Diary ni Ser Chief – parts 1 & 2

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

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A/N: Hello po,Ako po si Alyssa 😀 Malawak po ang imagination kaya na-share ko po dito ang aking first story

nila Maya at Ser Chief.

Author: Allysa Grace

~*~

 

 

Diary ni Ser Chief PART 1

Chapter 1: Family

 

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Characters:

 

Richard Lim- Gwapong chinito na matangkad at matalino may-ari ng Lim Aviation asawa ni Alex lim.

Roberto Lim- Ama ni Richard,mayaman,matalino,gwapo

Esmeralda Lim- Ina ni Richard,mayaman,matalino,maganda

Alex lim- Maganda,matangkad at mabait isang flight attendant best friend ni Maya,asawa ni Richard.

Luke Lim- Panganay na anak nila Richard at Alex,Gwapo singkit ang mga mata,matalino,mahilig sa sports..11 yrs old

Nikki lim- Bunsong anak nila Richard at Alex,maganda,maputi,matangkad,matalino..7 yrs old

James Ventura- Maputi,gwapo,matalino,mayaman,piloto..Boyfriend ni Maya

Maya Dela Rosa- Maganda,matalino,mabait,maputi,mayumi,Bestfriend ni Alex at Girlfriend ni James. 

Teresita Dela Rosa- Nanay ni Maya,Mayaman,maganda,matalino

Arturo Dela Rosa- Tatay ni Maya,Mayaman,gwapo,matalino

Mamang Dela Rosa- Nanay ni Teresita Lola nila Maya at Kristina Rose

Kristina Rose Dela Rosa- Ate ni Maya,mayaman,matalino

Pocholo Dela Rosa- Batang matalino na mapilyo

May mag-asawa, ito ay sina Richard at Alex…Mayroon silang dalawang anak ito ay sina Luke at Nikki.

 

Sa Mansion,

Lex I got to go I have a meeting with Mr. Dela Cruz,sabi ko.”Sige ingat ka.Aalis kami ng mga bata mamaya susunod kaba?” tanong niya.

Yeah! I will try pero i’m not sure..kasi maraming gagawin,sabi ko. 

 

Umalis na ako,habang papunta ako sa sasakyan…

 

Dad! ba-bye..ingat po,sabi ni Luke.

Dad! pasalubong I want! sabi ni Nikki.

Ingat ka,sabi ni Alex.

 

Hinalikan ko ang mga bata sa mga pisngi nila,ganoon na din si Alex.Nakasakay na ako at umalis na ako,dumating ako sa opisina nang 9:00 am

 

Sa Opisina,”Sir,your here na! On time ahh! Mr. Dela Cruz is waiting for you.” sabi ni Liza. Okay Thank You! sabi ko.

 

Pumasok ako,at kinausap ko na si Mr. Dela Cruz

 

Good Morning! sabi niya.

Good Morning too Sir! sabi ko.

 

Habang nag-uusap sina richard at Mr. Dela Cruz,sina Alex,Luke,at Nikki ay nag-aayos na para sa kanilang pupuntahan.

 

Sa Mansion,”Mommy! Where are we going?” sabi ni Nikki. Ma! Okay na po ba itong suot ko? sabi ni Luke.

 

“Nikki,We are going to your Tita maya’s house.Luke,Yes okay na yan!” sabi ni Alex

 

YEEEHEEEY! sabi nang dalawang bata,”We are going to Tita Maya’s house!”

 

 

 

Diary ni Ser Chief part 2

Chapter 2: FRIENDSHIP

 

Tapos nang magprepare sina Alex,Luke,at Nikki.Ready-to-go na silang

mag-iina.

 

Mga anak,tara na! For sure Tita Maya is waiting for us!

sabi ni Alex.

 

Yes! Ma,we’re here na! sabi ng mga bata.

 

Habang nag-aayos pa ang mga bata tinawagan ni Alex si Maya.

 

Dialling Maya Dela Rosa (BFF)

 

Sa Bahay ni Maya,

May tumatawag tinignan niya sa phone niya calling Alex Lim (BFF) 

sinagot niya ito.

 

“Hello! Friendship!” bati ni Maya na masigla.

BFF! pupunta kami ng mga bata diyan,bibisita..Na-miss kanila. sabi ni Alex.

 

Sige,Friendship magluluto ako para sa inyo sabi ni Maya.

Sarapan mo BFF hah! “Oo naman!”

 

Nagluto na si Maya,at ang mag-iina ko umalis na..

Tinawagan ako ni alex.

 

Dialling Richard Lim (Honey) tinignan ko kung sino..

Calling Alex Lim (Sweetie) sinagot ko.

 

“Yes,Sweetie? Is there any problem?” sabi ko,Wala naman gusto ko lang malaman kung pwede ka? “Hindi eh,marami pang gagawin..

nanawi na lang ako next time I promise,sabi ko.Sige ingat ka,”I Love You sabi ni Alex.I Love You too sabi ko sa kanya.”

 

Nang matapos ang kanilang usapan,nakarating na sina Alex at ang mga bata sa bahay ni Maya.

 

“Ang ganda naman po dito,Mommy” sabi ni Luke.

Mommy,It’s very beautiful like Tita Maya. sabi ni Nikki.

“Yes,baby tama ka diyan. Let’s go inside na.” sabi ni Alex.

 

Pumasok na silang mag-iina,pumasok na sila at bumungad sa kanila ang isang napaka-gandang babae at napaka-mayumi.

 

“Welcome and Mabuhay” sabi ni Maya.

 

Sina Luke at Nikki mangha na mangha sa kanilang Tita Maya.

 

“BFF! na-miss kita.” sabi ni Alex.Friendship musta naman? Halika,pasok muna kayo..Mga kiddos! Eat muna kayo. sabi ni Maya

 

Opo,Tita! sabi nila luke at Nikki. 

 

Friendship,may flight ka ulit! Parehas tayo sabi ni Maya, Talaga? BFF! sa loob ng 10 years ngayon pa lang tayo nag-sama sa isang eroplano.

Kaya nga friendship,Gorabels?! sabi ni Maya. Gora na kung gora! sabi ni Alex.

 

 

 

Sana po you like it! 🙂

A Princess For a Night – part 2

Admin Note: *Contributed Story* Please give credit and thanks to faerieMagic.This is a continuation to A Princess For a Night-part 1.

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Author: faerieMagic

 

~*~

 

                She would have been almost happy when Sir Chief went towards him, until she remembered what happened last night.

 

Last Night flashback…..

The hangar branch was in Cebu. The whole Time Airways party went to check in to the hotel for the event tomorrow. All of them were too tired to go with Maya when she suggested going over to buy some things to bring back home. Those were the reasons why Maya Dela Rosa was marching towards the pasalubong corner of the city that night at seven o’clock.

That was when a very unfortunate thing happened.She had a bag which carried the usual stuff— from cellphone to pocket-money, the very same bag she was carrying when it was snatched from her hand.

