Story of Me – part 19

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to MaiA. This is a continuation to Story of Me – part 18.

---

A/N: More Power EBU.

Author: MaiA

 

~*~

Story of Me Part 19 I LOVE YOU!

After dinner

Maya: “Tara na, baka mahuli pa tayo sa movie.” She pulled him by the hand as they run to the cinema.

Richard: “What are we watching?” he asked

Maya: “John Lloyd and Sarah G.” kinikilig as she said this.

Richard: “What?” Surprised and he stopped Maya from walking to the cinema “Maya, I don’t watch love story. Ang movie sa akin yung may action, hindi yung ganyan.” he explained.

Maya: “Please?” she pleaded with her sweetest smile.

Richard: “alam mo ba, if ever, this will be the first love story movie na papanoorin ko? So, no way.”

Maya: : “Sige na, please. I really really want to watch this movie and wala naman ako pwedeng yayain but you.” with pleading eyes but Richard just shook his head. “Ok sige, kung ayaw mo, I will just ask Simon or James na lang.” with pouted lips, nagtatampo as she turned around going to the opposite direction.   

Richard: he took a deep breath, and run after her in defeat. Then he said. “Ok. Fine. Kung hindi lang kita…” then he stopped.

Maya: “Ano yon?” she turned around to face him and gave her  sweetest smile. (winner ka Maya.)

Richard: “Wala, kung di lang kita kaibigan, di kita sasamahan dito, Let’s go.” This time, he pulled her hand as he led her to the cinema.

 

Richard: What do you want?

Maya: Iced tea and popcorn, yung cheese.

Richard: Cheese? Mas ok yung plain unsalted.

Maya: “Plain unsalted? Anong lasa nun? Corny mo naman. Bahala ka basta ako cheese.”

Richard: Miss, 2 iced tea and 1 jumbo sized popcorn cheese.

Maya: Di ka kumuha ng popcorn mo?

Richard: I ordered Jumbo so we can share.

Maya: I thought you like plain unsalted,

Richard: well, yun ang order ng boss ko eh. (Maya, winner ka na naman)

 

As they enter the cinema, he was holding their drinks while she holds their popcorn, when a man accidentally bumped her.

Richard: “Watch it pare.” Then he holds her hand to keep her steady. He didn’t let go of her hands until they are seated.

Maya: “Sobrang sungit mo naman, di naman sinasadya.”

Richard: “Ok ka lang ba? Eh baka kasi nasaktan ka.”

Maya: “OA mo naman.” then she looked at their hands clasped together.

 

When they were seated, he placed one cup on his side, and the other cup in between them, while the popcorn lays on Maya’s lap. She sipped from her cup and she shivered a little.

Richard: “Are you cold?”

Maya: “Hindi naman”, then she smiled as he holds her hand with his.  

 

They shared their popcorn. Minsan sabay sila kumukuha and their hands touched.

Richard: “Sorry, sige mauna ka na.”

Maya: “hindi ikaw muna.”

Richard: “Kakatawa ka talaga. Gusto mo subuan kita?

Maya: “Ang corny mo talaga.”

 

While watching, Richard was unconsciously drinking from Maya’s cup and when she realized her cup is almost empty.

Maya: “Grabe, ininom mo yung drinks ko.“ nagtatampo. “Wala na akong drinks, naubos na.” She pouted her lips.

Richard: “Sorry, I was not aware. O eto. Here’s my drinks.” As he replaced her cup with his.

Maya: “Ah, eh… kasi, paano ka?” not sure of what to say, when she realized that they will have to share the drinks from one cup.

Richard: “Let’s share.” Feeling her uneasiness, he added as he whispered close to her ears “Sige na, wala naman akong sakit, and para namang wala tayong…” he teased her with twinkle in his eyes, reminding her of their kiss.

Maya: she lowered her eyes and she blushed “Niloloko mo na naman ako eh. I’m trying to forget na nga what happened eh.”

Richard: “Huh? Why?” this time he is serious, and a little worried “I thought ok lang tayo? Nag sorry naman ako dun sa una eh and bumawi naman ako dun sa second after our date di ba? So…”  

Maya: “O sige, tama na at baka kung saan na naman mapunta ang usapan natin.”  Then she continued “Akin na nga yan, nauuhaw na ako” He holds the cup for Maya as she took a sip and she shivered.

Richard: “Are you cold?”

Maya: “Medyo, ang lamig kasi dito, pati yung drinks, lalo ako nilamig”.

Richard: “Come, “ then he placed his arms around her shoulders and gathered her closer, unconsciously, she leans her head on his shoulders.

 

She was focused on watching the movie while Richard is focused on stealing glances at Maya. She is now teary eyed because of the movie, he teased her and whispered to her ear. “Maya, you are crying?” as if laughing for her silliness. He gave her his hankie.

