Wow if Aoi is like that just from being separated momentarily, what is she gonna be like when to comes time for Akira's "transfer."
We know as readers that he most likely won't end up transferring. But as Akira, hes not gonna confess because he believes he's going to transfer. Would y'all still confess if you thought you were moving away?
I do love that Aoi is exhibiting more of her agency as time goes on. Early on, she just went along with whatever everyone else wanted, drifting along with other people's whims. Now she's the one suggesting trips, and she's making big decisions on her own terms, like moving back in with her father, which is huge considering how completely codependent she was on Akira before. Her affection has gotten bolder too. She's no longer just quietly receiving his care; she's actively showing him how she feels.
It's not some overly complex character arc but I can appreciate the simple growth of someone slowly healing from loneliness. Being able to embrace the love and warmth from the people around that she had missed out on during her formative years.
Thanks for the chapter!