The story starts with a man named hiroyuki he is your typical ataku who loves watching anime his mother lectures him about watching anime all day even on his days off he is 26 and at this age he should be looking for a wife she reminds him about their neighbor who is getting married next month he irritably looks at her feeling uncomfortable with her reality check tired of his mom's constant lecturing he decides to move Out he finds a nice quite apartment for himself after moving all his stuff in he decides to introduce himself to his
neighbors he rings the bell of the apartment next door and is met by a very irritated girl named oshino Makoto huki is startled to see that she is a delinquent suddenly she starts laughing at him with a petrified expression he realizes he is wearing an anime shirt he was so caught up with moving that he didn't realize he was wearing the shirt Outside Makoto closes the door behind him as he runs away with an embarrassed expression realizing that she has figured out he is an otaku the next day he prepares to head to work his
mind is still wondering about yesterday's incident he starts to worry that this apartment complex might be filled with delinquents he shrugs off the thought deciding there is no use in pondering it he is determined to change his attitude and start a new so he decides it would Be best to avoid her however that plan wasn't meant to be huki runs into her as soon as he steps outside she once again teases him for being an obaku judging from her uniform he realizes that she is a high schooler hu Yuki's introverted personality kicks in and he
tries to run away Makoto is left confused seeing this leaving her to wonder why he is in such a hurry she realizes that he must be feeling awkward about yesterday she decides to tease him some more by Getting closer to him while trying to run she stumbles and falls over seeing this hiroyuki wonders if he should help her however since he had already decided not to associate with her he decides to leave her be as he begins to walk away he is St to see that she has injured both of her knees he immediately goes
to her and orders her to sit while he gets some bandages he quickly goes over to a nearby store when he returns he finds her waiting for him he starts to tend to Her wounds but while doing this he notices the stairs of the nearby people he can't help but feel like a creep kneeling in front of a school girl after finishing up he tries to run away again only to find that they take the same train the atmosphere turns awkward as they quietly stand next to each other makota wonders if she should thank him
for helping her out earlier she further realizes that he is actually quite good-looking something she didn't Realize yesterday suddenly the train rattles around causing her to fall closer to him he asks if she's okay with an embarrassed expression she quickly replies that she is fine she wanted to thank him but she ended up accidentally yelling at him instead on top of this the crowded train is making the situation even more embarrassing for her being so close she can even smell this colon as soon as the train doors open she runs Away embarrassing she says goodbye
calling him an old man she finally arrives at the school seeing the bandages on her knees her classmates assume that she might have been fighting all day there are rumors about her that she once beat up 10 guys all by herself she gives them an intense glare asking what they are muttering about Just One Look from her is enough to scare everyone off elsewhere hiroyuki finally arrives at his office he is still Baffled that she called him an old man his boss comes over in anger and reminds him that he is late he apologizes saying
it was because of the moving his boss is sarcastically asks if his new place is haunted for an introvert like huki that would have been a better scenario with concern his boss asks whether they need to contact a good spiritualist he quickly responds that he is fine he can't tell them that he has been mentally crushed by a high schooler this Pain can only be understood by those who have experienced it after this exhausting EXP experience with his boss he returns home and decides to go to bed early upon arriving at his apartment he spots
Makoto sitting on the ground she is busy searching for her keys it seems Makoto is a bit of a clutz feeling bad for her huki decides to help her out and turns on his flashlight this way it'll be easier for her to find her keys once again her Sundar personality kicks in When she finds her key he heads to his room she calls out to him and asks whether he likes sweet or salty things when he answers salty she gives him a packet of chips she tells him it's a thank you gift he tries to
politely decline but she insists thanking him with a red face huuki goes back to watching anime he tries the chips Makoto gave him finding them very tasty meanwhile Makoto can't stop thinking earlier perhaps this is a sign that of Things to come days pass and hiroyuki continues running into Makoto he was worried at first but now he can rest easy knowing she isn't some weirdo however that opinion is challenged when he sees her fighting with a goon on the way her Yuki's instincts kick in telling him to run away however as a responsible adult he
can't bring himself to do so he turns back and yells police this distracts the Goon allowing hiroyuki to grab her and run away Makoto feels Embarrassed holding his hand after they go a little farther he lets go of her hand she thanks him for saving her but he shouts at her for fighting with someone dangerous which leads her baffled he adds that if something happened to her it would worry her parents she tells him it's got nothing to do with him she reminds him that she didn't ask for his help adding that he acted on
his own angered Makoto calls him stupid and runs off huki realizes he Might have touched the sensitive spot during school Makoto is still thinking about him she looks at her hand and recalls the earlier incident Makoto finds herself thinking about hiroyuki's hands noticing how much bigger and stronger they were suddenly she snaps out of it reminding herself that she is supposed to be angry with him not to mention this was the first time she held hands with a man and he turns out to be someone older than her her classmates Soon notice her sour mood
meanwhile her Yuki is in a dilemma wondering if he shouldn't have scolded her which had obviously upset her even though he hasn't done anything wrong he can't shake off the sadness he feels it Dawn on him that the feeling is similar to when the neighborhood cat grows at him his boss notices the strange expression on hiroyuki's face and asks what's going on Haruki asks how to win over someone who acts like a cat being a cat lover The boss suggests offering food giving a little attention and patting its head Haruki can't help but picture himself
