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"I don't want to be protected. If you protect me, we won't be equals, will we? I don't like that. It might not make me lovable, but that's the only kind of relationship I want."
—Tsukushi to Tsukasa[src]

Tsukushi Makino (牧野 つくし (まきの つくし) Makino Tsukushi) was a student at Eitoku Academy. She was the daughter of Chieko and Haruo, and the older sister of Susumu. During high school, Tsukushi met F4 leader, Tsukasa Domyoji, whom she hated at first. They later became friends and eventually entered into a romantic relationship.

Biography[]

Early life[]

Young-Tsukushi

Tsukushi during elementary school

"She was always happy and popular, and nice to everybody! She always had friends around her. At snack time, when I couldn't finish my milk and I thought the teacher was going to yell at me, she'd drink it up for me, even if it meant a tummy-ache later."
Kazuya describes Tsukushi during primary school[src]

Tsukushi was born on December 28[5] to middle class parents, Haruo and Chieko. Her parents named her after a weed, because "it always grows back stronger than ever." She became an older sister when her brother Susumu was born about two years later.[14] During their childhood, the siblings did not have many toys due to their family finances. Her mother had Tsukushi play outside instead in order to save money.[15] In elementary school, Tsukushi gained popularity through her upbeat and nice personality.[16] She became friends with Kazuya Aoike during elementary school, thought they lost contact after graduation.[17]

During middle school, Tsukushi's popularity continued and she became a class officer. She met her best friend, Yuki Matsuoka, during this time.[18][10] Tsukushi always felt the need to protect her friends, including Yuki and Hiromi.[19] Likely near the end of middle school, her friend, Shingo Oribe, confessed his romantic feelings towards her. She meant to reply before graduation but never did since she valued his friendship "so much."[20] Tsukushi spent much her final year studying for the entrance exam to Eitoku Academy.[21] She was forced to do so by her mother, despite her wanting to go to the public high school instead. Nevertheless, she was hopeful at the time that she would be able to make new friends.[22][23]

High school[]

At Eitoku, Tsukushi soon realized that she was unable to relate to her classmates since they only spoke of "boys, money, and fashion." She became disgusted with the school after witnessing the F4's bullying. Tsukushi, in particular, thought of their leader Tsukasa Domyoji as "scary." She accidentally ended up with a photo of him, which she stuck in book and forgot about.[23] By her second year, her plan to go "quiet and unnoticed," while counting down the days to graduation, was going well. She had also made a friend, Makiko Endo, of a similar background, and worked part-time at Sengoku Sweets with Yuki.[18]

Meeting the F4[]

Tsukushi-stands-up-F4

Tsukushi stands up to the F4

"I'm not letting you get away with this anymore! This is my declaration of war!"
—Tsukushi refuses to back down to the F4[src]

By her second year, Tsukushi was extremely downhearted about her life at Eitoku. She was disappointed with her own cowardice, though she also felt she had no power to fight the F4. Tsukushi talked about it with Yuki, who remarked how she had changed from someone who was "always ready to jump in and help." Later, she and Makiko were walking together when the latter slipped down a flight of stairs. She landed on Tsukasa, who refused to forgive Makiko's mistake. Tsukushi yelled at Tsukasa, insulting him by saying "You've never had to work for anything you've got! So shut your beaks!" His ire was redirected to Tsukushi. The next day, she received the F4's red card, a "declaration of war", in her locker. Instead of leaving school, Tsukushi decided to fight back against the F4 and declared her own war on them.[18]

The following day, Makiko started avoiding Tsukushi when their classmates began to bully her. Frustrated, she ran to an emergency stairwell where she spoke to Rui Hanazawa for the first time. He acted cold towards her, saying "I'm not interested in other people's problems." Later, four students tried to assault Tsukushi. Rui happened to walk by and ordered them to stop. Tsukushi thanked him, to which he replied "I just don't like this kind of stuff."[14] The next day, Tsukushi was prepared to fight against the bullies, blocking all of their tricks. She then confronted Tsukasa about the assault by kicking him in the face, telling him "You call yourself a man?!" She promptly fled the scene. Later, Tsukushi thanked Rui again for his help. He responded with harsh words, though she strangely did not feel angry.[24]

On her way to school, Tsukushi was kidnapped Tsukasa, who brought her to his home. There he had his servants give her a makeover, which Tsukushi did not resist. Afterwards, Tsukasa made her an offer to "let [her] hang around him." Tsukushi felt insulted and rejected him, saying "I'm not for sale." Outside, she met Rui and asked him "Is there anything money can't buy?" He answered "air" though she considered his smile the real answer.[25] The next day, a rumor about Tsukushi was written on her classroom's blackboard. She confronted Tsukasa, thinking he was the culprit. Upon returning to her classroom, she found Yuriko Asai, Minako Yamano, and Erika Ayuhara wiping away the words. They acted friendly and invited her to a party. Tsukushi was hesitant to accept at first, but decided to go after speaking to Yuki.[26]

Shizuka's return[]

Shizuka-and-Rui

Tsukushi watches Shizuka greet Rui with a kiss

Tsukushi: "I just wanted to thank you... You and Tsukasa had a falling out because–"
Rui: "Not your fault. It's been brewing."
Tsukushi: "But why–? N-Nevermind, It's nothing."
— Tsukushi stops herself from asking why Rui saved her[src]

At the party, Yuriko and her friends humiliated Tsukushi and revealed that they started the rumor. She got back at them by exposing them as gold diggers to the entire party. The following day, Tsukushi visited Rui at the emergency stairwell. Later, Yuriko and her friends confronted Tsukushi. They told her about Shizuka Todo, whom Rui was in love with.[27] Tsukasa arrived and, seeing Tsukushi in distress, forced them to leave her alone. She refused his help and pushed him away. Shortly later, she joined F4's Akira Mimasaka and Sojiro Nishikado for lunch. They told her a story about Rui and Shizuka from their childhood. That night, Tsukushi saw Rui kissing a poster of Shizuka. He mockingly asked her if she was in love with him and then kissed her cheek. Tsukushi watched Rui and Shizuka greet each other the next day.[28]

After seeing Shizuka in person, Tsukushi made the decision to avoid the F4. The next day, she was greeted by Kazuya, whom had just transferred to Eitoku. Tsukushi was happy to see her old friend, though she became afraid that the F4 would target him next. Her fears were proved true when Kazuya found a red card in his locker.[17] Tsukushi confronted Tsukasa about his reasons for going after Kazuya. Argued back and forth for several minutes, until he slapped her. She punched him in retaliation, before leaving when she heard Kazuya yelling for help. Tsukushi fended off the bullies, allowing her and Kazuya to escape briefly. The two ended up being chased into the university's cafeteria, where the F4 and Shizuka were eating lunch. Rui picked Tsukushi up and yelled at the others to stop, calling them "animals."[29]

Angry at Rui, Tsukasa cut off their friendship before storming off. Shizuka brought Tsukushi to the girls' room to help her clean up. She was enamored by Shizuka due to her kindness and beauty. Later, Tsukushi developed a fever and stayed home the next day. Tsukasa visited her in the evening. Her parents insisted that he stay for dinner and later forced Tsukushi to walk him to his car. He offered to pay for her to go on the school trip. She refused, deciding to go to Atami with Kazuya instead.[30] Several days later, Tsukushi arrived in Atami with Kazuya and her parents. They went to the beach where they saw Tsukasa approach on his yacht. Shizuka invited her to that night's party. Tsukushi hesitated to accept, but was prompted by her parents and seeing Rui. Shizuka helped Tsukushi with her outfit and make-up.[31]

Start of fall term[]

Tsukushi-upset-Tsukasa

Tsukushi upset at losing her first kiss to Tsukasa

Tsukushi: "Please don't hate me... You and I we're "emergency exit friends" At least, that's what I call us."
Rui: "If I hated you, I wouldn't have gone through the pain of carrying you."
— Tsukushi and Rui on the last night of the Atami trip[src]

At the party, Tsukushi accidentally kissed Tsukasa when the lights turned off. She was distraught about losing her first kiss to him. The next morning, Sojiro teased the two about the kiss. She tried to defend herself to Rui, though he only replied "It's none of my business who you kiss." That night, Tsukushi went to return Shizuka's dress. She then witnessed Rui confess his feelings to Shizuka, before taking her into a room.[32] In shock, Tsukushi starting thinking about all of her memories of Rui, realizing how much she liked him. Tsukasa and Kazuya returned from their fishing trip. They started a cook-out, which she helped them with. She shared some fish with Rui and revealed that she overhead him and Shizuka by accident. Tsukushi then said "Please don't hate me," to which Rui assured her that he did not.[16]

The first day of the fall term, Tsukushi felt depressed about returning to Eitoku. Everything was the same at school, including her classmates badmouthing her and her slippers being stolen. It turned out Tsukasa had stolen them. Tsukushi was annoyed but did not pursue the matter further. She then headed to the emergency exit, where she met Rui. Tsukushi was happy to see him there, confessing that "Coming here was my one moment of solace."[33] Shizuka walked up shortly to ask a favor of Rui. She then invited Tsukushi to her birthday party. Back inside, Tsukushi saw Tsukasa on a rampage. She wondered what had happened to him. After school, she was walking home with Kazuya when she realized she forgot her notes. She went back to the emergency exit, where she found Tsukasa seemingly waiting for her.[34]

Tsukasa pinned Tsukushi against a wall. She yelled at him until he punched a window next to her. Tsukushi then threw her books at him and ran away. She tripped, leading Tsukasa to pin her again and start kissing her. Crying, she asked him to stop which he finally did. Several days later, Yuki and Kazuya accompanied her to Shizuka's party.[35] There Tsukushi saw Tsukasa for the first time in days. Feeling that he was not showing remorse, she became annoyed. Later that night, Shizuka announced that she was returning to France to pursue her dreams.[36] Tsukushi looked to Rui, who asked her to tell the others he was leaving. Now drunk, Tsukushi wandered to where Tsukasa was. She laid her head on his chest, before throwing up on his suit. He took her home, which her mother informed her about in the morning.[37]

Getting close to Tsukasa[]

Tsukasa-Tsukushi-elevator

Tsukasa almost kisses Tsukushi in the elevator

Tsukushi: "Go after her. If you love her, you should go after her. Were you satisfied, just watching from behind a pillar? Are you a man, or what? You're always hanging out with these three. That's why you don't understand anything!"
Rui: "I'm taking the next flight."
— Tsukushi yells at Rui to go after Shizuka[src]

The next morning, she went to the emergency exit and asked Rui about Shizuka. He answered "It's [her] decision." Tsukushi later met Tsukasa, who hinted that she was "happy that Shizuka was going away." They then overheard some girls scheming to get Rui. Tsukushi realized that she had been acting just like those girls. She rushed off and ran into Shizuka. Tsukushi proceeded to beg her to stay for Rui's sake.[38] Shizuka calmly explained her reasons for leaving, which Tsukushi accepted. She then apologized to her. A few minutes later, Rui yelled at Tsukushi for interfering. At the airport days later, she and the F4, except Rui, said goodbye to Shizuka. When Rui finally arrived, Tsukushi yelled at him to "Go after her." He revealed that he had already decided to do so. Rui thanked her with a kiss on the forehead, before leaving.[39]

