Chapter 35: Those who are afraid

[Emi Pov]　

Something is going on under the surface, apparently.

　To be clear, I had nothing to do with it. As for “this matter,” I’m not involved in anything.

　I had almost forgotten about “the incident” recently, and I even remembered “that person’s” name for the first time in a while.

　I thought it was already over.

　Apparently something is going on. It is especially inconvenient that there are sightings or rumors of “that person” going around.

　I couldn’t let it get out.

　But it seems that such a disturbing trend has already been established. Even though I have not actually experienced such a thing, I have sensed it irresistibly.

　What should I do? No, I should do something about it.

　That’s what I thought, so I took action. Looking back, I regret that it was so quick.

　At the same time, I think it was inevitable.

Because if I didn’t, it would probably take me down the road, too, if “that person” wasn’t in a bad position.

　So that decision must have been the right one.

　I put my anxiety-driven mind in the corner and maintained my superiority.

　Even if it makes no sense externally, I make excuses to myself for the sake of peace of mind in the present moment.

It’s okay, it’s not me who is at fault. It’s the other guy.

　I wonder if I should take some kind of action in the future. I reconfirm my position once again.

　… It’s okay. I’m still an outsider. I’m involved, but it’s no big deal. Because that’s what it was originally about.

I just adapted it a little bit and let it slide.

And although the past cannot be erased, fortunately “that person” has already been concluded. I won’t be judged now.

　… Yes, I should still be a bystander.

　Because if this continues, I’m sure my name will never come up.

　I took the risk to make sure that wouldn’t happen.

　It will work out. It was like that at the time, too.

　”…I’ll be fine.”

　I don’t know how many times I’ve muttered that, but it never reaches anyone’s ears.

　Still, I was so anxious that I couldn’t help but whisper it.