doing the same with Makoto at the same time makota receives a message from her mom informing her that her monthly allowance has been sent and asking her to visit soon when her friends invite her to dinner Makoto declines feeling down as she looks up she sees hiroyuki standing in front of her asking why she is still around so late seeing the frown On her face he realizes she is still mad at him determined to make amends he decides to follow his boss's advice he apologizes for scolding her that morning and offers to treat her to
dinner they go to a restaurant where they order their food from a self-service counter Makoto is annoyed by his choice thinking he should have chosen a fancier place if he really wanted to impress her as she stares at the food with a grim expression she can't help but feel that Hiroyuki still treats her like a kid it's not that she wants to change his perspective but she does wish he was more aware her Yuki noticing her expression assumes she might have a stomach ache they begin eating and he advises her to avoid doing dangerous things
like she had that morning reminding her to take care of herself because she is a girl she reluctantly agrees after the meal huki asks if she wants some juice as he is heading to the Convenience store she tries to brush off his offer but he insists a little while later he hands her the drink which she accepts with a quiet thanks wanting to start over huki introduces himself asking her not to call him old since he is only 26 in response she cheekily calls him Yamada without any honorific which makes him protest she introduces herself
too suggesting he could call her by her first name when he tries Makoto Chan she bristles not wanting to be Treated like a child he hesitates to drop the honorific alt together so she lets the matter go hero Yuki realizes that Makoto's behavior is a lot like a cat's at their apartment doors he thanks her for having dinner with him she tells him it isn't necessary he wishes her good night and heads inside once alone in her room she feels a wave of emotion realizing it has been a long time since someone has wished her
good night feeling like a lovesick girl she lets Out a frustrated shout meanwhile huki is excitedly immersed in his video game the next day Makoto makes extra food and decides to share it with hiroyuki as she stands at his door she convinces herself that she's doing it purely out of kindness not because she's interested in him when hero Yuki opens the door unshaven and wearing an anim t-shirt she tries to insist to herself that he isn't likable on the train hiroyuki compliments her Curry nervously she Offers to make it again if he likes however he
politely declines explaining that with food prices being so high they should only cook for themselves this practical response draws curious stares from the people around them irritated by his logic Makoto asks if it would be okay for him to start paying her for the food playfully poking him she points out that he relies too much on takeout which could make him gain weight finally she suggests that it would be beneficial for Him if she prepared his lunches seeing the sense in her offer especially how it could help him save money for his Hobbies huki agrees
though she finds his acceptance a bit strange the following day Makoto is seen flipping through a cookbook contemplating what to make for his Bento she realized izes she doesn't know his food preferences later at work hiroyuki's boss notices his Bento and encourages him to open it embarrassed huki hesitates as he discovers that his Food is arranged in the shape of an Anon girl something he's not eager to show his boss meanwhile at Moto's School the girls are excited to see her Bento which is adorably shaped like animals they eagerly take pictures and when the photos
are uploaded online comments flood in with people surprised by how cute her lunch is and noting that she's girly than they thought the attention brings her a bit of unexpected Fame after the day ends hiroyuki meets Makoto And requests a more normal lunch when she asks for his preferred Foods he starts to tell her but she interrupts to take notes he then suggests they go shopping together to finish quickly at the supermarket Makoto picks up bell peppers which baffles her Yuki he then adds a pack of idol Wafers to the cart explain that it's a
rare addition she protests that he could just buy a regular snack but seriously defends it as his way of treating himself making Her comment on how childish he is after finishing their shopping huki is dra drawn to a candy machine and can't resist trying his luck for his favorite candy when Makoto asks if he got what he wanted he sheepishly admits he didn't and tries several more times on their way home makota remarks on his persistence with the candy machine he responds that it's his reason for earning money and adds that he had fun shopping
with her she smiles and says She's looking forward to making his lunch as they walk huki thinks she's cute on the stairs he reflects that these feelings might be similar to what he once felt for a younger sister but that was in the past he later checks his game collection and decides to settle for 2D games content with his current lifestyle that night hiroyuki has nightmares about past girlfriends who broke up with him because they found him boring when he wakes up he feels awful The next day at work hiroyuki's boss announces a no overtime
day encourag urging everyone to go home and spend time with their families he insists hiroyuki leave early as well meanwhile Makoto's friends say goodbye promising to share lunch the next day as she sits down she thinks that making Benta might actually help her make friends she then spots hiroyuki and decides to approach him however as she gets closer she overhears his conversation with his boss Who is teasing him about having a girlfriend who makes lunch for him huki denies this explaining that because of the age difference it's more like a sibling relationship and that Makoto
was probably just being kind he further adds that even if she were interested in him he isn't interested in her his boss then inquires about his romantic preferences and hiroyuki confesses that after his last breakup he realize he prefers being single as relationships require energy That he simply doesn't have anymore his boss is surprised when hero Yuki dreamly adds that he's content with his decision to give up on romance Makoto hearing all this quietly Retreats conflicted about her own feelings when huki bids farewell to his boss and spots Makoto he begins to thank her for
