Boy, it's been a long time since I looked at this series. It's been long enough that I've managed to get away from the "good gosh when is this series going to DO something" feeling that came with vol. 10. Reading chapter 50 reminded me of all the reasons I love this series: Kurosaki's protectiveness, Teru's kindness and intelligence, the growing feelings between Rena and Kyoshi, and the general awesomeness of friendship that fills the story.
Not to mention the humor. That's still very strong.
Though Teru is still recovering somewhat from the effects of Akira's attack, she's relying more on her friends for protection, not just herself. It's nice to see that she's internalizing the fact that she's not alone, though there are times when her friends are farther away than she'd like.
Rena ends up facing the same, except her situation is far more isolating than Teru has faced. Still, it's wonderful to see how she also trusts in her friends not to abandon her, and makes the choice to try to contact them in a way that is totally Rena. I was impressed with her strength, her growth, and her bravery.
Kyoshi also shows a lot of growth in this, especially in regards to his feelings for Rena. They're adorable together and I love how he honestly cares for her and tries to bring out her best side when he's with her. I'm looking forward to seeing them as a couple in the very near future.
Another thing I loved in this volume was the easiness between Kurosaki and Teru. They act like a married couple now, even though no kisses have been shown or anything like that. As far as I can tell, they're just very comfortable around each other. However, I've also read manga series where all physical intimacy is implied, never shown, and you have to be on the lookout for clues in order to guess just how close the couple has gotten. Given that Kurosaki still gets nervous when Teru lifts her shirt and Teru blushes like crazy when Kurosaki has his off, I'm guessing nothing has happened in that department. However, there's one very tender scene where Teru tries to get Kurosaki to come out and say that she's his happiness. Instead, (AND I LOVE THE WAY HE'S DRAWN WHEN HE SAYS THIS) he says he won't and tells her to figure it out. I think it's the sweetest and sexiest I've seen him drawn since Teru made him cry on the beach.
Oh, and they hold hands now almost all the time when they're alone! I'm so thrilled! I can't remember if they did that in the previous volume. It's been too long. But it's nice to see them getting closer.
The only problem I have so far with the series is that it's starting to feel a little uneven in switching between silly and serious moments. But that's a minor quibble. It's still a fun read and still very highly recommended, especially for those who want a manga romance that focuses on the heart.