Chapter 13: The Ex-Files and Unexpected Feelings
Romi couldn't help but feel a tiny flutter of pride as he scrolled through the reactions to his latest story post.
That photo… Monty curled up under the covers, lips parted slightly, soft as a snowflake—looked like a fairytale princess who had just escaped from a Disney castle. Romi grinned.
He tossed his phone on the bed and picked up the hairdryer. His fingers worked through his wet locks, tousling them with practiced ease. The whirring of the dryer echoed in the quiet room until—
Click.
The bathroom door opened.
And Monty walked out.
Romi froze, mouth slightly open.
Monty—was that Monty?
He wore a figure-hugging black Western dress, cinched at the waist, which showcased a figure that could make mannequins weep with envy. His hair was done up in soft waves. The eyeliner was subtle, but the confidence in his walk? That could light a runway on fire.
Romi was staring.
Monty noticed.
"What?" Monty raised a brow, adjusting the hem of the dress. "Too much?"
Romi smirked, still speechless. "Too much? Darling, you just gave Versace a heart attack."
Monty rolled his eyes, trying to hide a smile. "Shut up and tell me where we're going."
"You'll see," Romi said with a wink.
An hour later, they were driving through the scenic curves of Switzerland's picturesque hills, the snowy peaks shimmering like sugar-dusted dreams. The car finally pulled into a romantic hideaway—a cozy lakeside viewpoint, surrounded by pines and soft snow. It was famous for being a lovers' spot, where couples came to share kisses and confessions under a cotton-candy sky.
Monty stepped out and inhaled the crisp mountain air. "This is… peaceful."
"Only the best for my sleepy princess," Romi teased, pulling out a cute little picnic basket.
"You packed food?" Monty asked, eyes lighting up.
"Of course," Romi replied proudly, opening the basket. "You've been hangry since sunrise. I know that look—you were about to bite me like I'm made of croissants."
Monty's stomach growled right on cue.
Without waiting for permission, he dropped onto the blanket and tore into the breakfast. Flaky croissants, cheesy quiches, sweet berries, and warm coffee filled the air with delicious comfort.
Monty chewed furiously, cheeks puffed like a squirrel, barely pausing for breath.
Romi watched with quiet amusement. "Wow," he whispered, pulling out his phone.
Click.
Another photo. Candid. Adorable.
"Did you just take my picture again?" Monty looked up with suspicious eyes, a crumb sticking to his lip.
Romi leaned in with a grin and gently wiped it off with his thumb. "I can't help it. You eat like a little puppy. It's cute."
Monty blinked. "Puppy?"
"Yeah. A lost, hungry puppy that I just rescued from the streets and now feeds on gourmet pastries and accidental affection."
Monty gave him a half-glare. "Okay, easy with the pet metaphors, Romeo."
Romi chuckled. "Aww, don't be shy. Want me to pet your head again?"
And before Monty could say no, Romi playfully ran his fingers through his Head, ruffling it gently like he was stroking a golden retriever.
Monty swatted his hand away. "Stop it! What do you think I am? Your emotional support animal?"
Romi winked. "If you were, I'd never be sad again."
Monty rolled his eyes again, but this time, he was smiling—until his gaze drifted across the crowd.
And froze.
His smile disappeared.
His eyes narrowed.
His body went rigid.
"Monty?" Romi followed his line of sight.
There, not far from them, was a couple sitting under a tree—kissing, arms around each other like they had invented love. And it hit Monty like a punch to the chest.
Naina.
With him.
The same guy from the airplane.
Locked in a lip-smacking display of public affection like a scene from a soap opera.
Romi looked from Monty to the couple and back again. "Okay, what's happening? You look like you've just seen your childhood teddy bear on a date with your ex."
Monty's jaw tightened. His voice was low, bitter. "That is my ex."
Romi blinked. "Wait—him?"
Monty exhaled sharply. "No, not him. Her."
A long pause.
Romi blinked again, brain buffering.
"Wait. You mean… that girl's your ex?"
"Yes."
Romi's mouth opened. Then closed. Then opened again.
"Wait-wait-wait-wait—hold on. You dated girls?"