[DeepL Translation - needs review] One day, an ordinary high school girl, Umi Kakimoto, falls in love at first sight with a beautiful girl in the next class, Akira Segawa. Umi is puzzled by her feelings, but she hopes to become friends with Segawa, who has a mysterious air about her...
(Translator: DeepL)
4.5 stars! We open on the girls going on a date to where else but an aquarium! They joke and laugh together as they check out all the animals and enjoy their lunch while bonding, as Umi reminisces about her past. Everything seems to be going perfect, up until the ride home. As Segawa says how fun it was going out--with a friend.
Umi struggles with her feelings, uncertain now if Segawa feels the same. When on a little outing together, a boy abruptly tells Segawa he loves her and asks her out. Segawa seems annoyed and disinterested and drags Umi along as they walk away. Through a heated exchange, Segawa reveals she has no interest in romance, and Umi unintentionally reveals her secret affections! The girls exchange awkward and hurt glances, before heading back.
Segawa has to make a choice on how to move forward. Does she keep Umi at a distance? Cut things off all together? Or...decide to give things a try? But can they find the time to even be together, when everyone seems so busy for the summer?
I love the look into Segawa's struggles. You can feel her history of isolation and loneliness. I appreciated the little chat she had with another classmate of hers about relationships and what love means. (I have to wonder if the bit towards the beginning of the volume will come back, about the one girl's concern for the group of friends splitting apart as they each get into a relationship. Hm?) It does give a bit of ace-ish vibes. I think it's cute and touching that Segawa still wants to try. Regardless if she feels romantic affection toward Umi, she still feels their friendship is precious. I hope things can work out for them ;; <3
I did feel the ending felt...abrupt? Maybe? Something about the tension with them not being able to find time to spend together in the summer felt a bit off as a cliff-hanger. I almost wish there was a little something more. But not sure what. Loved the volume otherwise! Looking forward to reading the next installment :D