ER – Chapter FOUR – An Unexpected Visit

A/N: Happy April Fool’s everyone! I hope you are still there to read. 🙂

Maya sat on her bed somehow disappointed, realizing it was just a dream of the past and is now confronted with the present by an unexpected guest. While she has already accepted the reality that she could not avoid Richard forever, she did not foresee that she will face him again this soon.

“Hello Doktora? Paakytin ko na lang po ba diyan ang bisita ninyo?” asked the condo receptionist.

“Ah…huwag na, pababa na rin kasi ako eh. Paki sabi na lang kay Dr. Lim paantay sandali sa lobby, salamat.”

Richard actually had a quick access to Maya’s files at the hospital and discovered among others, her age, birthday, contact number and where she’s staying. However, he was too eager to talk to Maya and mixed the numbers in his mind.

He recalled the rules set by Maya, to which he readily agreed to. Rule #1: No exchange of personal information.

“Marra, can we at least reveal our age?” Richard asked.

“No.” she firmly answered.

“Why?”

“That’s personal information.”

“Are you not curious how old I am?”

“No. You don’t look that old anyway.”

“But I need to know your age. You look young and –”

“Don’t worry. I’m old enough to get married without needing the consent or advice of my parents or guardians.”

“So you are at least 25.”

“I assure you, I’m at least 25. Satisfied?”

“Fine.” Richard answered but still hoping she would reveal her age.

“Uhm… am I your first girl who is much younger than you are?”

“Hmmm…maybe.”

“Talaga? May ten years ba ang age gap natin?”

“Aha! Now you’re curious!”

“Eh ang daya lang kasi. You now know that I’m at least 25.”

“Okay, age gap is at least ten years. Are you okay with that?”

“Ah-ok! Sabi naman nila age does not matter when you’re in a relationship eh.”

Richard wondered if Marra would have answered the same if she knew that he is actually almost twenty years older than her. But does age not really matter when two people are in love? Did she really love him? But did she not want to marry him? Why did she leave without saying goodbye?

More than the questions he wanted to ask and the answers he needed to hear, Richard’s purpose in seeing Maya is to apologize. He put Maya at a difficult situation at internship and he realized this too late.

Maya pressed the button and sighed. She’s not ready to talk to Richard about what happened. Nonetheless, she is brave enough to see him and apologize for leaving him in Baguio abruptly. She knew too, that she needed to give him some kind of assurance because they cannot freely talk now that she is an intern at the hospital where Richard is a consultant.

Richard patiently waited to see Maya. After all, it’s what he has been hoping for. He wants to be by her side and take care of her but considering their situation, he has to find ways on how not to make things hard for Maya.

As soon as the elevator door opened, Maya searched for Richard among the people at the lobby. She was relieved to see him at the corner sofa calmly waiting without any trace of anger in his face. As she walked towards him, she noticed how he looked mature in his short sleeved polo shirt and wondered how old he really is. Their eyes finally met. Richard stood up right away and started walking but Maya stopped as thoughts of their intimate moments filled her mind.

“Marra…” he said, and moved two steps forward to close the space between them but Maya stepped backwards.

“I’m sorry.” Again, he moved two steps forward and quickly hugged her. “I’m so sorry.”

“Rich– uhm… Dr. Lim…please… ”

Richard felt Maya’s apprehension and understood what she wanted to say. He released her immediately and led her to the empty sofa. Once settled, Richard apologized. “I’m sorry about what I did in front of your co-interns. I’m sorry for being angry and all.”

Maya squeezed her hands as she gathered words in her mind. “It’s my fault. Ako ang dapat mag apologize. I’m sorry for leaving without a word. After all you’ve–”

“Marra…” Richard held her arm to stop her from saying anything further. Despite wanting to hold her in his arms, Richard withdrew his hand right away and spoke. “I’m not here to talk about that. I’m sorry for coming here so soon but I just had to come and apologize for ruining your first internship day.”

Maya bowed down to hide her face as tears started to gather in her eyes. Richard took a deep breath and slowly lifted Maya’s face. “I’m really sorry.” He said again. She saw regret in his eyes and felt the pain in his words. So, she nodded at him and tears rolled down her cheeks. He rubbed the tears and brushed the strands of hair away from her face. He pulled out his hanky and handed it to her.

After gathering herself, Maya looked at Richard but before she could even say what’s in her mind, Richard said “I do not want to ruin you first duty tonight, so I will not delay you more. Let’s talk about us and what happened some other time, okay?” Maya just nodded again with a bit of a smile this time.

With the expression Maya gave, Richard continued. “We’ll have that talk at some other place, at the proper time…when you’re ready and when your schedule permits. Just let me know, I’ll wait.”

For the last time, Maya simply nodded at Richard to acknowledge what he said. Then, Richard stood and said “Good luck on your first round of duty. Do not forget to eat, no matter what.”

With that, Richard kissed Maya on the forehead and left. Without looking back, he walked to the door with a happy heart and a smile on his face.

ER – Chapter THREE – So Many Questions

Richard immediately took notice of Maya when she approached the bar. “One margarita please…” Maya requested the bartender while she positioned herself on the stool.  She had difficulty sleeping so she decided to take a walk and found herself enjoying the cold night breeze of Baguio City.  The faint music coming from the country club enticed her to stop by for a drink.

