I was sitting in front of my laptop, silently waiting as the page slowly loaded. With each second, it felt like the world was stopping—I could hear nothing but my own breathing and the pounding of my heart, which was racing faster and faster.

June 15, 2023 ngayong araw, at hinihintay ko 'yong resulta ng passers ng Licensure Examination for Architects.

"Please, sana pasado," I whispered, almost like a prayer.

And then, finally, the result appeared.

Pinagmasdan ko ang screen, hindi makapaniwala. Ilang segundo pa bago nagproseso sa utak ko 'yong resulta. "O-Oh my God! Architect na ako! Thank you po!" sigaw ko kahit mag-isa lang ako sa kuwarto. Ang tagal kong hinintay at pinangarap marinig ang salitang iyon, pero ngayon na nandito na, parang hindi ko alam paano tatanggapin. The tears came before I even realized it. Isang malalim na buntonghininga ang binitiwan ko, at hindi ko na napigilan. I smiled, laughing and crying at the same time, as the reality slowly sank in that this was true. I had passed the board exam on my first attempt, and I could finally call myself a licensed architect.

I was so happy, it felt so good that I wanted to shout out how I felt. I wanted to share this moment—this joy, this victory.

I searched for my phone, ready to call the first person that came to mind. My family, of course. I would call Mags first, then my parents, whom I knew would be incredibly proud. Sigurado akong masaya rin ang mga kaibigan ko para sa akin, kasi alam nilang lahat ang hirap na pinagdaanan ko. They were the ones who were with me during those sleepless nights, the late-night coffee runs, and their constant reminders that I could do this.

Pero habang hinahanap ko kung sino pa ang puwedeng tawagan, may naramdaman akong kakaibang lungkot. I realized that I didn't have a partner.

You know that moment when you suddenly stop, that realization that you don't have a special someone who could be the first to know? There's no one who would drop everything just to celebrate this with me, no one who would immediately suggest going out to toast my success, no one who would remind me how proud he was to me.

"Okay lang 'yan, Shan," bulong ko sa sarili. Sa dami ng sakripisyo ko, sapat na rin na nandito ang pamilya't mga kaibigan ko. But even so, there was still a slight sting. Because yes, I was proud of myself, but deep down, I also wanted someone to hold me, to share this success with me in a different way. Someone who would tell me it was all worth it because they had seen all my struggles.

I took a deep breath and smiled. "Someday," I said, almost like a promise to myself. There would come a time when I wouldn't have to search for this anymore because he would be there. Pero sa ngayon, moment ko 'to, at alam kong may mga taong nagmamahal sa 'kin at proud na proud para sa akin.

I stood up, took a deep breath, and made sure to remember every part of this moment. Despite everything, I was happy. Today, I was the one who succeeded—just me. And that was the most important thing.

"Architect Shannon Guiea V. Pertierra," nakangiting sabi ko sa sarili ko.

***

I barely slept the night before, my mind racing with thoughts of what the future would hold. And today, everything felt different. My dreams felt real.

Binuksan ko ang pinto ng aking condo at nakita kong nandoon si Mommy at si Mags, parehong nakangiti. Ang kanilang presensya ay agad na nagpasigla at nagbigay liwanag sa lahat.

"Shan!" Sigaw ni Mags at saka ako niyakap nang mahigpit. "Architect ka na!" Napuno ng kasiyahan ang kanyang boses.

My mom stepped forward, beaming with pride. "I knew you could do it, anak," she said, her voice soft but strong with emotion. "You've worked so hard for this moment."

I could feel the weight of their pride on me, but it wasn't pressure. It was love. All those years of studying late nights, making sacrifices, and pushing through all the challenges led up to this. I wasn't just celebrating passing the exam. I was celebrating every step I took to get here, and they had been there every step of the way.

"We need to celebrate!" Mags said, her excitement never waning. She looked at my mom. "Dinner's on us tonight. I already made reservations at that new place I've been wanting to try."

Hindi ko mapigilan ang aking ngiti. "Sige, tara," I replied. "Let's make it a night to remember."

