Kamitani-kun who always looks calm, had shown a really hurt expression which I've never seen before. My family... may differ from Kamitani-kun's, but this kind of thing is definitely wrong!! For Kotaro and I, no matter how hard we try, we'll never be able to meet with our parents again. Why is that, even though they're so close to each other, he has such a cold face when he's talking to Kamitani-kun? He doesn't even visit Taka-kun. I don't get it.
—Kashima, about Hayato to Hebihara on his monologue - chapter 25.
Hayaryuu is the slash ship between Hayato Kamitani and Ryuuichi Kashima from the School Babysitters fandom.
When Kashima met Kamitani for the first time, he initially thought that he was "that type of person" because Hayato was being harsh with his little brother Taka by hitting him on the head when he threw a tantrum, but would later change his mind as Kamitani reminded Kashima that he had to look for his little brother, Kotaro, too, as he noticed that he was lonely "reading" a tale book. Right after Kamitani left, Kashima checks on Kotaro, only for him to fall ill due to stress from the new nursery environment and the lack of attention from his brother as he was still getting used to his new babysitting job.
Kamitani and Kashima rushing to the nearest hospital.
Kashima immediately runs right to Hayato, who was on his way outside the academy, and asked him if he could guide him to the nearest hospital, since his little brother had caught a fever. Kamitani didn't give it a second thought, and left his little brother in his mother's care to help Kashima, giving the right direction to the medical clinic. The next day, Kashima thanks Kamitani for helping him and then went to class. While he was introducing himself, he was nervous at that time, but after he noticed Kamitani amongst the students, he calmed down while smiling and made to finish his introduction without worrying, being this the start of their friendship.
Anime[]
Kashima asks Kamitani if there was something weird about him.
When Kashima was heading to his classroom, he felt uncomfortable of the people surrounding him and thought that they were giving him a "stare", thinking it was because of him that he was gaining many odd glares. When he goes to Kamitani, he asks him if he had anything on his face, but Kamitani questioned in response why was he tagging alongside the kids right behind him. This turns out to be an accident since the kids followed Ryuuichi around after the Daycara's door was left open. Kashima panicked and apologized to the rest of students and then asked Kamitani if he could help him taking the kids back to the Daycare center, which Kamitani accepts.
Kashima and Kamitani considering their options left with Inomata.
In the following episode, as Inomata slept with the other children, Kamitani asks Kashima what they were going to do with her, and although the latter assumes they should probably wake her up, he'd also like to let her sleep. Kamitani then points out that Kashima has another kid to look after. In the next segment, Ryuuichi notices Kotaro at his own shirt and asks him what was wrong, to which Kirin explains that he was sad because Taka had insulted his shirt earlier, although he'd later appear to defend himself that he didn't do anything wrong. Kamitani then hits him, causing him to cry, while Hayato persuades Taka to apologize, though Kashima reassures it was fine, asking Kotaro if he's not too mad, and he nods. Taka would then complain that Kamitani always did that, assuming that he hates him, which statement Kamitani doesn't affirm nor deny, leading to Taka to whimper even more.
Hayato explains Kashima that he was just being honest with Taka.
Kashima would then panic and shake Hayato while asking what was he thinking on, and although Kamitani states that he was just being honest to him, thus that brothers go beyond hate and love, Kashima is unsure whether Taka is capable of grasping that concept. Kamitani decides to take Taka with him for today as he was causing troubles, and expects to see Kashima tomorrow. The next day when the kids with Usaida and Kashima were going to an excursion, Kamitani passed right where they were and then he asked Kashima if he could leave his little brother in his care, which Ryuuichi accepts and then he asked Kamitani with a whisper if he apologized to his little brother already, since he had hit him before. Kamitani replies that he didn't really him; however, Taka overhears his response and cries while running to another place of the excursion with Kotaro. Before Kamitani left the place, he yells to his little brother not to cause problems to Kashima and everybody else, showing that Kamitani cares about Kashima's well-being first. During the walk on the zoo, Kashima, Taka and Kotaro stumble upon a falcon, and Taka explains Kotaro that the animal was him. Ryuuichi points a sign which reads that the bird had the same name as Kamitani (Hayato's name is written with the kanji for falcon).
Kashima asks Kamitani if he had worried about Taka.
After the excursion, both guys are shown walking together back to their places as both were carrying their brothers on their backs, while they were discussing about Kamitani's situation with his little brother. An asleep Taka mumbles that he loved Hayato, making his older brother blush in response while he says that he didn't really hate him either. Kashima giggles at his reaction, especially by the realization that they were brothers too, just like him and Kotaro. Kashima teasingly comments that he can also blush too, making Hayato refute back that Kotaro likes him too much.
Kashima and Kamitani holding Takuma and Kazuma
In their P.E class, Kashima asked Kamitani if he was cold, which Kamitani said in a sarcastic tone that he was really cold that he could die, while his face said another thing which Kashima grins nervously at. Later, when Takuma and Kazuma were calling for their father, it's seen Kashima and Kamitani holding them over their heads to get Kousuke's attention.
In the next episode, Ryuuichi is shown with an invitational poster in his hand for the Gakuen Club. When Usaida asked Ryuuichi and the kids if they wanted to check out the other clubs, they agreed and Taka says that they would see the baseball club (where Kamitani is in) too. As they finish checking out the other clubs, they went straight to the baseball club, in which Ryuuichi notices that Kamitani was there and then Taka tries to call his brother, and when Kamitani notices his shouting, he ignores Taka, prompting the boy to cry out loud.
Kashima apologizing to Kamitani for interrupting his baseball practice.
Kamitani punches his brother after directly going where Ryuuichi and everybody else were and Kashima apologized saying that it wasn't his intention for interrupting him while he was in his practice. Hayato reassures that it was okay, and that his club was weak anyway. After everybody left the baseball club, Kamitani tells to Taka not to disturb Kashima, and Taka refutes that he doesn't bother him. When Kashima is distracted by looking another club thinking that they were having fun, his little brother notices his big brother's mood, and when Kashima asks Kotaro if he wanted to go with him to stick the poster, Kotaro rejects the offer and Kashima is shocked about the outcome, because he certainly didn't expect it.
Kamitani lending his membership to Kashima
Kashima arrived to the place he was going to stick up the poster, and he then kneels down thinking that maybe his brother didn't want him around. As he was distracted with his negative thoughts, he suddenly gets hit on his head back to reality, noticing Kamitani with Kotaro on his arms while asking if he could join the club. Kashima was a little confused and thought that he was going to join a baseball club, which Kamitani corrects that if they were talking about that, he would accept it,
Kashima and Kamitani wearing matching aprons that Usaida made.
but they were talking about another club. Hayato gives Ryuuichi the membership to the Gakuen Club and then he adds that [Kotaro] invited him to the club. Once Kamitani hands Kotaro to Kashima, he explained that Kotaro was dragging him and then Usaida interpreted the situation. He also points that Kashima looked miserable and Kotaro thought that he had helped by dragging him to Kashima. After that, Usaida made matching aprons for both guys with their names printed on them.
Discussing about adultery.
During Inui's incident, Kashima asks Kamitani his opinion about adultery. Kamitani queries in response if that wasn't something for the people involved to decide. Kashima complains that they're talking about an affair about someone who has a child already, which Kamitani replies that it was their problem at the end of the day. Kashima remains silent after he said that to him, pondering about his past when a similar event happened in his childhood.
Kashima covering Kamitani's mouth.
In another episode, when Kirin and Taka were discussing about whether witches and heroes were real or not, Kamitani was about to say neither of them were real, but Kashima quickly notices it and shuts Kamitani by covering his mouth woth his hand to prevent him that from destroying the children's imagination. Later, Kamitani tells Kashima that he has to tell them already that both witches and heroes aren't real, but Kashima is reluctant to shatter their dreams. Also, he adds that Hayato might have believed in that kind of stuff when he was young, or maybe not.
Kashima assuming that Kamitani didn't have any belief when he was a kid.
Kamitani replies to Kashima by saying, "Oh yeah, I tried to practice a launch that disappears, but someday I will make it, so that's different", confirming Kashima's assumption on Kamitani once having a belief when he was a kid. However, when Kirin attempts to fly like a witch by dropping from a high place while riding a broom, Kashima manages to save her by cushioning her fall with his back, and after the girl begins crying, Kashima reconsiders that he should have told her that some things are impossible, as Kamitani had said.
Kamitani patting Kashima's shoulder.
When Ryuuichi notices he had forgotten his lunch, he immediately grows worried, and when Kamitani notices his reaction, he asks him what had happened, looking a little concerned. Ryuuichi explains that he forgot his lunch in the Daycare center, and told him not to speak while his mouth was full. While Ushimaru, another classmate, offered her food to him, Ryuuichi rejected it and then Usokawa and his other classmates gave him mountains of food as their "feelings" towards Kashima (likely out of jealousy that a girl had offered Ryuuichi her lunch). Kamitani pats Ryuuichi's shoulder while asking, "Aren't you lucky to have classmates like that?", which Ryuuichi replies to the "praise" with: "Kamitani...".
Kamitani opening his food after giving up his report.
After finishing his reports, Kashima feels like he has a heartburn due to the food he ate, and when he turns to Kamitani to ask if he has finished his part, he opens his food while stating that he gave up. Meanwhile, when Kotaro successfully arrives to his older brother's classroom to deliver Kashima his lost lunch, his classmates worried about Kashima's full belly, and when one of them was about to complain in out loud, Kamitani shuts him with a yakisoba bread he had with him, showing that Kamitani doesn't want anyone to hurt Kotaro's feelings.
Kashima complains about why didn't Kamitani remind him about his apron before.
In another episode, when Kashima and Kamitani arrive to their class, the latter asks Kashima why was he walking around with an apron, which Kashima notices and asks Kamitani why he didn't tell him if he noticed. Answering to his demand, Kamitani adds that Kashima's butt was full of stickers, as he said that he's surprised that he couldn't notice while the kids were adding stickers on that part. Kashima blushes in embarrassment and he complains that he could have told him about those things earlier. As Kirin arrives to Kashima's classroom in order to demonstrate Inomata that Kashima has a manly charm, she threats Kashima on becoming a bad child if he didn't hit her.
Kashima leaving Kirin on Kamitani's charge.
However, Kamitani does it instead, which obviously makes the girl cry, much to Kashima's horror, who claims that he isn't supposed to hit her even if she asked, but Hayato replies that he only hit because she said so. When Inomata tries to clear the misunderstanding, she flees when Kirin declares that she likes Ryuuichi and Inomata refutes this out of embarrassment, and Kashima goes after her while leaving the girl on Kamitani's care.
When Kazuma was absent from daycare due to a flu and had to stay home, Takuma somewhat subconsciously tried to replace his brother with others from daycare so he wouldn't feel lonely without Kazuma. Kamitani and Kashima spectate as Takuma and Taka "play" tug of war by pulling Kotaro by his hands so he could play with either of them, but Kamitani forcefully stops Taka by hitting him. However, when Taka hears the notice about Kazuma's flu, he decides to "share" Kotaro with Takuma while promising to defeat Kazuma's flu.
Kashima worries about Takuma.
The kids then assault Usaida, and when he asks for help, Kamitani hurries Kashima up for class, and Ryuuichi apologizes to Usaida, leaving the kids on his care. As they walk through the hallway, Ryuuichi wonders if Takuma will be alright, but Kamitani says that if it's just a day, he'd be alright; however, he considers that they should be more worried about the other brother, to which Kashima agrees since Kazuma must be crying all alone. His thoughts continue to linger throughout the class, and unconsciously expresses them verbally.
During Valentines' Day, Kashima is asked if he received any chocolates, but when he denies, he remembers that today was that day, and thinks that Kamitani would be the kind to probably receive a lot; however, Hayato is blunt to reject any chocolate he was offered by the girls, flabbergasting Ryuuichi especially when Kamitani is being attacked by his other male classmates, cursing popular guys like Kamitani.
Kashima assuring Kamitani he could check the love letter himself.
When Kashima receives a love letter, Kamitani checked out first to confirm whether the letter was just a prank, showing that Kamitani worries about Kashima feelings and that he would check out his actions that could hurt him or not, but Ryuuichi exclaims that he could read it himself, although he doesn't consider himself popular (much to Hayato's disbelief, since he thought otherwise). After the letter is read outloud, Kashima is practically burning due to its content, especially since it confirmed that it was indeed a love letter, and he begins to wobble away, and on his way Hayato warns him that he hadn't changed his shoes. He doesn't come to understand Ryuuichi's flustered reaction, after all, to him, it was just a girl liking him.
Kashima notices Kamitani.
Later, when Kashima thought that he had lost Kotaro, Kamitani appears with Kotaro on his side saying that he went into someone's yard for getting a lemon (as he thought that Kashima was sick when he noticed a lost gaze on his face), referencing the lemon medicine he had prepared alongside Morinomiya for Kashima's fever. After Kashima rejected the girl that sent him the love letter, Kamitani asks if he was sure, since he seemed excited about it, while Kashima says that he wanted to keep his brother as his priority, prompting Kamitani to label him as really weird.
Kashima explaining Kamitani why he was wearing a yukata.
In another episode, Kamitani is seen calling Ryuuichi to ask him if he is free for the day as they have plans to attend a summer festival with their brothers. Kashima agrees to the invitation, and both of them hand over their phones to their respective brothers so they can extend the invitation personally. Upon their arrival, Kamitani questions Kashima about why he and his brother are dressed in formal attire, specifically yukatas. Kashima explains that Saikawa and Obaa-san (Morinomiya) had arranged the traditional outfits for them, although feels embarrassed because Hayato was in casual wear and thinks that he maybe had gone overboard with his own outfit.The group spends a lot of time together at the festival, engaging in various activities, for example, buying cotton candy for their brothers.
Kashima and Kamitani moving away from the pulling game with their little brothers.
They would then stumble upon a secret string pull game, but inmediately grow alarmed by how suspicious it was, especially since some of the ropes weren't even connected, so before Taka could ask to play it, the two older brothers walk away hurriedly as Kamitani proposes somewhere else more substantial to eat, as Kashima agrees. They'd then arrive to a fishing stall which Usaida was attending at, and encourages them to give a try on fishing goldfish. However, Taka throws a tantrum because he wanted to go to the pull game, and after Kamitani threatens him to dump him with Usaida, he notices that Taka's sword was missing, much to the boy's surprise. Kashima then suggests finding it, despite initial hesitation from Hayato.
Kashima thinking that his friendship with Hayato was one-sided.
Kamitani advises Kashima to enjoy the festival and not to worry about Taka's trouble, but Kashima insists on helping, emphasizing their friendship. This unexpected declaration from Kashima leads to a moment of introspection as he wonders about Kamitani's feelings (thinking that he wouldn't feel the same way), to which Kamitani responds with a seemingly harsh comment about Taka.
❝
You're really incredible. If he wasn't my brother, I wouldn't even take care of such a troublesome brat.
—Hayato to Kashima, referring to Taka.
Kashima and Kamitani show their surprise at the lost sword toy being pulled out.
Kashima, surprised by the response, is moved to this comment, but also unhappy to see Taka cry and advises Hayato to stop making him cry again. The group embarks on a challenging search for Taka's lost sword, facing various difficulties along the way. When they are about to give up, Kamitani encourages Taka to relent, offering to bring him to the Rope Game in exchange. Ryuuichi is noticeably touched by Kamitani's words, and Hayato expresses gratitude towards Kashima for suggesting the search, acknowledging that he would have given up without the encouragement. By a stroke of luck, they find the sword in the Rope Game, where the attendant tries to explain himself and gifts them a Coin bank with a PS3 design as an apology gesture.
Hayato surprises Kashima while his head is covered with seaweed.
In the beach episode, Usaida asks Kashima about Kamitani's whereabouts, and he replies that he went swimming. Back at the beach, as the kids and Kashima were offered deinks, Hayato suddenly appears behind Ryuuichi with a seaweed on his head which covered his face, asking what they were drinking, scaring, freaking out Ryuuichi and making Kotaro accidentally drop his juice out of fear, getting a smack from his mother's part for trying to comfort the kid by giving him the seaweed.
Kashima and Kamitani on the water.
After the kids fall asleep, Kashima is allowed to go for a swim alongside Hayato, and leave the children under the mothers' care. Both are then shown afloat while chatting. Kashima tells him that it wasn't his first time going to the beach with his brother, as he narrated his experience with Kotaro at the place, and that he didn't trust him at all because in the past he used to not being afraid of swimming right before their parents' deaths.
Kashima is hit by Hayato.
Right after he said that, Kamitani hits Kashima's head hard enough to make Ryuuichi complain about it while assuming that he always hits Taka with the same force (which Kamitani rebuffs at), but Kamitani then reassures him by saying that Kotaro wasn't afraid that time since he was a "clueless baby who understood less than now". After the comment, Kashima felt relieved as he agrees with Kamitani. Hayato would be later impressed by Kashima's fast swimming when he hears Kotaro crying near them, while Ryuuichi apologizes to Hayato due to his hurry back to the beach. Kamitani monologues that it was Kashima loved by his brother a little too much, but turns out it's the other way around.
When Kashima notices Taka with a bloated face during a normal day, he quickly asked Shizuka (Kamitani's mother) in worry about his current state. She shows him a ball with a "poo-like" scribble in. He quickly assumed that maybe Kamitani had hit him even harder this time, but surprisingly, Shizuka mentioned that Kamitani ignored Taka after that.
Kamitani cheering up Kashima.
She also asked Kashima if he could check out Kamitani, which task Kashima accepts. After Kashima convinced Kamitani to talk with him, he wanted him to apologize Taka for what he did, even if he rejected at first, Kashima explained that he understood the feeling on not talking to his brother again. Kamitani seems somewhat interested on Kashima's story and he asks if something similar happened to him. Ryuuichi then explains everything that Kotaro did ever since he was a baby, and that once he threw his phone to the toilet which had his parents' messages before the tragedy and the he wouldn't get them again, Kamitani then pats Kashima's shoulder (while also feeling kind of bad) as he tells him to cheer up.
Kamitani and Kashima walking off together with their younger brothers.
Hayato said that in his case, it was the opposite, explaining that he really didn't care about the stuff but Taka's intentions, but in the end he had to deal with it. After school, both brothers reconcile, and then it's seen the brothers plus Kashima and his little brother too walking back to their places. They have a smile talk, as Hayato asks Kashima if he and Kotaro were going to be in the daycare tomorrow, and Ryuuichi complies, asking why. Hayato then states to play baseball together with the brats tomorrow, although Ryuuichi finds playing the sport impossible for them.
