The morning after the pamamanhikan felt different in Sabina’s home. There was a gentle hush in the air, as though the walls themselves understood that something important had taken place the night before.
Sabina sat by the window of her bedroom, her hand resting lightly on her chest. The gold band glimmered faintly on her finger as sunlight streamed in. Every time she looked at it, her heart tightened with both joy and nervousness. She was engaged—formally, blessed, celebrated.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on the door. Jude peeked in, already dressed neatly, his usual bright smile on his face.
“Good morning, fiancée,” he teased, emphasizing the word.
Sabina rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop her lips from curving. “It sounds strange when you say it like that.”
“Get use
