Chapter 11

Journey to forever

Richard picked up Maya bright and early, Saturday, one week after the dinner with the Dela Rosas, for their trip to Tagaytay. This is their first trip out of town since they became a couple. Finally, they managed to do it. Richard and Maya have talked about going somewhere one weekend, but their schedules didn’t permit it, especially Richard’s. As the the new CEO, there was a lot of demand on his time. Maya understood this and supported him in every way she could. Good thing, they had their coffee breaks, drives together, and dinners. But now, they managed to squeeze in a weekend trip!

Maya had no inkling that Richard purposely arranged for this trip as this is the weekend he is going to propose to her. Richard hopes Maya will like his surprise. He smiled to himself. He felt very happy as he navigated the road to Tagaytay.

“Sweetheart, why are you smiling?” Maya asked him after she noticed that he had this secretive smile, even if they were just listening to some music. “Parang sobrang happy ka today, ah.”

Richard gave Maya his lopsided smile and caressed her arm. “Wala, sweetheart. I’m just happy to be with you. I’m glad that, finally, we will have a weekend together.”

Maya looked at her boyfriend and smiled sweetly. “Me too, sweetheart. I’m really looking forward to this. Hindi nga ako masyadong nakatulog dahil sa excitement. Mom asked me nga this morning bakit parang puyat ako!”

Richard said hello to Maya’s parents when he picked her up. While waiting for Maya to come down, he also confirmed with them the details of his plan. They assured him that everything is going to be okay. He really like Maya’s parents. His mother was also very happy when he told her of his plan to propose to Maya. Mama Esmeralda even told him, it’s about time!  She also said she is looking forward to meeting Maya’s parents and seeing the culmination of what he had planned.

Maya and Richard chatted, listened to the music, teased each other, and exchanged sweet nothings while on the road, and before they knew it, they reached their destination –  the Lims family home in Tagaytay. They entered a tall gate, which opened to a long, winding driveway, filled with all kinds of plants and flowers. The property is big, and it felt like one is an oasis, a world of its own. They took another curve, and a two-storey all glass house in white came into view. Maya ‘fell in love’ with it. The house looks so inviting, restful, and it just calls to her.

“Ricky, this is such a beautiful house.” Maya said, amazed. She likes the fact that the house is all planes and angles, no fancy designs that would distract from the beauty  of the place. It reminded Maya of Scandinavian houses she had seen, so simple and sometimes, looked so small when viewed from the outside, but quite beautiful, spacious and very functional inside. Beauty in simplicity, she thought.

“I’m glad you like it sweetheart. It’s not fancy, like some of the mansions here in the area, but it was how Mama liked it. Papa told the architect to do it the way Mama wanted. We have a lot of wonderful family vacations here when we were kids. It was just really when I was all grown up that Papa had too much expections on me and wanted me to follow the narrow path he wanted.”  Richard said. “Come, let’s go in.”

“Magandang umaga po, Sir Richard, Mam Maya!” Tatay Andres, the Lims longtime caretaker greeted the couple. Richard called up several days ago to tell him  that he will stay at the place this wekened with his girlfriend. “Pasok na po kayo. Ibing, parine ka, nandito na sina Sir Richard.”

Suddenly, a lady with a big built and a sunny smile came running to them. “Good morning Sir Richard, Mam Maya. Naku, pasensya na kayo at hindi ko kayo nasalubong kaagad, hindi ko maiwan ang niluluto ko. Maghahain na po ako ng breakfast niyo. Sigurado po akong sa aga ng biyahe niyo, hindi na kayo nakakain bago umalis ng Maynila.”

“Tatay Andres, Nanay Ibing, good to see both of you po. Oo nga po and looking forward to your masarap na luto, Nanay Ibing. ”Richard said with a big smile. ”Maya sweetheart, this Tatay Andres and si Nanay Ibing, mga bata pa kami ni Rafi, caretaker na namin sila dito. Tatay, Nanay, si Maya po, ang maganda ko at mabait kong girlfriend!”

“Nice to meet you po, Tatay Andres and Nanay Ibing. I hope okay lang na iyon na rin ang tawag ko sa inyo.” Maya told them as she shook their hands.

“Opo naman, Mam Maya. Welcome po dito sa bahay nina Sir sa Tagaytay.” Nanay Ibing said, liking Maya on the spot. “Sir Richard, ang ganda-ganda naman nga po talaga ni Mam Maya, bagay na bagay kayo.”

“Thank you po Nanay Ibing.” Richard smiled at the old lady. “Tatay Andres, iakyat ko lang po ang mga gamit namin ni Maya before we eat breakfast.”

“Eh ako na diyan Sir Richard, pahinga na lang kayo ni Mam Maya. Ibing, aling room ba ang inihanda mo para kay Mam Maya?” Tatay Andres asked his wife as he took hold of Maya and Richard’s overnight bags.

“Iyong katabi ng kay Sir Richard para pwede silang magpahangin sa shared veranda sa gabi.” Nanay Ibing replied. “Mam Maya, magugustuhan mo roon, pagbukas mo ng pintuan pa-veranda, pagkaganda-gandang view ng Taal Lake ang makikita mo.”

“Salamat po, Nanay, Tatay. Mabuti po yata, sama na ako sa inyo Tatay Andres, para  makapag-freshen up and unpack iyong things namin ni Ricky.” Maya said.

“Sige na, Tatay Andres, balik na lang po kayo sa ginagawa niyo. Nagdidilig po yata kayo ng mga halaman. Kami na po ni Maya ang mag-aakyat ng mga gamit namin, then bababa po kami after several minutes para makapag-breakfast na.” Richard insisted. He wanted to escort Maya to her room and at the same time, he wanted to unpack his things himself since nasa bag niya ang engagement ring for Maya. “Let’s go sweetheart.”

Richard and Maya went up several flights of stairs, walked along a long corridor, until they reached the rooms at the side of the house facing the lake. He opened the door to the room at the end and ushered Maya in.

“Here we are sweetheart.”  Richard said as he put Maya’s bag on the day bed by the window.

“Wow, what a great room Ricky, and with that view parang ayoko ng umalis dito sa house! I just want to be very laid back and do nothing but stare at the view!” Maya said as she looked around the room, then the amazing view outside. Three sides of the house have tall glass windows that offer an unobstructed view of the lake, the garden, and the forrested area on another side. The house is a secluded so there is no danger of people intruding on their privacy.

“Hmmm, magandang idea iyan sweetheart.” Richard said, half-jesting. “We can just cuddle here, and do stuffs.”

“’Do stuffs’? Why do I think that those were loaded words Mr. Ricky Lim.” Maya said smiling at Richard.

“Ha, ang inosente nga ng statement ko ah.” Richard said trying to act innocent.

“Ikaw talaga, sweetheart, hayan ka na naman.”  Maya said playfully while standing infront of one of the tall windows.

Richard smiled at Maya, walked to her and gave her a backhug, then caressed her arms, and gave her air kisses on her neck. “Pero, admit it sweetheart, my idea has merits, di ba?”

“Hmmmm, I’ll think about it!” Maya said smiling, distracted with what he was doing. She turned around and put her head on Richard’s shoulder, hugging him. Then she looked up at Richard with so much love.

The moment was just too perfect for Richard to let pass without a kiss. He lowered his lips to Maya. Their lips fused into a hot kiss, that became hotter, and hotter. They also started caressing each other, went up for air, and then kissed again with abandon. Richard started working on the buttons of Maya’s blouse, when she stopped him.

“Sweetheart, breakfast. Tatay Andres, Nanay Ibing.” She managed to say, as she also fought for control, thinking that there are people waiting for them, whom they told they will just go up for a couple of minutes.

“Hmmm, later. Wait lang please. Dito muna tayo.” Richard said as he tried to kiss Maya again.

“Sweetheartttt.” Maya protested, then gave Richard one last kiss before she started buttoning her blouse and checking her appearance. “Kain na nga muna tayo. Laters na lang.”

“I like the sound of that ‘laters’, sweetheart.” Richard teased Maya, who then pinched him again. “Sweetheart, malapit na akong maging abused boyfriend sa kaka-pinch mo.”

“Ha, ha, ha. Let’s go na nga sweetheart.” Maya said as she held on to Richard’s arms.

The two of them went down with hands intertwined, and the Lim caretakers saw first hand how in love Richard is with his Maya, and she was the same to him. Tatay Andres and Nanay Ibing are very happy that Richard found a girl who loves him with all her heart. Maya is the only girl he brought here, and introduced to them. They also looking forward to this evening, as they had a hand in the proposal that is about to happen.

Richard and Maya had coffee at their private veranda, with the breathtaking view as the backdrop. They spent the whole morning there, just chatting and relaxing. Before lunch, they decided to explore a bit of Tagaytay, even if both of them have been there years ago. Mostly, they just drove around, ended up having lunch at Sonya’s Garden. They went back to Taal Vista Hotel to have coffee and just rest while looking at the view of the lake and the volcano, and all the people posing by the viewing deck there. Later in the afternoon, they decided to go to Caleruega. Richard and Maya explored the beautiful and very extensive grounds of the place. Their last stop was the church there. Richard and Maya held hands while inside the church and offered prayers, absorbing the peaceful and the holiness of their surroundings.

“Sweetheart, what do you want to do next?” Richard asked as they exited the church. He assisted Maya on the steps going down.

“Ikaw, up to you, sweetheart. I’m just basically going with the flow since bakasyon natin ito.” Maya said, happy to just to spend time with Richard. She does not really have any particular thing that she wish to do, or a particular place she wanted to see this trip.

“Hmmm, okay. How about we have dinner in a very nice place I know?” Richard suggested.

“Okay, sweetheart. Let us go back the house to freshen up and change.” Maya said, looking forward to a nice, quiet dinner with Richard.

They went to their separate rooms to change. Maya opened her bag, and took out a crimson lace dress, with uneven hemline, and with hook-and-eye closures in the back that she bought in Sweden. She fell in love with the dress, bought it right away, with no idea then where she will wear it, just thought that it would be a nice dress to wear for something very special. Indeed, it will be worn on a special night with her love – a relaxing dinner date, so she had thought. Good thing, she brought it with her on this trip. The dress fits her perfectly and hugged her curves. She applied light make-up, then put up her hair in a half-bun.

Richard, dressed handsomely in a suit, was already waiting for Maya when she went down the stairs. He just stared at his lovely fiancee-to-be.

“Maya, sweetheart, you look so lovely.” He said, with lopsided smile that never failed to make Maya’s heart beat faster. He kissed her hand, then gave her the sunflowers he was holding.

“Thank you, Ricky. You look very guapo rin, sweetheart.” Maya said admiringly, as she touched Richard’s tie and shirt, as if to arrange or straighten out something. “Super special naman yata ang night natin na ito ah.”

“Indeed, it is, sweetheart.” Richard said, as he ushered Maya outside the house through a side terrace. Maya thought that this was where he parked the car. But instead of going to the car, hands intertwined with hers, Richard took her to a path at the side of the house. The path was lined with all sorts of glass lanterns, and the trees were festooned with capiz lanterns, that helped illuminate the place. The whole area was also decorated with a profusion of flowers in pots of all shapes and sizes.

“Ricky, sweetheart, where are we going?” Maya asked, puzzled, at the same time, felt her heart beating faster, feeling the anticipation of something she can’t explain yet, happening.

“We are almost there, sweetheart.” It was all what Richard said until they arrived at the greenhouse at the back of the house which Maya didn’t notice earlier. It was a bit hidden from the main path.

