Two families. One promise. A marriage neither of them chose.

A fictional Risa Hontiveros × Sherwin Gatchalian slow-burn AU*

A fourteen year long story of a love that was scared. A love that was complicated. And a love that was worth fighting for.

They were never supposed to be anything more than rivals. Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros are two senators who rarely see eye to eye. Their debates are sharp, their arguments are endless, and neither of them is willing to back down. But beneath every disagreement lies something neither of them wants to acknowledge-a growing respect, quiet concern, and a connection that becomes harder to ignore. Their friends have already figured it out. Win and Risa haven't. Because sometimes, the person standing on the opposite side of the room can become the person who understands you the most. They started as rivals. They denied the feelings. And maybe, they'll end up as forever.

During a five-day getaway for a group of individuals who are brokenhearted, two former classmates reunite. She doesn't remember him, but he recognizes her. For Sherwin, this presents a renewed opportunity to express his long-hidden emotions for Risa. Will he allow his heart this time

When duty to family outweighs the freedom to choose, two respected lawmakers are forced into an arranged marriage neither of them wants. Behind the cameras and Senate halls, they must navigate public scrutiny, political rivalries, and a secret that could destroy everything they've built. Would they truly discover something they never anticipated in what starts as an obligatory marriage?

AU story of WinRi

The entire Senate knows Senator Win Gatchalian has quietly loved Senator Risa Hontiveros for years-everyone except Risa herself. To the public, they are just respected lawmakers on opposite sides of the aisle. But behind the scenes, Win subtly looks out for her, from remembering her coffee order to saving her a seat during marathon hearings. While their colleagues, families, and staff notice every lingering glance, a completely oblivious Risa views him as nothing more than an exceptionally kind coworker. Now, as media rumors threaten to turn his private feelings into public headlines, Win must finally decide: keep his love hidden forever, or brave the political fallout and tell her the truth.