After a delicious breakfast, I got ready for my first day at the studio. Habang tinitingnan ko ang sarili ko sa salamin, nagdadalawang-isip ako kung ano ang dapat suotin. Pero sa huli, nag-decide akong magsuot ng chic na blouse at slacks, hoping na ito ang tamang balance ng professional at casual.

As I stepped out of the house, I saw East waiting by his car. "Ready ka na?" tanong niya, tumingin sa akin na parang nag-aalala.

"Yeah, ready na! Pero, hindi ba malapit lang naman yata dito 'yong studio?" I asked, pointing at the studio.

"Oo malapit lang," he replied, "pero kahit malapit lang, isasabay na kita. Madadaanan ko naman eh. Papunta kasi ako sa construction site."

I felt a mix of gratitude and surprise. "Oh, okay. Thanks," I said as I hopped into the passenger seat.

"It's no big deal, Shan," he said with a reassuring smile as he started the engine.

As we drove, I thought about how comfortable it felt to be with him. "Thank you for the breakfast, by the way. It was really nice of you," I said, wanting to express my appreciation.

"Anytime," nakangiting sagot niya. "And hindi ka naman ibang tao sa 'kin. Anyway, good luck sa first day mo. I know you'll be fine," East said, glancing at me before focusing back on the road.

"Thanks! I'll do my best," I replied, feeling a wave of nerves wash over me again.

As we got closer to the studio, I couldn't help but think about how my first day would go. The building loomed ahead, a reminder of the exciting challenges that awaited me.

As East parked the car, he turned to me with a friendly grin. "And remember, just breathe. Briefing pa lang today," he encouraged, as if sensing my anxiety.

"Right, kalma lang," I echoed, trying to channel some of his confidence.

Before I stepped out of the car, he said, "I'm sure you'll impress everyone."

"Thanks again, East. I really appreciate it," I replied with a smile, feeling more at ease.

Upon entering the studio, I was enveloped by a mix of excitement and nervousness. This was it—the beginning of my adventure in Bali. I waved at East as he drove off, feeling grateful for his kindness. As I took a deep breath, I prepared myself for whatever lay ahead.

Pagkapasok ko sa studio, agad akong na-impress sa interior design nito. Ang mga pader ay pinalamutian ng mga lokal na sining, habang ang mga bintana ay malalaki at nagbibigay ng natural na liwanag sa buong espasyo. Ang hangin ay may halong sariwang amoy ng mga halaman sa paligid, at naramdaman kong parang nabuhay ako sa isang masiglang kapaligiran. "Wow, ang ganda dito," I whispered to myself, taking in the stunning surroundings.

Habang naglalakad ako sa loob, sinalubong ako ng isang guard na Balinese na nakatayo sa entrance. Nagbigay siya ng ngiti at nakipag-usap sa akin. "Rahajeng semeng! Sapunapi antuk titiang nulungin ragane?" he said cheerfully, at napansin kong tila masaya siyang makausap ako.

Ngunit sa kabila ng kanyang ngiti, naguluhan ako sa mga salitang lumabas sa kanyang bibig. "Uh... excuse me?" I said, unsure of how to respond. Ang mga salita niya ay mahirap intidihin dahil sa mabilis niyang pagsasalita.

"Oh, ragane wawu rauh iriki?" he added, at kahit sa tingin ko ay binabati niya ako, nahirapan akong makasunod. I tried to respond with a smile, but my heart raced with anxiety.

"Sorry, I don't speak Balinese," I admitted, hoping he would understand. "I'm new here."

Ngunit tila hindi siya naintindihan. He continued to speak, gesturing warmly as if to welcome me. Isang bahagi sa akin ang nainis dahil sa language barrier, pero sa kabila nito, ang kanyang mga galaw ay tila nagpapakita ng kabutihan.

Sa kabutihang palad, naisip ng guard na ipakita na lang sa akin ang daan. "Ikuti saya," he said, pointing for me to follow him. "Ayo!"

Nagsimula akong sumunod, at habang naglalakad kami, nagtanong ako, "Do you speak English?"

Sagot niya ay isang ngiti at tumango. Mukhang hindi niya ako maintindihan, ngunit ang pasensya niya ay tila walang hanggan. Habang naglalakad kami, nakikita ko ang mga tao sa paligid—mga architects at designers na abala sa kanilang mga gawain.

"Wow," I muttered, impressed with the energy of the place. Naisip ko kung anong klaseng proyekto ang ginagawa nila dito, at sa bawat hakbang, lalo akong nananabik.

