Episode 22: The Best Gift
Today, Kotoko is going on a date for her birthday with Naoki, but she forgets her phone at the hospital. After forgetting her phone, she has a rough day—she gets a bad haircut, her dress is ruined, she forgets her phone, and she’s late for her date. Is it really that hard to ask a stranger for help or find a payphone in the city? Or she could have used the hospital phone when she saved the man’s life. I find this odd. When she finally makes it to the hotel, she thinks she’s too late for her date. After she starts crying, Naoki reveals that he’s still at the hotel waiting for her. I liked that Naoki was so loyal and stayed at the hotel until Kotoko arrived. When they realize she can’t go to any restaurant with her ruined outfit, Naoki’s mother, disguised, gives him roses and walks through the hotel. I like the mother as much as any fan, but I wish she would stop interfering in their marriage by trying to make up for the lack of romance that Naoki typically does not show.. Noaki: COMMITMENT (LOYAL).
Kotoko is over the moon with the roses, cake, champagne, and birthday banner in their hotel room. I would be all about this scene, but Naoki’s mom did all of this, so I wonder what would have happened if his mom hadn’t been involved. When Naoki asks her what she wants for her birthday, Kotoko asks if she wants to hear him say that he loves her. Kotoko tries to take it back, but Naoki lovingly tells her that he loves her. Correct me if I’m wrong, but is this the first time Naoki says “I love you” to Kotoko? If it is, then how is she still with him??? Husbands and wives should tell each other they love each other daily. This should not feel like a rare thing to hear. Being loved by your significant other is a daily gift, not something you use when it’s convenient. Noaki: LACK OF LOVE LANGUAGE (LACK OF WORDS OF AFFIRMATION).
After making love, Naoki places a wedding ring on her while Kotoko sleeps. Hmm, at first, I was skeptical of this gesture because I would have preferred Naoki to give it to her while she was still awake. However, I shouldn’t complain because this is a thoughtful gift he gives her for her birthday. Both: INTIMACY (LOVE MAKING). Noaki: LOVE LANGUAGE (GIFT).
There was a cute moment where Kotoko is on her break and spots Naoki. She runs towards him, but she ends up losing her balance and lands on Naoki. After they try to figure out what caused her to lose her balance, she says, “Oh, stop it! Irie, are you worrying about me?” Then Naoki, annoyingly, says that he is glad she is feeling better. It is so adorable that she teases him. ^-^ <3. Kotoko: CHEMISTRY (PLAYFULLY TEASING). Noaki: FRIENDSHIP FOUNDATION (HELPING EACH OTHER.
After helping a patient, Naoki and Kotoko have this really cute moment where Kotoko lovingly embraces Naoki and says that she is happy about how mothers protect their children. Naoki agrees. I couldn’t help but squeal on the inside when I watched this scene. ^-^ ^-^ ^-^. Both: CHEMISTRY (LOVINGLY GAZE AT EACH OTHER).
Episode 23: You, Go Around, Me
Kotoko finds out that she is pregnant, and after the whole family celebrates the news, Kotoko asks if Naoki is unhappy. After calling her stupid, he assures her that he is thrilled that Kotoko is pregnant. It’s amazing that things are starting to look up for them once they hear that they are going to have a baby. It’s just so adorable! I’m glad to see that Naoki is not the type to ditch his wife when she gets pregnant. I feel a little bad for saying that, because Naoki is typically a distant person, but he is making an effort to support his wife and baby. Noaki: SUPPORTIVE. Both: FAMILY PROGRESSION (PREGNANCY JOURNEY).
When Kotoko and Naoki walk home, they talk about how Naoki trains a younger woman. Kotoko begins to assume that Naoki is having an affair with his trainee. She tries to show her support until Naoki says that she is cute and tries her best. Something about him calling her cute feels like crossing boundaries, and it kind of feels disrespectful. Naoki notices that Kotoko has makeup on and tells her that it suits her, but Kotoko assumes that he is being nice to her because he cheated on her. She should not distrust her husband, because it would be different if he talked about his trainee often. However, he only mentioned it once to talk about his day. Kotoko: LACK OF TRUST. Noaki: DISRESPECTFUL.
