Plans in motion

“Maya Sweetheart, what do you think of us staying here at the resort until after the New Year!” Richard suddenly asked while he and Maya were lying on a beach mat, and enjoying that nice, sunny and breezy Monday afternoon at the beach in front of their bungalow.

“Ha, why did you think of that all of sudden?” Maya asked, getting into a half-reclining position to better look at Richard, even if both of them were wearing sunnies at that time.

“Well, I just thought na parang bitin ang trip natin. I like here it here, very relaxing. I want to spend more time with you like this.” Richard said, as he too looked at Maya from he was lying down, with her his arms. Truth to tell, he had a hard time concentrating on the view with her looking so sexy in her swimsuit. “Di ba sa January, both of us will be busy na with work, lalo na at malapit nang mag-open iyong hotel sa BGC.”

“Hmmm, you may have a point there. I’m enjoying our time here too, very, very much.” Maya replied, then thinking out aloud, she said, “Sabagay, we have spent Christmas with our families na naman. Tita Lulu and Tito Mario are planning to celebrate the New Year in Tagaytay pero wala pang definite, sabi ni Tita Lulu kanina. Tapos, di ba your Mom and Dad are going abroad for the New Year?”

“Yes, Mama and Papa are spending the New Year in Hong Kong with some of my aunts and uncles. Seniors lakad daw so excuse kami ng mga cousin ko.” Richard said smiling.

“Okay, sige.” Maya said smiling. “I would like us to welcome the New Year together, our first as boyfriend and girlfriend.”

“Thank you, Sweetheart!” Richard grinning, hugging Maya tight in his happiness! “Yes, masosolo pa kita ng ilang araw!”

“Hahahaha, Sweetheart, solong-solo mo naman ako parati. Hindi na nga tayo naghihiwalay mula ng magkita tayo ulit.” Maya said laughing, so very happy to be spending more time with Richard in that wonderful place.

“Hmmm, bakit ayaw mo ba Sweetheart! Basta promise ko dati sa sarili ko, kapag nakita kita ulit and both of us feel the same, hindi na kita pakakawalan.” Richard said, helf-jesting, half-serious.

“Really, Ricky! You thought of that!” Maya amazed. She really thought that she had heard everything Ricky said to say about the times they were apart.

“Oo naman! Why not? Ikaw kasi eh.” Richard said.

“Ha, bakit ako?” Maya asked puzzled.

“Unang kita ko palang sa iyo, you have put me under your spell.” Richard said, smiling.

“Hahahaha, witch pa ang peg ko, Sweetheart. Parang habang papalapit ang paglubog ng araw pang, chumi-cheesy ang paligid.” Maya said grinning, feeling giddy with what she is still finding out from Richard. “But I love you very much, you know.”

“I love you very much too, Sweetheart.” Richard said, gazing at Maya with love in his eyes, then he lowered his lips to hers.

Maya and Richard broke apart several long seconds after. It is getting harder and harder to control the way their bodies reacted every time they kissed heatedly. Richard would like to wait as much as he could before he and Maya express their love physically. Despite her being everywhere abroad, he knew that Maya is innocent in the ways of love, and he wants to take it slow with her.

Maya, on the other hand, felt like she is on fire every time Richard kissed her like that. She wanted more, though there is a part of her that is afraid of the unknown. But she knows, with Richard with her, she can overcome that.

Maya shivered.

“Should we go back? I saw you shivered.” Richard asked Maya solicitously.

“No, I’m okay Ricky. Can we stay here some more, until the sun sets! I like it here.” Maya said.

“Pero, hindi ka pa ba giniginaw?” Richard asked.

“I’m okay. It is not because of that I shivered, but because of your effects on my senses when you kissed me like that.” Maya admitted blushing.

“Oh!” Richard grinned naughtily. “Hmmm, I have that effect, huh!”

Maya smiled. “Errr, yes!”

“Sweetheart, don’t blush. Ganyan din ang effect mo sa akin. Minsan nga, kahit your nearness lang.” Richard said cupping Maya’s chin. “Kung alam mo lang, the control I’m exerting. What we are feeling are normal since we love each other and we are in tune to each other physically as well.”

“Really, ikaw rin?” Maya asked.

“Yes, but expressing our love that way, can wait. Especially, when you are ready.” Richard assured Maya. “Come here.”

Richard sat up, then gestured for Maya to sit between his legs, then hugged her waist from behind, putting his chin on her shoulder. “This is the way I want to watch the setting sun with you. Are you okay? Are you comfortable, Sweetheart? Lean against me para mas comfortable ka.”

Maya was very much aware of Richard’s strong and muscled arms, and bare chest around her as she sat before him, stretching her legs too and leaning against him as he instructed. She felt safe and so very much loved. “Yes, I’m very much okay, Sweetheart.” Maya said half-looking at Richard, and smiling.

Maya and Richard settled in on their mat, enjoying the cool breeze and the beauty around them. So far, like Richard had said earlier, it has been a very wonderful two days. After they have visited Mamang’s grave the day before, Richard and Maya walked around town, holding hands. They smiled when they reached the town’s covered gym where their paths first crossed seven years ago.

“You were really so beautiful that night in that violet dress. You took my breath away.” Richard said as they stared at the structure reminiscing about the fateful night that changed the course of their lives, into what they have at that moment.

“While you, my Sweetheart, looked so handsome in that sports jacket, dress shirt and jeans.” Maya said, equally smiling, remembering her first glimpse of Richard.

They smiled at each other, then continued strolling through Maya’s town. Maya showed Richard the private school where she and James graduated high school. Then they reached a quiet residential part of the town where the ancestral house of the Dela Paz’s still stands. It is a beautiful art deco house.

“Wow!” Richard managed to say, admiring the architecture of the house. “This is where you grew up? Amazing house!”

“It is, isn’t it! That was Mamang’s pride and joy!” Maya said smiling. “I had the happiest memories in that house. For some, it may looked like a museum, but that house was a very homey home for me and Mamang. “I would have asked you to come in, but I forgot to ask the caretaker to meet us here. Maybe, we can return tomorrow?”

“It’s okay Maya, we can go back some other time. I would like to see the inside. It looked well-preserved from the outside, considering na seven years na nang may last tumira dito, di ba?”

“Yes, since Mamang died and I moved to Manila, wala nang tumira dito. But Tita Lulu made sure that the house is well maintained para raw kapag naisipan kong bumalik dito sa Mindoro at mag-stay, intact pa ang house. She told me she knows how important the house is to me.”

“You really have the best family, Maya!” Richard said.

“Yes, and she even told me that she is glad that her mother has left the house to me! Imagine, happy siya for me, considering na siya ang anak ni Mamang, di ba?” Maya told Richard.

“I agree, you’re Tita Lulu is a very nice person, and you are lucky.” Richard said.

“Maybe the next time we found ourselves in Mindoro, we can stay in the house, not that I don’t like your house in the resort. But I know the house will appeal to the architect in you.” Maya told Richard, gazing at him.

“I would like that. Imagine the sense of history too, in a house like that, Sweetheart. Generations after generations of your family lived there. Thank you!” Richard said.

From the Dela Paz ancestral home, Maya and Richard traveled to one of the outlaying barangays of San Nicolas to look at Mamang’s vacant land by the beach. The place is actually situated at the base of the mountain, sloping down the beach with the whitest sand.

“Maya, you have a very nice place here. It fitted on some of the preliminary sketches I had made after I offered to help you.” Richard remarked, looking around the beautiful nature around them. They were standing at the gate of the property.

“Really, I would like to see it please when we return to Manila.” Maya said. Then she opened the wooden gate by typing in the combination in the padlock that her Tita Lulu gave her. “Sabi ni Tita Lulu, nandito lang nakatira sina Manong Larry at Manang Vilma. Halika hanapin na lang natin. Hindi ko ma-contact iyong cellphone number na ibinigay sa akin ni Tita Lulu.”

Maya and Richard walked a little bit, until they saw a small house at the next turn. Maya called from the wooden fence.

“Maya, Ineng, bakit hindi ka nagpasabi na paparine ka.” Manong Larry greeted Maya with a big smile. “Kumusta na. Pitong taon din tayong hindi nagkita ah.”

“Manong Larry, kumusta na po kayo? Nasaan mo si Manang Vilma at saka sina Simon at Sabel?” Maya greeted their old caretaker. “Hindi na nga po ako nakatawag pa na ngayon kami paparito. Pero bago po kami umalis kanina ng San Bartolome, I tried calling your cellphone number na ibinigay ni Tita Lulu.”

