Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 15

A/N: Pahabol na double treat before I travel to the province! Sa dulo po ng walang hanggan ang aking pupuntahan kaya malamang wala ring internet connection duon.  Kaya naninigurado po ako na may update at baka lalo matagalan.

Again, thank you for reading my story. I’ll get back to your comments later 🙂

 

 

PREVIOUSLY on Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 14

 

Maya: Talaga ha. Sige na, I won’t hold you for long. Thanks Liza, text text na lang.

Liza: Okay, bye!

Richard: Liza…

*********

 

Continuation………

 

Liza: Sir?! Kanina pa kayo diyan?

Richard: No. Why do you sound so surprise?

 Liza: Kasi baka kanina pa pala kayo diyan at hindi ko kayo naririnig. You needed something, Sir?

Richard: It’s okay Liza. I’m just letting you know that I need to be somewhere on Thursday afternoon, and I’ll be leaving early. So, please make sure everything is covered for Thursday afternoon. Cancel if there is a need to make it free.

            Surprised with another change in his boss, Liza just nodded with raised eyebrows and a meaningful smile.

Richard: What?

Liza: Nothing, Sir. It’s just that you’ve never been gone “somewhere” na hindi nyo pinadaan sa akin so I can log the details in my schedule book. Even yung PTA sa school ng mga bata, dental appointments, pati na mga business meeting slash dinner or lunch date with women kasali. At ako lahat ang nag aasikaso. THAT activity on Thursday is NOT in my schedule book. And you have not given any details too. It’s a diversion from your usual.

 Richard: So?

            Liza leaned a little to whisper.

  Liza: It means you are up to something momentous and significant! Chief, are you finally going on a special date?

      Richard smiled upon hearing Liza say “date” then shook his head because of why and how he ended up going out with Maya on Thursday. Emman couldn’t make it as originally planned.

 Richard: It’s not a date. Well… technically…what I mean is…never mind!

Liza: Okay na Chief! I’ll just keep your Thursday afternoon free!

 Richard: Thanks Liza!

        Liza saw the opportunity to drop the topic of a business meeting for Maya and the kids. So she wasted no time.

 Liza: Wait, Sir! That’s this Thursday, right?

Richard: Yes. May problem ba?

Liza: Well, I received a call just a while ago, someone from Hongkong Air. I think they wanted to set a meeting with you this Thursday for possible contract of service.

Richard: Really? That’s good! Who did you say is the caller from HKA?

Liza: Ay, naputol yung call eh, I’m still waiting for them to call again.

Richard: Okay then, just don’t set the meeting this Thursday.

Liza: Of course, Sir!

        Richard went back to his office and continued with the signing of documents piled on his table. He came across a voucher for payment to a company named Sunflower Inc. for laundry services of the white overalls used by the engineers and technical staff of LAS. He remembered Maya with the thought of the yellow sunflowers. So, he stood up and hurriedly went back to Liza’s work station.

 Richard: Liza.

Liza: Sir?

Richard: Uhm…ah…I need you to do something for me. Can you please order some sunflowers for Thursday.

        Liza’s jaw dropped but her face revealed clearly how delighted and excited she was.

 Liza: Woah! Chief, akala ko ba it’s not a date?!

       Richard did not say more but pursed his lips to control his smile, causing his dimple to show.

 Richard: Make it a dozen please.

Liza: Awww, that is so sweet! Ay, sorry Chief. Kinikilig lang ako, idea pa lang.

          Haay, I’m sure she’s not Stephanie. I just hope she’s not Catherine or Atty. Ghie, or anyone of those women you’ve da – I mean, you’ve gone out with in the past, business or otherwise. Lalo na yung Marissa! Nuknukan ng sama ng ugali, pinatulan yung inaanak ko! Mabuti na lang matapang si Nikki!

Richard: Don’t worry Liza, she’s not.

Liza: Good!

Richard: And for the record, I did not date anyone of them. As far as I’m concerned those were purely business related.

Liza: Whatever Chief! As far as THEY are concerned, business meeting slash dinner date is the same as having gone out with you.

Richard: Then let them think that way. It doesn’t matter to me. Please make sure that the flowers are here by 12:00 noon Thursday.

Liza: Certainly! Uhmm…what about dinner? Do you have reservations already? Would you like me to book you for dinner “somewhere”?

Richard: Ahhh…I really don’t know our schedule …so… well what I’m sure of is that we’ll be in the area of CCP.  

Liza: CCP as in Cultural Center of the Philippines?

Richard: Yes, so maybe you can check out the nearby establishments.

Liza: Okay… going “somewhere” on short notice … cancel out appointments … sunflowers … CCP… hmmm…so unconventional of you … significant Thursday must be really something.

        While Liza was thinking aloud, busy absorbing everything, Richard remembered that Maya accuses him of refusing to get out of the box. So, he thought of showing her that he can do unconventional things too.

Richard: I have an idea, maybe you can inquire from Sofitel until what time they serve sa Sunset Bar, and if it’s necessary to make reservations, bahala ka na. Most likely late dinner na at around 9:00.

Liza: Sunset Bar? That’s in the pool side, buffet in open space.

Richard: Yes, that’s the one.

Liza: Are you sure you don’t want it in Spiral instead? Or somewhere more cozy?

Richard: No. That would be typical me. I want another deviation from the usual and try something unexpected of me.

Liza: Sure, Sir! Leave it to me!

Richard: Thanks again, Liza.

**********

         

        Richard worked as usual but this time, with a beaming face. He felt complete and contended, looking forward to the days ahead. He was reviewing the hard copy of the MOAs when Liza called his attention.

 Liza: Sir! Minerva said your lunch is ready. Atty. Ryan just arrived and will be joining you in a while. MOA signing is at 2:30.

Richard: Okay, thanks Liza.

       Richard fished out his phone from his pocket and called Maya but she was not picking up. So, he called the mansion instead.

 Richard: Manang Fe, kamusta po diyan?

Manang Fe: Okay naman, Ricardo. Naka pananghali na kami. Maagang nagutom si Abby eh.

Richard: Ang gana po nya kumain kanina sa breakfast.  

Manang Fe: Oo, basta kasabay si Maya, magana kumain ang batang yun. Nakabuntot na naman kay Maya. Nandun sila sa labas.

Richard: Sa labas, Manang?

Manang Fe: Dumaan kasi si Atty. James, pero nagmamadali, nadinig ko may bista pa daw sa Taytay. Sumaglit lang daw dito at on the way naman.

Richard: Sige po, Manang. Bahala na kayo diyan.  

         Richard ended the call bothered, thinking what could be James’ real intention for Maya. He is now conscious that James may be visiting Maya every now and then when he goes to the Taytay Court for as long as the trial of the case he is handling is ongoing.

**********

 

       It became a working lunch for Richard and Ryan as they discussed the details of the MOAs that will be signed later in the afternoon. After lunch, Ryan asked to be excused so he can rest and freshen up in time for the MOA signing. He went to his office, one that was specially designated only for him, and which he uses every time he is in LAS. It was almost 2:00 in the afternoon and Richard received a text message.

 Maya’s text: Sir Chief, I wasn’t able to answer your call kanina. Bakit po?   I’ll go out in a while to buy my law books and school supplies. Abby is now taking a nap.

Richard’s text: K.

Maya: Huh? K lang ang sagot? Sungit sigurado nito ngayon. Umatake na naman pagka krung krung! Teka nga.

           Richard’s phone made an alert tone, so he swiped the screen and checked the incoming message. It was at this time that Liza came in to get the hard copy of the MOA which Richard and Ryan reviewed over lunch.

       Richard was irked by the message and unconsciously smacked down his mobile phone on the table.

 Liza: Is there any problem, Sir?

Richard: Nothing.

Liza: Okay, ready in about 30 minutes?

Richard: Yes. Uhm…Liza?

Liza: Yes, Sir?

Richard: How do you read a text message that are just letters ? All caps?

 Liza: What do you mean? Like K?

 Richard: Yes.

 Liza: Well if it’s separated by a space, you usually read it in Filipino. Like K would be ka, B would be ba. If magkadikit yung KB it would be kaba. On the other hand if its other letters like BC, you read it as is to sound as busy.

           Would you mind if I see the message?

       Richard felt hesitant at first but felt helpless so he showed the message to Liza, who immediately smiled with controlled giggle upon seeing the message.

 Liza: Eh kasi naman Chief, sinimulan mo sa text na K. You sounded like you’re annoyed when you sent the text. Kaya ayan ang sagot. Cute talaga ni Maya!

 Richard: I sounded annoyed?

 Liza: Well yes. Anyway, just read the letters just how you’ll read Filipino alphabet, so B is ba K is ka W is wa etc.

           Richard went back to the message and read it.

 Maya’s text: Bored? B K W L K M G W, P R M S Y K, T W K. H H H! T W K P.   H H H!   O, T M N, P R K N T NG! Weeeeeee. 🙂

 Richard’s text: Okay Maya, ingat ka sa pag drive.

Maya’s text: Ayan, hindi na masungit. Thank you! 🙂

 Richard’s text: You’re welcome, Maya. 🙂

      It was already a little past 3:00 in the afternoon when the MOA signing ended. Back in his office, Richard thought about what Ryan said earlier at lunch, that classes in law school usually end in the evening.

       If that is the situation, then it means Maya might not be eating dinner with them, and he’ll have less time with her. He suddenly felt the urge of going home, so he can take advantage of the opportunity and secretly enjoy the time that she is in his house. He pressed the intercom and called for Liza. In a few seconds, she came in.

 Richard: Liza, I only had about 3 hours of sleep last night and I’m really tired. I’ll go home early. Just send me the periodic reports, sa bahay ko na aralin.