the lunch but she snatches the Bento from his hands and runs off hiroyuki's boss despite feeling it's not his place to comment on hiroyuki's personal life worries that if Huki continues to build walls around himself he might miss out on something important when makota returns home she reflects on hiroyuki's conversation with his boss she wonders if being with her is a burden to him even though she tries her best to make him bentos lost in thought she eventually drifts off to sleep around 7:30 while watching the news hero Yuki realizes it's the time when nakoto
usually brings his Bento he wonders if she overslept and decides to Check on her when she answers the door with a drowsy face he asks if she's feeling okay she admits she might have a slight fever and apologizes for not making a Bento concerned her Yuki insists she go to the clinic but she brushes off the idea saying she just needs some sleep ignoring her protests he carries her to the clinic the receptionist informs them they'll need to wait for their turn Haruki asks if she wants something to drink but she Declines she tries to
apologize worried he needs to go to work but he dismisses her concerns reminding her that she's always helping him he tells her she can rely on him if she needs anything as she looks at him she wonders why he's being so kind while waiting she dozes off on his shoulder which surprises him he reassures her that she can depend on him as she snuggles closer she thinks to herself that huki doesn't see her as a woman meanwhile an elderly couple nearby Looks at them with affection after they return home huki asks how she's feeling she
says she's better after getting an IV drip he gives her some food and drinks to help her stay hydrated and then suggests they exchange email addresses to stay in touch in case of emergencies as they exchange addresses Makoto feels like the distance between them is shrinking hesitantly she asks if he's this worried about everyone he explains that it's Different with her because she's his neighbor and a high schooler so he feels responsible for her besides he adds she's like a younger sister to him however Makoto doesn't want to be seen as just a sister she
thanks him for his help and heads back to her apartment on the train ride to work hiroyuki starts overthinking wondering if he upset her by doing something wrong ever since becoming an otaku huki has become an overthinker often getting too caught up In others feelings despite struggling to understand them he sulks frustrated by his inability to grasp people's emotions and even considers that if he had enough money he might just withdraw from social interactions altogether on his way home he passes by a lottery machine and impulsively buys 10 consecutive number tickets and 10 random ones
hoping for a lucky Break Meanwhile at home Makoto receives a message from a classmate wishing her well as she reads it she Reflects on how she started becoming friendlier with her classmates since she began making bentos for hero Yuki later her classmate Reena visits her commenting that it's more fun to skip school and hang out Reena shows Makoto the things she brought over for their meal joking that they're going to eat together she asks if Makoto wants anything else since she's feeling under the weather Makoto checks the lunch and says it's already enough Reena casually
Mentions that it's from her neighbor who annoys her and motum nonchalant comments that hero UK is dull-looking and an anim nerd observing her expression Reena asks if she likes him Makoto furiously denies it but Reena teases her asking if it would be okay for her to meet huki Makoto protests which only makes Reena more smug as she comments that even a tough girl like Makoto could have a love interest Makoto insists it's not like that explaining that huki sees her as a Sister and isn't interested in Romance Reena points out that huki doesn't seem to
notice her feelings and slightly suggests she could teach makota ways to get his attention that evening on his way back home huki checks his phone wondering about Makoto's well-being he debates whether he should call her but decides against it worried he might bother her as he approaches his apartment he's surprised to find makota waiting for him she explains that she Heard him coming and wanted to thank him for taking care of her earlier relieved to see she's all right he smiles suddenly Makoto becomes nervous remembering reena's suggestion that she kiss huki she had been reluctant
knowing he would be her first kiss and Reena had teased her about her innocence now in the present Makoto hesitantly removes her mask telling herself that it's just a matter of courage and has nothing to do with her feelings for him she quickly Kisses him on the cheek leaving him stunned blushing she thanks him for his help again the shock is so overwhelming for him that he loses Consciousness on her way home Reena P Makoto's romantic life and resolves to confront Hiro Yuki if anything happens to her friend meanwhile Makoto panics when when she sees
hiroyuki unconscious and quickly rushes to his side after checking him over she concludes that an ambulance isn't necessary determined to help him She takes the keys from his pocket unlocks his door and drags him into his apartment with some effort once inside she manages to get him onto his bed and removes his glasses as she looks at his face she realizes how much younger he appears without them her gaze lingers on his lips and she blushes wondering what it would be like to kiss him she hesitantly lowers her head toward his but suddenly he mutters
something in his sleep startling her quickly she puts his Glasses back on and hopes he wakes up soon after a while huki feels a throt pain in his head and slowly opens his eyes the sight of Makoto hovering over him startles him and he asks why she's in his room she explains that he lost Consciousness hit his head and she brought him inside to help as he listens he suddenly remembers what happened when he got home in face Palms noticing her flushed face nervous he want wonders if this is some Modern way of showing Gratitude
unsure of how to respond he pretends not to remember anything since he bumped his head hoping to avoid an awkward conversation Makoto's eyes narrow in frustration annoyed that he's acting like he doesn't remember it had taken a lot of Courage for her to kiss him but she decides to Let It Go thinking it might be better this way as she looks around his room huki is reminded of how his previous girlfriend reacted to his living space expecting Judgment he's surprised when Makoto casually remarks that she won't judge him she observes that it's a good thing
