Chapter 9
Perfect day

The ringing of her mobile phone penetrated Maya’s consciousness. She thought at first that she was dreaming, that somewhere in her subconscious, she was listening to her current favorite song, Capital Cities’s ‘Safe and Sound’, from her iTunes playlist. Then, she realized, it was her ringtone she was hearing! Her phone has been ringing the past minute or so. She tried to locate her phone at its usual place on her night table, while fighting off sleepiness. However, her groping hand didn’t find her phone, nor did it find a side table. There is no side table in the room! She realized she was in unfamiliar room. She suddenly sat up, shook off sleep, concentrated, and then it all flooded back to her. She was not at home. She staying in one of Richard’s guest rooms.

“Hello, Mom! Good morning.” She greeted her mother sleepily, as she went back to the bed after locating her phone at the table near the window, where she put it earlier.

“Maya, anak, good morning. I just read your messages. Are you still at Richard’s?” Mommy Tessie asked, wanting to know if her daughter is really okay.

“Yes, mom. Like I have said in my last message, I will stay here na lang since it was already very late and the traffic was still bad.” Maya explained. “Don’t worry, Mom. Ricky was the perfect gentleman and I did sleep in his guest room. I’m still here in his guest room.”

“Maya hija, I’m not worried about that. I know that Richard is a gentleman and a very nice person. Besides you are of age. You can think and act for yourself. Pinalaki ko naman kayo ng maayos ni Cristina Rose.” Mommy Tessie told her daughter. She told them before that she trust them to make the best decisions for themselves, and learn from their mistakes and failures. She guided them and let them be themselves. She believed in giving and teaching her daughters independence. “I just want to know how you are, saka to let you know that we are leaving shortly for Batangas.”

“Thank you, Mom, for your trust and letting me be me. I love you.” Maya said, thankful that she has a very understanding mom. She barely refrained herself from telling her mom that sila na ni Richard. She wanted to tell it to her in person. “Ingat kayo sa biyahe. I will see you tomorrow evening. Hello to Lolo and Lola.”

“Okay. Sabel will be back early this evening. Kayo na muna sa house. Make sure that everything is locked when you two go to bed,” was Mommy Tessie’s last minute instruction to Maya.

“Don’t worry, Mom. Kami na ang bahala. Saka, Ricky is coming over to dinner. I will make him dinner. Iyon ang trade off ko sa kanya when he played the piano for me.” Maya informed her mom. “Ha, and he doubted my cooking skills, Mom! Eh iyon nga lang cooking ang itinuro mo sa akin na-perfect ko, hahahaha.”

Mommy Tessie laughed at the other end of the line. She detected something different in her daughter’s voice when she was telling her about Richard and his piano playing. Hmmm, what else happened kaya in the middle of the night aside from being stranded? She wondered. But she is not worried. For sure, Maya will tell her about it. “Richard plays the piano? That’s great. Sabihin mo sa kanya na the next time he comes to dinner, he should play for us.”

“He does, Mom, very beautifully! I will tell him.” Maya smiled, remembering the events of the past several hours.

“O sige, Maya. We need to get going now. Your Lolo and Lola are expecting us to be there for lunch.” Mommy Tessie said. “See you tomorrow. Say hello to Richard from me. Thank him also for me for taking good care of you.”

“I will Mom. I think he is still sleeping. The apartment is very quiet. Bye, and kisses to Abby.” Maya said.

Too bad, she can’t go with them as she has work tomorrow while the rest of her family enjoys their city’s local holiday. She would like to see her grandparents too. Her mom’s parents had been their rock when her dad left them for another woman, someone who worked with him in the bank where he was the president. But that was a long time ago, they have moved on, difficult as it was in the beginning. She hasn’t seen her dad in years. He and the new wife migrated to Canada after they got married, as soon as the annulment of her parents’ marriage became final. It was not easy emotionally, but they coped and survived together. Financially, they were okay. One good thing her dad did was to make sure they were comfortable when he left them. They also have the bookstores, which was her mom’s family’s business. Taking charge of the chain helped her mom coped and recovered from the emotional blow her father caused. Oh well, why is she remembering these, all of a sudden! Maybe, because after so many years of being afraid to love, she finally found the courage to do so. And what a wonderful feeling it is. She just needed the one person, the right person, who can make it do it. Ricky!

Maya slid down the bed again. She still feels sleepy, but at the same time, excited with what’s the day going to be like, now that she and Richard have declared their feelings for each other. She smiled, her heart so happy, that he loves her. And who can forget the way he told her of his feelings! She stared at the ceiling, remembering their wonderful night.

Richard woke up early, despite the fact that he and Maya only had several hours of sleep. He was surprised he managed to sleep at all with Maya just in the other room, and after their declaration of love. He was so wired up. He went to sleep, smiling and mentally preparing the treat for his Maya come morning. He made several phone calls, bright and early, and is now preparing his treat for his lady. He smiled remembering too their wonderful night together.

Richard and Maya went up for air after sharing their first kiss, which was followed by a second, a third, a fourth, fifth kiss, and so on! They just can’t get enough of each other. 

“I love you, Maya, my love, my sweetheart.” Richard said as he caresses Maya’s cheek with the back of his hand in between their very heated kisses.

“I love you, too my Ricky.” Maya said smiling at her now boyfriend. “I never expected this to happen at this moment, but I am glad it did. You know what, hindi lang kaya ikaw ang hindi makalimot sa night na iyon sa BGC. Me too. Dalaw ka kaya ng dalaw sa isipan ko. Kaya nung nakita kita sa Copenhagen, hindi ako makapaniwala. Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko noon. Then, I started feeling very happy when I was with you. Parang nawawala lahat ng worries ko, fears ko, pagdating sa relationship habang kasama kita and the more I got to know you. Then I just realized I was already falling for you, that I love you na pala.

“Thank you, my love for this unforgettable evening. I’m so happy. I’m so touched that you even studied my favorite song from that series. Saka you watched it din pala kahit romantic series iyon?” Maya said as she cuddled up to Richard Richard on the other hand, put his arms around Maya.

“Hay naku, sweeatheart, kung alam mo lang kung gaano ko katagal inaral ang Korean song na iyan. Napagod na yata ang playback button ng Mac ko sa kapapanood kung paano kinanta iyon ni Park Shin Yang sa series, and I also watched him singing that live in a TV show in Korea. I found it in YouTube. Mabuti pala I did.” Richard said, looking at Maya lovingly. “For you, I will, and can do anything. I love you.”

Maya looked at her man with so much love. She is very lucky to have him. “I love you. I’m so lucky to have found you. To have you.”

“Maya, sweetheart, I am the lucky one. You make me very happy. I never felt this way before.” Richard said, as he cupped Maya’s face once again and kissed her. She responded, and before they knew it, their tongues were duelling, wanting to express, and show each other what they were feeling. 

“Ricky, sweetheart. You make me feel…..” Maya said, unable to verbalize what she was feeling, as she matched Richard’s passion. 

When things were about to get out of hand, Richard slowed down. He did promise Maya that he will be a gentleman. He also want to give her time get use to being with him, loving him before they take their relationship to the next level, to the physical level. Difficult it may be, but he can wait. He is Maya’s first boyfriend, her first love, and he hopes he will be her last love too. Now that they are a couple, he will work hard for their forever. She is the one for him. 

“Maya, sweetheart, I think we need to stop. I’m barely holding on to what little control I have.” Richard said, trying to breath normally.  “You don’t know your effects on me, Ms. Dela Rosa.”

Maya blushed. She, too, got carried away. Now, she knew how it was to be kissed thoroughly, lovingly. She is barely skimming through the depth of her newly-discovered passion, but she liked what she and Ricky are having at the moment. “Oh”, was all she managed to say, burying her face on Ricky’s broad chest. Then they looked at each other lovingly.

“Stay the rest fof the night, please. I’m not ready to bring you home yet. Besides, the traffic might still be bad. Remember, this thing also happened several years ago, wherein people spent the night on the streets. At least here, we are safe and comfortable.” Richard said, trying to convince Maya to stay. “Besides, I promised to be a gentleman. You can stay in the guest room. Text your mom, too.”

Maya smiled at her boyfriend. “Hmmm, promise, Mr. Lim?”

“Cross my heart nga.” Richard said, gesturing and smiling lovingly at Maya. “Besides, hmmm, parang hindi lang ako nag-iisa sa kisses kanina ha.”  Richard added with a teasing grin.

