YO SOY MAYA LA FEA – Parts 1-3

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

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A/N: Hi EB readers! Naisip ko lang po ipag-merge ang dalawa sa favorite seryes ko: ang Be Careful With My Heart at Betty La Fea. I don’t know how the readers will take this… pero try lang po… Take note, alam ko pong napakaganda ni Maya… pero twist lang po ng story… she will start out as an ugly duckling here who eventually will turn into a beautiful swan. =)

Author: CorUnum

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YO SOY MAYA LA FEA Part 1:

AKO SI MAYA, ANG PANGIT

 

Ako si Maya dela Rosa. Pangarap kong maging isang flight stewardess. Bata pa lang ako gusto ko na ‘yun. Gusto ko kasing makasakay sa eroplano. At higit sa lahat, gusto kong makapunta sa iba’t-ibang lugar. Pursigido ako sa aking pangarap. Inspirasyon ko ‘yun kaya nag-aral ako ng mabuti. Kaya sa awa ng Diyos, nag-graduate akong Cum Laude… ‘Yun nga lang, hindi International Studies ang kinuha kong kurso kundi Accountancy (at sa awa pa rin ni Lord, CPA na ako ngayon!). Dalawa ang dahilan, una, hindi afford nina Nanay at Tatay na paaralin ako ng kursong gusto ko. Pangalawa, hitsura pa lang daw ay hindi na ako pasado… Hindi ko naman sinasabing pangit ako… siguro kinulang lang talaga ako sa ganda… sige na nga… medyo ‘di ako maganda… sa unang tingin! Kasi makapal ang sinusuot kong salamin. Walang magagawa… 300 ang grado ng mata ko eh. Tapos dahil sa sungki-sungki kong ngipin, pina-brace ako ng Ninang Fe kong mayaman. Pa-graduate n’ya raw sa’kin. Sabi ni Stephanie, ‘yung ka-batch ko noong College, nerdy daw ang hitsura ko.

Pero alam ninyo, kahit sa tingin ng iba ay pangit ako, pakiramdam ko, may natatago akong ganda… ang problema nga lang, hindi ko alam kung paano ilabas… kasi parang kahit sa akin nagtatago ang ganda ko. Sinusubukan ko namang magpaganda. Nagpopolbo naman ako ng Johnson’s Baby Powder at nilalagyan ng petroleum jelly ang labi ko. Nagpa-full bangs nga ako eh. Kaso parang araw-araw bad hair day ako.

Sa totoo lang naman, hindi ako partikular sa hitsura ko. Kaya lang, nitong mga nakaraang araw, sobrang naisip kong sana ay naging maganda ako. Ngayon kasi naghahanap ako ng trabaho. Kung tutuusin dapat madali akong makakita ng trabaho kasi maganda naman ang Transcript of Records ko. Pero kasi, parang nate-turn off ang mga interviewers sa hitsura ko. Hay, unfair kaya ‘yun! Discrimination ‘yun! Ang mga tao talaga. Hindi lang pala racial ang discrimination. Pati pala sa hitsura.

Nahihiya na nga ako kina Nanay at Tatay. Napaka-supportive naman nila. Hindi naman nila hinihiling sa akin na magtrabaho na ako agad agad! Pero siyempre, gusto kong magkaroon ng magandang trabaho para matulungan ko ang pamilya ko. Isa pa, gusto ko pa ring maabot ang pangarap kong maging flight stewardess. Hindi ko alam eh pero parang may nagsasabi sa aking balang araw, matutupad ko ‘yun… kahit pangit ako. Aba malay ko ba kung magkaroon ng batas na pwedeng maging flight stewardess ang pangit?

“Maya ‘nak! Halika na sa baba at kakain na tayo!” Tawag sa’kin ni Nanay Teresita. “Opo ‘nay!” Sagot ko, sabay ligpit ng mga diyaryong puro gupit na ang classified ads. Bumaba na ako para sabayan sina Nanay Teresita, Tatay Arturo at ang kapatid kong si Cristina Rose, ang aking Kute (Kuya at Ate). Bago kumain ay nagdasal muna kami. “O bunso, mag-a-apply ka ba ulit ngayon?”, tanong sa akin ni Kute. “Oo Kute. Mag-a-apply ulit ako.” “Aba, hanga na ako sa fighting spirit mo. Isang buwan mo nang sinusuyod ang Maynila, ah. Sabi naman sa’yo, tulungan mo na lang ako sa souvenir shop natin.” Sabi ni Tatay. “’Tay, hindi naman po sa ayaw ko sa souvenir shop. Pero mas malaki po ang kikitain ko kung gagamitin ko ang pagiging accountant ko. Tsaka isa pa po, naniniwala akong hindi nagwawagi ang umaayaw at hindi umaayaw ang nagwawagi!” “Naks! D’yan ako hanga sa anak ko!” Natutuwang sabi ni Nanay.

 

“Eh, saan mo ba balak mag-apply ngayon?” Tanong ni Tatay pagkatapos sumubo. “Sa Lim Aviation Services po. Nakita ko po sa classified ads na naghahanap sila ng CPA. Immediate hiring daw.” “Good luck!” Sigaw ng buong pamilya ko. Hindi ko mapigilang hindi ngumiti. “Salamat! Basta tayong lahat….” Sabay-sabay naming sabi: “Kapit-bisig!”

 

YO SOY MAYA LA FEA Part 2:

PALIKERONG SINGKIT

Si Richard Lim… s’ya ang may-ari ng Lim Aviation Services. Bukod sa napaka-galing sa negosyo ay napaka-galing din magpaiyak ng mga babae. “Hindi ko kasalanang hinahabol nila ako.” Sabi n’ya sa best friend at business partner n’yang si Ryan Sandoval. Nakangiti, ngunit napailing na lamang si Ryan. May punto si Richard. Habulin s’ya ng mga babae — magaganda at mapupusok na mga babae. Ayon pa kay Richard, nagiging mabait pa s’ya dahil “pinagbibigyan” n’ya ang mga ito. Pero matapos ang ilang linggo, iniiwan na lamang ni Richard ang babaeng luhaan. “Brod, aminin mo na. Palikero ka!” “No! I just know how to enjoy. And I’m sure, the ladies also enjoy my company.” “Eh naisip mo na bang ang gusto ng babae ay commitment?” “Hindi ko kasalanan kung gusto nila ‘yun. Basta ako, I’m as free as a bird. I haven’t found the girl who will make me want to commit.” “Eh ano nga bang problema mo, Richard Lim? Sa dinami-dami ng mga magagandang babaeng nakapaligid sa’yo, wala kang sineryoso!” Ngumiti lamang si Richard. Hindi n’ya alam. Pero parang may hinahanap pa s’ya. Isang mas malalim na batayan bukod sa pisikal na kagandahan para tumibok ang puso n’ya.

Naputol ang usapan ng magkaibigan nang kumatok si Liza. “Excuse me Sir Richard. Your dad is outside. He wishes to speak with you.” “Sige, Liza. Tell him to come and see me.” “Ah, brod, sige na… babalik na ako sa opisina ko. Nararamdaman kong masasabon ka nanaman ni Tito eh.” Biro ni Ryan. Pagkalabas ni Ryan ay pumasok naman si Don Roberto Lim, ang ama ni Richard. “Pa… please sit down. What brought you here?” Habang umuupo ay tinanong s’ya ni Don Roberto. “Have you hired an accountant na kapalit ni Josephine?” Napataas ang kilay ni Richard. Alam n’yang galit pa rin ang kanyang ama sa biglang pagre-resign ni Josephine, ang CPA ng Lim Aviation Services. “N-not yet. But…” “Ricky, ano ka ba naman?! It’s been a while since she left… tapos wala ka pa ring naiipalit? At isa pa, baka nakakalimutan mo kung bakit biglang umalis si Josephine…” “Pa…” “Oh come on! You flirted with her! ‘Di’ba sinabi ko sa’yo na it’s not a good idea to mess with your employees?” “Pa, I did not flirt with her. She flirted with me!” “Pareho na rin ‘yun!” Muli, natigil ang bangayan ng dalawa nang kumatok si Liza. “Sir Roberto, excuse po. The first applicant for the accountant post is here.” “Ah, yes Liza. Sabihin mo pumasok na rito.” Sabi ni Don Roberto.

“What’s this Pa?” “I’m going to help you interview a new accountant. Ang bagal mo kasi. At isa pa, ayokong magandang babae nanaman ang iha-hire mo at baka maulit ang nangyari kay Josephine!” Napailing na lamang si Richard. Nang pumasok ang aplikante, parehong napatitig sa gulat ang mag-ama.

YO SOY MAYA LA FEA Part 3:

ANG PALIKERO AT ANG PANGIT – ANG PAGHAHARAP

Masakit na ang panga ko sa kakangiti. Pero parang nakakita ng multo ang dalawang mamang singkit na mag-i-interview sa akin. “Good morning po, mga sir.” Sabi ko. “Ah, g-good morning, Ms…” Sabi ng mas nakatatandang singkit. ‘Yung mas bata at mas gwapong singkit mukhang gulat pa rin sa itsura ko. “Maya. My name is Maya dela Rosa sir. I’m applying for the accountant post.” Sabi ko ulit habang pilit na ngumingiti. Hindi ko gusto ang titig sa akin ng dalawang singkit. Hindi ito titig ng paghanga. Titig ito ng pagkagulat. Para silang bagong panood ng The Conjuring. Pero alam kong sa kanila nakasalalay ang career ko kaya ngiti lang ako.

“Ah, please take a seat, Ms. dela Rosa. My name is Mr. Roberto Lim, and this here is my son, Richard. He owns Lim Aviation.” “Good morning, Mr. Lim and… Mr. Richard.” Bati ko habang kinakamayan si Mr. Lim at tinitingnan ang gwapo n’yang anak… ang gwapo n’yang anak na hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa nakaka-recover sa gulat. Umupo na ako. Nakangiti pa rin ako. Si Mr. Roberto Lim ngumiti na rin. Ang anak n’yang si Richard Lim tinanguan lang ako. Tapos tiningnan n’ya ng masama ang kanyang ama. Hmm, parang ‘di ko yata gusto ang ugali ng magiging future boss ko… On second thoughts, baka naman nag-ja-jump into conclusions ako. Malay ko ba mabait s’ya. Tsaka dapat laging good vibes… kaya ngiti pa rin ako!

