Description
At the start of high school in present-day Japan, shy Minato Seno is asked to keep the girl beside him awake in class. Mugi Nekozane usually seems more interested in cats than people, but when he tries to wake her, she hugs him without warning. A cat café and Seno’s interest in photography give these two awkward classmates a way to get closer.
Friendship comes before either understands the feelings taking shape between them. Seno overthinks every interaction, while Nekozane’s unreadable reactions and sudden closeness keep him flustered. It’s a gentle, mostly lighthearted romance built on small gestures and gradual trust. Shyness and misunderstandings add some emotional tension; graphic violence isn’t a focus.
Pros
- The leads’ hesitant friendship makes small moments of closeness feel rewarding.
- Nekozane’s unpredictable reactions play well against Seno’s nervous overthinking.
- Soft, expressive artwork suits the quiet romance.
Cons
- The leads take a long time to recognize their feelings, which can make the romance feel frustratingly slow.
Awards
Main characters
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Minato Seno
瀬野湊
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Mugi Nekozane
猫実むぎ