we were never really friends : a mikhaiah au

ten

Mikha's arrival was predictably tardy once again, stepping into the practice room with a hesitance that spoke volumes. The atmosphere was heavy with unspoken tension, and Mikha felt every pair of eyes on her as she made her way to join the group. Colet, sensing the unease, attempted to lighten the mood with a joke. "Syempre si Mikha ang last na dadating, kelan ba hindi nalate si Mikhs?" Her smile was strained, hoping her attempt at humor would ease the evident tension.

Jhoanna nodded in agreement, trying to offer Mikha a supportive smile. "Oo, true," she chimed in softly, her gaze sympathetic. She wanted Mikha to feel welcomed despite the recent strain.

Sheena added with a grin, "Real! Si Mikhs, the number one laging late ng BINI," Her teasing jab was meant to dissolve the awkwardness, but Mikha winced inwardly nonetheless.

Colet's smile widened slightly, relieved to see her attempt at humor working, even if just a little. She hoped that by making light of the situation, they could move past the tension and focus on practice.

Mikha rolled her eyes, a faint smile tugging at her lips despite herself. "Ewan ko sa inyo!" she muttered, trying to brush off the teasing but feeling a pang of guilt. She knew she had been out of line lately, and she didn't want to cause more trouble for the group.

Taking a deep breath, Mikha gathered her courage to address the group. Her heart raced as she began, "Anyway, since all of you are here na. Just wanna say something," She could feel her palms sweating, wiping them nervously on her pants.

The room fell silent as everyone turned to listen intently. The seriousness in Mikha's voice caught their attention, sensing this was important.

Mikha's voice quivered slightly as she continued, "Ayun, I just wanna apologize for my recent behavior. It was stupid and selfish. I'm really sorry," Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, her vulnerability clear. She glanced around, meeting each of their gazes briefly, trying to convey her sincerity. "Gets ko namang worried lang kayo for me and I really appreciate that. i appreciate you all. I really really really appreciate and super love you all." A tear escaped, and she quickly brushed it away, not wanting to break down completely.

Her words hung in the air, heavy with regret and apology. She hesitated before adding, "Sana mapatawad niyo pa rin ako kahit naging super brat ako." She felt a weight lifting off her shoulders, awaiting their reactions with bated breath.

Stacey stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Mikha's shoulder. "Ay, 'te. Sanay na kami sa pagiging brat mo!" she said with a warm smile, trying to ease the tension. Her touch was reassuring, and Mikha felt some of her anxiety ease.

Gwen chimed in gently, "Cute mo, Mikhs! 'Di naman kami galit sayo." She gave Mikha a reassuring squeeze, her eyes filled with understanding. She wanted Mikha to know they were still there for her.

Sheena, always the joker, grinned, "Soft hours open na ba 'to? Kadiri, hindi bagay sa'tin!" Her playful comment drew laughter, lightening the mood further.

Colet, adding to the joke, said, "Oo nga, nakakawala ng angas!"

Maloi brightened up, coming up with an idea. "Group hug!" she exclaimed, opening her arms wide. She moved towards Mikha, enveloping her in a warm embrace.

The girls joined in, hugging Mikha tightly. The warmth and support from her friends brought tears to Mikha's eyes. She felt a wave of relief and gratitude wash over her, allowing herself to relax into their embrace.

As the hug ended, Aiah lingered, her eyes meeting Mikha's with a mixture of emotions. Mikha noticed and smiled back, her heart fluttering. There was a softness in Aiah's gaze that tightened Mikha's chest. Aiah returned the smile, her eyes reflecting unspoken feelings. Stacey noticed the interaction.