he has a hobby in items related to it expressing a bit of jealousy since she doesn't have any hobbies herself suddenly her eyes land on an anim figure she recognizes from her childhood she struggles to recall the character's name and hero Yuki eagerly supplies it launching into a passionate explanation about a movie called asterisk summer Voice asterisk that was released last year he Praises its story despite the director facing some visual challenges and offers to lend her the movie he abruptly stops realizing that most people don't share his enthusiasm for these things but when he
sees her positive reaction it makes him genuinely happy Makoto's gaze then falls on a figurine in his room and she asks if he's into that kind of stuff embarrassed Haruki tries to hide the figurine but in The process they both lose their balance and fall with him ending up hovering over her both are left in a nervous mess and they quickly get up flustered makota rushes home without another word after she leaves huki is left feeling mortified by the entire ordeal he realizes that his feelings toward Makoto are far from platonic and begins to see
her as a woman not just a neighbor or a younger sister figure he tries to shake off these thoughts knowing he shouldn't Get too close to her the next day Makoto is nervous about facing hiroyuki especially since he supposedly doesn't remember the kiss deciding to act normal she Rings his doorbell and hands in his Bento when he answers he thanks her but as they Ascend the stairs he suddenly tells her that she doesn't need to make lunch for him anymore startled she asks if the lunches were awful but he quickly reassures her that they weren't
he explains that he's realized it might be A burden for her and that he can make his own lunches he also suggests that it would be better for her to make lunch for her boyfriend instead Makoto bluntly replies that she doesn't have one Haruki responds that it could become a problem when she eventually finds a boyfriend as he realizes she has been making lunch just for him suddenly Makoto clenches her fist and moves toward him but stops herself instead she agrees not to make lunches for him anymore and turns away Leaving hiroyuki confused inside she's
Furious that he's talking about her finding a boyfriend especially since she doesn't want to hear that from him later she's seen angrily punching a vending machine Reena noticing her foul mood comments that she might break the machine at this rate another friend guesses that her sour mood has something to do with a boy Mikoto explains that it's all because because of reena's bad advice and how it's messed everything up Reena realizing what's happened smirks and asks if Makoto finally kissed him admitting that her previous advice was just a joke Reena then takes a more serious
tone explaining that sometimes things don't go as planned and that it's not entirely in their control she suggests that hiroyuki might have reacted the way he did because he's an adult and doesn't want a high school girl chasing after him with a bit of a sigh Reena refers to him as an ordinary Loser trying to lighten the mood Makoto still angry and frustrated isn't entirely comforted by reena's words she realizes she's in deeper than she thought and doesn't know what to do next Reena seeing Makoto's distress consoles her and advises that she take things slowly
with hiroyuki especially regarding her feelings on her way home Makoto's expression is downcast when she arrives at her apartment she notices a bag hanging on the handle of her door Inside the bag is a note from hiroyuki praising her lunches along with an movie he had previously recommended as she reads the note it feels to her like hero Yuki's way of saying goodbye she gazes in the direction of his room Torn Between the desire to talk to him and the fear of what that conversation might lead to just as she contemplates her next move her
phone rings it's her mother checking in on her Makoto assures her that she's doing fine her mom asks If she's been well and mentions that the bar is closed today so she has some free time she also hints that there's someone she wants Makoto to meet and suggests that Makoto consider living with them if possible a few days pass and huki finds himself staring in the direction of Makoto's apartment he realizes he hasn't seen her since his Farewell note despite adjusting his schedule slightly he struggles to focus the incident with Makoto weighs heavily on his
mind Leaving him distracted and Restless in an attempt to move on he even goes on a group date though the experience only makes him feel worse during the date his friends notice his lack of enthusiasm and comment on how disinterested he seems hero Yuki brushes off their remarks saying that sometimes he just goes through the motions however he knows deep down that he's trying to distract himself from thoughts of Makoto as the group chats one of the girls Brings up the topic of pets and huki finds himself even more disengaged later his date approaches him
with an offer for a drink huki tells her his preferences and she mentions her fondness for Japanese liquor suggesting they try some together huki tries to convince himself that he's not obsessed with high school girls and that he can be interested in an adult woman too but the persistent thoughts of Makoto frustrate him after getting her drink His date asks about his Hobbies huki knows this is the key question that always comes up he considers lying as he has in past relationships but this time he decides to be honest he admits that he's into Anam
and otaku culture with a collection of DVDs and figurines in his room he even mentions his fascination with Gat up on machines his date nervously tries to play along acknowledging that it's part of Japanese so culture huki can sense her discomfort And thinks to himself that it's painful when someone tries to force themselves to accept his interests he would rather she either make fun of him or genuinely enjoy his company without pretending suddenly an image of Makoto smiling and teasing him about his Hobbies flashes in his mind and he's horrified to realize he's thinking about
her again desperate to change the subject he asks about her favorite kind of alcohol and she eagerly responds recommending a few options they End up ordering several drinks later when the group decides to move to another location they realize hiroyuki is too drun to continue his date apologizes for making him drink so much but he waves it off after saying their goodbyes huki stumbles home feeling sick and dull from the mixture of beer and Japanese liquor has he leans against a wall almost dooing off he hears a familiar voice calling his name it's Makoto tell