Richard guided Maya inside. When she noticed her surroundings, she was speechless. She just gaped.

“Do you like it?” Richard asked softly.

“Of course, sweetheart, it’s so, so, so beautiful.” That was all Maya managed to say by way of description.

The greenhouse was transformed into a Scandinavian garden, similar to the botanical garden they have been to in Stockholm, the place where they realized their love for each other. The place was filled with all kinds of plants, flowers and herbs. One one side is a bench where two people can sit cozily, among bougainvilleas, sunflowers, and other flowers Maya can’t name anymore, while on another side,  there is a coffee table with two chairs, and in the middle of the garden, a table, beautifully set for two.

While Maya was still recovering from the assault to her senses, from what she is seeing, and Richard’s grand gesture, a famiiar melody, started filling the air, coming from a corner of the garden, one of her favorite songs, which when she told Richard about it, said that the song fits them perfectly.

“For you, sweetheart.” Richard said as he held out his hand, which Maya took, then they half-embraced and half-dance to the music. When it ended, Richard brought Maya to the garden bench, then kneeled infront of her.

“Maya, will you marry me.”  Richard said with so much emotion, and with all his love for Maya in his eyes, as he offered her a platinum ring, encrusted with small diamonds. Beautiful ring in its simplicity. “Be my love for always. Share my life as I share yours.”

Maya, at first, just stared at Richard, the ring, then back to Richard, then her eyes glistened with tears, then with voice breaking, said the words Richard was dying to hear.

“Yes, yes, yes, Ricky, I will marry you.”

Richard stood up, then put the ring on Maya’s finger, kissed it, then looked at her lovingly, and gave her a sweet, very long, kiss. Then they embraced and stayed like that for quite sometime, savoring the moment.

“Sweetheart, I love you very much.” Maya whispered to Richard’s ears. “Thank you for all of these.” She gestured to the garden, getting the significance of the all out preparations he did.

“I love you more than life itself, sweetheart. I vow to make you happy always.” Richard said as he tightened his embrace.

Richard and Maya gazed lovingly at each other, both looking forward to their journey to their forever. They kissed again under the moonlight, and amid the beauty around them, they got lost in their own private world.

Chapter 10
Intentions

Richard parked his car infront of Maya’s house. Taking a deep breath, he got out, opened the back seat, and grabbed the flowers he had bought earlier – sunflowers for Maya and white roses for Mommy Tere. When he asked Maya, she told him that her mom’s favorite are white roses. Maya told Richard that white roses were what her dad gave her mom when he started courting her. Richard also brought a box of cigars for Maya’s dad.

Maya, radiant in her floral maxi dress,  opened the door for Ricky.

“Hi sweetheart. Ang aga mo. Teka, take, hmmm.” Maya said as she pretended to inspect Richard closely. “Parang doble ang guwapo mo ngayon, sweetheart ah. You want to make a good impression ‘no?  Don’t worry, sweetheart, papasa ka sa parents ko. Todo build up na nga ako. Saka dagdag mo ba ang number one member ng fan club mo, si Manang Fe.”

“Ikaw talaga, sweetheart.” Richard said, grinning at Maya. She really never failed to make him laugh.

Maya, seeing her love’s lopsided smile, tiptoed and gave him a sweet kiss. “O hayan, pa-good luck ko pa sa iyo.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. I think I need more of that, kasi kailangan ko ng maraming pang-good luck this evening.” Richard teased her by making an exaggerated kissing gesture, which made Maya laughed and earned him a series of pinches on his side. “Okay, okay stop na, please. By the way, flowers for you.” He handed her the sunflowers.

“Oh, thank you sweetheart. You’re so thoughtful talaga.” Maya smiled at her boyfriend lovingly. “Halika na. Mom and Dad are waiting. We can have drinks first while Manang Fe and Sabel are putting the finishing touches to our dinner.”

They entered the house with hands intertwined, which didn’t escape the notice of Maya’s parents.

“Mom, Dad, my boyfriend, Ricky…Richard Lim.” Maya formally introduced Ricky to her parents, her love for him evident in her voice. “Ricky, meet my parents, Arturo and Teresita Dela Rosa.”

“Good evening, po Mr. Dela Rosa, Mrs. Dela Rosa.” Richard respectly and politely said. “It is an honor to meet you. Para po sa inyo.” He gave Maya’s mom the flowers and the cigars for Maya’s dad.

“Oh, thank you very much. Nag-abala ka pa. We are also happy to finally meet the man who captured our daughter’s heart.” Mommy Tere asked. “Please call me Tita Tere na lang and itong si Arturo, call him Tito Arturo.”

“Siya nga naman, Richard, call me Tito. Thank you for the cigars.” Daddy Arturo added, then patted Richard in the arm. “Our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your dad. How’s your mom?”

“She’s doing okay po. She is coping. It was very difficult for her, in the beginning, to accept that Papa is gone. Kasi po, they were inseparable when Papa was alive.” Richard said. “Ngayon po. little by little, she is doing better. She is focusing her time and attention on the charities she is sponsoring. I guess it is her way of coping.”

“We saw how closed your parents were when we met them in Beijing. Your dad was part of the business delegation with the President. Your mom was with your dad all the time when he was not attending meetings. They were very sweet.” Mommy Tere said. “Kapag naman busy itong mga husband namin, kami ng mommy mo ang magkasama sa shopping.”

“Talaga po. Mama mentioned to Maya nga po that you know each other, when we had dinner with her. Actually, Mama wants to invite you nga po Mr….errr, Tito Arturo, Tita Tere to dinner while you are here.” Richard said as he took a sip of the wine Maya handed to him while her mom was talking. “That is if you have some free time po. I know that this is the first time you have been home for quite sometime, and baka you have other plans already.”

“ No, it is okay. We would like to have dinner with Esme, di ba Arturo? It would be nice to see your Mama again. I really enjoyed our time in Beijing.” Mommy Tere asked her husband. “Is next Friday okay with you? How about it, Arturo.”

“Sure, sure.” Daddy Arturo replied. “Please tell your mom, we are glad to accept her invitation.”

“Sige po, I will tell Mama so she can make all the arrangements. I know this is something she will look forward to. Matutuwa po iyon.” Richard replied as he looked at Maya, and smiled. He is really glad that his mother and Maya’s parents will have the opportunity to see each other, a plan is forming in his head, again.

Manang Fe appeared soon after and informed them that dinner is ready. Richard escorted Maya to the dining table and Daddy Arturo did the same to Mommy Tere. Dinner was a lively affair. Maya’s parents observed first hand the loving interaction between their daughter and her boyfriend, and they loved what they saw. They are very happy for their only child. Both thought earlier that the best thing they can wish for their daughter, at this stage in her life, is for her to find a man who will love her with all his heart, and take care of her. They confirmed, upon seeing how Richard was to Maya, that she had found him.

While they were having coffee at the veranda, Manang Fe informed Maya that Emman is on the house phone, having failed to reach her through her cellphone. Maya excused herself, not surprised at Emman’s call since she knew that if there is something in her friend’s head, he had to let it out. He is a bit obsessive-compulsive and Maya understands her friend. She went with Manang to the living room. After she left, there was a bit of a lull in the conversation between the three occupants of the veranda, but it didn’t last long, with Richard breaking the silence.

“Tito, Tita, may talk to you po. Kung okay lang po sana?” Richard asked, as he looked at Maya’s parents, then taking a sip of his coffee, as if to fortify himself with what he will say next.

Mommy Tere and  Daddy Arturo looked at each other, curious, and then both nodded, one after the other, and gestured to Richard to proceed.

“Of course, hijo.” Daddy Arturo finally said. “Ano ba iyon? Please go ahead.”

“I would like to ask your permission po sana if I could propose to your daughter.” Richard said, straight to the point. “I love her with all my heart, and I know that she is the only one for me. I want to spend the rest of my life with her, if she will have me.”

Mommy Tere suddenly hold on to Daddy Arturo’s arm, getting teary-eyed. She had an inkling this is coming, but maybe, not this soon. But soon is also okay with her, Mommy Tere mused.  She looked at Richard and his earnest expression, waiting for their reactions. He is really a very nice young man, so polite and well-mannered, despite his status in life, and so in love with my daughter, she thought.

“Hijo, I think we are not surprised about this anymore. It was in the way you and our daughter were with each other this evening, so loving.  Added to this, it was in the way Maya spoke of you during our phone conversations.” She finally said. “Of course, you have our permission, di ba Arturo. Thank you for asking us, even if you don’t really need to. You and Maya are both of age and I guess, both pretty independent, having lived on your own abroad. We do appreciate you asking us. Thank you.”

“Yes, Richard. I agree with Tere. Thank you, hijo, for asking us.” Daddy Arturo added. “Welcome to our family. Take care of our unica hija, ha.”

“Opo, Tito, Tita. Makakaasa po kayo. She will be my number one priority.” Richard promised his future in-laws. “Thank you very much din po sa pagtanggap.”

Mommy Tere stood up and hugged Richard. Daddy Arturo shook his hand.

“When are you planning to propose to her?” Mommy Tere asked, as she took a sip of her coffee again.

“I would like to do it po, sana while you are here.” Richard said, relieved, and very happy now. “If it is okay with you, kasabay na po ng dinner with Mama? I will finalize all the details and then inform you. Saka, I want to surprise Maya po with it, if it is okay. I want to give her a proposal to remember when we are old and gray, and something we can tell our children repeatedly.”

Maya’s parents smiled at what Richard said and it was what Maya saw when she returned to the veranda. They seemed to have agreed on something, what is that kaya, she thought.

“Mom, Dad, Ricky, sorry for taking so long. Ito kasing si Emman, may personal problem. But no worries, he is okay naman na po.”  Maya said as she sat beside Richard. “So, what have you been talking about while I was in the sala?”

“Errr, nothing much. Your parents and I are just chatting.” Richard quickly replied. Good, that he had finished talking to Maya’s parents before she returned, he thought.

Mommy Tere looked at her daughter with a big smile, embraced her and then kissed her on the forehead, while Daddy Arturo looked at them, smiling. He thought, time flies really fast. Parang kailan lang his Maya was a little girl. Now she is about to enter another chapter in her life.

“I love you, Mom, and you too, Dad.” Maya said as she embraced her mother back. She was a bit puzzled why her mom suddenly hugged her like that, but she thought, maybe she just missed me!

“I love you too, anak.” Mommy Tere said.

The four of them chatted until late night.  Richard said his goodbye, so happy with his evening with the Dela Rosas, closed to midnight.  They asked him if  he would like to stay instead in their guest bedroom, but he declined. He just told Maya he will pick her up tomorrow. Maya said she can just drive herself to work since he would be going home late, but he insisted on picking up Maya.

Maya and Richard, with their hands, intertwined, holding cups of coffee, boarded the elevator going to their floor, shortly after 8 o’clock the following morning. Someone greeted them as soon the elevator doors closed.

“Good morning Maya, Richard, hi.”  Anton greeted them with a big smile, while holding a box of chocolates and a bouquet of red roses. “I’m actually on my way to see you, Maya. Sorry for not calling ahead. I was prepared to wait in your office, in case you have a meeting or will report for work late today.”

“Oh, hi Anton.” Maya said as she also looked closely at Anton.

“Good morning, Anton.” Richard greeted Anton politely, at the same time, taking note of the flowers and the box of chocolates.  But he didn’t say much.

