The Weight of May’s Decision

Isagi stood frozen, Rin's words still echoing in his mind. "The stake is May." It wasn't just a challenge—it was a declaration of war.

"You're serious about this, huh?" Isagi asked, his voice calm, but his eyes narrowed.

"I'm always serious," Rin replied, his tone cool and confident. "You've been getting closer to May—and I won't allow that to happen any further."

Isagi sighed. "You know this partner program isn't something I chose, right?"

"Doesn't matter," Rin said coldly. "You're enjoying it too much. So here's my challenge: Mid-semester exams. Whoever scores higher overall gets May's attention. And the loser? Backs off."

Isagi clenched his fists. He didn't want May treated like some kind of prize, but he knew how Rin felt about her—and he couldn't deny his own feelings were growing stronger, too.

"Fine," Isagi said after a moment. "But only if May agrees to it. I won't decide something like this without her."

Rin's eyes flickered with annoyance but he nodded. "Fair enough. Let's ask her."

Later that evening, back at the dormitory, Isagi found May organizing their shared space. The light from the window cast a warm glow on her face, and for a second, he just watched her, feeling his resolve strengthen.

"May… can we talk?"

She turned, tilting her head. "Sure, what's up?"

He hesitated, then explained Rin's challenge. Her eyes widened with shock and then frustration.

"They're treating me like some trophy?" she asked, her voice rising.

"I told Rin I wouldn't agree without asking you first," Isagi said softly. "If you don't want this, I'll refuse."

May crossed her arms, her brow furrowed. "It's ridiculous. But… I know how Rin is. He's always been competitive. And honestly… I want to see you beat him."

Isagi blinked, surprised. "You… do?"

She nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "You're smart, Isagi. And I trust you. Plus… I want to see what you're really capable of."

His heart thumped hard in his chest. "Then I'll win," he promised, his voice steady. "Not for some stupid stake—but because I won't let Rin take away what we're building here."

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world narrowed to just the two of them.

The battle had begun.