Chapter Text
It was late evening when the eight of them arrived. Nostalgia clung to the air as they stood in front of the weathered door, its chipped paint worn down by years of comings and goings. This was the place where it had all begun—the first home they had shared as trainees. Despite the decade that had passed, the apartment remained remarkably unchanged, thanks to Direk Lauren, who had quietly kept the lease and ensured it was maintained as a time capsule of their beginnings.
As they stepped inside, the space felt both familiar and surreal. The mismatched furniture was exactly as they had left it: the sun-faded couch sat in the center of the room, its cushions adorned with fluffy pillows that had somehow survived their chaotic years. A couple of well-worn armchairs leaned against one wall, and the old coffee table, with its chipped edges, still bore the faint stains of spilled coffee and late-night snacks. The faded wallpaper and cracked walls stood as silent witnesses to their shared history, while the curtains—almost threadbare—still barely filtered the glow of the streetlight outside.
The apartment wasn’t grand, but it held the weight of a thousand memories. Midnight snack raids, impromptu karaoke battles, Kumu live sessions filled with laughter and fan interactions, intense dance rehearsals that turned into late-night bonding moments, and whispered dreams filled its walls. The apartment had witnessed their struggles and triumphs, becoming more than just a space—it was a testament to the journey that had shaped them.
Direk Lauren stood in the center of the living room, his face softened by the warm glow of the single lamp they had turned on. He cleared his throat, and when he spoke, his voice was thick with emotion. “Girls, this is it. Your last night here. This apartment… it’s not just a place. It’s where you laughed, cried, and grew into who you are now. Tomorrow, you’re flying to Cebu for your final performance as BINI, but tonight… this is for you.”
“Direk, grabe ka naman. Hindi pa kami nagpaalam, naiiyak na kami agad,” Maloi quipped, wiping at her eyes with an exaggerated pout.
The girls chuckled, breaking the somber mood, but the weight of his words still lingered.
Direk Lauren smiled faintly and continued, “I wanted you to spend your last night here because this place represents everything—the struggles, the triumphs, the dreams you shared. Once you take that stage tomorrow, it’s all about the fans, the legacy, the industry. But tonight? Tonight is for you.”
He stepped back, letting the moment sink in. Their manager, standing near the door, chimed in. “Tama si Direk. This apartment isn’t just a space. It’s a part of who you are. Kaya huwag niyong madaliin. Stay here. Relive the memories. Celebrate what brought you to this moment.”
Direk Lauren cleared his throat before speaking up again, his voice light yet serious. "Alright, girls. We’re gonna step out for a while to take care of some things. Don’t go getting too sentimental on us yet, ha? I’ll leave you to it. We’ll be back soon."
He gave them a warm smile, motioning for the manager to follow him. The door clicked shut behind them, leaving the girls alone in the apartment, leaving the girls to themselves, the atmosphere shifted. For a while, they just sat there, the quiet almost deafening, until someone broke the silence.
Stacey leaned back on the couch and threw her head back dramatically. "Grabe, naaalala ko pa nung unang araw natin dito! Ang sikip ng kwarto, parang sardinas tayong lahat." She laughed, shaking her head.
Jhoanna smiled as she flipped through an old photo album. "Tapos 'yung first na grocery run natin—lahat tayo may sarili-sariling budget, kaya pinagkakasya lang natin 'yung pera. Laging sardinas at noodles lang!"
Sheena, leaning against the armrest, grinned. "Oo nga, 'tapos kung sino yung unang magigising sa umaga, siya yung magluluto ng breakfast."
Maloi, with a playful smirk, added, "Tapos yung baradong lababo. Grabe, naka anger mode agad si Colet." earning a laugh from the girls.
Gwen, perched on the windowsill, chuckled softly. "At syempre, yung mga late-night rehearsals. Laging walang tulog, pero gigil na gigil pa rin tayo mag-perform." she added, a nostalgic smile crossing her face.
Aiah, who had been quietly listening, nodded with a soft laugh. "Tapos yung mga random bonding natin. Yung parang may mga time na magkasama tayo, kahit wala tayong lakad. Gano'n tayo noon, 'di ba?"
“Ang drama! Pero okay, game!” Stacey piped up, flipping her hair and striking a pose. “Let’s make this night count, mga beshies. Huwag niyong kalimutan na ako ang pinaka-bibo sa atin noon pa man.”
“Hoy, hindi ikaw ang pinaka-bibo,” Jhoanna shot back, crossing her arms. “Ikaw ang pinaka-maingay! Magkaiba ‘yon.”