When they reached their floor, Richard, with Anton in tow, accompanied Maya until the entrance to her office section, as he had been his practice every morning. “I’ll go ahead, sweetheart. Have a great day. Let’s have lunch, upstairs.” He said as he gave Maya a kiss on the cheek, then waved goodbye. “Anton, I’ll go ahead.”

“Okay, sweetheart. See you. I love you.” Maya said, waved at Ricky, ushered Anton to her office, then asked Anton to sit on the chair infront of her table. “What brought you here Anton? Do we need to talk about new projects? May nakalimutan ba ako na usapan natin?”

“Wala, Maya. Actually, I’m here to say goodbye.” Anton said. “By the way, these are for you.” He handed her the flowers and the chocolates.

“Thank you! Pero what’s the occassion, di ko naman birthday ah?” Maya asked, curious.

“Oh, call it a parting gesture. I know I can’t give you those anymore to court you, as I know you are taken.” He said with a voice, tinge with sadness. “I was too late.”

Maya thought, so Ricky is right! “Oh, Anton. You know you are a very dear friend to me, and that’s about it.”

“I know that Maya. Richard is a very lucky guy. Congratulate him for me.”  Anton said. “Don’t worry, staying abroad for a while will cure my broken heart.”  He said with a smile this time, as if to reassure Maya not to worry, about what he said.

“You are going abroad? How long? How about your NGO here? ” Maya asked.

“My cousin Celeste will handle our operation for a while.  I will be gone for a couple of months. I enrolled for a graduate course in Boston. I think it will be good for me in the long run, especially  now that I have plans of expanding our work to other Asian countries.” Anton said. “I already told Celeste to call you to finalize the details of our other projects.”

“Good luck on your studies. I will just have Minerva schedule a meeting with your cousin.” Maya said. “Thank you Anton for everything.”

“Thank you too, Maya. I hope we can still be friends.”  He said, as he stood up. “Would that be okay?”

“Of course, and I hope, somewhere out there is a girl for you, Anton.” Maya said, as she went to where Anton is, then shook his hand. “Sa guwapo mong yan, hardworking pa, and very nice, for sure, hindi ka mahihirapan.” Maya teased him. “Kaya lang, not me talaga. I love Richard with all my heart, and I was so lucky to have find my great love. Sana ikaw din.”

“I hope so, Maya.” Anton smiled. ” I want something like you and Richard have. I can see naman that you two are very much in love with each other. Kaya heto, poporma pa lang ako, alam kong basted na, kaya nga hindi ko na itinuloy.”

Maya and Anton laughed. Maya is glad that everything went well with Anton. She said goodbye to Anton and then proceeded to work on the papers on her desk.   She was finished before lunch. She told Minerva she will have lunch with Richard.

Maya went to the garden at exacly 12NN. The first thing she noticed was the beautiful table setting. Then she saw Richard, and smiled.

“Hi sweetheart.’ She greeted him with a big smile, and a kiss. Then she looked around closely. “Wow! Are we celebrating something?”

“Hello sweetheart, you’re just in time.” Richard said with a big smile. “Wala naman, I just want to do something extra nice for my sweetheart today. Come, let us eat. I’m hungry.”

The two of them had a very enjoyable lunch. Maya offered to make coffee afterwards, which Richard quickly agreed to. She gave a steaming cup of coffee for Richard, then settled back on the seat beside his, with her cup.

“Sweetheart, I know you want to ask me something. Spit it out.” Maya told Richard with a smile.

“Ha, wala kaya.” Richard, trying to appeal nonchalant, as he sips Maya’s delicious coffee. Truth be told, he was curious why Anton was here. But he didn’t want to ask Maya as it might appear that he wanted to grill her. That didn’t even enter his head. He trusts Maya completely. But he does want to know why Anton visited her.

“Hahaha, anong wala, curious ka ‘no. I can tell.” She teased him. “Sige na nga, I will tell na lang. Well, he went to my office to say goodbye kasi he is going to the States to study.”

“Talaga? For how long? How about his NGO? ” Richard asked, never expecting that Anton was there to say goodbye. “Eh bakit pala may chocolates pa and roses?”

“I was gonna get into to that. Sure, you are not jealous, sweetheart?” Maya asked with a smile.

“Nope.” Richard said emphatic. “I trust you kaya 101 percent and more.”

Maya smiled and touched his cheek affectionately. “Thank you, sweetheart. I love you. Well, he said those were his parting gesture to me since hindi naman siya makakaligaw na since I am taken na. He also told me to tell you that you are one lucky guy, Mr. Lim for having me in your life.”

Richard grinned, then interwined his hand with Maya’s, and looked at her deeply, lovingly. “I know that sweetheart. I’m so ever thankful to God, for sending you to me. I love you very much.”

Richard and Maya gazed at each other lovingly, then because they can’t help it, sealed their affirmation of love, with a long, sweet kiss that promises more.

Chapter 9
Love sweet love

Richard was drinking coffee while waiting for Maya at the rooftop garden. It became his and Maya’s habit to have coffee breaks there every afternoon. They agreed to meet at 3PM, but he was a bit early. He decided to make a cup of coffee for himself as he waited and checked his phone messages. His quiet moment was interrupted by loud voices coming from the stairs.

“Ms. Josephine, you can’t go there po. Off limits po ang place na iyan. Mapapagalitan po ako ni Sir Richard.” Marissa said as she ran after Josephine, who arrived at Richard’s office several minutes ago. She got mad when Marissa said her boss is unavailable again.

“I know my way! I have been there before with my dad. Besides, I’m sick and tired of you telling me that your boss is not available. I’m taking matters into my own hands.” Josephine stressed.

Richard saw a fuming Josephine, while a worried Marissa was behind her.

“Sir Richard, pasensya na po. Hindi ko na po napigilan si Mam Josephine.” Marissa said apologetically, as she wrung her hands. Her boss strictly told her that only Maya is allowed to go to his, now, garden sanctuary.

Richard looked at Josephine and made a decision.

“It’s okay Marissa. I will take care of this.” Richard assured his agitated secretary.

“Sige po, Sir Richard, bababa na po ako.” Marissa said, relieved.

“What brought you here, Josephine? “ He asked Josephine politely.

“Richard darling, I just want to see you. I missed you.” Josephine said in her flirty voice, a complete change to her demeanor with Marissa. “Can we have dinner later?”

Richard realized that he can’t be a gentleman and diplomatic anymore with Josephine, nor he can take into consideration again their fathers’ friendship when dealing with her. He needed to set Josephine straight.

“Josephine, I think it is about time we talk.” He started, then asked her to sit on the chair opposite his. “You know, I basically let everything slid before since I thought that if I didn’t show an interest in you, you will stop. I also took into consideration Tito Ramon and his friendship to Papa. Kahit paano and despite everything, I respected him. But I can’t do that anymore because of Maya and the way you are insinuating yourself into our relationship. Please stop this, whatever you are doing. I love Maya. She already put you in your place, which she had done very nicely, if I may add. I had hoped  then that you would heed her appeal, but apparently not. Please listen as I will only say this once. I am not interested in whatever you are offering. For me,  you are just someone I know, an acquaintance, the daughter of a family friend. It can’t never be more that. We aren’t, and I think, we can’t even be friends. I don’t think that is possible with the way you are going about this perceived relationship. I really hope this is clear enough to you.”

“But Richard darling. I really like you a lot. I think, I love you. We almost got married!” Josephine insisted, as if Richard didn’t say anything. “I’m sure, we can pick up from where we left off, two years ago.”

“No, Josephine! Please listen, there was no us. It was just in your mind, especially the marriage part. Please stop this.” Richard stressed, trying to hold on to his temper. “There is only one girl for me, and that is my girlfriend, Maya. She is my life.”

Josephine stood up and tried to cling to Richard and attempted to kiss him. But Richard removed her hands and set her far away from him.

“Please leave, Josephine before words are said that we both will regret. Let us end this conversation amicably.” He appealed to her. “Please respect the fact that I am committed to someone. She is the most wonderful lady.  The best thing that happened to me. I didn’t realize how big the missing piece in my life was, until I met her.  Someday, you will find the guy for you, and I am not that guy. I belong to Maya.”

Richard then started walking back to the direction down, thinking that he would just wait for Maya at his office. That is, when he saw Maya standing at the entrance of the garden.

“Hi sweetheart. Sorry, I’m late.” She greeted him with a big smile and proceeded to kiss him sweetly on the lips and hugged him. Then she looked at Josephine. “Hi Josephine, what brought you here?”

Josephine looked at Maya with venom in her eyes, and walked out of the garden, her high-heeled shoes, making a very loud clacking sound, while Richard and Maya looked at her departing form.

“Sweetheart, I love you.” Maya said sweetly. “Have a I told you lately that you are the best boyfriend in the world? Thank you for the wonderful things about me that you said to her. Pinakilig mo na naman ako.”

“Narinig mong lahat, sweetheart?” Richard asked as he continued hugging Maya. “Basta for you, and our relationship, I will do anything.”

“Yes, I did. I heard you voice and hers while going up. I decided to let you finish talking to that girl.” Maya said. “Saka, baka kung I barged in earlier, ano pang masabi ko. I also thought that that was your show na.”

“Hay, sweetheart! I just wish na after that talk, malinaw na sa kanya ang lahat.” Richard said sighing. “ I thought that ignoring her in the past would work.”

“Let us hope for the best, sweetheart. But let us just enjoy our coffee break and forget about her.” Maya said as she moved towards the bar. “Kape na lang tayo. I’ll make you a new one.”

Maya did that and they sat on the rattan chairs and chatted on how is their day so far. They also made plans on the places they would go on the next free weekend they have.

“What time are your parents arriving today, sweetheart?” Richard asked as he enjoyed Maya’s coffee which is so much better than the ones they get from the coffee shop downstairs. “Who will pick them up from the airport? We can go and fetch them or I’ll send Mang Lem.”

“No need na sweetheart. Thank you for offering. At this time, probably, they are with Kuya Joma na. He was our old driver. He works now for my Tito John and Tita Ginny. Kapag nandito sina Mom and Dad, siya ang sumusundo.” Maya explained. “Basta, tomorrow ha, dinner at home. I already mentioned it to Mom the last time she called.”

“Of course, sweetheart. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Richard as he fished out his ringing phone from his pocket. “Yes, Marissa. Okay, give me five minutes.”

“What it is, sweetheart?” Maya asked. “Kailangan mo nang bumalik sa office mo? Let’s go na.”

They went down, holding hands and before Maya left Richard, they shared a sweet kiss.

“I’ll see you later.” Richard said. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Maya replied, then lovingly touched Richard’s cheek. “See you.”

Richard took Maya home, as he had been doing since they became a couple. He also picks her up in the morning. Richard and Maya like sharing car rides as it is also an opportunity for them to have quality time with each other. Richard declined her invitation to go in, saying that it is her time with her parents. Besides, he said, he will visit his mom.  Naglalambing, he told Maya.

Maya had a happy reunion with her parents that evening.

“Maya, kumusta naman ang work mo?” Daddy Arturo asked his unica hija.

“Okay naman, Dad. I enjoy the kind of work I am doing. I really like the fact that I am being able to help people in my little way. It was really a good decision to settle here for good.” Maya said. “Saka, especially now, kasi Ricky is also based here na.”

Daddy Arturo smiled. He is very happy seeing his daughter the very picture of happiness and a girl very much in love.

“Your mom said we will meet your young man tomorrow evening.” He said, then teased Maya. “Mabuti naman at ng nakilatis ng husto kung bagay nga sa unica hija ko.”

