BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 13

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year po!!!! As always, thankie much for those who are dropping by.   Please tell me if I used BLAG in exaggeration. hehehe. :) :) :)  I am very sorry if this update is a bit lame... babawi na lang po ako. :D

CHAPTER 13

BLAG!

Richard and Liza quickly turned their attention towards the sound.  Liza rushed towards the door with Richard just behind her.  The door is slightly open and they found on the floor by the door a box of cake from a popular bakeshop inside the airport.  The two looked at each other both thinking the same thing.  Richard got his phone and dial a number.

***
Feeling weak from too much crying, Maya sat silently at the last pew of the church.  She ended up stopping the taxi on the first church that she passed by.

Richard Lim. Roberto Lim. Dad...

He is the son of the person who caused the death of my father!

Tears started to run down her cheeks again.  She felt betrayed and heartbroken; she's angry and disappointed.  She's feeling too much emotions; the memory of the death of his father came flashing back on her mind.  The things that she has succeeded to lock out of her consciousness are like fresh wounds that will never heal.

***
Liza? What did Emman say?

Liza sighed before answering.  We guessed it right. Emman just arrived in their condo...alone.  Nagpaiwan si Maya to drop by a cake for Abby here.

Richard slumped his shoulder and weakly sat on his chair, massaging his temple in frustration and regret.  He has been trying to call her and has sent messages, but it seemed that she turned off her phone.

I guess, I should have listened to you, I should have explained to Maya everything from the start. I am just hoping that I can still fix this.  Richard said desperately.

***
Maya has been crying and wallowing on what have happened years ago, when Richard's voice from that morning reverbrated on her mind  ...Dad will be thrilled.  I found Atty. dela Rosa's family.  She quickly straightened up on her seat and dig for her phone from her bag.  She got so emotional when she left the LAS office that her mom's safety slipped her mind.  As her phone turns on, messages came - all came from Richard.  She just ignored them and press her mother's number.

***
For the nth time, Richard dialed her number again, he got a little hope when he heard a busy tone.  He waited for a few minutes, he was about to press the redial button of his phone when an incoming call flashed on the screen.

After the call...

Liza, please cancel my flight.

Okay. I think it's a better idea, hanapin mo muna si Maya to explain things.

No Liza, i will still go to San Nicolas, but i can no longer wait for my flight.  Please call Captain Villanueva, i will take the chopper.

Ok. Great. I will arrange it now.  Liza  answered with a smile.

Thanks.  I hope Maya will give me a chance.  Richard sighed but hopeful.

***
Ms Maya! Kumusta po?  Ang tagal ko na po kayo hindi napasyal dito ah.

Medyo busy lang po, Manong Jerry.  Maya tried her best to answer cheerfully to one of the loyal guards in the university when he greeted her by the entrance.

Teka, bakit po pala kayo nandito?

Surprise ko po sana si Mommy.

Naku Ms Maya, nakaalis na po si Dean...  mga isang oras na po.  The kind guard said after checking his watch.

Maya furrowed her brows, puzzled.  Pero mag-alas tres pa lang po ah.

May bisita po yata kayo, may sumundo po kasi sa kanya na lalaki.  Magkasama po silang umalis.

Lalaki?  Maya suddenly felt nervous.  Professor po dito? She managed to ask.

Hindi po professor, hindi ko po kilala, baka po taga-Maynila, kanina ko lang po sya nakita dito e.

Ganun po ba? Sige, mauna na po ako... baka nasa bahay na si Mommy.

Sige po, Ms Maya. Ingat po.

Maya quickly left the university, scared and overly worried on her mother's safety.  She is holding back her tears, thinking of worst thing to happen.  She has lost his father and she is determined to do her best to save her mother.

Richard Lim! As much as she wanted to justify that Richard won't do such things, what she heard that morning are enough to doubt the Richard Lim that she met and had been with her in the past few weeks.

***
As soon as Maya stepped inside their gate, she saw Richard on the phone, walking back and forth in their garden.

Just as she was about to approach him, her mom with Sabel behind her emerged from their front door carrying tray of food.  From the looks of the situation, it seems that things are okay.

She stay rooted on her place, confused on what she is seeing.  Seeing her mom safe and seems happy, she started to relax a bit.  With all the emotional turmoil she has experienced since morning and the exhaustion from her flight, fatigue started to sink in and the last thing she remember is hearing Sabel screaming her name and strong arms encircling her body before everything turns black.

Until next chapter... :)

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From The Start 12

CHAPTER 12


Mommy! We just landed po.

Anak, how was your flight? Did you enjoy?  Mommy Tessie said on the other line.

Yes! Emman and I did not waste po the opportunity, we roam around the city. Maya giddily answered.

Wow, that's great... so i am assuming you are doing great, hindi ka ba nagkasakit? because of change of weather or something?  How about the food?

Hindi naman po... Maya paused.  I missed you mommy. How was everything there?

I missed you too, Anak.  We are doing fine here.  We just had our foundation day yesterday in the university. It was fun.

Awww, hindi na naman po ako naka-attend ng foundation day.

Her mother chuckled on the other line.  Ikaw talaga, may next year pa naman, at saka next, next year pa.  or wait, why don't you go home for few days... and go with me sa university just like before.  Mommy Tessie tentatively suggested remembering the call she received the day before.

Hmmm, you really missed me Mom. But that's a great idea. I will just arrange my schedule and i will let you know.

As soon as Maya ended the call with her mom, her cp alerted her for an incoming message.

Good am, Mommy Maya.  Are you back na po? Daddy said you'll be back by now.  Yung dinner po, can we have it na later?

Maya smiled.

Ay sus, ang smile oh... si prince charming Richard na ba yan? Excited to see the love of his life again?

Emman who just also ended a call with her mom, approached and teased her seeing her smile.

Maya blushed remembering how Richard told her, "I love you" before she left, which she suddenly feels like a year ago.  She suddenly felt the longing again and at the same time excited that she's back and might see him again in few hours.

Ikaw talaga Emman, si Abby 'tong nagtext.  She's asking if we're back and asking about the dinner.

Emman chuckled.  Para-paraan din itong si Mr Lim, si Abby pa ang pinag-text? Emman continues teasing her.

Maya just rolled her eyes on her friend and decided to call the Lim residence, as Emman and her walked towards the arrival area.

Hello, Manang Fe?

Good morning po.  Si Abby po, pwede ko po ba sya makausap?

Mommy Maya! Did you receive po my message? Abby's excited little voice was heard on the other line few seconds later.

Hi baby! Yes, kaya nga ako tumawag.  How are you?

I am fine po, I am just waiting for teacher Me-Ann for our class today.

Wow, that's good.  Your dad mentioned to me last week nga about your classes, how was it?

Okay naman po.  MommyMaya, yung dinner po natin, pwede na po later?

Ha? Well, it's just okay with me, but maybe you should ask your dad first.

Okay po, i will text him and then tell him to call you agad about our dinner.

Text him? Is your dad not home?

He left early daw po sabi ni Manang Fe.

Ha? Saan daw nagpunta?  Airport?

Maya glanced at Emman, who stopped walking and seemed to be overly kilig.  She just ignored him, trying to hide her own kilig.

O sige Abby, basta let's ask muna you daddy ha. See you soon.

Maya softly laughed seeing Emman trying to suppress shrieking sa sobrang kilig, he is trying to scream with poise since they are still in their uniform and might invite attention from the people around them.