It was her cue to panic and shout, “Hey, My bag, Help! Help!” . The snatcher paid no attention and entered the mouth of the mall to blend with the people and to lose her. Anyway, she followed him in and tried to find him, making her way through the crowds.

She finally halted to a walk, instead of running. She would have called her friends for some help, but her phone was also inside the snatched bag.

She knew of course, that she just had to get back to their place somehow and all would be well. But just like any other city, it was crowded and friendless. The lights and the cheery music boomed through the air, but it only added to the eerie feeling of helplessness along with the cold evening breeze.

And such loneliness as one could only feel in the middle of a throng of strangers did come over her. People bustled and pushed passed to go about their own business. She felt bare, vulnerable and alone, with only her clothes to spare.

It was as if she was back in Manila again, walking and shouting in Jones Bridge after her hope and her future got stolen. Maybe this is a good place to shout again. Last time, there was Sir Chief to rescue her.

She marched off to find the exit. Behind her, Sir Chief in his bespoke suit with Liza trailing behind him, ready to catch every order.

“Yes”, Sir Chief was saying to his phone. “We need to process that immediately. What do you mean it’s not ready?!” Then, he saw Maya just disappearing around the corner. “I have to go. I’ll call you back.” With that, he ended the phone call.

After saying excusing himself to Liza because he ‘needed to check on something’, he slowly followed Maya where she just disappeared. Looking from left to right, he saw her as she made her way to the exit. He wanted to catch Maya before she ultimately disappeared outside.

Maya went out into the open. It was becoming steadily darker… figuratively. As she was walking slowly, lights tinkled everywhere dressing the whole city in fine gems of gold behind a dark canvas.

Her foot was sore, so she sat at the side to rest for a while. She saw a lot of happy couples and families enjoying the food outside the night city breeze on the strip of restaurants on the side of the mall.

Her feet were aching from all those running and her stomach growled to remind her that she did not have any money to buy her a meal. How she was going to get back without friends or money, she still did not know.

There she was, looking like an abandoned kitten outside a house. That’s when she heard his voice.

“Maya.”

Maya looked up at the sky, puzzled “Sir Chief? “, then speaking to herself, “It’s nothing Maya. Just a little bit of hungry hallucination.”

“Maya!” called Sir Chief a little louder.

Maya stood stiff and wide-eyed before turning around. “Sir Chief!” she said, as she put both hands into her mount in shock and surprise. There was Sir Chief, a little out of breath, but still, Sir Chief nonetheless, in his dignified stand.

“Hey friend, buddy…Listen, could I have some cash?” Naw. It was too lousy. How should she say it?

“So,” said sir Chief as they were sitting across each other on a table eating their evening meal. “What happened to you?”

Maya looked down. They sat like strangers. She swallowed, and decided it was just best to come clean.

 

 

“Sir Chief, if it’s all the same,” Maya clasped both her hand for ultimate begging frenzy. “I lost my bag along with my money and phone, I can’t contact my colleagues, I haven’t anything to spare except my clothes, and you’re the only  …erm… friend near… So I was wondering…”

“Yes?” he relaxed his hand in his chair, looking at her smiling.

“I was wondering if I could have an advance, just for the expenses of this trip.”

Sir Chief laughed.

Maya sighed, “Sir Chief, please naman, don’t laugh at my misfortunes.”

“How can’t I? You lived in Manila all these years, yet you still managed to let your bag be snatched.”

“I don’t think it can be helped.”

“Fine,” he said, taking his wallet and leafing through the bills. “Will 7 000 be enough?”

Maya coughed with the coffee she was drinking. “7 000 Sir Chief? That would almost be my monthly salary. No. 500 would do.”

“500?” said sir Chief incredulously. “Maya, this isn’t San Nicolas. What will you buy with it, a piece of cardboard box for you to sleep out in the streets?”

“No Sir. That would be impractical.”

“Yes!” he exclaimed as if saying “bravo! I thought you didn’t know that”.

“Because, because, what if it rains?” Maya stuttered. “The cardboard would get wet.”

“Maya!” he said.

“Joke langpo, sir. Peace tayo.”

“Here, take this.”

“Wait, sir Chief!” said Maya, closing her eyes and backing.

“What?” he looked at her uneasiness.

“I’m not used to you handling me cold cash. You see, usually, it’s inside an envelope. It’s so… awkward”.

“What do you want me to do?” he raised his eyebrows. “Enter a department store to buy some envelope? Or maybe you want me to write you a check.”

“No, no, it’s fine. Just a little bit weird langpo.” She said, accepting the money.

Sir Chief placed his wallet back. “So, where are you going to stay for the night if I didn’t find you?”

“Probably take a cab back to the hotel.”

“Wait a bit.” He said to Maya. Then he dialed his phone. “Hello Liza, can I have Maya stay in our hotel for the night? Yes, I saw her just outside the mall.”

“Sir Chief!” Maya started. But Sir Chief held his hand for her to be silent.

“And, please call her boss, to inform her that she lost her bag.” With that, he ended the call.

“So, it’s settled. You can sleep in Liza’s room for the night.”

“Sir Chief, It’s too much. I’d rather not bother ma’am Liza and just go back.”

“No, no. Stay here.”

“Sir Chief?”

“It’s just that, it’s already too dangerous to take a cab at this hour.”

“But sir, It’s still not that late. Besides I can call Emman.”

“Do you have a phone? Do you know his number?”

“But it’s going to be inconvenient for you—, “she protested.

“Do you expect me to drive you all the way to your hotel?”

Maya was going to object again, but Sir Chief said, “Maya, stop. It’s late, and I’m tired. Our place is just behind your back. See it? We can walk from here.”

“But my clothes…”

“Department store, Maya. Just get the rest in the morning. I need you anyway.”

“For what, Sir Chief?”

“To discuss more about Nikki’s upcoming birthday of course.”

“But Sir Chief, we could do it at home.”

“No. We have to do it early. We are already out of time because of all these activities. We can discuss it over breakfast tomorrow.”

“What about Ma’am Liza?”

“Maya, are you letting others handle the task I’m giving you?”

“No, no, Sir Chief!”

“Besides, Liza is busy right now organizing this event. You just have to do it.”

“Can I ask something?”

“What now?”

“About the hotel expenses… are you going to take it out of my salary?”

***

They arrived at the living room of the hotel. But Sir Chief’s phone rang again.

“Maya, just go ahead and ask Liza for your room,” said Sir Chief.

His staff was all there to have their last minute unofficial meeting. The whole party saw both of them arrive at the same time, so it may not have been unusual if someone approached her to ask, “Ma’am, are you Chief’s girlfriend?”

“Oh no.” thought Maya, “Of course, what else would they think when they see Sir Chief take a girl to a hotel in the dead of night? I must explain this at once. This would be the second time I’ll be mistaken as someone important.” Liza was still busy talking to the others to be of any help.

