Archive for June, 2015
Beyond Forever – Prologue
Posted by Antigone in Richard and Maya Fiction on June 7, 2015
Prologue
1975
“Señora Maya, narito na po ang bisita ninyo.” Fe, the Ventura’s housemaid informed Maya who was then working on her latest painting, or trying to, while waiting for the person whom she never thought or expected she would meet in her whole life! She thought, that one day, maybe they will eventually, but not on a personal level. After all, they move in the same circle, even if she hasn’t seen them in any of the social gatherings she graced occasionally. She is not much into those parties, anyway. Her guest was early for their three o’clock appointment.
Mrs. Alexandra Lim had gotten in touch through a close friend of Maya, Teresa Benedicto, and had requested her if she could arrange a meeting as she would like to meet in person, Maria Eulalia Dela Paz Dela Rosa-Ventura, the well-known painter who always signed her work with a simple ‘Maya’ at the bottom. Teresa thought that Alexandra Lim wanted to commission a painting from Maya. After all, Maya is well-known as a portrait painter. She told Maya so. But, upon hearing the name of the person who would like to meet her, Maya’s heart beat doubled, knowing whom it belong to really, Ricardo Lim’s wife! She felt and knew even then that the request has nothing to do with her work. Besides, she only do commissions now to people she can’t say no to, mostly family and very good friends. Most of the time, she paints for herself. Unknown to most, she was a landscape artist first and that’s her first love. Something she had stopped doing for years, until recently.
Maya had said yes, curious at what Ricardo’s wife wanted in requesting a meeting with her. She and Ricardo Lim had parted ways ten years ago. Since Mrs. Alexandra Lim asked if they could meet in private, Maya suggested her house. She was the only one at home at this time of the day. Jaime was at work and her only daughter Maria Angelina, Marina, was in school.
“Maraming salamat, Fe. Paki silbihan na lang ng coffee or juice si Mrs. Lim. Pakitanong na lang sa kanya kung ano ang mas gusto niya. Susunod na ako.” Maya composed herself, and then several minutes after walked into the living room of the Ventura mansion in New Manila, Quezon City, a house she has shared with Jaime since their marriage nine years ago.
When Maya approached, she saw a beautiful Filipino-Chinese lady, a couple of years older than her, sitting at the sofa near the window, serenely drinking the coffee that Fe brought her. She put down the cup abruptly, and stood up when she saw Maya approaching. Not so serene after all, Maya mused, for Alexandra Lim looked a bit nervous about this meeting too!
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Lim, I’m so sorry to have kept you waiting.” Maya said as she approached Ricardo’s wife with a tentative, polite smile.
“Oh no, the apologies should have been mine. I’m early for our appointment, Mrs. Ventura. Thank you for seeing me even if you don’t know me at all.” Alexandra Lim said. “Please do call me Sandra. I think you know who I am? Teresa might have mentioned?”
“It is okay, Mrs.Lim, errrr, Sandra, and please call me Maya. Yes, I know who you are. That is the reason I agreed to meet you.” Maya said as she indicated for Alexandra Lim to sit again. “What can I do for you?” She asked straightforward, when they were both seated.
“It’s about Ricardo,” Alexandra started, her voice sad, and still a bit unsteady. “I don’t have any other way of saying, except to say this to you straight, Ricardo passed away two months ago.”
“W-what?” Maya said very surprised and her heart beat went crazy, as if she can’t breathe at all and there was no oxygen reaching her brain. Alexandra’s statement sunk in totally, and she was engulfed by an overwhelming feeling of grief. “How? Why? But he is so young!”
“Yes, he was so young to be taken away. He just turned 40! He died in a car accident, Maya, while on his way home from work. The other driver was drunk. ” Alexandra said softly. “He died on the spot. The family decided to bury him in San Francisco, instead of taking his body back to Manila. That’s where we have been living the past ten years.” She finished, looking at a now grief-stricken Maya.
“Oh God, oh my God!” was all Maya managed to say, and tears just flowed from her eyes. She was unable to control her emotions, when she had been successful in doing so the past ten years. She had put a steel cage around her heart, not wanting to love like she had loved, as it had hurt so much in the end. Then she pulled herself together. “I’m so sorry for your lost, Alexandra, yours and Richard.” She said with an unsteady voice. Ricardo had told her before that he has a boy named after him, a junior, and the family calls him Richard.
“Thank you, Maya.” Alexandra said softly. “I thought you have a right to know after I discovered something after Ricardo’s death. Also I would like to give it to you this.” She then handed Maya a bound journal. “I found it among Ricardo’s things when we were closing the house in San Francisco. I have decided to move back to the Philippines to be with my family. This is where I want to raise Richard too.”
“This is for me? Shouldn’t you keep it? It looks like Ricardo’s journal. Baka importante ang laman niyan for your family.” Maya asked, surprised at Alexandra giving it to her.
“Maya, it is for you. You will understand when you read it.” Alexandra said, gently putting her hand over Maya’s and the journal. “And I would like you to know that I understand everything. It was hard, isn’t it, when you found love at the wrong time.”
“Sandra…” Maya started saying, then she stopped, took a deep breath. “Ricardo and I, we never were…l…lovers. I mean, yes we fell in love, very much, that true, even if we never meant to. The feeling was just too strong for us to fight. But we stopped at that. Ricardo and I knew that we were not free to love anymore when we found each other. He was committed to you and he had honored your marriage. He respected you that much and what you had already.”
“Maya, you don’t have to say this, I know. I have read his journal! He was an honorable man and you are an honorable, courageous woman, I know that. I wouldn’t be here if I don’t believe that! I will not be here, talking to you like this, if I harbor ill feeling towards you, or Ricardo for that matter!” Sandra assured Maya, then she continued. “When I got married to Ricardo, I too, was very much in love with someone else. But what can I do, my parents wanted me to marry Ricardo. I wished I was strong enough to defy my parents, but I was not. Richard and I didn’t love each other Maya when we went into that marriage, but I guess through the years, we have grown fond of each other. We have grown to respect each other.”