telling him not to sleep There warning that he might catch a cold at first hiroyuki tries to brush her off thinking he's imagining her Makoto snaps at him telling him that she's taken the time to worry about him and he's treating her dismissively startled her Yuki realizes she's real and not just a figment of his imagination he nervously comments on The Coincidence of meeting her there but she reminds him that it's the usual route they take to their Apartments he sheepishly admits that He's drunk and just wants to rest Makoto suggests they go to a
nearby park after a while they're sitting on a bench and she asks if he's calmed down Haruki still a bit disoriented nods and answers affirmatively the next day they meet at a cafe her mother is visibly taken back to see Makoto after so long meanwhile hiroyuki scolds himself for oversleeping on his way to work he crosses paths with Makoto who playfully teases him for his messy morning hair nervously he Ponders That they seem to have returned to their usual light-hearted conversation on the train ride he wonders quietly if Makoto might be moving away when she
suddenly bumps her head he instinctively asks if she's all right and the moment pulls him back to a similar incident from their past he's left reflecting on how calmly and almost indifferently he handled it today and is surprised at his own reaction noticing his flushed cheeks and the faint Sheen of sweat on his forehead She asks if he's feeling all right yada quickly waves off her concern insisting he's fine but later at lunch he lets out a deep sigh finally accepting the truth his feelings for her are growing stronger than he'd like to admit his
boss picking up on his Focus teases him suggesting maybe he's not receiving a lovingly prepared lunch from someone special yada deflex saying his mood is more complicated leading his boss to poke fun at him again reminding him of His professed disinterest in Romance irritated Yamada shouts for him to drop it then reluctantly admits that he's already anxious enough about the situation his boss somewhat surprised Marvels at how someone as reserved as him has started opening up to love with a friendly tone the boss assures hero Yuki that if things work out they will always be
welcome at his place even if he doesn't know much about her yet embarrassed hiroyuki hesitates to Clarify that Makoto is a high schooler surprised by his boss's unwavering support later on his way home he decides that if makota was home he will invite her to dinner hoping to make up for last time's disappointing beef bowl but as he arrives he notices packed belongings near her flat which hits him with the realization that she might actually be moving out the next morning movers load up belongings and Makoto expresses gratitude for their assistance to which They kindly
respond huki looking on sadly is haunted by the sound of the moving truck which constantly reminds him of her departure though he could contact her by phone he feels uncertain about when they might meet again Makoto visits his place but seems like he is not home he awkwardly Waits unsure of what to do if this is truly the end he'll regret it determined he gets out of bed and heads out holding back tears he calls out to her from the staircase Confessing that while he was once nervous about living next to her now he's grateful
smiling he adds that seeing her connect with her mother brings in happiness just then he stumbles down the stairs with concern in her eyes she asks if he's okay he takes her hand gently replying that there are still memories they need to make places to visit and meals to share at that moment an older woman interjects announcing that it's her who is moving Huki is visibly relieved yet astonished Makoto quickly clarifies that the woman lives below her and is relocating to an assisted living facility that is why makota rang his Bell to ask whether he
would help him in cleaning relieved yet a bit embarrassed he asks if she's been planning to move in with her mother Makoto explains that her recent talk with her mom concluded with permission to live independently she mentions that she didn't want to impose on her Mother's remarriage realizing his error huki feels embarrassed Mota scolds him reminding him of his earlier words he softly comments that she kissed him that day leaving her momentarily speechless when she asks if he recalls the incident he slightly smirks and quips that ignoring it would have only added an awkward elephant
in the room just then the older woman shouts for them to quit Doling and help they jump in finally wrapping up the move however the unique And complex bond between them feels as if it will persist intertwining their lives as neighbors and perhaps something more the scene transitions to Makoto's childhood incident when she was determined to win a gold medal her mother had suggested learning piano instead but Makoto tearfully insisted on studying carate like others so she could win that medal seeing her determination her father enrolled her in a tournament where she became the junior
Champion Filled with pride her father told her she would grow stronger every day and promise promised to always be there for her now sitting alone by the roadside she wonders why her father left her a stranger approaches warning her it's unsafe to be alone and offers to walk her home although she insists she's fine he grabs her hand trying to lead her away just then another girl calls out saying that she has been waiting for her and demands that the stranger let go Makoto momentarily confused realizes she doesn't know the girl when the stranger ignores
the warning and tries to harass the new girl as well makota recalls her her father's words about becoming stronger she confronts The Stranger fiercely and the two girls thank each other the new girl Reena invites Makoto to join her for a meal and she accepts as they walk together Makoto feels as if she can hear her father's voice she grips the gold metal in her pocket Reassuring herself that her father is still watching over her back in the present Makoto notices yamata's awkward expression and asks if something is wrong forcing a smile he admits he's
still sore from his fall and pl to rest in his room she suggests bringing him food and he lights up with excitement though he later regrets not playing it cooler when she arrives with the food he's genuinely happy he notices that his magazine cabinet has swung open Embarrassed he shuts it declining her offer to help clean and can't help but feel self-conscious as Yamada turns off the TV he reflects on how it's been 3 months since he moved in and how he's gradually adjusting to living alone then nakoto entered his life though they're building a
