My Battle for Love in a World Where I’m Just an Extra

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the camp. The forest around us turned darker, more mysterious — the perfect setting for what came next.

"The Night Exploration Challenge," the teacher announced, "is a test of courage and navigation. Each team will take a different route and retrieve an envelope from a hidden location. You must return by midnight."

Rin's hand shot up. "Let's make it more interesting. How about splitting up?"

The idea sent a ripple of murmurs through the crowd.

"I'll take my own path," I said before Rin could push me into a corner. "May and Kaito will stick together."

Rin smirked. "Good luck, Isagi. You'll need it."

The forest at night was a whole different world — every rustle felt like a threat, every shadow like a ghost. I kept my focus, moving swiftly.

But back at camp, chaos was unfolding. Rin's team was up to their usual tricks, trying to spook my teammates. And in the confusion, May disappeared.

When I returned and saw her missing, my heart sank.

"I'm going after her," I said. Rin shrugged, unconcerned.

Hours passed. The forest felt endless. Then I heard it — a faint voice calling my name.

I ran toward it, breaking through the trees to find May sitting against a rock, her face pale with fear. Relief flooded me.

"You found me," she whispered.

"I always will," I promised.

As we walked back, the competition felt distant. Winning didn't matter — not when her hand stayed in mine the whole way.