why is BL this way

That was an unexpected marriage. I thought, it will definitely be Ryouma and Izumi tying the knot, but yea, not that Rei and Shougo's relationship is out of the blue though, because we were there to witness their relationship grow deep—or nah, 'twas the gods, granting Shougo's wish. Kidding!

Throughout the whole series, we get to see Ryouma get smitten with Izumi's cute form. Going far as to removing his glasses to see his feminine eyes, and handing him only female costumes to fit when they were shopping. Unconsciously, Ryouma only accepted the parts of Izumi that can pass as female, even though, repeatedly he's claiming he takes Izumi for who he is; man, with a hanging male part. And Izumi failed to notice it too because they're both ignorant and new to relationships. In the end, it was still the Ryouma from before who is obsessed over the idea of the girl Izumi. This is why I was worried that Ryouma's aversion to being a bottom will not be resolved and might only serve as humor (which is pretty bad, if that's the case.)

But, the main theme for the final volume is fulfilling and satisfying indeed. I loved how Eiki closed the curtain for the Love Stage series. This volume tackled Ryouma's real feelings for Izumi after seeing the bigger picture when Izumi temporarily lived in his place; Marriage to potential anti-fans, stardom downfall, and of course the fact that if they live together forever, one way or another he has to bottom for Izumi.

What does marriage mean? What is love, really? And after all the hiding and cowering, his answer is still the same: Izumi.

The reverse chapter is mostly funny and gratifying. It was not that common moment in most bl manga. And I loved how it discussed the acceptance of masculinity of both parties in a homosexual (male) relationship, and I couldn't agree more. Position isn't a role you have to fulfill when making love. It is only a matter of preference that can be switched every time you engage in such situations.

Also, yes, the kidnapping incident is really maddening. And Ryouma couldn't have been more self-centered when he up and left Izumi because he doesn't want to bottom—WHEN THERE IS A CERTAIN STALKER LURKING AROUND. I was hurt and confused. But it sure let us in on the sad and depressing reality of showbiz and sexual harassment. How the exploiters can always get away without having their image ruined.

So, it could have been five stars for me because I enjoyed the main idea of the final chapter—but that was really a jerk move. Although, the realization (of him being such a jerk and how it was really Izumi who accepted him for who he is) was really good that if Eiki Eiki published that few panels as a standalone (lol) it will be as sure 5 stars for me. This is why your bro Kuroi is goat. He was also the one who made Izumi realize his masculinity side in their relationship.

So, this final volume? 4.5 stars.

After finishing the final volume, I'm a bit underwhelmed. The ending seemed rush, the stalkers getting away with a slap on the wrist for sexual assault, the warning for the "switch/reverse" scene was over the top, plus a myriad of other typical BL tropes. Overall it was mostly funny and light-hearted, and I do realize it is an "older" (it's not really) manga that may not be as progressive as one would hope...but still. It was enjoyable to read once through, but I'm happy I checked the series out from my library.

Yay, what a good ending!