friendship he senses a strange distance between them yet he still finds himself waiting to see her each day just then he spots Makoto on the train looking somewhat downcast when He asks what's wrong she mentions her final exams or next week and he can see she's feeling the pressure she asks if he could help her study leaving him in shock as he realizes this means they would be alone together torn by conflicting emotions he worries that being so close to her might make him lose control of his feelings or that he could unintentionally hurt her
risking in serious trouble overwhelmed he declines her request disappointed she Asks if he dislikes her that much Yamada quickly tries to reassure her apologizing and explaining that he's forgotten most of what he learned in high school smiling he promises to treat her to her favorite food if she improves her grades which cheers her up as she exits the train she reminds him not to forget his promise he exhales in relief acknowledging his fondness for her but knowing he can't confess his feelings since she's still a high school student He's afraid of doing anything that might
make her dislike him meanwhile at school Makoto contemplates improving her grades for the promised dinner knowing studying isn't her strength she looks around for a smart classmate and spots kagi who has always been slightly intimidated by her recently however he's noticed her kind-hearted nature she firmly tells him to come over and in an intense tone asks if he'll help her study terrified he doesn't respond so she warns him of the Consequences if he refuses trying to stay calm kashiwagi reminds himself of her good qualities as they study in the library she grows frustrated saying she
doesn't understand anything and he realizes he's in for a long session kashiwagi's attention is drawn to her pencil his eyes widening in excitement he points it out recognizing it as an exclusive mechanical pencil featuring the egin's idol character from a limited edition she explains that her Neighbor Yamada an adult but a major anime fan gave it to her lushing she mentions that his room is filled with action figures in manga noting that he even gave her a snackbox as a gift thrilled khawaji calls Yamada his master admiring the lifestyle he dreams of he wonders about
Makoto's relationship with her neighbor but quickly refocuses determined to meet his master she remains oblivious to how much her knowledge of Yamada has fascinated Khaadi determined she works hard and is thrilled to make the top 100 students for the first time she eagerly shares her results with Yamada who praises her and playfully reminds her of the promised treat when he asks what she'd like she excitedly requests grilled meat as they head to a restaurant she tugs on his sleeve surprising him with her enthusiasm during the meal he asks if she stayed up all night studying
to which she nods explaining that a Classmate H her and was an excellent teacher hearing this Yamada feels a tinge of jealousy she then asks for permission to order more food and he starts to wonder about her classmate re recognizing he wouldn't have known about him if she hadn't mentioned it reflecting he senses a growing distance realizing that Makoto has her own world surrounded by people her own age Makoto notices his expression and asks if he's full when he denies it she offers him Some of her noodles he gloomily acknowledges that getting closer to her
will take effort on their way back she asks if the restaurant was too expensive and he reassures her nervously he calls her by name and asks if she's free this weekend surprised she curiously asks if he'd like to join her for some discounted deals with a hint of anxiety He suggests they go somewhere private just the two of them acknowledging his intention she understands that he's Asking her on a date in the end Yamada regrets inviting her admitting he isn't ready for this conflicted he wonders if it would have been simpler to have the date
at home and stresses over not having the right clothes for the occasion unsure of how things will turn out he wonders if he should try a practice run on a dating Sim in that instant memories from his past Reser face he recalls a date with his ex-girlfriend where despite agreeing With everything his ex-girlfriend said she eventually became frustrated and told him he was boring remembering this a deep pain strikes his heart meanwhile Makoto caught up in her own thoughts feels excited about spending time with him while Yamada views the outing as a date in a
dire need to look different and stand out she plans an unusual look her eyes then land on khawaji and she asks him to meet her behind the school building he feels a surge of fear as she Has always seemed intimidating to him handing him a magazine she asks what kinds of clothes boys generally like surprised cashew asks if she's going on a date which she quickly denies flaring up in embarrassment as he flips through the magazine he comments that none of the outfits seem to match her style after a few moments while glancing at a
picture of a girl on his phone He suggests that an ornate dress with knee high socks might be perfect he adds that If Makoto brings something homemade she will definitely win someone's heart annoyed she retorts that she doesn't have kni socks finally the day of the date arrives Yamada feels a bit nervous his stomach fluttering as he shows up dressed in the exact outfit that the store model wore he Scrolls through various potential date spots on his phone but quickly feels overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices just then Makoto arrives he is taken back
struck By how adorable she looks Maring at just how incredibly cute she is when she asks where they should go mentioning that she made sandwiches which could be unnecessary depending on their destination Yamada quickly assures her it isn't He suggests the zoo adding that there's a Polar Bear exhibit today to which she excitedly agrees as they walk he chastises himself for being nervous just moments ago but now feeling unexpectedly calm he reflects that he's Selfish in expecting her to understand his changing moods Makoto on the other hand wishes he'd hold her hand but when he
doesn't she feels disheartened wondering if he's just here as a friend not a date as they sit on the train he notices her silence and attempts to start a conversation but he struggles to find the right words smiling at her he's puzzled when she turns away in annoyance unbeknownst to him her reaction stems from how different he looks today Resembling a typical adult without his usual aaku t-shirt or work uniform when they arrive at the zoo her excitement bubbles over making her realized she's missed out on things like this she eagerly asks where they should