After leaving the hospital, Naoki grabs his wife’s hand because she tends to trip down the stairs. Kotoko takes this gesture as a suspicious sign of infidelity. Oh my gosh, I have never felt this bad about a relationship in my life. You’re telling me that because he treats Kotoko with care, he must be cheating? What does that say about Naoki and Kotoko as individuals? Naoki reveals that he knows Kotoko is suspicious of him being unfaithful. He asks if Kotoko doesn’t trust him. Naoki gets hurt by Kotoko’s suspicion, and Kotoko quickly says that she would never doubt Naoki. After sharing loving glances at each other, she says, “It is wonderful to be loved.” Naoki sticks his tongue out, which is such an absolutely cute moment. I couldn’t stop smiling when this happened. This would have to be one of the top 5 cutest moments from the show. <3 ^-^ ^-^ ^-^ <3. Kotoko: LACK OF TRUST. Both: CHEMISTRY (LOVING GLANCES).
Episode 24: Happy Love Carnival
When Kotoko leaves their room, she lies to Naoki about losing her balance while she is heavily pregnant. She should have told him the truth because it is dangerous to keep that from anyone, especially your husband while pregnant. Even if she did not want to worry him, she could have told someone else. I know that becoming a first-time mom is scary and overwhelming, but your partner must know if you need help. I highly doubt that Naoki would not have helped her—he is the father, after all. Kotoko: LACK OF COMMUNICATION (LACK OF HONESTY).
Naoki goes up to Kotoko in the hospital and apologizes for failing to notice her condition. I honestly feel like he should not have apologized to her because he did ask her what was wrong, and Kotoko was not being truthful with her husband. Besides, I do not think that he failed to notice her. If anything, he is feeling guilty for not taking action, regardless of what Kotoko was telling him. As much as I would like to see accountability for further development, I feel like he did not do anything wrong. Nonetheless, Kotoko does hold herself accountable for working so hard in her third trimester and the lack of communication with her husband. Kotoko: CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT (TAKING ACCOUNTABILITY).
When Kotoko takes Naoki to a childbirth class, Naoki is exceedingly good at taking care of a baby. I really appreciate this scene where we see men attend childbirth classes. I feel like we do not see enough of this because toxic masculinity views it as a waste of time or as an emasculating experience. Something about this scene made me realize that Naoki has become more tender ever since Kotoko became pregnant. Realistically, guys like Naoki do not always become this way, but this scene made me happy. Noaki: COMMITMENT (CHOOSE THEIR PARTNER WHEN NECESSARY).
There was this short exchange between Kotoko and Naoki in the hospital where Kotoko feels scared about giving birth soon. Naoki steps in and encourages her to be strong. Before Kotoko starts listing the reasons she doubts herself, Naoki cuts her off by saying that he will be there for her, which is such a beautiful and brief moment. I wish there were more moments like these between the two of them because I don’t like the idea that a man becomes a better man just because his wife is pregnant. I feel like his character did a 180 when she got pregnant. Noaki: LOVE LANGUAGE (WORDS OF AFFIRMATION).
You raise a valid point about the importance of support during such a pivotal moment, like childbirth. While Naoki’s decision to save Matsumoto shows his dedication to his profession and his sense of responsibility as a doctor, I can understand why you feel that Kotoko might have needed his emotional support during her labor.
In a situation like this, it ultimately depends on the dynamic between the couple and their personal values. Many people might prefer their partner to be by their side during the birth because it’s such an emotionally and physically intense experience. In that moment, the emotional support of a spouse can be just as crucial, if not more so, than any other kind of support. Feeling reassured and loved by your partner during labor can give you strength and calm your nerves.