Richard watched Maya from his table and could clearly see her pale face.  She stared blankly at the television hanging on the wall while she sipped her drink.  From his observation, he sensed that she is not okay.  He continued with his dinner and by the time he finished, Maya was almost done with her fourth drink.

He stood and walked to the bar and sat beside Maya. “Good evening, sir.” greeted the bartender.  He nodded and replied “Rene, isang San Mig light please.”  The bartender immediately served him the requested drink and pointed to Maya with his eyes.

Before he could steal a look, Maya spoke unexpectedly.  “Kuya, wait lang ha, mag CR lang ako. San po ba?” she asked the bartender who thought he got caught with his gesture. “Ah, dun po ma’am.”

“Dito ba naka check-in?” Richard asked as soon as Maya was out of sight. “Hindi po Sir” the bartender said.  “Tinanong ko kung charge sa room, sabi nya wala siyang room dito sa country club.  Wala naman pong imik eh, namumutla.”

 

It has been a while and Maya has not gone back to the bar so Richard instructed Rene to watch the comfort room area closely. Richard is a frequent guest-member of the country club and willingly rendered medical assistance to the guests when needed.

Moments passed.  Richard was signing the charge slips for his dinner and drink when Rene got sight of Maya. “Pabalik na Sir, mukhang okay naman na.”

Maya easily walked back to the bar but struggled climbing the stool so Richard offered his hand to help her up.  “Thank you” she said without looking.  “Kuya another glass please” she said.

Richard could not help but get involved. “I’m sorry to be interfering Miss, but you’re very pale and you don’t look okay. Are you sure you can handle another drink? Do you have company?”

Maya looked at him and giggled lazily.  “Is it that obvious? Hahaha….it does not matter… anyway, I can handle this.” She looked away and repeated her order. “Kuya another margarita please.”

Richard grabbed his beer bottle and chose to make another statement.  “It’s just that you might be under medications which are not supposed to be taken with alcohol.” Richard said in a very soft tone but remindful manner before he drank his beer.

Maya didn’t mind the unsought continuing conversation and replied “Huh? Nakakamatay ba yun? Agad agad?”

Richard didn’t  expect that reaction. “W-what? Wait, are you alone? Where are you staying?”

Maya saw the apprehension in Richard’s face so she immediately said  “I am not taking any medications, I do not have company, I am not a registered guest in this country club, and I do not know why I’m here.  However, I am certain that I can handle this drink.”  Maya took another sip from the glass. “Ikaw, doctor ka ba? Are you from this place? …you’re staying here or something? Parang friends kayo ni Kuya eh.”

Richard felt the reception so he took advantage. “I’m a guest-member and I’m here for work.  My colleagues already left for Manila this afternoon but I decided to stay for a while.” 

Maya tried to recall how she ended up in Baguio. “Ah frequent guest ka dito… so kasi tapos na work mo, dapat nakauwi ka na but you stayed.  Me, it’s my first day in Baguio.”

Richard motioned the bartender for another bottle. “What about you, why are you here? School? Vacation?”

“Hahaha! What do you mean?”

“Are you studying here? Or are you here for vacation?”

“What makes you think that I’m still in school? Hahaha! Naman, I’m here alone in the bar, enjoying alcoholic drinks, and now talking to a stranger!”

 Richard took the cue and casually introduced himself. “By the way I’m Richard, and you are?

 “Marra, just call me Marra.” Maya readily answered smiling.

 “You look young to me Marra, like you’re still in college.” Richard smiled back.

She nodded and said “Yes, young adult but I already graduated from college years ago.”

 By the look in her eyes, Richard sensed that she’s tipsy and may soon be drunk. “So why are you putting yourself into a great risk by drinking alone? You know even in decent places like this, there are beasts lurking around and will strike when they see the opportunity.”

 She put down her margarita glass and said, “so you see that opportunity because you think I am vulnerable…”

 Richard immediately stood up and took money from his wallet. “Ending this conversation now, sorry if I have bothered you Marra,.” He took one last drink and put the tip on the counter. “Rene, you know where to find me.”

 She grabbed Richard’s hand and stopped him. “Teka! Wait! I don’t want to end the conversation! Iiwan mo ako dito mag-isa? W-what if a beast comes around and take advantage of me?!”

 He just looked at her, confused. “Stay, Richard.  You haven’t finished your beer.”

 “Really.”   It was what he could say…sarcastically.

 “Yes, please stay. Hindi ko naman sinabi that you’re grabbing the opportunity to take advantage of my vulnerability.  Ang sinabi ko, because you think I am vulnerable, you see the opportunity for beasts to strike.”

 She watched Richard position himself back on the stool. She put down her margarita glass and said. “You think coming here alone was an option for me? Well it’s not. I don’t even know how I ended up here.”

From the tone of her voice, Richard knew Maya was lonely. “I’m sorry, I did not mean to offend you earlier.  What I meant was, it’s dangerous for you to drink alone sa panahon ngayon.”

 “Eh hindi ka naman mukhang beast eh. I can see that you’re a decent person. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have talked to you earlier. Besides, quota na ako sa Diyos, hindi naman Niya siguro ako pababayaan, especially that I am alone.”

 Richard knew that Maya needed someone to talk to at that moment. “I can see, may lungkot sa mga mata mo. May problem ba? I can be a friend for the night who can listen to you.”

 Maya stared at Richard, studying his facial expression. She saw kindness, sympathy and wisdom.

 “What? Believe it or not Marra, men can be good listeners too. Try me! Who knows, I might become your friend for a lifetime.”

