Tags: Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life, School Life

Sub-Tags: Misunderstandings, Gyaru, Introverts, Cute, Heartwarming

An Anniversary of Looming Reveals!

The Last Two Dates

Yoshin and Nanami have thoroughly enjoyed the last three weeks together. From sleepovers to hot springs adventures, the two have come ever closer to each other and slowly discovered what it means to fall in love. Unfortunately, those carefree times together had to come to an end at some point, as the fourth volume finds the lovebirds resting upon the realisation that their upcoming anniversary means they’ll have to reveal their shocking confessions.

In light of these looming confessions, the two resolve to make their potential last week together a good one – organising a special double date bonanza. After much thought, the two dates they decide on are true classics, starting at a theme park and then having their last date at the zoo.

Regardless of confession anxiety, Yoshin and Nanami have a great time at both locations. Expect to see the series’ signature sugary-sweet style out in full force, only this time, the couple seem bolder than usual. Perhaps down to the thinking that they might have only a few opportunities left to show their love, the romantic novices take strides in their confidence, even allowing Yoshin to initiate a few smooches.

Truth, Dares and Love

Having done everything they can to secure a positive result, the climax of the volume finally deals with the dare issue.

Given the sufficient gravitas expected of an issue built up over four volumes, it starts with both parties obviously shocked at the fact that they’ve both been keeping secrets around the dare. What follows is a series of apologies that turn into declarations that eventually turn into a series of passionate kisses.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Yoshin and Nanami are still together after revealing the truth. If anything, revealing the truth to each other has made their relationship stronger. With their deceit out of the way, they’re finally able to enjoy their relationship with no strings attached.

To conclude, the fourth instalment of the Hookup Hiccups saga makes for a wonderful continuance to the series.

Portraying the final week before their respective confessions, the author expertly mixes the series’ usual sugary-sweet tone with two protagonists who have grown bolder due to a potential end to their relationship. The result: strides in confidence and progress.

Furthermore, this volume deals with the constant elephant in the room – the dare. Dealt with thoroughly and maturely, both Nanami and Yoshin come out of the experience stronger.

As the story comes to a close on the fake confession arc, it feels as though a weight has been lifted on the series. Now, unencumbered by deceit, the story can move forward to new and exciting storylines for the couple.