Never Hollowed By The Stare

Tonari no Usotsuki – Rika Anzai & Shina Suzuka

While aware he’s attracted to the same sex, Takase has been living and lying because of his pride. One day, he gets to know Ito, who is always waiting for his male lover at a cafe. Takase, who was interested in how Ito always gave his true feelings to his lover, is strongly shaken by the unrelenting Ito whose tears are pure with the betrayal. However, even though he wishes to be more than friends, he can not say that he’s gay

The Liar by My Side is a charming salaryman romance about honesty and pride.

Takase frequently found himself waiting for his fiancée right next to Ito who is waiting for his boyfriend. Takase is intrigued, being gay but unable to admit it to himself. Later, his engagement was broken off, and he struck up a friendship with Ito after learning that he had broken up with his boyfriend.

Afterwards, the two started hanging out frequently. Ito was happy to have a straight friend who shares his favorite movies, while Takase wished he could confess he liked guys, too—especially Ito.

For a story about a liar, this is refreshingly non-toxic. Wholesome even!

Takase’s pride kept him from being true to himself, so he found Ito’s openness attractive and inspiring. Takase always treats Ito the way he should be treated, cherished, and adored, unlike the shameful way Ito’s ex treated him. Dude is first-time gay, but he’s turning out to be one of the best boyfriends out there!

You’d think Takase would be one of those stoic seme types, so I was thrilled to see his playful side during his dates with Ito. My favorite one was when he showed up with a fancy car, dressed like a yakuza, because Ito frequently mentions his face looked like that of a yakuza anti-hero in movies.

Another favorite is how the mangaka delivered the big confession. They had Takase and Ito in the streets, Takase speaking his heart out in the open, chasing Ito, a vivid contrast to all the lies and bottled-up emotions. It was quite a powerful scene!

Other key conversations were also in public, further reinforcing the theme of being out, with nothing to hide. The pacing is spot on, showcasing the development of Takase and Ito’s relationship in the most heartwarming way.

Overall, this slice-of-life manga is deceptively simple yet packs a punch, then soothes the pain with a whole lot of feel-good vibes. Truly, a keeper!

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