Babe, My Love

"Babe, My Love" (愛してるぜベイベ★★, Aishiteruze Baby) is a Japanese shōjo manga series written and illustrated by Yōko Maki. It was serialized in Shueisha's Ribon magazine from April 2002 to January 2005 and collected into seven volumes. The story revolves around Kippei Katakura, a 17-year-old playboy, who suddenly becomes the caretaker of his five-year-old cousin, Yuzuyu Sakashita. Yuzuyu’s mother, suffering from depression after her husband's death, leaves Yuzuyu in Kippei's care. Kippei must learn to balance his school life, relationships, and the responsibilities of caring for Yuzuyu. The manga explores themes of family, responsibility, and personal growth through its lighthearted approach, showing Kippei transforming from an irresponsible teenager to a caring guardian. In 2004, the manga was adapted into a 26-episode anime television series produced by TMS Entertainment, further popularizing the series. The anime captures the heartwarming and humorous essence of the manga, highlighting the bond between Kippei and Yuzuyu while incorporating elements of romance and daily life.