Pagdating namin sa opisina, ang guard ay umalis at ako ay nagbigay ng ngiti bilang pasasalamat, kahit na hindi kami nagkaintindihan. Pagkatapos umalis ng guard, nandoon pa rin ako sa pintuan ng opisina, nag-iisip tungkol sa mga nangyari. I felt the weight of this language barrier. It was as if I were in a world filled with words I couldn't reach.

As I gradually returned to my thoughts, I wondered how I could overcome this obstacle. Maybe I should install a translator app on my phone later. The idea of having instant translation at my fingertips brought me some comfort. At least I'll have a way to communicate with them more easily.

A few seconds later, Architect Asmara finally arrived, smiling and full of energy. "Shan! I'm glad you made it," she greeted warmly, at agad akong nakaramdam ng ginhawa sa kanyang presensya.

"Thank you, Architect Asmara," sagot ko, puno ng sabik na makilala ang mga kasama ko.

"Come on, let's get you introduced to the team," she said, leading me sa loob ng studio. Habang naglalakad kami, ang aking puso ay nag-iinit sa saya at kaba.

Pagdating namin sa isang maluwang na espasyo, huminto siya at nag-turn sa mga kasama. "Everyone, I'd like you to meet our new junior architect, Shan," she announced with pride.

"Hi, Shan! Welcome to the team!" ang unang bumati ay si Ar. Maria Elena Sari, ang Project Manager. Her long hair and professional aura gave me confidence. I remembered seeing her in an article I read while in the Philippines. The article mentioned that she was one of the leading Project Managers in Bali, so I was surprised that she was the first to greet me. "I oversee the timelines and quality standards for our projects. If you have any questions about how we manage everything, feel free to ask!"

"Thank you, Architect Maria," sabi ko, naglalaman ng pasasalamat at kasabikan.

Pagkatapos ay nagpatuloy si Architect Asmara, "This is Ika Mulyani, our Interior Design Lead. She is fantastic at balancing functionality with Balinese heritage in our designs."

"Hi, Shan! I'm excited to collaborate with you on the airport interiors," sabi ni Ika, ang kanyang mga mata ay nagliliwanag ng sigla.

"Next, we have Nia Putri, our Landscape Architect," Asmara continued, gesturing to a woman with a warm smile. "Nia integrates Balinese cultural elements and native flora into our outdoor spaces."

"Welcome! I can't wait to work together on the landscape designs," sabi ni Ar. Nia, na tila sobrang excited para sa aming proyekto.

"She's Claire O'Malley, the Client Liaison Officer," Ar. Asmara said, pointing to a young woman with an approachable demeanor.

"Hi, Shan! I'm looking forward to collaborating with you! I maintain communication with our clients and coordinate updates. I'll be your go-to person for client-related inquiries," Claire said, and I felt an instant connection.

Pinakilala rin ni Ar. Asmara si Daniel Cortez, ang Sustainability Consultant. "Daniel is crucial in ensuring we prioritize energy efficiency and green materials in all our designs," she explained.

"Welcome, Shan! If you're passionate about eco-friendly practices, you'll love it here," Sir Daniel said, his genuine smile easing my nerves.

Ipinakilala ni Ar. Asmara si Kenji Nakamura, ang Technical Consultant. "Kenji provides insights into integrating technology with our sustainable practices," she said, and Kenji nodded as he offered a handshake.

"Nice to meet you, Kenji!" sabi ko, masigasig na nakikipagkamay sa kanya.

Huli, ipinakilala ni Ar. Asmara si Evelyn Cho, ang Cultural Liaison. "Evelyn is responsible for coordinating with local artisans and cultural advisors to preserve and showcase Balinese culture," she added, beaming with enthusiasm.

"Welcome, Shan! I'm excited to help you learn more about our local culture," sabi ni Evelyn, and her warm welcome gave me a sense of belonging.

Habang ipinapakilala ako ni Ar. Asmara sa bawat isa, unti-unti akong nakaramdam ng ginhawaan at kasabikan. Each person seemed ready to help and collaborate. "Thank you, everyone," I said, joy evident in my voice. "I'm excited to work with all of you."

"Good to have you here," sabi ni Ar. Asmara, at ang init ng kanyang suporta ay nagbigay liwanag sa araw ko. This was my new family in Bali, and I was ready to start exploring the projects and possibilities waiting for me.

