Emotional Finale Nears for Junko Ike's Hit Manga 'Together Forever'

The critically acclaimed josei manga Together Forever (Suenagaku Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu) by celebrated artist and writer Junko Ike is approaching its conclusion. Fans learned of the impending finale, with only two chapters remaining, through an official announcement in the September 2025 issue of Hakusensha's prestigious LaLa magazine. This highly anticipated end marks a significant moment for a series that has deeply resonated with its audience since its compelling debut in March 2020.

The Heart of Together Forever

At its core, Together Forever masterfully explores themes of love and familial bonds. The narrative unfolds through the intricate relationship between Takatsukasa Hikaru and Kuzukiri Kiyomizu. Following her father's sudden passing, Hikaru is adopted by her cousin, Kiyomizu, setting the stage for a story rich in emotional complexity. Despite Hikaru's profound and unwavering love for Kiyomizu, his initial reluctance and struggle to reciprocate her deep feelings create a poignant and realistic dynamic. This delicate balance of budding romance and genuine personal growth has captivated readers, establishing the manga as a standout in its genre for its authentic portrayal of human connection and emotional vulnerability.

A Legacy of Emotional Storytelling

Together Forever has consistently maintained its popularity throughout its impressive run, culminating in 14 compiled volumes, with the most recent installment released on July 4, 2025. Junko Ike's signature delicate artwork, combined with her innate ability to craft compelling and heartfelt stories, has garnered widespread critical acclaim. Her talent for weaving nuanced emotional tapestries is also evident in her previous beloved works, including Mizutama Honey Boy and Sangatsu no Hekireki, further cementing her reputation as a master storyteller.

For its growing international readership, the touching story of Hikaru and Kiyomizu is readily accessible through Comikey, which provides the official English-language version.

As the series approaches its definitive end, anticipation among its dedicated fanbase is reaching a fever pitch. Readers worldwide are eagerly awaiting Junko Ike's final artistic and narrative strokes, eager to witness how she will elegantly resolve Hikaru and Kiyomizu’s intertwined fates. This closure is more than just the end of a popular manga; it underscores the enduring impact of Together Forever as a series that has profoundly enriched the josei and romance genres, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of its audience and reinforcing the power of nuanced emotional narratives in contemporary manga.