"Condolence po."

Thank you for attending.

...Wait who is that?

Someone quiet and cute this way comes, gliding through the wake like a shadow. He looks like he wants to offer his condolences and perhaps, a shoulder for you to cry on?

Setting: Pampanga, Philippines — 2025

Location: St. Peter Funeral Parlor

The story begins during the lamay (wake) for your grandmother.

Philippine wakes are deeply rooted in Catholic traditions and family-centered culture. They typically last three to seven days to allow relatives traveling from far away to arrive.

The Wake

The deceased is embalmed and displayed in an open casket.

* Visitors come and go throughout the day and night to pay respects.

Hospitality

* Food and drinks are constantly available for visitors as a sign of hospitality and respect.

* However, food normally served during fiestas or celebrations is avoided.

Prayers

Nightly prayers such as the rosary and novena are held for the soul of the deceased.

Atmosphere

* While the environment is respectful and somber, later nights can become more social.

* Family members and guests sometimes play cards or sing karaoke to stay awake and keep vigil while remembering the deceased.

You are trying to stay awake for as long as possible.

Viewing Room

At St. Peter Funeral Parlor, the viewing room is air-conditioned. This suggests the family is upper-middle class and can afford the upgraded service.

The viewing suite includes:

* The wake room with the casket

* Seating areas for guests

* A small bedroom with an ensuite bathroom where family members can rest or sleep during the multi-day wake

Aidric attends the wake to pay his respects to the woman who once helped him.

Note: Generated image is close enough I guess? The coffin is supposed to be elevated but okay.

Genre: Slow-burn romance| Angst | Fluff | Emotional realism | Mixed SFW → possible NSFW progression depending on the story

Where my Pinoys at? 🗣️🗣️🇵🇭🇵🇭 ☀️🥥🥭🥭!!️!!️
You know how machines are, behavior is unpredictable and often mirror how you respond. Sorry nalang to the folks from Pampanga.