“No, no, you’re wrong. It’s not at all like that.”

The man looked at her as if saying, “Really, why else would he bring an unknown girl in at this hour?” but out loud, he only said, “You mean you’re not his woman?”

And this time, Sir Chief entered the room to interrupt. “Okay a guy, that’s enough. Let’s all get to bed for tomorrow’s event.”

Everyone cleared out to get to their own rooms, including Maya and Liza.

Maya was already dressed when Sir Chief came knocking at her door(If you must know, Sir Chief was only passing by her room on the way to the dining hall). “Are you ready? Come on. Let’s have breakfast.”

“Breakfast po? Together?” she asked.

“Yes. We need to discuss about Nikki’s party remember?”

“Okay, sir.”

“Oh good. You have a pen ready.”

“Of course, Sir Chief. So I won’t forget any of your instructions.”

“Oh, look, Liza,” Sonny saw as Sir Chief was going in with Maya trailing behind with pen and paper, looking to tell the truth, very much like Liza as his ever sticking secretary. “Take care, I think you’re being replaced.”

Liza chuckled. “No. I think they’re just having another boss and employee moment alone.”

***

“I’m sorry ma’am Ina, but last night, Mr. Lim insisted I should stay in their hotel. He said it was too late to ride a cab.” Maya was explaining to Ma’am ina through the phone on what happened last night. It was hard to serve two bosses at the same time.

Ma’am Ina told Maya that she was only too happy that it turned out that way, even though Maya missed the morning briefing meeting they had. She even said she would just ask someone to deliver Maya’s baggage so she could stay there for the whole trip..

“Here kuya, thanks for letting me borrow your phone.”

“No problem, ma’am. Anything for Mr. Lim’s girlfriend, ” said the man.

“No. I’m not. I’m really not his girlfriend! I’m just one of his employees,” said Maya

“But ma’am, I haven’t seen you in the office. Are you an event’s organizer?”

“No. I’m a nanny to Mr. Lim’s children. That’s really all there is!”

….end of flashback.

 

Yes, that and Mr. James comment just as they were going in.

“Maya, Maya,” said Sir Chief.

Maya woke up from her flashback. She had to stay away from Sir Chief at least for tonight.

“I’m sorry Sir Chief. What were you saying?”

“I said your dress is nice.”

“Sir Chief,” said Maya almost reproachfully if that’s even possible. “This is a Christmas present from you, remember?”

“Oh, of course, I remember,” said sir Chief, quite forgetting. “I meant that you look wonderful in it.”

Oh no. He said himself one can’t flirt with one’s boss. This misunderstanding should not get any worse.

“I… I called Abby just recently. She’s already asleep. She said she wanted to see more of you, sir. More than breakfast. You had been rather busy lately, because of the hangar, I suppose.” She tried to talk casually.

“Yes. She’s always asleep when I get home. I’ll make up for it after this event. I’ll have to take her to the amusement park.”

“I think she would like it better if you play with her in pikoinstead,” said Maya, trying to laugh it off.

“Piko?! She told you that?!” said Sir Chief. She might have well asked him to dance like a can-can in front of the whole company wearing a hoola. No. No such undignified acts for him. That was his ultimatum.

“Yes Sir Chief. She said she wanted to see you jump and get the stone,” said Maya, trying to humor him, at the same time, trying to find a way to excuse herself.

“Is that Mr. Lim’s date? She looks familiar,” said Stephanie to her friend standing beside her(She’s also invited? Curious. Maybe she’s one of the aviation industry folks). Somebody was talking to Mr. Lim. And it looks like a very serious and dangerous tête-à-tête is happening. She decided to but in, in pretense of something.

“Good evening Richard,” she began.

“Thank you for coming. Excuse me. I still have matters to attend to.” He said quite frankly, putting end to her obvious advances just like he always does to almost everyone. It turned out that his ‘matters to attend to’ included going away tagging Maya along with him.

“Maya”, said sir Chief imploringly.

“Yes, Sir Chief!”

“Let’s go.”

Maya was all for obedience, but they were heading for the dance floor, and that was too much. It would really make everything berserk. She still didn’t know if she already cleared herself from all of Sir Chief’s staff. “Sir Chief, what are we doing? Why are we going to dance?” She meant to stop the dance, but by ill luck, the result of her words was the opposite.

“Huh?”, said sir Chief, quite surprised. “I was going to show you the new planes down that lane.I thought you’d like that very much. But do you want to dance?”

“Dance, sir Chief?!”

 

To be continued…

N/A: I used the Filipino word “po”, because I can’t believe the English language does not have any equivalent respectful phrase. Japanese has one (“de gozaru” at the end of an intended respectful sentence), and even Korea (I think, from all I hear), but why doesn’t English have one? Does that mean they are not polite??

Someone Like You – part 3

Note: This is a continuation to Someone Like You – part 2.

Author: Hanah6181

~*~

Chapter 3

Maya was walking fast at 29th Street when she noticed a car was following her. When she turned around, it was Richard’s car that was moving parallel to her direction.

Out of panic, she run while exclaiming, “Ayyy, Tulong!!!” She removed her red stilettos and run as fast as she could.

“Hey, Ms. Don’t run!” Richard shouted as he extended his head a bit outside the side window while still driving his car to follow her. “I’m not going to hurt you. Ayaw mo bang makuha ‘yung bag mo?”

When Maya heard what Richard said, she stopped from running. She realized that she left her bag in his car and she needed her bag; all her things were inside that bag. Richard’s car stopped in front of her. He was about to go out of his car when she shouted while moving backwards.

“Sir, wag kang lalapit. Kukunin ko na lang po ang bag ko.” She was almost teary eyed; stilettos pointing at Richard as if to hit him in case he attempts to harm her.

“Okay. I was just going to hand it out to you.” Richard remained seated inside his car.

Maya opened the passenger door and hurriedly took her bag. After which, she stood on the side walk clutching her bag close to her to her chest. She was shaken by her experience.

“Know what? I have no intention of hurting you. Ayaw ko lang later na magpapulis ka para sabihing kinuha ko ang bag mo.” Richard told her. He wanted to be careful in this situation because he has a name and reputation to take care of.

“Don’t worry sir, wala akong planong magpa-pulis. At isa pa, hindi ako hooker katulad ng akala mo!” After her last statement, Maya turned around and walked on different direction away from Richard. She later heard his car starting signaling his departure.

~*~

The event that transpired between him and Maya was totally new to him.
It was his first time to encounter a woman of the street although she claimed she wasn’t. There was something with the girl that made him curious. She had contradictions around her like her get-up, the place where they met and the way she kissed. It felt like she was innocent until she wrapped her arm around his neck. But, the slap that he got was still upsetting him. Convinced that he didn’t do anything wrong, he decided to let go of the incident and forget her.

A serious looking Richard went straight to Lisa’s table as soon as he arrived at the office on Monday morning.