 Liza: Then why don’t you just go home and rest? Chief, you are the President and CEO of LAS of which you own. Nobody would question if you go home early, eh nagwo-work ka rin naman hangang bahay.   Well…magtataka lang siguro mga tao kasi hindi lang sila sanay. Pero for sure they’ll be happy about it kasi wala ring overtime for some of them, and that includes me!

 Richard: Okay, I’ll leave now, but I still want to bring home the periodic reports with me.

 Liza: Okay, as I said, you’re the boss! So, do you want the periodic reports of all the departments?

Richard: Yes, please. Ikaw rin, umuwi ka na. Bilinan mo na lang mga tao mo to stay until 5:00 p.m. and just make sure Minerva can call you anytime if needed.

Liza: Wow! I like that Chief! Daming bago sa ‘yo ha. I wonder who this significant Thursday is. I need to thank her for what she has done to you. Matanong nga inaanak ko.

Richard: No. Huwag mo na idamay si Nikki. You’ll find out later anyway. We’ve known each other for so long, para na tayong magkapatid. Wala naman akong maitago sa iyo eh. You’re just like Tito Ramon. I really miss your Dad, Liza. He was like a father to me.

 Liza: Okay, fine. I’ll just wait until I discover.

 **********

          

      When Richard got home, he noticed Maya’s car parked at the far end of the garage. Anxious to see his kids and Maya, Richard hurriedly went inside the mansion where he was greeted by Manang Fe, Doris and Abby.
 

Richard: Hi Abby!

        Abby rushed to her Daddy and gave him a hug. Richard hugged her back and kissed her forehead.

Doris: Naku Sir, malagkit ang mukha ni Abby. Kumakain po kasi ng turon na niluto ni Ma’am Maya para sa kanya eh.

 Richard: It’s okay, Doris. Sige na baby, finish your snack first. I’ll join you after I change my clothes.

Manang Fe: Maaga ka ata ngayon, Ricardo.

 Richard: We’re done with the most important event of the day so I decided to go home. Mabigat na po yung mga mata ko eh, halos tatlong oras lang ang tulog ko kagabi at ang dami pang binasa sa office kanina.

Manang Fe: Mag pahinga ka na muna. Mamaya mo na lang samahan si Abby.

 Richard: Sige po. San po sina Luke?

Manang Fe: Parating na mga yun maya-maya. Sinundo na ni Joma.

        Richard assumed that Maya was in her room resting. After all, he knew that she barely slept herself because she was still on the phone at 2:00 in the morning and was already at the dining table before 6:00 a.m. So, he followed what Manang Fe told him. He changed his clothes and took a nap.

       By the time he woke up, it was already past 7:00 in the evening. He immediately went out of his room and saw Manang Fe coming from the hallway.

 Manang Fe: Ang sarap ng tulog mo, hindi na kita ginising. Nauna na kumain mga bata. Nakatulog na rin si Abby. Sina Nikki at Luke nandiyan na sa mga kwarto nila gumagawa ng mga assignments. Halika na sa baba para kumain.

 Richard: Sige po Manang, mauna na kayo, silipin ko lang po mga bata.

Manang Fe: Sha sige.

       Richard noticed that the table was set for only one person when he reached the dining table.

 Richard: Ako na lang po ba ang hindi kumakain?

Manang Fe: Oo eh. Dito na lang muna ako sa mesa para may kasama ka.

        Richard starts eating his dinner. He didn’t want to be obvious that he’s looking for Maya, so he deferred asking about her.

Richard: May budget pa po ba?

Manang Fe: Oo naman Ricardo. May pera pa sa akin. May gusto ka ipabibili?

 Richard: Gusto ko po sana ipa-linis at ipa-pintura yung basketball court para kay Luke. Tawag na lang kayo ng gagawa.

 Manang Fe: Bakit pa, nandiyan naman si Joma. Kaya na nya yun. Mga gamit na lang ang bilhin.

Richard: Sige po, kayo na bahala, mag-iwan na lang ako pambili ng pintura.

Manang Fe: Sige, kausapin ko lang sandali si Joma.

           When Manang Fe came back, Richard was almost finished with his dinner.

Richard: Ano pong sabi ni Joma?

Manang Fe: Ito, gumawa ng listahan ng mga kakailanganin. Estimate lang ang presyo na nilagay nya, pero tignan daw nya sa hardware bukas.

 Richard: Okay po. Sabihan nyo lang ako para ma-ibigay ko sa inyo ang pera.   Ah, Manang, si Maya po ba kanina pa nagpapahinga?

Manang Fe: Wala pa nga eh.

Richard: What?! Where is she? Lumabas ba uli? I saw her car parked outside when I came home.

Manang Fe: Paalis na kanina ng bigla tumawag si Atty. James sa kanya. Wala pang ilang minuto, dumating siya at sinamahan si Maya sa bookstore, kaya hindi na nagdala ng sasakyan si Maya.

Richard: Eh bakit daw wala pa siya?

Manang Fe: Hindi pa nga natawag mula kanina eh.   Tumawag si Nikki sa kanya kaninang mga ala singko, ang dinig ko, nasa Cubao pa sila ni Atty. James. Baka naman padating na rin yun.

       Richard was very disappointed with the turn of events. All the while he thought Maya was home resting. He was not happy with the information that Maya was with James all along since early afternoon.   He asked to be  excused  to bury himself with work.

 Richard: Sa office po muna ako, may mga dapat po akong aralin na papeles.

Manang Fe: Sige, dalhan kita ng kape.

 Richard: Salamat po.

Inside his home office, Richard was looking at the periodic reports of LAS but his mind was actually not into it.   He kept checking his phone while impatiently waiting for any text message or phone call from Maya.   As his wrath worsened, he carelessly put back his phone on the table surprising Manang Fe who entered the room with a cup of coffee.
Manang Fe: Ricardo! Bakit bigla ang init ng ulo mo?

 Richard: Wala po.

 Manang Fe: Ipagpatuloy mo na lang ang pahinga sa taas kung ganyan na rin lang na iinit ang ulo mo sa mga papeles na iyan.

 Richard: Pasensha na po. Sige na po, magpahinga na kayo.

 Manang Fe: Sige, wala pa kasi si Maya eh.

 Richard: Wala pa rin tawag o text? Tinanong nyo na po ba sina Doris at Sabel?

 Manang Fe: Wala rin text sa kanila, kahit kina Nikki. Baka maya-maya nandiyan na. Mag a-alas otso pa lang naman. Baka kumain na muna bago bumalik dito.

      Careful not to sound disrespectful, Richard dismissed Manang Fe with a frowning face.

Richard: Sige na po, magpahinga na kayo at ako na po bahala.

 Manang Fe: Ricardo, huwag mong pagagalitan si Maya at hintayin mo ang paliwanang baka may dahilan. Huwag mo dadaainin sa init ng ulo. Huwag kang padalos-dalos sa salita.

 

        It has only been about 10 minutes since Manang Fe left him, but for Richard’s patience, which has worn off, it’s like he has been waiting for hours. Consequently, when his phone rang, he immediately answered.

Richard: Maya! Where are you and bakit ngayon ka lang tumawag? Ni text man lang wala! What time are you coming home, anyway?

 Raffi: Naman, pati sa akin ang sungit mo! I was the one who called last time, so it’s your turn to call me, but you reneged on that. Ikaw ang nakalimot tumawag Richard Lim!

Richard: Raffi! Sorry ‘bout that. How are you?

 Raffi: I’m okay. Ikaw itong mukhang hindi. Bakit ba ang init ng ulo mo?

 Richard: Yung tutor kasi ni Abby, she went out and has not come back. Kani –

 Raffi: Wait! Abby already has a new tutor?

 Richard: Yes! She started last May.

 Raffi: And you did not tell me about it? Ang sama mo!  

 Richard: Sorry! You remember the time I heard Abby talk?

 Raffi: Aha. She said something about a bird, right?

 Richard: Actually Abby was not referring to a bird when she repeatedly said Maya.

 Raffi: Oh yeah! Maya nga pala yung sinasabi nya. So, what about it?

 Richard: Well, Maya is a person. She’s actually the FA who calmed Abby down and took care of the kids when they flew to Hongkong as unaccompanied minors. She’s the same Maya who is Abby’s tutor now.

 Raffi: What?! My goodness Chard, I’m having goose bumps! Nakaka kilabot naman yan. Are you sure? You’re serious, right?

 Richard: I had the same reaction when I came up with that realization. She was one of the applicants for Abby’s tutor then. Raffi, you should have seen how she interacted with Abby during her interview sa LAS.

        And you know, since she started and moved in with us last May, Abby gets better everyday.

 Raffi: Eh yun naman pala eh, why did you sound so upset earlier? If she’s your help with Abby, then bakit mo sinisigawan? Baka layasan ka nyan.

 Richard: But just like the others, she is still bound by house rules. Umalis, hindi pa bumabalik up to now.

 Raffi: Nag paalam ba?

 Richard: She just texted na lalabas siya. Then I realized that she didn’t actually ask permission after all. She was just informing me na lalabas siya. Hindi niya rin sinabi that she’s going out on a date.

Raffi: And that’s what you are upset about?

Richard: Yes! I mean, no! Gabi na kasi at hindi pa bumabalik, hindi mo makontak at ni text wala. Tsk…so inconsiderate of her. Kanina pa hinahanap ni Abby.

Raffi: Baka naman low batt yung phone or something. And Chard, don’t you think it’s still early? It’s only a little past 8:00 there.

Richard: This is not the first time that this has happened and we’ve talked about it already. Kahit ma low batt pa, may land line phone naman everywhere. She should make efforts to inform us where she is, para hindi nag aalala mga tao dito.

