Let’s start afresh - it is about future price which is about current perception of profit, page-13

I'm no expert at shorting as I've never done it. There is a webpage which informs you on the days it takes to cover if all shorters try to close their positions.

https://www.marketindex.com.au/short-selling

I would imagine that in their best interest they would want to cover as soon as possible as there are fees involved for holding their position over a long term.

The more the share price goes above the price they sold them for in the beginning, the more they have to pay back. Hence the squeeze when they all try to get out at one time.
Bad position to be in I'd say, no sympathy from me or from other long term holders.