Maya: “Nakakinis ka talaga.” As she took the hankie and wiped her tears,

Richard: “Iiyak na yan.” He teased her again.

Maya: “If you don’t want to watch, quiet ka lang dyan.” She whispered. “Wag ka ngang maingay magagalit na yung mga katabi natin, manood ka na lang dyan.”

 

Still with arms around her shoulders, one hand holding hers, while her head rested on his shoulders, they both focused on the movie.

Now near the end of the movie, he was quiet, also deeply engrossed as he watch.

 

John Lloyd: “I love you” (sa movie)

Richard: “I love you, Maya” he whispered softly to himself.

Sarah G. “I love you too, bebe ko.” (sa movie pa din)

Maya: “I love you too, Richard.” She whispered to herself, then he sighed and tightened his hold on her.

 

Nagulat pareho, then they both shouted “Narinig Mo!” they looked at each other.

“Shhh” sabi ng mga tao sa sinehan. Halos kainin ng lupa si Maya sa hiya as she slouched and covered her face. Habang si Richard all smiles to himself.

 

Then the lights turned on THE END (ang movie ni Sarah and John Lloyd.)

 

Medyo nagkaaminan na, but still… kulang pa. May part2 pa ang aminan. Til next time ulit.

Punk’d : Emotional Blackmail

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to princemackaroo. This is a continuation of Punk’d: The Aftermath.

---

A/N: Ok, I know this is totally mean and way out of Richard’s character. So whatever my crazy, weird, notorious mind came up with has nothing to do, in any way, with Richard’s character on BCWMH. We all know how kind, caring, loving, and a complete gentleman Richard is. Some of you may get pissed by Richard’s prank on this chapter and you may also think that Maya already has the perfect get back but wait til you see the final spin-off for this series entitled “Punk’d: Sundo.” Once again, please feel free to shoot me your comments, suggestions, violent reactions even (I’m already expecting those.haha). So without further ado, let me present you the second to the last series of Punk’d entitled Emotional Blackmail. God bless everyone!

Author: princemackaroo

~*~

Richard is more than glad that everything is now ok and that everything has been back to normal. He still cannot get over Maya’s extra efforts to win his forgiveness.  He already got so used to it that he wanted to experience it more. He knows fairly well why Maya went the extra mile and the least that he wanted right now is for her to stop. Maya has always been sweet and caring but the things she did the past few weeks made him feel more loved and special. He also liked the idea of playing pranks every once in a while, it adds up some spice in their relationship, makes it more exciting in a way. Experiencing new things that never in his wildest dreams he thought he would do or encounter. He may have already forgiven Maya but somehow, there’s this demon inside of him that keeps nagging him to just slip one more dose of Maya’s own medicine. Plus, if Maya would always woo him like this, then how could he possibly say no to it. If it’s always this way, he’s ready to bring it on. And so an idea popped into his mind.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Inside the master’s bedroom, “Mahal, I need to tell you something,” said Richard, in a serious tone. “Ano yun Mahal? Parang napaka seryoso niyang sasabihin mo ah,” said Maya, trying to make the mood lighter. Richard, maintaining the serious look on his face, said, “I.. I went to see a doctor today.” After a few seconds of silence, Maya spoke, “So what did the doctor say? May sakit ka ba? Are you not feeling well? Pero hindi ka naman mainit,” as she tried to touch his forehead feeling his temperature then said, “May masakit ba sayo?” Worry already evident in her face and voice. Richard looked intently in Maya’s eyes and said, “Mahal, wag ka sanang mabibigla ha. I really don’t know how to say this to you. I don’t know if I can,” looking away at Maya, feigning a hesitant look. “Ano ba kasi yun Mahal? Sabihin mo na. Masyado mo naman na akong pinakakaba eh!” said Maya in an impatient tone. Richard heaved out a sigh, faced Maya with a sad look on his face, then said, “the doctor.. the doctor confirmed that..” Richard paused a moment, “What?? Ano bang sinabi ng doctor Mahal? Sabihin mo na! Masyado mo akong pinakakaba eh!” said Maya impatiently, already in the verge of tears as she can no longer take the hold up. Richard, still not facing Maya, heaved out a sigh and in a depressed tone said “I have a terminal disease. I only have 6 months left to live.” After saying this, he just bowed down his head and slumped his shoulders. Maya, already crying, could not believe what she just heard. She thought that maybe Richard is just playing a trick on her and he was just trying to get even for what she did, but Richard showed her a copy of the test result the doctor gave him. He even told Maya that he already got a second opinion, even a third one but all of them said the same thing. Maya was not able to do anything but simply cry. Richard tried so hard not to be affected. He mustered all his strength to stay focused and stay with his game plan.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Two months had passed. Everything is pretty much the same at the Lim’s household. They’re still a one big happy family. Unknown to everyone, Richard had been executing another prank on Maya, and the poor victim Maya, had been carrying a burden on her heart. Richard asked Maya not to disclose anything to the kids about his illness. He explained that his kids will just take it badly and the last thing he ever wanted to see is for his kids to get hurt again and be haunted by the idea that they will be losing a father as well. The two had been playing this charade convincingly. Not a trace is to be found that something is amiss.

