Hello, monsteroverdose, and thank you for the feedback - I really appreciate you taking the time to let me know what you think.
First off, the saving error you mentioned doesn't sound good at all. Do you have a screenshot of it, please?
I'll investigate and get it fixed as soon as I can. I wonder if anyone else is experiencing it.
I'm glad you like the writing and the way you can influence the MC's personality, and, of course, the sprite art.
As for the pacing, I will look into what you mentioned - perhaps a scene can be added at the inn make the beginning more evenly paced - and I will keep an eye on it going forward.
And lastly, you have seen all the sprites that are in the game in the demo so... that probably answers your question about the secret romance. ^_^
It's pretty well hidden in the game (for, I think, understandable reasons), but it is there for anyone who wants to find it.
Thanks for playing, and I hope you'll have fun with the full game once it is released.