I know it has been said before but just to make it clear: If anyone feels like dark topics like sexual abuse, childhood trauma or is suffering with depression/anyone sensitive to dark themes...I would really consider approaching this manga with caution. There's a lot of even imagery of dark themes that I'd stay away from.
I know it has been said before but just to make it clear: If anyone ia uncomfortable with themes like sexual abuse, childhood trauma or is suffering with depression (anyone sensitive to dark themes)...I would really reconsider reading or consider approaching this manga with caution. There's a lot of even imagery of dark themes that I'd stay away from if you're sensitive to it (I know I am).
I think Tengoku saw what Aoki needed, someone to look at his pain and tries to help him which Aoki mistakens as love...but I think it could be love. This is why I think that:
Tengoku clearly has a lot of emotional baggage and things in past that also impact him to this day...and I can't say for sure that he has feelings for Aoki, but what is clear to me is that the fact Aoki began to see through the act Tengoku puts up to protect himself from being seen for who HE rlly is. He feels comfortable (more comfortable) expressing himself to Aoki but bc of his past really has issues with relationships involving love mostly bc he feels betrayed by love. People who love you hurt you, abuse you, say they wish you didnt exist, so he avoids this. This entire time maybe he's been slowly trying to open himself up and in fact in the latest chapter, Aoki saw right through everything he did and hit him with the truth and reality of who he is. Which hurt Tengoku because he's been running away from himself. He has been receiving love one-sided and never reciprocated but love isn't about only giving what others need or getting what you want from them.
I think he's slowly beginning to learn and see this with Aoki, a man who he has been trying to tie around his finger, and although Aoki rightfully feels like Tengoku has been just looking at what his past self needs and helping him, I think Tengoku shows a side of him that wants to be wanted and loved by Aoki, only to Aoki. And that feeling right there is love. Just my opinion!!
╥﹏╥ the love...AAAAA SO FRICKIN CUTE.