One time, Richard got a surprise visit from Ryan. The two gents, decided to have their talk at Richard’s office, “So ano brod? Kumusta naman yang bago mong prank kay Maya?” asked Ryan, giving Richard a teasing smile. “Sshhhh!” reprimanded Richard, “someone might hear you. So far, ok naman. It’s a good thing that we’re both playing it pretty well. Wala manlang nakahalata dito sa bahay.” “Really? So she was able to act normal even though she’s hurting inside?” asked Ryan. “You could say that. She’s pulling it off convincingly,” said Richard proudly. Ryan could only shake his head, then said, “Alam mo brod, hindi ko akalain na may pagka sadista ka. Biruin mo ha, dahil lang sa kagustuhan mong makaganti kay Maya at patuloy ka niyang suyuin, nagpanggap kang mamamatay na. Ibang klase ka din eh!” The two men just laughed at Ryan’s banter. Unknown to them, someone had been listening to their conversation this whole time.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ano???!! Sigurado ka ba jan sa sinasabi mo Nikki?” asked by an astonished Maya. “Yes Ma! I am 100% sure. I overheard their conversation sa office ni dad kanina. I was about to bring them merienda sana when I heard the whole thing,” Nikki explained. Maya, thought for a while, then said, “May iba ka pa bang pinagsabihan nito? Alam ba ng daddy mo na alam mo na?” she asked. “Wala Ma. Wala naman akong pinagsabihang iba. Sa iyo ko lang sinabi. I can’t imagine the hurt you’re feeling all this time dahil nagpanggap si dad na mamamatay na. He’s so G-R-R-R-R talaga! I can’t believe he can be that desperate just to get even with you Ma!” said an already irritated Nikki. Maya was just so glad to have Nikki by her side. Maya asked Nikki not to tell anyone about the whole thing which the latter agreed to eagerly. “So what are your plans now Ma? You’re not going to tell dad na you already know the whole truth?” asked Nikki. Maya thought for a moment when an idea hit her. “Actually Nikki, I just have the right thing..” she said putting a notorious smile on her face. “So gantihan pala Ser Chief ha. Tignan nalang natin kung sino ang unang susuko!” Maya thought. She then got hold of her phone and started calling. “Hello James?” she said.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Maya remained the same. She remained to be the extra loving housewife she was when she’s still trying to win Richard’s forgiveness, after learning that he only has 6 months left to live, and even after learning that Richard had been playing her all along. She never gave any signs to Richard that she already knew the prank that Richard is playing on her. She just let Richard believe that he’s executing his prank on her without flaw.

“Mahal, kumusta ang opisina? Hindi ka ba napagod?” asked Maya as they were preparing for bed. “Ok naman mahal. Wala naman masyadong ginawa kaya hindi naman ako napagod o na-stress,” smiled Richard. “Sigurado ka mahal ha? Alam mo namang ayaw kong napapagod ka lalo na sa kondisyon mo ngayon,” said Maya in a concerned tone. “Mahal,” said Richard as he goes near Maya and hug her, “don’t worry about me too much ok? Ayos pa naman ako eh. Besides, hindi naman porke sinabi ng mga doctors that I only have a couple of months left, yun na talaga ang mangyayari. A lot can still happen in that span of time. Miracles can happen,” Richard said as he planted a kiss on Maya’s forehead. Maya heaving out a sigh, “Sana nga mahal. I always pray na sana mali lang ng diagnosis yung mga doctors. I am always asking for a miracle,” said Maya.

Richard, cupping Maya’s face, looked intently in her eyes, “Mahal, don’t think about it too much ok? Basta, let’s just make the most of the time we have together ok?” he said, smiling warmly at Maya. Maya, managing to return the smile, “Ok. I love you,” said Maya. “I love you too! If I have to battle death so that I will never ever leave your side, I would. Wag lang kitang iwan,” Richard said, giving Maya a light kiss on the lips. “Tara mahal, tulog na tayo,” said Maya. “Ok, let’s sleep na,” said Richard. As always, Richard let Maya lay her head on his arm. Maya cuddled on Richard’s side, her arm on his chest, while Richard’s free hand on her waist.

