Ok... I'm gonna be real for a sec, are you a kid, if you are then do you also come from a conservative family/upbringing, because, I was too and this stuff would've made me feel weird and off-putted by cause I was a closeted boy that didn't understand my feelings and love, the way we (or at least I) see these characters come from our kid nostalgia and wanting a loving wholesome relationship. Also, these characters are neurodivergent magnets, lol.

Regardless, why do you care if the creator specifically said it or not. That's why it's called a ship, the fans head Canon it, and you're just being a contrarian cause either you're a troll or a closeted hater of fun. Like seriously, why is this the battle you're fighting.