Do You Really Want Only A Meal?

by Yasu Tadano

Genres: Manga, Romance
Pages: 164
Series: Do You Really Want Only A Meal? #2
Rating:

Synopsis:

Now happily dating, 27-year-old Masamune Hanzawa takes his boyfriend, 19-year-old Natsuki, on a birthday trip, but he unfortunately spends the whole time worrying he hasn’t done enough. When they run into Natsuki’s mom at the train station, she thanks Masamune for taking care of her husband and son. Inspired, they decide to come out to Natsuki’s parents about their relationship. But in a world where same-sex relationships face societal resistance, how will Natsuki’s family react? As love meets uncertainty, Masamune and Natsuki must navigate uncharted waters together.

Volume two of Yasu Tadano’s Do You Really Only Want a Meal? is really pure fluff. There are two potential sources of conflict: firstly, Masamune trying overly hard to find ways to please Natsuki (actually against his wishes), and secondly, the two of them telling Natsuki’s parents they’re dating. Between the age gap and the fact that they’re gay, that does give them some pause.

Aaaand in practice all conflict quickly fizzles out! It’s just cute and fluffy, with Natsuki’s parents surprised but supportive, and Masamune being a pretty perfect boyfriend.

There is also a fun bit where Masamune practises cooking and makes food for Natsuki for once, and also where they clearly go a bit further than making out (unclear if they have sex, but probably; it fades to black).

But really, no conflict here, just fluff. My only negative comment would be sometimes the transitions between scenes were poorly or not-at-all signposted. Why have they suddenly changed location?! Ohhh, okay, time skip.

Rating: 3/5 (“liked it”)