“Damn! That's my Christmas present right there lol... Nagatoro wished she was his wife huh? Yeah I totally believe it. Senpai's just gotta make that wish come true!” Reddit · r/anime · 3 years ago
The community generally views this episode as a turning point where the relationship shifts from simple teasing to a more sincere slice-of-life romance.
: The episode concludes at the shrine with Nagatoro telling Senpai she wished to become his bride. While she quickly dismisses it as a joke, fans and reviewers noted the voice acting suggested she might have been serious.
: Reviewers on Reddit noted a higher animation budget for this episode, specifically highlighting the "solid" animation during the Christmas light scenes and the beginning of the Judo-related backdrops. Fan Perspectives
: After several comedic failed attempts to find a private spot—including interruptions from a naked Art Club President and a "make-out session" on the school roof—Nagatoro and Senpai finally exchange gifts. In a "cute and hilarious" reveal, both characters give each other the exact same gift: a scarf.
: After receiving a "misfortune" fortune at the shrine that warns he must take action for his romantic affairs to succeed, Senpai steps up. He boldly tells Nagatoro "I'll be waiting" for her shift to end and later admits that if he were to ask her out, he wouldn't leave it to the gods—he would do it himself.