Note: Double treat of sorts, because of the long weekend in PH! 🙂 I hope you will like this also. 🙂 

Chapter 1
Chance encounter

Maya was enjoying the breeze, the cool air coming from the sea, as she sips her still very hot coffee while sitting on one of the park benches infront of the Little Mermaid, one of the most famous and iconic tourist attractions in Copenhagen, and watched the tourists of different nationalities taking turns in taking photos and posing for a souvenir photo infront of the bronze mermaid statue sitting on a rock on the waterside, with the beautiful and restful Copenhagen harbor in the background. She walked there, via the royal palace, more than an hour ago, wanting to relax after her meeting with several Danish design companies that produce very beautiful decors and other home accents, as well as beautiful but very functional furnitures and other housewares. She is enjoying springtime in this country. Everything is so vibrant and the place is really lovely with all the flowers in bloom and the trees, green again after the long winter months.

This is Maya’s last day in Denmark. Tomorrow afternoon, she is traveling via train to Stockholm, to meet with manufacturers of several Swedish products that her company would like to have on their stores’ shelves as well. Then off to Finland, for the same goal. The demand for Scandinavian products have risen the past several years. They are getting very popular and in demand among their customers who are building new homes or redecorating their houses. There are already orders if they could bring in certain products to the Philippines.

Maya works as a senior buyer for a holding company that runs an upscale chain of boutique stores and department stores, among other things. She never thought she would end up as a buyer. She studied industrial design at the university, and had hoped to work for one of the multinational manufacturing companies in the country. But a cousin was a buyer before she moved to France, and she got curious about the job. She applied for one. Since she has a knack for spotting trends, knew designs well, and quite artistic, she got accepted promptly and is now one of the senior buyers in the prestigious company, especializing in furnitures and home decorations,  at the same time, about to hold a management position. She decided to take up some business and marketing courses to help her be better equipped for the job. On the side, she also learned several languages. She discovered she has the aptitude for it. Maya was offered the management position before she left and she has accepted it.

She is enjoying the trip, even if it was work-related as it was also a way to take a respite from everything. Since Ruby came running to her more than a month ago, she felt restless. A big part of it has something to do with the chinito guy she caught a glimpse of that night. She can’t get him out of her head. But she thought that she will not know how to react anyway, if ever, she meets him again, and besides, entering into a relationship is not in her list of priorities at the moment. It can wait,  as she would like to concentrate on her career first, at the same time, she still has not seen a really happily-ever-after kind of relationship among her immediate circle.  She sighed and took another sip of her cooling coffee.

It was when she did so that she saw a little girl, so closed to the edge of the harbor. She dropped her coffee cup and ran after her, afraid that she will not be able to catch her and she would fall into the water. While she was doing that, a guy was also running from the opposite direction. She was so focused on the little girl that she didn’t see him. They both hugged the little girl at the same time and took her away from the edge. They looked at each other in astonishment and both exclaimed. “You!”

Before they can react further, a woman with a stroller came running to them, and hugged the little girl tight. “Mathilde, sweetheart. Are you okay? Don’t run away from mommy like that again.”

She then stood up and looked at the strangers who saved her daughter, touched both their hands, and thanked them profusely.

“Thank you very much for your presence of mind. If not for you and your husband, I don’t know what would have happened to my daughter. She loves the water and as soon as she saw it, she ran towards it. Her brother wanted his pacifier so I got distracted!” The lady explained lengthily, looking so grateful to Maya and then to the guy beside her. “I’m Karen Petersen.” She said, and offered her hand.

“Hi Karen. I’m Maya dela Rosa. I’m glad that we were able to catch your daughter, Mathilde, right, before she fell. The water looks deep and added to that there were waves caused by all the boats coming and going. I thought we will not be able to do so.” Maya said, smiling at Karen, relieved while still trying to catch her breath. She then looked at the guy beside her. “Errr, he is not actually my husband, we don’t know each other, really, but I think we are both from the Philippines.”

Richard looked at Maya, and thought, so her name is Maya! It suits her. She is really beautiful with that lovely smile that lit up her face, pouty lips and doe-shaped eyes. But that was not the first things he noticed about her the first time he saw her in that coffee shop in BGC. That also, of course, but what attracted his attention was something else.

“Oh, sorry, I thought….It just that, well, you looked so good together….I thought…” Karen stammered.

“I’m Richard Lim.” Richard said smiling at the flustered Danish lady, putting her at ease. He shook her hand. Then turned to face Maya. “Hi Maya, just call me Ricky. Very pleased to meet you, finally.” He looked at her meaningfully, alluding to their first meeting. “And yes, Maya is right, Karen, we both are from Manila.”

Maya blushed a little at the way Richard is looking at her, getting a bit conscious. “Nice to meet you, Richard, errr, Ricky.” She managed to utter. It is him! The handsome chinito guy she can’t out of her head. Imagine, of all the places she would meet him again, here! In a place so, far away from home. What is he doing here anyway!

“Thank you again, Maya and Richard for saving my daughter. I hope you two will have a nice stay here in Denmark!” Karen said with a big grateful smile. “I’m afraid I have to go. My youngest is getting restless. Mathilde say thank you to this kind lady and gentleman.”

Mathilde, who was about seven years old, gave Maya and Richard the sweetest smile, hugged them spontaneously and said, “Tak”, before running to where her mother is, waving at them at the same time.

Maya’s heart went out to the cute little girl, and her sweet gesture. It made her missed her niece Abby, daughter of her sister Cristina Rose, suddenly.

“She is the sweetest, isn’t she! “ Richard said by way of conversation. Suddenly, there was just the two of them, standing by the edge of the harbor while Karen and her kids went to the direction of the royal palace. “She made me remember my niece, Nikki.”

“Really! How old is your pamangkin?” Maya asked, the two of them just fell into this easy conversation. “I remember naman my pamangkin also. Abby, she is about the same age as Mathilde, I think, seven years old.“

“Oh, she is about nine years old. She lives in the States now with my sister Rafi and her husband Charlie.” Richard steered Maya towards the park benches again and they sat where Maya left her things in her dash to save Mathilde. Richard asked Maya to sit first.

“Thank you, Ricky. By the way, isn’t it strange that of all places, we met each other again, here! I presumed, you remember me from the coffee shop more than a month ago since you recognized me earlier. That was the one and only time I saw you before, I think.”

“Yes, I do remember you. You are kinda hard to forget.” Richard said cryptically, then smiled at Maya with his lopsided smile. She remembered me also, Richard thought, and that made him very happy. Maya’s heart, on the other hand beat faster, seeing that smile. “How’s your friend? The one who was crying?”

“Oh, she is doing much better now. Thank you for asking.” Maya replied briefly, amazed that Richard remembered that scene so well. “How about you? What brought you here?” She asked Richard, curious about him, and why of all the places in the world, they met here, it seemed so far-fetched that they would!

“I’m here on business. I have been meeting with our business partners, Danish companies shipping products to and from the Philippines and in the Asia-Pacific Region.” He said, simply. “I work for Lim Holdings Corporation.”

“Lim Holdings?” Maya said, then she remembered his last name. “Family company?”

“Ah yes, my dad’s. Im working for the shipping side of things.”

Maya then realized why the company name sounds familiar also. “Oh, I think we are using your company too, to ship products for our shops. I work for a retail company which belongs to MT Holdings Corporation.” Maya mentioned the company and Richard brightened up.

“Yes, I know MT Holdings! One of our valued clients, and your boss, Miguel Tan is a friend of my dad.”

“Small world, isn’t it?” Maya said smiling. “How long are you staying here in Copenhagen?”

“Maybe five more days. I have several meetings lined-up for the next several days.. Today I had two pero I finished two hours ago. I sent my executive assistant  back to the hotel and told him I will just go for a walk here by the harbor, near the promenade where the Little Mermaid is. I always do so when I am here. I find it very peaceful and it clears the head.” Richard said, looking at Maya, finding her easy to talk to, considering that they just met. “How about you?”

“I’m leaving for Sweden tomorrow. Tapos na ang mga meeting ko sa Danish design houses that I was supposed to meet during this trip. It is just a matter of finalizing everything so we can ship the products to the Philippines. I think through your shipping company din.” Maya wished she could stay longer, now that Richard is here. He seems like a good company. For some reason, she is really drawn to him.

“Oh, sayang naman.” Richard, sounding disappointed, and wished also that Maya is staying longer. “When are you returning to the Philippines?”

“Late next week. I will travel pa to Finland, after Sweden. Then will take a short trip to Paris to see a cousin, then back to Manila.”

Richard nodded, deep in thought, as if there is a plan forming in his head.

He and Maya continued chatting, unmindful of the groups of tourists, coming and going around them. They were so concentrated on getting to know each other. They were so focused on each other.

Epilogue
Bliss

It was a great day for flying kites. There was a gentle breeze blowing and the late summer weather that day was not too intense for such an activity. Four-year old twins Sky and Sunshine shouted with glee when their Grandpapa Arturo and Lolo Tatay Andres successfully made their kites soared with the wind, higher and higher, while they jumped up and down. They were so happy watching their kites, an eagle-shaped one for Sky, and a sunflower-designed kite for Sunshine, danced with the breeze. Their two-year old sister, Emerald Therese, named after their grandmothers, and nicknamed Misty gleefully looked on with her nanny.

The proud parents happily watched their brood while resting under one of the century-old acacia trees in the Lim property in Tagaytay. Maya was half-lying on her husband’s broad chest, finding the position the most comfortable with her current condition. She is seven-month pregnant with her and Richard’s fourth child, a boy!

Life couldn’t be better for Richard and Maya, five years after they were married. Today is their fifth wedding anniversary. The whole family, together with the grandparents, went to Tagaytay for the celebration. They just wanted a family get together like this, no grand celebration. Good thing, it coincided with Maya’s parents’ vacation. Mama Esme dragged her Mommy Tere to a spa today, while Grandpa Arturo opted to stay and spend time with his grandchildren. Since the weather is good, they decided to have a picnic in the property, near the pond. Richard surprised the kids with the kites. They were so happy to see their beautiful kites. When he saw Misty pouting, so like his wife sometimes when she didn’t get her way, he had to explain to her that she will have hers too when she is older, but for now, she can watch her ate and kuya fly their kites.  Tatay Andres offered to help, while Nanay Ibing and Fely started preparing the food and other picnic paraphernalia. They all happily trooped to the spot they will have their picnic, and the best spot for flying kites.

Fifth anniversary! Richard and Maya, said to each other. Amazing! It seems like yesterday, they were standing near this tree, looking forward to getting married and building a life together. They really have made a lot of good memories in this place – from the first time they have stayed here, the proposal, the first time  they made love, their wedding reception, their five blissful days of stay before they embarked on their honeymoon abroad, and so many other wonderful memories.

