
manipulation according to the dictionary: "the action of influencing or controlling someone or something to your advantage, often without anyone knowing it: ". He is not doing problematic manipulation, but he is manipulating. He knows that she will give in, so when he does it's more of a "soft force", or rather a nudge/edging. He's pushy, but he has his own boundaries and never pushes hers. They are both overachievers when it comes to caring for someone. But I won't mince my words just because I like him.

i totally see your point, i just don't necessarily agree that what he's currently doing at the stage of their relationship is manipulation. i see it maybe in the beginning and subtext always pointed us that way from the wording of his inner monologue and the composition of those panels. currently, in their relationship, i do not think there's manipulation. that's my take tho and thank you for sharing your thoughts on it. we can just agree to disagree if you don't feel me lolol.
and bitches say he's forcing cortney to go along with his whims