nPlease Be My Legal Wife – Part 16

A/N: Inabot na naman ng isang buwan…thank you for your understanding, patience and support…. 🙂

PREVIOUSLY on Please Be My Legal Wife – Part 15

 

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.

 *********

 Continuation………

         Maya stood still and looked at Richard in the eyes. It was then she realized that he was not just in another enraged state. He’s very much angry and that anger is directed at her. For what ever reason, she doesn’t exactly know. All the same, she resolved to handle the situation in a very calm manner even when she’s hurting inside, something she’s not accustomed to when being confronted and reprimanded by her Sir Chief.

        Since she was not certain on how to take his accusatory remarks, all she could say was  “S-sir Chief?”

Richard: Bakit ngayon ka lang umuwi?! Where have you been?

Maya: Po? Sir Chief, 8:30 pa lang po. Maaga pa naman po, dba?

Richard: You’re under my employ and you’re my responsibility! So I have the right to know your whereabouts!

       For a moment, Maya stared at Richard while breathing sporadically and without saying anything. She had seen him unleash his fury and heard him shout his lungs out so many times in the past, even threw offensive words at her but she didn’t get affected. In fact, she just dismissed them all.   However, seeing him now in that infuriated state and hearing him say those words to her, surprisingly hurt this time.

Maya: Sir Chief, hindi ko naman po nakakalimutan na empleyado nyo po ako. Nagsabi naman po ako earlier, nag text po ako sa inyo that I’ll be buying books. You said K, and I thought it was really okay.

         Richard knew Maya felt affronted as he saw the transition in her facial expression and heard the crack in her voice, a reaction that he never expected from her.  He has gotten used to Maya retorting at him with so much confidence and conviction, taking him lightly when he’s in that mood, giving him maximum tolerance, making efforts to endear him to calm him down, and even initiating an apology even if not at fault just to buy peace and get good vibes. Richard took a deep breath, controlled his temper and tried to speak in a composed manner.

 Richard: Maya, I didn’t mean it that way. You are more than Abby’s tutor… you’re very much treated like family and you know it!    But you left early afternoon and you’ve been gone for more than 6 hours!

 Maya: Sir Chief, I didn’t mean to be abusive of your kindness and consideration. Hindi naman po ako dapat pupunta today as I was scheduled to go this Sunday with my mom. Kaya lang po may biglaan lang pong important event that I need to supervise for some special people this Sunday and wala na po akong ibang time that is why I was constrained to go today.

       I am very sorry if I went overboard and my work was compromised. I-vacation leave ko na lang po today but I’ll make up for the lost time on a Saturday. Pasensha na po, hindi na po mauulit Sir Ch –

     Feeling uncomfortable with Maya’s unusual reaction, Richard got a little annoyed with her poignant statements and cut her off.

Richard: Oh don’t be so sensitive! I am not particular with your working hours and you very well know it too!

       But seriously Maya, you spent more than 5 hours in the bookstore?! You certainly owe me an explanation and that is the whole point of this conversation!                                                                        

Maya: Sir Chief, majority po ng law books that I need are not found in an ordinary bookstore in the mall. Sa Rex Bookstore lang po. The nearest branch in this area is in Shopwise, Cubao. Ang traffic po going to Cubao. Tapos nag transfer na pala ang Rex Bookstore ng location. Hinanap pa namin ni Sir James –       

     The sound of Maya saying the name of James irritated Richard and caused his temper to rise once more.

Richard: Yeah right!

     Maya was getting frustrated because Richard refused to listen, but continued with her explanation.

Maya: When we found the bookstore, alanganin pala po yung new location nya and walang parking sa area. So we had to drive around and park in Gateway, walk and cross some streets para balikan yung bookstore. Then we had to wait kasi there was a long queue,  marami na po nauna na customer and matagal din ang pa-engrave ng name sa mga codal and mga hardbound books, add to that, may kasama na rin kasi na pag plastic cover sa service nila kaya–

       Richard was visualizing what Maya was saying and pictured James walking so close to her side by side, holding on to her when they crossed the street and enjoying every moment with her.

 Richard: But the fact that you were with your former professor will not justify your inadvertence, Maya! You should have informed me…the people in this house, kung nasan ka na, kung anung oras ka uuwi!