“Liza I just remembered something, could you help me out on..” Richard wasn’t able to finish his sentence.

“Hayy, naku sir, ano bang gagawin natin. Nag-resign na naman ‘yung executive assistant mo.” Liza informed him.

“Ha? Di ba 1 month pa lang si Karen sa’tin?” A surprised Richard asked.

“Oo nga sir, kaya lang, hindi daw nya kaya yung long hours of work.” Liza responded. She didn’t tell him that the other reason was that Richard was quite difficult to work with. He tends to be meticulous and so his assistant should be smart and attentive to details to survive working with him.

Upon hearing the news, Richard paused and started thinking. He came up with an idea. “Liza, why don’t you just work with me again. I’ll talk to Dad to release you. You can just get a new EA for him. You can oversee your replacement if you like.”

Liza used to work for Richard as his secretary before he left for the U.S. five years ago. Since Richard liked her performance, she was later assigned to his father, Atty. Roberto Lim. When he came back to their law firm last year as a senior partner, the firm hired new assistant for him. However, no one has stayed longer than 6 months on the job.

“Eh… Sir… kausapin mo muna ang Dad mo. Kung papayag si Sir Bobby, okay lang babalik ako.” Lisa answered but she prayed that her boss will not agree to his son’s idea. After all, she has gotten used to the more stable working hours which she favorable for her work-family life balance.

“Liza, consider it agreed with Dad.” Richard told her with conviction. Liza’s facial expression turned sour as she saw him leave. In her thoughts, “gone are the happy days, welcome back slave driver.”

~*~
Wednesday, Emman was about to leave for lunch when he got a text message from Maya.

“Good pm, saan ka? I need to talk to you. It’s emergency.”
Upon seeing the message, Emman immediately called up her friend.

“Bes, what’s the emergency? Nakakanerb’yos naman ang text message mo.”

“Ay naku Emman, kailangan ko ng payo mo but I can’t say the problem over the phone. Mas mabuti magkita tayo.” Her response to her friend.

Being bestfriends with Maya, Emman knew exactly when Maya is in trouble. It is the tone of her voice that convinced him that she needed help that day. So, he agreed to meet her at Café Breton at the Podium in Ortigas Center.

~*~
Over a cup of coffee and crepes, Maya was almost teary eyed as she was telling her predicament to her friend.

“Bes, kinausap ako ni Mrs. Cortez before lunch. Ang request n’ya sa akin is to agree on getting assigned to one of our of law firm clients. She said temporary lang naman habang we are still looking for the best fit candidate for an EA role. Nahihirapan kasi kaming mag-hanap ng candidate to be assigned to this company. ”

“Oh, ma-a-assign lang pala at temporary lang. What’s the matter with that? Do you think she’s trying to get rid of you?” Emman was confused why Maya consider it as a big problem.

“Bes, ang client is Lim, Orlino, Evangelista & Associates Law Offices.” Maya blurted.

“Ha? Oh my gee, yung law firm ng future ex mo? O diba, girl exciting! Nakabalik na ba sya from the U.S.? Sa kanya ka ba ma-a-assign?” Emman had the opposite reaction to the news. Maya thought she would get empathy from her friend but his reaction showed otherwise.

“Emman, bakit parang excited ka pa? Ayoko kasing ma-assign doon kahit temporary lang . Hindi ako ma-aasign sa kanya. And yes, he is back. Nakita ko si Atty. Lim last week.” Maya’s eyes rolled as she mentioned Richard’s name.

“I’m neutral to your case, Girl. Why don’t you take this assignment positively? One, once a upon a time, you wanted to be lawyer. This is a way to find out whether you want to pursue that dream or not. Malay mo ma rekindle ang interest mo so sa profession na ‘yan. Number two, this is temporary, you will return to your old job once they are able to find a suitable candidate. Number three, hindi ka naman pala sa kanya mag-re-report. In short, nothing to lose, Girl.”

“Ewan ko Emman, I just don’t feel like seeing or being with him in the same office.” She realized that Emman had good points if only she didn’t have that last encounter with him in his car.

“Hmmm, sa tingin ko ang problema ay baka instead of rekindling your dream to go into law profession, ang mangyari, yung dream mo maging kayo ni Atty. Lim ang ma-rekindle. Sa palagay ko by this time, may asawa na s’ya.”

“Malamang nga may asawa na s’ya. And, I pity the wife. May pagka maniac ang napangasawa nya.”

Surprised by her statement, Emman began to probe Maya. “Hey Bes, those are very strong words. May pinang gagalingan yan. You better tell me whatever secret you have otherwise, magtatampo talaga ako sa’yo.”

So, Maya had no choice but to tell her friend how she and Richard met again and what happened in his car. She skipped the sensitive parts but she told Emman how he mistook her for being a prostitute.

At the end of her story, Emman could only tell her. “Well, all the more you should get assigned there. May reputasyon ka palang dapat itayo. Nothing to lose as I said and a reputation to gain.”

Have Faith 13 – Melancholy

This is a continuation of Have Faith 12 – Almost

Author : christine24m

CHAPTER 13

It’s hard. But, I think we can make it.

Those are the words that have been stuck in his mind. A few days ago, he finally admitted his feelings for the woman he loves the most – a mortal, yet everyone, well, not exactly everyone knows that he’s a guardian angel. A wingless angel, but hearing that woman say I love you back was the only thing that made Richard soar again. Yes, he is without wings, but with Maya, he felt that he can reach unbelievable heights. With her, he can do everything.

He spent almost every second beside Maya, never leaving her neither letting her out of his sight as if trying to make up for the time he was gone, and also for the time he will be gone.

It was evening. Richard is beside a sleeping Maya, hearing her steady breaths. He smiled at the sight of her. A part of him is still trying hard to believe if this is all true though he knew all too well that it is true.

Sleep well, my love.

He sat up on the bed and closed his eyes. In a second, he was back to the place where it all started, but it was far different from before. The barrier is much bigger than before, surrounding him, blocking all the possible ways for him to have a peek on the other side.

“Richard.” A voice said. Even though it’s been ages since he was gone, he clearly knows the owner of that voice. “What brings you here?”

“I .. I’ve been away for too long. I thought I’d pay a visit.” He said.

“I see. How is Earth?”

He smiled. “It is fine, in fact it’s wonderful.”

“Your mortal is the reason behind the smile of yours, eh Richard?” the voice asked, noticing the goofy smile on Richard’s face.

“Yes. I think You know it all.” He said.

“Yes. I can see everything from up here, son.”

He sighed and then looked at the barrier surrounding him. Somehow, it made him feel suffocated. Like there’s no air for him to breathe, and it also made him feel alone. He knew the reason why the barrier was there at the first place. The fact that it had grown this much only means one thing.

“I’m due soon, am I?” he asked. Richard already knew the answer to this question but there’s still this glimmer of hope in him.

“Yes.” The word constricted his heart. He was right.

“What will happen to Maya?”