 Lifetime. It is defined as a very long time.  It is the time during which a person is alive. It is the time during which something lasts. In Maya’s mind, lifetime then is not very long anymore.

 Without any reservation, Maya openly asked Richard. “Friend for a lifetime?  Pwede bang kahit boyfriend na lang for the night?”

 “Boyfriend for the night? You mean roman–”

 “Boyfriend for the night nga.  I think I have a good number of lifetime friends already. What I need…what I want to experience, is to have a boyfriend.”

 “So you don’t have a boyfriend?”

 Maya hurriedly gulped down her Margarita to answer. “Malamang! Kaya nga diba I want to experience to have a boyfriend, kasi I never had one. So, kahit for the night lang, pwede na yun!”

 Still not sure of what Maya wants, Richard politely clarified the matter. “You’re serious, right? Baka naman pagtawanan mo ako when I commit to do the role and then you’ll tell me ang gago ko.”

 “Gising na gising ang diwa ko, hindi lasing ang kausap mo.  You offered to be a friend for the night, with chance of becoming a friend for a lifetime.  Eh mas mabigat ata yung maging lifetime friend kesa sa boyfriend for the night.”

 “Okay!”

 “Okay?!  Talaga? Teka, i-break mo muna girlfriend mo, sabihin mo cool off lang muna kayo hanggang 12 midnight.  Bilis! Ilang oras na lang natitira sa night oh!”

 “You seem to be certain that I don’t have a wife.” 

 “You’re not wearing any wedding ring.”

 “Very  observant!”  Richard stood and signaled the bartender to come over.  “Now let me do my role as your boyfriend.  Let’s go!”

“W-wait lang, what about your girlfriend? Makipag-break ka muna please.” Maya sounded cautious and hesitant.

“Matagal ko na siyang binreyk!”  Richard answered with confidence.  “So let’s go, umaandar ang oras mo.” He ushered Maya down from the stool.

“Okay! Pero wait lang uli, yung bill ko. Kuya, bill please.” Maya made the request while looking down and taking money from her pocket.

“Rene, charge mo na lang sa account ko.”

“Okay po Sir. Thank you po Sir, Ma’am.”

 Maya paused and looked at Richard. She mouthed “Thank you!” and smiled at Rene  “Thank rin Kuya.”

 

A true gentleman, Richard guided Maya out of the bar to the main lobby of the country club, holding her by the elbow.  Both walked quietly until they reached the stairs leading down to the drive way where a white limousine and a number of other service cars are parked.

 Richard stopped and looked at Maya with a grin.  “Ready for our first date?”

“First date?”  Maya excitedly asked.

“Yes! We’re now a couple and we’re going on our first date.”  Slowly, Richard slid his hand down from her elbow and took hers. He looked at her.   She was blushing. “Are you okay with this?” He asked and raised their hands.

Maya nodded and didn’t say a word.  Then, with eyes closed, she took a deep breath.  Worried, Richard called her name. “Marra?”

With eyes still closed, she replied.  “Hmmm?”

 “Are you sure you want to do this?”

“Yes…very sure.”

“Then don’t be scared, just enjoy ‘us’ and trust me.”

Maya opened her eyes and looked at Richard.  “Ano ka ba? Of course, I trust you! I’m not scared.   In fact, I am enjoying right now.  Ganito pala ang feeling.” She took a deep breath again and said “Hmmm…I love the smell of the pine trees! So, saan tayo pupunta?”

“Dinner first. Is it okay if we walk to the restaurant? It’s just down the road, a few meters from here.”

 “Ah, dun sa commercial center malapit sa Camp Hotel?”

 “Yes.  So is that where you are staying?”  Richard asked and started walking.

 “Yeah.”

“And how did you get here?  I mean, what mode of transportation.”

“Bus.”

“Marra?”

“Hmmm?”

“Your hand is cold. Are you really okay with this set up?”

“Yes!  It was my idea, ako ang nag propose diba?”

“Eh bakit ang lamig ng kamay mo? Am I scaring you?”

“Huh? Ang lamig kaya!”

Richard realized Maya was not wearing any sweater or jacket.  But he was not wearing one too.  So, he led Maya to the small tiangge market across the road where a few stalls are still open.  He chose a khaki wrap coat for Maya and put it on her right away. “Better?” he asked looking in her eyes while tying the belt.

 “Yes, better!”  Maya readily answered.

“Good!” Richard felt assured with her answer.  He proceeded to pay but Maya stopped him.

“Richard wait.  Let me.” She was rushing to pull out money from her pocket but struggled because of the trench coat.

“No!”  Richard  immediately asked for the price and handed the old lady the money.  Then, he looked at Maya and smiled. “Tara.”

“Richard naman eh, ayoko naman na bilmoko ako na girlfriend. I can pay for it, I have money.”

 “I know you have money.  But boyfriends give their girlfriends presents.  Ganun yun,  and I wanted to give you a present.  That present is a practical one. Sigurado ako na gagamitin mo. Besides, you did not ask for it, so hindi bilmoko ‘yun.”

“Eh pero kasi –”

“Marra, don’t you like my present?”

“Galing mo kaya pumili! I love it!”

“Eh yun naman pala eh, so okay ka na? Are you warm now?” Maya nodded once again. Richard grinned and said “Then just accept it and say thank you.”

“Thank you.” Maya said shyly.  Richard held her hand and started walking again.

