Mei Hamano
Mei Hamano |
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| Kanji: | 浜野 めい |
| Romaji | Hamano Mei |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | Unknown |
| Birthday: | Unknown |
| Height: | Unknown |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Yui Ogura |
| English: | Meg McClain |
Mei Hamano (浜野 めい, Hamano Mei), is a supporting character in More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers (Fūfu Ijō, Koibito Minam). Mei is the assigned practice partner of Shū Terafune in the Marriage Practical, a school program where students are paired to simulate a married life. Alongside her role in the program, Mei also serves as the overprotective friend of Shiori Sakurazaka, one of the main characters. Her relationship with Shiori adds emotional depth to the series, as Mei is fiercely loyal and protective of her friend.
Mei’s role in the story is centered around her interactions with both Shū and Shiori, providing a sense of support and emotional care for those around her. Although not a central figure in the plot, her presence contributes to the broader social dynamics and the personal development of the main characters.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Mei Hamano is a high school student who is involved in the Marriage Practical program, where she is paired with Shū Terafune. While her role in the Marriage Practical is mainly about fulfilling the school’s assignment, Mei’s background also includes her strong friendship with Shiori Sakurazaka. As Shiori’s overprotective friend, Mei plays an important emotional role in Shiori’s life, often looking out for her well-being and offering advice or support when needed.
Mei’s background is defined by her close bond with Shiori and her willingness to stand by her, especially when Shiori faces emotional dilemmas related to Jirō Yakuin and Minami Tenjin. Her friendship with Shiori is an important part of her character, providing a supportive foundation in the midst of the romantic and emotional turmoil surrounding the main characters.
Appearance
Mei Hamano has a simple yet warm appearance, with medium-length hair that complements her friendly and protective personality. Her clothing style is casual but typically reflects the high school setting, likely consisting of the standard school uniform. Mei’s gentle and approachable demeanor is reflected in her physical appearance, as she carries herself with a sense of warmth and kindness.
Her expressions are often concerned or caring, especially when she is interacting with Shiori or others she feels protective over. Mei’s overall look emphasizes her role as a supportive and compassionate character, rather than drawing attention to herself in a flamboyant way.
Personality
Mei Hamano is kind-hearted, loyal, and overprotective, especially when it comes to her best friend, Shiori Sakurazaka. Her personality is marked by a deep sense of care for those close to her, and she is always willing to stand up for Shiori and make sure she is safe and emotionally supported. Mei’s protective nature makes her a dependable friend, though it can also lead to her being somewhat overbearing at times, especially when Shiori is dealing with emotional conflict.
Despite her protectiveness, Mei is not portrayed as possessive or controlling rather, she acts out of a genuine desire to help and ensure that Shiori does not get hurt. Her loyalty and devotion to her friends are her defining traits, and she often shows a maternal side in her interactions with Shiori, offering advice or comfort when needed.
Mei also demonstrates a degree of maturity, balancing her emotional attachment to Shiori with the understanding that Shiori must navigate her own relationships and challenges. Mei’s character provides a strong supportive presence, which allows Shiori and the other characters to feel emotionally secure.
Role in the Story
Shiori’s Watchdog: At the beginning of the story, Mei takes it upon herself to look after Shiori, especially when it becomes clear that Shiori has feelings for Jirō Yakuin, who is assigned to live with Akari Watanabe. Mei is skeptical of Akari and frequently expresses concern that Jirō’s growing closeness with Akari might hurt Shiori emotionally.
Practice Marriage with Shū Terafune: Mei’s own pairing with Shū Terafune serves as a contrast to her serious personality. Though Shū is known for slacking off and being flirtatious, he’s also unexpectedly considerate. Their relationship develops slowly but with humor and subtle chemistry, allowing Mei to lower her defenses and appreciate the dynamic she shares with him.
Emotional Growth and Support: Over time, Mei becomes a source of advice and emotional support, not only for Shiori but also for the larger group. Her journey is about learning to trust others, let go of her overprotectiveness, and embrace the messiness of teenage relationships.
Relationships
Shiori Sakurazaka: Mei’s best friend and someone she cares about deeply. Mei is protective to a fault and is often seen worrying about Shiori’s romantic struggles. Though Shiori sometimes feels Mei is overbearing, she values her loyalty and emotional support.
Shū Terafune: Her assigned marriage partner. At first, Mei is frustrated by Shū’s unserious nature, but as they spend time together, she begins to see his sincerity and hidden maturity. Their relationship evolves into a surprising but warm-hearted bond.
Akari Watanabe & Jirō Yakuin: Though not close to them directly, Mei observes their evolving relationship from a distance. She is initially wary of both, especially Akari, whom she suspects could hurt Shiori. Her stance softens over time as she sees the complexity of their feelings.