“Hay nako, sabi ko na nga ba, mag-aaway na naman kayo,” Gwen said, rolling her eyes but smiling.
“Eh, parang gusto ko nang mag-karaoke. ‘Yung kapitbahay natin, naalala niyo? Laging nagreklamo kapag kumakanta tayo,” Sheena added with a laugh.
“Ang kapal ng mukha nila noon, eh sila nga nag-vi-videoke hanggang madaling araw!” Colet chimed in, eliciting more laughter.
As the evening unfolded, the girls found themselves reminiscing about their journey together. Among them, Aiah and Mikha shared a bond that had deepened over the past decade, evolving from a sisterly connection into something more profound. From the beginning of their journey with BINI, they were inseparable, embodying an "ate" and "bunso" dynamic that fans adored.
Their closeness did not go unnoticed. As BINI's popularity soared, so did the number of fans who "shipped" them, crafting narratives around their interactions. The intensity of these fan-made stories sometimes bordered on delusional, attributing romantic undertones to even their slightest gestures. This external pressure threatened to make things awkward between them. However, Aiah and Mikha made a conscious decision to ignore the fans' speculations, choosing instead to focus on their friendship and the group's harmony.
Mikha was the first to feel a shift in her emotions. She vividly remembered a particular evening during their early trainee days. They had just finished a grueling practice session, and everyone was exhausted. Noticing Mikha's fatigue, Aiah approached her with a bottle of water and a reassuring smile. "Kaya mo 'yan, Mikhs. Nandito lang ako," Aiah said, gently squeezing her shoulder. In that moment, Mikha felt an unfamiliar warmth, realizing that her admiration for Aiah had blossomed into deeper affection.
As time went on, Aiah began to notice her own feelings evolving. As BINI's popularity soared, the demands of their schedules intensified, and the once vibrant Aiah began to withdraw. Her usual exuberance faded, replaced by a quiet demeanor that didn't go unnoticed by the group.
One evening, Mikha stepped onto the balcony, seeking a moment of solitude. To her surprise, she found Aiah already there, staring into the distance. A mix of concern and hesitation washed over Mikha as she noticed Aiah's recent change in behavior but wasn't sure how to approach her. After a brief pause, Mikha decided to bridge the gap.
"Hi, Ate Aiah," Mikha greeted, her voice soft.
"Hi, Mikhs," Aiah responded, her gaze still fixed on the horizon.
Mikha leaned against the railing, her eyes following Aiah's as they both took in the view. "It's a beautiful night, isn't it?" she said, hoping to break the silence.
"Yeah, it is," Aiah replied, her voice distant.
The silence between them lingered, heavy with unspoken words. Mikha glanced at Aiah, her concern deepening. "You've been different lately. Is everything okay?"
Aiah hesitated, her eyes still focused on the horizon. "I'm just tired, that's all," she murmured.
Mikha studied her carefully, sensing the underlying unease. "I understand, but you've been more distant than usual. If something's bothering you, you can talk to me."
Aiah's facade began to crack as her vulnerability surfaced. "I don't want to burden anyone with my problems," she admitted softly.
Mikha stepped closer, her voice gentle but firm. "You're not a burden. We're a team, a family. If you're struggling, we face it together."
Aiah turned to face Mikha, her eyes welling up with tears. "I'm scared, Mikhs. Scared of not being good enough, of letting everyone down."
Mikha placed a hand on Aiah's shoulder, offering comfort. "You're more than enough, Ate. You've always been there for us, and now it's our turn to be here for you."
Aiah's tears flowed freely as she leaned into Mikha's embrace, the weight of her emotions lifting in the safety of Mikha's support. "Thank you, Mikha. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Mikha smiled softly, her eyes filled with warmth. "I'm always here for you. Always."
In that moment, the bond between them deepened, a silent understanding passing between their gazes. Aiah realized that Mikha's unwavering support and genuine care had touched her heart in ways she hadn't fully acknowledged before.
Direk Lauren called out to Aiah, asking if they could talk for a moment. The room fell silent as Aiah nodded and stood up, following Direk Lauren to the hallway. "Sure po, Direk!" she responded cheerfully, waving goodbye to the girls as she left the room. Despite the lighthearted wave, her energy remained high, unwilling to let anything dull her spirit. As the door clicked shut behind her, Mikha and the others exchanged a look, a soft, knowing smile crossing Mikha’s face. Though Aiah kept her usual upbeat facade, Mikha could sense something deeper at play, something she couldn't quite name but knew was there.
In the hallway, Direk Lauren gestured for Aiah to sit on a nearby bench. "Aiah, I need to discuss something important with you," he said. Aiah sat down, sensing the seriousness in his tone as her smile faded slightly. "Ano po iyon, Direk?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.
