I'm a villainous in a Otome Game?!

Chapter 57

Martina stood in the doorway of her dorm room at Eastwead Magic Academy, taking in the familiar sight.

The sun streamed through the large window, casting a warm glow over her neatly made bed and the small desk cluttered with books and magical artifacts. It felt surreal to be back after the harrowing experience of Yumary's dark illusion.

With a sigh of relief, she stepped inside, setting her bag down on the bed. She ran her fingers over the soft quilt, a gift from her family, and allowed herself a moment to breathe. The real world felt solid and comforting after the ethereal terror they had just escaped.

A soft knock at the door startled her, and she turned to see Shikari standing there, a tentative smile on her face.

"Hey," Shikari said, stepping inside. "How are you holding up?"

Martina offered a small, reassuring smile. "I'm okay, I think. It's just... strange to be back. Everything feels so normal, but I can't shake the feeling of what we went through."

Shikari nodded, understanding. She walked over and sat on the edge of Martina's bed, her eyes filled with concern. "It was intense. But we made it through, together. I just wanted to check on you, make sure you're alright."

Martina felt a warm rush of gratitude. "Thanks, Shikari. You've always been there for me. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Shikari's heart skipped a beat, but she kept her composure. "That's what friends are for," she said, though her voice was tinged with something deeper. "I was really worried about you in there."

Martina sat down beside her, their shoulders touching. "I know. I was scared too, but knowing you were with me made it bearable. You're my rock, Shikari."

The words sent a thrill through Shikari, but she swallowed hard, trying to keep her emotions in check. "I'm just glad we all made it out safe. Especially you."

Martina looked down, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I never realized how much you cared," she said softly. "I mean, I knew we were close, but..."

Shikari's breath hitched. This was the moment she had been waiting for, the opportunity to finally say what had been in her heart for so long. She turned to face Martina, taking a deep breath to steady herself.

"Martina, there's something I need to tell you," Shikari began, her voice trembling slightly. "Something I've been keeping inside for a long time."

Martina's eyes widened, her heart racing. She had never seen Shikari so serious, so vulnerable. "What is it?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shikari took Martina's hand in hers, the touch sending a jolt of electricity through her. "I... I love you, Martina. Not just as a friend. I've loved you for as long as I can remember."

Martina's mouth fell open, her mind reeling. She had always sensed a special bond with Shikari, but she had never considered that it might be something more. Her cheeks burned with a deep blush, and she struggled to find words.

"I... Shikari, I..." she stammered, her thoughts a whirlwind of confusion and emotion.

Shikari's heart ached at Martina's bewildered expression, but she pressed on, needing to lay her feelings bare. "I know this is a lot to take in, and I don't expect you to feel the same way. But I had to tell you. Especially after everything we've been through. I couldn't keep it to myself any longer."

Martina's mind raced, memories of their shared moments flooding back. The way Shikari had always been there, always supportive, always protective. She had always thought it was just a deep friendship, but now she wondered if there had been more to it all along.