Break Fresh Ground

2: PANIC

As we stroll through the bustling mall, France and Paris and I search for the necessary tools for our respective majors. France, like myself, is studying the art and science of building design in the field of Architecture, while Paris delves into the intricacies of designing and constructing infrastructure as a Civil Engineer.

As we step foot in the charming province of Pangasinan, specifically in the bustling city of Urdaneta, we can't help but feel a sense of familiarity. Though the towering skyscrapers of Taguig may be absent, the city more than makes up for it with its well-maintained streets and pristine cleanliness.

As soon as we arrived yesterday, I couldn't help but succumb to the pull of exhaustion and drift off into a deep slumber. Now, as we make our way to my grandparents' home, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. They have graciously searched for a suitable place for the three of us to stay, close to the university. We have planned to visit it on Friday.

My father kept his promise and here I am, about to embark on a new chapter of my education in a public university. While the idea of attending a school that is open to the public is a new experience for me, I am excited to see what it has in store. I may have some uncertainty and doubts, but with my two closest friends by my side, France and Paris, I know I will be able to navigate any challenge that comes my way.

"Kain muna tayo. I'm starving." Paris spoke.

"Kakakain mo lang ng donut sa sasakyan, gutom ka na naman? May alaga ka bang dragon sa tiyan?" Pang-aasar ni France sabay tapik sa tiyan nito.

"Eh sa gutom ako, bakit ba?"

"Lamon ng lamon, hindi naman nataba."

"Sana all," komento ko.

Paris, our friend, is a vision to behold. She stands tall with a physique that's both athletic and graceful, long legs and toned arms that look like they've been carved from marble. It's the kind of body that makes heads turn and jaws drop.

And despite indulging in all sorts of culinary delights, Paris manages to stay in top shape without ever having to break a sweat at the gym. It's like she's got a secret superpower that allows her to enjoy all the good things in life without having to sacrifice her physique.

"Inggit ka lang, France." With a sly grin, her raised eyebrow speaks volumes as she playfully teases her.

"Excuse me--"

"Pwede ka ng dumaan, mahal kong alipin."

As I listened to their playful banter, I couldn't help but let out a sigh, a mix of amusement and fondness for their constant bickering.

Isang araw after they meet, doon na nagsimula ang bardagulan nila. I've grown accustomed to their antics. I thought Paris was the quiet one, but who knew she also had a feisty side. It's like discovering a hidden talent, like finding out your best friend can tap dance. It's a delightful surprise and I can't help but laugh at the unexpectedness of it all. Pinagsisihan ko yata na ipagtanggol siya sa mga bullies... pero joke lang 'yon kahit na 'yon ang first record ko sa detention.

Nang makakita ako ng fast food chain ay kaagad akong pumasok doon. Susunod din naman ang dalawang 'yon sa akin. Nang mai-serve ang food sa table namin ay kaagad kaming kumain. Natahimik naman ang dalawa na kanina pa nagdedebate sa topic nila.

As we stepped inside the bustling shop filled with school supplies, France turned to me with a questioning look. " Just a quick question - you gonna be the one buying all the stuff we need?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement; her lips smirking with tease.

I gave her a confident nod, a sly smile creeping up on my face. "I have already placed an order for a drafting table for us," I said.

Their eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as they heard my revelation. "For real?! You're going to pay for it, right?" France exclaimed in excitement.