Maya and Richard first went to England and Scotland for their honeymoon. Richard showed Maya his world before he met her. They had fun exploring all the tourist attractions of London, and enjoyed going to the theater some evenings. They took the train to Scotland, explored Edinburgh and Glasgow.  Maya wanted to see Rebus’ Scotland as described by one of her favorite authors of detective stories, Ian Rankin, in most of his John Rebus’ novels. Then they flew to Denmark, explored Copenhagen, and the nearby areas, and then off to the last leg of their honeymoon trip, to Sweden via a train ride from the Copenhagen central station. They wanted to go back to the place there which had the most meaning to them, Stockholm. Indeed, it was a sweet trip down memory lane to go back to the places where they had wonderful memories together, especially Skansen, and of course, the botanical garden.  They spent the whole afternoon in the garden. Exploring the place again, having coffee, just soaking everything, with loving glances and touches for each other. They also visited Rafi, Magnus and Philippa before they went to the manor house that Richard rented for the rest of their honeymoon. It was a lovely period house and it was huge. The grounds was beautiful, and they explored it and the surrounding areas, but most of their time was spent in the master’s bedroom of the house, making love, exploring each other, discovering each other’s body more and what gives them the most pleasure. They stayed there for a week, blissfully, and lost in a world of their own making.

Three months after they have returned to the Philippines, Maya discovered that she was pregnant with the twins. Yes, Sky and Sunshine were honeymoon babies! Their joy was boundless with the news of her pregnancy, so were the grandparents, especially Maya’s parents, as they would be their first apos. Maya cut back on her working hours as head of the foundation when she was closed to giving birth, and left everything in Emman’s capable hands.  Richard, on the other hand, successfully steered the family corporation into new directions with the help of people already in the organization and new ones he had hired. He delegated responsibilities to so he can spend time with his wife and take care of her while she is carrying their twins, they discovered, much to their joy! Maya and Richard’s first wedding anniversary was celebrated with their newborns. It was the best wedding anniversary present they have.

Life went into a pattern of loving each other, taking turns in taking care of their twin babies, of compromises, of adjustments, of not letting little arguments fester, of open lines of communication, trust for each other, and their own ‘Maya and Richard moments’ where they updated each other on what their day have been, or just enjoying each other’s company as they have cups of coffee in the veranda of their white, two storey house, near where Mama Esme lives. Richard also encouraged Maya to still have a ‘life of her own’ within the marriage – meaning pursuing her interests like reading books, watching movies, study languages, see her friends, and for her life not only to revolve around him and the children as she is a person too, not just a wife, and not just a mom. Richard explained that it does not make her less of a mom or a wife. He insisted that Maya needed her ‘Maya time’ too. At first Maya didn’t understand it, but she got Richard’s point when he lovingly explained it to her. She told Richard that he should have his own ‘Richard time’ too. Richard said, he knew that’s what she was going to say, and thanked his wife. They promised that they will always have time for their ‘Richard and Maya moments’, no matter what. Their lives became richer, their moments more loving, and if they thought it was not possible for their love to grow more, as it was already overflowing when they got together and married, they were wrong, it got deeper, more meaningful, and more loving. Their union was further blessed with the coming of their third child Misty, and now it would be doubly so, with their fourth child on the way.

“Sweetheart, are you okay? Are you comfortable enough?” Richard asked his wife solicitously, as he moved a little bit to make her more comfortable. “How about you, little buddy?” He asked his unborn son, as he touches Maya’s big tummy, gently, lovingly.

“We are okay, Daddy.” Maya said, smiling at her very loving husband, then giving him a quick kiss. “Thank you, my dearest sweetheart. I love you very much.”

“I love you too, my dearest wife. Thank me for what..?” Richard took hold of his wife’s hand and kissed it tenderly.

“Lahat ng ito.” Maya made a sweeping gesture, towards their kids happily playing together, then to where she and Richard are, half-lying on a blanket, with the picnic basket infront of them, resting blissfully. “For all the love you have showered me the past five years that we have been together, for being a very good husband and father to our children. Just for everything. I am the luckiest girl in the world to have found you. You and the kids made my life so complete. I couldn’t ask for more. Happy anniversary to us!”

“I’m the lucky one sweetheart. Because of you and the lovely kids we have, and the little one we are having soon. We are both lucky to have found each other and share this wonderful life together. Happy anniversary.” Richard touched his wife’s face lovingly. Then he settled her on his chest closely and hugged her, as they watched their children played with abandon. They ran around their grandfather, Tatay Andres, teased each other, climbed trees. But from time to time, they went to their mom and dad to give them the sweetest hugs and kisses. Maya and Richard were so overwhelmed with all their love. Gettings hugs and kisses from their children, the product of their love for each other, the feeling is indescribable, both of them said to each other. It felt like they can do anything, can face anything together for their kids, for the family they have built.

The kids didn’t want to go home when it was time to go back to Manila the following day. But their parents promised them that they will be back there soon, with their baby brother.

Two months later, Maya gave birth to an 8-pound baby boy, whom her husband insisted looked like him, just like Sky. Maya said it was a combination of both of them, like Misty. They both agreed, when the twins were born, that Sunshine was the spitting image of Maya, and Sky, Ricky’s.  They named the baby Robert Arthur, Robby for short, in honor of his grandfathers. Richard knew his Papa would be happy with the name. Daddy Arturo was certainly a super proud grandpapa when he learned his latest apo’s full name, the same way Mama Esme and Mommy Tere were when they learned that their third apo was named after them.

Richard hugged his wife from behind when he saw her standing at their youngest child’s crib and looking at his sleeping form with so much love. It was several months after she gave birth. “I love you sweetheart, the best wife in the world, and the best mom.”

Maya turned and faced her husband, touched his beloved face. “I love you too, my Mr. Lim, my dearest husband. Walang pagsidlan ang kaligayahan ko. Sobra-sobrang blessings from God. I’m so very thankful.”

Maya and Richard started kissing each other, the passion still very much there. They just have to touch like this and they ignite.

Maya whispered something in Richard’s ear. He grinned big time. He carried his wife to their bedroom, locked the door, and dimmed the lights.

Note: 🙂 🙂 🙂

Chapter 14
Joined together forever

It was a night made for love and romance, with the moonlight casting a warm glow on the couple standing at the veranda of the house, looking at the night sky. It is close to midnight, but Maya and Richard are still very much awake, remembering their momentous day. Today was the day they got married, followed by a fun-filled reception at the Lim house in Tagaytay, as they have planned it to be a month ago. Now, all the guests have left. The caterers  have restored the place into its former serenity. The parents opted to stay in a hotel in the area to give the newly-weds their privacy on their first night as husband and wife. Rafi, her husband, with Philippa returned to the Lim family house in Makati. And the caretakers sent on vacation so they can have the place for themselves for several days before they go on their honeymoon abroad.

Richard is hugging Maya from behind, with his arms around her waist, his chin on her shoulder, and Maya leaning on her husband’s broad chest as they remembered the most wonderful day of their lives.  Finally, they are joined by God in marriage infront of their families and friends in a ceremony which everyone said was so moving, so full of love, and promise.

Caleruega, earlier that day

The path leading to the elevated entrance of the church was transformed into a veritable garden, with flowers of all varieties decorating it. It was a magical afternoon. The good weather making everything more vibrant, more alive.  The place looked so peaceful, serene, so blessed, and very fitting for a wedding of a couple whose love is evident for everyone to see.

The church is just perfect for the bride’s wish of a small and intimate wedding with only family and close friends present.

The strains of the wedding march started filling the air and the door of the church opened at exactly 4 o’clock in the afternoon. All eyes were on the radiant bride, resplendent in a Monique Lhuillier lace wedding dress. The groom, at his first glimpse of his lovely bride, got so overcome with emotions. He didn’t notice or feel the tears that started forming, and falling from the corner of his eyes. His mother, standing beside him, handed him a handkerchief. Richard gratefully accepted it. His Maya. He can’t described the feeling of finally seeing her in her wedding gown, holding a bouquet of calla lilies and sunflowers, veiled, walking towards him, and about to become one with him in the presence of all they dearly love. He felt this overwhelming happiness and his chest feels like bursting from so much love for her and from sheer happiness.

Maya looked straight ahead, barely noticing the aisle decorated in sunflowers, purple and white calla lillies, tulips, carnations, gerbera daisies, and roses. She only had eyes for her groom. Her Ricky, so handsome in his Armani designer suit, waiting for her with so much love on his face. She felt like she is floating, gliding, and among the sea of familiar and loved faces, he is her anchor.

Halfway through, Maya’s parents joined her, and they walked together towards Richard. Daddy Arturo led her to Richard, shook his hand, while a crying Mommy Tere told Richard to take care of her princess. Richard promised them that he will, with all his heart and all that he has. Maya embraced and kissed an emotional Mama Esme too, before they faced the priest that would formalize their union. The light seeping through the colorful stained glass windows of the church added solemnity to the occasion. It was a beautiful and moving ceremony, and everyone felt the love between Richard and Maya, especially when they recited their wedding vows. The emotions with every word they recite, palpable. All those listening felt the sincerity, commitment and love in every word they uttered for each other. 

Richard’s vows

More than a month ago, I was here with you my love, my sweetheart, now my partner in life. We both offered silent prayers. Do you know what I told God while we were having this silent communion with Him? I thanked Him wholeheartedly for giving you to me. For you coming into my life, suddenly, unexpectedly, but wonderfiully so. My life changed for the best, became richer, more alive, since I bumped into to you in a land where I was not expecting I would find love, where love was the last thing in my mind. But there was this very strong force pulling me to you, the whole you, your beauty inside out, your lovely smile that lit up your face, your positive attitude, and love for life you have.  Then one afternoon, all the beauty around us paled in comparison to the most beautiful realization of all – that I love you, that I want to be with you for always. We may not have travelled the straight and smooth-sailing path to our forever, but amid all the storm and the setbacks, we still found each other again. We were fated to meet in that place and time, and we were fated to be together, there and here at the other side of the world, our own world.  Now, here we are, standing before God, our family and friends. Maya, I vow to love and honor you until the day we die. I promise to take care of you, and the children we will have, God willing. I promise to grow old with you, to take care of you and to cherish you for always. I love you very much, my sweetheart.

Maya’s  vows

 Ricky, life was okay before you came into my life. I thought then, hoped, wished and prayed, that at some point in the future, I will find a wonderful guy  I can share and build a life with. It was just a nebulous concept as I had other things in mind. Then, suddenly, there was you. By God’s will, a stroke of fate, destiny, call it whatever one will,  and of all the people there that evening in the airport, I bumped into you. Then the following day, we’ve been thrown together several times.  From then on, each day we see each other, I fell more and more for you, not only because of your good looks, but because your thoughtfulness, for being just you,  the whole you, and the fact that being with you, I felt like I have known you for a long time when we just met. Maybe, we were two souls who were so lucky to have found each other again this lifetime. I don’t really know the cosmic thing at work when we met. But I am so very glad we did. It was the best thing that happened to me. I found my destiny one night in Stockholm. Then, like you, I have realized this long and abiding love, that day at the botanical garden. Like you, I also prayed hard to God the last time we were here. After thanking Him for you, I prayed to him to bless us and told Him that you are the one I want to spend the rest of my days with. Ricky, I will love and honor you, for always. I will be with you in sadness and happiness, in sickness and in health, in setbacks and in triumphs. We will be partners for always. I love you with all my heart.

“Sweetheart, I’m so happy. I love you very much.“ Maya said to her husband with so much love, so much happiness that she feels she will burst from the intense emotions she have been feeling throughout this special day.

“I love you very much too, Mrs. Lim. Finally you are mine. This is the happiest day of my life.” Richard touched Maya’s chin and gave her a sweet and long kiss on the lips. Maya responded in turned. Their lips locked and they exchanged heated kisses, started touching each other.

