EPISODE CONTEXT

Sitting at the midpoint of the 12-episode season, Episode 7 functions as a summer breather after Episode 6's more structured social outings like shopping and study sessions, letting Komi's incremental progress breathe through casual, low-pressure scenarios. It bridges the gap toward Episode 8's deeper dive into traditional Japanese summer events—Obon and festivals—where Komi's expanding social circle will be tested in more culturally significant settings. This is the calm center of the season, consolidating growth before the back half raises the emotional stakes.