E.R. – Chapter 1 – The Surprise

A/N: Yes, I know you’re expecting an update for PBMLW or MaMS, or even for BCWMH Extended. But there are so many stories lined up in my laptop and I felt that I should at least, release one chapter for one of those stories, so that I’ll be forced to write more updates for the other current stories so I can finish one soon.

Honestly, para po kasing ayaw ko matapos ang stories eh, hahaha. But of course each story has to end. I just do not know which between PBMLW and MaMS will end first. I will make an update for each soon

Anyway, I hope you’ll like this one and keep you entertained while I am still working on the updates for PBMLW and MaMS.

ER – Chapter ONE

The Surprise

She opened her eyes to the bright sunlight that inched through the thin space left uncovered by the brown curtain of the bedroom. She blinked a few times, waiting for her brains to function. So, anu naman ang pagkaka abalahan mo today? She asked herself silently. For the past weeks, she was busy traveling to and from Batangas, Cavite and Makati and has lost her sense of time. Soon after she gained full consciousness, she panicked. “Oh shit! Late na ‘ko!!!”

She immediately looked at the clock and was a little relieved to find that there is still about a little more than an hour to make it on time. She was also thankful that she lives by the “do what you can do today and not leave it for tomorrow because tomorrow may never come” principle and prepared her clothes and things last night. Today is a very important day and she hopes that everything will turn out okay. She reached for the MP3 player on her bedside table and pressed some buttons a few times. She got up and headed towards the bathroom door. “Today is the beginning of the best days of my life.”

About fifteen minutes later, she came out of the bathroom singing along the song that’s been repeatedly playing in the room. “This ♪ is gonna be ♫ the best day of my ♪ life…” All pumped up for the day, she moved around fast, excited and apprehensive of what’s to come.

She went outside to grab something from the kitchen so she can eat breakfast while drying her hair. She learned the value of time and became a multitasker, often doing two or more things at the same time ever since THE day she was told that she has cancer.

Back in the bedroom, she sat in front of the electric fan, turned on the hair dryer she was holding with her left hand and positioned it a few inches away from her head. She then took a big bite of the peanut butter and grape jelly sandwich she made and began to run her right fingers through her hair to speed up the drying process. In her mind, she wondered about the people she will meet and be working with, and what will it be like. Although she’s apprehensive, she felt secured that some of her schoolmates and former housemates will also be there.

Finally dry, she took some mousse and massaged it though her hair then let the drier blow some hot air against it for a few seconds. Satisfied with the scraggly-scruffy look, she carefully combed the strands and neatly tied it in a ponytail. “Done and ready to go!” she said aloud and put on her blazer as the final step before leaving. Then, she stood before the full mirror located on the wall of the ante room to see if she looks presentable. She smiled and noticed something. “Ang putla mo naman.” she said to herself again.

She rushed to her dresser and took the cheek tint. “Wearing make-up is allowed”, she thought. Since she’s scared to overdo it, she just dabbed some tint on both cheeks and spread it with her fingers. She chose a light pink shade lipstick and put some as well. She went back to the full mirror and smiled at herself. “You’re okay, girl! Just make it happen…live your life to the fullest, live your dream!”

Now out of the condominium building, she looked ahead and stared at the facade of the all-too-familiar building where she is supposed to be at 8:00 a.m. Instinctively, she glanced at her wristwatch and suddenly felt blood rushing through her veins. “10 minutes left?!”

Wearing her most comfortable shoes, she walked swiftly through the crowded sidewalks, by-passing others who were taking their time. “Excuse me po, salamat.” “Pa over take po ha.” “Pasensha na po, nagmamadali lang.”

When she finally reached the main entrance, her heart was pounding loud and fast, hands cold, and a little sweaty. She took a deep breath and released it with a big “Wah!” “This is it. Help me God.” She took out her name plate and tried to pin it on her blazer while she ran to the designated area.

She immediately saw Emmanuel Castro, her classmate and former housemate motioning her to move faster, pointing to a record book. “Where have you been? Kanina ka pa namin kinokontak ni Jam. We were worried about you.”

“Hoy Ma. Aurora dela Rosa, tulala ka pa jan, bilis na log-in na muna! Bilis 7:57 na! Mamaya na mag explain diyan sa feeling ex-future mo!” Katrina Eunisse Ramos, her other classmate/former housemate intervened.