Prinesent ko na sa dalawang Mr. Lim ang aking application letter at ang credentials ko. ‘Dun na nagsimulang magbago ang kanilang facial expressions. Si Mr. Roberto napasabi pa ng “Impressive…” habang si Mr. Richard naman ay tumango lang ulit. “You seem to be very good, Ms. dela Rosa…” simula ng nakatatandang Lim. “… but you don’t have work experience pa, right? So how can we be assured that you’ll do well?” Dugtong ng kanyang anak. Hay naku! Gwapo na talaga sana itong si Richard Lim masyado lang manghusga sa hitsura. Nahahalata kong ayaw n’ya ako i-hire. Naku, ‘pag ako gumanda WHO YOU ka sa’ken! Pero siyempre, nakangiti pa rin akong sumagot sa kanya. “Yes, Mr. Lim. It is true that as a fresh graduate, I do not have any professional experience yet. But if you re-check the credentials that I just gave you, you’ll see the recommendation letter from Mr. Tantoco, owner of Tantoco Holdings Inc. where I had my OJT. I haven’t read the said letter but from the evaluation score they gave me, I am assured that the recommendation letter is to my advantage. Since I performed well in my OJT, it comes to show that I can also perform well professionally.” Tumigil ako para tingnan ang kanilang reaksyon… at nagustuhan ko ang nakita ko kaya itinuloy ko ang mini-speech ko. I really want this job! “Isa pa Mr. Lim, I think there will be no harm in hiring me. Kaya nga po may probationary period ‘di’ba? If you find that I am not efficient enough, pwede naman po akong tanggalin. But I think you’d agree na it isn’t wise not to hire an applicant because she’s a fresh graduate.” Tinapos ko ang mini-speech na nakangiti.

Nagkatinginan ang mag-ama. Maganda na ang ngiti ni Mr. Roberto. Ito namang si Richard Lim ay napa-buntong-hininga at tumango. “Well, Richard I think Ms. dela Rosa here will make a very good employee. What have you to say?” Tanong ni Mr. Roberto Lim sa kanyang anak. Tumingin sa akin si Mamang Pogi na sana. “I think my Dad is right. It’s worth a try. You can start tomorrow, Ms. dela Rosa.” Sabi niya habang ini-e-extend ang kanyang kamay para makipag-shake hands. Sinubukan kong ipakita sa kanya ang confidence sa aking handshake. Effective naman siguro… kaya lang nang magdaop ang aming mga palad ay may kung ano akong naramdaman… hindi ko alam… pero para akong kinuryente…

To be continued… Next Chapter po: HINDI MO CRUSH SI PALIKERONG SINGKIT

Accidentally in Love – part 7

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to joyfuljoyce. This is a continuation to Accidentally In Love- part 6.

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A/N: Hi to all! Well, this is the last chapter of my story, I hope you will all like it. It’s lengthy so I hope you won’t get bored.  I apologize for any errors. So further ado I now give you…

 

Author:joyfuljoyce

 

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Accidentally In Love 7 – The Finale

 

The moment he’s out of the office, Maya with no warning pulled him and dragged him out to their garden…

“Wait Maya, hindi mo naman ako kailangan kaladkarin eh, ”

“Mr. Lim! Ano sa tingin mo ang ginagawa mo ha? Gusto mo atang atakihin ang Papa ko. Alam mo bang kagagaling lang nya sa sakit tapos bibiglain mo ng ganun? Paano kong may mangyari sa kanya ha —“ she stopped when she noticed the sudden change of his mood, he was smiling displaying his dimples making his chinito eyes a bit more chinky.

Richard released a small sigh, and he held Maya standing before him…He looked steadily into her eyes and said…

“Marry me Maya!”

————

Maya got surprised by the suddenness of his proposal, she grew silent and just stared back at him not really knowing how to respond. When she managed to recover she put her hands to her waist and with a frown on her face began to ask.

“Alam mo ba yang sinasabi mo Richard?”

Noticing her reaction he knew he was being unreasonable considering the total obscurity of their circumstances.  They have not talked seriously about it In the first place, well they tried to but he always starts with his temper on thus ending up clashing with her and as a result no clarity only sheer confusion and frustration for both of them.

So what he needs to do now is to justify the wisdom behind his sudden proposal, but he seemed to have lost his presence of mind whenever he’s with her…He needs to think quick…His mind is in a rush… “C’mon Richard! Think!” So tentatively he said what his mind had come up with.

“I uhm… I should be taking responsibility for what happened—you know—between…us, what if I— got you— pregnant?—“

He felt awkward. It was one thing to find it a reasonable and another to actually be talking to her about it. He too was not convinced so he added…

“You, your father…well, we all have our reputations here… So… Let’s make things formal Maya— Marry Me!”

And knowing that if Mr. Arturo could have chosen freely for himself he would definitely choose James for Maya. Again he added…

“Well, I asked your father if I could—marry you—and he said…it’s for you to decide…Besides you’re going to get married anyway…he’s insisting you on marrying James diba? so… why not just marry me…It would—only be— fair that we get married… you know what I mean… right?  So—”

He said it like it was so simple not realizing the enormity of it to her. Vexed upon hearing all his lousy reasons she thought she had heard enough. She cut him off.

“Tama na Richard! She said irritably.

“Pupunta-punta ka dito inaway at ininsulto mo pa ako tapos ngayon…”  She sighed as she looked away for a moment and looked back at him annoyed.

“Ano bang akala mo sa’kin? Easy easy lang? Kung maka pag salita kayo ng kasal akala nyo ganun lang kadali yun! Simula kanina wala kang ibang ginawa kundi awayin ako—“

“Maya listen—“Richard wanted to explain further but Maya did not let him finish…

“At para sabihin ko sayo Mr. Lim, walang sapat na dahilan para pakasalan kita, unang-una wala tayong relasyon…at hindi porket gusto ni Papa na makasal na ako eh agad na akong papayag na mag pakasal sayo…”

“Maya!—“he interrupted but Maya kept on talking.

“At kung yung mga nangyari lang naman sa’tin yang dahilan mo, wag kang mag alala dahil hindi kita inoobliga na pakasalan ako dahil lang dun…siguro nga nadala lang tayo ng sitwasyon kaya— “with ice in her voice she added.. “Kalimutan na lang natin yung nangyari… pwede ka ng umalis!”

She was very much disappointed from the tone of her voice to hear his desire to marry her as a matter of formality on his part and what would seem like a bargain just to save his untainted reputation. Yes, he’s man enough to take responsibility but hearing all those reasons gave her some faint shadows of encouragement to talk to him and to even continue to listen to him. So the best way to mollify herself was to end the conversation.

“What? No! I’m not leaving unless we make this clear Maya” He retorted

“Clear? Okay… No! Yan ang sagot ko! I’m not going to marry you! Klaro na ba yun? Now if you’ll excuse me papasok na ako at makaka alis ka na!” She said firmly.

The manner of her reply was a bit fiery that he got astounded and could only blink at her. It took him awhile before he recovered from what he could think of as another rejection.

“We’re not through yet” He said sullenly

“I just said no! Kaya wala na tayong pag uusapan!” She was going away when he stepped in front of her and detained her, holding her by the arm. She struggled to get away but he was holding her too tightly.

“Richard Ano ba, bitawan mo nga ako!”

But Richard didn’t mind her. He’s been at indefinite pains lately all because of her and he wants to punish her for that. So quickly, he grabbed her close and kissed her on the lips forcefully for the second time. He’s done it again but this time she will not tolerate it. She pushed him with all her might until she was able to break away and with no gentle hands she slapped him. His face reddened his eyeglasses slid down a little, and his jaw tightened.

There was a momentary pause, until they had managed to move. He flicks his eyeglasses back into place. Maya made a single step backward. Her eyes grew wider, shocked at her reflex that she couldn’t believe she had slapped him. She felt remorse after seeing his face reddened.  She wanted to caress it but too afraid that he might shove her hands off.

Richard was emotionally affronted by her response and the tiger within him is heating him up but instead of making another move or saying another word that would make her angry even more, he decided to let this one pass. He will constrain himself to be temperate this time. He managed to calm himself down suppressing the increasing temper within him then looked at her earnestly.

“Maya…” he uttered almost in a whisper.

She was not sure but she saw him quite dejected while he uttered her name. The tone of his voice and the way he looks at her pinched her in the inside. They did not move. With a total silence they stood fairly still and just stared at each other…And then he broke the silence.

“Why do you keep on rejecting me?” He asked in a subdued tone.

“Ayaw mo ba sa’kin?— Mas gusto mo ba si James?—Was that the reason why you left?—Then how about that night after the gala?—Wasn’t that real?”

“Tell me straight…kahit konti ba wala kang nararamdaman para sa’kin?—Because if you don’t then I— I won’t be bothering you anymore. I will leave you alone if that’s what you want…but I beg you this time to answer me honestly Maya… “

With only a scrap of courage he pushed himself to ask those distressing questions. He needs to know if she also had even the slightest of feeling towards him. This time there is no pausing on the brink for him, no looking down or looking back. He was determined to clarify things between them once and for alland he needs to know the answer now.

In a pause which ensued she asked diffidently. “Bakit…Bakit mo gustong malaman?”

“I just need to know because I—“

“ I love you…” he uttered in a subtle way and there was such a deep fondness in his eyes with the way he delivered those words to her. She was caught off guard.

Her eyes rested on him, listening to him with deepest attention. It warmed her heart to know that he has loved her too.  All those questions were merely a confirmation but she didn’t expect it coming…those last three words were like a melody to her ears that it just swept her and she felt it. For her, there never can have been anybody who can make her feel angry and pleased at the same time. And the way he looked right through her had such a fervent appeal so tenderly that got her carried away. She was gone head long before she had sensed to say a word to him.

 

There was a momentary silence again as he waits for her reply. Procession of tremendous considerations already marching his mind, supposing she would say another word of rejection. Anxious about it, he was already entertaining the thought of falling upon his knees before her just to implore her not to rend his heart. Yes, he was willing to do it like a hopeless crazy old fellow in all. He can no longer settle himself whether it was in her own little tormenting or reserved way that she kept silent and would only look at him.  There was torture inside him. She is such a cruel woman he thought.

She barely shook her head her eyes now were in a moment cast down and tears fell fast. Her emotions overflowed her chest so spontaneously that she clasped her right hand to it and with a fast beating heart she went into his arms at once.

She falls headlong into him and caught her in his arms that he barely kept his balance. Quite hesitant, he moved to embrace her, took her weeping closed in his arms like he was her best support. He closed his eyes released out a sigh. He felt relieved. With that indication there was no more words needed from her. He felt it.  They both have felt it as if they had released out a heavy burden within them.  All it takes was to tell him exactly about what he feels for her and all she needed was to hear those three pleasurable words coming from him.

