Shouta is tall and often noted for his good looks, with his homeroom teacher, Pin, humorously describing him as having a “baby face.” He has black hair, large brown eyes, and a warm, bright smile that makes him approachable and well-liked by his classmates.

In school, Shouta typically wears variations of the Kitahoro High School uniform. He only wears a tie for formal occasions, such as ceremonies. During summer, he opts for a button-down shirt. In spring and fall, he adds a blue vest over a long-sleeved button-down, and in winter, he layers with a beige vest and blue jacket.

Outside of school, Shouta’s style is relaxed and casual, similar to other students his age. For winter, he often wears a green jacket with a fur-lined hood, adding a cozy touch to his usual look.

Shouta is widely regarded by his classmates as a lively, outgoing person who goes out of his way to greet everyone with a warm, refreshing smile, regardless of their background. His positive attitude and inclusivity make him stand out, and Sawako even describes him as someone who seems “made of cheerfulness.”

While generally broad-minded and straightforward, Shouta acknowledges his own faults. He’s admitted to Sawako that he can be selfish, a trait she accepts without judgment. In a conversation with Ryu, he reflects on his possessiveness and admits that he feels jealous of those who spend time with Sawako. Ryu also notes that Shouta has a quick temper, with Shouta describing himself as someone who acts on his own desires.

Shouta can be somewhat oblivious, especially when it comes to interpreting others’ feelings. Initially, he mistook Sawako’s admiration for romantic love, leading to his own embarrassment when he realized his mistake. Similarly, he misunderstood Kurumi’s feelings, believing she had a crush on Pin rather than on himself. His uncertainty extends to his relationship with Sawako; he doesn’t initially recognize her love for him, interpreting her kindness as simple friendliness. This misunderstanding leads him to doubt himself and worry that he might be a burden to her.

Despite his insecurities, Shouta is devoted to Sawako. When Kurumi confesses her feelings for him, he kindly rejects her, confessing that his heart already belongs to someone else—Sawako. This steadfast dedication becomes a defining aspect of his character, as he continues to support and care for her throughout their relationship.

Sawako Kuronuma
Shouta’s relationship with Sawako is central to the series. From the first day of school, he was intrigued by her after catching a glimpse of her rare smile. His interest deepened after the Courage , sparking a desire to get closer to her. Shouta often supports Sawako, helping her gain confidence and make new friends. When he discovers that Sawako is avoiding him due to rumors, he confronts her, explaining that he talks to her because he genuinely wants to, challenging her to be more open with him. Although Shouta realizes Sawako doesn’t immediately think of romance, he remains patient, allowing their friendship to grow.

Shouta cares deeply for Sawako, feeling protective of her and sometimes becoming jealous of others’ attention toward her. For instance, he becomes visibly uncomfortable when Ryu interacts with Sawako and even confronts Kento when he believes Kento has made her cry. Though initially oblivious to the depth of his own feelings, he later recognizes his love for her and rejects Kurumi’s advances, affirming his dedication to Sawako. Despite initial misunderstandings, Shouta and Sawako eventually confess their feelings, leading to an emotional and fulfilling relationship. Their first date solidifies their bond, with Shouta cherishing the gifts Sawako had been too shy to give earlier. Their relationship faces hurdles, especially during moments of miscommunication, but they ultimately work through them, becoming more comfortable with affection and sharing their lives.

As their relationship progresses, Sawako becomes involved in Shouta’s family life, encouraging him to address his own future and mend his relationship with his parents. By the time they graduate, their connection is strong, supportive, and deeply affectionate.

Ryu Sanada
Shouta and Ryu have been close friends since junior high, having bonded over baseball. Ryu understands Shouta’s personality and feelings better than most, and they confide in each other about personal struggles. Shouta has been there for Ryu, especially when Ryu faced challenges in his relationship with Chizuru. Their friendship is built on trust, support, and shared experiences, with Shouta frequently seeking Ryu’s perspective on his feelings for Sawako.

Kazuichi “Pin” Arai
Pin, Shouta’s homeroom teacher, has known him since childhood and delights in teasing him, often bringing up embarrassing childhood memories. Although their relationship is often playful and lighthearted, Pin occasionally offers Shouta valuable life advice, challenging him to express his feelings for Sawako. Despite the teasing, Shouta appreciates Pin’s insights, even if it sometimes takes him time to recognize their value. Pin’s influence ultimately pushes Shouta to confront his feelings for Sawako, though not without a bit of jealousy from Shouta when Pin receives chocolates from her.

Ume “Kurumi” Kurumizawa
Shouta and Kurumi have known each other since junior high. Shouta once comforted Kurumi when she was upset over rumors, which led her to develop unrequited feelings for him. Despite Kurumi’s efforts to win his affection, including spreading rumors to isolate Sawako, Shouta remains unaware of her interest until she confesses. By then, his heart already belongs to Sawako, and he gently but firmly rejects Kurumi’s confession. Over time, Kurumi acknowledges Shouta’s relationship with Sawako and, seeing their closeness, she comes to accept their relationship. Later, Kurumi admits that Shouta’s influence helped her become friends with Sawako, marking a resolution to her earlier rivalry.