The Couple’s Contest

The next morning, the sun streamed through the windows of the dormitory, casting a golden glow over the still-unpacked boxes scattered across the room. After breakfast, Isagi and May decided to spend the entire day arranging their new living space. They worked tirelessly, moving furniture, organizing shelves, and decorating the rooms until the dormitory finally began to feel like home.

By evening, they were both completely exhausted. May flopped down onto the couch, brushing her hair back from her face. "I'm too tired to even think about cooking," she groaned.

Isagi laughed, wiping sweat from his forehead. "Same here. How about we go out for dinner?"

May's face lit up. "That sounds perfect! Let's go somewhere nice."

Just then, their dormitory door swung open, and Kaito burst in, grinning from ear to ear. Behind him stood his partner, Akari Fujisawa — a tall, confident girl with sharp brown eyes and a playful smirk. "Did I hear dinner plans? We're tagging along," Kaito announced.

Akari crossed her arms. "Hope you don't mind. We're starving."

Isagi sighed but couldn't help smiling. "The more, the merrier, I guess."

They ended up choosing a cozy family restaurant nearby, famous for its warm atmosphere and delicious food. As they stepped inside, the sound of laughter and cheerful chatter filled the air. A banner hung near the entrance, reading: "30th Wedding Anniversary Celebration – Couple's Contest Tonight!"

"Looks like we picked the perfect day," Kaito said with a mischievous grin.

May's eyes sparkled with excitement as she read the sign. "A couple's contest? That sounds so cute!"

Before Isagi could react, Kaito was already speaking to the staff. "Sign us up for the contest! And them too!" He gestured toward Isagi and May.

"What?!" Isagi's eyes widened in shock. "Hold on—"

"Don't be shy," Akari teased. "It'll be fun."

May giggled, clearly delighted. "We're already here. Why not?"

Isagi felt his heart race. Being paired with May in a contest like this? It was like something straight out of the anime — but with a twist. He couldn't help wondering if this was one of the changes brought about by the butterfly effect.

As they were ushered toward the contest area, the anticipation in the room grew. The crowd cheered as the restaurant's owner, a kind-looking older man, stepped onto the stage with his wife. "Thank you all for joining us on our special day! Tonight's contest will test how well you know your partner and how strong your bond is!"

Isagi glanced at May, who was beaming with excitement. His heart skipped a beat. The contest hadn't even started yet, but he knew one thing for sure — this was going to be a night they'd never forget.

As the first round of the contest was announced, the crowd's cheers grew louder. Isagi took a deep breath, stealing one more glance at May's bright, eager expression.

And the contest began.