“Ha, ha, ha, ha, very funny, my Ricky.” Maya playfully swatted Richard in the arm. “Okay,  I will stay. Bahala kang magpaliwanag sa mom ko mamayang umaga.”

“Iyon lang pala. I can do that. I will tell Tita Tessie, I will marry you in all the churches we can find, around the Philippines, and even abroad.” Richard said, half-jesting, half-serious too, as he hugged Maya closer. “I’m ready to make an honest woman out of you. Sabiihin mo lang.”

“Kasal, agad-agad. Eh kasasagot ko pa lang sa iyo.” Maya retorted as she tweaked his nose lovingly. “Baka malagay tayo sa Guinness niyan sa dami ng simbahan na pagpapakasalan.” She jested. 

Richard and Maya stayed like that for quite sometime, bantering, cuddling, enjoying each other’s company, and savoring their openly-declared love for each other. When Richard noticed  that Maya was getting sleepy, they went upstairs. Richard brought Maya to the guest room adjacent to his room. Since Maya didn’t have any clothes with her, Richard got one of his soft white dress shirt and gave it to Maya. He was about to go to sleep after taking a quick shower, when he remembered that he left his mobile phone downstairs. When he got his phone, he also saw Maya’s purse and her mobile phone. He brought it with him. When he knocked, and she opened the door, wearing only his dress shirt,  fresh from showering, he almost lost it. He kissed her lingeringly one more time, then said good night. He also took another shower, a very cold one this time, as soon as he got to his room.

Richard smiled at the memory. He looked at his handiwork. The table in the garden in between the two bedrooms is set. He took out his phone and texted Maya, wanting to know if she is awake.

Ricky Lim >

Good morning sleepyhead! 🙂 🙂

She is, apparently as his phone beeped right back, fast.

Maya Dela Rosa >

Good morning, Mr. Lim. Yes, I have been awake for a while. 🙂

Richard went inside, grabbed something from the console table between the rooms, and knocked on Maya’s door.

“Good morning, sweetheart!” He said with a big grin. He also gave Maya a fast kiss on the lips.

Maya looked at a freshly-showered Richard, so handsome in a pale blue polo shirt and dark jeans.

“Ricky, I haven’t brush my teeth yet.” Maya protested, suddenly feeling shy and conscious.”Saka, I look like a fright.”

“Hmmm, fishing for compliment my love? You know that you are the most beautiful person I happened to see in all my mornings.” He said.

“Bola.” Maya said.

“Hindi ah. For you, pala.” Richard handed Maya the shopping bag he was holding, with the logo of a well-known boutique on the side.

“What is this?” Maya asked, curious.

“Clothes for you. I know you don’t want to wear na the one you were wearing yesterday. And while I love you in my dress shirt, you may refuse to accompany me where we are going later, in that outfit.”

“Ha, may bukas na palang branch ang Martha’s Closet, at this early?”

“I called the owner. She is the wife of one of my closest friends, and asked her a favor. I gave her a list of what I want, and she sent it over with her driver.” Richard said, glad that he was abe to do this for Maya. “I hope I got your size correct.”

“Thank you very much, Ricky. I would like a change of clothes nga sana, and to take a shower now.” Maya happily said, touched.

“Okay, hurry please, sweetheart. I have another treat for you.” He said, grinning like a little boy.

Maya lovingly touched Richard’s face, then smiled at him sweetly, promised him, she will be fast. Richard told her to go through the door at the right side of her room when she is done. Maya opened the shopping bag and saw a long, beautiful linen skirt with intricate embroidery at the hem, inside, then a matching body-fit blouse, walking sandals, and undies. She smiled happily. She was touched, once again, with Richard’s thoughfulness. She took a quick shower, then did her morning rituals, drying her hair a bit, and applying lip gloss. Then she was all set. She opened the door that Richard indicated and got another surprise.

The door opened into a a beautiful garden. In the middle was a gazebo. The table was set for breakfast for two.

“Wow, Ricky, this is lovely! And that’s a lot of food on the table. You cooked? You did all of these?” Maya said as she approached the table. She saw ham and cheese omelette, bacon with bread, jams, cheese of all kinds, and a pot of freshly-brewed coffee. “Thank you.”

“Errr, not the cooking part. I ordered everything from a nearby restaurant and just set this up. I did brew the coffee. I thought it would be nice to spend our first breakfast here, than in a restaurant.” He said, looking at Maya lovingly. “Have a seat, sweetheart.”

“Ricky, sweetheart, thank you for this. For everything. I feel so cherished.” Maya said as she gave Ricky a quick kiss.

They settled into their seats and have the best breakfast ever, just so happy to be with each other.  They also discussed what they will do for the whole day since they are both free and they don’t want to part yet.

Richard and Maya ended up exploring a nearby Sunday market, and buying ingredients for the dishes Maya will cook in the evening. They had lunch at a garden restaurant near Richard’s place. They were about to return to the serviced apartment to get the stuffs they bought and head to Maya’s home when she got a text message from Sabel, informing her that she can’t make it back to Manila that evening. She still needed to take care of her aunt who is still sick.

“Sabel can’t return home this evening! “Maya said after reading Sabel’s message. “May emergency siya sa Cavite.”

“You will be alone in the house after I leave? ” Richard asked, concerned. ” I don’t think you should. It is not safe. I think you should just stay here. I will bring you home tomorrow.” He suggested.

“Ricky, I have to go to the office tomorrow. Besides, I don’t have clothes aside from what I am wearing and the ones from yesterday.” Maya protested. “Besides, I will be perfectly okay. I have stayed at home alone before.”

“Maya please, sweetheart, listen to me. I will feel better if you will just stay here. We can just get whatever clothes you need from my friend Ryan’s wife’s boutique or in the mall.” Richard pleaded. “I can also stay with you at your home. But since we are here, please stay with me. We can spend the rest of the evening looking at the view you were admiring last night and I can play the piano for you again.” He added, trying to convince her. He does not want Maya to stay home alone. He will just worry about her the whole night.

Maya grinned at Richard when she heard that he was even willing to play the piano again to make her stay. “Okay, you win. Let us just go shopping for what I need. I also need to borrow your laptop to access my office e-mail. I need to check on something.”

Richard was very happy Maya agreed. Yes, he will have another evening with her! “Whatever you need, Maya. Let’s go.”

Maya did cook for Richard, not just in her house, but in the big kitchen of the serviced apartment. They had a very nice dinner. Afterwards, they cuddled in the sofa, sipping wine, looking at the peaceful night sky and the twinkling lights from their 20th floor view, content to be with each other. From time to time, they gazed at each other, and expressed the sheer happiness they were feeling at the moment through heated kisses. They both agreed that it was a very perfect day. Their beginning.

Chapter 8
‘May I love you?’

Richard unlocked the door, turned on the hall lights and ushered Maya inside his penthouse serviced apartment. He likes living in this place as he can come and go as he wishes. He does not like to have a live-in househelp either, used to being on his own, so this is the perfect set-up for him. Since his family owns the serviced apartments company, the top two floors were reserved for the family. Richard’s parents prefer living in the family home in a nearby gated village, and Rafi is in the US with her family, so he was the only one who opted to live in one of their two penthouse serviced apartments. It is too big for a bachelor, but he loves the space it offers.

“Maya, make yourself comfortable, and feel at home, ha.” Richard told Maya as he walked around the place, switching on floor lamps which gave the room a warm and cozy glow. “Do you want anything to drink? Coffee? Wine? Juice?”

“Hmmm, coffee and water, please. I can make it, just point me to where your kitchen is.” Maya offered, as she put her small bag on the console table by the entrance.

“No, no, I’ll do it. Just have a seat, please.” Richard said, then went to the kitchen. Maya can hear him rummaging around. It sounded like he does not know his kitchen very well. Soon after, the smell of coffee brewing wafted in the air.

Maya looked around the spacious apartment. She likes the fact that it is uncluttered, and yet looked very much lived-in, with comfortable sofas, window seats, bookshelves containing books of different genre, and a glass cabinet filled with Richard’s DVD and CD collections. She took a look at the labels of the DVDs and saw a lot of movies that are also in her collection. She was surprised, though, to see the same DVD sets of Lovers in Paris which he gave her. So, he did buy himself a copy, hmmm, she mused. She never thought that Richard will watch it too! But it looked like he did. She also saw DVD sets of Downton Abbey, from Season 1 to Season 4 and all its Christmas specials! In a corner, near one of the floor to ceiling windows, stood a grand piano, well-used, judging by the sheet music still propped on it.

