The lives of same-sex partners during the Heian era were not without their challenges, however. Social norms and family expectations often forced these couples to keep their relationships hidden from public view. The risk of discovery and subsequent social ostracism was ever-present. Nevertheless, for those who dared to defy convention, the rewards were significant.
The narrative centers on , a grounded, level-headed college student working late-night shifts at a convenience store. His quiet life changes when he crosses paths with Megumi Hayashi , his former high school classmate. The lives of same-sex partners during the Heian
The protagonist, , is a university student working part-time at a convenience store. One night, he reunites with his former high school classmate, Megumi Hayashi , who was known as a beautiful but arrogant "Queen". Yamamoto originally disliked her, but after noticing bruises on her wrist and learning about her abusive boyfriend, he decides to let her stay at his apartment. Nevertheless, for those who dared to defy convention,
The story flips a common bullying trope: The protagonist, , is a university student working
The title itself highlights the protagonist's realization: Igaito igokochi ga warukunai —meaning it's surprisingly comfortable or "not bad." This shift in perspective is key:
In high school, Hayashi was known as the "Queen"—the most beautiful girl in class, but also infamously arrogant and strong-willed. Yamamoto and Hayashi did not get along.
The story typically follows a common formula: a socially awkward or ordinary male protagonist (the "average Joe") ends up living with an exceptionally beautiful, talented, and previously arrogant or high-maintenance girl from their high school days, only to discover her true, endearing nature. The Charm of the "Arrogant Queen" Trope