Romi kept staring at Monty, his eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "What kind of girl doesn't shave her legs?" he muttered under his breath, his voice laced with disbelief. Before Monty could come up with an excuse, there was a knock at the door.
Romi's mother, Laxmi, called out from outside, "Preety, my dear, get ready! And Romi, you too. It's time for the Kangna ritual."
Monty swallowed hard, realizing he had no choice but to continue playing his role. He gave Romi a forced smile, hoping he wouldn't ask any more questions. Romi, still perplexed, shook his head and turned toward his wardrobe to get dressed.
Monty, on the other hand, hurried to the dressing area, fixing his wig and ensuring his fake breasts were properly adjusted. "This is getting out of hand," he mumbled to himself before slipping into a traditional sari, doing his best to appear graceful. When he walked out, Romi was already waiting, dressed in a regal sherwani, looking as sharp as ever. Their eyes met for a brief moment before Romi looked away, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips.
The Kangna ritual was about to begin. Monty and Romi sat facing each other, surrounded by family members eagerly watching them. A silver bowl filled with milk was placed in front of them. Inside, a ring was submerged, hidden among rose petals and tiny beads that made it difficult to spot. The tradition dictated that whoever found the ring first would be the dominant partner in the marriage.
Monty's heart pounded. This was a crucial moment. He had to win. If he lost, he would have to act like a submissive bride, and that was the last thing he wanted.
Romi, on the other hand, leaned forward, cracking his knuckles. "Alright, Preety. I won't go easy on you just because you're my wife now."
Monty smirked. "Oh, I was about to say the same thing."
A whistle blew, signaling the start of the game. Both of them plunged their hands into the milky water, their fingers frantically searching for the hidden ring. Monty, being naturally competitive and much stronger than he appeared, quickly located it and clenched it in his fist before Romi could even react.
"I got it!" Monty declared, grinning victoriously.
The crowd erupted into cheers and laughter. Romi, still stunned, tried to pry Monty's hand open, but it was no use. His bride was too strong.
"Come on, open your hand!" Romi huffed, pulling at Monty's fingers.
Monty giggled and held his hand tighter. "Not so easy, dear husband."
The elders in the room laughed heartily. Romi's uncle clapped him on the back. "Well, Romi, looks like your wife will be the one calling the shots in your marriage! The loser always has to listen to their partner for life."
Romi's eyes widened. "Wait, what?! That's not fair! Let's play again!"
The whole room burst into laughter. Laxmi patted his head. "No, no, dear. You must accept your defeat with grace."
Monty flashed Romi a mischievous smile, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Face it, husband. You're stuck with me being the boss."
Romi groaned, running a frustrated hand through his hair. "How does a delicate-looking girl like you have such an iron grip? This isn't fair!"
Monty shrugged innocently. "Maybe I was a wrestler in my past life."
More laughter filled the room as Romi slumped back, defeated. He stole a glance at Monty, who was basking in his victory, and despite himself, he couldn't help but find something oddly charming about his new wife's confidence.
He smirked to himself. "Alright, Preety, you may have won this round, but this marriage is far from over."
Monty, sensing the challenge in Romi's tone, leaned in playfully and whispered, "Bring it on, dear husband. I'll win every time."
The wedding celebrations continued, but Monty couldn't shake the feeling that Romi's suspicions about him were growing. He had managed to keep his secret for now, but for how long? More importantly, why did Romi's intense gaze make his heart race in a way he never expected?