She also noticed a staircase going to the second level of the apartment which she surmissed leads to Richard’s room, as well as some guest rooms. She walked to one of the big windows of the apartment, and fell in love with the view. She can see the whole city! Yes, she can just see the lights glittering from a distance, but it looked so peaceful. She looked down and saw that the streets are still very well-lit with headlights of vehicles still trapped in the monstrous traffic created by the downpour earlier. She was still staring at the view, but was about to take a sit in the very welcoming window armchair, when Richard returned to the living room.

“Maya, here’s your coffee.” Richard stood beside Maya and handed her a cup. He also made himself one. “I put your glass of water on the small table by the sofa.”

“Thank you very much Ricky. You have a lovely place! ” She smiled at him, and took a sip of her coffee, which Richard made perfectly – with just enough sugar, and no cream, as she prefers it. “Hmmm, the coffee is just the way I like it. You know, if this is my view every evening, I will surely feel very relaxed after a gruelling day at work.”

“Thank you, Maya. I love this place very much. It is too big for one person, I guess, but I like the big open space it offers. Like you, I love the view. I spend my free evenings here listening to music, having coffee, and just looking out, trying to de-stress. Same thing, during weekends.” Richard said as he sips his coffee. He also indicated to Maya that they should sit in the armchairs by the window, with the coffee table in between them, and the view on the side.

“You are lucky to have these.” Maya added, gestured to the view and the whole expanse of the big, airy and very inviting apartment.

“I know. I can give you a tour, if you want. I know you are into house stuffs because of your work. Maybe, you can help me also decorate the place. I feel it needs a woman’s touch, your touch. Come, please, let’s start upstairs.” Richard stood up and assisted Maya up to the base of the stairs going up. He put his hand on her back solicitously when they were going up.

The stairs led to another smaller, but very inviting living room, with what would be a stunning view of the city during daytime as three parts of it are floor to ceiling windows. The other side lead to three bedrooms. Richard showed Maya the two guest rooms first, then his bedroom. It is a masculine room, but very nicely done also. Adjacent to his bedroom is his office, and beyond it, is a small gym.

They went down again and proceeded to the big kitchen, obviously, it is not very much used, then to the dining room, a breakfast nook, then back to the living room. Maya saw the piano again and remembered that she was going to ask Richard something.

“Do you play, Ricky?” She asked, curious, gesturing to the grand piano in the corner.

“Hmmm, a bit. My mother dragged Rafi and I to piano lessons when we were kids. She is a very accomplished pianist among other things. She would like us to learn as well. Maybe, Mom thought we will be another Gerard-Lea Salonga sibling act.  But much to her disappointment, we didn’t have talents like their caliber! Rafi, has talent to some extent, maybe, but she didn’t have the discipline.” He said, smiling, remembering how he tried to avoid those lessons. “Actually, I found out that I enjoy playing the piano. It is relaxing.  But not while I was taking those lessons. I learned to like it after Rafi left me her beloved piano, this one, when she went to study in the States. When I have time, I play a bit, especially after a hard and trying day at work, or when I needed to think, or when I just want to get lost in the music. Do you play too, Maya?”

Maya grinned at Richard, then told him, just like dancing, she is terrible in playing the piano! Mommy Tessie hired someone to teach her and her Ate Cris, but she never learned properly. Mommy Tessie gave up, eventually.

“But I do like to hear, and watch, someone play. I find it very soothing. The hands on the keys, I find it very graceful.” She added. “So, Mr. Lim, can you play for me, please?” She said with a ‘pretty please’ pleading expression that Richard found endearing. He gazed at her, then smiled.

“Hmmmm, are you sure, Ms. Dela Rosa?” He teased. “Are you sure you are ready for my world-class performance?’

“Yes, please, Mr. Lim.” Maya said, liking Richard’s playfulness.

“Eh anong kapalit nitong pagko-concert ko at this time of the night?” Richard asked Maya teasingly.

“How about…..” Maya started…

“How about, ano, Ms. Maya dela Rosa.…” Richard teased back.

“How about dinner tomorrow night at home? I will cook.” Maya offered. “Mom and Ate Cris are going to Batangas with Abby to visit my grandparents. Tapos it’s Ate Sabel’s day-off naman. You can have dinner at home. See, you will not only not eat alone, you don’t have to cook either. Judging by your kitchen, you don’t anyway.” Maya teased Richard.

“Hmmm, baka naman sa hospital ako pulutin after I tasted your cooking.” Richard teased Maya again, trying to goad her to react. “Saka, I cook naman, hahahaha, when I’m super starving na.”

“Ha, Mr. Lim, baka makalimutan mo ang name mo after mong kainin ang luto ko. Pang-chef yata sa hotel ang cooking skills ko.” Maya said, smiling and playfully pointing at herself, and bowing.

“Hmmmm, bragging much Ms. Maya Dela Rosa?” Richard smiled, then tweaked Maya’s nose.

“Telling the truth, Mr. Lim, nothing but the truth.” Maya countered.

True, Maya has not cooked for Richard before. There was no opportunity to do so with the many restaurants to choose from every evening, and with Sabel in Maya’s house. But she is really cooks well. Her mom taught her. If her Ate Cristina had excelled playing musical instruments, Maya’s forte is cooking. She finds it relaxing, just like her sketching or some other creative activities she indulge in, using her hands.

“Okay, it’s a deal. What do you want me to play?” He asked Maya.

“Up to you, Ricky. Surprise me.” Maya said as she setlled in the comfortable sofa beside the piano.

Richard took his seat, did a mental check on what he can play. He took a deep breath, touched the keys and  the melody of “As Time Goes By” from Casablanca started filling the big apartment. Maya mentioned to him that Casablanca is one of her favorite movies. He segued to the theme of An Affair to Remember, another of Maya’s favorites. He also played pieces from their favorite musicals, like ‘Some Enchanted Evening’ from South Pacific. Maya clapped and cheered every time Richard finished a piece. He does play beautifully! They were having fun that they did not notice the passing, or the lateness of the hour. They didn’t feel the need to sleep either. Maya was so happy to be here with Richard, like this.

Richard thought too that the moment was perfect and he could stay like this forever, with Maya by his side, listening to him play, playing for her. He gazed at Maya with love in his eyes, from to time to time, while he played for her beautifully, and with so much feelings. The moment is just perfect for him to pass, and he feels this is the perfect time to declare his feelings. Suddenly, he also know the perfect way to do it. He started studying that piece on a whim, thinking that at some point, he will play it to Maya. He remembered, her telling him, it was her favorite scene in Lovers in Paris. Due to her influence, he also bought DVDs of series she raved about, wanting to know why loves those so much. He liked that scene too, when he got to watch it.

“Maya, I have something for you. I have been studying this piece for quite sometime, now.” He said, gazing at her with love in his eyes. “I hope you like this.”

Richard started playing the opening notes of Maya’s favorite song from Lovers in Paris. Maya’s heart skipped a beat. For her, one of the most romantic scenes in the series was when  Ki-joo played the piano and sang for Tae-yeong in a hotel bar, wanting to cheer her up after the very bad day she had. This time, Richard did not just play, like the character in the series, he too started singing the Korean song. She loved the melody of that song, too bad she does not know Korean. But judging by the subtitle on the DVD he gave her, though it was probably not the perfect translation, the song is indeed, beautiful. He played and sang, with all the feelings in him.

The door is opening, and I see you walking in
I knew from first sight that you’d be my girl
You walked to me with a sad face

But you were so beautiful, I thought you seemed familiar
My heart was skipping a beat, and you took my heart away

I want to confess my love for you
I’ll be courageous
May I love you from this day on?

I never felt this way
I don’t want to let this feeling go
Love is approaching me

I always want to give you the best things in life.

Somewhow, you seemed familiar
My heart is skipping a beat, and you took my heart away.

Since I endured, so many breakups and tears,
I was gifted with someone as beautiful as you.

May I love this girl sitting infront of me?

I want to give you the best things in life.

May I love you from this day on?

May I love you from this day on, Maya?

Richard looked at Maya with so much love on his eyes, when he sang the last line of the song, then the sound from the piano faded into the night.