“Daaadddd. Don’t give him a hard time ha. Saka for sure, naman, Ricky can hold his own with you.” Maya said.

“Of course naman, hija. Biro lang ang sa akin. I trust your judgement when it comes to things like this.” Daddy Arturo assured his daughter. “Saka sa tagal mo ba namang nakapili ng magiging boyfriend at sa dami ng nabasted mo, I am sure, okay na okay itong magiging manugang ko.”

“Daaddd, wala pa kami sa stage na iyan.” Maya good-naturedly protested, but deep in her heart, she already know that Richard is the ONE she wanted to share her life with.

“Maya, que quapo raw na bata nitong si Richard, sabi ni Manang Fe. Mabait pa.” Mommy Tere added.

“Of course, Mom. Ricky is the best boyfriend in the world. Eh botong-boto nga diyan si Manang.” Maya said smiling.

The Dela Rosas continued to chat and banter until late in the evening. While they were doing so, Richard was chatting with Mama Esmeralda, after they had a hearty dinner.

“Ricky hijo, how’s Maya?” Mama Esme asked. “Kailan mo siya ulit isasama rito?”

“Oh, she is okay Mama. Her parents arrived today so I think she is busy chatting and touching base with them at the moment.”

“Talaga, Ambassador Dela Rosa and Tere are here? Mama Esme said. “Maybe, we can also invite them to dinner. Hanggang kailan ba sila rito?”

“I think they will be here for two weeks, Ma. I will ask Maya when are they free. I will meet them tomorrow.” Richard said as he sipped his wine. He is a bit nervous about finally meeting Maya’s parents. Lahat naman siguro ng future son-in-laws, ganito ang pakiramdam, he thought to himself.

“Oh really, that is good. Please say hello for me and issue the invitation, ha.” Mama Esme said. She had no inkling of Richard’s plan the folowing evening. Though, after meeting Maya, she already know that she is the one for her Ricky. Ngayon lang niya nakitang ganito ang kanyang anak. Besides, he and Maya are so in love and look so good together.  She can’t help, but miss her Roberto, when she see them.

Mother and son, chatted some more. They also called Rafi and touched base with her and her family. Mama Esme wished that her daughter will visit again soon as she misses her and her apo.

Richard arrived home close to midnight. He is tired, but his mind is very much awake. Perhaps, he said in anticipation of what will happen tomorrow. He misses Maya so he decided to send her a short message, on the off chance that she is still awake.

– Hi sweetheart, I hope you had a great time with your parents. I’m missing you. I wish you are here to give me a hug and a kiss so I will sleep better. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow. Good night. I love you very much. Dream of me.

– Hi sweetheart. I had a wonderful time with Mom and Dad. They teased me about you. Humanda ka raw kay Dad. Kailangan mong makapasa sa kanya, hahahaha. Don’t worry, for sure, with flying colors pa. I love you. Of course, ikaw naman parati ang star ng dream ko. Cheesy ba, hahahaha. True naman, sweetheart. 🙂 

Richard had a huge smile on his face again when he went to bed. He dreamt of Maya, in technicolor! Maya hugged her pillow to sleep, so happy with the way her life is, with Richard very much in it. She couldn’t ask or wish for me. She thanked God once more for giving her a wonderful man to love.

Chapter 8
A love to build on

Richard surveyed the crowd, trying to find Maya, but failing. There were just so many people in the multi-purpose hall where Lim Corporation was holding its community service for Barangay Pag-asa. He was not exactly needed here in his capacity as CEO, but he wanted to be here for Maya and support the foundation’s project on a personal level.

The whole place was transformed into something akin to a one-stop shop of services that will benefit the residents of the community – from medical, dental and other health services; to different livelihood seminars, like candle and soap making, making bags out of old phone directories, newspapers and juice tetra packs; making peanut butter, jam, empanada and longanisa which the residents can easily sell. LC Foundation had already made arrangements with an organization promoting community-based industries for the residents’ finished products.  LC will provide a start up capital for those who want to start a small business, the progress of which will be supervised and monitored by the foundation. LC Foundation also included a feeding program for the community.

Richard noticed that while there were a lot of people, everything is very organize and orderly. He is very much impressed with Maya and her team’s organizational skills.

On second look, Richard saw Maya chatting with a tall, good-looking guy who was looking at her intently. The guy looked familiar to Richard, but he cannot place where he have seen him before.

“Hi Maya, how’s everything?” Richard said by way of greeting, then kissed her on the cheek.

“Hi Ricky! You didn’t tell me you will go here!” Maya greeted Richard with a big smile. “We could have gone together.”

“I wanted to surprise you.” Richard explained. “I also want to see firsthand our project. Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Thanks a lot for coming and for the offer. Everything is running smoothly. You can just observe. Then, I will introduce you to our partners for this project, starting with this guy beside me.” Maya replied with a smile.

“Ricky, this is Anton Cortez. He and his NGO is our main partner in this project, and some others we had in the past. They are handling all the livelihood trainings for the residents, teaching them to be self-sufficient,  like for instance, by a starting a business with materials they can easily find within the community and recycle. Anton and I went a long way back, before I work for LC. Anton this is my boss, Richard Lim.” Maya introduced the two and then added, “He is also my boyfriend.”

“Hi Anton, nice to meet you.” Richard said politely, offering his hand, at the same time wondering what did Maya mean when she said she and Anton went a long way back. But, he decided to leave that question for later. “Thank you for being a part of our project. We appreciate all the help.”

“Please to meet you too, Richard.” Anton said while shaking Richard’s hand. “We are happy to be a part of this project. Saka malakas sa akin si Maya, eh. You are so lucky to have her as your girlfried, as not only she is a fun person to be with, one of the nicest persons I met, she is also the most beautiful lady I know.” He said and looked at Maya intently, which raised Richard’s radar. Now he remember who Anton is!

“Maya, I will just go and check on my team. Excuse me please, Richard.” Anton said and with a wave, went to where the livelihood seminars were being held.

Before Maya and Richard could react, he was gone. Maya thought of saying something more to Richard, but she was interrupted by Emman.

“Sis, you are needed at the registration. May kailangan ka i-troubleshoot, I think.” Emman said, and then said hello to Richard. “Hi Sir Richard, good morning po.”

“Hi Emman, nice job, you and the rest of the team are doing here.” Richard told Emman, then held Maya’s hand and said, “Sweetheart, go ahead, attend to the problem and I will just wait for you here.”

“Oh, just go with me please, Ricky, para we don’t lose each other in the crowd. This wouldn’t take long.” Maya assured Richard and ushered him outside by holding on to his arm.. “Tapos I can introduce you to our volunteers, doctors, and the community leaders here.”

Maya took care of the problem and then proceeded to introduce Richard to the volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, barangay officials and the other members of Anton’s team. Then they went around the venue, with Richard pitching in from time to time, or just assisting Maya. Those who observed noticed how sweet and solicitous he was to Maya. By 5PM the event drew to a close.

“Thank you very much again Anton, for the help and the support.” Maya said as she and Richard stood with Anton at the entrance of the multi-purpose hall. ”Sa uulitin ha.”

“No worries, Maya. Anytime, just give me a call, or better yet, let’s have dinner one evening so we can map our future projects.” Anton issued the invitation, then belatedly adding, “Join us, please, Richard.”

“Better yet, let Ricky and I treat you to dinner, please. I will call your secretary.” Maya smoothly and by doing so, diplomatically sidestepped Anton’s invitation.

“Yes, Anton, Maya and I would like to take you and also your team to dinner, as a way of thanking you guys, for your support to LC Foundation.” Richard added, to support Maya’s invitation.

“Oh, okay, let us do that, then.” Anton said with a bit of regret in his voice. “See you then, Maya and Richard. Have a nice evening.”

“Ricky, I will just say goodbye to Emman, then we can go also.” Maya said as she looked around for Emman. “I think Manang Fe cooked your favorite kare-kare. I mentioned to her that we will see each other after the event. Lakas mo talaga kay Manang. Instead of getting banned, ipinagluto ka pa!”

Richard smiled and teased Maya. “Manang loves me kaya. Boto kaya sa iyon sa akin.”

Maya told Richard yesterday that the following morning after Manang Fe ‘caught’ them,  she was a bit embarrased to face her. But Manang Fe was pretty straightforward about the whole thing, told Maya that she is of age, and that she can think and decide for herself.  Her old nanny even teased her that she is ‘boto’ to Richard for her.

“Hayan ka naman, Mr. Lim. Confident na confident ah.” Maya said, laughing. “Halika na nga.”

They went to the parking lot, holding hands, with loving gazes for each other.  They also teased each other a lot.  Anton, who  hasn’t left yet as he forgot something inside the venue, saw these actions, and said to himself, “My lost, my lost. You are one lucky guy, Richard Lim.”

Maya and Richard arrived at the Dela Rosa residence one hour after, quite hungry. Manang Fe told them to wash their hands, like little kids, before they proceeded to the dining table. Not only did she prepare Richard’s favorite food, she also made chili crabs for Maya and their favorite dessert, leche flan. Richard and Maya felt their tummies groaned after eating all the delicious food.

“Come, sweetheart, let us have coffee at the veranda, para bumaba itong mga kinain natin.” Maya said as she stood up. “Manang ako na po ang gagawa ng coffee namin ni Ricky.”

While sipping coffee, Richard asked Maya what he had been meaning to ask earlier, but got sidetracked.

“So, how did you meet Anton? He looked familiar the first time I saw him talking to you. Then I remembered reading about him in the papers about his various social projects, also that he is the eldest son of one of Papa’s friends, Tito Fernando.” Richard said.

“I met him while doing work for the UN. Nagkasama kami sa isang project. This was before he went back here for good and started his social advocacies. We clicked rigth away. Siguro dahil kaming dalawa lang din ang Pinoy sa project na iyon. I remembered him when I started with LC. He really have a good network and his NGO is doing very good work, so I asked him if he would like to partner with us.” Maya explained. “We became good friends din in the process.”

“I think he likes you.” Richard commented.

“Like? What do you mean like? In what way?” Maya asked, curious.

“I think he would like to be more than your friend, sweetheart.” Richard said. “I’m a guy, so I can sense that, lalo pa at girlfriend ko ang gusto niya.”

“Hmmm, talaga, sweetheart? Tama yata talaga ang instinct ko when I arrived at the venue earlier, and saw him after ilang months. Parang may iba sa kanya.” Maya remarked while looking at Richard and decided to tease him. “Selos ka, Mr. Lim?”

“Hindi ha.” Richard quickly assured Maya and gave her his lopsided smile. “I don’t have a reason to be jealous, sweetheart. You even introduced me as your boyfriend to him agad.”

“Talagang wala kang dapat ipagselos! Ikaw lang kaya ang nandito Mr. Lim.” Maya said lovingly, and pointed at her heart.

“I know that sweetheart. I feel secure in my place in your heart, and I know you feel the same in mine, kaya nga you handled Josephine well.” Richard gazed at Maya with so much love, and then interwined their hands.

“I love you sweetheart.” Maya said. “Thank you for being the most loving, understanding and the sweetest boyfriend in the world.”

“I love you more, sweetheart.” Richard said and started kissing Maya. Maya responded and they shared a sweet kiss, full of promise and trust for one another.

Before it could go any further, they heard Manang Fe’s distinct footsteps. They sat straighter and grabbed their coffee cups.