Girl, baka susunduin ka?  Maya blushed hearing from Emman what she also thought when Abby said that Richard left early to go to the airport.  She felt giddy and excited on the thought of seeing Richard again after two days with no communication.

***
Chard, what is your plan?

Maya is flying back to Manila today, that is if she and Emman will take the earliest flight.  I am planning to see her first after my meeting, then I am flying to Mindoro to meet her mom.

Richard gets his phone from his pocket when it alerted a message tone, then he smiled.

Liza chuckled seeing him smile.  So, I guess she's back!

It's Richard's turn to chuckle.  It's Abby.

Hi baby?

Really she called you?

No baby, I haven't talked to her.  Daddy has a meeting but I promise to call her about our dinner. Tonight?

Richard glanced at Liza, who nods her head and mouthed 'late dinner'.

Okay, baby.  But we still need to ask her, maybe she's tired from her trip.

Bye Baby.

So? Liza eagerly prompted as soon as Richard put down the phone.

Richard shook his head. Do you really need to ask? You already heard all of it. Richard answered with a smirk.

Liza rolled her eyes.  Well, you'll be back here in Manila by 7pm, so you can just ask the driver to bring Maya and Abby in the restaurant here around the area so you'll save time.

Why don't you call Maya first, ask her about the dinner and well, I know that you're really dying to hear her voice now.  Liza said teasingly.

Abby said Maya is okay with the dinner later and just ask me if it's okay with me. Richard said full of smiles.

Yun naman pala eh.  I will look na for a restaurant and book a table for three.  Liza sighed giddily.  This is really exciting, this will be the first time you'll see each other after you said 'I love you' to her.  Then she continued pouting.  Isn't it possible to get Abby out of the scene muna later, para naman makapag-usap kayo ni Maya ng maayos?

Richard sighed and turned a bit serious.  I guess it's actually better if Abby will be with us, you know that I mean it when I said I love her, but I am so stupid to just blurted it out because of frustration kasi hindi ko sya makikita for days.  You know that I am avoiding for her to feel awkward around me, I want to maintain what we have, and maybe to have more than that especially now that I can talk to her mom na.

Liza smiled then said. Okay, so let's get going. I will just let you know the details of your dinner later.  Go call your Maya.  As Liza was about to get out the door, Richard's phone rang and she heard him called her.  She went back to the seat in front of his table as Richard stood up to answer the call.

Mrs dela Rosa?  Good morning po.  Liza gaped, and can hear through his voice the nervousness of his face.

Liza sighed in relief when she heard Richard loosened up and uttered, "Mommy Tessie".

After a while, Richard said goodbye to Maya's mom.

Things are turning better? Liza asked as she stood up.

Yap, she's still the same loving mom that I met before. Richard answered as he dreamily sat back on his chair.

That's great! Liza said happily leaning to Richard to give him a pat on his shoulder.  I am really happy, Chard.  After all these years, you have found Maya and her mom.  I am sure matutuwa si Tito Roberto kapag nalaman nya.

Yes Liza, I am sure Dad will be thrilled.  Finally, I found Atty. Arturo dela Rosa's family.  This calls for a celeb...

BLAG!

Salamat, Be Careful With My Heart!

this may be a bit OA for some, but i really can't help but feel emptiness,,, i wanted to cry for some reason,,, i am surfing the net about them since morning,,, i took a leave from work because i really felt not so well,,, i am badly missing BCWMH,,, nothing prepared me for this,,, yes, they announced it months before,,, but i guess i really didn't have the courage to let go,,, as many says, BCWMH is not just like a tv show for me, it became a part of my life since it started,,, whenever things get tough, i comfort myself saying, "no worries, just  watch the BCWMH episode later when you got home, things will be better",,, and now that they have ended,,, i really have difficulty moving on,,, well, of course in know, time will help me move on, but i guess it will really take a while...

THANK YOU, Be Careful With My Heart for the more than two years of inspiration, lessons about life and love, feel good episodes, kilig... THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to all the cast, crew, production staff, management and all people involved,,, THANK YOU SO MUCH for giving us a great show...

Be Careful With My Heart will forever be part of my life! Salamat!

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 11

BCWMH ends, but they will always be in my heart forever!  Just what i have said, BCWMH fanfic will continue... i will try to let Richard-Maya love story flourish and continue forever! :) 


Chapter 11

Maya? Maya! It's really you!

Maya and Emman are roaming the HKIA waiting for their flight back to Manila when someone called her.  The two stopped walking and looked back to a lady all smiles approaching them.

Hi Maya! Great to see you here! Giving Maya a hug.

Alex! Hi.  Maya returned the hug.

What are you doing here?  Oh by the way, this is my co-FA and a very good friend, Emman.  Emman, this is Alex.

Emman offered his hand for a handshake, and quickly gave a glance and a knowing smile to Maya.

Hi Emman, nice to meet you.

Same here! Emman answered on his falsetto voice.

Alex softly laughed at Emman's answer.

I am actually waiting for my connecting flight to London, my superior asked me to report back immediately.  I supposed to ask Richard to set a dinner or lunch with you but we seemed not to find a common time.

Ladies, why don't you catch up for few minutes while I look around for something to give my mom.

Oh Emman, thank you. I will borrow Maya for a while, I just need to say something to her.  Alex said winking to Maya.

Maya just sigh with the two agreeing just like that.

***
Richard is lucky to finally found you, he has been very different back then, but now I can see how he happy he is.  He mentioned to me that he has already told you this but I just want to also say this myself, Richard and I are just good friends, nothing more.  We dated before, well it is actually more of me convincing him to try dating me but there was really  no spark, hahaha.  Maya, you may not say it but I can feel that he is special to you, just promise me that you will not doubt Richard's love for you.  Soon, things will be clearer, just hold on.

Girl! Maya! Ms Dela Rosa!!!!

Ha? O, Emman, may sinasabi ka ba?

Emman sighed.  Ms dela Rosa, 5 minutes na lang briefing na natin, kanina pa ako tanong ng tanong dito which of which ang bibigay ko kay mommy, tulaley naman ang peg mo!!!

Sorry Emman, may iniisip  lang.

Did that Alex said something kaya ka ganyan?  I thought she's not part of the equation??

Hindi nga Emman, and just like what Richard told me before, she also said that they tried dating but that's it, nothing more.

Yun naman pala e. Emman answered rolling his eyes.  Eh, what's the problem my dear, at ganyan ang aura mo?

She told me not to doubt Richard's love.  I just find it weird, chill lang naman yung sa amin ni Richard, yes he said he likes me, we are together most of the time pero we are taking it slow pa lang naman.  So parang out of line lang yung sinabi nya.

Emman just looked at her thinking what to say.

Di ba you will have dinner with Richard and Abby later? Why don't you tell Richard about you meeting Alex here and asked him why she said that.

What? Ayoko nga.. Nakakahiya! Maya frantically answered.

Emman laughed.  Calm down, girl.  I am just offering a solution para hindi ka na isip ng isip dyan.

Hay naku, puro ka kalokohan. Come on, let's go na nga.  Maya said standing from her seat and pulling Emman with her.

Ano pa sinabi ni Alex, girl?  Emman said teasing Maya.

Maya just answered him with a laugh.  Tigilan mo na ako, we'll be late na.

***
Maya was back in Manila by around 3pm, she and Emman are in a hurry heading out of the arrival area.  She planned to go home to the condo with Emman to freshen up, Richard and her agreed that he, with Abby, will fetch her at 6pm for their dinner.  The two are waiting for their service van when Emman's phone rings.

