Home Sweet Home

A/N: This piece is inspired by the April 8, 2014 episode of BCWMH. Since I was out of town from April 9-11, 2014 and had bad wifi reception where we stayed, I did not have the chance to post this earlier. I have yet to see the April 9-11 episodes of BCWMH and have no idea how our favorite story has progressed. I’m hoping to watch the episodes I missed after I post this. I hope you’ll still enjoy this piece. Happy reading, everyone!

Part 1

With his hands full at work, as he balances his roles as Chief Engineer and Chief Executive Officer of Lim Aviation Services, Richard Lim couldn’t help but feel guilty about being away from home way longer than he should. Good thing he has a very understanding and loving wife who supports and believes him all the way.

Maya Lim, his very beautiful pregnant wife, inspires Richard like no other. Because of her, he has learned to venture out of his comfort zone, has since learned how to listen to her and the kids, and has since been open to adjustments, compromises, and dialogues as they both make decisions for their growing family.

Having Maya with him earlier as he presented his plans for LAS in front of the board of directors felt so right. Reminded of how exciting and wonderful life is with his beloved wife– his partner for life, he tried his best to convince the board about getting a partner to help in LAS’ expansion. He reasoned with the board so well and finally got everyone’s nod to his proposed plans much to the delight of his dear sweet Maya who was cheering him on the best she could.

Maya has since gone home after their little celebration at the office and Richard is still working til now. When he finally takes a break, he is surprised to see his secretary Minerva with dinner for him. “Pinahatid po ni Ma’am Maya,” Minerva tells him. A sweet smile escapes his lips as he calls Maya on the cellphone to thank her for her thoughtfulness. After dinner, Richard is on a roll, hoping to finish up the job sooner than expected, so he could come home to his loving wife and cuddle up in bed with her.

Part 2

It is almost 4 AM when Richard finally arrives home and a feeling of nostalgia hits him. It is only a matter of time before he, Maya, and their children leave this place they call home forever. In the peace and quiet, he surveys every nook and cranny of his house as he recalls all the wonderful memories he has shared with the children and Maya (both pre and post wedding) in their home sweet home.

Richard recalls the day he carried Maya in his arms back inside the house as she fainted from overfatigue on the driveway. With Doris and Sabel on leave and Manang Fe at sick bay, his ever dutiful employee, Maya Dela Rosa, made no complaints about singlehandedly attending to his and his children’s needs during their first few days at the mansion. His respect and admiration for this woman whose integrity he doubted at the beginning grew in leaps and bounds.

Amazing how every single part of this home reminds him of his beloved Maya, the woman he is meant to spend the rest of his life with.

Richard enters the porch and is reminded of all the nights he and Maya would sit side by side each other as they talked about anything and everything for hours over cups of coffee. The porch held other special memories, of course. It was also where he and Maya sang their first ever duet, celebrated their first ever Valentine date, and where he nonchalantly told her about not being sorry for kissing her after the prom. He walks further and looks up at the starlit sky and thanks God for Maya.

As he looks down at the swimming pool, the garden and the basketball court, he recalls with fondness more memories he shared with Maya and his kids– his and Maya’s unforgettable monthsary date, camping, lighting the lantern, playing in the rain, Abby and Nikki’s birthday parties, Abby’s graduation party, Abby’s swimming lessons courtesy of Maya and Luke…

He heads back inside the dining area and is reminded of how much fun family meals have been since Maya came into their lives.

As he fetches a glass of water and something to snack on from the refrigerator, he is suddenly reminded of the night Maya candidly admitted having a huge crush on him. He also recalled how much he enjoyed watching her make coffee for him countless times over, and how Doris and Sabel told Maya once that no one can make the kind of coffee she makes for her Sir Chief cos “ikaw lang ang makakahalo ng kape ni Sir Richard ng may pagmamahal!”

He steps inside the “principal’s office” with his water and food to eat, and is reminded of the countless times he has called Maya in to reprimand her, to have her help him make plans for Abby’s birthday, to talk with her about the kids and his concerns. He also remembered that one time he coached her for a job interview. He chuckles as he recalled how agitated and how funny Maya seemed back then, and realized that his wife’s giddiness as he asked her various questions back then must have been caused by her huge crush on him. He finishes his meal before he leaves his office with his trademark lopsided grin.

As Richard re-enters the living room he is reminded of that fateful day when he finally admitted to his kids that he loves Maya and that she is his girlfriend. As he recalled the tension he and his two elder kids eperienced back then, he could not help but smile at how different things are now and how much his kids love Maya like their very own mother.

Before he climbs the flight of stairs, he locks the main door and collects the flowers and laptop bag he left on the table when he came in earlier. Once upstairs, he opens Abby’s former bedroom, now the twins’ nursery room, and he smiles. Various flashback scenes come rushing back to him as Abby’s room holds very precious memories of Maya– the night they both fell asleep in Abby’s room as they both waited for Abby to talk, the night he saw Maya kiss his picture on her cellphone, the day she made him laugh non-stop with her Giripit joke, and all the evenings he would check up on Abby and actually see Maya talking or laughing with her, or animatedly sharing the story of “The Mahal na Hari and Mahal na Prinsesa” with her.

He enters Nikki and Abby’s room to check on them and he is suddenly reminded of that moment more than a year ago when Nikki didn’t open up her door for him because he didn’t allow her to go to the prom with Inigo as date. Thanks to Maya who tried her best to make Nikki understand Richard’s decision, Nikki finally opened her bedroom door for him and talked with him. Inside the room, Richard gazes lovingly at his two girls, amazed at how much they have grown and just how loving and sweet they are to him, Maya and everyone else. There is pride in his eyes as it hit him that he has raised them well.

He enters Luke’s room right after and could not believe how much his firstborn has grown. He remembers all those times he and Luke argued and fought, and could not help but thank Maya for coming into their lives and helping him fix his strained relationship with his son. There is also pride in his eyes as he gazes lovingly at him. The proud Dad is happy that Luke is following in his footsteps by taking up Engineering.

Richard passes by the entertainment area and recalls with fondness the time he, Maya and the kids played “ungguy-ungguyan.” How he enjoyed spending that evening with her and the kids!

Part 3

Still carrying his flowers for Maya and his laptop bag, Richard finally enters the masters bedroom to find his wife fast asleep. Sometimes he still could not believe that this amazing woman loves him and actually married him. Just how lucky and blessed can a man be in one lifetime? Then he looks at her tummy and could not help but marvel at the thought that twin babies are growing inside his beloved wife’s tummy. As Richard stares at his sweetheart with intense love and longing in his eyes, she suddenly stirs. He joins her in bed and hands her the flowers. Clearly missing each other, they hug and cuddle real tight.

Richard: Sweetheart, I miss you so much!

Maya: Ako din.

Richard: No more overtime for me starting next week.

Maya: Talaga? Good news yan ah.

Richard: I want to make it up sa inyo ng mga bata. Mag out of town tayo? Let’s go to Bohol or Cebu. Sama natin si Manang Fe para she can take care of the kids while we simply stay in bed and cuddle up to each other. Sama din natin sina Nanay, Tatay Arturo, Cristina Rose and Cho.

They cuddle up and talk with each other some more and get at least a couple of hours more sleep.

Part 4

By noontime, Richard and Maya surprise the kids by taking them to their new house much to the kids’ delight and happiness. With the construction still ongoing, it looks like the house might take longer to build. Nevertheless, everyone is excited to see and explore it.

Before leaving the house, Richard, Maya and the kids feast on the lunch Manang Fe and Joma brought for them.

Nikki: Wow! Daddy, Tita Mommy, it’s our first meal as a family in this house!

Maya: Oo nga, Nikki. O, kain lang kayo ng kain ha. Ang sarap ng inihanda ni Manang Fe.

Luke: Yes, Tita Mommy. And don’t worry, uubusin namin lahat ‘to.

Abby: Daddy, when can we transfer here po?

Richard: Baby, baka after baby kambal are born na. The architect says they might not be able to finish this house in two months, eh. It might take them longer pa.

Nikki: That’s okay, Dad! It would be nice for Baby B and Baby G to still experience living in our house now.

Abby: Ate Nikki is right, Daddy. We will give the twins a tour of the house while we’re still there.

Luke: We will also share with the twins all the exciting things that happened to us there.

Nikki: Oh my gee! Now that I think about it, I will really miss our house. So dami na our memories there kaya.

Luke: Oo nga. Ang dami niyo ng memories ni Nicolo dun!

Nikki: Kuya! Daddy, o si Kuya! He’s making me asar again.

Richard: (smiles) That’s enough, Luke.

Maya: Tama kayo. Mami-miss natin lahat yung bahay. Ako na lang, ang dami-dami ko kayang hinding-hindi makakalimutan sa bahay.

Abby: Because of me, Tita Mommy?

Maya: Tama ka, baby.

Richard: And because of me, sweetheart?

Maya: Oo naman, sweetheart. At dahil din kay Luke and Nikki.

Nikki: Aww, Tita Mommy! We’ve had the most amazing girl talks in that house kaya.

Luke: Sobrang dami po talaga ng happy moments natin sa house. Medyo nakakalungkot din po na lilipat na tayo.

Richard: That’s true. That house will always be special for all of us. Pero we will also be building new memories here in this house, too.

Nikki: Truly, Daddykins! Wait! Oh my gee!

Luke: Ano na naman, Niks?

Nikki: Two months na lang kasi Kuya and we still haven’t decided on the names for baby kambal.

Luke: Oo nga po. So far po, we’re left with three choices.

Abby: I like Angelo and Angela.

Nikki: Me I like Robert Arthur and Emerald Therese.

Luke: Ang cool lang ng Sky and Sunshine kaya.

Nikki: What do you think Dad, Tita Mommy?

Richard: Well, since you, Luke and Abby all have two names, I think Robert Arthur and Emerald Therese would be perfect for baby kambal.

Maya: Tapos names pa siya in honor of mga Lolo and Lola niyo kaya okay din.

Luke: Robert Arthur sounds cool, too! Pwede po ba mag-suggest ng nickname? Let’s call him Robby!

Maya: Uy, maganda yan!

Abby: And for Emerald Therese, can we call her Emma po?

Maya: Wow, baby! Robby and Emma! Like na like ko yan!

Richard: Luke, Nikki, Abby, Robby and Emma Lim do sound right, I guess.

Nikki: But I do have another suggestion.

Luke: O, kokontrahin mo suggestion namin ni Abby?

Nikki: No, Kuya. Actually, Dad, naisip po namin nina Kuya that is if okay kang po kay Tita Mommy…

Maya: Ano yun, Nikki?

Nikki: Tita Mommy, diba once baby kambal are born, you’ll have them call you Mommy?

Maya: (smiles and nods)

Nikki: Okay lang po ba if Kuya, Abby and I also start calling you, Mommy?

Maya: (smiles) Talaga?

Luke: Yes po. Sa totoo lang, you’ve been a mommy to us for the longest time na.

Nikki: We already love you like a Mommy. Super tagal na.

Maya: Pero pano si Alex?

Luke: Of course, we love Mom and we will forever love her, pero that doesn’t mean we won’t be able to love you just the same and also call you, Mommy!

Nikki: We love Mom. We will always love her. But I’m sure she’ll understand why we want to call you, Mommy, too!

Maya: Naku, kayo talaga, papaiyakin nyo na naman ako.

Nikki: So is it settled na? Can we start calling you Mommy na? We don’t want baby kambal to ever wonder or think that they’re different from us. Okay na ba, Mommy?

Maya: (Teary eyed) Okay na okay sa kin siyempre, mga anak. Mahal na mahal ko kaya kayo.

Abby: Yes! I love you, Mommy!

Maya: I love you, too, baby!

Luke: I love you, Mommy!

Maya: I love you, too, Luke!

Nikki: I love you, Mommykins!

Maya: Aww! Nikki, I love you, too! Paakap nga sa inyong tatlo.

The three kids all hug Maya tightly. Richard then smiles and teases his kids.

Richard: And, what about me?

Maya: Naku naman, sweetheart! I love you, too!

Luke, Nikki and Abby: We love you, Dad!

And they all give them a hug, too, as Maya suddenly squeals.

Richard: Sweetheart?

Maya: (Smiles) Sweetheart! Sumipa sina Robby and Emma. Love ka din daw nila!

Nikki: Really, Mommy? Can we touch your tummy and feel them, too?

Maya: Sure!

One by one, Luke, Nikki and Abby take turns in touching their Mommy’s tummy as they excitedly tell the twins how much they love them and how they can no longer wait to see them.

All is well with the Lim kids, and Richard and Maya can’t help but thank the heavens for the gift of their kids and their wonderful family. After lunch, they all head back to their old house. On the drive back home, they all reminisce about everything they ever experienced in their home sweet home.

Part 5

Inside the masters bedroom, Richard and Maya cuddle up to each other, as they both get ready to sleep.

Maya: Alam mo, sweetheart? Sobrang mami-miss ko itong bahay natin.

Richard: Me too, sweetheart. You know what I did when I got home early this morning? I explored the whole house.

Maya: Talaga?

Richard: And I realized that we have special memories of each other in every nook and cranny of this place.

Maya: Aww! Oo nga, sweetheart! Sobrang dami na nating memories dito sa bahay na’to.

Richard: We will surely miss this place.

Maya: Oo naman. Pero diba ikaw na din nagsabi, we will also make new memories sa bago nating bahay. Tayo pa? We always have the best time basta sama-sama tayo ng mga bata, diba? Lilipat lang naman tayo ng bahay sweetheart, pero sama-sama pa rin naman tayong lahat. Kaya sure na sure ako, na yung bago nating bahay will be our home sweet home in no time.

Richard: You’re right, Mrs. Lim!

Maya: And may mga naisip na kong gawin habang naghihintay ako manganak.

Richard: Ano naman yun?

Maya: Basta madami, sweetheart. Iniisip ko na kung pano natin ide-decorate yung bago nating kwarto, ung kitchen, ung living room, etc. Pwede na tayong makipag-usap sa interior designer, diba? For sure, maging sina Nikki mae-excite yun. Pwede ko na rin i-supervise pagpa-pack ng mga bata at nina Manang Fe ng mga gamit na dadalhin natin sa bagong bahay. Tapos pwede akong tumulong kay Nikki at Abby sa business nila…

Richard: Maya, you also need to rest, okay? Use your maternity leave as an opportunity to rest, too.

Maya: Oo naman sweetheart. Ikaw talaga di mo pa ko pinatapos.

Richard: May gusto ka pang gawin?

Maya: Oo naman. Pwede rin bang sumama ako sa yo minsan sa LAS? Pwede kitang i-assist sa mga kelangan mo at ipagtimpla ng kape. Kahit once a week lang, sweetheart. Gusto ko iparamdam sa yo how much I appreciate lahat ng ginagawa mo para sa pamilya natin kasi. At tsaka siyempre basta gusto din kita makasama nang mas matagal kasi. Okay lang ba?

Richard: Sweetheart, that’s a brilliant idea! I’ve been meaning to ask you the same thing kasi. Naunahan mo lang ako. I was about to tell you that you’re free to come with me to work, twice or thrice a week while you’re on leave, so you can familiarize yourself with our company, too. It’s our company, after all.

Maya: Talaga, sweetheart? Pareho na naman tayo ng naisip pala. Talagang we’re birds of the same feather pala, kaya we fly together. Hihi!

Richard: Haha! I love you, Maya!

Maya: Ako din, sweetheart! I love you ng sobra sobra.

