They were!! Roderic would have been known for being very shy and hiding behind things before opening up to people. The nickname Rodnyan definitely make him smile since he thinks the nickname is cute and silly and like Algira in return. \ o /

Also yes Roddy and Koutarou need to have met!! Maybe Roderic comes in with all the money he saved (in a jar and everything) to ask for a little painting to be made for someone he cares for? Then he just keeps visiting Lemon Leaf Atelier because the art is so pretty and wants to ask questions?