In Episode 2, the tension (and comedy) ramps up as Tanaka struggles to separate her professional boundaries from her intense fangirl reactions.

To repay a favor for borrowing the game Sengoku Koi Emaki , Murai ends up participating in a Doujinshi convention.

In the series opener, the clever but socially awkward Murai (played by Ryubi Miyase) confessed his love to his homeroom teacher, Ms. Tanaka (Hikaru Takahashi). Tanaka, a secret otaku obsessed with the character from the game Feudal Era Love Scroll , rejected him instantly, citing her dislike for long, dark hair. Murai took this to heart, returning the next day with short, bleached blonde hair—becoming a living reincarnation of her 2D crush. Episode 2 Highlights

Watch the drama unfold as Tanaka tries to resist her literal 2D dream coming to life in 3D: MURAI in LOVE - Episode 2 | Rakuten Viki Viki• Mar 27, 2023

The episode ends on a bittersweet note. Tanaka mistakenly believes Murai is making fun of her secret obsession with Hitotose, leading to a clash that leaves her emotional and him determined to prove his sincerity.

Viewers noted a "near-win" for Murai when he almost convinced Tanaka to see him as the real Hitotose by acting out a specific scene with glasses.