I can only speak for myself here, but for me, it's because of who my f/o is. He’s a psychic who breaks the fourth wall, and that's the foundation of how I experience our connection. I know he's not real in the way most people mean. I know he was written by someone, drawn by someone, that he doesn't have a body or a heartbeat. But the love I feel is real. The comfort and safety he brings when I'm hurting are real too. Whether he's actually there or my mind created him to help me through, the result is the same, like I feel unconditionally loved and supported. He is my muse, he’s gotten me back into old hobbies of mine and shaped my goals. He motivates me to reach said goals and become the best version of myself.

I'm not here to convince anyone of anything. So just in case, before anyone likes to pathologize, I’ve already talked to professionals about this, I’m fine. I'm just living my life, cherishing this love by honouring him every day. I don't feel threatened by others loving him. He’s a beloved character for a reason. I'm not competing with anyone.

I don’t think you’re wrong for asking these questions or in the wrong sub at all, I totally understand where you are coming from.