“Ri-chard…” she finally spoke, it was all she could managed to say.

They remained hugging each other for who knows how long, until she inclined her head to him with hands rested on his broad chest and her sweet eyes shining through her tears. He wiped the tears on her face gently through his knuckles.

”Richard… Sorry—I’m sorry, nabigla lang ako.” She said in between sobs  “Sorry kung hindi ko sinabi kaagad yung tungkol sa’kin, sorry kung — “

“SSShhh” he shushed her gently and grasped her chin with his thumb and index finger.

“It’s alright” He moved his hands and scooped her face brushing away the tears residue with his thumb. He kissed her forehead and hugged her as before, moving his arms clasped round her. She laid her soft, pretty cheek against him and whispered. “Mahal kita Richard”

His chinito eyes grew wider, he wasn’t expecting to hear those words from her. As soon as it sank in, he closed his eyes and tightened the hug. They savoured the moment with no further words spoken only the beating of their hearts, laying their mind before each other truly and entirely. From that moment, finally the state of doubt for them was over.

——

Mr. Arturo appeared in the doorway to their garden, he was talking to someone on his phone and  saw them both. He smiled and turned back inside.

——–

Slowly they broke away from the hug. They smiled sweetly at each other. “So w’e’re okay now?” Richard asked. She nodded.

He rolled his eyes “So… will you marry me na?”

Her eyebrows creased in an instant. “Ugali mo ba talaga yang nambibigla?—Kanina tinanong mo ako nyan—tapos kunga anu-ano yang pinag sasabi mo. Tapos yung ano—yung…” She pointed her lips..

“Continue Maya..” he said smiling.

“Richard naman eh”

He laughed heartily. “Alright..The answer is No! It’s not my thing to surprise anyone for marriage sayo lang and I’m serious when I offered you that. And again no! I don’t kiss any girl if I’m mad. Sayo ko lang din nagawa yun.”

Maya: “Magkalinawagan nga tayo Richard…Hindi pwede sa tuwing galit ka ay gagawin mo na sa’kin yun, mali yun..nag kakaintindihan ba tayo?”

Richard: “I can’t promise you that..”

Maya: “Ah ganun.. gusto mo ulit masampal?”

Richard: “Believe me Maya, you forced me to do that!”

Maya: “At kasalanan ko pa ngayon? Ganun?”

Richard: “ Yes! Because you are such a cruel..cruel woman. From the very start you are harsh to me— “Remember the first time we met? You accused me of being a thief!”

Maya:“Malay ko ba, di ka nag pakilala eh”

Richard: “The next day, binuhusan mo pa ako ng kape”

Maya: “Uy aksidente yun!”

Richard: “Di ka pa na kontento, pinahiya mo pa ako sa mga empleyado ko for letting me wear that “janitor” shirt.”

Maya: “Eh, wala ka rin naming choice diba?”

Richard: “Sa dami maya hindi ko na iisa-isahin, but one thing I did not really liked—at all”

Maya: “Hmmm…Ano naman yun?”

Richard: “ When you left me!”

Maya: ——-

Richard: So what have you got to say next?

She shook her head because she knew he was right. She was cruel for doing that.

“Eh, diba nga nag sorry na ako. At diba okay na tayo?”

“Okay, then marry me if you really are sorry.”

“Ha? Na naman?”

“Why not?— doon din na man tayo papunta diba? Look Maya… I know… We both know things happened so fast between us, kaya…lubos-lubosin na natin. And one thing, you had this attitude of running away, so the best remedy for that is to tie you!”

“Ang daya mo ha ni hindi mo nga ako niligawan…pero girlfriend mo na agad ako! Yung iba nga nag date muna, bago nag propose…pero ikaw puro ka short cut! Hmmph ” Maya said pouting her lips in her childish way.

“Eh iba tayo eh”

Maya did not answered back she just arched her eyebrows.

“So…Maya, what now?”

Richard sighed “Alright…I’ll give you time to think about it okay? Fair na ba yun?”

With a smile she nodded in agreement.

The beautiful calm manner went back. His chinito eyes showed only warmth and humor despite everything, she was the love of his life and she was her true love indeed and no amount of words needed to explain it further. They love each other and that was all that matters.

———-

They went inside the house hand and hand but they withdrew it timidly when they saw Maya’s father on the sofa reading some news papers and as soon as he heard them he put the newspaper to his side and rose up.

“Good, you’re done. Richard, let us continue with our talk and you Maya…well, make yourself useful, perhaps you could prepare dinner, dito mag hahapunan si Richard”

They looked at each other in a stunned silence.

——–

Richard and Mr. Arturo sat across the table on the veranda. For some time they held no conversation with Richard only observing Mr. Arturo stirring his coffee and then taking a sip on it.

“So Mr. Richard, is there anything you want to tell me?— I just had talked with James, you never told me that you are Richard Lim of the LGC”

“Uhm… well I thought it’s okay if don’t use my surname sir” replied Richard.

“Anything you want to tell me Richard?”

“Ah…what do you want to know Sir?”

“I want to know everything about you”

So Richard began talking to Mr. Arturo everything about his background. It took them almost an hour, Mr. Arturo would ask and he would answer it honestly until they talked about Maya.

“Richard, you asked me to give you a chance to prove yourself to me and to my daughter and as any father would wish I want Maya to be with the one who can take care and love her. And since you had confided your interest in marrying her I can’t see any problems with that for as long as you promise that you will truly love her and will never hurt her in any way.”

With no tinge of hesitation and doubt he answered…“ Sir I truly love Maya and I won’t do anything to hurt her. I promise you that”

“I saw you both earlier—“

Richard was alarmed. He was hoping that he didn’t see the earlier part when he was kissing her daughter “forcefully” or else it would be the end of him.

“I guess I have no choice but to welcome you in our family” Mr. Arturo had assumed that he was okay now with Maya judging from what he had seen earlier.

Richard can now breathe. He felt relieve, good thing he didn’t see that censored part. He thought.

“And there’s one thing I have to ask you Richard”

“Ano po yun?”

“Convince Maya to marry you— dahil gustong-gusto ko na talagang mag ka apo.—So work on that Richard and don’t tell Maya anything about this okay?”

“What do you mean Sir? Work on the marriage or the—baby?” He asked bashfully.

He motioned Richard to come closer. He whispered to him…

“Work on them both” Mr. Arturo said seriously.

Richard couldn’t agree more he could only nod surprised to know that he’s got Maya’s father as his major back up. He was thankful that everything is going well for him smoothly so far.

“And Richard… stop calling me Sir. Call me like what Maya use to call me since you are going to be my future son in law. Are we now clear?”

——-

They continued talking over dinner with business as their main topic, it was their common interest, and they exchange views about it with Maya completely being out of place because business was never her interest.  Well, it seems Richard now has taken her place, she thought.

——–

3 weeks had passed  with Richard being in Manila while Maya in San Nicolas, they still haven’t seen each other since their last talk in San Nicolas because of the conflict of their schedules. They only talk through calls and they have been missing each other so much that most of the time Maya could not fall fast to sleep thinking about Richard. And as much as she wanted to call him, she doesn’t want to disturb him for she knew that he also had to rest considering how busy his schedules were.

Richard was very much busy with the company expansions. He meets up with potential investors and visits their ongoing projects that sometimes he forgot to take his meals though he always finds time to call and talk to Maya. He always gets home late. And as much as he wanted to call her and talk to her late at night he doesn’t want to disturb her sleep.

——

Richard came home late, he found himself musing profoundly over the veranda. He glanced moodily around and he found emptiness. He was really missing her girlfriend. He could not satisfy himself with just a call and video chats. He wants her, He needs to see her badly. Immediately he decided to cancel all his meetings tomorrow to spend time with her.

——-

It was 11 am and Maya was already on her office signing and reviewing some papers. Her secretary was on leave so she had to do all the work today. She was simple yet attractive in her kind of way wearing a black above knee-length skirt and a beige blouse tucked in under her black blazers.

The good thing about her was that she was never bossy, she always maintain good relations to their employees and seldom seen angry or frustrated when it comes to work. Too considerate being a boss as her employees would say. That’s why they love and respect her so much.

She’s constantly glancing at her phone for a text message or missed calls from Richard but was disappointed for she got none. It was unlikely that Richard would not text her if he was really that busy. She knows he would find time to text or call her despite how busy he must be.

“Nakaka inis yung singkit na yun.. kinalimutan na ata ako.. Lagot sya sa’kin.”

To mollify herself she got out her office and went towards the photocopying machine near the employee’s cubicles to reproduce some papers herself. While navigating the machine, the paper got jammed and it has stopped working.

“Ay…Naku paano ba to?” She was smashing the machine side by side in hope of fixing it, she was doing it again and again but still not working.

——-

Richard peered at his watch it was exactly 10.45 o’clock when he arrived in San Nicolas. Liza already had arranged all accommodations on his behalf. He went straight to the hotel first to fetch some flowers he ordered and will go directly to DRVF building.

——-

Using a rented luxury car he drove excitedly to his Maya with flowers placed on the front seat. He arrived at exactly 11 am. As he entered the main entrance, everyone in that floor looked straight at him. He was wearing a jeans and what would looked like an expensive brown leather jacket with a black V-cut undershirt. Holding a bundle of flowers, he went straight to where Maya is. He just walked looking as though he was a recognized personage in the building. Well he is actually, for some. Women whom he passed by were feeling giddy over him, others were gossiping. But He didn’t mind them looking at him, he got used to it somehow. He entered the lift.

The lift went open and immediately he saw the prospect in the distance.  She was on a corner, near the employee’s workspace, he creased his eyebrows to see her slamming a hand on the machine. He went closer.

——-

“You’re destroying it” came a voice from behind her that made her straightened up. She recognized whose voice it was. She turned around to see him appearing before her with a bundle of flowers.

“Richard…Anong gingawa mo dito?” she was really surprised to see him.

“Visiting you of course” he answered briskly.

“Sana tumawag or nag text ka man lang ng sa ganun hindi na ako nag aalala”

“Well I want to surprise my girlfriend” He smiled so sweetly and gave her the flowers which she accepted wholeheartedly. To see her lay the flowers against her chin was to lose all presence of mind. He really had missed her, for him a day without her was not a thing to have on any terms. Right away he hugged her and he whispered to her ear “I missed you”

They made such a disturbance to the working employees, everyone’s eyes were on them with Richard completely forgetting about it. Maya craned her neck and got conscious to their employees watching them so she tugged his sleeve.

“Richard…pinag titinginan na tayo oh…nakakahiya”

He breaks away and turned his attention to the curious employees. He cleared his throat then everyone went back to what they’re doing.

