This was easily the best part of my day this show does things to me I swear. 

So far Connell and Marianne's relationship continues to progress in a generally healthy way which is something of a surprise for me. Outside of the fact that the two of them do appear to have genuine affection and attraction towards one another, I really loved the way this episode handled consent in such a tender way. It's rare to see people in such a vulnerable state and the show handles it in the most touching way possible. There are still some very clear gaps and flaws within their relationship, whether that be the secrecy of it or things such as their view of one another and the way Connell's friends treat Marianne (both of which are hit home really well in a handful of scenes here), though I am unsure how much these things will be utilised for conflict. This episode and show so far really just give such an honest depiction of the intimacy and insecurities that can come along with having feelings for someone and I love that about it. 

One thing that I noticed about this episode is also just how personally I resonated with some of the character dynamics on display, Connell and Marianne remind me of somebody who I used to be close with and I've been in friend groups exactly like Connell's. In those ways the show does bring back a time in my life that I try not to reflect on but it's really so special that this show is able to bring those experiences back in such a profound way. Love this so far. 