The Song – Finale

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to missAa. This is a continuation to The Song – part 9.

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A/N:Maraming Salamat po sa suporta na binibigay nyo sa akin! Maraming maraming salamat!

 

Author: missAa

 

~*~

 

Previously…

Nasa office na din si Richard ng mall at pinapahanap ang anak nya, pagpasok ng babae sa office nakita nya agad ni Luke.

“Luke!! My Son, saan ka ba nanggaling? Pinagalala mo naman si Daddy.” Richard said.

“Daddy!” Umiyak si Luke. “Siya po ang tumulong sa akin.”

Tinanggal ng babae ang cap na suot sya at nakita ni Richard ang mukha nito. Si Maya. Hindi nya alam ang gagawin.

“Maya?!”

“Yes, ako nga po. Kayo po ba ang Daddy ni Luke?”

“Maya!” Niyakap nya si Maya ng sobrang higpit, pero tinulak sya nito.

“Excuse me po. Oo, ako po si Maya. Pero bakit nyo po ako kilala? Hindi ko po kayo kilala.”

“Maya, ako si Richard. Richard Lim.”

“Huh? Sorry, hindi talaga kita kilala.”

“Maya. Ikaw si Maya Dela Rosa!”

“I think we have a misunderstanding here. Yes, Maya is my name but my surname is Rosales not Dela Rosa.”

“Rosales? Why Rosales? Dela Rosa ka!”

“I’m so sorry. I’m not Maya Dela Rosa. I’m Maya Rosales.”

“Okay, Ms. Rosales. I won’t force you to believe me. Magusap tayo sa matinong place. Ieexplain ko sayo ang lahat.”

“Mommy Maya! Ikaw si Mommy Maya ko! See?” Pinakita ni Luke ang picture ni Maya noong Highschool sya.

“This is me! Seven years ago.” Biglang nahilo si Maya at hinimatay sya, buti na lang mabilis syang nasalo ni Richard.

“Maya! Wake up! Maya!”

____________________________________

Chapter 10

Nagising si Maya sa clinic ng mall. Nahilo sya at medyo kumikirot pa din ang ulo nya. Lagi syang nagkakaganito pag sya ay nas’stress. Nakita nya ang bata na nakita nya kanina at ang lalaking parang pamilyar sa kanya pero hindi nya talaga ito kakilala.

“Ms. Dela- Ms. Rosales, are you okay?” Richard asked.

“Yes, I’m okay. What time is it?” Maya said.

“6pm. Why?”

“Oh no! I really need to go.” Maya stood up. “Nice to meet you Mr. Lim and Luke.”

“But Maya. Wait!” Richard held Maya’s hand.

Hindi alam ni Maya bakti ganun, parang normal lang ang ginawa sa kanya ni Richard na para bang gusto na nya tong hawakan pa lagi.

She turned her back. “Yes Mr. Lim? Do you need anything?” Maya said.

“Nagmamadali ka na ba?” Richard asked.

“Yes, may dinner pa kasi kami ng parents ko. Bawal akong malate.” Maya said. “Kung may kailangan ka, tawagan mo lang ako dito sa number na to. Sige Bye Luke.” Maya kissed Luke’s forehead.

“Bye Mommy!” Luke said. “Daddy, nakauwi na pala si Mommy e!”

“Yes, pero hindi sa atin. Malapit na Son.”

_______________________________________

Late na si Maya sa dinner na napagusapan nila ng tumatayong magulang nya. Pagpasok nya ng pinto, dumeretso sya agad sa dining area. Nakita nya ang kanyang Daddy at Mommy nya na naghihintay sa kanya.

“Mom, Dad. Sorry, I’m late.” Maya said.

“Why are you late Maya?” Mommy Elle asked.

“Kumain po muna tayo, bago ko sabihin bakit.”

“Oo nga naman Elle. Mamaya na. Sige na Anak. Kain na tayo.” Daddy Edward said.

Habang kumakain sila, naikuwento ni Maya ang nangyari kanina sa mall. Natuwa at nalungkot ang kanyang mga magulang.

“Mom, bakit biglang lumungkot kayo?”

“Kasi baka malapit ka ng mawala sa amin.”

“Mom, kahit naman mawala ako sa inyo o makilala ko ang tunay kong pamilya. Babalik pa din ako dito.”

“Basta, kung saan ka masaya Anak. Dun kami ng Mommy mo.” Daddy Edward said

“Thanks Mom and Dad.” Maya hugged them.

“Btw, Maya Anak. Diba you mentioned earlier. Mr. Richard Lim?”

“Yes po, Why? Kakilala nyo po?”

“No, sikat kasi sya. He’s the owner of Lim Aviation Services and sabi nila adopted yung anak nya.” Edward said.

“At balita ko, he’s a bachelor.” Elle said.

“I dunno. Hindi na kami nakapagusap kanina, kasi nga mal’late na ako dito sa dinner.”

“Matulog na nga tayo Elle. Goodnight Anak.” Edward said.

“Goodnight po Mom and Dad.”

_______________________________________

Nagpunta si Maya sa office nya. Umupo sya sa kanyang swivel chair, sumandal at napaisip.

“Si Mr. Lim na ba ang sagot sa mga tanong ko?” Maya thought.

Biglang nag’ring ang cellphone nya. Unknown number. Sinagot nya ang tawag.

“Hello? Maya Rosales?”

“Yes, this is Maya Rosales. Sino sila?”

“Richard Lim. The father of Luke.”

“Ah, yes. I know you.”

“Are you busy tmrw?”

“No, wala naman akong flight. Bakit?”

“Luke was asking me to call you a while ago, because he wants you to come here over dinner.”

“Sure, no problem.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, I’m sure Mr. Lim.”

“You can call me Richard.” Richard said. “I’ll pick you up by 6?”

“No, I have a car.”

“ But I insist.”

“Okay Richard. Pick me up by 6. Goodnight!”

“Goodnight Maya.”

She ended the call.

________________________________

Nagpunta si Richard sa veranda, hindi sya makapaniwala na nakita nya si Maya kanina.

“Alam kong si Maya yun. Hindi ko alam bakit hindi nya ako nakikilala. Pero alam kong sya yun.” Richard thought.

Dumating si Manang Fe, nakita nya si Richard sa veranda.

“Ricardo, anong iniisip mo?”

“Wala Manang. Natutuwa lang ako.”

“Si Maya ba ito? Si Maya lang naman ang nakagawa sayo ng mga ngiting yan.”

“Kilala nyo talaga ako Manang.”

“Oo naman Ricardo. Osiya, pinatulog ko na si Luke.”

“Sige po, matulog na din po kayo.”

Tinawagan ni Richard ang buong barkada, nagkita sila sa isang 24/7 resto.

“Chard! Ano ba yung sasabihin mo?” Ryan asked.

“Oo nga naman Papa Richard.” Emman said.

“I saw Maya a while ago.” Richard said.

“What?! Are you sure?” Ryan said.

“Oo, brod. Pero hindi nya ako nakikilala.”

“Bakit? Paano?”

Kinuwento ni Richard ang buong nangyari kanina, kahit sila nagulat. Lalo na nung pinakita ni Luke ang picture nya noong highschool pa lang sya.

“Yun ang sabi nya brod?”

“Yes, brod. Sya daw yun, 7years ago.”

“Edi sya nga si Maya.”

“James, sya si Maya Rosales. Yung sinabi mo sa akin.”

“Wow, so buhay pa nga si Maya.”

“Buhay pa sya brod. Sabi ko sa inyo, gagawin ko lahat.”

“So, anong next step mo?” James asked.

“I invited her a while ago. Dinner at our house.”

“Hindi ba kami kasama dyan?”

“Nako, wag muna. Baka himatayin ulit.”

