Break Fresh Ground

10: TRANSLATION

As the days passed, the anticipation and excitement for the event grew stronger. The halls of the university were buzzing with activity as the coordinators and officers worked tirelessly to prepare for the party. Meetings were held every day, where plans were discussed, and details ironed out.

The end of World Architecture Month coincided with the acquaintance party and a flurry of fresh faces joined in on the festivities. While I was unable to attend, as I was occupied with various responsibilities in my organization with Harriette and Artemis, France threw herself into the mix, participating in a range of activities such as face painting, a photography contest, and a quiz bee. The atmosphere was electric, with so much to do and see, and I have no doubt that many of the architecture students revelled in the excitement. Despite missing out, I was content knowing that France was living it up, soaking in the vibrant energy of the event.

As the deadline for the event approached, the pressure mounted. The coordinators were running on little sleep, fuelled by caffeine and determination. The officers were busy rehearsing their performances, while others were focused on decorating the venue.

Despite the exhaustion and stress, there was a sense of camaraderie among the coordinators as they worked together to make the event a success. Miss Fuenteblanca was a constant presence, making sure that everything was running smoothly and that the excuse letters were handed to the professors on time.

Sam makes her way towards me then, sat beside me. "Meryenda mo," she says, handing me over a small paperbag, inside is a banana smoothie and an avocado toast.

"Wow," Enthusiasm was visible on me. "Thank you!"

"Pinapaabot lang sa akin 'yan."

"Who?" She shrugged her shoulders. "Huh? Pinaabot sa 'yo pero hindi mo alam kung kanino galing?"

"Joke lang kasi, Carvajal. Galing 'yan sa feeling adonis na secretary ng student council."

"Who?" My eyebrows furrowed.

"Si Kirk, 'yong panay ang nood tuwing nagpapractice tayo."

Now, I remember. It was the short guy, who always watch and complement our output na hindi pa naman tapos. If I'm going to rate his physical form, I'll give him a 6 out of 10. But, again, not my type.

Kaagad kong binalik kay Sam ang paperbag. "Give it back to him. I don't accept foods or things from people I don't know or I'm not close with." Hindi naman na nagsalita pa si Sam at muling umalis sa tabi ko para ibalik ang paperbag kay Kirk.

Artemis appeared out of nowhere, catching me off guard with her sudden presence. "Hey," she greeted me with a smile, and I returned the gesture. "Hi," I replied.

"Nakapag meryenda ka na?" she asked, and I shook my head. "Come, bili tayo sa labas." she suggested, her soft hands gently taking hold of my wrist and pulling me along with her. "Anong gusto mo?"

"You," I quickly responded, but then quickly backtracked, "I mean, I've never bought food here before. So, whatever you think is good."

Her head turned towards me, her eyes narrowing as she searched for the intent behind my words.

"Ako... sa tingin ko, masarap 'yong Fried Calamares ni Uncle Adiong," she said, scratching the back of her neck.

As we walked, street vendors lined the pavement outside the university, each with their own designated spot. Burgers, food on sticks, and even calamari were on offer, just as Artemis had mentioned."

"Ma'am Sienna, same order ba?" The Uncle Adiong asked.

"Pakidagagan po, Uncle. Mga 30 pesos po. Saka dalawang buko juice po," magalang na sabi ni Artemis.