Hananoi has a messed up perception of love/self worth and in his own way is trying to be better about opening up and not be overbearing/toxic, but he's essentially being re-socialized through his high school girlfriend? That wouldn't be that big of a deal if his attachment to her didn't come across as a genuine mental illness. This isn't a 'dig' at him, i'm just at a point in this story (ch 39-41) where I would rather read about him getting professional help because his behavior is unacceptable.
I guess the point of his character/their relationship is essentially supposed to be 'everyone deserved to be loved, and learn how to love' (in a healthy way) regardless of baggage, but we've gotten this far and his form of 'love' is still at the expense of others so now what? Having good intentions or feeling genuine affection for someone cannot make up for shitty behavior. I understand to an extent he cannot change overnight and is pretty self aware of his shortcomings, but I cant root for them completely because it feels like if they remain together he's only going to keep relying on her as his only sense of happiness and learn nothing, and thats not good for either of them in the long run.
I might be being a bit harsh, I do think its enjoyable overall and im sure plenty of people overlook the conflict for the sake of the romance, but i genuinely hope Hananoi's character is addressed properly.
EDIT 6/28/23: i decided to catch up after i took a break from reading this, I will say that my concerns did more or less get addressed! Hasanoi gets called out by several characters and is learning that a support system that isn't composed of only your girlfriend is good (lol) however, not completely satisfied with how his fuck-up wasnt treated as seriously as it could have been. Like i understand that at the end of the day this is a shoujo and its gonna be a little silly and corny at times, but this manga does take itself pretty seriously! so i wish it touched more on the aspect of how scary thinking someone you care about could be unsafe to be around. Again i appreciate this newfound realization that Hananoi can rely on other people, but i still think he need like. people that arent teenagers to give him advice lol.
Point is, this really isnt for everyone! but i do think its at least an interesting read.
