we were never really friends : a mikhaiah au

twelve

The members of the group were given three days to stay in Cebu, with a free day to relax and unwind after their mall show. Deciding to make the most of their time, they all headed to the private bar within their hotel, accessible only to guests. The bar had a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, with soft lighting casting a warm glow over the rich wooden furniture and plush seating. The air was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses, creating an inviting and intimate environment.

As the night progressed, everyone indulged in drinks, their laughter and chatter growing louder and more animated. The excitement and joy were evident, but despite the lively atmosphere, Aiah felt a persistent unease gnawing at her. She couldn't stop thinking about Mikha. Why did Mikha seem so carefree while Aiah felt like she was being torn apart inside? Every glance at Mikha only intensified her turmoil.

Then, Aiah noticed Mikha standing up, catching her eye. She followed Mikha's movements as she walked up to the bar, her eyes narrowing when she saw a girl sitting there alone. Aiah's heart dropped into her stomach as she watched Mikha introduce herself to the girl. They started talking, and soon Mikha was laughing, her face lighting up in a way that made Aiah's chest tighten with jealousy. Each flirtatious exchange between Mikha and the girl felt like a dagger to Aiah's heart. She masked her feelings with a forced smile, desperately trying to appear carefree as she reached for her drink, hoping the alcohol would numb the ache inside her.

The drinks flowed freely, and soon enough, everyone was tipsy. The room was filled with music as they took turns singing karaoke, their voices ranging from melodious to comically off-key. Despite the fun, Aiah couldn't shake off her unease. She scanned the room, her heart pounding when she realized Mikha and her newfound friend were nowhere to be seen. Panic bubbled up inside her, her thoughts racing. "Where did Mikha go?" she wondered, her anxiety spiking. She looked around, but the happy faces of her friends did nothing to ease her mind. She forced herself to join in the festivities, but her heart wasn't in it. Her mind kept wandering back to Mikha.

As the night wore on, the others began to retire to their rooms. Colet, who was the least intoxicated, took it upon herself to ensure everyone got back safely. She gently guided her friends, some stumbling and giggling, down the hallways to their rooms. Aiah, however, had a different plan. She needed to clear her mind.

"Colet, punta lang ako saglit sa beach. I need to think," Aiah slurred slightly, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and melancholy. She could feel the weight of her emotions pressing down on her, and she hoped the cool night air would help clear her head.

Colet hesitated, her protective instincts kicking in. "Huy Aiah, umayos ka. Lasing ka na, beh. Umakyat ka na sa room niyo ng Jhocey," she said, her voice firm but filled with concern.

"I'll be fine," Aiah insisted, her tone bordering on desperation. "I just need some air."

"Te, hindi. Baka ano pang mangyari sa'yo. 'Di ko mapapatawad sarili ko kung ganun," Colet responded, her voice laced with genuine worry. She knew how stubborn Aiah could be, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that something bad might happen.

"Ang OA mo, Colet, ha. Maglalakad-lakad lang ako sa beach. Kaya ko naman, don't worry," Aiah argued, her tone slightly pleading. She needed this moment alone, away from everyone, to sort through the chaos in her mind.

"Kikitain mo pa family mo sa Sabado, te. Baka 'di ka pa nila maabutan ng buhay," Colet countered, her voice stern. She could see the determination in Aiah's eyes, but she also saw the vulnerability beneath it.

"Colet, promise. Aalagaan ko sarili ko. Okay lang ako, look at me! Lasing pero maganda pa rin," Aiah declared, trying to lighten the mood with a weak smile. She hoped her playful tone would reassure Colet, even if it did nothing to ease her own turmoil.