I applaud, that you recognise the issues that many players have with forced romances. Many Devs are just - MC & ?? have a long and great history. Which may be true, but the player doesn't. He's only just met her and needs time to see if he feels the same way.
Julia seems very nice, but I don't know her (I understand where you got caught), meanwhile I have been able to develop a relationship with Anna (other players would be the same with other LIs), and have much greater feelings for Anna than Julia, so in solo LI game, Julia doesn't stand a chance with me.
I don't hate Julia at all, and I am going to feel like a real dick, when it comes to the breakup, but I have no choice. I as the player feel nothing for her.
I'm certainly not criticizing, just throwing my 20c out there. I love the game and any Dev willing to communicate and consider they may have made a mistake, deserves all the kudos and success.
PS - I hope everything has settled down a bit and got a little easier for you at home too. All the best my friend.