While some might find it amusing to hear, considering the romantic undertones often associated with “Skip and Loafer,” this week’s episode truly highlights one of my absolute favorite aspects of Shima and Mitsumi’s relationship: their platonic connection. Episode 6, covering chapters 10 and 11 of the manga, beautifully explores the nuances of their friendship, and it’s a facet that deserves deep appreciation.
Chapter 10 opens with a classic teenage girl conversation between Mitsumi and Fumi, centered around the concept of love. This scene provides insightful depth into Mitsumi’s perspective on romance. Like many teenagers, curiosity about love is present, yet her immediate association with exams is both endearing and humorous. This initial reaction perfectly encapsulates Mitsumi’s grounded and goal-oriented personality.
Many viewers, including myself, find Mitsumi to resonate with demiromantic traits, and this episode further solidifies that interpretation. Her pondering about love, prompted by Fumi, suggests that for Mitsumi, emotional connection precedes romantic feelings. The fact that she’s starting to consider love at all hints at the burgeoning depth of her bond with Shima. However, the core of this episode is not romantic love, but the powerful platonic affection developing between them.
The episode masterfully pivots to Mitsumi’s growing concern for Shima. Her worries and developing prejudices, fueled by rumors and whispers, take center stage. Is what people are saying about Shima true? This question plagues Mitsumi as she grapples with reconciling the Shima she knows with the negative perceptions surrounding him.
Mitsumi, who prides herself on understanding those around her, starts to question the depth of her connection with Shima. As her first friend in Tokyo, Shima holds a special place, yet his evasiveness and school absences raise red flags. The rumors she hears intensify her worries, leading her to wonder why Shima, her friend, seems to be hiding so much. In true Mitsumi fashion, her attempt to help is well-intentioned but ultimately clumsy, highlighting her earnest yet sometimes misguided approach to problem-solving.
From Shima’s perspective, he grapples with similar anxieties. The “bright golden girl” who captivated him now seems to be swayed by the same rumors that have plagued him throughout his life. This perceived betrayal triggers a harsh reaction from Shima, a moment he instantly regrets. His outburst reveals his deep-seated fear of being misunderstood and abandoned, a pattern likely rooted in past experiences.
The conversation with Chris offers a crucial turning point. Chris acts as a bridge between Shima’s past and future, a confidant with whom he can be truly honest. While their relationship is presented as quirky friendship at this juncture, this scene subtly hints at a deeper, more significant bond to come. Through this interaction, we glimpse a crack in Shima’s carefully constructed walls. He confesses his terror of losing a friend he genuinely cherishes, revealing a profound fear of repeating past mistakes and perpetuating a cycle of regret.
This emotional build-up culminates in the iconic staircase scene. Shima, whose default reaction would typically be to avoid conflict and run from his problems, is confronted by Mitsumi’s unwavering determination. She refuses to let their misunderstanding fester and is resolved to resolve the issue. Mitsumi’s stance is clear: she will not lose her friend without a fight.
Episode 6 marks a pivotal point in their relationship, solidifying the foundation of their bond. It transcends romantic implications, focusing instead on the profound significance of platonic love. It’s about the fear of losing someone deeply cherished and the courage to be vulnerable and open with another person. While the episode begins and ends with discussions of love, the heart of “Can’t Run Away From Love Episode 6” lies in the journey of two friends navigating misunderstandings and learning to trust each other. It’s about the burgeoning bond between Mitsumi and Shima, a bond built on genuine care and the burgeoning possibility of complete openness. Bond, in all its forms, platonic or otherwise, is indeed a form of love.