As we made our way to the restaurant, the world outside seemed brighter, as if the city lights were shining just for me. I couldn't stop smiling, my mom and Mags chatting excitedly around me. It felt so right to have them here with me, to share this moment after everything I'd been through.

We walked into the restaurant, and the staff greeted us with warmth. As we settled into our seats, my mom clinked her glass, signaling for us to pay attention.

"To Shan," simula niya, ang boses niya ay matatag ngunit puno ng pagmamalaki. "You've worked so hard to get here, at sobrang proud talaga kami sa 'yo. This is just the beginning of many more successes. You deserve every bit of this."

Tumango si Mags bilang pagsang-ayon, kumikislap ang kanyang mga mata. "You've always been our inspiration, Shan. The sky's the limit now."

I felt a wave of emotion rise up in me, my heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you," I whispered. "For believing in me. For everything."

We raised our glasses, a quiet moment of reflection shared among the three of us. The world felt at peace for the first time in a long while. My family, my support system, had always been there for me, and today, it felt like we had reached something together.

As we dug into our dinner, the night flowed with laughter and stories, and for a few hours, the weight of work, the future, and everything else didn't matter. Tonight was just about us.

The night was still young when my phone buzzed with a call. It was from Cam. I answered quickly, not wanting to miss the chance to hear from him.

"Hey, Shan!" puno ng sigla ang boses ni Cam. "Congrats! Grabe, licensed architect ka na! I just got the news today. Sorry I didn't catch it yesterday, I've been swamped with work."

I couldn't help but smile even wider, my heart warming at the sound of his voice. "Thanks, Cam," I said, trying to hold back the giddiness. "It's still sinking in. I miss you, though. We should hang out soon."

"I'm glad to hear that you're ready to hang out again," sagot niya, mas malambot na ang tono. "You weren't really yourself these past few months, Shan. I know you've been through a lot."

Naglabas ako ng mahinang buntonghininga, ang bigat ng mga nakaraang buwan ay naroon pa rin sa dibdib ko. "Yeah, I needed some space to process everything... pero okay naman ako ngayon. I really missed you, Cam."

"Well, don't worry, we'll catch up soon," sabi ni Cam, ang boses niya ay masigla. "Pero hindi agad-agad. Sobrang busy pa 'ko."

Tinaas ko ang kilay ko, nag-uumapaw ang kuryosidad. "At bakit ka naman busy?" Natawa ako nang mapagtanto kong nakakatanga 'yong tanong. He's an architecture student, of course, he's always busy.

"I'm doing my apprenticeship as a junior architect at a firm in Laguna," he told me casually.

Lumaki ang mga mata ko sa gulat. "Wait, what? You graduated already?" The last time we talked, he was still in architecture school in Bataan.

May isang saglit na katahimikan bago tumawa nang mahina si Cam. "Yeah, I graduated a few months ago. I didn't get a chance to tell you, I guess... with everything going on with you, I didn't want to add to it. But yeah, I've been working as an apprentice now."

I felt a lump form in my throat. I had missed so much. Cam had graduated, and I hadn't even been there to congratulate him. I felt a twinge of guilt. "I'm sorry, Cam. I didn't mean to miss it. I've been... struggling, you know? With my dad's passing and all that..."

"Okay lang, Shan," pinutol niya ako nang mahinahon. "I totally understand. You don't need to apologize for that. I'm just glad you're doing better now."

His words soothed something inside of me, but a tinge of sadness still lingered. "I really am happy for you, though. I'm sorry if it's a little late, but congratulations, Cam. I'm so proud of you."

"Thanks, Shan," he said quietly. "I'll visit you soon in Manila. Heard from your mom that you've been living there lately."

A soft laugh escaped me. "Yeah, I've been in Manila for a while now. Feels like I'm starting fresh here."

"That's good," sabi niya, ang boses ay puno ng sinseridad. "Mukhang pareho na tayong mas okay ngayon, ano?"

"Yeah, we are," I replied, the smile back in my voice. "We're doing better."

We both fell into a comfortable silence, the kind only old friends could share, before Cam finally spoke up again.

"We'll definitely hang out soon. I'll make time for you, I promise. But right now, I need to get back to this mountain of work."

