Maiko identifying herself as her legal guardian only is interesting. Not a surprise that it comes from the fact that Maiko’s relationship with Minori was beyond rough, to say the least. Of course she doesn’t want to talk about how she feels about Minori in front of Asa, but clearly it will be an obstacle in their relationship going forward. It will be curious as this continues to be played out.
Asa’s loneliness is a key aspect in this episode. Everyone has their parents in attendance, and Asa is alone. She tries to mention how her parents died, and her aunt is busy. There is no doubt she is in pain. Which is why Emiri’s mom is concerned about who is taking care of Asa. She seems like a good mother, and her concerns are valid.
Suffocation vs. loneliness: what Maiko & Asa feel at this present moment. Maiko clearly isn’t good around people and would rather be by herself. At the same time, the loneliness Asa feels is very real too. I do like how they communicated at the end of the episode. Granted, there are hurdles because Maiko has trouble understanding the loneliness that Asa feels. It does feel like the key will be Maiko opening up to Asa, but it seems the only way for that to happen is to be more upfront with Asa about her relationship with her mom. The topic is tricky, so I wonder how the show will proceed.
Kasamachi’s line of adults are more sensitive than teenagers think they are. As adults are forced to “grow up” to face the world, at the same time, they have their own issues. In fact, a lot of Asa’s expectations of adults stem from her mother. Though Maiko doesn’t act like a typical adult like Minori or Emiri’s mom as she reacts to Asa’s first day. I am curious how Asa herself will start to adjust to how Maiko is as an adult. Meanwhile, Maiko is trying to do her best in her own way to be there for Asa. As it is a learning experience for both of them.
