In the high-stakes world of politics, love and betrayal often walk hand in hand. Six years ago, Alicia Go, a psychology student, fell in love with a mysterious woman she met while living away from home for college. That woman was Theresia Aguerro, t...
Today is the Piging of Banawi, and every town must present their food delegate. Alicia prepared everything, and she also cooked her favorite Sinigang na Hipon (without ginger) and Pinatuyuang Adobong Baboy. There was a street dance happening with music and other activities, while Risa and other public servants went around. Alicia waited at the booth since she was with the kids and Maris, whom she had hurriedly invited to Banawi for some entertainment.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!" Maris sang "Happy Birthday" to the twins since their birthday was tomorrow, and they were very excited about their Cebu trip, which had been their dream. Alicia wanted Maris to join them, but Maris said she had plans with her girlfriend.
"Thank you po, Tita," they said.
"Magingat kayo sa Cebu, ah. Wag masyadong malikot and always listen to Mommy Ali, okay?" The twins nodded. A few seconds later, the guests, judges, and Risa finally arrived at their booth.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
"Mommy Risa!" the twins shouted as they called their mommy. They all looked at Risa, who was staring at them.
"Mommy Ali, what happened po?"
"Nothing, Baby," Alicia said. The twins just nodded.
"Stay behaved lang, Anak. Stop talking."
"Ah, hello, Baby. Ang cute mo naman, tawag mo akong Mommy?" The twins just nodded.
"Cutie, tawagin mo lang akong Mommy, ah," Risa added. The twins nodded again. Risa noticed their sad faces, and it broke her heart.
"Ahm, hello po, I'm Mayor Alicia Faye Go, the Mayor of Santander. Our food delegation includes Tostado or cut cookies, Inasal, and Humba (also known as Adobo). This is my own version of Pinatuyuang Adobo, as it’s tastier and the pork is more tender when dried. I also cooked my favorite dish, Sinigang na Hipon without ginger. You're all welcome to try our best proudly-presented delegation." The staff handed plates to the guests, and they all started trying the food. Risa immediately took a bite.
"Mmmm, oh my God, I missed this, love." Alicia stared at Risa. "I mean, I love this," Risa corrected herself, making Maris and the twins grin. Risa stayed beside Alicia while eating.
"Your food stall is so nice, ah. It really has a provincial vibe, and your cooking is so delicious, Mayor Alice. I hope I can taste this again because I’ll definitely crave it. It's that good," said Gov. Vicente, Risa’s dad. Alicia smiled at the compliment while Risa was secretly holding her hand.
"Alam mo na kung ano ang ihahanda mo kapag mamanhikan ako, huh?" Alicia laughed quietly.
"Ikaw talaga," she said, pinching Risa’s cheek.
"Totoo naman, eh," Risa whispered.
"Oo na po. Bilisan mo dyan, mukhang patapos na sila," Alicia whispered back.
"Ayaw, Baby," Risa pouted. "You cooked it, kaya masarap. Kakain muna ako. It's been a while since I last had this." Alicia nodded and turned her attention to the other guests.