As the introductions wrapped up, I couldn't help but wonder, where could Architect Pablo Roman be? He was the one whose vision inspired me from afar—the Principal Architect and Founder of Pablo Roman Studio, someone whose work had always left a mark on my ambitions. But then again, I figured he was probably busy; after all, leading a prestigious firm like this took enormous responsibility and countless demands on his time.

Nag-focus na lang ako sa mga kasama ko ngayon, feeling fortunate to have been warmly welcomed. Maybe in time, I thought to myself, I'd get to meet Architect Pablo and see firsthand how he runs his studio. For now, I was more than ready to make a good first impression and immerse myself in this incredible new chapter.

Just as I was about to settle into my new desk, Claire suddenly called out, "Shan, would you mind coming with me for a quick briefing? Bring a paper or notepad."

Mabuti na lang at lagi akong handa—girl scout moves, as always. I pulled out my trusty notepad from my bag and nodded, following Claire down the hallway. Habang naglalakad kami, napansin ko ang bawat sulok ng studio, each detail meticulously designed yet welcoming, with hints of Balinese charm mixed with modern aesthetics.

Claire led me into a small, bright room and gestured for me to sit across from her. She began by giving me a thorough orientation, sharing the dos and don'ts in the studio—everything from maintaining sustainability practices to respecting the cultural touches spread throughout the office. She also explained the working hours, which ran from 9 AM to 6 PM, with occasional flexibility depending on project demands.

"Here at Pablo Roman Studio, we aim to be collaborative and mindful," Sabi ni Claire, nakaka-encourage pero professional ang tono niya. "You'll find that everyone here respects deadlines but also prioritizes open communication."

I took notes diligently, listening closely. Claire's energy was both calming and motivating, and it reassured me that I was in good hands for this transition.

Habang nagpatuloy kami, binigyan ako ni Claire ng heads-up tungkol kay Ar. Pablo mismo. "There's one thing you should know about Ar. Pablo," panimula niya, bumaba ang boses niya sa mas seryosong tono. "He has no patience for anyone who commits to something without true commitment. When he assigns a task, he'll always ask if you're sure you can handle it and get it done on time. He really expects you to mean it when you say yes. What he dislikes the most is when someone promises to deliver but then doesn't follow through, especially as deadlines approach."

I nodded, taking this to heart. Claire's tone made it clear: Architect Roman valued accountability as much as he valued talent, maybe even more.

"And," dagdag ni Claire na may kasamang ngiti, "he can be pretty moody. It's not personal—he's under a lot of pressure managing the entire firm and overseeing the vision of each project. So don't take it to heart if he's a little gruff now and then."

I scribbled a few notes, mentally preparing myself. Moody boss? Check. High standards? Double check. But instead of feeling intimidated, I felt an odd thrill. This was the type of challenge na gusto ko—isang bagay na magtutulak sa akin na patunayan 'yong sarili ko at ang dedication ko, not just to the team, but to someone as respected as Architect Roman himself.

Thinking about Architect Pablo's exacting standards, I suddenly couldn't help but remember my boss back in the Philippines, Architect Carlo. Napatawa na lang ako sa sarili ko. If I managed to work well with Architect Carlo and his tough attitude, I could probably handle anyone.

Ar. Carlo had always been unapologetically blunt, especially when he didn't like a design. I remembered this one project back home when I added LED lights along the columns of an event space I was designing. He took one look at my proposal and, with his usual deadpan delivery, said, "Did you really go to architecture school, Shan?" Halos maramdaman kong lumubog ako sa upuan ko noong araw na iyon habang nagpatuloy siya, "No guest wants LED light striking directly at them. Imagine sitting there, practically blinded. Gusto mo ba 'yun?"

It wasn't always easy, but his feedback pushed me to sharpen my skills and approach each design with a new perspective. He might have been tough, but I owed him a lot for helping me develop a thick skin and an eye for practical elegance.

Another memory flashed into my mind—one that still made me chuckle and cringe a little. Back when we were designing a modest bungalow, I had proposed this massive wall space covered in expensive marble. I thought it would add this elegant, luxurious feel. But Ar. Carlo took one look at my design and, in his trademark mocking tone, raised an eyebrow and said, "Ang yaman mo naman pala, Shan? Baka tinampal ka na ng kliyente kapag nalaman niya 'yong presyo ng marmol mo na 'yan. Alam mo na ngang nagtitipid 'yon."

His bluntness could sting, but he always had a point. He didn't just want the designs to look good; he wanted them to be practical, considerate of the client's needs and budget. Moments like those had kept me grounded, reminding me to balance creativity with practicality.