“You are a very understanding wife, Sandra. I didn’t want to destroy a family. I can’t live with that. I don’t think Ricardo and I would have been happy had we thought only of ourselves.” Maya told Sandra emotionally, remembering that final moment, wishing she would just die, and thought anyway that she was with the gigantic pain in her heart.
“Thank you for that, Maya. But you know what, it maybe, water under the bridge now, but had I known about his feelings for you, I would have let him go. I know how it is to love beyond reason, to have found your one true love, and yet unable to be with that person. I think you were Ricardo’s one true love.” Sandra said, looking at Maya earnestly, and with a tinge of sadness, it also hinted that she still longed for that person. “Ricardo didn’t know that I loved another when we got married.” She confessed.
“Thank you for telling me that Sandra. But Ricardo and I, we were not meant to be. He was committed to you and I was also promised to another when we met. But you know, knowing Ricardo, had he known you loved another too, he would have set you free as well.” Maya said, feeling a kinship with this lady she just met but has shared so much through the years without them knowing!
“I know, but I was not that strong then, Maya. I was afraid of defying my parents.” Sandra explained. “I hope you will not be too sad at Ricardo’s passing, Maya. But do grieve, you are entitled to it. Until the end, he had loved you. He also had kept a painting of him in a beach place. It was displayed on his study for as long as I could remember. It is a beautiful painting. When you look at it, it feels like you go sucked into the canvas too. It is so vivid, so alive. I took a closer look at the painting when I was packing it, away and saw the very small signature. It was yours. Seeing that, I also understand, why he looked like that in the painting on closer look. It was you, he was looking at, isn’t it, with so much love.”
Fresh tears flowed from Maya’s eyes, hearing those words. “Yes, I made it and gave it to him,” she whispered. “Thank you Sandra, for this and for everything” was all she managed to say softly.
Soon after, Alexandra Lim said goodbye to Maya and wished her the best. She did the same to Alexandra, and her son. When she was alone in the living room, Maya just kept on sitting on the sofa, her thoughts empty, except for the enormous pain in her heart and the overwhelming grief she was feeling, making her incapable to move for a time. “Ricardo, my love, my poor sweetheart…” was all she whispered, trying to fight fresh tears. She had stayed like that for how long, she didn’t know, until Fe saw her again.
“Señora Maya…?” Fe, started saying, seeing her very nice employer so forlorn, clutching something to her chest. “May maitutulong po ba ako?”
Maya looked up blankly at Fe, then she seemed to have pulled herself together. “Okay lang ako, Fe. May iniisip lang. Sige po, babalik na ako sa studio. Tawagin mo na lang ako kapag nandito na si Marina.” Her daughter is coming home in an hour or so.
“Sige po. Tawagin ninyo na lang po ako kung may kailangan kayo.” Fe replied, wishing she could to something to erase the pain her kind employer’s expressive eyes.
When she reached her studio, Maya was unable to paint. Instead, she sat on the window seat and stared out, not seeing her beautiful garden. With tears she didn’t feel anymore streaming down her face, she was lost in the past, to ten years ago, when she unexpectedly met her one true love one afternoon in a beach in Ilocos.
Note: Something in my head for a while! I hope you will like this too! I will work next on Chapter 12 of OTSWYL! Good vibes always! ❤
Unexpected Love – Chapter 18
Chapter 18
“Please send me an SMS, Ally, when you and Melissa land in Davao.” Ethan told his sister as they waited for their cousin to arrive and pick-up Allison from Pippa’s place Tuesday afternoon. Ally opted to go to Davao instead of joining Pippa and Ethan on their road trip throughout Northern Luzon.
“I will Ethan, don’t worry, please. That is the first thing I will do once when we reach Davao, I promise. I’m looking forward to spending time with Mum’s family there. Melissa said there are also a lot of beautiful places we can see in Davao and in other parts of Mindanao.” Ally assured her brother. “Just enjoy your trip with Pippa. I’m sure you are both looking forward to that. Then as agreed I will just see you two in Puerto Galera in three weeks time. I very much want to meet Pippa’s Mum and thank her too, for taking good care of you. She seems like a very lovely person, based on what you have told me, what Pippa had said, and what Mum had mentioned to me and Dad.”
“Yes, she is that and much more. She is like a mum to me too. Okay, I’ll see you then. You will like the Montenegros place in Mindoro. And seeing a bit of the country, you will understand why I’m staying here for good, aside from Pippa, of course.” Ethan said. “Hello to the family there. One day, I will find my way there also, with Pippa.”
“Please thank Pippa again for letting me stay. And brother dear, you are a very lucky person to have found that wonderful lady. Don’t let her go. Take good care of her.” Ally said, poking her brother affectionately on the chest. “I do understand why you want to stay here. But I think it is not about the place anymore, it is mostly because of Pippa. The place being so beautiful is just a bonus.”
“Yes, that’s true. And I will not let Pippa go. That I have decided, early on. Pippa is for keeps. She is my forever, Ally!” Ethan said, his eyes full of love for his girlfriend. “Basta, bridesmaid ka sa wedding namin ha!” He teased his sister.
“Wow, really Ethan! When are you planning to propose to her?” Ally said, smiling. She is happy for her brother. “I’m happy for you my dear brother. Of course, I will be. In fact, I will not talk to you anymore if I am not. But you better make sure that Mum and Dad can be there as well. They will strangle you, especially Mum, if you get married without them!” Ally teased. Of course, as much as their parents would like to be at the wedding, they will understand if Ethan marries without them.
“Of course, they will be there! They have to be there. I want to share that very happy day with them. As for when, I will propose to Pippa, I will do it at the right time and at the right moment.” Ethan said, smiling secretly. He had a plan already, but he needs to put a couple of things in motion before he could do so.
“Well, good luck brother dear. I wish you and Pippa all the happiness.” Ally hugged her older brother tight.
“Thank you, Ally.” Ethan replied. “I wish you will also find a love like what I have found with Pippa.”
“In due time, Ethan. Maybe, I will. You’ll never know, I might also find love in this beautiful country.” Ally said.