Richard and Maya share a lingering kiss and cuddle up to each other some more before they finally doze off to sleep in their home sweet home. 🙂

Work for Me, My Chief…

A/N: Inspired by the March 31 and April 1, 2014 teasers, here goes another scenario in my mind.

Part 1

Richard Lim couldn’t be any happier. He has the best family in the world. He considers himself lucky and blessed to be married to his lovely wife, Maya, the most amazing woman he’s ever met. He has the most loving and sweetest kids– Luke, Nikki and Abby, who continue to make him and Maya proud. And of course, he is excited to be Daddy all over again, as he, Maya and the kids await the birth of their most precious twin babies.

Maya couldn’t be any happier. She has the best family in the world. She considers herself lucky and blessed to be married to the man of her life and her dreams, her dear Sir Chief, who has made it his life mission to make her happy all the time and whose unwavering love and devotion she values like no other. She has the most amazing kids– Luke, Nikki, and Abby, who have learned to embrace her as their most beloved second mom. And of course, she is excited to be a Mommy to her and Richard’s firstborn babies– their twins, whose birth, she, Richard and the kids, all await with bated breath.

Business at Lim Aviation Services is more than good these days, and Maya couldn’t be more proud of her husband’s success. More and more airline companies here and abroad have been entrusting the care and maintenance of their aircraft to Richard’s thriving business. Once the biggest hangar in the history of Lim Aviation Services is built, more business opportunities are headed Sir Chief’s way. By the looks of it, LAS may soon be one of the top companies in the Philippines, whose rapid growth and success will create more job opportunities for many and whose existence will be a big boost to the Philippine economy.

No matter how perfect life seems, it never is. Life happens…

Part 2

It’s almost 10 pm and Richard is finally home. He senses an oncoming misunderstanding between him and his wife. Though work at the hangar is not yet done for the day, Richard immediately decided to call it a day the moment he realized that Maya is hell-bent not to answer any of his texts and phone calls. He is worried about Maya and he has good reason to be. He forgot to call her soon enough to let her know that he can’t pick her up from work, help her enroll in Lamaze class or take her to the mall shopping. “She must be fuming mad, and I can’t blame her,” he thought to himself.

Richard enters the masters bedroom, expecting to see a sleeping Maya, exhausted from all her activities of the day. Imagine his surprise when he sees her seated on the sofa bawling her heart out in front of the TV. Richard immediately rushes to her, wipes her tears away with his thumb and then rubs her back with his other hand to stop her from crying. He tells her in the most soothing voice to calm down and to look at him. He cups her chin, looks at her intently, and kisses her forehead. She avoids his kiss and his sweet gaze.

Richard: Sweetheart, tell me what's wrong.

Her doe-shaped eyes stare right back at him accusingly.

Maya: What’s wrong? Talagang hindi mo alam what’s wrong?

Richard: Look, sweetheart, I’m really sorry about earlier. Diba I already told you? It completely slipped my mind. Masyado lang busy talaga. Ang dami lang trabaho sa hangar today.

Maya: Porke ba masyado na kong dambuhala, kakalimutan mo na ko at ikinahihiya mo nang makasama ako? Ayaw mo na din ba akong sunduin dahil I’m in VERY bad shape?

Richard: Ha? Diba I already explained myself to you this morning? That’s not what I meant.

Maya: Ikaw naman may kasalanan kung bakit ganito ako kalaki ngayon, diba? Lahat na lang kayo, nalalakihan sa kin. Yung kliyente ko kanina, si Emman, si Ms. Calandra at higit sa lahat, ikaw Mr. Lim!

Richard: Sweetheart, don’t even think that way. I don’t care about how big you are.

Maya: Oh, e di inamin mo din na malaki nga ako.

Richard: Okay, listen, sweetheart. You’re carrying our twins so siyempre you’re a little bigger than usual. But I don’t care about that. I love you no matter what. You still look lovely!

Maya: Eh bakit nga hindi mo ko sinundo at sinamahan kanina?

Richard: (raises his voice) Kasi nga things got so busy at work and I totally forgot.

Maya: (cries even harder) O kita mo na, naiinis ka na sa kin! Siguro dapat hindi na rin pala ako nag enrol sa Lamaze class kasi busy ang asawa ko at malabong masasamahan niya ako sa class ko.

Richard: Sweetheart, hindi ako naiinis. And as for Lamaze classes, I will make time, of course. Listen. I’m sorry for raising my voice. I’m sorry for making you think that I don’t like how you look. I’m sorry for not being able to pick you up. And I’m sorry for making you so sad today. I love you so much, Maya. I do. I really do, sweetheart.

Richard cups her chin and gives her the sweetest kiss. Maya kisses him back with all the love she feels in her heart, then she starts bawling like a baby all over again.

Richard: Sweetheart, what’s wrong?

Maya: Ang sama-sama ko, sweetheart. Ikaw na nga itong pagod sa trabaho, hindi pa kita inintindi. Inaway pa kita.

Richard: (smiles and shakes his head at his wife’s mood-swings) Well you do have a reason to get mad today.

Maya: Kahit na. Tapos eto gabing-gabi ka na nga nakauwi, di man lang kita inalok ng kape o tinanong kung nag dinner ka na.

Richard: (smiles sweetly) Sweetheart, enough. I’m okay. I already ate a sandwich kanina on the way home.

Maya: Eh kape?

Richard: Sweetheart, it’s almost 11 PM. (He hugs her and kisses her forehead.) Instead of worrying about me, pwede bang just go to bed and matulog ka na? I know how tiring today was for you. You need to rest.

Maya: You also need some rest. O sige na. Magbanyo ka na muna para maka-freshen up ka. Pagtitimpla kita ng kape. Tapos mahihiga na ko. Promise.

Richard: Are we okay now?

Maya: Oo naman, sweetheart.

Richard: Sure ka?

Maya: Really na really.

Richard: I love you, sweetheart. (Hugs and kisses Maya and lovingly touches her tummy) I love you, buddies!

Maya: I love you more.

Part 3

After breakfast with the kids and Kute, Richard and Maya retreat to their room.

Richard: Sweetheart, pwede ka ba mag halfday today? Lunch tayo mamaya then let’s spend the afternoon together.

Maya: Sure ka, sweetheart? Hindi ka ba busy?

Richard: I will always make time for you, Mrs. Lim, no matter how busy I get.

Maya: Bumabawi ka ba?

Richard: (smiles) No. I just miss you so much and I want to spend the afternoon with you.

Maya: O sige, Mr. Lim. Date tayo. May kailangan din akong sabihin sa yo mamaya.

Richard: Why don’t you tell me now?

Maya: Mamaya na, sweetheart.

Richard: Okay.

Part 4

Richard picks up Maya from work shortly before noon and in comfortable silence they drove off to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Over a healthy lunch of steamed fish, veggies and rice, Maya told Richard about Ms. Calandra’s recommendation that she apply for maternity leave ASAP.

Maya: Sabi ko nga kay Ms. Calandra kaya ko pa naman at seven months pa lang naman si baby kambal. Kaya lang sabi niya sa tingin ng nakakarami kabuwanan ko na. Para nyo nga akong pinagkaisahan lahat kahapon, eh. Lahat kayo nina Emman, ni Ms. Calandra, pati na din ung client sinabi di na ko mukhang fit to work. Hahaha! O, sweetheart, wag ka nang magpigil. Alam ko gusto mo din tumawa.

Richard: (Laughs heartily) Sweetheart, maybe it’s for the best. Now, you can get all the rest that you need. Once baby kambal are born, we will definitely have our hands full.

Maya: Hindi kaya pwede payagan nila ako pumasok kahit twice a week man lang?

Richard: Why?

Maya: Alam mo naman ako diba, sweetheart? Gusto ko parati ako may ginagawa.

Richard: Don’t worry, sweetheart, once the twins are born, you can always go back to work after your maternity leave.

Maya: Yun na nga, eh.

Richard: Anong yun na nga?

Maya: Kasi naisip ko lang sweetheart, sa palagay mo kakayanin kong bumalik agad sa trabaho pagkatapos ng maternity leave ko? Sa totoo lang, parang gusto ko present ako sa lahat ng milestones ni baby kambal pagkapanganak ko sa kanila.

Richard: Meaning?

Maya: Okay lang ba sa yo kung hindi agad ako bumalik sa trabaho pagkapanganak ko?

Richard: But isn’t being a flight attendant your dream?

Maya: Oo naman and hindi ko naman talaga kakalimutan yun. Pero sweetheart, pinakamahalaga sa akin ang pamilya. Pinakamahalaga sa akin ikaw at ang mga anak natin. Mas mahalaga sa akin na mapalaki natin ng maayos sina baby kambal, at sina Luke, Nikki at Abby. Yung pagiging flight attendant pwede ko naman sigurong balikan yun after a few years.

Richard: Are you sure? I mean, it’s your dream, Maya! I witnessed all the sacrifices you made to attain your dream.

Maya: Oo, sweetheart. Pero dream ko din to be the best mommy in the world para match na tayo talaga. Ikaw kaya ang the best daddy in the world! Tsaka alam mo, iniisip ko pa lang na umiiyak sina baby kambal tapos wala ako sa tabi nila, nalulungkot na ko.

Richard: (smiles and hugs Maya tightly) I love you, Maya! You are already the best mom to Luke, Nikki, and Abby. I can only imagine how great a mom you’ll also be to our twins.

Maya: I only learned from the best kaya. Ikaw ang idol ko sa pagiging the best parent. Nakita ko kung gano mo pahalagahan ang mga bata. Kahit gaano ka pa ka-busy sa trabaho, basta kelangan ka ng mga bata nandiyan ka para sa kanila. Hindi madali ang pinagdaanan mo nang mawala si Alex pero hindi mo sinukuan ang mga bata. Yung pinagdaanan mo kay Abby, hindi madali yun pero never ka nag give up.

Richard: Thank you, Mrs. Lim. If being a full time mom is what you want to do after you give birth to the twins, then I’m all for it, too. Whatever makes you happy makes me happy. I love you.

Maya: I love you more, Mr. Lim.

Richard: O, ano na naman iniisip mo?

Maya: Sweetheart, anong gagawin ko simula next week? Pumayag kasi ako kanina sa suggestion ni Ms. Calandra. Simula na ng leave ko sa Monday, sweetheart. Sana kasi kahit twice a week man lang pinayagan pa ko ng Time Airways mag-report for work. Mabo-bore ako sweetheart na walang ginagawa!

Richard ponders his wife’s current predicament carefully, then proposes a solution.

Richard: Well, sweetheart, I want to offer you a job.

Maya: (smiles) Ha?

Richard: Work for me, Mrs. Lim.

Maya: (chuckles) Parang nangyari na ‘to dati ah. .Déjà vu.

Richard: With the business expansion of LAS underway, we need all the help we can get. Liza’s often out attending client meetings. I need a trusted assistant who can help me at work.

Maya: May secretary ka na, sweetheart.

Richard: Yes, si Minerva. I don’t need a secretary, sweetheart.

Maya: So, what will you be needing in the next month or so?

Richard: I’ll be needing someone whom I can trust with all my business dealings. Someone who will help me in decision-making and planning. Someone who is willing to learn the ropes of the business. Someone who can help me deal with the big and small things about LAS.

Maya: Pero wala akong background sa engineering, sweetheart. Wala akong alam sa pagkumpuni ng mga eroplano.

Richard: Haha! I know, that’s why you’re perfect for the job. We complement each other. What I lack, you possess, and vice versa. I need someone who can hold my hand and inspire me, listen to my plans and my dreams, help me talk and deal with possible clients, help me cope with problems and stress at work.I need someone who will come with me to work at least three times a week, make me coffee, answer important phone calls for me and just be there for me.

Maya: Sweetheart, assistant ba talaga kelangan mo?

Richard: Ikaw ang kailangan ko, Maya. As my wife and partner, I now have the perfect chance to let you know more about our business.

Maya: Our business?

Richard: Maya, what’s mine is yours, too. And I think it’s best you get to know more about LAS, too. It’s our company, after all.

Maya: Bakit ako? Nandyan naman si Luke.

Richard: Of course, Luke will eventually be part of the company, but he’s only a sophomore in college now. Matagal pa bago siya magtrabaho sa LAS.

Maya: Pero

Richard: Maya, LAS is yours as much as it is mine. And I would really love it if you would consider this time as an opportunity to get to know our business more. Sabi mo nga you’ll be so bored these next few weeks if you can’t get your hands on something. Eto na ang perfect opportunity.

Maya: Ano namang gagawin ko dun?

Richard: Honestly? It’s up to you. I want you to come with me and observe and see how things work in our company. The rest is up to you. Knowing you, by day’s end come Monday, baka may maisip ka nang gawin o itulong for the success of LAS. Believe me, Maya, I’m certain you’ll be an asset to our company. I’ve always loved your innovativeness, wit, patience, humor and positivity. LAS will be so lucky to have someone like you.

Maya: Okay.

Richard: Okay lang? Walang demands at all? Mas demanding ka pa the first time we made a deal and I had you work for me,

Maya: Hihihi! Balita ko fair naman yung boss niyo, eh. Bukod sa ubod ng gwapo, the best boss and engineer pa. Di naman niya ko siguro pag-oovertime? Buntis kasi ako, kaya twice or thrice a week lang ako pwede pumasok sa trabaho.

Richard: Tama ka, mabait at gwapo ang magiging boss mo. Hindi ka nun papahirapan. Ihahatid at susunduin ka pa nun sa trabaho, for sure. And in a few years, should you decide to become a full time flight attendant again, okay lang sa kanya yun sigurado. Ang kailangan lang nun lambing at kiss at kape pag nase-stress na sa trabaho. Kaya mo namang ibigay lahat yun, diba?

Maya: Haha! Oo naman. Eh hanggang kelan naman ang contrata ko dun? Malapit na kasi ako manganak, eh.

Richard: It’s a life long contract. The benefits are great. You get to sleep, kiss and make love with your boss all you want, too! Forever…

Maya: Haha! Wow! Excited na ko. When can I start?

Richard: ASAP. Your boss can’t wait to have you join the company.

Richard and Maya smile their way out of the restaurant and then share a lingering kiss to seal the deal the moment they enter their car.

Part 5

That night as Richard and Maya prepare for bed, they talk about another pressing concern.

Maya: Sweetheart, nahihirapan ang mga bata makaisip ng pangalan para sa kambal. Sabi nga nila, sumali na daw tayo.

Richard: Well, do you have something in mind?

Maya: Gusto ko sana may Richard pa din ang pangalan ng magiging baby natin. Panigurado gwapo, singkit, maputi at ubod ng bait at talino si Baby B. Ang ganda kaya ng ibig sabihin ng pangalan mo. Ung “ric” ibig sabihin nun “power, rule.” Tapos ung “hard” means “brave, hardy.” Brave power, o diba, ang ganda, sweetheart?

Richard: At talagang ni-research mo pa ha.

Maya: Oo naman. Powerful, strong ruler ang ibig sabihin ng Richard. Tapos gusto ko two names din katulad nina Luke kaya naisip ko ring mag-research naman ng name na ang ibig sabihin God’s gift. Kasi sweetheart, etong sina baby kambal talaga namang gift ni God sa atin, diba?

Richard: Matthew. The name Matthew means God’s gift.

Maya: Tama ka, sweetheart. Kaya kung ako ang masusunod, gusto ko sanang pangalanang Matthew Richard Dela Rosa Lim si Baby B natin. Matt for short.

