A Random in Re:Zero

Loop 4 - Part 18

"It's a little late to pretend indifference. Yesterday you got nervous just dancing with me. Then, when I made fun of you a little, you stopped talking altogether."

Rem's reminder put an end to my mediocre edgy-boy act. I felt my face heat up.

"It was because I was embarrassed! Besides, that has nothing to do with this matter."

"It does. You told me you'd believe in me and support me. Why can't I do the same for you?"

My shoulders drooped at the question and the frustration in Rem's eyes. I had to stop and think of an argument to refute her statement.

"I'm worried something might happen to you trying to help me. I can't exclude you when it comes to the cult, but if I have the opportunity to do things alone, I prefer it that way."

"But you can't. You don't have the power. Without help, you would have died against the cultist, you would have died against the old man. You could die this time..."

"I know, it just happened to me."

The blue-haired maid glared at me. She was right; I couldn't afford to go off on my own to protect the others. Even if I managed to corner my enemy again, the odds were stacked against me.

"Fuck, it's okay. You can come with me."

"I would have done it even if you refused." Rem smiled mischievously.

"Tsk."

We left, careful not to alert Roswaal and Emilia. I led the way while trying to think of a strategy.

"What are we going to do, Leandro?"

"Saving the lives of Russell Fellow and Anastasia Hoshin."

"Huh?"

"A killer who can turn invisible is after them. We'll catch him before he can do any harm."

"How do you know?"

"I have my sources."

Rem lowered her head, her eyes shadowed, giving her a sinister look.

"... Do you have an Authority?"

Well, it wasn't confirmed that it was, but it made perfect sense and would explain the presence of the miasma. RBD had a high probability of being a witch gene...

"I'm not sure, but it's possible."

This time Rem stopped dead in her tracks.

"I don't understand."

"..."

"Why is she so interested in you?"

"I'd love to know."

It was a mystery I didn't think I could solve unless I personally investigated with Satella. But that would have to wait.

"I have the feeling you're not telling me everything."

"It's because I didn't tell you everything."

"Well, you should! If you're carrying such a heavy weight, ask for help! You're not alone!"

I smiled bitterly. If only it were that simple...

"I can't, Rem... I just can't do that."

"Why?"

"Shit, I don't have time for this conversation."

Swallowing, I walked over to her and held my arms out to the sides, as if mimicking the crucifixion.

"If you don't trust me, kill me."

"... What do you say?"

I knew she wouldn't leave, but she wouldn't let me go either. So my only option was to push her.