December 24, 2020.
The streets of Bonifacio Global City were alive with the glow of holiday lights. Christmas decorations lined every street, and the cool December air carried the scent of roasted chestnuts and freshly baked pastries from nearby cafés. Even with the ongoing pandemic, people found ways to celebrate—families walking through parks, couples taking pictures in front of enormous Christmas trees, and small groups gathering in socially distanced outdoor setups.
Matthew sat inside a private dining room at Cipriani Manila, a high-end Italian restaurant. The interior was decorated with warm golden lights, wreaths, and garlands, giving it a festive yet elegant atmosphere. He had arranged this gathering—one final meeting with Leo and Saimon before the year ended.
It felt symbolic.