In the parents' meeting, the kids rolled Kashima while he was wearing a cob's outfit as he struggles to stand up, and Kamitani would soon appear right in the daycare door and wonders about the strange thing blocking the way.
Kashima, in the cob costume, asking Hayato to help him standing up.
Kashima replies that it was him and asked Kamitani if he could help him to get up. Yayoi would ask them a favor afterwards since it was something regarding her husband Satoru, who was on his way to the daycare. Later, as he arrives and takes photos of his daughter first, he's curious of the (female) caretakers, but when he shifts his gaze to the "cute highschool girls" (Kashima and Kamitani wearing wigs, while Usaida has his hair tied up), he immediately finds out that Usaida was a man, but doesn't notice that the other babysitters were actually on disguises, and is initially fooled. However, Kashima is right away exposed by accident as his wig is pulled away by Midori, whereas Kamitani is the last person to be uncovered, although he takes the wig off by himself after Satoru flirts with "her".
In another episode, Kashima cradles a crying (and hit) Taka on his arms while asking Kamitani why was his first reaction always violence, to which Kamitani deadpans that he hits people who don't do what he says, and wasn't going to treat Taka any differently just because he looks after him, worrying Ryuuichi. Luckily, Shizuka stops Hayato's threatening by slapping him with a book on his head to cut off his actions towards the kids. Shizuka apologizes to Kashima for the troubles that his boys were causing, but Kashima reassures that Kamitani was a big help coming here, making the woman compliment him since he was kind unlike her sons. She would then remember the reason she was at the daycare, so she asks the kids if they wanted to see chick eggs hatching, which everyone agreed with glee while Hayato apologizes to Kashima that his mother got them excited; however, Kashima turns to Kamitani with shining eyes.
Kashima explains Kamitani about his delight at the thought of having chicks following him.
Kashima got nervously altered by his own reaction explaining that he wanted little chickens to follow him around in a line while Kamitani replies that the already had the kids for doing that so. However, when the whole daycare complained about there not being chicks (they were still resting inside eggs), they begin to protest against the "lie" against Kashima, but Kamitani intervenes by showing his fist while telling them to shut up and listen. Kashima is once again worried about this, despite Hayato clears that he didn't hit them this time.
Kashima and Kamitani bringing Usaida to the daycare.
After Usaida falls ill, he entrusts the children to Saikawa's care when he is unable to work. Upon receiving a worrying call from Saikawa regarding Midori, the call disconnected, leaving Usaida concerned about the situation. Despite his illness, Usaida decides to walk to the daycare, fearing the worst. During his walk, Usaida is coincidentally encountered by Kashima and Kamitani, who assist him by supporting him with their arms. Thankfully, the incident turns out to be a minor issue with Midori's diapers, and Saikawa effectively handles the situation, relieving Usaida's worries. Overwhelmed by the relief, Usaida almost faints while being carried by the boys. Kashima would later be surprised when Midori could word Usaida's name, but to Hayato it was her usual babbling.
Kashima noticing Kamitani's bite mark on his face.
After Usokawa invited his friends and also Kashima and Kamitani to the cinema, Kashima arrives a bit later than the rest, followed by Kamitani. Kashima notices a bite mark on Kamitani's cheek, and worriedly asks about it, to which Hayato explains that his brother insisted on going to the cinema with him and he then bite him when Kamitani didn't let him to, so he hit Taka and left instead.
Kamitani and Kashima sitting together.
Kamitani also asked if Kotaro didn't cry, which Kashima denies saying that he was quiet when he left the residence, and since he was the one worrying, he left so late. Kamitani concludes that Kashima has a brother complex he couldn't understand. During the movie, both are shown sitting together; however, they're the only ones that remain nonchalant despite being an horror genre, with Kamitani being notably unfazed whereas Ryuuichi is distracted with his worried thoughts about Kotaro.
In Christmas Day, as Kamitani was about to tell Taka that Santa wasn't real, Kashima covers Kamitani's mouth with his hand for the second time while whispering that if he said that, he would shatter Taka's dreams, although Kamitani questions how would he, as Taka was with him and Shizuka during the gift shopping.
Kashima explaining what Kamitani did for him on Christmas day.
Later, Kamitani went to the chairwoman's office (in the manga it's revealed that Hebihara had actually guided him there), excusing Kashima by saying that he was going to skip class for the day, to ask Obaa-san if she could buy a new phone for Kashima, which task the lady complies and by the end of the episode, it's revealed that the chairwoman had actually gift Ryuuichi the phone that Kamitani had requested for Kashima. This is linked to episodes ago, when Kashima narrates Kamitani about his phone not working too well after being thrown by Kotaro inside the toilet.
Kashima encouraging the two to work hard.
In the special episode, during the academy's second semester midterms, Ryuuichi is prevented from assisting to the nursery as all of the clubs' activities were going to stop due to the exams, so he'd spend less time with Kotaro and the rest. However, he's also worried on his grades, wondering how much should he have so he wouldn't think on quitting half way. Kamitani makes his appearance to ask if he was not feeling well, and Ryuuichi denies, but informs him that Saikawa was going to help out the daycare centre during their exams, so they'll be able to stop their activities there for the time being. Kashima joyfully offers Kamitani to study together at the library, as Hayato was good on sciences and could tutor him, but the taller guy harshly replies why would he need to review for the exams, and Ryuuichi worriedly asks if wasn't it normal to study for the exams.
Kamitani tutoring Kashima in the manga.
However, Shizuka sends Hayato a message threatening to trash his treasured DVD if he fails any subject, making Kamitani frustrated while feeling as if they were being tested on, to which Kashima nervously wishes the best for both of them. The two spend time at the library and share a study session with Inomata and Ushimaru. There's also a brief panel depicting Hayato tutoring a confused Ryuuichi. The double study session and tutoring from Hayato moments only happen on the manga, though (chapter 49). After the midterm exams, Kamitani and Kashima are shown to have passed the exams with pretty good results: Kashima scoring top marks, whereas Kamitani has improved on subjects he wasn't good at. During the Snow White segment, Kamitani would be messaged by Ryuuichi to check on Inomata as she had stormed off while crying out of frustration after not considering herself fit for a kind princess towards the children. Hayato mentions that the children were crying after she left, according to Kashima, so she had to return to hold accountable of her behavior and actions.
Manga[]
Note:the information below is filled based on chapter 24 and 25's events (during the anime's continuity); however, it must be cleared that Hebihara's arc wasn't included in the anime. Certain chapters that are already adapted in the anime and are shown above will be skipped too between earlier volumes. Thus, volumes 1-4 aren't included here, since it covers most of the anime's adaptation, yet some Hayaryuu moments are still missing, which is why they were moved to the Moments section, specifically, in "Removed crumbs from anime".
Volume 5 (Chapters 22 — 27)[]
Usaida explaining that kids he wouldn't go after Kashima and Kamitani, jokingly noting that they're all "lovey-dovey".
Prior to the photograph for the parents' meeting, in chapters 24-25, Kashima asks Kamitani where his father was, Kamitani and replies that he is divorced and hints that it's a person Kashima already knows of, which made Kashima wonder about that person's identity, even the day after, who was already intrigued, and even begins to make his guess on Usaida and Saikawa, although he turns down the idea after getting a denial. The next day, during class, Kamitani and Kashima are assigned reflections by Hebihara, and Kamitani once again explains Kashima that their Chemistry teacher, Hebihara Taizo, was his birth father, asking him to not reveal this to Taka, as it was better for him to remain ignorant about it.
Kamitani asks Kashima to not reveal Taka about Hebihara being their father.
As Kamitani and Kashima were heading to their classroom to hand their reflections, Kashima thinks that he's forcing a secret out of Kamitani, and he didn't plan to keep it from him. When Kamitani leaves the teacher's lounge (where his father was), Kashima notices that he had a "really hurt expression" he never saw before after Hebihara dismisses the "dad" term from Hayato, and when he made his way in the classroom, he gives Hebihara a summary about the stories of Kamitani and his brother in the Daycare center instead of a reflection, showing how much Kashima cares about Kamitani's feelings and also his family. The following day, after Hebihara gave both guys back their report cards, Kashima noticed that in his' the letter and the photo were gone. Kamitani then asks Kashima with an angry tone about the photo and the letter that Hebihara left on his report, which makes Kashima go in a brief panic, but that in the deepest of his heart, he knew that Kamitani was thankful about that, even if he didn't show it physically in that moment (despite a classmate points out that Kamitani's face was red).
Kashima notices Hebihara turning down Hayato's addressing to him as "dad", and spectates as Kamitani leaves the classroom...
...and as Hebihara asks Kashima for his reflection, he notices Kashima's unhappy expression at him...
...who had just seen Kamitani's hurt expression as he left the lounge, and pushes his "reflection" papers to Hebihara.
Then, as Kashima wipes his tears, Hebihara reads the documents that Kashima handed to him, which were actually stories of Kamitani and Taka inside the daycare center.
Later, Kashima is returned his letter...
...but notices that the photo he had attached was gone, to which Kamitani, as he checks his own paper, already suspects in anger that Kashima had told Hebihara something, because he received a message from his father about Taka.
Volume 6 (Chapters 28 — 32.2)[]
Hayato advises Kashima to not worry about the chairwoman, as the more he was in that state, the more tired he'd get.
In chapter 30, Ryuuichi seeks advice from Usaida about treating a sprained waist, to which the older man assumes he had hurt himself, but Kashima corrects that it was Obaa-san, and he's worried because despite she insisted that she was fine, she hasn't recovered in 3 days, and Kamitani intervenes by saying that he should just do what she says and not care about it, since the more he worried the more tired he'd get, briefly narrating a similar experience in which his stubbornness shows off.
In chapter 31, the story starts off a particular day during spring break in which Kamitani brings a new friend to the daycare centre. The crying child that Kamitani was carrying turns out to be his cousin, as Shizuka had tasked her elder son to take care of him due to his parents falling sick with a cold. Shizuka informed Ryuuichi about the situation via phone, also leaving her niece in the care of Kashima and Usaida. Kamitani gestured for Ryuuichi to hand him the phone and continued the call by asking his mother why she didn't bring him along to the hospital instead. Shizuka explained that bringing Tsugumi to the hospital would risk his cousin catching his parents' flu, and asked if Tsugumi had stopped crying.
Tsugumi crying again when being handed over to Hayato, much to his irritation, making Kashima believe that Kamitani would hit the baby.
While Kamitani briefly looked away, he noticed that his cousin had indeed stopped crying as he was being comforted in Ryuuichi's arms. Shizuka later hung up the call, relieved that Tsugumi was in good hands. Ryuuichi encouraged Taka to play with his cousin, remarking that it'd be as if Kamitani had turned into a baby (which comment offends Kamitani). He also invited the other children over, but they were hesitant due to being uncomfortable with strangers. However, Ryuuichi reassured them that it was fine. Hayato thanked Kashima for his help and asked him to hand Tsugumi over, but when Ryuuichi entrusted the child to him, Tsugumi began crying again, surprising both of them. This upset Hayato, causing him to act aggressively towards the baby, prompting Ryuuichi to quickly intervene and plead Hayato not to use violence on Tsugumi. Kamitani was offended by Kashima's assumption that he would hit babies, and Ryuuichi apologized for the misunderstanding. When Taka gains courage and follow Kamitani's advice on acting properly as a big brother for Tsumugi, he offers his precious sword to his cousin; however, he doesn't accept it and slaps it away, and when it falls it breaks, shocking everyone except Kamitani. When he's about to cry over his toy, Kamitani tells him to bear with it, and approaches his little brother while handling Midori to Kashima. Nonetheless, Taka slaps Tsumugi's forehead (much to Kamitani's anger) and runs away while saying that he didn't do anything wrong. Hayato tells Kashima to not worry about him, despite his hesitation. Usaida acknowledges to Kamitani that being a "brother" is tough.
Kashima about to suggest Kamitani to play along with Taka, but he refuses.
In chapter 32, the children learn about and begin to accept the act of kissing the ones they love, which was initially influenced by Takuma and Kazuma imitating their father Kousuke after watching his commercials. As every child in the daycare wanted to kiss Ryuuichi, he turns to Kamitani for help multiple times, but Kamitani is uninterested in the topic and advises Ryuuichi to handle it himself. Ryuuichi eventually explains to the twins that randomly kissing people, especially girls, is not good, but Kamitani finds the counseling too weird because he believes they still shouldn't even if the other is a guy. Although Kamitani initially reacts harshly, threatening the kids to stop, Ryuuichi intervenes, reminding him that violence is not the solution.
Kamitani expressing concern towards Kashima's red face.
Fortunately, Umi arrives at the daycare to provide a proper explanation about kissing to the children, including a demonstration of a kiss attempt towards Ryuuichi, which is interrupted by the Mamizuka twins as they make a promise to not kiss strangers. After the incident, Ryuuichi is left feeling flustered by the unexpected advance from Umi, who apologizes for the attempted "sexual assault", while Kamitani notices Ryuuichi's red face and expresses concern, to which Kashima reassures, "D-Don't mind me."
Volume 7 (Chapters 33 — 38)[]
Kashima and Kamitani acting as a "couple" in chapter 35.
In chapter 35, following Inui's second incident, when he falls in love with "Inomata" (Ryuuichi disguised as a girl), Ryuuichi is on the need to clear the misunderstanding by telling him the truth being dressed as "Inomata". Prior to this, Kamitani says that if he were Inui, he'd be embarrassed to death due to this mistake. Yayoi also asked Kamitani if he could help Kashima by acting as "her" boyfriend. When Inui arrives to the scene, Kamitani starts introducing himself as "Inomata's" boyfriend, while Ryuuichi was internally panicking that Kamitani was being too stiff with the lines. He decides to solve the matter by himself, so after pushing Kamitani off for a moment, he's about to reveal the truth to Inui. However in the end, Ryuuichi fails to clear up the misunderstanding because he tripped and fell on Inui's arms, which worsened the situation. Kaminati mentions that it's just the same result as not telling Inui the truth, and Ryuuichi feels helpless because he couldn't bring himself to say it.
Kamitani explaining Kashima why'd he refuse to buy sprouts with him.
In chapter 36, when Kashima and Kotaro agree to grow strawberries after getting Morinomiya's permission, Taka intervenes while eating strawberries as he wanted to join along, but is hit by Kamitani as he told him not to talk with his mouth full. Ryuuichi only noticed Hayato by this, and wishes him good morning while still concerned on Taka. The latter insists his brother into growing strawberries, and Kashima even offers Kamitani to buy sprouts together at the market, but Kamitani declines because it was too much trouble. Taka throws a tantrum upon the denial, and Kashima glares at Kamitani in worry, but the baseball player explains that even if they bought one, they'd just neglect it.
In chapter 38, while Kamitani is on a call with Kashima, he leaves to his balcony to get a better reception, but he's locked outside as part of Taka's revenge for not letting him talk on the phone (going against him).
Kashima saves Hayato from freezing to death, and is startled by his menacing expression.
After Kamitani glares at his brother, the younger boy flees from the scene while claiming that it's not his fault. Kashima grows concerned when Kamitani doesn't respond when Taka wanted to talk, but Kamitani dismisses it, causing further worry for Ryuuichi. As snow starts falling, Kashima attempts to call Kamitani again but receives no response, leaving him to wonder what was Kamitani doing. Upon seeing Kousuke accidentally locked outside on his balcony, Kashima recalls hearing Taka's voice in the background telling Kamitani to not put a step ahead to the house, leading Kashima to conclude that Kamitani is stuck outside in the freezing cold. This realization prompts Kashima to rush to Kamitani's house to check on him. Upon arrival, Kashima rescues Hayato by opening the balcony window, fearing for his well-being in the cold. When Kamitani grabs Taka, Kashima initially thinks he was resorting to violence, but he soon realizes that Hayato is only seeking warmth by hugging Taka. Kashima then offers a towel to Hayato, reflecting on the unexpected doting side of Kamitani towards Taka. Shizuka instructs her sons to dry off, take a bath, and avoid catching a cold, emphasizing the need to not worry Ryuuichi.
Volume 8 (Chapters 39 — 45)[]
Kamitani explains that he's puzzled by the fact Kotaro is giving things to everyone and telling them not to go as he's normally sincere in saying goodbyes.
In chapter 39, during break, Kamitani asks about all of the sighs Kashima has been doing, Ryuuichi narrates about feeling guilty after accidentally turning Kotaro into a giving maniac, and Kamitani finds Kashima's way of thinking the same as a father's, but he also found puzzling why was Kotaro giving people things and asking them not to go, despite being sincere in saying goodbyes, to which Kashima suddenly comes to a realization.
Kashima and Kamitani arrive together at the daycare.
In chapter 40, Ryuuichi and Kamitani arrive late together to the daycare centre, and Usaida calls them as he crawls and grabs Ryuuichi's leg, scaring him out.
Hayato and Ryuuichi trying to picture Saikawa's residence.
Usaida explains he was searching for something and ended at the bottom of the drawers, but still because of the scare Kashima blames Usaida that the kids were going to start imitating him. The older caretaker explains that his lost his keys after his bag ended up on Midori's hands, thus that his land lady was on a trip so he couldn't help him into opening his apartment's door. Saikawa arrives and, upon noticing that Usaida was troubled, he offers him to stay over his place, and Kamitani asks if Saikawa was friends with the "weirdo" (Usaida), but Kashima advises that it's not right to call others like that, but both are left in wonder about how did Saikawa's residence look like.
Kashima and Kamitani together at the shopping mall with their brothers, as Kamitani refuses to buy Taka some bullet trains.
In chapter 41, the Kamitani and Kashima brothers are shown at a shopping centre, starting off with Taka wanting Hayato to buy an item, but Kamitani reminds him that he only brought him here in exchange he wouldn't get anything.
Kashima whispers to Kamitani about having seen Inomata in the mall.