Yes, Ms. Calandra, we are waiting po for the service van... Yes, she's with me po... Okay, I will ask her po... Okay, Maám.

Ano yun Emman? Ano sabi ni Ms Calandra?

Girl, I think you need to postpone your dinner with your prince charming. Emman dramatically said.

Huh? Why? Maya is puzzled.

Ms Calandra badly needs three FAs, she is still looking for another one.  Peak season tayo ngayon and may delayed incoming flights... You can choose if you want to take the flight to Vancouver in an hour, they need one FA, or we can both take the Sydney flight leaving at 1815hr.

Sige, dun na lang sa Sydney para magkasama tayo, and we can still take a quick trip to the condo to change and get new set of uniform.

Okay, I will call Ms Calandra.

While Emman's on the phone with Ms Calandra, Maya decided to call Richard but his phone is out of reach so she called Abby instead.

***

Hello Richard, sorry, i have to cancel the dinner, but I called Abby na kanina to explain.  Babawi na lang ako pagbalik ko.

No worries Maya.  Have a safe flight.  Wait, can I still see you before you leave?

Emman and I are on our way back to the airport now, my flight is at around 6 o'clock.

Richard sighed on the other line.  I guess I'll see you when you return, I am now here at the airport but I will have a meeting in few minutes.  When are you coming back?

It depends, Emman and I may take the first flight back to Manila since this is not really our assigned flight, I am not so sure, I will just call you.

Meaning... I may not be seeing you until the day after tomorrow? Richard softly answered.  He suddenly felt so sad, he sort of used to see her almost everyday, if not, they will be on the phone for hours.  Knowing that she'll be out of the country for few days gave him a sullen feeling.

There was an awkward silence.  Maya felt Richard's change of tone, she too felt a sudden longing.  After sometime, Maya heard Richard speak on the other line.

I will miss you.

Same here. Maya let her heart speak.

Bye Richard, got to go.

Maya?

Yes?

Have a safe flight... I will see you as soon as you return. I love you.

Maya silently gasped hearing those three words, she slowly moved her phone down from her ear not sure what to do.

On the other hand, Liza who just entered Richard's office to call him for the meeting, has to cover her mouth in surprise, catching  the last line that the man in front of her just said on the phone.

She doesn't have to ask who's on the other line.

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From The Start 10

CHAPTER 10

Richard parked his car and quickly proceed to the arrival area to fetch Maya.  Since their lovely date at the park, he has been a regular patron in the airport during Maya's flights.  They have been getting along well, he's enjoying and taking his time with Maya slowly but surely, as he had planned.  From time to time, Maya is also spending time at his house to be with Abby, which also favors Manang Fe.  On the other hand, Liza will always bug him for a detailed story about their time together.

He is making his way towards the entrance, when he spotted her with her co-FA's pulling her luggage.  He was about to call her, when he saw her turned to her side, left the group of FAs and met a guy who seemed to be a pilot.  He stopped on his tracks when he saw her hugged the guy and with that distance, he can see the happiness and excitement on her face. The other FA just waved at them and left them.  He took a deep breath and composed himself before approaching the two.

Maya saw him and disentangled herself from the man, unaware of the emotions boiling inside him.

She giddily approached him, "Richard!"  and reached for his hand dragging him to the guy.

He recognized the guy as Capt. James Ventura, the heir of the Time Airways.

Richard! Richard... Lim, nice to see you here!  James greeted him tentatively and offered his hand for a handshake.

James!  Richard accepted the handshake.

Maya looked at the two confused.  "You two know each other?"

Richard felt a little uncomfortable, James saw through it and saved him from answering.

"Of course! Ms dela Rosa, you forgot that LAS is the one..."

"Yes, Yes, sorry Captain!  LAS is the one maintaining Time Airways' planes." Maya answered making a salute gesture to James.

James chuckled, "I thought I have to ask Ms Belmonte to give you a refresher course."

James felt Richard's uneasiness.  She turned to Maya, "Hey Ms dela Rosa, care to fetch your inaanak and your friend from Tita Zenaida's office?"

"Gel and Luis are here?" Maya gushes, "I haven't seen them for a while."

"Yap, i doubt if they can leave Tita's office without someone fetching them!"

"Also, I just need to talk to Richard about something, it's a bit hard to have an appointment with this busy man here, I will take the opportunity."

Maya then turn to Richard, "Is it okay? I will just be quick."

Richard nods and smiled at her, "Sure, no problem. I will just wait for you here."

Maya offered a smile and passed on her luggage to Richard, which he instinctively hold brushing their hands for a moment.

It didn't escape James and it also didn't escape him that it seemed to be a normal routine to both of them.  He glanced at the retreating back of Maya then turned to Richard who is looking on Maya with a smile.

Richard, have you told her?

Richard sadly smiled and shake his head, "I guess I am taking it slow and I am still thinking how to tell her."

James nods his head, "I am not surprised she's not making you being a LIM a big deal, Maya was able to suppress parts of what happened in the past.  When the issue subsides then, and after your family went back to China.  Tita Tessie and Maya went to start new life with her mom's relatives, it took us some years to finally find them.  It's a good thing that Maya really wanted to be a flight attendant, although she insisted on getting through the process of application, it saves us from securing her from other people's scrutiny.  She doesn't have to answer "tell me about yourself" things.  We kinda avoided it with her; she also kinda refuse to talk about herself much."

"I understand.  I am not sure if I got it right, but her mom is in Mindoro, right?"

"Yap, it's where Tita Tessie's relatives are."

"What's your plan?"

"I want to talk to her first, before really introducing myself to Maya, so I can ask for her help."

James pat his shoulder and gave him a smile, "You really loved her until now, I thought things will change over the years, but here you are before me... still head over heels on that lady."

Richard chuckled. "Well, the funny thing is I was not able to recognize her the first time we met again in the orphanage in Batangas for the TA event."

James can only shake his head and chuckled.

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 9

Hello! I am back! :)  Thankie for everyone who are sparing this blog few minutes of their day to read, may i single out RMR61 and lhaygarcia.  Thankie so much!!! :)


CHAPTER 9


Wow! Ang ganda naman dito.

I knew it. You will like this place. Richard said smiling at her.

Yap, very relaxing.

This place is one of the reasons why i decided to buy house on this village.  Over the years, this place is getting better.  Not too crowded, and also very safe.  Pwede ka pa matulog not worrying about anything.

Maya nods looking around.

Let's go? Richard said as he gets their basket from the backseat.

Let me help you.

No, it's okay.  You choose our place.


Sayang, sinama sana natin si Abby.  I am sure mag-enjoy sya dito.

Maya said as soon as they settled at the picnic table just beside a manmade pond.

It's just mid-afternoon but the big trees has given shade to the picnic tables and has also given cooling effect in the area.

Richard chuckled.

Didn't you hear my conversation with Abby kanina?  It's now my turn to spend time with you.

Maya turned her attention on the basket, putting out its contents, to hide her blush.

Ikaw talaga, puro ka biro.  Gutom lang yan.  Maya replied, and started putting carbonara on Richard's plate.

Richard softly laughed, seeing her reaction, he feels so much happiness spending time with her, especially this kind of moment - her serving him food. I hope we can be like this forever, he silently prayed.