“Ikaw pala iyon, Maya. Mangyari, naiwan ko ang cellphone sa bahay nang pumunta ako sa gawing dalampasigan. Pagbalik ko, may tawag nga ako. Hindi ko naman matanong kung sino ang tumawag kasi wala na pala akong load. Wala pa si Sabel eh, nasa school. Magpapapasa load sana ako.”

“Nasa school po si Sabel? Nag-aaral pa pala siya?” Maya asked surprised. She and Sabel are the same age.

“Hindi na Ineng. Nagtuturo siya diyan sa elementary school.” Manong Larry said, smiling.

“Oh, ganoon po ba.Nakakatuwa naman na malaman na natupad niya ang pangarap niyang maging teacher. Manong Larry, si Richard nga po pala, nobyo ko.” Maya said, introducing Richard who was just listening to her conversation with the old caretaker. “Ricky, ito si Manong Larry, caretaker ng properties ni Mamang dito.”

“Magandang hapon po, Sir Richard. Pasensya na kayo at napakwento na kami ng husto nitong si Maya. Matagal ko na kasing hindi nakikita. Sigurado po ako na kapag nalaman ni Sabel na nandito siya, matutuwa iyon. Magkalaro po sila noong mga bata sila.” Manong Larry said.

“Nice meeting iyo po, Manong Larry. Okay lang po iyon. Kaya nga po nagpunta rito si Maya, para bumisita.” Richard assured the old guy.

“Tuloy nga po, pala kayo rito sa bahay. Ay at hindi ko man lang kayo naimbitihang pumasok. Nandiyan ang Manang Vilma mo, Maya, nasa likod at naglalaba.”  Manong Larry said as he ushered his guests inside the house.

Manang Villma was also very happy to see Maya. She and Richard spent the afternoon with the Vasquez couple. Sabel arrived from school, followed by Simon, the youngest son who is in his last year of college, and the visit got extended to dinner. Maya told Manong Larry of her plans with the beach property, and assured them that they will still have a place in the property as she is only touching the side connected to the beach. Manong Larry was happy to know that. They said goodbye to the whole family after eight o’clock in the evening, arriving back at the resort close to 9 o’clock. They decided to call it a night. After several kisses they managed to part for the night.

This morning, Maya woke up early and it made Richard breakfast. Like he did, she served it in his bedroom, much to his delight. They had a leisurely breakfast sitting on Richard’s bed. After breakfast, Richard told Maya he needed to meet with Catherine and the guy in charge of the maintenance of the resort. He asked Maya if she would like to come. Maya told him she will just stay in the house and said they can just meet for lunch and if he is free, maybe they can go for a swim.

While Richard was away, Maya called her Ate Cris, who happened to be with her Tita Lulu. She told them that Richard is now her boyfriend and that she is very happy.

“Little sis, sabi ko na nga ba! Sure na sure ako na diyan kayong dalawa papunta. I’m happy for you.” Cris said. “I like Richard.”

“Thank you Ate Cris. Grabe ang saya-saya ko.” Maya replied. “Saka na lang ang buong kwento pagbalik ko ha.”

“I will hold you to that, little sis. Pero talagang kinikilig ako diyan sa lovelife mo, parang movie lang ang peg.” Cris said. “Heto pala ulit si Mom.”

“Maya, congratulations, anak! I’m so happy for you. I like Richard too. Boto kami ng Tito Mario mo sa kanya. I’m sure kung nabubuhay ang Mamang mo, ganoon din siya.” Lulu told her niece.

“Thank you po Tita Lulu. I’m so happy. I never expected to find a love like this, but here it is. I know Richard will always make me happy, no matter what.” Maya told her aunt. “Dinalaw nga po namin ni Ricky si Mamang kahapon. Ipinakilala ko si Ricky sa kanya.”

“Talaga. I’m sure natutuwa niyan si Mamang, kung nasaan man siya.” Lulu said. “O siya sige, Maya anak, hello na lang kay Richard and please say welcome to our family from us.”

“Thanks po, Tita Lulu. I will. Magkikita kami in a short while. May tinapos lang po siyang trabaho. Bibisita po kami pagkabalik natin. We haven’t plan pa pala where we will be going for the New Year.” Maya said. The whole family decided to put it off after Christmas as they can’t decide whether to go to Baguio or Tagaytay.

“Well, about that. Loose naman ang plans natin. Di bale, kung saan natin maisipan. But I think Baguio is out though kasi ang dami raw umaakyat and the travel and the traffic may not be good for your Ate Cris. Baka sa Tagaytay na lang tayo if ever.”

“Okay po, Tita Lulu. I’m okay anywhere.” Maya assured her aunt. “Sige po, goodbye for now na.”

Maya met Richard at the resort restaurant for lunch. During lunch, Maya told Richard that she had told her family about them, and what her aunt said. Richard told her, his Mama also told him the same and that he better bring Maya to the house as soon as they return to Manila. They were both very happy that their families are very happy with the development in their relationship.

They returned to the house after their leisurely lunch, and then changed into their beach gears. Maya into a swimsuit that looks conservative but shows off her curves, and endless legs. Richard gulped when he saw her. Maya was the same, when she saw Richard bare chested and clad only in board shorts.

Hand in hand, they walked towards their private beach. They sat on the mat as they took turns in putting sunscreen on each other. They swam like kids, playing in the water, and at times, when they can’t help it, kissed each other heatedly. When they were both reaching the end of their controls, they would stop. They also snorkelled and had laid in the mat  to watch the setting sun when they got tired.

“Sweetheart, maybe we should head back the house.” Richard suggested when the sun was just a small disc in the horizon, kissing Maya’s hair.

“Oo nga. Medyo malamig na rin. Let’s go.” Maya said, untangling herself from her cozy place between Richard’s legs. “I will call Tita Lulu pa pala to inform her of our change of plans.”

“I need to call Mama also.” Richard remarked, not saying anything else.

Richard and Maya walked back to the house with their arms around each other’s waist. Maya said she will just take a shower and will meet Richard in the living room after an hour.

When she got into the room, she called her aunt and told her of the change in her plans. Tita Lulu assured her that it is perfectly okay as they are still not sure about the Tagaytay trip. Maya said goodbye to her aunt and then proceeded to take a shower.

Richard finished his shower faster than Maya. He decided to sit out in the veranda while he waits for her,  and while he calls his Mama. Donya Esmeralda answered on the second ring.

“Hi Mama, good evening!” Richard greeted his mother. “How are you and Papa?”

“Son, mabuti tumawag ka! Your Papa and I are doing good. He said congratulations. Natutuwa ang Papa mo na meron ka nang girlfriend. Finally raw, may napili ka na rin. Of course, hindi ko pa sinabi sa kanya iyong request mo and your other plan, as you requested.” Donya Esmeralda said, the excitement evident on her voice. “Oh ano, matutuloy ba ang plano mo?”

“Yes, Mama!” Richard happily said. “We are staying here until after the New Year. I will propose to Maya on New Year’s eve!”

“Son, I’m really so happy with that news! I can’t wait to meet Maya. By the way, I found the ring along the description you have given me this morning. I called Patricia. She has a design like that. And you are lucky, it is in Maya’s size.”

“Great, Mama! I’m so happy to know. Can you send it with James tomorrow?” Richard asked his mother.

“Sure, son! I will call him after this and tell him that you will stay longer in Mindoro but he still needs to go to the resort as I need to send some stuffs for you.” Donya Esmeralda said, getting into the thick of her son’s plan to propose to the woman he loves.

“Thank you very much, Mama! You are the best.” Richard told his mother. “I love you very much.”

“I love you too, son! I’m so happy for you.” Donya Esmeralda said. “Saka, aba, may vested interest ako dito. Gusto ko na yata ng mga apo!”

“Ma! Hahahaha, magpo-propose pa nga lang.” Richard said laughing. “O sige na, Mama. We will see after the New Year. Enjoy your trip to Hong Kong.”

“See you and Maya, son. Enjoy your stay in Mindoro and good luck on your proposal.” Donya Esmeralda said before ending the call.

