His usual willful denial. He needs to be 120% sure before he can take that step. Mahiru (with an assist from Chitose) will get him there.Okay LN readers, spoil it for me please:
HOW does our MC cope that she doesn't feel the same way after hearing her say that in front of the whole classroom!?
Like yes I know, "most important person" does not automatically mean "romantic interest." What, does he value her trust in him so much that he's terrified of violating it by being untoward? Is that it?