This causes Taka to become upset and throw a tantrum, leading Hayato to issue a warning. Kashima intervenes, calming Kamitani down and promising to take them to play on the rooftop instead. He also advises the kids on what to do if they ever get lost. When Kashima lifts his head, he notices a familiar dark-haired girl passing by, catching Kamitani's attention. Ryuuichi approaches Hayato and whispers something about seeing Inomata, piquing Hayato's curiosity on why Ryuuichi was whispering in first place. Kashima expresses concern about Taka and Kotaro overhearing the conversation, with Kamitani questioning why it would be troublesome. Ryuuichi explains that it would be bad if they disturbed Inomata, as she seemed to be waiting for someone. Later, Kashima and Kamitani find Taka and Kotaro with Inomata after they get lost. Ryuuichi recalls that she appeared to be waiting for someone, but she takes her leave once she finds Ushimaru. As the girls reunite and share tearful apologies, Kamitani urges Kashima to leave, stating that they can't do anything if the girls are crying that badly. Despite Kashima's attempt to wait, Kamitani admits that he can't stand the sight of girls crying, leaving Ryuuichi astonished.
Kamitani wondering if Kashima was joining them in the onsen.
In chapter 42, everyone, including the children's parents alongside the Morinomiya residence, is invited to the hot springs by Youko Morinomiya's former classmate, Kon. During their time at the hot springs, the guys enjoy dipping in the spring, and Kashima allows the boys to wash his back.
Kamitani looking for his clothes in his basket as he discourages Taka from finding his former underpants, worrying Kashima.
When it's Kotaro's turn, Ryuuichi realizes that he is far more ticklish than the others and ends up catching a cold. Kamitani and Usaida notice this, and as the latter calls Kashima to hurry him up, Hayato points out that he's always like that. However, when he's about to join the guys, Umi calls Ryuuichi from a gap on the bamboo wall to tell him that Kirin wanted to wash his back too, a request he couldn't once again reject. Kamitani wonders if Kashima will ever come in, to which Usaida agrees while also noticing that Saikawa hasn't gone in either. As the bath comes to an end, the guys proceed to change clothes, but Taka notices that his Rangers undies are missing. Initially, Hayato blames Taka for not putting them in the basket, but Ryuuichi confirms that the underpants were indeed there at first.
Kashima attempts to appease Hayato from hurting the monkey.
Kamitani questions why the underpants disappeared, and although Saikawa suggests a possible suspect, Kamitani remains unbothered as he offers the easier alternative of changing to spare underpants, telling Taka to forget about the old ones. The answer is insufficient for both Taka and Ryuuichi, who nudges him into changing his mind, but notices that Kamitani was pissed off and threatens to kill the culprit when it's revealed that his underwear was gone too. As more clothing disappears, Kashima advises everyone to check their stuff, and it is discovered that a monkey has all the missing clothes. Kamitani prepares to confront the monkey by aiming it his wooden sandal, but Ryuuichi intervenes, expressing concern for the monkey and the potential trouble they could cause to the inn if they hurt it. Hayato exclaims Kashima to shut up, since he wasn't aiming directly at the monkey and breaks the branch the monkey is on, causing the animal to drop and roll in front of Youko, who recovers the missing items from the monkey.
Kamitani calls Kashima an idiot for returning to his plan to dress as "Inomata" again, but Kashima is determined to tell Inui the truth even if he was hit in the process, although meaning to be dressed as a female.
In chapter 43, Inui is depicted as still being infatuated with 'Inomata' and becomes determined to speak with her again. He approaches Ryuuichi to ask for permission to talk to 'her', under the mistaken belief that 'Inomata' is Ryuuichi's relative. Despite Kashima's refusal due to 'her' relationship with Kamitani, Inui remains resolute in his goal, convinced that he still has a chance. He blames Hayato for interfering with his previous attempt to talk to 'Inomata' and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to do so this time. Yayoi intervenes, reminding Kashima about 'Inomata' and Kamitani's upcoming date, further fueling Inui's excitement. Usaida tries to dissuade Inui by mentioning 'Inomata' and Hayato's relationship, but Inui is undeterred. Yayoi then informs Inui that 'Inomata' will be accompanied by her 'sister' on the date and asks if he's okay with it, to which he agrees as long as he can talk to 'Inomata'. During a break, Kamitani mentions Kashima accepting a task and refers to him as an idiot. Kashima realizes Inui's mistaken perception and decides to confront him truthfully, even if it means facing consequences and being hit. He also apologizes Kamitani for all the troubles he had caused to him. Kamitani asks if wasn't Kashima going to dress like a girl again, prompting Ryuuichi to realize what he said and acknowledges that he had to talk with Inui as a female.
Kamitani threatens Inui to punch him if he dared to hit [Kashima] when talking to [him].
When Inui finds Hayato, he confronts him about the identity of 'Inomata', as she didn't seem to belong to the academy. Kamitani asks in response if shouldn't he ask her that in person. Inui questions the relationship between 'Inomata' and Kamitani, but Kamitani denies that they were dating, surprising Inui. Before Inui could continue speaking, Kamitani warns him that if he dares to hit that person when talking to them, he'd send him flying to the sky. Inui is left perplexed as he monologues about his principle of not hitting girls. At this point, Inui recollects everything he has learned——the girl not being Inomata, her not dating Kamitani, and the possibility that she might have a secret that could provoke Inui to hit her.
Kashima explaining Kamitani that Kotaro didn't want his umbrella to get wet, much to his consternation.
In chapter 44, as the rainy season began, Usaida leaves Kamitani and Kashima in charge of the daycare children's walk as he takes care of Midori. This decision angers Kamitani because he had specifically task them such responsibility on a rainy day, but the children are still excited for the walk.
Kashima and Kamitani arriving soaked to the daycare as they carry their brothers.
Once outside, the kids proudly display their respective umbrellas, and Ryuuichi attempts to encourage Koutarou to use his as well. Kotaro, however, backs away to protect his panda umbrella from getting wet, worrying that it might catch a 'cold'. Kamitani assumes that Koutarou is unable to open his umbrella and does it for him, but to his surprise, Kotaro becomes upset, which is rare for him. Kashima clarifies that Kotaro is sad because his umbrella got wet, and Kamitani finds this odd as he believes that the umbrella's primary function is to shield them from the rain. Upon returning to the daycare center, Usaida welcomes them back but notices that both Kashima and Kamitani are soaking wet while carrying the kids. This worries Usaida, who questions if they had that kind of time, and Ryuuichi awkwardly requests towels and cloths.
Kashima noticing that Kamitani was in the header of the local news' notice.
In chapter 45, as the children were writing their wishes for the Tanabata tree, Kashima asks Kamitani to write a wish as well. Hayato declined the invitation, expressing his disbelief in the idea that the tree could grant wishes. However, he later changed his mind and wrote his wish on a piece of paper, expressing his desire to enter Koshien, and placed it on the Tanabata tree.
Kashima to see Hayato as this latter assures that their baseball team is very weak.
The wish seemed to come true when the next day, Usokawa showed Kashima a newspaper article reporting that the school's baseball club had defeated the opposite team that won at Koshien stadium the previous year. The article featured a picture of Kamitani as the header, which surprised Kashima, who had not considered their team to be that strong, given Kamitani's claims about their team's weakness. Hayato reaffirms his words but mentioned that it had happened out of luck, as the opposite team's stronger players food was poisoned. Upon hearing this, Usaida speculated that the Tanabata tree's 'blessing' might have played a role in the victory. The children, excited by the apparent fulfillment of Hayato's wish, were offered the opportunity by Usaida to support Kamitani during the upcoming competition, to which they agreed. However, when Kashima conveyed Kamitani's message of 'Don't ever come,' concerns arose about the potential challenges of managing a large group of children, with the possibility of someone getting lost. Upon visiting the baseball club, they found it crowded with girls admiring the training camp, making it impossible for them to watch Hayato in action. Additionally, they noted that the team was putting in a lot of effort, making it uncertain if Taka would be able to meet Hayato at home.
Kashima noticing that Hayato was early inside the daycare, clutching onto his wish in the Tanabata tree.
Nevertheless, Taka managed to navigate through the crowd of girls to watch the camp, but Kashima promptly picked him up and apologized to the women before leaving. During the afternoon, Kashima discovered the center open and assumed that Usaida had stayed late, only to find Kamitani squatting at the Tanabata tree. Kamitani shared his reluctance to believe that his team's success was solely due to a wish, lucky homerun, or the opposing team's poisoning, expressing his determination to earn victory through the team's hard work. Kashima, seemingly unable to grasp Kamitani's perspective, encouraged him to win the match, but Kamitani, grabbing his wrist, emphasized his commitment to achieving success with the team rather than relying on the Tanabata's blessing.
Kashima cheering up Kamitani.
Feeling frustrated, as Kamitani leaves the daycare center, Kashima claims that he was going to leave it as it is, reassuring that everyone believed that his luck was also part of Kamitani's skills and he wanted him to do his best. Despite this, Kamitani dismissed Kashima's words and stormed off. Subsequently, the school's baseball team ended up losing a closely fought match. It later became apparent to everyone that the outcome may have been influenced by Taka accidentally tearing Hayato's wish from the Tanzaku. Originally, Taka intended to place Hayato's wish at the top of the tree for the Tanabata god to see. In a touching moment, Kamitani appeared behind Kashima to express that he didn't care about the outcome and patted Taka's head.
Volume 9 (Chapters 46 — 50)[]
Kamitani tells Kashima they must win the next round of the relay race.
Prior to the last round of the rally race.
In chapter 47, during Morinomiya High School's sports festival, as Ryuuichi's injuries are being treated by Inomata after falling multiple times in the three-legged race, Inomata assumes that Ryuuichi isn't focused on winning, but Kashima disagrees, monologuing his determination to win for Kotaro. As Kashima is about to explain his motivation, Kamitani interrupts, emphasizing that they must win the next round due to the club rallying, where Kashima was running last. Ryuuichi is uncertain about their team's chances, especially with the track and soccer teams also participating. Kamitani questions Ryuuichi's pessimism, encouraging him to give it a try before judging the outcome. During the race, Kamitani takes the lead and successfully passes the baton to Kashima, who sprints towards the finish line. Although their team doesn't emerge victorious in the Sports Festival, Kashima finds solace in not letting Kotaro down. The chapter concludes with Kashima and Kamitani walking together, carrying their younger brothers, as they both resolve to strive for victory in the following year.
Volume 10 (Chapters 51 — 56.5)[]
Kashima explaining Hayato about Taka's fear at going to the bathroom, associated with the Hanako-san tale they've been told.
In chapter 51, Kyoko shares a popular horror story about Hanako-san, which causes the children to become very afraid of using the bathrooms. The Mamizuka twins are the first to overcome their fear with each other's support, but Taka remains scared, adamant about not showing his fear when he needs to use the bathroom. Kamitani notices Taka's behavior and encourages him to hurry up, surprising Kashima who inquires about Kamitani's presence in the daycare. Kamitani explains that they had to customize the field so the club couldn't use it. As Kashima noticed Taka's worried expression, he decides to make him company to the bathroom, despite Hayato telling him to not so he wouldn't spoil the boy. Ryuuichi explains to Kamitani that they had just heard the story about Hanako-san and the bathrooms, but Kamitani finds it foolish that Taka is afraid of an elementary school rumor.
Kashima and Kamitani during cleaning time.
Taka gains some confidence to go to the bathroom and takes Kotaro with him, much to Hayato's annoyance, and Kashima believes Kotaro may also be scared to go alone. However, after a small incident in which Taka encounters a cat in the bathroom, he's unable to go to the toilet by himself, and is seen depending on his family to go there. During cleaning time, Kamitani wonders as to what was so scary about going to the bathroom, and Kashima concurs, although he mentions that Kotaro was the total opposite of Taka, as Kotaro would go to the bathroom to find Hanako-san and be disappointed when he didn't, and even Kamitani is flabbergasted because he believes that Kotaro might find her one day.
Kashima assuming something happened between Hayato and Taka as they were on positive terms now, but Kamitani feigns ignorance.
As more classmates begin to join the conversation sharing similar stories, Hebihara interrupts the conversation and disperses the group. The teacher mentions that Hayato used to a scaredy-cat too, leaving as Hayato tries to argue back. Kashima asks about Hayato's past scaredy behavior, but Kamitani dismissively responds with "Dunno". The next day, Taka declares that he will go to the bathroom by himself, and Kashima notices that he didn't offer to help this time, prompting questions about something having happened between Taka and Hayato, to which Kamitani feigns ignorance.
Kashima and Kamitani eating sakura cake together.
In chapter 52, during spring time, Kashima and the rest are invited to a Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) by the daycare's mothers. However, this event was postponed as most of them fell sick due to a cold, including Shizuka, who also stayed at home with her sons. Throughout Ryuuichi's journey outside the strong windy day he spent alongside Kotaro, he gathered some sakura flowers and to deliver them on each of the parents' houses as a gift (including Usaida's), and the last house he goes to is Kamitani's residence, where he'd spend the day in to invite Hayato and his family for some sakura cake. However, because he was exposed to the cold day too, the Kashima brothers fall sick on the promised day for hanami that had been postponed multiple times, but Ryuuichi receives a text message reassuring him that they'd postpone it this time as well in order to wait for he and Kotaro to recover.
Kashima explaining Kamitani about Kichi's situation.
In chapter 54, the Kichi twins have a heated argument about a one-sided love-related issue. Kichi is portrayed as feeling jealous toward his brother Suekichi because Suekichi is more popular and has attracted the attention of Kurumi, a girl Kichi loves and hopes to marry in the future.
Kashima suggesting Hayato not to force Kichi to practice baseball.
Feeling frustrated, Kichi turns to Ryuuichi for understanding, even though he acknowledges that Ryuuichi may not be as cool as his older brother Chuukichi. Kashima admits that he may not be on the same level as Nezu or Kamitani, but he can empathize with Kichi's feelings. During a discussion between Taka and Kichi about who has the most handsome brother, Kamitani interrupts the argument and inquires about the situation. After Kashima explains the situation, Kamitani angrily concludes that the issue stems from a girl, prompting Kichi to express his feelings of being overshadowed by his twin brother in many ways. Kamitani advises Kichi to practice until he becomes better than Suekichi, but Ryuuichi suggests that Kichi shouldn't be forced into it, especially because they practice different sports (soccer for the twins and baseball for Kamitani).
Kashima reflexing that if Hayato and he were twins, Kashima would have probably been depressed due to Kamitani being good at sports while he's not.
Kamitani then recruits a student from the soccer team to teach Kichi the basics of passing, but Kichi becomes discouraged when he struggles with it, leading to Kamitani's frustration. Kamitani emphasizes the importance of perseverance and points out Kotaro as an example, despite Ryuuichi internally noting that Kotaro hasn't shown improvement. After Hayato provides a visual demonstration and encourages Kichi to try again, Ryuuichi reflects on how he would feel if he and Kamitani were twins, acknowledging that he might feel depressed by the fact Hayato is good in sports, while Kashima was not. Following the reconciliation of the twins, Kashima and Kamitani wait for them as agreed, only to find that the twins are still arguing about Kurumi. Kamitani threatens to take the ball away if they do not start practicing, and Ryuuichi is also pulled away by the twins as they resolve to beat Hayato.
In chapter 56, after Usaida and Ryuuichi take the kids outside to an inflatable pool so they could be fresh from the hot summer weather, Kamitani suddenly appears for a moment, surprising Ryuuichi who thinks that he's running with the baseball club. However, Kamitani grabs Takuma and Taka away to submerge his head on the water, worrying Kashima, as the baseball player stays on the same position for a few moments, until he lifts his body again and apologizes for the intrusion, only to continue his run alongside the baseball team members. By the end of the chapter, after the pool is restores following a minor accident, an exhausted Kamitani visits the group again, much to Kashima's awkwardness.
Kamitani apologizing to Kashima and the rest for intruding in the pool.
Volume 11 (Chapters 57 — 62.5)[]
Kashima noticing that Kamitani was at the market for grocery shopping too, and upon realizing he had some food on his basket, he assumes he could cook, but Hayato denies this.
As Kashima, his little brother, and Saikawa head off to buy groceries at the shop in chapter 58, they encounter Kamitani, who was there too with his brother, after a slight collision between Kotaro and Taka. Kashima asks Kamitani if he's there to buy groceries as well, and Kamitani confirms, explaining that his mother won't be home tonight. Upon seeing Kamitani's groceries, Kashima assumes he knows how to cook, but Kamitani denies this.
Kamitani describing Kashima's room as "unsettling".
Saikawa then invites the Kamitani brothers to Morinomiya's residence for a gourmet-like dinner, surprising Kamitani who assumes that the house celebrates Christmas and New Years every day, but Kashima explains that Saikawa had simply overdone it for today. Taka eventually drags Kotaro to leave with him after refusing to eat his vegetables, leaving the others behind. Despite Kamitani's initial anger, Kashima notes that he still finishes Taka's food despite saying harsh things to him. Kamitani explains that it's more troublesome to find a way to make Taka eat whatever is left over and sympathizes with Saikawa's effort in preparing the food.
Kashima and Kamitani awakened up.
After the feast, Saikawa offers the Kamitani brothers to stay for the night and plans to make the food they don't like tastier for breakfast the next day. Kashima provides Kamitani with a room for the night, which initially unsettles him. The following morning, they join Saikawa together to harvest vegetables for breakfast, with the intention of having Taka and Kotaro harvest their own vegetables to make them more enjoyable. Although Saikawa's second attempt fails to make Taka eat vegetables, he remains determined to prepare a plate of them that Taka will enjoy. His efforts to please Taka and make him eat vegetables would then continue on as his personal challenge.
Kashima introducing Mika to Hayato; however, she's nowhere to be seen.
In chapter 59, Mika (Inui's younger sister) asks Ryuuichi for help after she accidentally revealed outloud to have prepared a bento for Hayato, and having Ryuuichi overhear it as he was looking for Kotaro. When he listens to Mika, Ryuuichi comes to understand that the Hayato-senpai she was referring to was Kamitani, surprising the girl who inquires if he knew him, and Kashima shares that they both were on the same class and have half of the club activites together. She quickly concludes that he's on high school and mistakenly thinks he's on the baseball club, and before they could continue their talk, Inui interrupts them as he warns his sister to not "fall in love" with Ryuuichi specifically after he saw the photo Mika was carrying, but is corrected that she was focusing on Hayato and not Kashima. However, as Inui retorts Kashima, Kamitani walks to them to inquiry them why are they being so loud in the morning, of course, much to Mika's shock. Kashima considers this as a good timing and proceeds to introduce the girl to Kamitani as Inui's little sister; however, Hayato notes that he could only see Kotaro, prompting Kashima to realize that Mika had disappeared, although she was hiding behind Inui. Nonetheless, after Taka disapproves Mika's food (while drooling on it out of disgust), she runs away in embarrassment, which leads Kamitani to think that the Inui siblings were alike. Kashima tells him about the bento she had prepared in worry, mentioning that she had worked hard on it. However, Kamitani says that even if she had put all effort on it, she made something awful, leaving Kashima speechless.