Several minutes after he finished his call with his mother, Richard was still smiling goofily, excited about the proposal he is planning. Unbeknown to Maya, he called her cousin earlier. Luckily, he and Jeff managed to exchange numbers when he picked up Maya from the Franciscos before Christmas. He had asked Cristina Rose what is Maya’s ring size. She shrieked in delight upon hearing his request. Richard requested her to keep it a secret. Cris happily assured him that she will. She also told him he is lucky as she and Maya have the same ring size. Cris wished him luck and even called him littlle bro before they ended their phone call!

Richard then called his mother and aside from telling her that Maya is now his girifriend, he told her of his plan to propose to Maya, and asked for her help. Donya Esmeralda was ecstatic and told him that she will take care of everything. Her jeweller, Patricia can work her magic, she assured her son. She asked Richard what kind of ring he wants. Richard told her and his mother assured him, it will be in Mindoro in time for his proposal. They agreed to talk again if he managed to talk Maya into staying in the resort until after the New Year celebration. Luckily, he did. And now, everything is set, more or less, for his proposal. He grinned.

There was still a hint of a smile on Richard’s face when Maya found him sitting at the porch.

“Ricky, sorry, it took me a while.” Maya said, smiling and looking so lovely, without make-up on in another of her maxi dresses. “Shall we get going?”

“It is okay, Maya. I chatted with Mama rin!” Richard said, smiling at his lovely girlfriend and hopefully, his fiancee in two days time! “Let’s go.”

With laced fingers, Maya and Richard walked towards the direction of the resort’s restaurant for their dinner. On the way, Richard lightly caressed Maya’s ring finger. Two more days! He smiled in the dark, very, very happy and excited.

Vows

Maya woke up to a dark bedroom. The only illumination came from the lights filtering through the curtains from the nearby trees. She was disoriented at first, then she remembered where she was. She checked the clock. It was just a little past 6 o’clock in the evening but it was already quite dark. Must be because of all the trees around the place, not to mentioned the shorter days and longer nights during December. She reclined against the headboard, stretching her arms, and trying to remove the remnants of sleep from her system.  She ought to get up soon as she is meeting Richard at half past seven o’clock for dinner.

Richard and Maya spent the rest of the afternoon in each other’s company, basking in the glow of their new status! They ate lunch at the main restaurant of the resort. Then Richard took Maya around the place, their hands seemingly glued together as they walked around. To everyone who saw them, they looked like the sweetest couple, with eyes only for each other. Some thought they were newly-weds on honeymoon!

Late in the afternoon, Maya and Richard  returned to the bungalow. Richard showed Maya the guest room where she could rest. It is adjacent to the room he will use and overlooking the garden. He told her she could take a nap and  he will just return for her for dinner.

Maya thought she will not be able to nap with all the excitement she had that afternoon. But as soon as her head hit the pillow, she fell into a dreamless and very restful sleep.

“Now, time to get moving, Maya Dela Rosa, your boyfriend, the love of your life, is waiting for you!” Maya told herself. Boyfriend, love of her life, words that make her feel giddy by just saying it. Richard is now her boyfriend! Sometimes, it felt like it was just a dream, but looking at her surroundings and remembering all her wonderful times with Richard since they met again, she knows everything is real. That after all these years, she found her Prince Charming again and they are poised to live their happily every after, God willing.

Maya took out a long printed maxi dress from her bag, then took a bath. Thirty minutes after, she was ready for her dinner with Richard. Instead of waiting for him, she decided to just go out of the room and look for him. Richard was not in the living room. She was about to check the veranda when she saw him coming from the direction of the kitchen, holding a wine bucket. He changed clothes, and it looked like he had just been to the shower too. He looked so handsome in blue shirt and khaki pants.

“Sweetheart, good evening! I was about to get you after I put this wine in the porch.”  Richard greeted Maya with a big smile. “Did you have a good sleep?”

“Hi Sweetheart, yes I did. It was so quiet and nice. I woke up around 45 minutes ago. The bedroom was dark but there were lights coming from outside.” Maya remarked as she approached Ricky and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“The light is probably coming from the capiz lanterns festooned around the branches of the tree outside your window.” Richard explained. “Everything is set, Swetheart. Come your dinner awaits. I hope you will like everything.”

Richard led Maya to the front porch, the one adjacent to the living room by holding on to her elbow to guide her there.

“Wow!” It was all Maya managed to say when she saw what Ricky had prepared for this evening while she was taking a nap.

The place was transformed. In the middle of the porch, there was a table with red table cloth, and a vase with in different kinds of flowers. Completing the romantic ambiance were candles placed in coloured glasses, swaying to the breeze blowing from the sea. The food – pasta, steak, and appetizers so mouthwatering, that Maya’s stomach grumbled just at the sight of the food before her. Suddenly, she is very hungry.

“I want our first evening as boyfriend and girlfriend to be very special, Sweetheart so I had Catherine and Aldrich prepared this for us.” Richard said, smiling, happy that Maya likes what he had prepared.

“Thank you, Sweetheart. I’m touched and very, very happy.” Maya replied, then tiptoed and gave Richard a light kiss on the lips.

Richard smiled happily. “Parang bitin!” He teased naughtily. He reeled Maya to him gently, then kissed her properly.

“Ricky, ikaw talaga.” Maya smiled, her face redder than usual. “Let’s eat.”

Richard seated Maya, then took the seat to her right. He poured the two of them a glass of wine each then offered a toast.

“To the loveliest and most wonderful lady who made me very, very happy today. I love you Maya. To us!” Richard said lovingly. “To fate for making us together finally!”

“Thank you, my dearest Sweetheart! To the best boyfriend in the world, I’m so lucky  to have you. I love you. To us!” Maya said with a smile that lit up her whole face, gazing at Richard with all the love that she was feeling for him.

Their dinner was marked with their happy comfortable chatter, not running out of things to talk about or just gazing at each other lovingly. They didn’t notice the passing of the hours, so caught up were they with each other.  When dinner was over, they moved to the hammock that was located at the edge of he porch. Richard’s arms were around Maya as she half-laid on his chest as Richard pushed the hammock gently his foot.

“I love this!” Maya said after a while, feeling very relax. “This is very relaxing. I like being in your arms like this, Sweetheart.”

“Me too, Sweetheart! Having you like this is the best feeling.” Richard said. “Do you want to listen to some music?”

“Sure! But do you have a player nearby?” Maya asked, looking around.

“Wait a second.” Richard got out of the hammock, went just inside the living room. Then he returned to Maya as a beautiful music wafted from the speaker embedded in the ceiling of the porch.

“For you, my Sweetheart!” Richard said softly, lovingly, then he started humming with the music.

I had never touched a hand

That felt as soft as rain

Until tonight

I never knew a kiss

Could make me feel this way

Until tonight

But here we are now

Feeling things we’ve never felt before

Richard sang with all his heart, raining little kisses on Maya’s face, until he reached her lips. Maya open her lips to accept Richard, and their lips fused into a hot kiss while the song continued playing in the background.

I never knew that I could feel such wonder

I never dreamed that love could be like this

Yet in this rapture I’m swept away

Lost in your eyes

For tonight, love has come of age

I had never dreamed that I

Would lose my heart so soon

Until tonight

I had never felt my heart

Racing with the moon

Until tonight

Now and forever

Let me live inside your sweet embrace….

Richard and Maya broke apart, both catching their breaths, trying to control the feelings that kiss evoked in each other.

“I love you very much, Maya….

I love you very much too, Ricky….

Maya and Richard whispered to each other as the last lines of the song faded into the night.

For you and I

For tonight, love has come of age

Tonight, love has come of age….

“That was a very beautiful song, Ricky! ” Maya remarked as she settled deeply and more comfortably into Richard’s chest.

“One of my favorite songs, Sweetheart. Bagay sa atin and what I’m feeling for you.” Richard said as he caressed Maya’s hair.

Maya and Richard smiled at each other lovingly and listened to the music from Richard’s iPod, while enjoying the quiet of the night. They stayed in the hammock late into the night, just enjoying each other’s company, basking in the glow of their intense love for each other, reluctant to part.

When it became very windy, Richard carried a sleepy Maya to her room, laid her on the bed, kissed her one more time and with whatever willpower he still possessed, dragged himself to his room. It took a while for Richard to fall asleep, the wonder of the day stayed with him. Indeed, as the song said, his and Maya’s love has come of age after seven years, and he will never let go. It is forever for him and the woman he loves with all of him.

The following morning, Maya was woken up by a knock on her door. She realized where she was. Despite the nap she took, she had felt very sleepy while in the hammock with Richard. It was very nice lying in his arms. She also felt very pampered and treasured when he carried her to bed.