I had a feeling that Ar. Pablo might not be much different, though his approach was likely his own brand of intense. Pero okay lang, I thought, feeling the thrill of the challenge. Those tough lessons had prepared me for this new chapter.

A wave of nostalgia hit me as I thought about everything I'd been through with Ar. Carlo. Grabe, time really had flown. Parang kailan lang, it was my first week on the job, and he'd already assigned me as the job captain. At first, I didn't even want to take it—I wasn't sure I was ready, and the pressure felt huge. But now, looking back, I was so grateful I had accepted it.

Being the job captain meant being on the front lines of everything: facing the harshest criticisms, learning from my mistakes, and dealing with the biggest transactions. I was the one who got thrown into presentations, sometimes unprepared, and had to handle all kinds of client personalities. Of course, I'd faced humiliations and disciplinary talks when things went wrong, but I'd also been given opportunities I'd never have had otherwise.

Ar. Carlo was blunt, yes, but he was also brilliant, and he exposed me to so much more than just the technical side of the work. He taught me how to navigate high-stakes projects, communicate clearly, and stand my ground. Those experiences shaped me, and now, halfway across the world, I was already missing my old boss and everything I had learned under his watchful eye.

More than just a mentor, Ar. Carlo had become this sort of father or older brother figure to me. He wasn't just my boss; he was someone who could see beyond the work and the titles. Somehow, he always knew when something was off with me. He saw through the front I put up, even knew a bit about the family stuff I was dealing with. He wasn't the type to pry, but he'd still check in on me in his own way, with a casual, "Ayos ka lang ba, Shan?" or sometimes just a small nod of understanding.

He knew me beyond the role I played at work. He knew me as someone he'd guided, encouraged, and pushed to grow, almost like a daughter he was proud to see standing on her own. Even across miles and with a whole new team, his voice and those moments still echoed in my mind.

I snapped out of my thoughts as Claire's voice cut through, "Shan? Are you still with me?" Nakatingin siya sa akin na may maamong ngiti, ang ekspresyon niya ay may halong pasensya at curiosity.

"Oh! Sorry, Claire," sabi ko, medyo nahihiya. "I got a bit lost in thought."

Nanlambot ang mga mata ni Claire habang pinag-aaralan ako. "Homesick, hmm?" tanong niya, nang mapansin kung ano ang hindi ko namalayan na nakasulat sa buong mukha ko.

I managed a small smile, feeling a pang of longing for the familiar comforts of home, my old team, and Ar. Carlo's gruff-but-caring guidance.

"It's normal," Claire reassured me, her tone warm and understanding. "The first few days in a new place can feel strange, but you'll get used to it. We're a team here, and everyone's here to support you."

Her words eased some of the tightness in my chest. Maybe this wouldn't be easy, but I reminded myself that I wasn't alone in this new beginning.

Ipinagpatuloy ni Claire ang briefing, sumulyap sa akin na may bakas ng pananabik. "Ready to see what we're working on up close?" tanong niya. "We're heading over to the airport site."

My curiosity immediately piqued. This was the heart of their work, the project that had driven the team for the past four years, and now it was in the final stages.

***

Pagdating namin, hindi ako makapaniwala sa nakita ko. The design was breathtaking, a stunning testament to the beauty of organic architecture. The structure flowed effortlessly with its natural surroundings, almost as if it was shaped by the wind itself. The intricate framework of bamboo rising and curving through the space gave the airport an undeniable vitality—soft yet strong, traditional yet progressive.

I found myself absorbing every detail. Though it wasn't finished, I could already see the full vision. The airport was nearly there, an unmistakable blend of architecture and art. This wasn't just a building; it was a statement, one that captured the spirit of sustainability and respect for nature.

In that moment, I could feel the pride the team must have felt seeing it come to life, year by year, and the excitement at finally being so close to completion. I was only just beginning here, but standing at the site, I felt like I was stepping into something bigger than I'd ever imagined.

Standing there, taking it all in, I felt this deep, unmistakable pride swelling up in my chest. Here I was, a Filipino junior architect, witnessing the creation of Bali's new airport—something that would serve millions, becoming part of both the island's cultural legacy and its future. This was more than just a project; it was a symbol of progress, sustainability, and respect for nature, and I was lucky enough to be a part of it.