He was about to have his first bite on his bread handed to him by his lovely companion, when his attention was caught by few children laughing not too far from them.  He turned on their direction.  Maya, realizing that Richard haven't started with his food yet, followed his gaze.  When she looked back at Richard again, he is intently looking at her with a teasing smile.  Feeling conscious and confused, she asked why.

Richard chuckled again.  Naalala ko lang yung TA event when a lovely lady snatched two kids under my care.

Maya burst into laughter shaking her head.  You know what? I also went to that event, and i saw that lovely lady you are talking about, she just got concern on those kids abandoned by a certain gentleman busy with other things.

Maya said rolling her eyes and swiping a light slap on Richard's arm.  It was Richard's turn to laugh.

They enjoyed their merienda, amidst their light bantering teasing from Richard's part, which earned light slaps on his arm from Maya, laughing ang giggling together.


M-M-Maya..

They were done with their food, and just quietly enjoying the place and the company of each other.

Yes? You're saying something?

Richard took a deep breath and looked at her eyes directly.

Maya, i... i just want to tell you about... Abby... and Alex.

She suddenly became aware of her heartbeat when she heard the name.  He saw how her expression changed and how she tried to put a happy face.  Richard reached out for her hand and wrapped it with both of his.

I like you Maya, and I want you to know more things about me.

Maya widened her eyes in surprise, of course she half expected that he likes her but hearing him really say it is just indescribable, her heartbeat is celebrating.

So... how about them?

She asked, trying to be calm, pulling her hand to put under her chin.

Richard clasped his hands and leaned a little on the table towards her.

Alex is not Abby's biological mom... and for the record, and i especially wanted you to know, for my peace of mind.... that I am not Abby's biological dad.

Maya's face contorted in confusion, and he was not able to resist playfully pinching her cheeks, that made her blush.  They both laughed and sighed in relief.

Then, who is Abby?  Maya tentatively asked.

She's from an orphanage, just like what we had in Batangas, Alex was her mom-for-the-day.  Alex fell for Abby and we arranged the adoption papers.  But before it can be finalized, Alex left for a career opportunity in London so i ended up adopting Abby.  Abby has already refused talking when she first came to the orphanage, and you know what Maya?  It's only with you that she acted differently.  She had fun with you during that TA event, she was so happy when she saw you in the airport, she started talking to you by whispering when we went to the zoo, and since then i can hear her little voice from time to time at home.

Maya nods teary eyed thinking about Abby.

Thank you Maya... thank you for the time and attention you are giving her, and for allowing her to call you Mommy.

You don't need to thank me, she's a very sweet child, it's not impossible to love her....
After hesitating, Maya continued...
Richard, why did you let Alex leave then?

He smiled.  Well, the opportunity for her is really good to pass and also.... I don't have any right to stop her. Alex and I were very good friends, we tried dating but we did not get to pass that stage...  For the record Ms dela Rosa, I never had any girlfriend... I was actually waiting for a particular someone and I am overly glad to finally found her.

Richard said gazing intently on Maya, who is staring back at him with a sweet smile on her lips.

There they are two people whose hearts are silently shouting how they have fallen in love with each other, amidst the large trees swaying sweetly around them enveloped by a soothing orange-like color of the setting sun.

thankie...

my heartfelt thankie and appreciation to all those who are dropping by and spending time reading my posts... you are truly giving me more inspiration writing stories... kapit bisig until the end of the show on 28 November 2014 and beyond... what i am sure of is i will continue to write BCWMH stories... :) :)

...will post chapter 9 soon, just doing some edits here and there ^^ 

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From The Start 8

hi! i hope you are still enjoying reading the story.... please tell me if this is a bit dragging... feeling ko ang bagal ng story eh... :)

CHAPTER 8


Good mor... What's with the face?!

Natatandaan mo yung na-kwento ko sa iyo na tree in my dream?

Na naman? Hindi kaya environmentalist ka sa past life mo?

Maya laughed.  But seriously, medyo bothered ako, few times na sya nangyari and it's all exactly the same then parang there's something that I can't remember.

The two of them fell into silence, they were distracted when Maya's phone rings.

Maya smiled as she put her phone near her ears, while Emman raised an eyebrow gave her a teasing smile.

Good morning Maya! Sorry, did i bother you too early?

Hi Richard! No, Emman and I are just having breakfast.

Uhmmm, you don't have flights today, right?

Maya creased her forehead, she don't remember telling him her schedule but she quickly recalls that he has his ways like the last time that he waited for her at the airport.

Yap.  Why?

Well, Abby and I would like to invite you sana here sa house, that's if you and Emman have no other plans today. He sounds hopeful and Maya's heartbeat started to say a drumming yes.

Ha, e wala naman, actually Emman has flight later.  So, no problem with me.

That's great!  Richard said on the other line, at the background, Maya heard a tiny voice said "Yehey".

Is that Abby?

Yes, she's excited na to see you.  So, can we pick you up in... 2 hours?

Okay.

***
Although Maya expected Richard's house to be big, she didn't expect its coziness and very inviting... the large glass windows are so receptive of the outside beauty of the trees that surrounds the house.

Richard assisted Maya get off the car, while Abby quickly get off from the backseat and hold onto Maya's hand.

They were greeted by an old lady.

Maya, this is Manang Fe.  Manang, this is Maya.

Manang Fe engulf Maya in a hug.  Naku, Maya natutuwa akong makita ka.

Richard who is standing at the back of Maya,  nod knowingly to Manang Fe and lightly pat her arm.

Although a bit puzzled, Maya felt happy meeting Manang Fe and she easily felt the warm reception of the old lady.

Halina, pasok na kayo at naghanda ako ng meryenda habang hinahanda pa ang pananghalian.


Mommy.

Maya heard Abby said.  After touring the house, they settled in the veranda, Abby got her books and art materials, the two of them are giddily coloring large drawings from the book and their own drawings.  She is busy coloring something from Abby's book when she heard her utter "Mommy".  She suddenly stopped on what she is doing, giddy smile fading and slowly lifted her head glancing at the direction of the door to her right.  She let out her breath that she realized she's been holding when she did not see Alex or anyone.  She then turned to Abby, she's directly looking at her.

Mommy. Abby repeated.  Mommy Maya, which color should i use on this flower? Abby asked in her low little voice.

The whole scenario and Maya's reaction didn't escape Richard who is sitting across them at the table, pretending to be engrossed working on his laptop.

He smiled secretly and mentally note to successfully accomplish the plan for the day.


The morning activity wear out Abby and so after lunch, Richard and Maya accompany her to her room to take a nap.  Before she settled, she hugged and thank Maya for the day.

Baby, it's now my turn?

Abby smiled to her dad and gave him a thumbs-up.  Richard smiled and gave her daughter a hug.

Maya just watched the two amusedly, mukhang may secret ang dalawang ito. She silently chuckled.


****

Let's go?

Maya is a bit taken a back, they just left Abby's room and he's now leading her outside the house.  It's barely mid-afternoon and he's already sending me home.  I thought I can spend more time with him. She thought.

When she turned to Richard, she saw Manang Fe handing him a picnic basket.  He put the basket at the backseat and then opened the passenger door for her.  Before she get in the car, Manang Fe warmly hugged her again. Natutuwa talaga akong makita ka, sana madalas kang madalaw dito.

Maya hugged her back and gave her a nod and a smile. Magaan agad ang loob ni Maya kay Manang Fe, she can feel being at ease with her.  Richard drape an arm to Manang Fe as he bid her good bye.

Matagal na si Manang Fe sa inyo?  I can see that you are too close to her.