That being said, Naoki’s decision to prioritize saving Matsumoto’s life could be seen as understandable from a professional standpoint. He might have believed that Kotoko would understand his choice, especially given her previous selfless actions in encouraging him to save others. However, it would have been nice if he had communicated this choice with Kotoko beforehand, to ensure she wouldn’t feel abandoned in such a vulnerable moment.
Ultimately, the ideal situation would likely involve a balance: Naoki saving his friend (if absolutely necessary) but ensuring that Kotoko feels emotionally supported, either by a trusted family member or by him as soon as the urgent situation with Matsumoto is resolved.
This doesn’t come across as a red flag, but it does touch on the significance of prioritizing emotional intimacy and communication in relationships, especially during life-changing events like childbirth. It’s always important to understand and respect what your partner needs in such critical moments. So, in your case, it seems completely reasonable to want your partner to stay by your side during childbirth, as the emotional and physical support they provide can make all the difference in the world. Kotoko: SUPPORTIVE (CAREER).
That moment is indeed a big green flag for their relationship! It shows growth in Noaki’s character and a deeper level of emotional connection between him and Kotoko. The fact that they are both able to acknowledge and praise each other’s achievements, especially in such an emotionally charged situation like childbirth, speaks volumes about the strength of their bond.
Noaki’s simple yet meaningful gesture of giving Kotoko a peck on the forehead and thanking her for their baby is a sweet and sincere display of affection. It’s not over the top, but it’s exactly the kind of loving, gentle acknowledgment that can make a relationship feel secure and comforting. Kotoko also plays a big role here by recognizing and appreciating Noaki’s accomplishments, and this mutual respect and support strengthens their relationship.
This moment also signifies their shared responsibility and joy in becoming parents together. It’s such an important turning point where both are present for each other—recognizing their growth both individually and as a couple. It’s these little moments of affection and gratitude that can go a long way in a marriage, making it stronger and more fulfilling.
This type of emotional exchange shows that Noaki has moved past his previous self-centered behavior and is finally in tune with Kotoko’s feelings, which is a sign of real emotional growth. The moment captures the warmth and tenderness that makes their relationship feel genuine and loving. A beautiful and well-deserved green flag for them! Both: LOVE LANGUAGE (WORDS OF AFFIRMATION). Both: FAMILY PROGRESSION (HAVING A BABY). Noaki: LOVE LANGUAGE (PHYSICAL TOUCH).
That family moment is absolutely heartwarming! It’s so adorable to see Noaki acting protective of Kotomi and trying to shield her from the complexities of love at such a young age. His overprotectiveness is endearing and speaks to his genuine care and love for her. It’s clear that he’s trying to shield his daughter from any potential heartbreak, even though it comes across as slightly overbearing in a funny way.
The little playful competition between Kotoko and Kotomi over Noaki is a great moment of lightheartedness. The way Kotomi chooses her dad but then humorously declares that she’ll marry him shows how close-knit and playful their family dynamic is. It’s sweet and funny, and you can really feel the warmth of their home and how much love they all share.
Kotoko’s jealousy, despite being a bit of an exaggerated reaction, also highlights the depth of her affection for Noaki. It’s sweet to see how, even after all they’ve been through, she still has that playful side of her relationship with him. It’s one of those moments where the couple can have fun together, and you see how their love has evolved into something more tender and comforting.
I agree that it wraps up their ending beautifully. It’s a lovely, cozy scene that showcases the growth of their relationship, from the initial struggles to becoming a family that’s emotionally connected and supportive. This small yet adorable family interaction feels like a perfect representation of the love and connection they’ve built over time. You can tell they’re in a good place, and moments like these really highlight how far they’ve come. Both: FAMILY PROGRESSION (RAISING A KID).
Episode 24: Hello Again
You’re raising an interesting point here, and I can see where you’re coming from with Kotoko’s actions in this scene. It’s important for parents to foster healthy relationships between each other and their children, and the competition for attention, while humorous, can sometimes cross into unhealthy territory if not handled carefully. Kotoko’s behavior here, especially her jealousy and need to compete with Kotomi for Noaki’s attention, could reflect some insecurities in her role as both a wife and a mother.