Richard: I like that. You know what, sweetheart? I actually have a name in mind for our Baby G who I am already quite certain will be as beautiful, kindhearted and lovely as her mom.

Maya: Yan ka na naman sa pambobola mo. Okay na diba? Tinanggap ko na yung job offer mo.

Richard: No seriously, Maya. Do you know that your name means “close to God”? You are God’s gift to me, Maya! You brought me closer to Him when you came into my life. I’d like to call our baby girl Arabella Maya. Bella for short. Arabella/ Bella means beautiful. What do you think?

Maya: Wow, sweetheart! Like na like! Palagay mo magustuhan ng mga bata yung suggestions natin?

Richard: Matthew Richard and Arabella Maya Dela Rosa Lim. Matt and Bella. I do have a feeling they’d love the names we’ve chosen.

Maya: Sana nga. Luke, Nikki, Abby, Matt and Bella Lim. Bagay, diba? Haay, sweetheart, ang sarap pakinggan, diba? Uhhhm, sweetheart, okay lang bang tawagin kita ulit Sir Chief pag nasa LAS tayo?

Richard: If that’s what will make you happy, then that’s okay with me. And since you’re married to me, I’ll have them call you, Mrs. Chief. Okay with you?

Maya: Siyempre, para match. Hihi! Eh ano namang itatawag mo sa kin?

Richard: That’s easy. My Chief, of course.

—

Life continues to happen for Richard and Maya and it’s a marvel to witness how they cope with whatever life throws their way. Life has not always been this exciting, easy and fun for them. When they first met, they were both struggling with their own problems, fears, concerns and dreams. Lucky for them, they faced life’s challenges head on, became friends, found strength in each other, fell in love and fought for that love. Now, they’re happily married and expecting twins.

Can you just imagine how beautiful this place would be if there were more Sir Chiefs, Mayas and families like theirs in this world?

Richard and Don Roberto Are Stressed

This piece is inspired by March 10’s BCWMH episode (and March 11 teaser) where we find Richard and Don Roberto clearly exasperated by the visit of Nikki and Abby’s admirers.

Part 1

Nicolo and Lance, Nikki and Abby’s respective suitors, finally bid Don Roberto and Donya Esmeralda goodbye. Unmindful of the stress they brought upon the household, both boys leave the mansion with satisfied smiles on their faces.

Donya Esmeralda (DE): Haay naku, Roberto! What a long day we’ve had! This is all new to us.

Don Roberto (DR): True. Who would have thought that at our age, we would experience this?

DE: Haha! We didn’t experience this at all with Ricky!

DR: But of course! Lalaki ang anak natin!

DE: Sometimes I wish we had a daughter, too. It would have been fun to have gone through this when we were younger with our very own daughter.

DR: (smirks and shakes his head)

Donya Esmeralda’s phone rings.

DE: (Looks at DR) It’s Ricky. Hello, Ricky? You’re Papa’s also here ha. I’ll put you on speaker phone.

Richard: Ma, Pa, tell us what’s happening. Maya’s here with me, too.

Maya: Hi, Ma, Pa!

Richard: Are Nicolo and that boy still there?

DE: Naku, son, they just left, and your Papa is so exasperated.

DR: Who wouldn’t? What gets to me is that little rascal boy! Sobra ang confidence. Talo pa etong Nicolo! He was ably dressed and even had flowers and chocoloates! And he simply wouldn’t budge even if I insisted it’s time for him to go home cos it’s past his bedtime! Kids these days!

Maya: Hihi!

DE: Haha! He actually reminds me of you, Ricky, when you were little. That little boy is so good looking and charming. He also has guts and confidence.

Maya: Talaga Ma? So may niligawan din po ba si Ricky nung bata siya?

Richard: Sweetheart!

DE: Naku yang si Ricky wala sa isip niyan ang girls nung bata yan. Puro school and toy airplanes ang interest. Nung ga-graduate na nga yan sa high school nagka-girlfriend, eh.

Maya: Si Elysse po?

DE: You know her?

Maya: Hindi po. Nakwento lang po niya dati na after ng prom naging sila at romantic daw yun…

Richard: Are you jealous, sweetheart?

Maya: Hindi, ‘no? Siya first girlfriend mo. Ako last, so winner ako! Haha!

Richard: You’re not just my last girlfriend, Mahal. You’re my wife, too!

Maya: Ahh, Mahal!

DE: Naku, kayong dalawa napaka-sweet talaga.

Maya: Siyempre po. Eh, Ma, bakit nyo po nasabi na parang si Ricky yung manliligaw ni Abby?

DE: Kasi, hija, napaka-cute na bata!

Maya: Talaga, Ma? Naku parang gusto kong makilala yang little rascal boy na yan. And, Ma, kamusta po yung mallows cheeks ni Nicolo? Miss ko na din yun.

Richard: Maya!!! So, Ma, what did Abby do?

DE: She told the boy straight to his face to stop what he’s doing. That they’re still kids.

DR: And that kid even had the guts to ask if bina-busted daw ba siya ng apo ko? I can’t believe he even knows what that word means. And he didn’t even want to give me his parents phone number. What is it with kids these days?

Maya: Talaga po?

Richard: Buti na lang po nandiyan kayong dalawa.

Maya: Oo nga po. Kasi kung hindi, baka lumipad po si Ricky diyan ng di oras. Haha.

Richard: What about Nikki and Nicolo? Did they talk, too?

DE: They did. But we don’t really know what they talked about. Luke and Aira were on the lookout while they talked.

Maya: Talaga? Andiyan po si Aira? Hihi.

DE: Apparently, she’s Nicolo’s bestfriend.

Maya: Opo, Ma. And friend na din ni Luke now. Hihi.

DE: You mean?

Maya: Magkwentuhan na lang tayo, Ma, pagbalik namin diyan.

Richard: Pati ba si Mama, ka-girl talk mo na?

DE: But of course, son!

Richard: How was Nikki after her talk with Nicolo?

DR: She seems okay, son. Maybe you can call your two girls tomorrow morning to check on them before they go to school.

Richard: Thanks, Pa. I’ll do that.

DE: Naku, Ricky, Maya, etong Papa nyo nanggigil pa din! Palibhasa, matanda na siya nung niligawan ako.

DR: Esmeralda! But of course! My two granddaughters are still too young to be entertaining suitors.

Richard: I agree with you, Pa.

DE: Hay naku. Kayo talaga ng Papa mo, nagkampi pa. I find the whole incident entertaining actually. I have two very beautiful granddaughters and those two boys are smart enough to notice them. O, diba?

Maya: Haha, Ma. Yan din po ang sabi ko kay Ricky. Isa lang ibig sabihin. Ang gaganda ng mga anak namin. Haha!

DE: True. Manang-mana lang sa ating dalawa, Maya.

Maya: Tama po kayo.

DR: I can’t believe you find this whole this incident amusing at all. Naku, I better go to sleep. Bye, Ricky and Maya.

Richard: Good night po, Pa.

Maya: Good night po.

DE: Okay kids. Good night. Bye.

Maya: Good night, Ma.

Richard: Good night, Ma.

Don Roberto and Donya Esmeralda immediately fall asleep following their conversation with Richard and Maya.

Part 2

In San Nicolas, Richard is still in deep thought as Maya sits on his lap.

Maya: Mahal, tama na muna kakaisip. Matatalino at mababait na mga bata sina Nikki and Abby. Alam nila ang tama and marunong silang makinig sa atin.

Richard: You’re right. And I’m glad you’re with me now as I deal with all these. I often told Manang Fe before na pagdating kay Luke alam ko ang gagawin, pero kay Nikki and Abby, dun ako kinakabahan cos I don’t really know how I’ll deal with their concerns.

Maya: Andito na ko, diba? And basta tungkol sa mga bata, kapit-bisig parati tayo.

Richard: I know I don’t say it often, but thank you for coming into my life, sweetheart! I love you so much.

Maya: Ako din, Mahal. Mahal na mahal kita.

Richard holds Maya close and leans in for a brief kiss.

Maya: Mmm…

Richard: (smiles) Mahal, naisip ko lang. Hindi pa natin alam kung anong gender ng dalawa nating babies.

Maya: Pano kung parehong babae? Panigurado stressed ka na naman pag may nanliligaw na sa kanila.

Richard: Yes. At si Papa and Luke din. Pero seriously, I want a boy and a girl for our twins.

Maya: Alam mo, sweetheart, ako din. Perfect yun. May baby Richard and baby Maya na tayo.

Richard: And they’d be so cute for sure. Mana sa atin, siyempre.

Maya: Haha! True!

Richard: I love you, Mahal.

Maya: I love you, sweetheart! Halika na tulog na tayo.

Richard: Ang haba na nga ng tulog mo kanina. Tulog na naman nasa isip mo. Haay ang misis kong buntis talaga.

Maya: Ayaw mo? Sige mauna na ko. Diyan ka na lang matulog sa sala.

Richard: Tampo agad? Eto na. (scoops up Maya from his lap and carries her to their room)

Maya: Sweetheart, ibaba mo ko. Baka makita tayo nina Nanay, nakakahiya.

Richard: No. I want to carry you and if Nanay sees us, kikiligin pa yun for sure. Wag ka nang kumontra.

Maya: Okay.

As Richard enters their room with her in his arms, Maya leans in for a lingering kiss that leaves her and Richard breathless and craving for more… Finally! Maya is now wide awake and ready for Richard… *wink *wink

Richard and His Mini Me’s Version of “GIRL TALK”

This scenario is inspired by last February 28’s episode of BCWMH. Richard’s touching attempt to engage Nikki and Abby in “girl talk” to make them both feel better was simply a heart tugging moment. Here goes another scenario in my mind, Richard’s second attempt at “girl talk” with his beautiful mini me.

–

It’s the first night since they got married that Richard and Maya are sleeping far apart from each other.

It’s past 10 in the evening and Richard is all alone in the kitchen preparing hot milk for himself. He doesn’t normally drink milk, but he remembered how Nikki once told him that Maya said a glass of milk at night can help one get some sleep. It’s been an hour since he got off the phone with his wife, but he still couldn’t sleep. He misses Maya terribly. Seemingly in a trance as he thinks about his sweetheart, he does not notice that Nikki has joined him in the kitchen and has poured a glass of milk for herself, as well.

Nikki just smiles as she stares at her Dad. She still couldn’t believe sometimes that their once lonely home is now brimming with love, laughter, happiness and good vibes. All thanks to the woman who is currently and constantly occupying his Dad’s heart and mind, her Tita Mommy– God’s wonderful gift to them after her Mom passed on. She will forever be grateful to her Tita Mommy for coming into their lives and allowing them to experience how it is to be happy and whole all over again. In a few months’ time, her Tita Mommy and Dad will be giving them the best gift ever– their beloved twin siblings whose birth they all await with bated breath. Although Nikki still feels crappy because of Nicolo, she can’t help but smile as she lovingly gazes at her Dad who just earlier this evening embarrassingly came to see her and Abby hoping to engage them in “girl talk” even if he obviously felt too awkward to do it. She can’t believe he said he even had their Tita Mommy coach him. She has the sweetest and the best Dad and Mommies in the world! Lucky her, she thought. With her Dad still in a pensive mood, Nikki tries to get his attention by holding his hand.

Nikki: Daddy? Daddy?

Richard: Uhm, hmm… What are you doing here at this time, Niks?

Nikki: Like you, Dad, I can’t sleep, too! (Smiles) Are youuuu thiiiiinkiiiing about Tita Mommy, Daddykins? You’re missing her na?

Richard: Yes, baby…

Nikki: (Suddenly becomes quiet)

Richard: Niks, what is it? Are you missing someone, as well? What’s up with Nicolo?

Nikki: Oh my gee, Dad! Don’t say that. Can we not talk about him, please?

Richard: (Smiles) Okay. But clearly, something is bothering you. Why don’t we both go up and talk some more. (With their glasses of milk, they go up to the entertainment area and settle on the couch side by side each other.) Ask me anything, Niks.

Nikki: Are you sure about that, Dad?

Richard: (Smiles) Yes.

Nikki: Dad, can you make me kwento na lang about your love story with Tita Mommy?

Richard: Ha? (Smiles) That’ll be a rather long story to tell. Why don’t I read a bedtime story for you na lang like I always did when you were little?

Nikki: Dad! The last time you did that was ages ago. I’m not Abby, Daddykins! Besides, didn’t you promise I can ask you anything? And nothing interests me more than listening to your love story. I haven’t had the chance to ask Tita Mommy to make me kwento, eh.

Richard: Ok, Niks. If listening to our love story will make you feel better, I’m all for it.

Nikki: I don’t know, Dad. Pero it might. You know how much I love rom-com!

Richard: Rom-com? You’re labeling our love story as rom-com, Niks?

Nikki: But of course, Dad! You married a lovely woman with a great sense of humor, after all. She’s the funny kulit one in your love story, while you’re the serious sungit one. Haha! Pero Dad, you’re so super kulit din pala ha.

Richard: What?!?

Nikki: While we were at the park with Lolo and Lola kanina, they made kwento about how you were as a kid. You were so super kulit din pala. Mas makulit ka pa pala kay Kuya!

Richard: (Smiles then chuckles ) They said that? So bagay pala talaga kami ni Tita Mommy mo. Pareho kaming makulit! So, what do you want to know, Niks?

Nikki: When you first met Tita Mommy you didn’t like her at all, diba po? (The first of Nikki’s many thought bubbles come out– “Like I didn’t like Nicolo the first time we met. I thought he was a basag ulo freak who was a bad influence kay Kuya! He was so G-R-R-R!”)

Richard: (Laughs) Haha! She was just so loud and talkative and meddlesome!

Nikki: I do remember. (As if in a trance, she pauses and Richard notices, but does not ask what she’s suddenly thinking. The various faces she makes does not escape Richard’s notice, though. “Nicolo was so jologs and how I hated him! I couldn’t even stand being with him in a room!”) Mealtimes were never the same again when Tita Mommy came! She talked too much! And I hated her for no apparent reason. Maybe it’s because I’ve never met anyone quite like her before.

Richard: Like you, Niks, I wondered if she was for real. She seemed too good to be true. And I hated it. She smiled all the time and seemed to have this happy vibe ingrained in her system. You’re right, Niks. She’s unlike anyone we’ve ever met before.

Nikki: (Smiles) Like you, I hated it when she smiled and made me kulit. (“Wait! Oh my gee! Parang she’ s that basag ulo freak! Mallows was always so kulit and was smiling at me all the time! And how I hated it!”)

Richard: But then I saw how she was with Abby and how Abby blossomed under her loving care and guidance. And though you and your Kuya were not her responsibility, I also saw how much she cared about you guys, as well.

Nikki: And it took me a while to see how much she cared for all of us. Abby and then even Kuya warmed up to Tita Mommy eventually pero ako hindi pa din. When Kuya gave her a bag when she was just starting school, I was like ‘why’?

Richard: I guess, we’re a lot a like, Niks. We question and overthink everything sometimes. I kept denying for a long time that Maya’s a good person, so kind-hearted and so loving…

Nikki: Dad? You’re blushing! You miss, Tita Mommy na?

Richard: (Smiles) Of course!

Nikki: Oh! That’s so sweet, Daddy! But Dad, tell me. When did you realize you like Tita Mommy na pala? (“When did I know I like Mallows na?”)

Richard: You remember that night we camped out dito sa house when you and Luke were fighting? And then that night we lit the lantern that carried your letters for your Mom?

Nikki: Yes, Dad.