Kashima noticing Hayato amongst the crowd and meeting up with him.
In chapter 60, the Morinomiya's residence make their way to the first shrine visit, and Kashima spots Kamitani amongst the crowd, and assumes he was there for the shrine too. As Hayato unties Taka, Kashima asks about Shizuka's whereabouts, and he responds that she went to get some yakisoba.
Kashima and Kamitani playing fortune with their younger brothers.
A while later, Kashima asks Kamitani where should they go (as Taka had suggested many places), and prompt to ask for fortune, where'd they meet the Nezu brothers and Yagi. As the Kichi twins wish both guys Happy New Years, Kamitani concurs and tells them to play baseball this year too, making Kashima intervene, "Kamitani!" They would later make their stop at an omikuji, where Yayoi attends them, much to their surprise.
Kashima and Kamitani in Miko outfits.
When Yayoi comforts her daughter about using Mikos outfits, which Kirin didn't like and preferred to be with her mother to read fortunes together, Kashima asks if "they" could do anything to assist them, as it was his responsibility as a babysitter to help whenever needed. A moment later, Kamitani and Kashima are seen using Miko outfits despite Kashima queries if they really need to be wearing the outfits, and Yayoi reminds Kashima's words about helping with anything, so she took his advice, making Kamitani grumble that he can never say anything is fine from now on. Kashima apologizes to him for making such decision without asking. They're both seen later attending the clients while using the Miko attires; however, since speaking would give them away, Kashima telepathically asks Kamitani with a smile to avoid situations that require talking, which Hayato seems to understand as he continues the job. Later, Yayoi thanks the two for the help, and then she remembers that they haven't picked up their fortunes yet. Both get decent fortunes——Kashima a great one while Kamitani (through Taka) has average luck.
Kashima violently shaking Kamitani.
In chapter 61, the Daycare children invite Inomata through a phone call to play with them outside at the park in the snow. When she arrives alongside Yagi, they notice that everyone was there already, Kamitani and Kashima included. Everyone decides to split into teams to play a snowball match, but Kamitani already begins to attack. Ushimaru would arrive last, but due to a bad timing, she gets involved into Kamitani's snowball throw. Fortunately, Kashima intervenes to protect Yuki from an approaching snowball by catching it on his hand, retorting Kamitani into the possibility he could have hit someone.
Kashima stopping Hayato and Taka's huge snowball from rolling further and almost crushing him and Kotaro.
Kamitani apologizes afterwards, but he also adds that Ryuuichi's protection pose was really suitable for an outfielder, and Kashima refutes that he doesn’t have to change the topic, but feels happy at the praise. However, Ushimaru faints due to Kashima's "coolness", and Ryuuichi believes that she got hit by Kamitani's snowballs, but then he sees Yagi "dead" on the snow, making Ryuuichi panic and violently shake Hayato out of fear while reminding that he told him to not throw hard, although Hayato claims that he didn't do that. Everyone has also seemingly moved from snowball fight, as everyone began to build snowmen instead. Hayato (off-screen) and Taka are seen rolling a huge ball of snow towards Kashima and Kotaro, destroying their mini figures, as this latter tells them to stop in fright.
Kamitani overhears Kashima and Kousuke's conversation while jogging by.
In chapter 62, as Kashima accepts Kousuke's request to take the kids to hiking on sunday to prevent his children from watching a Hero special that was going to broadcast on that day, because he was going play the villain role, a passing-by Kamitani spots the two by coincidence during a slow jog, and overhears Kashima saying that he'll do anything that he could help, being reminded of him saying that stuff again. The plan apparently goes smoothly, but then the-so-warned episode replays on TV due to the show being half-cancelled, and Kashima is sure that everyone has watched it now. Back in the daycare, the children are determined to destroy Boidocchi to save Takuma and Kazuma's papa. Kousuke, who was spying the nursery, is moved to tears by their words, but Kamitani appears to push him inside and announce the twins about Kousuke's arrival.
Volume 12 (Chapters 63 — 68.5)[]
Kashima looks at Kotaro nodding after telling him to be good until he's back from his trip.
In chapter 63, Ryuuichi faces a dilemma when his two-day, one-night school field trip overlaps with the chairwoman and Saikawa being unavailable, leaving no one to look for Kotaro. As the daycare kids and their mothers enthusiastically offer to host Kotaro, Ryuuichi is overwhelmed by their kindness but hesitant to impose.
Kashima being dragged by Hayato.
Surprisingly, though, Kotaro decides to stay at Usaida's place. The day of the trip arrives and Kamitani stays behind with Kashima as this latter shared goodbyes with Kotaro. When he's about to leave, he suddenly returns to the daycare to inform Usaida about the location of Kotaro's belongings, only to be pulled by Hayato who hurries him up. Later, Kashima would call Usaida to check on them, and when Kotaro accidentally almost slips a secret from Usaida, he snatches the kid his phone and tells Kashima it was nothing, and wishes him to have fun on his trip as he hangs up the call. Kashima is worried about the secret Kotaro promised to keep, and Kamitani assumes that he perhaps saw something inappropiate on accident.
Kashima notices he has a missed call from Kamitani, and decides to dial him back, although during a bad timing.
In chapter 64, when Taka takes the decision to run away from home, Kamitani tried to dial Kashima unsuccessfully, and after some minutes, Kashima checks out his phone and notices that he had a lost call from Kamitani and calls him again. When he picked up the call, Kamitani states that it wasn't the right time, but Kashima wanted him to explain his situation.
Kashima is told about Taka's runaway and decides to help out right away without being asked to.
After telling him that Taka disappeared, Kashima outright gives his help, and before Kamitani could reject the offer, Kashima predicts what'd he say and states he was going to help anyway, ending the call to look for Taka at the nursery. Consequently, Shizuka calls Hayato to ask in worry if he has found Taka, but Kamitani informs her that Kashima was helping him to find Taka. As Ryuuichi looks for the younger Kamitani, it's revealed that Taka had taken the bus and was driving him away. However, a moment later, Hebihara appears and finds Taka, and when they are left by a bus stop, Hebihara asks if he was running an errand, but after Taka explains about his escape and begins crying. Hebihara manages to lecture and remind Taka that Shizuka and Hayato worried about him, and informs his ex-wife through call that he had found Taka. He brings him to Hayato and Shizuka, and once the family is reunited, the former couple exchange bittersweet glances and words, though they'd later separate. Kashima said for himself that Kamitani's family situation perhaps was complicated, but wasn't pretty difficult as he thought.
Hayato hugging Kashima.
In Ryuuichi's birthday (chapter 67), Kotaro tells everyone to say Happy birthday to Kashima while hugging him, between those people Kamitani was included too, although he was informed later by Usaida. After bringing the cake, Kamitani heard Kotaro's explanation and, despite his confusion, he did what Kotaro said and hugged Kashima tightly while congratulating him on Kashima's birthday, and Ryuuichi, a little flustered, thanks him. Kamitani is also the one to lit the birthday cake's candles.
Kashima squatting next to Hayato as they spectate, alongside Usaida, the kids trying to catch goldfishes.
In chapter 68, near the end of Summer Vacation, the children are depicted trying to catch goldfishes. Kamitani and Ryuuichi are depicted squatting next to each other as they watch the kids' efforts to capture the fish. When Taka becomes frustrated at not catching any goldfish, Kamitani requests another chance, surprising Ryuuichi.
Kashima smiling at Kamitani as he helps Kazuma catching a goldfish for himself too.
Kamitani then assists Taka in catching a goldfish, leaving Ryuuichi bewildered by Hayato's intense expression. After winning the goldfish, Taka briefly takes credit, but before Usaida can intervene to remind that it was Hayato's doing, Kashima covers his mouth. Inomata and Ushimaru pass by, with Inomata informing the children that goldfish typically live for 2-3 days, causing distress among the kids. Ryuuichi tries to calm the situation, but Kamitani agrees with Inomata, leading to a reprimand from Ryuuichi. Usaida later explains that with proper care, goldfish can live up to 10 years, based on an aquaintance's experience Kashima smiles when Kamirani encourages Kazuma to catch his own goldfish, and every child successfully catches a pet fish, which are then kept in a fish tank at the daycare.
Kamitani believing that the goldfish was still death, but Kashima insists otherwise.
However, they later realize that one goldfish is missing, and Kamitani discovers it behind a shelf, seemingly dried out and dead. The fish belongs to Kotaro, who insists it may still be alive and asks Ryuuichi for water. Miraculously, the fish jumps when exposed to water, confirming it is still alive. Kashima panics and urgently requests filtered water, and after placing the fish in a bucket of water, it initially remains still, causing Kamitani to believe it's dead, and though Kashima denies, he can't refute either until the fish floats. Despite initial doubts, the fish ultimately survives and recovers over time.
Volume 13 (Chapters 69 — 74)[]
Kamitani noticing that Kashima was wearing the female wig again.
In chapter 69, when Yayoi gives everyone different wigs in order to match bangs with Kazuma and Takuma, even having Ryuuichi use the same wig that had gotten him in trouble with Inui. Kamitani later arrives to the daycare and notices everyone's mushroom-alike hairstyles, and when he swifts his gaze to Kashima, he gives him a stern look as he was wearing the wig again, much to Kashima's chagrin.
Kashima patting Kamitani's back as he comforts him.
Because Taka was the only one left out the hairstyle party, he insults Kazuma's hair calling it weird. Kamitani shuts him up and attempts to take Kazuma's "wig" off, but he ends up pulling his new hairstyle, and begins crying, to which Kashima, Umi and Hayato are shown uncomfortable at Kamitani's failed attempt to remove the supposed wig. He'd later feel bad about the situation, but Kashima reassures that it wasn't his fault while patting his back (and even noting that Kamitani looks depressed) since they were wearing wigs after all.
Inui remembering "Inomata" and Hayato's "relationship".
In chapter 70, as Mika fantasizes with Hayato, Kotaro, and the crew, accidentally discover her having a fangirl moment. Kotaro amusingly recognizes her as 'lunchbox'. Kashima, who was also there walking the kids, deeply apologizes to Mika and explains that Kamitani wasn't at the morning practice that day. When Kashima wraps his scarf around Mika due to the cold, she perceives a fatherly figure in him, recalling his previous kindness and friendliness with her senpai Hayato.
Hayato relenting to Kashima's request.
She openly concludes that he's the ideal onii-chan and inquires about Hayato's personal information, such as blood type, birthday, and weight, much to Ryuuichi's consternation. Later, in the hallway, Inui remembers "Inomata" and Hayato's relationship after he fails to get information from Nekota as to why a male high schooler would dress up as a girl many times, having a sudden realization. In class, Kashima approaches Kamitani and begins to ask about his personal information, favorite things, and even his preferred type of girl, sparking interest among classmates, including Ushimaru, who internally urges Kamitani to ask Kashima the same questions in return. Finding it troublesome, Kamitani declines and questions who requested his personal information, prompting Kashima to vaguely mention Mika as a female friend of his, though Hayato suggests that she should ask directly if she wants to know, because otherwise Kashima would have debts and suspicion "vases" forced onto him one day, although Kashima assures that he can refuse those. Ryuuichi explains about feeling happy when people rely on him (though he doesn't reject Kamitani's logic either), so he just wanted to help [Mika] out, prompting Kamitani to sigh while calling him an idiot. Despite Kamitani's apparent rejection, he tosses Kashima a ball of paper during class with the information he needed, much to Ryuuichi's delight. The next day, Mika asks Kashima in expectation if he got the info, to which he affirms while searching for the note Kamitani has given him.
Kashima and Kamitani, with the latter asking why was he dragged into the production of a video prank.
In chapter 71, Usokawa is allowed to film the kids in the nursery, though it's revealed he wanted to send a video to the funny videos segment for the end of the year special broadcast. Kashima and Kamitani are dragged along, prompting the latter to ask why was he included, to which Usokawa explains that he and Kashima are really close with the kids, although Ryuuichi is worried that the filming would scare the children.
Kamitani and Kashima are shown tied up through Usokawa's phone.
For the start of the recording, both Kashima and Kamitani are tied with ropes as Usokawa assigns a rescue competition operation for the kids' beloved nii-san. Usaida reads the script while giving off the context of the situation: Kashima and Kamitani have been kidnapped by an evil organization, much to the former's horror that Usaida was also in on this, and Hayato points the obvious that he had volunteered himself to become part of it. Ryuuichi believes that the kids won't fall for it, but unfortunately his brother does. After Usaida leaves the scene, Usokawa appears with a pig mask, much to Kashima and Kamitani's concern.
Kashima is touched by Taka's noble sacrifice of his sword toy.
However, the kids start crying due to Usokawa's threatening demeanor, but Ryuuichi manages to reassure them through Usokawa's phone that he was fine, so is Kamitani. As the kids calm down, Usokawa makes a test of courage to each kid on exchange to free Kamitani and Kashima, and when he asks Taka for his beloved sword in order to prove that his older brother was more valuable, the boy relents despite his crying, shocking Kamitani, while Ryuuichi is touched to this, saying that it was great, although Kamitani tells him that this didn't make him happy at all. After Kotaro passes the last test, Kamitani and Ryuuichi are released while thanking the kids for saving them, and the little ones go in for a hug to their respective favorite nii-san.
Kashima and Kamitani are invited (dragged on Hayato's side) to the baking session.
Kamitani offering to help Kashima to mix the butter.
In chapter 73, Inomata is invited by Yagi to bake cookies with the children from the babysitting club as part of the White day. Kamitani and Kashima are also revealed to have been invited too (though Kamitani was dragged in). During the mixing, Kashima is unable to stir the butter because it was hard; however, Kamitani notices his struggle and helps him out by whisking the butter fast enough Kashima couldn't see. When Taka wants to try out too, Kamitani blatantly ignores him while asking for the next step, making him cry as Ryuuichi reproaches Kamitani to help Taka if there was something he wanted to do, but Kamitani refutes that if he did that they'd never finish.
Kamitani helping Kashima to roll his sleeve.
When Kashima and Kotaro are in the middle of rolling the dough, he accidentally stumbles upon Ushimaru while he intends to ask Kamitani to roll his sleeve, and when Ushimaru is about to offer doing it instead, Hayato appears to help Kashima, receiving a thank you from Ryuuichi. Ushimaru is left ridiculed as she covers her face in embarrassment while distancing from the guys, monologuing about never having been so jealous of someone in her entire life. As she flees in tears, Kamitani and Kashima are seen worried about the girl, while Inomata retorts both on what did they do to Yuki. Later on, Nezu assigns Kamitani and Kashima the task of taking care of the oven.
Kamitani explaining Kashima that Taka is always rowdy and doesn't clean his teeth properly.
Kashima retorting Kamitani into apologizing to Taka - Omake 2: "Kamitani, Taka-kun and snacks".
In chapter 74, when Taka is revealed to have cavities, Ryuuichi is surprised to the notice while Kamitani explains that Taka doesn't clean his teeth properly. By the end of the chapter, in the second omake cartoon, when Taka asks Hayato to open his snacks' bag for him, Kamitani uses too much force and ends breaking the package while the content inside it flew in different directions, much to his own surprise, and offers Taka the broken bag, making Kashima retort Kamitani to apologise first.
Volume 14 (Chapters 75 — 80.5)[]
Kashima and Kamitani arriving together to the daycare as Kamitani tells Usaida to take the kids out for a walk whether it was raining.
In chapter 75, after Kotaro learns about the pinky promises, he becomes obsessed with them, to the point he ends spreading it in the daycare. During the rainy day, Usaida doesn't relent to take the kids for a walk due to the weather and says he'll do it tomorrow, so then Kotaro makes a pinky promise with him (also mentioning the punishment if it was broken). He switches his condition to take everyone out when it's clear, though the kids remind him about the day he initially "promised". Kamitani and Kashima would arrive during this exchange, with the former suggesting to take the kids out whether it's raining or not as it was part of his job.
Kashima encouraging Kamitani to do the pinky promise with Kotaro.
However, Usaida decides that Kashima and Kamitani will go on a walk with them tomorrow, raining or not. Kotaro then approaches Hayato and offers his pinky finger. Kashima apologizes and says that if he's free tomorrow, to make the pinky promise with Kotaro, which Hayato does. Later at home, after Kotaro's promises to several people are left down, Kashima offers going to meet Panda-chan at the mall on sunday, which excites Kotaro, as the event endures until 6 PM. However, Kashima realizes the next day that the schedule has been suddenly changed to an earlier hour (4 PM) due to some difficulties, and because he finished class at 3:20, he had to hurry. He then leaves the daycare on Kamitani's charge on his rush to pick Kotaro up.
Kamitani accidentally stopping Pero-chan from dragging Kashima further.
In chapter 76, during a Saturday afternoon, Asahi visits the daycare and introduces himself as "Justice Knight," but the kids call him out, demanding a better entrance. He brings a Pomeranian named Pero-chan in a bag, surprising everyone. The children, especially Taka, are initially nervous, thinking it’s a monster, but they quickly warm up to the fluffy dog. When Ryuuichi accidentally pulls Pero-chan's leash too hard, this abruptly stops the dog from running further and fall on the ground, as everyone thought in horror that he may have died.
Kashima feeling guilty about not stopping Pero-chan earlier.
However, as they're about to mourn it, the dog wakes up safely, only to run away while dragging Ryuuichi along non-stop by its leash. Luckily for Ryuuichi, the dog would stop racing when it meets Hayato's eyes, shocking Pero on its position. However, as Kashima attempts to thank Kamitani, the dog falls on a submission pose, perplexing Kashima. After the latter explains Kamitani about the situation, Kamitani calls Ryuuichi stupid when his main motive of not being able to stop Pero was because the collar "tightens" around his neck, although Kashima adds that seeing Pero collapse like that earlier scared him.
Kashima and Kamitani's Halloween costumes, described by Usaida as "last-minute outfits".
In chapter 79, during Halloween's day, Kashima and Kamitani are the only ones to wear last-minute outfits (at least according to Usaida), but Hayato declares that they were at least better than his'.
Kotaro is missing.
The two, alongside the daycare parents and the children, spend the festivity together, and are also shown to stop the kids from going to trick and treat without supervision. However, when Kashima notices that Kotaro was missing, Kamitani questions Taka if he wasn't just pulling him around, though the boy remains dumbfounded. Because Kotaro was wearing a pumpkin outfit, Kashima struggles to find him among a crowd of children dressed alike, and not so long before the search, Kamitani retains the kids from following Kashima.
