Momoi Tomoki is a gloomy but hardworking teenage boy. When anyone sees him in his school uniform, they won't find a single fault with him. He's the perfect first year male student of B High. The customers he serves with a graceful smile without a complaint, have none to give. He's actually quite popular and easy to talk to. At home, he does the chores he's asked to do and seems like a son any mother would be proud of.

But that's not the truth. In reality, he's anxious, always trying to hide his true self. He knows he can't let anyone see who he truly is. He'd be a son, brother, student, friend and neighbour to be ashamed of.

Why? Because he's not like a boy should be. He likes pastels, his favourite animals are cute bunnies and fluffy doggies, his favourite TV shows are about magical girls, and his room is decorated as if he was a girl and not a boy.

In fact, he's not a boy! And that's the problem.

Tomoki is nonbinary, and he hates himself for it. He just wants to fit in and be like everybody else. Just how far does he need to go to be normal? When will the malicious words stop?

Or... is there a way for him to not suppress his true self?

Beyond the Horizon

Sakuya talked to Aoki. Tatsumi discussed something with Ken. Tomo sat between Ken and Sakuya and didn’t know who to listen to, so he ate in silence. 


Not all his friends were used to eating a traditional Japanese breakfast so they had commented on it every day, but to him this was usual. Ichirou always served a full meal every morning, and if he didn’t, Tomo made it. 


Tomo looked up to see Ken look up at Kanna. She smiled at Ken then looked at Tomo. 


“Grandfather asked you to visit him today. He won’t take no for an answer and will send someone to pick you up in an hour.” 


“Mm, okay. Let him know it’ll be my pleasure.” 


Kanna nodded and left the room, taking her phone out of her pocket. 


Tomo stared into his food. He had hoped he could avoid it if he didn’t mention it. But there was no way Shinnosuke would have forgotten about it. 


Episode 23