 Maya: Ang bilis naman po kasi ng oras, hindi ko na po namalayan na ala–

       Richard assumed, from the words of Maya, that she enjoyed the company of James, that they enjoyed their moment together and lost track of the time. These frustrated and exasperated Richard because he went home early expecting Maya to be there. He was looking forward to her company and spending time with her and the kids, but he ended up eating dinner alone.

Richard: Maya, while you were enjoying someone’s company, merong naghihintay sa iyo sa bahay na ito!

Maya: Po?

        Richard thought that it would be risky to drop hints but was certain that it’s too early for him to make admissions, more so that he resolved to act as normal as he could to ensure that he’ll keep their friendship secured. Besides, he wasn’t really ready to lay down his cards on the table especially not after Maya went out with James earlier. His pride helped him in keeping the truth to himself.

 Richard: Si Manang Fe! She couldn’t go to sleep kasi she was waiting for you!

      Ni hindi ka nag text or tumawag! Hindi mo man lang ba naisip na may mga nag aalala dito?! Tapos dadating ka and act as if okay lang? Bale wala lang? We’ve talked about this! Bakit hindi ka na naman nag text o tumawag?!

Maya: Sir Chief drained na po yung batt –

       For the nth time, Richard did not let Maya finish her explanation. He lost control of his temper. He smacked the table and even let out a line of invective.

Richard: Oh shit Maya! What a LAME alibi! It is so UNACCEPTABLE especially coming from you! Such a disgraceful act of falsehood!

        The invectives hurled against her felt like stabs in her heart. Maya wanted to run away from Richard but stood still and stared at him without blinking. However, the tears that have pooled in her eyes already gushed down her cheeks as she breathed unevenly trying to control her silent sobs.

          But sensible that she is, Maya just absorbed everything with open mind. In fact even in that predicament, she had the urge to give Richard a lecture on alibi, but knew that it isn’t the appropriate time. Besides, she was ready to accept defeat. Richard was not ready to listen so there was no point in going further with her explanation.

        Then too, she thought that Richard was right. There is really no excuse for not texting or calling. She realized early evening that she doesn’t know the contact numbers of anyone in the Lim family by memory, not even Liza’s. She should not have relied on her phone’s contact list and memorized at least the land line of the Lim Mansion. James tried to help. Unfortunately, his card case where he put the calling card of Richard was in his other car which he did not use because of the color coding scheme.

        She swallowed, took a deep breath and pushed words out of her mouth with hope that she would say everything without breaking down.

 Maya:  O-okay po Sir Chief…pagpasenshahan nyo na lang po ako for my inadequacies… Sorry po for being inconsiderate and negligent.

        Richard looked away from a tearful Maya and sat down. Then he spoke sternly with an upset face.

 Richard: Sige na Maya, you’re excused. Just go and proceed with what you want to do. We’re done talking here.

       Even if he wasn’t looking, Maya nodded to acknowledge his directives. Then, she rushed to her room and immediately placed everything she held in her arms on the study table. She took a very deep breath to stop herself from crying then went to the bathroom to wash her face with cold water. After drying it with towel, she rushed outside her room without looking at her reflection in the mirror. She quietly ran to the front door and discreetly went out to get the eco bag which she left earlier.

       After being able to drag the eco bag inside the house, she slowly locked the front door, careful not to make any noise that would catch Richard’s attention. She doesn’t want to deal with him once more as she’s very sure that she wouldn’t be able to endure any hurtful words that he might throw at her again.

         Maya inhaled deeply then squat down to lift the eco full of books and ran with it to her room. Richard was still in a reading position but saw her in his peripheral view. He is still a little puzzled at how Maya reacted, on how she easily succumbed to his fury without her usual smart and quick responses.

        Still catching her breath, Maya wasted no time and headed downstairs to Manang Fe’s room.

  Manang Fe: Maya, nakarating ka na pala.

Maya: Opo Manang Fe, mga 8:30 po ako naka uwi. Pasensya na po, na-abala ko pala kayo sa paghintay sa akin.

      Maya went on to tell her journey to the bookstore and explained in detail why she decided to go earlier instead of the weekend, and why she failed to make a call or to send a text message to inform them of her whereabouts.

