No, I definitely get it. Maybe not exactly the same, but I have been traumatised enough to learn to present myself like an amicable, calm guy(masking culture, limiting my energy levels). I definitely need to get close to someone to allow that side of myself to get out, but sometimes it just comes out without my control if I really feel comfortable. But yeah, the comfort only comes out when I really trust someone.

One of my exes definitely cemented it in too. Shaming me for some behaviors 💀 Then, another ex praised my silliness, so it helped me come out of my shell a bit more. Nowadays I feel like I let out just enough to be a "fun, chill guy".

Sorry to hear about that cutesy shit comment. That really sucks. If it wasn't his thing, that's fine, but to bring you down for it is just a fuckin asshole move. (I'm a proud user of the :3 face lol, it just represents that cheeky cute emotion perfectly)

Glad to hear you have good connections. That's really what life is about I think. Building connections with others and building yourself up (knowledge, hobbies, wisdom, etc)

I do have my few IRL friends too. 2 really long term ones that have never failed me, another couple stray friends from jobs I've had, and most recently a group of musician friends I met last year. It's the kind of "guy friendgroup" connection I'd been lacking for many years, and they're all just as weird and hyper-knowledgable in their respective special interests lol. I just love people like that!