Kakeru and Yamato have begun dating at last, but they’re still not quite used to the fact that they’ve gone from “friends” to “boyfriends”. After receiving an aquarium ticket from Fujino, who tells him to “go with his girlfriend,” Kakeru decides to invite Yamato on a fun excursion. But when the two bump into their friends on the way home, Kakeru is forced to confess the truth about their relationship.
By Mika
Series I Cannot Reach You
Volume 8 of -
Release Date 19.11.2024
Genre Boy's Love
Age Rating 13+
Publisher Yen Press
CW None
Rating ★★★★★
My Review
I missed Yamato and Kakeru so much! After so many volumes of pining and tension, they’re finally dating—but of course, that doesn’t mean smooth sailing just yet. Their journey is full of awkward but cute moments as they navigate what being in a relationship actually means.
What stood out to me is how Kakeru is (finally) stepping up and taking more initiative—seeing him come out of his shell is so adorable! Meanwhile, Yamato is learning to set boundaries, which is a good development for him, but it also makes me wonder if he’s adjusting to Kakeru no longer being the “unreachable” one in the dynamic. It adds a layer of complexity to their growth and development that I really appreciate.
The main focus of this volume is their developing relationship, them going on dates, but it also shows how they share the news with their friend group. Fujino’s initial reaction might seem negative, but it turns out he’s more hurt that he wasn’t told when everyone else knew— which is such a sweet touch and a true friend. Surely it can feel a little unrealistic that all their teenage friends are supporting them- but I guess that's what makes this manga such a nice positive read. What I love about this series is how misunderstandings like these never drag on unnecessarily and get resolved properly.
And can we talk about Mika’s art? The level of detail is amazing—it really elevates those small, tender moments that make this series such a cozy read. The camping trip with the whole friend group was another highlight. Even though nothing dramatic happens, the atmosphere of support and warmth makes it such a happy read. What I love about I Cannot Reach You series, is that even though no major things happen, you still go through it quite fast wanting to know what happens next- and it just makes you smile.
If you’re looking for a soft, feel-good story with well-paced emotional beats, this volume delivers in every way! Yamato and Kakeru’s journey is the heart of the series, and I can’t wait to see where they go from here! The story hinted that in the next school year the classes will change and i'm a little scared they will get seperated- but let's hope the next volume will be just as lovely.