“Okay brod. Pero take a picture of her.”

“Sure brod.”

_____________________________________

Kinabukasan, nagising si Maya sa tunog ng cellphone nya.

Beep.. Beep.. Beep..

Maya read the text.

“Rise and shine Princess! Don’t forget our dinner later Maya. –Richard”

“Princess? Goodmorning Richard. Okay. I won’t forget. –Maya”

Richard saw the text and he smiled. Bumaba na sya para mag’almusal, dinaanan nya muna si Luke.

“Goodmorning Daddy!”

“Goodmorning Baby! I have a good news for you.”

“What is it Dad?”

“Your Mommy Maya will have dinner with us later.”

“Really Daddy?! Yes!!”

“For now, let’s have our breakfast.”

Bumaba na ang mag’ama at nakita sila ni Manang Fe na masayang masaya.

“Mukhang masaya ka ata Luke? Pati ikaw Ricardo.”

“Yes Manang! Mommy will come later! She will have dinner with us.”

“Ricardo?”

“Yes, Manang. Maya will come later. Manang, pwede po ba iluto nyo yung kare-kare?”

“Bakit? Paborito mo yon diba?”

“Paborito din po kasi yun ni Maya.”

“Osige, ipapaluto ko yun.”

______________________________________

Naga’almusal na din ang pamilya Rosales. Napagusapan nila ang trabaho nila.

“Maya, kamusta ang trabaho mo? Naeenjoy mo ba?”

“Oo naman Mom. Enjoy na enjoy.” Maya said. “Btw, Mom Dad. Hindi po ako makakapagdinner dito mamaya.”

“Why? Saan ka pupunta?”

“Niyaya po kasi ako ni Richard kung pwede doon ako magdinner, gusto daw kasi ni Luke.”

“Osige. Gamitin mo din itong chance na to, para malaman kung sino ka ba talaga.” Daddy Edward.

“Yes, of course Dad. Mom, wag ng sad. Bawal mab’block ang blessings!” Maya said.

“I’m happy for you Anak.” Mommy Elle said.

____________________________________

6pm. Suot ni Maya. Isang simple black polo, white pants, black doll shoes and pearl earrings and her necklace. Yung ‘Maya’. Mommy Elle knocked on her door.

“Maya, andyan na si Richard.”

“Yes, Mom. Paki sabi, wait lang.”

Bumaba na si Mommy Elle.

“Richard, wait lang daw. You want coffee?”

“Yes, please po Mrs. Rosales.”

“Ako rin Honey.” Daddy Edward said. “Richard, doon tayo sa veranda.”

“Sige po Mr. Rosales.”

“You can call us Tito Edward and Tita Elle.”

“Eto na coffee nyo Hon.” Elle said.

“Thank you po Tita Elle.”

Uminom si Richard ng coffee, biglang nanlaki ang mga mata nya.

“Why? Is there something wrong Richard?”

“Sino po may gawa nito?”

“Ako Richard ang may gawa nyan.” Maya said.

“Yes, si Maya ang anak ko ang may gawa nyan. Pinapack na lang nya yan dito para pag wala sya makakapag’coffee pa din ako.” Daddy Edward said.

“Bakit Richard? Pangit ba lasa?” Maya asked.

“No, ganitong ganito kasi yung coffee na ginagawa ni Maya Dela Rosa.”

“Osiya, Maya magiingat kayo. Richard, alagaan mo itong anak ko.”

“Sige po, Tito and Tita. Mauna na po kami.”

“Mom, Dad. Bye.”

________________________________________

Dumating na si Maya sa Mansyon ng Lim. Pagpasok nya, bigla nyang nakita si Luke. Tumatakbo papalapit sa kanya, sinalubong at niyakap nya ito.

“Mommy!!” Luke said.

“Hello Luke! Nice to see you again. So, how are you?”

“I’m fine po. Kayo po? Okay na po kayo?”

“Yes, I’m fine also.”

“Maya, Luke. Kumain na kayo.”

“Yes po Dad.”

Dumating si Manang Fe, dala dala ang hapunan.

“Maya, this is Manang Fe. My second mom.”

“Hello po Manang.”

“Maya? Ikaw ba yan?! Kay gandang bata.” Manang Fe hugged her. “Kahit matagal na tayong hindi nagkita, wala pa rin nagbago sa iyo.”

“Po? Nagkita na tayo?”

“Oo naman Hija, noong mga highschool pa lang kayo nito ni Ricardo.”

“Ehem, Maya. Kain muna tayo.” Richard said.

Maya was puzzled. Hindi nya alam kung anong nangyayari. Ayaw nya mastress kasi alam nyang sasakit ulit ang ulo nya. Tapos na silang maghapunan, nagkuwentuhan naman sila sa family room, nanood ng movie at habang nanonood ng movie para talaga silang isang pamilya na nagkukulitan.

“Chard, nakatulog na ata si Luke.” Maya said. Luke was in her lap.

“Osige, dadalin ko na sya sa kwarto. Bumaba ka muna sa veranda.”

“Sure, Chard. Goodnight Luke.” Maya kissed Luke’s forehead.

“Goodnight Mommy. I love you.” Luke talked while sleeping.

Bumaba si Maya, napadaan sya sa office ni Richard. Pumasok sya dito kahit alam nyang bawal, lumapit sya sa table at nakita nya ang picture nya noong highschool pa lang sya. Kinuha nya ito at tinignan nya mabuti kung sya talaga ito.

“Maya..” Richard said.

“Chard!” Maya said. Nilapag nya ang picture. “Tinignan ko lang. Kamukha ko kasi. Pwede ba tayong magusap?”

“Sure, pero pwede ba ako humingi ng favor sayo?”

“Ano yun?”

“Pwede mo ba ako pagtimpla ng coffee?”

“Yun lang pala, Sure.”

Nilapag na ni Maya ang coffee nya, tumabi sya kay Richard na nakatayo sa railings ng veranda at nakatitig sa bintana. Tahimik lang sila.

Maya broke the silence. “Richard, sino si Maya Dela Rosa?”

“Maya Dela Rosa, Siya yung babaeng minahal ko. Mahal ko sya hanggang ngayon.”

“Mommy sya ni Luke?”

“Yes, pero Luke is adopted.”

“Bakit kamukha ko sya?”

“I really don’t know Maya. Si Maya Dela Rosa, we were highschool lovers. Naging kami noong 4^th year highschool kami pero kailangan ko pumunta sa America at doon muna tumira. 7 years ako doon, nung 2years pa lang ako doon. Tumawag sakin ang barkada ko, naaksidente daw ang pamilya ni Maya Dela Rosa at siya lang ang nawawalang pasahero ng sasakyan na yun.” Richard said.

“Bago ako umalis papauntang America, meron akong binigay kay Maya Dela Rosa.”

“Ano yun Chard?”

“Isang necklace na may pangalan nya.”

Nagulat si Maya. “What? Eto ba yun?” Nilabas ni Maya ang kwintas.

“Paano to napunta sayo?” Richard said. “Kung nasa iyo to, ikaw nga si Maya Dela Rosa!”

Nagyakapan sila, naiyak si Richard.

“Sa wakas Maya, natagpuan na kita. Sa wakas.”

“Richard, wala pa din akong maalala.”

“Wag kang magalala Maya, tutulungan kita.” Richard said. “Paano mo nga pala naging magulang sila Tita at Tito?”

“7 years ago, nagising na lang ako nasa hospital ako. Wala akong maalala kahit nga pangalan ko hindi ko alam. Nalaman ko lang ang pangalan ko sa kwintas na suot suot ko. Dahil natagpuan lang naman daw nila ako sa kalsada, hindi nila alam kung sino ang mga kasama ko kaya hindi nila alam kung saan ako papupuntahin kaya inampon na lang nila ako, tinuring na tunay na anak pinagaral ako at ngayon isa na akong Flight Attentdant.” Maya said.