Richard: During those two occasions, I felt something for her, I guess. I saw how much she cared about you guys and it warmed my heart.

Nikki: Awww! That long na, Dad?

Richard: (Nods and smiles)

Nikki: You liked her for a long time na pala. Did you tell her then?

Richard: No!!! I don’t know, Niks! Though I felt something, it took me longer to realize that I have actually fallen for her. What your Mom and I shared was beautiful and unforgettable, so I thought that it was impossible for me to ever fall in love again. But your Tita Mommy came and everything changed. I changed and love happened. I fell in love. She is now my sun. Our sun, Niks!

Nikki: (Smiles) Oh… (“Just like me with Mallows pala. I didn’t even know I was falling for him na!”)

Richard: (Smiles)

Nikki: Dad, if you’ve liked Tita Mommy for that long na pala, did you get jealous when Kuya Simon started coming to the house to pursue her?

Richard: Haha! Maybe. But back then, I tried to make myself believe that I was just trying to be a protective boss sa Tita Mommy mo by giving her warnings left and right not be too trusting of Simon and other men she will come in contact with.

Nikki: (Laughs) And I remember how I tried pushing Tita Mommy to say yes to him ha. No matter how I nudged her to say yes to Kuya Simon, she just kept saying na hindi si Kuya Simon yung ideal man nya. Maybe— you were her ideal man na then and she must have fallen for you na rin during that time!!! (Gazes at her Dad with stars in her eyes) Aww! How sweet!

Richard: (Smiles) Your Tita Rafi told me much later that she noticed early on that Maya and I had mutual feelings for each other. Pareho lang daw kami dense kaya it took longer before we got together. Haha.

Nikki: Yes, Dad. I agree with Tita Rafi. You can be dense at times.

Richard: But Nikki, I’ve been a changed man since then, that’s why it didn’t take me long to figure out all by myself that you have a crush on Nicolo.

Nikki: Daddy!

Richard: (Smiles with a mischievous glint in his eyes) Whaaat?!? I’m just saying the truth!

Nikki: Daddy naman, eh.

Richard: Okay, I’ll stop na. What else do you want to know?

Nikki: Did you ever get jealous of other guys because of Tita Mommy?

Richard: (Smiles, takes a long pause and stares intently at his teenage daughter. “Is this it, Niks? Are you jealous of some girl because of Nicolo? Let me in, Niks. I want to know what’s bothering my princess.”) I did get jealous and it caused a major misunderstanding between me and your Tita Mommy. We have not even acknowledged our feelings for each other then, but I got so jealous and said things I shouldn’t have said at all, and your Tita Mommy left because of that.

Nikki: Huh? When? And whom were you jealous of?

Richard: Christmas time 2012. You remember your Tita Mommy didn’t spend Christmas here?

Nikki: (Gasps) You were fiiiightiiiing then? That song she sang during our Christmas party with our barkada here at home was for you, Dad? I remember how she was fuming mad then, Daddy! Hahaha!

Richard: It was a misunderstanding that could have been solved had I not assumed too much and hurled hurtful words at her.

Nikki: What happened?

Richard: You remember the summit your Tita Mommy and I attended? You remember Capt. James Ventura?

Nikki: (Nods) Tito James? The pilot in our flight to San Nicolas?

Richard: Yes. Well, he was extra friendly with your Tita Mommy during the summit and I assumed the worst… Let’s not get into details. Basta I got so jealous and said things that hurt your Tita Mommy.

Nikki: Aaah. (“Am I just like Daddy? Did I just assume the worst of Nicolo? Should I give him a chance to explain? I know I should. Next time he calls, I’ll answer the phone na and listen to what he’ll say.”) Kaya pala you suddenly went on tiger mode when Tita Mommy left. We were so scared of you kaya, Dad! Kaya pala we went to San Nicolas. We went all the way to Tita Mommy’s province to spend the best New Year ever so you could say, I mean SIIIING ‘Sorry, Pwede Ba?’ Hahaha, Daddy! All the while Kuya and I thought we went there so you could fulfill Abby’s wish!

Richard: I know.

Nikki: And did you start pursuing her then, Dad?

Richard: Not yet.

Nikki: Why?

Richard: I don’t know… But to be honest, I did miss her after she left and lived at Eman’s.

Nikki: Yes. We were all so sad when she left. You must have been so super sad din when she left.

Richard: Yes. Thank God for your prom, I had the perfect excuse to see her again. She was breathtakingly beautiful that night. By then, I knew. What we have, iba. Kasi gusto ko na pala siya.

Nikki: (Smiles. “When did I start seeing Nicolo differently? Was it after I met his bestfriend Aira and he declared he’ll court her? I guess it just happened. I suddenly had a crush on him na even if I didn’t like to have a crush on him at all. Daddy’s right pala when he said before na we can’t choose whom to love and when we fall in love. Love happens. In my case, crush happens! Haay!”)

Richard: What are you thinking, Niks?

Nikki: Ahhh. I’m thinking about you and Tita Mommy, Daddy. You’re oh so perfect for each other talaga. So did you start courting her after the prom?

Richard: I did. Our first date was something else. I had planned the perfect date sa cruise ship, but because we got there late we ended up feasting on balut and pork barbecue sa Baywalk.

Nikki: Ha? Really, Daddy?

Richard: But we had so much fun talking about anything and everything. Wherever we are, basta we’re together, we always enjoy naman.

Nikki: Kahit dito sa house pa lang naman before Dad, diba, you always enjoyed Tita Mommy’s company? You enjoy talking with each other. Kami din, we all liked talking with her, too.

Richard: Yes. She’s the best.

Nikki: And I am so glad, Daddy, that you guys never gave up on each other even if I did what I did.

Richard: She’s always had faith in you, Niks. Remember that day when we talked and you left school to go to your Mom? When your Tita Mommy found out that we had a misunderstanding, she reminded me to cut you some slack cos you’re still young and can act impulsively.

Nikki: Awww! Oh my gee, Daddy! Tita Mommy is the best talaga. I’m glad she found her way into our lives. I sometimes think Mom has a hand in all this. She saw how sad we all were when she left and she must have prayed to God for a miracle during all those five years we were mourning her loss.

Richard: I guess so. You know your Mom well. She’s a selfless and loving woman, as well. She wants us to be happy. She wants only what’s best for us.
You still miss her Niks?

Nikki: I still think about her but I don’t miss her na. I don’t want her to worry about us na kasi. She’s in heaven na and I want her to be happy watching us from afar. I don’t want her to be sad for us na. What about you, Daddy?

Richard: I will always love your Mom and will forever be grateful to her for giving me the most precious gifts– you, your Kuya Luke and Abby. We mourned her loss for a long time. I thought we would never recover. But as you said, things do happen for a reason. Maya eventually came and like magic made everything alright.

Nikki: Yes, Dad! Tita Mommy was the miracle we were blessed with. We’re so lucky, Daddy! And we are, Dad! We’re all HAPPY na.

Richard: I know.

Nikki: So, when did Tita Mommy finally say yes to your panliligaw?

Richard: Mothers’ Day. You remember I went out of town that day?

Nikki: (Nods and smiles)

Richard: I surprised her at work. It was her first day as a full-fledged flight attendant and I wanted to be in the same plane with her. She didn’t even know I was in that flight.

Nikki: Really?!? Oh my gee! Parang scene sa romcom!

Richard: Yes, I hid my face from her the whole flight. I covered my head with a magazine, then with a blanket. I had to duck several times, too!

Nikki: You’re such a romantic din pala, Dad!

Richard: I guess I am. And there at the most romantic place in San Nicolas, your Tita Mommy and I officially became girlfriend and boyfriend.

Nikki: Awww!

Richard: And here am I now, Niks. Happily married to your Tita Mommy.

Nikki: And expecting twins! We’re so lucky to have you, Dad. We were lucky to have Mom, too. No matter how short we had Mom, she was the best Mom, too. We will always love her. And we’re lucky to have Tita Mommy now. The best Mommy, as well.

Richard: I’m glad you all opened your heart to her.

Nikki: She’s so easy to love, Dad. You think it’s alright if we all start calling her Mommy? Cos she is truly a Mommy to us, Dad. Matagal na, I guess even before you guys fell in love, she was a Mommy to us na.

Richard: Yes. She’s been a Mommy to all of you for the longest time. Are you sure about calling her Mommy, Niks? I’m sure she’ll love that.

Nikki: Of course, Daddy! I want us to call her the same way our twin siblings will call her. Mommy! Awww! I’m so sweet ‘no, Daddy?

Richard: You are, Niks. Kanino ka pa ba magmamana, diba?

Nikki: Of course, sa yo, Daddykins! I love you, Daddy!

Richard: I love you, too, Niks. I hope I helped you get your mind off whatever’s bothering you.

Nikki: You did way better than that, Dad! You answered all the questions that have been bugging me kanina pa.

Richard: I did? What questions did you have ba?

Nikki: (Turns red in embarrassment) Daddy!!!

Richard: (Chuckles) Okay! Okay! I’m just happy we had this talk.

Nikki: Girl talk?

Richard: Yes, I’m glad we had this “girl talk” and you’re okay na.

Nikki: (Hugs and kisses Richard) I am, Dad. All thanks to you. Good night, Daddykins!

Richard: (Kisses and hugs Nikki back) Good night, Niks. I love you.

Nikki: I love you, too, Daddykins! Nightie night na!

With satisfied smiles on their faces, Richard and his mini me retreat to the comfort of their respective rooms, happy to have kept each other company this lonely night. Before long, they finally fall in deep slumber and dream about the person they hold dear in their hearts.

Welcome Home, Mommy!

Inspired by the February 24 teaser where Maya takes a short vacation to San Nicolas, here is another scenario that popped up in my head as I wondered how Richard and the kids will cope with Maya’s short absence from their happy home.

Part 1

It’s around 8 pm and Richard is still inside his home office staring at his laptop screen. He misses Maya. It has only been two days since they’ve been apart from each other, but he already misses her. Lost in thought, he does not notice at once that Luke, Nikki and Abby are inside his office wishing him good night.

Luke: Dad? Is anything wrong?

Richard: No. Nothing’s wrong. I’m just finishing something for work tomorrow. I’ll be going up in a while, too.

Nikki: Well, all right then. Good night, Dad.

Richard: Good night, Niks.

Luke: Good night na din po, Dad.

Richard: Good night, son.

Abby: Dad, can I stay with you for a while?

Richard: Sure, baby.

Nikki: Okay, Dad. Kuya and I will go up na ha. We’re so sleepy na po.

Richard: Ok.

Abby: Daddy, I miss Tita Mommy.

Richard: Well, we all do, baby.

Abby: But I think you miss her more, Dad.

Richard: (smiles) And why is that, Abby?

Abby: Because you have no one with you in your room.

Richard: Well, yes, baby. But it’s okay. In a couple of days I’m going back to San Nicolas to pick up your Tita Mommy. Don’t worry about Daddy na, baby.

Abby: Daddy, you remember what you and Tita Mommy did before so I won’t be lonely in school?

Richard: Yes. Your Tita Mommy hung the airplanes I made in your classroom window so you won’t be lonely. Why?

Abby: I have an idea so you won’t be lonely anymore, Daddy.

Richard: What, baby?

Abby: Let’s make airplanes for Tita Mommy and baby kambal. While Tita Mommy isn’t here, those airplanes can accompany you in your room. Tapos po, when Tita Mommy is here na, those airplanes can be a wonderful surprise for her. Then we could also add those planes as decoration sa room nina baby kambal.

Richard: That sounds like a good idea, baby. But let’s work on Tita Mommy’s plane lang tonight, so we can still sleep early. We’ll ask Kuya Luke and Ate Nikki’s help naman tomorrow for the twins’ planes. Why don’t you go up to your room and get all your coloring materials while I get all the other materials ready here in the office?

Abby: Okay, Dad. I ‘ll also ask Manang Fe to make Tita Mommy’s coffee for you. (Goes up to her room and returns to the office with a bunch of coloring materials ) … Daddy, I think the plane should be color blue cos its yours and Tita Mommy’s favorite color. Then you can also design the plane with sunflowers cos Tita Mommy likes them and you like giving them to her, too. Then we can add glitters pa so it’ll be pretty and shine like Tita Mommy.

Richard: Shine?

Abby: Yes, Dad. Tita Mommy always shines, diba po? She’s a lot like the sun. She makes our days always so happy and bright. She’s our sun, Daddy!

Richard: Yes, baby. And I like your idea. Let’s go work on that plane…

By the time Richard is done with Maya’s airplane, Abby has fallen asleep. He leaves his table in a state of chaos, as he takes Maya’s airplane with him and scoops up Abby to take her to her room.

Part 2

The following day after dinner, Luke, Nikki and Abby help their Dad design planes for the twins. One is a yellow plane with blue cars and red trucks as design, while the other is a pink plane with yellow ribbons and green flowers.

Nikki: I must say, Dad. This is brilliant! Tita Mommy will love all these planes.

Richard: I’m sure she will, Niks.

Abby: Tita Mommy will be so proud of us for making all these planes!

Nikki: I’m hoping Abby is right… That we’ll have one boy and one girl for twins.

Richard: We can keep praying for that. Otherwise, we’ll have to make more planes pa.

Luke: Dad, I haven’t thanked you yet for the airplane you made for me last year. Nagustuhan ko po talaga yun. Ang ganda po ‘nun talaga.

Richard: You’re welcome, son.

Nikki: Me rin, Dad. I love the plane you made for me. I love the glitters you added to my plane also. It’s so me!

Richard: Well, I think you should also thank your Tita Mommy for that.

Nikki: Why?

Richard: Well, you know how helpful your Tita Mommy is, diba? While I was making the planes for you then, she offered help in designing your planes. (Chuckles as he remembers that night) Pinagalitan ko pa nga siya kasi she kept adding glitters to your plane. Muntik na tuloy di makalipad yung sa inyo ni Abby, Niks. I had to make adjustments pa sa weight ng plane.

Luke: Haha! Ang kulit talaga ni Tita Mommy! Kahit ang sungit niyo nun, Dad, nakukulit na kayo ni Tita Mommy.

Richard: (laughs) Yes! Makulit, madaldal, pakialamera, maingay… She was a shock to my system… She was a shock to all of us!

Luke: But even then, Dad, Tita Mommy made you smile and laugh and made you do things we thought you’ll never be able to do again. We were never able to make you do all those after Mom left. But when Tita Mommy came, she did.

Nikki: Kuya’s right, Dad. Now that I think about it, Tita Mommy made you smile, laugh, and live again. She’s a miracle worker!

Richard: Ang kulit kasi! Ang hirap makipagtalo sa kanya. Hahaha!

Abby: Tita Mommy is always so funny. She makes us laugh all the time!

Nikki: Thank you for allowing us to do this with you, Dad! It’s so super fun kaya. And though we miss Tita Mommy, we’re all missing her less tonight because of this moment.

Richard: You’re welcome, Niks! Did you guys say good night to her na?

Abby: Yes, Dad, she called na before we went down here. Daddy, diba po I gave away all the planes you made for me before to all my classmates sa play school?

Richard: Yes, baby! And I was so proud of you for doing that. It always feels good to share.

Abby: Pero Daddy, I want you to make another plane for me. And also for Kuya, Ate Nikki, and for you.

Richard: No problem, baby. I can make those planes for all of us.

Abby: Ok po. You make the planes, Dad. Then I’ll have Tita Mommy make the designs para our planes will all be so pretty.

Richard: Ok. But now, it’s time for all of us to go to bed. Let’s go.

