This might just be my perception, but I think it's a mixture of being taught (and punished into understanding) that his thoughts are unimportant and he shouldn't speak unless spoken to by his grandfather and being unbearably shy and unsure. My bias for this comes in, I'm personally very outgoing but really awkward at dating and can be cagey and unsure which translates to quiet even to my detriment, so some of my empathy is just relating based on projection. But I DO think some of his horrible communication skills was taught into him by the terrible, neglectful, and downright abusive upbringing he had. Like, the first time he's told his own grandfather and parents "No" and made a boundary has been in this timeline when he's a whole grown man with a career and complete independence separate from his family title.
Why is it that at this point in Lyle still can't communicate his feelings, ik that he's anxious and insecure but CMON!!!. After everything that had happened, you're gonna believe that "friend" you barely even like over you're bf??.
Why is it that Lyle always fails to communicate his feelings, starts making decisions based on his insecurities and Ash; like the sweetheart he is, ALWAYS has to be the one to communicate and make him understand.
Lyle needs to learn how to take the initiative and ask questions for once. I'm hoping he does soon.
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Also since the first chapter I noticed that Lyle barely speaks compared to his inner dialogue. He talks A LOT in his head but barely actually voices his opinions, feelings, worries or questions. I thought that there would be some character development in that aspect but I was wrong. He really needs to say what's on his mind more often.
He himself even pointed that out pointed that out but there's still not been even a hint of change.
(゜゜;)