"Lyle could’ve used the safe word" is such a dismissive take. Just because someone technically has an way out doesn’t mean they feel safe or empowered enough to use it especially when they’re overwhelmed or if there with someone they care about.
Safe words are there to protect consent during mutual play, not to excuse one partner for blatantly ignoring the other’s discomfort and boundaries. Using a safe word should never be seen as the only line between "okay" and "not okay." The fact that someone hasn’t used it doesn’t automatically mean they’re okay, it means they might be too overwhelmed to speak up, too scared, or simply don’t feel they can.
It was literally fucking seen with lyle crying and asking ash to stop. A healthy partner picks up on subtle cues, reads the emotional landscape, and respects boundaries without needing a sign that says "stop." That’s not a failure on Lyle’s part; it’s a failure on Ash’s for putting him in that position in the first place. Ash should’ve been more aware and considerate, not pushing him into an uncomfortable situation just because HE was ready.
I see what you mean and I understand that people should know when to pick up on cues when their partner is uncomfortable but then what’s the point of a safe word then if it’s not used to communicate that they went too far? And Ash isn’t always in his right mind from what it seems so that’s why he mentions a safe word to begin so he knows when to stop.
I don’t get why ya’ll are so upset.. they have a safe word in which the mc didnt even use at all. If it was really too much for the mc he would’ve sincerely said something