It's a pretty controversial story. There are dubcon elements, yes, and I understand how that can be a dealbreaker for many people. But I personally think it's one of the better stories that actually handles dubcon really well. While yes, it's not enthusiastic consent, the story always makes sure the smut is more "con" than "dub" even from the start. There are blackmail and coercion elements, but Kotarou are never portrayed as disgusted or repelled by Aoi's touch. In fact, he seems *curious.* It's a fine line to walk when one wants to write dubcon, and the story nails it. As for the romance, there aresome sweet moments at the end, and the chemistry is pretty solid from the beginning.

That being said, I actually feel Kotarou and Aoi has more chemistry as friends at this stage. It doesn't help that Aoi does go through some pretty toxic areas (included but not limited to the dubcon incidents), and I feel like the story needs more time to sort of gradually improve their relationship. While I -am- a sucker to reformed playboys trope, that particular part of the story feels a tad too forceful, like the story itself is trying to convince the readers that Aoi is totally reformed and devoted to Kotarou now. It's not THAT bad, but it's noticeable.