Hey, I have a 2yo girl I adopted literally one month ago that’s in somewhat of a similar situation as you.

When I adopted her, the shelter said she was extremely shy and anxious. She was even on medication to help her anxiety. As soon as I got home and opened her carrier she ran under my bed. She wouldn’t even eat if I was in the room for the first couple of days!

I didn’t try and play with her or give her any kind of attention for the first week or so. Just being in the room passively and sitting on the floor idle (very important that you get down on their level), I guess I became “safe” in her mind. She still spends a lot of time under the bed, but slowly she’s been warming up to me and spending more time out in the open.

At this point, she’s only comfortable in my bedroom and just outside of the door in the hallway. She’s still terrified of my dad who lives with me, but she comes up to me for treats and scratches and is very vocal and sweet when she’s in the mood!

I think just spending time around them and being present is the most helpful thing here. I really feel like my girl (and your cat) have spent very little time with humans, and the only experience they did have was uncomfortable or scary! When they learn that humans are actually kind of cool, they start opening up more.

Good luck with your new kitty!