Chapter 26

The whole of Mirasol Street was closed to traffic that beautiful Saturday evening. Luckily, the weather cooperated as after several days of monsoon rains, the day was blessed with the clearest skies, fit for the very special occasion taking place at that moment.

The, mainly, quiet, and quaint residential street was decorated with sunflowers, roses and tulips of all colors. Capiz lanterns of all shapes and sizes lit up the beautiful night.

On the surface, it looked like a street party was under way, judging by the merriment that can heard from every corner of the street, with tables with blue and yellow table cloths lining up the front of the houses, with people walking around or chatting, or going back and forth to the center of the day’s festivities, the beautiful, ancestral home at the corner of the street.

The grounds of the Lim mansion was transformed into a beautiful and enchanting garden, resembling an English manor’s garden, for the wedding of the only son of its owner and his beautiful bride. Ivy Molina managed to achieve the near impossible in such a short time with Emman and his theatre friends’ help. In keeping with the bride’s love of period romances, the place was transformed into an English wedding reception place upon the request of the groom. The bride was expecting something else, something simpler. She got teary-eyed with happiness when she saw the wonderful surprise that her husband had for her. It topped the proposal production he had done, just for her and her love of all things old and romantic. She couldn’t ask for more, really, at that moment!

Richard Lim and Maya Dela Rosa, a month after their beautiful and unforgettable proposal night in San Nicolas, Mindoro opted to get married in a small, beautiful, old church inside the village near Mirasol Street. For the wedding reception, they opted to have it celebrated, with families, friends and neighbours, in the street where their love story started. Initially, they were only planning to have the reception inside the Lim mansion but it was expanded to include the neighbors from the whole street after, one after the other, the neighbors greeted them and expressed their happiness at them getting married. They have learned of their upcoming wedding from Manang Fe, who was also welcomed with open arms and much happiness by all of the old residents in the street.

Upon finding that most of their old neighbors still live in Mirasol Street, Donya Esmeralda and Don Roberto Lim suggested to Maya and Richard that they be included in the celebration of their marriage. Richard and Maya readily agreed. They initially thought of family and close friends only for the whole ceremony in deference to Richard’s parents recent return to the country. They thought they might prefer a smaller guests lists. Besides, they wanted to get married promptly and it was easier to plan a small, private wedding.

Richard’s parents idea was a better one, the more they thought about it. This is after all the street where they have started and both felt that it is fitting that they celebrated their marriage there, with people who have witnessed how they started, people who have expressed concerns when the Lim family just disappeared into the night and who, sort of, in their own way, looked after the empty house for its absentee owners. It became a celebration, of sorts, also for the return of the entire Lim family to Mirasol Street after more than a decade of absence.

However, for the wedding itself, Maya and Richard still opted for a small, private and solemn ceremony, with only family and close friends, and some colleagues, present. Maya remembered the small, airy old church which sits on the elevated part of the nearby village, a place where she and Richard have gone to mass several instances, the first couple of times they were going out together. She wanted the wedding to be there. On one occasion that they were there, it just entered her head that it would be a nice place for a small private wedding. She wondered where the thought came from. But she guessed it was because Ricky clasped her hand while listening to the priest sermon about love, fate and how two people, despite the odds, end up together. She forgot about it after all that has happened the past decade but she remembered it when she and Richard were planning the wedding.Maya was happy to see the church was still the same as she remembered it.

On her and Richard’s wedding earlier, the church, with its beautiful floor to ceiling stained glass window and hardwood pews, was decorated with her favorite flowers, sunflowers, pink roses and tulips.  The place was also filled with the people she and Richard love so much and seeing them there made everything so perfect.

Everyone was very happy to be a part of the celebration of Maya and Richard’s Love, and to witness the day they will become one in the eyes of God and their loved ones. Especially so, for the people whom they have asked to their principal sponsors. Aside from Attorney Rafa, they have asked Maya’s old boss at the newspaper where she worked before becoming a lawyer, Mr. Ben Rodriguez, to be one of their ninongs, together with Maya’s Tito Rolly and Tito Fernando.

For the ninangs, the number one on their list was Manang Fe, also the wife of Maya’s and Doris’ old landlord, who became like their second mother while in Manila, and a professor of Maya in Law school whom she was very close with and who have mentored here. Doris was Maya’s matron of honor, and Grace, Melinda, Emman and Simon were part of the entourage. Of course, Abby was the flower girl and Lance was the ring bearer. Ryan was Richard’s best man.

It was Ryan who discretely offered Richard a handkerchief when he saw him getting teary-eyed as his beautiful,  seemingly ethereal bride, walked towards him. Richard was not able to hold back his emotions upon seeing a radiant Maya, wearing a vintage lace wedding gown she had ordered from a specialty shop in England. She was the most beautiful bride in his eyes. She is the world to him. All the love, all that they have been through and the fact, that there they were, about to have their forever, was too much for his poor, galloping heart. His heart was just so full. His throat constricted. He didn’t realize that there were tears in his eyes until Ryan discretely offered his handkerchief to him.

Maya was feeling the same as she took her walk towards her waiting, handsome groom in his power blue suit, in the arms of her Tito Rolly, and her mother. She tried to hold back her tears but she was unable to do so. Donya Esmeralda, Don Roberto and Ryan looked on, as well as all the guests, as she walked the walk that every bride did across time and space, but she only had eyes for the love of her life, the one and only man she will share her life with. She felt like she was not on firm grounds anymore. She felt like she was floating, with her awareness centered on the only man for her. Her forever!

If most of the guests managed to get hold of their emotions while Maya was walking slowly towards Richard, tears flowing and Richard visibly drying his tears of happiness and trying to control the emotions engulfing him, they were unable to do so when the bride and groom exchanged vows. Everyone was moved to tears with each word Maya and Richard uttered, voice breaking and full of love, for each other. The two of them lovingly narrated how they started and how fate, made them meet again after ten long years. It was like a lifetime but even so, no matter what, and despite the odds stacked against them meeting again, they found each other as they were meant to be.

“Happy, Mrs. Lim?” Richard asked his bride softly, taking hold of her hand and interlacing it with his, then raising it to his lips, as they took their quick rest after they have finished their first dance as a married couple. “Tired? Sandali na lang and masosolo na kita!” He added teasingly, lovingly.

“Very, very happy, Mr. Lim!” Maya said with a tremulous smile, realizing that at last, she and Richard will have their wedding night! Indeed it has been a very long, torturous two weeks. “I’m not tired at all! I feel so alive at the moment. Parang ang hirap ngang makatulog. Surprising, di ba, considering the long day we had!”

“I love you very much, Maya.” Richard whispered, looking at his lovely blushing bride at the same time, he caressed her hand with his thumb. “Huwag kang mag-alala, sleep will be the farthest thing from my mind, later!”

Maya shivered with the touch! “I love you very much too, Ricky!” She replied with a catch on her breath, flushing at the same time with the way Richard’s voice seemed to caress her from head to toe.

They looked at each other, and everyone and everything faded into the background except for their awareness of each other. Slowly, Richard lowered his lips to Maya’s. Their lips fused into a beautiful kiss full of promise, longing and passion for each other. It went on for a while, until something penetrated the private world they entered into. They slowly moved apart and realized where they were, at their wedding reception with all their guests looking at them with indulgent and teasing grins!

“Brod, mamaya pa ang honeymoon!” Ryan Molina teased his friend, then he raised his glass to him and Maya. Everyone laughed good-naturedly, cheering the couple with their glasses as well.

Both of them grinned at that, their faces turning crimson.

“Balae, mukhang sure nang maagang masusundan ang ating apong si Abby.” Nanay Tessie whispered happily to Donya Esmeralda. The two of them hit it off as soon as they were formally introduced to each other in a dinner that Richard and Maya organized the day after Nanay Tessie finally made it to Manila.

Donya Esmeralda giggled like a little girl, happily. “Sure na sure na ako diyan balae, ang sweet ng mga anak natin. So, very much in love with each other. Feeling ko nga gustong-gusto na nilang magsarili ngayong gabi. Sana kambal ang maging susunod nating apo.”

“What are you two whispering about!” Don Roberto asked from the sidelines, smiling.

“Naku, Roberto, feeling namin nitong si Tessie, masusundan kaagad ang apo nating si Abby. Mukhang desididong mag-make up for lost time ang anak at manugang natin.” Donya Esme told her husband. “Tingnan mo oh, ang sweet sweet nila and ang lagkit ng tinginan!”

“Well, I agree.” Don Roberto added happily. “Tessie, your daughter is the best thing that happened to our son. Ngayon lang talaga namin siya nakitang ganyan kasaya.” He added. “Di ba, Esme?”

“So true, Tessie. Tadhana nga naman, isn’t it? Kahit minsan paglayuin mo, may obstacles or magkalayo ang isang couple na meant to be, pinagtatagpo ulit para sa kanilang happily ever after. We are so happy our son found the love of his life in your daughter. We will always be grateful for that. We already love her like she is our real daughter.”

