Honey Lemon Soda

Straying from isekai territory, I've also started another new release: Honey Lemon Soda. 

It's a romance anime in the tradition of Say I Love You or Kimi ni Todoke or even Komi Can't Communicate (thought not as lighthearted as that one). Uka was known as "Stony" back in middle school, where she was bullied and teased. A chance encounter with blonde boy Kai Miura finds her entering his same high school.

She's determined to change her life, but she's also terrified and awkward. Kai runs hot and cold, but appears to want to help her in his own way. I'm on episode 4 now and I'd say I'm liking it, though the story seems verrrry typical for it's kind and I wouldn't say the plot is treading any new ground so far. 

Uka is trying and Kai, albeit popular, obviously has his own issues. The dark haired dude that I honestly do not know the name of is Kai's friend and has been acting "kind" to Uka, but seems to have ulterior motives (maybe he likes her and wants her for himself?). The best relationship is actually Uka and Ayumi, the short-haired girl, who is her first real friend. And they've just introduced Kai's old ex-girlfriend (?), so there will be drama coming.

In one refreshing twist, Uka realises very early on that she likes Kai and doesn't try to deny it to herself. Though she believes it will end in heartbreak or be unrequited, at least she's honest with herself.