I feel like some of you like to be miserable about the weirdest things. First, this is not a romance focused story hence why it's not tagged as such. Such stories can still contain some romantic elements.
Second, The addition of the barely there romance changes nothing much. It's still the same story. I understand some stories don't know how to write female characters or romance which makes it end up being annoying or forced. BUT in this case, you can clearly understand why she would have a crush on the mc and it's not just because of the saving her part. Her interest has been growing gradually through all their interactions. Ofcourse his interest is not there yet even tho he clearly finds her attractive and it would definitely suck if they just show him suddenly reciprocating her feelings randomly later on.
Still, it's not the worst romance subplot. It's a bit bland but doesn't ruin anything.
I think what Sarada feels is complicated. We already established that he feels conflicted to see Misuzu live a life so different while he is stuck in a miserable cycle. But unknowingly with each encounter, he is also falling for him. That's why the "what the hell" coz he doesn't understand his feelings yet. Now if those feelings will make him do something positive or negative is yet to be seen. But complications are bound to arise.






Lmao father is loosing it