“Hmmm, Ricky, should we get going to bed.” Maya asked in between kisses. “Shall we go in?”

“You are the boss, Mrs. Lim.” Richard said and then proceeded to carry Maya inside the room. They opted to use the room Maya used before instead of Richard’s room, or the master’s bedroom, because of the wonderful memories they had there already.

“Promise, Mr. Lim, you will like what I prepared for you. ” Maya said, giving her husband a teasing smile as she holds on to her husband’s neck.

They entered the softly-lit room, decorated in sunflowers and roses, with some candles, and a bottle of champagne chilling in an ice bucket. Richard put down Maya near the bed, who promptly turned her back on him, asking him to help her with the buttons of dress. It was the dress she changed to during the reception. Like her wedding dress, it was made of lace too, intricately-designed with tiny pearl buttons from neck to her waist. Richard started undoing the buttons, punctuating his action with small loving kissses on Maya’s back.

“Sweetheartttt.” Maya half-protested. “Stop for now, or I will not get around to taking a bath first.”

“Hmmmm, you don’t have to.” Richard replied, then proceeded to attack Maya’s senses again. “I’m enjoying what I am doing, very very much.”

“Rickyyyy. ” Maya said as she faced her husband, with her dress half-hanging down. “Bath please, sweetheart. Promise, patience will have its reward!”

Richard grinned at his wife. Then, kissed her one more time before going to his old room and preparing himself with the night with his wife. He took a quick bath, found his pajama and a white shirt that does not really hide his muscled chest. He is really looking forward to making love to his wife. Wife! It does have a wonderful ring to it. It has been a long one month. This will be the first time they will make love like this again after the last time they were here. They had a lot of loving moments together the past month, bordering on this, but Maya asked Ricky to wait for making their union complete until their wedding night. They did find other ways, creative ways, to satisfy their love for each other physically. Richard returned to the bedroom, with so much anticipation, for his wife and the wonderful treat she promised him.

Maya on the other hand, took a long, leisurely bath, making herself ready for a night with her husband. Husband. She really love the sound of it!  She is looking forward to this night with him. It would be worth the wait and the control she needed to exercise as well, the past months, not to give it to Ricky’s seductions to make love all the way. They found wonderful ways to satisfy each other’s desires, while waiting for this moment. Maya enjoyed those moments too, very much. She put on a long white, sheer, night gown, with flower details on the cups, showing her creamy breasts to advantage, and very thin and loose straps. The gown came with a matching underwear. She entered the bedroom, locked eyes with Richard, who gazed at his lovely bride, hotly. Her body quickly reacted to his hot look. She walked towards Richard who sat up on the bed, turned down the blanket for her, and guided her beside him.

“Sweetheart. You are so beautiful.” Richard said admiringly, desire showing in his eyes, as he kneeled on the bed and gave Maya a hot kiss, which she matched with the passion of her own. Before they knew it, they were kissing with abandon, as they can’t get enough of each other. They assaulted each other’s senses with their touches, their kisses and their very strong desire for each other.

Maya removed Richard’s shirt and touched her husband muscular chest, wanting to give him the same pleasure he is giving her. He was thoroughly loving her breasts through the transparent material of her night gown. Richard then laid down Maya on the bed, and started trailing kisses,  from her lips, to her neck, her breasts and at the same time, touching her, everywhere. His touch was followed by his kisses.

‘Rickyy,” Maya moaned incoherently. “What you do to me, sweetheart. I’m burning for you.”

“I’m the same sweetheart. I can’t get enough of you.” Richard replied, kissing his wife, everywhere, checking with his touch what gives her pleasure, then work on giving her more, and all he could give her, over his own. When they can’t take anymore, Richard positioned himself over Maya, joined their heated bodies, and they soared together.  They made love again and again, all throughout the night, until their desires was temporarily slaken, and slept overtook them. Their naked bodies as closed as two persons bodies can get.

Maya woke up with someone kissing her neck, her breast and touching her intimately. She smiled and looked at her husband, who gave her his lopsided smile, full of love and desire for her. It started a bout of morning lovemaking. All that can be heard inside the room was their sighs of pleasures as they, again, physically expressed their love for each other.

“Good morning, my Mrs. Lim!’ Richard said grinning, looking lovingly at his wife after their desires have been satisfied again, for now. “I love you very much.”

“Good morning, my Mr. Lim.” Maya said with a goofy, loving grin on her face too. “I love you very much too, my dearest husband.” She then stretched her arms up, the blanket falling off her breasts, and her husband looked at her again, with desires in his eyes. Her body and senses quickly reacted.

Maya and Richard stayed in bed most of the day, expressing their love for each other in every way they could. When they got hungry, they took a quick trip to the kitchen, then returned to the bedroom, in their own private paradise.

Note: And that ends Suddenly Love. Thank you guys for reading. I will write an epilogue, I think! 🙂 Maraming salamat again from the bottom of my fangirl heart! 🙂 

Note:  I can’t get this out of my head! I will finish the last chapters of Suddenly Love, promise. I just thought of posting this one, this evening!:-) 

Prologue

Maya  tried to bury her head under the pillow, hoping that it would drown out the ringing of her mobile phone. She barely managed to fall asleep and now someone wants her attention in the middle of the night.

“Okay, okay. Arrrrggghhh, sino ba kasi ang nakaimbento ng cellphone!” Maya complained to herself and grabbed her phone from the side table. She checked who was calling, and got worried when she saw the name.

“Hello, Ruby. Napatawag ka?” Maya asked her best friend, and colleague.

“Maya” was all Ruby managed to say. All Maya can hear from the other end of the line was her friend crying. “Ruby, anong nangyari? Kalma lang. Don’t cry, please.”

Ruby tried to control her tears and then started telling Maya haltingly that she caught her boyfriend Eric with another girl inside their apartment.

“Maya, siya na nga ang nahuli ko, siya pa ang galit. He told me, kasi raw wala na akong time sa kanya.” Ruby said. “I just walked out on him, and left the apartment. Ang sakit-sakit, Maya.“

“Nasaan ka ba ngayon? “ Maya asked, as she started looking for a pair of jeans, then started dressing.

Maya saw Ruby huddled in a corner, in their favorite coffee shop, eyes puffy from crying, when she got there half an hour later. She embraced her friend as she cried on her shoulders. This was not the first time Ruby had done so. She kept ‘falling in love’, wanting to be love, with so much love to give, but unfortunately, she ended up with losers.

While Maya was comforting her friend, she saw a good–looking chinito guy glancing at them. Their eyes met. Her heart beat faster for no reason at all. She averted her gaze and the next time she checked, he was looking at his iPad screen. She and Ruby left the place soon after, and as they stood, she didn’t see the chinito guy gazing at her.

Maya brought Ruby to her place. She put her in the guest room. Ruby fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. Her friend’s system seemed to have just shut down and Maya can’t blame her, with all the emotional turmoil she had experienced this evening. Poor Ruby. Maya wish that Ruby will find a guy who would love her with all his heart.

Ruby. Her mom. Her sister. All unlucky in love! It made Maya wary of relationships. She is afraid to cross the line. Many have courted her, but not a single one of them managed to sway her. Not one of them made her heart beat faster. Except…Oh, she wouldn’t think of that chinito guy. What is the likelihood that she will see him again anyway! Besides, he is a total stranger. For now, she still does not see any good or compelling reason to be in a relationship. She know it is irrational to shy away from a relationship because of what other people experienced, as each person and the circumstances they found themselves into are different from one person to another. However, she had seen the downsides of what love can do to a person. Maybe, maybe, with the right guy, she would be willing to risk loving. But is there really a right guy, and how would she know if he is the one’? She sighed, then tried to capture lost sleep. She has an early flight tomorrow.

Chapter 12

Expression of love

Richard and Maya returned to the house close to midnight. Both of them are still floating on air. Engaged! Who would have thought it would happened this soon. If someone told them more than a month ago that they woud be, maybe they will not believe that person because of the way things were, but on the other hand, maybe they will, clinging to the belief that they will find each other again because of the stregnth of love they were feeling even way back then. Thank God, they both said, they found each other again, smoothed things out, and now, they are finally together, about to embark on the next chapter of their relationship.

The house was softly-illuminated when they approached it. Richard opened the terrace door where they went out earlier. He knew that Tatay Andres will leave it unlock for them. He and Nanay Ibing usually go home to their house near the edge of the property, around 8 o’clock in the evening. They offered to stay longer and wait for them, but Richard told them, he and Maya can manage, and that they can just take care of everything in the greenhouse when they reported for work the following morning.

“Sweetheart, maybe we should just have taken care of everything in the greenhouse. Dinala na lang sana natin.” Maya said as they were climbing the stairs.

“No worries there, sweetheart, Nanay Ibing can take of it tomorrow. Darating pa iyong pamangkin nilang si Fely to help out.” Richard assured Maya as they climbed the stairs with his arm on her shoulder and hers wrapped on his waist. It was a slow ascend, but they are very reluctant to part. “She worked for us before, tapos ngayon if we need extra help she pitches in, hindi na nga lang siya makapag-full time since she is married na. Anyway, we can also help them tomorrow if you want. Tonight is our night.

When they reached Maya’s door. Richard cupped her face, kissed her slowly, lingeringly, very reluctant to let her go in.

“Good night, my Mrs. Lim-to-be. Have a good sleep. Dream of us. I love you very much.” He said lovingly. “Hindi na ako papasok at baka hindi na ako lumabas ng room mo.” He added with a grin.

Maya smiled lovingly at her future husband. Hmmm, it does have a very nice ring to it, she mused. “Good night, my Mr. Lim. Of course, I will. I love you much. Sige na punta ka na room mo at baka hindi na kita pakawalan.”

“Hmmmm, parang mas gusto ko iyang hindi mo na ako pakakawalan, sweetheart.” Richard teased Maya, and again he got pinched on the side. “See, abused fiance talaga ako! Good night na talaga sweetheart. Knock on my door if you need anything, okay.”

Richard opened the door beside Maya’s room and waited until she closed her door before he entered his old room. He was stil smilng, very happy. He really wished Maya is sharing the room with him, but he can wait until they are married for that, though it is dificult sometimes, with the effect Maya has on him.

Maya went on her nightly rituals. Put on the night  gown she usually wear for sleeping. She still had a big smile on when she went to the big, and inviting bed. The best evening of her life, she mused. She looked at her engagement ring again, and felt this overwhelming happiness. Her life is complete. She is so excited for morning to come so she can be with Richard again. She is happy, knowing that he is sleeping just a door away.

Several hours, later. Maya was still awake. She don’t know whether it was due to the coffee she and Richard drank after the sumptous dinner Nanay Ibing prepared, or the effect of the champagne that they finished while chatting, and cuddling in the bench in the garden, or the excitement of the evening in general.

Maya remembered the terrace outside her room and decided to get some air. She thought of changing clothes, but decided that since she and Richard are the only ones in the house, she will just go out in her night gown and wrap. She the opened door and the blast of cool, fresh air caused goosebumps, but she liked the cool air on her skin. She stood up near the railings and looked out into the night. It so beautiful and peaceful he, she thought.

She has not been the for more than a couple of minutes, when she felt Richard’s presence, so attuned was she to him. She turned around and saw him in navy blue checkered-pajama and a white t-shirt that showed his muscular physique. Her heart, and body, jumped in reaction to her handsome fiance.

