It also felt so real because - in my mind - I see canon!Harry as a person who hasn't learned to deal with his emotions. He hasn't had any opportunities to open up to someone. To whom could he have done this? Certainly not the Dursleys. So, that's why I think he has issues with letting go. Maybe even trust issues. Harry doesn't like to talk about his emotions. That's the way I picture canon!Harry. And that's why this fic feels so real. Thanks for the rec!