More likely they followed a story link from someone's recommendation and then favorited you for when you post more. I really don't want to keep bothering you but, as an author who feels/has felt this sting, I really feel like you're overly harsh on yourself.
I mean, hell, Rose Crowley mentioned you on her server randomly as one of the authors she admires:
https://i.imgur.com/MojAjgD.png
People don't like to write comments. On art, okay, sure, those are immediate candy for the brain so art gets the lion's share of comments and love.
But, your writing is enjoyed by many and maybe they're silent (although comments here have shown that people will speak up) but they're still there.
Just sucks seeing you down so much. If you're done, you're done. I get that. Or you could look for ways to engage with your readers more if you really need that feedback. Forget Patreon if that doesn't work. Set up a Discord server, create polls for story ideas, proactively engage people in different ways - asking what people enjoy about TF stories in general, about your stories, areas they'd like to see improved or see more of, etc etc etc
You aren't writing in a void. It's just that it's sometimes difficult for people to take a moment and write what they think.
I won't bother you again after this if you're truly done and wasn't going to but at least know that - as shown by just the small search selection - people are inspired by your writing.