I'll Be Back

4

On Friday, the girls embarked on their first summer outing: a picnic. Mikha busied herself with packing while receiving a message from Colet.

- Colet's Message -
Miks, we're on our way. Sumusunod sina Gwen sa likod namin. Meet us there

She loaded the picnic basket into her car and called upstairs to Aiah, despite feeling a bit shy.

"Aiks, ready ka na?"

"Going!" Aiah's voice rang sweetly as she emerged, stunning Mikha with her outfit—a mini skirt paired with a fitted sleeveless top and a cap. Mikha was momentarily taken aback, lost in admiration.

"Miks, may problema ba sa outfit ko?" Aiah asked innocently.

"No, no, ang ganda mo lang" Mikha blurted out, surprising herself with the candid compliment.

Watching Aiah blush deeply, she couldn't deny how stunning she looked in that moment—the soft sunlight highlighting her features, making her glow even more. It was a sight Mikha hadn't seen in a long time, and it stirred something inside her, a mix of nostalgia and admiration.

As Mikha drove, the awkwardness of the situation settled in. She stole glances at Aiah from time to time, marveling at how effortlessly beautiful she looked. A part of her wished she could express more, say more, but the words seemed to escape her. She focused on the road, occasionally stealing glances at Aiah, who seemed lost in her thoughts.

Despite the awkwardness, Mikha found solace in the silence shared with Aiah. It was a quiet drive filled with unspoken understanding and a subtle longing for what once was. The journey seemed shorter than it was, their destination approaching too soon, breaking the spell of the moment they shared in the car.

After a 20-minute drive, they arrived at the park. Mikha grabbed the picnic basket, motioning for Aiah to follow.

At the park, they found the girls already gathered on the grass. They greeted them warmly and set up their food, Aiah and Mikha unintentionally ending up next to each other—something the girls had arranged.

"Miks, dito ka ba nag-confess kay A-" Stacey started, earning an elbow from Colet.

"Hays.. Anyway, guys, we're staying at my grandma's beach house. It's basically a rest house now since she doesn't live there anymore" Colet explained excitedly.

The girls nodded eagerly, their minds already on the upcoming adventure. They watched the sunset, reminiscing about old times and sharing stories until 7 p.m., when they decided to head home.

As they cleaned up, Mikha and Aiah found themselves alone momentarily. Aiah turned to Mikha, breaking the silence.

"I missed this place. What about you?" Mikha asked softly.

Aiah looked at Mikha, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes. "I missed this place and the memories too. Remember when we used to come here with the girls?"

"Yeah, great times" Mikha replied, feeling a twinge of sadness beneath the surface.

Their brief conversation was interrupted by the return of the other girls. They packed up and headed home, Mikha feeling a mix of emotions she couldn't quite articulate.

Next Morning

Mikha woke early and decided to relax on her balcony with a cup of tea. She smiled as she saw Aiah leave her room, searching around as if looking for something or someone. Mikha motioned for Aiah to join her.