On October 10th, Sports Hochi reported that model/actress Kiritani Mirei (21) is dating� actor Kasahara Hideyuki (28).

According to their source, the two began dating when they co-starred in the drama series, "Natsu no Koi wa Nijiiro ni Kagayaku" which aired on Fuji TV last summer. Reportedly, Kasahara fell head over heels for Kiritani and pursued her persistently until she agreed to date him. Though they've cultivated their love quietly, it seems that they've already told their close friends about their relationship.

Other sources said that although they didn't have enough time to see each other during the summer due to their busy schedules, they managed to create a strong bond.

Interestingly enough, in Kiritani's photobook "Sweet&Bitter" which was released back July, she wrote the following passage about love, "When I fall in love with somebody, I keep loving that person devotedly. I prefer a guy who wraps me with love and protects me."

Source & Image: Sports Hochi