“Maya… I think we need privacy” he whispered.

Maya nodded in agreement.

They headed to Maya’s offices and as soon as they were inside he resumed his unfinished business by pulling her close to him putting his hands around her waist. They were facing each other, she covered her face with the flowers so he could not see her blushing, she was smiling from ear to ear feeling giddy all over again. Slowly Richard moved the flowers from her face and without warning, he gave her a smack on the lips one after another and another.

To Maya’s surprised she slapped him on his chest… Ikaw talaga ang daya mo. She laugh pleasantly. Suddenly Richard’s expression turned serious, his eyes getting narrowed and wetted his lips…In a slow motion he leans his head down…Slowly until it came very close to her lips and—

“BESSIEEE  Look whose here—“

Emman without knocking entered Maya’s office startling both Richard and Maya. Their eyes grew open and quickly broke up. Emman too was surprised to see them, they all felt awkward and a tinge of guilt had shown on Emmans face.

“H-hi Bessie…ah ano..kasi.. Andito si Sir…J-James” He was in a tremulous state when he saw Richard glaring at him.

Ah.. sige Bessie may gagawin pa pala ako.. ba-bye then went out immediately.

Richard turned his head to Maya, his eyebrows furrowed. “James?”

“Ah Oo,  diba nga gina-guide pa rin nya ako, siyempre nasa learning stage pa ako kaya kinailangan kong komunsulta sa kanya. Isa pa anak sya ni tito Vergilio, kaya natural lang nandito sya.”

“Did it ever occur to you to consult me? You must have forgotten that your boyfriend is a President and CEO unless you are underestimating my capacity”

“Uy hindi ah..Kaya nga ayaw kitang isturbohin eh kasi nga super busy ka.”

“Ayaw istorbohin o gusto mo lang kasama yung James na yun”

Maya kept her cool she’s somehow used to his “topak” She sensed that he was just feeling uneasy jealousy towards James. So she wants to appease him.

“Richard naman eh.. boyfriend na kita at lahat jelly ka parin hmmm..” She clasped her arm around his shoulder.

“Uyy ngingiti na yan”

He looked away. He’s not minding her so she poked his side which made him shift a little.

“Maya stop that!” But she poked him again..

“I said stop that! Im serious!”

Maya glowered over his reaction so she withdrew her hand from his shoulder.

“Pupunta-punta ka dito tapos magagalit ka…Umuwi ka na nga lang sa Manila. She walks off to her desk and sat on her swivel chair.”

There was a knock, the doorknob tick open and James appeared by the door…

“Hello Maya” He greeted without seeming to notice Richard. He walks inside and got surprised to see him.

“Richard, it’s good to see you…your probably visiting the site If I’m not mistaken?” he stretched out his hand to him.

Richard received his hand and shook it. “well actually I’m visiting my girlfriend. His eyes shifted to Maya. James glanced at Maya and smiled.

“I see” James replied. Well I just visited dad and went to say hi to my friend here (emphasizing the word friend) pero sa tingin ko nakaka isturbo ako. So I think I’ll better leave you two.

“No James it’s okay…baka may pag uusapan kayo ni Maya”

“No Mr. Lim, I just want to say hi that’s all” with that he made a brisk salute to Richard and waved to Maya and a moment later he got out.

Richard excused himself to Maya and got out as well. He called James back for a little talk.

—-

There they stood in a corner…

“James I thank you for helping Maya out, I really appreciate it… But I just want to inform you that from now on I’ll be the one to guide her with regards to business matters so you won’t be bothered anymore. I know busy ka rin.”

“No problem Richard… well, that’s good I’m sure everything will be easy for her now…and oh Tito Arturo told me that you’ll be getting married to her anytime soon… So I guess, congratulations…You’re one lucky man!”

“Thanks James. Lucky man indeed” they shook hands, he was thankful that James was such a good sport. Now everything is settled. No more James. No more reason to get jealous. He will now go back to Maya and it was his turn to appease her.

——–

“Hey…” She ignored him.

“I’m sorry okay” still no reply from her. So he went to her side and folded his knees down to level with her but she’s busying herself with the computer.

He poked her.

“Stop that Richard! I’m busy!”

He poked her again.

“Nakakainis ka talaga… Sabi ng busy ako eh!” she scowled at him.

“I said I’m sorry…”then he stole a kiss on her cheek.

Wala na…nawala na yung tampo ko… kasi naman itong singkit na ito! Kung di ko lang talaga mahal…naku!

Just like that she smiled at her own thoughts. He stood up and offered his hand. She took it and they resumed what they have left off, this time Richard made sure to lock the door.

—–

Richard took Maya for lunch at their subsidiary hotel in San Nicolas. After that they went to the rooftop of the hotel for them to unwind and have their moment. Everything was arranged beautifully and romantically. There installed a little covering with flowers on the sides, it was like a picnic style set up. Credit all to Liza. The wind was never harsh and everything was fresh and quiet.

They spend the time talking and laughing for hours, enjoying, savouring their moment together. Richard would never get tired to do this for her. He would do it every day if she wishes him to. They decided to have their dinner with Maya’s father. It was late in the afternoon when they drove their way to the dela Rosa residence.

——

They took an early dinner after that they made a little conversation over the veranda. It was growing pretty late at night and it’s time for Mr. Arturo to take a rest.  Richard being part of the family was offered by Mr. Arturo to spend the night with them, but told him that it shouldn’t necessarily be with Maya. Richard could only laugh. He greeted each Maya and Richard a good night and headed to his room. Maya went to her room to change into her sleeping pajamas. While Richard on the guest room taking off only his leather Jacket.  They went back to the veranda and sat next to each other.

“Gusto mo ba ng kape? Ipag titimpla kita…wait lang” Without waiting for his reply she went downstairs. She’s back with two cups of coffee on both hands. She sat down and placed their coffee on the table.

He took a sip…

“Hmmmm… your coffee is the best”

She replied with her sweetest smile.

He smiled back for a moment and slowly his expression transformed into an unreadable expression. He bent down his head looking at his coffee with spoon going round and round as he stirred it. He shook his head. He turned his head to look at Maya, fixing his eyes only on her. The soft lightings falls on her which made her face brighter even more. Her eyes were shining, her smiles were simply the sweetest.

Maya got conscious by him observing her the whole time. She looked away opposite to him putting her right hand on her neck propping up on her elbow just to avoid his gaze. When she glanced up to him again she saw him looking at her still. She blushed. “ Naku eto na naman tayo Maya” she murmured. But it was an audible murmur.

Richard was aware to her conscious state. He couldn’t hide his smiles away seeing her in her most fascinating little ways. He could have looked at her for hours. He could have looked at her forever.  He made up his mind. This time there is no turning back. He resolved to settle himself with her. He always wants to see the woman he had never seen without a feeling of happiness and satisfaction. He wants to be with her every morning when he wakes up and every night before he sleeps. He wants to be beside her always and forever.

He rose up and sidled into her side, bends down his knees. He fished out a blue velvet box from his side pocket and opened it. There have shown a radiant luxurious diamond ring shining upon her.  He took a deep breath…

“Maya…I want to have coffee with you—for as long as we both shall live… Would you—be kind enough to serve it for me—Forever? Before he knew it his eyes were sparkling with tears.

He moved her deeply to see him down on his knees, crying and she never saw him crying before, to hear him deliver  his sweet words of affection was to lose all her power of language. Her tears fall fast and her heart overwhelmed. And when she looked at the ring gleaming on her she knew she was ready.  Yes, she resolved to settle herself with the man who could have won the love and admiration of many just as he had won hers.

“Yes!” she said in tears. He hugged her tightly like he never did before. “I love you” he whispered. “I love you too” she replied. And those words soothed them to weep.

All at once in the serenity of the night, their heart spoke, clinging to each other with utmost trust and great love. For that moment they held at last the source of every worthy aspiration they had ever had.

——–

2 months after…

He was feeling misty and unsettled kind of state as he awaits for his bride. His knees were shaking. Hands were trembling. His heart was beating fast. He saw her finally, walking on the isle. There was a heavenly light coming from the church window and it fell on her face. She was bright, she smiled at him and everything else fades away. One face shines upon him by which he sees no other images as more beautiful beyond everything. The woman whom he had never seen without a feeling a satisfaction was smiling at him with tears on her eyes. She was getting closer and closer until he received her.  They knelt down together side by side before the altar with their hands trembling, they looked at each other with smiles and tears. The clergyman went on with their clerk appearing, the services began in a deep and solemn manner all being very attentive. And with the all services being got through they stood up facing each other. “You may now kiss the bride”

With that signal he lifts up her veil, smiled sweetly and kissed her tenderly. There were claps and well wishes from their enthusiastic visitors. All eyes on them as they walk arm in arm waving at everybody. For them everything was perfect it was all a consummation of happiness that had been meant just for the both of them.

—–

Finally the moment Richard had been looking forward to have finally arrived. Their honeymoon!  They’d be spending it in one of their exclusive resorts in Palawan for a week. It seems such a wonderful thing for Richard to have Maya finally this solo.

On their very first night while he sat down on their king sized bed peering through their itinerary he saw Maya appeared from the bathroom with her bathrobe on. She went to the closet beside their bed to arrange their clothes. Boy, she didn’t have any idea that there was already turmoil inside her husband. He was biting his lips as he stared at her every detail. He cannot contain his necessity so he calls her with voice a bit husky…

“Maya” Then he tapped the empty space beside him motioning her to sit next to him.

Maya only smiled at him.

“Just do that later Maya”  no reaction from her.

“Maya please!”

Now she glanced at him and replied… “Ricky marami pa akong gagawin, mag aayos pa ako ng mga gamit natin oh. Behave ka muna  dyan okay”

“Maya!” He called her again this time with a fiery tone. But Maya was busy arranging their things so she ignored him.  It seems it would now require a tamer for she was totally upsetting her tiger husband.

No such hope dawned on him so he went outside to take a breather just to cool himself off.  He was just so upset with Maya but he knows he has to control himself. He can’t, no he shouldn’t and he wouldn’t force her this time as much as he wanted it very badly.  He doesn’t want Maya to get angry especially now that they were in their honeymoon or else he could not get any score from her. It was windy outside yet it did not by any means relieve the urgency within him, he was excited and all only to be disappointed on their very first night as a couple!  So he decided to just go back inside. This time he laid himself in bed with great frustration. He was tossing and turning. Sat up and lie down then sat up again. He released a deep sigh and scowled at Maya. He shook his head as he narrowed his chinito eyes.