“Thank you, Esme, Roberto. Sobrang nakakataba naman ng puso ang sinabi ninyo tungkol sa Maya ko. Ganoon din naman ang saloobin ko. Richard is the best thing that happened to my daughter. Wala na akong mahihiling pa bilang isang magulang.” Nanay Tessie replied, happy that her daughter found her forever. Cristina Rose, I’m sure you are happy for your sister also, she thought, kayo ng Papa mo. Nanay Tessie wished that her husband and her eldest daughter had lived to see this day.

The festivities continued until late at night. In between dancing and moving around, sharing moments with their family and friends, Richard and Maya also managed to put Abby to sleep. Before she closed her eyes, Abby asked them for a hug and whispered that she was very, very happy that her daddy is now happy and that she has a new mommy. Maya and Richard felt teary-eyed. They clasped hands, and both kissed the little girl on her cheeks lovingly. They watched her sleep for several more minutes, full of love for this little angel in their lives, before they returned to the party in the garden. They also went up and down the street and greeted everyone.

The party ended at midnight, Richard and Maya said their good nights to their parents, Grace, Maya’s cousins and a handful of close friends who have stayed behind, including Ryan and Liza. Nanay Tessie and the Mindoro contingent to their wedding opted to stay in a nearby hotel for the night as Maya and Richard were planning to spend their first evening as a married couple in Maya’s old apartment. It was Maya’s way of saying goodbye to her old place in a way. They will leave for their honeymoon to Europe the next day.

There were still neighbors drinking and having a merry time when they walked to Maya’s old apartment with fingers interlaced. They were cheered and teased as they walked by, and both of them grinned happily and thanked them again for sharing their special day.

Upon reaching Maya’s building, all the noise and merriment disappeared. The hallway and the staircase was well-lit and there were flowers decorating the place, up to the door of Maya’s apartment where a beautiful floral arrangement was placed on the door with a ‘Just Married, Please Do Not Disturb’ sign cheekily attached to it. Richard and Maya grinned and knew that it was Doris’ handiwork.

Before Maya can open the door, to her surprise, Richard lifted her into his arms and carried her over the threshold. He slowly put her down while giving her soft kisses.

“Finally!” He said, grinning.

“Finally!” She replied, breathlessly.

They put their heads together, noses touching and cupping each other’s face, they grinned again,  they can’t seemed to stop doing that, so very happy that at long last, they are husband and wife.

“So, is it really okay that we are staying here, and not somewhere else?” Maya asked Richard.

“Yes, sweetheart! Kahit naman nasaan tayo, basta kasama kita, I will be very happy. I hope you will like the places I got for us in the countries that we will visit.” Richard said, excitement in his voice. “And no, no more clues! Huwag ka nang makulit.”

“I’m looking forward to that, sweetheart. Promise, hindi na ako mangungulit. Surprise me na nga, like you have been doing a lot lately.” Maya said lovingly, putting her hands around Richard’s nape. “Thank you for being the best husband in the world. I promise to be the best wife in the world. I love you very much, Ricky. You, Abby and the children we will have, are my life now.”

“Sweetheart, thank you very much for loving me this much. No doubt you will be the best wife and the best mother in the world. You and our children are also my life and my first priority, Maya. Like I have vowed to do, I will love you until we are old and gray, and even beyond that if such thing is possible. For eternity!”

Too overwhelmed with all the emotions she was feeling, Maya hugged Richard tight. “I love you, I love you, I love you!” She kept whispering to his ears. Richard, feeling the same, gently hold on to her shoulders, then with a small space between them, he lowers his lips to Maya and gave her a kiss that said it all. The kiss went on and on. They didn’t have any concept of time and space anymore, just the touch of their lips and all the love and passion they were feeling.

While their mouths are wrecking havoc on each other’s senses, Richard’s hand slowly crept on Maya’s back and one by one, he unfastened the pearl buttons of Maya’s lace gown, slowly, and barely being able to do so as Maya started touching him as well. By the time, Maya’s wedding dress fell on the floor, the heat between them was so intense. They felt like they were on fire.

Richard looked heatedly at his now scantily-clad wife with passion burning in her eyes, he gulped, trying to control the desire for her that was consuming his whole being.

“You look so beautiful sweetheart.” Richard managed to say softly as he carried her to the waiting bed, barely registering that it was a bed fit for their first night together. He laid her down gently on the bed, then with his gaze not leaving her beautiful and very desire-laden face, he slowly removed his clothes.

Maya gasped upon seeing Richard’s beautiful body. The heroes in her bodice-ripper novels were nothing compared to the beautiful sight before her!

Richard slowly approached the bed, then while raining kisses all over Maya’s face, and with his hands zeroing to the parts of her body that instantly reacted to his heated touch, he removed the last of her clothes, until she too, was completely bared to him.

“Maya…..” Richard whispered as he admired his wife’s body. Then he proceeded to show her how much he worships her body. He was very gentle, reining, tried to, in the intense passion he was feeling as he knew that this would be Maya’s first time. However, Maya having none of it.

“Ricky….Maya managed to say, her voice crazy with desire for her husband. She then matched Richard, touch after touch, caress after caress, kiss after kiss and more, until it almost drove them completely crazy, unable to stand the conflagration they created. Their coming together several minutes after was like the fireworks on New Year’s Eve, explosive, brilliant and beautiful.

In the afterglow, Richard rained kisses on Maya’s face and then asked her gently how she was. Maya assured her husband that she felt like she was at the top of the world. That all the bodice-ripper novels she had read, paled in comparison. Richard grinned, touched his wife’s beautiful, still passion-filled face.

“I love you, my dearest sweetheart, my partner in life!”

“I love you more, my dearest husband!”

Richard carried Maya to the bathroom and they showered together. It took longer than they intended to as they just can’t get enough of each other, knowing now, firsthand, how really beautiful making love between them is. Richard dried Maya’s body, gently and maddeningly. He carried her back to the bed. They made love again and again.

Indeed, sleep was the farthest thing, not only from Richard’s mind, but Maya’s as well, as they loved throughout the night until exhaustion overtook them at dawn. They slept with only a thin blanket covering their naked, sated bodies.

Maya woke up late the following morning with Richard’s giving her tiny little kisses on her back. Desire flared between them again and they slaked it off first before satisfying their grumbling stomachs. They stayed in the apartment the rest of the day, barely leaving Maya’s bedroom!

The following day, Joma took them to the airport after saying goodbye to Abby and the elder Lims, Nanay Tessie and Grace. They promised Abby that they will give her a call as soon as they reached the first of their destinations in Europe, which was a manor house in England, near the sea. It was the first of the many surprises Richard had for Maya. He also took her to a castle in Sweden, a manor house in Denmark, a castello in Italy, and a chateau in France.  Their days were filled exploring the beautiful houses and the breathtaking scenery before them, and the nights were spent exploring each other’s body in every way possible.

Richard and Maya returned to the Philippines one month later, to start their long and happy married life. Maya resumed working for RRMA and Richard returned to LAS, which Maya became a permanent part of eventually as its corporate legal counsel. Nine months later, Sky and Sunshine were born to their happy parents, big sister Abby, grandparents and Aunt Grace!

Yes, Maya and Richard’s first of their six bundles of joy after Abby, were conceived in the street where their love story started, and came into culmination. The house in Mirasol Street was filled with kids’ laughter in the years that followed. For after, Sky and Sunshine, came Nikki, Luke, Robby and Rosie, named after Maya’s sister Cristina Rose! Richard and Maya couldn’t ask for more. They have everything they ever wanted in life, a beautiful, large and happy family, and their unwavering love for each other.

Note: That ends OTSWYL, the longest fanfic I have written! Thank you very much again for reading this. ❤

Chapter 25

“Ricky, is this okay?” Maya asked from the doorway of her bedroom. Richard looked up from the game he was playing on his iPhone while waiting for his fiancée. Maya was a vision before him! She looked especially lovely in her purple lace dress cinched at the waist with an intricate ribbon belt. She was wearing minimal make-up. She also opted to wear her hair in a bun, and it showed the graceful lines of her beautiful face.

“Sweetheart, you take my breath away! You look very beautiful, as always naman.” Richard said lovingly.

Richard stood up, then went to Maya, cupped her chin, slowly caressed it with his thumb, then he lowered his lips to hers. They shared an initially sweet kiss. It turned into something much more several seconds after. The kiss became laced with the passion that has been simmering between them, close to the boiling point, actually, not just simmering, the past weeks. It was really getting harder to rein in the intense passion they were feeling for each other. Two more weeks and she will be mine, Richard thought. He took a deep breath to control the effects of his fiancee’s response to the kiss he initiated, on his poor body.

Maya and Richard slowly broke apart, catching their breaths. Maya looked very thoroughly kissed, while Richard wore the evidence of their ardent kissing on his lips.

“Sweetheart, you are full of my lipstick!” Maya exclaimed, then proceeded to wipe the lipstick off Richard’s lips with her thumb. “Ikaw naman kasi Mr. Lim, humirit ka pa kasi! Paalis na nga tayo. Baka naghihintay na ang parents mo.”

Richard grinned. “Sweetheart naman! You know naman that I can’t resist you. Two more weeks my Mrs. Lim-to-be!”