The house phone rang while brother and sister were hugging each other. Ethan answered the call. The receptionist informed him that a Melissa Benitez was at the lobby waiting for Allison Bowman.
Ethan helped Ally with her suitcase. Brother and sister went down to where their cousin was waiting. Melissa promised Ethan once again that she will take care of Ally who will be staying at her and her parents house, their Uncle Michael and Aunt Minerva. After Melissa and Ally left, Ethan went back to Pippa’s place to wait for her. Pippa had gone to work that morning to file her vacation leave and to attend to some last-minute stuffs before they can go on their road trip.
When they got home the night before they informed Ally about the change in their plans, that the Palawan trip has been cancelled, and they asked her where she would like to go. Ally told them that if that is the case, she will just go to Davao with Melissa to see the relatives, and they can just meet up somewhere, at some point. Ally said Melissa, and her parents too, issued the invitation to Ethan and her. However, she just told them, while talking to them on the phone that she will discuss it with Ethan first, as they had plans to go to Palawan. Maybe they can visit them before she goes back to London is another option.
Even when Pippa and Ethan assured Ally it is okay to tag along with them, she insisted on going to Davao instead. Ally assured them it is perfectly okay for her to go on her own, as going to Davao is really part of her plan. She has not been there since she was a kid. She also teased Ethan and Pippa about giving them a chance to really, really be with each other, with no one interrupting them. The three of them laugh, remembering the incident Sunday morning!
Ethan relented, and brother and sister agreed to meet in Mindoro a week before Ally returns to London. After Pippa left that morning, brother and sister discussed how best they can send the diary to Claudia’s mum. They agreed that it was best if Ethan give it to her in person, no matter how hostile she will be to him, judging by their previous interaction.
Ethan will have to go back to England to do it at some point. Ethan said he will discuss this with Pippa as he would like to ask if she can go with him. He wants Pippa to travel with him, as he would like his parents to meet her the soonest, hopefully as his fiancée if she will have him. His and Ally’s Mum and Dad are currently on a cruise so he will go back after they have returned from that. His going to England schedule will also depend on what Pippa would like to do next – if she will stay with her current job or do the blog, and freelance work. Pippa had mentioned that one of her options is to freelance. That way, she said, her time is more flexible.
Ethan spent the rest of the afternoon doing some preliminary work for Werner and his company so that he would be familiar with everything when he comes on board the following month. He also did some freelance work while waiting for Pippa to return home. He also worked on the design of Pippa’s blog and the back-ending or content management system. He is planning to buy her a domain name from the register that he uses, instead of starting with a free blog site there.
Pippa had shown Ethan some of the ideas for the blog she would like to have, from content, to the kind of design she is thinking of, and what she hopes to have in her page. Pippa has some very innovative ideas that Ethan feels will become big. She knows her social media, her digital media platform, and what people wants when they go online. Engagement is very important, she had told him when they were discussing it last night. He felt himself getting as excited as Pippa with this project. He believes that she has what it takes to make this blog fly.
Two hours later, and after cleaning the place, just tidying up, and putting the dirty clothes in the wash, Ethan received an SMS from Pippa, informing him that she was on her way home. Pippa arrived home carrying a take out bag from a Filipino restaurant near her place of work which has comfort food on its menu.
“Dinner!” Pippa said when she entered the apartment with a big smile. She gave Ethan a quick kiss on the lips. “Hi, honey! How have you been? Sorry, natagalan akong makabalik. Si Ally, nasundo na ba ni Melissa?”
“Hi darling!” Ethan said, hugging Pippa and kissing her, giving her a kiss that was longer than the kiss she gave him. “I missed you.” He whispered after they broke apart, both feeling flushed.
“Yes, Melissa picked up Ally, as scheduled. Probably by now the two of them are in the mall, doing some last-minute shopping or having one more night out since hapon pa naman ang flight nila. As for me, I have been busy with all sorts of things. How about you? Kumusta ang meeting mo with your boss?”
“Okay naman. She agreed to me taking a month’s off!” Pippa said happily as she started preparing their dinner. “Imagine, one month na laid back lang! I haven’t done this since I started working. The best thing is I will be spending it with you. I have more to tell you, but let’s eat first. Nagutom ako sa office. Alanganin na rin if I will eat pa there. Besides, I wanted to hurry home.”
“Okay, dinner first. But I’m happy about your boss allowing you that month’s leave.. I’m so looking forward to our road trip!” Ethan said, putting his hands over Pippa’s. “So, tomorrow, tuloy tayo in buying the supplies we will need for the trip?”
“Yes, I’m officially on vacation starting tomorrow.” Pippa replied, then suddenly looked around and realized something looked different. “Thanks a lot for tidying up the place. I just realised. Kanina ko pa iniisip na parang may naiba. Hindi ko na naasikaso kaninang umaga na mag-tidy up.”
“Oh that, it was a small thing. I was not so busy and I’m used to doing that naman in London.” Ethan replied as he seated Pippa. Besides, it is the least I could do for you.”
The two of them enjoyed their dinner, discussing the blog that Pippa would like to do. Ethan mentioned the initial work he had done that afternoon. He said he can show it to her later. They also chatted with Pippa’s mom. Tita Marianne called up earlier to ask how they are. They told her about heading to Mindoro in three weeks time, after their road trip and Ally’s vacation in Davao. Pippa’s mom was so happy to know that they will all go home.
While they were having coffee and dessert after their lovely dinner, Ethan mentioned to Pippa about his plan to go back to England, at some point, for a short spell to give the diary to Claudia’s mum.
“I agree with you and Ally. It is best that you do it in person. That way, wala na silang masasabi sa iyo. Besides, I think that way, magiging talagang super full closure na ang lahat for you. Somehow, it will make Claudia be at peace too kung nasaan man siya. Kung ano man ang maging reaction ng mum ni Claudia, nasa kanya na iyon. You have more than done your part.” Pippa said, putting her hand over Ethan’s. “Kailan mo balak umalis? Sasabay ka bang bumalik kay Ally sa London?”