 “Ikaw? Are you really fine with this adventure with me?”

 “Of course Marra! I wouldn’t say yes if it was not okay with me.”

“Thank you for being okay with it.”

 

There were lots of people even if it was already late in the night.  So Richard chose an expensive Japanese restaurant because it was the one with the least number of diners.  They were greeted by the guest relations officer who led them to a corner table. Richard let Maya get seated on the inner part of the banquette seat then sat beside her. “Hmmm….I can smell their ramen, nagutom naman ako bigla!”

“Good! You should really eat.  What do you want?” Just in time, the waiter arrived.

“I’ll have shiromaru motoaji.”

 “How about gyoza?”

 “I’m fine with ramen. Hmmm…goma q na lang please.”

 “Okay, she’ll have the shiromaru motoaji  and I’ll have the akamaru shinaji. Add one order each of goma q (cucumber salad) and dashimaki tamago (omelette roll), and two orders of tori karaage (fried chicken strips) please.”

 The waiter repeated the orders and left. “Hindi ka naman gutom sa dami ng orders mo.  Hindi ka pa rin ba nag dinner?”

 “This is your first dinner with your boyfriend.  We should eat well.”

 “Ganyan ba lahat ng boyfriends?  Are you really like that with your girlfriends?”

 “Lahat ng boyfriends? No, maraming lalaki ang hindi. Me with my girlfriends? Hmmm…sila dapat ang sasagot sa tanong mo.”

 “Sobrang dami ba nila?”

 “Hahaha! You’re the one who said ‘girlfriends’ so I just responded. Well, it looks like you frequent this restaurant in Manila.”

 “Yeah. Comfort food ko sha. Galing mo talaga pumili!”  Maya nudged Richard. In response, he took her hand again, but this time, he intertwined her fingers with his.

 “So what’s the story? If it was not an option to come here alone, what happened? Why did you end up going to Baguio alone?” 

 “No one could be with me on short notice.  Then I got on a wrong bus.  Pag-gising ko, nasa Baguio na ako.”

 “Where were you supposed to go?”

 Maya thought for a while. “Actually, at that time, hindi ko rin alam.  All I know is I wanted to leave and go someplace and think along the way.  I needed to think. Kaya lang sa sobrang puyat at pagod siguro, nakatulog ako sa bus.”

 “You didn’t look okay at the bar. So I thought you’re sick. ”

 “Akala ko dati, lahat may solution. Pag gutom, kumain.  Pag uhaw, uminom.  Pag may test, mag-aral.  Pag may sakit, may doctor at gamot.  Pero hindi pala lahat ng gutom, pwede kumain, hindi lahat ng nauuhaw pwede uminom.  Hindi lahat nakakapag aral.  Hindi lahat ng sakit nagagamot. Doctors and medicine cannot stop a sick person from dying.”

 “Of course they cannot stop death. No one can stop death. But doctors and medicine can prolong life, right?”

“It used be my dream.”

“To be a doctor?”

“Yeah.”

“So why used to be? What happened to that dream?”

Maya was not prepared to talk about it.  She didn’t know how to talk about it.  She was having a nice time with this nice man and they only have until midnight. Good thing the waiter arrived. “Wow, ayan na yung food!” Maya declared with delight.

Richard watched Maya eat the cucumber slices with enthusiasm.  “Yum! Fresh na fresh.”  She took one slice and offered it to Richard who willingly took it.  He was putting some omelette  rolls and chicken strips on her plate.

“Here, eat some eggrolls and chicken.  They’re really good and healthy.”  He dipped the omelette roll on the cod roe dip and put it near Maya’s mouth. “This is my favorite so try it Marra.”

“Hmmm.  Sarap nga.  I never ordered that before pero yung chicken masarap rin yan.”  She tapped Richard’s chin and pointed to the waiter. “Yan na yung ramen!”

Richard enjoyed watching Maya eat her ramen without reluctance.  “Sarap talaga ng ramen nila.  Maanghang yang ramen mo dba?”

“Yes. But not so spicy.  Tolerable naman.”

“Not spicy eh pinagpapawisan ka na oh.” Maya took some tissue and wiped his face, concentrating on that area between his nose and upper lip. “Seloso ka.”

“What?”

“Seloso ka. Hayan oh, pag may pawis daw jan, seloso.”

“I’m not the jealous type.  But I can be very possessive.”

“Eh di seloso nga.”

“If that’s the word for it, fine.  I can be seloso.”

“You’re an only child?”

“Yes.”

“Ay! Ang cute naman, baby pala ang boyfriend ko.”

“Hahaha! When you find out how senior I am to you, you might regret choosing me to be your boyfriend for the night. Dessert?” He glanced at his watch and realized that’s it is almost eleven o’clock.  He didn’t wait for Maya’s answer and called the waiter for the bill.  “Let’s have dessert somewhere else.”

“Okay.”  Maya watched Richard check the bill and hand over his credit card.  While waiting, Richard took her hand and held it tightly, occasionally rubbing it with his right hand.  “Still cold?”

“Hindi na masyado.”  Maya replied softly and leaned her head on his shoulder, realizing that there’s only less than an hour left. When the waiter came, Maya straightened up so Richard can move with ease.  She watched him sign the charge slip and  saw his full name, Richard Lim. He stood up, not letting go of her hand, and assisted her in moving away from the banquette seat.

“What do you want for dessert?” 

“May Jco sa labas. Let’s have coffee.”

