I love the way Tohru's interest in Makoto progresses throughout the manga. It's a very authentic journey from casually noticing a stranger to realizing he's in love, and it never feels rushed. The author makes the most of the space available, so their relationship is able to develop realistically even in a single volume. I do wish there was a bit more closure once they get together, though the epilogue and flashback offer some satisfaction.

I haven't had a crush in so long, and Basso brought me right back to my schooldays when I would try to keep my feelings hidden, but they would just pour out of me. This is a very realistic slice of life work. I like that the tension arises from the characters trying to understand each other instead of being unnecessarily cruel for the sake of plot/drama. This was very lovely to read even with all the highs and lows. You won't know where the story's going til it ends. Basso is a master at keeping me in suspense without making it a twist ending. I really loved reading this.