Manang Fe: Maya, huwag kang mag-alala, patulog pa lang naman ako eh. Hindi ka naka abala. Kailan man ay hindi ka magiging abala iha. Bakit namumula ka? Ang ilong mo, pulang pula.

Maya: Po? Ah…eh…b-baka po sunburn? Kasi nga po naglakad-lakad po kami sa Cubao ng nakatirik pa ang araw.

 Manang Fe: Eh bakit pati mata mo namumula? Umiyak ka ba?

Maya: Ah…eh sa paglalakad po, pakiramdam ko nga po lahat ng dumi at alikabok ng Edsa Cubao at Aurora Cubao eh nagsalubong sa magkabila kong pisngi, ang lagkit at makati sa pakiramdam. Kaya po pinang-gigilan ko po ang paghilamos, nalagyan po ng sabon yung mata ko, kaya po ganyan.

        Maya hesitantly answered with a lie. She had to do it to avoid further inquiry from Manang Fe if she finds out she cried, but she really felt guilty and uncomfortable not being honest at all.

 Manang Fe: Ganun ba? Eh, nag-kita na ba kayo ni Ricardo? Hinahanap ka sa akin kanina eh.

Maya: Opo, Manang Fe, nagkausap na po kami. Ay magpapa alam na rin po ako ngayon. Mas mahuhuli po ang pagbalik ko bukas ng umaga mula sa misa, Miyerkules kasi, may novena po yung misa eh.

Manang Fe: Sige, sa hapon na lang ako.

        Maya sensed that Richard was still in his home office when she came back from Manang Fe. So, she locked herself in the room and focused her attention to her purchases instead of dwelling on what transpired earlier. She was highlighting some words in the latest Revised Penal Code she purchased when her mobile phone rang.

Maya: Hello, Emman.

Emman: Bestie! I’m here in the beautiful Flower Island in Taytay Palawan!   Na-miss kita!

 Maya: Eh kasama mo naman yung balik-bayan best friend mo diyan eh, kaya nga hindi ka na makaka nood ng VG concert diba.

Emman: Huwag ka naman na mag tampo. You know, overflowing ang South Sea Pearls dito, you’re favorite jewel! Naalala nga kita eh and I really miss you!

 Maya: Buti naman naalala mo ako. Truth is, I really wanted to call you ayaw ko lang maka istorbo sa vacation mo. Wala kasi ako maka usap eh.

 Emman: Naku, Maya ha, don’t tell me krung krung at prem prem matter ito.

 Maya: Sinigawan na naman ako kanina, at ang sakit ng mga sinabi nya.

 Emman: Nasa liking each other palang LQ agad? At talagang affected ka ha. Baka hindi na yan just liking, baka nahulog ka na nga at love na yan…

 Maya: Emman, how can you not be affected, ang sakit talaga ng mga binitawan na salita. Tagos sa dibdib, masakit.

 Emman: Tagos talaga? As in, it penetrated your rib cage and it pierced your pink heart?

 Maya: Oo, na-iyak ako sa sakit…ayoko na –

 Emman: Ha? Ayaw na? I thought you’re looking forward to the days ahead and what the future lies for the two of you? Tapos break na agad hindi pa nga kayo? So ano, ex-future na lang ngayon si krung krung, ganun?

 Maya: Emman, I was about to say ayoko na muna siya makita at makausap kasi na-iyak na nga ako kanina, ayoko na uli umiyak sa harap niya! Besides, baka hindi ko na kayanin ang mga sasabihin pa nya.

 Emman: Dahil you shed tears for him, alam ko na ipapasalubong ko sa iyo! I’m sure it will make you happy! Kaya nga pala ako tumawag kasi I wanted to know ano ang gusto mo na pasalubong!

 Maya: Ah…ganun? Sige, I really really like the golden south sea pearls…

 Emman: You mean the most rare and most exquisite of all pearls from anywhere in the world?

 Maya: Yes…because it is completely natural and the most difficult to produce. Sa Pilipinas lang –

 Emman: Oh this is the one declared by President Ramos as the National Jewel!

 Maya: Yes…and as I was saying, it’s only produced there in Palawan sa Jewelmer Golden Pearl Farms.