“No, mauuna na si Ally. I don’t know yet, depends pa rin sa time. Besides, I’m hoping you can go with me.” Ethan said softly, gazing at Pippa. “Not in meeting Claudia’s mum, but go with me so I can introduce you to Mum and Dad as the love of my life, and we can also see the sights. Pero, depende pa naman iyon on what you would like to do after our road trip. Di ba, sabi mo iisipin mo pa kung babalik ka sa job mo or will do the blog full-time, as well as freelance?”
“Oh, that is what I wanted to talk to you about also. Di ba, I met with my boss? Nagpaalam na rin ako sa kanya. I have decided kasi na leave my work and do the blog and go freelance. This morning, nagkataon na tumawag iyong isang close friend ko noong college, asking how I am. We haven’t seen each other lately so we had coffee at the cafe near my office, and through the course of our conversation she asked if I’m interested in being her partner in a production company she is putting up. Isabel said she would like to do freelance work too! Imagine, nagkataon pa.”
“Really, what a coincidence! So what did you tell her?” Ethan said, waiting for Pippa’s answer.
“Well, I told her about my plans to start a blog and also to freelance. Isabel laughed at the pagkakataon. Pareho pala raw kami ng iniisip. Matagal na raw niya akong gustong kausapin, pero kanina lang siya talaga nagka-time. I told her I will seriously think about it as I have already made plans with you to take a vacation, then the blog, and I have yet to talk to my immediate superior.” Pippa said, then continued, “Just before I had my meeting with my boss, I have made up my mind na magpaalam na sa kanya verbally and not just go on vacation leave, but to leave the company na. I did naman. But she requested me if I could stay muna for a month after my vacation for proper turnover. Hahanap pa siya ng kapalit ko. Also she told me, should I change my mind during my vacation, I’m very much welcome to stay. Sabi niya file the vacation leave muna and we will discuss my other plan when I come back. So, that’s about it! What do you think?”
“I’m happy with whatever you will decide on eventually, darling. You do know that whatever your decision is, it’s okay with me, di ba? It is your life and I will just be there to support you in whatever you would like to do.” Ethan said. “Just take your time. Think about it thoroughly. You can certainly do that during our road trip and while we are sitting on a blanket in some nice quiet beaches up north. Nice, isn’t it. We can always head to London for Christmas or some other time.”
“Thank you for that, honey. But I have made up my mind on my way home, Ethan. I will just go with forming a production house with Isabel, pero I will stay pa for a month with my current job as requested by Ms. Tina.” Pippa said. “So, if you could wait two months before heading to England, then I would like to go with you, and meet your parents. I would like to see your other world, too.” Pippa said softly and lovingly, planting a soft kiss on Ethan’s lips. “Besides, I want to be there with you after you have given that diary to Claudia’s mum. Kahit man lang to hold your hand, or give you kiss after it is done.”
“Really, really! Lovely! I’m so happy to know, darling. Of course, I can wait two months, basta ang importante, makakasama kita.” Ethan said, grinning. Two months to put his plan into motion! He went to where Pippa was seated, held her gently by the shoulder so he can guide her to can stand up. When she did, he hugged her tight, lowered his mouth to hers, then gave her a searing kiss.
“I love you, you know, very much. I’m so looking forward to our life together!” He said cupping her face, while they were catching their breaths.
Pippa smiled at Ethan, a bit bemused at his last statement, but is very happy at his show of love. “I love you very much too, Ethan and I, too, looking forward to us being together.”
The two of them shared one more deep kiss, before they broke apart.
Ethan helped Pippa with the dishes soon after, then they stayed in the living room watching Iron Man 3 before they headed to bed.
“Good night, darling!” Ethan whispered as he hugged Pippa and pulled her closer to him after putting the blanket over them. His right arm hugging the underside of her breasts, their bodies fitting against each other, like two spoons. He needed to rein in his body’s physical reaction to Pippa’s nearness, as even if Pippa is now ready too to take their relationship to the physical level, they can’t, yet!
“Good night, honey!” Pippa said, trying to steady her heart and her physical reaction to Ethan’s arm around her, so near her breasts. She is so acutely aware of him since she admitted to him that she is ready to share that aspect of their relationship with him. She is looking forward to that. Unfortunately, they can’t still do anything about it at the moment. Maybe, in one or two days time, they can!
The following morning, Pippa and Ethan hit the mall as soon as it opened, buying stuffs for their trip. At some point, after several stores, Ethan told Pippa he needed to run an errand and he will just meet her at the Starbucks near the front entrance of the mall.
Unknown to Pippa, Ethan went to a jewelry shop he Googled the day before. He also measured one of Pippa’s rings she had left on her dresser for size. He already had an idea on what design he would like. He was lucky! He found a ring along the designs he likes and the store have it in Pippa’s size. It was the first thing that attracted his attention when he looked at the display. He paid for his purchase and put it in the bottom of the backpack he was carrying. When he went to the coffee shop, Pippa was already there.
“Sorry, Pip darling, natagalan ako.” Ethan said with a big smile as he slid into the chair opposite Pippa’s.
“It’s okay, Ethan. Did you finish your errand? Did you find what you were looking for?” Pippa asked.
“Errr, yes,” he said but did not elaborate. He just gave her a big smile. “Thanks for ordering for me,” he said, holding the latte that Pippa got for him, and taking a sip.
“Good.” Pippa said smiling, letting Ethan off the hook, even if she was curious at the bit of mystery surrounding his sudden departure from her side, knowing na hindi niya kabisado ang mall and all morning, magkasama sila sa lahat ng shops na pinuntahan nila. “So, off to our adventure tomorrow!”
“Yes! I’m excited about it. Basta we will take turns in driving, and we rest when we are tired.” Ethan said. Pippa offered to do it herself since she know the road more, but Ethan insisted they take turns as it would be grueling for her if she does all the long driving.
“Opo.” Pippa said, pinching Ethan’s cheek affectionately.” Sure ka ba na okay ka lang mag-drive?”
