Guess who came to dinner

It was supposed to be the usual small dinner party that Dr. Ver Lacson often hosts for his close friends and relatives. His luxurious home was all lighted up waiting for the guests. The wines were properly chilled and the buffet table groaned with culinary delights.

Guests mingled and chatted over tasty pica-pica with red and white wine as they relaxed and settled down for an enjoyable evening. Suddenly, there was a sudden hush and audible whispers of “He’s here!” could be heard across the room.

In walked Senator Ping Lacson, eagerly greeting the guests with handshakes and smiles. His face looked inscrutable and there wasn’t any trace of tension or worry about the controversial issues facing him nowadays.  After the thanksgiving prayer, we all thought Sen. Ping would say something but he just smiled and said, “I’m hungry, let’s eat!” The guests proceeded to enjoy the exquisite meal that our host prepared, and soon the entire room was buzzing with exciting bits of news and juicy bits of gossip that’s usually heard during dinner parties.

Our genial host Dr. Ver, kept prodding us to taste the other desserts from the dessert bar but we were so full, it was impossible. Some of the guests opted for coffee, tea and more wine after dinner. All too soon, Sen. Ping went around saying good night and shaking hands with the group. In an instant, he was gone. No speeches, no political chitchat, nothing. He just came to enjoy dinner with some Lacson relatives and new friends. The rest of us continued to while away the evening over drinks and more conversation.*