"Yeah, go ahead and tackle that mountain, Mr. Architect," I teased, making him laugh.

"Talk to you soon, Shan," Cam said, his voice light but warm. "Take care of yourself, okay?"

"I will. You too, Cam. See you soon."

We ended the call, and I sat there for a moment, feeling like a weight had been lifted from my chest. Even though the last few months had been hard, I was glad to hear that Cam and I were both finding our way back to being ourselves. It was nice knowing that things were finally starting to feel right again.

***

The warm July sun cast a golden glow over Mariveles, Bataan, embracing everything in a serene light. It was July 1, 2023—a day that felt sacred, not just because of the wedding but because of where it was held. Our Lady of Fatima Chaplaincy stood grandly, its familiar stone façade reflecting decades of love, faith, and memories. For me, this church was more than just a place; it was woven into the fabric of my life. I had attended mass here every Sunday since I was a kid, baptized as a baby at its old marble font, and witnessed countless ceremonies from its wooden pews. It was here, too, that my parents exchanged vows, sealing their own story before I ever existed. Today, it was the backdrop for yet another cherished memory—Herbert's wedding.

The inside of the chapel was adorned with white roses and lush greenery, perfectly in line with the garden-themed motif. The walls were painted a pristine white, creating a bright, airy atmosphere. Transparent white windows allowed the sunlight to flood the space, casting a soft, natural light that enhanced the serene beauty of the moment. The delicate scent of flowers mingled with the faint aroma of the sea breeze drifting in through the open doors. The place was filled with people, but it felt intimate, as if only we, Herbert's closest circle, truly understood the depth of what today meant.

I stood proudly as part of the Groom's Squad—a quirky mix that made us all smile every time it was mentioned. We wore olive green off-shoulder semi-formal long dresses, flowing and elegant, perfectly in tune with the natural theme. Dylan, the lone man among us, adjusted his tie nervously beside me. Hillary's eyes sparkled with mischief, her excitement palpable, while Zarina smoothed her dress, catching my gaze with a smile that said, "Grabe 'no? Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala." We had grown up together, from the days of playing tag on the sun-drenched streets of our neighborhood to late-night talks that stretched into the early hours. And now, here we were, standing together in a place that felt like home, ready to watch one of our own start a new chapter.

Nasa altar na si Herbert, nakalapat ang mga kamay sa harap niya, ang kanyang ekspresyon ay halo ng nerbiyos at hindi mapigilang saya. I caught his eye, and he gave me a small, shaky smile. It was impossible not to feel a rush of emotions seeing him there. The boy who once dared us to jump off the highest rock at the beach, who cracked jokes even when times were hard, was now a man about to marry the love of his life.

The music swelled, a soft orchestral arrangement that resonated off the chapel's vaulted ceiling. All heads turned as the doors at the end of the aisle opened, revealing Ariana, breathtaking in a gown that seemed to shimmer with each step. Her smile was radiant, eyes locked on Herbert as if there was no one else in the room. I felt a lump form in my throat as I glanced at Hillary and Zarina. Naramdaman nila ang aking paghanga, ang kanilang mga ekspresyon ay lumambot sa sandaling iyon.

"She's perfect for him," bulong ni Hillary, saka humarap sa akin na may mapanuksong ngiti. "By the way, Shan, how many years have you had your short blonde hair now? I miss seeing you with your long black hair."

I chuckled, shaking my head lightly. "Seven years, Hil. And you know I'm not going back anytime soon."

Hillary rolled her eyes playfully. "Well, it suits you, but I still hold out hope."

The ceremony unfolded in a blend of solemn vows and quiet laughter. When the officiant spoke the words, "You may now kiss the bride," the room erupted in applause. Herbert pulled Ariana into an embrace, their kiss full of promises for the future. I blinked away the tears that threatened to spill, feeling the warmth of shared joy spreading through me. This was more than just their day; it was a testament to friendship, love, and the bonds that withstand time.

