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

The classroom buzzed with excitement and confusion as the teacher, Mr. Takeda, stood at the front with a wide smile. "Alright, settle down, everyone. I know you're all curious about this new program, so let me explain why it's happening."

Isagi leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, eyes focused. He already knew what this was — the partner program arc. But his memory of it was mixed. The original version had been a disaster, and it wasn't until the director reworked it that it became a fan-favorite. And yet, here he was — in the original version. That could only mean one thing: the butterfly effect was already at work.

"This program," Mr. Takeda continued, "was introduced because of the intense study pressure and overly competitive environment in our school. We want you all to learn cooperation, communication, and… well, life skills beyond just academics and sports. In short, we think it's important for you to know how to actually get along with people."

The students exchanged curious glances. Isagi noted Rin's ever-so-cool demeanor, and May's thoughtful expression as she listened. Isagi's mind raced. He knew this arc was where the relationships really started changing — and this time, he wasn't going to lose his chance.

Mr. Takeda held up a sheet of paper and grinned. "You'll be living in a dormitory for the next month, paired with your assigned partners. Each pair will share responsibilities, work on joint projects, and participate in various challenges. Think of it like real-world preparation."

A hand shot up from the back. "Mr. Takeda! Are we going to be graded on this?"

The teacher sighed. "Only you would ask that, Rin. But yes, there will be evaluations — teamwork, creativity, problem-solving, and, of course, how well you manage daily life together."

"Daily life?" someone whispered.

"Together?" another voice squeaked.

Isagi grinned. Chaos was already brewing.

"Now," Mr. Takeda went on, ignoring the growing noise, "you'll be doing things like cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and taking care of your shared space. Consider it a chance to build life skills that textbooks won't teach you."

Isagi barely heard any of that. He was still processing the fact that he was partnered with May. In the original anime's early version, May had been stuck with a random side character — a disaster that led to the arc's initial flop. But this? This was an opportunity.

He wasn't going to waste it.

"Isagi?" Mr. Takeda's voice snapped him out of his thoughts. "I know you're eager, but try to contain your excitement."

Laughter rippled through the class. Isagi rolled his eyes but couldn't fight the smile creeping onto his face.

Later, as the class broke into their pairs, May approached him. "Looks like we're partners," she said, her usual soft smile in place.

"Yeah," Isagi replied, heart pounding. "Let's make this month unforgettable."

And with that, the partner program had officially begun.