In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of Yuri manga, few titles capture the grueling reality of the modern workplace with as much charm and sincerity as "If We Leave on the Dot" (Japanese title: *Teiji ni Agaretara*). Written and illustrated by the talented Natsumi Mizuno, this series is a standout gem serialized in Ichijinsha’s *Comic Yuri Hime*. As an expert in the medium, I can confidently say that this manga transcends the typical "office romance" tropes, offering a poignant look at adult life, boundaries, and the pursuit of happiness in a corporate world.
The Premise: A Race Against the Clock
The story centers on Mizuki, a diligent and somewhat soft-spoken office worker who finds herself trapped in the classic cycle of Japanese corporate culture: endless tasks, social pressure to stay late, and a dwindling personal life. Mizuki is the type of employee who struggles to say "no," often taking on the burdens of her colleagues at the expense of her own well-being.
Enter Yukawa, a "cool beauty" and a fellow employee in the same department. Unlike Mizuki, Yukawa is a master of efficiency. She completes her tasks with surgical precision and makes it a point to leave the office "on the dot"—the exact second her shift ends. This behavior makes her an outlier in a culture that often equates overtime with loyalty.
The narrative kicks into high gear when Yukawa unexpectedly asks Mizuki out. However, there is a catch: Yukawa insists that they can only go on dates and spend time together if they both finish their work and leave the office exactly when the clock strikes six. This "contractual" approach to dating turns their budding romance into a daily battle for productivity and self-assertion.
Demographics and Genre
"If We Leave on the Dot" is firmly rooted in the Josei demographic, specifically within the Yuri (Girls' Love) genre. Unlike *Shoujo* titles that might focus on high school melodrama, this manga is tailored for adult women. It deals with mature themes such as career stagnation, the anxiety of "fitting in" at work, and the complexities of navigating a same-sex relationship in a traditional professional environment. It is a "slice-of-life" drama that prioritizes emotional realism over fantastical plot twists.
Key Themes: Work-Life Balance and Identity
The most prominent theme of the manga is the critique of toxic work culture. Through Mizuki’s eyes, we see the psychological toll of the "Black Company" mentality—where employees feel guilty for leaving on time. Yukawa serves as the catalyst for Mizuki’s character growth; she isn't just a love interest, but a mentor who teaches Mizuki the value of her own time.
Another significant theme is communication and boundaries. The "on the dot" rule is a metaphor for setting boundaries in all aspects of life. As the two women navigate their secret office romance, they must learn to communicate their needs, fears, and expectations. The manga beautifully explores the vulnerability of two adults trying to build a life together while maintaining their professional personas.
Why It Stands Out
Natsumi Mizuno’s art style is clean, expressive, and perfectly suited for the corporate setting. The character designs are distinct, with Yukawa’s stoic elegance contrasting beautifully with Mizuki’s more expressive, often flustered demeanor. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the reader to feel the weight of the workday and the sweet relief of the evening hours.
For fans of "Still Sick" or "Doughnuts Under a Crescent Moon," this series is a must-read. It avoids the "predatory" or "overly sexualized" tropes sometimes found in the genre, focusing instead on a healthy, supportive, and deeply relatable partnership.
Conclusion
"If We Leave on the Dot" is more than just a romance; it is a manifesto for the modern worker. It asks the reader: *What are you working for?* and *Who are you waiting for at the end of the day?* By blending the stakes of corporate survival with the tenderness of a developing love story, Mizuno has created a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever stared at an office clock, wishing for the courage to simply stand up and leave. It is a sophisticated, heartwarming, and essential entry in the Josei Yuri canon.
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