While they watched Rui's plane take off, Tsukasa said something to her which she did not hear. The following day, he came up to he in her classroom and told her a time and place. She did not believe it was a date. That Sunday, Tsukushi went shopping with her mother. She eventually decided to go check to see if Tsukasa was waiting. Seeing him there, she felt guilty and offered to treat him.[40] Stuck in an elevator, Tsukushi became nervous when Tsukasa approached her. She hit and kicked him until she realized he was not fighting back. Discovering his fever, she took precautions to bring it down. By the morning, she promised to "make it up to [him]." Tsukasa leaned in to kiss her, just as a construction crew opened the elevator. After helping Tsukasa to a taxi, she wondered if he liked her before deeming it impossible.[41]

Later at school, Tsukushi's classmates suddenly began acting nice to her. She discovered that they believed she was dating Tsukasa, after a photo was taken of them together. Despite knowing they were not "true friends," she enjoyed having friends again and was happy that Tsukasa did not correct the rumor yet. That night, her new friends took her to a club, where she met a handsome foreigner who reminded her of Rui.[42] Tsukushi woke up alone in a hotel room the next morning. The last thing she remembered was being offered a drink by the guy. She resolved to keep it a secret, thinking of the repercussions if anyone found out. Later, Sakurako Sanjo, whom she had met at Shizuka's party, asked to be friends and invited her to her house. There she ran into the same foreigner, who Sakurako introduced as Thomas.[43]

Sakurako incident[]

Tsukushi-begs-Tsukasa

Tsukushi begs Tsukasa to believe her instead of Sakurako

"Say one more word and I will beat that pretty face of yours into a pulp. No one like you has the right to talk about her. Shizuka is like an angel with a beautiful heart to match her beautiful face. I actually thought you were light that, too! You called me an "ugly bitch"?! Look at yourself in a mirror! Then you'll see what ugly is!"
—Tsukushi to Sakurako[src]

When Thomas hinted to Tsukushi that they had slept together, she begged him to forget it. He agreed but only if she promised to see him again. Shortly, Sakurako confided in her about her fear of boys. To help her, she decided to introduce her to the F4. Sakurako later handed Tsukushi a note from Thomas, asking her to meet him by the school's gate.[44] A few minutes later, Tsukasa found them talking. Tsukushi managed to distract him so Thomas could get away. Before leaving, Thomas told her where to meet him. Tsukasa was angry that he escaped and called Tsukushi "boy-crazy." She reminded him that they were not really dating, causing a sad look to cross his face. Afterwards, she asked Kazuya to accompany her to meet Thomas. His bad table manners made Tsukushi wonder why Sakurako would have "anything to do with him."[45]

The following night, Tsukushi went out to a club with Yuki and her sister. There she saw the supposedly innocent Sakurako. Tsukushi later thought "There's got to be reason" and decided to be understanding. She defended Sakurako when Tsukasa yelled at her. However, Sakurako got upset with her for insulting Tsukasa. She later admitted to Tsukushi that she loved Tsukasa.[46] The next day, her classmates began bullying her again without warning. Feeling something was off, she raced to the bulletin board where she saw a photo of her and Thomas. During the process of confronting him, Tsukushi realized that someone else had to have taken the photo and that he put something in her drink. She then said "We didn't do anything, did we?" He admitted that Sakurako forced him to do it. Sakurako then entered the room.[47]

Sakurako revealed her true colors, calling Tsukushi an "ugly bitch" and making snide remarks about Shizuka. Now angry, Tsukushi shouted "Look at yourself in a mirror!" While walking home, Tsukushi resolved not to run and headed to school the next day. Her classmates attacked her. She passed out when someone hit her with a bat. Tsukushi woke up tied to a car, which they proceeded to drag her with.[48] When Tsukasa yelled at them to stop, Sakurako showed him the photo. Tsukushi pleaded with him to not to listen to her, saying "I just want you to believe me." He walked away as she yelled after him, calling him an "idiot." Not one to back down, she challenged her attackers and continued fighting for several hours. Tsukasa eventually came back, apologized, and said "I believe you."[49]

Rui's return[]

Tsukasa-confesses-to-Tsukushi

Tsukasa confesses his feelings to Tsukushi

"I can't leave you alone! Even when I try, I can't get you out of my mind. I can't, I just can't. Why can't you be happy? Thoughts of you fill my mind..."
—Tsukushi to Rui[src]

Tsukasa brought Tsukushi to his home, where she took a bath first. Afterwards, he told her that her parents said yes to her spending the night. Tsukasa apologized to her again. When he brought up Thomas, she said "You're acting almost jealous." He surprised her by saying he was and then confessed, "I love you." Tsukasa kissed Tsukushi and she realized that part of her was "hoping for [that]." The next morning, she rushed to school when a maid informed her Tsukasa was "shouting about revenge." She stopped him from torturing the students too much.[50] Rui then showed up, surprising everyone. Tsukasa told him that he and Tsukushi were dating. That night, Thomas visited her to tell her about Sakurako's past. Unable to fully forgive her, Tsukushi still took up for her when the other students made fun of her for having plastic surgery.[51]

Later, Tsukasa gave Tsukushi a pager, ordering her to come whenever he messaged her. After school, Tsukushi found her home overrun with furniture sent by Tsukasa. He then paged her to meet him at a club. She only went to yell at him about the furniture, but was distracted when she saw Rui kissing a girl. The next day, Rui flirted with her.[52] Tsukushi was taken aback, though he laughed it off. After taking her shopping, Tsukasa brought her to a plane and headed to his family's island with the others. There he revealed that they were sharing a room together.[53] That night, after wrestling with her emotions, Tsukushi went to bed early. Tsukasa followed shortly and put her at ease by revealing that he was sleeping on sofa since she not given him an answer yet. Once he fell asleep, Tsukushi went for a walk.[54]

Finding Rui on the beach, he asked her to hold him before confiding in her about Shizuka. Tsukushi returned to the villa and lied to Tsukasa, saying "I went for a walk alone."[55] The next morning, Kazuya arrived on his boat with Sakurako and Thomas. Kazuya brought news of Shizuka's engagement. Tsukushi realized the reason for Rui's behavior. That night, she met him again at the beach, telling him "I can't get you out of my mind." He then kissed her.[56] Looking up, they saw Tsukasa watching. He punched Rui. Tsukushi began crying when Tsukasa told her that she "sliced [his heart] into ribbons." He refused her apology, saying "Don't ever talk to me again." Tsukushi then broke down. The next morning, Tsukushi and the others had to return home on Kazuya's boat since Tsukasa had left on his jet.[57]

Choosing Rui[]

Tsukasa-ignores-Tsukushi

Tsukasa ignores Tsukushi

"We walked together in Aoyama that snowy winter morning. He waited four hours for me in the snow. He had snow on his head. From that day on, I began to notice his feelings for me. But I pretended not to see. Now I know just how much he felt for me. And just how much I hurt him."
—Tsukushi thinks of Tsukasa during her date with Rui[src]

When she returned home, Tsukushi resolved to apologize to Tsukasa. The next day, she saw Tsukasa kicking Rui out of the F4. He ignored her as he passed by. Later, she had lunch with Rui and began crying while thinking about Tsukasa. Rui then asked her on a date.[58] During it, Tsukushi found herself thinking about Tsukasa constantly though she was trying to "forget everything." She went to the bathroom to gather her thoughts and was mortified when Rui accidentally walked in. Tsukushi continued crying about it on the way out. Rui, however, laughed and invited her to his house.[13] There Tsukushi was nervous about being alone with him. He showed her a photo album and then fell asleep. She waited for two hours, before leaving. On her way home, she saw Sakurako and Tsukasa laughing together.[59]

Tsukushi stood still for several moments while a car honked at her until a woman scratched it. She then insisted on taking Tsukushi to her house, before introducing herself as Tsubaki Domyoji. Just as she realized who she was, Tsukushi was trapped in the house but managed to hide. She soon became lost.[60] When Tsukasa found her, he became angry and grabbed her arm. Tsubaki then knocked him out. Tsukushi made an attempt to tell her that she knew Tsukasa, but was only able to confess it when she was drunk during dinner. Later, Tsubaki told her about Tsukasa's childhood and asked her to "try and understand him." Tsukushi felt "I have no right to be with him anymore."[61] The next day, Tsukasa announced that Kazuya was replacing Rui. He then told Rui and Tsukushi that he was going to have them expelled.[62]

Tsukushi questioned the expulsion at first, but resigned herself to it. She could not bring herself to tell her parents about it.[63] The next day, Tsukasa's sister came to Eitoku and dragged Tsukushi into the principal's office. Tsukushi promised to leave school if that would "satisfy" Tsukasa. Rui then offered to be expelled instead. Tsubaki interrupted and proposed they settle the matter with sports. A three-on-three basketball match was decided upon. Tsukushi, Rui, and Kazuya practiced late into the night. On her way home, she ran into Tsukasa who promised to cancel the match if she said she loved him.[64] Tsukushi resisted his advances, having chosen to follow Rui. Though devastated, Tsukasa accepted it and left with a smile. She wondered if she would come to regret her decision to reject Tsukasa.[65]

Hard times[]

Tsukushi-upset

Tsukushi upset about Tsukasa leaving Japan

"What do I do? Everything's fallen onto my shoulders. They're all depending on me. If I tell them that Rui Hanazawa doesn't want me, and Tsukasa never wants to speak to me again, it'll kill them. I've got to work. I've got to work like mad!"
—Tsukushi feels pressure from her family[src]

The next day, the match was held at Eitoku. Tsukushi felt intimidated but would not leave "without a fight." Tsukushi's team did not fare well for most of the match. Rui managed to score six points. He then had Tsukushi attempt a two-pointer in order to win.[66] She missed it, though Kazuya scored one point. Tsukasa then suddenly quit the game, telling Tsukushi "Do whatever you want" on the way out.[22] Afterwards, they went to celebrate at the Domyojis' mansion. Akira and Sojiro asked her and Rui whether they had had sex. Learning they had not, the two proceeded to lock them in a room.[67] There a drunk Rui admitted that he had used her to forget Shizuka. He tried to apologize for getting between her and Tsukasa. She insisted she had "no regrets," though she admitted to herself "It hurts a little."[68]

The next morning, Tsukushi learned that her father had lost his job. After moving into a smaller apartment, her family put pressure on her to marry rich. She instead set out to find a better paying part-time job. Tsukushi was enticed by a man's offer to take photos of her uniform for 100,000 yen. She became uncomfortable and tried to leave, but was restrained.[69] A delivery guy arrived at that moment. Seeing Tsukushi's predicament, he beat up the men and helped her escape. He scolded her for following those guys, leading her to yell out her frustrations at him.[70] He promised to help her find at job, taking her to a fast food restaurant where she could earn a decent wage. His helpfulness later led her to nickname him "Kinsan." That night, Tsukushi resolved to keep herself busy in order to forget Rui.[8]

Kazuya informed Tsukushi the next day about Tsukasa leaving for New York. She promptly ran off. Tsukushi was shocked to hear that he was leaving the following day and asked why he had not told her. His reply hurt her feelings, leading to her slapping him and bursting into tears. She then claimed it would be a "relief" to see him go and ran off. At work, Tsukasa came to say goodbye to her. He got into an argument with Kinsan. Tsukushi took Kinsan's side and Tsukasa left in a huff.[71] Later, she was sad that they did not say goodbye but considered it a "fitting end." The next day, Sakurako asked her why she did not go to see him off. She declared that Tsukushi was "the only one who [could] make him stay." Tsukushi, however, did not seem convinced. She later watched a plane go by and wondered if Tsukasa was on it.[72]

Help from Seinosuke[]

