HOOPS-LOOPS || BINI UNI #1 [MIKHAIAH AU]

Chapter 41: Surprise

Aya spotted Mina and Shi engaged in a conversation. Gab stood nearby, her arm draped affectionately around Shi's shoulders.

Aya smiled warmly, approaching them with Mav by her side.

"Mina, Shi, Gab!" Aya greeted them.

Mina turned with a bright smile. "Oh, Miraya. Buhay ka pa pala."

"Grabe ka naman gud.."

Shi's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "So, are you excited about today?" she asked, glancing between Aya and Mav.

Aya grinned. "I have no idea what's going on, to be honest," she admitted with a laugh. "But Mav seems to have something up her sleeve."

Gab chuckled softly, squeezing Shi's shoulder affectionately. "Oh, you'll see," she teased, exchanging a knowing look with Mav.

Aya's heart raced once again.

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As the host prepared for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mav pulled Aya aside, a hint of nervousness in her eyes.

"Huwag kang magugulat ha," Mav said softly, holding Aya's hand gently.

Aya looked at Mav with curiosity and excitement. "Are you saying the artist requested our presence?" she asked eagerly.

Mav chuckled, realizing Aya hadn't quite caught on yet. "Yes, something like that," she replied with a nod, a warm smile spreading across her face.

-

They stood at the center of attention as Mav spoke into the microphone, her voice steady and clear.

"Today, I want to share something special," she began, her gaze locking with Aya's. "This museum is not just a collection of art. It's a tribute to a talented artist and a dear friend of mine."

Aya's heart skipped a beat as Mav's words sank in.

She watched in disbelief as Mav revealed that the artist behind the entire exhibition was none other than herself.

The host handed Mav the ceremonial ribbon cutter, and together they cut through the ribbon, officially opening the museum to applause and cheers.

Aya was overwhelmed with emotion, feeling deeply touched by Mav's gesture.

Afterward, as they walked through the museum, Aya's eyes welled up with tears at the sight of her own artworks on display.

Every canvas, every brushstroke, told a story of her journey, including the raw emotions she had poured into her art.

"I didn't expect this," Aya whispered to Mav, her voice trembling with gratitude. "Thank you, Mav. This means so much to me."

Mav smiled softly, her heart full. "You deserve it, Aya," she replied sincerely, her hand gently squeezing Aya's.

Amidst the admiration and chatter of the guests, Aya spotted one of her pieces.

A canvas filled with dark, swirling strokes that captured her moments of frustration and sorrow. Seeing it displayed made Aya realize that Mav appreciated every facet of her artistry, even the vulnerable and melancholic parts.

Overwhelmed by gratitude and touched by Mav's unwavering support, Aya tightened her grip on Mav's hand.

Mav glanced at Aya, catching the unspoken emotions in her eyes.

Without thinking, Aya leaned over and kissed Mav's cheek, a gesture of deep appreciation and affection.

Mav's outward reaction remained composed, but inwardly, she felt a rush of warmth and joy, overwhelmed by Aya's heartfelt gesture.

The day continued with guests admiring and appreciating Aya's art, affirming her talent and the impact of her work.

For Mav, seeing Aya's happiness and the recognition of her artistry among their peers filled her with contentment.

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