Freshman Kaho Nikaidou hails from a prominent family, so nobody has ever uttered an unkind remark toward her out of fear of provoking the family's ire. Seeking a place where she would not be treated as privileged because of her lineage, she moves out to live in a dorm for the new academic year. The dorm was a bustling hub of students from all over, and Kaho quickly made friends. Shortly after settling in, Kaho accidentally strays into traffic and is rescued by a tall, handsome stranger. When she inquires about his name, he dismisses her as odd and departs. Finally encountering someone who has ever spoken unkindly to her, Kaho becomes instantly smitten with her savior.
Upon meeting him again and learning his name is Kanade Takahashi, she declares her affection. She felt a strange mix of excitement and nervousness as she approached him. Kanade says he would welcome a relationship but warns that Kaho might hesitate once she learns his secret. To her astonishment, Kaho discovers the startling fact: Kanade is only a fifth‑grade student. She decided to keep the secret hidden for now, hoping it wouldn't ruin their budding connection.
Determined that she cannot date someone so young, Kaho plans to end things. Yet as she spends more moments with Kanade, her feelings deepen and they continue dating. Hatsukoi Monster chronicles Kaho"s fledgling romance with Kanade, the immature yet gentle fifth‑grade boy. The story captures the awkward yet hopeful beginnings of a romance that defies expectations.
