Thank you so much for this response! There were quite a few points where I wasn't sure if I'd make the deadline - and 2 seconds is cutting it way too close! I do not recommend it :)
I love the idea of fast-forwarding the text! For the first update, I'll make some changes. Instead of holding E to skip, I'll have it scroll the instructions faster, then releasing it will bring it back down to the 'normal' speed, and we'll see how that feels!
A pause / options menu is absolutely on the short list for things to add once the voting period is over. I have also fixed the bugs you ran into. I knew about them ahead of time, but... 2 seconds to spare. I very truly ran out of time :) I am glad to say that the bugs you encountered are already addressed for the next update!
Also, sound. I'll need to figure out some cute sound effects for Squishy and... well, everything else!
This was such an amazing experience, and the kind comments and honest feedback are so awesome to read. Thank you again, and I'll absolutely continue to build and improve on this project. There are so many things I had to leave behind for the jam, and I look forward to providing a far more (reasonably) challenging experience for everyone!