Maya blushed, getting Richard’s meaning. “Yes, two more weeks, my husband-to-be!”

The two of them shared a look full of love and promise before they left Maya’s apartment to walk to the Lim family mansion where Richard’s parents were waiting for them. Don Roberto and Donya Esmeralda arrived back in the Philippines the night before after more than ten years of living in China. Grace, however, was coming the week before the wedding as she was badly needed in the hospital where she works.

The morning after they got engaged Maya and Richard told Nanay Tessie after breakfast that they would like to get married in a month’s time. Nanay Tessie was not surprised that they wanted to get married promptly. They told her they don’t want a big wedding anyway. They want it limited to immediate family, close friends and select colleagues at both LAS and RRMA. The wedding would be in Manila for everyone’s convenience and the reception, at the Lim house and in the street where their love story started.

Nanay Tessie promised to be in Manila the following week to help Maya with the preparations. Maya told her that the wedding planner that she and Richard will hire can take care of it. However, Nanay Tessie insisted, and Maya relented. But since she needed to do something for Cristina’s before she can stay with Maya until the wedding, mother and daughter agreed that they will just see each other instead in two weeks time. Nanay Tessie will arrive the following day. Maya was looking forward to spending time with her mother before she settles down as Mrs. Richard Lim. Mrs. Richard Lim! Maya Dela Rosa-Lim! Maya feels thrilled and so happy every time she would say it in her head.

Two days after Richard and Maya returned to Manila, they informed Donya Esmeralda that they would like to get married before the end of August. Like Maya’s mother, Richard’s mother was not surprised that they would like to get married promptly. She said she and Richard’s father will make travel arrangements for their return to the Philippines several weeks before the wedding so they can settle back in and help with the wedding preparations.

Maya assured Mama Esme that they can manage. However, like Nanay Tessie, Mama Esme insisted that she would like to help too in any way she could. The day after they have returned to Manila via the flight Richard chartered, Richard got in touch with Ryan and asked if his wife Ivy can plan the wedding. That same day, they had dinner with Ryan and Ivy. Ryan teased Richard about the short engagement. Richard just grinned happily, the very picture of a man very much in love. Ivy and Maya talked about the kind of wedding she and Richard would like to have.

News of their engagement spread like wildfire both in LAS and RRMA. Lindsay squealed with delight when she saw the beautiful ring on Maya’s finger. She was not exactly quiet when she offered her congratulations to Maya. Some people overheard it. It also reached the ears of Atty. Rafa fast. He congratulated Maya when he saw her around lunch. The same week, Richard and Maya invited him to dinner and formally asked if he could be one of their ninongs. The old man was delighted to be asked.

Like Lindsay, Liza was ecstatic when she saw Maya’s ring, Tuesday, when she reported for work at LAS. The whole floor heard her congratulating Maya. Richard’s employees, happy at this turn of events, and the fact that their boss was no longer sungit, offered their congratulations too. Maya and Richard were so happy to be sharing their engagement to their colleagues and employees. Liza, when she found out that the wedding will be in several weeks time, offered to help. Maya and Richard thanked her, but assured her that it was taken care of. Maya asked Liza to be one of her bridesmaids, which touched Liza’s heart a lot, knowing that Maya considered her one of her dearest friends now, even if they have only known each other for a short time.

Here they were, two weeks before the wedding, Maya thought! Ivy is a miracle worker! So far, the preparations was proceeding smoothly, and they have finished the wedding seminar. It was a very memorable experience for Maya, with all the questions they have been asked and the sharing they did with the other couples. Some of them they became really friends with.

“I love you, sweetheart.” Maya suddenly said to Richard, stopping in the middle of Mirasol Street, looking at Richard with all the love and happiness she was feeling, caressing their clasped hands. “Thank you for making me this happy. Parang sasabog na nga ang dibdib ko sa sobrang saya ko.”

“Me too, sweetheart! I never thought I would be this happy. But with you, only you, I am, so very much.” Richard said, caressing Maya’s face. “I love you very much. More than life itself!”

The honking of a vehicle about to pass broke into the intimate moment between them, in the middle of the street that has meant so much to them. They shared a lingering smile, then walked the last several meters towards the Lim family home. Maya felt both nervous and excited to be meeting Richard’s parents as his fiancée for the first time.

During the past two weeks, she had kept constant communication with both Richard’s mom, who she was still getting used to calling Mama, and his sister Grace. Donya Esmeralda invited Maya to dinner the day after their arrival, so they can finally meet again in person. She even asked if Maya’s mom can come. But Maya told her that her mother would be delayed in Mindoro.

“Here we are, sweetheart.” Richard said while they were going up the grand staircase of the Lim family home. “I’m so looking forward to formally introducing you to my parents in person, as my wife-to-be.”

Maya smiled at Richard. “I’m looking forward to that too, sweetheart. Sure, it is okay that I’m not bringing anything, food, wine?”

“Yes, sweetheart! Don’t worry about anything. Manang Fe has taken care of that. Besides, my mother would surely like the flowers you will give her.” Richard assured Maya, gesturing to the lovely bouquet that Maya was carrying. “Those flowers are her favorites.”

When Abby saw them from where she was sitting in the living room with her grandparents, she ran to the door, something she always do when she sees Maya. The past two weeks, Maya has been having dinner most nights with father and daughter, well except for the other Saturday, one week after Richard’s proposal as Maya wanted to celebrate it by cooking Richard a special meal in her apartment. It was a night to remember as well!

Not only Richard insisted that Maya takes her meals with them, but Manang Fe also did, arguing that since Maya was alone, and busy with her work, it would be better for her to have home-cooked meals with the Lims. Manang Fe even added to bolster her argument an so that, Maya will say yes, that it will be her home too in several weeks time.

“Mommy, Mommy, you are here!” Abby said happily. She had been calling Maya Mommy since the engagement. Every time she hears Abby say that, Maya felt very happy, her heart, so full of love, for this wonderful little girl. “Hug, hug, iyong super tight, Mommy.”

“Tight enough na ba ito, sweetie!” Maya told the little girl as she hugged her tight, peppering her with kisses. “I missed you today. How was school?”

Richard looked on with love on both his daughter and his wife-to-be. Don Roberto and Donya Esmeralda were both delighted at what they are seeing. Their son had really found a wonderful woman to love. She loves not only Richard, but Abby as well.

“Hmmm, selos na si Daddy. Bakit ako walang hug.” Richard teased his daughter.

“Daddy, ikaw ang next. But we can just have a group hug first with Mommy.” The little girl said sweetly.

Richard did that, also kissed Abby on the cheek. When Maya straightened up, she saw Richard’s parents looking at them with happy smiles on their faces.

“Good evening po, Mama, Papa!” Maya said, then she went to where Richard parents’ were. “Mano po!” She then gave the beautiful floral arrangement to Donya Esmeralda.

“Maya, hija, great to finally see you again.” Donya Esmeralda said enthusiastically, her eyes lighting up upon seeing the flowers. “Thank you for this Maya. It’s so beautiful. My favorite flowers.”

Maya smiled at her future mother-in-law, happy that she liked the flowers.“Kumusta po ang flight ninyo?”

“Okay naman. Medyo ma-traffic. I don’t remember that it was like this more than ten years ago. Marami na rin talagang nagbago dito sa Maynila.” Donya Esmeralda said smiling. “But it is good to be back, Maya. It’s good to be back, especially now that our Ricky is settling down for good. I didn’t realize how much I have missed this house until I have seen it again last night! Let’s go have a seat habang hinahanda nina Fe and Sabel ang dinner natin,”

“Oo nga naman hija. Ito talagang si Esmeralda, dinaldal ka na kaagad.” Don Roberto said.

“Natutuwa rin po ako at nandito na ulit kayo ni Papa, Mama. Ricky is very happy also, di ba, sweetheart?” Maya said, then looked at Richard who was also looking on happily as Maya chatted with his parents with ease. He thought she was a bit nervous earlier. But now, seeing them like this, he is a very happy man.

“Yes, Ma, Pa, I’m really very happy that you are back in your home. It has been a log time for all of us. I’m sure Grace will feel the same when she gets here. Sayang, hindi pa siya nakasabay sa inyo.” Richard said as he led Maya to the sofa. “I hope the changes and the renovations I have had done  to the house are okay with you.”

Richard sat down beside Maya Abby sat on Maya’s lap and happily listened to the adults while playing with her iPad.

“Speaking of the house, Ricky, Maya, which by the way, I like the new look ha, your Papa and I have something to tell you. This is a good enough time to say this, di ba, Roberto?” Donya Esmeralda looked at her husband and when he nodded, she proceeded. “Roberto and I would like to give this house to you and Maya, son. Regalo namin sa kasal ninyo.”

Both Richard and Maya were surprised at the elder Lims generous gesture. Richard knew how much this house means to his mother. At the back of his head, he knew that he and Maya will stay here since his parents are going back to China the following month. But he never thought that they will transfer the ownership of the house to him and Maya.

“Ma, Pa, but this is your home!” Richard said. “I know how you treasure this house Mama. Maya and I can stay here without you doing that. Or we can find a place of our own should you decide to settle back to the Philippines for good.”