Maya started a conversation as they drove out the street.

Yap, she's been with us since i was born, she's like a second mother to me.

Talaga?  Maya chuckled.  How was it to have two moms?

Richard grinned.  Now, masaya but while i was growing up, ang hirap kasi they are both strict.  How about you? Is your mom strict?

He almost slapped himself as soon as he asked.  He saw Maya shifted from her seat and seemed to be uncomfortable.  She just answered, Okay naman.  Then she quickly changed the topic, asking where they are going while looking outside the window.

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 7

Here’s the 7^th chapter. Enjoy reading! :)

Chapter 7

Maya’s been having double leg flights for few days.  She has not yet seen Richard Lim since that day they went to the zoo.  She begged off twice on their supposed date because of conflicting schedule with him.  

She’s with her co-FA’s on their way out of the arrival area, she is busy turning on her phone when she noticed her co-FA’s suddenly giggled looking ahead. When she turned her head, she gape looking on a guy standing few feet away from them, holding a bouquet of flowers and handsomely  checking his watch.  Maya’s breath literally stopped when he lifted his head and turned his gaze directly on her as if she is the only one present in the world.  Maya quickly dismissed what she feels and gave him a nod and a smile to acknowledge him and then looked away thinking he might be waiting for someone.  She casually turned to the FA next to her to ask something as they near his spot, with her heart beating like she’s in a marathon.  

They will be passing in front of him in 10, 9,  she momentarily hold her breath, 

8, 7,… She saw him moved from his spot from her peripheral view, she tried to focus her attention ahead… 

6, 5, 4, Hi Mr Lim, her co-FA’s chorused.  She had no choice but to glance at his direction, he greeted back her co-FA’s, who all slow down a bit…

Hello. I hope you don’t mind if I hold Maya here.

The FA’s cheekily chorused a No.

Maya, we’ll go ahead. Bye! Edz waved grinning and winked at her.

Hi. What are you doing here? Waiting for someone? Maya asked as soon as she looked at him, and eyed the flowers.

Uhm… yes, parang ganon na nga. Richard sheepishly answered. I am waiting for an FA named Maya… and I heard the FA a while ago called you Maya… so I think you’re that FA I am waiting.

Maya was not able to control her laughter and amusedly look at him, Richard on the other hand is grinning and seemed to be enjoying looking at her laughing.

When Maya’s laugher died down, Richard handed her the flowers.

The people around them eyed them with envy, some are smiling and giddy.  The two of them are a picture of couple in love, walking next to each other, Maya hugging the flowers with both hands, and Richard pulling her luggage on one hand, while the other is lightly placed at her back.  They are bantering and laughing on their way to the parking area, both completely enjoying the moment.

Let’s grab something to eat first before I send you home? Richard offered as soon as they settled in the car.

Okay, medyo gutom na rin ako, delayed yung flight namin e. Maya answered as Richard drive out of the airport premises.

Yap, I thought I overlooked your schedule when I didn’t see many people in the arrival area when I came.

Schedule? Maya reacted looking at him.

Richard bit his lip before answering. Yap, uhmmm… I asked some friends to know your schedule… sorry, I just want to know when can I see you… He tentatively answered apologetically.

Maya’s heart skipped a beat with his answer and with the worried face of the man beside her. She offered him a smile.

Sorry, Maya. Richard said shifting his gaze to Maya and the road ahead. I didn’t intend to invade your privacy.

It’s okay. No harm done.  Kumusta nga pala si Abby? She decided to change the topic to ease his worry.

She successfully did, when she saw him smiled as he answered.  Well, I have observed some progress on her.  She really seems to like you.  She’s always smiling when you are talking to her on the phone. And although she is not yet talking aloud, she’s communicating with me through whispers from time to time.  She was with me in the office the other day and Liza said, nag-improve na daw si Abby since our trip to the zoo.

That’s great! Nakakatuwa naman si Abby.  She sincerely said and happy on the little girl’s progress, but her chest slightly tighten with the last info.

Thank you Maya for that day and for everything, Abby is really making some progress.

No, Richard.  You should not be thanking me.  I think Abby progressed because she was able to see her mom.  She tried to steady her voice, glanced at him and focus her attention on the road.

Richard just decided not to say something and just planned on when to talk to her about Alex.  They are silent until they stopped in a restaurant.

They had small talk while eating but they both feel the heavy air around them.  The ride from the restaurant to Maya’s place is a deafening silence.  Maya is lost on her thoughts, ‘Maya, Maya, Maya, your happiness came and left again in a huff!!!’ , while Richard kept on stealing glances on the lady beside her, thinking of his plans.

**********

Maya entered absent mindedly on the unit she’s sharing with Emman, Richard gave her a hug and light kiss on the cheek when he dropped her in the condo’s lobby a while ago, she was disturbed from her reverie when she heard Emman shrieked.

Giiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiirrrrrrrrrrrrrllllllllllllllllllllllllllll,,,, oh my pink gosh! Saan galing ang flowers na yan ha???? Emman inquired poking her side.

Emman quickly closed the door for her, and dragged her to the couch.

Dali, dali, kwento… I only have 30 minutes at baka ma-late ang beauty ko sa flight. Bilis, kwento na.

She realized that Emman is in his uniform na and his luggage opened just beside the couch. She rolled her eyes and chuckled.

Naku, Emman, mahaba ang kwento ko kaya next time na lang… late ka na… mapagalitan ka pa ni Ms Belmonte.

Emman pouted and rolled his eyes as well. Kaya nga simulan mo na agad, while I am fixing my luggage here. Bilisan mo na, kahit telegram style lang saka na ang details. Start with that oh-my-pink gosh flowers.

Maya slightly laughed and shook her head, ayaw talaga paawat ni Emman. She took off her shoes and sit comfortably on the couch, straightening her legs to the center table and silently smiled looking at the flowers on her lap.

Girl! Sabi ko kwento na, hindi yang mapupunit na ang labi mo sa pag-smile dyan.  Emman said looking at her while fixing his things.

Eto na, eto na nga. These flowers, bigay ni Richard…

Maya’s story started and ended with it, covering her ears, because Emman shrieked and swooning and battling his eyelashes profusely.  Maya can only laugh on his reaction.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh…. Girl! Yun na! Nakakaloka ka!

Oh-my-pink walls. Emman suddenly dramatically sighed. Makaka-concentrate kaya ako knowing that I still need to hear yung love story nyo ni prince charming Richard mo?? Kainis ka, sana hindi ka na lang nag-kwento muna.

Maya laughed at him. Ikaw yung pilit ng pilit. Sige na. Go ahead and work. Ma-le-late ka na, traffic pa naman. She grinned at him.

Hay naku, sige na nga. Bye girl.

Bye Emman. Ingats!

Before Emman completely went out of the door, he turned to Maya.

Ms dela Rosa, yung packaging tape pala andyan sa may cabinet beside the TV ha.

Maya looked at him confused.

Para po sa labi nyo, Miss, baka kasi biglang mapunit sa kaka-smile mo. Maya just laughed at him as he finally closed the door.

Maya was left alone smiling foolishly, hugging the flowers giddily.  But she suddenly straightened, smile on her lips vanished, chest tightened… thinking about Alex.

…till next chapter po ulit. Thankie for reading, kindly leave comments! :)

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 6

I still submit this chapter to Excess Baggage, but is not yet published, so you will read this chapter first here.

