Blue Box Episode 2: Taiki Aims for National Championships While Living with Chinatsu

In the second episode of *Blue Box*, which premiered on October 10, 2024, Taiki’s routine gets a thrilling shake-up when Chinatsu, the object of his secret affection, moves into his home.

This unexpected development brings about a mix of tension and excitement for Taiki, who finds it challenging to juggle his feelings for Chinatsu alongside his personal aspirations.

With a backdrop of misunderstandings, emerging emotions, and rigorous training, the episode delves into Taiki’s unwavering commitment to both his sport and his burgeoning bond with Chinatsu.

Blue Box Episode 2: The Awkwardness of Living with Chinatsu

Chinatsu Kano featured in the Blue Box anime series (Image via TMS Entertainment)

In this episode, Taiki finds his surroundings transformed when Chinatsu becomes his housemate, leading him to navigate the strange circumstances of sharing daily life with his crush. He experiences a whirlwind of awkward encounters and internal battles, as he becomes hyper-aware of Chinatsu’s every action.

When she comments on the bathroom being available, she spots his copy of *Shonen Jump*, which he shyly hands over to her. Chinatsu expresses her relief in having someone familiar around, as the anxiety of living with new people weighs heavily on her. Thrilled by her presence yet wracked with guilt, Taiki struggles to prioritize her feelings alongside his admiration for her beauty.

Inumata Taiki Hina depicted in the Blue Box anime series (Image via TMS Entertainment)

During badminton practice, Taiki exhibits an unusually high level of energy, which does not go unnoticed by his friend Kyo. While Kyo congratulates him on his exciting living conditions, he cautions Taiki to keep it a secret, acknowledging that Chinatsu has various admirers who might react jealously if they discover their new arrangement.

Kyo light-heartedly suggests that living with his crush might enhance Taiki’s chances of dating her, but Taiki remains determined not to lose focus. Recognizing Chinatsu’s bold decision to leave her family behind in order to pursue basketball, Taiki resolves to avoid being a distraction and instead sets an ambitious target of reaching the national level despite the challenges he faces as a freshman.

Chinatsu ties a ribbon on Taiki's ankle (Image via TMS Entertainment) — Chinatsu ties a ribbon on Taiki’s ankle (Image via TMS Entertainment)

At home, Taiki is seen working on his physical fitness while reviewing a video of his recent badminton match. Chinatsu enters and expresses interest in watching it, leaving him taken aback when she casually mentions witnessing his play at the gym. When Taiki reluctantly lets her view the footage, she praises his skills, further igniting his interest in her.

Moved by his dedication, Chinatsu gifts Taiki a “wish ribbon,”a meaningful charm she created for herself as motivation to reach nationals. Appreciating her thoughtful present, Taiki has her assist in tying it on, acknowledging their shared ambition. After her departure, his feelings for her deepen further.

Blue Box Episode 2: Taiki Complicates Matters, Leading to Chinatsu’s Strange Behavior

Hina featured in the Blue Box anime series (Image via TMS Entertainment)

The next morning, as Taiki gets ready to head to practice during spring break, Chinatsu remarks on his early start. He explains that as the least experienced member of the badminton team, he has a lot of work to do, and with that, he sets off, committed to improvement.

At practice, Hina observes Taiki’s unusual enthusiasm and presses him about any recent changes, but he skirts the issue, wary of his living arrangement with Chinatsu getting out. A potential leak from Hina could create unnecessary complications.

A scene from the Blue Box anime series (Image via TMS Entertainment)

Later, an awkward moment transpires at school when Chinatsu returns Taiki’s wallet. As he behaves rather strangely, he inadvertently complicates their relationship. Kyo encourages Taiki to resolve matters with Chinatsu to avoid any feelings of shame regarding their living arrangements, but Taiki’s own shyness keeps him from doing so.

In an opportune moment when both of them are filling water bottles, they clear the air. Taiki acknowledges that his avoidance was due to fear of rumors, not embarrassment regarding her. Chinatsu, relieved, reveals she thought he might have had feelings for Hina. With this misunderstanding resolved, they share a joyful encounter, although their exchange does not go unnoticed, as Hina observes them together.

Blue Box Episode 2: Taiki’s Shock at Seeing Haryu with Chinatsu

Hina showing her support for Taiki (Image via TMS Entertainment)

As the badminton coach announces the internal matches to determine who will represent the team at nationals, the pressure intensifies for Taiki. He is resolved to succeed, understanding that to earn a spot, he must outperform his senior, Haryu, who finished third in the prefecture last year. In a surprising twist, just as Taiki walks home with Hina, he spots Haryu alongside Chinatsu, leaving him bewildered about what will come next.

Conclusion

Haryu and Chinatsu featured in the Blue Box anime series (Image via TMS Entertainment)

This episode illustrates Taiki’s personal development as he navigates his emerging feelings for Chinatsu while pursuing his sporting ambitions, all within the complex social setting of cohabiting with his crush. The upcoming episode, scheduled for release on October 17, 2024, promises to reveal what lies ahead for Taiki and Chinatsu.

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