“Yes, I’ll be fine. Nahihirapan lang ako dito sa Manila, pero I’ll be okay paglabas natin ng Manila.” Ethan assured Pippa. “Besides, it will really be too tiring for you kung ikaw lang ang magmamaneho all throughout.”
The night before they discussed whether they will just drive or take the buses or a plane to the places they would like to see. They both agreed that it would be more fun and they have more time to see places off the beaten track and stumble upon interesting stuffs if they drive themselves. Besides they have more control of their schedule, that way.
Pippa and Ethan spent the rest of the day going around the mall, buying the third book in the Ken Follett’s trilogy than Ethan had been wanting in the process, and having dinner at one of the garden restaurants in it before heading home. Ally texted while they were having dinner, informing them that she and Melissa arrived safely in Davao and on their way to Melissa’s home. They went to bed early as they will leave for their trip early the following day.
For the initial leg of their trip, along the main highways, it was Ethan who drove. They switched places in La Union. Pippa drove until they reached Vigan, the first full stop of their road trip, ten hours after.
“So, what would you like to do first, eat an early dinner or check in to our hotel?” Pippa asked.
“Let’s go check in first. Base dito sa description ng hotel na napili natin, there is a place beside it that serves good food.” Ethan replied, reading from Pippa’s tablet.
“Okay, let’s do that.” Pippa said, driving on, after checking the direction they got from the hotel’s website.
“Wow, I really like this place!” Ethan said when they stopped at the address indicated in the map, which is that of a Spanish-era house converted into a hotel. “We chose well!”
Pippa looked closely, and she too, likes the place they have picked after checking from a travel website various reviews of places where they could stay while in Vigan. They checked in after asking the nice lady at the reception where they could park Pippa’s car for the duration of their stay in Vigan. Both Pippa and Ethan decided that they will take the local modes of transportation in exploring Vigan, and the car is just for long distance traveling.
That evening, after taking turns in the shower, Pippa and Ethan walked hand in hand towards the restaurant they were directed to by the nice lady at the reception. They had a wonderful dinner, ordering mostly Ilocano cuisine. Afterwards, hands intertwined, they took a stroll to the softly lit and beautiful Calle Criosologo and marveled at the beautiful Spanish-era houses there.
“This is just so perfect.” Ethan softy remarked, stopping in the middle of the nearly deserted street, and cupping Pippa’s face. “You, me, in this very lovely place! There is nowhere else I want to be, than here with you. I love you, Pippa.”
Cupping Ethan’s face too, Pippa whispered. “And there is nowhere else I want to be too, than here with you. I love you very much too, Ethan. I’m so lucky to have found you, so unexpectedly.”
The two of them gazed at each other lovingly, and then amid the beautiful old houses of a bygone era, they shared a tender kiss. They return to their hotel with arms around each other, their hearts overflowing with love and happiness.
Quick note!
Dear all,
Please bear with me as I make some changes to My Sunflower World. I have decided to consolidate my two blogs into one. I will be transferring the contents of A Closer Look to My Sunflower World. Thus, to those of you who have visited the other blog, you will see the same posts you have read there, here in My Sunflower World.
Rest assured, the core of my blog, which is Richard and Maya fan fiction, will remain.
Good vibes always!
Yours,
❤ Antigone ❤
On The Street Where You Live – Chapter 11
Posted by Antigone in Richard and Maya Fiction on June 2, 2015
Chapter 11
Maya woke up with a big smile the morning after hers and Richard’s ‘first date’. She felt like she wanted to sing, dance, or just open her window and shout to the world what a beautiful morning it was, and that life is so good! She got out of the bed humming, feeling very inspired and so looking forward to the day ahead.
She got ready for work. That day was the second time she will be going to LAS for the morning. At of course, that would mean seeing Richard again after their wonderful dinner last night. Over coffee and dessert, they continued chatting about every topic they could think of. Richard was very attentive, listening to her, at the same time, looking at her in a way that made her very self-conscious. Feeling niya, matutunaw na siya sa mga titig sa kanya ni Richard!
Like the other night, Richard brought her home again. This time, despite the lateness of the hour, he went inside her small apartment. He told her he likes the way she had designed the place, maaliwalas and very homey. They had another cup of coffee before calling it a night. Before he left for the night, he told Maya softly that he had a wonderful time, and for the first time, he actually felt that he is finally home. He also gave her a quick kiss on the cheek when he was about to leave. They shared a long look, and big smiles after it.
Both Richard and Maya went to bed that night with dreamy smiles on their faces. Richard texted Maya when he reached home to inform her that he was home safe, also to say good night one more time.
Maya reached the LAS office an hour after she had left her house. Good thing, she found a taxi readily. She really need to buy herself a car. She had learned how to drive a long time ago, with Doris, but didn’t have money for a car. She had been saving for it.
“Good morning, Liza!” Maya greeted Richard’s EA when she passed by her table on the way to the office that was assigned to her. “May paperwork ka ba for me? I also have the contracts na for signature na ni Ricky, errr ni Mr. Lim.”
“Good morning to you, Attorney!” Liza greeted Maya with a big, teasing grin. “Parang ang ganda-gandang gising natin ah. Parang alam ko na kung bakit.”
“Errr, yes, I had a good night sleep.” Then the second part of Liza’s statement registered in Maya’s brain. “Hmmm, alam mo kung bakit?” She asked, brows knitted.
“Just guessing, Attorney. Putting two and two together and thinking and hoping that I’m right kasi bagay kayo and kinikilig ako.” Liza said, smiling hugely. “Kasi po si Sir, nagpa-reserve ng dinner for two kagabi sa isang romantic place. Tapos ang ganda-ganda rin ng mood ngayong umaga. In fact, he was humming pa nga when he passed by my cubicle on the way out. Sorry for the kulit, pero I have a feeling na ikaw ang ka-dinner date ni Sir. Ayyy, so kilig.”
“Hahahaha, ikaw talaga, Liza.” Maya laughed, then teased the secretary a bit. “Paano mo namang na-conclude na ako? Malay mo active naman ang social life ng boss mo. May hitsura naman siya. Erase, not may hitsura lang, he is guapo naman.”
