Nii-chan (harada)
Harada wrote a frightening story about a man traumatized by his own abuse, who then repeats it on a young boy who becomes infatuated with him. Years later, they reunite, and they're eventually officially together and stay together at the story's end. However, the man is abusing pills, and the now-college-student can't tell his parents who he's dating because it's the adult caught with him as a child. In the very last scene, the college student finds pills in his pocket and takes them while trying to convince himself the relationship isn't wrong. This is not a love story. It's not romance. This is going to disturb a lot of readers, and I don't think this was meant to be seen as beautiful or romantic - in fact, I know it's not, because the female avatar for the reader calls it out as disgusting repeatedly. It's deeply, deeply upsetting. But it was well told. I'm reminded of the movie "Normal" which also dealt with this subject. I've never been able to forget it.
Sabita Yoru Demo Koi Wa Sasayaku
TRIGGER WARNING: This depicts on-page physical assault on a partner. I become deeply upset every time and don't want anyone to go in un-warned. Yumi is in a long-term relationship with a vitriolic and abusive partner when he reconnects with someone he'd loved in high school. I hesitated to read this because it deals with domestic abuse, but it doesn't romanticize it. His partner is aware that his behavior is unforgivable and eventually begs Yumi to leave him. Yumi is the one who walks out the door. The partner's story continues in "Renai-rubi no Tadashii Furikata" and he experiences constant guilt over his past behavior. I read that story before this one. I'm glad, because I wouldn't have been able to enjoy it after reading this. In fact, I'm annoyed he was given a redemption arc, but I am biased; I was on the receiving end of long-term psychological abuse. Yumi's reactions to being abused were genuine to me, as far as my personal experience goes. I had to stop reading a few times to catch my breath - especially when his injuries are shown - but I'm ultimately glad I read this.
Ano Hi No Kimi Wo Dakishimeta Nara
A man finally comes to terms with his feelings for his childhood friend and then spends several chapters reassuring him of his love. Really really sweet.
Megane To Koi To Aoi Tori
A plain boy with glasses is the target of his attractive best friend's attentions, but is concerned he's not good looking enough for him. A cold boy constantly makes passes at the boy who sits behind him, Kuraki, who doesn't know whether to believe the things he says. When it seems domestic abuse might be a problem at home, Kuraki invites him home. This was the sweeter of the two. I would've loved ten more chapters about them! Features the baby that keeps sleeping with them.
Hand Which