“Gumagabi na Maya, ihahatid na kita.”

“Sige Chard, thank you at least kahit papaano meron na akong alam sa pagkatao ko.”

“No problem Maya. Ikaw din ang kumumpleto ng buhay naming ni Luke.”

_____________________________________

3am. Habang nagd’drive si Richard, sobrang saya nila. Kahit papaano meron na siyang alam sa kanyang pagkatao.

“Maya, I missed you.”

“Richard, hindi pa ito si Maya Dela Rosa.”

“Pero alam kong babalik ka na.”

“Babalik ako Chard, promise.”

Hindi namalayan ni Richard na may makakasalubong na pala silang truck. Iniwasan ito si Richard at bumangga sila sa isang poste. Sinugod agad sila sa pinaka’malapit na hospital.

_________________________________________

4am. Ring.. Ring.. Ring..

“Edward, sagutin mo nga ang phone.”

“Ano ba yan, madaling araw na may tumatawag pa.”

Sinagot ni Daddy Edward ang phone.

“Hello? Mr. Rosales?”

“Yes, sino ito?”

“This is a nurse from Makati Med. Are you related with Ms. Maya Rosales and Mr. Richard Lim?”

“Yes, why?!”

“Naaksidente po sila. Andito po sila ngayon sa hospital.”

“What?! Pupunta na kami.” Edward ended the call.

“Honey, ano yun?” Elle asked.

“Honey, magbihis ka! Si Maya at si Richard naaksidente!”

“What?!”

____________________________________________

Dumating na sina Edward at Elle sa hospital. Saktong lumabas ang doctor.

“Are you the parents/guardian of Mr. Lim and Ms. Rosales?”

“Yes, we’re the parents of Maya Rosales. Kamusta sya Doc?”

“She’s okay and Mr. Lim is okay. Nothing to worry about. Pagsasamahin na po namin sya sa isang kwarto.”

“Sure Doc.”

____________________________________________

Nakikita nya lang ay puti. Nakita nya ang isang pamilyar na figure ng isang babae.

“Maya!”

“Richard!” Maya hugged him.

“Maya! Wag mo na akong iwan.”

“Hindi na kita iiwan Chard, babalik na ako.”

Biglang nagising si  Richard. Medyo masakit pa ang katawan nya, pagtingin nya sa paligid. Nakita nya si Maya, natutulog at sugatan. Bigla syang tumayo at lumapit kay Maya.

“Maya…” Richard cried. “I’m sorry.”

“Richard. Okay na ako.”

“Mommy! Daddy! Are you okay na po?” Luke said.

“Yes, We’re okay son.” Richard said.

“Mommy, Daddy Edward.” Maya said.

“Okay ka na ba Anak?”

“Yes po, medyo masakit lang ang ulo.”

“Wala ka pa rin bang naalala Maya?” Richard asked.

“Nanaginip ako kanina, yung lagi kong panaginip. Malinaw na sa akin ang lahat. Ikaw pala yung lalaking lagi kong napapanaginipan. Naaalala ko na lahat Richard.”

“Maya! Hindi mo alam kung gaano ako kasaya ngayon.”

___________________________________________________

After 3 months.

Ring.. Ring.. Ring..

“Hello Richard, napatawag ka?”

“Maya! Si Luke!”

“Anong nangyari kay Luke?”

“Pumunta dito sa bahay! Dali.”

Dali dali nagpunta si Maya sa bahay nila Luke. Kahit sila na ni Richard, hindi pa din sya doon nakatira kasi hindi pa sila kasal. Naiintindihan naman yun ni Luke. Pagpasok nya sa bahay, walang katao tao.

Pumunta sya sa kwarto ni Luke, wala naman sila dito. Sa kwarto ni Richard, wala din sya dito. Bumaba sya nagpunta sya sa salas, sa office ni Richard, sa playroom, sa family room.

Nakita nya ang kanyang pamilya sa garden. Ang ganda ng paligid. Nagandahan si Maya pero nagagalit sya kasi nagalala sya ng sobra.

“Richard?! Luke?!”

“We were just joking Maya.”

“Alam nyo ba papatayin nyo ko sa kaba?”

“Mommy, wag ka na po magalit.” Luke said. “Daddy, game na!”

“Maya, hindi na ako magpapaligoy ligoy pa. Baka kasi makalimutan mo na naman ako.” Richard said.

“Ano ka ba, hindi na.”

Biglang tumugtog ang theme song nila ang “I Finally Found Someone.”

“Alam mo ba Maya na ikaw lang ang babaeng minahal ko, ikaw lang ang babaeng nagpatorete sa akin, ikaw lang ang nagpasaya sa akin at ikaw lang ang makakagawa nun. Ikaw din ang kasiyahan ni Luke, ikaw ang kukumpleto sa pamilya na inakala nya na hindi na mabubuo kahit kalian. So Maya…”

Lumuhod si Richard. “Will you be my wife?”

“No, Chard.”

“What?! Maya? Hindi mo ba ako mahal?”

“Richard, mahal na mahal kita. Ang OA mo. Ang ibig kong sabihin.” Maya said. “No, hindi ako pwedeng humindi. Kaya yes ang sagot ko!” Maya laughed.

They hugged each other. They missed each other. Nakisali na din si Luke sa yakapan ng kanyang magulang.

_______________________________________

After 2years.

Nasa veranda si Maya at si Richard, nagk’kwentuhan sila. Nang biglang…

“Richarddddddd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Maya shouted. “Manganganak na ako!!!!!”

“Maya!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wait lang!!”

“Bilisan mo Ricardo!!!!!! Hindi ko na kaya, ang sakit sakit na!!!”

____________________________________

Nanganak na si Maya, twins. Two chubby baby girls.

“Ano ipapangalan natin sa kanila Maya?”

“Abigail Ruth Lim and Nikki Grace Lim.”

“Beautiful names.” Richard said. “Hello Abby and Nikki!”

“Mommy, ano po name nila?”

“Luke, this is Abigail but you can call her Abby and Nikki. Be a good kuya to them ah.” Maya said.

“Yes, Mommy! I will!”

____________________________________

“Okay po! Mr. Lim, usog po kayo konti. Pati din po kayo Mrs. Lim. Move closer po.”

“Smile po! 1.. 2.. 3..” Photographer said. “Great shot! You have a beautiful family Mr. and Mrs. Lim.”

“Thank you.” They all said in unison.

The End!

 

 

Life and Regrets – part 10

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to Miss Aa. This is a continuation to Life and Regrets – part 9.

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Author:MissAa

 

~*~

 

Previously…

Nagpunta na sa kwarto sina Maya at Richard. Pagpasok ni Maya at Richard hinalikan sya agad ni Richard.

“I missed you.” Richard said.

“I missed you too.” Maya said. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For accepting the baby.”

“We will continue your Chemo. After you give birth to our angel.”

“Ofcourse Chard.” Maya said. “Tulog na tayo, antok na antok na ko.”

“Wait! Anong sabi ng doctor kanina?”

“Eto oh.” Nilabas ni Maya ang picture ng ultrasound nya.

“Hello Little Angel! Daddy loves you so much.” Richard said while holding the picture.

“Ang sweet naman ng mag’ama ko.” Maya said. “Chard, matulog na tayo.”

“Sige Mommy, goodnight Little Angel.” Richard kissed her forehead and her tummy.

“Goodnight Daddy!”

____________________________________

Chapter 10

Maaga na naman nagising si Maya, nakita nya si Richard sa tabi nya na mahimbing pa ang tulog. Tinitigan nya lang ito. Hinawakan ni Maya ang mga pilikmata ni Richard.

