The Stranger by the Shore

After coming out to his parents, aspiring novelist Shun Hashimoto has no one to turn to, until the day he meets high schooler Mio Chibana on the beach. The two instantly click—just before Mio has to leave for the mainland. Now three years later, Mio returns with a confession. But after all this time, will Shun feel the same?

If you like this, try

Doukyuusei -Classmates- 87%

1 eps · 2016

Two boys inching toward each other through quiet, unspoken gestures gives you that same tender, slow-burn ache.

given 84%

11 eps · 2019

A guarded boy slowly letting someone in mirrors the careful, patient way affection builds between your two leads.

Sasaki and Miyano 82%

12 eps · 2022

Its lighter, more comedic tone still centers on that same nervous, hopeful stretch between meeting someone and admitting you like them.

Yes, No, or Maybe? 81%

1 eps · 2020

Two adults navigating attraction while juggling careers echoes the grounded, grown-up romance you fell for.