“Not funny Katniss!” Emmanuel replied.

Still catching her breath and feeling a little disoriented, she answered “Ah…okay! Nag simula na ba? Technically hindi pa naman ako late diba?” she asked. “Kayong dalawa ha, pwede ceasefire muna kayo? Lalo akong nalulula eh. This is our first day, wala munang aberya.” She forged on while she signed her name in the attendance log book.

“Ano ba naging aberya mo Maya at ngayon ka lang ha?” Jam Sunga, her closest of her former housemates, asked.

“Wala naman, late lang nagising. I had a hard time sleeping last night, kahit napagod nako from unpacking my boxes. Hindi ko na nga natapos because I wanted to sleep early. Eh ang kulit lang ng utak ko, ang dami ng tumatakbo sa utak ko eh. ” Maya directly informed her friends while they walked towards the designated area.

“Sorry we couldn’t be there to help you.” Emmanuel said.

“Okay lang, I’m almost done unpacking my things, and I’m almost settled. Besides, pare pareho naman tayong may mga pinagkaka-abalahan eh.” Maya assured her friends.

“Oo nga, in fact we need a get together soon. As in now, today, later.” Katniss suggested.

“On that note, I agree with you.” Emmanuel gave Katniss a high five while they walked side by side.

Jam moved to get closer to Maya and said in a soft voice. “I’m sure you were thinking about THE day you were diagnosed….or at least it was one of those in your mind last night.”

“Of course Jam, I will always be reminded of that day. My life changed since then.” Maya confirmed.

The room was already full of interns when they reached it. “OMG ang cute niya!” Jam declared in a very soft voice.

“Cute agad? Akala ko ba distraction causes you to malfunction. Distraction lang ang lalaki.” Maya reminded her friend.

“But a distraction can also be a source of inspiration.” Jam countered Maya.

“Oh yeah? Sige lang, first day natin ngayon, bahala ka ma-distract, first impression usually lasts. Mag concentrate ka kaya muna because briefing is about to start.” Maya insisted and elbowed Jam on the side. By that time, a group of doctors all clad in white blazers, some with stethoscopes around their necks, entered the room with a pleasantly looking old man on the lead.

“Good morning doctors! I’m Dr. Antonio Garcia, Head of the Medical Education and Training Department of this hospital.” A soft buzzing sound was heard from the interns.

Dr. Garcia paused and waited until he got the attention of the interns and the buzzing sound stopped “I know its music to your ears to be addressed as doctors, interns. You’ve earned the title when you graduated from your respective med schools, so you better get used to it. Look at those smiling faces. Let us see if you’ll have the same faces the moment your internship program starts after this briefing.”

“Of course you very well know that this post-graduate training program of MC Hospital is a 12 month full time disciplinary internship which includes rotations in various clinical specialties. This is your second year of technical training before you take the board exams. If you survived your first year of technical training during your clerkship, there should be no reason for you not to survive this one.”

“So, good luck interns and welcome to MC Hospital. I will leave you now and give the floor to Dr. Jennifer Cassandra, our Director of the Internship Training Program.”

Just like the other interns, Maya was left speechless with mixed emotions within her. She looked at Dr. Cassandra and felt comforted when the lady doctor smiled before she opened her mouth. “Good morning interns. Remember this face, remember my name. Why? My position as Director of the Internship Program says it all.”

Dr. Cassandra continued with her briefing. “Unlike in other hospitals that accept more than 100 interns, you know that in this hospital, we only accept a maximum of fifty for the program. We meticulously screen and choose from the many applicants based on the panel interviews and academic performances in your respective medschools. No one gets accepted because of affiliation or connections, and this is only one of the reasons why the internship program of this hospital is so prestigious. But for this batch, only forty five applicants met our standards. You’re the elite 45.”

The interns felt elated with the last statement of Dr. Cassandra. Each felt proud that they belong to that elite group of forty five. Then the lady doctor warned them. “Beware though interns. This hospital is not a teaching institution for you. You are on your own. We have monthly reviews and mock board exams after but the continued learning is all up to you. Well, I can assure you that our residents and consultants will assist and help if you ask. Unli-tanungan naman yun. Magtuturo naman sila if needed and asked. So, you should also familiarize yourself with their names and faces.” She gestured her hand to the other doctors in the room.