The room got very quiet, with Maya just saying “Ricky!”

Richard stood up from the piano and then walked slowly to where Maya was, sat beside her, held her hands, looked her into the eyes, and then said, “I love very much, Maya. Will you let me love you?“

“Ricky, you love me? ” Maya managed to say, with wonder in her voice. She thought that this day may come, but she never imagined that it would be this evening, and that it would be like this. Her heart is galloping. She touched Richard’s face caressingly. He in turned put his hand on top of hers.

“Yes, I do, with all my heart, with all of me. I have been in love with you for quite some time now. The first time I saw you, I was immediatey drawn to you. I can’t get you out of my mind. I even returned to the coffee shop several times, hoping that I will see you again. Then, by a stroke of fate, we met in Denmark. It was there that I started falling for you. I was just very happy and content to be with you. I waited to tell you because I want you to be sure of my love. I wanted to show you first how I love you. I want you to be sure enough to overcome your fears. I want to allay those fears. I will always be here for you Maya, to love and treasure you. I will show it to you, if you will let me.” Richard vowed.

“Ricky, I, I…..” Maya gulped, and tried to still her galloping heart….

“Maya, I just want you to know my feelings. You don’t have to say anything at the moment, except say please that you are giving me a chance to show my love for you.” Richard said earnestly, thinking that Maya needs time to process his declaration.

“No, Ricky.”  Maya said, stopping Richard, with a hand gesture.

“No?  You don’t want me to show you? You don’t love me?” Richard asked, surprised.

“Ricky naman eh, let me finish.” Maya protested good-naturedly. “No, I don’t need time. That was what I meant!”

“You mean….I mean…you do…?” It was Richard’s time to stammer.

“Yes, Mr. Richard Lim, I love you too.” Maya said, then gave Richard the brightest and most loving smile.

Richard’s heart jumped with so much happiness. He hugged Maya very tight, at the same time caresses her hair. “Maya, thank you. I love you very much.”

Then he held her face, looked deep into her eyes. “I promise I will not make you cry, that I will be here for you always, that I will hold your hand  and we can face your fears together. That I will love you completely, with all of me.”

Maya got teary-eyed and so overwhelmed with Richard’s promise. “I will hold you on that promise, Ricky. You know, by just being you, you made me strong enough to take a chance, to open my heart to loving you. I now know if the person who came knocking on your door, is the one for you. One just know, in here,”  pointing at her heart.

Maya and Richard looked at each other with so much love, and they sealed that love with the sweetest and most loving kiss they can give each other.

Chapter 6
Richard’s moves

The beep of her mobile phone woke up Maya the following day. She thought it was still early and wondered why someone is texting her so early in the morning. But when she checked her bedside clock, she saw that it was already past seven o’clock in the morning! She was supposed to get up at half past six o’clock! Good thing, her phone beeped. She checked the message and smiled.

Ricky Lim >
Good morning, Maya! 🙂 What time will you be at work?

Maya Dela Rosa >
Good morning, Ricky. Thank you for your text. If not for it, I will be late. 🙂
I will be at work around 8AM. Why?

Ricky Lim >
Oh, good that I texted then. 🙂 Wala, I just want to know.
Have a great day at work. 🙂

Maya Dela Rosa >
Have a great day too. Good luck on your meeting with the board.

Ricky Lim >
Thank you. I will tell you later how it went. 🙂

Maya skipped breakfast, as she usually does. She will just eat something at work. Sometimes, she gets tempted with Sabel’s cooking and grabs a bite before she leaves the house. But this morning, she didn’t have time to eat even if the longanisa and scrambled eggs on the dining table are her favorite breakfast meals. Her sister has already left the house with Abby. Her mom said she will work from home today. She hurriedly kissed Mommy Tessie and asked Kuya Joma to drive her to work. She needed to review some stuffs and she can do that on the road. Normally, she drives herself to work.

She arrived at her office an hour later as there was a bit of traffic in Greenhills. As soon as she put down her laptop bag, she noticed the Starbucks tumbler on her desk, when she inspected it, she found her  favorite Americano coffee in it, there was also a small paper bag with two slices of French toast inside, a cup of fruits, and on the side of the bag and the tumbler, three sunflowers. She found a note attached to the ribbons holding the sunflowers together.

Dearest Maya,

Just thought of sending over breakfast. You mentioned that you don’t normally eat
breakfast at home. I guess, especially so, this morning. Enjoy. 🙂

Yours,

Ricky

Maya felt very happy and touched by Richard’s thoughtfulness. She took out her phone and sent him a message.

Maya Dela Rosa >
Thank you very much for the nice breakfast, Mr. Lim. 🙂 Just what I need
this morning. Caffeine and sugar overload to perk me up for the long day ahead, and healthy fruits for balance. Kaya pala, you were asking what time I will be at work. I will enjoy it. Ikaw din, hwag magpapagutom. Many thanks din for the lovely flowers. 🙂

Ricky Lim >
🙂 🙂 🙂 I will eat my meals, Ms. Dela Rosa, on time. Cross my heart. 🙂 Talk to you
later.

Richard smiled and felt that there is spring in his steps as he walked towards the conference room where his meeting will be. His assistant, Sonny was with him.

“Sonny, thank you for taking care of the things for Maya this morning. Can you tell Mang Lem to be here at the same time tomorrow. I will tell you what to get before we go home in the evening.” He simply said.

“No problem, Sir. “ Sonny smiled. His boss is really in love and is now courting his ladylove earnestly. He has not seen him like this before.

Maya was enjoying her coffee when Emman arrived at her office. They need to go over some plans for their latest collection.

“Wow, coffee, sunflowers, fruits and French toast! Ang aga niyang pa-flowers and pa-food, sis.” Emman greeted Maya. “Parang alam ko na kung sino ang nagpadala. Iyung guwapong-guwapong guy na kasama mo kahapon na kaya pala looks familiar eh si Mr. Richard Lim ng Lim Holdings.”

“Kilala mo si Ricky, Emman?” Maya asked, surprised.

“Not in person, sis. He was on the cover of a popular society magazine two months ago, together with other young businessmen or second generation businessmen in the country. Di ba mo nakita iyon?” Emman explained as he took his seat on the chair infront of Maya’s desk. “Saka, he is considered kaya as one of the most eligible bachelors in the country.”

“Really, I didn’t know that! Busy kasi ako that time, preparing for my trip. I think I missed reading that. Usually rin naman, housekeeping and decorating magazines ang nababasa ko, because of our products.” Maya said, taking in the information Emman mentioned.

“One of his old girlfriends nga di ba, eh iyong society ‘it girl’ ngayon na si Angela Buenavista. If I may ask sis, saan mo nga nakilala si Mr. Lim?” Emman asked. “You looked good together ah, when I saw the two of you yesterday.”

“Naku, we are just friends Emman. We met each other by accident in Denmark.” Maya said simply and gave Emman a condensed version of her and Richard’s meeting over Mathilde. At the same time, thinking na socialite pala ang dating girlfriend ni Ricky! But she shurgged it off. It has nothing to do with her dahil past na naman. Though, there is a part of her that wonders about Ricky’s past. But she told herself she will not Google him. If she wants to know something, isn’t it better to ask him directly? Richard even told her, ask anything and he will reply.

“Iyon lang ang kwento mo? Ang sweet niyo kaya kahapon, sis. Anyway, I don’t want to pry na.” Emman smiled at his friend. “Basta, good luck and to borrow the line of one of the characters in my favorite Disney movie, ‘there is something there that wasn’t there before’. Para sa iyo iyan my dear sis!”

Maya laughed at Emman. While they were teasing at each other, Ruby arrived and also got curious about Maya’s flowers and breakfast. Maya said she will tell her about it at their coffee break as they needed to start their meeting. They spent most of the morning mapping up their products placements in the stores, and other details they need to take care of for their products promotions in the fashion and house magazines in the metro.

Emman went back to his department after the meeting, saying that he has another one scheduled in 15 minutes. Maya and Ruby went to the coffee shop on the ground floor.

“So, Maya, kay Mr. Lim, galing iyong flowers and coffee?” Ruby asked as soon as they sat down with their sandwiches and coffee.

“Kilala mo rin siya?” Maya asked, thinking that she is the only one who didn’t have an inkling of who Richard is before she met him.

