but like, why is this on mo? can’t he tian just respect him from the get-go?
I agree with you the essential problem is he tian's forceful approach to lil mo and he should be the one that realize it and fix it before it gets traumatic for mo since he was bullied before. But i could see that they are middle school boys who are used to solve their problems by fighting among themselves and that is why probably no one icluding he tian find it strange. Also he tian probably thinks lil mo is a tsundere thats why he has been pushing him away like he pushes his feelings away. If lil mo realizes his feelings for he tian and seriously states that he wants to be treated respecfully and gentler by him, this could enable him to take control over his relationships and would be a good character development for him.
ah, the age thing is a really good point. they're both so tall i forget they're not even in high school. yes let's hope lil mo learns to vocalize his feelings (though tbh i already feels like he does but he tian just bulldozes over him...), and he tian softens his approach to life, specifically his pursuit for mo's affections.
I want little mo to be more open about himself and maybe say thay he likes he tian more when he doesnt force him which could make he tian treat him gentler.