I Was The One Who Saved You That Day - Chapter 54
Volume 2 Chapter 54: Things That Should Not Be Known (From the Perspective of Atami)
~Atami Summer Side~
I moved from Arima’s house to mine, exchanged light greetings with my older sister and Hinano, then headed to my room. After discussing who would use the bed and who would sleep on the futon, Hinano insisted on not using the bed, so I ended up sleeping on it as usual.
“Ugh, what’s wrong with me…”
Hinano lay face down on the futon, holding the pillow with both hands and fluttering her legs. I asked, “What’s the matter?” while thinking that if a guy saw this scene, he could probably have three extra servings of rice.
“It’s about Arima-kun! Have I always talked to boys like that? Even today’s indirect kiss—uhh, remembering it makes me embarrassed.”
Hinano continued to flap her legs more intensely. Instead of worrying that it might start affecting the downstairs, I should probably give her a warning soon. However, my mind was filled with the fact that my unpleasant expectations had come true, more than anything else.
“I see.”
While organizing my thoughts, I nodded in response to Hinano’s words. There was a conflict that felt like it would burn my heart. If it were permissible, I would have probably burst into tears right there.
Being inexperienced in love and wondering when I would start liking someone—my best friend, whom I had hoped wouldn’t turn out this way—made me want to cry for real.
But that wasn’t allowed. My feelings must not be known to anyone.
I cherish Hinano very much. It’s a simple and seemingly unremarkable relationship, with no particular fate or excitement, but I value her greatly. We’ve been friends for a long time, and even though our relationship is straightforward and lacks any twists, I find it enjoyable to talk to her. She’s easygoing, sincere, and kind without hidden agendas.
“Somehow, it makes me really happy to know that Arima-kun and I have similar tastes. Maybe because I’ve never clashed with Atami-chan before?”
I understand that she has no ill intentions whatsoever. However, each and every one of her words was undeniably digging into my heart. Nevertheless, I don’t hate her for it.
The one to blame is not Hinano, but the past me.
“Hinano, do you ever think about Arima when you’re at home?”
When I asked that, she abruptly stopped moving her legs, rolled over, and looked up at me as I sat on the bed, hugging the pillow. While holding the pillow close, she nodded slightly.
That’s right—while thinking about this, I continued the process of confirmation.
What did she think when Arima caught a cold?
How have her feelings changed about me and Arima living next to each other from the beginning until now?
Has she ever felt envious of me making a bento for Arima?
To these various questions, Hinano returned the expected words. And as she continued to provide those answers, she probably became aware of it herself. The emotions within her, what kind of feelings they were.
Hinano blushed deeply, and even from a fellow girl’s perspective, I couldn’t help but find her cute. With teary eyes, she asked me.
“P-Perhaps, could it be that I… like Arima-kun?”
To such a question from my best friend, I put on the best smile I could manage and, breaking my own heart, replied, “That’s exactly what it is.”
“Ugh, I see. Oh wow, what should I do… I see. So this is what romance feels like.”
Hinano muttered words to herself sporadically, as if engaging in self-reflection. I wanted to boost Arima’s confidence. I wanted to help him without him having to worry about his appearance.
I wanted Arima to be happy. I wanted him to be rewarded for saving both our lives.
However, my wish unexpectedly came true in a way I never anticipated.
“Hinano and Arima seem to have good chemistry… like they’re a good match, don’t you think?”
With a wry smile, I said to Hinano. She happily responded, “Really!?” and energetically sat up, though her expression quickly turned into a troubled one.
“But, from my perspective, I feel like Arima-kun and Atami-chan are more compatible. Is it weird to say such things about someone you like!?”
As she said this, Hinano displayed a flustered manner, wondering if she was perhaps acting strangely. She truly was cute. I think it’s because she understands that I see her as she is, without any pretense, making her appear even more adorable.
“Arima and I… it’s like a complicated fate, isn’t it? Don’t worry; it’s not a romantic relationship or anything like that.”
When I said this, Hinano sighed and, looking troubled, asked me again while gazing up at me.
“Atami-chan, do you still like your destined person?”
“Yeah. I still do. Always, just as I like them.”
I should say, “I don’t like them.” However, if I were to say that, she would misunderstand. She might think I’ve come to like Arima more than a prince.
“So, Hinano, you can like Arima without worry.”
It’s crucial that she never finds out that Arima is the one I have feelings for. Otherwise, she might distance herself. She’s that kind of girl.
“I see, I see! But, sometimes, I think Arima-kun might like Atami-chan… because Atami-chan is cute.”
My precious friend pouts in a dejected manner, her lips slightly curled. Hinano, you’re the cute one—I say that—and we continue to compliment each other once again.