irie naoki

Birthday: November 12 The male protagonist of the series. He lacked a clear life goal, attributing it to his exceptional intelligence that made conventional aspirations seem trivial. Widely regarded as cold and detached, he is celebrated as the smartest individual in Japan with an IQ of 200, consistently topping all exams. Beyond academics, he excels as a skilled cook and an outstanding tennis player. He eventually becomes Kotoko's husband. Inspired by Kotoko's encouragement and guidance, he sets his sights on becoming a doctor. In volume 7, while Kotoko was napping under a tree, Naoki kissed her—a moment witnessed by Yuuki, who then understood Naoki's deep affection for Kotoko. In volume 10, during a tennis practice session, Naoki learned from Zinko and Satomi that Kinnosuke had proposed to Kotoko and she was planning to give her answer that day. Distraught, he waited for her in the rain. They engaged in an intense and emotional conversation (primarily driven by Kotoko; Naoki remained outwardly calm) where he firmly told Kotoko not to love anyone but him. He then rushed home with her and, to everyone's surprise, asked her father for her hand in marriage. That night, when Kotoko questioned his certainty, he reassured her of his genuine desire to marry her. In volume 19, during their wedding, while having a heartfelt discussion with Kotoko's father, Naoki confessed that Kotoko has no idea how much he loves her.