Matching love bracelets? Not surprised.

——

Honest to God, I hate people like Hayakawa Kakeru (Kaji Yuki), so to see him fail to successfully chase after Mei for mere desire’s need was too much fun. She made it clear this far that she’s a strong individual, but even for someone as socially timid and wary as she, Mei is quite perceptive and aware of others around her. Obviously, she wouldn’t be that type of girl to give in to Kakeru’s cajoling but to shoot him down that quick and further damage his playboy pride later on was pure awesome. And hey, maybe he decided to call up his favorite partner, who, by the way, is endorsing cheating just because she’s got the body, looks and urges. Seriously, smh. 

Last episode acknowledged how Yamato is human. This episode made him more human, more mortal and much more down-to-earth. I’ve been treading carefully around him, but just as Mei is learning about him, I am too — that he is genuine with his feelings and words. The way he’s handled the situation with Kakeru wasn’t quite smooth, but he put a nice dent into his so-called friend’s face. Only problem with that showing of masculinity was needing his entire hand wrapped up because of a slight recoil. If I wanted to heckle Yamato now, I’d say take some calcium pills and add more meat to those bones. Nevertheless, it led to a pretty scene with Mei tending to his pained hand with a kiss and talking about how scars are made for one another. That said, Aiko’s involvement is not over yet. 

This episode made more positive strides in making Sukitte Iinayo a solid romance series. It’s hard not to like Mei’s character, even though because the story is told from her point of view, we actually do know her as viewers. Moreover, Yamato is making a strong case by having a deep background, and getting to know him and his tendencies (rumored to be true) make this an enjoyable watch. Even if that pity sex with Aiko taints his character a little, he’s handled himself well in these pressure situations. It’s like he’s marching to the beat of his own drum at last, perhaps influenced by Mei’s strong individualism, and obviously by his deeply rooted attraction to her, which narrows his tunnel vision around her.

What is more to know? Well, besides the continuing struggle between Mei and Aiko, there’s the question of who this Nagi person is. I wouldn’t be surprised if there is a long history between Nagi and Yamato, but I also wouldn’t be surprised if Mei doesn’t have much of a reaction. At least, by showing any on her face. We shall see. 

GO Rating: 3.5/5

Maybe not the most graceful of swings but Captain Falcon would be pleased.