Whisper of Virtouso (Love Material Series #2)

CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

"Now, the moment we've all been waiting for—the winner of the International Culinary Extravaganza. . ." pangbibitin ng host ng programa na 'to.

"Philippines! Si Kerson! Si Kerson, please. . ." halos masigaw ako.

"Is none other than. . . Chef Zack from Philippines!" sigaw ng host.

The audience erupts in cheers as the spotlight shines on the Kerson, who is visibly moved by the announcement. The judges applauded, recognizing the exquisite blend of Filipino and UK flavors that earned him the title.

Halos magsitalon-talon ako rito sa kwarto ko. Gustong-gusto kong sumigaw dahil sa pagkapanalo niya. Talagang napatayo sa kinauupuan ko at nagtalon-talon ako sa tuwa. Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Kerson dahil sa narinig niyang sigaw na pangalan. Sobrang lawak ng ngiti. Mukhang hindi siya nakapaniwala.

Umupo muli ako saglit at pinanood ang interview nito.

"Chef Zack, congratulations! Your dish truly encapsulated the spirit of this competition—diversity, creativity, and a celebration of global flavors. How do you feel?" nakangiting tanong ng host kay Kerson.

Napatawa itong ng mahina, kitang-kita ang singkit niyang mata. "Thank you so much. I feel honored and humbled. This journey has been incredible, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my culinary story with the world."

As the host hands over a trophy and Kerson's iconic hat to the boy, his victory in the competition is sealed. Holding the trophy with pride, Kerson becomes an inspiration for aspiring chefs everywhere.

The final moments of the cooking show are marked by cheers, applause, and a feeling of shared excitement as the culinary event comes to an end. It leaves behind a lasting impression of cultural exchange and culinary brilliance.

"Chef Zack, congratulations on your well-deserved victory in the cooking show! We're curious, who or what inspired you throughout this journey, especially in this moment of triumph?" Itinutok ng host ang microphone malapit sa labi nito. 

He licked his lips. "Thank you so much. This victory goes beyond the kitchen for me. My inspiration comes from the first heartbreak in my life, the girl I left behind in the Philippines. It's about my family and friends who believed in me, even when I doubted myself. Their love and support fueled my passion for cooking."

The host nods, recognizing the sincerity of his words. Watching Zack on TV, I couldn't help but notice the remarkable changes in him. He appeared even more attractive than before, with a notably fairer complexion and a transformed physique. His on-screen presence exuded confidence and charisma, leaving me impressed by his newfound look.

 Dapat nag-artista na lang siya, e!

"It's clear that your journey is deeply connected to personal experiences. How did your first love, the girl from the Philippines, influence your culinary path and this winning dish?" tanong muli ng host.

He genuinely smiled, looking at him. "She's the taste of home in every bite I create, a sweet reminder of our shared memories. Winning this competition isn't just about cooking; it's about honoring my roots and the love that inspires me."

"And when I return to the Philippines, I'll bring her back to where she belongs. After all, a promise is a promise, right?" he chuckled, his eyes twinkling with determination.

Tumaas ang kilay ko dahil sa narinig ko. May pamilya na pala siya. At wala na ako'ng magagawa roon. Sigurado ako na hanggang doon na lang talaga kami.

Tumingin ako saglit sa anak, ngumiti ng masakit sa kaniya.

"I'm sorry, baby boy," I cracked my voice. "Patawarin mo sana si Mommy. . ."

I gently massaged his head, planting a tender kiss on his forehead. "I love you, my baby boy," I murmured.