I can’t believe I had this satisfaction of marrying a cruel woman… He thought.

Unknown to Richard Maya was grinning the whole time. She knows she’s got a lot of making up to do later.

——–

1 year after…

In a quiet air Richard stood musing profoundly over the veranda. He smiled and shook his  head remembering his journey . It was one heck of a journey with her. Maya bumping into him that seemed to be more than just by chance not knowing that he was already meeting the love of his life. She came right in time for him, yes it crossed his mind to use her as his wife for the sake of acquiring his fortune, but his heart betrayed him. Before he knew it he was already swallowed up into an abyss of love in an instant.  He smiled at the thought of it all. She made him feel klutzy despite how perfect others may see him he was simply being his old self whenever he’s with her.  She had stolen every part of him harmoniously, his brain, his heart, his soul. He sees the subject beside him smiling at him so sweetly. She was his fortune, his property, his pride, his pleasure ,his life and he had gone on loving her harder than ever  especially now that she was carrying his junior and it will only be just a month before he comes out. Finally naka isa din!

—–

The End!  J

Author’s Note:

Their story may not be as extraordinary but surely it shows that love does not necessarily be in the right place or at the right time, it is beyond measure and unexplainable. “Accidentally In Love” as the title suggests; love appeared inevitably and can be extraordinary even in the tiniest lapse of time or in the most unfavourable circumstances it encompasses complexity and unpredictability. But through it all I agree with Paolo Coelho that:

“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced, never explained. Love is such a thing”

——-

To all my readers, I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I know this isn’t much but I really appreciate all of you for taking the time to read my story and having the patience to wait for it. Your comments have been the source of inspiration while I wrote the story. This will only be my story. I decided to go and stick to being an avid reader. And credit to the BCWMH writers and all the people behind it for they gave us such a daily dose of kilig and good vibes. I thank EB Admins as well for creating this site, this has been our refuge in times of stress, pressures and disappointments plus a wonderful tool to escape such a harsh realm of reality.

Thank you all, Godbless and more power!

This has been you joyfuljoyce now signing off!

 

 

 

After All – part 12

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to spazzbuster. This is a continuation to After All – part 11.

---

A/N: Hi Everyone, 

 

Took me quite a long time before finishing this chapter. Thanks for the comments in the previous one. I will be quite busy in the next few days because of work. So, it might just take  a longer time for the next installment. 

 

Thanks for the feedback in advence 🙂

 

Here goes….

Author: spazzbuster

~*~

Part 12:  The Hopefuls

 

After his talk with Simon, Ser Chief became even more anxious to talk to Maya again. With Simon hanging around Maya, his chances of winning her back became slimmer. At this point, he just have to trust his kids’ plan and the hope that Maya still loves him.

 

He hurriedly went up to the hotel room where he and his kids will be staying for the week. They have to act fast now that Simon is in the picture. As soon as he entered the room, he was surprised by what he saw. On the floor are various cartolinas, coloring pens, scissors, pentel pens, cut-outs. His kids are all too busy with their individual work that they didn’t even bother sparing him a greeting. A smile slowly made its way to his lips.

Ser Chief: Well, well, well. I guess you guys can’t be disturbed.

Nikki: (finally looking up from what she’s sticking on the cartolina) Oh Dad, you’re back. Good, I’ve been meaning to ask, what’s your term of endearment for Ate Maya ba? I need it for this kase eh.

Ser Chief: (raising his eyebrows) Uhm…well, I didn’t really think of that Niks. I just call her Maya just like everyone else.

Niks: (flabbergasted) What Dad?! Not even Love, Sweety or any of those romantic names?

Luke: Not even “babe” or “baby” Dad? (shakes his head) No wonder Ate Maya wouldn’t call you anything other than “Ser Chief”!

Niks: Oo nga noh? Kuya’s right, now that he mentioned it. Parang Ser Chief nga lang talaga tawag ni Ate Maya sayo. I guess you were both not that sweet ( sad face)

 

Ser Chief: Well, in her defence, she tried to call me other names like “Chieko” short for Chief Ko and then there’s even “Buko” short for  “Buhay Ko”. Of course, you know how that sounded like right? So, we decided she goes back to calling me Ser Chief.

Niks: Hahahaha Ate Maya can be really corny rin pala. But then, she’s a woman in love and love makes you do silly things right Kuya?

Luke: Tama! Pero, seriously Dad? Buko? Hahahaha (Ser Chief shakes his head)

 

Abby: (coming out of her room carrying a scrap book) Why are you laughing Kuya?

Ser Chief : ( blushing ) It’s nothing baby. They were just recalling some funny things about Ate Maya. What do you have there baby?

Abby: Eto po Daddy? (raises the scrapbook ) This is a scrapbook I made for Ate Maya. It has all our family pictures. I wanna give it to her when we go there this week. I still remember the designs she put on my first scrapbook. I really hope she’ll like it po.

 

Ser Chief: I’m sure she will Baby. Pero kids, it’s getting late na and you need to get some rest. We could continue this tomorrow.

Luke: Uhm….okay Dad. Medyo nakakangawit din kase mag-paste ng mga decors dito (shows his work which earned a quaint smile from his dad) Oh and by the way Dad, I already called the flower shop kanina while you were out. They will deliver the flowers tomorrow at 9AM just as planned (winks)

 

Ser Chief: I appreciate that Luke. But for now, it’s best we all get some rest. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.

Abby, Niks & Luke: Yes Dad.

Ser Chief: And guys….thank you for doing this (smiles at his kids)

 

—————————————————-

That night Ser Chief tossed and turned in his bed. His mind was preoccupied by thoughts of the impending reunion with Maya and the Dela Rosas. How will Nanay Tere, Mamang and Kute react when he shows up at their doorstep? Will Maya even allow him to see her? What if Simon shows up? These thoughts kept his mind busy for several hours that night before he finally succumb to sleep.

 

He woke up with a start.

It was just a dream. He knew even in sleep that it must be just a dream. After all, his wife can’t possibly be alive again. Yet, she felt alive when they hugged in his dream. Alex felt warm in his arms. Part of him wished that she was not just a figment of his imagination, for he felt secure in her presence.

 

In his dream, they shared a quiet moment sitting on a bench…the bench where they met while in college at PUS. At first, he was the one staring at her in awe as her locks were beautifully swaying with the soft breeze. She hasn’t changed. She’s still as beautiful as when they first met. It took some time before she turned to look at him. He was sure his heart momentarily stopped when their eyes met….and then she smiled warmly at him. All his doubts and fears seemed to fade in the background as he returned the smile. Alex slowly reached for his left cheek and carrassed it with so much care. Ser Chief was overwhelmed by the warmth he felt from her hand that he closed his eyes, tears silently fell. When the warmth suddenly disappeared, he opened his eyes to see that Alex has stood up from the bench and faced the sea, looking at the horizon. He decided to approach her and ask what’s wrong but no sound came out of his mouth. Before he could put his hand on her shoulder, Alex looked back at him with tears in her eyes and so he hurriedly wrapped her in his arms. It took a couple of moments before he released her to look at her face. He ran his fingers on her cheeks to dry her tears. Ser Chief wanted to say something badly, to assure her that everything’s gonna be alright but his mouth still went dry. Alex slowly removed his hands from her face and held them with her own. She then whispered “Richard, Honey, I want you to be happy. Find your happiness…..because I have found mine” They gazed at each other with so much love before a white cloud slowly covered Alex. Next thing he knew, Alex has disappread in the clouds and he heard the bells ringing.

 

As it turned out, what he heard were not bells, but the alarm from his phone. He reached for his phone and pressed on “stop”. His heart was beating fast. He reached for his forehead and wiped the beads of sweat that formed there. It’s been a long time since he last dreamt of Alex and this happening around this moment in his life couldn’t be moretimely. Should he take it as a sign that Alex wants him to go after Maya? “It could mean that way…it MUST only mean that way. Honey, help me be happy again? Help me get Maya back”. Getting up from bed, he quickly took a shower and prepared for the day.

 

——————————————————-

At 9AM that day, the Dela Rosas were as busy as any day catering to their regular customers at the Chibugan. Each of them finding something to do to help keep the business running. Though the sight of the pregnant Maya raised not a few eyebrows from the customers, after a few weeks, she became a regular thing for the patrons. She managed to worm her way through the hearts of their customers by her positive energy that no one bothered to ask about the father of the child.

 

They were minding their day’s routine when a big delivery truck stopped right infront of Little Pards Chibugan. People inside the eatery had to stop what they were doing when men alighted from the truck and started bringing baskets and baskets of sunflower to the direction of the Chibugan. A man looking like the one in charge went up to Maya holding a clipbord with a piece of paper.

Man: Magandang umaga po.Dito po ba nakatira si Maya Dela Rosa?

Maya: Aah…eh..ako po yun Kuya. Bakit po?

Man: May delivery po para sa inyo. Paki-pirmahan na lang po ditto ( points at the piece of paper on the clipboard)

Maya: Ano po? Para…para sakin lahat ng yan? Baka naman po nagkakamali kayo Kuya.

Man: Dito po yun address na binigay samin at sabi nyo nga kayo si Maya Dela Rosa. Sa inyo po ang mga bulakalak na yan. Ah..san po ba naming dapat ilagay?

Maya: Uhm….eh…dyan na lang po paki-lapag ( points at the small space infront of the Chibugan) Kanino po galing?

Man: (shouts orders to the other men) Oh, dun nyo daw ilagay. Ingatan nyo…konting bilis, marami-rami yan. (looks back at Maya) Ah…hindi po nakalagay sa order kung sino po nagpadala ma’am.

It took a while before the men finished placing the baskets of flowers on the floor of the Chibugan. When they were all done, the people in the Chibugan had their mouths hanging. They were all shocked by the number of flowers which now occupy half of the eatery. Right before the truck leave, the man-in-charge approached Maya again seemingly recalling something important.

 

Man: Ah…ma’am. Nga pala, hindi man sinabi kung sino ang nagpadala, may iniwan naman pong note. Eto po oh (hands Maya a small card and leaves the premises)

 

Maya: Ah..okay po. Thank you Kuya (flips the card and reads the note)

“I still think the sunflower is more you than the roses. I’m sorry for all the wrong I’ve done. I know these flowers won’t be enough to get you to forgive me, but let them remind you of how much I love you. Please give our love a second chance?”

 

After reading the note, Maya could only think of one person who might be responsible for the flowers. She quickly tore the note into pieces much to the surprise of the Dela Rosas and their customers. Tears threatened to fall from her eyes and so she hurriedly went up to their house without preamble. Mamang, Kute and Nanay Teresita echanged knowing looks before Nanay Tere finally followed Maya. Kute shakes her head in understanding and went back to assisting their customers.

