HIS FIRST LADY(SANDRO MARCOS)

Chapter 98: A Celebration of New Beginnings

It was a bright, crisp morning in Batac City, and the air was filled with the sweet anticipation of a special day. The Marcos household was bustling with activity as family and friends gathered to celebrate the first birthday and baptism of the twins, Ferdinand Raphael Alexious Marcos the Fourth and Imelda Rafhaela Alxia Marcos.

Rafha stood in the nursery, her heart full as she watched the twins sleep peacefully in their cribs. It was hard to believe that almost a year had passed since their birth—a year filled with love, challenges, and profound joy. She brushed a soft kiss on each of their foreheads before quietly stepping out of the room. Today would be a momentous occasion, not just for the twins, but for the entire family.

Downstairs, Sandro was overseeing the final preparations with his usual calm efficiency. He had arranged for a traditional celebration, one that honored both the cultural heritage of his family and the new life he and Rafha had built together. The decorations were a blend of elegance and warmth, with touches of Ilocano traditions woven throughout.

As the morning light streamed through the windows, Rafha joined Sandro in the living room. He greeted her with a warm smile, his eyes shining with excitement. "Everything's almost ready," he said, taking her hand in his. "Are you excited?"

Rafha nodded, her heart swelling with love for this man who had been her rock through so much. "I can't believe it's already been a year," she said softly. "It feels like just yesterday we were bringing them home from the hospital."

Sandro chuckled, pulling her into a gentle embrace. "Time flies when you're as busy as we've been," he teased. "But look at us now—celebrating our beautiful children with everyone we love."

Rafha leaned into him, feeling the warmth of his body against hers. "I couldn't have asked for a better partner, Sandro. You've been amazing."

Before Sandro could respond, the sound of the doorbell echoed through the house, signaling the arrival of their first guests. Sandro kissed Rafha's forehead. "Let's go greet them," he said, leading her toward the door.

As they opened the door, they were greeted by a flurry of familiar faces. The first to arrive were Sandro's cousins—Matthew, Luis, Borgy, and Michael—each with their own families in tow. They were followed closely by Imee, Irene, and Aimee, Sandro's aunts, who had traveled from various parts of the country to be there for the celebration.

"It's so good to see everyone!" Rafha exclaimed, her heart swelling with happiness as she embraced each family member. The house was soon filled with laughter and conversation as more relatives arrived, turning the living room into a lively gathering space.

Not long after, Rafha's own family arrived. Her parents, siblings, and aunts all made their way into the house, their faces alight with joy at being able to share in this special occasion. Rafha's mother, in particular, was overcome with emotion as she hugged her daughter and took in the sight of the bustling household.

"Oh, Rafha, it's so beautiful here," her mother said, tears glistening in her eyes. "I'm so proud of everything you've built with Sandro."

Rafha squeezed her mother's hand, her own eyes misting over. "Thank you, Mama. It means the world to have you all here today."

As they made their way back into the living room, Rafha caught sight of Samuel and Kaylee entering the house with their children. She took a deep breath, steadying herself for the encounter. Despite the painful history they shared, Rafha had come to terms with the past and was determined to focus on the present—a day of joy for her children.

Samuel approached Rafha with a tentative smile, Kaylee by his side. "Rafha," he greeted, his voice warm but cautious. "Thank you for inviting us."

Rafha returned the smile, her tone sincere. "I'm glad you could be here, Samuel. Today is about the twins, and I'm happy they'll have everyone they care about around them."