I don't mind much that the companions are unpleasant and reserved at the start, as long as they potentially evolve to open up and be more favorable to you (based on your actions and Approval). Realistic and durable character evolution is always one of the most satisfying aspects of companions in RPGs, and few of them get it right. I hope Larian does!
I feel as though Larian had it right before the patch, with Shadowheart anyway. She starts off as a wall and then eventually opens up, but never really loses that edge.
Now it feels like she's gritting her teeth through her smile and pitying you instead of being genuinely open about her reservations.