 Emman: Yes, that’s very near this island resort! Ang ganda rin dito, it’s such a beauty like us! Okay, sige yun ang pasalubong mo.

 Maya: Emman, dehamak na mura siya diyan compared to the retail stores here in the Philippines at lalo na around the world, pero mahal pa rin siya. I was just joking, kinagat mo naman. Kahit wala naman okay lang. Hindi ko tatanggapin kung ibibili mo ako.

Emman: Okay, sige na. I’ll just get you pearls of the other kind. I already have something in mind. Pero huwag ka na sad ha…I’ll see you on Monday na kasi gabi na kami makaka uwi sa Metro Manila.

          Kalma lang at…palipasin mo na yan, I’m sure nabigla lang yang si Sir Chief mo at inataki lang nag pagka krung krung kaya wag na rin magpaka premprem diyan, okay?

Maya: Sige Emman, mag-enjoy ka na diyan. See you Monday.

 

        The next morning, Manang Fe was already helping Sabel clean up the table when Richard came.

Manang Fe: O Ricardo, nahuli ka ata ng gising. Kanina pa naka alis mga bata. Gusto mo ba ipainit ko ang almusal?

 Richard: Nagbawi lang po ng tulog sa nakaraan na puyat. Sa office na lang po ako kakain. May meeting naman po ako ngayong umaga, and Liza will surely prepare something for everyone to eat.

        Richard purposely went down late to skip breakfast. He didn’t know how things will be with Maya after what happened the night before, but what he is certain of is that there will be some awkwardness between the two of them and he didn’t want anybody to notice anything, especially the kids.

       Richard is not aware that Maya leaves the house early morning everyday to attend the daily masses at the nearby chapel because she’s home before 6:00 a.m. Today though, Maya planned to stay on even after the novena to find serenity and to avoid crossing paths with Richard. She didn’t know how she will act with Richard around after what happened, but what she is certain of is that she will probably continue avoiding him and she didn’t want anybody to notice anything.

       Inside the chapel there were still a few people left inside after the novena mass. Maya transferred to the courtyard and sat on one of the rot iron benches. She looked around and enjoyed the green grass, the bamboo trees and other ornamental plants. The sound of the birds chirping relaxed her. She watched the people busy lighting candles in one corner while thoughts were running in her mind. “Maya, kahit saang anggulo mo tignan, may fault ka talaga.” “Pero still, hindi naman din justified yung mga binitawan nyang salita, lalo na he didn’t let you finish your explanation.”

        Maya recalled everything that happened from the text message informing Richard about her trip to the bookstore, until she came home at about 8:30 in the evening. “Kung ayaw maraming dahilan, kung gusto maraming paraan. Did you really exhaust everthing Maya?”   “No.” she admitted to herself when she realized that there was another way to reach Richard, that is, through James’ dad, Jaime Eduardo Ventura. Richard knows him and had business transactions with him in the past. That was enough reason to ask James to try asking his dad for Richard’s contact number. But she didn’t.

        “Pero they know where I went. Besides, it was still early and so I thought it’s no big deal para ihingi ng pabor yun kay Sir James at tawagan pa yung dad nya eh pauwi naman na rin kami.” Maya rationalized. “But still, you should have done so just the same. It’s what a prudent person would do.”

      Admittedly, she failed to walk an extra mile. “Kaya Maya, palabasin mo na sa kabilang tenga yung mga binitawan na mga salita ni Sir Chief, at paliparin mo na sa langit.” “Palampasin mo na ang lahat at kalimutan ang sama ng loob mo. Then move on…and bear in mind that he is your boss more than a friend.”

LAS – Richard’s Office at around 8:30 a.m.

      Richard arrived with a straight face.  He was just in time before the start of the scheduled morning meeting that day.

Liza: Good morning, Sir! Ready to start the meeting at your call.

Richard: Good morning Liza. I’m a bit hungry so please tell Minerva to serve the snacks right away. Mauna ka na sa taas, susunod na ako.

Liza: Okay, Sir.