    Matigas lang talaga ang ulo. She is annoyingly loud, a well-honed alaskador and a seasoned bully! Sometimes she even gets exaggeratedly too positive about everything. She is infuriatingly stubborn, and extremely importunate – nuknukan ng kulit!

Raffi: In other words, she’s like a nuisance that you wouldn’t like to deal with but would rather abate immediately instead?

Richard: Yes!

Raffi: So you don’t like her?

Richard: Of course I like her, kaya nga she was the one I hired. She might be my only hope for Abby. As I have said, Abby has been doing well since Maya came.

Raffi: But she reached the end of the line, right? Are you firing her? Chard, don’t you think you are being unreasonable?

Richard: Raffi, I didn’t say anything about firing her. Nakaka init lang talaga siya ng ulo. Nakaka pikon na kasi minsan yung kakulitan at pagiging spontaneous nya. But you know that’s the irony of it. Kahit sobrang kulit, when she goes home on weekends, everybody seems to miss her.

        Raffi suddenly got curious and so she asked.

 Raffi: Everybody?

Richard: Yes!

         With that declaration, she makes further inquiry.

 Raffi: Including you?

           Richard evades the question and made another declaration instead.

 Richard: Lalo na si Nikki and Abby. Suprisingly, she gets along well with Nikki.

       The evasion did not escape Raffi’s attention so, she leads him into the conversation that she wanted.

 Raffi: Well she must be really really nice and lovable for Nikki to like her and for EVERYBODY to miss her when she’s not around!

Richard: Oh yes she can be really adorable. Sometimes she gets irresistibly charming. Hindi ka maka-hindi. At dadaanin ka pa sa pagpapatawa. She is naturally funny! What’s more, despite the connections of her family, she is righteous and grounded. Maya is unquestionably smart and witty –

Raffi: … and she’s probably very beautiful too –

Richard: Yes Raffi, inside and out. I must admit Raffi, she is an amazing woman because she is undeniably selfless, innately caring and sweet. Ang lakas pa ng fighting spirit! She is positively assiduous and contagiously energetic. Pati si Manang Fe, nahahawa sa kaniya. Did I mention that she is uniquely cariñosa? She can calm me – …

Raffi:…and… possibly sexy too?

Richard: Well, she probably has the best pair of legs I have seen so far.

Raffi: Whoooa! How did you know? Chard, you are such a gentleman, nagbago ka na ba?

Richard: Silly! As I’ve said she is so spontaneous. On her first night here, bigla na lang nagtanggal ng dress at tumalon sa pool just wearing her nude color undies! Kaya ko nakita.

Raffi: Ahhh….so I get it.

Richard: What?

Raffi: You don’t just like her. You LIKE her. As in LIKE her?

Richard: Are you insinuating that I have a crush on her? I must admit, we have established friendship beyond employment, and I am quite pleased about it. But even so, I could never do something against policies, even the unwritten ones. You know me.

Raffi: Exactly! I know you so well Richard Robert Tan Lim! And if I could just see you right now, I could even say that you are falling in love with Abby’s tutor! And it’s perfectly alright. Some things change Chard. People change. Kaya ka nagkakaganyan. Nagseselos ka lang kasi she went out on a date pala.

Richard: That’s ridiculous!

Raffi: And why so? It’s normal to be jealous when you like someone. Lalo ka na. You’re the jealous type! Hahaha!

Richard: Stop it Raffi!

Raffi: Chard, tanung lang kita, would you be feeling that way, I mean iinit pa rin ba ulo mo if kunwari, she informed you that she was going out on a date and she called or texted every now and then to inform you where she is and what time she’ll be coming home?

Richard: What is your point?

Raffi: You said mainit ulo mo, you’re upset kasi umalis kanina pa at hindi pa bumabalik, ni text or tawag wala. So, if the opposite happened, meaning nagsabi nga, then nag text at tumawag to inform nga her whereabouts and the time she’ll be home, do you think magagalit ka ng ganyan? If your answer is yes, then nagseselos ka lang nga, kaya ka upset.

Richard: No!

Raffi: Yeah right!   Haay Chard, you’re the only one who knows what’s in your heart. Sige, DND for now. I understand. When you’re ready to talk about it, call me. Ako ang tumawag ngayon, so clearly, it’s your turn to call me again. Okay?  

Richard: DND? What do you mean by that?

Raffi: Hahaha! I’ll tell you next time pag tumawag ka.

 Richard: Raffi!

Raffi: Oh, Charlie’s here! I have to go Chard, sige DND lang muna! Mwah! Kisses to the kids too!

 

     Richard felt a little relieved that Raffi called. He was somehow pacified as his conversation with Raffi diverted his anger that was almost at its highest peak.

      Immediately after Raffi ended the call, Richard stood up and went to the front door, looked through the glass panel to see if any car is passing by. He paced back and forth from the front door to the entrance of his office, trying to calm himself down as he thought about what Raffi said. Then he saw bright lights flashed at the gate followed by the sound of a car engine. So, he went back to his office and watched from his window. There he saw the service gate open and saw Maya walked inside carrying a package. She was followed by James who was carrying a big eco-bag filled with brown paper bags.

Maya: Sir James, diyan na lang yan, ako na bahala, I’ll ask help inside.

 James: Are you sure? I can carry these inside for you.

 Maya: Yes, I’ll manage. Sige na, malayo ka pa. Gagabihin ka na. Thank you uli sa pag-sama ha. Ginawa kitang driver at kargador! Nakakahiya, na-abala ka pa tuloy.

 James: No, I should thank you. At least nakalabas tayo and we were able to catch up.  

 Maya: Onga noh? Dami nga natin napagkwentuhan eh. Maiingit si Emman nyan.

 James: Then let’s go out again. Isama natin si Emman. Kaya lang simula na ng klase, I know you’ll be very busy.

 Maya: Malay natin, matuloy pa rin ang teaching job mo sa school. So we’ll see each other more often.

 James: Yeah, nothing is final yet. Okay, I’ll go ahead. Good night!

          With the fresh and impudent attitude of James, as well as his Spanish ancestries, Richard knew that James will give Maya a hug and the traditional meso-beso. He felt peeved just the thought of it, as jealousy already consumed him without even realizing it.

       So without waiting for that moment, he returned to his seat and went back to the periodic reports, while exerting so much effort to concentrate and contain his rising temper.   As expected, Maya came a few moments later, clutching on to her bag and a brown package. As she passed by the home office, she saw Richard reading and at once, she acknowledged him with full gusto.

 Maya: Good evening Sir Chief!

         Without moving his head from reading position, Richard took a deep breath then looked at Maya. His flushed face and wrathful eyes gave away his enraged state, causing Maya’s enthusiasm and sincere smile to fade away.   This time, it was Maya who took a deep breath and felt pain deep inside. She bowed down and braced herself for all possibilities, then spoke once more.

Maya: Sige po, mauna na po ako. Excuse me po.

      When Maya turned and started to walk away, Richard lost his control. He stood up and bellowed at Maya.

Richard: So, that’s it? You act as if it’s nothing? You seem so nonchalant! How dare you Maya!

        Maya stopped and faced Richard.

Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 14

A/N: Pasensha na sa tagal ng update…istorbo lang talaga ang trabaho at summer vacation, idagdag pa ang kulang na 24 hours per day at mabagal na, interrupted pa na internet connections

I hope you’ll enjoy reading, as much as I will enjoy reading your comments 🙂

I will get back to comments I have not read and replied to later, I need to update first…

PREVIOUSLY on Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 13

         Richard just gave in to his urge. He took advantage of Maya’s proximity and embraced her. He planted a kiss on Maya’s head and whispered, “Good night Maya, and thank you for always being so thoughtful of my kids.”

       Again, Maya shivers from Richard’s move and hoped he didn’t notice it this time. She was so relieved that her mobile phone was ringing. Instantly, Maya moved away from Richard without looking and answered the call.

Maya:Hello?! …Sir James?….

 

           Maya looked at Richard and motioned that she’ll take the call in her room. She waved and mouthed good night, then she turned her back and proceeded to her room.

Maya:…hindi naman, gising pa naman talaga ako…I’m fine. Ikaw?…talaga? may hearing ka na naman sa Taytay bukas?

           Richard could hear her smiling as she walked towards her room talking to James. With that, Richard’s face turned sour and is very very upset.

 **********

 

Continuation……..

CHAPTER EIGHT

Roller Coaster Ride

       Richard stood still and waited until Maya entered her room and closed the door behind her. He released a sigh of frustration while he went towards his home office. True to his word, he checked the e-mail that Atty. Molina sent him. When he was finished with the MOAs, he closed his laptop then flexed his back and neck to loosen up. It was at this point that he realized that it was already past midnight.

        When he was going up the stairs, he heard a faint sound emanating from Maya’s room. He smiled upon remembering the time when he caught Maya coming out of her room while singing along Beyoncé’s upbeat song. Richard later got curious if Maya was still talking to James. So, he took out his phone, searched for Maya’s name, then pressed call without thinking. The line was busy.   As expected, Richard became agitated.

        Upstairs in his room, Richard was in deep thought. As emotions are still high, he felt wide awake lying on his back. The moments that transpired earlier that kept playing in his mind didn’t help at all. They just made him more euphoric, and up and about. The outpouring joy in his heart is like new to him. It has been so long and he felt liberated.

      He couldn’t wait to see his children at breakfast to re-connect with them and be a family once again…with Maya. Then, the image of Maya in his arms produced goose bumps on his nape and sent butterflies in his stomach, which he has never felt for a very long time. Thinking of what they have shared late evening, he wondered what lies ahead for the two of them.

