Just when it seemed things would calm down after the police intervention, Corrie started drama-fueled psychological manipulation: the gentler the exterior, the more terrifying the interior.

Theo began employing a softer tactic, one that didn’t require shouting to make Todd tremble.

Theo proactively prepared Christmas dinner, appearing like a “thoughtful” lover, but the real vibe was: “I’m controlling you with kindness.”

Todd knew it was all a performance, but he was trapped because if he reacted strongly, Theo would have another excuse to say he was unstable.

So Todd had to pretend to be fine, sit at the table, listen to Theo’s sweet talk, while all he could think about was escaping.

And that wasn’t all; Theo continued with the “getaway” game. A mini-break was launched as a surprise gift, but in reality, it was to cut Todd off from his friends and anyone who could pull him out of his control. This kind of manipulation really hits you: you’re not locked up by a padlock, you’re locked up by a schedule and guilt. The more Todd wants to leave, the more Theo pushes him into a position where he has to be grateful, to comply, to “not make a big deal out of it.”

The climax is New Year’s Eve. Corrie is building up the idea that Todd chooses that time to run away because everyone is busy celebrating, few people are paying attention, and Todd can sneak away in a flash. But Todd also understands: Theo isn’t stupid. Theo can guess that Todd will choose the “perfect” day to leave, and that’s why Theo is watching him even more closely.