“Hi sweetheart, why are you still awake?” He asked, then took a good look at her and gulped. He can clearly see all of Maya’s curves in that white thing she is wearing, even if it was not transparent. “Hindi ka rin makatulog?” He asked as he walked towards her, as if he can’t stop himself.

“Hindi eh. Maybe, because of all the excitement you gave me this evening.” Maya said smiling, as she watched her fiance’s approach, intently, then getting an inkling of what will happen next. The moment she saw him standing by his door, she knew this is inevitable. It has been there, simmering, and now rising on the surface, the intense physical attraction they have for each other that matches their love.  She wanted it to happen too.

Richard, upon reaching Maya, touched her chin gently, lowered his head, and kissed her passionately. Maya ignited with that kiss, and matched Richard’s passion with hers. She opened her lips so Richard can deepen the kiss. Their tongues dueled, the fire that started between them, turning into a conflagration.

“Maya, sweetheart, you are so beautiful, so responsive. I can’t get enough of you.” He said in between kisses, in between touching. He also started fondling her breasts through the thin material of her night gown. The friction caused by Richard’s thumb and the silk rubbing her breasts were too much for Maya.

“Rickyyy. I love you. I want more. Please.” Maya said incoherently, her passion too intense, what she is feeling at the moment, she can’t verbalize beyond saying she wanted more, needed more. She wanted to be one with Richard.

“Maya, sweetheart, are you sure? We can wait until we are married.” Richard just had to ask, barely, as he tried to fight for some semblance for control, and he was already losing the battle since he saw her silhouetted against the moonlight, in that simple, but very becoming, white night gown.

“No, Ricky, I don’t want to wait. I want to be with you this evening. I want to be belong to you completely.” Maya said, her eyes glazed with passion. She moved as close as she could get to Richard, her breast to his chest, hips to hips, thigh to thigh, then she put her arms around his neck and proceeded to kiss him with all the passion she was feeling at that moment.

Richard’s control totally snapped with that. He carried Maya to her bedroom. He sat on the bed with Maya on his lap, removed her her wrap, then continued to love her. He kissed her breasts, until Maya said she can’t stand it anymore. She also touched Richard everywhere she could, his chest, his back, arms and kissed him on the neck, on the lips. She can feel the evidence of his desire for her as she sat on his lap.

Richard stood up, slowly put down the thin straps of Maya’s night gown, until it pooled on the floor. Maya stood before him in her underwear, which left little to the imagination as it came as a set with the night gown.

‘Maya, sweetheart, you are so beautiful, so passionate. Let me love you fully, completely.” Richard said, his voice thick with passion. He also removed his pajama and t-shirt and proceeded to love Maya, gently, passionately, all throughout the night. The only sound that can be heard in the bedroom were their sighs of pleasure as they touched each other everywhere, and expressed their love for each other physically, several times throughout the night.

They fall asleep in a spoon position, nary a space between them, only a thin blanket covering their naked bodies.

Richard woke up early the morning after. He looked at the sleeping form beside him, smiled happily. His Maya, so innocent, but so responsive. The night was so perfect. First his proposal and then this, Maya becoming his, completely. He knew when she opened the terrace door last night, as he was about to do the same. He can’t sleep, thinking that she was just in the other room, his fiancee, his wife-to-be. His body was just too wired up to fall asleep. Richard decided to join Maya in the terrace, intending to cuddle with her, chat a bit, and kiss her again, but he was not prepared for the effect on him of her in her night gown. He was very happy the way the evening went. Richard thought then that they needed to set the wedding date, and have the wedding soon as he wants to wake up with Maya like this, in his arms, every morming of their lives. Now, it is time to wake up his sleeping love.

Maya was woken up with someone trailing tiny kisses on her back, and a hand cupping her breast. She smiled sleepily.

“Ricky, sweetheart, that feels good.” She said as she turned and face a grinning Richard.”Good morning.”

“Good morning, my love.” Ricky said with so much love, then started caressing Maya’s lips with his thumb, while using his other hand to work his magic on her breast. It ignited a round of early morning lovemaking.

“Good morning again, sweetheart. I love you.” Richard said an hour later as he gave Maya another kiss.

“Good morning sweetheart, I love you too.” Maya smiled, touched Richard lovingly. How she love this man! He had been very gentle when he finally took her innocence last night, despite the passion that escalated and consumed both of them. He thought of her pleasure first. “Thank you.”

Richard smiled lovingly at Maya. “Sweetheart, let us get married soon, please. I want to be with you like this, the rest of our lives. I can’t wait long. Waking up with you beside me this morning , the feeling was indescribable. I was so happy. I felt my heart would burst!”

“Ricky, sweetheart, I feel the same.” Maya said as she embraced Richard. “Hmmm, normally, it takes a bit of time to plan a wedding. But if it is okay with you, I want a small, private one for us – family and friends only. Besides, it would be best, I think, because of the death of your father.”

“Maya sweetheart, are you sure? If it just on Papa’s account, don’t. I am sure he would be happy for us and kasama pa iyon sa celebration, wherever he is.” Richard said. “I want you to have the best wedding. I’m okay in whatever you want it. I just want it the soonest.”

“No, Ricky, it is okay. I really would like to have a small one. I just want to be with you for always, infront of our families and friends. Iyon naman ang importante, not how grand the ceremony is or how many people are in the reception.” Maya said as she gave Ricky another kiss. “And before, mauwi sa iba itong kiss na ito, let’s get up na. Baka lumamig na ang breakfast ni Nanay Ibing.”

“Hmmm, okay, but laters ha.” Richard said, grinning as he stood up. “Saka, I need my strength, pinagod mo kaya ako.” Maya hit him with a pillow. He was still laughing as he went through the terrace door, back to his room.

Richard and Maya finally made it to breakfast at past 9 o’clock. Nanay Ibing, and her niece Fely, who was also introduced to Maya, kept the food heated for them. They had a leisurely breakfast, then coffee cups in hand, they explored the grounds. Maya loved the profusion of plants, flowers and very old trees. There is even a small pond on one side, and a swimming pool at the far end of the property. The pool has a nice view of the lake as well.

“Sweetheart, we should stay here longer next time.” Richard said, backhugging Maya as she stared at the beauty around her. She really loves this place. “We can swim, also have a picnic, under that tree.” He pointed to a huge, centruy-old tree.

“I would like that, sweetheart.” Maya replied happily. “We have a wedding to plan first, kasi may nagmamadali na isa diyan.”

“Ha, ha, ha, ha, me only ba? Parang hindi lang ako ah.” Richard teased Maya. “Serious na sweetheart, the sooner, we have it, the happier I would be. By the way, we need to get going after lunch. We have a dinner at Mama’s.”

“Oo nga pala. I missed your Mama na nga rin. And we can tell her our engagement.” Maya said happily.

Richard just smiled as he had another surprise for Maya later.

They returned to the house, hands intertwined. Maya packed Richard’s bag as he looked lovingly. His Maya. This is how life’s gonna be with her, then with children they will have. She will be more beautiful when she is with our child, he mused, his daydreaming taking him farther and farther into the beautiful future with Maya. Maya noticed him, not moving, and just staring at her with a smile plastered on his face.

“Sweethteart, hoyyy, Ricky, my Mr. Lim!” Maya tried to call Richard’s attention, by waving her hand infront of his face, when he didn’t respond to her call.

Richard blinked and smiled at Maya. “Ha, sweetheart, ano iyon?”

“Naku, sweetheart, ano ba ang iniisip mo, you seemed so far into your thoughts? Ilang beses na kitang tinawag ah.” Maya said, curious. “Ano ba kasi iyang iniisip mo, naka-smile ka pa ng todo?”

“Hmmmm, I was thinking about us, you becoming my wife, finally, then the kids we will have, and how more beautiful you would be in my eyes, pregnant with the product of our love.” He said as he touched Maya’s face lovingly.

“Awwww, sweetheart. Ikaw na talaga ang the best fiance in the whole world.” Maya said teary-eyed. “I love you very much. I’m so happy, so full of love at the moment, and ikaw ang reason for that.”

“I love you to sweetheart. I’m counting the days until we are joined by God and living together in our home. You, and the kids we will have, are my  life. Richard said as he kissed Maya to reaffirm his love and commitment to her.

Maya and Richard left Tagaytay early afternoon. After saying goodbye to Tatay Andres, Nanay Ibing and Fely, they took one last look at the house where they already had wonderful memories, before they got into the car. Hands intertwined, they vowed to return here often to make more wonderful memories together, and fill the place with children’s laughter again.

Note: Happy Sunday everyone! 🙂 

Chapter 11

Journey to forever

Richard picked up Maya bright and early, Saturday, one week after the dinner with the Dela Rosas, for their trip to Tagaytay. This is their first trip out of town since they became a couple. Finally, they managed to do it. Richard and Maya have talked about going somewhere one weekend, but their schedules didn’t permit it, especially Richard’s. As the the new CEO, there was a lot of demand on his time. Maya understood this and supported him in every way she could. Good thing, they had their coffee breaks, drives together, and dinners. But now, they managed to squeeze in a weekend trip!

Maya had no inkling that Richard purposely arranged for this trip as this is the weekend he is going to propose to her. Richard hopes Maya will like his surprise. He smiled to himself. He felt very happy as he navigated the road to Tagaytay.

“Sweetheart, why are you smiling?” Maya asked him after she noticed that he had this secretive smile, even if they were just listening to some music. “Parang sobrang happy ka today, ah.”

Richard gave Maya his lopsided smile and caressed her arm. “Wala, sweetheart. I’m just happy to be with you. I’m glad that, finally, we will have a weekend together.”

Maya looked at her boyfriend and smiled sweetly. “Me too, sweetheart. I’m really looking forward to this. Hindi nga ako masyadong nakatulog dahil sa excitement. Mom asked me nga this morning bakit parang puyat ako!”

Richard said hello to Maya’s parents when he picked her up. While waiting for Maya to come down, he also confirmed with them the details of his plan. They assured him that everything is going to be okay. He really like Maya’s parents. His mother was also very happy when he told her of his plan to propose to Maya. Mama Esmeralda even told him, it’s about time!  She also said she is looking forward to meeting Maya’s parents and seeing the culmination of what he had planned.

Maya and Richard chatted, listened to the music, teased each other, and exchanged sweet nothings while on the road, and before they knew it, they reached their destination –  the Lims family home in Tagaytay. They entered a tall gate, which opened to a long, winding driveway, filled with all kinds of plants and flowers. The property is big, and it felt like one is an oasis, a world of its own. They took another curve, and a two-storey all glass house in white came into view. Maya ‘fell in love’ with it. The house looks so inviting, restful, and it just calls to her.

“Ricky, this is such a beautiful house.” Maya said, amazed. She likes the fact that the house is all planes and angles, no fancy designs that would distract from the beauty  of the place. It reminded Maya of Scandinavian houses she had seen, so simple and sometimes, looked so small when viewed from the outside, but quite beautiful, spacious and very functional inside. Beauty in simplicity, she thought.

“I’m glad you like it sweetheart. It’s not fancy, like some of the mansions here in the area, but it was how Mama liked it. Papa told the architect to do it the way Mama wanted. We have a lot of wonderful family vacations here when we were kids. It was just really when I was all grown up that Papa had too much expections on me and wanted me to follow the narrow path he wanted.”  Richard said. “Come, let’s go in.”

