Okay

Hot take: Skip Beat isn't goal-centered around Ren and Kyoko dating. It never has been. We BEEN knew Ren and Kyoko would end up together. The real mystery is how they're gonna get to a place where they're happy together.

Like let's think back to where we started.
Kyoko had nothing she could call her own. She did nothing for herself. She had no hobbies unrelated to Sho, no job, no education, nothing. And she was heartbroken by him. She didn't know what to do.
Kyoko NOW is pursuing a career, getting an education, and is struggling but I think trying to learn to love herself again. She forgot what love is for herself and others. She's doing things for her sake, to better herself. Idk bout y'all but I am proud of my girl.
And Ren started out seeming like he was gonna be Mr. Douchebag but then we learned he actually started as a troubled teen, who's struggling to overcome his past trauma and learn to love himself again as well. He didn't believe he deserved love. He couldn't handle even acknowledging his family.
Ren NOW is learning that it's okay to fall in love, and is trying to conquer his inner demons by facing them head on.

But, yes, the story has gone on a very long time, and dragged at parts. I'm not denying that. But demanding fluff out of two characters who aren't yet ready to accept it isn't character development, it'd be garbage writing. I want the author to pick up the pace and work with heavy hitting plot now, of course. Kyoko's mother issues, Ren's past, Kyoko graduating school, Ren telling Kyoko he's Corn/Kuon, etc etc.

I want to see these two finish their growth. Cuz it's not just about their romance, it's about them. As individuals AND as a couple.

Sorry this got take is so long, and note I'm not saying the story doesn't deserve criticism. I just hope the criticism is aimed at the right places.