“Ang haba talaga ng pilikmata mo. Sana mamana ng anak natin yan.” Maya said.

“Oo naman, lahat naman ng pilikmaya ng anak natin, sa akin nagmana.” Richard said.

“Ano ka ba naman Chard! Nakakagulat ka!”

“Kanina pa ako gising, alam kong nakatitig ka sa akin.” Richard said. “Mrs. Lim, you’re blushing.”

“Charddd! Bahala ka dyan. Bababa na ako.” Maya stood up.

“I was just joking Maya!”

“Bala ka!” Maya left the room.

Richard laughed. “Nakakatawa ka talaga Maya.”

__________________________________________

After 5months…

“Nako Day! Malapit ka na manganak!” Sabel said.

“Ano ka ba Sabel! 6 months pa lang ako. 3 months pa.”

“Kahti na Day! Malapit na yun.”

__________________________________________

Nagalmusal na sila Maya. Habang kumakain, ang saya saya nila. Nakakaramdam lang si Maya ng konting sakit ng ulo pero hindi naman na ganoon kagrabe. Lagi syang nagpapacheck up sa doctor nya. Para mabantayan ang health nung baby nya at pati sya.

“Maya, pupunta tayo doctor mo later.” Richard said.

“I know Hon. I’m so excited.” Maya said.

“Oh my gee Mommy! Hindi ba ngayon nyo na malalaman ang gender ng baby?”

“Yes, Nikki. Kaya nga ako excited.”

“Can we come?” Luke asked. “Excited na din kasi kami.”

“Dito na lang kayo. Babalik kami tas pupunta tayo ng mall.”

“Oh my gee! I’m sure na girl yan!”

“Nikki! Boy yan.”

They all laughed.

___________________________________

Habang naghihintay sila ng turn nila, si Richard kinakabahan at parang first time nya ito.

“Richard! Parang first time. Kung kabahan ka naman.”

“Eh Maya, syempre excited din ako.”

“Ano mas gusto mo? Girl o Boy?”

“Kahit ano Maya, basta healthy.” Richard kissed her forehead.

“Mr. and Mrs. Lim. Kayo na po.”

“Goodmorning Mr. and Mrs. Lim!” Dra. Sanchez said. “Higa ka na dito Mrs. Lim. Para masimulan na natin ang ultrasound.”

“Sige po Dra.” Maya said.

“Excited na ba kayo Mr. and Mrs. Lim?”

“Oo naman Dra. Lalo na tong si Chard. Kanina pa yan.”

“Dra, Hindi lang ako. Pati ang mga bata.” Richard said.

Richard held Maya’s hand. “I love you.”

“I love you too Chard.”

“Mr. and Mrs. Lim. Congrats! It’s a baby girl!”

“Thank you po Doc.” Richard and Maya said in unison.

____________________________________

Umuwi na sina Maya at Richard sa bahay. Pagkapasok nila ng bahay,  sinalubong agad sila ng mga bata.

“Oh my gee Mommy! Girl or Boy?” Nikki said.

“Nikki, I’m confident enough na it’s a boy.” Luke said.

“I’m more confident Kuya. It’s a girl.”

“Luke, tama si Nikki. It’s a girl.” Maya said.

“See?! Kuya! I won!” Nikki said.

“Osige na Kids, magprepare na kayo at pupunta tayo ng mall.” Richard said.

___________________________________

Nagpunta na sila Mall, para mamili ng gamit ng baby. Habang naglalakad sila sa mall, nakaramdam ng matinding sakit ng ulo si Maya pero  hindi nya pinansin ito.

“Maya, are you okay? You look pale.”  Richard said.

“I’m okay Chard. Don’t need to worry.” Maya said.

“Are you done Kids? Umuwi na tayo.” Richard said.

“Yes, Dad!” The kids said in unison.

___________________________________

Nakauwi na sila Maya. Tumitindi ang sakit ng ulo ni Maya na para bang binibiyak ang sakit ng ulo nya. Gusto na nya uminom ng gamot, pero bawal. Papasok na dapat sya sa kwarto nila, kumapit sya sa door knob.

“Richard…”

Buti na lang mabilis si Richard at nasalo nya agad si Maya.

“Maya! Wake up!” Richard said. “Joma! Yung sasakyan!”

“Oh my gee Mommy!!” Nikki said.

______________________________________

Nasa hospital si Luke at Richard. Palakad lakad ang Daddy nya.

“Ano na kayang nangyari kay Maya?” Richard said.

“Dad, magiging okay lang si Mommy.” Luke said.

Ring.. Ring.. Ring.. Nikki was calling.

“Hello Niks.” Luke said.

“Kuya! Kamusta si Mommy?”

“Wala pa, hindi pa lumalabas ang doctor.”

“Ano na kayang nangyari? Kuya…” Nikki cried.

“Niks, wag ka ngang ganyan. Patulugin mo na muna sila Mayumi.”

“Yes, Kuya. Call me agad kung ano sabi ng Doctor. Please Kuya.”

“Yes, Niks. I will do that.”

Lumabas na si Dr. Francisco mula sa emergency room. Lumapit agad sina Richard at Luke.

“Doc, how’s my wife?” Richard said.

“Mr. Lim, Lumalala na ang sakit ni Mrs. Lim. Kinukuha na kasi ng baby ang nutrition na para kay Maya. Uulit at uulit ang ganitong pangyayari Mr. Lim.”

“Ano ba pwedeng gawin Doc?”

“Wala tayong gagawin Mr. Lim. Wala akong pwedeng ipainom kay Maya kasi makakaapekto ito sa bata. Kailangan lang natin bantayan si Maya palagi. Hanggang sa manganak sya.”

“Sige Doc, thankyou.”

_____________________________________________

Nakauwi na sila Maya at Richard sa bahay.

“Maya, you need to rest. Sabi ni Dr.”

“Yes, I will.”

“Papasok lang ako sa office and please kung may kailangan ka, wag ka ng bumaba. Tumawag ka na lang sa phone sa baba.”

“Sige po Mr. Lim. Pumasok ka na. I love you.”

“I love you too Mrs. Lim.”

____________________________________________

After 3months…

Hindi naman na gaano nakakaramdam si Maya ng sakit ng ulo. Pa’minsan minsan na lang. Kabuwanan na nya kaya excited na silang lahat pero si Richard, hindi. Kasi anytime pwedeng mawala sa kanya si Maya. Hindi nya kaya.

Habang natutulog sila, biglang sumakit ang tyan ni Maya. Ginising ni Maya si Richard.

“Chard!”

“Hmm?”

“Manganganak na ako.” Maya said. “Masakit na!”

“5 more minutes Maya.”

“5 more minutes?! 5 minutes na lang manganganak na ako!!” Maya said. “Ricardoooooo!!!”

“What?” Richard said.

“Manganganak na ako!!!!!” Maya shouted.

“Ano?!” Richard said and he stood up.

“Manganganak na ako!” Maya said. “Ahhhhhhhhhh!!” Maya shouted.

___________________________________

Nasa labor room na sila Maya at Richard. Kasama ni Richard sina Luke at Nikki.

“Mr. Lim, I don’t  think kakayanin ni Mrs. Lim ang sakit ng panganganak. Baka bigla syang sumuko.”

“What?! Gawin nyo ang lahat! Para parehas silang maligtas! Damn Doc!”

“Dad, Kalma ka lang.” Luke said.

“Mr. Lim. Tina’try po namin ang lahat. Pero you need to choose. Si Mrs. Lim o ang bata?”

To be continued…

 

Life and Regrets – part 9

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to Miss Aa. This is a continuation to Life and Regrets – part 8.