Maya just looked on. She let Richard do the talking since they are his parents. She clasped Richard’s hand.

“No, son, Maya. We really would like to have it. Kami ng Mama mo, tayo, naging masaya tayo sa bahay na ito and we would like our apos to grow up here, happy like you and Grace did. We insist, son.” Don Roberto said firmly. “And we have discussed this with Grace na. She said it is not really a problem with her. She would like you to have it, lalo na raw at dito sa Mirasol Street nagsimula ang love story ninyong dalawa.”

Richard looked at Maya lovingly again. “Thank you for your generosity, Ma, Pa. We are very thankful and honored for entrusting us this house.”

“Oo nga po, Mama, Papa. Promise mo namin ni Ricky that we will take good care of this house and fill this house with laughter and love.” Maya added, touched at Richard’s parents’ gesture. She already loves this house.

“Basta, we are happy to do it for you. We love you son, and Maya, we love you also and we can’t thank you enough for making our son this happy.” Donya Esmeralda said. “Nakikita namin na hindi lang si Ricky ang mahal na mahal mo, kundi maging si Abby. We couldn’t wish for more.”

Hearing that, Maya got teary-eyed and squeezed Richard’s hand. “Thank you po ulit. Sobra rin po akong pinasasaya ng anak ninyo, and ni Abby. I’ll be always be thankful that Richard and I are together now. Para ko na rin pong anak si Abby.” She looked at the little girl on her lap, then kissed her affectionately.  Abby looked up from her game and gave Maya a loving smile. She also whispered “I love you” to her, which added to her happiness.

“Mam, Sir, Ricardo, Maya, nakahanda na ang pagkain.” Manang Fe said, breaking into the contented and happy mood in the living room.

Everyone trooped to the dining room where Manang Fe and Sabel prepared a feast. It was a fun dinner where Donya Esmeralda and Don Roberto got to know their future daughter-in-law more. They have also seen the immense love that Richard and Maya felt for each other and how taken was their only apo with Maya.

The Lims and Maya took their coffee and desserts in the veranda at the back after Richard and Maya had put Abby to bed. The little girl insisted that the two of them hugged her to sleep. Seeing that her would be in-laws were getting tired, Maya said good night to them before midnight. They simply didn’t notice the time as they chatted.

Richard took Maya home. Like earlier, they walked hand in hand in then empty Mirasol Street.

“Home before midnight Cinderella.” Richard said with a big smile when they were ar Maya’s door.

“Pasok ka muna sweetheart.” Maya invited Richard as she opened the door.

“No na sweetheart, at baka hindi na ako umuwi.” Richard grinned. “Baka hindi na kita kayang i-resist if I go inside. I barely did last Saturday.”

Maya reddened remembering the fire that ignited between her and Richard after the wondeful dinner they had that Saturday. They barely managed to stop. But they both agreed that they can wait, fingers crossed, for the wedding night.

“I love you sweetheart. Two more weeks and you will be mine forever, and I’ll be yours.” Richard whispered lovingly. “Dream of me. Of us!”

“Yours, sweetheart, with my heart, my soul, and my body in two weeks!” Maya replied breathlessly. “I’ll dream of us.”

Before they turn in for the night, Richard and Maya shared a searing kiss, both thinking that it’s going to be a very long two weeks until they are together, until they don’t have to part for the night!

Chapter 24

It was already past midnight, and yet, Maya and Richard were still very much awake! Who would be able to sleep, or feel sleepy at all, after that wonderful and momentous evening! Engaged! Maya was still having a hard time believing that she and Richard are about to marry! Their being together was ten years in the making, but it was worth it, so very much! There is really no fighting destiny, Maya thought to herself, as she and Richard enjoyed their first private moment after they got engaged. Her belief that if you are destined to be together with that one person you will share your life with, then fate will find a way for the two of you to be together, was affirmed with what happened to her and Richard. Their journey towards their forever took a long time, but finally they have started it that evening in her beloved most romantic place!

From La Casa Antigua, Maya and Richard, with their loved ones returned to the most romantic place as everyone wanted to see the special place where Richard had proposed to Maya earlier in the evening. It was a bit late for the kids to be still up but they let them as it was a special occasion. Besides, they doubted if the kids too, will be able to sleep early with all the excitement they have had for the day, from their special plane ride to Mindoro, to the engagement dinner in an ancestral homes, and the trip to this special place.

The most romantic place was still brightly lit as per Richard’s instructions to Emman. The musicians also returned with them to provide entertainment should they wish to continue the party there! Upon seeing the replica of a ballroom, even Doris who planned the whole thing with Emman, was amazed at what he had accomplished in such a short time! The grown-ups were all amazed at the length Richard went to, just to be able to give Maya a beautiful and surely, a very unforgettable marriage proposal!

Emman was peppered with questions on how he was able to accomplish the feat in such a short time. He told everyone that his experience in the theater helped him a lot and he got in contact with a production group that makes props for shows. He said, it was easy to accomplish everything as Mr. Lim gave them the carte blanche to design the ballroom after telling him of his idea, and Maya’s love for bodice-ripper novels.

Emman also said, teasing Richard a bit,  that when expense is not a problem, it is easy to do things fast! Richard flushed a bit when Maya teased him about it. But knowing everything he did to accomplish this, for her, filled her with so much happiness! She whispered a thank you to Richard again and while everyone was scrutinizing the make-shift ballroom, gave him a quick, but searing kiss.

Richard smiled and whispered that if that is what he will get, every time he would do something nice for Maya, then he would to do it all the time. Maya quipped back, that he can surely have that, and more! Richard smiled naughtily and whispered something in Maya’s ears that made her blushed. They were lost in their own world and their whispering, that they didn’t notice right away that Emman was finished explaining the design he did for the place. Manang Fe, nudged Richard. He and Maya shared a smile, flushing amid the teasing of their guests!

The whole party stayed in the place for an hour more. The kids played with the flowers and the decor, with Sabel and Lea watching over them. The adults chatted, and danced a bit when the orchestra played the waltz again. Doris’ father asked Nanay Tessie to partner with him. Simon then asked Doris. Maya’s Tito Rollie asked Manang Fe. Emman asked Manang Maring. Mely, playfully partnered with Abby and Lance, and Sabel with Lea. With Maya and Richard in the center, they all took a spin around the ballroom, laughing and dancing to their heart’s content. Before they left the place, they posed for pictures. Maya and Richard, their hearts overflowing with happiness, thanked everyone who have been a part of that momentous occasion.

When the party ended, Doris said she and Lance, with Lea, will just stay with her father, so they can also visit him until they leave the following day. Nanay Tessie insisted that Manang Fe, Abby and Sabel can stay in the Dela Paz’ ancestral house. Nanay Tessie assured Manang Fe that there was enough room for everyone and that Manang Maring had already prepared a bedroom for them. She said there was even an extra room, aside from they have prepared since Maya was staying in her. Abby can have Maya’s room if she sleeps alone. Richard said that Abby can stay with him. However, Abby had a different idea in mind. She asked her father if she can stay with her new ‘Mommy’ and Lola Nanay Teresita. Nanay Tessie assured Richard it was perfectly okay for Abby to stay with Maya and her as the bed is enough for the three of them.

Richard was surprised at his daughter’s request. At times, Abby was slow to warm to people she just met, but that was not the case with Maya, and now Nanay Tessie! He was happy, of course, at what he is seeing and he couldn’t ask for more. He was very happy seeing his future bride, his future mother-in-law, and his precious daughter bonding together this well!

When they arrived at Maya’s house, Manang Fe and Sabel went promptly to bed, tired from their trip, after Richard and Maya told them they will just take care of Abby. Nanay Tessie and Manang Maring went to the kitchen to double-check if everything was in order for the breakfast the following day. Maya and Richard went to the room that Maya was sharing with her mother and put Abby to sleep. It didn’t take long, as soon as Abby was in the bed, and after she had asked for kisses and hugs from her Daddy and her new Mommy, she was in sleep land. She also them that she was very, very happy before she closed her eyes! Maya and Richard looked at her lovingly, touched by the little’s girl’s acceptance and happiness at their engagement. From the doorway, Nanay Tessie looked at them happily, getting teary-eyed at the scene before her!

“Maya, Richard, ako na ang bahala kay Abby, kung gusto ninyo munang magkwentuhan.” Nanay Tessie offered as she walked towards Richard and Maya. “Feeling ko naman hindi pa kayo inaantok at sino nga ang aantukin sa pagkaganda-gandang araw nating lahat. Kahit ako, pakiramdam ko, mamaya pa ako makakatulog nito. Bantayan ko na lang muna si Abby habang nagpapaantok.”

“Oo nga po, Nay! Gising na gising pa ang diwa ko.” Maya said, looking at Richard and sharing a loving gaze.

“Samahan ninyo na lang po kami ni Maya, Nay. Magkwentuhan tayo diyan sa sala. Magkape tayo also.” Richard added.

“Next time na lang mga anak, moment ninyo iyan.” Nanay Tessie said smiling. “Since Richard proposed, hindi pa kayo napag-isang ulit, Maya.”

