The slow-burning romance in The Apothecary Diaries has kept fans hooked just as much as its intricate mysteries. While the anime primarily focuses on the clever deductions of Maomao, an apothecary caught up in the drama of the imperial court, her chemistry with the mysterious Jinshi continues to stir speculation. Many fans are eager for a romantic payoff, but the emotional stalemate between the two leads remains a deliberate, almost frustrating element of the story.

Aoi Yuki, the voice behind Maomao, recently offered insight into her character's internal world, via @dailyjinmao on X, insisting that Maomao must know that Jinshi has feelings for her. Yuki's comments addressed what some fans have seen as a plot hole, which is Maomao’s seeming obliviousness. However, it turns out Maomao’s restraint is less about cluelessness and more about conscious denial. Her reluctance to pursue a romance with Jinshi stems not from ignorance, but from a deep awareness of the social gap between them.

"[…] Maomao must have realized that Jinshi has feelings for her. However, Maomao is the type of girl who tries not to dream, so even if Jinshi, who everyone ires, gets close to her, she seems to draw a line, saying [I won't dream any more than this]."

- Aoi Yuki

Maomao Is Not Oblivious, She Is Just Holding Back

Maomao Is One of Anime's Smartest Characters, So She Definitely Realizes Jinshi's Feelings for Her

According to Aoi Yuki, Maomao has indeed picked up on Jinshi’s affections. As a highly observant and intelligent character, it would be out of character for her to miss the signs. Her mind is sharp enough to solve complex court intrigues, so it is safe to say she knows when someone is interested in her. However, this knowledge does not translate into action because Maomao imposes limits on herself. She intentionally draws a line between reality and fantasy, refusing to entertain dreams that she believes are beyond her reach.

This emotional distance reflects her personal philosophy, where she does not allow herself to desire things she believes she cannot have. In Maomao’s view, Jinshi exists in a completely different world. As someone of low birth and humble profession, she does not see a future where she could stand beside someone like him. Instead of allowing herself to hope, she keeps her emotions in check and focuses on the tangible, which is solving mysteries, staying safe, and remaining useful in her own way. Romance, to her, feels like a luxury she cannot afford.

The Purpose Behind the Slow-Burn Romance

The Apothecary Diaries Is Not Meant to be a Romance Series, But It Does Its Romance Well

Though Maomao's romantic hesitation can be maddening to viewers, it serves a narrative purpose. The Apothecary Diaries is not a typical romance, because it thrives on tension, mystery, and the psychological depth of its characters. By keeping the romance restrained, the story avoids becoming predictable or melodramatic. Maomao’s internal resistance adds complexity and realism, especially in a world governed by rigid class hierarchies and expectations.

Jinshi’s continued interest in Maomao challenges those boundaries, but The Apothecary Diaries does not rush to resolve them. Instead, it uses the romantic undercurrent to deepen character development. Every subtle glance and charged interaction becomes more meaningful precisely because there is no quick resolution. In this sense, the so-called “plot hole” is not a flaw, it is an intentional choice. Maomao’s restraint keeps the audience guessing, while laying the groundwork for a more powerful payoff, should the walls finally come down.

Source: @dailyjinmao/X