 

The doughnut store was no longer full and the two were able to place their orders right away.  Richard carried the tray with one hand so he can still hold Maya’s hand.  They chose to be seated outside, still beside each  other although on separate seats.    “Sarap ng coffee sa ganitong climate.”  Maya shared her thoughts, but Richard kept quiet because there was an idea in his mind.

“How come wala kang boyfriend Marra?  You’re pretty, smart, and masarap kang kasama.”

“Eh…ganun eh.

“Ganun?”

“Hmmm…maybe I was too busy with other things?”

“Busy? Kaya hindi mo pinansin mga nanligaw sa iyo?”

“It was just house-school-school-house for me.  Pag no school naman, more of family than friends. What about you? Sabi mo kanina your colleagues left for Manila but you chose to stay. Alone? Why did you choose to be alone kahit pwede namang hindi?”

“Nasanay na lang siguro ako mag-isa so I am more comfortable being alone.”

“Ay sorry! Naistorbo ko pala vacation mo.”

“No, I didn’t mean it that way, Marra.  Even if I have options not to be alone, I choose who to be my company.  If I am not comfortable with a person or group, I choose to be alone. I’d rather be alone and be satisfied than be with a company and be lonely.  But I said, I would not have agreed to this set up if it was not okay with me.”

“Talaga? Salamat uli ha. I am really happy ikaw yung nasa bar, and ikaw yung first ‘boyfriend’ ko.  I’m having a wonderful time with you. I can say that you’re the best boyfriend a girl could ever have!”

“Really? But how can you say that when you never had any?”

“But I’ve seen my friends’ boyfriends! Kulang kulang sila.  Ikaw, kumpleto.  Mabait, gentleman, maalalahanin, sweet, hindi madamot,  gwapo!  And the best of all, a good listener! Saan ka pa diba? Yun nga lang, malapit na tayo mag-break.”

“What if I don’t want to break up with you yet?  I mean, the time is not sufficient to play the role of a first boyfriend.  Bitin, marami ka pa dapat ma experience. First song, first dance, first movie, first fight, first kiss and make up.”

“H-huh?!” 

“I’m scaring you, am I?  Forget the last part.  How long are you staying here in Baguio?”

“I don’t know, maybe a week or two? A month? Hindi ko alam, hindi pa ako nakakapag isip, remember? Nakatulog ako sa bus!”

“Then let’s not break up at midnight.  Let me be your boyfriend while you’re here in Baguio.”

“W-what?”

“Marra, The set-up is the same,  we’re just going to extend midnight until you leave Baguio.”

“B-but what about your life? Your work? Your family?”

“Let me deal with that tomorrow.  I just need to make some phone calls. They already know that I’ve extended my stay here in Baguio for a much needed vacation.”

For the nth time, Richard held her hand.  This time, he held it up to his face and kissed it. “Come on Marra, you said why choose to be alone kung pwede namang hindi.  You now have that option not to be alone because I’m here. Let’s go around the city together.”

Maya thought for a moment and realized that Richard was right.  She asked him to be her boyfriend for the night.  There should be no reason why she should not agree to his idea to be her boyfriend while she is in Baguio. “Okay, but I think we should set some rules.”

“I’m fine with that. So, that’s final, I’ll be your boyfriend while you’re here in Baguio.”

“Yes.”

“Let’s call it a night then.  Let’s talk about your rules tomorrow. Let’s rest para maaga tayo bukas.  It’s our first breakfast.” Without waiting for her answer again, Richard stood up and led her to the pathway.

 

The two were smiling but walked quietly, feeling each other’s thoughts. When they reached the entrance of Maya’s hotel, she stopped and looked at Richard. “Okay na ako dito, sige na, uwi ka na rin.”

 “No, I will see you to your door.” 

 “Hindi na, hating gabi na, uwi ka na, lalakarin mo pa pataas eh.”

 “I will just bring you to your door.” Richard put his arm around Maya and walked towards the elevator. She pressed the button and glanced at him.  He raised his eyebrows and said “What? You’re safe with me Marra. I’ll make sure of that.”

 “Wala naman akong sinasabi eh. Iniisip ko lang pagod ka na, lalakarin mo pa pataas.”

 They entered the elevator and Maya pressed the number 5. “That’s a smoking floor.  You smoke?”

 “Hindi ah.  I’m a walk-in guest, hindi pwede maging choosy.  It’s the only available room they have because the rest may reservation.”

The elevator opened and Marra took the lead this time, but Richard was able to grab her hand and noticed something. “You really don’t have a purse with you?”

 “No.  I don’t usually carry one.  Wala naman ilalagay eh.  Money in my pocket.”

 “What about mobile phone?”

 “Ah…. naiwan ko eh.”

 They finally reached her room, and he immediately noted the room number: 523. “So, I’ll see you tomorrow.  What time should I be here for breakfast?”

 “Is 7:30 too early?”

 “I’m fine with 7:30.  So, good night Marra, I’ll see you at 7:30.”  He leaned to kiss her on the cheek, then left.

 Maya woke up at the sound of the phone ringing. She saw the surroundings of the room and instantly recalled the last night’s events.  She grabbed the phone. “Hello?”

 “Good morning Marra! It’s 7:30, and I’m here at the lobby. Can I go up there?”

 “Uhm…no need Richard, I’ll be there  in 5 minutes.”