Customer1: Oh Kute, mukhang may manliligaw si Maya ah! At mukhang galante. Sya ba yung magiging asawa ni Maya?

Customer2: Naku eh, kung ganyan naman kagalante, di na dapat magpatumpik-tumpik pa ni Maya. Kelangan din ng magiging anak nya ang isang ama.

Kute: Ah eh….siguro po makakabuting hayaan na muna natin si Maya. Kukunin ko na po ang order nyo (she dismissed the gossips)

 

Maya went to her room and allowed tears to finally freely fall from her eyes. Nanay Tere joined her shortly and placed a comforting arm around her shoulders. Nanay Teresita can easily tell that her daughter is still hurting. She could only hope that soon enough she would heal and be happy once again.

 

Maya: Bakit ganun Nay? Bakit ngayon? Bakit nya ginagawa ‘to? Akala ba nya dahil sa mga bulaklak na yon mapapatawad ko na sya? Bakit kelangan nya ipamukha sakin kung gaano kadali sa kanya bumili nga ganun dahil mayaman sila? PInamumukha ba nya sakin ang pera nila?

Nanay Teresita: Sshhh…Nak, baka naman hindi ganun ang gusto nyang mangyari. Baka naman humihingi lang talaga ng tawad si Richard at ito yung alam nyang paraan. Hindi naman siguro para lang ipamukha yung yaman nila. Nak, ayaw kitang pangunahan, alam mo yan. Kung ano ang desisyon mo, igagalang namin yon ng pamilya mo. Ang akin lang, baka naman sincere ang paghingi nya ng tawad.

 

Maya: Sincere man sya o hindi Nay, wala na akong pakelam. Masakit pa rin sakin ang mga nagawa nya. Hindi basta-basta mawawala o makakalimutan ko yon. Hindi namin sya kelangan ng anak ko.

 

Nanay Teresita: (wipes Maya’s tears) Alam ko yon anak. Andito lang kame, lagi mong tatandaan yan. Kung hindi ka pa handa, hindi ka namin pipiliting harapin si Richard. Wag ka ng umiyak.

 

———————————————–

Back at the hotel room, the Lim kids were busily preparing all their props for what they termed as “Second Chance with Maya Mission”. Though the term made Ser Chief cringe because of cheeziness, he decided not to say anything against it because he knows that Nikki was only thinking for the best. Besides, Maya doesn’t have to know about the “mission” or so he hoped.

 

Having planned everything even before coming to San Nicolas, the Lim Kids and Ser Chief are already ready for the day’s agenda as early as 10AM. The first step in the mission is for the kids to drop by the Chibugan and hopefully get to talk to Maya in the pretense that they’re just visiting without their dad’s knowledge.

 

And so after a 45-minute drive in the rented car, the Lim kids found themselves just a few steps away from the Chibugan. Ser Chief just dropped them off at the corner street so as to avoid getting busted as early as now in the mission. Nikki grab hold of the fruits basket she’s supposed to give Maya, Luke made sure they brought some supposed luggages with them, while Abby had her hands full with her gift for Cho.

 

Maya, clueless of what’s about to drastically change in the Dela Rosa’s daily lives, was busy wiping the tables at the Chibugan. She handed Lino the used plates but had to look up at him because he didn’t move his hands to receive them.

 

Maya: Lino? Uy, okay ka lang ba? Para kang nanuno dyan! Uy…

Lino: (mouth wide open in shock) Anung?…si…sina….ano kase Maya ( used his lips to point at the other direction which prompted Maya to turn around)

 

And there they were….Nikki, Luke and Abby with warm smiles on their faces somewhat anticipating how Maya would react. She on the other hand, could swear that she felt her heart skip several beats upon seeing the trio. She had to fight the urge to look behind them and search for the one man she’s not so ready see again. Instead, she made an extra effort to close her gaping mouth and say something to the visitors.

 

Luke, Abby, Niks: Good morning Ate Maya!

Maya: Abby, Nikki, Luke! Anong…anong ginagawa nyo dito? (She noticed how Nikki and Abby’s eyes slowly moved from looking at her face to looking at her bulging tummy. This prompted her to instinctively caress her baby bulge)

Luke: Dinadalaw po kayo.

Nikki and Abby: …..and si Baby po! (as they beamed at Maya earning surprised looks from the Dela Rosas)

Kute: A…alam na rin nila Abby at Nikki, Luke?

Luke: Opo. Sinabi na rin po naming sa kanila. Kaya nga po super excited silang puntahan kayo dito para ma-meet ang baby brother naming eh.

Nanay Teresita: (looking past the Lim kids for any sign of who brought them there) Ah..eh Luke, sinong kasama nyo dito sa San Nicolas? Alam ba ni Daddy nyo na pumunta kayo dito?

 

Nikki, Luke and Abby exchanged looks and then frowned. Their actions made Maya’s already troubled heart beat even more irregularly. But she knew that she has to be stronger than this for the sake of her baby. She has to send the kids back before Ser Chief goes berserk after finding out what the kids have done.

 

Maya: Hindi alam ng Daddy nyo na andito kayo? O kahit ni Manang Fe? Luke, hindi magugustuhan ng Daddy mo ang ginawa nyo. Atsaka, paano kung napahamak kayo?

 

Nikki: Ate Maya, hindi naman po sa hindi nya alam. He knows that we’re supposed to go here and meet you. It’s just…..

 

Abby: Nauna lang po kami kay Daddy. Pero mamaya po baka po dumalaw din sya.

Luke: Abby! Di ba may usapan tayo? (gives his little sister a slight nudge on the shoulder)

Nikki: The truth is, we decided to visit you first and talk to you in private. We were supposed to go here with Dad but we wanted our own time with you Ate Maya.

 

Nanay Teresita: Uhm….Nak mas maganda siguro kung sa taas na lang tayo mag-uusap. Mukhang may dahilan ang mga bata kaya sila andito. Halika sa taas, mga bata? Dun tayo sa taas. (slowly egged Maya to go upstairs with the Lim kids)

 

The lim kids sat silently at the living room on the second floor of the Dela Rosa household. Maya who was equally silent could only look away as she sat close to the window to get enough air circulating in her lungs. Having the three kids here with her made her imagination run wild. She now worries what will happen after talking to the kids. The image of Richard Lim walking towards their staircase wouldn’t leave her thoughts. It was Luke’s voice that got her back to the present situation.

 

Luke: Ate Maya, pasensya na po sa walang pasabi naming pagpunta dito. Alam kong katulad nung pagbisita ko nung nakaraan, nagulat rin kayo ngayon.

Maya: Hindi lang gulat. Nagtataka din ako bakit kayo nandito.

Nikki: (clears her throat)  I know Ate Maya we were immature back then when you and dad were still together. We were kinda selfish for not accepting you in the family. We know our mistakes now and I would like to apologize for our masamang ugali before. I hope you could still forgive us?

Maya: (gave a weak smile to Nikki) Katulad ng sinabi ko sa Kuya Luke nyo, hindi naman ako galit sa inyo eh. Karapatan nyong maki-alam sa magiging buhay ng Daddy nyo dahil apektado rin kayo sa anu mang maging desisyon nya. Naiintindihan ko yon.

Nikki: Thanks Ate Maya for forgiving us. Pero, sinabi rin ni Kuya samin that though you forgive the three of us, you couldn’t do the same for Dad.

Abby: That’s why we’re here po. To ask you to forgive Daddy too.

Maya: (tears start to sting her eyes and she had to look away for a couple of seconds before looking back at the Lim kids)  Si Daddy nyo ba ang may idea nito? Akala ba nya kung magsorry kayo para sa kanya magiging okay na ang lahat (raising her voice a little)  Hindi ganun yon! Sya etong may kasalanan pero kayo ang pinagso-sorry nya?!

 

Luke: (still a bit shaken by the sudden outburst of Maya) Ah…Ate Maya, wala pong kinalaman si Daddy dito sa pagpunta namin (looks at Nikki for support)

Nikki: Yes Ate Maya. Kame lang nagdecide to go here on our own and talk to you separately. We know that he wants to see you too and apologize about his mistakes. Pero we want to help him out too. Kase, we are partly to be blamed din and besides, we coulnd’t watch our father suffer anymore. He misses you a lot Ate Maya. He’s been miserable for the past few months. It’s like…it’s like how he was when…

Abby: When our Mommy died (sad face)

 

Hearing the kids mention Alex’ s name brought pain in Maya’s heart all over again. But at the same time, she couldn’t deny the fact that she felt pity for the kids who could only wish for their dad’s happiness. Fresh tears started flowing freely from her eyes. Getting the kids involved in her situation with Ser Chief is a really bad idea. She wanted to lash out at Richard Lim for being the source of their pain. Seeing her in tears, the kids felt the pain she’s going through and so they also started crying. Abby approached Maya where she sat and wrapped her arm around Maya. Shortly after Nikki joined them and they cried for a few minutes. Luke could only look on with sadness. After a while, when their tears seem to have stopped falling, Abby broke the silence.

Abby: Ate Maya? Can you give Daddy a second chance po?

Maya: Sana ganun lang kadali yon Abby. Sana ganun lang kadali ibalik ang pagmamahal namin sa isa’t isa. Pero, nung maghiwalay kame ng Daddy nyo, isa lang ang sigurado ako. Hindi ako ang talagang mahal nya. Kahit gustuhin kong papaniwalain ang sarili ko na ako ang mahal nya, iba ang laman ng puso nya.

 

Nikki: (wiping her tears) What made you say that Ate Maya? We’re 100% sure na ikaw ang mahal ni Dad. He loves you so so much po that he became miserable without you. He wants to win you back and meet our little brother soon.

 

Maya: (heaves a huge sigh) Hindi kayo dapat nadadamay dito. May mga bagay na kame lang ng daddy ninyo ang nakakaalam.Pero, kahit ano pa ang mangyari saming dalawa, lagi nyong tatandaan na mahal ko kayo Luke, Nikki, Abby.

Abby: We love you din po Ate Maya at syempre ngayon pa lang love na naming si Baby Boy. Excited na po akong maging ate ( beams )

 

Maya: (seeing the sincerity and inocense in Abby’s words she couldn’t help but smile) Salamat…salamat sa pagtanggap nyo kay baby bilang kapatid. Hindi nyo alam kung gaano nyo kame napasaya. Pero, yung samin ng Daddy nyo, mahirap ng balikan yon. Kaya hayaan na natin sa ganito dahil ito ang makabubuti sating  lahat.

