@Erin722
I don't know about the whole situation but I've read all the comments between you two and this certainly reminded me of a story from an old friend.
There are ppl that catfish others just for the sake of fun and attention seeking others do it for more noble/safety reasons, if your part of the latter group I don't think you should worry too much about it... Ppl who truly care and want to be around you will understand and forgive. Maybe there will be a harsh outbreak but when they settle down and their heads aren't in the heat of the moment maybe they will be able to forgive. Humans have a hard time forgetting things that hurt an but some can forgive, so let's hope this story has a happy ending.
I'm glad you decided to stay and even tho we never talked I hope we get a chance to do so, one day :)