“Magandang umaga po, Sir Richard, Mam Maya!” Tatay Andres, the Lims longtime caretaker greeted the couple. Richard called up several days ago to tell him  that he will stay at the place this wekened with his girlfriend. “Pasok na po kayo. Ibing, parine ka, nandito na sina Sir Richard.”

Suddenly, a lady with a big built and a sunny smile came running to them. “Good morning Sir Richard, Mam Maya. Naku, pasensya na kayo at hindi ko kayo nasalubong kaagad, hindi ko maiwan ang niluluto ko. Maghahain na po ako ng breakfast niyo. Sigurado po akong sa aga ng biyahe niyo, hindi na kayo nakakain bago umalis ng Maynila.”

“Tatay Andres, Nanay Ibing, good to see both of you po. Oo nga po and looking forward to your masarap na luto, Nanay Ibing. ”Richard said with a big smile. ”Maya sweetheart, this Tatay Andres and si Nanay Ibing, mga bata pa kami ni Rafi, caretaker na namin sila dito. Tatay, Nanay, si Maya po, ang maganda ko at mabait kong girlfriend!”

“Nice to meet you po, Tatay Andres and Nanay Ibing. I hope okay lang na iyon na rin ang tawag ko sa inyo.” Maya told them as she shook their hands.

“Opo naman, Mam Maya. Welcome po dito sa bahay nina Sir sa Tagaytay.” Nanay Ibing said, liking Maya on the spot. “Sir Richard, ang ganda-ganda naman nga po talaga ni Mam Maya, bagay na bagay kayo.”

“Thank you po Nanay Ibing.” Richard smiled at the old lady. “Tatay Andres, iakyat ko lang po ang mga gamit namin ni Maya before we eat breakfast.”

“Eh ako na diyan Sir Richard, pahinga na lang kayo ni Mam Maya. Ibing, aling room ba ang inihanda mo para kay Mam Maya?” Tatay Andres asked his wife as he took hold of Maya and Richard’s overnight bags.

“Iyong katabi ng kay Sir Richard para pwede silang magpahangin sa shared veranda sa gabi.” Nanay Ibing replied. “Mam Maya, magugustuhan mo roon, pagbukas mo ng pintuan pa-veranda, pagkaganda-gandang view ng Taal Lake ang makikita mo.”

“Salamat po, Nanay, Tatay. Mabuti po yata, sama na ako sa inyo Tatay Andres, para  makapag-freshen up and unpack iyong things namin ni Ricky.” Maya said.

“Sige na, Tatay Andres, balik na lang po kayo sa ginagawa niyo. Nagdidilig po yata kayo ng mga halaman. Kami na po ni Maya ang mag-aakyat ng mga gamit namin, then bababa po kami after several minutes para makapag-breakfast na.” Richard insisted. He wanted to escort Maya to her room and at the same time, he wanted to unpack his things himself since nasa bag niya ang engagement ring for Maya. “Let’s go sweetheart.”

Richard and Maya went up several flights of stairs, walked along a long corridor, until they reached the rooms at the side of the house facing the lake. He opened the door to the room at the end and ushered Maya in.

“Here we are sweetheart.”  Richard said as he put Maya’s bag on the day bed by the window.

“Wow, what a great room Ricky, and with that view parang ayoko ng umalis dito sa house! I just want to be very laid back and do nothing but stare at the view!” Maya said as she looked around the room, then the amazing view outside. Three sides of the house have tall glass windows that offer an unobstructed view of the lake, the garden, and the forrested area on another side. The house is a secluded so there is no danger of people intruding on their privacy.

“Hmmm, magandang idea iyan sweetheart.” Richard said, half-jesting. “We can just cuddle here, and do stuffs.”

“’Do stuffs’? Why do I think that those were loaded words Mr. Ricky Lim.” Maya said smiling at Richard.

“Ha, ang inosente nga ng statement ko ah.” Richard said trying to act innocent.

“Ikaw talaga, sweetheart, hayan ka na naman.”  Maya said playfully while standing infront of one of the tall windows.

Richard smiled at Maya, walked to her and gave her a backhug, then caressed her arms, and gave her air kisses on her neck. “Pero, admit it sweetheart, my idea has merits, di ba?”

“Hmmmm, I’ll think about it!” Maya said smiling, distracted with what he was doing. She turned around and put her head on Richard’s shoulder, hugging him. Then she looked up at Richard with so much love.

The moment was just too perfect for Richard to let pass without a kiss. He lowered his lips to Maya. Their lips fused into a hot kiss, that became hotter, and hotter. They also started caressing each other, went up for air, and then kissed again with abandon. Richard started working on the buttons of Maya’s blouse, when she stopped him.

“Sweetheart, breakfast. Tatay Andres, Nanay Ibing.” She managed to say, as she also fought for control, thinking that there are people waiting for them, whom they told they will just go up for a couple of minutes.

“Hmmm, later. Wait lang please. Dito muna tayo.” Richard said as he tried to kiss Maya again.

“Sweetheartttt.” Maya protested, then gave Richard one last kiss before she started buttoning her blouse and checking her appearance. “Kain na nga muna tayo. Laters na lang.”

“I like the sound of that ‘laters’, sweetheart.” Richard teased Maya, who then pinched him again. “Sweetheart, malapit na akong maging abused boyfriend sa kaka-pinch mo.”

“Ha, ha, ha. Let’s go na nga sweetheart.” Maya said as she held on to Richard’s arms.

The two of them went down with hands intertwined, and the Lim caretakers saw first hand how in love Richard is with his Maya, and she was the same to him. Tatay Andres and Nanay Ibing are very happy that Richard found a girl who loves him with all her heart. Maya is the only girl he brought here, and introduced to them. They also looking forward to this evening, as they had a hand in the proposal that is about to happen.

Richard and Maya had coffee at their private veranda, with the breathtaking view as the backdrop. They spent the whole morning there, just chatting and relaxing. Before lunch, they decided to explore a bit of Tagaytay, even if both of them have been there years ago. Mostly, they just drove around, ended up having lunch at Sonya’s Garden. They went back to Taal Vista Hotel to have coffee and just rest while looking at the view of the lake and the volcano, and all the people posing by the viewing deck there. Later in the afternoon, they decided to go to Caleruega. Richard and Maya explored the beautiful and very extensive grounds of the place. Their last stop was the church there. Richard and Maya held hands while inside the church and offered prayers, absorbing the peaceful and the holiness of their surroundings.

“Sweetheart, what do you want to do next?” Richard asked as they exited the church. He assisted Maya on the steps going down.

“Ikaw, up to you, sweetheart. I’m just basically going with the flow since bakasyon natin ito.” Maya said, happy to just to spend time with Richard. She does not really have any particular thing that she wish to do, or a particular place she wanted to see this trip.

“Hmmm, okay. How about we have dinner in a very nice place I know?” Richard suggested.

“Okay, sweetheart. Let us go back the house to freshen up and change.” Maya said, looking forward to a nice, quiet dinner with Richard.

They went to their separate rooms to change. Maya opened her bag, and took out a crimson lace dress, with uneven hemline, and with hook-and-eye closures in the back that she bought in Sweden. She fell in love with the dress, bought it right away, with no idea then where she will wear it, just thought that it would be a nice dress to wear for something very special. Indeed, it will be worn on a special night with her love – a relaxing dinner date, so she had thought. Good thing, she brought it with her on this trip. The dress fits her perfectly and hugged her curves. She applied light make-up, then put up her hair in a half-bun.

Richard, dressed handsomely in a suit, was already waiting for Maya when she went down the stairs. He just stared at his lovely fiancee-to-be.

“Maya, sweetheart, you look so lovely.” He said, with lopsided smile that never failed to make Maya’s heart beat faster. He kissed her hand, then gave her the sunflowers he was holding.

“Thank you, Ricky. You look very guapo rin, sweetheart.” Maya said admiringly, as she touched Richard’s tie and shirt, as if to arrange or straighten out something. “Super special naman yata ang night natin na ito ah.”

“Indeed, it is, sweetheart.” Richard said, as he ushered Maya outside the house through a side terrace. Maya thought that this was where he parked the car. But instead of going to the car, hands intertwined with hers, Richard took her to a path at the side of the house. The path was lined with all sorts of glass lanterns, and the trees were festooned with capiz lanterns, that helped illuminate the place. The whole area was also decorated with a profusion of flowers in pots of all shapes and sizes.

“Ricky, sweetheart, where are we going?” Maya asked, puzzled, at the same time, felt her heart beating faster, feeling the anticipation of something she can’t explain yet, happening.

“We are almost there, sweetheart.” It was all what Richard said until they arrived at the greenhouse at the back of the house which Maya didn’t notice earlier. It was a bit hidden from the main path.

Richard guided Maya inside. When she noticed her surroundings, she was speechless. She just gaped.

“Do you like it?” Richard asked softly.

“Of course, sweetheart, it’s so, so, so beautiful.” That was all Maya managed to say by way of description.

The greenhouse was transformed into a Scandinavian garden, similar to the botanical garden they have been to in Stockholm, the place where they realized their love for each other. The place was filled with all kinds of plants, flowers and herbs. One one side is a bench where two people can sit cozily, among bougainvilleas, sunflowers, and other flowers Maya can’t name anymore, while on another side,  there is a coffee table with two chairs, and in the middle of the garden, a table, beautifully set for two.

While Maya was still recovering from the assault to her senses, from what she is seeing, and Richard’s grand gesture, a famiiar melody, started filling the air, coming from a corner of the garden, one of her favorite songs, which when she told Richard about it, said that the song fits them perfectly.

“For you, sweetheart.” Richard said as he held out his hand, which Maya took, then they half-embraced and half-dance to the music. When it ended, Richard brought Maya to the garden bench, then kneeled infront of her.

“Maya, will you marry me.”  Richard said with so much emotion, and with all his love for Maya in his eyes, as he offered her a platinum ring, encrusted with small diamonds. Beautiful ring in its simplicity. “Be my love for always. Share my life as I share yours.”

Maya, at first, just stared at Richard, the ring, then back to Richard, then her eyes glistened with tears, then with voice breaking, said the words Richard was dying to hear.

“Yes, yes, yes, Ricky, I will marry you.”

Richard stood up, then put the ring on Maya’s finger, kissed it, then looked at her lovingly, and gave her a sweet, very long, kiss. Then they embraced and stayed like that for quite sometime, savoring the moment.

“Sweetheart, I love you very much.” Maya whispered to Richard’s ears. “Thank you for all of these.” She gestured to the garden, getting the significance of the all out preparations he did.

“I love you more than life itself, sweetheart. I vow to make you happy always.” Richard said as he tightened his embrace.

Richard and Maya gazed lovingly at each other, both looking forward to their journey to their forever. They kissed again under the moonlight, and amid the beauty around them, they got lost in their own private world.

Chapter 10
Intentions

Richard parked his car infront of Maya’s house. Taking a deep breath, he got out, opened the back seat, and grabbed the flowers he had bought earlier – sunflowers for Maya and white roses for Mommy Tere. When he asked Maya, she told him that her mom’s favorite are white roses. Maya told Richard that white roses were what her dad gave her mom when he started courting her. Richard also brought a box of cigars for Maya’s dad.