Hello po. Chapter 6 is here. For those who have waited for my update, so sorry natagalan… even me I almost forgot the plot of my story, I had to re-read chapters 1-5. Anyway, I really vow to finish the story before my class start next week. So enjoy reading. ^^

Chard? Is that you?

Alex!

Maya looked passed Richard and saw a tall, simple yet pretty lady walking towards them.

Richard Lim! It’s really you!

Richard chuckled and opened his arm to engulf Alex in a hug.

Maya forced herself to look away.  She suddenly feels like her chest has gone out of air.  She looked back at them when she heard Richard called her name.

Maya, this is Alex.

Hi! I am Alex, Alexandra Tan.  Alex smiled graciously at her and extended her arm for a handshake.

Maya extended her arm as well. ‘Grabe, ang ganda na, ang lambot pa ng kamay’. Maya thought.

Hi Alex! Maya here, Maya dela Rosa.

De la Rosa?? Alex asked and suddenly turned her head to Richard.

Richard, as well, turned to Alex and lightly holds on to her elbow.  Maya answered Yes as her eyes shifted to Richard’s hand on Alex that she missed the alarmed expression on his face and Alex’s surprised face.  In her peripheral view, she saw Richard leaned to Alex and whispered something, and before her chest ran out of air again, tiny arms suddenly wrapped on her waist from behind.

Abby!  Letting out what seemed to be last volume of air on her chest, Maya turned her attention to the little girl who tugged her to whisper something.

Oh my God, Abby! Ang laki mo na. Alex gushes excitedly as she reached out to hug Abby.

Abby returned the hug, then stepped back to lean on Maya and tentatively looked at Alex, seemingly figuring out who the lady is.

Alex sensed that Abby is trying to recognize her.

Baby! It’s me, Mommy! Remember?

Maya slowly lifted her head to look at Richard, who at that time seemed to be lost on his own world looking at the mother and daughter.  If not for Abby who is still leaning on her and holding on to her waist, she could have just run away.  In that very moment, she just used Abby’s physical contact to slightly lean back on Abby and hold on to her little shoulders for support.  She feels that her feet may betray her any moment now and she may collapse.  Things are getting better in the last hour, they are enjoying going around the zoo, the awkwardness with Richard around has even left her system, then what’s next to this?  Her happy and giddy feelings came and left in a huff? Her mind went back to the present when she felt Abby loosened her hold to her.

Abby stepped closer to Alex and gave her Mommy a kiss on the cheek, then went back to Maya to whisper something.  Maya welcomed the distraction and bent down to Abby.

Uhmmm… Abby wants to go see the parrots… will it be okay if I will bring her.  Maya did her very best to speak naturally and look straight to Richard to ask permission.

Richard momentarily stared at Maya, then nod his head.  Go ahead, Thank you Maya.

With that Maya quickly turned her heel and tag Abby along with her.  Remembering Alex, she turned back again.

Sorry Alex, is it okay? Or do you want to go with Abby? She tentatively asked and at the same time praying that she will say no, because the last thing she wants to happen now is to be left with Richard.  She’s already thinking of a million reasons to excuse herself when it happens, when Alex shook her head.

No, Maya. Go ahead.  Abby seemed so excited na to see the parrots.  We’ll just bond another time, I also need to talk to Richard.

With her answer,  Maya’s chest constricted again.  She forced a smile and walked away from them with Abby in tow. ‘why do I feel that it would have been better if she said she wants to go bond with you’ Maya silently muttered looking helplessly to Abby.

*******

What? Chard, you have waited for this time for so long!  When are you going to tell her?  Did it ever occur to you that she will know you sooner or later, then what? It would just complicate things more.  She seemed to be nice and a reasonable woman, just tell her everything and believe me, she will understand.

Alex’s words has been ringing to Richard’s ear repeatedly.  He discreetly looked at Maya thru the mirror. Her eyes are closed hugging Abby who has fallen asleep.

When Maya and Abby returned from the parrot cages, Alex has left.  Richard meet them halfway when he saw Maya carrying Abby who seemed to got tired on the day’s activity.  He carefully got his daughter from Maya.

Maya closed her eyes as soon as she has settled Abby beside her at the backseat of the car.  She can feel Richard glancing  at her through the mirror, but she did her best not to open her eyes to stare back at him.  She just doesn’t like what she’s feeling right now.  She feels annoyed on something that she can’t figure out, all she wanted is to seek the comfort of her room to think and breath.  After few turns and stops like eternity, she felt that the car engine stopped, next came Richard’s soft voice.

Maya, we are here.

She opened her eyes and saw him looking at her with a small smile, he then went around the car to open her side of the car door.  She carefully let Abby lean on the other side and disentangled her little arms from her, then gave Abby a light kiss on the forehead.

The scene did not escape Richard, who is waiting on the side to assist Maya get off the car.  The scene  warmed his heart and dreamily smile, imagining to see this kind of scene more in the future.  He automatically offered his hand to assist her and felt so happy when her hand touched his. He carefully closed the door and faced her.

Thank you so much for spending your time with Abby… with us.

Maya nod, smiled and turned her gaze to Abby. 

Thank you din for letting Abby go with me, sana talaga nag-enjoy sya.  Uhmmm… I think you should go ahead para makatulog na ng maayos si Abby.

She is just glancing at him while speaking.

Richard sighed a bit, then just nod.

Thanks again. Bye.

Bye, ingat sa pag-drive.

Richard walked back around the car and was about to go inside the car, when he walked back again in front of Maya.

Maya looked at him puzzled, raised her eyebrows, silently asking why he come back.

Richard looked at her, fidgeting with the car key in his hand.

Maya… thank you again… and uhmmm…. I want to say something but it might take hours. He chuckled nervously. But, please, don’t think too much about it.

Maya is looking at him confused.

Richard laughed a bit. I know I am not making sense here. But I just want you to know, that it’s not what you think… Uhmmm…  I hope we can talk some other time?  Like have some coffee… or dinner?

Maya still confused, just nod in daze and said okay.

Richard gladly exclaimed, Great!

*********

Girl, sa zoo ka ba talaga galing or sa amusement park??  Roller coaster ride ang peg ng araw mo… and wait… it’s only what?  Barely four hours with him???  Pa-shy stage, sweet-sweet-an stage, here-comes-the-ex-stage, then indirect date invitation??? Aba naman… you already! Nakakaloka ka.

Maya could only  laugh on Emman’s reaction.

Ikaw talaga… kailangan talagang ganyan ang analysis mo?

Syempre naman. But seriously, girl, ingatan ang puso ha… especially the mom is back, tagilid ang beauty  mo pag nagkataon.

Emman, alam ko naman yun… pero kasi ang pinagtataka ko, si Abby parang aloof kay Alex… and diba ang sabi nyo naman noon, single si Richard, kaya nga fave topic sya ng mga FAs.

Yap. Pero naman kasi hindi naman showbiz ang life ni Mr Lim… hindi open book.  So we really don’t know who he is, diba?

Maya just nod in agreement.

O sya, time out na muna sa chikahan, it’s getting late na, need na mag-rest in peace ng beauty ko.

Sige Emman, good night.

Maya let out a long sigh after Emman left.  This would be a long night, she thought.

****************

Good morning Liza!

Liza jumped a little caught off guard when her boss’ door opened.  She just stared back at him in disbelief, while her boss is just grinning at her.  She quickly checked her wristwatch.

Sira ba relo sa mo?? It’s still early and you’re here already!?

Well, I am the boss, I can do whatever I want.