“Mahal salamat ha,” said Maya. “For what Mahal?” asked Richard. “For letting me know about your condition. I know how hard it is for you. Salamat talaga. At least, masakit man siya, I can somehow prepare myself when that day comes,” explained Maya. Richard planted a kiss on Maya’s head, “Mahal, sinabi ko sa iyo yun kasi ayaw kong maglihim sayo. But don’t let it bother you too much ok?” said Richard. “Ok,” said Maya. “Alam mo ba mahal, nasabi ko nga kay James ang tungkol sa condition mo and yung diagnosis ng mga doctors,” “Hm? Si James? Alam na niya?” said Richard, a bit startled about the idea of James knowing about his supposed condition. “Oo. Wala kasi akong masabihan mahal eh. Hindi ko naman masabi kila Nanay at Kute kasi mag-aalala lang ng husto yung mga yun. Dito sa bahay hindi rin naman pwede. Wala na akong maisip. Since, James has always been a good friend to me, siya yung naisip ko,” explained Maya. “So what did he say?” asked Richard, trying so hard to be casual though jealousy is already simmering inside him. “Well, kilala mo naman si James. He’s trying so hard to comfort me every way he can. Assure me of stuff,” “Assure you? What do you mean assure you?” said Richard with brows furrowed and a tint of irritation already evident in his voice. Maya, smiling all along, “Na hindi ako mag-iisa. Na kahit mabyuda ako, he’ll always be there for me and the kids. He promised me that he’ll help me and the kids cope up with our loss and move on. Nakakatuwa nga kasi he’s more than willing to become a father figure to the kids if the need arises. Napakabuti talaga niyang kaibigan,” said Maya.

Richard didn’t know how to respond or what to say. He never saw this coming. All along, he thought that his plan is perfect, that nothing can ever go wrong. He never thought of James coming to the equation or the thought of Maya needing a comforting hand, well at least not with James. Try as hard as he can, but jealousy is already eating every single piece of him and the one thing that he wanted to do right now is tore James to pieces until there’s nothing left of him.

Maya, sensing the sudden silence of Richard, “Mahal? Ok ka lang ba?” she asked in a concerned tone, looking at Richard’s face, trying to gauge his expression. Richard still lost in his thoughts, “Mahal!” said Maya a little louder while trying to nudge Richard to bring him back to reverie. As Richard was brought back to reality, “Ah yes Mahal. Are you saying anything?” he asked trying to feign a straight face. “Naku Mahal. Siguro inaantok ka na. Sige matulog na tayo. Good night Mahal. I love you,” said Maya. “Good night Mahal,” said Richard.

Richard couldn’t sleep that night. He still cannot get the words of Maya out of his head. “No Maya! This can’t be! Damn Richard! How can you be so stupid! May nalalaman ka pa kasing pa-ganti ganti! Ayan tuloy ang napapala mo! Argh! Si James father figure ng mga bata?? At ano?? Magiging kapalit ko sa buhay ni Maya??? No way!! You’re dead meat James! You’re dead meat!!”

“Kala mo Ser Chief ha? May nalalaman ka pang pa-ganti ganti. May nalalaman ka pang emotional blackmail ha. Sino ngayon ang di mapakali? Kala mo ayos na ang plano mo ha? Ha! Tignan lang natin kung hanggang saan ang kaya mo! Ikaw din ang unang susuko!” thought Maya, with evil laughs on the background of her head, until sleep finally enveloped her. She slept with a mischievous grin that night.

Reservation for Three – Part 3

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to missserenity. This is a continuation to Reservation for Three -part 2.

---

A/N: Medyomabilisang pacing. Bibitininkomuna. Medyomaiklilangbagoyung revelation nung replacement niMangLem. Actually, pagbinasaniyo ‘to, malalamanniyona kung sinoyungkapalitniMangLem. 😉 Don’t worry. It won’t be long until I post the next chapter. May revelation pa at tsakayung Mission Impossible ni Nikki at Emman, abangan! More power to everyone behind EB! Kapit-bisig!

 

Author: missserenity

 

~*~

 

The morning after that conversation with Nikki, Richard contacted MangLem.

Richard: Hello, MangLem.

MangLem: Sir Richard, napatawagpo kayo?

Richard: Gusto koposanana kayo angmaghatidsa’minni Maya sa anniversary naminnamangyayari in two weeks.

MangLem: Sir Richard, pasensyanapo. Naaksidentepokasianganakko. Nasaospitalposiyangayon. Medyoayosnanamanpoanglagayniyasangayonperomukhangmagtatagal pa posiyarito. Hindi koposiyakayangiwanan.

Richard: Kailan ho siyanaaksidenteMangLem?

MangLem: Kahaponlangpo. Hindi ko pa ponasabisainyo.

Richard: Hayaanmo, MangLem. Magpapadalapoakongtulongdiyansainyo.