Richard and Maya grinned at Nanay Tessie. Maya hugged her mother. “Nay, maraming salamat po ulit ha.”

“Oo nga po, Nay Tessie, thank you very much for everything.” Richard added.

“Kayo talagang mga bata kayo, walang anuman. Sapat nang makita ko kayong masayang-masaya at maayos itong si bunso ko, Ricky.” Nanay Tessie said, getting teary-eyed again. “O sige na, magkape na kayong dalawa or magpahangin sa azotea. Alam kong paborito ninyong place iyon. Baka magising pa si Abby kung magkukwentuhan pa tayo ng mahaba-haba rito.”

While they were walking towards the kitchen to make coffee, Maya finally got to ask Richard when did he tell her mother about the proposal, kung kailan siya nagpaalam dito. Richard told him the day before, when she went to the kitchen.

“Talaga, sweetheart? Noon?” Maya said, grinning. “Kaya pala si Nanay, bigla na lang akong niyakap ha, tapos kaninang umaga naman, she set up our dinner sa La Casa! May pa-vintage clothes pa ni Mamang! Si Nanay talaga, ang galing ding makipagkutsaba sa iyo, sweetheart. Wala akong nahalata!”

“I was in a hurry nga, sweetheart when I was telling her! Baka kasi bumalik ka na and marinig mo. I wanted to tell your mother muna and ask her permission before I set into motion the final plan. Kaya nga pagkatapos naming mag-usap saka ko lang ulit tinawagan si Doris na go ang proposal ko sa iyo.” Richard said. “I’m very grateful to your mother and her organizational skills, lalo na nang sabihin sa kanya na parating din sina Abby, Manang, Sabel, Doris, Lance and Lea!”

“Pero, sweetheart, I never expected talaga that you will propose this weekend.” Maya confessed, preparing their coffee. “Minsan, sumasagi sa isip ko, pero I thought din na hindi pa since we just started our relationship!”

“I have been thinking about it for a while na, sweetheart. I didn’t want to wait anymore. Tagal na yata nating naghintay! I entertained the thought of doing it in Tagaytay but I shelved that kasi I want to ask Nanay Tessie’s permission first. I don’t like to do it naman over the phone. Hindi pa nga niya ako nakikilala ng personal, magpapaalam ako na gusto kong pakasalan ang anak niya sa phone. I wanted to ask her in person.” Richard said. “Tama naman ang decision ko kasi sinabi mo sa akin na pupunta tayo ng Mindoro this weekend!”

“Really, sweetheart?” Maya asked happily. She never imagined that Richard was planning this proposal that early. Bumalik sa kanya ang mga naging conversation nila about being together when the right time comes! “Sweetheart, thank you for talking to my mother. I know you don’t have to, but I’m glad you did. It made her very happy also. Ako rin, sobra-sobrang kaligayahan talaga ang nararamdaman ko ngayon!”

“It was the right and proper thing to do, sweetheart. Kung alam mo lang, sweetheart, I was very nervous when I asked your mother if I could talk to her!” Richard said, grinning. “ Then noong nasabi ko na sa kanya, I also asked for her help kaya, doon nga sa dinner afterwards.”

“So si Doris, kailan mo naman, kinausap? Ikaw talaga, sweetheart, bilib ako sa iyo. Natutuwa rin kasi alam ko kung gaano ka-busy ang schedule mo.” Maya asked as they walked towards the azotea.

Richard smiled and told Maya about the meeting with Doris that Tuesday afternoon. He also told her that it was Doris who called the jewelry designer for him since short time na nga. Then, he said, Doris took care of the details of setting up the ballroom at the most romantic place with Emman and her father for the logistics. Richard told Maya that Doris also took care of the flight to Mindoro of Manang Fe, Abby and Sabel, pati na rin sila ni Lance.”

“Grabe, I really have a lot to thank my BFF for!” Maya exclaimed upon hearing everything. “Para ko na kasi talagang kapatid iyang si Doris.”

“Yes, I agree sweetheart, you have a very good friend in Doris!”

The two of them were about to get settled in into the rattan settee in a corner of the azotea, when Richard’s phone rang.

“Hello Grace!” Richard greeted his sister when he saw on his phone’s screen that it was her, calling. “Mabuti, inabot mo pa akong gising!”

“Hello Kuya Ricky! I’m so sorry about earlier. I had an emergency at the hospital!” Grace said. “ I have a feeling that with the momentous event in your life, you will not be able to sleep promptly so I called, on the off-chance that yo are still awake, and I’m right. Congratulations Kuya Ricky!!! I’m so happy for you and my sister-in-law to be!!! So, how was the proposal? Can you send me photos!”

Richard smiled at his sister’s exuberant words! During the week, he had called his sister in China and told her that he and Maya are in a relationship. Grace was very happy for her brother and she said, she had an idea that he felt differently for Maya from way back. She was happy, she told him, that he and Maya have found each other again. Richard also told her that he was planning to propose to Maya in Mindoro that weekend. Grace told him that, she better be one of the bridesmaid. Richard’s sister also informed him that she is going home with their parents for a vacation and is looking forward to meeting her sister-in-law-to-be.

“Yes, you are right about that! Heto nga, hindi pa kami dalawin ng antok ni Maya. Thank you, Grace, for calling. Okay lang iyong kanina. I know naman the nature of your job” He said, then he looked at Maya and mouthed to her that it was Grace on the phone. “It was great. The best, Grace and I’m so happy. Of course, I was nervous also, who wouldn’t be!” Richard gave his sister a condensed version of his and Maya’s unforgettable night.

“Kuya Ricky, I never thought that you had it in you!  Bow talaga ako.  In fairness, Kuya, level up ka na talaga! That was simply amazing! If I was the girl, there was no way I would say no also! Ate Maya is lucky to have your love, and I know you are also lucky that you have hers. Hay, destiny talaga, there’s no fighting it!” Grace said, sighing happily. “I’m so very, very happy for you and Ate Maya! Sayang, hindi ako naka-join sa Skype kanina. I’ll make it up to you guys when I get home. May I speak with my sister-in-law to be, Kuya, so that I can greet her also!”

“Basta for Maya, anything, to make her happy, I will do. Sandali lang ha.” Richard told his sister softly. Then he looked at Maya lovingly. “Maya, sweetheart, my sister would like to speak with you.”

Maya nodded. She took a deep breath. This will be the first time that she will speak with Richard’s sister in more than ten years. “Hello Grace, how are you?”

“Hi Ate Maya, congratulations to you and Kuya Ricky! And congratulations too, a belated one, for topping the bar exams. Kuya Ricky told me about it when he called several days ago.” Grace said happily as soon as she heard Maya’s voice. “I hope it is okay if I call you Ate Maya now ha! I’m so very happy to have a sister! I’m sorry I missed the Skype call! I’m okay, pala. Tired from my long shift at the hospital, but very upbeat pa rin, especially after hearing that you guys are engaged now!”

“Thank you very much, Grace. Ricky and I understand naman.” Maya replied, smiling. “Of course, you can call me Ate Maya. I would be happy to have to a sister. I missed having one.”

“Oo nga pala, sabi ni Kuya, namatay daw iyong sister mo noong time din na nakidnap kami ni Mama.” Grace said. “It must have been a very difficult time for you. I’m so sorry to hear it din, Ate Maya!”

“Thank you Grace. Yes, she did. But I’m sure wherever Ate Cris is, she is happy for Richard and me. But you and your Mama also went through a very traumatic experience that time.” Maya said. “I’m glad that you and Mama are okay.”

“It’s all behind us Ate Maya. At least, Mama and I, we survived it and it made us stronger.” Grace replied. “Naku, let’s not talk about it sa happiest moment ninyo ni Kuya Ricky! Kailan ang wedding? Magbo-volunteer na ako na bridesmaid ha, kung okay lang sa iyo.” Grace added, laughing. “Sorry ha, if I’m way ahead of you and Kuya Ricky.”

“Hahahaha, it’s okay Grace.” Maya said, liking Richard’s sister’s exuberant personality. She is glad her traumatic experience didn’t change that aspect of Grace’s personality. “Of course, bridesmaid ka. As for the wedding, pag-uusapan pa lang namin ng kuya mo.”

“Grace, next week if I have my way!” Richard said in the background, which earned him a pinch from Maya. “Magtatanan na lang kami ni Maya! Kailangan namin ng early start sa half a dozen naming kids!”

“Naku, Grace, don’t listen to your brother.” Maya said, laughing. “I’m sure your Mama and my Nanay  will not talk to us anymore if we do that! Itatakwil na kami ng mga mother natin! Actually, pag-uusapan pa namin ng Kuya Ricky mo kung kailan. We will set the date pa nd then he will just inform you, your Mama and Papa!”

“Tama ka diyan, Ate Maya. Excited na nga si Mama na umuwi and to help with the weddng!“ Grace laughed. “Ito talagang si Kuya, hindi naman masyadong nagmamadali ah, madaling-madali lang! Kalahating dosenang kids! Sabagay, ang saya-saya noon, I will have seven pamangkins!”

