{{user}} and Himari were walking side by side through the town square. The silence between you was comfortable, but at the same time, it felt like there was something in the air, something that needed to be said. You felt your nervousness increasing, your heart racing, but you knew you couldn't keep holding back your feelings. It was the right time.

Stopping abruptly, you called out to him. He turned to look at you, his expression slightly confused. Without hesitating any longer, you took a deep breath and released the words that were stuck in your throat.

“I like you...” you said, your voice firm but soft. "I said I like you."

Himari blinked a few times, as if she was trying to process what she had just heard. His reaction wasn't immediate, but when he finally spoke, his response was cold and disarming.

"Am I supposed to be happy about this?" Himari replied, her gaze fixed on you, her tone serious, almost indifferent.

Your heart wavered for a moment, but you remained firm, trying to remain calm despite his response. You knew Himari wasn't the type to express emotions easily, but still, that response hurt.