For the first time, Tabata genuinely begins working on herself for herself, and it’s such a rewarding shift to witness. After volumes of insecurity and self-doubt, seeing her take steps toward growth and self-worth felt so earned in a way. I’m absolutely rooting for her now.
Keisuke, though? He stole the show. He’s officially the best wingman in the manga. The way he supports Tabata—not by coddling her, but by leading through example—is incredibly mature and wholesome. His interactions with her are full of sincerity, especially during the birthday shopping and gift-giving scenes. Those moments weren’t flashy, but they were practical and meaningful. Keisuke’s attitude in Chapter 23, his resolve about romance, and how he respects emotions even when they’re complicated—chef’s kiss. I love how he also got her online unlike the other kids. He took the steps to get her included and is slowly in his way including her into his and his family's lives.
Chapter 24, the fireworks/summer festival chapter, was beautifully done. It had all the emotional beats you’d want without being melodramatic. Keisuke coming to terms with his feelings for Tabata hit hard—even if it's only to his "middle school" friends.
But let’s talk about that one line… “Yousuke should’ve chosen someone cuter”? No. I don’t care if it was “just a joke”—that kind of comment is never harmless. It cut through the sincerity and made me wince. Even if it was meant to show middle/high school boy immaturity or peer pressure, it was a sour note. I'm glad Yousuke corrected his butt in a second flat and left the scene with Tabata. The new character introduction for the next volume has me a bit annoyed though. Tabata hasn't yet come to terms with much yet to be thrown yet another hurdle... but here's to growth and hope.
Still, this was easily the strongest volume so far. Emotional growth, character clarity, and just enough tension to keep things moving—this is the kind of development I’ve been waiting for.
It's always the summer festival/fireworks chapter. THEY'RE TESTING ME BAAAAD, MY HEART CAN'T HANDLE THIS OMG I'M GOING CRAZY. Although there are many things that I find somewhat "problematic" (in the sense that some things could be better executed, because the point can get lost and turn a bit negative), I also think that the story is beautiful. Like, the main point of everything, which is acceptance and self-love. As well as "true" love. I finally see some improvement in her attitude! It's not huge, but it's there. I can empathize with Tabata a lot, I know there are many people who think and act like her. It can be hard to read, sometimes even tiring, as it is hard to witness in real life. But I think it's part of her journey, and I hope she can bloom and become confident and proud of who she is. She deserves it. To me that's the main point of this story.