Maya, radiant in her floral maxi dress,  opened the door for Ricky.

“Hi sweetheart. Ang aga mo. Teka, take, hmmm.” Maya said as she pretended to inspect Richard closely. “Parang doble ang guwapo mo ngayon, sweetheart ah. You want to make a good impression ‘no?  Don’t worry, sweetheart, papasa ka sa parents ko. Todo build up na nga ako. Saka dagdag mo ba ang number one member ng fan club mo, si Manang Fe.”

“Ikaw talaga, sweetheart.” Richard said, grinning at Maya. She really never failed to make him laugh.

Maya, seeing her love’s lopsided smile, tiptoed and gave him a sweet kiss. “O hayan, pa-good luck ko pa sa iyo.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. I think I need more of that, kasi kailangan ko ng maraming pang-good luck this evening.” Richard teased her by making an exaggerated kissing gesture, which made Maya laughed and earned him a series of pinches on his side. “Okay, okay stop na, please. By the way, flowers for you.” He handed her the sunflowers.

“Oh, thank you sweetheart. You’re so thoughtful talaga.” Maya smiled at her boyfriend lovingly. “Halika na. Mom and Dad are waiting. We can have drinks first while Manang Fe and Sabel are putting the finishing touches to our dinner.”

They entered the house with hands intertwined, which didn’t escape the notice of Maya’s parents.

“Mom, Dad, my boyfriend, Ricky…Richard Lim.” Maya formally introduced Ricky to her parents, her love for him evident in her voice. “Ricky, meet my parents, Arturo and Teresita Dela Rosa.”

“Good evening, po Mr. Dela Rosa, Mrs. Dela Rosa.” Richard respectly and politely said. “It is an honor to meet you. Para po sa inyo.” He gave Maya’s mom the flowers and the cigars for Maya’s dad.

“Oh, thank you very much. Nag-abala ka pa. We are also happy to finally meet the man who captured our daughter’s heart.” Mommy Tere asked. “Please call me Tita Tere na lang and itong si Arturo, call him Tito Arturo.”

“Siya nga naman, Richard, call me Tito. Thank you for the cigars.” Daddy Arturo added, then patted Richard in the arm. “Our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your dad. How’s your mom?”

“She’s doing okay po. She is coping. It was very difficult for her, in the beginning, to accept that Papa is gone. Kasi po, they were inseparable when Papa was alive.” Richard said. “Ngayon po. little by little, she is doing better. She is focusing her time and attention on the charities she is sponsoring. I guess it is her way of coping.”

“We saw how closed your parents were when we met them in Beijing. Your dad was part of the business delegation with the President. Your mom was with your dad all the time when he was not attending meetings. They were very sweet.” Mommy Tere said. “Kapag naman busy itong mga husband namin, kami ng mommy mo ang magkasama sa shopping.”

“Talaga po. Mama mentioned to Maya nga po that you know each other, when we had dinner with her. Actually, Mama wants to invite you nga po Mr….errr, Tito Arturo, Tita Tere to dinner while you are here.” Richard said as he took a sip of the wine Maya handed to him while her mom was talking. “That is if you have some free time po. I know that this is the first time you have been home for quite sometime, and baka you have other plans already.”

“ No, it is okay. We would like to have dinner with Esme, di ba Arturo? It would be nice to see your Mama again. I really enjoyed our time in Beijing.” Mommy Tere asked her husband. “Is next Friday okay with you? How about it, Arturo.”

“Sure, sure.” Daddy Arturo replied. “Please tell your mom, we are glad to accept her invitation.”

“Sige po, I will tell Mama so she can make all the arrangements. I know this is something she will look forward to. Matutuwa po iyon.” Richard replied as he looked at Maya, and smiled. He is really glad that his mother and Maya’s parents will have the opportunity to see each other, a plan is forming in his head, again.

Manang Fe appeared soon after and informed them that dinner is ready. Richard escorted Maya to the dining table and Daddy Arturo did the same to Mommy Tere. Dinner was a lively affair. Maya’s parents observed first hand the loving interaction between their daughter and her boyfriend, and they loved what they saw. They are very happy for their only child. Both thought earlier that the best thing they can wish for their daughter, at this stage in her life, is for her to find a man who will love her with all his heart, and take care of her. They confirmed, upon seeing how Richard was to Maya, that she had found him.

While they were having coffee at the veranda, Manang Fe informed Maya that Emman is on the house phone, having failed to reach her through her cellphone. Maya excused herself, not surprised at Emman’s call since she knew that if there is something in her friend’s head, he had to let it out. He is a bit obsessive-compulsive and Maya understands her friend. She went with Manang to the living room. After she left, there was a bit of a lull in the conversation between the three occupants of the veranda, but it didn’t last long, with Richard breaking the silence.

“Tito, Tita, may talk to you po. Kung okay lang po sana?” Richard asked, as he looked at Maya’s parents, then taking a sip of his coffee, as if to fortify himself with what he will say next.

Mommy Tere and  Daddy Arturo looked at each other, curious, and then both nodded, one after the other, and gestured to Richard to proceed.

“Of course, hijo.” Daddy Arturo finally said. “Ano ba iyon? Please go ahead.”

“I would like to ask your permission po sana if I could propose to your daughter.” Richard said, straight to the point. “I love her with all my heart, and I know that she is the only one for me. I want to spend the rest of my life with her, if she will have me.”

Mommy Tere suddenly hold on to Daddy Arturo’s arm, getting teary-eyed. She had an inkling this is coming, but maybe, not this soon. But soon is also okay with her, Mommy Tere mused.  She looked at Richard and his earnest expression, waiting for their reactions. He is really a very nice young man, so polite and well-mannered, despite his status in life, and so in love with my daughter, she thought.

“Hijo, I think we are not surprised about this anymore. It was in the way you and our daughter were with each other this evening, so loving.  Added to this, it was in the way Maya spoke of you during our phone conversations.” She finally said. “Of course, you have our permission, di ba Arturo. Thank you for asking us, even if you don’t really need to. You and Maya are both of age and I guess, both pretty independent, having lived on your own abroad. We do appreciate you asking us. Thank you.”

“Yes, Richard. I agree with Tere. Thank you, hijo, for asking us.” Daddy Arturo added. “Welcome to our family. Take care of our unica hija, ha.”

“Opo, Tito, Tita. Makakaasa po kayo. She will be my number one priority.” Richard promised his future in-laws. “Thank you very much din po sa pagtanggap.”

Mommy Tere stood up and hugged Richard. Daddy Arturo shook his hand.

“When are you planning to propose to her?” Mommy Tere asked, as she took a sip of her coffee again.

“I would like to do it po, sana while you are here.” Richard said, relieved, and very happy now. “If it is okay with you, kasabay na po ng dinner with Mama? I will finalize all the details and then inform you. Saka, I want to surprise Maya po with it, if it is okay. I want to give her a proposal to remember when we are old and gray, and something we can tell our children repeatedly.”

Maya’s parents smiled at what Richard said and it was what Maya saw when she returned to the veranda. They seemed to have agreed on something, what is that kaya, she thought.

“Mom, Dad, Ricky, sorry for taking so long. Ito kasing si Emman, may personal problem. But no worries, he is okay naman na po.”  Maya said as she sat beside Richard. “So, what have you been talking about while I was in the sala?”

“Errr, nothing much. Your parents and I are just chatting.” Richard quickly replied. Good, that he had finished talking to Maya’s parents before she returned, he thought.

Mommy Tere looked at her daughter with a big smile, embraced her and then kissed her on the forehead, while Daddy Arturo looked at them, smiling. He thought, time flies really fast. Parang kailan lang his Maya was a little girl. Now she is about to enter another chapter in her life.

“I love you, Mom, and you too, Dad.” Maya said as she embraced her mother back. She was a bit puzzled why her mom suddenly hugged her like that, but she thought, maybe she just missed me!

“I love you too, anak.” Mommy Tere said.

The four of them chatted until late night.  Richard said his goodbye, so happy with his evening with the Dela Rosas, closed to midnight.  They asked him if  he would like to stay instead in their guest bedroom, but he declined. He just told Maya he will pick her up tomorrow. Maya said she can just drive herself to work since he would be going home late, but he insisted on picking up Maya.

Maya and Richard, with their hands, intertwined, holding cups of coffee, boarded the elevator going to their floor, shortly after 8 o’clock the following morning. Someone greeted them as soon the elevator doors closed.

“Good morning Maya, Richard, hi.”  Anton greeted them with a big smile, while holding a box of chocolates and a bouquet of red roses. “I’m actually on my way to see you, Maya. Sorry for not calling ahead. I was prepared to wait in your office, in case you have a meeting or will report for work late today.”

“Oh, hi Anton.” Maya said as she also looked closely at Anton.

“Good morning, Anton.” Richard greeted Anton politely, at the same time, taking note of the flowers and the box of chocolates.  But he didn’t say much.

When they reached their floor, Richard, with Anton in tow, accompanied Maya until the entrance to her office section, as he had been his practice every morning. “I’ll go ahead, sweetheart. Have a great day. Let’s have lunch, upstairs.” He said as he gave Maya a kiss on the cheek, then waved goodbye. “Anton, I’ll go ahead.”

“Okay, sweetheart. See you. I love you.” Maya said, waved at Ricky, ushered Anton to her office, then asked Anton to sit on the chair infront of her table. “What brought you here Anton? Do we need to talk about new projects? May nakalimutan ba ako na usapan natin?”

“Wala, Maya. Actually, I’m here to say goodbye.” Anton said. “By the way, these are for you.” He handed her the flowers and the chocolates.

“Thank you! Pero what’s the occassion, di ko naman birthday ah?” Maya asked, curious.

“Oh, call it a parting gesture. I know I can’t give you those anymore to court you, as I know you are taken.” He said with a voice, tinge with sadness. “I was too late.”

Maya thought, so Ricky is right! “Oh, Anton. You know you are a very dear friend to me, and that’s about it.”

“I know that Maya. Richard is a very lucky guy. Congratulate him for me.”  Anton said. “Don’t worry, staying abroad for a while will cure my broken heart.”  He said with a smile this time, as if to reassure Maya not to worry, about what he said.

“You are going abroad? How long? How about your NGO here? ” Maya asked.

“My cousin Celeste will handle our operation for a while.  I will be gone for a couple of months. I enrolled for a graduate course in Boston. I think it will be good for me in the long run, especially  now that I have plans of expanding our work to other Asian countries.” Anton said. “I already told Celeste to call you to finalize the details of our other projects.”

“Good luck on your studies. I will just have Minerva schedule a meeting with your cousin.” Maya said. “Thank you Anton for everything.”

“Thank you too, Maya. I hope we can still be friends.”  He said, as he stood up. “Would that be okay?”

“Of course, and I hope, somewhere out there is a girl for you, Anton.” Maya said, as she went to where Anton is, then shook his hand. “Sa guwapo mong yan, hardworking pa, and very nice, for sure, hindi ka mahihirapan.” Maya teased him. “Kaya lang, not me talaga. I love Richard with all my heart, and I was so lucky to have find my great love. Sana ikaw din.”

“I hope so, Maya.” Anton smiled. ” I want something like you and Richard have. I can see naman that you two are very much in love with each other. Kaya heto, poporma pa lang ako, alam kong basted na, kaya nga hindi ko na itinuloy.”

