Archive for July, 2015

Unexpected Love – Chapter 20

Posted by Antigone in Fiction on July 7, 2015

Chapter 20

“Excited, darling?” Ethan asked Pippa as the two of them settled more comfortably into the seats at the open part of the boat that would take them back to Puerto Galera from the Batangas Port, more than a month after they have left the island, one after the other. It was just four weeks ago, but it felt like ages as so many wonderful things had happened to them, so many beautiful places they have been, the warm and nice people that they had met, and the unforgettable experience they have shared together!

“Yes, darling, and I’m also quite nervous!” Pippa admitted, taking comfort in hers and Ethan’s clasped hands. This is it for them! They will tell her mother, that not only they are in a relationship, but that they are engaged, and would like to get married the soonest time possible.

Pippa and Ethan decided that they would like to get married at the place where they have met, Puerto Galera, and have the reception at Pippa’s family’s resort!  The honeymoon, they haven’t decided on a place yet, though they are thinking of Palawan, in a  small private island that belongs to one of Pippa’s godmothers. She has a standing invitation from her Ninang Evelyn to go and stay in the island, which is just being used as a vacation place of the Romeros and their families and friends. Pippa was actually planning to take Ethan and Ally to that place had their Palawan trip pushed through.

While Pippa and Ethan have called their respective parents during the two weeks that they have been traveling around Northern Luzon, they opted not to tell them about their relationship, and their engagement over the phone as they want to tell the wonderful news to them in person! They are planning to see them the soonest. In the case of Marianne Montenegro in two weeks time, which is in about an hour or so, and the Bowmans after a month, depending on what Pippa and her boss will agree on. She had decided to tell her boss that her decision is final, she is resigning from her job. Then, she and Ethan will travel to England to see his parents, and to give Claudia’s diary to her mum.

Pippa almost told her mother that she and Ethan are in a relationship when they talked to her briefly before their trip to Northern Luzon . But it was so new then, and she wanted to have a heart to heart with her mother about it. She was planning to call her and tell her about it, but she was the one who phoned and asked how she and Ethan were. The three of them ended up talking about their trip and Ally’s vacation in Mindoro. She felt at that time that there was just too much to tell her mother over the phone. She would tell her about all the wonderful developments when they see her.

Only Allison knows about their engagement. She phoned Ethan one evening and he admitted to her that he had proposed to Pippa at the Bantay Bell Tower! Ethan said his sister was being makulit as she knew that he was planning to propose to Pippa. He just asked her to keep it to herself as he and Pippa are planning to tell the parents in person. Ally told the two of them that of course, she will and that she is very happy for the two of them. She also informed Ethan that their parents will be home in two weeks time.

Pippa smiled and gave Ethan a kiss while the boat was under way to the port in the town, where they will be pick up by Mang Ben. Pippa had called her mother the night before. She told her that she and Ethan were back in Manila and that they will travel to Mindoro the following day. Her mother was happy know that and told them that she will prepare all their favorite dishes, and that Manong Ben will pick them up from the pier.

“What’s that all about darling? Not that I mind you kissing me! You may kiss me anytime, you know.” Ethan said smiling at the love of his life.

“Wala lang, honey, I’m just very, very, very happy! I will see Mom na, and also I was remembering your proposal and our trip! I can’t wait to tell her that we are getting married!” Pippa replied, looking again at her ring for the nth time. At times, it still feels unreal to her that she and Ethan are about to get married. It was already hard enough believing that they are in a relationship, that in just a short time after her heartache with Martin, she found the love of her life! “Sometimes, I feel like asking you to pinch me at baka kasi nananaginip ako!”

“You are not the only one, Pippa darling.” Ethan hugged Pippa and gave her a kiss on the forehead. “But what we experienced together so far, it is just the beginning of our wonderful journey together.”

Hugging each other and with loving smiles solely for each other, they passed the time by remembering their wonderful trip the past two weeks and the nights they have spent in each other arms, savoring the feeling of knowing that they are committed to each other for life. That their lives would be like that, in each other arms, sharing each other thoughts, sharing experiences, hopes, dreams and loving for always.

The first person who congratulated Ethan and Pippa when they got down from the bell tower was Manang Lucing and a group of tourists wanting to climb the bell tower after them. Ethan had asked Manang Lucing in secret to leave them alone in the bell tower as he would like to propose to his girlfriend. The old lady, a romantic at heart, was all smiles and readily agreed. She also promised him that they will not be disturbed while they were there. She also wished Ethan luck. Like what they have agreed on, after taking their photos, she went down to stand guard.

Seeing the ring on Pippa’s finger when they got out of the tower, and the happy smiles on their faces, she readily concluded that the proposal was a success. She offered her congratulations. The other tourists upon hearing this, congratulated them as well. They even teased Ethan na kaya pala ayaw silang paakyatin pa sa bell tower ni Manang Lucing eh magpo-propose siya! Ethan and Pippa thanked the old lady and their well-wishers. The two of them went back inside the church and prayed for the success of their relationship, and thanked God, again, for bringing them together.

When they returned to Mang Erning’s calesa, they told him of their engagement, unable to contain their happiness. The old guy was also all smiles, offering his congratulations. They continued their sightseeing tour, chatting with their kutsero about their relationship, and in the process, they also found out a bit about him, that he has four children, he and his wife has sent to school by sheer hard work, him as a kutsero and a handyman, and his wife as a weaver and a seller of cosmetic products. All of the kids had finished college and wanted for Mang Erning to retire as kutsero as they can provide for him and their mother. But Mang Erning told them that he likes what he is doing and chatting to very nice tourists like Pippa and Ethan makes him happy and it is his life now.

Hearing his story, Pippa asked him if she could write about his story in the blog she is making. Mang Erning he would be happy too as he would like other parents to get inspired into sending their kids to school no matter what and no job is too small or too ordinary basta love mo ang ginagawa mo. Hearing the old guy and his positive attitude, Pippa’s felt that she had made the right decision in pursuing her dreams too.

While they did their tour, Pippa interspersed it with an interview with Mang Erning, with Ethan acting as her cameraman. They also invited Mang Erning to lunch as a way of thanking him for showing them around and treat nila sa engagement nila. They also hired him for the rest of the day. Like what they have agreed on, he took them to a burnayan where Pippa tried her hand in making a simple burnay jar, while Ethan took a video of her doing it for her blog, as well as recorded her interview with the potter. They did the same thing in the weaving place where Mang Erning took them next. Seeing it, and trying her hand at weaving, Pippa realized how difficult it is, and how much work goes into a single inabel blanket.

Pippa and Ethan didn’t make it to Santa Maria and the Quirino Bridge that first day. They just went around Vigan and the nearby areas. They also managed to tour several ancestral homes, and also the Burgos Museum and had coffee at Calle Crisologo after they have said goodbye to Mang Erning, who wished them well on their upcoming marriage.

The rest of the evening was spent going around the streets of Vigan on foot and a romantic dinner at one of the ancestral homes in the city which has been turned into a hotel. When they returned to their hotel, like the previous night, Pippa and Ethan took turns in the bathroom before they retired for the night.

However, unlike the previous night, Ethan was waiting for Pippa when she came out of the bathroom. He was reading the book he was trying to read the night before, which he quickly put down when he saw Pippa getting out of the bathroom, wearing another of her sleep t-shirt. He patted the space on the bed beside him. Pippa went to him, sitting cross-legged, trying to comb her hair. Ethan took the comb from her hand, and combed her hair gently, massaging her hair in the process.