Volume 15 (Chapters 81 — 86.5)[]
Kamitani telling Kashima about some "trash" being stuck outside the daycare's door.
In chapter 83, during Setsubun (the eve of the beginning of spring), Kashima and Kotaro discover a sardine head impaled on a holly branch and observe it with curiosity. Later, Youko explains to them the meaning of the 'Hiiragi Iwashi' and its function, which is to ward off evil spirits. Morinomiya lends them one for the daycare, and Usaida suggests hanging it on the daycare's door. When Kamitani appears and enters the nursery, he points out the 'trash' stuck on the door, which had been taken out by Taka. Despite Usaida's amusement, they were unaware of the holly sardine. Kashima reassures Kamitani, admitting that he didn't initially know about it either, explaining the significance of the holy leaves and the sardine head in Setsubun's traditions.
Kamitani and Kashima realize who the real "demon" is.
Subsequently, Kashima proposes to Kotaro and Taka to perform the mamemaki ritual after class, inviting Inomata and Yagi to join, and also persuading Kamitani to participate. In this ritual, Kashima, Kamitani, Yagi, and Nezu take on the roles of demons, and the main objective is to purify them with soybeans. Later in the afternoon, a panel shows Kashima and Kamitani looking shocked as Saikawa places his index fingers on his head, creating a shadow resembling a real demon. Saikawa claims to be such, but later clarifies that it was a joke.
Usaida asking baby Hayato about Kashima's whereabouts.
The pink-haired man pointing Kamitani out where his friend Ryuuichi is, encouraging him to play with Kashima.
Kamitani and Kashima as babies.
In chapter 84, Usaida experiences a dream where the children and teenagers are age-reversed, leading to an alternate reality. Usaida encounters a younger Kamitani playing alone with a baseball bat and inquires about the whereabouts of Ryuuichi and Kotaro, considering that if Kamitani is younger, Kashima should be too, but Hayato is unaware. A grown-up Kotaro unexpectedly appears carrying a young Ryuuichi, surprising everyone present because they thought no one named like them were in the daycare. Usaida reminds the two about their responsibility in the nursery, emphasizing that they should stay until their parents return, to which Kotaro smiles and leaves their care to Usaida. Usaida then points out to Hayato that Ryuuichi is his friend and reflects on the dream being a result of his immense love for the children and so the teenagers. In the middle of the monologue, a younger Hayato is seen explaining baseball to an immersed Ryuuichi, who is holding a ball in his hands, both blushing.
Kamitani walking past Kashima during hide and seek.
In chapter 85, the children at the daycare center are engaged in a game of hide and seek, with Hayato taking on the role of the seeker (or ghost). Ryuuichi finds himself feeling uneasy as he realizes that his hiding place, under a blanket, is quite obvious, but he is unable to move due to Taka and Kotaro's presence with him. When Kamitani finishes counting, he immediately spots the suspicious blanket but walks past it, much to Ryuuichi's surprise.
Kashima blames Kamitani for making Taka cry.
After Kamitani finds everyone except the trio, he abruptly leaves the daycare, causing concern for Taka who worries about his brother taking too long to find them. Usaida informs the children that Hayato had to leave due to a call from the baseball team, surprising both Ryuuichi and Taka, and had asked him to take over as the seeker. Taka expresses frustration at the idea of Usaida being the seeker instead of his brother, leading to a tantrum. Later, Hayato apologizes for returning late and notices Taka's distressed expression, prompting Kashima to blame Kamitani for Taka's emotional state and explain that Taka had wanted Hayato to find him during the game, leading to his non-stop crying. Kamitani apologizes to Taka and promises to play with him at home, also apologizing to Kotaro for Taka hogging Kashima for so long. Taka eventually accepts Kamitani's apology, sparking a smile from Ryuuichi. Kashima brings up Hayato's earlier departure and inquires about it, suggesting an alternative in case it was related to a busy schedule or competition, but Hayato dismisses it as nothing big.
Kamitani leaving Taka into Kashima's care again after school, as Ryuuichi reminds Kamitani to apologize to Taka properly.
At night, as the Kamitani brothers play hide and seek, it becomes evident that the game is one-sided, with Kamitani opting to watch TV instead of searching for Taka, leading to Taka's tears once again. The following day, Ryuuichi holds Kamitani responsible for the events, while Hayato narrates that Taka had locked himself in the bathroom for three hours afterward, though Ryuuichi interprets it as a sign of Taka being really hurt by Kamitani, the baseball player reveals that Taka had expressed his dislike for Kamitani and baseball the most, leaving Kamitani puzzled about the connection to baseball. Ryuuichi then realizes that the underlying cause of their conflict was indeed related to baseball. After school, Kamitani informs Kashima that he will be leaving first to go to the baseball club and apologizes for leaving Taka with him.
Kashima feeling moved by Kamitani's honesty about staying in Morinomiya.
Kashima reassures Kamitani that it's fine but reminds him to apologize properly to his little brother. After parting ways, Shizuka calls Kashima to inform him about something, which Kashima initially assumes is about Kamitani and Taka's fight, but Shizuka clarifies that it's a common occurrence. Shizuka then mentions that a stronger baseball team from another school wanted to recruit Hayato and that he was offered a spot on their team. Although Shizuka heard that Hayato rejected the offer, she asks Kashima to inquire about Hayato's true feelings on the matter. Later, Ryuuichi pulls Hayato aside to discuss his rejection of the baseball offer. Hayato explains that he loves his current team, including Kashima and the daycare kids, and feels that Taka is too spoiled to leave with just their mother and Ryuuichi. Recalling Taka’s concern for Hayato, Ryuuichi urges him to be more open about his feelings (while pulling his shirt as he thanks Kamitani for including him into the people he likes), affirming that Hayato will always prioritize Taka.
Kashima looks in unease at Kamitani and Usaida going silent after he narrated his belief that Kotaro might think that balloons can talk.
In chapter 86, the next day after the balloon incident in which Kashima had slightly injured himself to save an Usapyon balloon that had been gifted to Kotaro (and whom considered a talkative friend), Usaida is informed by the reason Kashima was wearing a bandage on his face. Kamitani, who also heard the story, saying that he should have get rid of it and tell Kotaro it flew away, narrating a similar incident with Taka in which his balloon popped on the spot after getting it, and kept crying non-stop much to Kamitani's annoyance, and Kashima could picture that, but agrees with him, revealing that Kotaro seems to believe that his balloon talks, and worries about Kotaro's feelings when the balloon is gone. The room goes silence as Kamitani questions about who'd believe that balloons could talk, taking Kashima off-guard.
Kamitani suggesting that Kashima would be the most likely to believe that balloons can talk if a fake voice was used, making him blush in embarrassment.
Usaida notes that Kotaro might have noticed that it was Kashima doing the talking, prompting Kamitani to say that Kotaro had already found out because Kashima sucks at it, much to Ryuuichi's surprise. Usaida proves further this point, while also adding that Kotaro must be beyond happiness with all the attention Kashima gives to him, inferring that him taking a liking to a balloon was very Kotaro-like, and that Kashima even got hurt to recover the Usapyon balloon. Kamitani says that if they have to find someone who'd be most likely to believe in those things, that'd be Kashima, making this latter blush in embarrassment.
Volume 16 (Chapters 87 — 91)[]
In chapter 89, Hebihara wins a Panda-chan shaved ice machine and decides to gift it to the daycare center, much to everyone's delight. Hebihara had arrived to the daycare without notice, and when Kashima noticed him, he goes nervous and assumes he was looking for Hayato and explains the older man that he's at the baseball club, but the teacher denies about being there for Kamitani, handing him a bag with the shaved ice machine. He is soon invited to have shaved ice too as he got the machine, but the Chemistry teacher explains that he brought the machine because otherwise it would be wasted on him and was sure that children must like it a lot, narrating a past experience with a younger Hayato who had offered him shaved ice cream too after preparing some with Hebihara. The older man then remembers that Hayato has ignored what others said ever since he was little, surprising Kashima. Before the teacher made his leave, he tells Taka to let his brother shave the ice, assuring that he enjoys doing that, but Kamitani appears right behind him to query about when did he think it happened, startling Kashima. When Kamitani once again offers shaved ice to his father (while telling him to check it for poison), this further reaffirms Kashima's thoughts that Hebihara was still, besides Shizuka's ex-husband, Kamitani and Taka's dad.
Chapter 90 cover.
In chapter 90, the daycare was currently engaged in playing Kirin's favorite house game. Kashima was assigned the role of the 'little brother' while Kotaro took on the role of the 'older' one. Meanwhile, Taka was urging Kamitani to also become a 'nii-chan' as he was playing the role of the 'papa'. When Inomata and Ushimaru joined in, the roles were reassigned to everyone, and later, Ushimaru and Ryuuichi are assigned as the roles mother and father respectively, much to their embarrassment.
Kashima thanks Ushimaru for pretending to "faint" in order to take into account Kotaro's feelings, but Kamitani denies about it having been pretended.
When Kashima was asked to properly refer Ushimaru as "Yuki", he almost hesitated, but before he could finish, Ushimaru fainted out of embarrassment. This prompted Kashima to panic, assuming that calling Ushimaru by her name was too intimate while playing house, and Kamitani labeled it as 'sexual harassment', with Usaida agreeing. In the end, Kashima believed that Ushimaru pretended to faint in order to take into account Kotaro's feelings, expressing gratitude towards her, but Kamitani states that it wasn't pretending.
Kashima feeling delighted that Taka had relented to be helped by his older brother to set off his fireworks.
In chapter 91, on a particularly scorching summer day, Hayato and Taka arrive at the daycare with a sun-kissed complexion, each carrying fireworks to set off. Taka hesitates to ask Hayato for help with his firework, as he had previously boasted about being able to do it himself, but eventually relents, much to Kashima's delight.
Volume 17 (Chapters 92 — 96.5)[]
In chapter 93, Kashima gets a new smartphone, which prompts Kotaro to take photos of everyone after discovering his interest in photography. As Kamitani arrives to the daycare, he spots Satoru, Kirin's father, mimicking his daughter's expression, and asks if his head is okay, causing Kashima to retort him. Satoru then teaches Kotaro how to use the camera properly, sparking his keen interest, much to Kashima's concern. When Kotaro aims the camera at Kamitani, Kashima advises him to at least smile.
Kashima trying to reassure Taka that they didn't hear his secret about wetting the bed, as the little boy hides under Kamitani's shirt, much to his annoyance.
In chapter 95, during the winter break, Kashima is determined to clean the nursery room as part of the annual year-end cleaning, and encourages Koutarou to help. Kamitani and Usaida arrive a moment later, and Kashima greets them, noticing Taka's tired expression and inquiring about it. Hayato reveals that Taka had a nightmare and wet the bed, which was meant to be kept a secret, causing Taka to cry and hide under Kamitani's shirt on his tantrum as Kashima attempts to reassure him that he didn't hear anything.
Kashima offering Kamitani a towel for his wet shirt.
After Taka is comforted by Kotaro, Kashima checks on Kamitani while offering him a towel, as his shirt was wet from Taka's tantrum, who explains that he was changing into his jersey anyway since they were going to clean, and asks Kashima to look after Taka while he changes in the locker room. Usaida then remembers that he brought a change of clothes for cleaning, referring to it as a 'nostalgic jersey'. The three of them end up wearing high school jerseys, and Usaida jokingly notes that they are matching while supporting himself on Kashima and Kamitani. As the cleaning begins, Kashima assigns tasks to Usaida and each of the children, as Kashima and Kamitani were in charge of moving the furniture, and Kamitani asks him where to put the crib while Ryuuichi offers to help him.
Kashima and Kamitani in charge of moving the furniture.
During the cleaning, Taka accidentally scatters the acorns they were cleaning, and Usaida jokingly 'punishes' him by vacuuming him. To Usaida's surprise, Taka enjoys being vacuumed, and the other children express their desire to be vacuumed too, except for Kotaro. As a way to convince Kashima's brother that the vacuum was harmless, Usaida persuades Kotaro that they're not scary at all, and when the boy is closer to the vacuum Usaida is holding watching in fascination, Usaida vacuums him too, causing him to freeze in fear. Kashima confronts Usaida for his actions, while Kamitani expresses his disapproval ("Die and repent") as Usaida tries to apologize. Ushimaru and Inomata arrive later and are invited to join the cleaning. Initially, they assume that the group is playing around instead of cleaning due to the mess, leading to a humorous exchange when Kashima tries to deny that they were playing.
Ryuuichi – “Thank you for coming! We just started. We aren't playing...”
Hayato – “No, you guys were definitely playing around.”
Ryuuichi – “...You think so...”
Volume 18 (Chapters 97 — 102)[]
Kamitani advises Kashima to notice whenever someone stuffs things into his pockets, and Kashima bids him good morning upon noticing him.
In chapter 97, Kashima is confronted by Usokawa, who pins him against a wall in search of food after catching a whiff of a tasty scent. Unfortunately, during the encounter, Usokawa accidentally breaks the cookies that Kashima had in his pocket, causing concern for everyone present, including Kashima himself, who is puzzled that they were there in first place. Kamitani steps in to advise Kashima to be more aware of when items are being stuffed in his pockets and bids him good morning as well.
Kashima reminds Kamitani to keep their composure.
However, the situation takes an unexpected turn when Usokawa also detects a scent emanating from Kamitani in the same area as Kashima and discovers a candy stuck in Kamitani's pocket, originating from Taka. Hayato is on the verge of unleashing his fury, but Kashima intervenes, reminding him that they need to keep composure as he believes there was no malicious intent behind the actions. Later, in the daycare, Ryuuichi gives Kotaro a lecture about storing shared snacks in his pockets, while Kamitani reprimands Taka for using others' pockets as garbage bins by hitting him on the head.
Kashima drags Kamitani back to study.
Kotaro is noticeably affected by Ryuuichi's lecture, despite Kashima still appreciated that he shared his snacks, and Saikawa intervenes to interpret Kotaro's actions as a way to cheer Kashima on during his studies without hindering him. Kashima is moved by this, and tells Usaida that he has a favor to ask him, and as he is about to depart while dragging Kamitani too (as they had to study a bit more for the testing season), Kashima leaves the daycare in Saikawa and Usaida's hands. Usaida would later lend Kotarou a jacket which had a paper in one of the pockets, and it turns out to be a note from Kashima who thanks him for the cookies. Taka also receives a note from his brother, but it only reads "Idiot", although Saikawa lies to the boy by stating it's a word that implies that Taka is cheerful and adorable.
Kashima noticing Kamitani's casted hand as the latter hands Ryuuichi some wet wipes.
In chapter 99, during the typical morning routine at the daycare, Taka announces his presence to Kashima and Kotarou, and is followed by Kamitani, whom Kashima bids him good morning and apologizes that he has to help right after arriving, asking him to bring some wet wipes, which Kamitani does. However, Kashima notices that Kamitani's hand was bandaged, and asks in horror what happened. Taka explained that Kamitani had gotten hurt, which alarmed Ryuuichi because Kamitani had used his injured arm to take the wipes. Ryuuichi advised Kamitani to be more careful, even though he had asked for Kamitani's help without thinking.
Kashima is alarmed by Shizuka smacking Hayato on the head our of reprimand as Ryuuichi warns her that he's injured.
Hayato dismissed the injury as not being a big deal, but Shizuka intervened by smacking him and reprimanding him to take it more seriously. Kashima panicked and warned the teacher that Kamitani was still injured, while Shizuka explained the reason for her son's sprained wrist and left him in the care of the others, as he was "idiotic" enough to forget to rest when he's by himself. Although Kamitani initially rejected the idea, Shizuka threatened to break one of his DVDs, causing Hayato to react with anger while Kashima is shown shocked. Shizuka apologized for the disruption and left Hayato in Kashima and Usaida's hands, explaining that it would be a great opportunity for him to learn to rely on others. This frustrated Hayato, but Kashima remarked that it was because he made others worry, with Ryuuichi also agreeing to Shizuka's words and advising Hayato to learn to rely on others.
Kashima is determined to help Hayato with anything as he agrees with Shizuka's advice of Hayato having to learn how to rely on others.
Kamitani, in turn, refutes that he didn't want to be told the same thing by him, and the children actively tried to make him rest by preparing a makeshift bed with a pillow and blanket, although there was a small mishap when Taka accidentally bumped into Kamitani while trying to place the blanket, causing Kashima to panic and remind him of Kamitani's injury. After Kamitani lays down, he asked Kashima to wake him up before returning to class, and as he was about to nap, Usaida offered to sing him a lullaby, which prompted Kamitani to show his injured fist and threaten to punch him, making Kashima remind him not to use that hand. During class, some classmates ribbed Kamitani for the reason of his injury (falling on the shower instead of the club activities), but offered their help in case anything bothered Hayato, which he turned down, leading Kashima to find his reaction more characteristic of him. Kashima empathized with Shizuka, understanding the regret of causing someone distress, and when Hebihara noticed his son's injury, Kamitani refused to elaborate, but Usokawa revealed the reason.
Kashima offering himself to help Kamitani copying their notes, and Kamitani shows his reliance on him by dropping his pen.
The chemistry teacher asked Hayato to have a friend let him copy their notes, and Ryuuichi offered himself, noticing Hayato's reliance on Kashima when he dropped his pen. Back in the daycare, when Kamitani is fed by the children, Hayato shows distress and Kashima queries if he felt uncomfortable when everyone's fussing over him. Hayato is then reminded that Kashima would help him with anything, and asks him to switch with him, though Kashima apologies as a way to refuse, but would instead help him think of something after school. Later, Hayato is summoned in the chemistry prep room, with Hebihara having been told (by Kashima) that Kamitani wanted after school tutoring to catch up with what he's behind on, calling on Hayato's good attitude and demanding him to sit. After Hayato mentions that his hand hurts, Hebihara provides a rewrap on that part. In the end, Kamitani would spend his time in the nursery being taken care of by everyone, as the panel shows the kids proposing different ways to assist Kamitani while Kashima and Usaida spectated.
Kashima and Kamitani are informed about a "nursery school sleepover".
Kamitani dropping Taka in the daycare.
