Honey Lemon Soda Episode 3 Review: Maybe A Little Closer?

This episode of Honey Lemon Soda showcases some romantic growth between our pair. Let’s see how this turned out.

Honey Lemon Soda Episode 2 Recap

Ishi can’t help but feel drawn to Kai, the rough-around-the-edges boy who, despite his rude demeanour, has gone out of his way to protect her more than once. Summoning her courage, she does something uncharacteristic. She greets Kai with a timid “good morning,” at the beginning of this episode, before quickly trying to slip away.

But Kai isn’t one to let her off that easily. He stops her mid-escape, teasing her about her lacklustre greeting and nudging her to say it with more confidence. It’s another small yet meaningful moment where Kai pushes her out of her comfort zone, showing how his influence is slowly but surely shaping her.

Ishi’s entire persona has long been defined by self-doubt, constantly apologizing as though her very existence is a burden. Years of bullying in middle school only deepened her insecurity, leaving her yearning just to blend in and act like any other teenager. When she shares this wish with Kai, however, he reacts unexpectedly, his irritation catching her off guard. Later, we learn the reason behind his frustration, which adds more depth to his seemingly contradictory nature.

Despite his occasional harshness, it’s undeniable that Kai is leading Ishi toward uncharted territory, encouraging her to grow, challenge herself, and explore emotions she’s never acknowledged before. For the first time, Ishi realizes she’s fallen for him. Yet, instead of rushing into a confession, she makes a quiet promise to herself, that is, to work on her confidence, to become someone she’s proud of, and to only confess when she feels ready, even if rejection is a possibility.

Honey Lemon Soda Episode 3 Review

Today, Uka is also struggling to keep her head held high amongst her classmates, but at least now she is trying. She gathers courage after talking with Kai and even manages to ask Endo to be friends with her. Endo, who already thought of them as friends, is taken aback, and here Uka establishes one of her very first friendships in this new school. Their interaction becomes more wholesome when Uka figures out about Endo’s crush on Seto.

Then comes the much-awaited chance to change seats, and one way or the other, Uka lands herself in between Tomoya and Kai. In this episode, one thing becomes clear: Kai’s support for Uka. He truly has taken it upon himself to help her gain confidence and be more open about her wishes. Uka also reciprocates this feeling and tries to chitchat with others in the class.

It seems that Kai is growing a soft spot for Uka, and it is evident. While he was trying to rest, he only allowed Uka to stay with him and observe him sleep. She stays behind and gazes upon him with adoration, which he missed to see. Kai even shows interest in her in front of others.

There was another part where we got to know about his past relationship and how he went to a great extent for her. This information obviously pains Uka a bit, but she moves on quickly.

Verdict

Today’s episode was again decent and not that eventful. Towards the end, we do see some trouble brewing for Uka, but I can already tell how things will go.

Other than that, the pace also feels pretty slow, as there is still time till any actual romantic development happens between Kai and Uka.

Must Read: Honey Lemon Soda Episode 2 Review: Nice, But Pretty Bland