Richard came into the room, when Maya indicated that he could come in, carrying a breakfast tray with a single red rose on it.

“Good morning, Sweetheart!” Richard greeted with a big smile, then proceeded to give Maya a light kiss on the lips. “Did you sleep well?”

“Good morning, Sweetheart!” Maya was all smiles. “Yes, I did! Parang ang saya-saya ng boyfriend ko this morning ah.”

“Of course naman, Sweetheart. Why wouldn’t I. You are my girlfriend now and you are here with me! I made breakfast for the two of us.” Richard said grinning, placing the tray in the middle of the bed.

“Ricky, sobra-sobra na akong spoiled sa iyo.” Maya said.”Thank you!”

“Maya, Sweetheart, I’m happy to do this. Kulang pa iyan. Imagine, seven years in the making nga di ba?” Richard replied, smiling. “Halika na kain na tayo. I hope my omelette is okay. I had Catherine stocked the kitchen here too para we can make our own food if we feel like it.”

“That’s a good idea!” Maya said, then started serving Richard the food he prepared and making his coffee too.

“Sarap talaga nitong coffee mo, Sweetheart! “ Richard said as he took his first sip. “By the way, we can go to San Nicolas today if you want.”

“Really, I would like that.” Maya said. “Can we go hear mass muna sa San Nicolas Church, then visit Mamang’s grave after, magkalapit lang naman iyong church at saka iyong memorial park kung saan siya nakalibing.”

“Sure, Sweetheart, anything you want.” Richard replied.

“Thank you.” Maya said. “Masarap naman itong omelette mo. Marunong ka palang magluto.” Maya teased.

“Welllll, I think my culinary skills is very limited. Iyan lang and spaghetti bolognese ang kaya ko yatang lutuin!” Richard quipped.

“Well, I want to try that spaghetti too. I’m sure kasing sarap nitong omelette mo.” Maya said.

“Sure, pagbalik natin ng Maynila, I will cook that for you.” Richard said. “What time would you like us to leave pala so I can ask Aldrich to prepare one of the company cars?”

“Pagkatapos nating kumain and mag-shower is okay with me.” Maya replied, finishing the last of her omelette and bread.

“Good.” Richard replied. “Ako na lang ang magda-drive para we can spend the whole day ng tayong dalawa lang.” He added with a big smile. Maya smiled back, liking the idea. She always look forward to her and Richard’s time like that.

Richard and Maya chatted some more while finishing their cups of coffee. Several minutes after, and despite Maya’s insistence that she will do it, Richard took the tray back to the kitchen. He just told Maya to get ready.

More than an hour later, with Maya wearing another of her maxi skirts and a baby tee, and Richard in jeans and polo shirt, they were on their way to the church. They arrived at the beautiful centuries old church in the time for the mass. Richard and Maya, both asked God to bless their relationship. They also thanked Him for making them meet again and giving them a chance to  finally love each other. Each of them vowed that they will love the other forever.

Maya and Richard also found themselves gazing each other with all the love they are feeling during the priest’s homily, as being the last Sunday before the Ne Year, he spoke of new beginnings, a better and brighter future for the coming year, of looking forward to 2015 with optimism and spending time with the people you love all the time as life is short and uncertain, and because time flies fast.

They left the church holding hands. They decided to leave the car at the church grounds and then just walked to the nearby memorial park where Conchita Dela Paz was buried. Maya and Richard bought flowers and candles at the shop they saw near the church.

“Mamang, kumusta na po. I still miss you very much.” Maya said softly as she arranged the flowers at the base of Mamang’s grave. “Pasensya ka na kung ngayon na lang ulit kita nadalaw. Bayaan mo mas madalas na ngayon since I’m back in the Philippines for good.”

Richard handed Maya the lighted candles which she also placed at the base of the grave. “Mamang, kasama mo nga po pala si Ricky. Boyfriend ko po. My one and only love.” Maya whispered softly, but Richard still heard. He smiled.

“Mamang, sumama nga po ako kay Maya rito para madalaw ko rin kayo. Kahit po hindi na tayo pinalad na magkita, parang kilala ko na rin kayo sa mga kwento sa akin ng apo niyo.” Richard said, interlacing his fingers with Maya. “Huwag po kayong mag-aalala, I will take good care of Maya as long as I live. I will make her happy always.” He vowed.

Maya felt so happy and so lucky hearing Richard promising this on her grandmother’s grave. She gazed at him with so much love. “Mamang, I’m the luckiest girl, with Ricky as my boyfriend. I’m sure kung makikilala mo siya, you will like him a lot also. For sure Mamang, botong-boto ka sa kanya.”

Richard smiled happily as Maya said those words to her grandmother. He caressed her hand as if to express his thanks and love for her.

Richard and Maya stayed at Mamang grave for an hour, regaling her of their story, as if she was alive and in front of them listening to their chatter.

“Mamang, dadalaw na lang ulit kami ni Ricky ha.” Maya said, touching her grandmother’s tomb as if she needed the contact as she said goodbye.

“Oo nga po, Mamang. Pangako po namin ni Maya, iyan.” Richard added. “Sweetheart, can you give me a moment with Mamang, please.” Richard asked Maya all of a sudden.

Maya was surprised at Richard’s request, but decided to do the asking later. She said goodbye to her grandmother, then waited outside the mausoleum for Richard.

Richard stayed inside for several minutes, then like Maya touched Mamang’s tomb to say goodbye.

“So, ano naman ang sinabi mo kay Mamang na hindi ko pwedeng marinig?” Maya asked as they were walking towards the gate of the memorial park.

Richard just smiled at Maya. “ It’s between me and Mamang muna, Sweetheart.”

“Ricky Lim, ang daya mo ha. May secret ka na ngayon.” Maya said smiling.

“Sweetheart, ito lang, promise, you will know in due time.” Richard appealed to his girlfriend.

“O sige na nga. I’m sure malalaman ko rin iyan.” Maya said confidently.

“Yes you will, Sweetheart. Yes you will.” Richard said enigmatically, looking forward to that moment.

Richard interlaced his fingers with Maya, then raised her hand to his lips and kissed it lovingly. Soon, my love, he vowed silently.

“I love you Maya!”

“I love you, Ricky!”

Richard and Maya shared another loving look as they exited the memorial park. And from somewhere above, an old lady smiled.

Note:  The super beautiful song ‘Love Has Come of Age’ is from the concept album of the musical Jekyll and Hyde! The song is sobrang nakaka-in love!  If you want to listen to the complete song, the link is in my Playlist! ❤ ❤ ❤

Full Circle

Richard guided Maya to the stairway that goes to the rooftop of the Lim Corporation building where a helicopter awaited them. It was the morning they will fly to Mindoro. Richard had picked up Maya from her place early for the trip as the pilots had to return to Manila promptly for Don Roberto and his friends who will go to a resort in Batangas afterwards.

“Ready, Maya?” Richard asked Maya solicitously, as they made it to the helipad.

“Sure, Ricky! I’m okay. Nandiyan ka naman eh.” Maya replied, smiling at Richard. “Di ba sabi mo, you will even hold the barf bag for me.”

“Of course. Ilan ba ang dala mo?” Richard bantered back, smiling at the lady who makes his heart very happy these days.

“Hmmm, teka, I will check. Sampu yata!” Maya quipped.

“Ha, ten?” Richard exclaimed. “Ganoon ka motion sick?”

“Biro lang, Ricky. Yes, I’m scared of heights, pero mostly when I’m inside glass elevators lang. Sa airplane naman hindi. I will just pretend that we will be riding a plane instead of a chopper.” Maya said as they neared the waiting chopper.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be here to hold your hand.” Richard said.

“Thank you, Ricky.” Maya smiled back.

They were gazing at each other when a voice interrupted them. They forgot where they were again!

“Good morning, Mr. Lim! Richard, ready to fly?” The guy greeted Richard.

Maya turned to look at the face behind the voice and saw who it is.

“Maya Dela Rosa!…..”

“James Ventura!…..”

Maya and James both exclaimed, then went to hug each other, surprised at seeing the other, there of all places.

“Magkakilala kayo?” Richard asked, surprised too. Though, come to think of it, they were both from Mindoro and almost the same age. He can’t remember what part of Mindoro their company pilot hailed from, though. He vaguely remembered his mother telling him that he came from a political family in Mindoro.