Abby: Good night, Daddy.

Nikki: Wait! I remembered something. Even this good night thing, Dad. This routine got lost to us until the day Tita Mommy came and made Abby kiss you good night every single day. Tita Mommy’s the sweetest talaga! I can’t believe that before she came, we were all so scared to kiss you good night.

Richard: Well, that’s over and done with now. We were all still mourning your Mom’s loss then. I’m just happy that we’re all closer now and we can actually share whatever we’re thinking or feeling.

Luke: Noon pa talaga ang sweet na ni Tita Mommy, Dad. And noon pa talaga ang taray na ni Nikki! Buti na lang nagkahimala and bumait na si Niks ngayon, Dad!

Nikki: Kuya! You’re so GRRR talaga!

Richard: Haha. Thank you guys for loving your Tita Mommy, too. She’s always loved you kahit hindi pa kami nun. She’s always cared for all of us.

Nikki: We know that naman, Dad. And even if it took me almost forever to accept her, she didn’t mind waiting. I love her so much now, Dad. I can no longer imagine this family without her. Tita Mommy is the best!

Richard: Thanks, Niks.

Nikki: Dad, I think it’s time we give Tita Mommy a surprise when she comes back from San Nicolas.

Abby: (claps her hands) I love surprises!

Luke: Ano na naman plano mo, Niks?

Nikki: Don’t you think it’s time we call her Mommy? Not that she’s replacing Mom or anything, but she’s really a Mommy na to us, diba? And Dad, I really don’t want our twin siblings to ever wonder why we call her Tita Mommy and they call her Mommy. I mean, she really is Mommy to us, too! And I don’t ever want the twins to think that they’re different from us. You think Tita Mommy will be okay with that?

Richard: I’m sure your Tita Mommy will love that.

Luke: Mommy na, Dad.

Richard: (smiles) Yes!

Abby: I have a plan! Daddy, can we add another design to Mommy’s plane?

Richard: What do you want to add, baby?

Abby: Let’s add the word MOMMY dun po sa plane. I’m sure she’ll love that po.

Luke: At panigurado, maiiyak siya pagnakita nya yun, Dad!

Nikki: But of course, Kuya! That’ll be so touching kaya!

Richard: Well, okay then. But let’s do that tomorrow, kids. It’s really time for bed.

Luke, Nikki & Abby: Good night, Dad.

Part 3

Saturday morning, Richard flies to San Nicolas to pick up Maya. After spending the night in San Nicolas, Maya and Richard fly back to Manila the following morning excited to see their kids.

The welcome Maya receives upon coming home brings her to tears. There to welcome her by the main door were not just her loving family, but a poster bearing the words, “Welcome home, Daddy and Mommy! We miss you!” The kids all rush towards her to give her a kiss, a hug and an airplane.

Maya: Kayo talaga! Sandali lang ako nawala grabe naman ang surprise niyo.

Abby: That’s because we love you so much, Mommy!

Maya: Mommy talaga?

Nikki: Yes, Mommy! Is that okay?

Luke: Kasi Mommy, once the twins are born, they’ll call you Mommy, diba?

Nikki: We don’t want them to ever wonder why we call you Tita Mommy and not Mommy. Besides, you’ve really been a Mommy to us for the longest time na. And we really want to call you Mommy. Is that okay?

Maya: Oo naman! I love you, mga anak!

Richard: (Whispers to Maya) I love you, sweetheart… (Clears his throat) Just in case you forgot, I’m also here, kids!

Luke, Nikki and Abby laugh and rush to their Dad and give him a kiss, too.

Maya: Ang ganda naman ng mga airplanes na ‘to!

Abby: You like them, Mommy? Dad made them and we all helped design them.

Maya: Pero, bakit nyo naisipan gumawa nito?

Richard: It was Abby’s idea, sweetheart.

Abby: Kasi Mommy, Daddy was so sad when you were not here kaya po I remembered the airplanes and how they kept me company while in play school. Kaya po, these three planes have been sleeping beside Daddy while you were away po.

Maya: (Hugs and kisses Richard) Awww, sweetheart! Promise, last time na yung ganung set up! Di ko na din pala kaya na di ka kasama gabi-gabi. (Looks lovingly at the kids) Miss na miss na miss ko kaya kayo at ang Daddy niyo.

Donya Esmeralda: (Clears her throat, too) Just in case you forgot, we’re also here.

Richard and Maya: (Laugh as they approach their Mama and Papa and kiss them) Ma, Pa…

Manang Fe: O, pasok na kayong lahat ng makapananghalian na.

Don Roberto: The ice cream is waiting, kids!

Luke, Nikki and Abby: Yes! Ice cream after lunch!

Maya: Kayo ha, baka kung anu-ano na ni request niyo kina Lolo niyo nung wala ako. Kumakain ba kayo ng gulay?

Abby: Yes, Mommy. We all eat gulay na and we also make sure Daddy eats his veggies, too! And Lola makes Lolo eat them, also! Next time can we have veggie pizza naman?

Everyone laughs as they enter the house, their happy home brimming with love, laughter and good vibes.

***

We’re Having Twins!

A/N: Inspired by the February 10 teaser and last year’s Valentine episodes, here goes another scenario in my mind…

Part 1

At the hospital room where Maya is confined, Richard shocks everyone with his news…

Richard: When they were doing the ultrasound, the doctor discovered something.

Nanay Teresita: Ano?

DE & Lim kids: What?

Richard: We did not expect this at all.

Manang Fe: Ano nga, Ricardo?

Maya: Mahal, sabihin mo na.

Nikki: Dad! What is it? The suspense is killing me!

Luke: How are you, Tita Mommy?

Abby: How is baby bunso, Daddy, Tita Mommy?

Richard: (smiles) Well, your Tita Mommy is okay. She just needs to be on bed rest for a month. And you don’t have to worry about the babies. They’re doing okay.

Everyone is initially shocked and dumbfounded. Then they all shriek!

Nikki: BABIES? Oh my gee, Daddy! Did we hear you right?

Abby: Does that mean po, we’ll be having twins, Tita Mommy?

Maya: (smiles) Oo, baby! Ang saya ‘no? Baby twins pala sila. Hindi lang agad napansin ni Dr. Galero.

Luke: Pero you’re okay, Tita Mommy?

Maya: Oo naman, Luke. Napagod lang daw siguro ako this week kaya nag-spotting.

Richard: Your Tita Mommy will be on complete bed rest for a month muna. So that means, no work for her. She can go home na tomorrow, pero yun na nga… She’ll be staying mostly in bed lang muna just to make sure the twins will be okay. She also can’t go up and down the stairs muna, so we have to make other adjustments, too! Siguro she’ll be taking her meals sa room or sa study area muna. She’s not allowed to walk too much, as well. Less than a month from now will be the start of the second trimester of your Tita Mommy’s pregnancy. The doctor says she’ll be okay by then. That is, if we make sure she’ll be on complete bed rest this month.

Nanay Teresita: Wag kang mag-alala, Richard. Sisiguruhin nating lahat yan.

Donya Esmeralda: Yes, Ricky! We’ll make sure of that!

Abby: Ate Nikki, your wish came true! Diba po you’ve always prayed that Dad and Tita Mommy will have twins?

Nikki: I know, right? Haha! This is the best birthday gift ever!

Part 2

Following doctor’s orders, Maya now spends her days inside the masters bedroom. She has her usual set of visitors daily– Donya Esmeralda, Nanay Teresita, Manang Fe and Abby to keep her company. To while away her time, she reads books, helps Abby with homework, and sleeps a lot. Rafi and Emman occasionally call her on the phone, too. Once Luke and Nikki are home, they also spend time with their Tita Mommy. In the evenings, Richard and Maya engage in their usual long talks and tender moments. Richard is extra attentive and caring to her these days, as well. He gives her a bath every morning and helps her wash up and prepare for bed at night. The best husband ever has been coming home earlier than usual, too!

–

It’s after dinner and Luke, Nikki and Abby join their Dad and Tita Mommy for dessert at the entertainment area. Maya, whose legs are resting comfortably on Richard’s lap, has opted to skip dessert and drink her calcium-enriched milk instead.

Nikki: Oh my gee! It’s going to be Valentine’s Day na pala in a few days!

Maya: (smiles at the kids and looks lovingly at Richard) Oo nga, malapit na nga pala ang Valentine’s Day, Mahal!

Luke: So, anong plano mo, Nikki Grace Lim?

Abby: You have a date, Ate? With Kuya Nicolo ba or Kuya Fake Mallows?

Nikki: Baby! I’m not going on a date!

Luke: Nikki, bawal ka pa makipag-date ha. Daddy, o, si Niks!

Richard: So, why are you so excited, Niks?

Nikki: I’m excited for you, Dad, and for Tita Mommy! It’s going to be your first Valentine’s Day together, diba? And it’s going to be our first Valentine’s Day as a family!

Luke: Oo nga ‘no?

Abby: I don’t think so, Ate, Kuya! It will be Daddy and Tita Mommy’s second Valentine date na.

Nikki: Huh?!?

Richard: What do you mean, baby?

Abby: Diba po last year, we all planned to have a Valentine date together? Ate Nikki and I baked some treats for dessert. Kaya lang po, na-traffic kayo sa pag buy ng food. Tapos we all fell asleep na before you got home. Tapos kayo na lang po ni Tita Mommy nag-date for Valentine’s, diba po?

Maya: Aaah! Pero baby hindi date yun. Hindi ko pa naman boyfriend ang Daddy nyo nun, eh.

Abby: Kahit na po. Date pa din po yun.

Richard: (smiles) How so, Abby?

Abby: Did you give Tita Mommy flowers then, Daddy?

Richard: Yes. But I also gave you, Nikki and Manang Fe flowers.

Abby: Did you pick her up and take her somewhere nice?

Richard: Well, yes. I picked her up from her training school cos we had to go to South Curves to buy food for dinner.

Abby: Did you give her chocolates, Daddy?

Richard: Well… South Curves gave out free chocolates, so I gave her those chocolates.

Abby: Did you eat together?

Richard: Ahhhm yes, because you were all asleep na when we got home.

Abby: So that means you and Tita Mommy had a date then. And this coming Valentine’s Day will already be your second.

Everyone laughed.

Richard: Ok little Attorney. You win! Manang-mana ka talaga kay Tita Mommy mo.

Nikki: (raises her right hand) My turn!

Luke: My turn ka diyan! Ano na namang gimmick mo Nikki?

Nikki: Eh I want to ask Dad and Tita Mommy questions, eh… Tita Mommy, how did you feel when Daddy gave you flowers then?

Richard: Siyempre Niks, kinilig si Tita Mommy mo. (smirks)

Maya: Mahal ha! Hihi! Pero tama ang Daddy nyo. Kinilig nga ako. Haha!

Luke: If that wasn’t a date, Dad, how come may flowers ka for Tita Mommy?

Maya: Ah kasi Luke naawa yung Daddy mo dun sa bata na nagtitinda kaya binili na lang niya yung balloons and flowers para makauwi na yung bata.

Luke: Ows? Yun lang ba yun Dad?

Richard: Well, we’re married now, so obviously, that wasn’t the only reason why I bought those flowers. Maybe I really wanted to give your Tita Mommy flowers then and that kid outside the restaurant gave me the perfect opportunity!

Nikki: Haha! So, Daddy, what was your palusot naman po for giving Tita Mommy chocolates?

Richard: The waiter gave us free chocolates. I asked your Tita Mommy if she wanted them. Sabi niya oo. So I gave her the chocolates.

Maya: Haha! Teka lang Mahal. May naalala ako. Nung nasa kotse na kami, may lumapit na batang humihingi ng limos. Ibibigay ko sana yung chocolates pero pinigilan mo ko. Para ka kayang batang nagtampo. (Looks at the kids) Sabi ng Daddy nyo, “Maya, when someone gives you something, you don’t give it away.” Haha.

Luke: Haha! Si Dad talaga o! Palusot pa. Talaga naman para lang kay Tita Mommy yung chocolates.

Nikki: Awwwwww! You guys are so sweet talaga!

Abby: So you didn’t give the little child anything?

Maya: May binigay naman kami baby. May sandwich pa pala ako sa bag ko. So yun ang binigay ko.

Nikki: So Abby’s right. This coming Valentine’s Day won’t be your first Valentine date na pala.

Maya: Ganun na nga. Hihi! Pero yung last year, friendly date yun ha.

Abby: I have a question pa po.

Richard: What is it, baby?

Abby: Daddy, did you and Tita Mommy kiss after your date?

Maya, Luke and Nikki chuckle and all say at the same time, “Baby!!!”

Richard furrows his brow and asks, “Kiss? Where did you get that idea, baby?”

Abby: From the movies Ate Nikki and I watch. When a boy and a girl go out on a date, the boy kisses the girl after he takes her back to her house.

Nikki: Oops, sorry Dad.

Richard: (looks at Nikki and pouts) Baby, your Tita Mommy and I did not kiss then.

Luke: So, when did you first kiss Tita Mommy?

Abby: Tita Mommy, is Daddy your first kiss? Kasi po sa slumbook ko before diba po you wrote “none” dun sa first kiss, eh.

Both Richard and Maya’s cheeks reddened in embarrassment.

Richard: Yes, baby. I was your Tita Mommy’s first kiss.

Maya: Ang Daddy nyo ang first and only love and boyfriend ko. Hihi!

Abby: Hihi!

Nikki: That’s so sweet!

Luke: So, Dad, kelan nga po yung first kiss ninyo ni Tita Mommy?

Richard: After your prom.

Nikki: (giggles and covers her mouth in surprise!) Oh my gee! When?

Richard: When we sent her back the condo, diba I left you guys in the car so I could to take her to her floor? I kissed her on her cheek before she entered the condo.

Nikki: Awww!

Richard: And she looked so shocked and scared right after! She even tried to stay away from me for days!

Maya: Hihi! Siyempre naman, Mahal. Di ko naman in-expect yun ‘no? Nagulat ako! Di ko alam kung bakit mo ginawa yun… Hihi! Nun mo lang ba napansin na maganda pala ako? Haha!

Abby: Hihihi! When I grow up, I want to be just like you, Tita Mommy! I want to have a boyfriend and a husband who is just like Daddy! He’s the best, isn’t he?

Maya: Oo naman, baby! (Looks lovingly at Richard) The best talaga ang Daddy niyo.

Nikki: Me, too, Tita Mommy!

Luke: Anong me too ka diyan, Niks! Yung Mallows mo, ang layo layo kaya kay Daddy.

Nikki: Kuya! Daddy, o.

Richard: That’s enough, Luke. Pero Niks, your Kuya does have a point!

Nikki: Daddy!

Maya: Oo nga, Mahal. Wala ka kasing mallows cheeks na katulad ni Nicolo, eh.

Everyone laughs!

—

They talked some more as they feasted on the fruit salad and blueberry cheesecake Sabel prepared for dessert. Everyone but Nikki was ready to call it a night.

Nikki: So, can we plan something for Valentine’s Day? It’s a Friday naman po so we call all stay up late.

Richard: I don’t think we can go out, Niks. There’ll be so much traffic and everyone will be out that night dating. Going out won’t be good for your Tita Mommy and baby kambal.

Luke: So dito na lang po tayo sa bahay?

Richard nods.

Luke: Sorry, Niks!

Nikki: Kuya!!! You’re so G-R-R-R talaga!

Maya: Pasensya na Nikki ha.