“Maya hija, Richard, maabala ko lang kayo ng kaunti.” Manang Fe said as she smiled at her alaga and the man who loves her.  She really likes Richard for her ward. “Kamuntik ko ng makalimutan. Tumawag ang Mommy mo. Hindi ka raw kasi makontak sa cellphone kanina.”

“Oo nga pala Manang! I forgot po na may missed call pala ako kanina galing kay Mommy. Busy po kasi kami with the project. Ang dami rin kasing tao.” Maya remembered checking her phone at some point, and seeing a missed call from her Mommy Tere. “Ano pong sabi ni Mommy?”

“Sabi niya, uuwi sila ng Daddy mo next week kasi kailangan ni Arturo na mag-report muna sa DFA, pagkatapos, bakasyon sila ng kaunti. Mga two weeks daw sila rito.” Manang Fe informed Maya. “Mabuti iyon, kasi matagal-tagal na rin silang hindi nauuwi.”

“Yes!!! I’m so happy to know that Manang. Missed ko na nga rin sila.” Maya said smiling. “Richard, we should have dinner with Mom and Dad, one evening. I want to introduce my ever loving boyfriend to them.”

“Of course, sweetheart. If you didn’t invite me, I would have invited myself. I want to formally introduce myself to them, and thank them for their wonderful and loving daughter, di ba, Manang Fe?” He said while lovingly pinching Maya’s cheeks.

“Oo naman, Richard.” Manang Fe said, smiling. “O siya, maiwan ko na kayong dalawa at magpapahinga na ako.”

“Good night Manang Fe.” They both said.

Richard and Maya continued to hold hands, with Maya’s head on Richard’s shoulder, half-reclining, as they chatted, and enjoyed their coffee, exchanging kisses in between.

Richard said goodbye after several more kisses.

“Good night na talaga sweetheart, and last kiss mo na ito ngayong gabi.” Maya said as she tiptoed and give Richard a bone-melting kiss. “Sweet dreams. I love you.”

“Sweet dreams, my love. I love you very much.” Richard said as he gazed at Maya lovingly. Maya’s parents are coming home for a visit, he thought! This is his chance and the opportunity he has been waiting for. He went home very happy, a beautiful plan forming in his head.

Chapter 7
Love in the air

The ballroom of one of the fanciest hotels in Makati was filled with men wearing suits and ties, women dressed in beautiful and expensive gowns, sipping their favorite cocktails as they chatted in small groups, while soft music played in the background.

In the middle of the gathering, Richard Lim was commanding attention, not only because of his good looks and the confident way he carries himself, but because this was the first time, he was out in a social setting since he left the country more than two years ago, and after the death of his father. People were very curious about the new CEO of Lim Corporation. Added to that, a beautiful girl, wearing a simple, but very elegant royal blue chiffon gown, was with him, and they looked so good together. They also looked very much in love. People noticed it in the way they gazed at each other, sought each other out when they got separated, and the little touches they exchanged when they thought people were not looking.

Richard was reluctant to go to this event. However, Lisa told him that the award that they were supposed to receive from the organization who gives this annual recognition is one of the most prestigious in the business. The winners were pre-selected, and the organization just holds an awarding ceremony, then a party for the winners. His executive assistant also added that it wouldn’t hurt for the new CEO of the LC to be seen in a very important and well-attended event like this. He asked Maya to go with him. He wanted her to share this moment with him. This was also their first outing into society since they became a couple two weeks ago.

It had been a wonderful two weeks for Maya and Richard as they expressed their feelings for each other after clearing the air in the rooftop garden. They ended up staying there the whole afternoon, just being with each other, and making up for lost moments. They told their respective offices that they will just go on leave the rest of the afternoon. When they got down from the rooftop garden, Marissa knew that her boss and the beautiful and well-liked head of their foundation are now a couple. The whole company noticed the change in their status the following days. The employees were happy that their boss has found love, and to such a lovely person as Maya Dela Rosa. Richard also introduced Maya to his mother. Mrs. Lim and Maya took an instant liking to each other. It turned out also that Mama Esme, as she wanted to be called by Maya, knew Maya’s dad and mom. They met each other in some embassy function in Beijing many years ago. Richard and Maya spent all their free time together. Sometimes in the roof garden for lunch, and the evenings, having dinner in the restaurants that struck their fancy, or at Maya’s family home, where she cooked for him. Richard couldn’t be happier. Maya felt she is the luckiest girl in the world as Richard is the sweetest boyfriend.

“Sweetheart, are you okay? Hindi ka ba bored?” Richard whispered to Maya when they got a respite from all the business associates, and friends of Sir Roberto saying hello to Richard, and those who approached them because they were curious about Maya. “This event sometimes last for hours. See, it is not even starting!”

“Don’t worry about me Ricky. I’m okay. I attend charity events for the foundation, and those too, sometimes went on for hours. I also accompanied my dad before to functions when mom was not around or didn’t want to go , so I got used to to this kind of thing.” Maya assured Richard as she holds on to his arm.

“Thank you, sweetheart. Have I told you that you looked so beautiful tonight and that I am the envy of all the guys here?” Richard told Maya as he gazed lovingly at her. “I can’t even leave your side for so long, someone might snatch you right under my nose.”

“Naku, Mr. Lim, I can’t count na nga how many times you told me that this evening. Pero, thank you pa rin. Saka, kilig pa rin kaya ako every time you say  that.” Maya smiled sweetly at Richard, then affectionately rubbed his arm.

They private moment was interrupted by someone who suddenly went too close to Richard and tried to kiss him on the lips. Good thing he got good reflexes, Richard thought. He managed to sidestep the kiss, and it landed on his cheek.

“Richard, darling, how are you? It has been a while.” The lady wearing a low-cut gown that showed a lot of skin, said to Richard in a smoky voice. “Let’s hang out soon.”

“Hi Josephine.” Richard said cooly. “I didn’t know that your father’s company is also one of the awardees.”

“Our company is on the committee this year. When I saw in the list that LC is going to be one of the awardees, I made an effort to come, for you. “Josephine said flirtingly. “You are bad ha, for not been returning my calls and your witch of a secretary always told me you were unavailable when I go to LC.”

Richard ignored her flirty censure that sounded like they had something going, then put his hand on Maya’s back, pulled her closer to him, and introduced her to Josephine.

“Josephine, please meet my lovely girlfriend, Maya dela Rosa.” He said proudly. “Maya, sweetheart, this is Josephine del Rosario of RDR Group of Companies. “Her dad Ramon was a friend of Papa.”

Maya knew the moment Richard uttered the name “Josephine” that this was the girl that his father wanted him to marry.

“Nice to meet you Josephine!” She said with a polite smile.

Josephine looked at Maya from head to foot, then smiled cooly, as if she is dismissing her as nobody worth of her time and attention. Maya also felt the hostility coming from Josephine. But she decided to let it pass , and keep her cool.  When Josephine noticed Richard was not really reacting to what she was saying and that his attention was just focused on the girl beside him, she left in a huff.

Soon after the awards ceremony started and they went back to their table. Lisa was there and several other officers of LC. True to Richard’s prediction, the event lasted long, having started late. But with Maya beside him, he didn’t feel bored or didn’t notice the passing of the hours. They whispered at each other from time to time and held hands under the table.

Maya was waiting for Richard, who got cornered by one of his father’s longtime friend, at the lounge of the hotel, when she heard Josephine’s smoky voice and another girl’s. She looked at them from her peripheral vision.

“Josephine girl, have you seen Richard Lim’s girlfriend? She is very lovely ha. I also heard that she is the daughter of our ambassador to Spain.” The girl said conversationally. “Nagkakilala raw sila sa Sweden, from what I heard.”

“What, lovely???  She looks ordinary to me. And I am not interested in her background and the circumstances of their meeting each other. I wonder how long will she last as Richard’s girlfriend? You’ve heard of him before and I know him. I don’t think he is really into her. Besides, girlfriend, Richard is mine and di ba, we almost got married two years ago! He just decided to go abroad because of his feud with Tito Roberto.” Josephine stressed to the other girl. “That Maya Dela Rosa  is no competition to me! Watch out, the next time you read the society colums, you will read about my engagement to Richard!”

Maybe, it was the lateness of the hour, or she just genuinely dislikes that spoiled brat, but Maya had enough of the rude girl and her lies. She approached Josephine and her friend calmly. I have to hold on to my temper, she mused, think of Ricky!

“Excuse me, hi Josephine, and hello to you too, Ms…..” She said. “I’m Maya Dela Rosa.”

“Hi, I’m Mayen Carlos!” The other girl said and gave Maya a tentative smile, recognizing her as the girl with Richard Lim. “And you are Richard Lim’s girlfriend he had been proudly introducing around earlier. That was sweet of him.”

“Girlfriend! Not for long!” Josephine said cattily, ignoring Maya.

“If I may speak Josephine, sorry I can’t help, but heard what you two were talking about, as your voice was quite  loud. Pardon for this, Mayen.” Maya said politely and apologetically to the other girl. “Josephine, please respect the fact that Richard is in a relationship and the lucky girl is me. It is not you or any of the girls who ran after him before he left for abroad. You can’t force love the way you have done. Yes, he had told me about you. And yes, we are perfectly happy and very much in love. And please don’t spread lies about my boyfriend. Thank you! Nice to meet you Mayen. I just wish it was in a better setting.” She added for Mayen.

Maya made her exit after saying her piece. She didn’t really want to get into a cat fight with the girl who was after her man. Besides, on hindsight, she should have just ignored her. She would have, if Josephine was not rude and mean. She left Josephine getting red in the face.

Richard heard what Maya said and asked her when they were in the car. Good thing, they have decided to ask Mang Lem, the Lim family driver to drive them to this event. It ended to be much better. Now they can sit together, chat and cuddle in the back seat.

“What was that all about with Josephine, sweetheart.” He asked, though, based on what he heard, he have a pretty good idea.

“Naku, never mind Ricky. I should have not said anything to that Josephine.” Maya said, sighing. “She just got on my nerves with the stuffs she was saying about you.”

“Hmmm, kaya pala you were starting to look fierce, sweetheart. Just ignore her.” Richard said as he settled Maya comfortably in his arms and teased. “Inggit lang iyon sa iyon kasi your boyfriend is handsome, na kahit marathon na yata ang ginawa niyang paghahabol di niya nakuha! Saka, I heard yata na you told her you are the lucky girl I chose!”

“Yabang mo, sweetheart.” Maya jested and lovingly pinched him on the side. “Swerte ka rin sa akin ah. Imagine, kahit sa kabilang panig ng mundo, nabighani ka.”

“Yes naman sweetheart, I am the luckiest guy in the world. Besides there is only one girl I see, since I met that lovely girl in Sweden. I will hold on to her and never let her go.” Richard then kissed Maya on the forehead and hugged her tight. They settled more comfortably in the car for the trip to Antipolo where Maya lives, with her old nanny, Manang Fe and another househelp, Sabel, since her parents are in Europe.

“Maya, sweetheart, we are here.” Richard said as he tried to wake up a sleeping Maya.

“Ricky, I just want to stay here” She said as she burrowed deeper into Richard’s embrace.

It took several more minutes before Richard managed to wake up Maya. He accompanied her inside. She opened the door, Manang Fe and Sabel, having gone to sleep. Maya asked if Ricky wants a cup of coffee before he goes back to Makati where he lives.

“Thank you, sweetheart, but I better head home. Saka para you can rest na also.” Richard said as he brought Maya to the foot of the stairs. “Go up na please, and I will just lock after me.”

