He began to sweat from nervousness.
Minda told him to just open it while she held the children close. The kitchen was very quiet except for the sound of the electric fan.
Carding slowly opened the bucket lid.
A strong smell of oil came out, but instead of fried chicken, he saw a big foil-wrapped package inside.
Minda nervously asked what it was.
Carding carefully took the hot foil package out. It felt soft, not like metal or anything dangerous.
Slowly, he opened the foil while the whole family watched.
Inside was a large roasted chicken—lechon manok—stuffed with rice, lemongrass, and salted eggs.
They were all shocked and silent.
Suddenly, Carding’s phone rang. It was a message from the delivery rider.
The rider apologized and said the bag was accidentally mixed up with the order of the barangay captain nearby, who had ordered a special stuffed roasted chicken for a small fiesta. The captain said Carding could keep the food as a gift instead of returning it.
After reading the message, Carding and Minda looked at each other and started laughing with relief. The fear they felt earlier quickly turned into happiness.
Carding sliced the roasted chicken while smiling. The children happily fought over the salted eggs inside.
Their hands were oily and their mouths were full, but everyone was enjoying the meal.
Carding realized that sometimes scary moments can also bring unexpected blessings.
That night, the family ate together happily, laughing and talking about the surprising event—something they knew they would remember and share for a long time.