Nikki: That’s my plan naman talaga, Tita Mommy, Dad! Dito lang tayo sa house. I’ll bake!

Abby: (raises her hand) I’ll help!

Nikki: Of course, baby.

Maya: At since may chef naman tayo dito sa bahay, si Chef Sabel, siguro gawa na tayo ng listahan ng mga gusto nating ipaluto sa kanya! Nandito pa si Nanay kaya makaka request tayo ng kare-kare at suman sa latik!

Abby: Wow, we’ll turn the veranda pa into a restaurant? I want spaghetti!

Nikki: Don’t worry, baby! Kasama yan sa list, siyempre.

Richard: But I have one condition!

Luke: Ano po yun, Dad?

Richard: Your Tita Mommy can’t join in the planning. She and the twins need to rest!

Maya: Mahal!

Nikki: Don’t make kontra na, Tita Mommy! Daddy’s right! You have to rest. We’ll take care of everything and we’ll make sure to have the best Valentine family date ever!

Part 3

On Valentine morning, Richard wakes up Maya with a bouquet of sunflowers, the warmest hug and the sweetest kiss. Then the kids surprise them both with a hearty breakfast in bed and personalized Valentine cards.

Maya: Wow! Ang sweet nyo talaga, Luke, Nikki, Abby! Thank you!

Richard: Sila lang?

Maya: Siyempre ikaw din, Mahal.

Maya then cups Richard’s face and gives him a quick peck on the lips.

Richard: What was that?

Abby: Daddy, that’s a kiss.

Luke and Nikki laugh.

Richard: Okay. (Then whispers to Maya) Mahal, I hardly felt your lips on mine. I want more…

Maya: (giggles and whispers to Richard) Mamaya na, Mahal. Kelangan wholesome muna. May audience pa tayo. Hihi!

Abby: What’s that, Tita Mommy?

Maya: Wala, baby! Excited na kami ng Daddy niyo kumain.

Richard: You prepared these yourselves?

Nikki: Yes, Dad! I cooked the yummy pancakes. Kuya cooked the burned sausages…

Luke: Talagang in-emphasize pang nasunog ha, Niks?

Nikki: … while Abby prepared the freshly squeezed orange juice with the help of Lola.

Maya: Ang sweet niyo naman. Thank you!

Luke: Enjoy your meal, Daddy, Tita Mommy… Labas na po muna kami. We have to get ready for school na.

Richard: Okay, kids. Thanks for breakfast…

Once the kids were out of the masters bedroom, Richard looks at Maya and pouts his lips.

Maya: O, ano na naman yan, Mahal?

Richard: Yung kiss ko?

Maya: Mahal, mamaya na yan. Kain muna tayo.

Richard: Ngayon na, Mahal.

Maya: Mahal, kain na muna tayo tapos may surprise ako sa yo.

Richard: Ano?

Maya: Mamaya na kita iki-kiss habang pinapaliguan mo ko.

Richard: (smiles mischievously) Okay. And what’s your surprise?

Maya: Meron pero baka di ka kasi pumayag, eh.

Richard: What are you thinking?

Maya: Okay lang ba sa yo sabay naman tayo maligo this morning? Hihi! Wala naman tayong ibang gagawin, eh. Gusto lang kitang paliguan din, Mahal. Yun ang Valentine gift ko para sa yo.

Richard: (smiles) Gift para sa kin o gift mo din para sa yo?

Maya: Oo na. Gift ko din para sa sarili ko. Ang daya mo kasi, eh. Ikaw, araw-araw mo ko pinapaliguan, tapos ako di ko pa nagagawa yun para sa yo!

Richard: (smiles) Well then, I guess okay lang. O, let’s finish our food na. Hurry na, Mahal. Let’s not keep the bathroom waiting. Excited pa naman ako to scrub your back while you scrub mine (then winks).

Maya: Hihi! Mahal…

Part 4

Valentine dinner at the veranda with the kids and the rest of the family was a blast for Richard and Maya. The whole household went out of their way to give their Sir Chief and Mrs. Chief a Valentine to remember. Donya Esmeralda, Nanay Teresita , Manang Fe and Sabel did an excellent job with each of the dishes they prepared. Nikki and Abby’s baked treats (chocolate chip cookies and carrot muffins) were heavenly. Thanks to Luke, the instrumental arrangements of Please Be Careful with My Heart and The Way You Look Tonight played in the background while everyone ate and shared happy, funny stories with each other. To cap off the evening, Doris (as Maya) serenaded Joma (as Richard) to the unforgettable tune of “Chinito” much to the amusement of everyone.

After her performance, Doris tells Richard and Maya, “Sir Richard, Mrs. Chief, Happy Valentine’s Day po. Sana happy kayo sa ginawa ko. Sana din po hindi nabulabog ang kambal na nasa tiyan ninyo dahil sa kin at kay Joma. Alam po naming lahat na napaka-espesyal ng araw na ito sa inyo kasi unang Valentine’s Day celebration nyo po…”

Abby: Ate Doris, it’s not their first Valentine together po. Second na po.

Sabel: Ha, Abby? Eh nung isang taon naman, hindi pa boyfriend ng Tita Mommy mo si Daddy mo, ah.

Abby: Yes po.

Nanay Teresita: So pano mo nasabing second Valentine date na nila today, Abby?

Abby: Because they went on a Valentine date together po last year, Lola Nanay!

Donya Esmeralda: (smiles) Really?!?

Richard: It’s not what you think, Ma. I picked up Maya from work last year so we could go to South Curves and buy food for dinner dito sa house. Traffic was so bad. Because it was late, only Manang Fe was awake when we got home. So only Maya and I ended up eating together that night. So, technically, we ended up being each other’s Valentine date last year.

Donya Esmeralda: Is that so? Well, fate did a play a part, I guess.

Nanay Teresita: Tama ka balae, wala pa silang kamalay-malay, pinaglalapit na sila ng tadhana!

Nikki: And as Abby put it, last year was truly Daddy and Tita Mommy’s first Valentine date cos there were flowers and chocolates involved, too!

Richard: May backstory din yan…

Luke: Yes, Dad. Pero with or without a backstory po, the thing is, you and Tita Mommy are here now, happily married, and expecting twins!

Nikki: Last Valentine’s Day was the first time Tita Mommy received flowers from Dad! Aaaawwww!!!

Sabel: Sandali lang po, Ma’am Nikki. Hindi po first time yun ni Mrs. Chief na makatanggap ng bulaklak kay Sir.

Nikki: Really?

Doris: Oo naman po, Ma’am Nikki. Pangalawang beses na yun.

Luke: Ows, talaga? Kelan yung una?

Richard and Maya: Huh?

Sabel: Nung nandito po si Ma’am Rafi, nagpadala po si Sir Charlie ng bonggang-bonggang mga bulaklak. Dahil ayaw ni Ma’am Rafi, inutos niya kay Sir Richard na itapon na lang yung mga yun. Di naman po tinapon ni Sir Richard…

Doris: Binigay niya po kay Mrs. Chief! Hihihi!

Maya: Pero Doris, di naman talaga para sa kin yun. Nanghinayang lang si Ricky na itapon kaya binigay niya sa akin.

Sabel: Eh bakit sa yo lang binigay ni Sir, Mrs. Chief? Tatlo tayong nandun nung binigay nya. Hindi naman niya sinabing SA INYO na lang.

Doris: Ang sabi niya, SA YO na lang.

Joma: Ano namang gusto mo Doris? Sa yo ibigay ni Sir? Asa ka pa. Hahaha.

Doris: Nakakainis ka, Joma, ha!

Sabel: Hmmm. Dati pa lang pala, talagang it’s you already, Mrs. Chief!

The story elicited wild laughter from everyone, as Richard and Maya turned red.

Nikki: Wow, Daddy, you’re really meant to be pala! Why did none of us here in the house ever notice that before?

Richard: That’s where you’re wrong, Niks. Someone noticed very early on that Maya and I are meant to be.

Maya: Tama. Di pa namin alam ng Daddy niyo na mahal na namin ang isa’t-isa, siya alam na.

Abby: Really po?

Richard: Yes, baby!

Luke: Sino po yun, Dad?

Richard & Maya: (smile) Si Manang Fe!!!

Manang Fe: (smiles) At di naman ako nagkamali, diba?

Richard & Maya: (smiles lovingly at Manang Fe) Opo, Manang.

Melodious laughter then echoed in the happy home once again. Before long, thank you’s, warm hugs and kisses were exchanged as everyone decided to call it a night.

Part 5

From the veranda, Richard carries Maya back to the masters bedroom.

Inside the bathroom, after they both freshen up, Richard scoops up Maya and takes her to their bed. He gazes lovingly at her doe-shaped eyes and kisses her intensely. She wraps her arms around his neck and responds to his deep, passionate kiss. Suddenly reminded of their twins, they both end the kiss abruptly, even as desire continue to burn in their eyes.

Maya: (whispers) Mahal?

Richard: I love you!

Maya: I love you, too!

They both chuckle and then hug each other tight. Maya giggles some more.

Richard: O, why?

Maya: Etong kambal natin, binitin tayo. Hihi!

Richard: Haha! Next time, Maya. Next time.

Maya: I love you, Mahal, ng sobra sobra!

Richard: I love you more, Mahal. Good night and sweet Sir Chief dreams!

Maya: Ay, gusto ko yan, Mahal! Good night!

They kiss one more time and eventually fall asleep in each other’s arms.

SC & Maya, Nikki & Nicolo: On Crushes and First Love

A/N: Inspired by last week’s episodes and the January 27 teaser, here goes my take on Nikki and Nicolo’s budding love story.

This piece is dedicated to my friends @angelica, @bymommamee and @Rr36 who kept insisting earlier that I write something. Here it is, girls!

Happy reading, everyone!

~*~

Part 1

Nicolo left Richard Lim’s office, the dreaded principal’s office, in the Lim home, with a smile of relief on his face. Though he was scared, tense and anxious during lunch with the Lim family and dreaded facing Richard Lim, the young man left the mansion with a huge grin on his face, hopeful about his fate with Nikki Grace Lim, the girl of his dreams.

His talk with his Tito Richard, Nikki’s dad, was refreshing on many levels. Not only did his Tito Richard question his intentions and feelings for his daughter, he also reminded him to abide by his rules, to wait and not to rush things for him and Nikki, as they are both still young. The words of his Tito Richard echo in his head as Joma drives him back to his house , “… I hope you can wait, though. Okay ka naman, eh, pero bata pa kayo. Relationships require a certain level of maturity, and I don’t think you’re both ready…”

Nicolo’s admiration for his Tito Richard grew in leaps and bounds after their conversation. Nicolo found Richard’s level-headedness, tactfulness and sincerity admirable. For Nicolo, Niknik’s dad has always been the kind of father any kid would be lucky to have. His man to man talk with his Tito Richard made him aspire to be someone like him in the future, a devoted and loving father and husband, a great provider and a respected CEO and engineer in the business community.

Nicolo is now inspired more than ever to prove to Niknik’s dad how serious his intentions are for Nikki. He makes a vow to himself to give his best in his studies so that when the right time comes, he will be worthy for Niknik. As an afterthought, Nicolo says to himself, “Sabi ni Tito Richard, mag-wait and mag-focus sa studies para pagdating ng panahon may mao-offer ako sa taong mamahalin ko. Kakayanin ko, promise. At dito sa puso, sigurado ako, si Niknik ang babaeng yun at wala ng iba!”

–

At the hospital, Nikki is on the phone with his Tita Mommy. Nikki is anxious to find out how her Dad and Nicolo’s conversation went.

Nikki: Tita Mommy, how was it?

Maya: Nikki, mukhang okay naman. Nang lumabas ang Daddy mo at si Nicolo sa principal’s office, pareho silang nakangiti.

Nikki: Really, Tita Mommy?

Maya: Oo. Di nga tiger mode ang daddy mo, eh. Pinahatid pa nga niya si Nicolo kay Kuya Joma pauwi sa bahay nila, eh.

Nikki: Oh my gee, Tita Mommy, really? What did they talk about po?

Maya: Naku, Nikki, hindi ko din alam. Pero mukha namang naging maayos pag-uusap nila, kaya wag ka na mag-alala.

Nikki: Okay, Tita Mommy! Thankie!

Maya: O sige, magpahinga ka na. Tama na muna pag-iisip kay Mallows, okay?

Nikki: Yes, Tita Mommy! Promise!

Maya: Mamaya bibisitahin ka namin diyan ng Daddy mo. O, eto na muna si Abby, nami-miss ka na daw. Mag-usap muna kayo…

Part 2

That same night at the masters’ bedroom, Richard and Maya lie side by side each other as they get ready to sleep. Maya’s head rests comfortably on Richard’s wide chest…

Maya: Mahal?

Richard: Yes?

Maya: (Faces Richard, her left hand on his right chest) Antok ka na ba?

Richard: (Faces Maya, as well) Di pa naman. Why?

They both sit up, and with Richard’s hand still resting on Maya’s shoulders, both lean against the headboard.

Maya: Curious talaga ako. Sabi mo kanina di mo pinayagan si Nicolo na makipagkita muna kay Nikki…

Richard: Yes.

Maya: Eh bakit parang okay lang sa kanya? Ngiting-ngiti pa siya nung lumabas ng office mo. Anong sinabi mo sa kanya?

Richard: Na okay siya. Not only is he Luke’s bestfriend, but a friend of our family. I told him that I have rules and he has to follow them. I also told him to wait and not to rush things. I reminded him that relationships require a certain level of maturity, and I don’t think he and Nikki are both ready.

Maya: Hihi!

Richard: O, why?

Maya: Ewan ko ba, pinakilig mo na naman ako Mr. Lim (lifts her head and kisses him on the mouth)

Richard: O, bakit? What was that for?

Maya: Hihi! Basta! Sige na, tuloy mo na kwento mo.

Richard: I also told him na baka in two years, he’ll change his mind and find another girl to like.

Maya: Ano naman sagot niya?

Richard: Hindi daw. Si Nikki lang daw. I told him that I want both him and Nikki to allow themselves to grow and mature, to be certain of who they are first, so they’ll both be ready to commit themselves to a relationship, not necessarily with each other, when the right time comes. Sabi ko pa, he and Nikki should focus on their studies muna so they’ll have something to offer sa taong gusto nila. Ater I said that, I saw determination on his face. And sabi pa niya, gagawin niya lahat para maging karapat-dapat daw for Nikki. And honestly, Mahal, I think he can. He’s a good kid.

Maya: Naku, totoo yan, Mahal! Nakakatuwa naman yang si Nicolo. Di lang gwapo at ubod ng lambot at pula ng pisngi, talagang kahanga-hangang bata pa!

Richard: (Smirks) What?!?

Maya: (Touches his face with both her hands and kisses him again) Pero siyempre naman, Mahal, wala nang papantay sa kagwupuhan mo! Hihi! The best ka talaga, Mahal! Hihihihi!

Richard: O, bakit na naman?

Maya: May bigla lang kasi ako naalala… Parang lahat nang pinangaral mo kay Nicolo based on experience.

Richard: Ha?

Maya: O, diba, parang ikaw lang yan nung niligawan mo ko?

Richard: (Smiles) How so?

Maya: Di mo ko minadali o binigla kasi alam mo na… basta alam mo na…

Richard: (Smiles) Na you’ve never had a boyfriend?

Maya: Oo… Pinabayaan mo din muna akong kilalanin mabuti ang sarili ko at tuparin ang mga pangarap ko bago ang lahat. Pero di mo lang alam, konting ngiti mo lang sa kin kahit nung kararating ko pa lang sa mansyon, kilig na kilig na ko sa yo! Haha!

