3 Idiots

22

When morning arrived, Larra and Riley, as if connected by a unique spirituality, opened their doors simultaneously and found a calm Shirley leaning against the opposite wall, as if waiting for them to wake up. Larra and Riley exchanged confused glances.

"I don't know what happened yesterday or what's brewing between you two, but today is my wedding, and I don't want any sulky faces. So, you'd better make up right now or wear some masks," Shirley said, her tone calm and composed, without a hint of threat.

Larra and Riley looked at each other, their expressions blank, before forcing sweet smiles at one another. Shirley rolled her eyes and walked away, followed by the two.

They hurried through breakfast and returned to their respective rooms; it was time to get ready. The stylists were already waiting with dresses and accessories.

Tyler had already left for Ron's room to prepare, giving the ladies some privacy.

In Ron's room, Tyler put on his white shirt and brushed his hair. He noticed his friend standing by the window, holding his own white shirt, lost in thought.

Ron's eyes betrayed him, filled with pain.

Tyler attempted to get Ron's attention by making noise-placing the brush on the table and opening the drawer several times-but got no response.

"You okay?" Tyler finally decided to ask.

"Huh?" Ron flinched slightly, realizing someone was next to him.

"You okay? You seem lost," Tyler pressed.

"Um, yeah. I'm fine," Ron replied, masking his inner turmoil. But Tyler knew that smile was just a facade.

"Did you talk to Larra?" Tyler inquired. Ron's eyes widened at the mention of Larra, and he nodded slowly.

"Is everything okay between you.. two?" Tyler asked.

"Yeah, we're good. She was just saying goodbye to me," Ron said with a deep sigh. Tyler looked at him, puzzled.

"Oh, she's leaving today." Tyler's eyes widened at this revelation.

Today?! Did Riley know about it?

Just as Tyler opened his mouth to ask more, his phone rang. Seizing the opportunity, Ron slipped away to the washroom.

"Hey babe," Tyler answered, recognizing Riley's voice.

"Hey! Are you ready?" she asked.

"Almost. What about you?" Tyler replied.

"Me too. Just a little touch-up remaining," she said.

"I can't wait to see you," Tyler exclaimed, smiling as he heard Riley giggle from the other end.

"Just wait a little longer, my man. I'm coming to you," she said before ending the call.

"Bab-" Tyler started to ask if she knew about Larra's departure, but she had already hung up. He looked around, noticing that Ron had disappeared.

Meanwhile, Larra was doing her hair when her mom and Rayan's mom entered her room after checking on Shirley and Riley.

"Oh my God! Look at my girl! Why did God give us angels like you?" Lilly said dramatically, dabbing at her fake tears. Larra chuckled in response.

"We're anything but angels, Lilly," she said while straightening her hair.

"Don't be so rude, Larra. My girls are looking like princesses! Shirley and Riley are almost ready and looking stunning, just like you," Lilly said, standing behind the chair, admiring Larra's reflection.