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Author:MissAa

~*~

Previously…

Nagpunta si Richard sa kwarto ni Manang Fe, pagpasok nya ng pinto. Nakita nya si Maya, natutulog na ng mahimbing at hawak hawak ang tummy nya na para bang pinoprotektahan sa kung ano mang bagay o tao na pwedeng umagaw dito.

Lumapit si Richard kay Maya.

Richard kissed her forehead. “I’m so sorry Mahal. Mahal na mahal lang kita kaya ko nagawa yun.” Tulog pa din si Maya. 

Binuhat na ni Richard si Maya, papunta ng kwarto nila. Nilapag nya ito ng dahan dahan sa kwarto nila.

“I’m so sorry. I love you.” Richard kissed Maya’s lips.

_______________________________

Chapter 9

Nagising si Maya, nakita nya si Richard sa tabi nya. Agad agad syang tumayo pero nahawakan ni Richard ang braso nya.

“Maya, I’m sorry.” Richard said.

“Hindi nyo naman kasi ako naiintindihan. Walang nakakaintindi sakin.”

“Ikaw lang naman ang inaalala namin.”

“Pero Chard, paano nga ang bata?”

“Mahirap pumili Maya. Between you and our child.”

“Hindi naman kita pinapapili e. Bababa na ako.”

“Maya, please. Wag ka namang ganyan.”

Bang! Nakalabas na si Maya, binagsak nya ang pinto.

Bumaba na si Maya at nakita nya sina Manang Fe, Sabel, Doris at Joma. Nak’kwentuhan sila at parang ang saya saya.

“May bago na namang bata dito sa Mansyon. Maingay na naman!” Sabel said.

“Onga Day e. Happy Family ulet sila.” Doris said.

“Ano ba kayong dalawa, wag na nga kayo magingay. Magluto na.” Manang Fe said.

Nadinig ni Maya, natuwa naman sya kahit papaano merong nakakaintindi sa kanya. Lumabas sya, kinuha nya ang kanyang car keys at umalis.

_________________________________

Nadinig ni Richard ang pag’start ng kotse ni Maya, kaya dali dali syang nagbihis at lumabas. Tumatakbo sya pababa ng hagdan nakasalubong nya si Manang Fe.

“Ricardo, Si Maya ba iyon?”

“Opo Manang. Susundan ko lang po.”

Nagmadali umalis si Richard, hinanap na nya ito kung saan saan. Sa puntod ng dati nyang asawa, sa opisina, at kung saan pa pwede magpunta si Maya. Umuwi na sya sa bahay pero wala pa din si Maya.

“Manang Fe, wala pa ba si Maya?”

“Wala pa, Ricardo. Tinawagan mo ba?”

“Opo Manang, pero walang sumasagot.”

“Nasaan na ba iyong batang iyon?”

___________________________

Umalis si Maya, nagpunta sya sa magiging pangalawang bahay nya. Ang hospital. Nagpa’appointment sya kagabi sa isang OB Gyne Doctor.

“Mrs. Maya Lim. Kayo na po.”

“Thanks Miss.”

Pagpasok ni Maya sa clinic ng Doctor.

“Goodmorning po Dra.”

“Goodmorning Mrs. Lim. I’m Dra. Sanchez.” Dra. Sanchez said. “How may I help you?”

“Ganito po kasi yun, I’m suffering from Brain Cancer Stage 4 and I’m 3 weeks pregnant. I am willing to stop the Chemo. May epekto ba sa bata kung may sakit ako?”

“This is a special case Mrs. Lim. Bihirang bihira lang. Wala naman gaanong epekto basta ba iinumin mo ang mga vitamins na ibibigay ko sayo at kakain ka ng marami para makakuha ng tamang nutrition ang bata.” Dra. Sanchez said. “Gusto mo ba makita ang baby mo?”

“Sure po, Gustong gusto.”

________________________

Natapos na ang ultrasound ni Maya. Kahit napakaliit pa lang ng baby nya, mahal na mahal na nya ito. Sobra. Hawak hawak ni Maya ang picture ng ultrasound nya.

“I love you Anak. Sana lumabas ka na. Para happy na ulit si Mommy.” Maya said teary-eyed.

Pumunta muna si Maya sa mall. Namili sya ng damit para sa kanya at konting damit para sa bata. Tuwang tuwa si Maya kasi matagal na nya itong hindi nagagawa. Dahil sa sobrang saya sa pamimili, nakalimutan na ni Maya ang oras. Pagkatingin nya sa relos nya ay 7pm na.

“Hala?! 7pm na pala! Nako patay ako nito kay Richard. Wala pa akong cellphone.” Maya said.

__________________________

Alalang alala na sila Richard sa bahay, hindi na mapakali si Richard. Palakad lakad na sya.

“Dad, calm down.” Abby said. “Nahihilo na ako e.”

“Sorry Baby. Kinakabahan lang talaga si Daddy.”

Biglang nagbukas ang gate at pumasok ang kotse ni Maya. Biglang tumakbo sa labas sila Richard.

“Maya! Where have you been?!” Richard shouted. “Alam mo ba na mamamatay na kami dito kakaisip kung nasaan ka? Paano kung may nangyari sayo?”

“Sorry Chard, Sorry.”

Richard hugged Maya. “Saan ka ba kasi nagpunta? Pinagalala mo ko.” Umiyak si Richard.

“Sa Hospital at sa Mall.”

“Ha? Bakit? Okay ka lang ba? May masakit ba sayo?”

“Nagpa’check up lang ako para sa baby.”

“Pumasok na nga muna tayo, sigurado akong nagugutom ka na.” Richard said. “Kids, let’s eat.”

_________________________________

Pagkatapos nila kumain ng hapunan, nagpunta na sila sa Family Room. Naglaro sila Maya, Abby, Mayumi at Ricky ng tagu’taguan. Habang sina Richard, Nikki at Luke pinapanood lang nila sila Maya.

“Taya si Mommy!” Mayumi said.

“Osige. Tatalikod na ako ah.” Maya said. “Pagbilang ng sampu, magsitago na kayo. Isa.. Dalawa.. Tatlo.. Apat.. Lima.. Anim.. Pito.. Walo.. Siyam.. Sampu! Andyan na si Mommy.”

“Boom Baby Ricky!” Maya laughed. “Hanapin natin si Ate Abby at Ate Mayumi.”

“Boom Ate Abby!” Ricky shouted.

“Boom Ate Mayumi!” Maya shouted. “Galing galing mo Baby Ricky!”

“Save!!!” The shouted in unison. Hindi nakatakbo si Ricky at si Ricky ang taya.

Tuwang tuwa si Richard sa nakikita nya, pati sina Luke at Nikki. Ngayon na lang ulit nito naramdaman ang tunay na saya. Iba talaga pag andyan si Maya.

“Mommy, Wag kang tumakbo. May baby ka kaya.” Luke said.

“Ayy, sorry. Nakalimutan ko. Ang saya kasi e.”

“Oh my gee Mommy! Sali naman kami.” Nikki said.

“Onga Mommy, Ako din!” Luke said.

“Paano naman ako?” Richard said.

“You can join Dad!” Nikki said.

“Osige, para mas masaya. Uupo na lang ako dito sa sofa. Papanoorin ko naman kayo. Napagod na ako e.” Maya said.

Pinanood ni Maya ang magaama nya na maglaro ng tagu’taguan. Natuwa sya sa sinabi ni Luke kanina. Napaisip sya.

“Kung nagaalala si Luke sa akin at sa baby. Edi okay na sa kanya kahit hindi ako magpachemo.” Maya thought.

Laging taya si Richard kasi hindi nya alam ang gagawin. Tawang tawa si Maya.

“Hep! Hep! Tama na yan. Gumagabi na mga anak. Magsitulog na kayo, may pasok pa kayo bukas.”  Maya said.

“But Mom-” The kids said.