Maya and Anton laughed. Maya is glad that everything went well with Anton. She said goodbye to Anton and then proceeded to work on the papers on her desk.   She was finished before lunch. She told Minerva she will have lunch with Richard.

Maya went to the garden at exacly 12NN. The first thing she noticed was the beautiful table setting. Then she saw Richard, and smiled.

“Hi sweetheart.’ She greeted him with a big smile, and a kiss. Then she looked around closely. “Wow! Are we celebrating something?”

“Hello sweetheart, you’re just in time.” Richard said with a big smile. “Wala naman, I just want to do something extra nice for my sweetheart today. Come, let us eat. I’m hungry.”

The two of them had a very enjoyable lunch. Maya offered to make coffee afterwards, which Richard quickly agreed to. She gave a steaming cup of coffee for Richard, then settled back on the seat beside his, with her cup.

“Sweetheart, I know you want to ask me something. Spit it out.” Maya told Richard with a smile.

“Ha, wala kaya.” Richard, trying to appeal nonchalant, as he sips Maya’s delicious coffee. Truth be told, he was curious why Anton was here. But he didn’t want to ask Maya as it might appear that he wanted to grill her. That didn’t even enter his head. He trusts Maya completely. But he does want to know why Anton visited her.

“Hahaha, anong wala, curious ka ‘no. I can tell.” She teased him. “Sige na nga, I will tell na lang. Well, he went to my office to say goodbye kasi he is going to the States to study.”

“Talaga? For how long? How about his NGO? ” Richard asked, never expecting that Anton was there to say goodbye. “Eh bakit pala may chocolates pa and roses?”

“I was gonna get into to that. Sure, you are not jealous, sweetheart?” Maya asked with a smile.

“Nope.” Richard said emphatic. “I trust you kaya 101 percent and more.”

Maya smiled and touched his cheek affectionately. “Thank you, sweetheart. I love you. Well, he said those were his parting gesture to me since hindi naman siya makakaligaw na since I am taken na. He also told me to tell you that you are one lucky guy, Mr. Lim for having me in your life.”

Richard grinned, then interwined his hand with Maya’s, and looked at her deeply, lovingly. “I know that sweetheart. I’m so ever thankful to God, for sending you to me. I love you very much.”

Richard and Maya gazed at each other lovingly, then because they can’t help it, sealed their affirmation of love, with a long, sweet kiss that promises more.

Chapter 9
Love sweet love

Richard was drinking coffee while waiting for Maya at the rooftop garden. It became his and Maya’s habit to have coffee breaks there every afternoon. They agreed to meet at 3PM, but he was a bit early. He decided to make a cup of coffee for himself as he waited and checked his phone messages. His quiet moment was interrupted by loud voices coming from the stairs.

“Ms. Josephine, you can’t go there po. Off limits po ang place na iyan. Mapapagalitan po ako ni Sir Richard.” Marissa said as she ran after Josephine, who arrived at Richard’s office several minutes ago. She got mad when Marissa said her boss is unavailable again.

“I know my way! I have been there before with my dad. Besides, I’m sick and tired of you telling me that your boss is not available. I’m taking matters into my own hands.” Josephine stressed.

Richard saw a fuming Josephine, while a worried Marissa was behind her.

“Sir Richard, pasensya na po. Hindi ko na po napigilan si Mam Josephine.” Marissa said apologetically, as she wrung her hands. Her boss strictly told her that only Maya is allowed to go to his, now, garden sanctuary.

Richard looked at Josephine and made a decision.

“It’s okay Marissa. I will take care of this.” Richard assured his agitated secretary.

“Sige po, Sir Richard, bababa na po ako.” Marissa said, relieved.

“What brought you here, Josephine? “ He asked Josephine politely.

“Richard darling, I just want to see you. I missed you.” Josephine said in her flirty voice, a complete change to her demeanor with Marissa. “Can we have dinner later?”

Richard realized that he can’t be a gentleman and diplomatic anymore with Josephine, nor he can take into consideration again their fathers’ friendship when dealing with her. He needed to set Josephine straight.

“Josephine, I think it is about time we talk.” He started, then asked her to sit on the chair opposite his. “You know, I basically let everything slid before since I thought that if I didn’t show an interest in you, you will stop. I also took into consideration Tito Ramon and his friendship to Papa. Kahit paano and despite everything, I respected him. But I can’t do that anymore because of Maya and the way you are insinuating yourself into our relationship. Please stop this, whatever you are doing. I love Maya. She already put you in your place, which she had done very nicely, if I may add. I had hoped  then that you would heed her appeal, but apparently not. Please listen as I will only say this once. I am not interested in whatever you are offering. For me,  you are just someone I know, an acquaintance, the daughter of a family friend. It can’t never be more that. We aren’t, and I think, we can’t even be friends. I don’t think that is possible with the way you are going about this perceived relationship. I really hope this is clear enough to you.”

“But Richard darling. I really like you a lot. I think, I love you. We almost got married!” Josephine insisted, as if Richard didn’t say anything. “I’m sure, we can pick up from where we left off, two years ago.”

“No, Josephine! Please listen, there was no us. It was just in your mind, especially the marriage part. Please stop this.” Richard stressed, trying to hold on to his temper. “There is only one girl for me, and that is my girlfriend, Maya. She is my life.”

Josephine stood up and tried to cling to Richard and attempted to kiss him. But Richard removed her hands and set her far away from him.

“Please leave, Josephine before words are said that we both will regret. Let us end this conversation amicably.” He appealed to her. “Please respect the fact that I am committed to someone. She is the most wonderful lady.  The best thing that happened to me. I didn’t realize how big the missing piece in my life was, until I met her.  Someday, you will find the guy for you, and I am not that guy. I belong to Maya.”

Richard then started walking back to the direction down, thinking that he would just wait for Maya at his office. That is, when he saw Maya standing at the entrance of the garden.

“Hi sweetheart. Sorry, I’m late.” She greeted him with a big smile and proceeded to kiss him sweetly on the lips and hugged him. Then she looked at Josephine. “Hi Josephine, what brought you here?”

Josephine looked at Maya with venom in her eyes, and walked out of the garden, her high-heeled shoes, making a very loud clacking sound, while Richard and Maya looked at her departing form.

“Sweetheart, I love you.” Maya said sweetly. “Have a I told you lately that you are the best boyfriend in the world? Thank you for the wonderful things about me that you said to her. Pinakilig mo na naman ako.”

“Narinig mong lahat, sweetheart?” Richard asked as he continued hugging Maya. “Basta for you, and our relationship, I will do anything.”

“Yes, I did. I heard you voice and hers while going up. I decided to let you finish talking to that girl.” Maya said. “Saka, baka kung I barged in earlier, ano pang masabi ko. I also thought that that was your show na.”

“Hay, sweetheart! I just wish na after that talk, malinaw na sa kanya ang lahat.” Richard said sighing. “ I thought that ignoring her in the past would work.”

“Let us hope for the best, sweetheart. But let us just enjoy our coffee break and forget about her.” Maya said as she moved towards the bar. “Kape na lang tayo. I’ll make you a new one.”

Maya did that and they sat on the rattan chairs and chatted on how is their day so far. They also made plans on the places they would go on the next free weekend they have.

“What time are your parents arriving today, sweetheart?” Richard asked as he enjoyed Maya’s coffee which is so much better than the ones they get from the coffee shop downstairs. “Who will pick them up from the airport? We can go and fetch them or I’ll send Mang Lem.”

“No need na sweetheart. Thank you for offering. At this time, probably, they are with Kuya Joma na. He was our old driver. He works now for my Tito John and Tita Ginny. Kapag nandito sina Mom and Dad, siya ang sumusundo.” Maya explained. “Basta, tomorrow ha, dinner at home. I already mentioned it to Mom the last time she called.”

“Of course, sweetheart. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Richard as he fished out his ringing phone from his pocket. “Yes, Marissa. Okay, give me five minutes.”

“What it is, sweetheart?” Maya asked. “Kailangan mo nang bumalik sa office mo? Let’s go na.”

They went down, holding hands and before Maya left Richard, they shared a sweet kiss.

“I’ll see you later.” Richard said. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Maya replied, then lovingly touched Richard’s cheek. “See you.”

Richard took Maya home, as he had been doing since they became a couple. He also picks her up in the morning. Richard and Maya like sharing car rides as it is also an opportunity for them to have quality time with each other. Richard declined her invitation to go in, saying that it is her time with her parents. Besides, he said, he will visit his mom.  Naglalambing, he told Maya.

Maya had a happy reunion with her parents that evening.

“Maya, kumusta naman ang work mo?” Daddy Arturo asked his unica hija.

“Okay naman, Dad. I enjoy the kind of work I am doing. I really like the fact that I am being able to help people in my little way. It was really a good decision to settle here for good.” Maya said. “Saka, especially now, kasi Ricky is also based here na.”

Daddy Arturo smiled. He is very happy seeing his daughter the very picture of happiness and a girl very much in love.

“Your mom said we will meet your young man tomorrow evening.” He said, then teased Maya. “Mabuti naman at ng nakilatis ng husto kung bagay nga sa unica hija ko.”

“Daaadddd. Don’t give him a hard time ha. Saka for sure, naman, Ricky can hold his own with you.” Maya said.

“Of course naman, hija. Biro lang ang sa akin. I trust your judgement when it comes to things like this.” Daddy Arturo assured his daughter. “Saka sa tagal mo ba namang nakapili ng magiging boyfriend at sa dami ng nabasted mo, I am sure, okay na okay itong magiging manugang ko.”

“Daaddd, wala pa kami sa stage na iyan.” Maya good-naturedly protested, but deep in her heart, she already know that Richard is the ONE she wanted to share her life with.

“Maya, que quapo raw na bata nitong si Richard, sabi ni Manang Fe. Mabait pa.” Mommy Tere added.

“Of course, Mom. Ricky is the best boyfriend in the world. Eh botong-boto nga diyan si Manang.” Maya said smiling.

The Dela Rosas continued to chat and banter until late in the evening. While they were doing so, Richard was chatting with Mama Esmeralda, after they had a hearty dinner.

“Ricky hijo, how’s Maya?” Mama Esme asked. “Kailan mo siya ulit isasama rito?”

“Oh, she is okay Mama. Her parents arrived today so I think she is busy chatting and touching base with them at the moment.”

“Talaga, Ambassador Dela Rosa and Tere are here? Mama Esme said. “Maybe, we can also invite them to dinner. Hanggang kailan ba sila rito?”

“I think they will be here for two weeks, Ma. I will ask Maya when are they free. I will meet them tomorrow.” Richard said as he sipped his wine. He is a bit nervous about finally meeting Maya’s parents. Lahat naman siguro ng future son-in-laws, ganito ang pakiramdam, he thought to himself.

“Oh really, that is good. Please say hello for me and issue the invitation, ha.” Mama Esme said. She had no inkling of Richard’s plan the folowing evening. Though, after meeting Maya, she already know that she is the one for her Ricky. Ngayon lang niya nakitang ganito ang kanyang anak. Besides, he and Maya are so in love and look so good together.  She can’t help, but miss her Roberto, when she see them.

Mother and son, chatted some more. They also called Rafi and touched base with her and her family. Mama Esme wished that her daughter will visit again soon as she misses her and her apo.