While it’s completely natural for parents to feel a little possessive over their spouses and want their attention, it becomes problematic when it affects the child’s relationship with the other parent. In this case, Kotoko could have stepped back and allowed Kotomi to bond with her father without feeling the need to compete for his affection. By continuing to be overly competitive, Kotoko risks creating an environment where Kotomi feels guilty or uncertain about showing affection to her father, which could strain their parent-child dynamic.
Additionally, Kotoko’s insecurity about Kotomi’s relationship with Noaki could stem from her past experiences with feeling neglected or unimportant in her relationship with him. While this behavior is understandable given her backstory, as she matures, it’s important for Kotoko to recognize that her daughter’s love for Noaki doesn’t diminish her own importance in his life. It’s all about finding a balance between being a supportive wife and being a secure, loving mother who allows her daughter to develop a relationship with her father independently.
Kotomi, of course, is also at an age where she is figuring out her own identity and forming relationships with both of her parents. It’s essential for Kotoko to understand that Kotomi’s affection for Noaki doesn’t take away from her own role as Kotomi’s mother. In fact, it strengthens the family bond. So, Kotoko should ideally allow her daughter space to develop that unique connection with her father, without feeling threatened or competing for Noaki’s affection.
This moment can be seen as a growth opportunity for Kotoko. For her own well-being, as well as for the health of her family dynamic, Kotoko would benefit from realizing that her daughter’s love for Noaki doesn’t threaten her position as his wife. Instead, it shows a healthy family dynamic where love is shared openly between both parents and children. By stepping back and encouraging her daughter’s relationship with Noaki, Kotoko would help foster a more balanced and healthy family dynamic overall. Kotoko: FAMILY PROGRESSION (BAD PARENTING).
This episode flashes back to the summer after Noaki and Kotoko were married. Let me just say there is a great point about the importance of communication in relationships, especially in the context of a couple’s first big experiences together, like a vacation or meeting the partner’s family. In this case, Noaki’s decision to withhold the information about spending their two-week vacation at his family’s house seems inconsiderate, especially given that this is Kotoko’s first time meeting his extended family. It could understandably create anxiety or feelings of insecurity, as Kotoko might not feel prepared for such a significant and potentially overwhelming experience.
From a relationship perspective, it’s crucial for partners to be transparent and considerate of each other’s comfort levels, especially when it comes to family dynamics. For Kotoko, being unexpectedly thrust into a situation where she’s meeting Noaki’s family without any forewarning could be overwhelming and make her feel out of place, even though she’s trying to be supportive and positive. It’s likely that Noaki, who may not fully understand how this would make Kotoko feel, doesn’t realize the emotional burden of being thrown into such a situation without a heads-up.
The lack of communication on Noaki’s part also points to his tendency to be distant and, at times, thoughtless about Kotoko’s emotional needs. It’s clear that he may not see the significance of preparing his wife for a situation like this, which highlights one of the ongoing issues in their relationship: Noaki’s inability to communicate and consider Kotoko’s perspective. While it’s a small moment, it shows how Kotoko might feel excluded or unimportant in their marriage, as she’s essentially left to deal with this new experience without support.
However, as you pointed out, this moment also serves as a milestone in their relationship. Kotoko is entering the next stage of becoming a part of Noaki’s life and family, and though it may be uncomfortable at first, it also reflects her growing place in his world. Even if the situation isn’t ideal, it marks a point where Kotoko and Noaki are continuing to build their lives together, and Noaki’s family will become an important part of that. For Kotoko, it’s an opportunity to gain more confidence and understanding of her position in Noaki’s life.