“Hmmm, ikaw Attorney Maya, pa-showbiz ka rin. Tingnan mo kung okay ang detective skills ko, kasi since nakita ka naming kasama ni Sir the other day, he had been acting out of character. Hindi na sumisimangot. Lagi nang nakangiti. Saka bumabati na sa mga empleyado ng good morning. Tapos biglang nagpa-reserve ng dinner sa akin. Bukod pa sa lunch before that. Eh tatlong buwan na ako rito, wala naman siyang ginawang ganoon.” Liza said, enumerating her boss’ new actions.
“Talaga, Liza?” Maya asked, heart beating faster with the knowledge.
“Yes na yes po, Attorney Maya.” Liza replied. “So, tama ako, ikaw nga ang ka-dinner date ni Sir?”
Maya smiled at Liza, then blushing a bit, she nodded.
Liza did a delightful ‘silent scream’ with matching covering her mouth, then she said. “Oh my gee, nakakakilig naman talaga.”
“Shhhh, Liza, baka marinig ka ni Ricky, errr, ni Mr. Lim.” Maya lightly admonished Richard’s EA and secretary.
“Naku, okay lang Attorney, patatawarin na ako noon, fan na fan ako ng love team niyo. Saka kung tayo lang namang dalawa rito, you can call him Ricky. I don’t think the employees would be that curious pa, seeing how sweet you two were. Saka this one naman, sa ating dalawa lang. Promise.”
“Hahahaha, enough na nga Liza. Let me have the documents I need to work on.” Maya said, shaking her head at the irreverent but very nice LAS employee.
“Okay, Attorney.” Liza said smiling. She handed Maya the documents. “Nasa site nga po pala si Sir. Kaaalis lang before ka dumating. Ang aga nga niya rito, naunahan pa akong dumating.”
“Okay, just give him these.” Maya said, then handed Liza the contracts that Richard needs to review and sign. “I’ll go to my office na.”
“Sure, Attorney. Do you need anything? Coffee? Tea? Breakfast. I can send our utility guy for those.”
“No, thanks, I’m good for now Liza. I will let you know if I do.”
Maya waved at Liza as she walked towards her office, which is besides Richard’s. She was surprised, though, when she entered the office. On her table, there was a bouquet of tulips of all colors, then a tall thermos of coffee, and what looks like breakfast in a brown paper bag. She dropped her things, then inspected the stuffs on her table. Maya found a note attached to the tulips.
Dearest Maya,
Good morning! I hope you had a wonderful sleep. Since napuyat ka ulit because of me, I got coffee for you. And since baka magpagutom ka na naman, breakfast too.
Have a great morning. I’ll see you later.
Yours,
Ricky
Maya was grinning from ear to ear while reading Richard’s note. Sino ba naman ang hindi gaganda ang umaga rito, Mr. Richard Lim, she whispered, clutching the beautiful flowers to her chest and smelling them lovingly. Saan naman kaya siya nakahanap ng tulips nang ganito kaaga? She wondered.
She opened the thermos and the smell of her favorite brew wafted into the air. She took a sip and sighed contently. She opened the small brown bag beside it and inside were two bagels and cream cheese. Ah, you are really the most thoughtful of guys, Richard Lim. Sino ba naman ang hindi mai-in love sa iyo!
Maya sat down on her chair, then texted Richard.
Good morning, Ricky! 🙂 Thank you for the beautiful flowers, the breakfast and most especially sa supply ng kape. And yes, I had a good night sleep kahit napuyat tayo! 🙂
Several seconds after, her phone beeped.
Great! I’m glad you liked my opening salvo for my day one of panliligaw and panunuyo! Pasado ba ako sa initial step, Attorney Dela Rosa? 🙂
Maya laughed upon reading that.
Hmmm, pasado naman, I think. May extra points ka pa for the tulips. You are very resourceful, nakahanap ka noon kahit sarado pa ang mga shop. May farm ka ng tulips? 🙂
Richard replied promptly.
Happy that I passed. Hahaha, not actually a farm, but luckily I have a cousin who has a flower shop.
She replied, nodding.
So that’s why! Thank you again, Ricky. You are very thoughtful.
Richard replied one more time.
You’re welcome, Maya. I’ll see you in two hours. Nasa site lang ako. Matatapos na kami ni Engineer Gutierrez sa mga plane na ini-inspect namin.
Maya looked at his message, then typed in a quick reply.
Okay. I’ll see you. Take care and have a good morning too.
Her phone beeped again.
❤ ❤ ❤
Hmmm, Maya said, three hearts. Awwww! She sent a last text with a big smile on her face.
🙂 🙂 🙂
Maya happily forged on with the documents before her, humming a love song as she did so. The morning passed like a blur. But still, no sign of Richard the whole morning. While she had been busy, the thought that she will see him anytime soon is at the back of Maya’s mind.
Richard arrived at LAS around lunchtime, carrying a big paper bag. There was an unexpected emergency at the site where his company does the maintenance of the planes. It needed his direct supervision and intervention. It was not helping that his new engineer has not arrived yet from Japan.
“Hi Sir, good morning or should I say good afternoon na! Halos lunchtime na pala!” Liza said, looking at the clock, and seeing that it was already 15 minutes before 12NN.
“Hi Liza, how’s everything?” Richard asked, then unconsciously looking at the direction of Maya’s office, which didn’t escape Liza’s notice.
“Okay naman po, Sir. Tumawag lang po si Mr. Dy ng Time Airways, asking for a meeting tomorrow. I slated him after lunch. Free naman ang schedule mo at that time.” Liza said, briefing her boss. “Saka heto po ang mga contract na dala ni Attorney Maya kanina. She arrived half an hour after you left this morning.”
“Oh good! I think TA is ready to negotiate a long-term deal with us. I will just have Maya relay it to Ryan. Better if the two of them also attend the meeting.” Richard replied. “Thanks Liza. I’ll just to go my office. I’ll just review these contracts then kung okay na, you can send them out.”
