Tamon’s B-Side Episode 2 – “Do You Like Me?”
Episode 2 continues the romantic comedy between Utage Kinoshita and Tamon Fukuhara while showing the hidden pressures of being a famous idol. The episode shifts its focus from the surprise of their first meeting in Episode 1 to the emotional challenges Tamon faces before his first fan handshake event
The Handshake Event Is Announced
The idol group F/ACE announces a special handshake event where fans can briefly meet and shake hands with their favorite members. For Utage, this is a dream come true because she finally has an official chance to meet Tamon face-to-face as his biggest fan.
She becomes incredibly excited and imagines many romantic and funny scenarios. Her exaggerated daydreams create several comedic moments that highlight her energetic personality.
Tamon’s Hidden Anxiety
Although Tamon appears to be a confident, handsome idol on stage, his real personality is completely different.
Instead of looking forward to meeting fans, he becomes extremely nervous. He worries that:
- he will disappoint everyone,
- his smile will not look genuine,
- fans will lose interest in him,
- and he isn’t worthy of their admiration.
This episode shows that fame does not remove insecurity. Tamon constantly doubts himself despite his popularity, making him a sympathetic protagonist.
Utage Helps Him Practice
Seeing Tamon’s emotional breakdown, Utage decides to help him prepare for the event by acting as a practice fan.
They rehearse:
- greeting fans,
- smiling naturally,
- shaking hands politely,
- maintaining eye contact,
- and responding warmly.
During these practice sessions, Tamon unexpectedly switches into his professional idol mode. His charming smile and confident fan service leave Utage completely flustered, creating one of the funniest and sweetest sequences in the episode.
The Real Handshake Event
When the event finally begins, hundreds of fans line up to meet the members of F/ACE.
Although Tamon is still anxious inside, he gradually gains confidence thanks to Utage’s encouragement.
The atmosphere is energetic, with fans cheering and eagerly waiting for their turn. It also demonstrates how demanding idol work can be, requiring performers to stay cheerful for every fan despite personal stress.
Conflict Between Fans
A surprising conflict breaks out among fans during the event, and Utage becomes caught in the middle.
Instead of simply enjoying her long-awaited meeting with Tamon, she must deal with misunderstandings and tension surrounding the event. This reminds viewers that idol fandom can sometimes become competitive and emotional.
Character Development
Utage Kinoshita
In Episode 1, Utage mainly admired Tamon as a perfect celebrity.
Episode 2 shows that she is beginning to care about the real Tamon—the shy, insecure young man behind the glamorous idol image. Rather than only being a fan, she starts becoming someone he can rely on emotionally.
Tamon Fukuhara
Episode 2 reveals Tamon’s greatest weakness: his lack of self-confidence.
Even though millions admire him, he struggles to believe in himself. His interactions with Utage slowly help him realize that someone appreciates him for who he truly is, not just for his public persona.
Comedy Highlights
The episode balances romance with humor through:
- Utage’s over-the-top imagination,
- awkward handshake practice,
- Tamon’s sudden switch into perfect idol mode,
- and Utage’s embarrassed reactions whenever he acts charming.
These moments keep the episode lighthearted while still moving the story forward.
Themes
Episode 2 explores several important ideas:
- The difference between public image and true personality.
- The emotional pressure of being an idol.
- The importance of encouragement and emotional support.
- How genuine relationships develop through understanding rather than appearances.
Ending
By the end of the episode:
- Tamon has gained a little more confidence.
- Utage understands him more deeply.
- Their emotional bond becomes noticeably stronger.
- The story sets up future episodes where their growing relationship faces new challenges within the world of entertainment and idol culture.