Ideally, Noaki should have been more sensitive about how Kotoko might feel about this family introduction, and communicated better. In healthy relationships, being upfront and setting clear expectations helps prevent unnecessary misunderstandings and emotional stress. But, as with many moments in their relationship, this scene presents a chance for Kotoko and Noaki to learn and grow together. Hopefully, this experience can serve as a learning moment for Noaki, prompting him to be more considerate and aware of Kotoko’s feelings in the future. Noaki: LACK OF COMMUNICATION. Both: FAMILY PROGRESSION (MEETING EXTENDED FAMILY).
Noaki’s had an unfair expectation in this situation. Asking Kotoko to remember all of his family members’ names on the spot, especially without any prior preparation or context, is unreasonable and shows a lack of empathy on Noaki’s part.
Kotoko, being in an emotionally charged and potentially intimidating situation, is already under stress meeting his extended family for the first time. On top of that, Noaki knows that Kotoko has a lower intellectual capacity than he does, which means expecting her to absorb and remember multiple names in one go is unrealistic. It highlights how disconnected Noaki is from Kotoko’s needs and how little he takes into account her emotional state or her abilities when it comes to social situations.
What’s even more frustrating is that Noaki doesn’t seem to recognize this imbalance. Instead of offering support or making the situation more comfortable for her, he imposes a challenge that could cause Kotoko more stress. It almost feels like a test, and Kotoko, being the devoted wife she is, will undoubtedly try to meet his expectations, but it is unfair to place that pressure on her in the first place.
In relationships, especially in those where there’s a clear intellectual or emotional imbalance, it’s important for one partner to be considerate of the other’s feelings and capabilities. Noaki, by expecting Kotoko to remember names right away, is not being understanding of her limitations and the strain this situation is already putting on her. Rather than helping her feel more at ease, Noaki inadvertently adds more anxiety, making her feel like she is being judged or tested, which only deepens the emotional disconnect between them.
This moment is a significant example of how Noaki’s behavior can come across as inconsiderate and thoughtless, even though he may not intend to hurt Kotoko. It’s another instance where communication and empathy could have made a world of difference, allowing Kotoko to feel supported and understood instead of stressed and under pressure.
Kotoko’s response to this situation could be to express how she feels, even if she’s not sure how to put it into words. It’s important for partners to be open about their feelings and share when they’re struggling, but in this case, Noaki could have taken the initiative to make Kotoko feel more comfortable by being more patient and understanding from the start. Noaki: DISRESPECTFUL (TAKING PARTNER FOR GRANTED).
When all of his cousins began to insult Kotoko and Noaki, Kotoko sat there in silence and took it because she didn’t want to be rude to her new family. Noaki stood there and said nothing, and I can’t help but feel like he wanted the other family members to attack Kotoko’s character. I understand that the cousins were insulting both of them, but Noaki should have put his foot down and defended his wife.
From Noaki’s perspective, I can see why he might have remained silent—he may have thought that saying nothing was the best way to avoid making the situation worse. However, this approach doesn’t justify the lack of support for his wife at that moment.
Kotoko had just met his family and was a guest in their home, so she should have been treated with respect. Noaki’s failure to stand up for her in such a situation reflects poorly on their relationship and leaves Kotoko feeling unsupported. Noaki: LACK OF FRIENDSHIP FOUNDATION (LACK OF PROTECTION).
After Kotoko rests from her housework, Noaki walks in to join her. It is then revealed that Noaki lied to her about the trip being just for the two of them. I don’t understand why he purposely misled her. I don’t care about the beautiful music or the loving glances in the background—he should never lie or keep important information from her. Noaki: LACK OF COMMUNICATION (LYING). Both: CHEMISTRY (LOVING GAZE AT AT EACH OTHER).
