Even though she is such a beautiful girl that all the boys in school admire her, her response is blunt no matter who talks to her. What would you do if such a girl showed a special expression only to you? “Shiotaiou no Sato-san ga Ore ni dake Amai,” introduced this time, is a bittersweet youthful romantic comedy based on a light novel by Kazami Sawatari. The heroine, Koharu Sato, is an undisputed beauty, yet she is known as “Salty Sato-san” due to her attitude that keeps others at a distance. However, she actually has a true face that no one knows about. The one who comes to know that secret is Souta Oshio, who attends the same school. The story, in which the distance between a girl thought to be an unapproachable flower on a high peak and a kind-hearted boy gradually narrows, is packed with charm that will make you smile without realizing it.

The catalyst that sets the story in motion was an incident that occurred at the cafe where Souta works. One day, witnessing Koharu being pestered by several male college students, Souta steps in to help her. Following this incident, the two, who had little contact until then, grow closer, and this is where it gets really interesting. Koharu, who usually seems cold to everyone, begins to show an unexpected side in front of Souta. In truth, for Souta, Koharu is his first love whom he had been holding feelings for since before. Just being able to converse alone with such an admired girl is a dreamlike time for him. However, Souta does not know yet. That Koharu, too, harbors romantic feelings for him. Precisely because only the readers know both of their feelings, even casual interactions take on a special meaning.

What is particularly impressive in this work is the gap between Koharu's exterior and interior. Even though she exudes an unapproachable atmosphere at school, in reality, she is an awkward and approachable girl who is bad at taking photos and makes a triumphant face over small things. Moreover, the soft smile she shows in fleeting moments accentuates the difference from her usual cool impression. Even though she is seen by those around her as a perfect beauty, in Souta's eyes, she is likely reflected as an emotional girl who is a bit clumsy. This kind of charm in a person that only you know is special, isn't it? He doesn't like her just because she is an admired figure; he even finds the awkwardness she doesn't show to others endearing. Such a perspective from Souta makes the character of Koharu all the more charming.

On the other hand, Souta is not just an ordinary kind boy either. He can treat anyone naturally and kindly, works at a cafe, and handles social media skillfully, making him quite a dependable person. However, seen from Koharu's perspective, he also seems to have a slightly mischievous side. At the playful smiles he shows from time to time, she cannot help but feel her heart race. This is the wonderful part of this work: Souta is not the only one who knows Koharu's unexpected sides. Koharu, too, properly notices Souta's charms that others do not catch. Even though they look at each other as special beings, they cannot convey the crucial romantic feelings. Such a relationship between the two creates a gentle, tantalizing frustration in the story.

Romance manga have various plot developments, but what I personally feel is a great appeal of this work is the premise that both of them harbor feelings for each other right from the start. From the reader's point of view, one might think that since they already like each other mutually, they should just confess their feelings quickly. However, for the individuals themselves, it is not such an easy matter. Having expectations from minor words of the other, searching for meaning in casual actions, and acting so as not to let their own feelings be known. The prudence characteristic of first love brings their distance closer, yet makes them halt just one step short. Even without big incidents occurring, just their eyes meeting makes the heart waver. Turning such small everyday events into romantic highlights is arguably the interesting appeal of this work.

While “Shiotaiou no Sato-san ga Ore ni dake Amai” allows you to enjoy the sweet developments one can imagine from the title, it is also a work where the pure innocence of falling in love can be delicately felt. Every time Koharu's awkward expressions of affection and Souta's kindness overlap, you cannot help but root for their relationship. Especially for those who love developments where a girl who usually seems cold opens her heart only to the person she likes, this will be an irresistible story. Wanting to feel fluttered by casual conversations and changes in facial expressions rather than thrilling romance. It is a piece perfectly suited for such a mood. Will the two be able to honestly convey the words “I like you” tucked deep within their chests? Please be sure to see the outcome of this sweet and tantalizing love for yourself!