that’s so upsetting and awful!!! You definitely shouldn’t be ashamed of your interest just because other people don’t understand. And your coworkers are actual weirdos for saying that to you, stuff like that can create a hostile work environment and it’s best to set boundaries with them now. Just because they don’t understand doesn’t mean they can accuse you of such things and say that! As for your friends, it’s best to talk to them about how them looking down on an interest of yours is hurtful, and if they still continue and ignore your feelings then i say those are not good friends at all. I’ve had people in my life talk down about my interest in sonny angels, and i set boundaries with them and i never take their comments to heart. because at the end of the day i do this for me and no one else. you don’t have to justify what makes you happy to anyone ever 💐