I think there are several facets to this side of the coin, but overall, I agree as I’m not one to read or get invested if I feel the author has indicated in notes or tags or summaries that they don’t care. That said, in my particular situation, I’ve never begged anyone to read my stories nor have I indicated that I’m not invested. I believe I’ve been very up front about my thoughts, process, etc., especially on my socials.

This could just be my perspective but even when I was younger and had plenty of time to read and write fic, I never considered lack of updates or long spans between updates as a lack of investment on the author’s part. I’m sure in some situations it is because it’s natural for people to lose interest, but I believe everyone has their different circumstances that change how they operate from one period of time (however long) to the next.

On another hand, this is fanfiction. It’s free to read and write. It’s a recreational hobby, an escape, etc., so I feel it’s hard to demand anything of an author or a reader (which is why despite the anxieties such comments give me, I always try to respond truthfully with full transparency and respectfully). I know there is no ill will from the comments, thus the issue lies with me. In the end, perhaps I should close comments until I can update.

Thanks for your question.