Maya nodded, kissed Richard on the lips and started going up the stairs of the dimly-lit house, when she realized something. She was hesitant, but decided anyway to ask him.

“Errr, Ricky, before you you. I need a favor.” She said, getting red in the face a little bit. “Can you help me unbutton the top buttons of my gown. I can’t do it. I don’t want to wake up Manang and Sabel, anymore. Sabel was actually the one who helped me earlier.”

Richard smiled and assured Maya it is okay. Maya stood on the steps with her back to Richard, who started unbuttoning Maya’s gown. The more skin that got exposed, the harder for Richard to breath. He didn’t realize Maya’s effect on him and her innocent request. He can’t move promptly after undoing the buttons. He needed to collect himself.

“Ricky, sweetheart, are you done? I think I can manage undoing the rest.”  Maya said as she turned to face Richard and caught the longing and the desire on his face. It triggered something in her. She touched his face and whispered softly, “Ricky”.

Richard looked at Maya and his control snapped. He started kissing her. It started as a simple meeting of their lips, but it progressed to much more. They kissed hotly, passionately and he started caressing Maya’s exposed back. Maya was also caressing Richard’s back and they were as close as two person could be. They were so at it, that they didn’t notice the lights going up. Until the sound of someone clearing her throat penetrated their private world.

“Ehhmmm, Maya hija, and Richard, good evening.”  Manang Fe greeted the two with a poker face. “Ginabi na kayo ah.”

Richard and Maya broke apart, with Richard trying to cover Maya’s exposed back by putting her infront of him.

“Good evening po, Manang Fe.” Richard said respectfully. He liked Manang Fe and the past several times he had been here, she acted like a mom to Maya and made him felt at home also. Maya told him that she is like a mom to her since her parents were either abroad or quite busy.

“Hi Manang.” Maya said, blushing. “Gising pa po pala kayo?”

“Kukuha sana ako ng maiinom. Bigla akong nauhaw, eh. Saka, titingnan ko rin sana kung nakauwi ka na. Alam mo namang hindi ako mapakali, kahit alam kung okay ka naman, kapag ginagabi ka.” Manang said, looking closely at the two, but didn’t say anything anymore. “O sige, maiwan ko na kayo. Good night, Richard, ingat sa pag-uwi.”

“Thank you po, Manang Fe, paalis na rin po ako.” Richard said.

They waited until Manang Fe was out of sight before they moved from where they were. They looked at each other and smiled sheepishly.

“Naku, baka i-ban na ako ni Manang dito.” Richard said while smiling at Maya. “Ikaw kasi eh.”

“Ha, bakit ako, ikaw yata ang nagsimula ng lahat.” Maya good-naturedly bantered. “Para, I was asking you lang to unbutton my gown.”

“Maya sweetheart, you don’t know your effect on me.” Richard said lovingly, then affectionately kissed her on the nose. “But I better get going, baka nga tuluyan na akong i-ban ni Manang. Good night, I love you very much.”

“I love you too, sweetheart. Take care and text me when you get home.” Maya said and hugged Richard.

They kissed goodbye, and it took two more kisses before they let go of each other that evening. Maya and Richard both went to bed smiling, remembering the perfect ending to their evening.

Note: My apologies for the delayed update. Got busy in the real world. I needed to catch up on two days of sleep yesterday! Anyways, I hope you liked the continuation of SL. Have a nice evening, or morning! 🙂

Chapter 6
Heart to heart

Maya saw Richard right away when she got to the top. He was sitting on one of the rattan chairs in the gazebo. He didn’t notice that she was there. He was just staring into space and unconsciously tapping his fingers on the glass table, his coffee, untouched.

“Ricky.” Maya called softly.

“Maya!” Richard said, very surprised to see her standing at the entrance of the garden. He smiled brightly, especially when he realized that Maya called him “Ricky” and not “Sir”! He is so happy at the moment. At last, he will have his chance to explain himself and apologize to Maya.

Richard stood up, went to Maya, hold her on the elbow and guided her to the chair beside his. He asked her what would like to drink. Only then that Maya noticed her surroundings. Her heart was beating so loudly that she felt dizzy for a moment. The whole place is really beautiful, and looks so peaceful. There is also a small bar in one corner of the garden.

“No, thank you, Ricky.” She replied. “This is really a beautiful place. It looks so peaceful with all the flowers in bloom, and the plants. I didn’t know that there is a garden here, on top of our building.” She continued conversationally to calm her nerves.

“Not many people have been here. My mother had it built for Papa. He liked to garden during his leisure time. Mama thought it would be a stress reliever for him to come up here from time to time. Even if he can’t garden here!” Richard said by way of explanation. He too, felt the need to chatter, to steady his fast beating heart. He was unsure if he will start the conversation on the issue hanging between them. He opted to wait for Maya to say something.

“Ricky, thank you for the flowers. Ang dami ah. Also for the framed photo yesterday, and the coffee and muffin.” Maya said as she looked intently at Ricky’s handsome face.

“Maya, about the notes, I meant every word I have written.” He replied.

“R-ricky.” Maya said, then she asked him the question that has been in her head since he ‘disappeared’ from her life in Stockholm. “Why did you leave without even saying goodbye? I mean, you are free to come and go, wala naman talaga tayong commitment, but didn’t I deserve a goodbye, even as a friend? Then added to that, you didn’t tell me you are connected to Lim Corporation, or that you are one of the Lims of LC!”

“W-what?” Ricky exclaimed, surprised at Maya asking why he didn’t say goodbye. “Maya I left you a note, explaining that I had a family emergency. I left it at the front desk of your hotel! Didn’t they give it to you?”

“You, did? Wala naman silang ibinigay sa akin! I waited for you at the lobby the following evening, pero nang hindi ka dumating, I got worried. I called your phone pero out of reach siya. Nahiya naman akong tumawag kay Rafi , and hanapin ka. The following day, I waited for you again, pero wala pa rin. Then the third night as well, and that was when I realized then that you were gone. I will admit, nasaktan ako ng sobra, kasi I thought we were okay. We were more than okay when we parted after our trip to the botanical garden.” Maya said as she looked at Ricky, getting teary-eyed.

“Maya, sweetheart, please don’t cry. I can’t take that. I’m so sorry for everything – for the miscommunication, for not saying to you my connection to LC! You don’t know how sorry I was for not admitting to you my connection to the company you work for. I was planning to come clean that Monday evening where we were supposed to see each other again. After our trip to the botanical garden, it was very important for me do so. I didn’t want a lie between us. I believed we have started something beautiful. I was hoping then that you also felt the same feeling I was feeling after the kiss we shared. But I should have not left the telling to another day, as something very urgent came up the following day. I needed to take an urgent trip to the Philippines. I tried calling you, pero you were not answering. I guessed you turned off your phone during training, kaya there was that note I left. Let me explain fully, please.” Richard appealed as he held both of Maya’s hands.

Maya looked at him and nodded.

Richard took a deep breath, then looking deeply into Maya’s eyes, started his explanation.

“I think I better start from the beginning. My father sent me to Harvard. He wanted me to learn everything I could about running a business. He wanted to groom me as his successor. I returned to the Philippines full of ideas, and very eager to implement all I have learned in my studies in America. I wanted to be with him in making our company grow more. However, the reality was far from my idealistic take on things. Yes, my father gave me a key management position which suited my qualifications. But most of my ‘modern ideas’, he disgreed with. I will take a step forward and then he will send me two steps backward. He didn’t have enough confidence in me. He was just too traditional when it comes to business. Yet I persevered, thinking that he was just slow to change, being old school, but it didn’t change as months and years passed by. I love the company, our employees, and I love my father too, and my mother, so I stayed, even if there were times, I wanted to quit. However, things  came to a head when he insisted that I marry one of his business partner’s daughter. I had enough of him not trusting me to make my own decision, prove my worth, and help in the running of the company. He wanted to manage my personal life too, saddle me with a girl I didn’t love, that I didn’t even like!

I submitted my letter of resignation and I told him I accepted a job in England. He told me that I can’t expect any support from him. I said I can manage. I said sorry to him then packed my bags and moved to London. I cut ties with LC and went on my own. It was a nice feeling also to be just ‘Ricky Lim’, not ‘Richard Lim’ of Lim Corporation. I was just a bit sad at how my father and I parted. It made Mama sad too.

Two months ago, my Uncle Patrick, my father’s brother who was on the board of LC, started appealing to me to come back to the company. He said my father was sick. He said my father regretted our discord, but too proud to ask me himself, to come back. He said he was doing the asking on his own volition and that my father didn’t know about his calls to me. I put him off. I was not ready to come back, for fear that when my father gets well, he will be back to his old ways. I made a life where I was. Just before I came to Sweden, Uncle Patrick called me again. I told him I will think about it. I decided to take some time off,  see what Rafi has to say about the whole thing.

Then, there was you. I never expected I would fall in love, so sudden, so fast, when I took that trip to Sweden. I was not really looking for love, the way things were. But from the moment I have seen you at the airport, I was attracted to you. Then, fate has thrown us together several times. The more I got to know you, the more, I fell deeper. I regretted not telling you about me and LC right away. But at the time you told me where you work, I just wanted to forget all my problems, my situation. I also wanted you to know me as me, and not because I am your boss’ son. I also didn’t know what you have heard about ‘Richard Lim’. When I got to know you better, I have decided that I will tell you the truth, and was just looking for an opportunity to do so. After our trip to the botanical garden, and I realized that I have fallen for you, I have decided to tell you the following night, and ask for your forgiveness. I hope that you can also see beyond that, and consider we had so far, together. I love you with all my heart, Maya. I didn’t intend to hurt you or leave you like that.

“Ricky.” It was all Maya can say, as she tried to reassure Richard that she understood. “What happened?”

“The following morning, Rafi and I got a call from Mama. She asked us to come home as Papa was terminally ill. He had cancer. We didn’t even know he was that sick! He didn’t want us to know and worry. Mama said that Papa wanted to talk to me urgently. We readily booked the earliest available flight that day. When I failed to reach you, I decided to leave a note for you at your hotel on the way to the airport. In it, I told you that Rafi and I were going back to Manila and that I will see you there when you return from your training. I also mentioned that I have something to tell you and that I want to tell it to you in person. I also wrote my parents’ address and phone number in the note.”

“Ricky, I wished I have known the situation you were in. I don’t know what happened to your note! I never thought it could be like that. Kaya pala, Sir Roberto was very sickly the past several months. I liked yout father, even if he was strict. He was very sincere in helping people. I was sad to hear of his passing.” Maya touched Richard’s face. “I wished I was able to comfort you.”

“You did, Maya, in a way.” Richard said and then elaborated. “The thought of you and our time together gave me strength, and comforted me as I went through the whole gamut of emotions  – from guilt in not listening to my uncle, and not patching things up with my father, sadness at his passing, and regret at all the wasted time – time that I could have spent with him, instead of working abroad. But then, I also took comfort in the fact that our paths crossed because of me going abroad. Though, had I not left, I think we will also meet at some point and ended up liking each other.

“When Rafi and I arrived home, I could see how happy Papa was to see us, especially me. He asked if he could talk to me alone. And when we did, he said sorry to me for not listening to my ideas, not giving me the room to grow, and forcing someone I didn’t like to me. He told me he should have not done that. He said, he should have known better since he and my mom were a love match. What my dad didn’t know was that – Josephine was the one pushing her father to talk to my father about us marrying. She have been coming on to me quite strongly prior to that, but I just ignored her.

