Aiko's manga / #Shounen Ai(5)

4.9, it’s actually a very wholesome manga in the big scheme. They’re a pure dynamic with some funny quirky moments, no red flags in sight, and it’s cute how they each of their own opposite personalities that somehow complement one another. Although a little taken off despite being a green flag because it feels like an unfinished story. I think all was well until the concept of the Seme telling his current crush (the Uke) he was dating his ex crush, I don’t think the reasoning for this action was explained well enough, because the Seme despite being very obtuse with most social interactions, in order to really understand why he should feel sorry I felt there could’ve been a scene included where the ex crush explained to him why that was just a silly drunken confession and how it might’ve made the Uke feel before telling him to apologize and come clean. I’d like to add though that I did like how the Uke approached it at first, with a proposal to mend things without granting total forgiveness because I think it’s fair to feel at least a little reserved about these events especially since the Seme didn’t quite explain himself well (again him knowing why he messed up exactly would help nail this point), but I don’t feel like that was the time to formally become a couple. I would’ve liked instead of asking him out, the Uke instead suggest they go on a few dates (another movie, eating at a restaurant or new cafe, amusement park, art gallery, etc.) Also, the conflict regarding the gossipy schoolmates, I like how they were dealt with partially but I wish there were more. Like reporting their toxic behavior to a staff to be dealt with but I understand why this wasn’t the avenue they chose to go with because involving a staff isn’t rl realistic. Last but not least, my least favorite part about this manhwa is that it has so much potential but its ending and its rushed pace of them finally kissing/smooching right in the end was lacking. I feel like certain parts could be dragged out a little more to add seasoning to the plot, and that it could’ve continued for a few more episodes or season before finishing off cleanly. Could reread again though.

5, surprisingly cute for a very brief one shot. This could definitely be expanded further than other multi chapter reads, it’s really cute how the tall one tried to get the shorter one’s attention, wish that was explored more to trace back to the first time we wanted his attention. But it was adorable, they ate together and eventually their confession was so pure.

4.2, non consensual kiss to start a BL story off is kind of telling ngl. No foreplay that leads to asking for consent, just random ass kiss. Very disappointing for the Seme since he also was the one to start a misunderstanding from reacting rudely, a close minded trait. But due to his looks, he was rewarded for this behavior with love <3

5.5, I really enjoy this one. The art is unique though I can understand why some say the art could improve, it feels like it’s on its initial track of Ks Secret era (iykyk) but I don’t have any art expertise so to me looks great! What a loaded story. I’ve reread this like .. a handful of times and it’s a rollercoaster every time. Their conflicts are interesting and progressive without dipping into grapes. Some SA though and harassment but for this genre and this particular story I can overlook it. The characters have fabulous depth, for the most part, though it feels like the main game developer lacks some. It’s like his personality was constantly flipping between antagonists and aloof protagonist. By the end we coin that he’s a very strategic character but I don’t think his parts overall reflected it as well as I wish I could have. On the other hand, the main characters are adorable and well suited for eachother. I have mixed feelings on the time gap plot as I have doubts to how their relationship was successful despite being apart for over 2 years but it became the reason that Jae grew confidence and poise so again another point I can just willfully believe is just a one in a milli chance that they were the perfect relationship even apart. Wish there were more to the side couples honestly, the manager and main game developer would’ve been fantastic to dive into. I appreciate their lil tidbit at the end tho, if that’s all we get then I’m thankful. Def could reread again after I forget about it a bit.

5, it’s perfectly wholesome, no uncomfortable or triggering plot lines and the art is prime. The string of fate is a really cute concept that’s also totally unique, it’s a well known concept but the way it’s portrayed was again perfect. Just something that didn’t take this over the top is the cliffhanger- it seems there’s more chapters just not here or not available online for free. But really great! I’d reread again.