I don't think there are languages similar to C in term of simplicity, close to the metal and speed.
C++ is good enough for me, but it's so slow to compile, and I don't use its most advanced features.
I wish there was a language between C and C++, without the complex semantics you can find in rust and other exotic syntax.
I don't necessarily love C or C++ in term of feature, but the syntax is just what i need. Why can't language designers write a language that is closer to C, with fancy features that don't change the language so much?