Youth [MikhAiah] [Book #1]

06

—🐶🦊—

MIKHA

"Janna. It's nice to meet you, Aiah."

I reached out to her hand in a firm but gentle shake. Her smile radiated warmth and I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"Pretty name, you live around here ba?" she asked, leaning back over the railing after our handshake, her side profile glowing.

"Not really, but BGC is famously known for its various attractions, so here I am." I replied, easing into our company. It was rare for me to feel so comfortable with someone I barely knew, but Aiah that that effect on me. Her smile—her energy was infectious, and I found myself smiling whenever she din.

"That's so true, BGC is just the perfect place to unwind." she said, raising her arms and stretching with a yawn, the wind tousling her hair. The glow from the stage lights softened her features, making her look ethereal.

Our conversation was interrupted as the stage came alive with another performance. Aiah's gaze snapped to the stage, her eyes sparkling with recognition and excitement, "GO BESTIE!" she shouted, her voice breaking through the crowd noise, filled with unbridled enthusiasm.

I flinched at her sudden comfort but quickly laughed, amused by her infectious energy. She noticed my reaction and laughed. "I am so sorry, ganito lang talaga ako magshow ng support sa friends ko." She explained, still laughing at herself. She returned her focus to the stage, completely engrossed.

I watched her for a moment, feeling an odd sense of contentment. Even in these small interactions, her presence had a way of lighting up the moment. The simple act of her cheering, her genuine smiles, and our easy conversation made my day in a way I hadn't expected.

As Yves took the stage, her performance filled the air with a melodic tune that tugged at everyone's heartstrings. Aiah was fully engrossed, swaying slightly to the rhythm, her eyes never leaving the stage. I couldn't help but admire her passion and the way she supported her friends so wholeheartedly.

—🐺🐼—

Colet was assigned to Yves, her celebrity crush— or atleast that's what Yves is to her for now. Her heart pounded in her chest as Maloi stepped on to the stage. The spotlight illuminated Maloi's figured, casting a warm glow that made her look like she was made of stardust. The opening chords of "Dilaw" by Maki filled the air, and Colet was completely lovestrucked.

As Maloi sang, her voice clear and soulful, their eyes locked.

"Ngayong nandiyan ka na, 'di magmamadali~"

For a moment, the world around them faded, it was just Colet and Maloi, connected through music and the unspoken words between them. Colet couldn't help but smile, her cheeks flushing as Maloi sang with a passion that felt solely at her.