Episode 8 of "Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love" opens with a poignant scene where Miu, with heartfelt gratitude, bids farewell to Ren, leaving him Looking utterly defeated. His conviction that the concept of "forever" is a mere illusion is further cemented within him.
A poignant flashback unfolds, revealing Ren's unparalleled success in all endeavors. Ironically, despite his accomplishments, he remains an insignificant figure in his mother's life. A dancer by profession, she unleashes her artistic frustrations upon him whenever she encounters a creative block, leaving him perpetually disappointed.
Further distress envelops him as he acknowledges his inability to reciprocate Chiaki's deep-rooted affection, despite her unwavering presence by his side. Subsequently, the women he encounters in his life seem to mimic butterflies, flitting in and out of his existence without leaving a lasting impression. In an attempt to conform to societal expectations, he adopts a facade, ultimately losing sight of his true self and his own desires.
Ren's transformation begins when he stumbles upon Miu's artwork, featuring wings, following her tumultuous confrontation with her ex at an art exhibition. He finds himself astounded by her daring authenticity, her unwavering courage to express her innermost self through her art, a courage he lacks. Prior to this encounter, he adhered to the belief that hope was futile, as it was bound to be shattered. However, his perspective shifts dramatically upon witnessing Miu on the day of the vandalized mural. Her eyes, filled with unyielding hope, pierce through his defenses.
From that pivotal day forward, every action he takes is driven by a desire to draw closer to her. He finds himself caring deeply for her, moved by her unwavering perseverance in the face of a harsh world. Her presence feels like a beacon of light, guiding him through the darkness. Her inquisitive questions and keen observations about his art ignite a spark within him, igniting a passion he had long suppressed. By the time the art retreat arrives, he has succumbed to his feelings for her. Yet, in a bid to shield himself from the inevitable pain of loss, he pushes her away.
Presently, Ren's mother makes an appearance, driven by a desire to help him rise from his current despair. Initially, he lashes out at her, before quickly apologizing for his harsh words. She endeavors to explain that her relentless pursuit of her passion left her unable to prevent herself from causing him pain. She claims that the more precious something is, the greater the pain one must endure. Although she doesn't regret her past actions, she urges him not to surrender to despair. She tells him that even if he possesses nothing, he should live his life according to his own whims and desires. As she embraces him, he is taken aback by the warmth of her affection.
This experience prompts Ren to deeply miss Miu, who, in stark contrast to his selfish mother, remains steadfast in pursuit of her desires, undeterred even by the pain she encounters. He seeks solace from his mentor, who sets him straight by acknowledging Ren's talent as an artist but reminding him that he is not unparalleled; others too, suffer in silence. Ren feels a void in his life, believing he had no purpose beyond his devotion to Chiaki. The mentor, baring his soul, shares that his wife's stillbirth led to their divorce, and he channels his sorrow into his artwork. Despite life's inevitable conclusion, the yearning to persist remains, a testament to which artists immortalize through their creations. Ren comes to this realization and embarks once again on crafting a clay butterfly model. He has led a life shielding himself from the agony tied to loss, but now he resolves to confront his desires head-on. Symbolically, a butterfly breaks free from his abode, fluttering joyously across the town.
Ren visits Osakabe, who is working on the backdrop for the butterfly mural Ren crafted in memory of Chiaki beside the seashore. Ren admires it, and Osakabe reveals that this reflection mirrors his perception of Ren. Hikari, Megumi, and Saki join them, playfully remarking that the Kamakura Banksy duo is reunited. They toast by the beach, and Ren inquiries about their underlying principles.
Each character's unwavering "nevertheless" philosophy unfolds, culminating in Ren's revelation—he acknowledges the inevitable hurt but advances forward regardless. He visits Miu in her studio, vowing not to disturb her peace but offering assistance with her art piece. She accepts, and they form a harmonious partnership. Their collaborative efforts reveal Miu's unbroken hope, contrasting with Ren's avoidance of potential pain. She envisions transforming their sorrow into a tangible masterpiece, while Ren ponders over their fleeting yet seemingly eternal time together.
Their departure is tinged with sweetness and sorrow, marked by a hesitant farewell. Soon after, they realize they've inadvertently exchanged notebooks. Miu discovers Ren's sketches of her, the first dating back to their art exhibit encounter. Ren, in turn, finds her illustrations of him. Their shared memories flood back, prompting them to rush towards each other. Ren, acknowledging the impossibility of forever, confesses his liking for her. Miu jokes about future regrets, but their smiles precede a tender kiss.
As "Nevertheless: The Shapes of Love Episode 8" concludes, Ren's NYC exhibition triumphs, and the Kamakura Art Festival finally dawns. Ren arrives just in time, beholding Miu's sculpture titled 'Shape of Forever.' She welcomes him warmly, and their smiles speak volumes.