In chapter 100, Kashima and Kamitani are informed by Usaida about a proposal of holding a nursery school sleepover during summer vacation, though considers the possibility that they will end up sleeping all huddled together, but the children are excited to the idea. Usaida is still left in wonder if the kids will be okay with the idea of staying at the nursery by themselves. Taka boasts that he's completely fine without his mother, as he had Hayato, but this latter says that he won't be staying, as it'd be pointless for the sleepover to be done dependently, which statement Ryuuichi agrees at, as he considers that he shouldn't either, though Usaida mentions that he'll be especially troubled if Kashima didn't come at all. When the day of the sleepover arrives, Kamitani is shown leaving Taka with Kashima and Kotaro as more parents reunite to drop their kids in the nursery too.
Kamitani claims that Usaida might be a prime suspect for Petit doll's disappearance judging by how much it sells, much to Kashima's surprise at his sudden appearance.
In chapter 102, Kashima, Saikawa, Usaida, and the kids are searching for Kirin's lost Petit-chan doll on the daycare. During their search, they end up outside to return Ushimaru's lost handkerchief which was amongst the lost items in the nursery. They learn from a teammate that the duo of dolls, Petit and Pois, is a limited edition worth over 500 dollars online. Kamitani hints that Usaida could be the prime suspect due to the doll's high value, but Kashima defends Usaida, stating he wouldn't do such a thing. Ryuuichi though becomes suspicious of Usaida because he had made a suspicious excuse to leave the daycare earlier during their walk. His suspicion is confirmed when they find him holding the doll in the nursery, intending to fix it after Midori accidentally ripped Petit's hair off.
Volume 19 (Chapters 103 — 107.5)[]
Kamitani and Kashima thanking Rakuda for lending them his garden in order for them and the rest to harvest sweet potatoes.
During "Sweet Potato" day in chapter 103, everyone is given the opportunity to dig up sweet potatoes on a borrowed land provided by Usaida's neighbor, Rakuda. Kamitani and Kashima are shown together in a panel as they thank the man too alongside the rest. Kashima takes the time to teach Kotaro how to carefully dig around the potatoes, while Taka energetically digs non-stop, causing soil to scatter around Kamitani. This leads to Taka's older brother becoming angry, resulting in a hit on Taka's head, which makes him cry and seek comfort from Kashima. The Kashima brothers, on the other hand, face challenges as they have no luck harvesting, consistently getting limp potatoes, while Kamitani and Taka find abundant ones. Hayato notices their struggles and suggests that their allocated land might not be good, offering them his crop. Kamitani would be then one of the people into helping Kashima and Kotaro to pull a huge yam off the soil.
Kamitani lending Taka a regular paper for him to write a New Years' card in, much to Kashima's confusion.
In chapter 105, during the Christmas season, Kashima and his classmates engage in a conversation about New Year's postcards during their classes.
Shizuka's postcard.
They'd agree that the ones with pictures may be embarrassing, but Kashima figures out that it could be a meaningful way to update those who have cared for them about their well-being. Kamitani remarks that he won't be sending any postcards even if he got them, prompting Kashima to smile uneasily because he had expected that comment from Kamitani. Later, at the daycare, Taka states he'll send a card to Hayato, who reacts with annoyance. Kashima is visibly shocked as Hayato hands Taka a regular piece of paper, telling him to write whatever he wants on it. Usaida intervenes to warn Taka that his paper is unlikely to be delivered. At the Morinomiya residence, Kashima receives several cards, and the first one he checks is from Taka, which had a message from Shizuka behind it. The card asks Kashima and Kotarou to look after their idiot for the coming year. This revelation makes Kashima realize in an awkward manner that it was Hayato the one referred as "idiot".
Kashima talking to Kamitani on the phone as Kotaro stares at him.
Taka wants to speak with Kotaro over the phone, but Kamitani prevents him from doing so by hanging up the call, much to Kashima's shock at hearing his rejection from the other side of the line.
Kashima informing Kotaro that Kamitani had hung up and now he couldn't talk with Taka, and then he reassures his little brother.
Chapter 106 begins with Kotaro staring at his brother, while Kashima agrees to meet Kamitani at school later. Ryuuichi then overhears Taka insisting to talk too, and just as Kashima is about to hand Kotaro the phone so the two could talk, Hayato declines, stating it's a pain. This comes as a shock to Kashima on the other side of the line, and Kamitani ends the call, leaving Taka feeling unsettled and beginning to cry, while Kamitani covers his ears. Meanwhile, Kashima apologizes to his brother because Kamitani had hung up, promising him a call next time as he comforts Kotaro, but reassures that he'll talk to Taka in the nursery. At the daycare, Usaida understands the reason behind Taka's current mood, and the little boy expresses a desire to talk to Kotaro on the phone.
Kashima and Kamitani hearing about a "special phone" idea by Usaida.
However, Kamitani points out that 'the real thing' is right in front of him, and turning to Kashima, asks him to stop giving in to their every single demand, causing Kashima to flinch but ultimately agree. Suddenly, Usaida comes up with an idea: creating a special phone just for Kotaro and Taka, which surprises their older brothers. The pink-haired man creates string phones, but Taka initially rejects it because it didn't resemble a traditional phone. Despite Taka's hesitation, Usaida encourages him to try it out. Surprisingly, when Taka uses the string phone, he is delighted to find that he can actually hear Kotaro and accepts it as a phone. Kamitani points out that Taka could hear Kotaro anyway, as Kotaro was right next to him, leading to a retort from Kashima. As the children try the phone, other kids along with their parents arrive and reminisce about the nostalgia of string phones, leading to each kid playing with the spring phone.
Kashima talking to Kamitani through a string phone, as Hayato was still contagious.
Satoru intervenes by cutting the string as Kirin tries to talk with Takuma out of protectiveness towards his daughter. However, Satoru resolves the issue by creating separate string phones for girls and boys. Back in the classroom, Usokawa learns about the string phones while suffering from a cold, and inadvertently infects Hayato due to his (unwanted) close proximity, much to Kashima's surprise. When Hayato is partially recovered from the flu, he uses the spring phone to communicate with Kashima, as his flu was still contagious, and is given a worksheet to do by the teacher if his fever has subsided.
Volume 20 (Chapters 108 — 112)[]
Kashima reassuring Taka that Hayato doesn't hate him, stating that he mentioned about loving him even more than baseball, but then he's smacked by Hayato with rolled documents on the head, announcing his arrival as Ryuuichi complains about him getting smacked and not Usaida.
Chapter 108 introduces Kamitani and Kashima's brothers spending time with activities in the rainy weather at different times. Taka jumps on a muddy puddle, soaking Kamitani, while Kotarou is shown staring at a snail on a leaf as Kashima watches. Kashima suggests Kotarou return to the daycare together because everyone must have gathered by now, after the little boy spent 30 minutes looking at the snail. On their way, Kotarou notices the snail playing hide and seek as it goes back inside its shell. Kamitani arrives with his brother, drenched and soiled, asking what they were doing in such a place, surprising Kashima. Kashima queries, 'Shouldn't that be my line?!' while also noticing that Taka was crying. Kamitani explains that Taka had gotten them muddy water, reassuring Kashima not to worry about it, though Ryuuichi insists that he'd of course worry, offering him a handkerchief to wipe his face. Kashima informs Usaida, who understands why Hayato had gone to the locker room to change. As more children arrive and narrate similar experiences under the rain, Usaida notes that Hayato still hasn't returned, worrying Kashima due to the extended time he has been gone. Usaida teases Taka, asking if he had finally pushed Hayato over the edge and made him hate Taka, to which Kashima retorts, reassuring the boy that Kamitani would never hate him, assuring that Kamitani said that he loves Taka more than baseball. However, Kamitani smacks Kashima on the head with some rolled sheets as he denies having ever said that, making Kashima notice him and inquiry why was he hitting him and not Usaida.
Kashima realizing how much Kamitani was invested into inviting the kids to practice for the ballgame tournament (for high schoolers).
Kamitani comforts Taka, stating he wouldn't hate an 'idiot' for doing 'idiotic' things at this point, amazing Kashima and Usaida with Hayato's maturity. Hayato reveals that he was called by Hebihara to do an errand, which was to bring some flyers back to the classroom, and Kashima notices that these were printouts for the school's ballgame tournament. As Usaida checks one of the papers, he reads outloud the sports listed, and asks Kamitani and Kashima which were they on, and Kashima responds that they're doing softball, but Usaida finds it unfair because Hayato had a great advantage as he was good on baseball (which is similar to softball). The children are shown excited by the tournament, and wish to join in too, and although Kashima tries to explain that it was only for high schoolers, Usaida suggests to ask Youko first, seeing that she has a soft spot for Kotaro and the rest, but Kashima hesitates.
KKashima covering Kamitani's mouth to make sure he doesn't say anything discouraging to the kids.
However, Kamitani, on the other hand, has no other choice and decides to invite the kids to practice, much to Kashima's discomfort, as he notes that Kamitani was too invested in this, having expected it from someone who loves baseball. They'd then notice that it began to pour outside, so they decide to postpone their talk for sunny days, and as Kashima checks for the weather forecast, Kotaro tugs him and shows Kashima a tale book of the Teary-eyed and the Teru Teru Bozu, which is a doll to pray for good weather. Kashima would then cover Hayato's mouth beforehand as he whispers him to not say something like nothing will come of making the dolls, and Kamitani garbles he wasn't going to. When everyone is done with the Teru Teru Bozu dolls, they're shown hung up, and all left to do was to wait for clear skies.
Kamitani and Kashima's brothers facing off in a ping-pong match.
Kamitani and Kashima are also shown running under an unexpected downpour while carrying their brothers to the daycare. When the sunny day comes, the kids are depicted in gym clothes as they were prepared for the softball practice. Kamitani would task Taka first to hit the ball with his bat as Hayato was the pitch. He also includes Kashima in a different duty, which was to do some laps, 100 push-ups and squats each so Kashima could bulk up, surprising Kashima, but ends up doing obeying him anyway. By the end of the chapter it's revealed that it was incidentally raining during the tournament day, so the kids had resorted to a ping-pong event instead, as it shows a match between the Kashima and Kamitani brothers.
Kamitani telling the kids that they are too short to ride the kids coaster, while Kashima advises them not to line up to meassure themselves.
In chapter 109, the kids and the other caretakers are shown at an amusement park, as everyone in the nursery room had tagged along with the high school division on their trip to the amusement park. They'd first visit a kids coaster, and while Kashima advises the kids not to line up while measuring their heights on the height stick (which described that they can't ride if they're short), Kamitani boldly remarks that every kid was too short to ride, shocking the kids and in the verge of tearing up. Kashima once again panics and questions Hayato if he couldn't have said it in a nicer way, though Kamitani states that no matter what the sign said, the fact that they can't ride won't change.
Kamitani dragging Kashima to the high schooler's group to ride the rollercoaster.
Kashima would then advise the kids to move on to a different game, which was going to be a carousel. After the carousel, the next theme game they go to is a rollercoaster, which the kids weren't obviously going to ride, but the high schools. When Kashima is about to leave Kotaro and the rest of kids on Usaida and Inomata's care, Kotaro clings to Kashima's leg, and while the latter reassures that he'd be back in a flash, Kotaro is reluctant to let him go. However, as Kashima is about to change his mind, Kamitani pulls Kotaro off his grip and drags Kashima alongside the group of high schoolers, while telling him, "Don't be a chicken". After the ride, Kamitani and Kashima are shown in opposite states: while the former is unfazed, the latter is depicted dizzy, and Hayato is shown holding Kashima's fallen shoe to give it back to him.
Kashima checking who did Kotaro send a message to on his phone, and upon realizing it was to Hayato, he apologizes through text about the gibberish and agrees a meeting hour for the next day.
Taka telling his brother about Kashima's message, and Hayato writes a response, only for then Kashima notice that Kamitani has a grammatical mistake and had sent a sticker too (although suspects it was Taka's doing).
Kashima realizes what Kamitani meant to say and internally calls him careless when typing as usual, meanwhile Kamitani wonders why did the kids like sending stickers too much, and infers that Kashima's initial gibberish belonged to Kotaro.
In the special 109.5 chapter, Kotaro is shown typing on Kashima's phone a message to someone, and when Kashima intervenes to stop him, he checks who he sent the note to, and it turns out to be Kamitani, as Ryuuichi remembers that he had the chat open to contact him about tomorrow. Kashima apologizes through chat about the scribble, and arranges their meeting at 7. On the other side, Taka brings Hayato his phone as he had received a new message, and while he's typing his agreement ("got it"), Kashima notices that he had a typo ("gor it") and also a sticker, but immediately understands what he meant to say, monologuing that he's being careless when typing as always, assuming that the sticker was Taka's doing. Kamitani would also guess that Kashima's initial gibberish belonged to Kotaro.
❝
These two communicate simply (carelessly) but they both get their message across.
—Message about Kashima and Kamitani's communication
Volume 21 (Chapters 112.5 — 117)[]
Hayato persuading Taka into giving up on the claw machine arcade game.
In the special chapter 112.5, the story depicts Taka having a tantrum at an arcade center located inside a department store. Kamitani and Kashima are also present, with Kamitani reminding his brother that it was his idea to play the claw machine solo, but he failed to win a prize, discouraging him from trying again.
Kashima is amused by Kamitani's change of mind over the claw machine.
Despite this, Taka remains adamant about wanting to win the red ranger plushie, leading Kamitani to take over and attempt to win it with the condition that if he also fails, they would stop. When Kamitani is unsuccessful, to Kashima's slight amusement, Hayato decides to make another attempt, contrary to what Kashima had understood as 'just one more try'. Later, Kotaro becomes interested in a coin machine, and Kashima notices his focus on a panda inside, assuring him that he will try to win it and asking Kotaro to wait. Ultimately, Ryuuichi is unable to win the panda and offers his brother glass gems and coins as consolation prizes, considering another attempt but finding that Kotaro is surprisingly content with the items. Meanwhile, Kamitani returns home with Taka, carrying multiple plushies, revealing that he got carried away and ended up acquiring the entire ranger squad plushies.
Kashima pondering about the long time the kids have left to think about their futures, and decides to discuss this with Kamitani.
In chapter 113, Kashima is unexpectedly ambushed and 'arrested' by the Mamizuka twins, with Takuma wearing a police cap and carrying handcuffs. Umi arrives to explain that her father had purchased the hats to show everyone, revealing that her father is a retired police officer. This prompts Kashima to ponder about Kotaro's future and what kind of person he might become.
Kashima asks Kamitani about his dream for the future.
The daycare then engages in a discussion about the children's future professions, with Kamitani arriving last and inquiring about the topic. As Kashima heads to class, he ponders about Kotaro's future and the time left for the children to grow up, prompting him to ask Kamitani about his own dreams for the future, using baseball as an example, querying if he wanted to be a professional. Kamitani responds by stating that if he were serious about baseball, he would practice more often, and calls Kashima an idiot, which makes him apologize upon the realization, but Hayato explains he doesn't have that kind of dream, but didn't want to be like Usaida (referring him as a "lazy bastard"), much to Kashima's discomfort. He also adds that after that he's going to continue baseball like he does normally. Kashima agrees, noting that his decision was just like him, and Hayato asks back the same question as Kashima, but he can't think of anything. Kamitani inquires if he tried to talking to others, but Kashima refutes that's why he asked him in first place.
❝
Even if that's not his dream for the future, Kamitani likes baseball. Everybody seems to want to do something they like...
—Ryuuichi.
Kashima and Hayato noticing Ebizawa, Usokawa and Suginuma suggesting a camera prank with the daycare to commemorate April's Fools.
In chapter 114, on April 1st, even though the school was on spring break, the daycare was busy as ever. Kamitani and Kashima spectate outside the nursery's window Usaida and the kids engaging in a conversation about whether penguins can fly, prompting the baseball player to call them idiots while Kashima labels them as "cute", asking him not to call them fools that fast.
Kamitani laughing over Hebihara's panda language, as Ryuuichi follows him along with a smile.
They are then approached by Usokawa and other classmates who propose a camera prank to kick off the April Fools season. Kamitani states that Usokawa was definitely getting the "biggest idiot" award, much to his gratification, as he took it as a compliment, while Kashima states that it was an insult. Both Kashima and Kamitani become part of the prank, pretending to search for 'Panda-chan' who had lost himself as he was wandering through the school alongside the children. Later, they'd find him outside portrayed as a man with Panda-chan's mask, and Kamitani notices that it was his father, much to Kashima's shock. The kids approach "Panda-chan" in excitement while claiming that they had found him, as Hebihara thanks them in panda language, which makes Kamitani laugh, thinking that he was mimicking goat sounds. Ryuuichi followed along with a smile, denying Kamitani's statement, although he admitted he didn't know what a crying panda sounded like either.
Kashima summarizing Kamitani spend time out together on Sunday with the boys.
In chapter 117, Kirin overhears Inomata and Ushimaru having a conversation. During their chat, Ushimaru invites Inomata to her house, and Kirin tries to join in as well. However, Kashima finds Kirin and tells her that she cannot go since she wasn't invited, which makes Kirin sad. Ushimaru intervenes to accept Kirin's presence, and Inomata considers asking for Yayoi's permission. The other daycare children also express their desire to go to Yuki's house, causing stress for Ushimaru as there are many of them wanting to go.
Kashima advising Kotaro to not bring the rolypoly he was holding to Kamitani's house.
Kashima is troubled as he tries to discourage the children, but when he sees their expressions, he comes up with a plan. To manage the situation, Kashima suggests that the boys meet up separately on Sunday to play together. He later mentions this plan to Kamitani, indicating a separate gathering for the boys, including the daycare kids, on the same day, initially dismissing it as 'That's that', but Kamitani queries as to why he referred it like that. When Sunday arrives, Kashima is shown squatting near Kotaro as he holds a roly-poly, and advises him not to bring it to Kamitani's house.
Volume 22 (Chapters 117.5 — 122)[]
In the special 117.5 chapter, Kotaro and Taka are depicted playing inside a cardboard box that had 'Please pick us up' written on a flap side. Kashima approaches to pick up his brother, while asking what was he playing with Taka. Taka explains that the box was their house. Kamitani, who followed after Kashima, deadpans that Taka can stay there forever, expressing a willingness to not pick him up. This prompts Kashima to intervene, pointing out to Kamitani that he has made Taka uneasy. Later, it is revealed that Usaida had been provided the boxes by Shizuka, thinking the kids could play with them. He even drew separate houses in the boxes for each child, leading him to ask the other caretakers to save him from the 'peek-a-boo hell' as the kids had partially closed their boxes, causing confusion about who was where. As a result, Kamitani and Kashima end up playing peek-a-boo with their brothers, respectively.
