"Tyler described Bubb as a narcissist from the beginning, stating, 'I had poor mental health, I had issues forming friendships, and I had a 20 to 21-year-old-guy who was paying me attention and wanted to talk to me and made me feel like he cared about me.'"
"The relationship turned abusive as Bubb's manipulation and gaslighting made Tyler feel unable to leave, saying, 'I was so under his influence by that point, he could say 'jump' and I'd say 'how high?' on a lot of things.'"
"Tyler recounted their obsessive efforts to please Bubb, stating, 'I would be cleaning his flat top to bottom with near enough a toothbrush to keep him happy.'"
"Tyler felt compelled to hide their emotions, explaining, 'If Bubb saw them upset, he would tell them that they could not leave his home until they were smiling again.'"
Tyler, an 18-year-old with mental health struggles, began an online relationship with Bubb, a 28-year-old police officer posing as a teenage girl. After meeting in person, Tyler realized Bubb's true identity. Over five years, Bubb's manipulation and gaslighting left Tyler feeling trapped and fearful. Tyler engaged in obsessive behaviors to please Bubb, believing that keeping him happy would ensure their safety. Despite the abusive dynamics, Tyler struggled to break free from the relationship due to loneliness and emotional dependency.
Read at www.bbc.com
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