“Ricky, hindi mo ba naalala si James?” Maya said happily. “Siya kaya iyong host ng beauty pageant na sinalihan ko at kung saan ka nag-judge! Classmate ko siya noong high school also. James, si Richard iyong Chairman ng Board of Judges. Nag-proxy siya for his mother.”

“May nakalimutan ka, Maya Dela Rosa, dating manliligaw din ako!” James said, teasing. Then looked at Richard. “So ikaw pala iyon, Richard. I didn’t make the connection. Hindi ko na masyadong maalala ang night na iyon. I just proxied too, for my brother who was the original host, kasi he had a modelling assignment in Boracay at that time na biglaan. But good to see you, Maya! When was the last time we saw each other, sa burol ng Mamang mo?”

“Yes, iyon yata. Then I went to Manila na with Tita Lulu and you went to Singapore to continue your studies, sabi nung sister mo nang minsang magkita kami sa Makati several months after I moved to Manila.” Maya replied. “Ikaw pala ang pilot na sinasabi ni Ricky na from Mindoro at sabi niya huwag daw akong mag-worry sa pagsakay dahil magaling ang piloto namin.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence, Richard.” James said, smiling. “I promise I’ll fly you safely to Mindoro, Maya. Kailan ka pa huling nauwi sa atin? Parang hindi na kita nakita doon in recent years. Sarado rin iyong ancestral house niyo doon.”

“Naku, James, medyo matagal na rin. I worked in Macau, kauuwi ko lang sa Pilipinas.” Maya replied. “But I’m here for good na! I will be working for Richard’s company in January.”

“So, that’s why! Kahit iyong iba nating classmates, walang balita sa iyo. Hindi ka rin daw nila mahanap sa FB.” James said. “So, you will be with Emerald? Great! We will see more of each other then.”

“I never gotten around to creating an account kasi. Ayaw ko rin masyado iyang social media.” Maya said. “Kumusta na ang mga classmate natin?”

Maya and James chatted on about their high school friends.

Richard looked at Maya and James and he felt a tinge of jealousy at the ease in which they were chatting. They shared a history, longer than what he had shared with Maya so far. Tapos manliligaw pa pala ni Maya si James dati. But he tried not to dwell on it and focus instead on what he and Maya have so far. Also, whatever negative thoughts he was starting to feel was erased with Maya’s gesture.

“Richard, sorry! James and I are just catching up.”  Maya held Ricky’s hand then interlaced their fingers. She also gave Richard a loving smile.

Richard smiled back. “It is okay, Maya. Small world talaga, di ba!  Shall we get going, James? Where is Andy?” Richard asked, referring to James’ co-pilot.

Maya’s gesture didn’t escape James, nor did Richard’s answering one. It was then that he realized that Maya and Richard must be more than future employer and employee. It seems like they are in a relationship!

Richard just mentioned that he would like to go to Mindoro today with a very special friend when he called him up the other day. In the past three years that James have been working for Lim Corporation, this is the first time Richard is flying with someone who, now when he take a closer look, is, indeed, very special to him.

“Sure, Richard! Just give us a couple of minutes. May kinuha lang si Andy sa third floor. He will be along shortly.” James replied, still very curious at the exact nature of Maya and Richard’s relationship.

James courted Maya when they were senior in high school, but like the other boys in the private school they went to, nabasted din siya. He tried asking after her a couple of years ago from one of their high school classmates, whom she was friends with, but all that girl didn’t know where Maya was too. He never gotten around to creating a social media account to look for her. It turned out, it would be futile since she didn’t create one!

“There’s Andy na pala.” James said after a while when he saw his co-pilot, striding across the helipad, carrying a big duffle bag.

“Good morning, Sir Richard! Hello, Ma’am! Sorry to keep you waiting, Hininitay ko pa kasi itong mga supply na pinapasabay ng manager ng Emerald Resort.” Andy explained.

“It’s okay, Andy.” Richard assured the other pilot, then he introduced him to Maya. “Maya, this is Andres Rivera, James’ co-pilot. Andy, this is Maya Dela Rosa.”

“Hello, Andy, nice to meet you.” Maya gave the co-pilot a brilliant smile that won him over instantly.

“Please to meet you din po, Ma’am Maya.” Andy smiled. He likes his boss’ girlfriend instantly. He assumed that she is as he saw how they were holding hands and looking at each other lovingly.

Soon after, Richard assisted Maya into the chopper and they were on their way. Like he had promised, Richard was very solicitous of Maya all throughout the flight, asking her if she is okay and not letting go of her hand, even if Maya assured him that she is okay and it was not as scary as she thought.

Maya loves the attention Richard has been showering her. She felt to happy and felt very lucky to be loved by this wonderful guy. Ever since he had declared his love for her on Christmas Day, everything around her is richer and full of colours. She may have not said I love you back that evening, but she considers Richard her boyfriend already.

Richard and Maya enjoyed the rest of the evening on Christmas Day with the sumptuous picnic that Richard brought with him. They fed each other morsels of food, drank the wine, chatted or at times, shared sweet kisses, and just gazed at each other lovingly. They parted reluctantly late that night promising to see each other the following day.

Richard arrived at Maya’s place with brunch again the following day. Afterwards, he helped her put up her new frame, then they spent the rest of the afternoon watching movies and just hanging out, planning their trip to Mindoro this day. In the evening, they went to a nearby restaurant for dinner. Richard took Maya home early, and didn’t come in as they have to leave early for this trip to Mindoro.

“See that, Maya, we are almost there.” Richard pointed to a helipad they can see from the air after a while.

“Oo nga, Ricky. It’s beautiful from here. The ride is not so scary as I thought. Thank you for making it a wonderful one.” Maya said.

“For you, Maya, anything!” He simply said, giving her a loving smile.

Soon after, they descended into the helipad. Andy opened the door for Richard and Maya. Richard got off first, then assisted Maya down.

“Thank you for the ride, James and Andy.” Richard told the pilots.

“Maraming salamat sa inyo, James and Andy. Sobrang nice naman ng first helicopter ride ko.” Maya added. “James nice to see you again.”

“You’re welcome, Sir Richard, Ms. Maya!” Andy replied.

“Richard, Maya, we will go back for you guys on Tuesday!” James said. “And nice to see you too, Maya. See you around. Maybe, we can have coffee one time and catch up on old times.”

Maya looked at Richard, with that invitation. Then decided to play it safe. “Let’s include our other classmates na nasa Maynila para mas masaya. I want to keep in touch with them too. Matagal ko na rin silang hindi nakikita.”

“Sure, sure, I will go round up the gang.” James replied.

One of the resorts service car picked up Maya and Richard from the helipad. After everything was loaded into the car, they said goodbye to James and Andy. They will just wait until the refuelling is done and they will return to Manila too. They declined Richard’s offer to have some refreshments at the resort.

Several minutes after, the car stopped in front of the reception area of the resort, set in the middle of something akin to a tropical garden and facing the beach.

“Hello, Sir Richard! Good morning Ma’am!” Catherine Gomez, Emerald Resorts Mindoro’s manager greeted Richard and Maya effusively. Richard had called to tell her that he will be coming with his special guest. “How was your trip?”

“Hi Catherine, it was okay!” Richard said. “How’s everything here?”

“Everything is great, Sir Richard. We are fully booked at the moment.” Catherine replied. “Most of our guests are staying until after the New Year.”

“That’t good to know.” Richard said, then smiled at Maya. “Maya, this is Catherine Gomez, our manager here. Catherine, this is Maya Dela Rosa” Richard said, gazing at Maya, still holding hands with her, then added, “She will also be the operations manager of our new hotel in Bonifacio Global City.”

Maya smiled at Catherine. “Hello, Catherine, nice to meet you.”

“Hello, Ms. Maya. Welcome to Emerald here in Mindoro. And welcome to Emerald Resorts and Hotels.” Catherine said. She also noticed how sweet her boss is with the beautiful lady beside him, with matching holding hands pa! May girlfriend na si si Sir Richard! Ay, maraming luluha! She mused. “Sir Richard, as you requested the Lim private bungalow is ready for you and Ms. Maya’s stay.”

“Great, Catherine! Thank you. Can you tell Aldrich to bring us refreshments there. Coffee and juice, okay with you, Maya?” When she nodded, he then took hold of his and Maya’s bags. “Let’s go, Maya. We will be more comfortable in the bungalow.”

“Sir Richard, ipapadala ko na lang din kay Aldrich ang mga bag niyo ni Ms. Maya.” Catherine said.