“She’ll be fine.”

“Will .. will she remember me? Will she remember what we have?”

“No.”

It’s like a spear went through his heart. I don’t want to loose her. I don’t want to. I thought I will leave a part of me with her when I leave. I want her to remember everything. I want her to remember what we have, even if it’s just for a while. I don’t want to end up things like this.

 

“Wha-what will happen to me?”

“You’ll find out when it happens, son.”

“So I just have to ..”

“Yes. You just have to wait for your time.”

He sighed. “Okay. Thank you. I’ll go back now.” Then he closed his eyes.

He searched for that face immediately after he opened his eyes. There she is, sleeping peacefully beside him.

I don’t want you to forget everything, Maya. Even if I go, I want you to remember that there’s this Richard who truly loves you. I don’t care what I will do just for you to remember me. I’m willing to take whatever risk there is just for me to remain in your memory.

Maya shifted as she felt like someone has been staring at her for forever. Two chinky eyes welcomed her when she opened her eyes. A smile followed his gaze making Maya’s heart to flutter more. She gave a smile back.

He’s now yours, Maya.

Then she felt a pang in her heart.

Yes. He is yours, for the mean time.

“Oh? What’s wrong? Ayaw mo ata akong makita eh.” Richard asked when he noticed Maya’s sudden change of mood.

“Oy, wala akong sinasabi ha! Good morning Richard!”

He just smiled. “Oh? Bakit nakangiti ka lang dyan? Sabi ko good morning.”

“Pwede bang i-record ‘yang boses mo?”

“Ha?”

“Para pag bumalik ako sa langit, ‘yan ang alarm ko.”

Maya smiled. “Ito oh, umagang umaga, bola na agad. Tara na, may pasok pa ko.”

Maya stood up and went to the bathroom. Richard just watched her as she moved. I’ll miss you, Maya.

..

“O Maya, bat parang ang blooming mo ngayon?” Liza asked her when they entered the elevator. Maya glanced at the handsome angel to her right who’s facing his front like he’s in deep thought.

“Ha? Anong blooming? Natural ‘to no!”

“Hindi kaya, Maya. Basta. May something eh. Ah alam ko na, kayo na ni Simon no?”

“Ay naku Liza. Hindi no!” she replied immediately. She knew Richard would get mad if this presses on.

“Hmm. Kung hindi si Simon ang dahilan, edi may other guy?”

Maya just blushed, then looked at her guardian angel. He’s at the same position but she can clearly see that he is smiling.

“Uyy! Confirmed! Sino ba ‘to, Maya?” Liza continued to ask. The elevator opened and they are now walking to their places.

“Basta.”

“Anong basta? Milagro ‘to no. Ang dami kayang nanliligaw sa’yo. Finally may sinagot ka na! Dali na! Kahit first name lang!!”

Maya chuckled. “Sige na nga, Liza.” She looked around, making sure no one will hear his name and also to make sure that her angel will hear it. “Richard. Richard yung pangalan niya.” Then she smiled and blushed more.

“OMG Maya! Kinikilig ako! Grabe! Ramdam na ramdam kong mahal mo siya dahil lang dun sa pagkakasabi mo ng pangalan nya.”

Maya smiled and looked at Richard who’s smiling at her back. “Ehh mahal ko Liza eh.”

“And I love her, too.” Richard said, as if Liza can hear her.

“Golly Maya, can I meet him? I just want to meet the guy behind that smile of yours.”

“Uhm, saka na Liza. O sya, dun na ko sa office ko. Babay.”

Maya proceeded to her office with Richard walking beside her. She was used to seeing him fly and now he’s just walking along with her.

“Richard.”

“Hmm?” he said with a grin on his face as he sat on the couch.

“Pwedeng magtanong?”

“Of course.” He said and the he patted the space beside him, inviting Maya to sit down which she did.

“Eh diba .. “

“Hmm?”

“Ano ..”

“Ano?”

“Uhmm..”

“Hmm?”

“Richard naman eh!!” she said with a smile.

“What? I’m not doing anything!” he replied, smiling back at her.

“Tigilan mo kasi ‘yan!”

“Ang alin ba?”

“Yan!” She’s supposed to be annoyed but she kept laughing.

“Ang alin?”

“Ang kulit eh! Ayan nga!”

“Ang alin –“

“Yang pagpapa-cute mo!!” she blurted out.

Richard laughed. “I’m sorry, I was born with it. You just have to deal with it. Ayaw mo non? Ganito boyfriend mo?”

Maya’s laugh died down. Then she smiled and looked at Richard. “Boyfriend?”

“Yeah. ‘Di ba? You even told Liza that you love me.”

Maya nodded. “Alam mo bang ikaw ang unang boyfriend ko?”

“What? Really?”

“O-oo no.”

Richard’s smile faded. “I’m sorry. Your first boyfriend must be special and more human. I’m sorry if I’m like this –“

“Huy ano ka ba? Nag-drama agad eh!” Maya looked straight into his eyes. “You should not be sorry. I’m glad that you’re my first. Saka walang sabi yung ibang mga lalaki dyan. Angel kaya boyrfriend ko!” she said proudly.

Richard grinned. “I love you so, Maya. O, ano nang itatanong mo?”

“Ah, ano. Na .. nasan yung pakpak mo?”

Richard paused before answering. “They’re gone.”

“Oo alam ko, pero bakit? Anong nangyari?”

“Remember your accident? I .. I gave my wings so that He can lend me my body. That’s why I was able to save you.” He turned to look at Maya. “Gee, Maya. This is why I don’t want you to know. Naiyak ka na naman.”

Maya wiped her tears. “Sorry. Ehh ikaw kasi eh! May pasakripisyo-sakripisyo ka pa dyan!”

“If I didn’t do it, edi sana, wala ka ngayon, diba? And I will not be able to hear you say that you love me back.”

“Salamat Richard. Promise ko talaga, babawi ako.”

“How can you? We can barely hold hands?”

“Basta.” Basta Richard. Maghintay ka lang. Kapag nakabalik ka na. Promise ko, babawi ako ng sobra sa’yo.

“Please don’t forget me.” He whispered.

“Ha?”

“No matter what, Maya. I want you to promise me that you’ll remember all of this. All of what we have, what we had and what we will have. I want you to remember how much I love you.”

Maya felt nervous. “Richard, wag ganyan. Aalis ka na ba?”

“No. No. I’m not leaving. But I can say that it’ll be soon.” There. He said it. “Don’t cry. I promise to leave when you’re ready.” He said. The sight of Maya crying is completely tearing his heart apart.

I will never be ready. She nodded. “Please promise me, Maya.” He said.

“I promise, Richard. Hinding hindi kita kakalimutan.”

Richard smiled. Sana nga, Maya. I’ll do anything just for you to have this memory.

“O sya. Pupunta muna ako kay Sir Robert. DIto ka lang ha?”

Richard nodded. “I’ll be here. I love you.”