Kashima and Kamitani arrive late to the daycare as the former apologizes to Usaida for the delay.
Chapter 119 showcases the Morinomiya's academy having its annual physical examination day. During this event, Kashima, Usokawa, and their classmates engage in a conversation about their heights. Usokawa humorously attributes shortness to gravity, claiming that Kashima was the tallest upon waking up. Kamitani interjects, dismissing the significance of height and referring to Usokawa as an 'idiot.' Another classmate comments on Usokawa's unnecessary concern about his height, while Kashima assumes that everyone shares the same thought. The academy's bell rings, prompting Kashima to urge Kamitani to hurry to the daycare, where they are scheduled to measure the kids.
Kashima encourages Taka by comparing his height with Kamitani's, saying that he'll be as tall are him.
Upon their arrival, Kashima apologizes to Usaida for the delay and encounters Yagi playing with the kids, while Usaida was lounging, as he had been waiting for the measuring instruments. Yagi expresses a desire to see the kids being measured, but Chuukichi intervenes and distances him from the nursery. When the results reveal that Kirin is the tallest among the kids, Kazuma and Taka begin squealing after Usaida mentions that Taka was the second tallest (much to his disappointment) and that Kazuma needed to eat more in order to gain more weight (making him think it was something bad), causing to their crying——followed by Taka insulting Kirin——triggering a chain reaction of grief amongst the kids.
Kamitani wondering if Kashima was that short.
Kashima intervenes to reassure Taka that he'll grow taller, and as he grabs Kamitani's arm (much to his annoyance), Kashima mentions that Kamitani was taller than him, so he assures that Taka will be too. Kashima also comforts the rest of children. Following this, Kashima and Kamitani proceed to their own physical examination. During this time, Kamitani remarks on Kashima's frequent interaction with the children and how they stop crying in his presence. Ryuuichi denies this assertion, querying if he can't leave them when they're like that, to which Kamitani agrees, though he says that it was good to make them cry as they train their abdominal muscles. Kashima adds that these are times when he doesn't care about height much, but the feeling of being shorter than girls was familiar to him.
Kamitani chuckles at Kashima's lack of care of his height.
Kamitani is shown to notice this, and takes a closer look to Kashima, asking if he was that short, to which Kashima intervenes to explain that it was back in elementary school and he isn't that short now, although he's still unsure. As Kamitani begins chuckling, he mentions that surprisingly Kashima doesn't seem to care about that, and inquires if it wouldn't have been better if he followed Usokawa's advice. Kashima retorts that Kamitani shouldn't laugh at that kind of thing, but he honestly admits he felt that way.
Kamitani and Kashima walking in the daycare to be received by Kotaro showing a present for Kashima.
In chapter 120, Usaida encourages the kids at the daycare to prepare presents for their mothers in honor of the upcoming Mother's Day, which is scheduled for the following Sunday. Additionally, Taka and Kotaro are given the option by Usaida to create gifts for their respective brothers instead of their mothers. Upon the arrival of Kashima and Kamitani at the daycare, Kotaro eagerly presents a paper as a gift to Kashima, labeling it as a 'present', although Usaida playfully teases Kashima by referring to it as his Mother's Day gift, as they are celebrating 'Brothers Day' instead.
Kashima asks Kamitani if he would get a gift for Shizuka, but he denies.
Subsequently, Kashima thanks Kotaro for his present after hearing Usaida's statement. When Taka offers his present to Kamitani, the latter initially declines, causing Kashima to become alarmed, but eventually accepts it, finding that it is a rolled paper in the shape of a baseball. As the children share their Mother's Day presents with each other, Kashima expresses surprise at receiving a Mother's Day gift, a sentiment that Kamitani agrees with. Kashima then shifts the conversation to inquire whether Kamitani plans to give anything to Shizuka, to which Kamitani responds negatively but shares that his father used to give her flowers every year, recalling a moment when Hebihara instructed a young Hayato to write a letter for his mother and Hebihara had expressed dissatisfaction with the content.
Kamitani calls Kashima after considering Ryuuichi's idea too of making curry.
Furthermore, Kashima recounts his own experience of making curry with his father for his mother, and suggests making some for Saikawa too, although Kamitani tells him in awe to do what he wants. Later, after Kotaro presents gifts to Youko and Saikawa, Saikawa notifies Kashima about an incoming call on his phone, which turns out to be from Kamitani. Upon answering, Kamitani inquires about curry ingredients, likely inspired by Kashima's earlier suggestion. Following the Kamitani family's dinner, Shizuka expresses gratitude to both her sons for the gifts, and in a separate scene, Ryuuichi ponders whether Kamitani made the curry properly.
In chapter 121, Kirin becomes fascinated by the concept of marriage after looking a photo of her parents' wedding. Usaida humorously suggests finding a husband for Kirin, playfully proposing Ryuuichi as a candidate. Although Ryuuichi initially rejects the idea, he eventually pretends that he would marry Kirin due to his own insecurities. Satoru advises Kirin against choosing an indecisive man as her husband, suggesting that she should marry someone confident instead.
Kashima expresses his respect towards Kamitani's brave side.
When Kirin recalls Kashima's comment about being too old for her, she excitedly approaches Kotaro and asks him if he would like to marry her. Kotaro, being naive, agrees, but Taka steps in to intervene and takes Kotaro away, stating that they were going to play together. This causes a conflict between the two children as they vie for Kotaro's attention, until Kamitani interjects to reprimand Taka for treating Kotaro like an object. Upon noticing Taka's genuine desire to play with Kotaro, Kirin allows Taka be Kotaro's 'bride', even though Taka is unfamiliar with the term. Recalling her father's advice about finding someone reliable, Kirin then asks Hayato if he would marry her, but he bluntly rejects her, leading to Kirin crying and being comforted by Kashima, who expresses his respect at that side of Hayato.
Kamitani telling Taka to leave Kashima and Kotaro alone as he insisted to go to the Morinomiya's residence too.
In chapter 122, Kamitani is briefly shown carrying Taka in annoyance as his little brother threw a tantrum about wanting to go to the Morinomiya's residence with Usaida, Kashima, and Kotaro, much to Kashima's disconcert. Hayato tells Taka to leave them alone, as Usaida had been invited over due to his apartment being under construction because of a water pipe burst which affected the whole complex. The next day, after having breakfast prepared by Usaida, much to Kashima's surprise, Usaida, Kotaro, and Kashima leave the residence together.
Kashima informing Kamitani about his current impression of Usaida, although Hayato still perceives the pink-haired man a profiteer.
Ryuuichi narrates Hayato how Usaida was more capable than he had initially thought, as he had helped with multiple household tasks. Kamitani wonders about the person he was talking about and prevents him from finishing when Ryuuichi is about to mention the pink-haired man again, as Kamitani is stuck with the impression of Usaida being a 'lazy ass' and a scaredy cat who's only helping for show since he is at someone else's house. Much later, Kashima, Usaida and Kotaro are invited to have dessert, and after that, Kashima's room door is knocked to reveal Usaida carrying an asleep Kotaro, stating that the kid fell asleep after joining the bath while he was inside, and when he puts him to bed, he decides to follow him up too, asking if it was fine if he crashes right there, because he was too lazy to return to his room. Kashima then remembers Kamitani's comment about Usaida, and is led to inquiry him if he always pushes himself to act like that that often, but despite Usaida affirms that he's not usually considerate to others and didn't worry about people when he returns home, he didn't want to bother Kashima either, though he had fun being at the residence, as he felt really comfortable inside it.
Volume 23 (Chapters 123 — 127)[]
Kamitani leaving the study session with Usokawa to Kashima as he goes to the daycare instead, since Kashima needed to take a break from the kids.
In chapter 125, Kotaro develops a new addiction to counting after being read his new favorite picture book. This addiction unconsciously spreads to Kashima, who starts counting aloud during a math study session, drawing attention from Hayato, Usokawa, and Saginuma. Kashima quickly realizes and apologizes for his behavior, attributing it to the catchy studying methods of Kotaro. However, this prompts Usokawa to believe that a break from the children is necessary and urges Kashima to study with him. Kamitani then announces his departure, advising Kashima to take occasional breaks from the children, leaving Kashima puzzled. When Kashima expresses that Hayato is better at math than himself, Kamitani reveals that he simply cannot tolerate being with Usokawa. Upon Kamitani's return to the daycare, he finds an stiff Kotaro in front of him, engrossed in counting from one to three, and Usaida corrects him by pointing out that it was Hayato, not three.
Kamitani dealing with the kids while Kashima struggles studying with Usokawa.
Kamitani informs Usaida that Ryuuichi is taking a break to study with Usokawa, dispelling Usaida's concern that Kashima may be unwell. Usaida suspects that Ryuuichi is being pressured into studying, but Kamitani denies this, emphasizing that it's a better alternative than learning baby talk. Kamitani reassures Kotaro and pats his head, alleviating any worries about Kashima. When Kirin offers to feed Kamitani, he declines and firmly suggests she eat her own food, causing Kirin to cry and express that Ryuuichi would always give in. This makes Kamitani uncomfortable, and he pretends to eat a carrot toy to pacify Kirin's insistence. During the kids' break, Kotaro is unable to sleep and shows his picture book to Hayato, who understands his intention and decides to help him.
Kashima explains about feeling lonely seeing Kotaro grow up whenever he doesn't notice it.
Hayato then teaches Kotaro to count apples, incorporating Youko, Saikawa and Kashima into the activity to help Kotaro grasp the concept of counting properly. After successfully counting every apple, Kamitani praises Kotaro's achievement while smiling, and shortly after, Kashima apologizes to Kamitani for being late. Later, Kashima is shown that Kotaro has learned how to point and count each apple. Usaida informs Kashima that Hayato had taught Kotaro earlier. Much to his surprise, Kashima thanks Hayato while smiling in relief, which prompts Kamitani to ask him about his expression. Feeling timid, Kashima suddenly blushes and tries to explain himself, stating that Kotaro is growing in ways he didn't even notice. This makes him feel happy yet a bit lonely, much to Kamitani's confusion. Despite his embarrassment, Kashima hopes that Hayato could understand the feeling too, while still being grateful to Kamitani, which Hayato does. By the end of the chapter, Usokawa manages to pass his make-up exam with 40 points and thanks Kashima for his tutoring. Kashima humbly says that he tried his best, despite Hayato stating that Usokawa had barely passed.
Kashima – “Eh- Wha- Did you just point and count each one??”
Kotaro – “Uu~”
Usaida – “Hayato taught him just a while ago.”
Kashima – “! That's amazing Kotarou! Thank you Kamitani!”
—Kashima is impressed by Kotaro learning how to count, and being informed that it was Kamitani's doing, to which Kashima thanks Hayato, chapter 125.
Kamitani – “What's that face for?”
Kashima – “Eh? My face?! U-Umm- It's-It's just that...”
Kamitani – “It's just that...? What's with you today?”
Kashima – “Kotaro is growing in ways I don't even notice. You know... I feel so happy, but also a bit lonely...”
Kamitani – “Really you...”
Kashima – “Even I feel a bit embarrassed but you understand the feeling right?? However, I'm really happy! Thank you Kamitani!”
Kamitani – “Yeah I get it.”
— Kashima is questioned about his flustered expression, and he mentions about feeling lonely whenever Kotaro grows up without having Ryuuichi notice this progress, and hopes that Kamitani understands the feeling, which he does, chapter 125.
Volume 24 (Chapters 127.5 — 132.5)[]
Genderbent Kamitani and Kashima, alongside Taka and Kotaro.
Hayato advises "Ryuuko" to keep her guard up.
The special chapter 127.5 introduces a genderbend story (part of Usaida's dream), showing Kashima and Kamitani as girls while holding their sisters, who look up for him if Usaida was still asleep. The pink-haired man understands the he's inside a dream, and compliments the duo's appearances as he attempts to hold one of Hayato's hands, being slapped by her's, labelling it as sexual harrassment. However, Ryuuko intervenes to defend Usaida by stating that he didn't mean it in that way, but Hayato advises her to not space out and always keep her guard up.
Kashima is overwhelmed by Kamitani's grandparents' fast talking accent, and when he turns to him for an explanation, Kamitani is unsure too.
In chapter 128, the Kashima brothers and Kamitani family go on a field trip to visit the Kamitani grandparents, and it is revealed that Kashima and Kotaro were invited over.
Kamitani helping Kashima with his luggage.
Upon arrival, they are asked to pick up their luggage, and Kamitani hands Kashima his, for which Kashima expresses gratitude. When Kashima is introduced to Shizuka's parents and grandmother—Hayato and Taka's grandparents and great grandmother respectively—he feels troubled as they speak quickly with their distinctive accent. Turning to Kamitani for an explanation, he is dismissed, which fuels Kashima's anxiety as he questions if he should be aware of the way they talked too. As Kashima introduces himself to the family, Shizuka's grandmother offers the Kashima brothers a cymbal monkey figure, for which they express gratitude, while Kamitani looks on. Shizuka encourages Taka to accept a toy from his great-grandma, but he is hesitant due to shyness.
Kashima feeling embarrassed by showing off his childish side to Kamitani, but he remains unbothered.
Before Shizuka's parents could continue narrating Hayato's childhood, Kamitani suggests Kashima to retrieve their luggage. In their room, Kashima notices a mosquito net hanging from the roof, and is amazed, comparing it to a secret base to sleep in. Feeling embarrassed for showing his childish side, Kashima apologizes to Kamitani, who reassures him that it's nothing special. Ryuuichi wonders about the good things they'll see this year as mentioned by Shizuka, but Kamitani is unsure, mentioning only paddy fields in the area.
The Kamitani and Kashima brothers watching the fireflies flying over them.
They are later called to eat watermelons that the great grandmother had harvested. During the sunset, the older brothers sit at the edge of the kominka while their younger siblings sleep between them. Shizuka notices that Kotaro seems homesick, and Kashima reassures her that they have already informed the chairwoman and others through phone. Shizuka shares her story of moving from the fields to the city and recalls the sight of fireflies on summer nights. As Shizuka mentioned the fireflies, one floats around Kotaro, awakening him, and catching the attention of Kamitani and Kashima. Shizuka expresses her happiness at witnessing the fireflies after returning home, and Kashima agrees with her as they observe the insects flying around.
Kamitani and Kashima with their brothers inside a pool.
In the special chapter 128.5, the story depicts the daycare invited over for some swimming classes with Umi.
Kashima and Kamitani watching their brothers' progress on the water.
Kashima and Hayato are first shown inside the pool holding their brothers as they release them in order that they could float. Taka demonstrates his "fast" swimming, although Kamitani points out he hadn't moved much, and Kashima is a bit concerned that Kotaro was yet to move, although the boy is notably satisfied with only floating. By the end of the chapter, Inomata offers herself to give some swimming examples too based on the traditional swimming style, and Kashima is happy that Kotaro began to imitate her, while Hayato looks at Taka stating that he could also do it too.
In chapter 129, a thunderstorm looms over the daycare, prompting Kashima to keep the children indoors despite Taka and Takuma's protests. Ryuuichi reinforces the decision, and Usaida playfully warns the kids about the Kaminari-sama stealing their bellybuttons, a lie Kashima upholds to ensure compliance. A powerful lightning strike causes a blackout, startling everyone, but Kashima reassures the chairwoman with photos of the safe children. Once the power returns, Hebihara and Kamitani arrive at the daycare, surprising Ryuuichi while he asks the Chemistry teacher if he came to check on Taka and Kamitani, and learns that Hayato was practicing alone and was brought there.
Volume 25 (Chapters 133 — 139)[]
Kashima apologizing to Kamitani as he felt he had done something unnecessary while trying to encourage Taka into singing again, although Hayato replies that it didn't matter if he sings or not.
In chapter 133, Taka is discouraged by the fact he cannot sing well as he had lost his confidence when he heard his aunt, Shizuka, casually remarking his poor singing skills.
Kamitani and Kashima noticing that Ushimaru wants to help Kashima.
Kashima attempts to help him by practicing with him Justice Knight's theme song; however, this discourages Taka even more because Ryuuichi sang well and had attracted the other kids' cheers, much to his dejection. Kashima would later apologize to Kamitani while considering that he did something unnecessary, and now Taka was avoiding singing altogether, although Kamitani calls him stupid while he states it didn't matter whether he sings or not. Kashima mentions it would have been another story if Taka didn't like singing from the beginning, but they're interrupted by Ushimaru, who offers her help after "eavesdropping" their conversation.
Kashima asking Hayato in surprise if he wrote "his" own name with a heart, and Hayato denies.
In chapter 136, Kotaro discovers a lost eraser and Kashima plans to give it to Yukari upon their return, trusting her reliability as advised by Inui. However, when Taka remove its protector, they are surprised to find Kamitani's name written alongside a heart, which shocks Kashima as he believed the eraser didn't have a name.
Kamitani doesn't find reading the horoscope on others interesting.
Confronting Kamitani about it, Kashima queries if he had written his own name with that symbol, but Kamitani denies it. Inomata and Mika arrive, and Usaida teases the name on the eraser, leading to a flustered Mika trying to hide her connection to it but ultimately thanking the kids after retrieving it. Usaida explains that writing a crush's name on an eraser is considered a love charm, prompting Mika to intervene and seek Kashima's agreement, although he expresses understanding of relying on love charms and amulets without knowing their effectiveness. When Ryuuichi turns to Kamitani ask him if he was right, he's shocked to see him holding Takuma like a sack of potatoes, as he's unsure either, querying if isn't it okay to do what someone wants to.
Kamitani and Kashima's descriptions on the "horoscope".
Mika, whose expression gleams, queries if he wasn't against it, and he denies, explaining that there's nothing to be against at (much to Kashima's surprise). Mika, feeling reassured now, discusses horoscopes with the kids, and decides to go with Inomata first. When she reveals she's a capricorn, Mika describes her through the horoscope that she's an absolute embodiment of pure feminine beauty, making Inomata embarrassed after Ryuuichi summarizes that she's a hard worker. Kashima and Hayato's horoscopes are also discussed, with Mika assuming Ryuuichi's zodiac sign based on information from Inui. Kamitani is described as a 'cool, intelligent, and mysterious guy' due to his Scorpio sign, while Ryuuichi is portrayed as a 'reliable and wise king' with charisma as an absolute leader. Inomata questions why Hayato is referred to as 'sexy and mysterious', leaving Kashima in shock while Kamitani wasn't sure either.
Kamitani and Kashima on the daycare, finding Usaida inside a kotatsu.