Pippa asked Ethan where he had learned to do that as he can make a fortune doing that, as it was very relaxing. Ethan sheepishly admitted to Pippa that was the first time he did it, and hoped he did okay. He did it instinctively as he just wanted to do something for her. Pippa thanked him and said he did good and that she enjoyed it very much. She was also touched that Ethan would do that for her. She turned to face him, their eyes met and they shared a kiss that led to so much more. However, before it could go any further and cross the point of no return for them, Ethan stopped, with difficulty. Haltingly, he told Pippa that he promised himself inside the church in Bantay that he would wait for the wedding night before making love to Pippa fully.

Ethan cupped Pippa’s face and gently told her that he knows that it is very important to her, that even if she is ready to make love with him, that act is something very important to her. She had waited for the right time for it. They might as well wait for the perfect time for it, which is their wedding night. He told Pippa he can wait, honest, cross his heart. He also teased her that it is going to be a big struggle, though, as seeing her, especially dressed like that  is temptation itself and he hopes he has the willpower of a saint to survive the coming months before their wedding.

Pippa can see in Ethan’s expression his resolve not to consummate their relationship before the wedding. She understood what he meant. Even when she said to Ethan almost a week before that she was ready to take their relationship to the next level, there is a part of her that is nervous of the unknown, that she needed to be eased into first. She loves Ethan the more for seeing that, and understanding. She kissed him softly on the lips and told him she loves him very much. Yes, they can wait! They went to sleep with arms around each other. Pippa slept promptly, while it took a while for Ethan to do so, praying then that he will survive the night, and the next night and the next without making love to Pippa.

Ethan did survive, barely, in the two weeks that they have traveled from Vigan, to Laoag, Paoay, Batac, Burgos, and Pagudpud, seeing the beautiful sites in these places – from the Paoay Church, to Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, to the Bangui Windmills which Ethan saying the only time he had seen windmills up close was at a farm in Denmark, then to the Cape Bojeador or the Burgos Lighthouse, down to the beautiful beaches of Pagudpud, marvelled at the Patapat viaduct engineering, also at the wonderful view and the seemingly endless sea one can see from there. Throughout their trip to the region, they also tried all the delicious local food, from bagnet to longganisa, to dinengdeng, empanada, pinakbet and some others with unusual names.

From the Patapat Viaduct, they drove to Cagayan Valley, stopping at Sta. Ana for their 45-minutes or so boat trip to Palaui where they spent most of the day, and from  Sta. Ana again, they drove to Tuguegarao for the night. They also explored a bit of Tuguegarao the following morning, they went to the centuries old cathedral there, explored other old churches in the nearby areas, and tried pancit batil patung, before they went to Callao Cave, taking a boat trip down the Pinacanauan River while waiting for the thousands of bats to come out from the cave at twilight. It was worth the wait and it was a sight to see!

From there, they drove down to  Isabela, and Nueva Vizcaya and up to Banaue, using it as a base as they explored the rice terraces there, and then the much beautiful one in Batad. After that, their trip took them to Bontoc, then to Sagada for several days, then to Baguio. The last leg of their trip was Pangasinan, to Alaminos for the Hundred Islands and Bolinao for the beaches there, and from there they traveled back to Manila. They arrived at Pippa’s condo the night before, rested a bit, then off to Batangas that morning for their trip to Puerto Galera.

“Why are you smiling and sighing at the same time?” Pippa asked Ethan, curious. They are about to dock at the Puerto Galera Muelle Pier, as from where they are, she can see that their boat was about to enter the lagoon that leads to it.

“Wala lang….” Ethan said, shrugging.

“Hmmmm, meron. I can see na meron.” Pippa insisted. “Tell me!”

“Okay, I will tell na.” Ethan said, then whispered, “I was smiling and was sighing because I just realized that I survived not making love to you while your delectable body was by my side every night. You don’t know how hard it was not to make love to you, you know. While I will miss you by my side when we get to your mother’s home, it is respite for me. Otherwise, I don’t think I will last longer.” Ethan confessed.

Pippa smiled, an element of mischief in it. “And I thought you were Mr. Cool all the time we have shared a bed. Maybe, I’ll sneak into your cottage, you know, make you lose that control.” She teased. But honestly, she too, thought that she wouldn’t last longer if she has to share another night with Ethan, especially now that they are not too tired from all the road trips they did.

“Pippa, darling, then I will break my promise to God.” Ethan smiled. He is sure Pippa will not do it. Despite the fact that she says she was ready for intimacy between them, she is a conservative girl at heart.

“Just teasing you, honey.” Pippa said, then gave Ethan a quick kiss. While they have not done the deed, so to speak, their sharing a bed night after night was not completely innocent. They have indulged a bit, testing the limits of their controls. Ethan also candidly answered all of Pippa’s questions about making love and intimacies between a man and woman, putting Pippa’s fear of the unknown to rest. “We really have something to look forward to on our honeymoon, Mr. Bowman.”

“We do, Mrs. Bowman-to-be. But I’m looking forward, not only to that, but to finally spending the rest of my life with you.” Ethan said, giving Pippa a gentle kiss.

“Me too, Ethan.” Pippa whispered.

The boat finally docked at the pier, and they saw Manong Ben right away, and he was with Pippa’s mother! She was supposed to be just waiting for them in the house. She waved at them as soon as she saw them! It also didn’t escape Marianne Montenegro’s notice the way her daughter and Ethan look at each other, not to mention their intertwined hands! There is something different about this two, she thought to herself. Meron na dati, pero parang mas meron ngayon!

“Mom, great to see you again!” Pippa hugged her mother tight and gave her a kiss.

“You too, anak! Na-miss naman kita ng husto!” Marianne said, then she looked at Ethan. “Ikaw din, Ethan!” She went to hug him as well.

“Hello, Tita Marianne! Glad to be back here in Puerto!” Ethan said. “Hello po, Manong Ben.” He said, waving at the old guy.

“Tara, sa bahay na tayo magkwentuhan.” Marianne Montenegro said. “Nagpaluto ako ng mga paborito ninyong food kay Doray. Hindi ko lang napigilang hindi kayo sunduin, hindi ako mapakali sa paghihintay. Kasi naman anak, I missed you ng todo-todo. Ewan ko ba, dati ka namang matagal hindi muuwi kapag marami kang trabaho, pero this time parati kitang naalala. Ikaw din, Ethan.”

The three of them walked to the car where Manong Ben parked near the restaurant where Pippa and Ethan had breakfast weeks ago. Ethan opened the door for Marianne first, then Pippa and sat with Manong Ben in front.

“Kailan pala ang dating ni Allison, Ethan? I thought kasabay ninyo na ni Pippa?” Marianne asked when they were on the road. “I forgot to ask you last night.”

“In a week’s time po, Tita Marianne. Nag-extend po siya ng kaunti pa sa Mindanao. Our cousins took her also to Iligan, Bukidnon, Cagayan De Oro, Camiguin and Siargao pala! She extended her vacation. Nag-enjoy!”

“That’s a lot of places!” Marianne remarked. “Pero I heard, magaganda raw sa mga lugar na iyon. Kahit sa Davao, hindi pa nga rin ako nakakarating. Your mum did ask me to go with her noong college kami, Ethan, pero hindi nagka-chance.”

“Oo nga Mom. Ethan and I would like to go to those places also.” Pippa remarked. “Gusto mo sumama ka na lang sa amin.”

“Kailan ninyo plano? Paano iyong work mo pala Pippa?” Marianne asked, surprised as her daughter rarely takes a vacation, and not this long.

“Oh, about that. Mom, I have a lot to tell you, pero can we wait until we get home, please.” Pippa said, hugging her mother and giving her a big, happy smile, before looking at Ethan and sharing something, a big something again.

Hmmm, now Marianne’s intuition and motherly instinct are working overtime. Marianne has an inkling that she is in for some big surprises! “Okay!” She simply said.