Richard arrived home close to midnight. He is tired, but his mind is very much awake. Perhaps, he said in anticipation of what will happen tomorrow. He misses Maya so he decided to send her a short message, on the off chance that she is still awake.

– Hi sweetheart, I hope you had a great time with your parents. I’m missing you. I wish you are here to give me a hug and a kiss so I will sleep better. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow. Good night. I love you very much. Dream of me.

– Hi sweetheart. I had a wonderful time with Mom and Dad. They teased me about you. Humanda ka raw kay Dad. Kailangan mong makapasa sa kanya, hahahaha. Don’t worry, for sure, with flying colors pa. I love you. Of course, ikaw naman parati ang star ng dream ko. Cheesy ba, hahahaha. True naman, sweetheart. 🙂 

Richard had a huge smile on his face again when he went to bed. He dreamt of Maya, in technicolor! Maya hugged her pillow to sleep, so happy with the way her life is, with Richard very much in it. She couldn’t ask or wish for me. She thanked God once more for giving her a wonderful man to love.

Chapter 8
A love to build on

Richard surveyed the crowd, trying to find Maya, but failing. There were just so many people in the multi-purpose hall where Lim Corporation was holding its community service for Barangay Pag-asa. He was not exactly needed here in his capacity as CEO, but he wanted to be here for Maya and support the foundation’s project on a personal level.

The whole place was transformed into something akin to a one-stop shop of services that will benefit the residents of the community – from medical, dental and other health services; to different livelihood seminars, like candle and soap making, making bags out of old phone directories, newspapers and juice tetra packs; making peanut butter, jam, empanada and longanisa which the residents can easily sell. LC Foundation had already made arrangements with an organization promoting community-based industries for the residents’ finished products.  LC will provide a start up capital for those who want to start a small business, the progress of which will be supervised and monitored by the foundation. LC Foundation also included a feeding program for the community.

Richard noticed that while there were a lot of people, everything is very organize and orderly. He is very much impressed with Maya and her team’s organizational skills.

On second look, Richard saw Maya chatting with a tall, good-looking guy who was looking at her intently. The guy looked familiar to Richard, but he cannot place where he have seen him before.

“Hi Maya, how’s everything?” Richard said by way of greeting, then kissed her on the cheek.

“Hi Ricky! You didn’t tell me you will go here!” Maya greeted Richard with a big smile. “We could have gone together.”

“I wanted to surprise you.” Richard explained. “I also want to see firsthand our project. Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Thanks a lot for coming and for the offer. Everything is running smoothly. You can just observe. Then, I will introduce you to our partners for this project, starting with this guy beside me.” Maya replied with a smile.

“Ricky, this is Anton Cortez. He and his NGO is our main partner in this project, and some others we had in the past. They are handling all the livelihood trainings for the residents, teaching them to be self-sufficient,  like for instance, by a starting a business with materials they can easily find within the community and recycle. Anton and I went a long way back, before I work for LC. Anton this is my boss, Richard Lim.” Maya introduced the two and then added, “He is also my boyfriend.”

“Hi Anton, nice to meet you.” Richard said politely, offering his hand, at the same time wondering what did Maya mean when she said she and Anton went a long way back. But, he decided to leave that question for later. “Thank you for being a part of our project. We appreciate all the help.”

“Please to meet you too, Richard.” Anton said while shaking Richard’s hand. “We are happy to be a part of this project. Saka malakas sa akin si Maya, eh. You are so lucky to have her as your girlfried, as not only she is a fun person to be with, one of the nicest persons I met, she is also the most beautiful lady I know.” He said and looked at Maya intently, which raised Richard’s radar. Now he remember who Anton is!

“Maya, I will just go and check on my team. Excuse me please, Richard.” Anton said and with a wave, went to where the livelihood seminars were being held.

Before Maya and Richard could react, he was gone. Maya thought of saying something more to Richard, but she was interrupted by Emman.

“Sis, you are needed at the registration. May kailangan ka i-troubleshoot, I think.” Emman said, and then said hello to Richard. “Hi Sir Richard, good morning po.”

“Hi Emman, nice job, you and the rest of the team are doing here.” Richard told Emman, then held Maya’s hand and said, “Sweetheart, go ahead, attend to the problem and I will just wait for you here.”

“Oh, just go with me please, Ricky, para we don’t lose each other in the crowd. This wouldn’t take long.” Maya assured Richard and ushered him outside by holding on to his arm.. “Tapos I can introduce you to our volunteers, doctors, and the community leaders here.”

Maya took care of the problem and then proceeded to introduce Richard to the volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, barangay officials and the other members of Anton’s team. Then they went around the venue, with Richard pitching in from time to time, or just assisting Maya. Those who observed noticed how sweet and solicitous he was to Maya. By 5PM the event drew to a close.

“Thank you very much again Anton, for the help and the support.” Maya said as she and Richard stood with Anton at the entrance of the multi-purpose hall. ”Sa uulitin ha.”

“No worries, Maya. Anytime, just give me a call, or better yet, let’s have dinner one evening so we can map our future projects.” Anton issued the invitation, then belatedly adding, “Join us, please, Richard.”

“Better yet, let Ricky and I treat you to dinner, please. I will call your secretary.” Maya smoothly and by doing so, diplomatically sidestepped Anton’s invitation.

“Yes, Anton, Maya and I would like to take you and also your team to dinner, as a way of thanking you guys, for your support to LC Foundation.” Richard added, to support Maya’s invitation.

“Oh, okay, let us do that, then.” Anton said with a bit of regret in his voice. “See you then, Maya and Richard. Have a nice evening.”

“Ricky, I will just say goodbye to Emman, then we can go also.” Maya said as she looked around for Emman. “I think Manang Fe cooked your favorite kare-kare. I mentioned to her that we will see each other after the event. Lakas mo talaga kay Manang. Instead of getting banned, ipinagluto ka pa!”

Richard smiled and teased Maya. “Manang loves me kaya. Boto kaya sa iyon sa akin.”

Maya told Richard yesterday that the following morning after Manang Fe ‘caught’ them,  she was a bit embarrased to face her. But Manang Fe was pretty straightforward about the whole thing, told Maya that she is of age, and that she can think and decide for herself.  Her old nanny even teased her that she is ‘boto’ to Richard for her.

“Hayan ka naman, Mr. Lim. Confident na confident ah.” Maya said, laughing. “Halika na nga.”

They went to the parking lot, holding hands, with loving gazes for each other.  They also teased each other a lot.  Anton, who  hasn’t left yet as he forgot something inside the venue, saw these actions, and said to himself, “My lost, my lost. You are one lucky guy, Richard Lim.”

Maya and Richard arrived at the Dela Rosa residence one hour after, quite hungry. Manang Fe told them to wash their hands, like little kids, before they proceeded to the dining table. Not only did she prepare Richard’s favorite food, she also made chili crabs for Maya and their favorite dessert, leche flan. Richard and Maya felt their tummies groaned after eating all the delicious food.

“Come, sweetheart, let us have coffee at the veranda, para bumaba itong mga kinain natin.” Maya said as she stood up. “Manang ako na po ang gagawa ng coffee namin ni Ricky.”

While sipping coffee, Richard asked Maya what he had been meaning to ask earlier, but got sidetracked.

“So, how did you meet Anton? He looked familiar the first time I saw him talking to you. Then I remembered reading about him in the papers about his various social projects, also that he is the eldest son of one of Papa’s friends, Tito Fernando.” Richard said.

“I met him while doing work for the UN. Nagkasama kami sa isang project. This was before he went back here for good and started his social advocacies. We clicked rigth away. Siguro dahil kaming dalawa lang din ang Pinoy sa project na iyon. I remembered him when I started with LC. He really have a good network and his NGO is doing very good work, so I asked him if he would like to partner with us.” Maya explained. “We became good friends din in the process.”

“I think he likes you.” Richard commented.

“Like? What do you mean like? In what way?” Maya asked, curious.

“I think he would like to be more than your friend, sweetheart.” Richard said. “I’m a guy, so I can sense that, lalo pa at girlfriend ko ang gusto niya.”

“Hmmm, talaga, sweetheart? Tama yata talaga ang instinct ko when I arrived at the venue earlier, and saw him after ilang months. Parang may iba sa kanya.” Maya remarked while looking at Richard and decided to tease him. “Selos ka, Mr. Lim?”

“Hindi ha.” Richard quickly assured Maya and gave her his lopsided smile. “I don’t have a reason to be jealous, sweetheart. You even introduced me as your boyfriend to him agad.”

“Talagang wala kang dapat ipagselos! Ikaw lang kaya ang nandito Mr. Lim.” Maya said lovingly, and pointed at her heart.

“I know that sweetheart. I feel secure in my place in your heart, and I know you feel the same in mine, kaya nga you handled Josephine well.” Richard gazed at Maya with so much love, and then interwined their hands.

“I love you sweetheart.” Maya said. “Thank you for being the most loving, understanding and the sweetest boyfriend in the world.”

“I love you more, sweetheart.” Richard said and started kissing Maya. Maya responded and they shared a sweet kiss, full of promise and trust for one another.

Before it could go any further, they heard Manang Fe’s distinct footsteps. They sat straighter and grabbed their coffee cups.

“Maya hija, Richard, maabala ko lang kayo ng kaunti.” Manang Fe said as she smiled at her alaga and the man who loves her.  She really likes Richard for her ward. “Kamuntik ko ng makalimutan. Tumawag ang Mommy mo. Hindi ka raw kasi makontak sa cellphone kanina.”

“Oo nga pala Manang! I forgot po na may missed call pala ako kanina galing kay Mommy. Busy po kasi kami with the project. Ang dami rin kasing tao.” Maya remembered checking her phone at some point, and seeing a missed call from her Mommy Tere. “Ano pong sabi ni Mommy?”

“Sabi niya, uuwi sila ng Daddy mo next week kasi kailangan ni Arturo na mag-report muna sa DFA, pagkatapos, bakasyon sila ng kaunti. Mga two weeks daw sila rito.” Manang Fe informed Maya. “Mabuti iyon, kasi matagal-tagal na rin silang hindi nauuwi.”

“Yes!!! I’m so happy to know that Manang. Missed ko na nga rin sila.” Maya said smiling. “Richard, we should have dinner with Mom and Dad, one evening. I want to introduce my ever loving boyfriend to them.”

“Of course, sweetheart. If you didn’t invite me, I would have invited myself. I want to formally introduce myself to them, and thank them for their wonderful and loving daughter, di ba, Manang Fe?” He said while lovingly pinching Maya’s cheeks.

“Oo naman, Richard.” Manang Fe said, smiling. “O siya, maiwan ko na kayong dalawa at magpapahinga na ako.”

“Good night Manang Fe.” They both said.

Richard and Maya continued to hold hands, with Maya’s head on Richard’s shoulder, half-reclining, as they chatted, and enjoyed their coffee, exchanging kisses in between.

Richard said goodbye after several more kisses.

“Good night na talaga sweetheart, and last kiss mo na ito ngayong gabi.” Maya said as she tiptoed and give Richard a bone-melting kiss. “Sweet dreams. I love you.”

“Sweet dreams, my love. I love you very much.” Richard said as he gazed at Maya lovingly. Maya’s parents are coming home for a visit, he thought! This is his chance and the opportunity he has been waiting for. He went home very happy, a beautiful plan forming in his head.