“Yah, Your Mom is right. Go to sleep Guys.” Richard said.

“Okay, Dad. Mom and Dad, goodnight.” The kids kissed them.

“Mommy, take care of my Little Sis.” Nikki said.

“Anong Little Sis? Little Bro yan!” Luke said.

“No, Kuya! It’s a girl I can feel it.”

“Wag na kayo magtalo. Twins yan!” Richard laughed.

“Twins?! Ano ka ba Richard! Matulog na kayo Luke and Nikki.” Maya said and hugged them. “Thank you. Thank you for accepting us.”

“Mom, ano ka ba! Nakakaiyak ka naman.” Nikki said.

“Stop it na. Tulog na tayo Niks!” Luke said.

________________________________________

Nagpunta na sa kwarto sina Maya at Richard. Pagpasok ni Maya at Richard hinalikan sya agad ni Richard.

“I missed you.” Richard said.

“I missed you too.” Maya said. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For accepting the baby.”

“We will continue your Chemo. After you give birth to our angel.”

“Ofcourse Chard.” Maya said. “Tulog na tayo, antok na antok na ko.”

“Wait! Anong sabi ng doctor kanina?”

“Eto oh.” Nilabas ni Maya ang picture ng ultrasound nya.

“Hello Little Angel! Daddy loves you so much.” Richard said while holding the picture.

“Ang sweet naman ng mag’ama ko.” Maya said. “Chard, matulog na tayo.”

“Sige Mommy, goodnight Little Angel.” Richard kissed her forehead and her tummy.

“Goodnight Daddy!”

//

After All – part 8

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to spazzbuster. This is a continuation to After All – part 7.

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A/N:Hi Everyone, 

 

Sadly, this might be the last installment of this story for now. I’m experiencing writer’s block. Need to get inspiration from somewhere. Really, thank you for the encouragements. 

 

I’m not sure if this is just a phase all writers have to go through. Since I’m doing this for the first time,I guess it’s part of it. I sure hope you enjoy this installment. 

 

Till my next contribution 🙂 

Author: spazzbuster

~*~

 

Part 8:  We’re in this together

 

The day has finally arrived. Today, Maya and the rest of the Dela Rosas will find out if the baby’s going to be a boy or a girl. They all excitedly went with Maya to the OB-GYN’s clinic. What they didn’t know is that the detective was also waiting for the result so he could give the information right away to the CEO of LAS.

Simon was more than willing to give the Dela Rosas a ride to the clinic. He somehow feels part of the family now considering that he’s been around Maya since he found out about the pregnancy. They reached the clinic with warm smiles on their faces.

 

Cho: Tita Ninang, sobrang excited na po akong makita si Insan! Sigurado pong kasing gwapo ko rin po sya!

Mamang: Oh eh cho, pano ka naman nakasiguro na lalaki ang magiging pinsan mo aber? Tingin ko babae yan kase ang ganda ganda pa rin ng Tita Ninang mo oh.

Cho: Eh Mamang ano pa naman kinalaman ng ganda ni Tita Ninang sa kung lalaki o babae ang magiging pinsan ko?

Kute: Naku Cho, eto kaseng si Mamang, naniniwala pa rin sa matandang kasabihan na kapag maganda ang nagbubuntis, babae ang anak. Pero kung pumangit yung buntis, lalake daw.

Cho: Ah ganun po ba Nay? Ibig sabihin po ung pinagbuntis nyo ako pumanget kayo?

Mamang: Tumpak Cho!

Kute: Oh..oh..Mamang naman! Okrayin ba ako? ( they all laughed)

Nanay Teresita: Hay naku, tama na nga kayo dyan! Kinakabahan tuloy lalo si Maya (wraps her right arm around Maya) Kung lalaki man o babae, ang importante malusog ang bata.

Maya: Tama ka Nay! (smiles at her ) Basta magiging kasing bait at kasing lusog mo Cho ang pinsan mo,  magiging masaya na si Tita Ninang.

Cho: Sigurado po yan Tita Ninang! Nasa lahi talaga natin ang malusog at mabait (grins from ear to ear)

Simon: Galing mo talaga Cho! ( gives Cho a high-five)

Doctor: Patient Maya Dela Rosa?

Maya: Ay yes doctora. Andito na po ako. Pupunta na po ba sa loob?

Doctor: Yes please? So big day nga pala today, kaya pala kasama ang buong pamilya ( gently smiles at the excited Dela Rosa family)

Maya: Okay lang po ba doc na sumama sila sa loob? Gusto kase nila lahat makita ang baby ko.

Doctora: Sure Maya. Ah eh…pati ba si Simon? (Looks at Simon and then Maya. The doctor once thought that Simon is the dad of the baby but soon enough she realized that he’s just Maya’s friend)

Simon: aaah…eh doc, hindi na po. Maya, hintayin ko na lang kayo sa labas. Kelangan ko rin kase bantayan yung kotse.

Maya: Uhmm…sige Simon. Salamat (turns to go inside the clinic with the rest of the family following behind)

 

As soon as the family’s inside the clinic and Simon has gone to check on the car, the detective slowly emerges from one of the adjoining corners. He then sends an SMS to Ser Chief.

To: Mr. Lim

Sir, pumasok na si Maya sa clinic. Kasama buong pamilya at si Simon. Maghihintay na lang ako dito sa labas.

 

Richard received the message right in the middle of one of his meetings. He tried to concentrate on the discussion but the anticipation is killing him. The meeting would have to continue tomorrow as he simply can’t focus at the moment after reading the SMS, so he adjourned the meeting early. When everyone has left the room, he couldn’t help but pace around the room as if Maya’s already in labor. Somehow deep in his heart he wishes that they will have a baby boy. Luke is already a grown man and it’s been such a long time since he felt how nice it’s to carry his son in his arms.

Ser Chief: (in his head) I hope it’s a boy…it’s going to be a boy.

 

Meanwhile, inside the clinic, Maya was asked by the doctor to raise her blouse so she could put the ointment on her belly. Maya did as told and soon enough the ultrasound proceeded. All eyes were glued at the small screen where the image of what’s inside Maya’s abdomen could be seen.

 

Cho’s eyes widened when the doctor pointed at a small circular object on the screen. Apparently, the one creating the loud heartbeat they could hear reverberating around the room is this small being.

Cho: (whispering to Kute) Nay? Yan na po ba si insan? Ang liit liit po pala nya?

Kute: ( smiles ) Oo nak, sya na nga. Medyo mahiyaan ayaw pa pakita kung lalaki ba sya o babae.

Both Mamang and Nanay Tere are having a hard time seeing the image on the screen clearly but the smiles on their faces never wavered. The doctor continued searching for any sign of the fetus’ sex. Maya held her breath when she seemed to have seen a tiny elongated object right between her baby’s thighs. As if on cue Maya and the doctor quipped simultaneously…”Lalaki”

 

The doctor looked back at Maya with a smile. The soon to be mom is now tearing up as the realization that she’s going to have a son dawned on her. Excited cheers filled the room soon after. They all gave Maya a group hug.

Cho: Ayos! May kabasketball na ako Tita Ninang!  (grins from ear to ear)

Maya: Oo nga Cho! ( still tears welling in her eyes)

 

After Maya has dressed, the whole family stepped out of the clinic still cheering for Maya and the baby. Maya felt so loved and very excited about being a mom. Everyone’s in high spirits as they walk back to Simon’s car to inform the latter about the great news.

 

Mamang: Simon! Naku Simon! Magiging dalawa na ang apo kong lalaki! ( she broke the news with much excitement)

Simon: Talaga po? Naku Congrats Maya! Oh Cho, siguradong excited ka na rin!

Cho: Syempre naman po Tito Simon. Siguradong kasing gwapo ko rin si Insan.

