Recent proof Clef is a love interest
Know for many years in the MKR fandom those that weren't into Clemi would assume Clef's affection for Umi was purely that of fondness for a pupil like most of his other relationships. I don't blame them since they didn't have many subtextual romantic scenes. I tend to prefer quality over quantity. Their were recent releases of the manga volumes. Known as the CLAMP premium collection to celebrate the 30th Anniversary along with the new anime announcement. Covers show the Magic Knights with their love interests. Fuu and Ferio. Hikaru and Lantis with eagle (both of whom Hikaru proclaimed she loved) and then we have Umi. Not with just Ascot who had numerous shared scenes with her but ...CLEF! ♥ Manga verse supports. What is interesting about this cover is that Clef is smiling softly as well as Umi. Both looking straight forward. Then we have Ascot with a more neutral expression, looking away in another distance. Think if reading into the details and art choices...may signify that Clef would be the main love interest. Ascot is more the rival/obstacle to add more tension to the Clef and Umi relationship of 'Will they? Won't they?'