“No, it’s okay, Catherine. Ako na lang. Magaan lang naman ang mga ito.” Richard said.

“Ricky, I can help. Give me my bags. I can carry those naman.” Maya offered.

“No, Sweetheart, I can do this.” Richard said, the endearment just slipping out naturally. He was also surprised at his slip. In his mind, Maya is his ‘Sweetheart’ already.  Then he took hold of Maya’s hand again while carrying all their bags in the other.

Richard led Maya down the path towards the beach area. But instead of heading to the cluster of villas on the left side, separated from each other by huge ornamental plants and trees, Richard veered towards the left, following a private path, until they arrived at an slightly elevated bungalow, more of a log cabin actually, with a wrapped-around porch and tall glass windows and doors. It is also facing the beach and there is a small path that led to the beach from the front of the house.

“Wow, this is a very beautiful house, Ricky. So, very inviting! One of your designs?” Maya asked, admiring the design of the house, which seemed to blend naturally into the tall trees that surround it.

“Yes, I designed a month after we met at the pageant. But only managed to have this built four years ago. This one is not being let out to guests. This is my private home here, available only to family members who would like to stay here at Emerald. So far, only my parents and I and some cousins have used this.”

Maya and Richard climbed the four steps that led to the porch. Richard unlocked the door and dropped their bags in the living room.

“Home for several days!” Richard said, as he led Maya to the waiting couch, in front of the floor to ceiling window facing the beach and the wonderful view beyond. He opened the glass door and a warm breeze blew in.

“It is a very nice home away from home, Ricky.” Maya replied, looking around, liking the place very much.

“So, it is okay with you that you are staying here with me and not at the villas?” Richard asked. It just occurred to him that he has not actually asked Maya if she is comfortable with this arrangement. In his desire to be with her, he assumed and forgot!

“Of course. The way I look at this house, there are plenty of rooms.” Maya said, then added teasingly, “And I trust you, Ricky, to behave you know.”

Richard grinned and bantered back. “Are you sure, Sweetheart?”

“Yes, ‘Sweetheart’ ,” Maya replied, smiling, imitating Richard, then remarked. “Nakakarami ka na ng ‘Sweetheart’ ah.”

“Bakit, ayaw mo ba? You are my Sweetheart. Alam ko, hindi mo pa ako sinasagot and I’ll wait, but can I continue to call you my Sweetheart while waiting?” Richard cajoled sweetly.

Maya smiled. He is really cute when he does that too. “Okay, Sweetheart.”

They smiled lovingly at each other. The knock at the door interrupted them. Richard opened the door to one of the resorts long time employee.

“Good morning Sir Richard, Ma’am!” Aldrich, holding a tray with coffee and juice and some pastries, greeted Richard and Maya. “Pinadadala po ni Ms. Catherine!”

“Hi Aldrich! Pakilagay na lang sa coffee table.” Richard replied. “How are you and your family? Kumusta na sina Manong Juan and Manang Fely?”

“Mabuti naman po sila, Sir. Since naka-graduate na kaming magkakapatid, medyo relax na sila ng kaunti. Nasa Laguna po sila ngayon kasi kapapanganak lang ng kapatid kong si Melba, dumalaw po sila.” Aldrich replied happily. Before the resort was built, his parents were the caretakers of the land.

“That’s good to know. Please tell Melba, congratulations and hello to Manong and Manang.” Richard said. “Maya, Sweetheart, itong mga magulang ni Aldrich ang caretaker namin dito, dati! Tinitingnan-tingnan nila iyong lugar habang wala pang nakatayo.”

“Ganoon ba? Hello Aldrich.” Maya said with a friendly smile.

“Hello po, Ma’am Maya. Welcome to Emerald and Mindoro!” Aldrich said to the lady who is obviously the love of his Sir Richard’s life by the way he was looking at her.

“Thank you. I’m actually from here. Diyan sa San Nicolas.” Maya said. “Pupunta rin nga kami roon ni Ricky.”

“Talaga po?” Aldrich replied. “Mabuti naman po at makakadalaw kayo ulit sa inyo. Sige po, Sir Richard, Ma’am Maya. Enjoy your snacks po. Let me know po kung may kailangan pa kayo.”

Richard and Maya thanked Aldrich. Richard then settled back beside Maya. Maya started serving Richard food and then made his coffee too. They chatted while eating.

“If I live here, I don’t want to leave.” Maya remarked after a while, looking at the deepest blue sea beyond the porch and the white sand shimmering under the intense mid-morning sun.

“I like this place a lot too. Of all the developments I did, this has a special place in my heart. Maybe it was because it was my first project or maybe because I was remembering our meeting when I was building this.” Richard said.

“Oh, Ricky! You say the most wonderful things. Thank you.” Maya replied, smiling lovingly at Richard.

“True naman iyon, Sweetheart.” Richard replied, then smiling, said, “Dito ko yata naibuhos ang unrealized meeting natin. I distracted myself, hoping that one day we will see each other again.”

Maya smiled at that. “And now here we are again in Mindoro, where we started.” Maya said enigmatically, her heart beating fast with what she would do next.

“Yes, that is true and I’m happy that you are here with me. I never thought it would happen pa.” Richard said softly, gazing at Maya with all the love he was feeling. Richard was about to sip his coffee when Maya’s next words stopped him. He almost dropped his cup.

“I love you too, you know, very, very much.” Maya said simply, putting her hand on top of Richard’s, then looking at him with all the love she is feeling for this wonderful, wonderful guy. They are indeed so lucky to find each other again. She does not want to waste their precious moments.

“M-maya, does it means?….” Richard gulped and managed to ask.

“Yes, tayo na po!” Maya said with a smile that lit up her whole face.

“YES!!!!” Richard grinned, then went to Maya, pulled her up gently, then touched her  face, lovingly, said softly. “I love you very much, Maya.”

“I love you, very, very, very much too, Ricky.” Maya answered lovingly, caressing Richard’s face too.

Maya and Richard grinned goofily at each other, sharing a heated loving look. Richard then lowered his lips to Maya’s and gave her a kiss that left her breathless. It was followed by another kiss, and another. The coffee was already cold when they broke apart, finally, so full of love for each other. Both of them are excited to see where love would lead them next.

Courtship

Maya felt like Richard was trying to look at her very soul by the way he was gazing at her after his words that shifted their relationship to a beautiful new level. She felt this overwhelming emotion towards him. She also felt like heart was going to burst. Grabe ka Maya Dela Rosa, manlligaw pa lang si Ricky nang lagay na iyon ha! She admonished herself. Kalma lang.

Trying to collect her scattered wits, Maya gave Richard another smile that lit up her whole face.

“So,  let’s watch the movie na, Ricky?” She mentioned the first thing she thought of to bring things to a normal level dahil baka hindi na makayanan ng puso niya. “Unless, you want to have dinner now?”

“Come, let’s watch your movie muna Maya. I want to see it too since you like it.” Richard said, giving Maya one of his beautiful lopsided smiles that make her heart aflutter always.

Maya settled in beside Richard into the couch. Then she played the movie from the start so Richard can watch it from the beginning. They settled in to watch the movie which Maya told Richard, is one of her ultimate favorites. Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck really looked so good on screen. When they kissed for the first time after taking an impromptu swim into the river while escaping, Maya remembered the kiss she and Richard shared the night before. Richard remembered it too. They caught each other gazing at the other after that scene. From then on, they became intensely aware of each other and their close proximity. Both fought the feeling. Maya can’t help it, she was imagining her and Richard sharing that kiss!

When the credits rolled, Richard heard Maya sniffling. “Maya, are you crying?” Richard asked, checking by looking at her closely.

“Sorry, just a little bit! Sobrang touching naman kasi. Ramdam ko ang longing nila for each other, kaso hindi naman pwede, di ba? Like Princess Ann said, she has a duty to her people and country. Hay, I just wish lang that every time na panonoorin ko ito, magkakatuluyan na sila ni Joe Bradley!” Maya said, dabbing her eyes.

“Doon sa last scene, I was wishing na lalabas ulit si Princess Ann and then will go to Joe one more time! Have you not feel his longing for her to come out pa rin kahit alam niyang hanggang doon na lang sila,”  She added.

“Well, depends on how you look at it. The ending was open ended naman, just think  na that they lived in an ideal world and that somehow, love had conquered all!” Richard said, smiling. “Hindi naman imposible na magkita sila ulit. See, it happened to us, di ba. Malay natin, gumawa pala ng paraan si Joe to be near Ann or vice-versa.”

