The beloved shojo manga series, A Sign of Affection (Yubisaki to Renren), has officially announced that it is heading towards its climax, signaling the impending conclusion of Yuki Itose and Itsuomi Nagi’s heartfelt romance. The series, which began its serialization in Kodansha’s Dessert magazine in July 2019, has garnered significant popularity, including a recent anime adaptation that aired from January to March 2024.
The Endearing Journey of Yuki Itose and Itsuomi Nagi
A Sign of Affection centers on Yuki Itose, a university student who has been deaf since birth, navigating a world primarily through sign language, text, and lip-reading. Her life takes a significant turn after a chance encounter on a train with Itsuomi Nagi, a multilingual upperclassman with a passion for travel and different cultures. Their unique connection blossoms into a touching romance that explores communication, understanding, and the beauty of shared experiences beyond spoken words.
A Chronicle of Growth and Connection
The manga, penned and illustrated by the author duo Suu Morishita, has captivated readers with its sensitive portrayal of a romance between a deaf protagonist and her supportive partner. As of November 2025, thirteen tankōbon volumes have been released in Japan. Kodansha USA has licensed the series for English publication, offering both digital and print releases, including 3-in-1 omnibus versions starting from April 2024. The series has consistently been published in Kodansha’s Dessert magazine, with new chapters typically released monthly, though the creators have occasionally taken breaks.
From Page to Screen: The Anime Adaptation
The growing success of A Sign of Affection led to an anime television series adaptation, produced by Ajiado, which premiered in January 2024 and concluded in March 2024. The anime further expanded the story’s reach, introducing Yuki and Itsuomi’s world to a global audience via Crunchyroll. While an anime adaptation sometimes indicates a manga’s conclusion, previous statements from the creators in March 2022 suggested plans for the manga to extend “a little longer than 12 volumes,” indicating that its story had more to tell at that time.
What the Climax Implies for the Series
The announcement of the manga heading toward its climax signifies that the main narrative arcs are drawing to a close. For readers, this often means that the central conflicts will be resolved, and the characters will reach pivotal moments in their relationships and personal growth. Speculations surrounding the ending have included the main couple getting married and starting a family, overcoming significant challenges together, and the reunion of long-lost characters, adding an emotional layer to the anticipated conclusion. While specific details of the ending remain under wraps as the manga approaches its final chapters, the term “climax” suggests a build-up to a significant and emotionally resonant resolution for Yuki and Itsuomi.
The Enduring Appeal of A Sign of Affection
The manga’s success lies in its heartfelt storytelling and its sensitive exploration of themes like communication barriers, cultural exchange, and unconditional love. Yuki’s journey of opening up her world and Itsuomi’s dedication to understanding and connecting with her have resonated deeply with fans worldwide. The series stands out for its positive representation and for fostering empathy and understanding among its readership.
Fans can continue to follow A Sign of Affection through its ongoing serialization in Dessert magazine and through Kodansha’s K Manga app for simultaneous English releases. The impending climax promises an emotional and satisfying conclusion to a beloved romantic narrative.