Maya and Grace laughed at that! Soon after, Grace said goodbye to them. After Maya gave the phone back to Richard, they sat on the rattan settee, with Richard’s arm over Maya’s shoulders and Maya half-reclining against his broad chest, and continued drinking their then cooling coffee, enjoying the night. After a while, Richard took hold of Maya’s left hand.

“Sweetheart, like I have told Grace, if it is up to me, I want us to get married the soonest time possible, kung pwede nga lang talaga, next week na.” Richard said,  caressing Maya’s ring finger. “But I want to give you the wedding you deserve, so I can wait. So, when do you think is enough time to plan a wedding that you would like?”

Maya smiled. Aha, Maya thought to herself, impishly, now I know how to return the teasing, Mr. Lim, about the six kids you want to have! She touched Richard’s face, and said poker face. “Hmmm, how about next year, sweetheart?”

“Ha, sweetheart, that long!!!” Richard protested, then said rapidly. “Sweetheart, baka naman pwedeng mas maaga. How about in three months? We can just hire a wedding planner. Doable naman iyon, di ba?”

“Sweetheart….” Maya started, deciding to end her teasing as Richard looked so serious when he said that. However, Richard cut into whatever she was going to say, cupping her face.

“Say yes, sweetheart.” He pleaded. “I said I can wait, pero within a reasonable time frame. I want to be with you the soonest, sweetheart.”

“Sweetheart, akala ko ba ako ang bahala Mr. Lim. I just can’t resist teasing you.” Maya laughed, giving him a quick kiss. “Hindi mo ako pinatapos! Sasabihin ko pa naman sa iyo na, hindi ko naman kailangan ang grand wedding. If it is possible nga, I would like to marry you tomorrow. I just want to be with you rin. I don’t need a grand wedding. Ang importante, magkasama na tayo and we will journey together to our forever. I love you very much.”

“Sweetheart, you made me very happy.” Richard said, grinning, looking at Maya with all the love he feels for her. “I love you very much. So we get married, tomorrow?” He added, teasing her again. “You know, kailangan natin ng early start sa half a dozen na magiging kapatid ni Abby!”

“Hahahaha, sweetheart, ikaw talaga, incorrigible! Sobrang, not possible naman iyang tomorrow. Bukod pa sa lagot tayong dalawa sa mga nanay natin.” Maya pinched Richard’s cheek lovingly. “How about in two months time?”

“Hmmm, how about in two weeks.” Richard countered, grinning.

“Hahahaha, sweetheart, never say die talaga ang peg mo!” Maya teased back. “How about a month? Last Saturday of August?”

Richard grinned. “Deal sweetheart!”

Both of them giggled, grinned at their silliness, and happy to have agreed on a date for their wedding! “Sweetheart, ang crazy natin ‘no! Sabi ko na nga ba eh, iyang magnanimous statement mo na iyan na willing to wait ha!”

“Happily, crazily in love, Ms. Dela Rosa.” Richard said softly, lovingly.

“Yes, Mr. Lim, happily and crazily in love, with you.” Maya replied happily.

Richard and Maya gazed at each other with all the love they are feeling, thinking of the time when they will be finally, together forever. They sealed that thought with a searing kiss, which turned into several kisses as they enjoyed their private moment.

They went to bed when the roosters started crowing. Richard took Maya up to the door of the room she was sharing with Nanay Tessie, and Abby. They managed to part after several searing kisses. Both went to bed, and fall asleep, with big happy smiles on their faces.

Note: Finally! Have a nice evening/day!   ❤ 🙂 ❤

Chapter 22

Maya woke up alone. She looked at the wall clock and saw that it was already seven o’clock in the morning. Her mother is an early riser, so she was not surprised to see that her side of the bed was already empty. She was probably at Cristina’s or helping Manang Maring prepare their breakfast. She wondered if Richard was already awake. He probably was, as he is a morning person too. She smiled, happy with the thought that Richard was in the same house, that he was just several rooms away from her!

Maya went to the dining room to check if everyone was there already after taking a quick bath and putting on shorts and t-shirt. She saw that while the table was set for three, there was no one there. She went to the kitchen and saw her mother and Manang Maring preparing their breakfast.

“Good morning po, Nay! Magandang umaga po, Manang Maring.” Maya greeted, then went to her mother and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Nay, si Ricky po, gising na po ba? Nag-coffee na ba siya? Normally, maagang magising iyon. He always text me early!”

“Good morning, anak.” Nanay Tessie greeted her daughter as she finished arranging fruits in a serving plate. “Mabuti at gising ka na. Hindi muna ako nagpahain kay Maring dahil lalamig. Sabi ko mga past 7AM na. Tamang-tama lang ang gising mo. Kakain na tayo in a while. Ipapaluto ko na itong mga food, para mainit pa kapag kumain tayo. Hindi ko pa nakikita si Richard. Tiningnan mo ba sa kwarto niya?”

“Hindi po, dumiretso na ako kasi sa dining room, then nung wala kayo roon, dito sa kitchen.” Maya said, then she started pouring a cup of coffee from the coffee maker. “Sige po, gisingin ko na lang. Baka napagod ng husto kahapon kaya tinanghali ng gising. Punta po muna ako sa room niya.”

Carrying two cups of coffee in a tray, Maya was off to Richard’s room. She knocked softly. When there was no reply, she slowly opened the door. Maya saw Richard was still sleeping, and by the look of it, he was still in deep sleep. Hmmm, namahay kaya itong si Ricky? Parang napuyat kagabi ah. Ang himbing ng tulog! Maya mused as she put down the tray on the bedside table.

Maya sat at the edge of the bed, looked closely at her boyfriend’s sleeping handsome face. He is cute pala when he sleeps, she mused, looking at Richard sleeping sideways, with his right cheek pillowed on the palm of his right hand!  She smiled, caressed his face tenderly with the back of her hand, and murmured, “Sweetheart, gising na! Sweetheart, magbe-breakfast na tayo.”

Richard, instead of waking up, just mumbled a protest, then turned to the other side of the bed. Maya tried to shake him gently, but still, he refused to open his eyes. Hands on her waist, she was thinking of what to do next when she remembered his offer of waking her up with 100 kisses the Sunday they were going to Tagaytay. She smiled. She had an impish look about her. Hmmm, maybe that one will be more effective, Richard Lim! She started giving Richard tiny little kisses. She was so at it and didn’t notice his mumbling until later. She checked and she realized that he was counting the kisses she was giving him with a big naughty smile on his face, eyes still closed!

“Sweetheart, ikaw talaga!” Maya said as she shook Richard’s shoulder. “Gising ka na pala!” She pretended to be miffed! “Hmmmp, nakakainis ka, sweetheart!”

“Why did you stop, sweetheart, nakaka-20 ka pa lang ah.” Richard said, grinning at looking at Maya lovingly “Parang ayaw ko pa kasing magising, I’m enjoying your kisses eh.”

Maya pinched Richard lovingly and with voice dangerously soft, she asked him, “So, nung nagsimula akong mag-kiss, gising ka na?”

“Hahahaha, di pa, sweetheart, nung panlima!” Richard said admitted, mirth making his eyes into tiny slits. “Good morning, I love you.” He then sat up and gave Maya a quick kiss, then hugged her from the back. “Don’t be mad na. Truly, that was the best wake up I had.”

“Sige na nga, forgiven ka na.” Maya said, mollified. “Nahirapan ka bang matulog dito. Namahay ka?”

“Hindi naman, sweetheart! Hindi lang ako nakatulog kaagad kasi excited to be here and for this weekend.” Richard gave Maya one of his bone-melting lopsided smiles and he did seem very happy as it lit up his whole face. “Basta…?”

“Hmmm, sige na nga. I’m sure malalaman ko rin iyan.” Maya said. “Heto, pinagdala kita ng kape, pampagising.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. Mas effective ang kisses mo, pero this coffee is also nice.” Richard said, getting out of the bed. “Wait lang, give me a second, banyo lang ako.”

Richard returned several minutes after, he sat at the edge of the bed, beside Maya. “Now, I can do this proper.” He cupped Maya’s face and gave her a searing kiss that left her breathless. “Thank you for my wonderful good morning, sweetheart. I love you.”

Maya smiled lovingly at her boyfriend. “I love you too, Mr. Lim. Heto o coffee ka muna.”

The two of them enjoyed their coffee, looking at each other and sharing loving glances. It was another beautiful moment between them.

“Sweetheart, mauna ka na muna. I will take a shower lang before breakfast.” Richard said, taking the last sip from his coffee. “Please tell Tita Tessie, my apologies for waking up late.”

“Okay, sweetheart. Sunod ka na lang as soon as you are done.” Maya said, gave Richard a quick kiss and then she was out of the room.

Richard took out clothes from his overnight bag. But before he went to the bathroom, he opened his sling bag and looked at Maya’s ring again. He smiled, very much looking forward to his proposal in the evening. He also made a quick call to Doris to check if everything is set.

“Yes Mr. Dreamboat, everything is set for your grand proposal to my BFF this evening na sadya namang nakakakilig talaga. Hay!!!!” Doris said with a big smile when he asked, teasing him. “Hindi ka naman masyadong excited, Richard. Kalma lang. Ako na ang bahala sa lahat.” She assured him. “Basta, kinikilig talaga ako ng sobra-sobra sa proposal mo.”