“Wow, Mr. Lim, I didn’t know that you have such a romantic streak!” Maya said, smiling.

“Well, I’m feeling romantic these days.” Richard said gazing at Maya intently.

Maya felt her heart beating fast again. She gave Richard a sweet smile.

“So ilang beses mo nang napanood itong ‘Roman Holiday’?” Richard asked.

“I think this is pang-limang beses na!” Maya admitted.

“You like it that much! But I agree, it is a very good film!” Richard said. “I will get it for Mama, too. Matagal ka na bang mahilig sa classics?”

“I was more into it after Mamang died. I used to watch old movies with her when I was younger. Maliban kasi sa mga beauty pageants, mahilig din siya sa mga lumang film! Bonding time namin ang panonood ng lumang movies. Siya rin ang dahilan kung bakit mahilig ako sa books. She used to teach Literature sa college sa Mindoro.” Maya told Richard. “Maybe it was my way of coping with her death and remembering her. Then the more I watch, the more I enjoyed those movies, hayan I’m collecting DVDs na!”

“You really had a very good role model in your Mamang, Maya!” Richard remarked. “I wish I got the chance to meet your grandmother.”

“Oo nga. But she was gone too soon!” Maya said with a tinge of sadness, then smiling, she said,  “I’m pretty sure my Mamang will like you had she met you.”

“Really, you think so!” Richard said, smiling. pleased with what Maya said.

“Oo naman, Ricky.” Maya said. “What’s not to like?”

“So, palagay mo ba, Ms Dela Rosa, magiging boto sa akin ang Mamang mo?” Richard asked, smiling, teasing her.

“Siguro. Pero sasabihin noon, ligawan mo muna ng husto ang apo ko, bago ka magtanong ng ganyan.” Maya teased Richard back.

“Gagawin ko naman ah.” Then Richard pretended to look up to heaven. “Mamang, liligawan ko naman ng husto itong apo niyo. Pero ilakad niyo ako para sagutin ako kaagad.”

Maya laughed at Richard’s antics, at the same time, she felt very giddy.” You are being silly, Richard Lim. Kain na kaya tayo at gutom lang iyan. Give me a couple of minutes to set up the table.”

But instead of waiting, Richard went with Maya to the kitchen and helped her set the table.

Maya put the flowers Richard gave her on the middle of the table. The bouquet he gave her the other evening, she had put on the table beside her bed. Richard got the wine from the bucket where Maya had put it and, poured a glass for Maya, and then him.

“This is a lot of food for the two of us!” Richard remarked, appreciating Maya’s effort. “Looks so good. Thank you for this Maya.”

“You’re welcome, Ricky. I hope you will like everything.” Maya said smiling.

“I’m sure I will.” Richard seated Maya, then sat on her left.

Maya started serving salad to Richard, but before they ate, Richard offered a toast.

“To us, Maya!” Richard said, looking at her with love.

“To us, Ricky!” Maya replied with the sweetest and brightest of smiles, mirroring the immense happiness she was feeling at that moment.

Maya and Richard proceeded to enjoy their sumptuous dinner. They also chatted while eating leisurely. At times, they would share a look and grinned goofily at each other. When they were finished with their main course, Maya asked Richard if he would like to have dessert.

“Maybe in a while, Maya! My tummy is so full. That was a very delicious meal.” Richard said, drinking the last of the wine in his glass. “You are a very good cook.”

“Thank you.” Maya said smiling. “I like cooking. It relaxes me. How about another cup of coffee? I can bring it to the living room!”

“That would be good. But I will help you clean up muna.” Richard offered.

“Ricky, ano ka ba, okay lang. I can do that later. Kaunti lang naman ito.” Maya protested.

“Nope, it is the least I could do for you after that very nice dinner.” Richard insisted, then started helping out Maya. Maya stopped protesting. They worked in synch until the kitchen and the dining room were in order and very clean.

“O since finished na tayo, go to the living room. I will bring coffee and the dessert. I’m sure we can eat that now.” Maya said. “I made ref cake.”

“Okay, I’m sure I can’t walk anymore after eating that.” Richard teased.

Richard went to the living room and was looking at the view when Maya walked in carrying a tray. She placed it on the coffee table. Richard walked back to the sofa and sat beside Maya.

“Thank you, Maya.” He said after Maya handed him the dessert. He tasted it and said, “Wow!” Then dived in, enjoying the dessert as well.

They ate in companionable silence. When they were sipping their second cup of coffee for the evening, Richard asked Maya her plans for the rest of the week.

“Well, tomorrow, I’m thinking of just walking around the area. See where my feet will take me. Then on the 24th, I will go to Tita Lulu and Tito Mario’s house for the noche buena like I have mentioned before,, then probably return here on Christmas Day.” Maya enumerated. “How about you?”

“Hmmmm, I’m also free tomorrow. Can we go together on that walk, spend the day together, then have dinner at one of the restaurants in the area? That is, kung okay lang.” Richard asked, hoping that Maya would say yes.

“Sure, Ricky! I would be happy to have you as company.” Maya replied. In fact, she was looking forward to that! Another day with Richard!

“Great!” Richard said, grinning. “Tapos isa pang request please.” He said, then plunged in. “Can we spend Christmas Day together? I know you will spend it with your family as I would, pero at least can we spend Christmas afternoon, together?”

Hearing Richard’s request, Maya felt very happy. She would like that too. She wants to celebrate her ‘first Christmas’ with him. Christmastime, especially when you are in a foreign country, made one missed the Philippines more and the loved ones you have left behind. Aside from thinking of her family, she also thought more of Richard during this season. Now, she will be celebrating it with him!

“I would love that, very much, Ricky.” Maya said softly.

“Thank you, Maya. You made me the happiest guy! I’m looking forward to our first Christmas together.” He simply said, making Maya’s heart rate go up with what he said.

Maya and Richard spent the rest of the evening learning more about each other, and chatting about every topic they could think of, so very happy in each other’s company that they quite forgot the time, until Richard accidentally looked at the clock and noticed that it’s midnight!

Richard told Maya that he will get going. He thanked her again for the wonderful time and then they agreed to see each other before lunch the following day. At the door of Maya’s place, Richard gave her a good night kiss on the lips, very gently, but it made Maya’s lips tingle with the lingering feeling of that wonderful kiss. They smiled at each other, then parted for the night.

“Good night, Maya, thank you for another best day.” Richard said, gazing at Maya tenderly. “Sweet dreams!”

“Good night, Ricky! Thank you too for a wonderful and very memorable day!” Maya simply said. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Drive carefully. Sweet dreams!”

Richard texted Maya several minutes after saying that he had arrived home. Just like the night before, they went to bed very happy!

The following day, Richard dressed in well-worn jeans and grey t-shirt that fitted him so well, arrived at Maya’s condo with two tumblers of coffee and breakfast, well brunch, from the cafe they have been to the day before. He was also holding a bouquet of red roses and a beautiful vase.

Richard noticed that Maya has not gotten around to buying one as the flowers he gave her the night before was put in a big jar. Maya explained that she still need to shop for stuffs for her place, as well as some big ticket items for her bedroom and guest room.

“Good morning, Maya!” Richard greeted Maya with a big smile. “I got breakfast. And these are for you.”

“Good morning, Ricky!” Maya said with a big smile. She too was dressed for going out in a pair of skinny jeans and loose cotton blouse and ballet flats. “Thank you for the flowers, and the vase for it! They are beautiful. Uy, nagdala ka rin ng breakfast! I thought we will eat there na lang sa cafe!”

“Well, baka kasi marami ng tao doon kasi too close to Christmas na and besides, I prefer to have breakfast with you like this.” Richard said.

“You have a point there. I like this better too.” Maya said. “Halika, let’s eat na.”

More than four hours later, Maya and Richard hit the streets around their area. They opted to spend the afternoon in Maya’s place. They ended up chatting and getting caught up in each other that they forgot the time again. Realizing that it was still a bit hot to go out, they opted to watch ‘An Affair To  Remember’. When the movie was finished, Richard quietly handed Maya tissue when he heard her sniffling again, loudly this time.

“Thank you, Ricky!” Maya said smiling. “Sobrang touching naman kasi. Pero at least, sila pa rin in the end!”

