When I played through the game the first time, I thought Derek was very cute and wholesome. I wanted to play through Cove's whole story first before I spent money on the DLC. I am so glad I decided to buy this DLC. I ended up liking Derek way more than I liked Cove!! Derek feels very realistic. My heart went out to him every time things got emotional or when he was obviously about to confess something and had to pivot at the last second.
I have played many dating sims through my life, but I can honestly say Derek has been my favorite of all of them.