“Yes, from the magazine cover, and also because my dad works for Lim Holdings.” Ruby explained. “Saka, I thought talaga na it was from him since I saw you two yesterday. Sweet niyo. I’m glad that you are dating Maya.”

“Ruby, we are just friends. Like I have mentioned to Emman, I met him by accident in Copenhagen.” Maya said in between bites, then told Ruby the same thing she told Emman. “But you know what, when you phoned me and I met you in the coffee shop in BGC? He was there. Nagkatinginan kami saglit. But enough that we remembered each other nga that afternoon in Copenhagen.”

“Really, what a wonderful coincidence and a stroke of fate!” Ruby said happily. “Nakakakilig naman. Nagkatinginan lang kayo, then you remembered each other na! Eh, ako nga walang maalala ng gabi na iyon, except the hurt I was feeling. Saka, imagine, doon pa kayo nagkita sa Europe. Baka siya na ang destiny mo.”

“Naku, Ruby, ikaw talaga. I admit, I do like him. I enjoy being with him and spending time with him. Happy ako kapag kausap siya and touched at his gestures, like the breakfast, and iba pa. Pero, we are just friends now. I am just enjoying his company and taking things one day at a time.”

Ruby looked at her best friend and she knew Maya’s fears and she guessed, her sad lovelife contributed to what her friend feels. Si Maya lang kasi ang nasasabihan niya ng mga love problem niya.

“Maya, it is okay to take things slow. I believe rin na mas solid ang foundation if you start as friends and get to know each other really well in the process, as long as you are both being open and honest with each other. Pero when the time comes, do not be afraid to love, to take a chance. Kasi, at least you took a chance, kaysa naman hindi. Huwag kang ma-nega because of what I experienced. I, too, is taking things slow and will not ‘fall in love with love’ again the next time. I’m sure, somewhere out there is a guy for me who will love me the way I should be loved and that I will love with all my heart.”

Maya is glad that Ruby is moving on. She admired her friend for being positive, especially after the last incident that really shook her trust in guys. Ruby, it seemed, realized that she was just in love with the idea of love then.

“I know that Ruby. I am not closing my door on loving someone. To be honest with you, I think I’m on my way there. I’m nervous, but I think I am ready to take my chances.” Maya said. “Ricky is helping me by being the way he is. Of course, nandiyan ka, and also my mom. I am sure Ate Cris will also be there for me. Saka, bakit ba ganito ang discussion natin. Hindi naman siya nanliligaw eh. We are just friends. ”

“Maya, I think he will. Hindi ganyan ang treatment kung friends lang! I think he is into you and he is nagpaparamdam na.” Ruby said with conviction. “You must have talked a lot for you to be quite at ease with him, when you just met. Baka he sensed that he needed to take things slow rin with you, based on what you have told him.”

Maya smiled at Ruby.”You have a point Ruby. Basta, I’m happy with the way things are muna. I’ll take it talaga one day at a time. But thank you for your advise. By the way, I saw Edselyn at the airport. Flight attendant na pala siya sa Time Airways. Gusto niyang mag-dinner tayo.” Maya told Ruby while finishing up her sandwich.

“Talaga. Naku, I want to see her nga rin. Kailan daw? I’m free this Friday.” Ruby said as she stood up. “Let’s go na pala, if you are done, may meeting pa kasi akong isa.”

“Okay, I will tell her when she texts, baka kasi nasa flight. Ipinakilala pa nga niya sa akin iyong cousin niya na pilot sa TA.” Maya said as they walked back to the elevator banks that would take them to their floor.

The rest of Maya’s afternoon was spent meeting with other buyers. By six o’clock, she felt tired. She was about to send a text message to Kuya Joma to pick her up when her phone beeped.

Ricky Lim >
Hi Maya. 🙂 Are you busy? May I call?

Maya Dela Rosa >
Hi Ricky! 🙂 Sure. I’m free now.

Less than a minute after Maya sent her reply. Her phone rang.

Ricky: Hi Maya! How are you? How was your day? Busy?

Maya: Hi Ricky. Okay naman. Busy but manageable. Tired lang sa dami ng kinausap ko
kanina na mga buyer. Ikaw?

Ricky: Had a great day. The board approved my proposal so I can go ahead with the
planned expansion of our shipping business. Nag-dinner ka na ba?

Maya: Not yet. I was about to call Kuya Joma na nga when you texted. Magpapasundo na
sana ako. I didn’t drive this morning kasi nagmamadali ako, then may kailangan pa
akong i-review on the way.

Ricky: Hwag ka na magpasundo. Tamang-tama. Let’s just have dinner and then I will take
you home. Please.

Maya: Hmmm, sure you are not tired yet? You had a full day na.

Ricky: I’m perfectly okay and being with you relaxes me. I’m sure I will have a wonderful
time. Tanggal ang stress ko.

Maya: So, stress reliever pala ako. Iyan ang role ko sa buhay mo Mr. Lim.

Ricky: Hahaha, Maya naman, pretty please. Malungkot kumain mag-isa. Saka you are more than that in my life.

Maya: Ikaw naman Mr. Lim, biro lang. Of course, I would be glad to have dinner with you.

Ricky: Great. I will see you in an hour or less. I will just text you when I am near na.

Maya: Okay. Ingat sa pag-drive.

Maya went through her e-mails while waiting for Richard It is amazing how many e-mails flew between departments and between employees in a day! She got caught with what she was doing that she didn’t notice the passing of time, until there was a knock on her door.

Maya looked up, surprised, then checked her phone. “Ricky! Umakyat ka na! Did you text? I didn’t hear my phone beeped!“

Ricky smiled at her. “No. I just thought of going up and picking you from your office since it is stll early. I said hello also to Tito Miguel. I saw him downstairs. He asked nga why I am here.”

“Oh. Let me just get my things so we can go. Have a seat first. Sandali lang ito.” Maya said as she closed her e-mail program, shutdown her laptop and tidied up her desk.

Richard was content to look at Maya as she went through her end of the work day ritual. He admires her graceful efficiency. He also like the way she decorated her office, with understated elegance.

They left Maya’s office 10 minutes after. Those who saw them walking towards the elevator took a second glance. They thought that those two looked good together.

Richard and Maya went to dinner at the restaurant inside an upscale hotel near Maya’s office. Like the night before, they didn’t notice the hours as they chatted and got to know each other better.

Three hours later, Richard was parked again at the gate of Maya’s house.

“Ricky, thank you again for a wonderful evening.” Maya said while standing at the gate.

“The pleasure is mine, Maya. Thank you for not letting me have a solitary dinner. I had a wonderful time.” Ricky said smiling. “I will not go in. Just say hello to your mom for me.”

Richard kissed Maya again on the cheek and was walking towards the driver’s side of the car, when he remembered something.

“Maya, wait. Before I forget….” He said as he got a small paper bag from the back seat of the car. “For you.”

“Oh, what is this, Ricky. Too much na, ha.” Maya protested. “Sobra-sobra na itong thoughtfulness mo.”

“Wala lang, just something that I hope will make you happy.” Richard told Maya as he waited for Maya to take the paper bag.

“Okay. Thank you very much.” Maya smiled at Richard, curious what kind of surprise he has for her this time.

“Go inside na. Don’t wait for me to drive away.” Richard said and waved at Maya. “Good night. See you. And yes, Ms. Dela Rosa, I will text you when I get home.”

“Good night. Drive carefully.” Maya said, then waited until Ricky drove away before going in.

No one was in the living room when she got in as it was a bit late already, so Maya went straight to her room. She dropped her things on her office table, then proceeded to open the bag.

“Awwww”, was all she managed to say when she found what is inside. Richard gave her the complete DVD series of Lovers in Paris in original Korean with English subtitles. She also found a post-it note on the DVD box.

I found this online. I thought you might like to see the original episodes. 🙂

She was very touched with his latest gesture. She never thought that he would think of getting her this. She lay down on her bed, still in her office clothes, stared at the ceiling, smiled happily for no reason at all, except that she felt very happy at the moment. Her phone beeped after a while.

Ricky Lim >
Reporting from home, Ms. Maya Dela Rosa. 🙂

Instead of replying to his message, Maya gave Richard a call as she wanted to thank him properly.

Maya: Hi Ricky, thank you so much for this! Ikaw, sobra-sobra na ang lahat. You are
spoiling me a lot.

Ricky: I’m glad you like it Maya. I want to spoil you. Making you happy, makes me
happy too.

