Romeo and Juliet

30-A-

                                                           Kidnapping Misses Underwear

"Julissa, Abigail, Kathy, Leonor, you are roommates," announces one of the coaches, handing over the key. Their squeals of excitement stir a twinge of envy within me. When did Julie and I drift apart?

As my name is called, I approach the gathering. Romeo's presence is palpable, his irritation radiating from a distance.

"Helena, Gaby, Stefany, Isabel, you're together," the coach continues. Key in hand, I make a beeline for the elevator.

"I'll meet you there," I whisper to Gaby, who's preoccupied with her hotdog feast.

A mental debate ensues—should I burn off last night's indulgence with a workout? The doors close as the first batch head up.

Gaby's voice interrupts my thoughts. "We should wait. It's easy to get lost here."

"I'm familiar with this place," I assure her with a confident smile, opting for the stairs over the elevator.

As I enter the room, the exhaustion hits me. I collapse onto the bed, surrendering to sleep's embrace.

*****

A groan escapes me as I shift in bed. Gaby and the others have long since departed, though I can't recall for how long.

"You should be up by now," a voice chides.

My eyes snap open to find Romeo lounging on the couch, his attention fixed on his phone. He exudes a casual allure that catches me off guard. When did he become so captivating?

Focus, Helena!

I sit up, scanning the room. It's just Romeo and me. I head to the mirror to check my appearance—thankfully, my face is makeup-free.

"I didn't touch your face," Romeo chuckles. "But I did snap some photos of you sleeping, mouth agape, eyes rolled back."

"That's a lie!"

"Want to see for yourself?"

I shake my head, preferring to remain ignorant.

"How long was I out?"

"Several hours. Everyone's grabbing lunch before the games."

I rub the sleep from my eyes. "And why are you here?"

"Someone had to wake you."

"Why not Gaby?" I rummage through my luggage for a change of clothes.

Suddenly, a pair of panties flies from my suitcase. Romeo, quick as a flash, snatches them up. "These are sexy as hell."

"Hey! Give those back. They're not for your collection."

He smirks. "I don't have a collection, but starting one with yours isn't a bad idea."

"You're incorrigible. Plus, I brought exact." I scrunch up my nose. Not during my period, no less.

"You'll just have to go without for a day. I'm curious to see when that might be," he teases, laughter rumbling in his chest.

I plead, "Please return them. It'll be a disaster otherwise. I have my period remember."

"You might have to double up."

I wrinkle my nose in disgust.

He heads for the door, flashing that signature dimpled smile. "I'll be downstairs."

"Romeo, wait!"

Romeo exits without a backward glance, leaving a trail of frustration in his wake.

"Just you wait, Prince Charming," I mutter under my breath, plotting my playful revenge.