Yah, right! Liza rolled her eyes, then was about to ask something when his phone rang…

He motioned that he’ll be inside his office and answered his phone…

Liza was left alone wondering what really happened on the zoo trip with Maya… he avoided my calls since Saturday, he seemed in high spirits today and take note, he’s way too early on a Monday morning, he is usually late with hangover because of weekend with Abby… and that smile, there’s really something going on… Lagot ka sa akin, Richard Lim.

Almost half an hour later and bothered by her thoughts, Liza stormed to her boss’ office carrying a cup of coffee.

Liza sigh in disappointment, her boss is still on the phone with Atty Molina, judging by Richard’s side of conversation…it won’t end anytime soon, so she went back to her table again.

Other employees started to come, and LAS’ Monday work rolled on, Liza momentarily forgot her curiosity, when her intercom rang and Richard asked her to come inside the office.  She grabbed the document he asked for and stride inside.  She saw him brows knitted, busily reading a document, she just silently put down the document she’s holding on the table and turned back.  She was about to turn the knob when he spoke.

What is it?

She turned around looking at Richard Lim who is grinning. Richard knows Liza is dying to know what happened over the weekend.

Liza chuckled; eyebrow raised and settled herself comfortably at the seat in front of his table.

Richard Lim, you know very well ‘what-is-it’?

Richard gave her a smirk and conveyed what happened.

What???? That’s ridiculous! Where did I-will-take-it-slow go? And wait, Alex is back? Chard, this is getting complicated. 

I know. I know. And I know that you will react that way, that’s why I did not answer your calls, makiki-chismis ka lang and you will just ruin my happy mood. He smirked.

Well, Mr Lim, why don’t you make things right so your so-called happy mood will stay with you long? So what are your plans now?

I am not sure, but I think I need to clear about Alex with Maya first? What do you think?

Chard, why don’t you start from the beginning once and for all… i’ve known Maya for just a short period of time, but I guess she will understand. Baka lalo maging complicated, then you will really lose your chance with her.

Richard turned serious. Alex said almost the same thing, but Liza I can’t risk what we have now.  I still want to build stronger foundation; I should find her mom first.

Oh, that reminds me, the investigator said; they are trimming down the chances.  Teresita dela Rosa is a bit common name, they need to be sure first before they give us their report.

Okay. For now, I think I will just clear about Alex first. He sighed.

Why? You think Maya got jealous when she met Alex?

Richard grinned. I hope so, but more than that, of course Alex being Abby’s mommy…

I understand. So, good luck Mr Lim. I’ll go back to work now, and I am sure I can now concentrate on what I am doing.

Richard chuckled shaking his head.

…till next update. Sigurro 2-3 chapters na lang… J

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 5

published on May 15, 2014 - It's You From the Start 5

CHAPTER 5

“hello liza? sorry for bothering you but i just want to know if mr lim is okay with my plan to bring abby sa zoo tomorrow?”

 liza silently tapped his forehead and bit her lip. she totally forgot about it, since richard told her about Maya before she can tell richard maya’s plan for weekend.

 “liza? are you there?”

 “Uh, Maya.. yes.. uh, sorry i am  just thinking something…”

 “oh sorry, i’ll just call a… “

 “no, Maya.. it’s okay… ganito, i’ll just check with mr lim again… you know baka nag-iba ng isip…” liza tried to make the conversation light…

 “why? hindi ba sya pumayag?”

 “no, that’s not it… actually, he…  uhmmm, initially said… yes.. but i just want to be sure…” liza said tentatively and let out a nervous laugh…

 “okay! thanks liza. but if he really don’t want abby to come with me, it’s perfectly okay… but   i am hoping na papayag sya. ” Maya chuckled.

 Liza chuckled as well, “okay, Maya… i promise to call you back as soon as i talked to him.” Liza sighed as soon as Maya ended the call.

 ************************************

 “Tomorrow?”

 “yes, actually, she called about it that day that you found out about her… so kung hindi lang sya tumawag ulit to ask if pumayag ka, i will really forgot about it.”

 Richard leaned back on his chair and think for a while.

 “Well, i think Abby will be happy, so… tell her, we will pick her up at around… “

 “WE? Wait. Chard… WE? you are coming with them??? “

 “Yes, why? “

 “Richard Lim! akala ko ba, you will take it slow?”

 “Yes… it’s still my plan.”

 “And so, what’s this – going to the zoo with them- thing? “

 “Liza, before i found her, she’s somehow like a friend to us na di ba? so i don’t think that it would be awkward if i’ll join them.”

 “I know, but… “

 “And Abby is my daughter, remember?”

 Liza just rolled her eyes, while Richard just smirk at her.

 “Okay, but don’t forget to stick with your plan! “

 “I know Liza. I will take it slow. I cannot just blurt about things to her, i badly need to build a strong foundation with her… for her to trust me… and also i am not sure kung ano ang alam nya… i perfectly know how bad and confusing the situation in the past… and i don;t want her to go back on those memories.. well, at least not before malaman ko kung nasan ang mommy nya… i really have to be careful.”

 Liza just sigh and nod at him in understanding.

 *********************************

 “Aba naman, girl… hindi ko napansin na masyado kang excited!”

 “What? Oy Emman ha, ano ba pinagsasabi mo dyan?” Maya played innocent although she knows very well that Emman is teasing her.

 “Teh! according to the clock on my pink  walls… alas-dos pa lang… e hayan at daig mo pa ang mga roosters sa agap.” emman continued teasing her and rolled her eyes.

 Maya glared at him and proceed to the kitchen to get a glass of water.  Liza called her later the day before to tell her that she has an emergency to attend to and so Richard will be the one to go with Abby, and clearly instructed that they will just pick her up.

 “Pwede ka pa umidlip, girl, may two hours ka pa naman..” Emman followed her at the kitchen and continued teasing her.

 “Emman, naman….” she whined, “eto na nga at kinakabahan ako tapos ganyan ka pa.” she frowned.

 Her friend laughed at her. “Girl, ano ba kinaka-kaba mo, aber??? Eh di ba, friendy-friend naman kayong dalawa?”

“Ewan ko, para kasing ang awkward lang.”

 “Sus! eto naman o… anong awkward dun e para… para lang kayong happy family bonding in a weekend ang peg!” he said dreamily and kilig na kilig.

 “Emaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa…”

 Ring. Ring. Ring.

 Her whining is interrupted of the ringing of her phone at her jean’s pocket.  she quickly grabbed it but widened her eyes when she saw the name flashing on her phone.  she looked at emman showing her phone, Emman, in return gave her a teasing smile.

 “he.. hello, Mr Lim?”

 “Maya… i am sorry but… “

 “No, it’s okay Mr LIm, if you decided not to let Abby…”

 She heard a chuckle from the other line.

 “Maya, let me finish first… as i am saying… i am sorry but… but is it okay if we pick you up earlier? Well, kasi Abby is really excited and has been ready for half an hour and becoming a bit irritated na, kanina pa ako kinukulit…”

 Maya’s smiled widened, as she answered, “No problem, Mr Lim.”

 “Okay, we’ll see you in a bit… uh, Maya… i really appreciate it that your giving  time to Abby.”

 “Wala yun, Mr Lim”

 “Really, Maya, thank you… and i will appreciate it more if you will just call me Richard, please.” (just imagine, Richard Lim’s bedroom voice on this line :) )

 “But…”

 “No but, please!”

