Who's Crying Now, Ex-Husband?

Chapter 354

Beneath the snow-capped mountains,

Two figures in thick winter coats stood on the endless stone steps, their shapes blurred by swirling flurries.

Mila wore a striking crimson coat, while Archie was dressed in bright yellow. Both had swapped out their old clothes for new, heavier coats and pulled wool hats over their ears before renting a car and making the long drive out here.

After a restful journey, they were full of energy.

"Let's go," Archie said, bounding up the first step with a confident, infectious grin.

Mila smiled back. "Alright, let's do it."

Though it was April, snow still fell on these highlands where winter never truly ended. Bathed in flying snow, their shoulders dusted with white, they climbed the steps together.

At the summit, beyond the long staircase, stood a church.

Mila hadn't chosen one of the many chapels scattered throughout Solaris City. Instead, she'd set her heart on this secluded church, hidden deep within the mountains.

She'd wanted to come here from the very first moment she saw it.

At the start, the two laughed and chatted about funny stories from their journey. As they climbed higher, their words grew fewer, the wind biting at any exposed skin and draining their warmth. Thankfully, the car ride up the mountain had spared them altitude sickness, but the cold was another matter.

They soon fell into silence, saving their breath and strength for the climb.

while, Archie glanced up. Far above, the church's gilded

the storm.

too, looking at him in confusion. "What is

"Hey, Mila... do you remember why I insisted on coming with you?” He gazed up

Of course she remembered.

the artist-Daphne. He wanted to see the story end well, for Red Hat the robot to survive and finally reach the moon, so he'd followed her

respond, but Archie cut her

all mischief gone from his face. His eyes were bright, reflecting the

you'll be happy. You have to live well-a hundred

expected this. For a moment, Mila could only stare. Then, without warning, Archie plopped down on the snowy step, facing back down the

tired. I'm done.

with tears she wouldn't let fall. Words caught in her

His journey was over.

alone-the rest of the climb, the destination ahead,

Mila stepped down to where Archie sat, crouched in front of him, and reached

and, with her finger, gently traced

deliberate lines. It was simple-just two curved

"What did you draw?"

"A symbol."

"What kind of symbol?"