Richard walked towards the direction of his office, but instead of going straight there, Liza saw him making a detour to Maya’s office. Ay, sabi na nga ba, doon ang punta muna ni Sir! She thought to herself. Kinikilig talaga siya sa nakikita niya!
When Richard reached Maya’s office, he leaned against the door, observing her. She was unaware of his presence so engrossed with what she is doing on her laptop, her ‘granny’ glasses perched on her cute nose. She looks very lovely in the sheath dress she was wearing, with minimal make-up on, and with a ghost of a smile on her face.
“You look cute in your eyeglasses.” Richard remarked, giving Maya one of his beautiful, lopsided smiles.
Maya suddenly looked up upon hearing that remark, and saw Richard by the door, arms folded across his muscular chest, outlined in the pale blue shirt, sans tie, he was wearing, and smiling at her. “Hi Ricky, ginulat mo man ako! Good morning again.” Maya gave him a brilliant smile, removing her eyeglasses. “Kumusta ang site visit mo?”
“It’s almost lunch Attorney! HIndi mo na naman namalayan!” Richard said. “Okay na sa site, I troubleshoot something pa kaya ngayon lang ako nakabalik. Paalis na sana ako kanina nang magkaproblema, Mabuti I was still there.”
“Oh, kaya pala! Did you get the contracts I left with Liza?” Maya asked, as Richard walked in and sat at one of the visitors’ chairs in her office, putting the paper bag and documents he is carrying on her table. “I’ll go back to RRMA in a short while, if there is no urgent thing I need to work on pa. Attorney Ryan texted earlier, we have a meeting with a new client this afternoon.”
“Yes, I did. Here na. But come, let’s have lunch before you go back to RRMA and before I work on these contracts. I bought lunch. I’m hungry na rin!“ Richard pointed to Maya the bag he was carrying earlier. “I grabbed some Chinese food from the newly opened Hong Kong style dimsum restaurant near the site.”
“Oh, you did pa! Doon na lang sana ako kakain sa RRMA kasi I ate naman the nice breakfast you gave me.” Maya said. “Ikaw talaga, sobrang thoughtful kahit kailan!”
“For you, Maya, I’ll be, always.” Richard said smiling.
“Thank you.” Maya said with a big smile.
“Halika, let’s go to my office. I have a small pantry there.” Richard said, standing up.
He waited for Maya and the two of them went to his office. This was the first time Maya has been Richard’s office, though she can see it from the outside through its all glass lay out. The view from Richard’s desk is magnificent.
“I like the view.” Maya commented, gravitating towards the floor-to-ceiling windows. “The view from the one I’m using is already nice, but this is best!”
“Yes I like it as well.” However Richard was not really looking at the view but at Maya’s beautiful silhouette by the window. “Very beautiful,” he said admiringly.
Maya saw Ricky looking at her, instead of the view, and got self-conscious when she saw Richard’s admiring glance. “Ikaw talaga, Ricky, iba naman ang tinitingnan mo eh.”
“Ha, but the view from my end is maganda naman talaga.” Richard said, teasing Maya.
“Hahahaha, bolero, let’s eat na nga.” Maya said, then went to the direction of the small pantry to prepare the food.
“Maya, I can do it.” Richard offered.
“No, Ricky, this is the least I can do since you bought the food. Just show me where the plates and the utensils are.” Maya insisted. Richard relented and just sat on the sofa where a big coffee table is and wait for Maya.
Maya came out of the pantry several minutes after carrying a tray. Richard helped her placed it on the table. Maya did the serving. The two of them had a quiet, enjoyable lunch wherein they got to discuss the contracts that Maya finished making, as well as the documents she had worked on the whole morning. Richard also requested her to relay to Ryan about the meeting with Time Airways the following day. From work, the conversation shifted to personal stuffs.
“Maya, I promised Abby pala that I will take her to an amusement park this weekend. Nakalimutan ko na this Saturday ang lipat namin sa Mirasol!” Richard said while they were drinking the coffee that Maya made from the coffee maker in Richard’s pantry.
“Oo nga ano. Naku, paano iyan, nag-expect na iyong bata? If she is like Lance, she will not forget that.” Maya said.
“Iyon na nga, so I’m thinking of taking her to Tagaytay on Sunday na lang and see the Sky Ranch there. Maganda raw. Naisip ko, you, Doris and Lance can join para mas masaya, and so that mas masaya si Abby.” “Richard said. “What do you think, would that be okay with you or Doris and Lance?”
“Hmmmm, ako, wala naman akong lakad sa Sunday. I was just planning to go to a car dealership and see if I can find myself a not so expensive sedan. I can use my savings na as a down payment, lalo at I’m working na.” Maya said, thinking. “As for Doris and Lance, I’ll ask Doris. I’m sure Lance will like it too. I’ll let you know as soon as I get a reply from Doris. I did mention to her nga na nagkita na tayo.”
“Great, please let me know. How’s your friend nga pala?” Richard asked.
“She is okay. She told her dad that she didn’t want to e a lawyer during our second year in college. She is working as a writer for a lifestyle magazine. She is a single mother.” Maya said. “Hindi kasi matanggap ng Daddy ni Lance na autistic ang anak niya.”
“Oh, that’s so sad! Well, it’s his lost.” Richard said. “Based on what I have seen of Lance, he is a very nice and bright boy.”
“He is.” Maya nodded in agreement. “Ricky, I need to get going soon na pala. Para I have time pa to do other things before our meeting. Thank you for the lunch.”
“Oh okay, Maya. I’ll take you to RRMA.” Richard said, standing up. “Leave everything there. I will just ask Liza to have Benjie, our utility guy put away everything.”
“No, Ricky, thank you, but I will just a take a taxi please. Kadarating mo lang sa office. I’m sure you need to attend to a lot of things pa. Marami namang taxi diyan sa labas. I will just ask Manong Guard if he could call one for me.” Maya said.
“Maya, I insists, please. Don’t worry I can still manage. Malapit lang naman ang RRMA. I’m sure I’ll be back fast.” Richard insisted, then smiling, he added. “Sa kasong ito, hindi ka mananalo, Attorney. Ako yata ang boss.”
