First of all, thank you for reading this far. This is the author.
Just like the previous volume, this one also ended up being a bit long, but I was able to get it to a good stopping point.
Regarding Yuu's first love, which started around the end of volume 3 and into volume 4, I think it's safe to say that it has come to a conclusion in this volume.
The ending is as you've read in the main story, but while writing this volume, I kept thinking, "Everyone's rather troublesome side is showing…" Usually, the good thing about Maki and the others is that they can all talk things over and work together to solve problems, but with a matter as delicate as "falling in love with your best friend's boyfriend," they couldn't bring themselves to talk about it, which probably caused everyone's opinions to become completely fragmented. Even if they always seem to get along, their individual ways of thinking can be surprisingly different.
I usually work alone at my desk, but while working on this volume, I quietly felt the importance of communication.
There are still many things I'd like to discuss about this volume, but I hope you'll allow me to save that for another time.
Next, regarding volume 8 and beyond, which I'm sure many of you are curious about, the next release is planned to be a collection of short stories (so, volume 7.5, I guess?). Also, due to production schedule constraints, it will likely take longer than usual to be released. I apologize for the wait, but please be patient. I believe volume 8 will be the usual story of Umi and Maki, or rather, I should say we'll be delivering a 'lovey-dovey couple' chapter.
As for other matters, the "KuraNika" anime project is steadily progressing, albeit behind the scenes. Information regarding the broadcast period and various production details will be announced as soon as they are finalized, so for now, I would appreciate it if you could follow the Sneaker Bunko and the official work's X (formerly Twitter) accounts. The official account plans various campaigns besides anime information, such as gift projects, so I kindly ask for your support.
…My apologies for it sounding like an ad.
Now, to conclude, I'd like to wrap things up in my usual, albeit brief, manner.
The Sneaker Bunko editorial department and my editor. Hyuuga Azuri-sensei, who is in charge of illustrations. Ono-sensei, in charge of the comicalization, and everyone at the Alive editorial department. And to everyone else involved in the production of this work, including promotion and the anime. To all the readers who have read this work.
Thank you all so, so much, always.
Well then, let's meet again in the next volume.