          Richard frowned and checked the time. It was already 2:00 o’clock in the morning and he still couldn’t sleep. He  realized that just like what Maya said, re-connecting with his children is just an easy task. What concerns him now is how to connect with Maya after becoming emotionally intimate with her earlier. What they have now is definitely more than a simple employer-employee relationship. What transpired earlier simply validated that they have established friendship based on trust and respect, and he is worried that this friendship might be compromised with one wrong move.

            After pondering on the matter, Richard finally came up with a resolution. “I guess I just have to act normal when she is around, and take from how she will be. Action-reaction.” He sat up, got his phone and started typing a message.

 Richard’s Text: Are you still awake? I can’t sleep!  😦

       Richard stared at his message, feeling hesitant to send it to Maya. He abruptly erased it and decided to call her instead. “She’s still on the phone?!” Richard said aloud upon hearing a busy tone.

        Thinking that it might just be the network provider, he got up from the bed, reached for the wireless land line phone and dialed his own mobile number. It was ringing.   Thereafter, he immediately dialed Maya’s mobile number using the same wireless phone. Upon hearing the busy tone once more, he cursed in his mind. “Damn it! She’s is still on the phone! What could they be talking about at this hour?!” With the thought that Maya is still on the phone with James, Richard went back to bed restless, now with full of frustration and paranoia.

         But far from Richard’s assumption, Maya, at that very moment, is actually on the phone with Emman.

         After talking to James earlier, Maya went to bed in deep thought as she recalled the night’s events. Since emotions are still high, she felt wide awake lying on her back while hugging a pillow. The moments that transpired earlier that kept playing in her mind didn’t help at all. They just made her more ecstatic, and up and about. The overwhelming feelings flooding her heart are very new to her and she felt confused realizing that she has never experienced them before.

         It seems like she couldn’t wait to see him again at breakfast, when he will try to re-connect with his children and be a family once again…of which she is not a part of. Unconsciously, Maya heaved a sigh of disappointment. Then, the image of Richard holding her in his arms, kissing her hair and palm, produced goose bumps on her nape and sent butterflies in her stomach…something that she has never felt before…well at least not with a man. Not even with Richard as she recalled the many times that she was physically close to him before, when he found her limping along the road, when she demonstrated the mano with yummy kiss and bear hug, when she accidentally fell in his arms after arguing about her revealing summer dress and laughing at the ant and the elephant story, and other similar moments of closeness. Thinking of what they have shared late evening, she wondered what lies ahead for the two of them.

          Maya opened her eyes and checked the time. It was almost 2:00 o’clock in the morning and she still couldn’t sleep. She realized that just like what she said earlier, it would be a very easy task for Richard to re-connect with his children. What concerns her, is how the two of them will connect now, especially after he became emotionally intimate with her earlier. What they have now is definitely more than a simple employer-employee relationship. What transpired earlier simply validated that their friendship has grown and moved up to a comfortable level because of trust and respect. She is now worried that this friendship might be compromised with one wrong move.

     After pondering on the matter, Maya finally came up with a resolution. “I guess I just have to act normal when he is around, and take from how he will be. Action-reaction.” She sat up, got her phone and started typing a message.

 Maya’s Text:  Gising ka pa ba?  I can’t sleep! 😦  Please call me.

           Anxious to talk to a trusted friend, Maya calls Emman without waiting for his reply.

 Emman: Naman Maya! Agad-agad? Kakatanggap ko nga lang ng text mo eh, ring ring na kasunod?! Now-now lang ang mood? This can’t wait, ganun?

Maya: Emman sorry, hindi nga kasi ako makatulog eh. Nastorbo ba kita?

Emman: Sa pagtulog? Hinding-hinde. Pero sa ginagawa ko, korek na korek, naistorbo mo ako. Nagbabalot kaya ako ng mga new books ko! Bestie! getting ready na ako for law school! How about you? Excited ka din kaya hindi ka pa makatulog?

Maya: Sa weekend pa ako bibili ng books and supplies eh. Naku Emman, may dapat pa nga ako ayusin sa school eh. Hindi ba may mga minor subjects pa ako naiwan dahil sa work before. Approved naman na ng school, yung schedule lang ang problema. Shempre makikihalo ako sa ibang year level.

Emman: Kaya ka hindi makatulog? Naku Mayabelles! Hindi kita masasamahan sa school this week kasi may last hirit na bakasyon ako before school starts!

Maya: Okay lang yun, basta kausapin mo lang ako ngayon.

Emman: Aba, ano itich? Serious talk?

Maya: Yes. Anu kasi, si…si S-sir Chief.

Emman: What about him? Were you fired? Anu na naman bang kakulitan ang ginawa mo at naging incredible hulk si incredible hunk?

Maya: No, I was not fired. Iba, may nangyari.

Emman: Huwaaaaaat?! Oh my pink jerbaks, may nangyari?! Bumigay ka agad? As in, you gave your kyolating pangwakas?

Maya: Ano?!

Emman: Kyolating pangwakas! Rybalo! You know, that girl thingy down there that I will never have?!

Maya: Emman umayos ka nga. Walang ganung nangyari.

Emman: Ahh, so, ano, nag Lorna Tolentino lang kayo?

Maya: Emman please, I can’t understand your language.

Emman: I mean, nag-lips to lips lang kayo?

Maya: Emman wala ngang ganung nangyari.

Emman: Eh anu ba nangyari at nagkaka ganyan ka? Anu? Pinagalitan ka ng bonggang bongga at napa-utot ka sa harap nya?

Maya: Emman!

Emman: Ano nga? Sinilipan ka? O Ikaw nanilip sa kanya at nahuli ka? Oh my gee, bilis kwento in details, go!

          Maya started narrating the events of the day and night. Blow by blow, she recounted everything that happened from the time that she drove Abby to his office until he accompanied them to the LAS building parking lot, then from the time he entered the mansion just after the brown out until they parted ways when she received the phone call, leaving out the caller and details pertaining to the moments with the children and the Lim household.

 Maya: Para kasing may naiba Emman eh. May kaka-iba kaninang gabi. It felt like, parang ano, parang iba yung tingin nya, yung hawak nya. Basta iba, iba yung kinilos nya kanina.

Emman: And?

Maya: And on my part, dati naman, I just find him good looking, admiring him for who he is. I was even vocal about it, kahit sa kanya. Pero ngayon parang may kilig na kasama. As in Emman, hindi ako makahinga sa kilig kanina nung nag moment sha. Dati naman wala akong ganung pakiramdam. It felt weird and wonderful at the same time. Ano yun?

        Kasi kaninang morning, okay naman eh, lahat ng ganap wala lang, walang malisya. Pinunasan ko pa ang bibig kasi may natuyong catsup. Tapos nung lunch sa Pancake House sinubuan ko pa kasi ayaw tikman yung tacos. Pero wala lang, hindi nakaka conscious. Then kanina sa veranda, parang bigla ako na-conscious after nyang mag moment. Sobra akong kinikilig kanina Emman.

Emman: Kinilig ka as in like twitter patted, like that?

Maya: Yes!

Emman: Tapos?

Maya: Tapos hindi ko matiis. Grabe ang sumpong, lakas ng topak! Krung krung Emman! Nag iinarte, nakaka irita! Pero kahit inis na inis na ako, hindi ko matiis suyuin kahit wala naman akong kasalanan. Nakakaloka!

Emman: Okay lang yan, may sumpong at topak sha, makulit at lukaret ka naman. Si krung krung at prem prem, nagkatagpuan. Bagay na bagay kayo.

Maya: Emman naman eh, sa dami ng sinabi ko, that is your response?

Emman: Yes, kasi simple lang ang equation, 1+1 =2. Like ka na nya more than tutor ni Abby at like mo na rin sha higit sa isang boss. Lumevel up na kayo. Yun lang yun.  Krung krung and prem prem LIKE each other.

Maya: Like? As in? So you are saying you agree with my theory na crush ko na nga sha?  

Emman: Korek! Dalaga ka na Bestie! So ano plano mo?

Maya: For now, wala dapat maka alam. Sagwa Emman, we live under one roof tapos boss ko sha. Pangit. So I plan to just act normal, parang walang nangyari kanina. From there kakapain ko na depende on how he is. I don’t want to assume. Baka naman feeling lang ako because nadala ako ng moment, tapos wrong assumption pala.

Emman: Tama, kasi nga naman Katipunera ka at hindi Assumptionista dba! Hahaha! Basta i-carry mo ha. Mamya diyan aligaga ka when he is around.

Maya: Yan, yan pa ang isang dahilan why I can’t sleep. Pano nga kung hindi ko kayanin at mahalata ako?Magugulo ang lahat. Haaaaaaaay!     

Emman: Maya, anu bei? What have we learned ba in law school? Once you take sides, fight for it with conviction. Kung sa pula ka, ang puti palabasin mong pula. Kung sa puti ka, kahit pula paniwalain mo ang lahat na puti ito. So, panindigan mo na hindi mo crush kahit crush mo!

          In short, shudi pa olark lang na crush mo sha. Wag ipahalata na crush mo na sha. Isipin mo na walang nangyari and the same pa rin just like before. Then, panindigan mo. Act normal, with conviction and poise!

Maya: Oh my gulay Emman! Pano kami sa concert ni Vice Ganda sa Thursday?       

Emman: Anung pano? Didn’t you just hear what I said? Act normal with conviction. Parang dati lang. Girl, dalaga ka na kahit late bloomer pa. So, anu man yan, i-enjoy mo na lang.

Maya: Okay, sabi ko nga, act normal with conviction and poise. Anu na nga yun? Shudi na olark na crush ko na sha!

Emman: Tama!

Maya: Action-reaction lang, I’ll take it from how he will be. Kakapain ko na nga lang muna.