As we gathered for photos outside the chapel, the bell chimed overhead, a sound that resonated deep in my chest. I stood between Hillary and Zarina, with Dylan flashing a grin that mirrored the joy we all felt. Herbert caught my eye and mouthed, "Thank you." I nodded back, the weight of our shared history grounding me. We were a family forged not just by blood but by choice, and today, that bond felt unbreakable.

***

The sea breeze brushed against my skin as the waves of Camaya Coast shimmered under the warm, golden light of the setting sun. The reception buzzed with joy, a soft hum of laughter and the clink of glasses rising above the music. Olive green and white accents, true to the garden-themed motif, adorned the tables and floral centerpieces. Lanterns swayed gently above, ready to light up as the night deepened, casting a cozy glow over the gathering.

Umupo ako kasama sina Dylan, Hillary, at Zarina, nagkakatinginan na puno ng mga alaala at pananabik. Herbert and Ariana moved through the crowd, their eyes locked in that kind of love that fills a room. When Herbert caught my eye, he nodded—a silent cue that it was my turn.

Ang boses ng emcee ay umabot sa mga usapan, "And now, a special message from someone who knows the groom better than most, from the Groom's Squad—Shan Vergara Pertierra!"

The applause was warm as I stood and made my way to the front, the familiar faces of my childhood friends encouraging me. I adjusted the microphone, meeting Herbert's gaze, and began.

"Wow, Herbert," sabi ko na may mapaglarong ngiti. "I still can't believe I'm here giving a speech at your wedding. Kung may nakapagsabi lang sa 'kin no'ng mga bata pa tayo na ikaw ang unang ikakasal sa 'tin, malamang ay tawang tawa talaga ako." The room chuckled, and Herbert grinned, shaking his head at the memory.

"We've been through a lot together. Growing up as neighbors, the five of us—Dylan, Hillary, Zarina, Herbert, and me—spent our days playing Patintero, Piko, Ten-twenty, Chinese Garter, Tagu-taguan, Agawan Base, and Batuhang Bata with the rest of the kids on our street. Kung bibilangin, nasa mahigit trentang bata ang mga kalaro namin noon. Uuwi kaming may mga galos, pawis, pero masaya. But when the childhood era ended, kaming lima na lang 'yong natirang magkakaibigan talaga. Siguro dahil 'yong iba, hindi na namin ka-vibes. 'Yong iba naman, lumipat na ng bahay, 'yong iba...wala na kaming balita. Pero ayos lang, kasi mas naging solid kaming lima."

A few guests who knew us from those days nodded and chuckled, the nostalgia evident on their faces.

"But life did what it does best. High school brought us busy schedules, so we saw each other a little less, maybe once a month if we were lucky. College pulled us in different directions, so those meetups shrank to summer and holiday gatherings. And then adulthood happened, and suddenly, once or twice a year was all we could manage. But what never changed was our bond—the laughter, the support. It stayed as genuine as ever."

Tumingin ako kina Dylan, Hillary, at Zarina, at kumikislap ang kanilang mga mata sa parehong mga alaala.

"Now, Herbert and I had our own thing. Taon-taon, walang palya, tatawagan niya ako sa birthday ng Nanay niya, si Tita Sel. Humihingi siya sa 'kin ng tulong para i-surprise si Tita Sel because I'd always been his partner-in-crime for that. And every Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, he'd call me over to take their family photos. We all lived next to each other, but somehow, I was always that 'one-call away' friend." The crowd chuckled warmly, and Herbert's smile softened.

"Herbert would also call for sudden meetups, and I knew what it meant—another rant about an ex-girlfriend. And, well, I usually agreed with him about how demanding they were, but truth be told, I couldn't fully take his side. I knew him too well. This is the same Herbert who used to make multiple Facebook accounts to chat with different girls without getting caught by his current girlfriend at the time." The crowd burst into laughter, and Herbert covered his face, half-embarrassed but smiling.

"Back then, I never tolerated it, and I would tell him to do better. And now, seeing him here, standing by Ariana's side, it's like seeing a transformation I wasn't sure would ever come. Herbert, the boy who once made questionable choices, has grown into this man who is deeply committed and in love. And I couldn't be prouder."