“Ha, dinaan mo ba sa pagiging boss.” Maya retorted. “O sige na nga, pero next time, huwag na ha. Baka kung ano naman ang sabihin ng mga staff mo.”
“Maya, our personal stuff is our business. But I do understand where you are coming from.” Richard said. “Ganito na lang, ihahatid kita and susunduin sa RRMA hanggang hindi ka pa nakakabili ng car mo. Saka pala, I could go with you with the dealer I know.”
“Ricky, remember I told you, a cheap sedan, not a BMW!” Maya said smiling, while walking towards her office to get her things, and the flowers he gave her.
“Yes, I know Maya. I can take you to a car dealership that LAS had used in buying our service vehicles. They will give you a good deal. We can go on Saturday night after we have settled down in Mirasol.” Richard said, carrying Maya’s laptop.
“Hindi ka ba kakapusin sa panahon? Besides, baka pagod ka na by that time.” Maya asked, concerned.
“No worries, Maya. Wala naman kaming masyadong ililipat, clothes lang and other personal stuffs. Let’s have dinner na rin somewhere or would you like to catch a late movie?”
“Okay, Ricky. Thanks a lot. About the movie, maybe next time na lang since we might be going to Tagaytay the following day, di ba?” Maya reminded Richard as they exited the building.
Maya and Richard chatted on the way to RRMA about the possible activities they can do in Tagaytay aside from going to the amusement park. Before they knew it, they arrived at RRMA. Maya told Richard not to get out of the car as she can managed. Richard for once agreed as there were quite a number of cars dropping off people at the lobby.
“Good bye for now, Maya!” Richard said, then he leaned towards Maya and kissed her on the cheek. “Dinner later, please?”
“Okay, is around 8PM, okay with you?” She asked.
“Yes, I’ll pick you up.” Richard said.
Maya got out of the car and with a final wave to Richard, she entered the building. She greeted Lindsay and chatted with her a bit before proceeding to her office. At quarter to 3PM, Lindsay knocked on her door.
“Excuse me po Attorney, pinatatawag po kayo ni Attorney Ryan.” Lindsay said. “Sa office daw po muna niya.”
“Okay, thanks a lot Lindsay.” Maya said, then she stood up, grab her iPad and phone and proceeded to Ryan’s office.
“Sir, good afternoon.” Maya said after knocking on the opened door of Ryan’s office to get his attention. “Lindsay said pinatatawag niyo raw po ako.”
“Yes, yes, have a seat please, may 15 minutes pa tayo before our client arrives. I will ask lang sana for a briefing ng mga work natin sa LAS.” Ryan said.
“I gave the contracts that we finalized yesterday to Mr. Lim’s secretary when I arrived, Sir. Then when Mr. Lim arrived around lunch from his site visit, I briefed him on what I worked on this morning. Ready na rin po Sir for your review. Mr. Lim said he will go over the contracts we made and if everything is okay, he will sign it and have it sent to the other parties for their signatures too. So far po, we need na lang to give LAS the suppliers and employees contracts they requested. Tapos ko na po ang mga ito, for your review na lang and approval.”
“Great! Thank you Maya.” Ryan said.
“Oh, last na pala Sir, Mr. Lim is requesting that we join them with the meeting with their client Time Airways tomorrow afternoon.” Maya added. “For an extension of their service agreement I think, long-term ang agenda, Sir.”
“Okay, please confirm our attendance with LAS.” Ryan replied. “Sumama ka na since ikaw naman ang point person na natin sa LAS. Good work, Maya. Thank you.”
“Yes Sir, I will.” Maya said. “By the way Sir, sino po pala ang new client natin? You mentioned that I know the person.”
“It’s Jason Fernando.” Ryan said. “He asked after you, actually. He said he heard from a common friend that you work here now. How did you know him if I may ask?”
“Oh! Yes I do know him. I met him when I interviewed him for an article for the paper I was working for.” Maya told Ryan, then hesitated before admitting, “He, errrr, also courted me after that.”
Jason Fernando, the CEO of the retail company that brought a lot of foreign brands in the Philippines pursued Maya quite earnestly actually. However she told him that he is a nice guy but they can’t be more than friends. He simply didn’t make her heart beat faster.
“Oh, kaya pala!” Ryan gave Maya a smile, then teased her, “Mabibigat naman pala ang karibal ng brod ko.”
“Sir, kayo talaga!” Maya said laughing.
“Biro lang, Maya.” Ryan said. “Halika na nga, let’s meet our new client.”
The meeting with Jason Fernando and his team went well, even if it took longer. His company will now get the services of RRMA. After the meeting, and on the way out, Jason had asked Maya if they can have dinner later. Maya declined. However, it seemed like it didn’t dissuade Jason, he said he will ask Maya again and check with her when they can have dinner. Maya gave him a polite noncommittal answer.
That evening, Richard picked her up before 8PM. They decided to have dinner in a restaurant near Mirasol Street. Richard took Maya home around 11PM.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Maya.” Richard said softly, bringing her to her door again. “Can we have dinner again tomorrow?”
“Sure, Ricky! Thank you for my wonderful day, and these.” Maya said, gesturing to the flowers she was carrying in her hand.
“For you, Maya, anything and anytime. I’ll get going. Late na and may pasok ka pa bukas.” Richard said, gazing at Maya. “Good night. I have another lovely day because of you.” Then he kissed Maya on the cheek again. “Sweet dreams. Bye.”
“You too, Ricky. Goodnight.” Maya said.
For another night, the two of them parted with big smiles on their faces, and went to bed very happy.
The following morning, when Maya arrived at work, there was a big bouquet of sunflowers this time, another thermos of coffee and breakfast from Richard!
Dearest Maya,
Good morning. Day 2 of my panliligaw and panunuyo! 🙂 I’m so looking forward to seeing you later.
Yours,
Ricky
Maya grinned happily. She is so looking forward to seeing Richard too.
Note: Have a wonderful day, my fellow adiks. Good vibes as always! ❤
My Sunflower World 
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