Tsukushi-and-Seinosuke

Tsukushi and Seinosuke enjoying their day out

"Your dad lost his job, your family was in trouble, and you were working so hard for them. I couldn't leave you alone. Seeing how positive you were, even though you had no one to support you. You were so different from the girls around me who spend their fathers' money like water. I thought I had met the perfect girl."
Seinosuke confesses his feelings to Tsukushi[src]

The next day, Kinsan asked her if she wanted to go somewhere on her day-off. Her mother thought she was going on a date and forced Tsukushi to dress up. She met Kinsan near her workplace.[73] While eating at a soba restaurant, Tsukushi started to think Kinsan came from a poor family like hers. Kinsan later walked her part-way home. Near her house, she ran into Tsukasa just as Kinsan walked up. Tsukasa revealed that Kinsan was actually Seinosuke Amakusa, a parliament member's son.[74] Tsukushi thought he was mistaken, but believed him once she saw the magazine. She became upset, questioning "Did you feel sorry for me?" Her mother then showed up and insisted that Tsukasa come to their house. There her parents had her sleep alone with Tsukasa in a separate room from them.[75]

In the morning, Tsukasa asked Tsukushi to choose an outfit for him at a store. Annoyed by the prices, she rejected every outfit before approving the first one. Later at school, Tsukushi met Seinosuke, who cleared up the misunderstanding about his family. He then called her the "perfect girl" and invited her to his party.[76] After he left, Tsukasa walked up behind Tsukushi. He sensed that she was hiding something, which she denied. Later, Tsukushi asked Rui to attend Seinosuke's party with her that night. There she was shocked to see Tsukasa.[77] On stage, Seinosuke made an announcement about not wanting to follow in his father's footsteps. He then approached Tsukushi and asked her to be his girlfriend. Tsukasa punched him before she could answer. Rui helped Tsukushi escape the fight, which made the news.[78]

On her way to work, she was stopped by a group of Eirin Academy students. She stood up to the girls, before Seinosuke forced them to leave. He then apologized to her for the news coverage and asked her to think about what he said. At work, Tsukasa asked her some questions. He refused to tell her what it was for, promising "You'll find out tomorrow."[10] At home, Tsukushi learned that her father had borrowed one million yen from a loanshark and then lost it at all gambling. To save her family, Tsukushi decided to ask Tsukasa for a loan. She readily agreed to his terms, which were that she enter the Teen of Japan contest.[79] The next day, Tsubaki asked Tsukushi to come over to her house. She talked in length about the contest. Tsukushi was daunted by the unpredictable nature of it, though she decided to carry on.[80]

Teen of Japan[]

Tsukushi-TeenofJapan

Tsukushi manages to pass to the final round of TOJ

"In my heart, this is no longer just a matter of money. I can't let down the people who've spent so much effort on me. If I'm an embarrassment, it will only reflect on me. I have to show them that this "pauper" has pride and will-power."
—Tsukushi to Seinosuke before the contest[src]

Tsukushi initially struggled with her lessons in such things as etiquette, English, and tea ceremony. After meeting Seinosuke's childhood friend Ayano Kurimaki, Tsukushi became more discouraged. That night, she attempted to sneak out of Tsukasa's house but he caught her. He convinced her to stay and "be [her]self."[81] Tsukushi spent the rest of the night with Tsukasa, falling asleep next to him. She later began showing improvement in her lessons. The day before TOJ, Seinosuke offered to help her repay Tsukasa's loan. She declined, saying "I can't let down the people who've spent so much effort on me."[82] In the first round, Tsukushi froze until Tsukasa yelled at her in the audience. She then chose an outfit that especially impressed one judge, despite jeering from the crowd. Tsukushi passed to the next round.[83]

Backstage, Tsukushi learned that Ayano was engaged to Seinosuke. Ayano then revealed that she came to Japan to compete against Tsukushi. She was taken aback by Ayano's eyes.[84] During the second round, she struggled to keep up with the judge whom was testing her English. Noticing she was faint, Tsukushi shouted "Pale" as she caught her. The judge was impressed with her "thoughtfulness." She then passed Tsukushi and Ayano on to the final round.[85] Seinosuke caught up with the two girls backstage. Ayano asked him if he remembered promising to marry her. Stunned, he looked at Tsukushi who then promised to give him her answer after the contest. As she walked onto stage, she realized that she was not in love with Seinosuke and that Ayano was a "better match" for him.[86]

In the final round, she and Ayano were tasked with entertaining a group of children to determine the winner. Tsukushi met Ryusuke Hayama and his friends, whose cocky attitudes reminded her of the F4. Despite a rocky start, she befriended Ryusuke and the other children. Tsukushi invited Ayano to join them for the rest of the round.[15] In the end, Ryusuke and some other children refused to pick since they felt it was unfair. The judges crowned Ayano the winner based on overall points. They awarded Tsukushi a prize of 300,000 yen. She left to meet Seinosuke, whom she told "I like you a lot but there's something that's not quite right." He asked her if she liked Tsukasa, but she did not have an answer. Once Seinosuke left, Tsukasa showed up and offered to cancel the loan if she spent Christmas with him.[87]

Canada trip[]

Tsukushi-Tsukasa-cabin

Tsukasa tells Tsukushi to undress to prevent frostbite

"Why do you do so much for me? One minute you're bullying me. The next you loan me a million yen and act so sweet. Even though I betrayed you terribly once. Why did you invite me out on Christmas?"
—Tsukushi's question ends up causing a fight with Tsukasa[src]

The F4 took Tsukushi out to celebrate afterwards. Noticing Tsukasa was staring at her, she excused herself to go to the bathroom. The following morning, Tsukushi was greeted by Ryusuke whom wanted to spend Christmas with her.[88] She ended up bringing him along to meet Tsukasa. Though Tsukasa was annoyed, Tsukushi was relieved as it meant she would not be alone with him. He and Ryusuke bickered until they reached the zoo, where Tsukasa began being nicer.[89] Later, Tsukushi asked Tsukasa "Why do you bother with me?" He became irritated and refused to answer her. The two then had an explosive fight, leading to them both storming off. The next day at work, Sojiro and Akira helped sell out the store. She offered them her commission, but they asked her to come with them to Canada instead.[90]

At first, Tsukushi was reluctant to accept their invitation to Canada. She explained her reasons to Yuki. Later that day, her family encouraged her to go since her father now had a new job. She then received a call from Tsukasa, whom yelled "If you go, I'm not going!" Tsukushi stubbornly decided she would go after all.[91] On the plane, she was annoyed to see several Eitoku girls, including Yuriko. At Tsukasa's villa, Tsukushi yelled at him for coming on the trip. The two finally stopped fighting the next day, when Tsukasa showed her how to snowboard. That night, Yuriko informed Tsukushi that she saw Yuki go outside.[92] Tsukushi went outside to look for her, but tripped in the snow and twisted her ankle. She then realized she was lost. Tsukushi was passed-out when Tsukasa found her. He carried her to a nearby cabin.[93]

Once in the cabin, Tsukasa told her to take off her clothes to prevent frostbite. Tsukushi was hesitant, being worried about if Tsukasa would try something. He told her "You've got to think about surviving." Tsukushi realized she was being "stupid" and listened him. She laid in his arms for the rest of the night. The next morning, he carried her back to the house.[94] Yuriko and her friends apologized to Tsukushi and she told them that they could stay. However, they later revealed they were not sorry. She decided to get revenge on them by playing a ghost prank.[95] It did not go as plan, when Shizuka made a surprise appearance. After talking to her for a while, Tsukasa invited Tsukushi on a walk. He told her "I think it's time we settled things." She assumed he was talking of her debt and promised to pay it back.[96]

Problems with Tsukasa[]

Tsukushi-and-Junpei

Tsukushi at a photo shoot with Junpei

"I don't like anybody! Tsukasa, when I'm with you, I feel like I'm suffocating! This school, your gang, your power... I feel like I'm being crushed! I just want I little happiness. I want to get away from you and the F4"
—Tsukushi starts to overwhelmed by Tsukasa[src]

A few days after the trip, Tsukushi and Yuki went to a shrine together. They met a fortuneteller, who warned her about a boy close to her. Tsukushi felt that she was talking about Tsukasa. The next day, she and Yuki went to a middle school reunion. It ended abruptly when Tsukasa, out of nowhere, attacked her friend Shingo. After everyone had ran off, Tsukushi slapped him.[97] He then reminded her of how he saved her with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. In response, she started to rub her lips hard. He then pushed her against a wall. Tsukushi cried and told him "You'd never be able to understand how much I looked forward to this day," before running off. The next day, she went to Shingo's house. They reminisced about middle school. Junpei Oribe, whom Shingo introduced as his brother, entered the room shortly.[20]

After saying goodbye to Shingo, Junpei offered to walk her to the station. The next day, she walked by Tsukasa without acknowledging him. In the stairwell, some girls tripped Tsukushi. A guy in glasses helped her by dropped his books on them. It took her a moment to realize that he was Junpei.[98] Tsukushi was surprised by his simple disguise. As they talked, he reminded her of herself from when she first started attending Eitoku. Junpei asked her to be friends and she accepted, despite thinking him odd.[99] He then invited her to his job, which turned out to be a photo shoot. Junpei roped her into taking a few photos, assuring her that they would not make it to print. As such, she was angry when one of the pictures made the cover. She threatened to end their friendship until Junpei cried.[100]

Tsukasa confronted Tsukushi about the magazine. Junpei began goading him into fighting, saying things like "Do you love this guy?" to Tsukushi. She eventually shouted "I don't like anybody!" Tsukasa then told her that he loved her. Tsukushi was shocked speechless and allowed Junpei to steer her away.[101] Days later, she was still thinking of Tsukasa, feeling confused that he still loved her. On her way out of school with Junpei, someone threw a potted plant at her. He suspected Tsukasa was behind it. She did not consider him until Sojiro and Akira revealed Tsukasa had been missing.[102] The next day, she was targeted again after receiving another red card. Kazuya and Sakurako helped her hide. Sakurako did not think Tsukasa sent it, suspecting Junpei instead. They then aided Tsukushi's escape via a window.[103]

Junpei incident[]

Tsukushi-tied-up

Tsukushi tied up by Junpei's accomplices

"It's just that I had a dream. I saw you die. I was so scared. I thought you would die. After what I said, I was sure you wouldn't come. But, like a fool, you came and you were punched, kicked by those rotten punks. I was sure you were dead. Then you went and played that trick on me."
—Tsukushi to Tsukasa at the hospital[src]

Tsukushi passed out after being hit by a bully. She woke up in the school's courtyard with Junpei nearby. Tsukushi was upset about fainting. Junpei then left to get her a drink. Four guys kidnapped her suddenly and tied her up in an old storage room. They cut off a chunk of hair as well.[104] Their ringleader, Junpei, arrived shortly. He revealed to her that he used her to get revenge on Tsukasa. She was upset, thinking their friendship was a lie. Tsukushi yelled at him "You're nothing like the kind Junpei I knew!" She then told him "Tsukasa won't come."[105] Tsukasa arrived some minutes later. The guys proceeded to severely beat him up. When Junpei tried to hit him with a chair, Tsukushi threw herself in front of him. Once they left, she asked him "Why didn't you fight back?!," to which he said "This was the only way to protect you."[106]