The exchange of course didn’t escape the ears of the detective. He immediately calls Richard Lim to give him the latest update.

Ser Chief was nervously pacing to and fro inside his office and the sudden ringing of his phone startled him a bit. But seeing the name of the detective flashed on the screen gave him a jolt of excitement. He hurriedly pressed on the answer button.

Ser Chief: Yes detective. Anong balita?

Detective: Sir, congratulations, magkaka- junior na kayo ulet! Lalaki po ang magiging anak nyo ni Maya.

Ser Chief: (his brain went blank for a few seconds…) Okay salamat.

 

His heart beat stopped for a good five seconds as he recalls what the detective told him ..

“ Lalaki po ang magiging anak nyo ni Maya”

Hearing this echoing in his head, fresh tears started falling from his eyes. He weakly sat back on his chair as the news dawned on him.

“I’m going to have a son…another son. Maya, you’re going to give me a son”  he uttered to himself. He felt so much happiness that he threw his fist in the air and shouted “Wooohoooo!!! A son! Yes!”

Liza was startled hearing her boss shouting inside his office so she hurriedly entered the room. But what she saw made her grin from ear to ear. There was no need to panic after all, his boss was just being oddly very happy. She saw him throwing his fist up in the air as if he won in the lottery. It’s been a while since she last saw him this happy about something. When Ser Chief noticed Liza staring and smiling at him, he had to compose himself again.

 

Ser Chief: (clears his throat) Uuhm…yes Liza. Call Atty Ryan for me. Tell him we need to talk about our next project. Clear my schedule after 6PM. Tell Atty Ryan to meet me at the Horizon Bar at 6:30.

Liza: (trying to hold her laughter) O…okay Sir. I will do that. (slowly closes the door of the office and shakes her head while giggling)

 

The Dela Rosas safely arrived home and now happily chatting at the living room about their preparations for the Baby Boy. Maya couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her family making a fuss about the littlest details on the baby like the name, clothes, bed sheets, pictures and milk formula. She fell quite for a few minutes and Nanay Teresita was the first to notice.

 

Nanay Tere: (slowly sitting next to Maya and putting her right arm on Maya’s shoulder) Oh, Maya anak, anong problema? Natahimik ka yata?

 

Maya: Naku, wala ho eto Nay. Masyado lang po akong masaya.

Nanay Tere: Masayang masaya din ako Maya. Excited na rin akong makita ang apo ko sayo.

Maya: (smiles but starts to get teary-eyed) Salamat po talaga Nay ha? Pasensya na talaga kase kasalanan…

Nanay Tere: (quickly shushes her and rubs Maya’s left arm) Shhhh….ilang beses ko bang sasabihin sayo nak na hindi kasalanan ang magmahal? Nagmahal ka lang. Wala kang tinapakang tao. At ang batang eto ang patunay kung gaano ka kawagas magmahal. Kaya alisin mo na sa isip mo yang mga negatibong bagay. Baka makasama pa yan sa pogi kong apo.

Maya: (smiles back and started wiping her tears) Sabi ko nga nay eh. Pasensya na at nag-eemote na naman ako. Sigurado namang gwapo talaga ang anak ko kase maraming pagmamanahan.

(The rest of the household started listening to the conversation and Cho couldn’t help but join in)

Cho: Naku, tumpak ka dyan Tita Ninang! Syempre lahi tayo ng magaganda at pogi ( making the pogi gesture)

Mamang: Aba’y syempre naman apo! Sakin yata kayo lahat nagmana ng ganda ng itsura!

Kute: Asus! Si Mamang talaga umaapaw sa confidence! ( they all laughed)

Nanay Tere: (looking back at Maya) Pero anak, seryoso. Wag ka ng mag-iisip ng kung anu pa. Lagi mong tatandaan na andito lang kame para sayo.

Mamang: Totoo naman yan Teresita. Ika nga ni Maya —- kapit bisig!

Kute: Yan ang pinakatamang nasabi mo Mamang. Kaya group hug para kay Baby Boy !

Everyone: Group hug!!! KAPIT-BISIG!

 

The evening was filled with merriment at the Dela Rosa residence. What they didn’t know yet is the impending arrival in San Nicolas of someone from the Lim mansion….. that will change everything.

(to be continued…)

 

His Promise – part 1

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to Auricel.

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A/N: Hi everybody! Here is another fanfiction. Richard and Maya are still the main characters, however, I opted to alter the storyline. I hope you will like this one and please feel free to write your comments. Hehe. c”,)

Thanks for reading!

 

Author: Auricel

 

~*~

 

 

*Teaser

They were high school classmates. One migrated to another country and the other stayed in the Philippines. They only see each other during the latter’s vacations in the Philippines once in a while.

Maya dela Rosa, at 26, has never had any boyfriend. During one of Richard Lim’s trips back to the Philippines, he was surprised when he learned this. He then made a promise to her, proclaiming it in front of their friends. Maya just shrugged it off because she knows Richard too well: a ladies’ man who can easily melt a girl’s heart even without trying. She, on the other hand is a hopeless romantic waiting for Prince Charming who will knock her off her feet. Will she get the happy-ever-after she wants? And is Richard’s promise just a joke or is it something that Maya should take seriously?

Chapter 1

“You’ve never had a boyfriend? Not even once?” Richard Lim shot an inquisitive look at Maya dela Rosa.

Maya reddened when he threw this question at her. Although she has been asked this question so many times, it seems different when he asked the question. At bakit naman nagtatanong ang isang ‘to? Grabe, nakakahiya! The lady just smiled as an answer to his query.

Richard Lim and Maya dela Rosa have known each other since their high school days. After their graduation ten years ago, Richard and his whole family migrated to Australia. He just comes back to the Philippines every once in a while to meet with the group and share what had happened over the years. Now, they are in Rafi’s house, one of their high school friends, having dinner and catching up.

“Ayan, kita mo na. Pati si Richard nagtataka kung bakit wala pa raw, Maya,” James teased. He is one of Maya’s closest barkada, someone she could lean on and share her secrets with.

Maya pouted at them before answering. “Kayo talaga, ako na naman nakita niyo…”

“Pero hindi nga… Bakit nga ba? Naalala ko tuloy si Michael. In love talaga sa’yo ‘yun nung high school tayo. Nanligaw ‘yun ‘diba? Haha! Ano’ng nangyari?” Richard was having fun. He felt that this was an interesting situation. A girl who has never had a boyfriend? She’s not that bad naman. But why?

“Grabe, ang ancient na niyan ha. Hanggang ngayon, kung sino ang love team mo nung high school, siya pa rin dapat?” She took a sip of her iced tea and shook her head.

Richard gave her a smile before again saying, “Eh bakit nga wala pa at hindi pa?” He was really curious. “Maganda ka naman, matalino, mabait… Bakit never pa?”

This time, Sabel, one of Maya’s female barkada answered for her, “Pano kasi, etong si Maya, masyadong mataas ang standards. Kailangan perfect lahat! Maganda ang résumé kumbaga.”

“Oo nga. Naku… Naghahanap ng ideal man. Eh meron pa bang ganun? Imagination ba kamo, ha Maya?” Doris, another close friend said. Everyone laughed out loud with Doris’ revelation.

“Uy, hindi ah. Kayo talaga, tama na,” Maya replied and fixed her eyes on the floor. Talaga ‘tong mga ito. Her face is now as red as a tomato.

Richard held on to his drink and looked at her. “Hmm, talaga? Alam ko na! Suplada ka kasi eh. Kahit naman nung high school tayo mataray ka na saka suplada. Kaya ‘yung si Michael takot sa’yo ‘yun eh,” he again teased her.