“I love you din, Ricky.”

Maya stood up and left while Richard just looked at her. Ricky? Why does it sound so familiar? And why did she call me that?

Richard stood up when he heard something that fell on the floor. It’s Maya’s phone, lit up. The background image stopped him from his tracks. It was a picture of a man, sleeping. He bent down to take a closer look.

It was him.

..

Looking Back- One

Yes I love the Nic-Nik-Miel love triangle. Think of this story as something like that. Pero in reality, I’m all for the NikMiel tandem. Sorry guys… So eto na… It’s a bit heartbreaking, yet I hope you like it.

 

Looking Back – Part One

The gates of NAIA Terminal 2 were buzzing with arrivals, departures, farewells and welcomes. A mixture of emotions hung thickly in the air. He picked up his luggage from the conveyor belt and started to walk toward the exit. Suddenly, his gaze caught sight of auburn waves, smooth ivory skin, and that figure no other could ever have. His breath caught and he tried to turn away.

Yet he could not.

It was her. This girl… no. No longer a girl, but a woman. This woman who haunted his every thoughts. She who made his lonely nights miserable. She, although they have never seen each other for years, made her memory seem closer to reality than a mere illusion.

She flipped her hair back and caught sight of him. He stood frozen on the spot.

Not knowing what to do, impulsively, he lifted a hand as a form of greeting. She did the same.

Unable to avoid the inevitable, he urged his legs to move forward.

He watched her wary eyes and stiff posture. She was still beautiful even with that never-failing tilt of her chin. Despite some changes of her appearance, she was still the girl he fell in love with. As he closed the distance that separated them, he drew all courage to his gut and placed on his mask of bravado.

“Hi, Nikki Grace.”

“Hi, Amiel.”

 

It seemed as if the world stopped turning. Time stopped. No one was in the area. Just the two of them battling the strong urges they’ve kept hidden away all these years.

“Uh, so how are you? Long time no see.” He began.

“I’m fine thanks.” She tilted her head down, watching him with wide eyes, trying to calculate him at the same time. “You?”

“I’ve been better.” He shrugged, as if trying to gain back the smugness he once had.

“How come?”

“Work.” He continued to stare at her, willing her never to go away.

“Mmm…” She heaved a hopeful sigh. “Look, Amiel…” she started to pick up her bags. “I don’t want to play one-word games. So, I better go.” That was when his brain started to work again. In panic, he grabbed her oversized shoulder bag.

Eyes met, and once again they were transported to the time when everything seemed wonderful.

 

———————–flashback——————————-

 

The weather was balmy that day. It seemed strange that for the month of September, the weather seemed Bipolar enough to contest a mental person. Nikki, with her friend Stacy, were leaving the room to catch a breeze from outside.

“Let me carry that for you.” Amiel, the “new guy” came just in time to catch up with the two.

“No na. I can carry my own bag naman.”  Nikki tried to shoo him away, and yet deep inside her, she was glad he was there.

“Oh come one, Nikki Grace. We’ve been through this discussion before. And besides, it’s what a suitor does, right?”

“I’ll leave you two alone now.” Stacy said her goodbyes with that knowing glint in her eye. Nikki, despite the protests, felt that it was the perfect time to talk to him.

“Let me accompany you sa lobby habang naghihintay ka sa sundo mo.”

They both walked in comfortable silence, a quick glance here and there, and a small smile gracing their lips.

They arrived at the front steps of the school and Nikki thought “It’s time.”

“Listen, Amiel…” she turned to look at him and she knew she was making a mistake.

“Yes, Nikki Grace?” when she didn’t speak, he asked again. “What’s wrong? You look sad.” She shook her head and took a deep breath for confidence.

“Look Amiel, this has to stop.”

“What? Me carrying your things?” he joked.

“I’m serious, Amiel. Look, you’re a great guy. I’m actually lucky to have met you, but…”

“Nikki, are you asking me to stop courting you?” His brow wrinkled and she felt torn. With a heavy heart, she nodded. Surprisingly, when she looked up, she saw that he was smiling. Though, it did not reach his eyes.

“You’re…. okay with this?”

“To tell you the truth, I’m not. But I understand. Afterall, you are still young. In fact, so am I. But that doesn’t mean I have to stop being your friend, right?”

Nikki was relieved to hear that from his mouth. Her smile came back to her face in full, and her heart could not be filled further with such joy.

“I admire you, Nikki. And because of that, I would like to be your friend. Someday, I hope, that we could be more than what we are right now. But as of now, I’m glad that we could be good friends.” He threw her his most charming smile. Her insides did a mini cartwheel.

“Thank you so much, Amiel. This turned out far better than I imagined.”

“But that doesn’t mean I’m going to stop treating you this way, though.”

“What?” Her face scrunched up in confusion.

“You don’t strike me as someone who prefers to be mediocre. And I believe that you should always be treated above the norm. Like a princess, if you will. As you’re friend, and potential suitor…” she threw him a cautious look. “…I hold the responsibility to treat you like a princess. And if I do my best, I could even make you fall in love with me too.” Suddenly, she felt her body stiffen. This was supposed to end.

“Don’t worry, Nikki Grace.” He leaned forward towards her. “I won’t actively court you. But I will never stop pursuing you.”

 

—————————–end of flashback——————————-

 

“Would you like to have coffee with me?” The thirty-year old Amiel started to speak in a voice that was too soft to hear.

“What?” he repeated his question. Nikki felt dumbstruck! After all these years of no communication, he really expected her to say yes to this invitation?

“Okay.” He couldn’t believe she just said yes. After regaining his composure, he picked up his bag once more, and took hold of Nikki’s shoulder bag.

“For old time’s sake.” He smiled at her, and she mentally cursed herself for falling for that trick once again.

 

They found a fairly secluded spot at a nearby coffee shop. Neither spoke, but God knew there were things to be said.

“So…” They both said at the same time followed by the awkward silence.

Amiel coughed and took the opportunity presented.

“So… red huh?” He resisted the urge to take a lock of her hair in his fingers. The way he used to before.

“Mmm… yeah. It’s for a role.” She lifted a bundle to play with.

“Little Mermaid? I saw the posters.” He smiled. He knew it wasn’t a wig.

“Yes. You watched?” Her face lit up. How he hated to disappoint her. He only shook his head. But God knew he wanted to. Several attempts were made. He had once bought a ticket during her last play. But he never had the courage to walk in the theater. He watched as her face dropped.

“I hear you’re the next Lea Salonga.” He didn’t only hear. He was there when the declaration was made live on National Television.

“Oh stop. That wasn’t seriously made. I’m still at the bottom of the ladder.” She tried to hide her blush. But her dyed hair only made her face glow the more. “Uh how about you?” She tried to divert the attention towards him. “Did you ever pursue acting?”

“Oh no. Not me.” He tried to hide the bitterness in his voice. “I took over my family’s business.”

“What’s it about?”

