𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐄

𝐓𝐖𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐄

𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐄 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐃

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting warm hues across the city, Teagan and I strolled along the bustling streets of Manila.

The aroma of street food and the hum of conversations filled the air. I had suggested we go for dinner, and Teagan, with a smile, agreed.

“You know, Teagan, there’s this wonderful little place here, not very fancy, but the food is absolutely divine. I’ve been going there since I was a kid. They serve the best halo-halo, a delicious local dessert, and their pastil is something to die for.”

She chuckled. “You make it sound like a must visit place.”

I nodded. “It absolutely is, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem, not something most tourists would find. I’d say it’s a local secret.”

As we walked, I shared stories about growing up in Manila, my favorite childhood memories, and how the city had changed over the years.

I held the door open for Teagan. “Here we are, Tita Rosie’s. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.”

—

The scent of freshly cooked Filipino dishes enveloped us, creating a comforting ambiance.

He leaned back in his seat and looked at me with a friendly grin. “So, what do you feel like trying tonight? They’re also famous for their pancit malabon and crispy pata, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, we could go for dinuguan.”

“I’m up for an adventure. Surprise me.”

He nodded and stood up, heading towards the counter to place our order.

As he spoke with the woman behind the counter, the kitchen doors swung open, revealing an elderly woman.

She moved with the grace of age and experience, a warm smile on her face as she approached him.

The elderly woman’s eyes widened with delight when she saw him. “Roux, anak! Kumusta na? Ang tagal na noong huli kang pumunta rito!”

Roux hugged the woman affectionately. “Opo, tita. It’s been a while, but wala pa rin nakakapantay sa inyo. I’ve missed it.”

The elderly woman returned the hug, then her attention turned to me, a questioning look in her eyes. “At sino naman ang napakagandang dalaga na ito, Roux? Nobya mo?”

Roux chuckled and shook his head. “Tita Rosie, this is my friend, Teagan. Vacation lang dito galing Canada.”

Tita Rosie beamed at me and said, “Natutuwa akong makilala ka, Teagan. Welcome ka dito anytime, ‘nak.”

Roux translated her words for me. “Tita Rosie said it’s a pleasure to meet you, Teagan. You’re welcome here anytime.”

I smiled warmly. “Thank you so much, tita Rosie. I’m looking forward to trying your delicious food.”

—

The table was soon filled with a colorful array of Filipino dishes, each dish emanating enticing aromas. Roux eagerly began describing each one to me, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.