Tsukushi woke up at the hospital after having a nightmare of Tsukasa dying. Her first thought was to see Tsukasa. She then went to his room, where Sojiro told her "You're too late." Tsukushi cried over his body, while she said things like "Maybe lots of people wanted to see you dead, but not me." He was only faking, upsetting Tsukushi. Once the others left, she cried and admitted that she was scared that he really died.[107] Junpei then entered the room, which worried Tsukushi who thought he was there to "finish off [Tsukasa]." He was actually there to apologize to her. She told him "It's too late to be sorry," though she secretly thought they would laugh together again. The next day, Sojiro and Akira pressured Tsukushi into dating Tsukasa already. In order to get away, she said "Tsukasa's sort of like a dog" and the ran off.[108]

After being released, Tsukushi started to think "Maybe I can't run away from [Tsukasa] anymore." Her mother cut her hair, which Tsukushi thought was "awful." At school, Rui improved it a bit. Tsukasa then showed up and invited her to his birthday party.[109] There Sojiro, Akira, and Rui immediately brought Tsukushi to Tsubaki to have her dress changed. They were concerned about Tsukasa's mother, Kaede Domyoji, who would consider her a potential fiancée. She became nervous at the prospect of meeting her and unintentionally caused a scene.[110] Rui lied to Tsukasa's mother about Tsukushi's father's job. Kaede prompted Tsukushi to play the piano. She recognized this as a test and banged on the keys. A fight occurred between Tsukasa and his mother, leading to him fleeing with Tsukushi.[111]

Tsukasa's birthday[]

Kaede-offers-Tsukushi

Kaede tries to bribe Tsukushi and her family

Tsukushi: "I haven't got status, or money, or beauty. There are lots of girls at Eitoku who have all three. I just can't figure out why it's me. The only explanation I can think of is that you're crazy."
Tsukasa: "Maybe you're right. I wonder the same thing myself, but love can't be figured out. I've got the status, money, and beauty so you can stay as you are."
— Tsukushi and Tsukasa on his family's yacht[src]

In the car, Tsukushi yelled at Tsukasa to tell her where he was going. He almost caused them to crash. Tsukushi bumped her head and passed out. She awoke to find herself on Tsukasa's family's yacht. Their conversation turned to his family. He assured her "I run my own life." Tsukushi, however, thought to herself "I have nothing to do with his life."[112] While Tsukasa was trying to fish, Tsukushi asked "What exactly makes you think that I love you?!" He felt confident that she did, but then asked her "How do you feel about me?" Tsukushi replied "I don't know." She then asked "Why me?" and began listing everything she lacked. Tsukasa "I've got the status, money, and beauty so you can stay as you are." When his fishing attempts failed, Tsukushi remembered her birthday present to him. He was so happy that he kissed her.[11]

After Tsukasa dropped her off, Tsukushi thought "What am I going to do?" regarding his feelings for her. She then decided to sleep. Some hours later, her parents awoke her yelling about Tsukasa's mother being there. Kaede told her and her parents "I want Tsukushi to give Tsukasa up" and presented them with fifty million yen. Tsukushi felt insulted, especially when Kaede compared her to a "stone" in Tsukasa's path.[113] She was surprised and happy when her mother rejected the money. However, her joy did not last for long since her mother's plans was for her to marry Tsukasa. At work, Tsukushi was talking with Yuki when she decided to end things with Tsukasa. Kaede's secretary then arrived and asked her to come with him. He brought her Kaede's hotel, where she had gathered Tsukasa and his fiancée Shigeru Okawahara.[114]

Kaede asked Tsukushi "Do you understand now, how matters stand?" She answered "Yes" but remained frozen. Tsukasa then suddenly ran out, grabbing Shigeru. Tsukushi was still fuming, when she and Yuki went out to a fast food restaurant. She believed that Tsukasa was already seeing Shigeru, though Yuki told her it was probably a "mistake."[115] The next day, Tsukushi confronted Tsukasa. She refused to believe his explanation, feeling he treated her like a "premarital plaything." Tsukushi stormed off after kicking him in the stomach. Later, she coincidentally ran into Shigeru. Tsukasa walked up shortly.[116] After Shigeru declared her decision to fall in love with Tsukasa, Tsukushi walked away in annoyance. Shigeru followed her and ended up dragging her to a café. There Tsukushi accidentally agreed to help her with Tsukasa.[117]

Friends with Shigeru[]

Tsukushi-congratulates-Shigeru

Tsukushi congratulates Shigeru

"I'm hurt. Ever since I saw them kiss. I've got a scar, somewhere in my body. His feelings for me were too heavy. It was too painful, so I used his family as a reason to run away. Why should I feel hurt now? I'm such a selfish person."
—Tsukushi acknowledges her feelings about Tsukasa and Shigeru[src]

That afternoon, Shigeru dragged Tsukushi on a shopping trip. She felt Shigeru was being "pushy" at first, but thought differently of her after she gifted Tsukushi an outfit. Near her home, Tsukasa was waiting for Tsukushi. He tried to explain everything to her. She revealed that she was just with Shigeru and started saying nice things about her. Finally, she told him "I think someone like her is what you need." He then slapped her.[118] The next day, Tsukushi saw Shigeru with Sojiro and Akira, whom were trying to get her away from Tsukasa. The two guys were later upset when Tsukushi revealed that she "broke it off with Tsukasa." She broke down about the situation with his mother, leading the guys to sympathize with her. That night, a crying Shigeru told her that Tsukasa had asked her out. Tsukushi congratulated her.[119]

Tsukushi pretended that she was okay with Tsukasa and Shigeru being together and decided that this was a new "beginning." However, Shigeru kept visiting her often to talk about Tsukasa. Tsukushi always reassured her, despite not wanting to talk about him at all.[120] Later at school, Tsukushi and Rui witnessed Tsukasa kissing Shigeru. To forget about the kiss, Tsukushi threw herself into her job. That night, she went to a café with Rui, where they ran into Shigeru and Tsukasa. Shigeru then invited them to her family's villa. Tsukushi felt that she had to go when Rui said yes.[121] At the villa, she ended up passing out in the baths after telling Shigeru that she was "happy" for her, though she actually felt hurt. Rui saved Tsukushi and carried her to their room. She soon woke up and was flustered about sharing a room with Rui.[122]

Rui held Tsukushi's hand when they laid down to go to sleep. She reflected "Even if my feelings for him can no longer be called love, I think I'll like Rui Hanazawa." They heard noises coming from Shigeru and Tsukasa's room. Tsukushi became worried for Shigeru and went to look. Once she saw Shigeru on top of him, Tsukushi quickly ran away.[123] Early the next morning, Tsukasa sat next to Tsukushi near the pond. She felt awkward and went inside after he told her that he was going home. Later, Tsukushi said goodbye to Shigeru who insinuated that she had slept with Tsukasa. On the way home, Tsukushi talked to Rui, who said "The fact that it was Tsukasa is what bugs you." At home, her parents revealed that they were moving to a fishing village and leaving her behind. Upset at first, Tsukushi decided that "this could be good."[124]

Being on her own[]

Tsukasa-Tsukushi-maid

Tsukushi comes to live at Tsukasa's house as a maid

Tsukushi: "If your son is so precious to you, why don't you put a rope around his neck and tie him to a post!"
Kaede: "Who do you think you are talking to me like that?"
Tsukushi: "I'm a nobody. Maybe I'm just a weed to someone like you, but I don't live a life that anyone can scorn. I scorn you from the bottom of my heart. You're sick for treating people like this, especially your own son. Please leave. I will not allow you into my world."
— Tsukushi stands up to Kaede[src]

After saying goodbye to her family, Tsukushi repainted the apartment with Kazuya and Yuki. That night, she was visited by Shigeru. She revealed her lies and that the engagement was called off. Shigeru then told her "I want to stay friends with you." Tsukushi responded "You can remain my friend forever."[125] The next day, Tsukushi ran into Sojiro and Akira at school. They learned about her living alone and invited themselves to her place, along with Rui. Tsukushi was surprised by another guest, Kaede, who accused her of interfering. Insulted, Tsukushi stood up to Kaede, forcing her to leave.[126] Tsukushi declared to guys that she was going to "fight" Kaede, though she did not have plan. The three offered her their support. Sometime later, she received furniture from the guys. The weight of it all caused her apartment's floor to collapse.[127]

Homeless and without money, Tsukushi coincidentally met Seinosuke. He brought her to his place, where they caught up. She admitted to him that she "[could not] make up [her] mind" about Tsukasa, just before falling asleep. When she woke up, Tsukushi found herself at the Domyojis' house.[128] Tsubaki invited her to stay there, which Tsukushi was against. Then Tsubaki explained her arranged marriage, admitting to Tsukushi "I don't want Tsukasa to have to go through what I did." The next morning, Tsukushi got the idea to work there if she was to stay.[129] Tsubaki did not like the idea, but Tama agreed to train her. Later, Tsukushi delivered tea to Tsukasa who said "You said you would fight my old lady for our sake?" She tried to correct him. Tama then burst in and suddenly decided to make Tsukushi Tsukasa's "personal maid."[7]

Tsukushi began to worry that Tsukasa had the "wrong idea," which caused her to be frightened when he grabbed her while she was trying to wake him in the morning. Walking to school, she met Rui and Sojiro and told them everything. Despite promising not to tell, the whole school soon knew.[130] On the way home, Tsukasa informed Tsukushi that he wanted her to come to his room around midnight. She spent the day worrying about the implications. Over dinner, Tsukushi tried to explain herself to Tsukasa, only to realize he had left already.[131] Back in her room, she ignored Tsukasa's calls until eventually opening her door to leave. He walked in and set up a telescope on her balcony to show her Saturn. Tsukushi felt foolish for worrying so much. Tsukasa gave her a necklace, which she was hesitant to accept.[132]

Dating Tsukasa[]

Tsukushi-agrees-to-date

Tsukushi agrees to date Tsukasa

"About what we talked about last night. I'll try and go out with you for a while. For two months, I'll try it face to face. You and me. I'll be at your mercy."
—Tsukushi agrees to date Tsukasa[src]

Tsukushi allowed Tsukasa to kiss her, but stopped him when he tried to take it further than that. He asked her how she felt about him and Shigeru dating, leading her to respond "I was a little shocked." Tsukasa then asked her to date him. Tsukushi admitted that her feelings for him were likely only "one-tenth" of his feelings for her. He told her that they should date anyway and split up if it did not work out. Tsukushi thought that she could be happy if she was able to fall for him.[133] In the morning, Tsukushi went to Tsukasa's room and agreed to date him. She wanted to keep their relationship "low profile" but it soon got around the school. Feeling pressured, Tsukushi started to worry she would not have an answer for Tsukasa in two months. After school, she went over to Yuki's house for advice.[134]

Returning to Tsukasa's, Tsukushi asked him to go on the double date with Yuki and her boyfriend, Nakatsuka. He refused, making her mad about his inability to compromise. Later, she met with Yuki and Nakatsuka and intended to leave after explaining. However, Tsukasa showed up which made Tsukushi happy.[135] The date became strained due to Nakatsuka's constant rude comments to Tsukasa. The two couples split up at the amusement park. Tsukushi and Tsukasa were able to enjoy themselves, but the tenseness returned upon meeting up with the others later.[136] Later, when Tsukasa punched Nakatsuka, he refused to explain why. Tsukushi became angry with him and instead believed Nakatsuka's version of the events. She ended up slapping Tsukasa, despite telling him violence was never right.[137]