 

Luke: (looks at his siblings) We understand your hesitation po na patawarin si Daddy. I guess you guys would have to talk talaga na kayo lang. Basta po Ate Maya, lagi nyo ring tatandaan na andito lang kameng tatlo for you and for our little brother.

 

Maya: Salamat sa pag-unawa Luke, Nikki, Abby. Maiba ako, saan ba naming kayo ihahatid? Medyo napahaba na ang kwentuhan natin baka hinihintay na kayo sa hotel.

 

Nikki: Ah eh…Ate Maya, pwede po bang dito na lang kame matulog ngayon? Wala kase si Daddy sa hotel dahil may site visit sya kaya we had the chance to sneak out here. We have no one with us sa hotel and we we’re hoping to spend some time with you guys here at the Chibugan.

Maya: Ha? Hinayaan lang kayo ni Ser…ah ang ibig kong sabhin ng daddy nyo na walang kasama? (the kids caught the slip that she’s gonna say Ser Chief and so  gave her a warm smile)

 

Luke: Well, in a way yes po. He had an emergency meeting sa hangar so he left me in-charge of my sisters. Since dala naman po naming ang ibang damit namin, I think we could stay over night? Namiss rin po kase naming sila Mamang, Ate Kute and Nanay Teresita. Kung…kung okay lang po.

 

Abby: and I want to take care of you po Ate Maya and of course my baby brother.

 

Maya: Ha?! Naku baka magalit ang Daddy nyo pag nalamang andito kayo natulog.

Nikki: He won’t. He can’t. He loves you so much to get mad. Tsaka we’re safer her with you than a the hotel where we don’t know anyone po.

 

Abby & Luke: Please po Ate Maya? (puppy dog eyes)

Though she knows at the back of her mind that what she’s about to let the Lim kids do will mean that she’s bringing them back into her life, she just couldn’t say no for some reason. She just needs to brace herself for the repercussions of this overnight with the kids.

Little did she know, Ser Chief was just a few feet away from the Chibugan watching them from afar, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

 

Ser Chief: Thank you for loving them so much Maya. Soon…soon enough I will get to open your heart for me again.

 

Hopeful— that’s what Ser Chief is right now after seeing Maya accept his kids again. However, he knew that he shouldn’t be too complacent at this point. Simon has made his intentions clear and if he’s the man that Ser Chief knows him to be, then it won’t be long before Simon makes his move too.

 

Tomorrow brings forth complex things for Richard Lim, this he knows for sure. But first, he has to make it a point to have a private talk with Maya to once and for all unravel the mystery that surrounds her decision to hide her pregnancy and cut ties with him and his family.

 

(to be continued)

The Unexpected – part 2

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to Jason. This is a continuation to The Unexpected-part1.

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Author: Jason

 

~*~

Napaluha si Maya,Dahil ito na nasa harap niya na ang kanyang hinahanap-hanap sa buong buhay niya simula’t pagkabata siya lagi ang nasa isip niya..

“Bakit ka umiiyak,Anak ko?” sabi ng Matandang Lalaki.

Nagulat si Maya,sa sinabi nito lalo na ang salitang “ANAK KO”

“Namiss ko po kayo,Ta..” pinutol ni Don Arturo.

“Dad na lang?” biro niya.

Nakatingin lang si Maya.

“Sige Tatay na lang.” sabi niya at nag-ngitian sila.

“Tay,makikipag-meeting ka lang kay Ser Chief naka porma ka pa?”

“Anak,kailangan ito ni Tatay…Tignan mo naman ang gwapo ko diba? At Don pa..Alam mo ba anak ang tagal kong inantay na makita kita.”

“Tay,kami din nila Nanay,Laging nag eemote si Nanay kapag naaalala ka..Lagi ka na lang niyang binabanggit.Alam mo ba Tay
pati din si Kute at si Mamang.”

“Anak…Maya gusto mo bang umuwi tayo ng San Nicolas?”

“Eh..pano po eh..may flight pa po ako…May meeting pa kayo ni Ser Chief..”

“Magkakilala kayo ni Ricardo Lim?”

“Tay,naman masyadong pormal..Pwede namang Richard lang..”
sabay ngiti namumula si Maya.

“Anak,meron ba kong hindi alam?”

“Tay,Boyfriend ko po kasi si Ser Chief.”

“Boyfriend mo? Kelan kasal?”

“Kasal agad? Tay? Hindi ba pwedeng propose muna?”

“Uso pa ba yun? Sa panahon ngayon hindi na uso yan”

……………Biglang dumating si Don Roberto…………………

“Kompadre?” sabi niya.

“Kompadre!!!!… Kamusta na?” sabi ni Don Arturo

“Ganoon pa din,<sabay tingin kay Maya> Iha,anak kamusta ang flight?”

“Okay lang naman po dad..” sagot niya.

<Tumingin si Don Arturo kay Maya>

“Bakit siya dad? Bakit ako Tatay lang?” bulong niya.

“Tay,naman matampuhin…” sabi ni Maya.

-Natawa sila..-

“Ahmm… Sorry? I will go to Ricky’s office.. I’m very happy the both of you..Ito na magkasama na kayo..”

‘Umalis……

“Tay,kilala mo na ba si Ser Chief? Nakita mo na ba siya?”

“Well,sabi nila gwapo,matangkad,maputi,singkit,matalino…biyudo”

walang nasabi si Maya,dahil narinig niya ang salitang biyudo.

“Anak,Okay ka lang ba?”

tulala pa din..

Nagmamadali si Richard,Dahil inutusan siya ni Don Roberto…May dala siyang kape habang tumatakbo mainit pa naman ito..

Palakad na sina Don Arturo at Maya nang biglang….

BOOM! KABOOM!

Ang kapeng napakainit,ay tumalsik kay Don Arturo at ang kanyang suot nadumihan kaya naman……

“What the!!!!!! Sino ka bang!!!!! Arggggghhhhh!!!”

galit na galit si Don Arturo kaya naman..

“Next time ho kasi tumingin sa dinadaanan..” sabi ni Richard.

“Next time din,Iwas iwasan mag madali lalong lalo na kung alam mong may tao? STUPIDO!” sabi ni Don Arturo.

“Tama na nga po yan..Pa,tara na nga po…Ser Chief mag usap tayo mamaya!” galit na galit si Maya.

“Ikaw pala si Richard Lim?! Puro kabaliktaran ang mga sinasabi nila tungkol sayo.. STUPIDO!”

Gulat na gulat si Richard dahil hindi niya alam kung ano ang mga nangyayari kaya naman umalis na sina Don Arturo at Maya..

———-·—-·—-·——·—-·—–·
The Unexpected 3 dito kung saan nag usap nang masinsinan sina Maya at Richard ganon na din si Nay Tere este Donya Tere at Don Arturo.

Second -part 8

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to Kateydreamer. This is a continuation to Second- part 7.

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A/N:(A/N: hello guys, sorry for the late update. Midterms kasi hehe and let me apologize for any errors whatsoever. Enjoy reading! :)))

 

Author: Kateydreamer

 

~*~

 

Previously…

 

He halted when he was just a few meters away from her. He wanted to walk nearer, he wanted to hug her right away but his knees are getting weak, his heart beating fast.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before the lady could walk away, he managed to shout her name not as loud as a shout could get but enough for her to hear. “Maya!” A few seconds after, the lady stiffened. She is a few steps away but he knows that the lady is now shocked. Few beats of his heart was heard beating by him. He is now sure than ever that it was really her. His lips crept up a smile- a smile that was only reserved for her.

 

 

 

 

The lady wearing nothing extravagant at all, but still made his heart leap. Like a slow motion in his eyes, the lady turned around. A few steps away, staring at each other, people passing by beside them but still it felt like they were the only people living on earth. 

____

 

Chapter 8 

 

“Because life is all about learning how to love, God wants us to value relationships and make the effort to maintain them instead of discarding them whenever there is a rift, a hurt, or a conflict.” ~The Purpose Driven Life

 

 

 

 

A moment of silence, no one dared to talk as Richard walks closer, closing their gap. He wanted to run but he wanted to stare at her some more.

 

 

 

 

Few inches away, without hesitation, he pulled her closer to him and embraced her as if he just lost her for years. All of his longing and sadness vanished with just a tight embrace.

 

 

 

Maya savoured the moment but didn’t hugged him back. He missed him terribly but after a few seconds or so, she pulled away from him. Rain started to pour lightly at them. The crowd started to run as the drizzle turns into a rain, looking for somewhere to shelter them.

 

 

Maya did the same, but instead of looking somewhere else to go, she decided to just go back to her hotel room. She quickly turned away and walked as fast as she could. She doubled her steps not wanting to be caught by Richard but then, Richard wouldn’t let her leave him, not again.

 

 

 

As the rain started to pour harder now, Maya runs as fast as she can while Richard is following from behind. She goes right and then turns left as she tried to go back to the hotel.

 

 

“Maya, we can ride a cab. Malayo pa ba? Malakas na yung ulan!” Maya heard Richard shouting behind her as she continued to walk as fast as she can, getting soaked and wet now.

 

 

“Malapit na ako, at isa pa wala naman may sabing sundan mo ako!” Maya shouted back, not even looking back at him.

 

 

 

With that, Richard knows too well that he won’t win. So, he quietly followed Maya, trying his very best to catch up with her speed.

 

 

 

 

Finally, after a few minutes of running and letting the rain pour down on them, Maya entered a hotel and proceeded to the elevator. Before the elevator could close, Richard made his way inside, still soaking and shivering from the coldness because of the aircondition or Maya, he is not even sure.

 

 

 

There are four of them inside the elevator, the old man about 60’s first stepped out of the elevator but gave them a curious look before he could be out of sight. Another one, a girl about early 30’s an Asian girl on the left side of Richard who seemed to glance at him every now and then.

 

 

 

 

Maya noticed this and could only roll her eyes. Why do he have to be so freakin’ good looking even if he’s soaking wet? His effect to every girls makes her head pound. She couldn’t blame the girl, anyway.

 

 

 

“Are you Chinese?” The lady suddenly ask Richard, which annoyed Maya even more.

 

 

 

“Uhm..yes.” He answered politely and coughs after speaking.

 

 

 

“Oh my. You might get sick. Here, I have a hanky.” The lady hands over her hanky to Richard.

 

 

 

Richard, not wanting for the lady to feel bad accepted her hanky and wiped some droplets of rain on his face. “Thanks.” He said.

 

 

 

“You’re welcome. I’m Chinese as well, half actually.” She smiled so widely, or so Maya thought. She wanted to shout at them and to remind them that she is also there but she managed to stop her emotions.

