muse ✨'s manga / #tw past assault(4)

While he recovers from heartbreak (Minori no Te), Tatsuyuki travels to Fukuoka where he falls into one of Rogi's schemes to see Akitora again, and also reencounters someone from his past -- a traumatized boy he'd comforted. When I first read this, I didn't know Rogi's past and had little feelings for him until the final extra. Knowing his history, this is much sadder to read. Scarlet did a wonderful job of weaving in his heartbreak. I believe the kimono with leaves he wears in one scene is actually the one from Jealousy. He may be twisted, but I feel sorry for him. I raised this a star on 3rd reread.

A homophobic young man discovers that his super hot superior is actually gay. By Elektel Delusion's author. If that manga's homophobia is anything to go by, this is going to have a pretty nasty ribbon of it wound throughout. I'm enjoying this, but this author is not someone I trust.

A delinquent sophomore, Nagato, falls in love with Ai, a beautiful boy who, rumor has it, has been used as a sex object by the seniors. Ai has a low opinion of himself and is confused when Nagato continues to approach him, and is bowled over when Nagato confesses his love. This story focuses on consent, healing, mutual pleasure, honesty, and open communication. What a delight. I'd give it ten stars if I could.

Interconnected stories. A bartender dealing with emotional trauma from an assault five years earlier is courted by the director of his favorite TV show. A 15-yo unrequited love is finally realized. A beautiful gay idol group member falls for a guitarist This is fun and fine. It doesn't sweep me up in emotions, but it's cute over breakfast.