Bini: In Parallel Universe

XLVIII: Eight

Jhoanna's POV

We are in a group video call, with all my seven friends visible on screen. The backgrounds vary – Stacey's clean and organized apartment, Maloi in front of a vibrant mural, Mikha's messy but inspiring art studio, Gwen surrounded by overflowing bookshelves, Aiah's brightly lit classroom, Colet's sleek office, and Sheena's sterile hospital room.

"Guys, can you believe it's been ten years since that typhoon? We were just scared teenagers crammed into Stacey's leaky house." I told them randomly.

Stacey chuckled and shook her head. "Don't remind me about the leaky roof, Jo. Still gives me nightmares! But hey, at least we had each other, right?"

"And some pretty awful off-key karaoke. Remember belting out "Bohemian Rhapsody" with Maloi on your lap?" Sheena grinned.

The latter blushed. "Oh my gosh,  blocked that memory out." Maloi protested. 

"It wasn't that bad, Monami. You have a surprisingly good voice."

Gwen raised an eyebrow. "Coming from the girl who used to disappear for days into her art world, leaving us to fend for ourselves.."

"Hey, my art was a form of therapy! Plus, it gave us something beautiful to look at after the storm. Remember the mural I painted on the community center?" Mikha playfully scoffs.

"Yes! It brought so much color back to the city." Aiah nodded enthusiastically.

"Speaking of color, Aiah, how are those little monsters you're teaching these days?" Colet asked.

"They're a handful, Colet, but they keep me young. And seeing that spark of curiosity in their eyes... it's the most rewarding thing." Aiah answered and laughed.

"You were always meant to be a teacher, Aiah. Remember how shy you were in school? Now you're inspiring a whole new generation." Stacey butted in.

"Speaking of inspiration, congratulations again on your promotion, Colet! You're officially a boss lady. The head of the law firm!" Shenna clapped her hands.