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Reviews for this episode often highlight its shift in tone from romantic comedy to serious drama.
While the animation is described as standard for the era, the character designs and the "rockish guitar" background music during the university argument are noted for enhancing the scene's intensity.
The episode picks up six years after their initial meeting. Nowaki returns from America after a year abroad, but his reunion with Hiroki is fraught with tension. Junjou Romantica Episode 5
Critics note that this is one of the most heartbreaking episodes of the series, effectively showcasing the internal turmoil of both characters. Hiroki's "stupid pride" and Nowaki's desperate need to prove himself create a "roller coaster of emotions".
The drama peaks at Hiroki's university, where Nowaki attempts to apologize. The episode ends on a cliffhanger when Nowaki witnesses Hiroki’s colleague, Professor Miyagi, jokingly calling Hiroki "my sweet honey," leading Nowaki to mistakenly believe they are lovers. Reviews for this episode often highlight its shift
Retrospective reviews, such as those on Blerdy Otome , point out that the series as a whole relies heavily on "non-con/dub-con" themes and aggressive character dynamics, which may be off-putting to modern viewers.
Hiroki, feeling abandoned and insecure about where he stands in Nowaki's life, decides to end the relationship. He takes extreme measures—moving house and changing his contact details—to shut Nowaki out completely. Nowaki returns from America after a year abroad,
Reviewers from Otakuness praise the episode for proving the show can handle serious, mature emotional stakes beyond its usual humor.