Richard: I know! Crush mo kasi ako. Kaya nga wala kang ginawa kundi singhot-singhutin ako, diba?

Maya: (Chuckles) Nakakainis ka! Pero totoo yun. Ang bango-bango mo kasi! Haha!

Richard: But there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you. When did you realize na crush mo ako?

Maya: (Smiles) Mahal, naalala mo nung nanakawan tayo sa lumang bahay tapos tumira tayo sa hotel?

Richard: (Nods)

Maya: Nung nandun tayo sa hotel nun ko na-realize na crush na pala kita. Di mo ba napansin na panay ang iwas ko sa yo ng mga panahon na yun? Takot na takot kasi ako na baka malaman mo tapos tanggalin mo ko sa trabaho. Hihi!

Richard: (Smiles) Continue…

Maya: Kaya lang, ibang klase ka din talaga. Maya’t maya, ako tinatawag mo para tulungan ka… Wala ka ding ginawa kundi mas pakiligin pa ako kahit di mo sadya. Alam mo bang nung nalaman kong ikaw nagbigay ng unan para sa kin nung sinamahan ko sina Abby sa kwarto nila ni Nikki, di mawala ngiti ko nun. Gustong-gusto ko ngang iuwi yung unan na yun nun, eh. Pinigilan ko lang sarili ko. Tapos may time pa na karga-karga ko si baby tapos nag good night kiss ka sa kanya, diba halos matumba na ko dahil sa pag-iwas sa mukha mo na halos dumampi na sa mukha ko nung nag-kiss ka kay baby. Haha! Grabe ka kasi magpakilig, eh! Tapos diba nakulong pa tayong dalawa sa elevator nun habang siksikan? Grabe yung tibok ng puso ko nun sa sobrang lapit natin sa isa’t-isa! Hihi!

Richard: (Smiles and gives Maya butterfly kisses on the neck before capturing her lips for one sweet kiss)

Maya: (Giggles) Tapos di kaya kita mabasa. Di ko maintindihan kung anong gusto mo. Nung umalis ako sa bahay niyo ang lungkot-lungkot ko kasi alam kong mami-miss kita ng sobra pero pinayagan mo na kong umalis… Naguluhan pa nga ako nung umpisa kung anong ibig mong sabihin sa pag-kiss sa pisngi ko nung prom, pati yung mga regalo mo nung umpisa, di ko maintindihan ano meaning. Hihi! Maging si Emman mabaliw-baliw sa pag-iisip kung bakit mo ko binigyan ng champorado package, ng bookbelt and pepper spray. Haha! Pero salamat ha.

Richard: For what?

Maya: Kasi ang galing, eh! Naghintay ka at naging medyo matagal paghihintay mo. Hihi. Hindi ka sumuko, Mahal! Sobra mo pinaramdam sa kin kung gaano mo ko kamahal! Nung tayo na, pinaramdam mo naman sa kin kung gaano ako kaswerte kasi mahal na mahal mo ako at kaya mong ipaglaban ang pagmamahal natin sa kahit ano o sino pa mang hahadlang. Parang perfect ang timing mo sa lahat. Alam mo na ready na ko everytime may gusto ka itanong. Nung nag propose ka tuloy, handang-handa na ko! Ang galing mo talaga, Mahal!

Richard: (Smirks) That’s what loving you taught me. And that’s what I want to teach Nicolo, too! To be patient and to persevere and to prove himself worthy in front of the woman he loves!

Maya: Parang ikaw lang?

Richard: (Smiles, shrugs his shoulders and purses his lips) Yes, Mahal! Can I let you in on a secret?

Maya: Secret? Ano?

Richard: (kisses her on the mouth for a full minute and gives Maya his heart-stopping bedimpled smile) I’ve been meaning to kiss you that way since the night I brought you home after we had our first date kahit na we feasted on balut! Haha! I even wanted to punch Emman when he suddenly came out of nowhere and that kiss did not happen!

Maya: Hihi! Talaga, Mahal? Naka-smile ka kaya nun!

Richard: Oo, Mahal! Pero what I really wanted to do was punch him then. Haha! Kasi naman, diba…

Maya: Ako di naman, eh, nabitin! Haha! Bakit di mo kasi tinuloy? Kala mo yata, di ako ready! Haha! Naku, Mahal! Maiiyak na naman yata ako sa pag-reminisce natin ng nakaraan! Hihihi! Mahal na mahal na mahal kita, Mr. Lim! Ang swerte ko kasi mahal na mahal mo ko!

Richard: Mrs. Lim, you just don’t know how happy you have made me by coming into my life and making me happy and whole once again! Between the two of us, I consider myself luckier and more blessed, because you graced my life with your presence… because you came when I needed you most. You are God’s best gift, Mahal!

Maya: Awww! Mahal! Ikaw na talaga, ang pinaka sa lahat ng bagay! Sobrang mahal kita!

Richard: I love you more, Maya. And I always will…

Richard and Maya share a heartwarming smile and a lingering kiss before they finally doze off to sleep.

Part 3

Donya Esmeralda comes home from China the following day to help take care of her granddaughter, Nikki. While Richard, Maya and Abby go to the hospital for Maya’s regular check-up and scheduled ultrasound, Donya Esmeralda and Luke take Nikki home from the hospital.

–

A couple of days later, Nikki is excited to finally be back in school. Amiel, Stacy and all her friends are happy to have her back, of course. Aware that she did miss quite a lot during her absence, Nikki used all her vacant and study periods to approach her teachers and request for make up work. When the last class for the day came and it was finally time for her WesTeatro meeting, Nikki could only look forward to going home and taking a much needed rest before dinner with the family.

Unknown to Nikki, Nicolo snuck inside their school premises during Club time and headed to the classroom were she held her meetings for Westeatro. When Nikki saw Nicolo discreetly waiting by the door, she excused herself from the group and asked Stacy to take over their meeting. She approaches Nicolo and leads him to the adjacent vacant room.

Nikki: (Looks scared) Oh my gee, Nicolo! What are you doing here?

Nicolo: Gusto lang kita makita.

Nikki: Diba I said sa phone not to worry na. I’m okay na. So go na before someone sees us together.

Nicolo: Niknik, nagpunta lang naman ako para magpaalam. Nagkausap na kami ni Tito Richard at nag-promise ako sa kanya na hindi kita liligawan ngayon dahil bata pa tayo pareho pero maghihintay ako ng tamang panahon — yung handa na tayo at parehong mature na. And nag-promise din ako na hindi muna ako makikipagkita sa yo.

Nikki: (Runs towards him, gives him a hug, much to his and her surprise) I miss you, Nicolo!

Nicolo: Ako din, Niknik. Miss kita and paniguradong mami-miss kita ng sobra. Pero tama naman si Tito Richard, eh. Kelangan muna natin kilalanin mabuti ang sarili natin at mag-mature pa.

Nikki: I know. I talked with Daddy, too! And he’s right. We should wait muna. And alam mo, even before Dad said that naman, I promised myself na, that I will not be distracted by boys muna. I’ll focus on my studies muna like what Tita Mommy did. Daddy was her first love, you know.

Nicolo: Ganun ba? Wag kang mag-alala Niknik, hindi kita mamadaliin. Kaya kong maghintay kasi pakiramdam ko di lang kita basta crush, alam ko…

Nikki: Enough na, Nicolo. I don’t want to hear anymore. I’ll be okay. You’ll be okay. Let’s forget about all these muna and focus on the things that should matter at this time. School and our dreams. Sige na. Go na.

Nicolo: (Smiles at Nikki one last time) Sige, Niknik! Promise ko sa yo, gagalingan ko sa school! Tatalunin ko pa si bespren kung gusto mo.

Nikki: Haha! Whatever, Nicolo! You’re silly! Sige na. Go na. Club time will end soon and dadating na si Kuya and si Kuya Joma in a few minutes!

Unknown to both Nikki and Nicolo, Amiel was hiding right outside the door of the adjacent classroom where they were talking, intently listening to their conversation. Before Nicolo and Nikki headed outside the adjacent classroom, Amiel stealthily went back to the WesTeatro room right before Nikki did. When Nikki took over the meeting again, Amiel stared at the object of his affection with a smile on his face and thought to himself, “Nikki, it isn’t just Nicolo who’s willing to wait for you no matter how long it takes. Me, too. And now that I know that you and Nicolo are not officially together and won’t be officially together anytime soon, I’ll be a friend to you, too! Who knows, in time, I may just be the kind of guy you may fall in love with!”

He Loves, She Loves

Inspired by Rafi’s ‘brilliant’ suggestion to Richard at the end of the January 17 episode, as well as the January 20 teaser, here goes another scenario in my mind…

Part 1

Richard enters the dimly lit masters bedroom to find his beautiful, pregnant wife peacefully asleep. He feels bad about coming home late again and not being able to join Maya and their kids for dinner. Thank God, Nikki is back from the hospital and his Mama is coming home for a few days to look after her. He no longer wants Maya to stress over not being able to look after Nikki. Work has been tough as of late, what with Lim Aviation’s numerous expansions in the works. As much as Richard wants to spend less time at work and be with his family, he couldn’t.

He walks slowly to his wife’s side of the bed, sits beside her, leans in, touches her tummy and gives their unborn child a kiss. “Hello, little buddy. Daddy’s right here, okay? I love you!”

Then he moves closer to his wife and kisses her forehead and says, “Good night, Mahal! Sweet dreams. I love you…”

He stays beside her a little longer than usual as he recalls the conversations he had with his Mama and Rafi the day before. The thoughts in his head are endless as he lovingly gazes at his dear wife.“Why would you even believe that? You must really love me so much to resort to that belief. The last thing I want to happen is for you to worry about me… Should I even consider what Rafi is suggesting? Should I even pretend successful ang paghakbang mo and nalipat sa kin paglilihi mo,” he chuckles and shakes his head. Then he finally says to himself, “Anything for you, Mahal!”

Richard then proceeds to the bathroom to freshen up. He joins his wife in bed not soon after. He was asleep in no time.

Part 2

Maya is the first to wake up. And just like yesterday, she is once again devoid of any morning sickness. Seeing her husband fast asleep, she muses, ”Mukhang effective, ah. Tulog na tulog. Hihi! Yes! Matulog ka muna, Mahal. Okay lang ako at si baby bunso,” then she kisses him on the lips.

–

Maya joins Luke and Abby for breakfast.

Luke and Abby: Good morning, Tita Mommy!

Maya: Good morning, mga anak.

Luke: Tita Mommy, si Daddy po?

Maya: Naku, ayun tulog na tulog. Mukhang sobrang pagod, eh. Tinawagan ko si Liza para i-check kung kelangan nila ang Daddy nyo sa office nang maaga. Mga 10 AM pa naman daw kaya mamaya ko na lang sana siya gigisingin. Sana okay lang sa inyo.

Luke: Of course, Tita Mommy. Buti naman makakapahinga si Dad nang mas matagal.

Abby: Tita Mommy, do you want the pancit Daddy cooked for you? I’ll ask Ate Sabel to heat it up for you po.

Maya: Naku baby, okay lang ako. Mukhang maayos na panlasa ko kaya di ko na makain luto ng Daddy niyo.

Luke: Haha, Tita Mommy! Mapait po ba yung luto ni Dad?

Maya: Oo, eh! Hihi! Okay na ko dito sa luto ni Sabel.

Abby: You’re sure, Tita Mommy? Ayaw na ni baby bunso ng luto ni Daddy?

Maya: Sure na sure!

They all laugh.

Part 3

Inside the masters bedroom

Maya: Mahal, gising na.

Richard: (moves slightly) 5 minutes pa…

Maya: Mahal 8:00 na. Sabi ni Liza may ka-meeting ka daw ng 10 AM.

Richard: (smiles mischievously at Maya) Kiss muna…

Maya leans in and gives Richard featherlight kisses on the lips. The feel of his wife’s lips on his awakens his senses. Richard envelopes Maya in a warm embrace, pulls her back in bed, and gives her a lingering kiss. Before long, the inevitable happens much to his and Maya’s delight. *wink *wink

–

In the dining area

Maya: Good morning, Mahal! Breakfast ka na.

Richard: Good morning! How are you and baby bunso? Did you eat na? You want me to cook something for you?

Maya: Okay kami ni baby bunso. Kumain na kami kanina kasabay sina Abby at Luke.

Richard: Bakit di mo ko ginising kanina para nakasabay ako sa inyo?

Maya: Naku, Mahal, ang sarap kaya ng tulog mo kanina kaya di na kita inistorbo.

Richard: Oo nga eh. At ang sarap ng gising ko. Sana maulit muli… (then winks at Maya)

Maya: (blushes a deep red) Mahal!

Richard: O, what? Gusto mo matulog na lang tayo all day?

With Maya’s back facing him, he hugs her tight and kisses her neck.

Maya: (smiles and blushes again) Hihi! Mahal, tama na! Maupo ka na nga! O, kain na…

Richard was about to get a serving each of rice, longganiza and egg on his plate when Rafi’s melodic voice suddenly enters his head, “Hinakbangan ka nya. So what? Some guys naglilihi din sila kahit walang scientific basis. Pagbigyan mo na kasi… Kunwari, naglilihi ka din. Sabay kayo…”

Maya: Mahal?

Richard: (smells the longganiza and pouts)

Maya: O bakit?

Richard: I don’t feel like eating, Mahal. Sa office na lang siguro.

Maya: (smiles knowingly) Pero tanghali na, Mahal. Baka malipasan ka ng gutom… Wait, pagbaon na lang kita ng sandwich.

Richard: Okay… O, why are you smiling?

Maya: Wala lang. Masaya lang ako na napagsilbihan kita ngayon.

Richard: So, no morning sickness today?

Maya: Wala.

Richard: Good. By the way, what time is your flight?

Maya: After lunch pa tapos before dinner siguro andito na ko sa bahay.

Richard: Okay, good. Wag ka na magpahatid sa service. Mama’s flight is arriving around 5:30 PM. Sabay ko na lang kayo sunduin.

Maya: Okay, Mahal! I love you, Richard Lim!

Richard: I love you more, Maya Dela Rosa Lim!

Part 4

At the veranda after dinner

Richard: May nagbago sa timpla mo. Did you buy a different coffee brand, Mahal?

Maya: Hindi naman, Mahal. Yun pa din. Ayaw mo ba?

Richard: (Feigns a dislike for the coffee his wife prepared) Iba yung lasa, eh.

Maya: Naku, Mahal, effective yata talaga yung kasabihan.

Richard: Anong kasabihan?

Maya: Yung paghinakbangan ng buntis ang asawa niya, malilipat sa kanya yung paglilihi.

Richard: You really believe that?

Maya: Oo. Diba sabi ko nga sa yo hinakbangan kita. O, tingan mo ngayon. Nawala yung morning sickness ko tapos heto ikaw. Ang haba ng tulog. Di makakain…

Richard: That’s non-sense, Maya. I haven’t had a decent sleep in days kaya siguro hirap ako bumangon.

Maya: E bakit ayaw mo ng kape ko?

Richard: (purses his lips and shrugs his shoulders)

Maya: Naku, Mahal, maniwala ka. Palagay ko talaga dinadamayan mo na ko sa paglilihi.

Richard: You really think so?

Maya: Oo naman.

Richard: Okay, I won’t argue with you, Attorney. If you really think naglilihi ako, then so be it… Pwede bang matulog na tayo. I have to be at work early tomorrow.

