Romance isn't needed

This drama, just like Machida Ryo, went beyond the norms of Japanese Dramas where either romance exist or someone dies in the family. Machida Eri initially was just a past character whom we saw from flashbacks and was essential for the main character's development, but she definitely went beyond that with a development of her own. This drama was also able to advocate women empowerment without necessarily derogating men. Overall, a good watch, it had its low moments but it was really heartwarming.