maybe in other context, but hes intentionally not fitting in with everyone else to remain her shadow and staying an outsider
Not rly, it works mostly like an abusive relationship, but in Japan even between friends it can get bad if you are too scared to step out, trying not to upset others. It's quite complicated and sad.... especially because they are too retracted, it is not that uncommon for this to happen... and the girl is especially abusive, lowering him and try to portray that she is his only friend... this is like... textbook abusive relationship xD...