As Ethan distanced himself from others, his social interactions became limited, and he gradually lost touch with many of his friends. He struggled to trust new people or form new connections, afraid of once again being labeled as annoying or too exuberant.
The transformation from a vibrant, outgoing child to a more introverted and reserved individual was a gradual process influenced by the emotional impact of that hurtful conversation. Ethan's self-perception was profoundly affected, leading him to question and suppress his natural inclination to radiate positivity and engage with others.
"This is nonsense; something that happened when I was just ten couldn't have shaped me this much," Ethan thought while furrowing his eyebrows.
