CherryMood

Kiyoi's aversion to acknowledge Hira as a friend

Kiyoi waiting for Hira at the spot he was found before.

Kiyoi's harsh attitude is used masterfully to not be seen as vulnerable and he even convinces himself that he's not as emotional a person as the rest of those around him. And Hira's worship of him just adds to this. But Kiyoi is greedy for Hira, even as he can't bring himself to accept just how much he has come to need Hira to love him.

This is why Hira and his insecurities while heartbreaking to see, never make me angry, because if this were every other romance then Hira would keep trying to make Kiyoi love him. But Hira limits himself, cause he's so genuinely respectful and hates the thought of doing anything Kiyoi wouldn't like. And Hira doesn't believe himself worthy of love so the Tsundere!Kiyoi has to break out of his own protective shell to be vulnerable!

Kiyoi can't live in denial about who he wants. His abrasive behaviour, which is a defense mechanism, has consequences! The man he loves just pulls further away. His inability to communicate his feelings verbally leaves Hira without an understanding of what Kiyoi feels. And so Kiyoi is unable to live in denial and is forced to accept repeatedly just how much he cares about Hira, just how much he wants him.

Kiyoi even tries to repeatedly let go of Hira in typical Tsundere fashion, which is a call for attention. But in this case it doesn't work! Kiyoi doesn't get to be chased as his ego demands! HE HAS TO DO THE CHASING!

Kiyoi has to learn to be honest with himself and with his lover. And that's why they're soulmates! Only Hira could have pushed Kiyoi into smashing out of his shell. Just as Kiyoi is the only one who can motivate Hira to grow and fight to overcome his own shell.