go first and he replies that they can go wherever she wants which frustrates her making her feel like he only sees her as a little kid especially since she's the only one visibly excited suddenly yamada's gaze falls on model stand and As he heads over she asks where he's going he replies with a vague no and then leads her in another Direction reminding himself to enjoy the day with her and perhaps convey that she means more to him than just a neighbor she becomes Enchanted by the polar bears commenting on how adorable they are like
living stuffed animals playfully he says she's just as cute causing her to blush and respond with are you crazy embarrassed he apologizes for the sudden Comment later when he goes to get a drink makota reflects on her happiness pondering why she hides these feelings from herself he offers her a choice between tea and ulong and she picks tea while drinking he apologizes for being so tedious and boring to which she uncon iously replies it's nothing like that unhappy but also nervous and your cute comment made me really happy relieved he realizes he's not the only
one anxious about the date upon hearing the word Date her eyes widen in realization it really is a date when they begin eating sandwiches Yamada exclaims at the spice saying it's spicy as heck she panics admitting she might have added too much mustard but Yamada reassures her saying he likes it spicy she gently tells him he doesn't need to to force himself but he insists he genuinely likes spicy food lovingly Makoto adds that he's exactly the fun person she imagined which reminds him of his ex who used to call Him boring feeling a sense of
calm he places his hand over hers and thanks her feeling that the tears in his eyes are from more than just the mustard on a day off Yamada sits in his room smiling as he reminisces about their date at the zoo realizing that the Deep wounds in his heart are finally starting to heal he reflects that he's beginning to think positively acknowledging his feelings for her suddenly Makoto shows up and teases him saying he doesn't even own Good manga he holds his head in frustration wanting to avoid situations like this regretting ever letting her come
over he asks if her air conditioner is really broken and she replies that she's tried everything but it's still not working she had even called her landlord but he refused to fix it until tomorrow she adds that it's unbearably hot and he agrees to let her stay at least until sunset watching her relish the cool air he gets flustered and Remarks that she should have worn something more appropriate since she's showing too much skin yamata finds himself lost in thoughts realizing how much he cares for her though he knows she's a high schooler and hasn't
shown any sign of disinterest in him his feelings continue to grow and being close to her becomes a quiet torment Makoto suggests doing something fun so Yamada asks about her Hobbies she shares that she enjoys chatting with Friends Shopping reading magazines watching TV and even exercising to build her muscles assuming it's for Fitness he nods but she clarifies that she's training for any real battles that might come her way puzzled he tries to understand and she considers him innocent explaining that although she hasn't had any real battles it's good to be prepared she mentions her
love for kurate showing off her biceps which look stronger than his embarrassed when she lifts her shirt to Show her ABS he quickly stops her saying no looking at his shelves Yamada shows her his plastic models and anime games she admits she doesn't quite understand such games but thinks plastic models are all right he picks one that's simple to assemble though he doubts she'll find it fun placing a box in front of her he explains that cutting the pieces leaves protrusions that need smoothing with a file hesitant at first Yamada reassures her that it gets
more enjoyable as the Model takes shape he reminds himself to maintain some distance as he focuses on the model working together she proudly shows him her progress her smile distracting him she notices his hands admiring how strong and attractive they look when he asks if she's getting bored she assures him she's really enjoying it then he tells her to let him know if she gets tired makota reminisces about the past recalling how he once said he didn't believe in love she wonders if he Still feels the same suddenly she notices the time and realizes it's
lunch Makoto asks if she can make something and when she opens the fridge it's practically empty with only a few bentos inside deciding to get better ingredients from her own place she returns and starts cooking in his kitchen watching her he recalls their date and feels she was at ease with him truthfully he's so out of touch with romance that he doesn't know how to act Without feeling inadequate after finishing their model she insists on keeping the one they made together turning down his offer of a better one her beauty and words move him deeply
and in a quiet moment she expresses her desire to stay with him forever overcome with emotion he impulsively kisses her upon realizing what happened she hastily leaves feeling both anxious and confused she wonders why she feels this way sometimes close to Yamada sometimes like He's a stranger meanwhile Yamada lies in his room caught between regret and lingering memories he chides himself for his actions but can still feel the sensation of their kiss calling himself foolish for how he acted Makoto soon reaches her destination where the staff welcomes her warmly as usual noticing the warmth she
always receives there her friend Reena explains it's all because of her father Makoto apologizes for meeting so late but Reena brushes it off Saying her parents are out and there's no need to worry a staff member also greets Makoto who replies that she's in his care today the staff member remarks that Makoto's care for Reena surpasses their own jokingly the staff member recalls how Miss Reena was teased by her classmates after returning to school she refused to come back which saddened him begging he lies down in front of Makoto ask asking to spend more time
with Reena embarrassed by his thrix Reena orders Him to bring tea after a while Makoto confides in Reena explained that her neighbor Yamada kissed her which left her shocked causing her to leave her things behind and run out of his room Reena surprised asks if yamata confess to her and nakota replies no teasingly Reena suggests they drown him for his audacity which flusters Makoto as she reflects Makoto admits that although Yamada seems submissive and slow his calmness strength and serious demeanor Stir her deeply his presence makes her forget her worries though it also leads her
