That’s interesting. Now I wonder if she’s just not interested in romance generally or if she’s not currently in a place for that discussion. Everyone moves at their own pace, though we’ll understand more next chapter. She’s clearly been confused and worried about the dynamics of their relationship. I’m interested in the continuing narrative around her being the “slowest” to “mature” in her friend group. Those terms in quotes because defining them is often nebulous and prone to bias. They’re necessarily subjective terms but it seems Chita has defined them in a way that’s left her feeling behind or imperfect.
Really helps further explain her recent eating issues as well; the lead up to graduating is causing a lot of sudden new changes when she’s already felt unable to keep up with the previous ones. Now, how will Tokio be supportive here? I know he will in his own way. He likes her romantically but she’s also his best friend. They both love each other totally, even if potentially not in the same way. I doubt he views their relationship like some cold transaction; he’s not going to “cut his losses,” which is an idea that ignores their entire years long relationship. Their conversation next chapter will be really meaningful for them. Either way, I hope they figure out something that works.