 Emman: Tama uli! Pero Bestie ha, baka ibang kapaan mangyari tapos mamya when you call me, you’ll tell me na lucky home partner na kayo ha?

 Maya: Did you just mean live-in? Emman crush pa lang to, hindi pa tayo sigurado, live-in agad?

 Emman: I’m just saying. So, siguro naman, pwede ka na mag sleeping beauty?

 Maya: Salamat Emman ha. You are really the best bestie in the world! Good night!

 Emman: Nighty nite!

 **********

      Maya was already seated, stirring her coffee when Richard came down the stairs and approached the dining table for breakfast. He smiled upon seeing Maya so quiet while waiting for them. He was toying with the idea of giving her a kiss on the forehead with good morning greetings when Maya suddenly looked up.

 Richard: Good morning!

        Maya saw Richard’s dimpled face smiling at her. She smiled back and noticed the lines under his eyes, indicating that he slept late.

 Maya: Good morning Sir Chief! Coffee?

Richard: Ipagtitimpla mo uli ako?

 Maya: Why not? Ayaw nyo po?

Richard: Nakakahiya lang kasi. That’s not part of your job.

 Maya: Seriously Sir Chief? Nakakahiya po ba yun? I’ve made coffee for you several times already. Besides, akala ko SUPERfriends na po tayo kasi, iniyakan nyo na nga po ako kagabi eh, mahihi –

Richard: Fine. Coffee please.

        Maya stood up and went to the breakfast nook, leaving Richard behind whose pursed lips caused his dimple to appear.

Richard: Napaka alaskador mo talaga, Maya. Can we not talk about that crying thing please.

Maya: Sir Chief, hindi po ako nang aalaska. I was just saying. And besides, wala naman pong ibang tao dito eh.

 Richard: Where is everybody?

Maya: Pababa na rin po yung mga bata. Si Abby sarap pa ng tulog.

       Maya came back holding the cup of coffee which she placed on the table. “Here’s your coffee.”

        “Thank you.” Richard said while smiling at her. Before Maya could sit down, Abby rushed to her side and engulfed Maya’s waist in an embrace.

 Maya: Abby! Ang aga mo namang nagising baby! Ah…kasi you selpt early last night nga pala. Kiss mo na si Daddy tapos kain ka na.

       Abby obliged. After he kissed Richard, she sat on the chair on the right of Maya, whose already busy putting food on Abby’s plate. Richard’s eyes remained focus on Maya, noting how she takes care of Abby like a mother. He did not miss the dark area beneath Maya’s eyes. As Maya felt that Richard is watching her, she became conscious and struggled to act normal when she caught Richard staring at her.

Maya: W-why po? May dumi po ba yung face ko?

Richard: No, wala. Yung mga mata mo kasi. They look tired.

          Richard sips his coffee and looks at Maya again. “You must really be a coffee drinker to be able to come up with coffee this good. It’s perfect! Masarap talaga siya. What do you put in it?”

     Maya gave him a playful smile. She answered while putting food on her plate, glancing at Richard every now and then.

Maya: Anu mang oras, anu mang araw, hilig ko ang mag coffee. But NOT just any coffee. Gusto nyo malaman kung ano ang secret ko in making my coffee perfect? Krem Top! For me, Krem Top is the only coffee creamer that makes my coffee taste richer…creamier! Aroma pa lang, hhmmm…siguradong panalo! Bawat sandali talagang sumasarap! Lasapin ang sarap –

Richard: TV commercial yan dba? Memorize mo?!

      Richard looks at Maya with amusement while laughing.

  Maya: Hahaha, favorite TV Ad ko yun. Ang gwapo ng actor, credible looking pa. His character is so surreal.

Richard: You’re really funny! You’re a natural comic, I must say!

 Maya: What? I’m not a comedy! I’m a lawyer to be!

         Richard laughs harder to the pleasure of Maya. She has not seen him in this mood especially in the morning. Abby was also delighted as she watched her Dad and Maya.

 Richard: Haaay Maya, I almost choked on my coffee kakatawa dito.

 Maya: At least my answer has been prayed! Ay mail! Take 2… At least my prayer has been answered! Hindi na kayo nakasimangot at the start of the day. Nakangiti na, tumatawa pa! Nakakabata po yan ha, nakakatanggal pa ng pagod sa puyat.

 Richard: Yeah, they say that laughter is the best medicine.

Maya: Pero hinay po sa tawa Sir Chief ha. Laughter is the best medicine…but if you laugh for no reason…you will need medicine!

         Richard’s face was flushed after laughing continuously. He calmed down only after he was close to tears.

 Richard: There is really no dull moment with you, Maya.

      Maya just smiled at him in response. Richard noticed the dark area beneath her eyes again. This time, he had to ask to satisfy his curiosity.

 Richard: Mukhang nagtelebabad ka kagabi ah. Inabot ka siguro ng madaling araw sa telepono. Kita sa mga mata mo eh, napuyat ka.

Maya: Huh? Ah…eh … kayo nga Sir Chief ang puyat oh! Ang lalim kaya ng mga mata nyo. Ayan o, dalawa linya ng eye bags nyo. You worked last night noh? Kaya kayo napuyat.

Richard: Ikaw kasi.

Maya: Ako po talaga?

Richard: Yes! Didn’t I tell you last night, mahihirapan akong makatulog ng dahil sa iyo.

Maya: Okay, at least po natapos nyo yung trabaho. At least nabawasan ang work load nyo for today so, maaga kayo makaka uwi. Chance yun to have bonding time with the kids!  

Richard: Yeah, you’re right. Ang tagal naman nila Luke and Nikki, the food will get cold.

        When Richard stood up and tried to reach for the rice bowl, Maya immediately offered help.

Maya: Ay ako na lang po Sir Chief. Ang layo po nung rice bowl eh, dami kasi nila hinain na pagkain oh. Over, parang fiesta lang.

Richard: Okay, thank you Maya.

      Overwhelmed, Richard bit his lower lip as he tried to control his smile. Maya scooped some rice and placed them on the plate of Richard, who got overjoyed with Maya’s gestures. “Ulam Sir Chief, what do you want? Baka hindi mo rin maabot yung serving plate eh. Omelette?

 Richard: Sige, and sausages please.

           Richard’s weary eyes were surpassed by the smile on his face as he watched Maya attend to his breakfast, just like how a wife would do. Highly twitter patted with the moment just like a teen-ager talking to his crush, Richard simply relished every second of it, just as his former nanny, who came in the kitchen minutes ago, was very pleased and touched with what she has just witnessed. She smiled and said a short prayer in her mind.

        Doris, who came with Manang Fe, couldn’t help but swoon over the interaction between her boss and Maya.

Doris: Jusme! Manang Fe, nakaka kiliiiiiiiig! Manang, tignan mo si Sir Richard oh. Ang mga mata, dati ang lungkot. Tignan mo ngayon, kahit halata mong pagod ang mata sa puyat, kitang kita mo ang saya sa mukha nya.

       Ang ngiti naman ni Sir oh, wagas! At ang mga titig nya kay Ms. Maya, ang lagkeeet! Tignan mo silang tatlo, parang holy family!

Manang Fe: Bakit holy family?

Doris: Parang buo na po yung pamilya! May tatay, baby, at may nanay na rin!

Manang Fe: Whole ang family…wag ka na nga mag ingles hindi tayo magkaintindihan.

Doris: Ow-my-G! Kinikilig si Sir Richard! Hindi nya maitago ang kilig nya kay Ms. Maya! Waaaaaah! Sabi ko na eh, ka-abang abang na love story ito!

Manang Fe: Hayaan natin sila Doris. Huwag natin pangunahan. Masaya na ako na makita si Ricardo na masaya muli. Napaka tagal na panahon ang lumipas. Ngayon ko lamang uli nakitang ganyan kasaya ang mukha ni Ricardo. Kahit si Abigail! Sana magtuloy tuloy na itong saya nila.

          Napaka swerte natin kay Maya. Natural na natural kasi sa kanya ang maging maalaga. Sa mga bata, kay Ricardo at pati na sa atin.

Doris: Mabuti na lang dumating sa mga Lim si Ms. Maya. Ang saya saya na ng bahay na ito.

Manang Fe: Salamat sa Diyos.

        Richard continuously smiles while eating, glancing at Maya every now and then. As usual, Maya kept their conversation going.

 Maya: Mmmmmm….Sir Chief masarap yung baked beans. Sarap siya i-pair sa sausages. Try nyo po.

Richard: Huwag na lang, pork and beans lang yan eh.

Maya: No, baked beans siya Sir Chief. Mas masarap po. Sige na try nyo na.

Richard: I don’t like.

Maya: Oh well, I forgot, you refuse to go out of the box nga po pala. You don’t like to try –

Richard: Fine. Pahingi na ng konti. You are such a bully!

Maya: I am not! And if I am, I could not possibly bully a Richard Lim.

Richard: Maya, you just don’t know what you do to m – .

          Maya cuts him off upon seeing the kids approach the table. “Sir Chief ayan na mga bata!” She slightly leans forward and whispered to Richard. “Start the conversation with them, and don’t forget to wish Nikki good luck. It’s her audition day.”

         Luke and Nikki got excited to see their Dad at breakfast especially after what happened last night when he arrived. To their surprise and delight, Richard looked behind and greeted his kids right away.

 Richard: Good morning Luke, Nikki!

Luke/Nikki: Good morning Dad!

Richard: What took you so long to get down here? Baka ma-late kayo nyan sa school.

       Luke and Nikki glanced at Maya who winked at them, giving the signal to speak.

Luke: Hindi naman po Dad. Na-calculate na po namin ni Kuya Joma kahapon yung travel time. May allowance pa po sa time.

Nikki: Yes Dad. Hindi pa po kami aabutan ng traffic.

