The execution could be a lot better (not this cringe, overdone acting), but the main message is super important and well-shown: don't jump into conclusions. You're not a mind-reader. You can never be sure what the other person is thinking unless you ask them about it (and, well, even then you may not get the truth out of them).
And it's not just with romantic relationship stuff like "Is he grossed out that I touched his hand?" or "Why doesn't he say anything while eating lunch?" - it applies to every type of interpersonal relationship. "Why did she cancel the meetup just a few hours before it?" - maybe that person has an anxiety disorder. "Why doesn't my friend want to hug me?" - maybe they don't like skinship but they still care about you. "When will he finally stop people-pleasing?" - maybe it's a coping mechanism from childhood.
So yeah, I really love how these episodes encourage people to talk to their SO and friends to clear misunderstandings and lingering questions. Communication is key in every kind of relationship.
The volleyball guy (Toyoda?) is sooo adorable looking out for Ida, supporting him and cheering him on subtly! :heart_eyes:
The last bit was truly amazing. That's what I want(ed) more of in this drama. People realizing that lesbian/gay/bi/etc. people aren't gonna hit on everyone from the gender they're attracted to. Just like how straight people don't get the hots for everyone from the opposite sex. I, as a straight female, can have a sibling-love towards a younger boy, a friend-love towards a guy my age, a respect-love towards an older man teacher of mine - and everything in between. Or nothing at all! Because I don't feel strong emotions towards every male I encounter.
Therefore, as it was explained in this episode in a simple and easily understandable way, Aoki (however he identifies) can feel a brotherly bond towards the tutor guy - nothing romantic because those feelings of his are only towards one person: Ida.
