My dad died when I was around thirteen. My best friend moved away at the same time. It hurted a lot and I never wanted to go through that again. I developed abandonment issues and pushed everyone away by being angry and difficult. I'm a little better about it now, but sometimes I still have troubles letting people in.
And Max? I know we said it's better that I didn't know whether you chose to save me or the town. But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious.