Alice's Pov:
The next morning, I woke up early to prepare my things, clothes, and everything else I’d need for the 10-day medical outreach program. Ate Gie was with me. Even though Dr. Reyes initially didn’t want her to come, I convinced him since I’d cover her expenses. She’s more than just my personal assistant—she’s like family. She’s seen almost everything that’s happened in my life, both the good and the bad. Having her around makes me feel more at ease, so I always bring her along whenever I can.I can’t deny that I’m excited about this program. We’ll be able to help the community, even though I’m no longer the mayor. As doctors, we can still make a difference. But there’s a part of me that’s anxious about running into Theresia. Then again, I realized there’s no reason to be afraid. We’re over, and I shouldn’t be scared of facing her. This feelings should stop. I keep reminding myself that I’m here as a doctor—nothing more. I’ll do my job and set aside personal feelings.
After a few hours, our ride arrived a private bus for our team. Dr. Reyes was with us as the team leader. I took a seat beside Ate Gie, with Dr. Sam on her other side. The trip was lively and full of laughter. We sang, chatted, and shared stories. Cleo kept the energy up with her jokes that had everyone cracking up. Twelve hours on the bus and four more on the plane—it was a long journey, but finally, we arrived in Batanes. We were all exhausted and just wanted to rest. We’ll be staying at Villa Ferrer during our time here.

"Welcome to Batanes, everyone. I've already assigned your respective rooms. Magpahinga na ang lahat, at bukas sasabak na tayo sa trabaho," Dr. Reyes announced as we got off the bus.
"Understood?" Dr. Reyes asked.
"Yes, Doc," we responded.
"Wow, ang ganda dito," Sam said, taking in the scenery.
"The view is nice, and it's so relaxing," Faye added.
"Beachfront pa, sarap mag-swimming," Bianca chimed in.
"Wait, let's take a picture first. We need to capture this moment," Cleo suggested.
TAKING SOME PHOTOS...
"Hala, bat ang pangit ko d'yan sa picture," reklamo ni Angelo.
"ay wow, kasalanan pa ng cam ko? Pangit ka naman lagi, hindi ka pa nasanay," Cleo quipped.
"Nahiya naman ako sa pagmumukha mo, Queen Durat," Angelo shot back with a smirk.
"Shhh, tama na 'yan. Mabuti pa, mamasyal na lang muna tayo," Sam offered.
"Guys, may I remind you, we're here to volunteer as doctors, not for a vacation. Magpahinga na tayo at matulog para may energy tayo bukas," I stated as I put my arm around them, guiding them inside.
"KJ ka talaga as always, Doc Alice," Faye teased.
"Very true," Sam agreed.
"Hayaan niyo na 'yan. Siya kasi papalit kay Dr. Reyes " Cleo said while laughing.
"Puro kayo kalokohan. You know what, bahala kayo. Basta ako, magpapahinga na ako," I said as I headed inside.
"Okay sweet dreams! Lilibutin muna namin 'yung place without you," Angelo said.
"Wala akong pake. Ate gie, tara na," I called Ate Gie.
"Ay parang want ko rin sumama sa kanila. Mamasyal din muna ako," Ate gie stated.
"Fine, pag hinanap kayo ni Doc, bahala kayo," I sighed, dragging my luggage inside.
I entered the hotel, which was quiet and luxurious. It seemed like our team was the only group staying here since there were no other guests in sight. I made my way to my room on the upper floor, room number 5, dragging my two suitcases behind me. The luggage was a bit heavy, and I struggled to climb the stairs, almost ready to complain before remembering it was my own stuff weighing me down.
