Hello. From your description, it's clear you're feeling loss, helplessness, and resignation.
You say you don't have high expectations of him, but I see a sad girl brooding alone late at night.
You are torn between conflicting emotions.
You can't live without him. He has to be happy, have someone to rely on, and be innocent and childlike.
You can't live without her, and you're desperate for her love.
You silently hoped he would mature and become affectionate.
You have too many feelings of loss and injustice that you have nowhere to turn to. You ask if this is like love, but it's more like the despair and helplessness of not wanting to face reality.
The obsessive repetition of childhood experiences is a clear indication of this.
I believe that, in your childhood, you also felt the same way about your caregivers.
As a child, you expected attention, care, and affection from your caregiver. You knew how to behave in a sensible, well-behaved, and understanding manner to get what you wanted.
However, this did not work. They never saw you or took your feelings into account, as if you did not exist.
You've experienced repeated failures, which have made you feel insecure about winning their love. However, to survive, you must endure and accept it.
You feel undeserving of love and good treatment, and you think it's normal for them to treat you this way.
However, you must understand that you are now an adult and can live independently.
You must also understand that what happened in your childhood was not your fault. You are a good person, and you deserve to be loved.
Let the other person know how you feel.
Tell your partner your true feelings and expectations of him when the time is right. Listen to his thoughts and feelings too.
This honest conversation will help you understand yourself better, so you can make a more rational and appropriate choice.
Girl, you are already very good. You deserve a good relationship. You deserve to be loved and treated well. You deserve all the good things in the world.
You can and will make yourself happy.


Comments
I can relate to your feelings. It sounds like you've been through a lot with him. It's tough when someone you care about doesn't seem to understand the depth of emotions. Yet, you still found it in your heart to forgive and move forward. It seems like you're finding a balance between wanting his happiness and accepting who he is.
Your situation sounds really complex. On one hand, you want him to grow and mature, but on the other, you cherish his childlike side. I think it's clear that you have deep feelings for him. The fact that you're willing to stick by him through ups and downs shows how much you care. Maybe this is what love looks like for you.
It's quite touching how you want to be there for both his smiles and tears. It seems like you're trying to embrace all aspects of him, even the parts that make things difficult. Perhaps you're discovering that love isn't just about grand gestures or perfect moments but about being there consistently for each other.
You sound like someone who has a big heart. Despite being hurt, you're still hoping for his best. It's not easy to let go of high expectations, especially when you care so deeply. But maybe this experience is teaching you that love can also mean letting someone be themselves while you support them. That's pretty profound.
What you're describing feels very much like love. It's not always easy or straightforward, but it's genuine. You're learning to accept him as he is, flaws and all, while still hoping for growth. That kind of patience and understanding is rare and beautiful. It seems you've found a place in your heart that's new to you, and that's likely what love feels like.