Bitter Herbs

Four : The Will Reading - Turon

The wake spanned two days, a duration chosen out of respect, yet intentionally brief. Prolonging such events wasn't deemed appropriate in the family's eyes, as they didn't wish to dwell on the sadness. The funeral, on the other hand, was a solemn and heartfelt occasion.

The family gathered in their respective cars, forming a slow-moving procession toward the private and upscale cemetery. Along the journey, they reflected on the life of their departed loved one, sharing stories and memories of the late matriarch.

Upon arriving at the cemetery, a tranquil and well-kept space, they assembled around the open grave. A Catholic priest, robed in solemn attire, conducted the graveside ceremony. His words offered solace and comfort to those in attendance, guiding them through the process of saying their final farewells.

As a poignant and symbolic gesture, each family member took a handful of flowers and, with a sense of reverence, cast them gently onto the casket before the soil was carefully shoveled onto the grave. This act represented their love and respect for the deceased, a final offering of beauty and remembrance before the earth embraced their beloved.

Amara reflected on life as they all left the cemetery and gathered at a local restaurant for a family get-together lunch.

Her aunts and uncles, some still shedding tears, sat around the table. Amara respected their grief, giving them space and understanding that words alone could not console their pain. She, too, carried her own burdens, making it difficult for her to offer comfort in return. The weight of her own predicament bore down on her, and she remained silent, lost in her thoughts amidst the somber atmosphere of the gathering.

Seeking to shift the conversation away from grief, Amara turned to her aunt seated beside her and asked if she knew the recipe for Chicken Binakol. Her intent was to provide a temporary distraction from the somber atmosphere. Her aunt, appreciative of the change in subject, gladly agreed to teach her the recipe before her departure. It was a welcomed opportunity to share a cherished family tradition and momentarily alleviate the collective sorrow that hung over the gathering.

"In fact, your grandmother has many other recipes! You should check out the attic! I believe she has them all stored there in her old diaries!" Her aunt exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with the prospect of culinary exploration.

"Really? But how come you never checked it?" Amara inquired, genuinely curious about the hidden treasures in the attic.

"Oh, you know, I learn better when it's shown to me, and everyone is afraid to go up there!" Her aunt admitted, her tone filled with a hint of reluctance.

"And so you want me to go up there instead?" Amara chuckled, understanding the unspoken request.

"Well, you look fearless enough!" her aunt teased, flashing a playful grin.

The topic of the attic was forgotten as the family enjoyed the meal, savoring various savory side dishes paired with rice and a hearty soup. Dessert followed, a sweet ending to their lunch. After the satisfying meal, they made their way back to the old hacienda. 

A few days later, the family gathered in the spacious living room for the will reading. A distinguished lawyer sat in one corner, a leather-bound document in hand. The room was filled with an air of anticipation, mixed with a touch of anxiety, as each family member wondered what their late grandmother had decided regarding her inheritance.

The will reading began, starting with the siblings, the main family. They all seemed satisfied with what they had received, nodding appreciatively at the allocations made by their late grandmother.

Next in line were the grandchildren, a group that included Amara. As the lawyer began to detail the bequests, Amara's heart raced with anticipation. She had come here with the expectation of receiving a modest sum or a small keepsake, but there was always the possibility of receiving nothing at all, which would have been disappointing considering her purpose for coming to the hacienda.

The lawyer began to read Amara's share, "To my granddaughter, Amara Malik," he announced. The room fell silent as the gathered family members listened intently. The lawyer continued, "I regret that the distance between us prevented us from building a closer relationship, but I hope this small sum will make amends."

Amara's heart skipped a beat as she heard the amount, "She receives 20 million PHP." A wave of shock and disbelief washed over her. It was a far more substantial sum than she had ever imagined.

It was indeed smaller in comparison to what her aunts, uncles, and cousins had received, but for Amara, it represented a significant sum. As the realization sank in, she couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—gratitude, relief, and a glimmer of hope. This unexpected windfall could potentially provide her with the means to pursue her plan, including the long-desired divorce and a fresh start in a new place. However, she knew she needed to carefully consider her options before making any decisions.

Amara received a pat on the back from one of her cousins who sat beside her, a gesture of congratulatory support for her unexpected inheritance. The will reading continued as the lawyer proceeded to detail the other bequests and assets. Meanwhile, the aroma of turon, a sweet banana dessert wrapped in spring roll wraps and coated with sugar before being deep-fried, wafted through the room. Servants of the house circulated the delightful treat among the relatives, each person taking a piece and savoring the sugary indulgence.

As Amara indulged in a bite of the crispy and sweet turon, her culinary instincts couldn't help but kick in. She analyzed the flavors and textures, silently deconstructing the dish to understand its preparation.

"You know what's good with this? Vanilla ice cream!" one of her cousins exclaimed, prompting nods of agreement from others at the table. A few family members inquired with one of the servants about the availability of ice cream.

Shortly after, the servants returned, bearing tubs of creamy vanilla ice cream. They efficiently scooped generous portions into small teacups, which were then passed around among the family members. The combination of warm, caramelized turon and cold, velvety ice cream created a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures, earning appreciative murmurs from those gathered around the table.

Amara let out a contented sigh as she savored the sweet treat. While it was sweeter than what she was accustomed to in London, it offered a comforting nostalgia. Outside, the afternoon sun bathed the surroundings in a warm glow, and the cheerful chirping of birds filled the air as a gentle breeze rustled the leaves. In that fleeting moment, amid the familiar tastes and serene ambiance, Amara found a sense of peace that had eluded her for so long.

Maybe it was the unexpected windfall of money she had received, or the delightful dessert, or simply the serene atmosphere of the hacienda combined with the absence of her unfaithful husband, but something within Amara shifted. In that moment, she felt a glimmer of hope within her otherwise dark and challenging situation.