The next day, Tsukushi was talking to Yuki when they saw Nakatsuka with another girl. Yuki ran away, but Tsukushi stayed behind to confront him. He revealed the real reason Tsukasa hit him. Tsukushi punched Nakatsuka twice, before running off to find Yuki.[138] After some time, she called Tsukasa to see if Yuki had called his home. He told Tsukushi to stay put. While waiting for him, she realized that she was hypocrite for hitting both him and Nakatsuka. She tried to leave, but Tsukasa found her first.[139] They later found Yuki and Sojiro confronting Nakatsuka. The four then went to a restaurant. While Tsukushi and Tsukasa bickered, Yuki and Sojiro slipped away. Tsukasa started talking about their relationship, admitting his insecurities. Tsukushi then hugged him and said "I wanted to thank you for today."[140]

Tsukasa's mother returns[]

Tsukushi-kisses-Tsukasa

Tsukushi kisses Tsukasa

"For me to be living in the Domyoji mansion is like I've invaded the enemy camp. The F4 don't understand. Only someone who has seen rock bottom can understand my situation. This terror, the F4 would never understand it."
—Tsukushi is terrified when she learns of Kaede's return[src]

The following morning, Tsukushi was hyper-focused on hugging Tsukasa. She realized it was the first time she was "actively" involved. Her thoughts turned to Sojiro and Yuki after learning they were going on a date. She decided that she was going to follow them.[141] The next day, she enlisted Tsukasa though he was reluctant to help until she said "Please" sweetly. They followed Sojiro and Yuki to a restaurant near the sea. Tsukasa told Tsukushi to "leave them alone," which she nearly went along with until seeing them go into a hotel.[142] By herself, Tsukushi attempted to get a room next to theirs. She was unable to acquire one until Tsukasa arrived soaking wet. Tsukushi was unaware that she had pushed him into the sea by mistake. Now relaxing in the room, she completely forgot about Yuki until Tsukasa reminded her.[143]

After learning of Kaede's return, Tsukushi could not stop herself from worrying. She felt that she could not rely on the F4. Yuki suggested for her to come to her house. Tsukushi took her up on the offer and went back to Tsukasa's house to pack her things.[144] Kaede, however, discovered Tsukushi. Tama stepped in to stop her from kicking Tsukushi out of the house. After the confrontation, Tama brought Tsukushi back to her room. There she told Tsukushi about Tsukasa's troubled early life and credited her with "chang[ing] him."[145] The next morning, she was greeted by Kazuya and Sakurako before Tsukasa dragged her away. He brought her to a café she had mentioned before. She skated around telling him about what happened with his mother. Then Tsukasa suddenly announced that he was leaving home.[146]

The couple left the café and then went to a game center. Eventually, Tsukasa broke down and asked her "Am I so unreliable?" Tsukushi then told him "Forget about leaving home." She explained that she "[did not] want to be protected" by him, but was happy with him nonetheless. Tsukushi then kissed him before running off.[147] Back at school, she went to the emergency exit to think about kissing Tsukasa. She tried to convince herself that it was just a "thank you gift," which Rui teased her about. He eventually asked about Tsukasa's mother and voiced his suspicions about her targeting her friends. Worried, Tsukushi rushed over to Yuki's house and discovered her father was receiving a transfer. She ran off, telling Yuki "It's all right." She then ran into Kazuya and learned his family's business was going bankrupt.[148]

Leaving Tsukasa[]

Tsukushi-crying

While talking to Matsutaro, Tsukushi cries over Tsukasa

"The truth is I've thought many, many times that I loved Tsukasa."
—Tsukushi admits her feelings to herself[src]

At Tsukasa's house, Tsukushi confronted Kaede and accepted her conditions to stay away from the Domyoji family. Kaede then put everything right. Tsukushi told her that "there are more important things [than money]," which Kaede scoffed at. She threw her drink at Kaede and threatened her to never hurt her friends again.[149] Afterwards, Tsukushi packed her things and wrote a note to Tama. She waited outside in the rain to break up with Tsukasa. She revealed what happened and told him that she "made up [her] mind" to stay away from him. He asked "Have you ever seen me as just a guy?" She lied saying "If I loved you, I wouldn't be leaving like this." A short distance away, tears were streaming down her face when met Tama. To herself, she finally admitted "The truth is I've thought many times that I loved Tsukasa."[150]

Tama offered to go along with Tsukushi, but she refused. She reminded Tsukushi of her and Tsukasa's promise to protect her. On a train, Tsukushi teared up thinking of what happened.[151] She eventually reached the village, though she had to traverse a jungle and nearly fell off a cliff. Tsukushi reunited with her parents, whom brought her to the house they boarded at. She learned that her family was not any better off. Tsukushi was disappointed because she hoping to receive help from them.[152] The next day, she lied to her mother about her reason for being there, claiming it was a school holiday. The family later received an large bill from their landlady. Tsukushi was concerned, unlike her parents and brother whom were sure of her marrying Tsukasa in the future. She could not bring herself to admit the truth.[153]

That night, Tsukushi was accosted by a strange man at the beach. She was able to fight him off. In the morning, her mother brought Tsukushi to her new job at a grilled corn stand. There she met her co-worker the same man from yesterday, Matsutaro Yoshimatsu.[154] The next day, Matsutaro was already irritating Tsukushi when he mentioned hearing she had a rich fiancé. She snapped at him, commenting about his girlfriend leaving him. That night, she apologized to Matsutaro. They talked about love, leading Tsukushi to cry while thinking of Tsukasa.[155] After that night, she began to understand Matsutaro better and they became friends. They talked about their dreams. Tsukushi said hers was to live happily and comfortably with her family. Matsutaro encouraged her to return home in order to achieve her dreams.[156]

Return to Tokyo[]

Tsukasa-throws-necklace

Tsukushi watches Tsukasa throw the necklace

"I love you, Tsukasa. I almost said it out loud. I would ruin my friends' families and throw away my will and my pride. That's what it's like to love someone. It's being unable to suppress your feelings, even if it means sacrificing everything."
—Tsukushi after Tsukasa throws the necklace into the water[src]

When Tsukushi returned home, she and her family were confronted by the entire village. They believed that she was seeing Matsutaro and demanded for her to bring her fiancé there. Her mother asked for one more day to pay their debts. Once alone, Tsukushi finally confessed that she "broke it off completely" with Tsukasa. In the morning, she and her family were fully prepared to take responsibility for the situation.[157] Both Tsukasa and Rui showed up around the same time. Tsukasa paid off her family's debts, though she tried to protest. That evening, Tsukushi learned from Rui that she was on television which was how he found her. They were joined by Tsukasa and Matsutaro on the beach. She thanked Tsukasa, who then asked about her coming back. Tsukushi was not sure, but Tsukasa told her "Just come on back."[158]

When Matsutaro called it a "happy ending," Tsukushi replied "It's over between us" which Tsukasa confirmed. Later, she helped pack. She said goodbye to Matsutaro, before getting into Tsukasa's car with her brother. As they were driving away, she watched Matsutaro reunite with his girlfriend.[159] Upon arriving back in Tokyo, she was greeted by all of her friends. The guys left as the girls went upstairs to an apartment owned by Shigeru. She lent the place to Tsukushi, whom refused the offer at first.[12] The following morning, Tsukushi headed to school where she was greeted by Sakurako. She saw Tsukasa and avoided him. Sakurako invited her somewhere after school. Tsukushi refused until she was promised help her find a job. That afternoon, Sakurako dragged her on a group date with Shigeru and Yuki.[160]

On the group date, Tsukushi was shocked by one of the guys, named Kiyonaga, who looked similar to Tsukasa. She made several blunders, confusing him with Tsukasa. He ended up pouring his drink on her, leading the girls to all leave. Tsukushi wandered away from the others.[161] She was pulled into an alley by Kiyonaga, who claimed to be Tsukasa's cousin. Frightened, Tsukushi managed to get away. She bumped into Tsukasa. They sat down at a restaurant. He was about to say something, but Tsukushi interrupted him to point out Kiyonaga.[162] Tsukasa became frustrated with Tsukushi, believing she was making up a story. He left after she informed him of the group date. She chased after him and returned the necklace to him, which he threw in the river. Tsukushi went into the water and found it with Kiyonaga's aid.[163]

Tsukasa's cousin[]

Tsukushi-comforted-by-Amon

Tsukushi comforted by Kiyonaga

Kiyonaga: "I think I like you. Since your relationship with Tsukasa went sour, why don't you take me, instead? How about it?"
Tsukushi: "Don't take me for a fool. Let me tell you something! I don't like Tsukasa's face, figure, or his personality. I don't give a damn if you look like him."
— Tsukushi rejects Kiyonaga[src]

Tsukushi woke up two days later in Kiyonaga's apartment with a fever. She thanked him for taking care of her, though remained wary. After breakfast, Kiyonaga mentioned that he hated Tsukasa. He then suggestively offered to "pretend" to be him.[164] Though initially scared, Tsukushi quickly became angry. She told him "I don't give a damn if you look like him." Tsukushi left shortly though she was still feeling dizzy. Kiyonaga walked her home, despite her telling him no. When they arrived, her parents mistook him for Tsukasa and invited him inside.[165] When Tsukasa arrived with some friends, Kiyonaga suddenly jumped from the balcony to avoid seeing him. Tsukushi was still mad at Tsukasa until he apologized. They discussed Kiyonaga with the others. Tsukushi surprised them by saying that he was not so bad.[166]

The next day, Tsukushi was home alone when Kiyonaga came back for his shoes. He then gave her a flower shaped like lanterns, referencing a comment she made about her future being dark. Tsukushi was amused and touched.[167] That night after job hunting, she found Kiyonaga waiting for her. He brought her to a park, where he returned her necklace. Tsukushi was shocked that she had forgot it. After a few moments, he asked her "Why don't you give up on him and choose me, instead?"[168] Tsukushi told him no, saying that she did not want to hurt Tsukasa anymore. Kiyonaga responded "That's pity." He provoked her saying "Make believe I'm Tsukasa and tell me you love me." She shouted it out and cried as he held her. Tsukushi later realized that he did that on purpose to allow her to get her feelings out.[169]

At school the following day, the F4 was exposing Kiyonaga as an imposter just as he walked up. Tsukushi demanded for him to "explain everything," leading him to reveal how he was hired by Kaede. He then admitted that he liked Tsukushi and wanted to end his contract. Tsukushi, whom felt she was being chased by a shadow, eventually snapped. She ordered Kiyonaga to follow her and take her to Kaede.[170] They boarded a train and Tsukushi sat stewing for a while. Kiyonaga got her talking, which softened her somewhat. At the airport, he revealed that Kaede was in New York. Tsukushi collapsed, all the tension leaving her. Kiyonaga then told her that she would have an "easier life" if she chose him. Considering his statement, Tsukushi asked him his real name, to which he answered Amon Kunisawa.[171]

Dating Amon[]

Tsukushi-Amon-kiss

Tsukushi thinks of Tsukasa when Amon kisses her

"I was broken in pieces, all this time. I thought too much and got myself all confused. It was awful. But, finally, all the pieces are together. Even if I come to regret things, I like myself a lot better now."
—Tsukushi to Amon after choosing Tsukasa[src]

Afterwards, Tsukushi and Amon went to a café. There she admitted that she did not completely trust him yet. He promised to never lie again. Before heading their separate ways, Amon told her that her "memories [of Tsukasa] will fade" and encouraged her not to "cross that bridge."[172] On her way home, Tsukushi ran into Tsubaki. After shopping, Tsubaki brought her to a restaurant. There Tsubaki asked her about Amon and Tsukushi explained that he understood her. She then apologized to Tsubaki, confessing "I failed, after all." Tsubaki told her that she was "satisfied as long as [she was] happy." After saying goodbye, Tsukushi chased after Tsubaki's car. She then admitted to her that she loved Tsukasa but did not want to be forced to "say goodbye" again. That night, she called Amon and said "I won't cross over the bridge."[173]

