it's good we briefly discussed the different ways we define "love," like how you said you don't say it to your friends. You didn't answer about the pets, but I assume the answer is "no" from how you reacted. Perhaps you were oddly relieved that I also tell my guinea pigs I love them? Like, "OK, she also says it to rodents, so..."

And that's really interesting you asked whether, if we hadn't had the rupture, I could have continued seeing ex-MC had he not said he loved me back. And you were surprised that my answer was "yes." Does that mean you thought it would become an issue between us? I really just want my love to be accepted. I don't need or expect it to be fully reciprocated in this scenario. (I mean, if you were my romantic partner, that's a bit different.)

Glad you weren't bothered by the recent lingering handshake. Though like you said, now you're probably going to be hyperaware of the time! But good to know if I do hang on too long in the future, you'd likely just say, "What's going on?" as opposed to "Get off of me!"

Also your comment on how I seem to expect you to be mean to me. I need to think on that more. Who do you maybe represent for me? Or are you representing a part of me, that doesn't think I deserve care and acceptance? That feels I should be rejected if I hold on a second too long or care about you more than I should? Hm....

Love,
LT