AHH.
My favorite running anti-angst manga has been completed. Now nothing will save me from the depressing as fuck depths of The Ends of a Dream and potentially My Sister’s Best Friend, My Lover.
This open ending is almost as disappointing as it is satisfying. Keyword is almost because I fucking love this series. First off, I wish this could’ve gone on for at least 7 more chapters. These two are so relaxing, healing, touching, and all that jazz. Hopefully someone else can put why their dynamic works so well more eloquently, but all I can say is that these two truly love each other and it shows. And that’s why I’m wicked bummed they didn’t end up explicitly dating, especially considering Shima’s sexuality was an (under- IMO) explored point in their relationship. But Ise-Shima are such an endearing couple and charming characters on their own that just knowing these two will be together is enough. Also, chapter 21 really pushes the boundaries of subtext.
I love-hate-love their undefined platonic soulmate relationship and had there been a kiss, this series would’ve been one of my all time favorites (it’s still up there). At least they did the deed and held hands (INTERLACING FINGERS NO LESS).
Regardless of my own feelings, I hope I can say the same for everyone that Ise-Shima was an enjoyable read from start to finish and I want to see more of Tokuwotsumu. Maybe their some of their Twitter work...? They’ve truly created something special.