       It was a very busy day for LAS and Richard worked quietly in his office after the morning meeting. He skipped lunch because work kept him preoccupied. By 2:00 p.m. Liza thought that he might already be hungry but probably has no appetite for a regular lunch so she asked Minerva to buy gourmet sandwhich and brewed coffee at a nearby coffee shop.

       Richard was reading some documents when Minerva came with the food tray which she placed on the upper left corner of the table, the only area that is clear from clutter. He didn’t notice her until she spoke.

Minerva: Sir, dito ko na po nilagay ang lunch nyo, pinabili po ni Ma’am Liza. Pina-serve na po dito at busy po kayo.

 Richard: Okay, thank you.

      Richard could not resist the coffee as the aroma filled the room.  He took a sip and remembered Maya.   He took a bite of the sandwich and finally recognized his hunger. Then he vividly recalled the night Maya prepared coffee and sandwich for him. He unconsciously smiles but the image of Maya coming home last night with James came to mind and the smile faded away. He was still upset. What’s more, it’s already past 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon and he has not received any text message from her. Even without his directives, she would send him text messages everyday during tutorial sessions to let him know how Abby was doing. Today there was none. He felt frustrated, so he decides to call the house.

Manang Fe: Ricardo.

Richard: Kamusta po si Abby.

 Manang Fe: Marami nakain kaninang tanghali. Masigla at masaya. Nandun na sa kwarto ni Maya. Pero palabas na rin sila mayamaya lang, magme-merienda si Abby eh. Magbonding daw silang dalawa at simula sa Lunes mababawasan na ang oras na magkasama sila eh.

 Richard: That’s right Manang, may pasok na kasi si Maya. Baka pati sa hapunan hindi na siya makakasabay kasi night class po eh.

Manang Fe: Bakit baka? Hindi mo pa ba alam ang schedule ng mga klase ni Maya?

 Richard: Hindi pa po namin napag usapan. May nabanggit ba sa inyo?

 Manang Fe: Wala pa naman. Hindi masyado naimik kanina eh. Tahimik.

 Richard: Sige na po Manang, I need to go back to work now.

        Richard suddenly became very eager to know the class schedule of Maya. So he sends Ryan a text message requesting him to secure it from the lawschool and email it to him ASAP.

       Later in the Lim mansion, Maya is busy sorting out the items she requested Sabel to buy from the market earlier. She thought of cooking dinner since Nikki will most probably get accepted in the theatre club. She was also craving for her comfort foods and decided to cook Kare-Kare and Adobo.

      It  was past 4:00 o’clock when Maya and Abby finished preparing what are needed for cooking. While waiting for Abby change her clothes, Maya thought of Richard. She wanted to know if he’ll be able to come home early and join the mini celebration for Nikki. It would have been easy for her to ask Richard if last night didn’t happen. But it did and she is simply hesitant to ask.   She was staring at the message compose box, contemplating on whether to text, and how to word her question but accidentally pressed the send button in the touch screen.

Maya: Ay! Naman Maya! Arrrgggghhh! Naku, sana nasa meeting at naka silent mode para hindi mapansin!

         Richard’s phone gives off an alert tone indicating that he received a text message. Richard pulled out his phone from his pocket and when he saw that it was from Maya, he became anxious with his heart beating so loud. So, when he saw the message box empty, he got a little peeved. He sent her back a message.

Maya: Patay! Ayan na nga ba sinasabi ko Maya eh! Siguradong mahabang interrogation na naman ito. Anu ngayon ang sasabihin mo?

Richard’s Text: What was that Maya?

Maya: Ayan na nga ang mga tanung.

Maya’s Text: Pasensha po sa istorbo, na press agad ang send, wala pang message.

Richard’s Text: Okay. So?

Maya’s Text: Busy pa po kayo?

Maya: Hala ang bilis naman sumagot!

Richard’s Text: Why?

Maya’s Text: I needed to ask a question.

Richard’s Text: What?

Maya: Naman hindi ako maka isip! Ang bilis ha.

Maya’s Text: Hindi na po kayo busy?

Richard’s Text: That’s your question?

Maya’s Text: Hindi po. So, hindi po ba kayo busy at pwede na po ako magtanong?

           Annoyed, Richard frowns. But because he’s too proud to call, he types his reply.

Richard’s Text: Maya, it doesn’t matter if I’m busy or not, I’m actually replying to your texts!

