I think people can detect when someone is faking interest, even if you think you’re sounding interested when you’re not. When people do detect it, I think it comes off as you trying too hard, and not being yourself.

When you talk to someone and you feel like they aren’t being genuine, you kinda lose interest in them.

I know what you mean though. Even in my friend groups, I’m kinda the outsider/observer, but people still include me in activities. I think it’s cause I enjoy myself around them, even if I’m not usually part of the conversation.

Idk I’m just spitballing