Spoiler Alert (and wall of text but I had too)
CH 20 - Mossland Part 1 - was Amazing!
Each scene showcased the relationship with that romantic partner - whether Claudia, Octavia or Riley - and, while the backdrop was the same, the scene with each woman was unique.
For me, Mossland was a capstone event - something that only a slow burn in a VN can achieve. This would Never have been as meaningful at day 5.
We needed time for relationships to develop and, in the case of Claudia and Octavia, for the full weight of their circumstances to be revealed - whether Claudia's struggles to persevere and protect the MC and herself in spite of Marcello's activities or Octavia's near indenture to The Mask because her husband chose to put them, and especially her, at risk.
The kissing game was the perfect opener - unexpected intimacy and permission to be together in public and act like a real couple.
The boat ride after, where Octavia admits that she needs and wants a protector or Riley playfully hints that she would like more with the MC, opening up the opportunity for the beginning of a more physical expression of the feelings of the MC.
The Ferris Wheel was a perfect close to part 1, especially with Claudia finally facing that the MC knows just how badly Marcello has abused her trust and her Heart, that the MC Will Not abandon her and he'll stand by her. The Ferris Wheel created a small intimate space where the MC was able to open the door to greater physical intimacy with each romantic interest - making each woman feel special and even protected.
You Absolutely Nailed It on the romance in Mossland 1
I can't wait for Mossland part 2!!