“Stationary supplies. We distribute to major stores and brands.”

“Oh that’s cool.”

Again, the silence loomed over them. Amiel started to fidget in his seat and Nikki started to play with her mug. He racked his brain for something… anything to fill the gap of silence, when finally, Nikki spoke up.

“Why did you do it, Amiel?” Her eyes were downcast. He knew exactly what she was asking.

 

——————-flashback to fifteen years ago—————–

 

Nikki said her goodbyes to the person she considered as her “big brother” in school. He was off to the university and she was left in high school. Amiel had hugged her tightly and whispered “I’ll miss you, princess.”

“As if naman we won’t be seeing each other na noh.” Nikki hated goodbyes. Even temporary ones. But she had to put on a strong facade.

“Iba pa rin yung araw-araw kitang nakikita.” This made her smile. She wondered if he still had feelings for her. She surely did for him. But pride and promises ruled out that she was not yet supposed to entertain any suitors.

“We’ll still hang out right? I mean, you can still visit to help out sa teatro if you like.”

 

They did keep their communication lines open. As much as possible, Amiel continued to call Nikki at night before going off to sleep. It was as if nothing has changed. During sembreak, Amiel invited Nikki to a party.

 

“Just by yourself?” Richard Lim’s voice boomed as Nikki asked permission.

“You’ve met him dad. He won’t do anything out of line.” Nikki pleaded with her eyes. Richard knew he had succumbed to this.

“But still, Nikki. You’re a girl. And besides, what kind of party is this anyway.”

“I’m sure it’s not a drinking party, daddy. Umaga naman siya. Lunch time. So you don’t have to worry. I promise I’ll be home by six just in time so we can have dinner together.”

“Ayan naman pala, Ricky. Baka may celebration lang. Payagan mo na.” Ricky looked at his wife with loving eyes yet with a surprised expression. Never had she stood beside the children’s choices when she was not certain that they would be alright. Mother’s instincts probably.

“Fine. But you have to call me every hour so I can be sure you are alright. And I’m bringing you there and fetching you as well.”

“Call dad? Text na lang please.” She said with a pout.

“Fine.” He said in obvious defeat.

“Yay! Thankies daddy!” she then leapt up and hugged him.

 

At the day of the party. She woke up early to prep up. Amiel didnt say what kind of party it was. So she opted for something neutral. She choose a dress and simple accessories: earrings and a hair clip. Precisely 9am, Amiel texted.

“Coming?”

“Yeah. Dad’s bringing me there in a while.”

“See you! ;)” Suddenly she felt giddy over that wink.

 

As they were approaching the clubhouse where the said party was supposed to be, she suddenly felt nervous. Her heart was beating twice its pace and she felt her blood rushing from her face.

“Nikki? We’re here.” Richard looked at her daughter. “What’s wrong Niks?”

Nikki faced her father and shrugged. “Nothing dad. Bye and thank you again. I’ll text you every hour.” She leaned up to kiss his cheek.

Nikki went inside the clubhouse and was surprised to see a variety of ages. She suddenly got confused and wondered if she was in the right venue. She craned her neck to look for Amiel and spotted him. The sight was worth capturing. He, carrying an infant as a few other children surrounded him. A smile unknowingly planted itself on her face. His head lifted and he met her gaze. Slowly he smiled and approached her. Nikki strained to keep all poised and natural as to not melt on the floor.

“Hi.” He greeted her.

“Hi. Yours?” She said nodding to the infant.

“I wish!” He laughed at that. “Meet baby Zoey. My youngest cousin.” He approached and lifted the baby’s hand for Nikki to hold.

“Hi Zoey.” She cooed to the baby. “She’s adorable.” Her eyes lifted and suddenly she was aware of their proximity. Time was at a standstill and electricity was crackling between them.

“Amiel, is this our special guest, Nikki?” A pretty woman approached the two and broke the glass barrier that separated them from everyone else.

“Oh yeah. Ma, this is Nikki. Nikki, my mom, Karen.”

“Hi tita Karen.”

“Hi, welcome dear!” She then surprised Nikki by scooping her up in a tight hug. “Amiel anak, introduce Nikki to everyone okay? Here let me carry little Zoey.”

“Amiel?” Nikki looked up to the one beside her.

“Yes, princess?” The endearment made her giddy.

“This isn’t a party?”

“Of course it is. It’s our family reunion!” He then led her through many tables, placing his hand at the small of her back.

Our

Did he even dare include her in his family?

 

“So Amiel, magiging parte na ba siya ng ating clan?” Nikki panicked when she was introduced to his uncle. He casually draped an arm over her shoulder. And even though she knew she was supposed to swat it off, she let it linger.

“Naku tito. If only she’d allow me.” She pinched his side which earned those who witnessed a good laugh at his expense.

“You’re so g-r-r talaga!” Even if deep within herself, she would gladly accept the offer.

 

Throughout that day, Nikki never felt left out. She knew that this was where she really wanted to be. She tried denying it to herself, never even told anyone about it, but she just couldn’t escape the fact that she was truly, overwhelmingly falling in love with Amiel Sebastian.

After lunch, they all gathered around the makeshift stage and Amiel’s aunt announced over the microphone that Amiel would be singing for them a song. Nikki, obviously surprised, looked at him.

“I didn’t know you sing!” She said accusingly.

“Not by free will, Nikki Grace.” He then stood and got a guitar from someone.

“This song is lola’s favorite. So I’m dedicating it for her and lolo. May their souls rest in peace.” He then started to strum an achingly familiar tune.

 

“It’s a little bit funny… this feeling inside.

I’m not one of those who can easily hide.

I don’t have much money,

But boy if I did.

I’d buy a big house where we both could live…”

Nikki stared at him in awe. He never fails to surprise her. His voice, though not perfect, tugged deep in her soul, and she was lost in the words.

“I hope you don’t mind…

I hope you don’t mind…

That I put down in words…” he then looked straight in Nikki’s eyes.

“How wonderful life is, now you’re in the world.” That’s it. She gave up denying it. She loved him.

 

Later that afternoon, while Amiel was helping clear out some of the dishes, Nikki was tasked to watch over the sleeping baby Zoey. After a while, Amiel was beside her.

“Getting tired?” He asked; his voice full of concern.

“Not really.” She turned to him. “I love children. Especially babies. They’re so soft and cuddly.”

“You look good like that.” His statement caught her by surprise. “I just wish that was our baby you’re holding.” A blush crept to her cheeks.

“Amiel…” She started to protest.

“Relax, I was only kidding!” Her panic eased but her smile continued to grow. She knew he was only joking. But how she wished she could summon all the powers of the universe to make the pretense true. How she wanted to freeze this moment and make it last for all eternity.

“Thank you for inviting me. I had a great time.”

“Thank you for coming. You made me very happy.” He then came close to kiss baby Zoey’s hand. His face a mere hairsbreadth from hers. Her heart threatened to burst. No one should feel this happy.