 “Okay, I’ll see you at the breakfast area.”   Maya closed her eyes again when he hung up.  She stayed lying down while thinking.  She realized that she will need to drink some margarita again to pump up her adrenaline just like last night.

Her thoughts were interrupted when she heard the sound of the telephone ringing again. With eyes still shut, she answered.  “Hello.”

“Hello Dra. Maya, good afternoon!   You have a guest. Dr. Richard Lim is here, he is asking for your unit number, he said he needs to talk to you.”

“Ha?”

Mr. & Mrs. Stag – Chapter ELEVEN – The Days Ahead

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A/N: Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you are still there to read. 🙂

Chapter ELEVEN

The Days Ahead

 

Previously in Chapter TEN

   “Why, hindi ka ba napagod kanina?  We walked and stood for hours.”  Richard said softly as he walked beside her. The girls were walking ahead of them, giggling while holding hands. How he wished he could do the same with Maya.

           “It seems like hindi ka pa nakabawi sa pagod mo from the week’s work at puyat mo naman from gimmick last night.  Bilisan na natin maka uwi at ng maka pahinga na tayong lahat.”   

After a very tiring week, the two slept like babies with smiles on their faces.

 

********** 

Continuation… 

              Except for a few exchange of text messages on Monday, the following days have been very busy for both Richard and Maya with client meetings and court hearings, as well as the small get-togethers and Christmas parties with friends and colleagues.   Not to mention the Christmas shopping and traffic in the metropolis at its worst during the shorter days of December.

         Thursday came, the 15^th of December, the day both Richard and Maya looked forward to.  It’s the annual school community party to be followed by the traditional Christmas play after the holy mass. Like last year, Sunshine will be one of the angels in the story but this time, she will be joined by Abby who was immediately included in the program upon request of Richard.

           Maya managed to go home from work to change into more appropriate and comfortable clothes before going to the school grounds, located just about fifty meters from the gate of the subdivision.  But since it took time before she found a parking space, the mass had already started when she finally reached the open field where the festivities are being held. There were no more vacant Monobloc chairs around so she positioned herself on the side near a tree, an area close to the stage where the little angels will be during the program.  While the mass was going on, she managed to send a text message to Richard.

              It was already in the middle of the offertory song when Maya felt someone stood beside her with a collection basket held at her direction, prompting her to immediately put the money she was holding.  The person stayed while the basket was passed on to the lady in front, so she looked up and saw Richard smiling at her.

          “O, kadadating mo lang?” Maya  asked whispering and Richard nodded in response. “At least hindi ka late for the program.” Maya added.

          Richard leaned a little and said in a very soft voice. “Actually kanina pa ako paikot-ikot, wala na kasing parking eh. Ang layo na.”

           “Ha?”  Maya whispered back with raised eyebrows. “‘Di ba  I texted you?”

           “Walang driver eh.”  Richard briefly explained because the priest already proceeded with the mass.

              The two remained quiet while the mass was going on but conscious of each other’s presence.  Richard felt excited just standing beside Maya, looking forward to whatever the night has to offer.  Maya on the other hand, was feeling a little weird because it was her first time to be doing a parent thing with a man she personally knows.

           The resounding voice of the choir singing the Great Amen made her heart beat a little faster and louder than usual with a thought in mind: the Our Father.  But before she could even ponder on the matter, she heard the priest say “As one big family, let us join our hands together as we sing with confidence to the Father in the words our Saviour gave us…..”

           Richard looked at Maya with raised eyebrows as if asking her approval, but nevertheless offered his right hand.  Maya automatically took it then offered her right hand to the person near her, someone who looked like a school teacher. To stay away from being distracted, Maya instantly bowed her head, closed her eyes and prayed.  Inversely, Richard felt very right and light just holding Maya’s hand in prayer.

            Richard’s complacency can be seen in his face.  He could not be more thankful for the moment especially when he saw Abby so happy the entire time.  He thought that this would be the best Chirstmas season for Abby and could be the best for him too after a long time.

           “Daddy! Daddy! Did you see me? I love my wings Daddy!”  Abby exclaimed, still extatic about everything.

      Richard knelt to answer his daughter. “Yes Abby! You were awesome! You look like a real angel!” He said and chanced a glance at Sunshine who was watching them. He lightly pinched the little girl’s chin and said “…and you too Sunshine, you’re an awesome pretty angel too.”  Sunshine released her grip of Maya’s hand and instantly hugged Richard who was taken aback with the child’s gesture. He hugged her back while Maya clutched to her chest as she watched her daughter cling to Richard.  When Sunshine would not let go, Maya felt she had to say something.

           “Oh! I’m sure you little angles also get hungry, right?” She looked at Richard and in a controlled voice, made a suggestion. “May mga food booths naman, tamang tama by the time matapos kumain, maluwang na ang flow ng mga sasakyan palabas. So, tara?”  

           Richard stood and smiled at Maya. “So what do little angels eat when they get hungry?”

           “Pizza! I want pizza Daddy!”  Abby readily answered.

“Mommy I think I want to eat pizza too.”  Sunshine informed her mother.

           “Okay! Let’s get some pizza for you two.” Maya said and took her daughter by the hand to lead the way to the food booths.

         After getting food for the girls, the four walked away from the busy stalls and chose a more quiet area near the covered courts.

“Is it always like this here?”  Richard asked.

           “It is a yearly activity, ganito rin last year.  Hmm, mas marami lang food booths ngayon.”  Maya answered while watching Richard help Abby with her food.