Soon after, they were in the driveway of the family home. Ethan opened the door for Pippa. Pippa in turned, extended her hand to help her mother out of the car. That was when her mother noticed the beautiful ring on Pippa’s finger. It looks like, it looks like, an engagement ring!!!

“Could it be??? Are they????” Marianne asked herself. Her heart also started beating fast, coupled with this, she remembered Pippa’s words early, that she has a lot to tell her. Marianne barely stopped herself from asking her daughter or screaming in delight at this development! She had hoped, wished and prayed that Pippa would find someone who will love her like she deserves to be love, and also wished that it would be Ethan, but she never expected that it will come true this soon! She felt very happy at the moment.

“Mom? Is something wrong? Bakit hindi ka pa bumababa?” Pippa asked, puzzled and then she saw where her mother’s gaze is. She smiled, blushing a bit. “Yes, Mom. I found my prince after all the ‘frogs’.” Pippa said softly to her mother, then looked at Ethan with so much love. Ethan looked at Pippa with the same expression. “Ethan and I are engaged, Mom!”

Marianne Montenegro slowly got out the car, like in a trance, then her face was wreathed in smiles, at the same time teary-eyed. She touched her daughter’s face. “Pippa, I’m happy to know.” She hugged her daughter tight, then looked at Ethan. “Come here,  Ethan.” She included Ethan in the embrace, then said, “Welcome to our family, Ethan.”

“Thank you very much, Tita Marianne. Sorry po, hindi pa namin nasabi ni Pippa sa inyo sa phone. Gusto po kasi naming in person sabihin sa inyo, pati na rin kina Mum and Dad. Kaya nga po kami umuwi ng mas maaga kaysa kay Ally so we can talk to you.” Ethan said.

“Oo nga Mom. Iyon po sana ang isa sa sasabihin namin ni Ethan sa inyo.” Pippa said. “Sorry po, naunahan niyo na kami.”

“Naku, you two owe me a lot of kwento talaga!” Marianne said, smiling through her tears of joy. “Hindi ko nga alam na kayong dalawa na. Though, I had an inkling that you two are heading in that direction. Halika pasok na tayo sa loob so we can get settle in and so you can tell me the whole story from the beginning. Who would have thought ha pag-alis mo last month, Pippa anak, pagbalik mo magkaka-son-in-law na ako. And Ethan before I forget, call me Mom na rin, no more ‘Tita Marianne’!

“Yes po, Tita….Mom.” Ethan grinned, so happy that everything is okay with Pippa’s mom. He and Pippa shared a looked and his happiness was also reflected on her face.

The three of them entered the house with arms around each other. As Manang Doray serves merienda, and with Pippa and Ethan holding hands, they told Marianne Montenegro how their relationship started and how it led to Ethan proposing at the Bantay Bell Tower, two weeks before. Pippa’s mom was smiling all the time they were telling her. She was very happy for her daughter and she couldn’t ask for a better son-in-law! She is so looking forward to finally having grandchildren to spoil!

 

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Coloring books for grown-ups

Posted by Antigone in Interests, Things on July 4, 2015

Doodle Books 1

I like looking at paintings, and other works of art. I admire people who has the talent to wield a brush, or a pencil, or other drawing implements, and make something magical on canvass or on paper, tremendously. Since I don’t have the talent for that, I was happy to discover these books to color, instead! I was introduced to this by a very artistic friend, and discovered that it is a great stress reliever, aside from being a very relaxing hobby!

Traditional Doodles Series

The first one I bought was the Landscapes Traditional Doodles, then the Transport, which I gave to a nephew of my husband as I’m not into vehicles, and then I found the two others, afterwards. They cost, at that time, Php 169.00 each. I’m not sure if National Bookstore still have these Traditional Doodles, as I bought these books several years ago in National Bookstore Quezon Avenue, but I found out that there are available ones online when I Googled.

Traditional Doodles 2

I was very much into it for a while, finishing several pages of the Landscapes. However, I stopped due to my busy schedule at work then, and eventually, because I got hooked on Be Careful With My Heart, which became my new stress reliever! 🙂 Here are some of what I have finished before! The friend who told me about this also taught me some basic shading techniques, but still I have a lot to learn! I’m also partial to violet, lilac, and purple so you will see a lot of those in my work!

Finished Landscape 3 Finished Landscape 4

Finished Landscape 1 Finished Landscape 2

One of them I put in a frame and hung it somewhere in the house! 🙂

Finished Work 5

Recently, while browsing through the shelves of Fully Booked in Bonifacio Global City, I found this Butterflies book, and thought of taking up ‘doodle art’ again. I bought a new set of Faber Castell Colour Pencils, as my daughter went through my other sets!

Butterflies Butterflies Sample

Faber Castell 1 Faber Castell 2

So far, I have the following books to finish at leisure, aside from the Butterflies, which has 31 pages. I forgot how much this one cost, but it was more than Php 200.00.

Botanical Gardens Botanical Gardens Sample

The Botanical Gardens has 41 pages of beautiful gardens to color. I found it at C & E Bookshop along Quezon Avenue in 2013 for Php 235.60 with a 5% discount!

Famous Castles and Houses Famous Castles and Houses Sample

The Famous Castles & Houses has 23 pages, and the Landscapes has nine pages left.

Landscapes Landscapes Sample

No worries, promise, I will only do this while thinking of new chapters for my current stories or new stories to write. 🙂 I do other things, actually, like reading books and magazines, walking around, going online, and watching the BCWMH DVDs, while thinking of what I want to write next or how to move along a chapter. Coloring page after page of these books will do as well to help the creative juices flowing!

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On The Street Where You Live – Chapter 19

Posted by Antigone in Richard and Maya Fiction on July 4, 2015

Chapter 19

“Wow!” Both Abby and Lance exclaimed when they got inside the spacious room with a beautiful view of Taal Volcano. “Daddy, can Lance and I play with my iPad while we are resting?”

“Hindi ba kayo inaantok ni Lance? Ayaw ninyo bang mag-nap para mas may energy kayo later?” Richard asked, then when Abby and Lance both shook their heads, he gave his consent, “Okay.”

“Lance, heto o, I brought my iPad with me para tig-isa kayo ni Abby. I downloaded na rin some new apps for you. Maybe you and Abby can also exchange at some point.” Maya handed Lance her iPad, ruffled his hair.

“Yes! Thank you Ninang!” Lance hugged Maya and gave her a big kiss.

The two kids stayed in the living room of the suite, settling into the two armchairs there, while Richard and Maya went out to the balcony and admired the view. The sun was pretty intense at that time of the day, but they can see the lake and the volcano clearly. It was very relaxing seeing that wonderful scenery just outside their room.

“Coffee, sweetheart? Hindi tayo nakapagkape sa ibaba kanina! I thought also na mas okay dito, tahimik and we have the view to ourselves pa.” Richard said. Maya nodded, so he went inside the room and ordered coffee and dessert for both of them, and orange juice for the kids. He returned to the balcony. From the door, he admired Maya’s beautiful silhouette, looking at her with all the love he was feeling for this wonderful woman.

“Nice view and place, di ba?” Maya remarked, sensing Richard behind her. She just knew that he was there. She knew for certain when two arms engulfed her in a sweet hug and kisses were planted on her bare shoulder. She turned and smiled at him sweetly and lovingly. “We didn’t go here when my law classmates and I went to Tagaytay several months ago. This place is on the expensive side for law grads who have not yet pass the bar, and still jobless!”

“Mama and Papa used to take Grace and I to Tagaytay when we were kids, and we used to stay here, in the old Taal Vista Lodge. Hindi pa ganito ang hitsura noon. Pero that viewing deck outside, medyo ganyan na rin iyan noon. Na-spruce up lang.” Richard said pointing to the viewing deck which offers the best view of the lake and the volcano along the Tagaytay ridge.

