Dorobou to Hatsukoi
1: Amano reunites with his high school love, Takase, whom he considered out of his league. Takase appears to have a very different recollection of their time together, and flames that never really went out are rekindled. Involves time travel, but is never explained. 4* 2: Momoi was a senpai of Tachibana's back in high school and is now an up an coming artist, while Tachibana is a part time worker at Amano's cafe'. He stole a painting of Momoi's in high school, but returned it right away because he didn't want to dirty the painting of the one he loved. Only thing is, he's not the only one who has been hiding things. 5* 3: Haruki has always been in love with his childhood friend who is ten years his junior, Hikari. Only, he never thought his feelings were appropriate nor would be reciprocated. 4* Overall thoughts: The theme appears to be re-encountering old, unrequited love and inferiority complexes. I enjoyed it a lot. 4*
Nichijousahan Bi - Beautiful Life
Fumichi is truly a lonesome soul, with no relationships and connections, working at the shadiest of shady bars. However, his life is turned about by Sazawa and his daughter Iyo, who teach him to feel once again. To care for himself and others too. Thoughts: While I understand that Fumichi did not feel strongly enough about the abuse he was being subject to, to do something about it, the fact that no one else, especially Sazawa, felt obligated to prevent it from the get-go, really drags the warmth of the story down somewhat. But it was still good. 4*
Hitotsu no Koi no Hajimari
1: Chiba who works part time at a bakery offers some bread to the exausted Tokita, who was taking a break in the park. The two become fast friends and develop feelings for each other. But when Tokita actually asks Chiba out, he hesitates, creating a misunderstanding. 4* 4: Yamamoto is Usami aloof junior at work, who doesn't seem to get along well with anyone except Usami. One drunken night their relationship takes a different turn but Usami claims he doesn't remember anything, making Yamamoto angry. 4*
Sweep!
Mei, while trying to rescue a cat, stumbles into Akihiko, breaking his glasses. After insisting on paying for damage, Akihiko gets hired working part time at the popular knick-knack shop Akihiko works in. Thoughts: I liked the uke. Decisive and sincere, even at such a young age.
Zion no Koeda