           “Ang daming tao, but it’s nice, very festive.”  Richard said while looking at the crowd in the field and the traffic at the school gate.

           “Mabilis lang naman maubos yang mga sasakyan diyan. Marami rin kasi choose to stay and eat here para pag dating sa mga bahay nila, pahinga na lang. Isipin mo nga naman, for a few hundred pesos na share per student, busog buong pamilya.”   

           “What about you, hindi ka ba gutom?”  Richard asked.

“Ay! Naku sorry!” Maya blurted out in embarrassment. “We did not get anything for you! Balik ka na lang sa booths and get something you like, bantayan ko itong dalawa.”  Maya coaxed Richard.

Richard stood up and asked. “Okay, what do you want?” 

          “Thank you pero huwag na, hindi pa naman ako gutom eh, sa bahay na lang ako mamaya, may salad naman dun at fish.”  Maya answered while helping Abby remove the bell pepper from her pizza.

           Richard started laughing and asked Maya in jest “Really? Hindi ka naman kaya makonsensha later when you’re eating decent food tapos maisip mo na hinayaan mo lang ako kumain ng fast food dito?”

        Maya blushed and started laughing too. “Richard naman eh, hindi naman sa ganun –” 

           “Uy!  I was just teasing. Binibiro lang kita. But…uhm…really? Salad and fish huh? Sounds really good!” Richard teased her again, enjoying the look on Maya’s face.

           Maya pouted but followed it with a smile. “Atty. Lim ganito na lang, just get us something para lang hindi na magwala ang sikmura mo then we’ll eat dinner sa bahay ko. Okay na ba yun?” 

          Richard got four sticks of barbeque and was approaching the path to the covered court when he saw Maya finish cleaning up Sunshine.  He stopped to watch and sighed when Maya proceeded wiping Abby’s mouth and  hands.

           “Hi! Do you need any help?”  A lady asked Richard who looked very surprised.  “I’m sorry, nagulat ka ba? I thought you’re trying to find your way.”

           “Hindi naman, actually I was heading back to them, thank you.” Richard politely answered, pointing to the girls, and started walking.  The lady joined him and introduced herself.

“Oh! I’m Jennifer by the way, my kids are in junior high and  I’m an officer of the parents group.” 

           Richard transferred the barbeque to his left and offered his right hand “Richard. Those angels are grade schoolers.”    

           “Yes they must be. Hahaha!  I mean, the role of an angel is exclusively for grade school.  Hahaha! Oh! You have a lovely wife. Maybe I can invite her to join our parents group!”   

         Before Richard could correct the lady’s impression, she rushed towards Maya who already noticed their presence because of the boisterous laughter.

           “Hi there!” she said waving her hands.

“Hi!” Maya replied and quickly looked at Richard.

“Maya this is Jennifer, and she’s Maya, my neighbor and a very close family friend.”   

              “Oh! I see…so…I’ll go ahead.  Kasi I need to check on other co-parents din. It was nice to meet you both! See you!”  The lady waved and finally walked away.

           “What’s with her face?” Maya asked curiously.

        “Kala niya kasi kanina, we’re married.  She must have felt a little awkward when she realized she assumed too much.” Richard handed two sticks of barbeque to Maya and started eating. “Let’s go kids!”

           Maya stood up and let the girls walk ahead of them.  “Awkward? Parang more of amazement and contained excitement.  I think she likes you! Uuuuy!” Maya said in a whisper.

           “She was just being friendly and helpful kasi she’s a parent officer daw. Kala niya I was lost.”

          “Okay, friendly and helpful.”   Maya agreed with a smile. “Sunshine, Abby, wait lang.” Maya called the girls then faced Richard.  “Saan ka naka park?”

        Richard looked around and seemed lost.  “I think I parked somewhere there.”  He pointed to the east side of the road outside the school gate.  “Yeah, I think so…I remember walking past that convenience store.”

            “Ang layo!  Ganito na lang, sabay ko na si Abby ha, mauna na kami sa bahay.”

           For Richard, the way Maya said “mauna na kami sa bahay” sounded like they’re one family so with a grin on his face, he answered “Sige mauna na kayo sa bahay, sunod ako.”

           “Better yet, sumakay ka na rin and will drop you off sa gate para mabilis.”

           “That’s the better idea.” Richard declared and assisted the girls to Maya’s car.

        The dinner table had been set and the food warmed when the doorbell rang.  Outside, Richard was able to open the gate and was already at the front door when Maya opened it.  “O, ba’t ang tagal mo? Halika na, kain na tayo.” Maya turned her back and proceeded to the dining room.

           “Mga bata?” Richard asked and followed her to the table. For Maya, the way Richard asked “mga bata?” sounded like he is the padre de pamilya and that they’re one family. Maya smiled and answered “Nasa kwarto naglalaro kasama si Doris.”

Dinner went well.  The two comfortably talked about anything except their personal lives.  “That was a nice dinner.  Buti na lang pinakain mo ako dito, otherwise, baka nakokonsensha ka na ngayon.”

     “Hindi ko naman kasi naisip na gutom ka na kanina at binalak kumain dun sa grounds.” 

          “Akala ko kasi it was also tradition for everyone to eat there, at inuna lang natin mga bata pakainin.”

          “Ganun nga yun.  The idea is for everyone to share the feast.  Last year, hindi na rin kami kumain kasi napaka inconvenient.  Nakita mo naman wala naman enough tables and chairs for everyone at fast food ang nandun. Teka, bakit nga ba ang tagal mo kanina?”

