Shiori Sakurazaka
Shiori Sakurazaka |
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| Kanji: | 桜坂 詩織 |
| Romaji | Sakurazaka Shiori |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 19 |
| Birthday: | Unknown |
| Height: | Unknown |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Saki Miyashita |
| English: | Macy Anne Johnson |
Shiori Sakurazaka (桜坂 詩織, Sakurazaka Shiori), is the female deuteragonist in More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers (Fūfu Ijō, Koibito Minam). She is the childhood friend and crush of Jirō Yakuin, the male protagonist of the series. Throughout the story, Shiori plays a crucial role in Jirō’s emotional development and personal journey, as her presence challenges his feelings and complicates his evolving relationship with Akari Watanabe, his Marriage Practical partner.
Shiori’s character is defined by her reserved nature and the deep connection she shares with Jirō. However, she is also paired with Minami Tenjin in the couples training, which becomes a point of conflict in her relationship with Jirō. Her development in the series revolves around navigating her own feelings for Jirō while participating in the training with Minami.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Shiori Sakurazaka has known Jirō Yakuin since childhood, making their bond strong and meaningful. She harbors deep feelings for him, and he is her childhood crush. However, Shiori is placed in the Marriage Practical program, where she is paired with Minami Tenjin. This assignment creates emotional tension as she navigates her feelings for Jirō while fulfilling the expectations of the school program.
Shiori’s relationship with Jirō is complicated by her involvement in the couples training with Minami, and the series explores the emotional complexities of her feelings for both boys. Shiori is not just a passive figure in Jirō’s journey; her own internal conflict and the growing tension between her and Jirō form a significant part of the emotional conflict in the series.
Appearance
Shiori Sakurazaka is depicted as a gentle, elegant, and serene character, with an appearance that reflects her reserved nature. She has long hair, often styled in a manner that suits her calm and polite personality. Her overall aesthetic is one of understated beauty, contrasting with the more outgoing and bold nature of Akari Watanabe, Jirō’s other primary partner in the Marriage Practical.
Shiori’s expressions are often soft and subtle, emphasizing her quiet nature. She does not demand attention but instead conveys depth and emotion through her quieter moments. Her school uniform and classic appearance emphasize her more introverted and delicate personality, giving her a sense of calmness in contrast to the other more expressive characters.
Personality
Shiori Sakurazaka is a calm, reserved, and gentle character. As Jirō’s childhood friend, she harbors deep affection for him but is unable to express her feelings openly due to her introverted nature. Her personality contrasts with that of Akari Watanabe, who is more outgoing and bold, creating a dynamic where Shiori’s quiet, thoughtful personality stands in contrast to the more energetic personalities around her.
Shiori is emotionally conflicted throughout the series as she navigates her feelings for Jirō while being paired with Minami Tenjin in the Marriage Practical. She does not actively pursue romantic attention from Minami, but the situation forces her to confront her emotions and how she can handle the complexities of love. While Jirō is a constant presence in her thoughts, her internal conflict about how to approach her feelings and manage her relationship with Minami is central to her growth as a character.
Her selflessness and the way she handles her feelings without pressuring others shows her maturity, but it also highlights the tension within her, as she struggles to balance what she wants with what is expected of her.
Role in the Story
Assigned Partner: Shiori is paired with Minami Tenjin in the couples program. Although she initially harbors a crush on Minami, it becomes clear that her strongest emotional connection remains with Jirō. Her time with Minami, however, teaches her confidence and self-reflection, allowing her to slowly break free from her emotional shell.
Feelings for Jirō: Throughout the series, Shiori’s feelings for Jirō remain quiet but consistent. She frequently worries about the growing closeness between Jirō and Akari but rarely speaks up, even when she feels hurt. Despite this, she continues to support Jirō’s happiness, leading to a complex and bittersweet dynamic.
Emotional Growth: Shiori’s arc is one of gradual awakening. Her moments of jealousy and emotional conflict eventually push her to acknowledge her own desires, and she begins to take small steps toward asserting her feelings. Her growing independence and clarity contrast her earlier passivity, making her one of the more emotionally nuanced characters in the story.
Relationships
Jirō Yakuin: Her childhood friend and long-time crush. Shiori treasures their bond and struggles with her romantic feelings for him. Their relationship is marked by quiet tension, shared history, and unspoken feelings, making it one of the most emotionally delicate in the series.
Minami Tenjin: Her assigned partner in the marriage training course. While she initially admires Minami for his perfection, she gradually learns more about his flaws and complexity. Their relationship is based on mutual respect and quiet understanding, and Minami often gently encourages her growth.
Akari Watanabe: Though not close initially, Shiori sees Akari as a rival for Jirō’s affection. She admires Akari’s openness and confidence but is also hurt by how close Akari and Jirō become. Over time, however, there’s a subtle tension of mutual recognition between them, reflecting their shared emotional stakes.