Reviewers from platforms like BL Watcher heavily criticize Ryouma’s aggressive actions in this episode, classifying them as sexual assault.
Ryouma is thrown into a massive spiral of confusion. He tries desperately to deny his feelings and prove to himself that he cannot possibly be attracted to another man. Love Stage!! Episode 3
Ryouma's plan completely backfires. Instead of curing his crush, seeing Izumi makes him lose control. He forces a heavy kiss and advances on Izumi without his consent. Reviewers from platforms like BL Watcher heavily criticize
Episode 3 is highly debated among fans and reviewers of the series. It highlights several major writing tropes and issues typical of classic BL media: Ryouma's plan completely backfires
Eiki Eiki (Author) and Taishi Zaō (Illustrator)
To force himself to snap out of it, Ryouma pins Izumi down to prove to himself that Izumi is physically male.
The episode picks up in the chaotic aftermath of the commercial shoot. Ryouma has finally learned the shocking truth: his childhood crush, whom he thought was a beautiful girl for ten years, is actually a boy.