          “Unfortunately, naharang na naman ako at napilitan maki mingle.  I was introduced to so many co-parents I would not even remember.”

            “Ganun ba? Suplado mo naman.  Ah…coffee?”

         “I was about to ask, actually.”

            “At home lang Atty. Lim?”

           “Yeah, actually I am. Your house is so homey you know.”

            “Is that so?  Mukhang pareho kayo ng anak mo, hindi pa sila bumababa mula kanina.”

           “So, what is your Christmas tradition? You spend Christmas here?”

          “We all gather kanila Mama, then together, we hear mass sa chapel then late dinner, yun na yung pinaka noche buena.  Then, ako I make sure nandito na kami ni Sunshine before  midnight.  Tapos Christmas day, anything goes with the two of us.”

          “I remember Angelo always needed to be somewhere at least by 8:00 o’clock in the evening.”

           “That’s because mass is at 8:30. Eh kayo?”

           “Anything goes. I’m an only child and my parents are not based here.  So, nothing fancy like yours. Now I realize kawawa naman pala talaga si Abby. I cannot recall yung last Christmases naming mag-ama.”

           “It’s never too late Richard. Bata pa naman si Abby, pwede mo pa mahabol. Make plans for this year’s Christmas and make it special for her.  Make this year the start.”

         “Well even before I could make plans, my mom already made bookings and we’ll spend Christmas in Hongkong with them.”

       “Wow! Ako I’m still wishing mailabas ko naman si Sunshine.  Dami kasing requirements kapag – ”

          “I can help you with that.”

           “Naku, salamat na lang, mas okay na lang na intayin ko ang decision ng annulment case, para all in one na dun. Hindi naman ako nagmamadali ilabas si Sunshine.  Siguro naman paglabas ng decision she’s still  young enough to appreciate and enjoy Disneyland or Hello Kitty Land or saan man.”

           “Baka pwede naman kami sumabay ni Abby pag lumabas kayo ni Sunshine…uhm…I think mas enjoyable for them pag may kasamang ka-age.”

         “Eh hindi ko naman control yun diba? I mean, you can always book a fli-”

           “I meant, baka pwede naman you let me know kung lalabas kayo para makasabay kami sa byahe ninyo.”

             “Sure! Matagal pa yun.”

           “Whenever it may be!”

           “Daddy!” Abby came rushing to her father.  “Can we sleep here? I like it here.”

            “Huh?!” Richard did not know how to answer.  “Hindi pa kayo tapos mag play, and you want to sleep here tonight?”

           “No  Daddy.  I like it here. I want to be with Sunshine. Can we sleep here?”

        Richard looked at Maya to get help.  “Ganito na lang, Abby.  Tutal vacation na kayo bukas, why don’t you ask your Daddy to drop you here early in the morning and pick you up late in the night, okay ba yun? Para ka na rin nag sleep over dito, diba? Kasi wala akong extra tooth brush for tonight pano ang teeth mo? At hahanapin ka ni Manang Fe.”

           “I can do that.  Uwi na tayo, so you can pack some things and  wake up early tomorrow. Abby?”

           “But I want to sleep beside Sunshine, Daddy.”

           Maya looked at her daughter who was hoping for an approval. “Pwede naman, pag nap time tomorrow, you’ll sleep beside each other. Diba? Tapos pag gising nyo, we will bake some cookies, masaya yun! Diba Sunshine?”

           Sunshine did not say anything but handed a soft doll to Abby. “Hiramin mo muna, para may katabi ka pag tulog mo.  Tapos bukas, bring her with you, we’ll play again.”

           Abby took the doll and nodded in approval.“Okay Daddy, uwi na po tayo.  Tita Maya babalik po ako bukas ha?”

           “Hintayin ka namin ni Sunshine.  Don’t forget to bring your toothbrush!” Maya reminded Abby and winked at her.  In response, Abby hugged her tight.

“Okay po, I will not forget.  Sunshine, paano kapag tulog ka pa bukas pag dating ko?”

           “Eh di tabi ka sa bed ko, sleep ka na lang uli.”

           Richard looked at Maya with relief but his eyes were moist.  “Thank you. Mukhang madadalas mangapitbahay ang anak ko dito.”

           Maya led them to the door. “Okay lang yun.”

           Richard tried to hide his sadness and mischievously posed a question. “Talaga, so okay lang din ba na madalas ako mangapitbahay dito?”

            “Hahaha! Oo naman. Pero ikaw, okay ka lang ba?”

          Before getting out of the door, Richard stopped and pressed his key to unlock the car. “Ah, Doris, paki alalayan na lang si Abby sa kotse. Salamat.”  Sunshine went with Doris and Abby.  “Naawa ako sa anak ko.” Richard said, making sure that only Maya could hear him.

       “Don’t be.  Pamangkin ko, only child pero ganyan din kahit buo pamilya. Basta tuparin mo ang pangako mo.  Don’t worry, malapit lang ang hearing ko bukas, kaya maaga ako makakauwi.”

           “I will, pasensha na talaga.”  Richard glanced outside and saw Doris helping Abby get in the car, with Sunshine waving good bye. Richard turned to face Maya again and quickly planted a kiss on her forehead. “Good night Mrs. Stag! I’ll see you tomorrow!” Then without waiting for her reply, Richard rushed outside.