As the sun sets on a day of new beginnings, two childhood friends, Natsukawa and Kazuto, embark on a shared journey in the first episode of "Living with Him." The curtain rises on their university life as roommates, a plan orchestrated by their mothers who believe their shared history will make them compatible housemates. With a blend of excitement and apprehension, they unpack their belongings in their new apartment, a sanctuary of independence and personal growth.
Natsukawa, now liberated from the relentless chores of caring for his sisters at home, is met with his family's high expectations for his roommate, Kazuto. The sisters are thrilled about Natsukawa living with the paragon of virtue and talent, the baseball star Kazuto. Their mother, ever the pragmatist, highlights the financial benefits of splitting rent. Yet, beneath this practical arrangement, there lingers an unvoiced hope that living together will reignite their childhood bond.
In the process of settling into their new home, Natsukawa and Kazuto engage in a dance of reacquaintance. Natsukawa feels a bit awkward, considering the long gap since their last shared experiences. Kazuto, on the other hand, expresses a sincere enthusiasm for their new life together, a revelation that surprises Natsukawa.
Amidst the unpacking and organizing, a playful exchange unfolds. Natsukawa teases Kazuto about having a girl over, to which Kazuto casually admits his relationships are short-lived, a detail that both confuses and piques Natsukawa's interest. This contrasts sharply with the image of Kazuto his sisters have described, igniting Natsukawa's curiosity to unravel the mystery of Kazuto's romantic life.
As evening approaches, they share a meal prepared by Natsukawa, surprising Kazuto with his culinary skills. During dinner, Natsukawa inquires about the reasons behind Kazuto's failed relationships, leading them on a journey of introspection. Kazuto skillfully shifts the focus, proposing that they spend more time together so Natsukawa can help him understand his romantic shortcomings from a woman's point of view.
That night, Kazuto reminisces through old photos, recalling their shared childhood. Natsukawa, too, is taken back to a memory of Kazuto enjoying cheesecake with his family.
The next day brings a tender moment when Kazuto discovers Natsukawa asleep on the couch. Their day together is filled with activities that reveal Kazuto's character—a kind gesture at a batting cage, the thoughtful purchase of matching mugs, and a meal at a restaurant chosen by Kazuto. Despite these insights, Natsukawa remains puzzled by the reasons behind Kazuto's relationship failures.
As night falls, Natsukawa falls ill, and Kazuto takes care of him, showing a tender side that Natsukawa had not seen before. In his sleep, Natsukawa clings to Kazuto's hand, leading to a night where Kazuto stays by his side, sleeping on the floor.
The following morning, over coffee, they discuss Kazuto's past breakups. Natsukawa playfully suggests that any girl would be charmed by Kazuto's considerate nature, but Kazuto reveals that his breakups often end with the assumption that he must be in love with someone else.
As they share a cheesecake brought by Kazuto, Natsukawa is left to ponder the depth of their relationship and the unspoken feelings that may lie beneath the surface. "New Beginnings: The First Episode of 'Living with Him'" captures the essence of the show's debut, where old bonds are tested, new understandings are forged, and the foundations of a deeper connection are laid.