When the Yanderes Whose Affection Reversed Regained Their Memories - Chapter 20: Wait for Me, Just a Little Longer

Chapter 20: Wait for Me, Just a Little Longer

Several days had passed since my conversation with Ellie, and my school life continued as dreary as ever. The atmosphere in the school was weighed down by a gloom that pervaded every corner. It hadn’t always been this way; before all this happened, the school was, if not lively, at least vibrant.

The teaching staff should have understood this, but improvement seemed difficult. If they had been looking the other way or even actively contributing to the situation, then nothing could be easily done. I would have faced expulsion or other measures if I were just an ordinary student, but their protection prevented any swift action against me.

“What’s wrong, Roa? Something bothering you?”

“I’m fine. It’s nothing.”

“Really? If anything’s wrong, just tell me. I’ll do anything for you.”

“You can count on me too, Roa-kun. I’ll do absolutely anything for you.”

They must have noticed the stern look on my face. Their eyes met mine as they gauged my expression. They smiled warmly, a smile so genuine it almost deceived me into thinking they really would do anything.

I felt like I was being swallowed up.

In hindsight, signs of this had been present even before they began hating me. This only blossomed and intensified due to the events that transpired between then and now. It wasn’t anyone’s fault. If one were to place blame, it would be squarely on me, the person at the center of it all.

“It’s really nothing, so don’t worry about it. Besides, lunch break is almost over. We should head back.”

“You’re right. Shall we go back together? Can you stand?”

“I’m fine.”

Lilia and Mia supported me as we returned to the classroom. Walking on my own wasn’t really an issue, but they seemed concerned nonetheless. Perhaps it was also their way of atonement.

As soon as I reentered the class, the atmosphere, previously lax, shifted abruptly to one of tension. Given they had witnessed the earlier tragedy, it was understandable, but still sad.

I returned to my seat and soon enough, the afternoon classes began. In the depressive air, the classes ended and it was finally time to head home.

As I was getting ready to leave, Ellie walked into the classroom, dark circles under her eyes. We hadn’t interacted much since our last conversation, so I had been worried. I knew she was engrossed in some work in the lab, so I had left her alone, thinking it best not to disturb her.

“Roa.”

“What’s up, Ellie?”

“I’m tired. Can you give me a hug?”

“S-sure.”

Unable to refuse Ellie, who was directing a worried gaze at me, I hugged her. For a moment, memories of comforting her like this in the past crossed my mind.

As I held her, I felt intense gazes focused on us. When I looked up, Aria, Lilia, and Mia were glaring at Ellie, eyes filled with anger.

Realizing that the situation was far from ideal, I let go of Ellie.

“Fine…I’ll settle for this today.”

“Sorry.”

Perhaps sensing the mood, Ellie reluctantly stepped away from me. She turned her gaze towards me and spoke.

“Roa. Wait for me. Just a little longer.”

“…?”

“I’ll protect you, Roa. I’ll help you.”

“…? Thank you?”

I was clueless as to what Ellie was talking about, but with those words, she left the classroom.