Based on what we're given in the classic games, the relationship between Lara and Von Croy is extremely fascinating and complex. Despite their heated rivalry and Von Croy's perceived abandonment when Lara became trapped in the pyramid, they still deeply care for each other.
Lara had every right to be furious and resentful towards what Von Croy had done to her in Egypt, but she still cared for him enough to pay him a visit before he was murdered before her eyes and seek rightful vengeance for his death. Von Croy's resentment is more inexcusable because he placed unrealistic expectations on a 16-year-old Lara who had to prioritise saving her own life first to avoid being killed. However, he did demonstrate genuine care when he attempted to rescue her before the pyramid caved in. He even went so far as to search for Lara after the collapse, which speaks volumes about him and their relationship.
In AOD, there’s a photograph that Von Croy owns, depicting him and Lara working together. This suggests that there were times they set their rivalry aside to collaborate. It's a picture that captures the happier moments they shared, making it both bittersweet and heartwarming.
I imagine that the death of Von Croy is a heavy burden on Lara's heart, even though she has conflicting emotions about the former world-renowned archaeologist. A significant loss like that isn't something that can be easily forgotten! While she isn't one to dwell on the past, it feels realistic that her history haunts her in ways she can never fully shake off.
The relationship between the two archaeologists is undoubtedly one of the most captivating dynamics in the classic TR games!
