the paws that keep us apart; the warmth that holds us.

Shungiku-sensei's storyline pattern for Egoist revolves around overcoming relationship issues that usually involve a third party individual as a "trigger" of sorts. These characters are not simply used to induce unnecessary drama to thwart the couple's relationship but rather serve as a signal of an arc/milestone in their lives, both individually and together as a pair.

Usami Akihiko First love never dies?

Miyagi Yoh Hiroki's "new" lover.

Tsumori In with the new, out with the old.

• If I imprint myself upon you so deeply, surely you will never leave me.
  . ♦ . Nowaki and Hiroki's relationship in a nut shell.
• First comes love. Then comes marriage. Then comes baby in the baby carriage!
  . ♦ . The current development for Egoist and its possible future. * spoilers for Egoist Act 17
• In the same "universe," is the second couple in Sekaiichi Hatsukoi truly similar with Egoist?
  . ♦ . Egoist and Erotica examined.
• Out of all the couples to choose from, Egoist stood out the most.
  . ♦ . Reason — why not the main couple?