“Iyung Mama and Papa mo, you mentioned to Mrs. Melendrez that they are coming back here after ten years? That’s good news!” Maya remarked, upon hearing Richard mentioned his parents. She had been meaning to ask him about them when she heard him mentioned them to Mrs. Norma Melendrez earlier.

Before Richard could reply, their orders arrived. Richard went to answer the door. He asked the hotel staff to place their coffee  and dessert on the coffee table in the living room, and the kids drinks on the small dining table. Maya went back inside, opened the curtain so they can still look at the beautiful view outside while drinking their coffee and eating their pasties in the cool room. She and Richard shared the sofa. The kids were very much engrossed in their games. The two of them have also moved to the bedroom and got comfortable on the big bed with the TV on.

“Lance, Abby, I ordered juice for you. Nandito sa table sa dining room.” Richard informed them, standing at the doorway.

His daughter looked up, thanked him sweetly, and told him that they will just drink it later. Lance also thanked him, and said he will just drink the juice when he and Abby get thirsty. Richard returned to the living room.

“Going back to Mama and Papa,” Richard started as he sat down again. “Yes Mama said they are planning to go home. She said about time na that they do. She called up this morning para kumustahin iyong paglipat namin. Siya nga ang gumising sa akin. Nalito sa oras! She and Papa are in San Francisco at the moment. And since she called, I also told her about us. I have been meaning to call her to tell her, and Papa too, that I have found you, and that we are in a relationship now.”

“Really, you told her? What did she say? Anong reaction ng Mama mo?” Maya asked, then suddenly took a big sip of her coffee, nervously waiting for the answer to her questions.

“Well, of course, I did. I was very happy to tell her, sweetheart! She is very happy for us, so don’t fret.” Richard said, smiling, then he put his hand over Maya’s. “And she said she is looking forward to meeting you.” Hopefully as my fiancee, Richard thought to himself, smiling secretly at the thought of his ring on Maya’s finger, finally, hopefully very, very soon!

“How about your Papa?” Maya asked, remembering that Don Roberto seemed to be against a relationship between her and his son years ago. She sensed in the one and only time she met him, and judging by what Richard told her, he seemed to have told him specifically not to tell her that they were going away.

“I was not able to talk to Papa as he went outside with my uncle. But Mama said it will be okay with him too. Wala na naman siyang issues na, sweetheart. I did what he told me to do. I finished school and took over the management of the business, built my own company too in the process. I will also talk to him din. Wala na rin namang time kasi kaninang umaga. Balak kong tawagan siya pagbalik natin sa Maynila.” Richard said. “Besides, sweetheart, whatever my father will say, it will not change my feelings for you and I will be by your side no matter what. I think if what happened did not happen and the circumstances were different, kung tayo ang nagkatuluyan at that time, I would have fought for you. And I’m pretty sure, my father will relent in the end. Hindi ako bibitiw sa iyo, sweetheart. I love you very much, you know, and I would fight for that love.”

“Oh, sweetheart! Thank you very much. I love you very much too.” Maya hugged her boyfriend, overwhelmed by his declaration. “But I want your father to be happy for us too. I know it is important to you. Bayaan mo, if he has objections pa, the two of us will convince him otherwise, walang sukuan.” Maya vowed.

The two of them shared a loving smile, then they kissed. However, they stopped reluctantly after several long seconds as the kids might see them, or get out of the room suddenly. They did actually, after several minutes. They told Richard and Maya that they would rather be with them in the living room. Lance and Abby sat on the floor in front of the sofa and continued playing there after downing their glasses of orange juice.

Richard and Maya were content to watch the kids playing, marveling at their abilities to manipulate and play the apps on their iPads without assistance from the adults, while they enjoyed their coffee time and private moment.

“Ricky, I’m planning pala to go home to Mindoro next weekend. I remembered last night na holiday pala dito sa city natin! Nakalimutan ko na, actually. Makakasama ka ba?” Maya asked all of a sudden, suddenly remembering that she was going to tell this to Richard today. Nawala na sa isip niya ang holiday with all the wonderful things that had happened.

“Really, holiday next Friday! That’s great!” Richard said, happy to hear this. “Of course, sweetheart. I will. Let me arrange everything, okay.” Before Maya could react, he was on the phone with Liza.

“Hello Liza, sorry to bother you on a Sunday, but could you please book a flight for Maya and I for next Friday, returning on Sunday afternoon.” Richard said. “Yes, the earliest flight on Friday, to San Nicolas, Mindoro. Sa Time Airways na lang. Please call our contact there.”

“Okay po, Sir.” Liza replied. She was surprised to hear from her boss on a Sunday and his request is on the odd side. For Maya and him, ha! Hmmm, mukhang may napakagandang nangyari over the weekend na hindi niya pa alam. She is so looking forward to seeing Attorney Maya on Tuesday!

“Thanks a lot Liza.” Richard said, and ended the phone call.

“Sweetheart, di ka naman masyadong excited sa trip natin ha! Flash Gordon talaga ang peg mo.” Maya said smiling. “Naku, feeling ko lang I’m in for a grilling from Liza on Tuesday.”

“Slight lang, sweetheart.” Richard said, putting his arms around Maya. “I’m just happy, finally, we can go to Mindoro. Don’t mind Liza. Besides, she is bound to know that we are in a relationship. Feeling ko naman, alam na niya na doon tayo papunta noon pa man. For her, I may have acted out of character din since I hired her. Saka siya ang nag-book ng lunch and dinners natin.”

“Tama ka diyan, sweetheart. She is like a reporter kung magtanong ha. But I don’t mind. I don’t think she is making tsismis lang. I like her.” Maya said. “So, Friday ng umaga, aalis tayo? I will call Nanay and tell her pagbalik natin ng Maynila. Matutuwa iyon.”

“I’m really looking forward to meeting her and finally seeing where you grew up. What’s your favorite part of San Nicolas? I head maraming magagandang tourist spots sa inyo.”

“Iyong most romantic place!” Maya replied quickly, then got dreamy on Richard. “It’s a small park beside a lake, may malaking punong mangga sa may pampang, very nice and peaceful, and most romantic kasi doon nag-propose ang Tatay ko sa Nanay ko. Madalas kami doon ni Doris noong mga teenager pa kami, bago kami nag-Manila. Nandoon pa sa punong mangga ang mga pangalan nina Tatay at Nanay na naka-enclose sa heart na may pana.”

“Talaga, sweetheart! Can you bring me there?” Richard asked, a most beautiful plan forming in his head, and he needs Liza’s help to execute it, also maybe, Doris too, if she is not too busy.

“Sure, sweetheart. I would love to. Iyon yata ang favorite spot ko.” Maya looked up at Richard and gave him a beautiful smile.

“I’m looking forward to seeing that.” Richard grinned, happy at this development.

“Ricky, nagri-ring yata ang phone mo.” Maya suddenly said, hearing the distinct ring tone that Richard uses.

“Oh, I didn’t notice!” Richard said, looking at his phone. “Unknown number, baka si Grace ito! Nalaman na kay Mama ang tungkol sa atin. Sandali lang sweetheart.”

Richard stood up near the balcony as he answered his phone. Maya sat on the floor with the kids and asked them to show her the games they were playing.

“Hello Ricky, your Mama told me the news!” Don Roberto Lim told Richard after Richard picked up the call and had said a tentative hello to whoever was on the other line.

“Pa, ikaw pala ito! I thought si Grace!” Richard was surprised to hear from his father promptly. “I called up Mama earlier. She said you were outside the house with Tito Carlos.”

Maya heard that it was Don Roberto on the phone. Her heart beat faster. She is hoping that the outcome of the phone call is a positive one, especially for Richard.