Richard: You look prettier today, Nikki. Ngayon yung auditions mo, right?

Nikki: Oh thank you Dad! Uhm, yes po, mamaya po during lunch time yung auditions. If I’m not called for my turn sa lunch, auditions will continue after class. Kaya baka po ma-late po kami ng kaunti sa pag-uwi.

Richard: But how will you eat lunch then?

Nikki: Oh, Tita Maya got that covered Dad. She’ll be sending sandwich para I can eat while waiting for my turn.

Maya: Ay, nandun na sa counter top sa kitchen oh. May extra cookies din para may makutkot sa hapon, just in case.

Richard: Thank you, Maya. That is really so sweet of you. Hindi ka na nakatulog ng maayos, napuyat na then ang aga mo pa gumusing.

Maya: Welcome. Good luck Nikki ah. Don’t forget yung piano piece.

Richard: Well, with how she sang last night, I don’t think she even needs a good luck. But just the same, good luck Nikki. I’m sure you will impress them.

Nikki: Aaaawwww, thank you Dad! Thanks Tita Maya!

Richard: Uhm…Luke, siguro it would be better if you have driving lessons aready.

Luke: Really Dad?!

Richard: Yes, you’ll be in college soon and there will be a time that you will have to drive the car yourself.

Luke: Wow! Hindi ko po tatanggihan yan, Dad! Thaaaaaank you po!

        Richard remembered what Maya said about Abby, so he called their attention to her. “Wow look at Abby eat!” Everyone looked at Abby. “Abby, you’re eating well. Keep it up baby so you’ll grow fast.” Abby nodded with a big smile on her face to the satisfaction of Richard. But what warmed his heart is what happened next. Abby hugged Maya’s right arm and caressed her cheeks against it, just like a cat would cuddle. Then, using her left hand, Maya cupped Abby’s face that was resting on her arm then kissed Abby’s head.

       Richard felt happy that he had conversation with his kids. He noticed that Maya was just listening, ready to give in her share when needed. He felt relieved that it went well, more than what he expected and hoped for. He looked at Maya. He smiled and gave her a nod, as if telling her thank you. Maya acknowledged him with the same gestures. Realizing that they understand each other even with just an eye contact, Richard took a deep breath and heaved a sigh of gratitude and satisfaction.

**********

 

         Richard reached LAS in a very good mood. He appreciated the fact that he had breakfast with his kids, and yet still made it on time. What he needed after all, was time management, something that he always practiced in the office, but overlooked to apply at home.

Liza: Good morning, Sir!

Richard: Good morning! Kindly check your e-mail. I sent you the final MOAs for signing later. Just make sure you print at least two extra sets for our files.

Liza: Okay, I’ll do that now.

          As expected, Liza noticed the good mood of his boss and guessed that someone might be the reason. She has just opened her email account when the phone beside her started to ring.

 Liza: Lim Aviation Services, good morning!

Maya: Hello Liza! Quiet ka lang please, this is Maya.

Liza: Hey! I was just thinking of you…

Maya: Huh? Bakit? Ay teka, dumating na ba si SC?

Liza: SC? Ah si Sir Chief mo. Yeah, nandito na si Chief.   Dumating kani-kanina lang.

Maya: Haaay, that’s good to hear. Hindi kasi naka alis ng maaga, sumabay mag breakfast sa amin ng mga bata. I was worried na ma-late. Baka ako sisihin, you know…Hahaha!

Liza: Ahhh…is that so? Kaya pala. Sabi ko na eh. You’re the reason why ang ganda ng mood ni Chief, pasipol sipol na naman.

Maya: Ay Liza, ang saya sa breakfast kanina! Si Sir Chief ha, tawa ng tawa. Tapos sarap ng kwentuhan nila ng mga bata.

Liza: Oh I’m sure, may kinalaman ka dun.

Maya: Hindi naman, I just gave him a little push para mag loosen up sa mga bata. Actually, that is the reason why I called you nga pala. Pwede ka ba namin i-kutchaba ng mga bata?

Liza: Of course! Just make sure na hindi ako masesesante ha. Anu ba yun?

Maya: Oh I’m sure, hindi ka kayang sisantehen ni Sir Chief! Hahaha!

        Anyway, eh kasi diba you’re a very trusted friend and employee ni Sir Chief. Parang si Atty. Ryan! So, maniniwala yun sa ‘yo. Ma-convince mo lang siya that he has a meeting with someone, like a possible client, maybe a CEO of an airline? Basta yung hindi nya matatanggihan. Bahala ka na. Kayang-kaya mo na yun, pero ang challenge sa iyo, is to make him go to that business meeting this Sunday mga 4 or 5 in the afternoon!

Liza: What? Why Sunday? For sure magrereklamo si Sir!

Maya: It’s father’s day dba? Okay sana i-surprise para hindi na maka kontra yun. Kami na bahala sa reservation kung saang resto.

Liza: Naku, baka mahirapan ka na nyan. I’m sure fully book na most ng restaurants in Metro Manila kasi nga Father’s Day. You want ako na rin gumawa nun? I’ll tap my network.

Maya: Really? Oh my gas Liza! Super thank you! Sige, bahala ka na, anyway mas kabisado mo naman yang kaibigan mo eh.

Liza: Hahaha! I really don’t mine Maya! I’m just so glad, mukhang mapapadalas na maganda mood ni Chief. Dati, ang serious at sungit lagi, bilis talaga unimit ng ulo nya. Lately, kalma! Pasipol sipol pa kanina.

Maya: You know what, if matuloy yung Sunday, baka magtuloy tuloy na yang good moods ni Sir Chief. Kulang lang ng bonding moments with the kids. Kaya sana magawan mo ng way. Pleeease?

Liza: Of course!

Maya: Talaga ha. Sige na, I won’t hold you for long. Thanks Liza, text text na lang.

Liza: Okay, bye!

Richard: Liza…

 

 

Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 13

A/N: Pahabol na double treat for a happy Easter! I have read some of your comments and as a result, pinilit ihabol ang next part agad.

Thank you, I’ll get back to your commentssssss later, ginawa at tinapos ko muna nga kasi ito, sa sobrang tuwa ko sa inyo. 🙂

Hindi lang ang pagsusulat ang nakakamiss, pati kayo at ang pagbabasa ng comments ninyo, sobrang na miss ko. Happy Easter and God bless!

 

 

PREVIOUSLY on Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 12

 

Maya:Ah…so o-okay ka na pala. Maya quickly snaps off.

Richard:For now, yes.

 

          With that declaration from Richard, Maya wondered why he was still holding her. She felt uneasy as she sensed that something was different. Everything felt different. Maya became apprehensive that their emotional intimacy might peak at something physical, and now that she is aware of their faces only inches away, she fears that Richard might get carried away with the moment. This realization caused her to panic inside. With a little push, Maya swiftly pulled away from him and walked towards the kitchen.

**********

 

Continuation……..

        

Richard: Maya! Wait!  I  st–    

           Without looking back, Maya answered Richard spontaneously.

 Maya: Ahem…I need oxygen…

Richard: What?!  Richard immediately grabbed Maya’s arm from behind and pulled her back. Maya was forced to face him. What did you say?

Maya: Huh? Ah…sabi ko po I need ano… ah…hydrogen 2 oxygen. Yun! Chemistry? H₂O? Otherwise known as water? I’ll get you water, wait lang.

        Maya immediately turned around and proceeded to the kitchen. She felt the need to move away from Richard. She might have caused the Pandora’s Box to open, and she did not know how to handle the situation…she needed to breath to calm herself down…to regain control…at least of herself.

Richard just released a sigh as he was left alone in the veranda. He frowned when he realized what just happened. “What was that all about, Richard?” he asked himself. He stepped back with hands on his waist and had a quick thought…he still needed to talk to Maya. So, he followed her to the kitchen.

       Maya was doing deep-breathing exercises while walking away from the veranda. Her mind was in chaos with heart beating wild. “Maya, kalma…kalma!… grabe maka-moment ‘tong si chopsticks!… anyare dun?… naman kasi, pano ka naman kakalma nakakatunaw makatingin!… aaarrrrghh! over!… at jusmeeeeeeeeh, ang sarap nyang yumakaaaaap! Wait! Bakit ako kinikiliiiig ng sobra?! Waaaaah! Ang kisig at ang bango pa!… hinga Maya, hinga!…ano ba ‘to… parang may kakaiba kasi eh…kalma Mayaaaa!”

Richard:Maya!

         To her surprise, Maya gulped down the water she has just poured in the water goblet.

 Maya: Naman Sir Chief! Nakakagulat naman kayo oh! Bakit ba kayo sumunod? Di po ba sabi ko wait lang, I’ll get you water?  Maya took another goblet then poured another glass of water for him. Quickly, she placed the goblet on the counter of the breakfast nook nearest Richard. Ayan po, tubig to replenish the bucket of tears you shed a while ago, he he…he he.

Richard:Thank you. Without moving his eyes from Maya, Richard drank the water then placed the goblet back on the counter. Akala ko hindi ka na babalik eh.

Maya:Ha? Eh bakit naman po? Sabi ko nga po ‘di ba, wait lang, I’ll get you water? Maya gets jittery and mumbled to herself. “Ang kulit ha.”

Richard: Eh kasi ang tagal mo. Uhm… I still need some company.

Maya: Ah…still need some company naman pala…hmm….my company? Maya tried to be calm and pointed to herself and Richard gave her a nod. She tried to buy time until she could think of something and said Ah…so, hindi ka na galit?

Richard:I was not mad. Did you think I was mad?

Maya: Hindi po ba? Kanina, you sounded so vehement when you said to me “I don’t want company. Leave me alone.”

           Richard frowned.