 

 

 

When they reached the 23rd floor, Maya could only shout for joy inside her head as the lady stepped out, bid goodbye to Richard while giving him a seductive smile which made Maya want to punch the lady when Richard smiled back like he was flirting and made the lady blush before the elevator closes again.

 

 

 

Richard continued to wipe himself with the lady’s hanky. Few inches away from him, she could smell the perfume of the lady earlier on the hanky that she gave Richard. She could only frown.

 

 

 

As soon as the elevator opened on the 25th floor, she quickly stepped out of the elevator and made her way to her room.

 

 

 

As quick as she could, she fished her electronic card in her purse, entered the room and hurriedly pushed for the door to close but Richard was quick enough for his hand to halt the door from clicking close.

 

 

 

He slipped his arm then his whole body inside the room. Maya shoot daggers at him. He doesn’t know why, but he found it so adorable.

 

 

“Maya, please..” Was all he could say and then he gave her his sweetest smile.

 

 

In the aftermath of those moments when he’d called her in her given name but with the sweetest tone ever, and looked into her eyes as if he really and truly cared about her, all she knew that she would die inside if she would let him go.

 

 

 

So, she surrendered, turned around and headed to the bathroom. Richard is still shivering and coughing every now and then. The coldness of the room makes him shiver more.

 

 

There are two beds and a television, a small table and a couch on the side of the room. Surely, she’s staying here with someone, maybe her co-FA, he thought.

 

 

 

He stood standing beside the bed not wanting to seat anywhere for he might get it wet. He was really shaking now. After a few more minutes, Maya came ouf the bathroom wearing dry clothes now and then she handed him a towel.

 

 

“Oh, ayan. Parang di naman kasi nakatulong yung panyong inabot nung babae sa’yo kanina. Magpunas ka na muna. Mag-cr ka na din kung gusto mo. Teka, asan yung bag mo?” There was a hint of concern from her tone which she can no longer hide

 

 

 

“Uhm.. I left it sa car service kanina.” Great. Now, he will surely shiver all night long.

 

 

 

“Hay nako. Buti pa, gamitin mo na lang muna yung bathrobe ko sa cr tapos isampay mo na lang sa loob yung damit mo para matuyo.” She ordered him “I’ll ask my co-FA na lang to buy you shirt and shorts nasa mall naman siguro sila.”

 

 

“Uhm.. Maya..” He tried to talk to her, as he walks near her

 

 

 

“Op-op-oops! Wag kang lumapit. Amoy na amoy ko yung pabango nung babae kanina, di naman mabango yung perfume nya. Dumikit sa’yo, maligo ka nga!” She said, irritated.

 

 

“Wait. Are you jealous?” He asked teasingly.

 

 

 

“Asa ka Mr. Lim! Maligo ka na nga dun! Magkasakit ka pa nyan.” She blurted the last words with full of concern.

 

 

 

“Eh, I’m just thankful dun sa babae kanina kasi she noticed me shivering.” He said further

 

 

 

“So? Nakawala ba ng ginaw yung panyo?” She crossed her arms, Richard is enjoying this.

 

 

 

“Well, no. But at least she’s concerned. Pero you’re right mas lalo nga akong gininaw kasi mas lalo kang naging cold.” He teased

 

 

 

“Whatever! Magshower ka na nga lang!” She turned around from him

 

 

 

 

“Alright, Thanks baby.” He said like as if it was the normal thing ever before heading inside the bathroom, grinning. Maya, on the other hand rolled her eyes. She can feel her cheeks blushing and her heart pounding loud.

 

 

 

When he was done having his hot shower, he steps out of the bathroom and saw Maya talking to someone on the phone telling his sizes of shirt and shorts. When she saw him, she immediately hung up the phone.

 

 

 

 

“Gutom ka ba? May food pa diyan nagparoom service kasi ako kanina eh di ko din nakain. Pero kung ayaw mo, paparoom service na lang ako ulit.” She said, not looking at him.

 

 

 

“You didn’t eat yet?”

 

 

 

“Hindi.” She answered, busying herself as she prepares the food.

 

 

 

“Bakit hindi ka kumain?” He asked again

 

 

 

“Dapat kasi kakain kami sa labas ng mga co-FA ko papunta na ako sa kanila nung nakita mo ko.” She feels that somehow she doesn’t have to explain but she did anyway.

 

 

 

“Well then, let’s just order so that we could both eat.”

 

 

Maya just nodded in agreement as she could also feel her stomach growling.

___

 

Dinner was more quiet than usual. They didn’t even indulge in small talk as both are too busy trying to avoid each other’s eyes. The tension hanging on the air is so thick one would need a chainsaw to cut through it. The rain is still pouring hard outside the room, the coldness of the room is the same as the coldness of Maya to him. While Maya is toying her food, he would pause for a while and glance at her before swallowing his food.

 

 

“Ahm..Maya…can we talk?” He tried to start a conversation

 

 

 

“Ah.. Sobrang lakas ng ulan, kung gusto mo, dun ka na lang sa couch matulog baka maya-maya dadating na din yung kasama ko.” Obviously avoiding talking to him. Maya quickly stood up, gathered the dishes and made her way to the bathroom to prepare for bed

—–

 

Richard settled himself on the couch. He managed to call the hotel where he should have stayed and asked for his things. Good thing, his baggage was sent there by his car service, he’s a VIP anyway.

 

 

 

 

 

Maya gave him her extra pillow and made herself comfortable on her bed. She pulled her comforter on top of her head and after few seconds, she would peek to see if Richard was already sleeping and to her surprise, he is staring at her so she quickly pulled the covers up again. Richard could only laugh at this.

 

 

 

 

 

“What are you doing? Miss me?” He teased.

 

 

 

Putting down the covers from her head, she answered “kapal. I was just-“

 

 

 

 

 

“Peeking?”

 

 

 

“No!”

 

 

 

 

 

“Staring?”

 

 

 

 

 

“Of course, not!”

 

 

 

“Glancing at me?”

 

 

 

 

 

“Hindi nga!”

 

 

 

 

 

“Wait, uhm.. Surreptitiously gazing?”

 

 

 

“N-O, No.”

 

 

 

 

 

“Oh. Can’t get enough of me? Yeah, I guess that’s the right explanation to that.” He nodded and smiled

 

 

 

 

 

“Uuugghhh! Ewan ko sa’yo!!” Maya throw her other pillow at him, and pulled her covers up again. Richard laughed out loud. It has been days since the last time he laughed like this, Maya can really make him happy.

 

 

 

“Okay, fine. Hindi na. Good night Maya, sweet dreams, dream of me.”

—-

 

Richard woke to a dark bedroom, he was not comfortable sleeping on the couch add to that, he is just so happy knowing that Maya is just a few steps away from him which made it difficult for him to sleep. Apart from the fact that she must have gotten up to turn off the light, he noticed the blanket spreading warmth in his body. He smiled on the thought that Maya must have gave him that and made Richard conclude that she is still concerned to him.

 

 

Glancing out the glass door of the room’s veranda, he noticed the dark clouds and the rain that is still pouring since he sleep.  He hoped that the rain would stop until he is safely asleep in his own bed in his hotel room. It has been a tiring day. The crammed schedule he had last few days, plus the days when he cannot sleep because he often thinks about Maya.

 

 

 

But he is now happy to finally see Maya again. Though, he is still paying the price of his sleepless nights as he can feel the fatigue weighing him down. 

 

 

All he wants to do right now is fall into bed and get a decent number of hours of sleep.

 

 

 

Yawn. He wanted to stay there, near Maya but he is not comfortable sleeping on the couch. It gives him muscle pains, he also would want to just sleep beside her but that might scare her away add to the fact that they are not yet okay. So, he decided to go and sleep to the hotel where he is supposed to be.

 

 

 

He sat up on the couch and saw Maya sleeping soundly. The other occupant of the other bed is not there, yet. Maybe it is because of the rain. It is 3 in the morning. He tucked her in, careful enough not to wake her up, kissed her forehead before he headed to the bathroom.

—–

 

The early morning sunlight cast a warm glow on the two occupants still languishing on the two beds in the room. Neither noticed that the rain had stopped.

 

 

One, still covered by the blanket hugging a pillow with a half smile on her lips as if she is in the middle of a very pleasant dream.

 

 

 

Fidgeting under her covers, she stirred as she heard few knocks on the door. Lazily, she sat up from her bed and inspected the room. She saw her co-FA sleeping now on the other bed, she must have got home late for she didn’t notice her going back. Her eyes suddenly stared on the couch. She stared at it for like an eternity not noticing the person outside her room knocking still.

 

 

It took sometime before she processed and asked where Richard went. Startled by the knocks from the door getting loud now, she stood up thinking that it must be him.

 

 

She checked herself first before she opened the door slowly. Her warm smile faded when the lady from the elevator last night welcomed her.

 

 

 

The lady’s eyes widened in shock as she expects someone else. “Ahm, good morning. I’ve checked the room for a couple of times and I know that I’m right. This is where Richard is staying, right?”

 

 

 

Maya’s eyebrows raised “actually, no.”

 

 

 

“But-“

 

 

 

“He’s not here.”

 

 

 

 

“Oh. Yeah, I think I remembered, you’re with him last night. Are you his cousin or something?” She asked

 

 

 

Half smiling, Maya answered “No. He’s MY BOYFRIEND.” Emphasizing the last two words.

 

 

 

“Oh. So that’s why I saw him entering this room.” The lady could only look at her from head to toe examining her.

 

 

 

Irritated with what the lady did, she wanted to dismiss her right away “Yes, so if you’ll excuse me I really need to do something. Good morning.” Maya smiled at her once more before she closed the door.

 

 

 

“Nakakainis! Ang aga-aga babae mo na agad Mr. Lim ang nakausap ko! Bakit ba kasi ang dami-dami kong kaagaw!” She said to herself and made her way back to her bed.

 

 

 

A note from the bed side table caught her eye. “Maya” it says.

 

 

 

She slowly opened the letter and read it. “Maya, let’s have dinner later. I’ll pick you up at 3pm after my meeting so we could catch up. See you later, I love you.

-Sir Chief”

 

 

 

 

She doesn’t know how to react. He doesn’t even really ask her to go out, it was more than an order that they’ll go out together. That would have awake the angry side of her but the I love you part made that fade away. “Haaaay Richard! Ayan ka na naman.”

 

 

 

Excited as she is, she stood up and looked inside the closet for she has few more hours left in choosing what to wear.

 

___

 

 

Thoughts? :))