Ep. 18: Friends assist with Christmas preparations while Taiga finds hope and Minori regrets breaking the tree star.
Aired on February 5, 2009
During Christmas party preparations, Ryuji’s friends isolate Yuusaku and Taiga. Ami suggests Ryuji end his father-daughter dynamic with Taiga. After exams, Ryuji helps Taiga mail gifts to her parents and lonely children. Taiga recalls meeting Santa, finding hope in being watched over. The group assembles an artificial tree with a glass star Taiga brought. They admire the lit tree until a stray softball smashes the star. Minori feels deep regret and insists on fixing the star. Ryuji assists despite her protests. The baseball club apologizes. Minori leaves, refusing Ryuji’s party invitation due to the accident. Ryuji promises to wait for her.
Episodes
- Ep. 14 · Rumors of the Palmtop Tiger bring happiness wishes during the cultural festival events.
- Ep. 15 · Yuusaku Rejects Student Council Presidency and Dyes His Hair Blonde
- Ep. 16 · Taiga and Ryuuji manipulate Yuusaku into running for student council president while he pursues Sumire.
- Ep. 17 · Mercury Retrogrades at Christmas
- Ep. 18 · Friends assist with Christmas preparations while Taiga finds hope and Minori regrets breaking the tree star.
- Ep. 19 · Taiga and Ryuuji navigate a Christmas Eve party and subsequent emotional misunderstandings.
- Ep. 20 · Taiga advises Ryuuji to pursue Minori before the Okinawa trip changes to a ski excursion.
- Ep. 21 · Ryuuji confronts his feelings for Minori and searches for a fallen Taiga
- Ep. 22 · Ryuuji reflects on his future while Taiga returns to his home after a family dispute.