Papa and I talked long into the night. I told him about you. He was very happy to know that we have met. He liked you. He also said that when got to know you, he thought that if he can wish someone especial for me, it is you. He said his only regret is that he will not see us together. I told him to concentrate on getting well as I will not stop until you are my girlfriend, then we can all have dinner, and I will introduce you to him and Mama as my love.

He died in his sleep the day after that, Maya.” Richard said, his voice breaking. “It was so hard in the beginning, but I have accepted that he is with God now, free from pain that he had been feeling the past several months. Mama said Papa really changed and mellowed after I left the country and he regretted what happened between us. I really wished I had more time with him. I also came to realized, then, that life could be gone in a snap so we should savor all the moments we can with our loved ones. Tell them how we feel, and don’t waste time.”

Maya didn’t notice that there were tears in her eyes until Richard wiped it with his thumb. She hugged Richard tight to comfort him and whispered. “ I love you  Ricky.” Maya realized too that life is too short to dwell on things that had already happened and that she can’t do anything about. She and Richard have both learned something from what happened. What’s important is now. Love is stronger and more enduring. They are just starting, but she want to nurture and make their love grow more and more each day they are together.

“Maya, I love you very much. Promise, I will make it up to you. I will never leave you again, and thank you, for forgiving me!” Richard said with so much loved. He cupped her face and kissed her with all the love he feels. Maya responded to Richard’s kiss, wanting to show him how much she loves him too. The rooftop garden became the perfect backdrop for their expression of love for each other.

Chapter 5
Love among the blooms

Richard was still smiling when he pressed the intercom to call his secretary. At least, a glimmer of hope from Maya, he thought. Now on to his next move, to make her say yes 100 percent to talking to him, and hearing him out.

“Yes, Sir Richard.” Marissa said, noticing that her boss is in a very good mood.

“Marissa, please call the florist we use and order these.” Richard said as he handed Marissa a piece of paper, with some instructions in it. “Please be here early tomorrow for the delivery and supervise the crew that will go to Maya’s office.”

“Oh, wow!” It was all Marissa could say, her eyes round as saucers when she read the list her boss gave her. Then she smiled at Richard. “Consider this done, Sir. Ako na ang bahala.”

“By the way, include this also.” He handed her another small envelope. “Thank you, Marissa.”

“Okay, Sir. No problem.” She smiled at him and felt kilig also at the latest development in the love story between her boss and his lady love.

Richard went home that evening in high spirits. He knew he still needed to explain himself well to Maya, but he is getting more and more optimistic that she will hear him out.

Maya also felt happy when she arrived home that evening. Remembering their times in Sweden made her happier, even if she felt very sad and hurt the rest of her stay there because she missed Richard, and was puzzled that he just, sort of, disappeared from her life. She thought of asking Rafi , but pride and reserve prevailed. Now, she is getting more and more open to the idea of giving Richard the benefit of the doubt. Maybe, he did have a very valid reason for just leaving like that, or for not disclosing his connection to Lim Corporation, she mused.

In the short time that Maya had known Richard, she discovered that he was a gentleman, a very caring person, very straightforward, a fun friend, and he really listened to what she was saying, even if sometimes, it was just something silly. She also liked his sense of humor. Besides in all the years of working everywhere and meeting a lot of people, Maya considered herself a pretty good judge of character, and from the onset, she didn’t see or felt anything negative about Ricky.  She felt very comfortable with him, as if they have known each other a long time. She didn’t feel that he was stringing her along. In fact, except for the LC issue, he had been very candid with her. Judging by what Rafi said, it seemed that he was not that open to other people at all.

Maya’s introspection was interrupted by the beeping of her mobile phone.

                                            Good night, Maya. Sweet dreams.

                                            Looking forward to seeing you again.

                                            I hope it will be 100% tomorrow. 😉

                                            – Ricky

His message made Maya smiled. She can’t resist replying.

                                            You wish! 🙂

She went to bed smiling, and quite happy. Richard, on the other hand, had an even bigger smile when he went to sleep.

Maya woke up with a feeling of anticipation. Ricky was the same. They both went to work early.

This time they met each other at the coffee shop at the ground floor of the building.

“Good morning Maya.” Richard greeted Maya with a big sunny smile. Then, he automatically ordered her favorite brew from the barista. “Miss, one tall americano for her please.”

“Oh, you don’t have to, Sir.” Maya protested.

“I insist, please. Just say, thank you Ricky.” Richard asserted.

“Thank you, Sir Richard.” She stressed, just can’t resist saying it, tongue-in-cheek.

The two of them walked towards the elevator. Richard pressed the elevator button going up, and gestured to Maya to enter first. They sipped their coffee silently, comfortably, taking sidelong glances at each other, staring but not really looking at the changing numbers on the elevator panel, until they reached the highest floor.

“i’ll go ahead, Sir.” Maya said to Richard and then rushed to her office.

When she reached her section, she found some of her staff looking at something from her opened office door. When they parted to allow her to pass, she was astonished! Her office was transformed into a flower shop, with sunflowers, roses, tulips, and other blooms she can’t readily name, in vases on all the available surface!

“Minerva, who gave me these flowers?” She asked when she recovered a little bit, though, she knew the answer to it.

“Ms. Maya, pagdating po namin ni Emman, nandiyan na ang mga iyan.” She replied.

“Naku, Sis, bonggang-bongga naman ang admirer mo ah. Parang alam ko na kung sino.” Emman looked at Maya and smiled.

Maya just smiled, then told Emman and Minerva, also the other curious employees, to go back to their cubicles. Then she looked for a card. She found the small card at the center of her desk. She opened it, had no inkling that the message would be earthshaking.

                                Dearest Maya,

                                Every time I see flowers, I got reminded of our

                                trip to the botanical garden.

                               It was a day etched not only in my memory, but in my heart.

                               It was the day I realized I’ve fallen in love with you.

                               Love,

                              Ricky

“Oh Ricky.” Maya said, putting all her feelings in those words, then muttered to herself. “Hindi lang ikaw, Ricky, hindi lang ikaw. I also realized I have fallen for you hard on that day!” She can’t help but remember her last day with Richard, and the turning point in their relationship.

While Maya was holding the card, trying to absorb what Richard said, and taking another trip down memory lane, Richard can’t keep still in his office. He is wondering how Maya is reacting on his latest and biggest move to patch things up with her. But he thought, oh well, the die has been cast. “I just need to wait on how she would take this.” He needed to relax and there is one place where he can try to do that. He informed his secretary where he would be, and told her the only instance when he can be disturbed there. When he reached the rooftop garden, he sat on one of the rattan chairs there, and thought of the last day he was with Maya in Stockholm.

One fine Sunday

The ringing of her mobile phone woke Maya. She was startled, not use to someone calling her in Sweden. During training hours, her phoned is even turned off. She looked at the screen and smiled.

“Hi Ricky, good morning. Ang aga mong nagising ah. Considering na whole day tayo kahapon na naglakwatsa.” She greeted Richard happily.

“Rise and shine, Maya! I have a treat for you. Get ready!” He replied, excitement evident in his voice. “Hurry up, please.”

“Wait, teka, teka. Saan tayo pupunta at nasaan ka ba?” She asked while trying to shake off the remnants of sleep from her system. “Did we agree to meet today?”

“ No, we didn’t. But it is a nice day for the trip I have in mind. You will like it, I promise.” Richard cajoled Maya. “I’m here at the lobby. I also have a steaming cup of coffee for you.”

“Okay, okay. Mabuti I was not planning to do anything today, except sleep in, and go out nga rin later.” Maya said, happy that she will be spending another day with Richard. She does not know how long he intended to stay in Sweden. He replied vaguely when she asked.

One hour later, Maya and Richard were inside Bergius Botanic Garden. Just like the previous day, Maya’s senses went on overddrive, this time on the over abundance of beautiful flowers, and plants from all over that she can see. She noticed familiar ones too.

“Wow, this so wonderful! Thank you Ricky.” Maya was so happy, that she forgot herself, and hugged Ricky tight. Then she realized what she did, and blushed. 

Richard smiled at her, a smile that lit up his whole face and made his chinito eyes disappeared into a thin line. He gazed at her intently, and meaningfully. He  actually felt his heart jumped when Maya hugged him. “I know how you love flowers. Di ba you told me your favorite pa nga are sunflowers. Come let’s tour the place. Tapos, we will have lunch at The Old Orangery. The place serves meals from locally and ecologically produced products daw, sabi sa site nila.”

They did that, then toured the rest of the place. When they got tired, they went to the cafe inside the Edvard Anderson Conservatory. The view was wonderful  and very relaxing as they sipped their steaming cups of coffee. From the cafe, they can also see all the plants of the greenhouse closely. Everything is beautiful, they both thought, not only because of the beauty around them, but because of the company. They chatted, sipped coffee,  sometimes, they would find themselves gazing each other, then smiling for no apparent reason, other than they are so happy to be in each other’s company.

“Ricky, thank you again for this wonderful treat.” Maya said, so happy with the way her Sunday turned out.

“Basta, ikaw Maya. Anything for you, anything to make you happy. Seeing you this happy is also making me happy.” He said simply.

They left the botanic garden around 4 o’clock in the afternoon. By that time, it was drizzling. Richard wanted to wait until the rain stops. Maya said they should just go for it, anyway it was just light rain, so they can catch their bus. Richard said, they can just take a taxi afterwards. Maya said the bus is coming so there is no need for that. She grab Richard’s hand and started to pull him towards the direction of the bus stop. Ricky stopped her and intertwined their hands. At first, Maya was surprised, but liked the feeling of it, felt kilig, she looked at their interwined hands, and smiled at Ricky. They half-jogged in the rain, which turned from drizzle to downpour in a matter of minutes. They ended up missing their bus. Maya and Richard stopped at a bridge after a while, laughing and very wet, trying to catch their breaths. Maya’s hair was plastered all over her face, and water was dripping on Ricky’s face.

“Maya, let me.” Richard said as he parted Maya’s hair from her face, tucked the strands behind her ears. Then proceeded to wipe the water from her face with his hand. 

While Richard was doing that, Maya was gazing at him intently. Their eyes met, and both felt very strong emotions then, before they can stop themselves, their lips met into a bone-melting kiss, unmindful of the rain, or the people passing by. They were in a world of their own. They slowly parted after a while, looked at each with huge, loving smiles.

“Maya, I’m not sorry I kissed you.” Richard said as he continue caressing her face.

Maya blushed and gave Richard a loving smile. “Let’s go na nga.”

They ended up taking a taxi. They were very much conscious of each other and the remembrance of their kiss in the rain. There were times, they just looked at each other lovingly. Their hands were still firmly intertwined. Even without verbal declarations of love, they know their relationship shifted to another level. Both were on cloud nine when they parted that night, and were looking forward to seeing each other the following evening.

Maya read Richard’s note again, and smiled. She made a decision then. She will hear him out. She realized that something so beautiful, so wonderful, that had happened to them, should be nurtured and worth the risk, worth everything, despite the fact that after that beautiful Sunday, Ricky didn’t show up at her hotel lobby, anymore.

She went to Richard’s office.

“Hi Marissa. Is Mr. Lim, free? May I see him?” She asked his secretary.

“Hi Ms. Maya, he is at the rooftop garden. He told me to send you there, if you come looking for him.” Marissa said and gave Maya directions.

