Ep 9. Square One

Tsurezure Children (Original Japanese Version) is a romantic comedy anime that follows the love lives of several high school students. In this episode, titled "Square One," we see the series of events that lead to the start of a new relationship.

The episode begins with a group of friends discussing their relationships. Kana and Saki are excitedly chatting about their boyfriends, while Chizuru is feeling a bit left out as she is still single. However, her friends reassure her that she will find someone soon.

Meanwhile, Takeru is having trouble confessing his feelings to Ayaka. He constantly tries to tell her how he feels, but he can never seem to find the right moment. One day, while they are alone together, Takeru finally works up the courage to confess to Ayaka. However, Ayaka misunderstands and thinks that he is just joking around.

Elsewhere, Haruhiko and Takano are having some relationship issues. Takano is frustrated because Haruhiko is always busy with his part-time job and never has time to spend with her. She decides to break up with him, but quickly regrets her decision and tries to make up with him.

In another part of the school, Kazuko and Sugawara are studying together. Sugawara, who has been in love with Kazuko for a long time, finally confesses his feelings to her. Kazuko is taken aback, but eventually agrees to go out with him.

Finally, we see a flashback to when Takeru and Ayaka first met in middle school. Takeru was always too shy to talk to Ayaka, but one day he saw her getting bullied by some other students. He stood up for her and they became friends. This flashback helps Ayaka realize Takeru's true feelings and she rushes to find him to confess her own feelings.

Overall, "Square One" is a heartwarming episode that shows the ups and downs of young love. We see several different relationships evolve and begin to take shape, and it's interesting to see the different approaches each character takes when it comes to expressing their feelings. The episode also does a great job of highlighting the importance of communication in relationships, and how misunderstandings can cause unnecessary drama.