“Yes, yes, we grilled some meat kasi. Toka namin ng tito mo. Kanina pa sana ako tatawag sa iyo, pero kumain muna kami and then tumawag iyong isa kong business partner after that.” Don Roberto told his son. “Your mama mentioned that you have a girlfriend there? Si Maya, iyong neighbor natin dati sa Mirasol Street, is that correct.”

“Yes Papa, she is now my girlfriend. She is the one and only woman I love. Hindi ko naman siya talaga nakalimutan kahit after ten years. Alex and I we understood each other, but it was not the kind of love I have with Maya. It is Maya I love very much. I’m lucky to have found her again and have this second chance with her. I’m sure you knew how I feel about her ten years ago.”

“Yes I did, I do, Ricky, son, and I’m happy for you and Maya. Really I am. Iyon ang dahilan kung bakit ako tumawag. Kasi sabi ng Mama mo you were worried na baka iba ang maging dating sa akin, that I may oppose your relationship.” Don Roberto paused, then plunged on. “I would have wanted to say this in person to you, but since it not possible at the moment, I would like to tell you son na all I want is for you to be happy after all that you have been through. I’m glad that you have found Maya again. I knew, yes, that you felt differently for her, and I’m sorry son, for being hard on you ten years ago. I was a different man then. After the biggest crisis in our family, yes, it was difficult to trust people again, but I also realized the most important thing, it is our family and what makes us – you, your Mama, and Grace happy. Forgive me son? And son, hindi mo na rin naman kailangan ang approval ko, but I would like to give it.”

“P-pa!” Richard gulped, collecting his thoughts, surprised at what his father said. They haven’t had a father and son talk like this the past ten years. He was not expecting this at all. It was not also in his father’s character. “Thank you, Papa. Thank you! What happened had happened. Wala na naman tayong magagawa roon. The important thing is Maya and I found each other again and we have this chance. Yes, I do wish you to be happy for us, pero hindi naman kita pipilitin if ever. No matter what happens, I love you and Mama, and Grace too.”

“Thank you, son, thank you.” Don Roberto said, his voice breaking a bit. “I hope your Mama and I can get to meet Maya soon, son. She must be a very wonderful lady. I want to get to know better ang magiging manugang ko. Kailan ba ang kasal?”

“Pa, hindi pa nga ako nakakapag-propose eh. Next weekend I will, hopefully.” Richard said in a whisper, taking care that Maya did not hear what he was saying to his father.  He checked and saw her engrossed with what she was doing, while Abby and Lance looked on. As if sensing his gaze, she looked up and gave him a loving smile. He returned it and mouthed ‘I love you’ to her. She made a flying kiss and sent it to him, mouthing, ‘I love you too’.

“That’s great! Good luck, son! I’m very, very happy for you and Maya.” Don Roberto said. “Your mama said nasa Tagaytay kayo kasama ng mga bata. Please say hello from me na lang at baka mamamasyal pa kayo. Please tell my apo that I love her and tell Maya that I am looking forward to meeting her formally as your girlfriend or fiancee.”

“I will, Pa. Thank you for this call. You don’t know how happy you have made me.” Richard said emotionally.

“Me too, son. O sige, I have to go na. Enjoy your excursion and see you soon.” Don Roberto said.

Richard pocketed his phone with a big smile. He went down to where Maya was, and gave her a big, happy hug.

“What is it, sweetheart. Is everything okay? Ano sabi ng Papa mo?” Maya said, sensing that the outcome is good as Richard looks very, very happy!

“Sweetheart, halika sa balcony, I will tell you about it.” Richard stood up and extended his hand to Maya. “Kids, dito muna kayo ha. Get ready na rin kasi we will be leaving for the amusement park in a while.”

When they reached the balcony, Richard put his arms around Maya, while he told her about his meaningful and surprising conversation with his father.

“Sweetheart, I’m so happy everything is okay now!!!” Maya said happily, hugging Richard tight, and giving him a quick kiss on the lips after he had finished telling her the gist of the conversation and how his father is looking forward to meeting her too.

“He said, he is looking forward to finally meeting his future daughter-in-law.” Richard finished, making Maya’s heart skipped a beat. “Ganoon din ang sabi ni Mama sa akin, you know.”

“Daughter-in-law talaga, sweetheart!” Maya smiled, then an imp seemed to have possessed her, she asked, “Bakit, sweetheart, are you planning to propose to me?”

“Hahahaha, sweetheart, ikaw ha hinuhuli mo ako. Secret!” Richard said, then he teased back. “Kapag ba nag-propose ako, sasagutin mo ako ng matunog na YES! Make sure that you do, sweetheart!”

“Hmmmm, pag-iisipan ko,” Maya bantered back. “Pag-iisipan ko kung husband material ka talaga, Mr. Richard Lim.”

“Ha, sweetheart, wala ka na yatang makikitang katulad ko, mabait, guwapo at mahal na mahal na mahal ka. Nag-iisa lang kaya ako sa mundo.” Richard said, grinning at Maya.

“Wow, Mr. Lim, parang babagyo rito ngayon sa Tagaytay! Biglang lumakas ang hangin ah! Ikaw talaga, sweetheart! But siyempre, nag-iisa ka lang talaga.” Maya affectionately pinched Richard’s cheek. “Halika na nga, dalhin na natin ang mga bata sa amusement park.”

Richard laughed and slung his right arm over Maya’s shoulders as they went inside the room.

“O kids, close your iPads! Aalis na tayo. Pupunta na tayo sa amusement park. ” Maya told Abby and Lance who by then were lying on the floor with their iPads up.

“Yehey!!!” Both Abby and Lance shouted as they hastily ended the games thy were engrossed with. They got ready in speed time.

Maya, Richard and the kids were on their way to the lobby of the hotel several minutes after Richard called Joma and told him that they will just meet him, Sabel and Lea at the lobby. Joma drove everyone to the nearby Sky Ranch where the amusement park is, even if it was just a short distance from the hotel.

The kids were overwhelmed, upon entering the park grounds, when they saw the various rides they can take. Maya asked them to agree on what they want to ride first. The kids wanted to try the Wonder Flight first, then followed by the Nessie Coaster, Express Train, Red Baron  and then the Carousel. The kids wanted to ride the Sky Eye, the giant Ferris Whee,l with Maya and Richard, and all of them agreed that it is best to do that when the sun is about to set.

Sabel and Lea accompanied the kids to the rides, while Richard and Maya watched them from the sidelines, and took tons of pictures, happy to see the kids, and Sabel and Lea too, screaming happily, especially while at the Nessie Coaster. Joma on the other hand, just walked around the place, watching those who were brave enough to try the zipline along the Tagaytay ridge. Lance and Abby loved the Nessie Coaster so much that they rode it several times.

They were in the line for the Sky Eye when the sun was about to set. However, when the four of them were about to board their gondola, Abby and Lance told Maya and Richard that they didn’t want to go up as it looks scary up there! There was no time to convince them to ride as they didn’t want to hold the line. Sabel and Lea offered to take the kids to the Express Train, and back to the Nessie Coaster again. Richard and Maya ended up riding the gondola, just the two of them.

“Sweetheart, sure ka bang okay ito? I didn’t try this one when we were here last!” Maya asked, suddenly getting nervous as the gondola slowly ascended. “Medyo scared ako ng kaunti sa glass elevators and Ferris Wheels!” She admitted to Richard, smiling nervously. “Ayaw ko rin lang ipahalata sa mga bata kanina kasi baka matakot sumakay. Hayun, natakot nga sila! Baka nakakalula ng husto sa taas. Masukahan pa kita!”