Later, Tsukushi told Yuki about dating Amon though she insisted it was "platonic." After school, Tsukushi went over to Amon's since he had a cold. After she cooked and cleaned, he grabbed her and carried her to his bed.[174] Amon attempted to kiss her, but let go when he realized she was thinking of Tsukasa. As she left, he kissed her and said "You chose this side." She was repulsed. The next morning, Tsukushi met with Shigeru to give her the rent. After she left, she saw Tsukasa go inside. She felt happy seeing him smile with Shigeru.[175] At work, Amon came to apologize. She seemed to forgive him, though she said "Don't ever touch me again." They made plans to meet the next day. Yuki became upset with her for not confiding in her about what happened with Amon. Tsukushi, unable to say anything, held her.[176]

The next morning, after spending the night at Yuki's, the two girls parted. Instead of going to school, Tsukushi wandered around until she met up with Amon, who offered to take her to an amusement park. At the bus stop, they were found by Tsukasa.[177] He begged her not to go. Tsukushi boarded the bus with Amon. After seeing Tsukasa chasing after her, she stopped the bus and ran to him. She was arrested by officers before they were reunited. Tsukushi shouted at him to "come and get [her]" and that she had "made up [her] mind."[178] She was quickly let out of jail and learned that Tsukasa was behind it, though she forgave him. They then went to Amon's apartment, where she explained herself to him. He called Nishida and lied about dating Tsukushi, therefore buying her and Tsukasa some time.[179]

Dating Tsukasa again[]

Tsukushi-confession

Tsukushi finally confesses her feelings for Tsukasa

"I want to be with you. But if your mother finds out, she'll make trouble for us again, won't she? I... I don't want us to part like that again. Never again."
—Tsukushi voices her worries to Tsukasa[src]

Tsukushi returned to Tsukasa's side. He hugged her and then attempted to kiss her, though they were interrupted by their stomachs. Outside her apartment, Tsukasa suggested that they go to New York. Tsukushi was against it, feeling that everything was moving too fast. He then asked her why she got off the bus. She realized that he wanted a confession, but answered "I just thought I would."[180] The next day, Tsukushi brought Tsukasa to the school's roof though he was still annoyed with her. She gave him a boxed lunch and gradually built up her courage until she blurted out "Will you go out with me?" She was insistent on keeping their relationship a secret from everyone, which angered Tsukasa. Tsukushi convinced him by mentioning his mother and the night they were forced to break up.[181]

The following day, Tsukushi met with Amon by his request. He informed her that they were being tracked by the Domyojis' secret police. Later at school, Rui invited her to Akira's house. There Akira and Sojiro locked her in the guest house, where she found Tsukasa tied up.[182] Finding herself alone with Tsukasa, she became nervous and tense. The two eventually began to relax while reminiscing near the fire.[183] Tsukushi attempted to bring up what happened with Amon. Tsukasa refused to listen and instead suggestively reminded her that they were trapped. Changing the subject, she asked how he became "so good at kissing." His answer made her jealous, though she refused to admit it. Annoyed, she finally told him about Amon and the secret police. Tsukasa became angry at her for not relying on him.[21]

Tsukushi and Tsukasa were nearly discovered by the secret police. He helped her escape through a window. The next day at work, Yuki confided in Tsukushi that she was in love with Sojiro. She reminded Yuki about Sojiro's playboy ways but Yuki felt that her could not change.[184] After work, Tsukushi met up with Tsukasa. They went to a park, where she apologized for the night before. He revealed that he was feeling insecure since she had not said she loved him. Tsukasa then received a call inviting him to a party at Akira's house.[19] At the party, she and Tsukasa overheard Yuki confess her feelings to Sojiro and get rejected. Tsukushi tried to comfort her, but Yuki only wanted encouragement. Returning to Tsukasa, he began discussing their relationship and expressed his disappointment about her.[185]

Living next door[]

Tsukushi-assures-Tsukasa

Tsukushi assures Tsukasa about their relationship

"Thank you. I was really happy today. You and I live in completely different worlds. Even though we're seeing each other, there's always a feeling of uncertainty. There're so many problems and I haven't been able to sleep, thinking about them."
—Tsukushi talks to Tsukasa before falling asleep[src]

After confessing her feelings to Tsukasa in front of their friends, Tsukushi passed out. She awoke in the morning to Shigeru and Sakurako. Tsukasa came in the room and asked for her to repeat what she said. Embarrassed, she threw her pillows at him. He then held her. After learning Yuki was gone, Tsukushi went to work to meet her. Yuki was happy for her.[186] That night, Tsukushi discovered her parents packing. Her father obtained a job at a supermarket. However, since their new place was too small, Tsukushi and Susumu would live apart from them. While talking to Rui. he mentioned her dating Tsukasa and admitted to being a "little sad." Rui called her "like a pet" to him. Tsukushi left, feeling satisfied with their friendship. That afternoon, she and Susumu moved into their new apartment.[187]

That night, a burglar broke into the apartment and Tsukushi called the police. Tsukasa showed shortly after the police, having received a distressing call from Tsukushi. She revealed that she was dating Tsukasa to Susumu, who promised not to tell their parents. The next day after work, Tsukushi discovered Tsukasa living next door.[6] She was concerned about his family finding out, but he had paid off the realtor. The couple then headed to the local bath house with Susumu. That night, Tsukushi laid awake thinking of Tsukasa next door.[188] In the morning, Susumu suggested that she bring Tsukasa breakfast, but she found out that he had left. At school, Tsukushi overheard him speaking to Sojiro and Akira about how uncomfortable the apartment was. Tsukasa stopped coming by, leaving Tsukushi lonely.[189]

One night, Tsukushi saw Tsukasa going into his apartment. She refused to reveal her loneliness, instead offering to "keep [him] company." She soon fell asleep. In the morning, she made breakfast for Tsukasa and Susumu.[190] The following night, Tsukushi saw the secret police near the apartment. She stopped Tsukasa's taxi. The two then went to his home to hide. There Tsukasa asked if she was "tired of [their] relationship." Tsukushi said that "[she was] not upset at all" despite the difficulties of that night.[191] She and Tsukasa began making out, but as it went further Tsukushi became frightened. She started crying just as Tsubaki burst in. She beat Tsukasa up, before they explained the situation. With Tsubaki's help, Tsukushi then explained her feelings. Tsukasa agreed to wait for her to be ready for sex.[192]

Going to New York[]

Tsukushi-in-NY

Tsukushi arrives in New York

"I promised him that I'd make him a hot pot dish next time. That we'd go out on a regular date again. When we parted yesterday we said, "See you tomorrow." I'll make sure he keeps his promises."
—Tsukushi decided to go after Tsukasa[src]

The next day at school, Tsukushi received a phone call from Yuki whom was looking for Sojiro. Tsukasa helped her and Yuki search until the early morning hours, when Sojiro happened to walk up. After he and Yuki left, Tsukasa showed Tsukushi two tickets to New York.[193] She voiced her concerns, leading to him saying "All you have to do is believe in me." Though unsure, Tsukushi decided to trust him after seeing Yuki. Tsukushi and Tsukasa later went on a date to a restaurant, where all of his credit cards were rejected. Tsukushi paid the bill.[194] When Tsukasa said that his mother had "made her move," Tsukushi changed the subject. She decided to take him on a "poor man's date." They went to a pet store and then a baseball game after getting free tickets. There Tsukushi caught a homerun ball.[195]

After the baseball game, Tsukushi was feeling ecstatic about their date. Tsukasa walked her home, where they both said "See you tomorrow." Tsukushi prepared lunch boxes for herself, her brother, and Tsukasa. The next day, she waited for Tsukasa at lunch but he never showed up.[196] She then met the F3 at the emergency exit. They revealed that the baseball game was televised and Kaede likely saw it. Sakurako then arrived, revealing that Tsukasa had dropped out of school. Tsukushi ate both lunch boxes to brace herself, before declaring that she was going to go find Tsukasa. The F3 promised to make sure nothing happened to Yuki's or Kazuya's family. Tsukushi went to a travel agency and booked a flight to New York. Before leaving, she went to see Amon to thank him for covering for them.[197]

Shortly after arriving in New York, Tsukushi's bag was stolen. She wandered around until two New Yorkers approached her, frightening Tsukushi. Thomas then showed up, revealing that his friends were just trying to help. Tsukushi was happy to see a familiar face and followed him to his friends' hangout.[198] The next day, Tsukushi asked Thomas to take her to the Domyojis house. He tried to convince her that it was a bad idea until she demanded it. A man nearby applauded her. Thomas and his friends tried to help Tsukushi get past the guards. She finally got inside when Tama showed up.[199] Tsukushi met Kaede, whom took her to Tsukasa. He acted coldly towards her and said that coming to New York was his own decision. She tried to protest but then left quickly. Near the water, she met Rui whom had been worried about her.[200]

New York with Rui[]

The next day, Tsukushi woke up at Rui's New York apartment. He showed her the newspaper, which indicated Tsukasa's family having trouble. While she was talking, Rui suddenly kissed her. Tsukushi was taken aback and Rui guessed that he was in love with her.[201] Later, the pair went to meet Thomas and his friends. Rui realized he lost his wallet. The others ran off, leaving them to clean the restaurant. While cleaning, Rui talked about how Tsukushi had helped him grow.[202] Later, Tsukushi and Rui went to Central Park where she met the same man from the other day. Rui translated as she gave him advice on getting along with others when expressed having a problem with a client. Afterwards, the man invited them to his business where Tsukushi ran into Kaede. She encouraged the man to "make up" with Kaede, despite having her own problems with her.[203]

Later that day, Tsukushi and Rui headed to the airport. The businessman from before came by to wish her well and thank her for her help. Kaede came next and promised to grant her a "wish" since she did not want to feel indebted. Tsukushi said " I want [Tsukasa] to keep that promise," referring to sharing a hot pot together.[204] After Kaede left, Tsukasa made an appearance. He and Rui fought as Tsukushi tried to stop them. She reminded Tsukasa to keep his promise before leaving with Rui.[205] At home, Tsukushi was greeted by several of her friends. She surprised them by revealing that it was over between her and Tsukasa. Tsukushi wanted to focus on protecting her space from now on. Once the others had left, she told Rui that she still loved Tsukasa. He told her that he was happy just seeing her face.[206]

College[]

Getting engaged[]

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Meeting Oto and Haruto[]

Tsukushi-meets-Haruto-Oto

Tsukushi meets Oto and Haruto in Los Angeles

Tsukushi: "I'm not saying this lightly, but if you two need to be together then I don't think you should separate."
Oto: "But we don't have that option."
Tsukushi: "There's only one choice for you. It'll be fine. Just leave it up to him. If you give it a try, Oto, he'll exceed your expectations."
— Tsukushi advises Oto and Haruto while thinking of her own situation[src]

Tsukushi went to Los Angeles for "bridal training." She had to master five languages, and study ballroom dancing, international affairs, economics, and business management under Kaede's orders.[207] One day, Tsukushi went to the boardwalk to yell her frustrations and was seen by Haruto Kaguragi and Oto Edogawa.[208] She was surprised that Haruto recognized her until he called her Tsukasa's girlfriend. He then asked about where Tsukasa was, to which Tsukushi answered "I wonder where he is too." She rushed off after looking at the time.[209] That night, Haruto and Oto came to Tsubaki's house, where Tsukushi was staying, with their friends. She formally introduced herself to them. Oto asked Tsukushi about her reasons for being in Los Angeles. She told her about her training and then said "I've been trying my best but I'm tired."[207]

