JustALEX said:
It used to be Hinagiku, then it was A-tan, now it's Ruka......the end result will be the same, Hayate will continue to be surrounded by girls but only in a Platonic relationship.
But unlike other harem manga, there's a damn good reason for Hayate not to get involved with the girls. His personality and experiences. Hayate has a strong sense of justice and responsibility, so he just can't imagine leaving Nagi after what she did for him. Also remember his childhood.
Now, I'm probably giving it too much thought for a comedy manga, but I actually believe Hayate is unable to get close to one person because he's desperate for everybody to like him. He was betrayed by his parents countless times, his brother was never there and even A-tan freaked out and chased him out of the castle. Hayate never learned how to receive people's affection, he can only give and give and give desperately, until... Well this story could be an epic psychological drama/tragedy piece. Not that I don't love the comedy. Just saying.
And by the way, the chapter was great fun.