Richard took hold of her clammy hands. “Don’t worry, sweetheart, I’m here. Saka mabagal lang naman ang ascend nitong Ferris Wheel. I think this is similar to what I have tried once with Alexandra in Nanchang. Nandito lang ako. Kapit ka lang sa akin.” Richard assured Maya.

“O-okay, if you say so.” Maya said, taking a deep breath.

Richard put his arms around Maya, and distracted her by pointing various landmarks to her as they make their slow ascend. Before Maya knew it, they were at the highest point and the view was incredible!

“Wow!” She exclaimed as she looked around, forgetting her fear of heights. “Sweetheart, sobrang ganda naman dito sa itaas! Tara picture tayo.” Maya took out her phone and took a photo of her and Richard. “Isa pa, sweetheart!” She told Richard and as she pressed the button, Richard suddenly gave her a kiss on the cheek and that was what she captured on camera.

“Send me copies of those ha, I will put them my computer, and my table!” Richard said grinning, looking at the pictures, with Maya gigling, and his lips planted on her cheek at the second photo, and both of them mugging it for the camera on the first one, with big happy smiles on their faces!

“Sweetheart, pati iyong second? Paano kapag nasa meeting ka and you will use your laptop for a presentation. Parang nakakahiya.” Maya said.

“Nope, I’m not ashamed! I’m proud to tell the world that you are my girlfriend.” Richard told her lovingly.

“Awww, sweetheart, you are the best boyfriend talaga!” Maya said, touched. She cupped Richard’s face and as the Ferris Wheel made its slow descend, they shared a long kiss.

“I love you, Mr. Lim!” Maya whispered lovingly when they broke apart.

“I love you more, Attorney Dela Rosa!” Richard replied, caressing Maya’s face.

The kids where waiting when they got out of the Sky Eye.

“Daddy, Daddy, Tita Maya! Was it fun?” Abby asked.

“Yes, it was sweetie! Not scary at all.” Richard replied. “Di ba, Maya, it was super fun?

“Yes, it was Abby, Lance. Do you want to try now? Don’t be scared. I’ll tell you what, I must admit noong una rin, scared si Tita Maya, pero noong paakyat na, I was not anymore. Besides, we can go up with you again. Sama-sama tayo sa isang gondola.” Maya said. “Saka, it is not fast, mabagal lang siya na Ferris Wheel. See, o.” She pointed out, very much wanting them to conquer their fear, but they do get really scared, they will not insist, baka mas lalong ma-trauma ang mga bata.

The kids nodded and they fell in line for the ride again. The kids sat on Richard’s and Maya’s lap. Like Richard did earlier, they distracted the kids by pointing various landmarks. When they reached the top, the kids forgot whatever misgivings they had earlier for the ride, and enjoyed it very much. They even shouted ‘Whee’ during the slow descend.

They walked around the park after that ride, eating french fries and just that once, cotton candies for the kids. Richard and Maya wanted them to enjoy the whole park experience!

When it got dark, they returned to the hotel, had dinner there, checked out of the room, and prepared for their trip back. The kids looked tired and sleepy by then. Lea sat with Lance, and even before they have left for Tagaytay, he was fast asleep. Abby was the same, on Maya’s lap.

Maya and Richard shared a look, and mouthed ‘I love you’ to each other, as they journeyed home, both feeling very happy at the outcome of their first outing. The first of many, many more to come, Richard thought. He smiled as he settled into his seat, He has a proposal to plan, and execute!

 

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9 Comments

My Sunflower World @ 1!!!

Posted by Antigone in Interests on July 3, 2015

Cake

Today, it has been a year since I made My Sunflower World public. What a wonderful year it has been! I have discovered a whole new universe! I’m writing online, with readers from all over the world! Amazing! I never thought I would be able to accomplish this feat! I never thought you guys will enjoy the product of my imagination.

Nine Richard and Maya fan fiction (two still ongoing, though!), one other romantic fiction, several other non-fiction articles, and 200 posts after, (as this is my 200th post), here I am, embarking on my second year as a blogger and a fan fiction/fiction writer.

THANK YOU my dearest followers, readers and fellow adiks, especially those who have been with me from the start, supporting a ‘newbie fan fiction writer’ in blogosphere, from the bottom of my heart for reading my works, for commenting, for liking each and every chapter, for keeping me company online, for sharing the kilig and addiction to our all-time favorite teleserye, Be Careful With My Heart, and the Richard and Maya universe we explored out of the most memorable television characters we had in a long time, and for supporting my other works.

THANK YOU again to the BCWMH team who created such a wonderful show that kept as entertained and glued to the TV for more than two years (well I’m still is through the DVDs!), and addicted forever to a very wonderful and inspiring show, full of positivity, good vibes, and most of all, love. As I have said in my profile page, discovering and getting addicted to this show, albeit a bit later than most of the adiks, propelled this blog into existence.

THANK YOU too to the wonderful Richard and Maya fan fiction writers before me, who were also my inspiration in starting one myself. Let’s keep the creative flame burning!

THANK YOU to my hubby for the support and believing in me! He was the one who pushed me to make public the blog I have been tinkering about for months in 2014, unsure of its direction and how it would be received should I share it to the world, especially the draft chapters of Doors, my first ever fan fiction, stored in my laptop then.

Here’s to another wonderful year with you, and more years to come. Cheers! Keep the good vibes always!

❤ Antigone ❤

 

 

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46 Comments

On The Street Where You Live – Chapter 18

Posted by Antigone in Richard and Maya Fiction on July 1, 2015

Chapter 18

“Tita Maya! Tita Maya!” Abby shouted as she ran towards Maya when she saw her dad’s girlfriend entering the gate of their house, wearing a pair of shorts, a pale yellow sleeveless blouse and flip-flops, looking so beautiful and fresh with minimal make-up on. “Good morning po! Yehey, makakaalis na po tayo for Tagaytay! Where is Lance?”

Richard ran after Abby. He, too, was wearing a pair of shorts, a polo shirt and loafers, looking very handsome in his casual clothes. “Sweetie, dahan-dahan sa pagtakbo! And isa-isa lang ang tanong kay Tita Maya mo.”

“It’s okay Ricky! Good morning, Abby!” Maya stooped down to Abby’s level, then gave the little girl a kiss on the cheek and hugged her back tightly with a big loving smile. She also showered the cute little girl, wearing a floral dress and Havaianas sandals, with little kisses that had her giggling. “Yes, we can leave na for Tagaytay. We will just pick Lance on the way there. On the way naman ang bahay ni Lance. Naka-ready na ba ang lahat ng gamit mo?”

“Yes, Tita Maya. Inihanda na po ni Ate Sabel. And maaga rin akong nagising!” The little girl said proudly. “I was the one who knocked on Daddy’s door, but he was awake already!”

“Yes, your Daddy was up early. He was the one who woke up me up by sending me a text message.” Maya replied, then remembered Richard’s offer of waking her up with a hundred kisses. She blushed.

Richard grinned. “Abby, why don’t you call your Ate Sabel and Kuya Joma para makaalis na tayo. Say goodbye also to Manang Fe, okay!”

“Okay, Daddy. Wait lang, Tita Maya.” The little girl ran upstairs, and they can hear her shouting and urging Sabel and Joma to please hurry as her Tita Maya was already there and they can leave na.

“Hmmm, I have several minutes!” Richard remarked, then before Maya could ask what is the several minutes for, he was giving her a sweet, long, good morning kiss. “Good morning, sweetheart!”

Maya laughed at Richard. “So, iyon pala ang ibig mong sabihin sa several minutes, Mr. Lim! Good morning din. Beautiful morning isn’t. It’s going to be a wonderful day!”

“Siyempre, sweetheart, kailangang samantalahin ko na. For sure, the whole day na ito na hindi kita masosolo.” Richard said. “Feeling ko pa nga lang sa seating arrangement pa lang sa van, for sure, hindi tayo magkatabi! And yes, this is going to be a wonderful day since I will spend it with the only woman I love and my little darling daughter!!”