That night, Tsukushi snuck onto Haruto's plane using a special pass. She was found by the others, before falling asleep. Once it landed, Tsukushi apologized and thanked Haruto. Oto then invited her to her place. There Haruto told Tsukushi he was "super disappointed" in Tsukasa's girlfriend. She was not offended and explained her situation, saying "Sometimes I want to give up." Rui then walked in since Tsukushi had texted him her location.[210] Oto's parents arrived shortly. Tsukushi introduced herself and Rui to them. After Oto's parents revealed they were moving to Kyushu, Oto and Haruto walked Tsukushi and Rui outside. She told Haruto and Oto "If you two need to be together then I don't think you should separate." Once they left, she admitted to Rui that she really wanted to see Tsukasa.[211]

After Oto and Haruto talked to her parents, they met up with Tsukushi at a café. They both thanked her. Tsukushi then revealed that she decided to give the bridal training another try. The next day, Oto and the Correct 5 went to see her off.[212] Before she board the plane with Tama, Kaito Taira explained to Tsukushi how important Tsukasa was to Haruto. A few seconds later, Oto dragged her off the plane. Tsukasa then arrived and embraced her.[213] He said "I told you not to go to L.A.," leading to an argument. She told him that she wanted to understand his life better, but admitted "Once I tried it, it was really hard. I was so lonely." Tsukasa then hugged her and asked her to call if she needed him. Tsukushi introduced Tsukasa to Haruto, before leaving. Back in Los Angeles, Tsukushi continued her lessons, surprising Kaede.[214]

Physical appearance[]

Tsukushi was considered to have average looks by most people. Some people, such as Tsukasa, described her as "beautiful."[44] She had an oval-shaped face with a small, round nose and thin lips. Her hair was brown, usually dark hued but sometimes with copper undertones. Tsukushi's eyes were also dark brown. She had long hair and often styled it in two braids. After she challenged the F4, Tsukushi wore it down. Part of her hair was later cut by Junpei. It remained short for some time until it eventually grew to about shoulder-length, which became her standard hairstyle.

She was mostly seen wearing her school uniform. For casual wear, Tsukushi chose clothing likely for their low price. Her wardrobe ranged from comfortable pants and sweaters to cute dresses and skirts. Tsukushi did not often use make-up, except for special occasions such as parties.

Personality and traits[]

Tsukushi was noted for being strong-willed and tough. She once referenced her name, which means "weed," by saying "You can pull a weed and mow it down, but it always grows back stronger than ever." For Tsukushi, hardships only made her stronger no matter how difficult they were at the time. This attitude stemmed from her upbringing in a poor family, whom she began to gradually feel that had to take care of. Tsukushi often took on part-time jobs to help her family. A hard worker, she was able to do any job she put her mind to. Tama, in particular, was impressed with her work ethic.

Another notable trait of Tsukushi's was her strong sense of justice. She hated seeing others being bullied or harassed. However, at Eitoku, she felt that she had ignore what was right in order to make it to graduation without issue. Because of this, she felt out of place at Eitoku. Tsukushi was unable to relate to her classmates, who valued wealth and status over everything. Once she stood up to Tsukasa, she was able to exist at Eitoku as herself. Tsukushi never became particularly popular or well-liked there, as she had been during elementary and middle school. She, nevertheless, gathered a group of close friends whom she protected fiercely.

In matters of love, Tsukushi could be dense. For example, she was completely unaware of her friend Shingo's feelings for her until he confessed. With Tsukasa's feelings for her, she was not completely unaware though she was passively pretended not to see it. Tsukushi had a particularly hard time grappling with her feelings for Tsukasa, unlike Rui whom she quickly realized she had a crush on. Being from different backgrounds, coupled with his mother and his personality, it took a traumatizing parting for her to finally admit to herself that she loved him.

Skills[5]
Financial strength
1/5
Looks
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
Queen attitude
4/5
Kindness
4/5
Power
5/5

Etymology[]

"I'm a weed! You can pull a weed and mow it down, but it always grows back stronger than ever!"
—Tsukushi references her name[src]

Tsukushi's given name (つくし) means "weed." More specifically, it is likely a reference to the field horsetail.[217] Her parents named her Tsukushi since weeds are supposed to "grow back stronger" even after being pulled. Instead of kanji, it is written in hiragana. Her surname, Makino (牧野; まきの), is not uncommon in Japan. It utilizes the kun'yomi pronunciation of both kanji.[218] Together the kanji can mean either "pasture" or "ranch."[219] Separately, they mean "to herd" (牧)[220] or "plains," "field" (野).[221]

Behind the scenes[]

Photo-icon
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Character notes

  • Tsukushi is the heroine of the manga, Boys Over Flowers and appears in every chapter except "Story of an Encounter."
  • At the beginning of the series, Tsukushi's allowance is revealed to be 3,000 yen.[216] It is unlikely that she was given an allowance in the later part of the series due to her family's hardships.
  • In her first character profile, the word "easygoing" is put next to her blood type, B.[216] The trait is commonly associated with B in the blood type personality theory.[222]
  • In the story, "The Bored Prince" from Hana Yori Dango FF, Tsukushi appears as a frog in Rui's dream. Rui, a sleepy prince, finds and names her Piyon (ピヨン () ). The frog informs him that she used to be human, but Rui wakes up before he can help her.
  • Tsukushi is referenced a few times in Boys Over Flowers Season 2. She has her own arc in the sequel, starting from chapter one hundred.
  • She is the main character of the web-comic, Cafe de Hanadan, and has appeared in every chapter.

Portrayals

See also: Category:Tsukushi Makino portrayals
Yuki-as-Tsukushi

Yuki Uchida as Tsukushi

  • In Hana Yori Dango (1995), she is portrayed by Yuki Uchida.[224] She was an extremely popular Japanese idol at the time. The film plays it relatively close to the original, except changing Tsukushi to a university student. She angers Tsukasa by insulting him, resulting in her being bullied. Tsukushi first falls for Rui and slowly becomes close to Tsukasa. She later agrees to date Tsukasa and betrays him by kissing Rui. In the end, Tsukushi realizes she loves Tsukasa.
Tsukushi-anime2

Tsukushi in the anime

ShanCai

Barbie Hsu as Shan Cai

  • In the Taiwanese drama Meteor Garden (2001), Barbie Hsu plays Tsukushi, renamed Dong Shan Cai.[228] She reprises her role in Meteor Garden II (2002).[229] Shan Cai is a university student and only child, unlike in the manga. However, she retains most of Tsukushi's personality and much of her actions are the same. Like Tsukushi, Shan Cai is stubborn, willful, courageous, and indecisive about her feelings for Dao Ming Si (Tsukasa). Her personality in Meteor Garden II differs a bit, possibly due to it being an original story.
Tsukushi-drama

Mao Inoue as Tsukushi

Tsukushi-musical

Ririka Kato as Tsukushi

  • Ririka Kato plays Tsukushi in Hana Yori Dango: The Musical (2016).[235] At seventeen, Kato is the youngest actress to portray Tsukushi. Singers J-Min and Min play Tsukushi in the Korean version.[236] The musical portrays Tsukushi's personality similarly to the manga, putting particular emphasis on her strong-willed nature. She also struggles with her feelings for Tsukasa.
Shan-Cai-2018

Shen Yue as Shan Cai

Appearances[]

References[]

