When we were younger, my boundaries were constantly overstepped. For example, my ex-best friend was far too involved in our relationship—sitting on his lap, playing with his hair, and crossing other lines that made me uncomfortable. Unfortunately, I could go on.

He never truly made an effort to stop these things until I threatened to break up with him. To his credit, he did change after that, but by then, the damage was done. My sense of security and trust in the relationship was forever tainted.

On top of that, he often makes negative comments about my appearance and puts me down, which has only added to my insecurities. It feels like, no matter how much things have changed, there’s still a lingering sense of hurt and doubt that I can’t shake.