It's All in the Mind

The anthology opens with the title story of Kishida, who finds himself shouting, "I am not gay!" to Hino. Hino, freshly broken up with his boyfriend, attempted to pick up Kishida at a gay bar. In truth, Kishida was only there out of genuine concern for his high school nephew, whom he suspected might be involved with another boy and needed a supportive, approachable uncle. Intrigued by the earnest and innocent Kishida, Hino seizes the opportunity to pursue him, sparking an unexpected dynamic. This volume further expands on romance and complex desires through several distinct short stories. Akio and Yoshinari's evolving relationship is explored across sequential chapters detailing the nuances of jealousy and demanding affection. Other tales delve into intimate psychological territory, including a class president harboring secret desires, a striking encounter involving a pain fetish between Akira and Minami, a brief two-page vignette centered on glasses and kissing, and the emotional journey of young Jamie. Jamie struggles to adjust to life in a new town alongside his mother's much older husband until a charming blond named Ernest helps him navigate the unpredictable nature of love.