MangLem: MaramingSalamatpo, Sir. Yung tungkolposamagdadriveparasainyo, hindipobanaaksidenteyunganakko, yungtaongtumulongpokasisaanakko e nakausapko. Hikahos din siyasabuhay at saktongsaktopodahilnaghahanap din siyangtrabaho. Gusto konamanposiyangtulungannahabangwalaakodiyan, e siyanalangpomunaangpanandaliangpumalitsa akin. Para narin pong pasasalamatkosakanyadahiltinulunganniyaanganakko.

Richard: IlangtaonnapobasiyaMangLem? Bata pa poba?Siguradobakayongmapagkakatiwalaannaminsiya? (Ayawnamanni Richard natanggihanang offer niMangLem. Tsakapanandalianlangnaman until makabaliksiMangLem so hinayaannaniya. At least, makakatulongsiyasanangangailangan.)

MangLem: Nako, Sir. Medyomatandanarinpotuladko. Peromagaling at masipag ho siya. Hindi niyapo kayo bibiguin.

Richard: May tiwalapoakosainyo, MangLem. Papuntahinniyonalangposiyasa office bukasng 10 am. Si Liza napoangbahalasakanya.

MangLem: Sigepo, Sir Richard. Makakaratingpoitosakanya. Siguradongmatutuwapoyun.

After that, Richard called Liza.

Richard: Hello, Liza? NaaksidenteyunganakniMangLem and he recommended a replacement for him while he’s away. SiyayungtumulongsanaaksidentenganakniMangLem. I trust MangLem but I still have to be sure so please do a background check on him and interview him, get to know him, okay? Tell me your thoughts on him after. I could have done this myself pero I have a lot of things to do so, ikawmunaangbahala, Liza. He’ll be coming diyansa office at 10 am.

Liza: Okay, sir. Anything else?

Richard: That’s all, Liza. Thank you.

The next day, 10 am sa office ng Lim Aviation Services. Liza was already waiting at the lobby when he saw a man about MangLem’s age telling the security guard nasiyayung mag aapplyna temporary driver nakapalitniMangLem. Liza overheard this so nilapitanniyaanglalaki and she greeted him.

Liza: Hi, ikawnasiguroyungpapalitkayMangLem?

MangLem’s replacement: Opo, Mam. NapakabaitngaponiLem at tinulunganniyaagadakokahitsandali pa lang kami nagkakilala.

Liza: Ganunpotalaga yang siMangLem, matulungin. Tsakaito ho siguroyungparaanniyangpasasalamatdahiltinulunganniyopoyunganakniya. Tara popasokpomunatayosaopisinako at doonponatinituloyangkwentuhannatin.

Teaser:

Liza: Bagopoanglahat, akongapopalasi Liza ang secretary ni Mr. Lim. Hindi ho nabanggitsa’kinni Sir angpangalanninyo.

MangLem’s replacement: Akongapopalasi ….

Habangnangyayariito, nasa meeting si Richard sa conference room.

Liza calling…

Liza: Sir, I need you down here at my office. May emergency po. We really need you here, sir.

Richard: Okay, Liza calm down. Pataposnarinnamanang meeting. I’ll be right there.

Liza: Okay, sir please hurry up. It can’t wait.

(Mapapangalanan din yung temporary replacement niMangLemsa part 4. At ang Mission impossible ni Nikki at Roomie Emmy sa Part 5! Hanggangditolangmuna! Till the next chapters! =))

I’m sorry, I love you – part 7

This is a continuation to I’m sorry, I love you-part 6

Author: Hanah6181

~*~
Chapter 7

“Maya, just answer the question, is going to Goa a choice for you too?”

She was teary eyed when she said in a faint voice. “Yes, it is.”

Richard couldn’t shake off in his memory the response of Maya. It was clear to him; her choice was to go with James. He didn’t expect that it would hurt him that much to see and observe them together. He thought he could still buy time to navigate his feelings for her and be ready to claim her. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the luxury of time. He was so jealous that it hurt so much. This is exactly the kind of pain he wanted himself shielded from. But with loving her, it came with the territory.

Maya didn’t see Richard for the rest of the day. She was told that he was at the shop floor and later joined the engineers for lunch. So, Maya had no choice but to be on her own during lunch.

By mid-afternoon, she was surprised to see a message on her phone. It was from Richard.

“Maya, I’ve gone ahead. I’m going back to Singapore taking the 4:30 pm flight. Enjoy Goa.”

After reading the message, she dialed his number but his phone was off. Her heart was broken into pieces. There were so much that she wanted to discuss with him that evening.

At 11:15 p.m. Singapore time, she called him up again to check if he arrived safely. His phone was still off so she left him a message and asked for a return call if possible.

However, he never returned her call.

~*~
Maya was in hammock watching other guests at Agonda beach. She and James arrived at Goa mid-day and after checking-in, they agreed to meet at the beach front.

