I can't believe this gem was sitting for months in my to-read list. It was probably because of the drawing being so plain and the characters having funny-shaped heads. But it was quite good! It was extremely mature, which I loved -- definitely written for an older josei-type demographic. It almost reminded me of "The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese". This is a really good example of a slow-burn, where story matters much more than actual depictions of sex. Words and feelings communicated longing far more than needing it to be drawn on the page. Three volumes of content space were not wasted, and there was no filler or cheap tropes. No stupid misunderstandings masquerading as legitimate drama. Just real human emotions stemming from complicated feelings of unrequited love. I also must commend the anonymous translator who did an excellent job; the dialogue and monologues flowed so smoothly. (I know it's the same person who translated Uchida Kaoru's "Hosho wo Kazoeru Koto", which is equally excellent). Highly recommended if you like mature manga.

this is so good

If you like stories where the characters get to know each other over time before they end up in bed it's a perfect manga for you. They are both grown ups acting like grown ups and they have very down to earth obstacles on their way to happiness. They are very human with all those second thoughts, stupid decisions, doubts, good and sometimes annoying aspects of personality. You may wonder what's so good about annoying side of some character's personality. I'll tell you, it makes one much more believable and easy to identify with. If one has only assets then he must be fake, being perfect isn't convincing at all.

If I had to complain I'd brag about sex. After all that tension slowly built up I expected fireworks, a lot of graphic kinky sex but I guess this mangaka doesn't have this thing in her repertoire. It's a pity. Anyway I love this story, for the plot and art as well and also because - despite being long, down to earth and about common salarymen - it wasn't boring. I'm not even a fan of this genre but I think it's a great work.

Very real, very genuine depiction of human nature when tangled in love. I'm seriously in awe of this author's ability to craft such relatable dialogues and inner monologues for her characters. They seriously come alive through this natural, down to earth vibe of the story, and I especially love how their inner thoughts and feelings are conveyed so well. Each conflict occurs organically as an inevitable result of human interactions, there's nothing strained in the development of the characters and their relationship. It takes some serious skills to even do that, let alone so effortlessly.