 Richard: Did I say that? Well, my mind was in total turmoil kanina and I was losing control of my emotions! I didn’t want anybody to see me so vulnerable, e-especially you.

Maya: Ah, kaya ba may kasunod pang “I don’t want your coffee. Just go and stay away from me.”

          Richard felt so guilty and remorseful; he wanted to show how sorry he is. Spontaneously, he walked towards Maya while he delivers his apology.

Richard:I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to reject you and sound so offensive. I’m really so sorry, Ma–

       Anticipating another hug from Richard, Maya immediately raised her left hand and cuts him off just to prevent him from coming to her.

Maya:Okay na po Sir Chief! I believe you and I understand, really….okay na po yun…so…ah… you want that company with coffee?

Maya casually asked with a big smile, trying her best to look calm and normal. With a big smile on his face, Richard answered immediately.

 Richard:Yes, of course. Your company, with coffee please.

Maya:Okay po Sir Chief! Mauna ka na po sa veranda, susunod na po ako.

           Richard raised his eyebrows.

 Maya:Onga po. Sir Chief, susunod po ako. I’ll just make us coffee. Promise, mamatay man mga kuko nyo sa paa!

           Richard chuckles.

 Richard: Silly! It’s just that…well (feeling uneasy, Richard grimaces) … I’m just baffled that you’re back with po and Sir Chief. W-why so? (then he smiles teasingly) … Eh kanina lang I was Richard to you…and m-may hon –

           Embarrassed,Maya butts in right away before Richard could even finish the word honey.

 Maya: Huh? Ah… eh…kasi…okay naman na kayo di ba? Kanina kasi, I felt that you were holding back and I thought, kasi nga boss kayo. Masakit kaya sa dibdib ang magpigil! Kaya…ano po, I shifted to a friend mode then called you by your first name, para po ano…para po hindi kayo ma-ilang. Eh nag work naman po di ba? You let go and cried like a boy.

        Looking disappointed, Richard talks her into it in a frustrated tone.

 Richard:Then dapat na pala akong ma-ilang, kasi boss-employee mode na pala uli tayo eh. But I need the company of a friend.

Maya:Fine! Sige na Ricky boy. Punta ka na sa veranda, susunod na ako.

        With a lopsided smile, Richard nods. He proceeded back to the veranda, feeling triumphant and enthusiastic.

          Richard patiently waited for Maya. He sat on the chair near the iron barrier, facing the sliding door leading back to the kitchen/dining hall. Alone, he had the chance to think things over. He made a quick flash back in his mind to recall what just happened minutes ago and tried to process what was going on. He grins as he entertained his thoughts “I don’t know what is going on but I really don’t care at all. All I know is that I’m happy with what is going about. I feel good with what I have with her now, and it feels so right being connected with her… mentally… emotionally… and ah, oh yeah, physically….”

 

          After about five minutes of reflection, Richard saw Maya emerge from the kitchen area holding a tray with a glass of water, two cups of coffee and a triple decker chicken salad sandwich with potato chips on the side.

Maya:Sir Chief, I know you’re hungry kasi malamang you haven’t eaten dinner. Kaya mag sandwich ka muna.

           Richard gets delighted with the kind of attention Maya is showering him. After all, it feels different from the kind of concern and care Manang Fe has been giving him throughout the years.

Richard:Ang galing mo namang tumancha. You’re right, nagutom na nga ako. Thank you, and it’s Richard, Maya.

Maya:Okay, whatever. Sige na kain na muna.

Richard:Mmmm. This is good!

Maya:Gutom ka nga talaga!

Richard:No, this is really good. Ngayon lang ata gumawa ng ganito sina Manang Fe.

Maya:Kami ni Abby ang gumawa nyan kaninang merienda. Dami nga nya nakain eh. You know what? She didn’t mind the lettuce! Basta she ate what I made for her.

Richard:That’s because of you. She follows you in a snap. Lakas ng impluwensha mo sa kanya.

           Maya sips from her cup of coffee as she watched Richard looking so relaxed munching on his food.   After several glances, Maya just stared at Richard, admiring every inch of his face. Silently, she thought “Haaay, ang gwapo mo pala talaga. Tama nga si Emman, incredible hunk ka nga!

           Richard noticed Maya staring at him and thought maybe he has something around his mouth again. So, he wiped his mouth clean then faced Maya.

 Richard:What?

Maya:Hmm?

Richard:You wanted to say something? You’re staring at me.

Maya:Ha?Ah…wala naman. Eh ano kasi, ang bilis mo kumain! Hahahaha! Ilang kagat lang yung sandwich? Apat lang ata eh! Hahaha!

          Both of them were laughing uncontrollably, with Maya close to tears and Richard’s face flushed.

Richard:Ang sarap kasi. I was just appreciating what you made. Hindi ba sabi mo ikaw may gawa nun?

Maya: Ganun? Thank you nasarapan ka sa gawa ko. Eh pero ang Frito Lay potato chips, natapon lang Sir Chief? Simot agad? Hahaha!

Richard: Hahaha! Maya ang kulit mo. Yeah hindi mo gawa yung chips but that was part of your preparation, right? Ineffort mo yun. So I should appreciate it just the same.

Maya: Okay, sobrang appreciative mo nga, di-nedma mo lang ako dito. Galit galit lang? Hahaha!

Richard:Fine! Nagutom nga ako. I admit, I was really starving on the way home. Traffic was really terrible with the rain and flood, then when I got home…

           Richard stopped and took a sip from his coffee cup.

 Maya:Then when you got home…anu nga ba nangyari? Grabe ka rin umatake ng pagka bipolar eh. Tiger mode tapos best drama actor mode. Pero in fairness ha, ikaw pa lang ang lalaki na nakita kong umiyak na hindi masagwa. Kahit na humihikbi ka at lalong naningkit mga mata mo, gwapo ka pa rin ha ha ha! 

Richard:Stop teasing!

Maya:Ha? I’m not teasing! Totoo, tinalo mo pa si Aga Mulach at Piolo Pascual sa pag iyak. Hanep! Project na project ang dating, without losing poise and good looks! Pati pagtulo ng luha, prim and proper ka pa rin. Hahaha!

Richard:Kaya nga ayoko makita nyo ako in that state. Now you’re making fun of me.

Maya:Hindi ah. Hindi ba nga, sabi ko nga sa kanta kanina, ♪you poured your soul…didn’t lose your dignity…♪♪ it held you up… ♪♪ you have my sympathy.

          Hindi lang sympathy Sir Chief, sobrang napahanga ako kasi you were man enough to deal with your emotions out in the open. Sabi nila, ang tunay na lalaki, marunong AT kayang umiyak ng hindi nagtatago.

Richard:Really?

Maya:Really-ing really.

          Maya knew where he was coming from but she wanted to it hear from him, straight from his heart.

Maya: Eh anu ba nga talaga ang nangyari sa iyo? Kanina lang ang lisik mong makatingin, nakakatakot, parang galit na galit ka sa akin. Then just earlier, bigla ka na lang nangyakap at umiyak ng parang bata. Tapos ngayon yung ngiti nyo…mo, parang nakakaloko. Sir Chief, may lahi kayong baliw? Wahahahahaha!

          Maya laughs boisterously with her head sliding to her left, down to Richard’s right shoulder. Richard almost choked. He put the tray on the side after drinking water. Maya saw the sudden change in Richard’s face, from one with a silly grin to a heart-breaking facial expression.                                                                                

Maya:Peace, Sir Chief. Nagbibiro lang ako. Eh kasi naman grabe naman talaga ang mood swings mo eh.   Ayan oh, res ipsa loquitur!

         Without looking at Maya, Richard took another sip of coffee without saying anything.

Maya:Sir Chief?…Richard? Huuuuy, sorry na, nagbibiro lang ako.

        Still with a miserable face, Richard keeps mum. Maya didn’t know what to do next and thought “Lakas talaga ng sumpong nito! Krung krung! Dead-ma lang? Layasan ko kaya dito? Hmp! Kakapundi ng pasensha ha. Arrrrggh! Krung krung talaga! Hmp! Teka nga…”

           Maya moved closer to Richard. Looking at him in her most loving way, Maya starts to sing an APO song, “Kaibigan”….

 Maya: ♪Kaibigan….♫ tila yata matamlay…♪ ang iyong pakiramdam…♪ At ang ulo mo sa kaiisip… ♪♪ Ay tila naguguluhan ♫ Kung ang problema o suliranin ♪… ay lagi mong didibdibin ♫ ay tatanda kang bigla pag tumulo ang luha ♫ hahaba ang iyong mukha ♪♪ at ikaw ang siyang kawawa…♫

Admitting that Maya has a special way of calming him, Richard finally looked at her, although with pursed lips. He was just amazed on her creativeness, being able to get through her point through a song.

Richard:Eh matanda naman na talaga ako eh.

Maya:Hasus! Richard, lalo kang tatanda sa haba ng face mo sa kaka emote mo. And you know my stand on that matter, hindi ka pa matanda, and you definitely don’t look like a man with 3 kids, with your first born nearly in college!   Para lang kayong mag kuya ni Luke eh. Promise!

Hearing her say something about kids, Richard began to explain what happened earlier when he came home.

Richard:It was Nikki’s song. Y-you taught her that?

Maya:Sir Chief, I didn’t –         

Richard:Maya, if you want this conversation to go on –

Maya:Okay, Richard, as I was saying, yes, I did teach her the song. I changed some of the lyrics to fit the story line of the school play. Nikki is going to audition for the theatre club and at the same time for the lead role.

Richard:Nikki was singing from the heart. You know where she’s coming from. It’s like she was singing to me.

