Word gets around that Kotarou and Akane are in a relationship.

Despite the stressful changes that come with the transition from middle school to high school, Kotarou and Akane have each other to lean on—for now.

Akane decides to apply to a school in Chiba that her parents and Takumi recommended. She meets with Kotaro, who says he will try to apply to the same one and that, regardless, they will be together. The track club later goes to Kotaro’s festival.

Kotaro begins studying incredibly hard to go to Akane’s school, despite not having sufficient grades. Initially, his mother is elated, having earlier criticized his hobbies as distractions. However, at a PTS conference, Kotaro reveals his true intentions, straining his relationship with his parents. Meanwhile, in addition to studying, Akane starts knitting a scarf for Kotaro.

Kotaro learns that he was not accepted into Akane’s school, saddening them. Daisuke suggests Kotaro use it in his writing, while Ayane suggests Akane should break up with him rather than do long-distance.