Ep. 22: Yamato seeks victory after counseling reveals his feelings for Suzuka and teammate disappointment follows his second-place finish.
Aired on December 1, 2005
Prior to the competition, Yamato undergoes counseling with Yasunobu, who learns that Yamato still harbors romantic feelings for Suzuka. Miyamoto’s arrival and subsequent discussion about Kazuki help Yasunobu understand the source of Yamato’s anxiety. Inspired by Yasunobu’s advice, Yamato resolves to win first place. He delivers a spectacular performance in the initial race, only to face disappointment from his teammates who deem the event unimportant and accuse him of wasting energy. Yamato ultimately finishes second in the entire meet. When Suzuka approaches him to offer congratulations, he confesses that his true desire is to take first place, highlighting the gap between his personal goals and his team’s expectations.
Episodes
- Ep. 18 · Yamato seeks Suzuka's help to buy Honoka a birthday gift, leading to a misunderstanding.
- Ep. 19 · Yamato breaks up with Honoka after blaming himself and apologizing to her.
- Ep. 20 · Miki confronts Yamato about his breakup while Honoka returns as manager to support the team.
- Ep. 21 · Yamato struggles with baton passes while hiding his regret over lying to Suzuka.
- Ep. 22 · Yamato seeks victory after counseling reveals his feelings for Suzuka and teammate disappointment follows his second-place finish.
- Ep. 23 · Yamato trains for track while Miyamoto and Arima plot, causing tension with Suzuka and Sakurai.
- Ep. 24 · Yamato finishes fourth in the race while confessing his feelings to Suzuka again
- Ep. 25 · Suzuka confronts her fear of loss while Honoka and Yamato seek her at the shrine.
- Ep. 26 · Suzuka confronts her feelings for Yamato at Kazuki's grave with friends' encouragement