Maya: Thank you again. I’m so happy naman with this.

Ricky: No worries. Mabuti I found it pa. So happy too when I found out that the DVDs are still available.

Maya: Oo nga. I have been meaning to look for it online. Maraming salamat talaga. O sige, good night na so you can rest na rin.

Ricky: Good night. Sweet dreams.

Maya put Richard’s note in a box, together with the small cards she had received from him. She went to bed very happy, thinking of Richard. She is falling hard, and fast, for this wonderful guy.

Chapter 5

Friendly date 

Maya’s heart jumped when she caught a glimpse of Richard. He was standing at the lobby of her building, holding a cup of coffee and talking to someone on the phone. He looked so handsome in a lavender dress shirt, which he paired with dark jeans and a coat. He moved around the lobby as he discussed something to whoever he was talking to. She was so happy to see him.

Richard texted Maya earlier and told her that he will just wait for her at the coffee shop at the lobby of her building. He also told her not to hurry on his account as he got there early. Surprisingly, traffic was light from his office in Makati to her office in Ortigas Center. However, Maya can’t concetrate anymore since receiving his message. She packed her things and get ready for her dinner with Richard. She was glad she wore a nice dress for her first day of work. She was not able to resist buying the black sheath dress she was wearing, when she saw it in Paris.

Richard gazed around the lobby while he was talking to Sonny, not really looking as he knew he was way early. Then he caught sight of Maya, from his peripheral vision, standing near the coffee shop waiting for him, carrying the sunflowers he gave her and her laptop bag. She looked so lovely in that dress. Their eyes met and she broke into a smile that transformed her already lovely face. Richard felt his heart skipped a beat. He finished his conversation promptly and walked towards her.

“Maya, great to see you.” Richard said and gave Maya a lopsided smile. Then he hugged Maya and gave her a peck on the cheek. “Were you waiting long? Sorry, I didn’t notice you right away. You should have called my attention. I was just giving Sonny some additional instructions for tomorrow.”

“No, Ricky. I was just early.” Maya smiled sweetly at Richard. “Great to see you too.”

Richard gazed at Maya, just very happy to see her. They chatted while they walked towards where his car was parked. Maya saw Emman and Ruby while they were walking and waved at them.

Richard asked Maya if it was okay he made a reservation at a private garden restaurant. The area where the restaurant is, it turned out was near Maya’s home. Maya told Richard that it is perfectly fine with her what he had arranged. They chatted animatedly while driving to Quezon City from Ortigas, mostly about Maya’s Paris trip and the places she had been. Sometimes, they would just glance at each other, and smiled.

Soon after, they entered what looked like a private driveway in a quiet part of the city, then a beautiful garden, and then there was the restaurant, bathe in soft light, very inviting, and it looks very relaxing. Richard opened the car door for Maya, assisted her to the short flight of stairs, and seated her solicitiously in a quiet and secluded part of the lovely, romantic place

Richard asked Maya what she would like to have and she told him she will just choose from the ala carte menu, instead of the degustation menu. Richard did the same, and ordered also the best wine for their food.

While waiting for their food, Maya and Richard continued chatting and catching up from their last exchange of e-mails.

“Maya, thank you again for the e-mails and photos that you have sent. They surely brightened and lightened up my busy and hectic days.” Richard said. “I love the way you have captured Paris. I wanted to go back there, and be there with you, when I saw your photos.”

“Thank you, Ricky. Since we toured Copenhagen, I wanted to share with you the places I have been to. It was so much fun when I had you to share my appreciation of places.” Maya smiled. “Kumusta, pagbalik mo dito? How were things at work? You also told me that you will have dinner with your parents.”

“Well, work was busy as always. I will propose to the board that we expand our shipping operation, so Sonny and I have been working on that since I returned. Dinner with my parents was nice. As usual, Dad and I talked about business, then Mom said no business on her dinner table. She asked me instead when will I settle down. And then Dad told her, no bugging me about that again.” Richard smilled at the recollection of that dinner. “They were really cute when they do that. I told Mom and Dad about my last trip and our unexpected but wonderful meeting in Denmark. I can see my mom had twinkle in her eyes. I told her to stop it as she might scare you off, when you get to finally meet her, with her ‘matchmaking mama’ mode.”

Maya laughed at Richard’s loving description of his mother. She sounds like a fun person, like her mom.

“I like your parents’ interaction, they sounded so loving. I also told Mom about our meeting. She asked me kasi who was the friend I mentioned that gave me the flower key ring.” Maya told Richard as the food they ordered was being served.

“Really! You told your mom about me?” Richard asked, happy to hear it.

“Of course, why not?”, was Maya’s short reply.

When the server left, Richard took his wine glass and offered Maya a toast.

“Welcome back, Maya. I’m happy that you are here, having dinner with me.”

“Me too, Ricky, glad to be home, and to see you again.” Maya said.

They toasted and proceeded with their dinner while chatting in between courses. Richard asked Maya about her first day of work. She told him, it went well. Her boss, Ms. Zenaida Belmonte, briefed her on her new responsibilities as head buyer for her division. She still need to go on buying trips, but her main job now is managing all the buyers, directing them on products that are in demand and products which would sell well in their stores. Richard congratulated Maya. The conversation between them just flowed and the only lull in the concversation, aside from eating their delicious dinner, was their gazes for each other, as if they can’t help it.

“Richard, that was the best dinner, ever. I’m so full.” Maya said as they were eating their dessert and having coffee. “Thank you for bringing me to this very nice restaurant. I just love this place.”

“I’m glad you like the dinner, Maya. The restaurat was recommended by a friend. He said, if I have a special occassion to celebrate or just want to spend quality time with a special someone, this is the place to go.” Richard said meaningfully.

“You mean, you have not been here before?” Maya asked, suddenly, her heart is beating faster.

“No, this is the first time.” Richard smiled meaningfully. “I didn’t have that special someone to take with me here, before.”

“Errr, Ricky, you mentioned before that your mom was asking when are you settling down. I hope my question is not too personal. You were not tempted before…I mean…?” Maya said, a bit rattled, unable to finish her question.

Richard looked at Maya, and smiled. “Hmmm, are you asking about my lovelife Ms. Maya Dela Rosa?”

Maya blushed, stammered….”Errr, you know, since we are friends and….” Then she started making a nervous hand gesture.

“Maya, Maya, I’m just teasing you. I don’t mind answering your question.” Richard said with a grin, then put his hand on top of hers, unconsciously, as if to assure her. “I’m completely unattached at the moment. Yes, I dated in the past a bit. I also had several girlfriends before, but nothing worked out. It was because, either they just liked the idea of me or there was something missing in the relationship. There was this something I was looking for, can’t really defined it then, that I didn’t find, so I stopped looking. But, sometimes, when you stopped looking, that is when you find it, unexpectedly, wonderfully so.”

Richard didn’t elaborate anymore, just took a sip of coffee, and gazed at Maya, meaningfully. Maya felt very conscious of that look. But since Richard didn’t say anything much, she just took a sip of her coffee too, and decided not to dwell on it.

“Thank you for telling me, Ricky” Maya said, smiled at Richard.

“Just ask away, anything, and I will answer.” Richard promised Maya.

Soon after, they left the restaurant. Richard took Maya home. Just like in the restaurant and in previous instances, he was the perfect gentleman, opening the door for Maya, assisting her solicitiously.

“Now, I know where you live! I’ll go ahead Maya. Thank you for a wonderful evening. Let’s have dinner again soon.” Richard said while they were standing at the gate of the house, which Maya already opened, with her key. Richard also saw that Maya is using the key ring he gave her. He smiled, glad that he found something she really liked.

“Would you like to come in, have another cup of coffee or soda?”  Maya offered.

“No, I better not. Thank you. It is late. I do want to meet your mom, sister and the niece you were telling me about, but next time na lang. Nakakahiya naman sa kanila.” Richard said as he declined Maya’s offer. “Kailangan mo na ring mag-rest. You just got back from your trip, then you had a long day pa today.”

“Maya. hija, is that you?” Someone said from the direction of the garden and several minutes after, Mommy Tessie was at the gate. “Oh, you have company! Sorry. Hello.”

“Good evening po.” Richard politely and respectfully said to the graceful lady, who he knew right away, is Maya’s mom. She is an older version of Maya.

