English Dub Review: The Dreaming Boy Is a Realist “You Smell Like Sweat… You Must’ve Worked Hard”

Overview (Spoilers Below):
For the first time in a while, Aika and Wataru spend some time alone together. Aika works up the courage and offers Wataru a proposal.

Our Take:
Following an eventful summer break, Wataru and Aika have unexpectedly reunited during their preparation for the school tour. This series had taken a surprisingly different direction for Wataru in the second half, mainly to avoid being repetitive in its concept of Wataru avoiding Aika. But now it looks like it’s returning to where it all began after Wataru gave Aika some much-needed personal space. Maybe things might change for the better after giving themselves time to ponder their friendship. Considering that we’re nearing the end of the season, it’s a possibility.
However, the things standing in their way are their awkwardness and many other embarrassments during the school tour. That includes Aika making a discomforting compliment about Wataru working out, even though he only lifted the trash can before they bumped into each other. Despite that, Wataru and Aika spent time together, talking about Wataru’s part-time job and him helping Mina conquer her anxiety. Of course, Kei arrives in time to be the third wheel of the conversation.
Following that, the episode’s second half mainly focuses on the school tour, with Aika and Taakaki leading one of the middle school groups, one of which includes Fuka. With Fuka and Aika in the same area together, it’s unsurprising that it would be a disaster for Wataru, especially when Fuka made a fool of themselves in front of Aika. Her affection toward Wataru in front of her classmates makes me wonder if she took something before the tour. Besides that, the best part of the sequence is Aika defending Rena from the middle school bullies and setting them straight. It’s another moment in the series showcasing that Aika doesn’t take crap from perverts, especially ones from middle school.
Fortunately, despite the awkward misfortunes, Wataru and Aika seemed more confident in being together, but I wouldn’t be quick to call it official. The reason is that Aika asks Wataru to hang out with her and Kai more often, especially at her house. The penultimate episode sets the stage for the “will they, won’t they” scenario in next week’s season finale, which is expected regarding the rom-com genre. It even has some amusing moments to keep me engaged in its genre tropes, including Aika standing up to the bullies, which is enough to see how the season will conclude.