 Maya’s Text: Ah, okay…

 Richard’s Text: So what’s the question?!

      He doesn’t get a reply from Maya. He goes back to what he’s doing while he waits.

  Maya: What’s the question daw. At may exclamation point pa talaga! Anu nga ba Maya? At ang sungit talaga ha! Ah…teka, ma text na nga lang si Liza.

 Maya’s Text: Hi Liza, quiet lang pls., kasama mo si SC? Would you know what time siya uuwi?

 Liza’s Text: Hello! Yes, we’re in the same room right now, may ka-usap. Have no idea at all what time he will go home. He’s been working quietly since morning at parang wala sa mood  😦   Ayan, naka kunot ang nuo. May ka text ata eh.

 Maya’s Text: Ahhh…na krung krung na naman pala dahil sa akin. Ako kasi ang ka- text eh, hahaha!   🙂    Ang sungit nga sa text kaya ikaw na lang tinext ko.

 Liza’s Text: Hahaha! Nakakatawa ka.  🙂  What’s up, importante ba?

 Maya’s Text: Kasi today ang release ng results ng audition ni Nikki sa theatre club. Eh most likely naman pasok siya. So I thought of having a mini celebration for her para ma enganyo. Abby and I are preparing na sa kitchen. I was wondering lang if makaka uwi si SC ng maaga or mag o-OT kayo.

 Liza’s Text: You’re so sweet Maya! I’m sure Nikki will appreciate it. Sana umuwi ng maaga para hindi kami OT! Ganito, I’ll text you once malaman ko his plans.  🙂

 Maya’s Text: Super thanks Liza!

 Liza’s Text: Anything for you and for my inaanak.  🙂

 Maya’s text: Really? Inaanak mo si Nikki? Cool!

              Several minutes passed and Richard was done with the meeting. He was left in the room with Liza and checked his phone but there was still no reply from Maya, so he calls her. Little did he know that Maya was purposely not answering his calls. He texts her again instead.

Richard’s Text: Maya?

 Maya’s Text: Po?

 Richard’s Text: Your question?

 Maya’s Text: Wait lang po.

 Richard: Unbelievable!

                 Liza was startled as she placed some documents on top of Richard’s desk.

 Liza:May problema ba, Chief?

 Richard: Si Maya, she can really be annoying. Ang kulit. Here, read the thread. Liza takes the phone from him and reads the message. Liza laughs.

 Liza:Chief? How’s everything in your house with Maya around, riot siguro. Richard just shakes his head. Liza was about to finish reading when his phone receives another message. Ay! Sorry Chief, nag text uli si Maya, what time ka daw uuwi? Liza gave Richard a meaningful look and smile as she hands him over his phone.

 Richard: And why would she ask that?

 Liza: Why don’t you just go home early and find out, baka importante pala. Naku Chief ha, nakakakilig na yan. Parang husband-wife lang ang dating ninyong dalawa! Liza said as she exits his room while Richard makes a call to Maya.

 

       At the same time at the mansion, Nikki and Luke arrived from school. While Luke headed upstairs, Nikki went to the kitchen to look for Maya.

Nikki: Tita Maya! Tita Maya! We’re home! Tita Mayaaaaa! I made it! I’m so in!

 Maya: Congratulations! Expected naman na natin yun eh, kaya nga eto we’re cooking. There is a mini celebration for you!

 Nikki: Aaaaaww, that is so sweet of you Tita Maya! Thankee! I’ll help!

 Maya: Sure! Palit ka muna ng damit.

           It was this time that Maya’s phone began ringing. When she saw who was calling, Maya immediately grabbed the meat for Adobo and started mixing it with garlic and soy sauce using both of her hands.

Nikki: Tita Maya Dad’s calling! Is he coming home for dinner?!

 Maya: Actually I wanted to ask him nga, kaya ikaw na lang sumagot, madumi na kamay ko oh. Basta dinner will be served at around 7:00.

 Nikki: Okee-dokee!

           Nikki swipes Maya’s phone and placed it against her ear.

 Richard: Why are you asking me kung anong oras ako uuwi?! You plan on going out again?!

