Responses
I agree with everything you said but I need to add that If Alex wasn't "a bit reckless" he wouldn't be with Cole, all the red flags are there. IRL I would strongly advise Alex to get out of this relationship ASAP (he doesn't seem to be type to listen though - not because he doesn't get it but because he doesn't take things seriously).
I won't stop reading this but...
There are so many problems with this couple... I'm scared about their future. Cole needs to kind of really find what he needs. He, like many of us, has to find a way to stabilize his mental health. I'm afraid he can cause not only harm to himself but to Alex and others around him. And because a spoiler I read in the comments, I think he might cause issues due to his insecurities about being compared to Alex. And I already know that once they have issues, Cole will be begging for Alex to come back (the same way it happened in the first volume and Alex will eventually come back). Sigh...
And Alex... I know he likes Cole and he's pretty open and tries to help Cole in their relationship. But I think he's in too far over his head. He's a bit ignorant and doesn't really see his own position in the world. He's a great guy that storms right into the world but that can be a bit reckless, especially when your boyfriend is a little unstable (you've seen it happen once already!). I hope he really slows down. It's great you love Cole but if he is capable and might hurt you, I hope you don't let him get away with it. Being insecure, a minority, out of the large social groups, all this does not allow you to endanger yourself or loved ones. Don't let Cole get away with it. You should grow together.
If this story goes where I think it will, I will be heartbroken and frustrated. Please, I am reading this to run away from reality. Of course, I like a bit of realism sprinkled but I look forward to happy and healthy endings... don't make me hate Cole like I did in the first volume... it took a lot from me to appreciate and relearn how to love his character after pulling that gun stunt.
Please don't hate me, I WANT to like this story and the new developments.