“Mom, it is okay. Ricky and I are just saying goodbye. Mom, please meet my friend Richard Lim. Ricky, please meet my mom, Mrs. Teresita Dela Rosa.”

“Hello, Richard, I’m glad to meet you. Maya mentioned you last night. Thank you for taking care of my daughter in Denmark.” Mommy Tessie said as she looked closely at the young man. Technically, he is the first young man Maya introduced to her as he was the only one she allowed to take her home.

“Im very glad to meet you din po, Mrs. Dela Rosa.” Richard said. “Meeting your daughter was the the best thing that happened to me while in Copenhagen.”

“O pasok na muna tayo, have coffee. I was having one when I heard a car stopped by infront of our gate. Maya mentioned earlier that she will be home late.” Mommy Tessie asked, taking note of Richard’s statement. Hmmm, so that is the way the wind is blowing. She thought to herself.

“Thank you, Mrs. Dela Rosa. I will take you on that offer, next time. Late na rin po, for you and Maya to have a guest. I’ll go ahead.”

“O sige, come to dinner one evening ha.” Mommy Tessie issued the invitation, to Maya’s surprise.

“I will po. Thank you very much for the invitation.” Richard said, happy at the turn of events.

Mommy Tessie excused herself, went in, so Richard and her daughter can say a proper goodbye.

“Maya, I will go ahead. I will see you soon?”  Richard hugged Maya and gave her another kiss on the cheek.

“Okay, just text me. And text me when you get home, okay. Drive carefully.” Maya patted Richard on the arm affectionately.

They smiled sweetly at one another, then Richard waved before getting into his car, and drriving off. Maya waited until she can’t see the car anymore before going in. She headed to the garden.

“Mom, bakit late ka na matulog?” She asked her mother conversationally. “May tinatapos ka ba?’

“Yes, itong financial reports ng bookstores. I was reviewing the figures. I needed a break so I went here to unwind a bit.” Mommy Tessie said as she gestured for her daughter to sit. “I like your young man. Polite and mukhang nice. Guwapo pa.”

“Mommmm, we are just friends.” Maya protested with a blush. “I was surprised nga that you invited him to dinner, eh ngayon mo lang siya na-meet.”

“Why not. He is your friend, di ba? Siya nga lang ang nakatuntong sa gate ng bahay natin. He must be special.” Mommy Tessie smiled, and teased her daughter.

Mother and daughter smiled at each other and chatted. Maya told her mom about her first day of work and her new job as head buyer for her division in the company. Mommy Tessie asked Maya for suggestion about new stuffs they can get for the bookstores. While they were doing so, Maya’s phoned beep.

I’m home now Ms. Maya Dela Rosa, texting you as promised. I drove carefully ha. I had a great evening. Iba talaga kapag ikaw ang kasama ko. Good night. Sweet dreams. 🙂

Maya smiled, a smile that lit up her whole face, forgetting that she was not alone. Her mother, who saw her expression, was happy. It looks like her daughter is falling in love. Maya typed her reply, and sent it with a goofy smile on her face.

I’m glad that you got home in one piece. 🙂 Thank you for a wonderful evening too. That was the nicest ‘welcome back’ I had. Sweet dreams. Take care. 🙂

Richard, who was climbing the stairs when his phone beeped, smiled, and whistled happily after reading Maya’s message. It was the best night for him too. He can’t wait to begin his campaign to win her heart.

Chapter 4
Welcome home

Maya settled into her seat more comfortably, now that her plane has started its journey to Singapore from Paris. She has more than 13 or so hours ahead for this long flight and a change of plane in Changi Airport before she makes it back to Manila. She was looking forward to going home after two weeks abroad. This has been the longest time she was away in recent years. Normally, the company just sent her one country at a time. Of course, she also took a couple of days vacation with this trip. This have been a very productive trip, businesswise, and personally, an unforgettable and a very memorable one. She was looking forward to seeing her mom, her Ate Cristina, Abby and she admitted to herself, in seeing Richard again, very much.

It such a short time, Richard became a big part of her thoughts. Maya does not know yet what is this thing with him or what do they really have. But she would like to see where it leads. She is happy to be friends with him. She really likes their exchange of emails. Sometimes, she felt there was more to what Richard was saying in the e-mails – like meeting his parents, going on trips with her, or taking her to dinner when she returns. But Maya does not want to assume or overthink things. She decided to take things one day at the time with him. All she know, is that she enjoyed his company and their time together very much. It is helping her overcome her fears and wariness, little by little and one day at a time.

Maya can’t really sleep in planes so she decided to catch up on her reading. She downloaded books for her Kindle before she left the Manila and she still has a couple of crime novels, to read and keep her awake. When she got tired of reading, she switched to watching movies, including two of her favorite classic films, Casablanca and An Affair to Remember. She still cried at the end of both movies, even if she had seen those several times already. She thought that if Richard was with her at that moment, she will be teased about her crying bit. She smiled at that thought. After a while, sheer tiredness made her fall asleep on the last couple of hours of the flight. She was very sleepy when she arrived in Singapore. The first thing she looked for, after they landed, was a cafe so she can have her caffeine boost while killing more than two hours or so in Singapore. She does not feel like going to the shops, so she just walked around the airport, then sat near the orchids garden and relaxed a bit.

Finally, several hours later, her plane landed in Manila. She was very happy despite feeling the effects of her long flight. Maya was among the last passengers from her flight to exit, as it took a while for her luggage to be on the baggage conveyor belt. She was walking towards the arrival hall, after calling their family driver, Kuya Joma, when someone called her name.

“Maya, Maya Dela Rosa!!!” A girl in a Time Airways flight attendant uniform called as she waved at Maya happily. “Maya, Maya, good to see you! It has been years!”

Maya looked closely, smiled and exclaimed. “Edselyn Viray! Nice to bump into you here. Kumusta na? We haven’t seen each other in ages.”

Edselyn was one of Maya’s close friends, barkada in college. They have lost touch after graduation as Edselyn moved to Australia with her family. Maya didn’t know that she have been back to the Philippines.

“Yes, it has been a while! So happy to see you, Maya! Were you in my flight? I didn’t see you.” She asked after she gave Maya a big hug.

“No, I flew Singapore Airlines.” Maya said. “Kumusta ka na? I didn’t know that you are back in the country and that you are working for Time Airways na! Naku, Ruby will be glad to see you too. We ended up working together pala.”

“Talaga, I would like to see her din. Let’s get together soon. I have been back here more two months. I took care first of my job application with Time Airways. I used to work for a regional airline in Australia, pero I still like to stay in the Philippines, so I told mom and dad, I’m going back and settle here. Mabuti, my cousin told me about an opening in TA. I applied, got the job, so here I am.” Edselyn said happily, then looked at the guy beside her. “This is my cousin pala, James Ventura. He was also the pilot of my flight. Kuya James, this is Maya Dela Rosa, iyong sinasabi kong college barkada ko.”

Maya noticed then the tall, good looking, mestizo guy, beside Edselyn. He smiled at her and offered his hand. “Hi Maya, please to meet you. Eds mentioned you before, also a Ruby Ramos?”

“Nice to meet you. James. Yes, Ruby. She was the third girl in our barkada.” Maya said simply as she shook his hand, and gave him a friendly smile. “O, paano Eds, mauuna na ako. Baka paalisin na si Kuya Joma doon sa pick-up zone. Text, text na lang. Here’s my card. I’ll go ahead, James. Nice meeting you.”

She and Eds hugged one last time, promising to call each other and meet with Ruby when they are all free, then Maya walked out of the terminal. True enough, Kuya Joma was outside already and was about to drive around when she came out.

“Naku Kuya Joma, pasensya ka na. May nakita kasi akong college friend ko sa loob.” Maya said as she settled in the back seat of the car. “Kumusta na? How’s  your son? May nabili pala akong Lego toys for him. Tamang-tama for his age at sa hilig niyang mag-build ng blocks.”

“Welcome back, Mam Maya. Okay naman po siya. Makulit. ” Joma said as he started getting out of the busy airport. “Thank you po sa pasalubong kay Marco. Iyong mama niyo po, excited nang makita kayo. Sasama nga po sana siya sa pagsundo sa inyo, kaso siya na ang sumundo kay Abby sa school dahil may emergency sa office si Mam Cris.”