I looked at Herbert, who had tears in his eyes, and Ariana, who beamed at him with nothing but love. The room was silent for a moment, then erupted in applause. And as I stepped back, I felt the profound warmth of witnessing not just a friend's wedding but the culmination of a journey that spoke of growth, love, and redemption.

As I walked back to our table, the warmth from the applause still tingling in my fingertips, I settled into my seat with a contented sigh. Dylan was laughing with his partner, Hillary leaned into hers with a smile, and Zarina's eyes sparkled as she whispered something to hers. The happiness in the air was palpable, a chorus of joy that had taken years of memories and molded them into this perfect moment.

I took a sip of my drink and let my gaze drift over the scene. A realization washed over me, calm but profound—I was genuinely happy for them. But more than that, I felt content. It had been over a year since I had stopped dating, ever since that forgettable Valentine's Day with Jefferson. His name barely clung to my memory now, just a shadow in the background. After that night, I had shut the door to dating, ignoring advances and sidestepping invitations with a polite smile. And now, sitting here, surrounded by the people who mattered most, I understood why.

I wasn't looking for love. I didn't need to. The love of my friends, my mom, my sister, and my colleagues—it was more than enough. I wasn't completely happy, not in the way fairy tales paint it, but I wasn't unhappy either. I was content, and that was something I hadn't felt in a long time.

The clinking of silverware and a burst of laughter snapped me back to the present. Before I could dwell further, my phone buzzed. I excused myself, weaving through the tables until I found a quieter spot near the shoreline where the breeze carried the whispers of the sea. The sky above was a canvas of navy and stars, mirrored in the rolling waves.

"Hello, Architect Jaron," I answered, my tone shifting to professional instinct.

"Shan!" His voice was warm, laced with excitement. "I hope I'm not interrupting your evening. I wanted to share some great news—I'm opening my own architecture firm in Manila next month. I'd love for you to come on board. Ano sa tingin mo?"

The wind caught my breath for a moment, the surprise rooting me to the sand. I felt a familiar thrill spark in my chest, but it was quickly tempered by the weight of the past year. "Thank you, Architect Jaron. Nakaka-proud naman marinig 'yong balita. I'm honored you thought of me, pero siguro kailangan ko munang pag-isipan."

"Oo naman," sabi niya, may pag-unawa sa kanyang boses. "Take all the time you need. Just know there's a place for you if you're ready."

Pagkatapos ng tawag, tumayo ako roon sandali, hinahayaan ang tunog ng mga alon na punuin ang katahimikan. The soft crash of water against the shore was soothing, like an old song you knew by heart. As I slipped my phone into my purse, a voice nearby caught my attention.

"I'll be there, just tell Doctor Eulene not to worry and to go. I'll cover her shift," the man said, urgency in his tone. He was standing a few meters away, silhouetted against the faint glow from the reception.

I hadn't meant to eavesdrop, but it was hard not to notice him. His dark, curly hair caught the light, and even in the dimness, his profile was striking—an effortless kind of attractive. His face was defined, with eyes that seemed deep and thoughtful even from a distance. He had an air of quiet intensity about him, and his build was lean, athletic, like someone who moved with purpose.

After the man ended his call, he glanced over and noticed me. A smile tugged at his full lips, revealing a friendly, approachable side despite the urgency that had just marked his voice.

"Your speech earlier—it was great," he said, the compliment sincere but quick, as if he was already halfway out of the conversation.

Before I could even respond, he turned and walked away, his strides confident and unhurried, yet purposeful, as though he had somewhere important to be. The moment was fleeting, but it left a mark, like an echo of something not quite finished. I stood there, watching him disappear into the night, curiosity bubbling up before I could stop it. Who was he?

But then, reality settled back in. I brushed the question away with a small shake of my head. It wasn't my business to wonder. Turning back toward the reception, I refocused on the warmth of my friends' laughter and the comfort of the night air, letting the thought of the mysterious man drift away with the waves.

_____

a/n: Ehem. Hahahahaha siya na ba si Mr. Right? Next update will be tomorrow. Mataas kasi lagnat ko ngayon and mababa na naman ang potassium ko kaya hindi ako makapag-double update today. See y'all next update!