James nodded in agreement. “Suplada na, napaka-conservative pa. Sabi nga namin pwede naman mag-dress paminsan-minsan, mag-heels o mag make-up. Pero wala pa rin eh. Failed. Ayan oh, tingnan mo nga,” He pointed at her. He was referring to the usual slacks and blouse attire of Maya who is currently working as a teacher.

Maya gave James a warning look and uttered, “Eh. Mas komportable ako sa ganito eh. At saka minsan naman naka-dress ako saka heels. Hehe. Anyway, kumusta naman ang Australia, Richard? Kumusta work?” She did this to divert the attention away from her.

“Ok naman. Business is doing well. Kaya rin andito ako kasi I’m opening up here for expansion. Kaya eto, medyo matatagalan ako dito,” Richard explained and gave her a smile.

“Really? How many months? If you will be here for a long time, may 10^th year anniversary reunion ang batch natin. Exciting ‘yun! Baka gusto mo mag-donate, Richard,” Rafi excitedly announced.

Richard chuckled. “Yup, baka matagalan nga ako dito until the business has been settled kaya sige, I can attend,” he replied.

“Naks, big time ka na talaga, Richard. Eh teka ikaw, wala ka pa bang girlfriend?” Doris asked.

“Wala, pero yayayain ko nga sana ‘tong sina Simon at James pumunta ng bar eh para maka-meet ng girls. Ok ba?” Richard said. “Balita ko Simon ikaw ang maraming alam na pwedeng puntahan,” he threw a joking glance at Simon.

“Oo ba! Kelan? Haha!” Simon answered. He and Richard high-fived and laughed out loud.

Hindi pa rin nagbabago ang loko. Hindi pa rin nagseseryoso sa babae, Maya mumbled to herself. When they were in high school, Richard was already a jokester, and everyone loves him. She also remembered that a lot of girls fell head over heels with him. Even she had a crush on him. But past is past, she told herself. She crinkled her nose at the recollection.

While Maya was busy battling with her thoughts, she didn’t notice Richard was watching her closely. Hmmm… He then looked at her and said, “Alam mo, you remind me so much of my tita…. Na wala pang asawa.” He gave her a lopsided grin, as if insinuating something. “But you know what, I have a proposal…”

Huh? Ano naman kaya nasa isip ng singkit na ‘to? Maya was suddenly nervous.

“Let’s see… Tell you what. Sige, kapag 30 na tayo at pareho tayong single, tayong dalawa na lang ang magpakasal. That’s four years from now,” Richard finally said. He was looking at her intently, waiting for her answer.

Maya raised her eyebrow. What could this guy be thinking? Isama pa ako sa kalokohan niya!

James seemed excited with what Richard said. “Ayun oh! Ayaw mo ‘yun Maya? At least kilala mo na, diba? Kilala na namin! Ok ‘yan!” He gave Richard a thumbs-up sign.

“Maya! Ayan! Exciting! O Richard, witness kami sa sinabi mo ha!” It was Sabel this time. Richard was nodding his head in agreement, even smiling slyly at them.

“Hoy, magsitigil nga kayo. Kilala niyo naman ‘yang si Richard. Mahilig magbiro ‘yan,” Maya spoke. She shook her head, showing them that she was amused of Richard’s silliness. But why did she suddenly feel giddy?

“Hindi. Totoo. Gusto mo dalawang wedding pa eh. Isa dito saka sa Australia. You know, that’s when I plan to settle down—when I’m 30. Kaya if we’re both free, tayo na lang dalawa,” Richard quickly raised both his eyebrows at Maya, his killer smile plastered on his face. “Gusto mo beach wedding? Pero dapat naka-dress ka ha!”

Maya looked around. The women—Sabel, Doris, and Rafi were all giggling. Simon and James, on the other hand were all smiling at her.

But she was blushing profusely. She gulped before speaking. “Ako na lang ba dito ang hindi naniniwala, ha?” she asked her friends. Although a part of her was saying that this was all a joke, a bigger part of her was wishing that Richard would actually fulfill this promise. Then he suddenly remembered his reputation and swiftly scolded herself for even thinking such a thing.

Everyone nodded their heads.

“Oo, lahat kami naniniwala kaya maniwala ka na. At take note, ngayon, naunahan mo na kami! May nag-propose na sa’yo samantalang kami ni Sabel ang may boyfriend! Haba ng hair mo, Maya! Haha!” Doris exclaimed with twinkling eyes.

“Ok guys, tama na. I think quota na kayo sa pang-aasar sa akin. Anyway, so Rafi, what are the plans for the batch reunion?” Again, Maya tried to steer the conversation away from her. Her cheeks were still flustered. Richard tried to hide a smile.

Good thing Rafi got the hint. She told them of the plans for their reunion. She was organizing it with their other schoolmates from other sections. It would be a very large gathering, considering it would be their 10^th anniversary. By the end of the night, everyone was already eager to attend.

At around 1AM, the group decided to call it a night. Doris and Sabel were already fetched by their respective boyfriends, Mike and Peter. Simon had also left. Maya was about to open James’ passenger door when Richard said, “Maya, sa akin ka na lang kaya sumabay?”

James let out a sigh. “Yes, Richard, please. Thank you. Madadaanan mo naman ‘yung bahay nila ‘diba? I think that’s a good idea,” James delightfully agreed. Maya turned her eyes to shoot daggers at James. Giving up, she then nodded her head and made her way to Richard’s car. The idea of being with him in the car thrilled Maya. Why am I feeling this way?

After saying their goodbyes, they went on their way. In the car, Maya still continued to ask Richard questions regarding his life in Australia. She was fascinated with his stories and wished she can visit Australia in the future.

“Nice! Ang saya! Sana I can go there too someday,” she replied and looked at him.

“Oo naman. Ako bahala sa’yo ‘pag pumunta kang Melbourne,” Richard then glanced at her and smiled.

Maya again felt her cheeks reddened. Kalma lang, Maya. She shifted her gaze back in front. Good thing they were near her house. “Ah oo nga pala, turn left ka na diyan kasi ‘yan na ‘yung village namin,” she urged herself to speak.

When they arrived in front of the Dela Rosa house, Maya gratefully smiled at Richard. “Thank you sa paghatid, Richard. Pasensiya ka na ha. Si James kasi hindi tumutupad sa usapan. Naabala ka pa tuloy,” she said.

“Ok lang ‘yun, no worries. Oh pano, see you at the reunion? Oh, wait, if you want, we can go out again kasama sina James, Rafi and other classmates who are available. Let’s just schedule it na lang ha?” Richard answered.

Maya nodded, “Oo ba. Sige. Thanks again, Richard. Ingat sa pag-dadrive ha. Please text me kapag nakauwi ka na,” Maya then turned to Richard and hugged him. Richard, in turn, kissed her cheek. Although she was surprised with what he did, Maya recovered quickly. Wala lang ‘yun, Maya. She was about to get out when Richard caught her arm.

“Ah Maya… About what I said earlier… Totoo ‘yun ha. Basta, pag 30 na tayo… Ok? Good night,” Richard proclaimed. He patted her arm and grinned at her.

“Naku, ikaw talaga. Sige na. Ingat. See you!” she responded. She then went out and waved at him. As Richard drove away, Maya heaved a sigh. Ano na naman ba ito Mr. Lim? Naku Maya, huwag kang assumera! Nang-aasar lang ‘yun. Eh teka. Bakit mo pa iniisip?

Maya did not want to admit it but Richard Lim has definitely shaken up not only her mind and her heart, but her whole being as well. And because of this, unlike Sleeping Beauty, sleep didn’t happen with a simple prick on her finger that night.

Hmm… What do you think guys? Ok lang ba? Pasensiya na wala pang masyadong kilig. Hehe. Sa susunod na chapters promise! Hehe.

 

Thanks for reading! ‘Til the next chapter! c”,)