“There’s Dr. Regina Buenaflor – OB Gyne consultant, Dr. Tim Gonzaga –Pediatricts consultant, parating pa lang yung iba eh. Oh here’s Dr. Katrina Ruiz and Dr. Martin Dabes, two of our residents and Dr. Celeste Madrigal, senior resident. Marami pa sila and you’ll all meet them during your rotations.”

Katniss leaned forward a little and discreetly warned Emmanuel. “Eman, mukhang maldita yung Madrigal, ingat ka.”

“Oo nga pero mas makapal ang kilay ko sa kanya!” Emmanuel retorted.

“After the training program, a certificate of completion shall be given to all those who garnered at least a satisfactory performance rating, duly signed by me, Dr. Garcia, and the President/Chief Executive Officer of this hospital.” Dr. Cassandra then pointed to the white board. “Those are the list of your names with corresponding first rotation assignments. Go find your name and group together to get acquainted with each other. You’ll have enough time to get to know each other later. For now, limit it within your group. Okay, go find your names now.”

Instantly, the interns stood up and walked towards the white board. While the interns are still busy, Dr. Cassandra remembered something she missed out. “Oh by the way, the call room at the 8^th floor is for your use exclusively so the responsibility is yours alone too. It will be your second home. You’ll have your acquaintance party there later and you will elect your officers there too.”

After finding their names and assignments, one by one, the interns walked to the designated areas for each specialty. Maya was glad that her first rotation assignment is in Obstetrics and Gynecology. The bonus part is, Eman has the same assignment. Jam and Katniss were assigned together in Pediatrics. As there are 9 specialty areas, each group has 5 interns. The Pediatrics and OB-Gyne groups were standing next to each other, busy getting to know each member within their group.

“Hi! I’m Czerina Tamayo, from UST.”

“Rolyn Labor. Call me Luli, UST rin.”

“Hello, Czerina and Luli. Ako naman si Maya dela Rosa, from De La Salle-EAC.”

“Emmanuel Castro, classmates kami ni Maya.”

“From UERM naman ako, Rocsan Borillo”

“Buti na lang dito ako na assign, parang ang bait ni Dr. Buenaflor eh.” Luli said.

“Luli, pareho tayo ng naisip.” Maya revealed.

“Pero yung sa Pediatrics, mukhang okay din kasi parang komiko eh.” Czerina shared her observation.

“Good morning doctors! So, you are the first group for Obstetrics and Gynecology.” Dr. Buenaflor greeted the group in a sweet and calm voice. She asked each of the members for their names and some little information. Dr. Buenaflor was in the middle of her briefing, when a number of consultants and residents entered the room and passed by her side.

“Marra?” Maya was surprised to hear someone calling her by that name but instinctively responded and looked up. She was even more surprised to see the face of the person.

“R-richard?” Maya’s face turned pale and shivered upon seeing Richard.

“You know each other, Dr. Lim, Dr. Dela Rosa,?” Dr. Buenflor asked.

“Yes!” Richard answered quickly, and continued. “She’s my girlfriend.”

“Girlfriend?” Eman echoed. In a much controlled voice, Eman asked Maya. “Kelan at paano? And Marra?”

Dr. Buenaflor looked at Maya to confirm. So Maya was forced to give an answer. “Ah, Dr. Buenaflor, ex-girlfriend na po Ma’am.”

PS: First, I am a lawyer and while I enjoy the smell of hospitals, I have issues with injuries and blood so it was never my dream to be a doctor, and I can never be one. My orientation of medical internship came from countless chit chats I had with my closest relative who went to medschool, underwent internship program but never pursued the medical career she thought she always wanted. She’s now a teacher in another country and she might find it weird and annoying if I will ask her to explain to me the intricate world of medical internship when it has nothing to do with me.

So, I am writing this story in the simplest way I can, which means, it may not be as accurate as it should be just as how it is in actual life. Consequently, medical terms and organizational structure of hospital and internship program in this story might not even be close to reality.

What the heck. This is fanfic in the first place and that is the beauty of it because after all, we look for positive vibes and kilig moments of Richard and Maya.

If you find anything wrong, please feel free to get my attention so I can adjust and correct the errors to make the story better. Thank you!

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.