4.5 Holy fuck that was an emotional roller-coaster. It was angsty and messy and painfully realistic. This is first yaoi I've read where love seems to be portrayed how it would mostly likely be in the real world (Through I wouldn't actually know from experience). Everything about this is just so raw and real: Sexually, they are portrayed as REAL men; not the fantasy seme-uke role but actually have a legit gay relationship. They don't go through the generic "forbidden love" problems but real the relationship struggles that any couple would undergo, but more so because it's between a straight and a gay man. They both constantly contradict what they want and even acknowledge they aren't good together. But love isn't just pure and happiness, but is actually more complex and selfish, and their love is just that. They're two misfits who struggle with the definition of love and realize that it's what they have.
I also really liked the role of the girlfriend. She epitomizes everything the straight guy believes love should be like, as well as his life as a straight man. She's not an instrument used to create excessive problems between the couple, but rather someone who creates psychological conflict for the straight guy. She was so real and was an actual human being who had some struggles but just ultimately fell in love with the straight guy.
A million times better than the prequel. A different reread.
Sojou No Koi Wa Nido Haneru