Truth in Exchange for a Promise

Richard followed Lisa to her personal camp, his senses immediately greeted by the comforting aroma of ginataang bilo-bilo. The rich, creamy scent wafted through the air. He had been subsisting on canned sardines and cup noodles for so long that the smell of home-cooked food was almost overwhelming.

As they entered the small but cozy setup Lisa had made her own, Richard observed the care and attention she had put into preparing the snack. The ginataang bilo-bilo, a traditional Filipino dessert made with glutinous rice balls, coconut milk, and various fruits, was simmering in a pot, its steam carrying the promise of a delicious treat.

Lisa noticed Richard's appreciative gaze and smiled.

"It's been a while since you had a proper snack, hasn't it?" Her tone was light, but her eyes searched his face for signs of the brother she once knew.

Richard nodded, his eyes softening. "You have no idea, Lisa."