"The management has decided to arrange a date between you and a member of the new boy group, 'XOXO.' They're just starting out, and they believe that a public pairing with a BINI member will boost their image," Direk Lauren explained.
Aiah’s eyes widened in surprise. "Direk, alam niyo naman na hindi ko gusto yung mga ganitong setups. I’m here to perform and to grow—not for this. Alam ko po na may intention na good for the group, pero... I’m really not comfortable," she admitted, the knot in her stomach tightening. She had always valued authenticity and was uncomfortable with the idea of a staged relationship.
"I understand your concerns, Aiah. I know this isn't ideal, and I don't want you to feel pressured into something you're uncomfortable with," Direk Lauren responded sympathetically. "But sometimes we have to make compromises for the greater good of the group."
Aiah nodded slowly, her mind racing. She longed for a quiet evening to herself, to rest and recharge. But now, she was expected to play a part in a narrative she didn’t believe in. "Kailan po iyon?" she asked, trying to prepare herself for what was to come.
"Tonight. The venue is already set," Direk Lauren replied, his voice steady.
Aiah's heart sank. She had hoped for a peaceful night, perhaps spending time with Mikha, who had always been a source of comfort and understanding. "Sige po, Direk," she said, her voice quiet.
As she stood up to leave, Direk Lauren placed a hand on her shoulder. "I know this isn't easy, Aiah. But I believe in you."
Aiah forced a smile, nodding in acknowledgment. As she walked back to the practice room, her thoughts consumed her with the upcoming date and the pressure she felt.
When Aiah stepped back into the practice room, the door creaked softly, drawing the attention of the girls. "Anong nangyari, Ate?" Jhoanna asked, her curiosity piqued. Aiah forced a bright smile, masking the unease that lingered beneath. "May bagong project tayo. Kailangan ko raw makipag-date sa isang member ng bagong boy group, 'XOXO.' Para daw sa image nila," she said, trying to keep her tone light.
The girls erupted into playful cheers, their excitement palpable. Jhoanna jumped up and clapped her hands like a coach at a competition. "So, okay. Saan ‘yan? Dinner? Movie date? Game night? Ano ang plan? Spill the tea, Ate Aiah!" she asked eagerly.
Sheena added, "Wow, Ate! May date ka na! Sino siya? Puwede ba kaming sumama?"
Colet chimed in, "Baka naman pwede kaming mag-chaperone! Para masaya!"
Maloi laughed, "Kaya nga. Para naman may chance akong makilala siya!"
Aiah chuckled softly, her heart not fully in it. "Hindi na, girls. Kayo na lang mag-enjoy dito," she said, trying to steer the conversation away from her discomfort.
Mikha watched Aiah closely, sensing the subtle shift in her demeanor. She approached her, offering a supportive smile and placing a hand on Aiah’s shoulder to calm her down. "Ate Aiah, chill. It’s a date, not an interrogation. Don’t worry, it’s gonna be fun, I’m sure!" she reassured.
Aiah nodded, grateful for Mikha's unwavering support. "Thank you, Mikhs," she said quietly.
Sheena, never one to miss a chance for a joke, added with a wink, "Ate Aiah, kung hindi mo siya type, huwag mong pakawalan, okay? Puwede ba? I’ll take him for a spin."
Aiah couldn’t help but laugh, the ridiculousness of it all easing her nerves a little. "Alright, alright, I’ll be back soon. Promise to spill all the deets after, kahit na awkward," she said, smiling more genuinely now.
Mikha gave Aiah a soft smile, her heart a little heavy but still supportive. "You’ve got this, Ate Aiah. Have fun, okay?" she said, her voice filled with warmth and encouragement.
As the girls continued to tease and congratulate Aiah, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease. She longed for a quiet evening, perhaps spending time with Mikha, who had been her source of comfort and understanding. But tonight, she was expected to play a role she wasn't comfortable with.
Mikha, too, felt a pang in her chest. She wanted to be there for Aiah, to offer her comfort and support. But she knew that Aiah had to face this challenge on her own.
As the evening wore on, Aiah prepared for the date, her thoughts consumed with the upcoming event. She wished she could confide in Mikha, share her feelings, and perhaps find solace in her presence. But she knew that tonight, she would have to face this challenge alone.
Meanwhile, Mikha stood by, offering her silent support, knowing that sometimes, the best way to help a friend was to let them face their challenges head-on.
Aiah playfully sighed, amused at their enthusiasm, and said, "Sige na, sige na. Maganda naman lahat, eh. Pati sa makeup, anong kailangan?"