The beach resort is a large white sand beach with pristine waters. It’s a quiet place that is more suitable for people who just like to enjoy nature, swimming or just be with their loved ones. It could be considered a lover’s paradise. As she surveyed the place, Maya couldn’t help but think of Richard. She could see herself walking hand in hand with him by the beach. This is the type of beach that he will like and she wished that it was him who were on vacation with her.

Her reverie was disrupted by James spoke to her from the back.

“Hi love, so do you like the place?” James inquired.

“Yes, I do.” She smiled at him.

James joined her in the hammock that could fit two people. Maya moved to allow him more space.

“Maya, you don’t need to move. Kaya nga for lovers ang hammock na ‘to no.” He teased her as he wrapped his arm around her. Maya felt very uncomfortable with his arm in her body.

“James, we’re in a public place.” She reminded him.

“Hmm. Do you want to move inside in a more private place?” He murmured in her ear.

“James! Ano ka ba?” She was getting upset with him.

“Alright sorry. I know you have strict rules that’s why we are booked in separate rooms. Please don’t be mad. I’m a normal man who’s checking whether the rule is still in place or not.” He explained in usual playful manner.

She only rolled her eyes as she got out of the hammock and walked by the beach.

Her thoughts returned to Richard and her wish that he was beside her that moment. She was holding on to her phone hoping that he would call her up. She remained on the beach waiting, day dreaming for the rest of the day.

She was oblivious of James who was either swimming or just watching her from afar throughout the afternoon.

If one would describe this vacation, it was vacation of two lonely people. Maya was longing for someone who was not there while James was longing for someone who is physically close by but mentally and emotionally somewhere else. They practically spent their 2 days separately.

On Sunday, the day of their departure from Goa, James spoke to Maya.

“Love, could we talk, as in seriously talk?” He asked while they were having lunch. They were in a corner part of the hotel’s outdoor restaurant so there were very few people near them. The sun was scorching hot and yet, they both didn’t seem to mind the heat.

She looked at him intently and allowed him to start the conversation.

“Recently, I feel that we’ve not been connecting emotionally. The truth is that my intention for this vacation is really spend time with you and find that connection again. But, I feel that I failed in that aspect. ” He had a sad tone in his voice.

Maya bowed her head and didn’t say anything. So, James continued cautiously. “Please be honest with me. You may have been physically here but I know your mind and heart were somewhere else. Is there something I should know?” James went straight to the point. In his heart, he was nervous that he might get a confirmation of his fear.

Maya’s heart thumped fast. She was equally nervous; her hands were cold. She felt guilt.

She knew this scenario would come one day and this is the day that she has come out clean. “James, I’m sorry. Hindi ko sinasadya… but I’m in love with someone else.” Tears started to flow from her eyes.

It was James turn to look down, his elbows on his knees while pressing his palms on his head. He stayed that way for a while. When he finally looked up, he tried to prevent the tears that were welling up in his eyes. He was afraid of this confirmation and now he heard it directly from her. However, he couldn’t get mad at her. He loves her too much for that while there were many questions flashing in his mind.

“Maya, what did I do wrong? Ang alam ko lang, nagkukulang ako ng time sa’yo. Other than that, ano pa?” His voice was quivering.

“Wala James. It’s not you. It’s me.” She responded, still in tears.

Silence pervaded between them for what seemed to be like eternity for James.

“So, Maya, what do you want to do now?” He found his voice.

“I don’t know. I think I need to let you go. It’s unfair…”

“What do I need to do so I can have you back?” He stood up from where he was seated and almost kneeled in front of her. He was sure he wanted to keep her.

She had no answer but instead she stood up pulling James with her so she could hug him. She held on to him tightly as she cried her heart’s out. “James, I am very sorry.”

James hugged her as well and said close to her ear, “Maya, do you know how painful this is for me? I love you. I don’t want to let you go na ganito na lang. Call it selfish but I can’t just let go of the 4 years we had.”

“James, it would be unfair to keep this relationship. You deserve someone who loves you back.” She said in between sobs.

“If you really want to be fair, then I ask that you think things over. I don’t believe this change of heart can just happen. I’m counting on the friendship we have to keep us together. So, please think things over.”

“James… salamat but I can’t promise anything.” was all she could say to him.

“Can you tell me who is it?” James knew he shouldn’t have asked that because his gut feel tells him it is Richard. He wasn’t that naïve not to notice the unspoken language of the two.

“Hindi na, I’m sorry James.” Maya didn’t want to add more pain than necessary so she didn’t tell him about Richard.

“Okay, I’ll wait for you. Just remember, I love you and I am here for you.”

Later that night when Maya disembarked at Hyderabad airport from her flight from Goa, she received a message from James with an song..