In the special chapter 137.5, Kashima and Kamitani arrive together to the daycare only to find Usaida chilling in a kotatsu, much to Kashima's shock. When Usaida believes that Kashima didn't know about what a kotatsu was, Kamitani corrects him by interpreting Ryuuichi's question as to what was it doing there, as they've got no use for it. The pink-haired man explains that he took it as the janitor was about to throw it away, feeling like it would be a waste if he didn't keep it.
Kamitani and Kashima sitting together in the crowded kotatsu.
The kids are shown to be hiding under the kotatsu, while Kamitani and Kashima are trying to make space to fit in the table too, having Hayato telling the kids to scoot over. Kamitani is shown to be unfazed when he's being tickled at, and when Kashima is offered by Usaida a different seat, he monologues that he isn't that ticklish either but has to be careful. The caretakers would then relax on the space as they eat some mandarins, and Youko, alongside Saikawa, would join in later after Usaida playfully mentions that it was good Saikawa doesn't suit a kotatsu. The kotatsu would be later packed up, having Kashima and Kamitani sitting together in the end.
Kashima worrying about Kamitani when he stays at home to take care of an ill Taka, remembering the time when he was locked by Taka in the veranda.
In chapter 138, during winter vacation, Taka noticeably catches a cold when he wakes his older brother up to play. Shizuka considers taking him to a hospital while he is still feeling fine. Taka tries to hide from the suggestion, but Hayato advises him to get some rest if he doesn't like the idea. Shizuka comforts her younger son while suggesting that he should not go to the nursery today since she was going to work from home. Kamitani steps in to take care of Taka so that his mom could attend to her teacher duties at the school. Kashima is later informed about Taka's fever through a message and relays the information to Kotaro, who becomes worried about Taka but is comforted by Kashima.
Kashima and Usaida's messages.
Usaida arrives later and playfully mentions that it's uncommon for Taka to catch a cold, and infers that if Shizuka is in school, Hayato is nursing Taka, which makes Kashima realize this too. Kashima wonders if Kamitani is okay, as Usaida had suggested the idea that they were prone to fight during Taka's nursing, remembering when Hayato got locked by Taka in the veranda. After Shizuka arrives from work, she hands Taka a letter from the nursery, while Kamitani checks his phone and notices a message in which Kashima asks if Taka is fine, and Usaida shows a photo of a saddened Kotaro, making Kamitani comment that Kotaro doesn't seem happy because he can't play with Taka.
Kashima trying to dissuade Satoru from skipping his work while Kamitani is lost on what they're talking about.
In chapter 139, Kamitani arrives at the daycare with Taka while Satoru is experiencing an outrage, assuming someone had called his daughter Kirin not cute. Taka mentions the same statement, fueling Satoru's rage as Kashima tries to stop him while advising Taka to apologize to Kirin. Usaida intervenes to ask if Satoru doesn't have work, but he puts Kirin's emergency over his work.
Kashima is unable to refute Kamitani's argument, as he's right.
Kashima hurriedly understands where Satoru is coming from but advises him not to skip work. Kamitani, who arrived late to the mess, has no idea where Satoru's coming from and adds that it'd be normal to get annoyed when there was an older man taking pictures of them, alarming Ryuuichi. Ryuuichi tries to refute Kamitani's argument, although he can't deny it in his mind. Satoru leaves out of defeat due to Ryuuichi's attempt of defense being the last blow (according to Usaida). Kashima asks Kirin if she likes the pictures her papa takes, to which she affirms in excitement. Kashima then proposes her to tell Satoru that, and leaves Hayato in the care of the daycare.
Volume 26 (Chapters 140 — 142.5)[]
Kashima assuming that Kamitani wouldn't join the Tsuru My Dance practice.
Chapter 142 reveals Kotaro's dedication to Tsuru My Dance, despite Kashima's observation that he's not truly dancing. Youko expresses hope for Kotaro's improvement before the actual event. Saikawa explains that Tsurumai's program has requested Morinomiya Daycare to feature in the Tsuru My Dance segment, surprising Kashima.
Kashima requesting Kamitani to join the Tsuru My Dance performance.
Kashima is shocked to learn that all daycare members, including Kotaro and himself, are expected to perform the dance. Usaida is informed of the news and assumes that not only the kids but Hayato and Ryuuichi will be dancing too, although he humorously doubts Hayato's dancing abilities. Kashima anticipates Kamitani's refusal to participate, leaving only him and the kids, but Usaida mentions that he is also free to refuse, although he's ultimately persuaded by Kotaro. While the children start imitating the Tsuru My Dance music video, there's a part of the song which says, "I love papa, jump jump dance", which disheartens Taka, as he assumed he didn't have one, but Kashima reassures him that he could to the "I love Hayato-niichan jump jump dance" instead.
Kamitani smiling at Kashima.
Kirin suggests Inomata and Yuki join in, but Kashima is unsure as they are not official members, until Saikawa confirms that it won't impact the program. Later on, Kashima goes to request Kamitani to dance along, but Hayato is troubled by the fact that the babysitter club and the Tsurumai's crew are dancing together on the kids' show with a "lame name", to which Kashima affirms while informing that Usaida wouldn't dance because he's not a club member, so if Kamitani passed, it'd be just Kashima. Surprisingly, Kamitani accepts after seeing a trembling Taka because if it's for the club he wouldn't have refused in first place, but didn't feel like doing the dance with Usaida, much to Taka's delight. He's also disturbed by the dancing as the kids began to perform it and say some catchphrases, to which Kashima assumes that he can't refuse now.
Kamitani and Kashima shaping hearts.
The group, including Inomata, Ushimaru, and Hayato, practices for the Tsuru My Dance. Hayato is also shown practicing with Kashima (off-screen) as their brothers clung onto their legs. When it was finally time for the performance, before the show began, Tsurumai makes a question to Kotaro on who did he want to show his love to for the Tsuru My Dance, and he happily babbles his "nii-chan", leading to Kashima gaining smiles from Kamitani, Inomata and Ushimaru. During the dance, Kashima and Kamitani are shown back-to-back shaping hearts with their hands individually while Ushimaru and Inomata did it together, and during another segment of the performance, the four high schoolers bounce together.
Volume 27 (Chapters 143 — 143.5)[]
Kashima noticing Kamitani on the street after he hears Taka's crying.
Chapter 143 of the story begins with the Kashima brothers about to buy Ururun Panda-chan series' draw, only to find that all the merchandise has been sold out, much to Kotaro's disappointment. Kashima apologizes to Kotaro, explaining that the draw had already ended, and despite the store attendant's attempt to suggest the Rangers draw as an alternative, it wasn't the same as Panda's, leading to further apologies from Kashima to the attendant before they leave the store.
Kamitani is astounded by Kashima's worked-up explanation.
Meanwhile, in Kamitani's household, Taka surprises Shizuka by finishing his vegetables quickly, assuming it was because he wanted to go for the Rangers draw. When Hayato initially refuses to go with Taka, Shizuka persuades him as she was going to be in charge of the laundry and gives him two 1000 yen bills. Kamitani then advises his brother not to whine in case he got anything he didn't like. Just like the Kashima brothers, they find that the Rangers draw has also sold out, leaving Taka in tears and Hayato wondering if there's anywhere the draw isn't sold out. Kashima notices Taka's crying as he was near the zone and calls for Hayato, heading to the brothers. When he's informed about the draw, Kashima intensifies when he remembers a Rangers draw in a convenience store near the school, despite uncertainty about its availability.
Kashima warning Taka from afar.
After seeing Kotaro comforting Taka, Hayato expresses gratitude to Kashima before they rush to the convenience store, while Kashima warns Taka not to dash in front of the employee and Hayato assures from afar that he wouldn't, while he hurriedly says his goodbye. The brothers manage to get draws from their respective series: the Kashima brothers win a Panda-chan cushion, while Taka obtains Red and Black Rangers.
Moments[]
Manga — Removed crumbs from anime[]
In chapter 4, as Ryuuichi and the kids are planning on the roles for Momotarou's play, Ryuuichi includes a "bear" amongst Momotarou's companions, despite the tale doesn't have one, to which Kamitani, who just arrived to the daycare, queries if there was a bear in Momotarou, making Ryuuichi notice him.
Kashima reading Momotaro.
Hayato then remembers someone similar, and Kashima assumes he was referring to Kintarou, another legendary hero outside Momotarou's Tale. Kashima would then ask Hayato why was he here if he had club activities, but Hayato replies that they have the day off. Kamitani would then help Ryuuichi in the play by participating in some roles and scenes.
Some panels later, after the play is done, Ryuuichi nervously reads aloud an invitation to Momotarou's play in the middle of class, prompting to Kamitani and the rest of his classmates stare at him. Later, on the day of the play, Kamitani and Kashima are seen sitting next to each other between the public.
Kashima and Kamitani as the hunter and wolf respectively.
In the Little Red Riding Hood bonus (chapter 5.5), Ryuuichi and Kamitani are seen together disguised as the wolf and hunter respectively while hiding behind some trees, with Ryuuichi complimenting his little's brother performance as the Riding Hood despite the story's message of being aware of the dangers around, calling him "admirable" while Hayato asks if setting a good example was good enough. They're later sitting close to each other while eating onigiris that Kotaro shared to everyone.
After the events of the egg-hatching, in chapter 10, Kashima holds a crying Taka when he's hit again by Hayato after the boy attacked Takuma because he was imitating his brother, having Kashima complain that Kamitani had to cut it out too since he scared Takuma too, although Hayato replies that he never hit him. Ryuuichi begins to notice that Takuma was indeed mimicking Kamitani in every gest possible, and monologues that everyone has gotten attached to Kamitani after he saved their current pet chicken from the cat before, but since then Takuma began to mimic him, which is why he had also developed a distance from his brother Kazuma. When Takuma declares he would play with Kamitani instead of looking a picture book with Ryuuichi, Kazuma and the other kids, Kashima realizes he had to do something before things went through a bad turn, so he decides to join Kamitani too, making the baseball player inquire if he wasn't going to read the kids a picture book, but Kashima promises them that he would afterwards.
Kashima is reassured that Kamitani won't quit the daycare club.
However, Kamitani uses the brothers as lift as he begins doing squats with them under his armpits, prompting Ryuuichi to freak out and tell him to stop because Kazuma was crying already. Hayato is left confused on what did Ryuuichi actually want him to exactly do, and although Ryuuichi apologizes instead, the damage was done: the kids were already imitating Hayato. Ryuuichi still begins to notice that, from Kazuma's point of view, Takuma was being stolen by Kamitani, as he caresses Kazuma's head. Kamitani notices this, and later he heads to the baseball club after class, leaving Taka on Kashima's care. As he exits, Kashima assumes that he was holding back from Kazuma and was not coming, so he asks Kamitani if he will come tomorrow. He understands, though, that the baseball club would keep Kamitani busy, but thinks that Kazuma will grow used to him the more he came; Kamitani, however, doesn't change his schedule and reassures that he wouldn't quit just because a kid cried at him, calling Kashima an idiot because he was overthinking it. Ryuuichi is moved to this, but assumes he's not as bad as Inomata, to which Kamitani complies. When Ryuuichi willingly goes to get toys for the kids for their walk, he ponders that he was really worrying too much like Kamitani said and is hopeful that Kazuma will be used being around Kamitani.
Kashima stops Kamitani.
His thoughts become a reality when Kousuke visits the daycare to narrate Ryuuichi that his sons were excitedly commenting about Hayato, after all, Takuma wanted to become the person that Kazuma likes. However, prior to the walk, Kazuma loses his toy after tripping, but Takuma manages to find it——the problem was that it was stolen by the same cat, so when Takuma chases after it to recover the toy, the cat begins to run too. Kamitani is about to intervene to take the toy, but Kashima stops him by grabbing Kamitani's arm, surprising the guy. Kamitani asks whether it's okay to leave Takuma chasing the animal, but Ryuuichi is unsure, much to Hayato's bewilderment. However, Kashima had only stopped him because he saw through Takuma's intentions and motive to help his brother.
Both are shown wearing baseball attires while depicted together alongside their brothers on chapter 13's cover, titled "Baseball Boy x Baby = Ultimate team!?".
Kashima and Kamitani sitting together during the snow trip.
In chapter 18, during a scholar ski-ing bus trip, Kashima and Kamitani are shown sitting together while carrying the kids as Kashima attempts to tell them to sit down properly. When Ryuuichi asks for an asleep Usaida's help, Kamitani uses his usual violence to wake him up and hits the other kids' heads so they could behave, making Kashina claim. Later, when Kashima helps Kotaro tugging the sled to him, Kamitani notices a mysterious kid behind Kashima, and is shocked when said child turns around. After Usaida and the rest of toddlers fall asleep, Usokawa points out that he saw a child in the olden days, but while some classmates don't believe him, Kamitani also notes about seeing the child too, and he didn't know why he was always clinging onto Kashima, surprising this latter, who thinks that the kids from the daycare should have gathered, and didn't notice at all.
In chapter 25 of the manga, Usaida tells the kids that he wouldn't chase after Kashima and Hayato, adding, "More like, they're all 'lovey-dovey'".
In chapter 27, when Ryuuichi queries Hayato about what'd he think Usaida'd want to do instead of babysitting, Hayato boldly replies, "Sleep. Can't you see? (If it's not for this job, he'd definitely be sleeping)".
By the end of this chapter, a fan art of Hayato and Ryuuichi is shown with a message of hiring a new proofreader, and looking for people that own volume 16.
Post-Anime[]
Kashima and Kamitani are placed 4th.
By the end of chapter 50, there's a relationship popularity poll in which Kamitani and Kashima are placed 4th, with a comment that is translated to that the general media likes to think that the duo with opposite personalities became friends because of a common trait: taking care of their younger brothers.
In chapter 59, Inui Mika is seen holding a photo of Hayato with Kashima on the background.
Hayaryuu's profiles.
In the volume 11 extra (chapter 62.5), Kashima and Kamitani's profiles are revealed on the first bonus page. Kashima is depicted as shorter than Kamitani, and as he measures himself, he finds impossible to surpass Hayato on height.
Kamitani dragging Kashima to the bus in the chapter 63.
In chapter 64, Kashima monologues about Hayato not being a sweet-tooth person unlike his father Hebihara, contrasting Taka's love for sweets.
Kamitani rolling Kashima's sleeve in chapter 73.
In another moment of the same chapter, Kashima tries to interpret Kotaro's words as he asks what was it he didn't like, and mistakenly thinks that he disliked Obaa-san doing breakstrokes (much to the kid's shock), to which Hayato states, "Definitely not that."
In chapter 81, Kashima and Kamitani teach Taka and Kotaro respectively how to hold chopsticks properly.
Kashima pulling Hayato's shirt after Kamitani included Ryuuichi amongst the people he likes in chapter 85.
Sitting together.
In chapter 87, they are shown sitting together during the ride back home.
In chapter 90's cover, Kamitani and Kashima are depicted together alongside Ushimaru and Inomata close to each other while holding their brothers.
Kashima pulling Kamitani's arm in chapter 97.
Kashima playing claw machine while struggling to obtain a plushie of Nyanko-sensei as Kamitani watches by the end of chapter 107.5.
In chapter 123.5, as Kotaro and Taka await to be picked up from Hebihara's chemistry prep room, Taka points the teacher some documents on the desk, asking about them. Hebihara explains that these are the students' reports, briefly mentioning that Hayato and Ryuuichi's were also there.
In chapter 125, Usokawa calls Ryuuichi "lewd" after he is caught staring at his female classmates having a conversation, to which Kamitani refutes Usokawa by saying that he's literally the last person who should say that.
In chapter 143's cover, Kamitani and Kashima are shown resting on the floor next to each other while carrying Taka and Kotaro respectively.
Quotes[]
“I really like the team I am right now. Also you, and the little brats at the Babysitting Club. Besides, Taka's too spoiled. I can't leave you and the old hag and go somewhere else.”
— Hayato to Kashima in chapter 85.
“If you ever dare to hit [Kashima] when you talk to them, i'll send you flying to the sky.”
— Hayato to Inui in chapter 43.
Fanon[]
Hayaryuu is the most popular ship on the fandom, and on AO3, it's the most written ship in the School Babysitters fandom as well the most written ship for both characters. This is likely due to their close friendship throughout the anime and the manga, and also due to the Opposites Attract trope included within both characters, in which despite their differences, it was not an impediment to bond through their babysitting duties and at the same time having their friendship flourishing. Fans perceive Hayaryuu as a compelling relationship built on mutual trust, complementary personalities, and subtle yet meaningful moments of care, often amplified by the series' heartwarming tone.
Fans often joke about Kotaro being the wingman of the ship, as he has had several moments that brought Kashima and Kamitani closer. The Festival scene is considered fuel for the ship, with some interpreting the episode as a 'double date' with their brothers. Usaida is also seen as a supporter (aka. Shipper on Deck) of the ship, as there are implications that he might also ship them due to instances where he almost did the same things as Kotaro. While no explicit confirmation exists of any canonical supporter of the ship in-universe, aside from several implications from the previous mentioned Usaida and (unconsciously) Kotaro, fans overwhelmingly embrace Hayaryuu as the fandom's cornerstone ship, with many cheering the emotional depth and chemistry between Hayato and Ryuuichi, often citing their complementary personalities and tender moments as evidence of a bond that feels undeniably romantic for many.
This ship can be shipped alongside with Inomata/Ushimaru and Saikawa/Usaida. Thus, like with every ship, Hayaryuu has a rival too: InuRyuu which, while not extremely popular, is well-known in the fandom due to interactions shown not only in the anime but also in the manga, although it still remains overshadowed. It's considered a Semi-Canon pairing too, with fans noticing Inui's crush on Kashima. There are also fans who ship Kashima with both Inui and Kamitani, making it a polyship. Although, it has extra rival pairings which tend to collide with Hayaryuu because of its canonicity besides Inui/Ryuuichi: on Ryuuichi's side, Inomata/Ryuuichi and Ryuuichi/Ushimaru, Kashima's two popular ship choices which as of now remain as one-sided; whereas in Kamitani's side its own notable rival based on canon status is Hayato/Mika, but unlike the rest of the pairings mentioned earlier, this has less popularity due to its age-gap controversy (a middle schooler and a high schooler) and their little interaction in the manga.
Both are referenced as mother and father in different chapters. While Kashima is jokingly called a "mother" during the Mother's Day (chapter 120), Kirin would later set Kamitani as the father during one of her playing house sections in chapter 125.
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