Maya chatted with their long time driver a bit during the long journey to her family’s home in an old, quiet part of Quezon City. That house her been the only home she knew since she was born. She grew up happy in that house, until her father decided that he didn’t ‘want’ his family anymore. Good thing, her mom was a strong woman and managed to weather the storm that hit her marriage, for the sake of her children. Now, her mom is quite content running the family’s chain of bookstores. She didn’t remarry, even if  a lot has courted her. She is good friends with Maya’s boss Miguel. It turned out they knew each other when they were kids.

Maya rushed to their sala as soon as Kuya Joma parked the car. She embraced her mom tight, then, Cris and little Abby. “Mom, Ate Cris, my cute na cute na pamangkin. Na-miss ko kayong lahat. So happy to be home.”

“Kami rin Maya, hija, we missed you. Let’s have dinner. I’m sure sa traffic na inabot niyo ni Joma, gutom ka na ulit.” Mommy Tessie said as she ushered Maya, followed by Cris and Abby, to the dining table.

“Oo nga mom. Saka I missed Filipino food na rin. Ano ba ang inihanda ni Ate Sabel?” She asked as she took her seat. “Wow, my favorites!”

The Dela Rosas chatted a bit while eating. Cris asked her sister how her trip have been. She also teased her sister and asked if she met a tall, handsome, prince while in Denmark.

“Naku, hindi, both of them are married na kaya, Ate Cris.” Maya jested, but she blushed about the remembered meeting with Richard.

“Uy bunso, bakit ka nagba-blush? May na-meet ka doon, ano?” Cristina Rose teased her sister. “I’m getting curious about that blush.”

“Cristina Rose, stop teasing your sister.” Mommy Tessie good-naturedly scolded her eldest, though she too is curious what made her bunso blushed.

The Dela Rosa women moved to their sala after dinner. Maya gave her pasalubong to them. She got Abby several sets of Lego for girls, her sister a Viking mug, and a Marimekko bag, and for her mom, she bought porcelain tea cups and saucers from Royal Copenhagen for her collection. She didn’t notice that she also took out the flower key ring and the Little Mermaid replica from Richard when she opened her suitcase.

“Wow, this is cute.” Cristina Rose said as she held up the key ring for a close inspection. “Georg Jensen design pa! I always like their designs, very lovely to look at.”

Maya looked and smiled meaningfully, got the key ring from her sister, touched it lovingly and simply said. “Oh, it was  gift from a friend.”

“Hmmm, medyo lumalalim ang misteryo. And who is this friend?” Cristina Rose asked. She and Maya are very close so she knows her sister does not mind her teasing her like this. Maya has been her rock and main support, aside from her mom, when she found herself pregnant eight years ago, and her boyfriend Jeff disappeared from her life.

“Ikaw talaga, Ate. Bayaan mo, I owe you a lot of kwento. Abby is getting sleepy na, o.” Maya said as she pointed to her niece who was happily playing with her new Lego collection earlier while she, Cris and Mommy Tessie chatted, but is now very sleepy.

Cristina stood up to carry her daughter  to bed, said good night as well, since she will go to work early the following day. She works as an editor of a magazine for career moms.  Since Jeff left her, she hadn’t had another serious relationship, though, she dates from time to time. She just devotes her whole time to Abby.

When it was just the two of them, Mommy Tessie asked Maya if she would like to have coffee with her in the veranda as she missed her a lot while she was away. Maya made the coffee and gave her mom’s the one with cream as she prefers.

“So, Maya hija, sino naman itong friend na nagbigay sa iyo nung flower key ring, if I may ask?” Mommy Tessie asked as she sipped her coffee. She and her daughter has a close relationship and she is glad that she confides in her, both her kids do. It was one positive effect of her husband, Arturo, leaving her. Mother and daughters bonded. She is lucky to have Cristina Rose and Maya. They are very loving daughters.

“His name is Richard Lim, mom. Tito Miguel is a friend of his dad. His family owns Lim Holdings and Ricky handles the shipping side of the business. We actually saw each other first here in Manila, but met properly, and by accident in Copenhagen. He is a very nice guy and a gentleman.” Maya told her mom how she and Richard met and their adventures in Denmark.

There is something in Maya’s voice that her mom detected when she is telling her about Richard. If her intuition is correct, she thinks her daughter has feelings for this guy or starting to have feelings for him. In a way, she is glad, as she knew Maya was afraid to love because of her dad leaving them and Jeff abandoning Cristina Rose.

“He sounds like a a very wonderful person.” Mommy Tessie remarked. “Maya, hija, when the time comes, don’t be afraid to love, to take a chance. Life is about taking chances. Yes, you get hurt when you love, sometimes, but it is better than not loving, of always being afraid to love. I hope what happened to me and your dad did not sour you on having a lasting and meaningful relationship with the right person. Some relationships just don’t work for a number of reasons. It takes two to make it work. Sometimes, it was not just meant to be. I don’t regret loving your dad. We had our happy times and good memories too. Besides, how can I regret it when it gave me you and Cristina Rose. Someday, I might love again, I am open to that possibility.”

“Mom, why are saying these all of a sudden? We are just talking about me meeting Richard. He is not a boyfriend and he is not courting me either. We are just good friends. Surprisingly, we just clicked.” Maya said, puzzled why her mom turned serious on her. “I admit I like him, but I don’t know where it would lead. For all I know, friend lang din ang tingin niya sa akin. I am just enjoying his company.”

Maya’s mother just gave her daughter a meaningful smile. “Wala lang, just saying.”

“Mom, I am not closing my heart on a relationship. I admit I have fears, but maybe, the right person will help me conquer those. You know, my very own knight in shining armor who will slay the dragon for me.” Maya half-jested. “Halika na nga mom, sleep na tayo. I need to go to work tomorrow.”

Maya then half-hugged her mom as they went inside the house, and up to their rooms. “Good night, mom. Thank you for the things you have said. I will keep that in mind. Good night. I love you.”

The following day, Maya was at work bright and early. She had a good sleep. Maybe, because she was very tired. She just conked out after her head hit the pillow. Her co-workers chorused a welcome back greeting to her when they saw her. When she got to her desk, she saw a lovely bouquet of sunflowers.

“Hi Maya, welcome back!!!” Emman, one of the fashion buyers and a close friend of Maya greeted her and told her excitedly. “Heto, sis, may bonggang-bonggang pa-flowers for you. Ikaw na sis, haba ng hair! Hmmm, sino kaya ang may padala nito. First day of work, kaloka, may welcome back flowers agad.”

Maya smiled at Emman and made beso with him. “Nice to be back to Emman. I missed you and all your chika. I hope you will like my pasalubong for you! Hmmm, I don’t know kung kanino ito galing.”

Maya took a closer look at the flowers, curious on who sent her the beautiful arrangement. Her heart  skipped a beat though. There was only one person she told recently that she loves sunflowers. She looked for the card, found it, opened it, and smiled, a smile that lit up her whole face.

“Sis, ang ngiti. Baka mapunit ang labi. Kanino galing?” Emman asked, curious.

Maya grinned at Emman, very, very happy. “Secret! Mamaya na tayo mag-usap, Emman. I have a meeting with Ms. Belmonte in an hour regarding my new responsibilities.”

“O siya, siya, ikaw talaga sis. You owe me tons of kwento, I think.” Emman told his friend. They have been friends long enough to know each other very well. He knows when to ask Maya stuffs. He respects her privacy and the boundaries of friendship. But, he has an inkling that someone is making his friend very happy.

When Emman left her office, Maya looked at the flowers, smiled, and read the card again.

Dearest Maya,

Welcome back! I am so glad you are home. Have dinner with me please this evening?

Let me know. Have a great day.

Yours,

Ricky

Maya sat down on her chair with a goofy smile. She took out her phone and sent Richard a text message.

Thank you very much for the lovely flowers.

What a nice welcome back to me gift! 🙂

Is 7PM okay for our dinner? 

Richard phone beeped as he was discussing something with Sonny. He excused himself to check his message. He hope it is from who he fervently hope it is from. He read the message and smiled. Yes, a message from Maya!

I’m glad you liked the flowers. 

See you at 7PM. I’ll pick you up from your office.

Looking forward to seeing you.

He sent his reply, and still had a smile on his face when he returned to Sonny and what they were discussing. Sonny secretly smiled too. He has a feeling his boss is in love.

Richard happily went on with his day, counting the hours until he will see Maya again. Maya had the same feeling of anticipation. She will see Richard again!