“Thank you, Doris for everything.” Richard said again. “I owe you a lot.”

“Naku, wala ito, Richard. Para sa inyo ng BFF ko naman ito. I’m very happy para sa inyo ng BFF ko. Alam ko naman kung gaano ka niya kamahal at alam ko rin naman na mahal na mahal mo siya.” Doris said. “Sayang lang, wala ako diyan. Di bale, dinner na lang tayo pagbalik ninyong dalawa sa Maynila. Good luck, Richard! Hay naku, sure naman ako sasagutin ka ng BFF ko.”

Hearing that, an idea started germinating in Richard’s head. “Wait Doris, are you free today?” He suddenly asked.

“Errr, yes, until Monday pa nga, since I worked last weekend and out-of-town pa, I am. Bakit?” Doris asked, puzzled.

“Well, I just thought of another beautiful thing.” Richard said, a smile lighting up his whole face. “How about you, Abby, Lance, Manang Fe, and isama mo na rin sina Sabel and Lea going here today? I’m sure mas matutuwa noon si Maya!”

“Ha, eh paano? Wala kaming na-book na flight? Kaya ko namang i-gather lahat, pero baka wala ng flight today.” Doris replied, then added, “Long weekend, di ba, baka maraming nagpunta sa Mindoro kaya makakuha man kami ng flight papunta diyan, baka mahirap na ang pabalik bukas. May pasok ang mga bata sa Lunes.”

“I’ll take care of the transportation. No worries. Basta ikaw na please sana ang bahala kina Manang Fe, Abby and Sabel.” Richard said, the plan snowballing in his head. “Let me just make a couple of phone calls. Basta, dadaanan kayo nina Manang and Abby in three hours, okay, kapag naayos ko na ang lahat.”

“Oh okay.” Doris managed to say. She grinned broadly. Ibang klase talaga itong boyfriend ng BFF ko!

Richard made several phone calls, the first one to one of his clients who has a charter planes and helicopters service. Miguel Santiago agreed readily when Richard requested if he could fly his daughter and several others to San Nicolas in a small plane that afternoon. He also called Manang Fe and told her of his plans. The old lady smiled, and thought, ang nagagawa nga naman ng pag-ibig sa alaga niya! She promised to take care of everything from her end. Having set everything, he called back Doris. She was all smiles upon hearing what he had managed to accomplish in several minutes!

Richard and Doris said goodbye. Richard went to bath, humming, very much looking forward to the evening ahead. He is really very thankful to Doris for everything. The Monday after the Tagaytay trip with Maya and the kids, he asked Sabel if she had exchanged number with Lea. She said she did. He then asked her if she could ask Lea for Doris’ phone number, on the pretext that he will ask Doris something in connection with Abby and Lance’s school activities.

From there, Richard managed to contact Doris who was still in Ilocos Norte at that time. She agreed to meet him for coffee the following day. Maya thought he had a meeting somewhere when he left LAS around 4PM. He met Doris at a coffee shop near her office. After an exchange of pleasantries, he told her about his plan to propose to Maya. Doris squealed with delight. The other customers looked at them, and she covered her mouth sheepishly.

When Doris asked how she could help, he laid out his plans to her. Doris told him that she can take care of the details. She just knows the person who can do it – a friend from college who is from Poblador. He has an events planning business, and that friend has a theater production background as he had worked in various theater productions in Manila before settling back in Mindoro. She also mentioned that he knows Maya, but she will just ask him to keep things between the two of them. Doris also said that her father can help with the logistics. Bahala na siya. So, Richard left the execution in her very capable hands. There was no need to ask for Liza’s help with the proposal after all. Mabuti na rin iyon at baka madulas pa ang assistant nya kay Maya dahil sa sobrang kilig!

When Richard made it to the dining room, Maya and her mother were already seated, chatting while sipping coffee. “Tita Tessie, good morning po. Pasensya na po at tinanghali ako ng gising.” Richard said. “Hi again, sweetheart!”

“Naku, okay lang iyan Richard. Feeling ko nga baka namahay ka.”  Nanay Tessie told her future son-in-law. “Umupo ka na diyan sa tabi ni Maya nang makapag-breakfast na tayo.”

“Thank you po.” Richard touched Maya’s shoulder affectionately before he sat down. “Hindi nga po ako nakatulog kaagad.” He told his future mother-in-law.

Judging by Richard’s smile, Nanay Tessie knew why he was unable to sleep promptly. Siya man, nahirapang makatulog kaagad. Today is the day! Uh-oh, she is getting emotional again. She better stop!

“Kain na Richard. Maya, anak, patikim mo kay Richard itong special tapa namin ni Manang Maring.” Nanay Tessie said. “Timpla ko iyan, and isa sa mga binabalik-balikang breakfast diyan sa Cristina’s.”

Maya gave Richard a big serving of the tapa, the spicy vinegar that goes with it, then scrambled eggs, fruits and lastly, another cup of coffee.

“Tama na sweetheart. Baka hindi na ako makalakad nito sa pamamasyal natin.” Richard said, putting his hand over Maya’s. “Thank you.” He then mouthed ‘I love you’ to her.

Looking at the two of them, Nanay Tessie smiled. Indeed, she is very happy at what she is seeing! The three of them had a leisurely breakfast.

More than two hours later, Tita Tessie, Maya and Richard was at the San Nicolas Memorial Park where Cristina Rose is buried. On the way to there, they bought a big bouquet of roses and Malaysian mums for her and some candles.

“Hi Ate Cris, sorry ang tagal kong hindi nakadalaw sa iyo.” Maya said as she put the flowers in front of her sister’s gravestone.”Kasama ko si Ricky. Siya iyong ikinukwento ko sa iyo dati sa e-mails. He is my boyfriend now.” Maya added, looking lovingly at Richard.

Richard smiled back and by way of a greeting and paying respect to Maya’s sister, he touched her gravestone and uttered a silent hello, saying that he is indeed her sister’s boyfriend and also whispered, that he is also Maya’s soon to be fiance.

Nanay Tessie lit the candles, and lovingly touched her eldest daughter’s gravestone, saying that she is still missed, very much. She also whispered to her eldest daughter that their bunso is about to get married soon. The three of them stayed in the memorial park for half an hour. When the sun got hotter, they left.

“Maya anak, mamaya palang gabi, doon na kayo mag-dinner ni Richard sa La Casa Antigua.” Nanay Tessie said as they were walking out of the memorial park, to Simon’s jeep which they have borrowed earlier. “Nakalimutan ko na may usapan pala kami ni Mareng Ginny mamayang gabi.”

Richard offered to drive and while it took him a bit to master the jeep as he has not driven one in a long time, he managed to do it. Maya teased him and asked if he can drive a jeep as well. He told her that of course, he can, and he did!

“Oh! Sige po. Gusto ko nga rin po sanang dalhin doon si Ricky, kahit sa susunod na bisita namin dito sa San Nicolas.” Maya said, then remembered, “Opps, naku Nay, di ba po, medyo formal ang restaurant na iyon and by reservation lang? Wala akong dalang dress. Saka baka po si Richard, ganoon din. Nawala sa isip ko na magdala ng formal clothes!”

“Naku Maya, don’t worry about that. Di ba, merong vintage dress diyan si Nanay na gustong-gusto mong suutin dati. Tamang-tama, kapapa-dry clean ko pa lang noong nakaraang linggo.” Nanay Tessie said hastily. It was a good thing, and nagkataon naman talaga na pina-dry clean niya ang mga treasured clothes ng Nanay niya kasi ililipat niya ng lalagyan.

“Oh okay po. Sige Nay. Solved na that one. How about you sweetheart? Nagdala ka ba ng medyo dressy na clothes.” Maya asked Richard.

“Yes I did, sweetheart.” Richard said, smiling and sharing a look with Maya’s mother.

“Bilib naman ako sa pagiging boys scout mo, sweetheart!” Maya said smiling. “Buti na lang. Excited na ako. You will love La Casa. It’s an ancestral home that dates back to the Spanish colonial period. It has been converted into an exclusive fine dining place. Iyong family ng may-ari nito, one of the most prominent families in San Nicolas. Para kang na-transport sa 19th century Philippines kapag nandoon ka, also the food they serve, iyong mga food noong araw.”

“Really, then I’m looking forward to that, sweetheart!” Richard simply said.

“I made a reservation na rin kagabi, Maya anak. Sorry, hindi ko na nasabi sa iyo kaagad.” Nanay Tessie informed Maya. “Well, Fernando did, when I asked him. Di ba, naging lawyer siya ng mga Guevarra for a time.”

“Thanks a lot po Nay.” Maya hugged her mother. “Sayang, hindi kayo makakasama sa amin ni Ricky.”

From the memorial park, they returned to the house to rest a bit before going around the town. Nanay Tessie told Maya and Richard that she will just go check on Mely in the restaurant. They told her that they will just leave in half an hour.