Maya:It was not meant for you. As I have said, it was for the story line of the school play. Yung story daw kasi is about a young girl who is trying to reach out to his father who was still trying to cope up with the death of his wife who succumbed to cancer.

Richard:But it hit me. You know what I’m talking about. You’ve seen how we are as a family and you know where she’s coming from. I’m sure. In fact, you’ve made efforts to bridge the gap between me and the kids. And you were successful.   And tonight? You did it again effortlessly this time. As you always say, res ipsa loquitur. I rest my case.

Maya:Fine. I only realized that at the last part of the song, when there was a crack in her voice and then tears rolled down her cheeks. Sorry Sir Ch – sorry, I didn’t mean –

Richard:It is really okay, Maya. I know you only meant to help Nikki with her audition. I guess it’s something inevitable and it was fate. It’s for me to realize things. It was a blessing in d–

Maya:A blessing in the skies?!

Richard:Silly! But yes, I guess it’s a blessing in disguise. Have you been hanging out with Stephanie?

Maya:Hindi ah. I was just trying to lighten up kasi, nag mo-moment ka na naman eh. Mamaya ma-iyak ka uli. Papatawa lang ba. Naisip ko lang, kung si Stephanie ang kaharap mo, yan ang sasabihin sa iyo, blessing in the skies! O, hindi ba napangiti na uli kita?

        Richard kept his smile and looked lovingly at Maya.

Richard:You are the blessing from the skies…

Maya:Huh?

Richard:You are Maya. You’re a blessing from the skies. You’re an angel sent by heaven.

          Feeling a little shy and awkward, Maya covers up and wittingly answered.

 Maya:Ay alam ko na yan. Sinabi ko na yan kay Stephanie eh. Hindi ba nakwento ko yan sa ‘yo? Kaya sablay na ang punch line mo diyan kasi nga alam ko na yan.

 Richard:What are you talking about, Maya?

 Maya:Kasi nga nun sa office mo, sabi nya para raw siyang anghel na hulog ng langit. Eh sa kagaspangan ng ugali nya, d ba? nasabihan ko na hinulog siya ng langit kasi hindi siya nababagay duon. Yun.

Richard:Weren’t you listening? I didn’t say na hulog ka ng langit. You should relate what I’ve said. I said you are a blessing from the skies and I also said you’re an angel SENT by heaven.

           Richard suddenly got worried and frowns.

 Richard: Maya? Y-you’re not leaving us anytime soon, right?

Maya:Huh? What are you talking about, Richard?

Richard:Parang ganyan yung 1990s TV series na Touched by An Angel eh. This lady will appear in someone’s life and after she helps that person fix his or her life, she disappears.

Maya:Hahaha! Now you’re silly! Seriously? Nakakatawa ka naman. Anu ba? I’m REAL! You have my resume/bio data. You can check every detail of it. I have a family, a house, friends…Atty. Ryan knows me!

Richard:Okay, okay. That was silly of me. Hahaha! Ikaw kasi, the things you do to me.

           Maya didn’t know what Richard meant so she changed the topic instead.

 Maya:So, what are your plans now?

Richard:Plans?

Maya:Plans. What do you plan to do with your realizations?

Richard:I don’t know. I just want to make them feel that I love them and that I am here for them. I want to reach out to them. Para hind na ako “outside the coverage area.”

Maya:Madali lang yan. Spend time with them. QuaLITY time ha. You can start tomorrow, at breakfast.

Richard:You talk like it’s that easy.

Maya:Madali lang talaga! You know, kahit 5 minutes lang yan basta you connect, super quality time na yun. Baka naman 2 hours spent with them nga pero nakalaptop ka naman tapos sila watching TV with you around lang. Poor connection yun!

          Bukas, sa breakfast, start the conversation. Ask them about their first day in school. Then everything will flow from there.

Richard:Just like that?

Maya:Yup! Just like that. Sa daldal ni Nikki? Sigurado yun, may reaction agad! Maybe you can ask Luke about basketball. Si Abby mas madali. Just praise her. Pansinin mo kung paano kumain, matutuwa na yon.

Richard:You sound like you know my kids better than I do. I guess you’ve spent so much quality time with them since you came into our family.

Maya:Hindi naman sa ganon, nagkataon lang na nabanggit ni Luke about trying out for varsity team. Pag meal time kasi with me lang, ang daldal nung dalawa. Si Nikki, you know we have something in common kaya ganun kaming dalawa.

Richard:Then I need you to back me up. You know, just in case…

Maya:Of course. Aalalayan kita. Promise.

Richard:Thank you for being an angel.

Maya:Haaaay,parang kelan lang yamot na yamot ka sa akin, now I’m an angel pala ha.

Richard:Maya –

Maya:Yeah, yeah I know. Tapos na yun. I’m just saying.

           Richard shakes his head smiling then took his coffee cup for a sip. He felt light because after a very long time, he did not shun away from his emotions and issues, but instead, braved them and has taken steps to deal with them. It was that moment of silence that Maya thought of asking him a question.

 Maya:Pwede magtanong?

           Richard looked at her with raised eyebrows, signalling her to throw the question.

Maya:Bawal ba talaga mag ingay? I mean, bawal ba gumawa ng sound? Kasi sabi nila bawal mag gitara, mag piano, patugtog ng radio, pati magtawanan ng malakas bawal?

Richard:I never said na bawal yun. They just assumed.

Maya:Eh siguro kasi, palagi ka galit at panay ka sigaw everytime na may mga ganun?

Richard:No. Nagkataon lang yun.

Maya:Talaga? So, okay lang mag-ingay?

Richard:What do you mean mag-ingay?

Maya:Yung normal na buhay, yung matawa ng malakas pag sobrang nakakatawa. Yung, magpatugtog ng music or radio once in a while, yung mag jamming sa gitara or sa piano. Sayang naman ang baby grand piano, ang ganda ng tunog, nakaka pang gigil tugtugan.

Richard:That would be fine.

Maya:Talaga?

Richard:Yes.

Maya:No…VIOLET reaction?

Richard:Hahaha! Yes, no violeNt reaction.

Maya:Yes! Wala ng bawian yan ha! Promise?

Richard:Promise.

Maya:Mamatay man mga ku–  

Richard:Kahit ilibing mo pa sila. Hahaha!

Maya:Eh talagang mamamatay nga mga yan. My gas Sir Chief! You’re still in shoes! Tignan mo oh? Hindi ka pa nagpapalit ng damit!   Ayan ka na naman, more than 12 hours mo na naman suot mga yan!

           The night’sevents sent Richard over the moon. While his smile and the sparkle in his eyes are more than enough to announce to the world the happiness in his heart, Richard felt that he could not contain his feelings to himself and wanted to shout it out, and at the same time had this uncontrollable urge of hugging someone.

He is overjoyed and thrilled realizing that tonight, he opened up, exposed his vulnerability, and allowed himself to be emotionally intimate with someone. He felt very relaxed in Maya’s company.  Everything felt so right, making him still want to hang out with her but he knew he needed to calm himself down, this time, from the natural high that Maya created. Otherwise, he might just go physical, hug her and scare her away. So he immediately called the shots.

Richard: Okay, let’s hit the sack at gabi na. Richard stood up from his seat.

           Maya followed and started to clear the table. With a naughty smile, she dared to question what Richard will really do after their talk.

Maya:Weh?! Talaga? Matutulog ka na? If I know, mag wo-work ka pa rin sa room mo.

       Still with a full smile on his face, Richard responds to Maya spontaneously, almost sounding like he was flirting.

 Richard:Haaaay Maya. Fine, because of you, I’m sure I’ll find it hard to sleep right away. So I’ll just check on the email Ryan sent me instead. Para naman hindi masayang ang effort nila ni Liza sa MOAs.

           Again, Maya didn’t know what he meant so this time, she calmly asked.

 Maya: Seriously? Eh bakit ako na naman?

Richard:W-well, uhm…ikaw naman kasi ang proximate cause of everything that transpired tonight, hindi ba? As you admitted, you taught Nikki the song, and you made me cry. Emotions are still high Maya, pinaiyak at pinatawa mo ako diba? So it’s your fault.

Maya:Ako talaga? Okay, whatever you say Sir Chief. Sabi mo eh.

           After Richard locked the sliding door, the two walk side by side with silly grins. When they reached the baby grand piano, Maya pointed it and faced Richard excitedly.

Maya:Sir Chief wala ng bawian ha!

Richard:Babawiin ko pag hindi ka tumigil sa kaka Sir Chief mo.

Maya:Ha?! Eh pano pag working hours ko na, pag class hours na namin ni Abby.

Richard:It’s beyond your working hours Maya. You know I have agreed to that. It’s an exception.

Trying to contain her joyful state, Maya made a controlled scream as she hugged Richard’s arm.

Maya:Weeeee! I’m sure matutuwa si Abby!

           Richard was grateful that Maya had Abby in mind.

 Richard:Yes, I’m sure you’ll make her happy.

        Richard just gave in to his urge. He took advantage of Maya’s proximity and embraced her. He planted a kiss on Maya’s head and whispered, “Good night Maya, and thank you for always being so thoughtful of my kids.”

        Again, Maya shivers from Richard’s move and hoped he didn’t notice it this time. She was so relieved that her mobile phone was ringing. Instantly, Maya moved away from Richard without looking and answered the call.

Maya:Hello?! …Sir James?….

Maya looked at Richard and motioned that she’ll take the call in her room. She waved and mouthed good night, then she turned her back and proceeded to her room.

Maya:…hindi naman, gising pa naman talaga ako…I’m fine. Ikaw?…talaga? may hearing ka na naman sa Taytay bukas?

          Richard could still hear her.  He felt that she’s smiling as she talks to James. With that, Richard’s face turned sour and is very very upset.

 

TO BE CONTINUED………