“True. Now I truly understand you and Mama, and Mamang’s fascination with old movies. They reached out to your emotions without all the fancy stuffs nowawadays, just pure emotion and there is a kind of beautiful and innocent romance in those old movies. Aside from the very good actors that had starred in them” Richard said.

“I agree! I like rin naman contemporary movies, pero iba pa rin ang pull sa akin ng old movies. I just wished I managed to go to the top of the Empire State Building when I was in New York.” Maya said. “Hanggang sa tapat lang ako kasi walang time to go up!”

“You haven’t? Me too. Never had the opportunity or the time to do while I was in the city.” Richard remarked, then said, “Maybe, one day, we can go there together!”

“I would like that!” Maya smiled happily, feeling giddy, hearing Richard planning like this for the two of them. “So, shall we get going. Medyo hapon na kaya masarap nang maglakad.”

Maya and Richard went out several minutes. They were not planning to go far so they just took a leisurely walk while chatting. They ended up at the park beside The Mind Museum with a cup of coffee in hand.

“Ricky, do you always want to be an architect. and an engineer?” Maya asked while sipping the latte Richard got for her before they ended up in the park.

“Yes, I love to draw and at a young age, was interested in designs, even in painting. I like looking at buildings, houses, studying the lines. My father was more into me taking a business course. In the end, you see we managed to compromise. Though I leave most of the operations side of things to Mama.” Richard said. “Speaking of Mama, how about the dinner with my parents the day after Christmas?”

Maya paused and thought for a while. She is okay with meeting Richard’s parents, but she is also kind of shy to do so as she and Ricky had just started. “Sure, it would be okay to do so, Ricky?”

“Yes, it is perfectly okay, Maya. Pero it does not have to be on the 26th.” Richard said, sensing that Maya is having misgivings about it. Maybe, because everything is still so new to her and happening very fast. Besides kasisimula pa lang naman niyang manligaw, Richard mused.

“If it is okay, can we just do it after our trip to Mindoro or before the New Year? Before they leave the country. Di ba sabi mo, they will go abroad for the New Year.” Maya said.

“Sure, no worries, Maya.” Richard assured Maya.

When it got a bit dark, Richard and Maya went to one of the restaurants at Bonifacio High Street to have dinner.

The following day, Richard was back in Maya’s apartment around five o’clock in the afternoon to take her to her family’s home. He also brought a gift for Cho and pastries for the Franciscos. He only stayed a bit at her family’s home, as he will go to Quezon City to celebrate Christmas with his parents, some aunts and cousins on his father’s side of the family.

It was a wonderful Christmas celebration for the Franciscos since Maya was finally home! The food, drinks and merriment were overflowing. After noche buena, they exchanged gifts. Maya saw what Richard gave Cho, a Lego Star Wars set!

Maya’s phone also beeped after midnight, which made her jump as she was waiting for it to beep, sort of. Cris teased her after seeing her with a big goofy, smile. It was Richard wishing her Merry Christmas and telling her, he wished they were together that moment. Maya texted him back, saying that this is her best Christmas ever, with her family celebrating with her and with him in her life too. She also told Richard that she also wished they were together. But told him, they will see each other in a couple of hours. Maya’s reply earned the biggest grin Donya Esmeralda had seen from her son.

Richard picked up Maya from the Francisco’s after lunch. Tita Lulu and Tito Mario asked him to have dinner there. Maya told her aunt and uncle that she and Richard would love to, but some other time, as that day, they have already made plans. Her Tita Lulu smiled and teased her a bit on the side, which made Maya blushed. Good thing her Ate Cris and Kuya Jeff already went home as they will be going to Jeff’s family pa, otherwise, she would have been teased by them too!

Richard and Maya arrived at Maya’s place less than 30 minutes after.

“Maya, I’ll follow na lang! I will park the car first.” Richard suddenly said when they were in front of the building.

Maya was a bit surprised as usually Richard just go up with her. But she just shrugged it off. “Okay, I will just tell the reception that you would be along.” She just carried the food her Tita Lulu sent with her.

Several minutes after, Maya’s bell rang. When Maya opened the door, she saw Richard carrying a big flat rectangular gift, beautifully wrapped, also a huge picnic basket, and another beautiful floral arrangement!

“Ricky, ang dami mo pa lang dala! You should have told me para natulungan kita!” Maya exclaimed, as she helped him by carrying the gift and the flowers inside.

“It is okay, Maya. My surprises for you!” Richard said smiling. “But first thing first, I thought it would be nice to have a picnic kahit indoors so here it is.”

“Oh, this is wonderful Ricky!” Maya said liking the idea. “I know of the perfect spot.”

Maya then carried the picnic basket to the big floor to ceiling window. When she looked inside the basket, she saw that it contained a table cloth with a Christmas design, a bottle of wine, assorted cold cuts, bread, a big box of chocolate and bone china tablewares, silver knives and forks and two delicate wine glasses in protective casing so they will not break in transport.

Richard looked on as Maya arranged everything a big smile on his face.

“Ricky, this is, wow!” It was all Maya managed to say after laying down their picnic together, touched at Richard’s gesture for their first Christmas together.

“I’m so glad you like it, Maya.” Richard sat down on the table cloth beside Maya, then handed her the flowers and the big gift. “For you, Maya, Merry Christmas!”

Maya looked at the gift and the flowers. Her happiness is overflowing with Richard’s thoughtfulness. “Oh, Ricky, thank you for these. I’m so touched.” She said, then remembered her gift for him too. “Wait, I will just get something.”

Maya returned holding a big gift bag. “For you, Ricky! Merry Christmas!”

Richard was touched to have received something from Maya too. “Thank you, Maya.” He said with a big smile. “So shall we open our gifts to each other?”

“You first, Ricky!” Maya said smiling.

Richard removed the card attached to the gift bag. He opened it and smile, looking at Maya with so much love and happiness.

Dearest Ricky,

The best gift I received this Christmas season is seeing you again.

Merry Christmas!

Maya

“Maya, seeing you again is the best gift I have received this season too.” Richard said softly. Then he opened the bag and saw a  big hardbound book, doodle art book, and a big case of colored pencils. He took out the book and saw it is Douglas Adams ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”, and the doodle art book which features famous castles and houses.

“Thank you for these, Maya.” Richard said again. He remembered him telling Maya that he would like to read the complete ‘Hitchhiker’s’ book in one of their chats and he understood the whimsy of giving him the doodle art book. “I hope you will like my gift too!”

Maya removed the card attached to the big gift. Like Ricky, she read it first before opening her present from him. Her heart somersaulted.

Dearest Maya,

This is the best Christmas ever. I can’t wish for a more wonderful gift than finding  you again after all these years. Now, my Christmas is no longer lonely.

I love you, Maya! 

Ricky

“R-ricky….” Maya said breathlessly, her gift temporarily forgotten. She looked at him, wonder in her eyes. Her heart beating so loud. He had told her he will court her, but she was not expecting this declaration this evening.

“Yes, Maya, I do! I think I have started falling, seven years ago.” Richard said softly, lovingly, putting his hand on top of Maya’s then looked deep into her eyes. “I know we just met again, but I have never been more sure of what I feel. I know also that it may be too fast for you, I just want you to know that I love you very much. I’m not expecting an answer now. I’m just so very happy that we are together. Now open your gift, please.”

Maya felt her hands were very cold and she can’t breath from the thump thump of her heart. She gave Richard a heart melting smile. “Thank you, Ricky.” She said simply, so overwhelmed, gazing at Ricky, then put her hand on top of his. “I’m so happy we found each other again.”

Then, she opened her gift. “Awwww, this is so beautiful! Where on earth did you find this! Thank you for this.”

Richard  got her a frame movie poster of Roman Holiday!

Rchard grinned. “Through a friend of a friend who has a shop at Cubao Expo. I’m so glad you like it.”

“Maraming salamat ulit Ricky. You are making me so very, very happy.” Maya looked at Richard with love too. She may have not said the words, but Richard can see it from her eyes.

“For you, Maya, anything! “ Richard said, gazing at Maya with all the love he was feeling.

Slowly, of their own volition, they gravitated towards each other, until their faces were so close, then Richard lowered his lips to Maya and gave her a searing kiss. Maya responded.  They broke apart after several long seconds, both catching their breaths.

“Merry Christmas, Maya!”

“Merry Christmas, Ricky!”

They said it with big smiles on their faces. Indeed, it was the best Christmas ever!

Note: Happy Valentine’s Day!!!! ❤ ❤ ❤