Series & First Appearance
Ruka Sarashina appears in the anime and manga series Kanojo, Okarishimasu (also known as Rent-A-Girlfriend), which premiered in July 2020. The series was created by Reiji Miyajima and is published by Kodansha. Ruka first debuted in Chapter 61 of the manga, which was the turning point where her character began to take a more central role in the unfolding narrative.
Profile at a Glance
Ruka Sarashina is a 17-18-year-old rental girlfriend and a central character in Kanojo, Okarishimasu. Standing at 160 cm (approximately 5’3"), she possesses a unique personality shaped by her medical condition of having an irregular heartbeat. Ruka uses her role as a rental girlfriend not only as a means of finding true love but also to experience exhilarating moments that boost her heart rate.
Personality & Motivations
Ruka is characterized by her strong determination, passionate nature, and bursts of feistiness. Despite her primarily cheerful demeanor, she often reveals her vulnerable side, especially when it comes to her feelings for Kazuya Kinoshita. Ruka’s main driving goal is to cultivate a genuine romance with Kazuya, despite the presence of his preferred rental girlfriend, Chizuru "Mizuhara" Ichinose. Notably, she has a mischievous side, often teasing Kazuya and expressing her affections in a bold way. Her catchphrases and lighthearted banter contribute to her charm, making her a favorite among fans.
Abilities / Powers
While Ruka does not possess any supernatural abilities or combat skills, her standout qualities include her emotional intelligence and understanding of romantic dynamics, which she utilizes during her time as a rental girlfriend. Ruka is adept at understanding Kazuya’s emotional state and often acts to uplift him. However, her insecurities about being in competition with Chizuru impact her self-confidence. A notable element of her character arc is her evolution from being assertive and confident about her feelings to experiencing doubt and jealousy, particularly in the context of Kazuya’s romantic entanglements.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Ruka’s arc begins when she first interacts with Kazuya, leading to a recognition of her feelings that complicate her role as a rental girlfriend. Key plot points include her persistent efforts to stand out against Chizuru, highlighting her emotional growth as she navigates the trials of love and competition. Throughout the series, Ruka faces various challenges that test her resilience and passion, culminating in moments where she must confront both her emotions and the realities of her situation. Her confession of love during a pivotal moment serves as a major landmark in her character development and sets the stage for future conflicts and resolutions.
Notable Relationships
Ruka’s relationships are fundamental to her character. Her most significant connection is with Kazuya, to whom she becomes romantically attached despite their unconventional circumstance. She views Chizuru, Kazuya’s first choice, as both a rival and a role model. Ruka also interacts with other rental girlfriends, including Sumi Sakurasawa and the female leads, adding layers to her character as she shares her thoughts on love and relationships with them. These interactions often reveal her inner conflicts and aspirations.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
In Chapter 82, Ruka confesses her feelings to Kazuya, stating, "I want to be with you, not just as a rental girlfriend. I want to be your real girlfriend!" This moment is both significant for her character and impactful for fans, marking the transition from her competitive spirit to a more vulnerable side, effectively resonating with those who appreciate romantic tension and character authenticity.
Another memorable scene occurs in Chapter 78, where Ruka hilariously attempts to outdo Chizuru in a date scenario, showcasing her playful side while also underscoring her determination to win Kazuya’s heart, emphasizing the comedic elements of the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Ruka Sarashina has become a fan-favorite within the Kanojo, Okarishimasu series, ranking third in a popularity poll with 3,509 votes, highlighting her widespread appeal. Japanese voice actress Azusa Tadokoro lends her voice to Ruka in the anime adaptation, while in English, she is voiced by Lizzie Freeman. Her character design features distinct traits, such as her striking purple eyes and asymmetric bob hairstyle, which set her apart visually in the cast. The character’s playful yet complex nature has been praised by fans and critics alike, cementing Ruka as a memorable figure in the romantic-comedy genre.
Overall, Ruka Sarashina exemplifies the intricacies of love and competition in the modern dating landscape depicted in Kanojo, Okarishimasu, resonating with viewers for her depth and relatability.