I’ll be Waiting (it’s an Adele song)

I’ll Be Waiting”
Hold me closer one more time, Say that you love me in your last goodbye,
Please forgive me for my sins, Yes, I swam dirty waters,
But you pushed me in, I’ve seen your face under every sky,
Over every border and on every line,You know my heart more than I do,
We were the greatest, me and you,

But we had time against us, Miles between us,
The heavens cried, I know I left you speechless,
But now the sky has cleared and it’s blue, And I see my future in you,

I’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready to love me again,
I’ll put my hands up,I’ll do everything different,
I’ll be better to you,

I’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready to love me again,
I’ll put my hands up, I’ll be somebody different,
I’ll be better to you,

Let me stay here for just one more night, Build your world around me,
And pull me to the light,So I can tell you that I was wrong,
I was a child then, but now I’m willing to learn,

But we had time against us, Miles between us,
The heavens cried,I know I left you speechless,
But now the sky has cleared and it’s blue,
And I see my future in you……

I’m sorry, I love you – part 6

This is a continuation to I’m sorry, I love you-part 5

Author: Hanah6181

Chapter 6

Depending on one’s experience in life, absence makes the heart grow fonder or absence can make the heart look for another one. The later one is more appropriate to Maya after she took he consultancy job in India.

Maya was in euphoric mode in the next two days. She was positive that Richard feels something for her even though he hasn’t verbalized anything to her. It was the way he looks at her that gives away his heart.

She completely forgot about James arrival on Wednesday until she received a message from him at midnight informing her that he has arrived at the hotel and was checking in.

She felt herself panic. Since she started dating James four years ago, their relationship has been smooth sailing. Being a pilot, he was away most of the time but it didn’t affect how they felt for each other. They’ve always found ways to communicate especially with all the communication technology available to them.

Maya went down to the hotel lobby to meet James. He has completed his check-in and was on his way to the elevator with the bell boy carrying his luggage when she met him.

“Hi, James. Kumusta?” She greeted him.

“Hi, love.” He pulled her towards him and gave her a hug. “Kumusta din?”

“Okay naman. Maganda ba ang flight? Gaano ka katagal dito?” She purposely spoke in Tagalog, aware that the bell boy could understand their conversation if she spoke in English. He seemed to be observing them with a confused look and Maya could sense why. This is the same bell boy who’d greet her and Richard every afternoon when they return from the plant site.

“Just for a day. Remember, may agreement tayo. We’ll fly to Goa on Friday morning. I got the ticket for us.” James led her towards the lift.

“Ha? This Friday na? Hindi ko pa nasasabi kay Richard na wala ako sa planta this Friday. At saka, may meeting pa kami with plant leadership tomorrow.” Again, her panic was resurging. It was good that the elevator door opened so she immediately went inside followed by James and the bellboy.

“Who’s Richard?” James asked.

“Ah… yung ka-partner ko sa project. Di ba nakwento ko na sa’yo one time? Actually, s’ya ang project lead.” She was a bit irritated that she might have to describe Richard to him and she has to make it sound neutral so he won’t sense anything.

“So, kasama mo na s’ya sa simula ng project? Dapat makilala ko s’ya.”

“Sige… maybe bukas, I mean later. Madalas naman kaming magbreakfast ng sabay bago pumunta sa planta.” She hoped that James didn’t notice the panic in her tone.

That night, Maya paced back and forth in her room worrying on what will happen the following morning. She felt guilty towards James but at the same time worried what Richard might think about her.

~*~

Maya arrived at the restaurant and found Richard already having his coffee and reading the morning paper.

“Good morning, Richard.” She gave a faint smile as she greeted him.

“Hi, good morning. Anything wrong?” Richard immediately noticed she wasn’t in her usual cheerful self.

“Richard… by the way, I have a guest this week?” She began informing him.

“Really? Good, would you be introducing your friend to me?” He asked not knowing what was coming ahead.

“Yes, James is here, in this hotel too.” She blurted it as quick as she can.
Richard face turned serious when she mentioned the name James. He knows about James but didn’t expect him to come to India to visit her. They’ve never come to a point to discuss about him at length.

“Good. At least your boyfriend visits you.” He gave her a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. He continued reading the paper.

As if on cue, James arrived at the breakfast table to join Maya and Richard.

“Hi love, good morning.” James greeted Maya excitedly.

“Good morning James.” Maya responded.

Richard placed down his newspaper the moment he heard James’ voice greeting Maya.

“Ah… Richard, I’d like you to meet James Ventura. James, this is Richard Lim.” Maya introduced the two. She was feeling very uncomfortable having the two men in her life facing each other.

“Good morning James. It’s good to meet you.” Richard extended his hand for a handshake which James accepted.

“The same here Richard. I hear that you’re the work colleague of Maya here. So, I hope she has been behaving nicely. She can be difficult at times. She’s unique, you know.” James was genuinely glad to see Richard. Although, it crossed his mind that he looked a bit younger than what Maya described him as middle aged man.

