"The ML does somewhat understand consent"
Well that didn't age well
He knows it exists, at least.
That's just even worse, when he then also ignores it. Can't even say it's ignorance
Yup.
I believe consent should always be clear and explicit, leaving no room for doubt. Yes or no. If yes, negotiation on what, how, when. If no, no and not at all.
Sadly, in most stories this is not clear to neither of the protagonists.
One says "No, wait, stop, it hurts when you *are this agressive*"
The other changes his approach to a less aggressive one.
So he says "No, wait, *not the tip*".
Clear? Not at all.
In my opinion? Mutual rape. After all, let's not forget the "Love potion" (if working) and all that.
Although there are many, many, MANY sex scenes, even MORE crying scenes and no progress on the plot... it's not a bad story.
There is no "vicious original female" or the not so subtle female hate that permeates most yaoi.
Just love and sexual preferences. The ogMC (Female) is a nice girl. She does have a face. She isn't a green tea btch just waiting an opportunity to pounce and reveal her nastiness. And there is no "the prince is mine/you are in the way/one-sided romance with the ML". Points for that.
The ML does somewhat understand consent (like no penetration without an explicit yes) but the MC has no idea what he wants. And since the beginning MC never said stop.
Normally he says "no more" which I'm starting to guess is another way sexuals say yes. ╮(￣▽￣)╭
Overall, it's a nice story to read when bored.