heart uneasy Reena listens with Amusement urging Makoto to examine her feelings and figure out what she really wants Reena suggests that Makoto should talk to Yamada openly encouraging her to be honest about her emotions playfully Reena hints that Moto should prepare for a second kiss a comment that embarrasses Makoto meanwhile the staff member outside side happens to overhear Everything Makoto still wearing her friend's clothes tries to give them back but Reena insists she keep them remarking she doesn't care much for those clothes anyway which makes Makoto nervous Rea advises her to discuss things with Yamada
and get her AC fixed after saying goodbye makota Waits at the station for about 10 minutes Gathering the courage to face Yamada just then she spots her other friend kagi who's surprised to see her dressed differently Teasing ly khawaji assumes she's been on another date which annoys her as she was simply heading home after shopping hearing the word home khawaji gets excited eager to see Yamada and insists on walking her back she agrees thinking it's better than going alone meanwhile Yamada having searched for her all night is worried about where she could be he feels
both anxious and guilty deciding to look for her again despite his nerves Yamada wanders outside searching for her Frantically he recalls her smile and shy Expressions thinking only about not upsetting her running with the thought that he doesn't want to upset her he eventually stops to catch his breath wondering if she has reached home thinking this he starts running back home when he spots Makoto sitting with a boy on a bench he's taken back on the other hand kashiwagi urges Makoto to go home since it's close by she looking uneasy mentions she can't return just
Yet kashiwagi assumes she's missed her rent which angers Makoto leading her to explain that it's not true and ask him to wait a bit longer as they are about to leave khawaji teasingly thinks it's all just drama like someone asking for an extension on a dentist appointment he Pats her head in a brotherly way and they bicker all while Makoto's gaze drifts over to Yamada they exchange glances until khawai breaks the silence asking who Yamada is Makoto introduces Him as her neighbor and khawaji quickly recognizes him spotting an Idol's picture on yata's shirt he gets
excited and rushes over introducing himself as Makoto's classmate kashiwagi mentions he's heard a lot about Yamada making him nervous kashiwagi and otaku who's usually shy about his interests feels happy seeing others share his passion he even brings up the limited edition mechanical pencil he gave to Makoto kashiwagi sympathizing asks Yamada to be His friend though yamata is still focused on what happened the night before and wants to speak with Makoto privately despite this y agrees feeling a connection with khawaji Makoto calls out that she needs yamata's help but khawaji insists Makoto return home sparking a
minor argument between them makota was stunned by kashiwagi's sudden assertiveness a change from his usual timidity and considers hitting him in frustration Yamada tired and out of Breath suggests they all go to a family restaurant which Makoto finds ridiculous however khawaji is very enthusiastic pulling yamata along seated in the restaurant cashaw confides in Yamada about his desire to attend the summer Comet together Makoto hearing them asks what comicad is but kashiwagi dismisses her question telling her to mind her own business when she insists she asks yamata not him Yamada explains that comet is an event
for manga and Anan Fans to Showcase their own work and participate in Cosplay she questions why khawaji is fighting about this and khawaji jokingly comments on her surprising lack of resistance this time remarking that despite her rough exterior she's actually a nice girl Makoto becomes frustrated about hearing this Yamada then asks kashiwagi what Makoto is like at school kashiwagi replies describing her as a rude girl whom others fear though her reputation Has improved recently admitting he himself used to be intimidated by her Makoto irritated yells that she wants to punch him Yamada contemplates how much
Makoto has grown realizing she's become equal to kasagi in many ways though they bicker there's an understanding between them that feels natural likely due to their close age kashiwagi curiously asks if Yamada will attend Comet and Yamada agrees surprisingly Makoto expresses interest too leading to yet another Argument between her and khawaji he dismisses her stating that comet is no place for beginners determined Makoto insists she'll go regardless and leaves to get a drink yamata overhears a nearby table where two girls are arguing about relationships one girl mentions a guy named Mada who kissed her but
she rejected him making him Furious which led her to dislike him yamata feels oddly as if she's speaking to him and while overthinking he wonders in which Direction today's generation is heading in life he becomes worried that makota might similarly distance herself after their kiss another girl mentions a possessive guy who became distant without explanation expressing her frustration with people who don't communicate and hates those people who don't communicate directly and those who create misunderstandings on their own Yamada suddenly panicked wonders if the girls are mocking him just then khawaji Returns noticing yamata's unease and
they start a conversation about the complexities of modern relationships yamata curiously asks what high schoolers think about dating which catches khawaji offu after a pause kashiwagi says he doesn't dwell on such things but believes no idealized girl could compare to a real one who captures one's heart yamat agreed musing that's why he admires real girls kashiwagi sensing his friend sincerity jokingly Asks if yamata likes a girl named o yamata becomes completely flustered kashiwagi demonstrates that he felt that way because they are neighbors kashiwagi laughs it off remarking on the unlikely age difference in societal constraints
on hearing this Yamada feels embarrassed makota returns with her drink just as kasagi teasingly suggests that Yamada shouldn't fall for such a rude girl showing him a photo of a model as an example of someone more graceful this Enrages Makoto though she remains silent as their food Ares after they eek kashiwagi reminds Yamada not to forget their plans for kamet and says goodbye when Makoto is about to leave Yamada quietly apologizes to Makoto for his earlier actions she hurt turns back and demands to know why he's apologizing expressing how she feels for the first time
with tears in her eyes she admits that since it's her first experience of such emotions with him she wishes he'd Avoid saying things that would wound her heart moved Yamada hugs her tightly and they share a profound unspoken connection [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music]