“Ah, yes… you must mean her panicky side? I’ve seen that a couple of times” He glanced at Maya and knew Maya was in that mode at that moment.

“Hey, let’s start breakfast guys.” Maya went to the breakfast buffet table to escape from the tension she was feeling. James joined her in selecting the food they will eat.

When they returned to their table, a waiter approached them to offer coffee. It is the waiter who once mistook Maya as Mrs. Lim. The waiter still thinks that Maya is Mrs. Lim.

“Good morning Sir, Madam. Would you like coffee Sir?” The waiter asked James.

“No. Thank you. Do you have tea?” James response to the waiter.

“Yes, Sir, we have various teas here. It comes with the breakfast set as well, Sir.” The waiter was attentive to the hotel guests as usual.

“Good. I’ll just have an English breakfast tea.” James gave the waiter an instruction.

The waiter took a mental note of his order. He then checked with Richard.

“And Mr. Lim, would you like a refill of the coffee?”

“Yes, please.” Richard gave his coffee cup to the waiter while he continued eating his breakfast.

After refilling Richard cup, the waiter took Maya’s cup. “And the madam, here’s your coffee.”

Seeing Maya’s cup being poured coffee, James suddenly interjected. “Ah, waiter, you don’t need to pour the coffee for her. The madam will also have English breakfast tea.”

“Madam?” The waiter asked Maya directly. He takes pride in knowing their guests’ preferences so he had to check with her.

“Yes, Vasu” Maya referred to him in his first name. “I’ll have tea this morning but I prefer ginger tea, please.”

The waiter’s face initially showed confusion. He knows that Maya usually have coffee in the morning but there seems to be a change of preference that day. So, he left the three guests to get the tea.

It was Richard’s turn to ask Maya. “Not having coffee today?”

Maya just looked at Richard, like the cat got her tongue . It was James who answered the question for her.

“Oh, so you don’t know yet. She doesn’t take coffee. She has a form of allergy to it that her stomach gets acidic when she drinks coffee. It’s a kinda weird actually but there were instances before that she’d throw up, gets dizzy or at worst is she gets severe migraine. So, she has shifted to teas.” James held Maya’s hand and found it cold.

“What? Is it true Maya?” Richard asked unable to control his surprise. For several weeks now, Maya has been with him all the time at the coffee shop and he wasn’t aware of this condition of hers.

“I’m sorry, I was just surprised because I haven’t heard of that case before.” He immediately recovered, conscious that he might have shown something that he shouldn’t have.

Finally, Maya found her voice and scolded James. “James, you described it as if it’s a major ailment. That’s not happening now. I am able to tolerate coffee now.”

“Really now?” James was all he could say.

James sensed something was going on. He found it strange that her hand was very cold and she looked serious too. He tried to read her facial expressions and then unconsciously looked at Richard who was looking at Maya intently. It dawned on him that something was happening between the two, as if there were unspoken words between them.

His thoughts were interrupted when Richard stood up and said, “Guys, I’ll excuse myself from breakfast. I need to call someone in Singapore. Maya, take your time. I’ll wait for you at the lobby.” With that, he said goodbye to James.

~*~

At the car going to the plant, Richard and Maya were both quiet while seated beside each other.

It was Richard who broke the silence.

“Maya, we’ve been taking coffee at Coffee Day for weeks now. You didn’t say anything to me about your allergy. How do you manage it? The truth, please.”

“I am on medication, Richard. On my first week here, I had minor migraine attacks and I thought it must be the food here. So, I’ve consulted my doctor and was given a prophylactic medicine for this allergy. I have caffeine allergy primarily from coffee although there are days that I can’t have soda’s and some other types of teas. I still take my medicines up to now.”

“Knowing you have a risk of getting sick in a foreign country, why didn’t you just avoid it? You could just have told me.” Richard said in his serious but concerned tone.

“Richard, at first I wanted to. But then again, what for? I made a choice.” She looked at him intently, hoping he understood how much she wanted to spend time with him during those times.

Richard saw in his peripheral that she was looking at him. He looked out the window trying to figure out what to say next.

“Richard… tomorrow, I will not be at the plant site. I’m going to Goa with James.” Maya informed him nervously expecting him to get upset but he didn’t. He stayed calm but remained quiet for a few minutes.

“Is going to Goa, then, a choice too?” He asked in a cold tone. He didn’t even turn to look at her.

“James made the arrangements himself. So…” She was about to explain but was interrupted by his questioning.

“Maya, just answer the question, is going to Goa a choice for you too?” It was then he turned to face her. The tone of his voice was demanding a definitive answer.

She was teary eyed when she said in a faint voice. “Yes, it is.”

There was silence for the rest of their drive to the plant site.