When Maya returned to the room she was sharing with her mother to get her camera, Richard sought Nanay Tessie.

“O Richard, may kailangan ka ba, anak?” Nanay Tessie asked when she saw Richard at the doorway of Cristina’s.

“Tita Tessie, yes po, about this evening, could you please add six people pa po.” Richard requested.

“Six!?” Nanay Tessie asked, surprised.

Richard realized that he forgot to explain properly. He did. After hearing it, Maya’s mother was all smiles.

“Richard, anak, nakakatuwa ka naman talaga, and I’m very happy for what you are doing to make my daughter happy. Sige, ako na ang bahala. They should stay here na rin ha. Ipapahanda ko na ang lahat kay Maring.” Nanay Tessie said, touching Richard’s place affectionately. “Kapag hindi ka pa naman sinagot ng anak ko niyan, ewan ko na lang.” She teased.

Richard laughed, and it was what Maya heard first when she went down, looking for him. She smiled when she saw him and her mother sharing a laugh. Nakakatuwa naman talaga itong boyfriend ko at Nanay ko, mukhang click na click!

“Sweetheart, halika na. Ready na ako.” Maya said, holding on to his arm. “Nay, aalis na po kami ni Ricky. Doon na rin kami kakain ng lunch sa Filipino restaurant malapit sa simbahan.”

“O sige, mga anak, mag-iingat kayo ha. Enjoy. Be back pala around 4PM para makapagpahinga kayo before your big evening.” Nanay Tessie said.

Maya and Richard promised Nanay Tessie that they will. Richard escorted Maya to Simon’s jeep. Simon told them that they can use it for the whole day as he was not going anywhere, and if he does, he can just borrow his father’s car when it is free. They first went to the San Nicolas Church. Hand in hand they went inside the beautiful, old church and stayed there for several minutes. After that, they looked around the poblacion, especially at all the old houses near the plaza, then they had a delicious lunch at Tokanz. They also discovered a quaint cafe as they resumed their leisurely walk after that heavy lunch. Maya and Richard lingered in the nice cafe – chatting, holding hands and just being happy to be together on that very nice Saturday afternoon.

On the way back to Maya’s family house, Maya pointed out to Richard the road that leads to the ‘most romantic place’. Richard smiled, glad that Emman, Doris’s friend who is handling the preparation of the proposal was quite precise in his directions. They had exchanged emails the past several days. He sent Richard mock-ups of his plan. Richard told him that from Friday onward, bahala na sila ni Doris  na mag-communicate, tapos he will just take care of everything in the evening of Saturday.

“Maya, Richard, mga anak, kumusta ang lakad ninyo? Marami ba kayong napuntahan?” Nanay Tessie asked when she saw them getting out of the jeep. “Akyat na muna kayo ng makapag-merienda.”

“Hi Nay, medyo po. Okay naman po ang lakad namin ni Ricky. Busog pa po kami sa heavy lunch namin diyan sa Tokanz. Tapos may nakita po kaming cute na cafe after that, doon na lang kami nag-stay.” Maya said.

“Oo nga po, Tita Tessie! We will just rest na lang po.” Richard added. “Kayo po, nag-merienda na po ba kayo?”

“Tapos na kami ni Maring, 30 minutes ago. O siya, sige, magpahinga na muna kayo at kayo nga ang lalakad pa. Maya, anak, nandoon sa aparador sa kwarto sa dulo ang damit ni Nanay.” Tita Tessie said.

“Thank you po, Nay. Mauna na po kami ni Ricky sa itaas.”

“Tita Tessie, sige po.”

Hands intertwined, Richard and Maya went upstairs. But instead of resting in their rooms, they went to their now favorite part of the house, the azotea. With arms around Maya and her back against his chest, the two of them passed the time there, chatting about books they like, movies they could see when they return to Manila, and what they can do together when Donya Esmeralda and Don Roberto arrive. In the privacy of the azotea, they had also exchanged sweet kisses and loving smiles.

Maya and Richard returned to their respective rooms before six o’clock to get ready for the evening ahead. Nanay Tessie was waiting for Maya when she went inside the room they were sharing, her Mamang’s beautiful crimson dress, which she wore in one of the movies she made was on the bed.

Maya’s grandmother was an actress before she married her grandfather. Not as famous as the movie queens of the 50s and 60s, but she was in quite a number of movies, mostly supporting roles, before she ‘retired’ from the industry. Her mother held on to her dresses. They may not had much money when she and her Ate Cris were younger, but they had her grandmother’s memorabilia, and the house full of old furniture. Her mother wouldn’t dream of selling those hanggang kaya niya. Thankfully, and luckily, nakayanan naman nila. Everything in the house is to be passed on to the next generation, she said to them countless of times.

“Maya, anak, heto kinuha ko na iyong damit. Mag-ready ka na.” Nanay Tessie said with a big smile.

“Maraming salamat po Nay. Kayo po, anong oras po ba ang usapan ninyo ni Tita Ginny?”

“Naku, huwag mong intindihin iyon. Aalis na lang ako kapag nakaalis na kayo ni Richard.”

Maya took the dress and got ready for her and Richard’s dinner. She suddenly had this feeling of anticipation and excitement after she had put on the beautiful tea length dress which hugged her body, cinched at the waist by a cloth belt shaped like a ribbon, sleeveless and has a Sabrina neckline. The dress is really beautiful and timeless! She decided to style herself in a bun, similar to Audrey Hepburn’s hairstyle while she was going down the stairs, wearing a red gown and Fred Astaire, playing the role of the photographer Dick Avery, taking her photo.

“How do I look po, Nay?” Maya asked her mother when she returned to the room. “Hiniram ko nga po pala ang sandals ninyo na bagay dito.”

Teresita Dela Rosa, at first, was at a lost for words. Her daughter is very beautiful. Well she is, but she is doubly so in that dress and hairstyle. She looks radiant!

“Maya, anak, ang ganda-ganda mo! Bagay na bagay sa iyo iyang damit na iyan.” She finally managed to say. “Halika na at baka naghihintay na sa iyo si Richard.”

When mother and daughter entered the living room, they saw Richard, wearing a suit, staring out of the window. Hearing their footsteps, he turned and just gazed at Maya in astonishment and admiration. He gave her a bone-melting smile.

“Sweetheart, you look very lovely.” Richard finally managed to say, amid the fast beating of his heart. The reason why he was looking out of the window was because he was trying to calm himself. He was very nervous and at the same time excited about the evening ahead. Emman and Doris both called up while he was dressing, and assured him that everything is in place for his proposal.

Maya was also taking her fill of the man she loves. He looks so handsome and dapper in his pale blue suit and maroon shirt! He is dashing! “You look so guapo naman, sweetheart.”

Richard smiled at the love of his life. “Shall we, sweetheart?” Then he looked at Maya’s mother who was very teary-eyed by then, looking at the two of them. “Tita Tessie, aalis na po kami ni Maya.” Richard looked at Maya’s mother and nodded.

“Nay, umiiyak po ba kayo?” Maya asked, noticing that her mother was teary-eyed. “Bakit po?”

Instead of answering promptly, Nanay Tessie hugged her daughter tight, then kissed her on the forehead. “Tears of happiness lang ito anak, I’m so happy for you and Richard. I love you anak.”

“I love you too, Nay. Thank you po.” Maya said, a bit puzzled at her mother’s action.

Nanay Tessie also hugged Richard tight. Richard whispered a ‘thank you’ to her. “O sige na, Maya, Richard anak, at kanina pa naghihintay iyong sasakyan niyo sa labas.”

When Richard and Maya went out of the house, they saw a vintage car parked in front of the house. “Dito kami sasakay ni Ricky, Nay?” Maya asked, surprised. She thought they would just take Simon’s jeep again or her Tito Fernando’s car. “May pa-service na rin na vintage car ang Casa Antigua?”

Before Nanay Tessie can answer, the driver of the car approached them. “Good evening po, Ma’am Maya, Sir Richard, ako po si Edwin ang driver ninyo this evening.”

Richard greeted the driver, and before Maya can ask more questions, he ushered her inside the car. They waved to Nanay Tessie, Manang Maring and a puzzled Mely.

“For you, sweetheart.” Richard gave Maya a big bouquet of sunflowers which he got from the front seat of the car.

“Wow, sweetheart, you are turning our unexpected evening to a very wonderful date. We are dressed up to the nines, and may vintage car pa na alam ko hindi naman kasama sa service ng La Casa!”

“I want this to be a very memorable evening for you, sweetheart, for us.” Richard took Maya’s hand, looked deep into her eyes, and said, “The best is yet to come sweetheart.” He raised her hand to his lips and kissed it. “I love you very much.”

“Sweetheart, memorable naman sa akin lahat ng evening na kasama kita. But thank you for this. I love you very much too.” Maya replied, her heart beating faster, the feeling of anticipation and unexplained excitement for the evening ahead, is getting stronger.

Richard didn’t let go of Maya’s hand and continued holding and caressing it as they journeyed to their destination, to a night to remember, a night to tell their children, and grandchildren.

Note: Happy long weekend to those in PH! Sorry, natagalan ang update ng OTSWYL! 🙂