Cute but a bit bittersweet and with more realistic characters than I expected
They're still in a world where appearance is the most important factor in being acknowledged and liked by society.
Also, even if Mika still is a bit overprotective, she could help Chiho to take baby steps into becoming less insecure and stand up for herself and Mika could learn to dial down the overprotectiveness. Well we don't know if that actually happens but considering Mika's and Chiho's thinking up to now the arrows are pointing in the right way.
Establishing both external problems (that could become societal commentary. it is a real problem especially for women, especially in Japan, even if it is atm just a reflection of the society) and internal struggles while setting up for character growth (both want to become a better person) all wrapped up in a neat little package. A relationship where they learn to communicate with each other and in turn become more well rounded people, it's wonderful.
Even if this style or genre is not my cup of tea (still stuck in my crappy teenage drama/mystery/romance phase ex "first kill" (I am not completely tasteless), have not developed a refined taste yet, comes with age probably) I got to applaud the author for this work.