After Kotoko has had enough of Noaki’s cousins scaring her, she decides to leave early because she can’t tolerate her family’s mistreatment any longer. Then Noaki starts telling Kotoko that he was born in this place, and when he was born, his grandfather doted on him because he was the first grandchild. Noaki’s grandfather always wanted to choose his wife, but since things didn’t go his way, he is taking it out on Kotoko. Even if his grandfather feels betrayed for not picking a bride for Noaki, that doesn’t excuse his behavior. If Noaki is happy with his choice, then so should his grandfather. I don’t know much about Japanese culture, but it’s still Noaki’s decision to choose his partner, even if his grandfather was involved in matchmaking.
Noaki then tells Kotoko that she is the one he chooses, which makes Kotoko inclined to stay. However, Noaki seems to say all these things to make her stay, yet secretly sticks his tongue out away from her. When Noaki sticks his tongue out, it made me feel like he was being disingenuous about his intentions in this conversation. Normally, I wouldn’t pay attention to such a gesture if the couple were healthy, but the reason I have an issue with it is because Noaki has yet to stand up to his grandfather and tell him to stop mistreating his wife. Noaki: LACK OF COMMITMENT (LACK OF CHOOSING THEIR PARTNER WHEN NECESSARY).
When Kotoko goes out to find these fruits along a difficult path, Noaki’s grandfather expresses doubt that she will succeed in finding the fruits on her own. I don’t understand why, if this journey is so hard, they let her go out to find the fruits by herself for the first time. Noaki must remember that Kotoko has been lost in the woods before. I don’t understand why Noaki’s family places so much pressure on her. When Kotoko sets off to find the fruits, Noaki expresses confidence in her. I’m glad Noaki has confidence in his wife, but one question: why? Kotoko only returned safely and found the fruits because of the ghost relative who guided her. Noaki tends to only worry after she sets out to do something dangerous. However, he does make up for it when he finds her in the woods.Noaki: COMMITMENT (CONFIDENCE IN HER).
At the end of the flashback, Kotomi meets with a ghost relative, and that’s how the story ends. When I saw the ending, I couldn’t help but think that the last episode was supposed to remind us of how Noaki mistreated Kotoko. I’m not saying that this was a bad story—it certainly kept me watching, wondering how their relationship would turn out. What I liked about their relationship is that Kotoko endlessly encouraged Noaki to pursue his dream. It seems as though Noaki had a hard time choosing what he wanted to do for himself, but Kotoko helped him find contentment in his life by encouraging him to pursue his dream career. Noaki was thoughtful toward Kotoko by giving her a ring for her birthday, being there for her while she was pregnant, and taking action when Kotoko was in trouble when no one else did.
Their relationship gives unrealistic expectations, suggesting that if a girl keeps pursuing her crush, she will eventually win him over. However, no one is a trophy to be won, and entering a relationship with that mindset will lead to disappointment. I liked that this show showed that couples don’t experience a 180-degree change when they get together or get married. Change takes time, and it shows that Noaki did make an effort to be a better partner by the end of the show. However, I found it troublesome that they got married incredibly fast, especially when their relationship before marriage consisted of a lack of communication. Kotoko and Noaki never talked about their expectations for marriage before tying the knot, which led to difficult issues in their marriage.
I would like to mention that, yes, I did see other adaptations based on the Itazura na Kiss manga, and if I were to pick my favorite adaptation, it would have to be Mischievous Kiss: Love in Tokyo (the Japanese adaptation). They really expanded on the story, going far beyond the manga, but still maintaining the same elements of the show. My least favorite would have to be Playful Kiss (the South Korean adaptation). I enjoyed the show, but it felt like it limited interesting storylines, and this version of Noaki was the harshest toward his wife. However, the actors who played Oh Ha Ni and Baek Seung-Jo had amazing chemistry, and the show was silly in a way that kept me entertained.
Anyways after seeing how their relationship functions through every challenge, hardships, and good times their relationship gets a score of …
🤎Toxic Relationship = 7.5
Anyways, I hope you all enjoyed my relationship diagnosis for Kotoko and Noaki stay tuned for the relationship scale on Tomoya and Nagisa from Clannad. I hope you have a lovely day and stay safe. Bye Beauts!