I've got my own thoughts about the Burning Shores, but I don't think Aloy falling for someone is out of character, because they've been slowly building up to that moment in HFW:
- This extremely awkward conversation with Avad, who is trying to court her (a reminder that people are romantically interested in her)
- Zo and Varl's relationship - I personally don't think her reaction was necessarily jealousy, just her being confronted with the possibility of falling for someone for the first time (after years of living as an outcast)
- Finding out about Elizabeth's past relationship with Tilda, and that she wasn't as untouchable as she thought her to be
- And finally, her conversation with Talanah at Barren Light about first love (or crush) - all but predicting BS
She simply found a home with people that she loves and trusts, and now feels safe enough to open her heart for the first time.