Sheena clapped her hands excitedly and responded, "Bold lips!
Maloi chimed in, "Sige, pero huwag masyadong makapal, baka magmukhang over-dressed."
Jhoanna quickly disagreed, saying, "No! The bolder, the better! Kailangan malakas ang dating!"
In the kitchen, Mikha, Colet, and Gwen exchanged amused glances as they overheard the escalating fashion debate.
Mikha chuckled and said, "Naririnig niyo ba 'yan? Parang may fashion war na nagaganap sa kwarto."
Colet smirked and added, "Hayaan mo na. At least, busy sila."
Gwen laughed and said, "Sana hindi nila masyadong pinepressure si Ate Aiah."
Back in the bedroom, the debate reached a fever pitch, with dresses flying and accessories being tossed around like confetti.
Sheena dramatically draped a feather boa around Aiah and declared, "Ito na ang final touch! Fierce na fierce!"
Aiah tried to suppress her laughter and said, "Girls, baka sobra na 'to..."
Jhoanna, brandishing a pair of oversized sunglasses, said, "Perfect 'to! Para mysterious ang dating mo!"
Stacey waved a glittery pink scarf and added, "Kailangan ng konting sparkle! Para shining, shimmering, splendid ka!"
Maloi held up a pair of neon green heels and exclaimed, "At itong shoes! Para may pop of color!"
Aiah, barely containing her laughter, asked, "Mukha na ba akong Christmas tree?"
The girls paused, stepping back to assess their handiwork. Aiah stood adorned with a mishmash of clashing accessories, looking like she stepped out of a fashion disaster movie.
Sheena burst into laughter and said, "Okay, maybe we overdid it a bit."
Jhoanna giggled uncontrollably and added, "Konti lang naman!"
Stacey tried to stifle her laughter and said, "At least, standout ka nga!"
Maloi wiped tears of laughter from her eyes and remarked, "Parang masyadong standout..."
Aiah laughed along and said, "Okay, okay. Let's tone it down a notch."
After a whirlwind of outfit changes and accessory swaps, they finally settled on a chic black silk dress that flattered Aiah's figure perfectly. The makeup was kept elegant yet understated, highlighting her natural beauty.
Sheena nodded approvingly and said, "Ayan, sis. Ready ka na to slay!"
Jhoanna gave a thumbs up and said, "Knock 'em dead!"
Stacey clapped excitedly and said, "Para kang disney princess!”
Maloi smiled warmly and said, "You look beautiful, Ate Aiah. Just be yourself."
Aiah grinned, feeling more confident, and said, "Salamat, girls sa tulong niyo, ready na ako."
As Aiah took a final look in the mirror, she felt a surge of gratitude for her friends. Despite the chaos and clashing opinions, their love and support shone through, giving her the confidence to face the evening ahead.
Later, Aiah went to the kitchen, the girls following behind her. All of them were surprised and gushing over how beautiful their Ate Aiah was.
Colet's eyes widened as she exclaimed, "Ate Aiah, ang ganda mo!"
Gwen added, "Mala-model ang dating ah!"
Stacey, though she preferred pink, couldn't help but say, "Pink would've been better, but you look amazing!"
The girls rushed outside to see Aiah, cheering her on. Mikha stood at the doorway, looking at her quietly.
Aiah smiled at her friends, but her eyes lingered on Mikha. Mikha stood silently, her heart skipping a beat as she watched Aiah. There was something about the way she looked tonight—something that made Mikha feel both proud and envious.
Mikha, frozen for a moment, stared at Aiah and said, "W-wow..."
Clearing her throat, trying to hide her emotions, Mikha added, "You look... amazing, Ate Aiah."
Aiah, softly, still staring at Mikha, replied, "Thanks... Really. I... I'm not sure about this whole date thing, but... I'll see how it goes."
The girls continued to tease and encourage Aiah, while Mikha quietly took a step back, her heart heavy with the words she didn't dare to say.
Mikha had always been there for Aiah, offering silent support and understanding. She had been the one to listen to Aiah's dreams, fears, and everything in between. But tonight, as she watched Aiah prepare for her date, Mikha couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy and longing. She had always kept her feelings for Aiah hidden, afraid of ruining their friendship.
Aiah, on the other hand, had always valued Mikha's presence in her life. She trusted Mikha more than anyone else and often found herself seeking her advice and comfort. But tonight, as she prepared for her date, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. She wished Mikha could be there with her, not just as a friend, but as something more.
As the night wore on, both Aiah and Mikha found themselves grappling with their unspoken feelings, each unsure of how to bridge the gap between friendship and something deeper.