Echoing of Power and Passion

19 (Enough🔞)

The program went well, everyone was given something, and they went home happy. Risa was talking to the Barangay Captain, Kapitana Vina.

"Mayor, mag-dinner po muna tayo sa bahay, nag-prepare po ako ng konting salu-salo," she said politely. Risa agreed. The Barangay Captain also invited the Chairwoman and the students who participated in the program. They got into their respective vehicles and went to Kapitana's house.

"Pasok po kayong lahat sa munting bahay ko," Kapitana invited.

Miles and Alicia's eyes widened. "Munting bahay bato?" they thought. The house was stunning and huge. It seemed like there was a room for each one of them. They entered the house and were seated in the living room.

"Salamat po, Kapitana," Risa said gratefully.

"Hello, Theresia," a woman shouted from the stairs. When she saw Risa, she quickly ran and hugged the Mayor. "I miss you so much. Sabi ni Ate nag-vacation ka raw? Where did you go?" she asked while now holding onto Alicia’s arm.

"Patricia... ahm, yes, nag-vacation ako... somewhere sa province," Risa replied awkwardly. Patricia was her friend from way back, and they became close because of politics. Patricia's sister, Kapitana Vina, helped Risa’s father when he ran for Mayor of Banawi City. Their friendship was fine, but Risa eventually noticed something was off with Patricia's behavior. One night, while they were drunk, Patricia got her intoxicated and took advantage of her. Although Risa was drunk, she was aware of what happened, and they ended up having sex that night. Risa regretted it afterward.

"Bakit di mo ako sinama?" Patricia asked seductively.

"Patricia, please... Wag ganito. May kasama tayong iba, nakakahiya!" Risa whispered urgently. She glanced at Alicia, who now looked like a ravenous beast, ready to devour her at any moment. "Oh my God, no!" She pulled away from Patricia and stood up.

"Mayor Risa, kamusta ka na?" Congressman, Patricia’s father and Kapitana’s, approached, extending his hand for a handshake. Risa immediately shook his hand.

"Congressman," she greeted, while Patricia held tightly onto Risa's waist. Miles discreetly whispered to Alicia.

"Bes, wag ka nalang tumingin."

Alicia didn’t respond. She was trying so hard not to lose her composure and drag Patricia by the hair for clinging to Risa.

"Okay naman po, Congressman. I'm so happy we met. Ahm, may meeting kayo ni Dad next Friday?"

"Yes, we’re planning our propaganda since elections are near," the Congressman replied. Risa nodded, while Patricia still clung to her. Alicia’s expression darkened even more.

---

"Hayop ka! Lumayo ka nga!" Alicia yelled, forcibly removing Patricia's hand. Everyone was shocked at her outburst.

"What's wrong with you, Miss?" Patricia shouted angrily. Without warning, Alicia slapped her hard, causing Patricia’s lips to bleed.

"Ali, stop it!" Risa whispered as she held Alicia’s waist. "Stop na, baby!"

"No! This clingy leech has been all over you as if there’s no tomorrow! And you, Theresia, better watch it or else you’ll get it too when we get home! Lumayo-layo ka nga!" Alicia shouted in Risa’s face. Risa felt embarrassed and sorry for Alicia’s behavior.

"Sakit nun ah!" Patricia was about to slap Alicia in return, but Risa stopped her.

"No! Don’t hurt Alice, or I’ll slap you again!" Risa shouted, hugging Alice, while Patricia held back tears. "Sorry, baby. Please, don’t be mad," Risa whispered, as Alicia cried from a mix of anger and embarrassment.