 “okay!” she chuckled and blushed a little that  earned a raised eyebrow from Emman.

 She walked towards their living room after the call ended, emman tagging behind her.

 “Anong sabi ni prince charming at kung maka-blush ka e wagas?”

 “Wala, parating na sila… ” she answered as she tried to hide her giddiness as she entered her bedroom to get her bag.

********************************

 The  moment the car stopped in front of the zoo, Maya quickly get off the car to assist Abby who is at the back seat.  She just can’t contain her emotion, Richard insist for her to sit beside him, opened the car door for her, and lightly touched her elbow as he assist her to the car.   the 30 minutes trip from her condo, thank God, there is no traffic that afternoon,  is just too much, with him too near that she barely breathe afraid to be addicted to his scent… it didn’t help that she’s facing on his direction, since she is talking to Abby who is at the back seat…

  Richard sighed contentedly as his eyes followed Maya and Abby who excitedly run to the line to the ticket booth, he joined them just in time for their turn.  He got his wallet but Maya beat him to pay the tickets.

 “Wait! I’ll pay…”

 “Richard, it’s okay.. ako naman ang nagyaya..”

 “But…”

 “No buts… ” she answered in humor.

 He just chuckled in response knowing very well that she just used on him the same line he told her barely hours ago.

 Surprisingly, their tour inside the zoo went well without any awkwardness and in fact she felt more at ease with him.  After walking around, looking from one cage to another, they  comfortably rest at one of the benches at the side portion of the zoo, where a man blowing large bubbles is surrounded by kids.  Abby who is sitting in between the two, suddenly pulled her arm and whispered something.  Richard just watched the two blankly.

 “Richard, gusto daw ni Abby lumapit dun sa may bubbles.”

 Richard just nodded at her daughter who is looked up to him with her puppy eyes.

 “Richard, okay ka lang ba? she tentatively asked when she noticed his change of mood.

 “Did you hear her voice?”

 She just nodded and realized that Abby indeed ‘talked’ to her.   She instantly turned her gaze to Abby, who is now laughing with other kids watching the bubbles show, they she turned to the man beside her.

“She rarely talk”, he said in almost a whisper.

“So, she is not really mute? “

 He turned to her, “Yes, when we got her ganyan na sya.”

 “huh? what do you mean?” She asked in confusion.

But before he can answer…. “Chard? Is that you?”  a voice from Richard’s other side interrupted them.

 “Alex!”

BCWMH Fanfic: It's You From the Start 4

published on May 1, 2014 - It's You From the Start 4

Chapter 4: It’s You from the Start

Liza went inside Richard’s office.

“Chard, you’re here already? You have a meeting with Ms. Belmonte, right?”

“Yes. But it’s just a short meeting. Let’s go, I still need to check some documents in the head office.”

Liza just followed him, wondering what happened. With his attitude, she’s sure that something is bothering him. Walking to the parking area, she just kept on glancing at him, who is deep in thought. They reached the LAS head office in silence.

Before he entered his office, he slightly glanced at her.

“Liza, no phone calls, please.”

Before Liza can answer, he’s already inside his office. Liza can only sigh at his behavior.

Liza is busily checking on some documents when her phone rang.

“Hello Liza! Busy ka ba?” a familiar female voice answered from the other line.

“Hi Maya! No, not really!” Liza smiled.

“uhm, Liza… papunta sana ko sa LAS office kanina after ng flight ko kaya lang nakita ko kayo ni Mr Lim na parang nagmamadali kaya hindi ko na kayo hinabol…” Maya paused and seemed trying to think of what to say.

“I am just wondering kung… uhmm, wala kasi akong flight this weekend and wala naman ako gagawin,,, I am just wondering if… pwede ko maipasyal si Abby, nag-promise kasi ako sa kanya, di ba?”

Liza laughed. “Yun lang ba? No problem, Maya!” “Mas okay kung isama mo din yung daddy nya!”Liza silently continued.

Maya sighed from the other line. “Thank you ha. Mukha kasing ang bait-bait ni Abby and gusto ko tuparin agad ang promise ko sa kanya”.

“Mabait talaga si Abby, I am sure matutuwa yun. Kinukulit nga nya ako kung nagtxt or tumawag ka na daw ba.”

“Teka pala, pwede ba ikaw na lang magsabi kay Mr Lim?”

“O sige, ako na magsasabi. I am sure he’ll be happy na maipasyal nyo si Abby” Liza grins just imagining the three enjoying the day like a family.

“Huh! Anong maipasyal namin? Will he go with us? Hindi ba pwedeng kami lang ni Abby?” Liza suppressed a laugh hearing Maya’s voice in panic.

“Maya…”

“Liza, please don’t get me wrong, I know we barely knew each other, and it’s not easy to entrust Abby to just anyone… but if someone really needs to be with Abby on weekend, I am hoping na ikaw na lang.” Realizing how awkward and ridiculous the situation, Maya continued, “uhm, medyo awkward lang naman kasi I am planning to take Abby sa zoo, then you know, I just felt that it’s not a good idea for a CEO like Mr Lim to roam around zoo tagging along with us.”

Liza chuckled, “Ok Maya, I got your point. Don’t worry, if ever I will just be the one to accompany Abby or maybe si Joma na lang, para may driver kayo.”

“Thanks Liza, but I am thinking of bringing my car, so okay lang naman.”

“okay Maya, I’ll just call you for the details, for the meantime, I will tell Chard first.”

Liza ended the call giddily, not realizing what she said.

On the other line, Maya was left stunned. “Did I heard it right? Chard? First name basis?”

“Giiiiiiiiiiiirrrrrrrrrrrrrrlll” Maya snapped back to reality when Emman approached her.

“Anong ganap at nakatulaley ka dyan?”

She tried to give Emman a smile.

“Gutom na ako, kanina pa kita hinahanap, bigla ka na lang nag-disapper! Taralets!”

******************

“Yun. Medyo nagtaka lang ako kasi what I know is Liza is his secretary pero kanina she referred him as Chard.”

Maya and Emman went to a coffee shop nearby and she narrated what transpired before Emman approached him a while ago.

“Jellyace ka naman!” Emman teasingly rolled his eyes on her.

“Of course not!” Maya countered defensively.

“Ay sus! Try to look yourself in the mirror, you’re like a blushing/jellyace GF!” Emman laughed.

“Emman, tigilan mo ako ha! Tara na nga!” Maya stood up and started walking away pulling her luggage.

“Shet! Am I that obvious??? Maya, Maya, Maya, stop it!” She muttered with Emman trailing behind her chuckling lightheartedly.

********************************

Liza giddily knocked on Richard’s office to relay Maya’s plan. He’s been acting weird when they left their office in the airport, but she’s sure that her news may change his mood. After few minutes that he did not respond, she slowly pushed the door open. She found Richard, standing with his back on her, silently staring outside and in deep thought.

Liza cleared his throat to get his attention, “Sir!”

He slowly turned around and stared at her for a few seconds before he speaks, “Liza… I saw her. I found her!”

Liza smiled thinking about Maya. But quickly knitted her brows when realized the “I found her” part. When she looked intently at him, it finally sinked in. “You found HER?”

He nodded. “Maya..”

“Maya??? Chard, enlighten me here..”

“Liza, I found HER. It’s Maya!”

“What??”

“She’s a dela Rosa…, she’s Maya dela Rosa, the daughter of Atty. Arturo dela Rosa.”

Liza could only gape at Richard on what she heard, and totally forgot why she came to him.