Richard was right with his prediction. Abby insisted that her Tita Maya sat beside her.  Since Lance would probably want to sit beside Maya too, Richard said he will just sit in front, beside Joma. Half an hour later and after a lot of bilin from Manang Fe, from Joma’s driving to huwag patutuyuan ng pawis ang mga bata, to Sabel making sure that the kids will eat proper, they were on their way to Lance’s house.

Lance was waiting outside his house when they parked in front of it. Lea had texted Maya to ask approximately what time they will be there as Lance had asked her several times to text his ninang and find out out where they were. The little boy was also impatient, like Abby earlier.

“Ninang! Ninang!” Lance jumped with joy when the van opened and his godmother was the first person he saw. “Hello Abby.” He also said upon seeing Abby waving at him.

Lea helped Lance into the van, into the seat where Maya and Abby were. Then she settled beside Doris, introducing herself to her before Maya could do so. She also said good morning to Richard and gave Joma a sweet smile. When Maya asked her about Doris, she told her that her Ate Doris left two hours before they arrived for her flight to Laoag.

“Lance, say good morning to Tito Richard, Kuya Joma and Ate Sabel.” Maya told her inaanak gently. He was already getting caught in looking at Abby’s iPad and checking the app she was playing. “Remember what Mommy and Ninang told you.”

“Good morning po, Tito Richard, Kuya Joma and Ate Sabel.” The little boy obediently said with a big smile. Then charmingly, he said, “Sorry po, I forgot!”

“Good morning Lance! Are you excited about the trip?” Richard asked, smiling at the little boy who looks like a miniature version of Maya’s friend.

“Yes po, Tito Richard.” Lance replied, then looked again at Abby’s iPad.

Seeing this, and Abby just getting concentrated on her iPad again, Richard looked at Maya. They seemed to have understood each other. She nodded.

“Sweetie, I think it is better if you put away your iPad, so you and Lance can enjoy the view and our trip. Di ba, you haven’t been to Tagaytay?” Richard said gently. “You can play with Lance later.”

When Abby was about to protest, also Lance, Maya offered them an alternative. “Gusto niyo kantahan na lang tayo?”

“What will we sing po, Tita Maya?” Abby asked, forgetting about her iPad. “We don’t have a musical instrument with us!”

“Well, we can use your iPad. We can just search online for songs we would like to sing. What would you like, lullabies, Filipino folk songs or original Filipino music. We can also try Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, or songs from Disney movies! So what do you think?” Maya asked the little girl.

“Yes, sing, sing, please Ninang.” Lance said, clapping, before the little girl could reply to Maya with her choices, he then told Abby proudly, “Maganda ang boses ng ninang ko!”

Richard smiled and teased Maya. “Really, sweetheart, maganda ang boses mo? Parang ten years ago, naalala ko pa ang one and only time na nag-videoke tayo nina Doris, yes Lance with your mommy, at saka nung friends niya. Birthday niya iyon di ba?”

“Sweetheart naman, past is past! Nag-improve na ang boses ko simula noon. Saka ang hirap naman kaya nang nabunot kong kanta. Hindi suited sa sultry and pleasing voice ko.” Maya said, laughing, remembering the song she got at that time, ‘Bed of Roses’! Then she also remembered the song that Richard got from the fishbowl, ‘Be My Lady’, which he sang while gazing at her throughout the song, prompting a ribbing from Doris and good-nature teasing from her friends.

Maya and Richard shared a sweet smile, both remembering that wonderful evening, and the growing feelings between them. Seeing them looking at each other, Lea nudged Sabel, who nodded in response to her silent question. Lea smiled. She is happy for Attorney Maya! Kaya pala they are going with Abby and her dad, though her Ate Doris did mention that she and Attorney Maya had known Mr. Lim years ago.

Maya started singing the first line of Eraserheads, ‘Huwag Kang Matakot’ with Lance. Since Abby wanted to join and to learn the song, Maya borrowed Abby’s iPad and they Googled the lyrics. The song was followed by several other Filipino songs which Maya knew by heart. Then the three of them segued into popular Disney tunes. Richard looked indulgently from to time at his beautiful girlfriend singing happily with the two kids. Her voice is good, he must admit. Richard felt like he was seeing a preview of what married life to Maya would be like. He knows, even before this, that she would be a good mother to Abby and the children they will have. He wants a lot actually. However, he also knows that she has a demanding career and he will support her with that. He knows how important is being a lawyer to her. They can make things work, he is sure of that.

Maya and the kids, joined by Sabel and Lea later, continued their impromptu karaoke session until they stopped at a restaurant along the way to eat snacks as the kids got hungry and thirsty from singing. They have brought some sandwiches as Manang Fe insisted on it, but Richard told everyone that they will just stop at a restaurant.

Lance and Abby both requested the adults if they can eat at their favorite fast food place. The adults gave in. Maya and Richard ordered, while Sabel and Lea watched the kids. When they returned to the table with the kids’ food, it was the two nannies turn to buy food for themselves, and Joma, with the money Richard gave them.

“Sabel, ang sweet naman nila. Parang happy family lang ang peg!” Lea said to her instant BFF while holding their trays of food.

They were looking at Maya wiping Lance’s mouth and face, trying to remove remnants of the spaghetti sauce which ended up there. Richard was doing the same with Abby. They looked at each and shared a smile. Richard touched Maya’s hand, then offered her the coffee he made for her. Maya on the other hand, gave him a bite of the cheeseburger they ordered. They shared a large french fries, while the kids were enjoying their chocolate sundaes.

“Oo Lea! Happy naman talaga ako dito sa mga amo natin. Ang sweet, hanggang paakyat ng Tagaytay, hindi hinihiwalayan ng colony ng mga langgam!!!” Sabel said, grinning. “I’m so happy talaga para diyan kay Sir Richard! Ngayon ko lang nakitang ganyan. In fairness, bagay na bagay sila! Maganda at guwapo! Para silang commercial models nitong fast food!”

“Tama ka diyan. Ako rin, masayang-masaya para kay Attorney! Ngayon ko rin lang siya nakitang ganyan at may boyfriend ha, considering mula ng ipanganak si Lance and magtrabaho ako kay Ate Doris, wala akong nakita o narinig tungkol sa boyfriend niya!” Lea said, then remembering something. “Teka may naalala ako, minsan may narinig akong pinag-uusapan nila, narinig ko lang ha, hindi ko deliberately pinakinggan, biruan nila na kaya raw wala pang boyfriend si Attorney eh dahil kay Mr. Dreamboat! Di kaya iyon ang boss mo?”

“Malamang! Kasi matagal nang magkakilala sa Mirasol Street iyang si Sir at si Attorney!” Sabel replied. “Di ba, nakakakilig ang love story nila. Sa hinaba-haba man ng panahon, sa pag-iibigan din ang tuloy! Ayiiii!”

“Hahahaha, truly, new BFF.” Lea said happily. “Naku halika na, mukhang gutom na ang guwapong-guwapong driver niyo o. Hayun, nagsasalubong na ang kilay.”

“Si Joma, guwapo? New BFF, kailangan mo ng salamin?” Sabel asked.

“Oo naman, like na like ko ang kulot niyang buhok.” Lea said with matching kilig. “Malinaw pa naman itong malalaki kong mga mata.”

“Hay naku, gutom lang iyan! Halika na, kumain na tayo.” Sabel replied, and the two of them, with a kilig smile to their employers, sat down on the table where Joma was.

