Kento Hinode, a middle school student in Tokoname, has short black hair, large eyes, and average height, his neat school uniform reinforcing a tidy look. He lives with his grandparents, mother, sister Yumi, and late father. As the only male after his father's passing, expectations weigh on him to support the family. He assists his grandfather in a pottery workshop, developing a personal passion for ceramics. This passion clashes with his mother's desire for his academic success and financial security, creating tension. Kento presents a reserved, calm demeanor at school, especially around acquaintances, a guardedness stemming from past public embarrassments. He opens up primarily to close friends like Masamichi Isami, sharing personal matters including early romantic experiences. He struggles with self-expression, wishing he could be as forthright as classmate Miyo Sasaki. He dislikes pushy behavior; Miyo's public love letter caused him embarrassment and anger, leading to a harsh rejection. His relationship with Miyo shifts dramatically. Initially irritated by her persistent attention, he distances himself. Yet, when she appears as a cat named Taro (after his deceased dog), he readily bonds with her, confiding family pressures and the workshop's potential closure. He notes both her human and cat forms share a similar scent, evoking warmth and sunlight. After Miyo disappears, Kento confesses to Taro his regret over rejecting her and clarifies he doesn't hate her. This realization drives him to join the rescue effort when she becomes trapped in the cat realm. Through these events, Kento confronts his inability to communicate honestly. He apologizes to Miyo and reciprocates her feelings. He actively pursues pottery despite family opposition and adopts Miyo's playful "sunrise attack" gesture, signaling increased emotional openness.