 Nikki: Ah…Dad! This is Nikki, madumi po kasi yung hands ni Tita Maya eh. She’s cooking dinner. Abby and I will help her.

 Richard: Oh hi Nikki, so why is she asking?

 Nikki: Ah…she wanted to know lang if maaga ka makakauwi kasi it means makakasama ka mag dinner, in that case, we’ll wait for you. If late as usual, hindi na po namin kayo aantayin. Kakain na po kami at 7:00.

            Richard heard the noise in the background.

 Luke: Wow! Kare-Kare ang ulam later? Uy! May Adobo rin? Bigla naman ako nagutom!

 Manang Fe: Handa ni Maya para kay Nikki kasi matatanggap daw sa acting club ba yun?

 Doris: At tsaka nagke-crave daw po si Ma’am Maya ng comforts zone nya.

 Sabel: Hoy Doris! Anung comforts zone? Comfort foods!

 Doris: Comforts zone, comforts food, comforts room, isama mo pati na comforts women, pare pareho lang naman sila ng silbe, it comforts you! Nagpapagaan ng loob diba? Yung pikakahuli nga lang sobrang gaan, ililipad ka sa langit! Hahaha!

 Sabel: Hahahaha! Tumpak BFF! May tama ka! Yung lola nga ng kapit bahay namin sa probinsya naging comforts woman eh.

 Manang Fe: Kayong dalawa tumahimik diyan. Ihanda niyo na lang ang mesa at mabawasan ang kaguluhan dito sa kusina.

 Maya: Ay! Naku Baby, wait lang. What’s that? Gusto mo na mag bake? Okay sandali ha intayin natin si Ate Nikki mo so she can help us with the dessert.

Nikki: Dad, I have to go, I think Tita Maya needs me na eh… Ingat na lang po pauwi! She hangs up.

           Richard is thrilled. He looks at his watch, and then calls for Liza via the intercom.

 Richard: Liza.

 Liza: Sir?

 Richard: Are these all the papers that need to be signed?

 Liza: Yes, Sir.

            After 15 minutes, Richard goes out of his office.

Liza: You’re going home, Sir?

 Richard: Yes, the kids are preparing dinner.

 Liza: REA-lly! Oh I’m sure, pakana ni Maya yan!

 Richard: You may go home too, Liza. Bilinan mo na lang uli si Minerva.

 Liza: Really?! Wow! I am so liking the changes in you Chief.

 Richard: Okay, I’ll go ahead. Bye!

           Richard immediately walked away and headed towards the elevator.

 Liza: YES! Si Maya lang pala makakapag hinto kay Sir mag over time eh!

 Richard: I heard that Liza!

 Liza: Enjoy your dinner Chief!

         Liza immediately sends a text message to Maya.

Liza’s text: Maya, SC just left the office! And I was told to go home too 🙂 Wow! No more OT na, early off pa for me… Thanks to your oplan-dinner! Nawala ang kunot-nuo! What did you tell him at nagbago ang mood?

Maya’s text: Hindi ko nga sinasagot ang text ang sungit kasi. Tumawag! Eh I am not in the mood to deal with his kasungitan at hindi ko naman magagawang i-talk-to-the-hand sha. Si Nikki pinasagot ko! Hahaha!

 Liza’s text: He looked excited.   🙂

Maya’s text: Baka naamoy yung niluluto ko? Hahaha!

 Liza’s text: Nakakatawa ka talaga! What are you cooking anyway?

 Maya’s text: My favorite, Kare-Kare and Adobo.

 Liza’s text: Talaga ha? FYI, pareho kayo! Lalo na yung Kare-Kare.

 Maya’s text: Naku, na pressure naman ako bigla. Baka my cooking will fall short of his expectation magsungit lalo. Sige Liza, tutukan ko muna niluluto ko.

 Liza’s text: Sure! Sarapan mo ha 🙂

 Maya’s text: Will make sure to send some to you tomorrow 🙂  Then you tell me.

 Liza’s text: Okay, looking forward sa ipapadala mo.Thanks! Good luck, he’s on his way now!

 Maya’s text: Thanks din Liza 🙂 Siguradong matutuwa ang mga bata nito, I won’t tell them na pauwi na ang daddy nila para surprise 😉

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…