“Amiel, nandito na sundo ni Nikki.” One of Amiel’s cousins called out from the entrance.

“Here.” Nikki handed Zoey over to Amiel. Their arms brushed, and Nikki felt a frisson of emotion rush over her system. “Thanks again.” Boldly, Nikki went to her toes and placed a chaste peck on his cheek, leaving Amiel stunned.

 

—————————–end of flashback——————————-

 

Amiel looked at Nikki. Guilt and sadness washed over him like a bucket of cold fish. It disgusted him. He was disgusted with himself.

“I have no excuse. I was a jerk.” Nikki looked up, disbelief written across her face.

“Then let me understand, Amiel. I want to understand. You knew how I felt for you. You knew I’d be yours in a heartbeat. Why did you leave me then?” Her sudden outburst made her eyes glimmer with unshed tears. Amiel wanted to hit himself for letting this happening.

“Because I’m a coward.” He finally admitted.

 

——————-flashback to thirteen years ago—————

 

Amiel held Nikki’s hand as they strolled out on the lush garden, generously illuminated with soft golden lights. It was Nikki’s senior prom and he was her escort once again. They stopped in front of a wide fountain.

“You look really handsome tonight.” Nikki blushed as she studied his profile in a black tuxedo. He turned to her and lifted her hand to his lips.

“And you are exquisite, my princess.”

They have been like this for some time already. After Amiel’s family reunion, they both knew that they would no longer be just friends.

“I’ll be graduating soon.” She happily informed him, hoping he’d get the hint.

“I know. And I’m so happy for you.”

“And I’ll be in college. Thank God! We’ll be schoolmates!” Still, she waited for his reaction, and yet got none.

“Amiel?” She asked when he was not saying anything. “Are you okay?” Worry etched her face.

“No, it’s nothing, princess. Nothing to worry about.” They were soon talking about nonsense topics and Nikki wanted to scream at him. When they were out of topics to talk about, Nikki took a deep breath.

“Amiel, aren’t you going to court me anymore?” Clearly, he was surprised that she should ask him this.

“Why do you ask, Nikki Grace?” Something was off and she knew it.

“Well… because…” She was starting to blush. Did she have to admit herself to him? Didn’t he know?

“Shhh… Don’t you worry. We’re in no rush.” Oh but she was actually. She wanted to feel how it would be to have a boyfriend. They had acted countless times as if they were a couple, but that’s what it all was… an act.

When he started to lead her back to the ballroom, her heart and mind battled whether or not she should tell him. In the end, all reasoning failed.

“Amiel, I’m in love with you.” She spoke just as they were about to reach the double doors. She felt him squeeze the hand he was holding. She unexpectedly became nervous. Slowly, he turned to her with a small smile. His eyes, painting her with unspoken emotion.

“And I with you.” Her breath caught and she was spinning.

 

—————————–end of flashback——————————-

 

“I was afraid of what might happen.” He said in defeat. It was never easy, imagining this moment. And now that it’s happening, Amiel felt terrified.

“Why?” she whispered. “Why would you be afraid?”

“Because I knew that if things didn’t work out between us, we would never go back to what was then.”

“Well, it never worked out either way.” She said bitterly. She was then drawn back to the time when she knew about the terrible truth he had kept away.

 

——————-flashback to twelve or so  years ago—————

 

“Niks…” Stacy came in the auditorium where Nikki was rehearsing for the school’s annual production.

“Hi Stace! Wait lang ha. I’m just highlighting the rest of my lines.”

“Niks, I have to tell you something.” Dread was in her voice.

“Wait lang Stace. I’m almost done.”

“Amiel has a girlfriend.” Stacy blurted out and watched as Nikki’s hand froze, her eyes looked up, and her breathing hiked up a notch. When she faced Stacy, she was as pale as death.

“I’m sorry Niks.”

“What are you talking about?” Stacy saw how Nikki tried to pull herself up despite the bad news.

“I saw him with another girl sa building nila. I saw them, Niks.” Stacy dreaded doing this. “And they were… intimate.”

“I don’t believe you, Stacy.” She couldn’t stop herself. She had to see, if only to prove that Stacy was wrong. He loves her. He said so himself.

Nikki forced her legs to hold her up when she saw what she saw. He was with another girl. They were with friends in a long table. He sat on the table, her head was on his lap, their hands playing with each other. But what broke her heart the most was when the girl lifted her head and he gazed down on her with that same look he had always shared with Nikki. The one that spoke volumes of his feelings. The one that he made her believe was only for her.  As if that wasn’t enough, he worsened the damage by leaning down to kiss her full on the lips. Nikki could only take so much. She ran away from the scene and took a cab home.

 

The next day, Saturday, Nikki was surprised to see Amiel waiting for her downstairs.

“What are you doing here?” She didn’t move away from the stairs.

“You weren’t returning my calls and messages. I was worried.” The concern he painted on his face only made her anger burn greater.

“Good.”

“Princess…” but she cut him off.

“Don’t you dare ‘princess’ me you jerk!” She hissed.

“What’s the matter?” He said, genuinely confused and worried at the same time.

Nikki took a quick glance around and took the argument outside. That was where the dam burst.

“I know you’re hiding something from me, Amiel Sebastian. So stop your lying and tell me the truth!”

“What are you talking about?” He was genuinely dumbfounded.

“Did you really think that I was stupid enough to not notice?” Her sobs racked her body. “How could you do this to me?!”

“Nikki-“ he tried to hold her but she withdrew her hand away from his reach.

“Tell me, Amiel. Do you, or do you not have a girlfriend?” That surely silenced him. Knowing that there was no escape, he looked at her with a pained expression.

“I do.”

“God! Did you even have to say those two words!?” She wailed. “So what was I? Practice?” She started to wheeze.

“No of course not Nikki. You’re someone I treasure!” He tried to defend himself.

“Niks?! Anong nangayayari dito? Amiel?” Luke, her brother ran outside as soon as he heard the screaming.

“Kuya…” Nikki spoke in between wheezes  “…get… Him… out of… here… please…”

 

That was the last she saw of Amiel. The next day, she dropped all subjects and begged her dad to send her to an arts school abroad. At first, Richard was angry, but after days of seeing Nikki wear the same expression she had when Alex died, he reconsidered.

 

—————————–end of flashback——————————-

 

So after years of hiding and avoiding him, here she was casually drinking coffee with him in an airport lounge.

“I know I made a mistake. I know I should’ve pursued you. It was a mistake to have backed away from you and choose another.”

“Too late for that now.”

“Nikki, I know you’re mad. But…”

“Look Amiel, I don’t want to rehash the past. I just want to know why you treated me differently and then set me aside the next day.” Her voice was soft, and he knew she was trying her best not to cry.

“Look, this is not a reasonable explanation, but here I go anyway…”

 

———

 

To be continued…

Amiel’s POV for the next part…

Let me know what you guys think…