As I stood there, captivated by the airport's design, my gaze drifted toward East, who was working at a distance. He seemed so engrossed in his tasks, coordinating with other team members, inspecting the ongoing construction with that focused determination etched on his face.

Hindi ko maiwasang mapangiti habang pinagmamasdan siya sa malayo. I noticed him coordinating with the construction team, his demeanor focused and professional. Aditya Wijaya, the head of construction site operations, was animatedly discussing timelines and progress with East.

"We need to ensure we're ahead of schedule, especially with bamboo being the main material," Aditya urged, gesturing toward the plans spread out on a makeshift table. "If we hit any snags now, it could set us back weeks."

Nearby, Ravi Santoso, the lead structural engineer, was pointing out some intricate details that had to be adjusted for the tropical climate challenges. He was sketching adjustments on a nearby blueprint.

Si Gede Pradana, ang quality assurance specialist, ay nagre-review ng mga plano kasama si Agus Mahendra, ang logistics at procurement officer.

As I observed, a sense of admiration washed over me for this entire team. They weren't just building an airport; they were creating a legacy rooted in sustainable architecture. I felt proud to be part of a project that emphasized eco-friendly practices, especially the innovative use of bamboo, a symbol of resilience and harmony with nature. East's role as a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer was crucial, ensuring that every aspect aligned with safety standards.

Farid Prasetyo, the chief foreman, was keeping everything on schedule, barking orders as he moved through the site. "Let's keep this moving, people! We've got a deadline to meet!" tawag niya, pinuputol ng boses niya ang ingay.

Meanwhile, Dewi Laksana, the environmental health officer, was overseeing the impact of their work on the surroundings.

Nakatutuwang makita kung paano gumaganap ng mahalagang papel ang bawat miyembro. Even in the chaos of construction, there was a clear sense of purpose. I could see the dedication in their eyes, and I felt a rush of excitement for what was to come.

As I stood there, watching the team work in perfect harmony, I couldn't help but wonder how great they were in English. Akala ko ay marami akong maririnig na Balinese ngayon, especially with so many locals involved in the project. The way they communicated seamlessly, mixing technical jargon with casual conversation, filled me with both admiration and a bit of anxiety.

Nabasa siguro ni Claire ang iniisip ko dahil lumingon siya sa akin at sinabing, "You know, this is an international project. English is essential, but so is learning Balinese. Many locals are working here, and understanding their language will help you connect better with the team."

I nodded, absorbing her words. "That makes sense. I want to make sure I can communicate effectively with everyone."

"Exactly! I recommend taking some Balinese language classes while you're here," payo niya na may matamis na ngiti. "It'll not only help you in your work but also enrich your experience living in Bali. Plus, the locals will appreciate your effort."

Her suggestion sparked excitement within me. "I'll definitely look into it," sagot ko na parang motivated. The thought of learning a new language thrilled me. I knew it would open doors, both professionally and personally, and help me forge connections in this beautiful new environment.

Binalik ko ang tingin ko kay East, and he finally noticed my presence. His face lit up with a warm smile, and my heart skipped a beat. I was about to return the gesture, letting the moment bridge the gap between us, but then the memories came flooding back—how he had ghosted me a year ago.

The smile faltered on my lips as I felt a mix of emotions swirl inside me. I had almost forgotten that strange silence that had lingered after our last conversation, where I had hoped for more clarity but received nothing instead. It stung, and the warmth of his smile was now tinged with an uncomfortable awkwardness.

Mabilis kong inayos ang aking sarili, pinilit ang aking mga labi sa isang magalang na ngiti na hindi umabot sa aking mga mata. Focus on the work, Shan, I reminded myself. I was here to do a job, and this was a new chapter in my life. Despite the unresolved feelings about our past, I couldn't let it overshadow this moment.

East seemed to sense the shift, his smile wavering just slightly, but he quickly returned to his work, speaking to the others. I felt a pang of regret for letting that past hang over us, especially when we were both here, working on something as significant as Bali's new airport. Maybe this was an opportunity to start fresh, to redefine what our relationship could be in this new context.

I took a deep breath and turned my attention back to the ongoing construction, allowing the sights and sounds of the project to ground me. I reminded myself that I was here to contribute, to grow, and to embrace the experience ahead—no matter the complexities of my feelings for East.

_____________

a/n: Thank you for reading the first 10 chapters of ALH! What are your thoughts about the story? :) Next update will be tomorrow, and the real story is just getting started. 'Yong Chapters 1-10 kasi ay parang introduction lang sa career ni Shan and about the current people she has in her life. :)