  1. Tsukki (ツッキー) in the Japanese version
  2. Jeanne d'Arc (ジャンヌ・ダルク) in the Japanese version
  3. Despite Tsukushi's age being cited as 17 several times in Boys Over Flowers, she is most likely 16 at the beginning of the series and 17 after the TOJ arc. The reason for this discrepancy is likely from the author not choosing her birthday until later. Tsukushi would have turned 18 by the events of Chapter 242 and is 20 during her appearance in Boys Over Flowers Season 2.
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 Hana Yori Dango: Yoko Kamio Illustrations
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 Hana Yori Dango FF
  6. 6.0 6.1 Chapter 180, Boys Over Flowers
  7. 7.0 7.1 Chapter 118, Boys Over Flowers
  8. 8.0 8.1 Chapter 54, Boys Over Flowers
  9. Chapter 240, Boys Over Flowers
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 Chapter 63, Boys Over Flowers
  11. 11.0 11.1 Chapter 100, Boys Over Flowers
  12. 12.0 12.1 Chapter 149, Boys Over Flowers
  13. 13.0 13.1 Chapter 40, Boys Over Flowers
  14. 14.0 14.1 Chapter 2, Boys Over Flowers
  15. 15.0 15.1 Chapter 72, Boys Over Flowers
  16. 16.0 16.1 Chapter 13, Boys Over Flowers
  17. 17.0 17.1 Chapter 8, Boys Over Flowers
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 Chapter 1, Boys Over Flowers
  19. 19.0 19.1 Chapter 176, Boys Over Flowers
  20. 20.0 20.1 Chapter 84, Boys Over Flowers
  21. 21.0 21.1 Chapter 174, Boys Over Flowers
  22. 22.0 22.1 Chapter 49, Boys Over Flowers
  23. 23.0 23.1 Chapter 238, Boys Over Flowers
  24. Chapter 3, Boys Over Flowers
  25. Chapter 4, Boys Over Flowers
  26. Chapter 5, Boys Over Flowers
  27. Chapter 6, Boys Over Flowers
  28. Chapter 7, Boys Over Flowers
  29. Chapter 9, Boys Over Flowers
  30. Chapter 10, Boys Over Flowers
  31. Chapter 11, Boys Over Flowers
  32. Chapter 12, Boys Over Flowers
  33. Chapter 14, Boys Over Flowers
  34. Chapter 15, Boys Over Flowers
  35. Chapter 16, Boys Over Flowers
  36. Chapter 17, Boys Over Flowers
  37. Chapter 18, Boys Over Flowers
  38. Chapter 19, Boys Over Flowers
  39. Chapter 20, Boys Over Flowers
  40. Chapter 21, Boys Over Flowers
  41. Chapter 22, Boys Over Flowers
  42. Chapter 23, Boys Over Flowers
  43. Chapter 24, Boys Over Flowers
  44. 44.0 44.1 Chapter 25, Boys Over Flowers
  45. Chapter 26, Boys Over Flowers
  46. Chapter 27, Boys Over Flowers
  47. Chapter 28, Boys Over Flowers
  48. Chapter 29, Boys Over Flowers
  49. Chapter 30, Boys Over Flowers
  50. Chapter 31, Boys Over Flowers
  51. Chapter 32, Boys Over Flowers
  52. Chapter 33, Boys Over Flowers
  53. Chapter 34, Boys Over Flowers
  54. Chapter 35, Boys Over Flowers
  55. Chapter 36, Boys Over Flowers
  56. Chapter 37, Boys Over Flowers
  57. Chapter 38, Boys Over Flowers
  58. Chapter 39, Boys Over Flowers
  59. Chapter 41, Boys Over Flowers
  60. Chapter 42, Boys Over Flowers
  61. Chapter 43, Boys Over Flowers
  62. Chapter 44, Boys Over Flowers
  63. Chapter 45, Boys Over Flowers
  64. Chapter 46, Boys Over Flowers
  65. Chapter 47, Boys Over Flowers
  66. Chapter 48, Boys Over Flowers
  67. Chapter 50, Boys Over Flowers
  68. Chapter 51, Boys Over Flowers
  69. Chapter 52, Boys Over Flowers
  70. Chapter 53, Boys Over Flowers
  71. Chapter 55, Boys Over Flowers
  72. Chapter 56, Boys Over Flowers
  73. Chapter 57, Boys Over Flowers
  74. Chapter 58, Boys Over Flowers
  75. Chapter 59, Boys Over Flowers
  76. Chapter 60, Boys Over Flowers
  77. Chapter 61, Boys Over Flowers
  78. Chapter 62, Boys Over Flowers
  79. Chapter 64, Boys Over Flowers
  80. Chapter 65, Boys Over Flowers
  81. Chapter 66, Boys Over Flowers
  82. Chapter 67, Boys Over Flowers
  83. Chapter 68, Boys Over Flowers
  84. Chapter 69, Boys Over Flowers
  85. Chapter 70, Boys Over Flowers
  86. Chapter 71, Boys Over Flowers
  87. Chapter 73, Boys Over Flowers
  88. Chapter 74, Boys Over Flowers
  89. Chapter 75, Boys Over Flowers
  90. Chapter 76, Boys Over Flowers
  91. Chapter 77, Boys Over Flowers
  92. Chapter 78, Boys Over Flowers
  93. Chapter 79, Boys Over Flowers
  94. Chapter 80, Boys Over Flowers
  95. Chapter 81, Boys Over Flowers
  96. Chapter 82, Boys Over Flowers
  97. Chapter 83, Boys Over Flowers
  98. Chapter 85, Boys Over Flowers
  99. Chapter 86, Boys Over Flowers
  100. Chapter 87, Boys Over Flowers
  101. Chapter 88, Boys Over Flowers
  102. Chapter 89, Boys Over Flowers
  103. Chapter 90, Boys Over Flowers
  104. Chapter 91, Boys Over Flowers
  105. Chapter 92, Boys Over Flowers
  106. Chapter 93, Boys Over Flowers
  107. Chapter 94, Boys Over Flowers
  108. Chapter 95, Boys Over Flowers
  109. Chapter 96, Boys Over Flowers
  110. Chapter 97, Boys Over Flowers
  111. Chapter 98, Boys Over Flowers
  112. Chapter 99, Boys Over Flowers
  113. Chapter 101, Boys Over Flowers
  114. Chapter 102, Boys Over Flowers
  115. Chapter 103, Boys Over Flowers
  116. Chapter 104, Boys Over Flowers
  117. Chapter 105, Boys Over Flowers
  118. Chapter 106, Boys Over Flowers
  119. Chapter 107, Boys Over Flowers
  120. Chapter 108, Boys Over Flowers
  121. Chapter 109, Boys Over Flowers
  122. Chapter 110, Boys Over Flowers
  123. Chapter 111, Boys Over Flowers
  124. Chapter 112, Boys Over Flowers
  125. Chapter 113, Boys Over Flowers
  126. Chapter 114, Boys Over Flowers
  127. Chapter 115, Boys Over Flowers
  128. Chapter 116, Boys Over Flowers
  129. Chapter 117, Boys Over Flowers
  130. Chapter 119, Boys Over Flowers
  131. Chapter 120, Boys Over Flowers
  132. Chapter 121, Boys Over Flowers
  133. Chapter 122, Boys Over Flowers
  134. Chapter 123, Boys Over Flowers
  135. Chapter 124, Boys Over Flowers
  136. Chapter 125, Boys Over Flowers
  137. Chapter 126, Boys Over Flowers
  138. Chapter 127, Boys Over Flowers
  139. Chapter 128, Boys Over Flowers
  140. Chapter 129, Boys Over Flowers
  141. Chapter 130, Boys Over Flowers
  142. Chapter 131, Boys Over Flowers
  143. Chapter 132, Boys Over Flowers
  144. Chapter 133, Boys Over Flowers
  145. Chapter 134, Boys Over Flowers
  146. Chapter 135, Boys Over Flowers
  147. Chapter 136, Boys Over Flowers
  148. Chapter 137, Boys Over Flowers
  149. Chapter 138, Boys Over Flowers
  150. Chapter 139, Boys Over Flowers
  151. Chapter 140, Boys Over Flowers
  152. Chapter 141, Boys Over Flowers
  153. Chapter 142, Boys Over Flowers
  154. Chapter 143, Boys Over Flowers
  155. Chapter 144, Boys Over Flowers
  156. Chapter 145, Boys Over Flowers
  157. Chapter 146, Boys Over Flowers
  158. Chapter 147, Boys Over Flowers
  159. Chapter 148, Boys Over Flowers
  160. Chapter 150, Boys Over Flowers
  161. Chapter 151, Boys Over Flowers
  162. Chapter 152, Boys Over Flowers
  163. Chapter 153, Boys Over Flowers
  164. Chapter 154, Boys Over Flowers
  165. Chapter 155, Boys Over Flowers
  166. Chapter 156, Boys Over Flowers
  167. Chapter 157, Boys Over Flowers
  168. Chapter 158, Boys Over Flowers
  169. Chapter 159, Boys Over Flowers
  170. Chapter 160, Boys Over Flowers
  171. Chapter 161, Boys Over Flowers
  172. Chapter 162, Boys Over Flowers
  173. Chapter 163, Boys Over Flowers
  174. Chapter 164, Boys Over Flowers
  175. Chapter 165, Boys Over Flowers
  176. Chapter 166, Boys Over Flowers
  177. Chapter 167, Boys Over Flowers
  178. Chapter 168, Boys Over Flowers
  179. Chapter 169, Boys Over Flowers
  180. Chapter 170, Boys Over Flowers
  181. Chapter 171, Boys Over Flowers
  182. Chapter 172, Boys Over Flowers
  183. Chapter 173, Boys Over Flowers
  184. Chapter 175, Boys Over Flowers
  185. Chapter 177, Boys Over Flowers
  186. Chapter 178, Boys Over Flowers
  187. Chapter 179, Boys Over Flowers
  188. Chapter 181, Boys Over Flowers
  189. Chapter 182, Boys Over Flowers
  190. Chapter 183, Boys Over Flowers
  191. Chapter 184, Boys Over Flowers
  192. Chapter 185, Boys Over Flowers
  193. Chapter 186, Boys Over Flowers
  194. Chapter 187, Boys Over Flowers
  195. Chapter 188, Boys Over Flowers
  196. Chapter 189, Boys Over Flowers
  197. Chapter 190, Boys Over Flowers
  198. Chapter 191, Boys Over Flowers
  199. Chapter 192, Boys Over Flowers
  200. Chapter 193, Boys Over Flowers
  201. Chapter 194, Boys Over Flowers
  202. Chapter 195, Boys Over Flowers
  203. Chapter 196, Boys Over Flowers
  204. Chapter 197, Boys Over Flowers
  205. Chapter 198, Boys Over Flowers
  206. Chapter 199, Boys Over Flowers
  207. 207.0 207.1 Chapter 102, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  208. Chapter 100, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  209. Chapter 101, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  210. Chapter 103, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  211. Chapter 104, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  212. Chapter 105, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  213. Chapter 106, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  214. Chapter 107, Boys Over Flowers Season 2
  215. 215.0 215.1 Boys Over Flowers Color Edition, Hana Yori Dango (app)
  216. 216.0 216.1 216.2 216.3 Boys Over Flowers volume 2, side-columns
  217. https://jisho.org/word/土筆
  218. https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/牧野
  219. https://jisho.org/word/牧野
  220. https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/牧
  221. https://jisho.org/search/野%20%23kanji
  222. https://motto-jp.com/media/lifestyle/blood-type-personality-in-japan-a-guide/
  223. Boys Over Flowers volume 4, side-columns
  224. http://www.allcinema.net/prog/show_c.php?num_c=152613 (Japanese)
  225. http://lineup.toei-anim.co.jp/ja/tv/hanadan/character/ (Japanese)
  226. https://movie.walkerplus.com/mv45881/ (Japanese)
  227. Boys Over Flowers volume 17, "Voiceover Report"
  228. http://www.dramapanda.com/2017/12/dee-hsu-to-play-dao-ming-sis-sassy.html
  229. https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/2/9/6/n213387.htm (Chinese)
  230. http://www.tbs.co.jp/hanayoridango/cast.html (Japanese)
  231. https://web.archive.org/web/20080519021913/http://www.tbs.co.jp/hanadan2/cast/ (Japanese)
  232. http://www.sanspo.com/geino/top/gt200708/gt2007081800.html (Japanese)
  233. http://www.konami.jp/hanadan/chara_makino.html (Japanese)
  234. http://www.mydaily.co.kr/news/read.html?newsid=200810060837081112&ext=na (Korean)
  235. http://www.theaterguide.co.jp/theater_news/2015/08/20.php (Japanese)
  236. http://ameblo.jp/hanadan-musical/entry-12237166997.html (Japanese)
  237. https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/entertainment/meet-the-new-shancai-and-f4-in-the-2018-meteor-garden-tv-reboot
  238. https://spice.eplus.jp/articles/227737 (Japanese)
  239. https://www.sanook.com/movie/103161/ (Thai)

See also[]


Boys Over Flowers characters
Main characters

Tsukasa Domyoji | Rui Hanazawa | Tsukushi Makino | Akira Mimasaka | Sojiro Nishikado

Supporting characters

Seinosuke Amakusa | Kazuya Aoike | Yuriko Asai | Erika Ayuhara | Kaede Domyoji | Tsubaki Domyoji
Ryusuke Hayama | Sara Hinata | Amon Kunisawa | Ayano Kurimaki | Chieko Makino | Haruo Makino
Susumu Makino | Yuki Matsuoka | Umi Nakajima | Nakatsuka | Kiyonaga Narumiya | Nishida
Shigeru Okawahara | Junpei Oribe | Shingo Oribe | Sakurako Sanjo | Tama | Thomas | Shizuka Todo
Minako Yamano | Matsutaro Yoshimatsu

Minor characters

Aki and Chimura | Akira's girlfriend | Akira's father | Akira's mother | Beautician | Bob | Cindy
Fortuneteller | Kaede's sister | Makiko Endo | Junko Ekuni | Gen | Giuseppe | Jody Grand | Junpei's friend
Junpei's mother | Mike Hall | Harumi and Mako | Hatta | Hirayama | Hiroko | Hiromi | Hiromi | Hiroshi | Mayumi Isoda
Iwatsuki | Kimoto | Kirishima | Kobayashi | Koga | Kazuko Kubo | M | Maekawa | Sonoko Maekawa | Rio Makise
Mako | Makoto | Makoto | Jean P. Mayol | Mayuko | Midori | Miho | Mika | Emu and Memu Mimasaka
Mina | Mikihisa Minami | Misawa | Miya | Eri Miyazawa | Piromichi Nakano | New York enterpriser
Shoichiro Nishikado | Noriko | Hideki Oe | Akira Onagisa | Ozawa | Principal | Proprietress | Rie | Rika | Risako
Rui's father | Rui's mother | Saito | Sakurako's grandmother | Seinosuke's father | Shigeru's father
Shigeru's mother | Shingo's girlfriend | Shiori | Shizuka's parents | Arthur Smith | Sojiro's brother
Sojiro's father | Sojiro's mother | Sugiyama | Tama's husband | Kimiko Tamura | Teacher | Toda | Tome
Tsubaki's ex-boyfriend | Tsubaki's husband | Tsukasa's attacker | Tsukasa's father | Tsukasa's grandfather | Ueno
Umi's friend | Viola | Yatchan | Yoshida | Eisuke Yoshida | Yuki's father | Yuki's mother | Yuki's sister


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