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

Chapter 45: Past Ex

Later that evening, after a leisurely dinner at the café, Aya and Mav strolled back towards their dormitory.

The streetlights cast a soft glow over the sidewalk as they walked, the cool evening air refreshing after the warmth of the café.

Mav glanced over at Aya, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You know, I think those messages might be from one of your admirers," she teased lightly. "They're probably just jealous that I get to spend so much time with you."

Aya chuckled, rolling her eyes playfully. "You really think so?"

Mav nodded, nudging Aya's arm with her elbow. "Definitely. It's the only logical explanation. I mean, who wouldn't want to be in my shoes?"

Aya laughed, shaking her head. "Sira ka talaga," she replied. "Honestly, I think it might just be someone bored and trying to stir up trouble."

Mav looked thoughtful, her eyebrows furrowing. "Yeah, maybe. But it's weird, right? People have so much time to be nosy about other people's lives."

"True," Aya agreed, her expression turning serious. "But as long as we know the truth and trust each other, that's what matters."

Mav smiled at Aya's words, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her.

They continued walking in silence for a moment, enjoying the peacefulness of the night. The quiet rhythm of their footsteps was the only sound, mingling with the distant hum of the city.

As they continued walking, Aya's curiosity got the better of her. "Hey, Mav," she started, her tone casual. "When you mentioned 'from my ex' earlier... may ex ka?"

Mav went silent, the sudden tension in the air palpable.

Aya, noticing the change in Mav's mood, immediately regretted her question. "Oh, sorry, I shouldn't have asked you—" she started to say, but Mav cut her off.

"No, it's okay," Mav interjected, her voice soft but steady. She took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "Yeah, I do have an ex. We dated for a while, but it didn't work out."

Aya looked at her, curiosity and concern mingling in her eyes. "What happened?"

Mav sighed, her gaze distant as she recalled the past. "Well, he cheated on me," she said quietly. "It was a pretty rough time, but I got through it. I guess that's why I'm a bit wary of people sometimes."

Aya's eyes widened in surprise. "What? He cheated on YOU? SIno ba 'yan? You didn't deserve that."

Mav smiled wryly. "Yeah, well, it's all in the past now. I'm over it."

Aya nodded. "Ah, okay," she replied, respecting Mav's privacy.

She didn't want to pry, but a small part of her was curious about Mav's past.

Still, she knew when not to push further.

They walked on in comfortable silence for a few moments before Aya spoke again, her tone more serious. "But seriously, Mav," she said softly, "if anything ever bothers you, you know you can talk to me, right?"

Mav nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude for Aya's understanding and support. "Of course," she replied sincerely. "And the same goes for you, Aya. Always."

Aya smiled warmly, the weight of the evening's worries melting away. "Good," she said, squeezing Mav's hand gently. "Because I don't know what I'd do without you."

Mav returned the squeeze, a rush of warmth spreading through her at Aya's words. "Me neither," she admitted quietly, her gaze fixed on Aya's.

"You're my rock, Aya."

Aya blushed slightly, looking down at their intertwined hands. "You're so cheesy," she mumbled, but there was no denying the affection in her voice.

Mav laughed softly. "Well, maybe I've been taking lessons from you."

They continued their walk, the conversation turning to lighter topics.

They talked about their favorite movies, shared funny stories from their childhood, and debated the merits of various ice cream flavors.

Their laughter filled the night air.

As they approached their dormitory, Aya looked up at the sky, which was now dotted with stars. "It's a beautiful night," she said, her voice full of wonder.

Mav glanced up, smiling. "Yeah, it is. But you know what's even more beautiful?"

Aya raised an eyebrow, curious. "Ano?"

Mav stopped walking and turned to face Aya, her eyes filled with warmth and sincerity.

"Ikaw."

Aya felt her cheeks heat up, her heart fluttering in her chest. "You're too much, Mav," she said, playfully swatting Mav's arm.

Mav grinned, taking Aya's hand once more. "Come on, let's get inside before you start glowing in the dark from all that."

They entered their dormitory, the warmth of the building a stark contrast to the cool night air. As they headed to their room, Aya couldn't help but feel contented.

Aya knew that as long as she had Mav by her side, everything would be okay.

Back in their room, they settled into their usual routine, the events of the day slowly fading into the background.

As Aya prepared for bed, she glanced over at Mav. "Hey, Mav?"

"Yeah?" Mav looked up, her expression curious.

"Thanks for today. For everything."

Mav smiled, her eyes softening. "Anytime, Aya. Anytime."

With that, they said their goodnights, each finding comfort in the presence of the other. As Aya drifted off to sleep, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the friendship and connection she shared with Mav. 

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