More than half an hour later, everyone was back in the car, stuffed and they continued their journey to Tagaytay with Maya telling stories to Lance and Abby with matching theatrical voice, that had the kids giggling. They arrived in Tagaytay around 11 o’clock in the morning. Since it was a bit hot to go to the Sky Fun Amusement Park  in Sky Ranch at that time of the day, they just drove around the attractions in Tagaytay, from Sonya’s Garden to Residence Inn Zoo, Picnic Grove and Caleruega, among others. When they got hungry again, Richard told Joma to take them back to Taal Vista Hotel.

“We will check in pa, sweetheart? Hindi naman tayo mag-o-overnight” Maya asked when they were at the reception. “I thought we will just eat lunch here and walk around the viewing deck.”

“I had already asked Liza to book a suite, sweetheart so the kids and you can rest in between seeing the sights.” Richard said, smiling at Maya. Then he talked to the reception to find out which room belongs to them and to arrange lunch for Sabel, Joma and Lea. “Thank you, Miss,” he said and to Maya and the kids, he said, “So, dito na tayo mag-lunch also, then rest after lunch and kapag medyo malamig na we can go to the amusement park.”

“Okay sweetheart. Tara na kids.” Maya took hold of the kids hands.

“Yes, Tita Maya.” Abby and Lance chorused.

“Sabel, please call Joma. Sama na kayong tatlo. Just go to the cafe and eat buffet. I gave instructions na that you three will eat there.” Richard told his long-time help.”Then after lunch, you are free to walk around. I will just text you kapag papunta na tayo sa Sky Ranch diyan sa tabi. Kami na ang bahala ni Maya sa mga bata.”

“Wow, thank you Sir Richard!” Sabel said with a big smile. Iba na talaga ang in love, Sabel thought. Parating naka-smile and super generous pa na amo, not that her Sir Richard was kuripot before. Para lang talagang sobrang saya niya simula ng maging girlfriend si Attorney Maya!

Maya, Richard, Abby and Lance went to the restaurant that offers international cuisine. Both of them agreed that the buffet will be too much for the kids. They were about to go to their room to rest for the afternoon, when someone called Richard’s name. He looked and smiled broadly at the old lady who greeted him. She was with a woman dressed in a body-hugging dress and fully made up.

“Tita Norma, hello! I thought you and Tito Probo are still in China.” Richard said, giving the well-dressed society matron a beso. “Hello, Gwen.”

“We came back several weeks ago. Your Tito Probo is here somewhere, may nakita ring friend. It seems like everyone we know is in Tagaytay today.” Norma Melendrez said. “Ito ngang si Gwen, may nakita ring batchmate niya kanina, di ba, Gwen?”

Instead of answering her mother, Gwen looked at Maya from head to toe, then ignored her, and zeroed in on Richard.

“Hello Ricky, darling!” Before he could react, Gwen gave Richard a smack on the lips, cupping his face so he can’t escape. “Nice to run into you here. Ikaw ha, more than three months ka na rito, hindi mo pa ako tinatawagan like you promised when we were in China.”

“Ha….” Richard at first was at a lost at what to say, Gwen surprised him, aside from the fact that he didn’t promise her anything! He collected himself, then pulled Maya closer to him. “Tita Norma, Gwendolyn, I would like to introduce to you my girlfriend, Attorney Maya Dela Rosa. Maya, sweetheart, this is Tita Norma Melendrez, friend nina Mama and Papa, and her daughter Gwendolyn. And Tita Norma, you have met my daughter Abby before and the little boy is Lance, Maya’s godchild and a classmate of Abby in grade school.”

“Hello po, nice to Mrs. Melendrez, nice to meet you. Hello, Gwendolyn.” Maya gave mother and daughter a friendly smile. Norma Melendrez smiled back, but her daughter just tilted her head in acknowledgment of the introduction.

The kids murmured their hello shyly, then kissed Norma Melendrez’ hand upon Maya’s prodding, which made the old lady glad.

“You are Ricky’s girlfriend!”Mrs. Melendrez remarked after the children’s mano. “I thought you are Ricky’s wife and Lance is your child! Though wala rin namang nabanggit si Esme sa akin that you got married again. I just needed to find out. You look like a beautiful family out on a Sunday in Tagaytay. Kay gandang pagmasdan, di ba Gwen?”

Richard and Maya gazed at each other lovingly, held hands and smiled at the old lady. “Thank you, Tita Norma, ipinapasyal lang namin ang mga bata. Too hot pa to go to the amusement park. Magpapahinga muna sana kami sa room when you saw us.”

“Ganoon ba! Okay, we will not keep you and Maya. Nice meeting you, Maya. Finally, may nakilala na rin akong girlfriend nitong si Richard. Richard, please say hello to your Mama and Papa the next time you talk to them.”

“Nice meeting you din po, Mrs. Melendrez, Gwendolyn.” Maya said to the smiling old lady and her sulky daughter.

“I will, Tita Norma. Beside, you may be able to do that in person sooner than you expect. Mama said she and Papa are planning to go back to the Philippines, if not sooner, then for Christmas!” Richard said, ignoring the looks he noticed Gwen was giving Maya. She is a spoiled brat and he can’t do anything about it. Maya handled herself well as he knows she could. However, he needed to show Gwen he noticed what she had been doing. He put his arm on Maya’s shoulder and pulled her closer as he continued talking to his Tita Norma.”I talked to Mama this morning. She and Papa are in San Francisco at the moment, visiting Tito Carlos and Tita Bella!”

“Wow, that’s good to know! At least after ten years, babalik na sila rito sa Pilipinas. I’m looking forward to that.” Norma said with an affectionate pat on Richard’s cheek, she turned towards the direction of the restaurant with her sullen daughter in tow.

“Ma, really, family! Eh mukha ngang yaya ng anak niya iyong girlfriend niya!” Gwen said in a loud voice. Maya heard it, while Richard didn’t as he was busy answering Lance’s question about something.

“Gwen hija, stop that! You know that they look good together. Stop obsessing about Richard. He just sees you as a daughter of a family friend.” Norma Melendrez scolded her daughter. “Mukha namang mabait iyong girlfriend ni Richard. Now I know where I have heard her name before. She was in the news several months ago as she topped the bar exams. See, beauty and brains. Stop being a brat. Hindi ka namin pinag-aral sa mamahaling eskwelahan para lang maging ganyan!”

It was the last thing that Maya heard as mother and daughter had entered the restaurant by then. Maya smiled broadly. She likes Norma Melendrez. Not so much the daughter who it seems likes her boyfriend too much and a spoiled brat.

“Sweetheart, why are you smiling?” Richard asked when Maya managed to catch up with him and the kids.

“Wala, sweetheart. Feeling ko lang nalungkot ng husto ang admirer mo.” She teased.

“Sino?…Richard started asking, and then remembered Gwen and what she did. “Sorry for that, sweetheart. I never thought she would kiss me like that. Saka wala rin akong promise sa kanya that I will call, kahit noong hindi pa tayo nagkikita ulit.”

“Sweetheart, you don’t have to explain. I got a good reading of the situation.” Maya said, then smiled at Richard, teasing him. “Next time, bilisan ang pag-ilag sweetheart. Nasapol ka tuloy. Itong lips na ito, para sa akin lang ha.” Maya added as she kissed Richard lightly. PDA kung PDA, she didn’t care.

Richard grinned broadly. “Yes, Attorney. Takot ko lang sa iyo. But seriously, sweetheart, thank you for being you. I love you very much. Halika na let’s go up to our room.”

“Well, I love you more, Mr. Richard Lim.”

They walked towards the direction of their room with arms around each other’s waist, and the two kids ahead of them. They looked at the little ones indulgently, both imagining the little Richards and little Mayas they will have in the future. To the onlookers, indeed, they looked like a beautiful family relaxing together on a Sunday in cool and beautiful Tagaytay.

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