Erika grabs Maos arm, inadvertently causing her to scratch her face.
Aoi takes the lead, insisting that Erika apologize to Mao.
Aoi, masterfully taking control of the situation, then asks Erikas crush Shuuji if Erika should apologize.
Then she asks Yuzu.
They both agree that she should.
Hearing them agree only reinforces the image in her head of a perfect lovey-dovey couple.
The episode is a showcase seiyu Kaneko Sayaka, who lends pathos and vulnerability to Erika.
Her breathing becomes more labored and her voice trembles as her mean girl facade gradually crumbles.
Aoi sighs, and seems to heed his wordless request to cool it.
But Aoi has one more bullet in the chamber.
Remember how Yuzu offered to sew up Tamas keychain?
She started sewing by making tissue holders.
She slaps it away, and her meltdown continues.
Erika takes her opening and runs out, and Yuzu chases after her.
Mao and Mika apologize to Tama, and then Hirabayashi.
Tama then thanks Aoi for saving her, but admits that she doesnt want to see Aoi doing that.
Peace returns to class, as Tamas scolding ended the abuse of Erika.
Even Shuuji ends up joining for celebratory drinks, as he and Tama put their past friction behind them.
Alls well that ends well!
Me too, Tomozaki …me too!