Maya went up. She didn’t even know that their building has a rooftop garden. But judging by where she was, she realized that the garden is a private one. She is very nervous, but at the same time, has a good feeling on the outcome of this talk with Richard. Her love for him eclipses all the sad and hurt feelings she felt when he left. Knowing that he also loves her is giving her strength to move towards him, be with him again.

Chapter 3
Hopelessly drawn

Richard made inroads on the papers on his desk when he returned to his office after his meeting with Maya. He is really glad to have seen her, finally. He missed her a lot and their moments in Stockholm. He have a lot of things to tell her, share with her. Though, Richard also knows he needs to be patient and earn his way back to her good graces.

The past two weeks that Richard had assumed the position of CEO, he had very little time for himself. His father left the company in order, but it is on the traditional and conservative side, and he plans to make some changes. It has to be gradual, he thought, as people hates drastic changes. Added to the fact, he needed to cheer up his mother, Esmeralda. She and his father have been inseparable all throughout their lives, that the reality of her husband gone is making her very sad. His sister Rafi helped, but her young daughter and her husband needed her, so she went back to Sweden several days ago.

Now, papers done. Richard is waiting for his secretary’s return to find out what was Maya’s reaction with his ‘little gift’, his opening salvo in his campaign to make it up to Maya, forgive him, and have his Maya back.

There was a knock on his door. Then his secretary entered.

“Sir Richard, naibigay ko na po iyong ipinabibigay niyo kay Ms. Maya.” Marissa reported to him. “Kinuha naman po niya.”

“Thank you Marissa. What was her reaction?” He asked, curious to know if Maya looked mad when she received the coffee and the muffin.

“Wala naman po, Sir. She just thanked me.” His secretary said briefly. “Is there anything else you want me to do, Sir Richard?”

“No, wala na, and many thanks again, Marissa.” Richard said. He know that he does not need to ask his secretary to keep this thing to herself. He is confident that what he asked his secretary to do will not be a fodder to the company gossip mill. He knew her and her husband Sonny even before he left the company more than two years ago. Sonny was his old EA. He was a ninong at their wedding. They are good people.

Richard does not expect a call from Maya to thank him as at the moment, he knew she still mad at him. But also knew that she got the significance of his ‘little gift’. Maya once told him that her favorite coffee brew and chocolate muffins with M&Ms on top, are her comfort food when she is stressing out, sad, or just want to cheer herself up. No matter how unhealthy, and even if it was just psychological, she explained to Richard, the first rush of hot cafe americano in her system, coupled with the super sweet taste of chocolate muffin and M&Ms, makes her happy. Richard remembered. When it comes to Maya, his mind is like that of a computer – recording, autosaving, and remembering everything.

Richard’s trip down memory lane

The trip to Sweden was something Richard was reluctant to take. But he needed to talk to his sister in person and get her opinion on the latest development in their family’s drama, or rather the latest episode in his and his father’s drama, so he thought at that time. He also hasn’t seen her in over a year. He had some free time so, he found himself booking a flight from London where he was living and working as a venture capitalist, to Sweden via Amsterdam. He decided to see one of his old Harvard friends living in Holland, might as well, before visiting his sister Rafaella, her husband Magnus and his little niece.

He first noticed Maya while waiting for their flight to Stockholm. She was late getting into the departure lounge. She was looking for a seat. He noticed her beautiful face, graceful bearing, and ready smile for everyone. He guessed right on that she is from the Philippines. But he just ignored the instant attraction to her. He thought, life is complicated enough at the moment, and beside, he was not really looking for any romantic entanglements during this trip or the past two years living abroad, dalliances yes, but anything involving deeper emotions, he shied away from. Then, if she is really a Filipina, she might, in the long run, connect him to his father’s company and the wealthy Lims. He had been burned that way before. There was also that Josephine thing! Though, he thought, it is extremely premature and too early to tell that this beautiful lady will turned out like the women he knew in the past. Besides, she might not want to get to know him, as well. And, I am overthinking things, he admonished himself, hindi mo pa nga kilala man lang. She looked tired also. He almost offered her his seat, but he was beaten to it by guy who was also looking at her admiringly. Then they boarded and he lost sight of her.

When the plane landed in Arlanda, he exited promptly. He just want to be at Rafi’s home and sleep. He was checking the number for the baggage claim carousel of his flight when someone bumped into him. He steadied the person and looked at her. Oh, it is the woman in Amsterdam that I admired, he mused. She does look very tired and sleepy, but still so beautiful with her heart-shaped face, and the smile that lit her face. They talked a bit, then he went ahead of her.

On the way to Rafi’s family’s house, he can’t get out her out of his head. Thoughts of her, was even distracting him from his problems. He barely listened to Rafi’s chatter while she navigated the streets of Stockholm. After he greeted Magnus, looked at his sleeping niece, Philippa, he went to sleep at the guestroom Rafi always prepared when he visits. Sleep didn’t come easily, and the last thought he had before succumbing to sleep was that of the woman he bumped into.

The folowing morning, he was up early. He knew from previous visits, that is the only day of the week that his sister and her family sleep in late. He decided to just leave them a note, to tell them that he went out. He wanted to clear his head also. He thought a walk around Gamla stan will do him good. He can just grab a bite at one of the cafe/bars there that he liked before. Richard headed to the central train station with a coffee he bought at one of the cafes he passed by. He just can’t resist the caffeine boost to his system a steaming cup of coffee usually does. While looking at the train schedules, someone bumped into him again and made him spilled the coffee he was about to drink. Good thing his reflexes were good. He looked at the other person, and  realized, that it is her again! He impulsively decided to get to know her better, as if there is an unseen force that propelled him – from introducing himself, to riding with her in the train to Gamla stan. She was easy to talk to and had this sunny personality and zest for life. Her face lit up when she was telling him the places she wanted to see and some of her funny experiences abroad. It took supreme effort to leave her when they got off the train.

Richard regretted parting ways with Maya. Several minutes after he said goodbye, he decided to ask her if he can accompany her. He went after her, but  too late, she disappeared among the throng of people going to the royal palace. He proceeded to the cafe he liked from last time, but his mind was not in the food and another cup of coffee. He knew she was going for a boat tour afterwards, so he just walked to the boat tour dock and waited for her to show up. True enough, several minutes later, Maya was there. It rain a bit and the steps going to the tour boat was a bit slippery. She almost slipped.

“Ooops, be careful, Ms. Maya Dela Rosa. Three times na that I am saving you!” He said by way of greeting her. “Paano na lang kung wala ako!”

“Ricky!!!”. Maya exclaimed, seemingly happy to see Richard. “Good to see you here. I am not usually this clumsy. Kapag nandiyan ka lang yata! You will take the sightseeing tour also?”

“I would like go with you sana. I found going around Gamla stan alone, boring! Would that be okay with you?” Richard asked. “I haven’t done this the past several  times I was in Stockholm.”

“Of course, I would be happy with the company!” Maya smiled at Richard, and thanked him as he assisted her to the best seats they could find for the water tour of Stockholm.

The tour boat went on its way, and the tour guides took them along the most beautiful sites of Stockholm, telling them of the history behind a building, a structure, a scenic area, the locks that connected the city. Maya and Richard were having fun. Maya took lots of pictures. Richard offered to take some of hers, and they even had ‘selfies’, which Richard did not normally like having. It seemed like his inner child and unsophisticated side got loose with Maya. He never had this fun in a long time. In between the sites, they chatted about general stuffs. When the tour ended, Richard was reluctant to let Maya go. He invited her to have coffee with him and promised to show her more of the sites in Gamla stan. He discovered that Maya likes old buildings, old churches and all things old, and Gamla stan has a lot of those.

While waiting for their orders, they continued chatting, as if they have not been doing so since they met this morning. This time, the talk got a bit more specific. Maya asked Richard about his work and he told him about his job in London, how it was living there. He told Maya he is used to being on his own as he did that in the States while finishing his advanced studies. Then Maya told him about her job, where she works, and he didn’t know at first how he would react.

“You work for Lim Corporation? In what capacity?” He asked, while swallowing hard, trying to contain his surprise.

“I’m the head of the company’s foundation. Compared to the other employees, I’m new. I just started several months ago.” Maya said, not noticing Richard’s startled expression when she mentioned where she works. “But I like my job. It is also along the lines of my previous job with the UN. Do you know the company?”

Richard didn’t know exactly what came to him at that moment, probably a knee-jerk reaction as coupled with his surprise, all his problems and the situation he was in, came rushing back. He didn’t want to lie directly to Maya, and outrightly deny his connection to Lim Corporation, so he changed the topic and asked her what exactly she does as the head of the foundation and its connection to her being in Sweden for the training she mentioned.

Maya told him about the projects and programs they were doing before she left the country, and that, hopefully the foundation can do more. The invitation to join this training came at the right time since she told him, it is her boss’ mandate, Sir Roberto Lim, to expand the reach of the foundation. Richard was surprised to hear that since it was so uncharacteristic of his father. Maya also sounded she respected and liked his father. One thing is clear to Richard, Lim Corporation is indeed lucky to have Maya, seeing how passionate she is when discussing her work and the things they are doing.

They walked around Gamla stan’s cobbled streets, afterwards, taking lots of photos along the way. One thing Richard discovered about Maya, right on, she likes taking photos, which she organize into online albums. The day extended to night as they also had dinner there. This time the talk was about their likes and dislikes. Maya likes old movies, and so does he. They differ though in their tastes of books. Maya likes detective stories, crime thrillers, and sappy period romances, while he tends towards biographies, books about wars, and business. He was not into fiction much. Maya also mentioned life as a diplomat’s daugther and he told her more of his adventures as a student in the States, and as an expat in England.

“Naku, Ricky, it is getting late na pala. I need to go back to the hotel.” Maya exclaimed when she noticed that it was already 10PM. “First day pa naman namin bukas. Saka baka hinahanap ka na nung sumundo sa iyo sa airport.”

“Oh, okay. I will take you back. And no, she is not looking for me. Sanay na iyon sa akin.” Richard said, not noticing the time too. He was enjoying her company too much. “And by the way, sister ko iyon, and her name is Rafaella.” He added, needing to clarify to Maya that the one who fetched him was not a special someone, in a romantic way.

They walked back to the train station. He was solicitous in assisting Maya and making sure that she was inside her hotel before he left her. They also agreed to meet the day after since Maya said that the following night, the institute who organized the training will have a welcome party for the participants. Maya gave him the sweetest smile and thanked him for their wonderful day together.

The following nights and weekend in Stockholm, were the best of Richard’s life. He didn’t expect he will find love there, but he did, until he had to leave her unexpectedly.

Richard suddenly noticed that it was already dark outside. He had been lost in thoughts the past hour. He needed to see his mom and have dinner with her. But before he leave the office, he needed to do one more thing. He got something from his drawer, then wrote something in a small card, put the card in an envelope, and called his secretary.

“Yes, Sir Richard.” Marissa asked as soon as she entered his office.

“Marissa, I have another favor to ask please. Can you buy a frame for this, then put it in a nice box, then attach this small envelope, then give this to Maya as soon as you get here tomorrow morning.” He instructed Marissa, who took a look at what he was holding, and smiled.

“Okay, Sir Richard. Ako na po ang bahala dito.” She said, while holding what Richard gave her carefully. Marissa never thought her boss could be like this, romantic. She left his office to work on his latest request.

“Maya, I hope this will take me closer to being forgiven.” Richard mused. Then left the office. He is looking forward to tomorrow, and another day of sharing the same space with Maya. He hopes, space is not the only thing they will share in the future.