Maya: Ano gusto mo for breakfast bukas? After lunch ulit flight ko. Pwede kitang ipagluto.

Richard: (Smiles mischievously) Talaga? I’ve been craving beef steak since this morning. Pwede mo ko pagluto?

Maya: Bakit naman yun pa, Mahal? Alam mo namang lasang adobo yung beef steak ko diba?

Richard: I don’t know, Maya. Sabi lang naman ni Papa yun, diba? But I’ve never tasted your beef steak. And bigla akong nainggit kay Papa. Malay mo, magustuhan ko.

Maya: Okay, Mahal. Dahil naglambing ka, promise ko pagluluto kita ng beef steak para sa almusal Gusto mo ba ng warm milk? Ikuha muna kita para maayos tulog mo.

Richard: Tayo na lang dalawa kumuha, then akyat na tayo.

As he and Maya head to the kitchen to get milk, Richard cannot help but smile as he thought to himself, ”If I have to miss your coffee for a few days, Mahal, I will, para lang ma-feel mo na naglilihi talaga ako. And kahit ano pang lasa ng beef steak na yan, I promise to eat it and not share it with anyone.”

Like Richard, Maya is in deep thought, too, ”Naku, Mahal, salamat naman at mapagsisilbihan na kita ngayon. Ang hirap kaya sa pakiramdam na pinapahirapan kita.”

Part 5

The following morning, Richard woke up feeling tired, sluggish and hungry yet with an upset stomach. He could not even get up from bed after Maya’s constant nudging. Pissed with himself for how he was feeling this particular morning, tears started falling from his eyes. Soon after seeing her dear husband in tears, Maya starts crying as well as she embraces her husband.

Maya: Mahal, sorry ha. Kasalanan ko na naman ‘to. Hinakbangan kita. Yan tuloy, nahihirapan kang bumangon.

Richard: (wipes away his tears) I’m fine, Mahal. I’m just feeling a little bit under the weather. Walang kinalaman yung paghakbang mo sa nararamdaman ko ngayon.

Maya: (in between tears) Wag mo nang pagaanin loob ko, Mahal. Kasalanan ko ‘to. Sa kagustuhan kong wang kang mahirapan dahil sa kin, di ko naisip na mahihirapan ka din pala. Sorry talaga, Mahal.

Richard: (still in tears) Stop it, Mahal. I’m okay. I’ll be fine. I’m just tired and hungry. Let’s just go down and have breakfast.

A knock on the door stuns the both of them. Donya Esmeralda walks in and finds Richard and Maya in tears. A look of worry crosses their Mama’s face as she asks them, ”What’s wrong? What happened to the two of you? Why are both of you crying?”

Maya responds to Donya Esmeralda with a chuckle, ”Naku, Ma, nagkatotoo ang kasabihan sa paghakbang. Nailipat ko po yata kay Ricky yung paglilihi ko.”

Donya Esmeralda: (smiles knowingly at Richard) Really?

Richard: Ma!

Donya Esmeralda: E di mabuti naman maramdam nitong si Ricky kung paano tayong mga babae nahihirapan sa pagbubuntis.

Richard: I’m just under the weather, Ma. I’ll be fine after I take a bath.

Donya Esmeralda: Mabuti pa, Maya, babain mo muna sina Luke at Abby. Kailangan na nilang umalis papunta sa school. Ako na ang bahala mag-assist dito kay Ricky. Punasan mo muna luha mo, bago ka bumaba. Baka pati sila mag-alala.

Maya: Sige po, Ma.

After Maya left, Donya Esmeralda starts laughing to her heart’s content, much to the surprise of Richard.

Richard: Ma, what’s wrong?

Donya Esmeralda: (laughs) I didn’t realize you’re such a good actor, son. Rafi told me. Ang galing mo! Napaniwala mo si Maya na nalipat sa yo ang paglilihi niya.

Richard: But I’m not acting at all, Ma. Totoo na ‘to. I guess nag backfire sa kin ang suggestion ni Rafi. Nung umpisa, I was just pretending. Pero ngayon, totoo na.

Donya Esmeralda: (continues laughing) So, naglilihi ka na talaga, anak? Totoo pala yung mga matandang kasabihan na yun. Naku dapat pala ginawa ko yun sa Papa mo dati.

Richard: (in tears) Ma, stop it na! I can’t believe I even listened to Rafi. Nag backfire tuloy. After breakfast, I have to come clean kay Maya. I hate lying to her.

Donya Esmeralda: O, stop crying na, baby. Why come clean now? E nagkatotoo naman.

Richard: You know I hate lying, especially to my wife… I can’t believe I even listened to Rafi!

Donya Esmeralda: I’m sure Maya will understand, son… (chuckles) Let me help you get up now, my little boy!

Richard: Ma, I’m a grown man for heaven’s sake! I can handle myself! I’ll be fine! Go check on Nikki instead of me. I’ll see you downstairs…

Donya Esmeralda: : Walang scientific basis pala ha. Non-sense pala ha. Naku, anak, you’ll never hear the end of it kay Maya.

Richard: Ma, stop it!

Donya Esmeralda: Okay, okay… I will leave you na… Baba na ko… I love you, son!

Donya Esmeralda hugs her son, kisses him, pinches both his cheeks like she has always done when he was still little, and leaves the room chuckling to herself. She cannot wait but call up Rafi and share with her the state Richard is in now! What a big laugh she and Rafi will share once Rafi knows. She can also almost imagine the hearty laughter she and Fe will share once Manang Fe gets back from her vacation. As an afterthought, she tells herself, ”Naku, pero tulog pa si Rafi sigurado sa mga oras na ‘to kaya si Teresita na lang muna tatawagan ko. Hahaha!”

Mrs. Lim Is Pregnant

A/N: Inspired by the January 6 teaser, here goes how I imagine Richard and Maya will announce their good news to the kids.

Part 1

Left at home as Richard takes Maya to the hospital, the Lim kids can’t help but worry about their Tita Mommy.

Abby: You think Tita Mommy will be okay?

Nikki: I hope so.

Luke: Let’s pray na lang that she’ll be okay, baby.

–

To say that Richard and Maya are nervous as they face the poker-faced doctor in the hospital is an understatement. They could not help but worry about what news he brings after checking Maya’s condition. Sans a smile on his face, the doctor finally says, “Mr. & Mrs. Lim, I have your results… Mrs. Lim is pregnant.”

Whew! With sighs of relief, both Richard and Maya then gaze lovingly at each other. The soon to be Daddy breaks into a heart-stopping smile and the future Mommy, does, too. They hold each other’s hands as they ask the doctor endless questions about their baby and patiently listen to his answers as well as his other reminders on how to keep the baby and the soon to be mommy safe and healthy.

Part 2

Walking hand in hand, Richard and Maya leave the doctor’s office with huge smiles on their faces, unable to believe that the very words they have been hoping to hear have finally been spoken… the gift they have all been hoping, wishing, and praying for, is finally arriving in 9 months. Mrs. Maya Lim is heavy with Mr. Richard Lim’s child. Truly the perfect gift to start a brand new year!

As they board the car, Richard is still smiling. His Mrs. Lim is pregnant with their child and he is beyond himself with excitement. Although this is not the first time Richard has ever heard that line spoken to him by a doctor, he is just as happy and excited as any first time Dad is. Yes! Finally, a baby for him and his dear sweet Maya. Before he fastens his seatbelt, he cups Maya’s face with both his hands and gives her a lingering kiss, and then he envelopes his beloved wife in the warmest embrace ever. And then he stares at her, still in seeming disbelief.

Maya: (Smiling) Ano? Mahal?

Richard looks dumbfounded.

Maya squeezes his hand.

Richard: What?

Maya: Bakit ka natulala?

Richard: (Smiles) Happy, Mahal?

Maya: Sobra-sobra! Ang saya-saya ko, Mahal! Ikaw?

Richard: (Smiles and kisses her forehead) Of course!

Maya: Excited na ko, Mahal ko!

Richard: Should we tell the kids once we get home?

Maya: Siguro dapat, kasi masyado silang nag-aalala nung paalis tayo kanina, diba?

Richard: I guess you’re right. We should tell them when we get home. Pero if they’re asleep na, we can always tell them over breakfast tomorrow.

Maya: Okay. Pero pwede bang may daanan muna tayo? Gusto kong bumili ng cake, Mahal.

Richard: Of course. I can already imagine how noisy the house would be once we tell everyone.

Maya: Haha! Sobrang excited na ko. Tara na.

Part 3

When they finally get home, they find their children, Luke, Nikki and Abby, in the entertainment area, all seated in front of the TV, fast asleep.

Maya: Mahal, naghihintay talaga sila, o.

Richard: Should we wake them up and tell them now?

Maya: Wag muna. Bababa muna ko. Kunin ko yung cake and mag-prepare ako ng juice…

Richard: No, you stay here and sit. I’ll be the one to get the cake and prepare the juice.

Maya: Sigurado ka? Marunong ka bang mag-timpla ng juice? Haha.

Richard: Are you underestimating me, my dear wife? Kaya ko yun, okay?

Maya: Mahal, wag ka nang magtimpla ng juice. Tubig na lang. Mas healthy pa yun.

Richard: Yes, water is healthier, but is that the real reason why you don’t want me to prepare the juice?

Maya: Hihi! Oo naman. Mahal, wag mo kalimutan mag-akyat ng plato, tinidor, at…

Richard: Mahal ko, relax. Ako bahala.

Part 4

With the cake and water now ready on the coffee table, Richard and Maya wake up their kids.

The kids all talk simutaneously as they see their Tita Mommy–

Luke: Okay ka lang po, Tita Mommy?
Nikki: Are you okay na, Tita Mommy?
Abby: You’re okay na po, Tita Mommy?

Richard: (Smiles and holds Maya’s hand) Your Tita Mommy is okay. In fact, she’s more than okay.

Nikki: More than okay, Dad? But didn’t she vomit several times kanina?

Richard: Yes, but she’s okay. That’s why we’re celebrating.

Abby: Kasi po she’s okay?

Richard: Yes, and we’re celebrating something else.

Luke: (Gives his Dad a knowing smile) Dad, does this mean…

Richard: Yes, Luke… Kids, listen…

Nikki: (Smiles giddily and shrieks in delight) Oh my gee! Oh my gee! Really, Daddy?  Tita Mommy?

Maya: (Smiles at the two elder kids) Yes, Luke, Nikki… Totoo na talaga ‘to! Positive!

Abby: Positive?

Richard: Your Tita Mommy is pregnant!

Maya: Baby, magiging Ate ka na!

Abby: Really?!? Yes! I’ll have a baby brother na!!!

All three kids approach Maya and hug her.

Richard: About that, baby, we’re not sure yet if you’ll have a baby brother or a baby sister.

Nikki: Don’t worry, Dad, Tita Mommy! I’m hoping and praying for twins! One boy and one girl. Wouldn’t that be great?

Abby: Yes, Ate! I’m so excited na po. (Hugs Richard and Maya) I love you Daddy and Tita Mommy!

Nikki: Me, too, Dad, Tita Mommy!

Luke: Siyempre ako din!

Richard and Maya hug all three kids.

Maya: O, kain na!

Richard and Maya hand the kids slices of cake and glasses of water. As they eat, the smiles on the faces of Richard, Maya, Luke, Nikki and Abby, never escape their lips.

Once finished, Luke and Nikki, clean up the coffee table.

Part 5

As the kids kiss their Dad and Tita Mommy good night, Abby asks–

Daddy, Tita Mommy, can I sleep with you tonight? Since, there’s a baby na naman in Tita Mommy’s tummy, okay lang po diba?

Richard and Maya laugh and both answer at the same time, “Hahaha! Sige, baby.”

Nikki: What about me? Can I sleep with you rin?

Luke: Me, too, Dad, Tita Mommy! I’ll take care of the sleeping bags.

Richard: Sure. / Maya: Sige.

Abby: Wow, Ate, Kuya! Parang camping!

Luke: Oo nga ‘no, baby?

Nikki: Yes! This is going to be a really fun night!

Part 6

Inside the masters’ bedroom

Luke, Nikki, and Abby give both their Daddy and Tita Mommy a kiss good night while they’re all side by side each other in bed.

Richard: Good night, kids.

Maya: Abby, baby, gusto mo ikaw mag lead ng prayer tonight?

Abby: Okay po… In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Dear Papa Jesus, please bless Daddy, Tita Mommy, Kuya Luke, Ate Nikki, me, and everyone we love… Thank you for the best New Year’s gift. A new baby for the family. We are all excited na po. We all promise to take good care of Tita Mommy and to always love and be kind to each other like Daddy and Tita Mommy always tell us to.  Papa Jesus, pwede po you grant Ate Nikki’s request? She wants twins kasi. A baby boy and a baby girl. I think it would be so much fun to have two babies in the family at the same time. Thank you po. Good night… In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Richard: Okay. Sige na, lie down na.

Abby: Daddy, I can’t sleep pa. I want to ask something kasi.

Nikki: Me, too.

Richard: Okay, what is it?

Abby: Daddy, Tita Mommy, do you have a name na po for the baby?

Richard: Wala pa.

Maya: Oo. May gusto akong pangalan. Julio pag lalaki and Julia pag babae.

Richard: (Looks shocked) What?!?

Luke: (Mirroring his Dad’s shock) Talaga, Tita Mommy?

Maya: Oo. Pero mukhang ayaw ng Daddy nyo kaya Cedie na lang.

Richard: (Teases Maya) And kung girl ‘Sarah’?

Richard and Maya both laugh.

Abby: That’s right! Diba po sila yung munting prinsepe and munting prinsesa? Bagay na babies ng Mahal na Hari and Mahal na Reyna si Cedie and Sarah!

They all laugh…

Nikki: Can we help suggest names for the baby?

Maya: Siyempre naman, Nikki.

Abby: Tita Mommy, what do you want the baby to call you?

Maya: Ah, Mommy siguro.

Abby: Can I also call you Mommy after the baby is born?

Maya: Sigurado ka?

Abby: Yes, Tita Mommy. I don’t want the baby to ask why we call you Tita Mommy, tapos siya Mommy. Eh baby mo naman din po ako, diba?

Maya: Awww! Baby… Halika nga dito (gives Abby a hug)

Nikki: I have an even better idea. That is, if Tita Mommy will agree.

Maya: Ano yun?

Nikki: Can we call you Mommy starting tonight?

Maya: Sigurado kayo? Pano na Mommy nyo?

Nikki: She’s our Mom pa rin. The Mom who gave birth to us.  Our Mom in heaven. Pero you’re really our Mommy na rin po, diba?  We may not have grown inside your tummy, pero we all grew in your heart naman, diba po? And we don’t want our little baby brothers and sisters to ever feel they’re different from us. We’re one family, diba? So, is it okay if we call you, Mommy, too?

Luke: Sali din po ako diyan ha.

Maya: (In tears) Siyempre naman okay na okay sa kin yun.  Mahal na mahal ko kaya kayong tatlo. Anak ko na kayo talaga, diba?  Halika nga kayo lahat dito… (Hugs all three kids)

Luke, Nikki and Abby: We love you, Mommy!

Richard: What about me? Where’s my hug?

Luke, Nikki, and Abby: (Hugs Richard) We love you, too, Daddy!

Richard: I love you, kids. But it’s getting late. It’s time to get some sleep.

The kids get off the bed and lie side by side each other in the sleeping bags Luke prepared.

–

With all three kids asleep, Maya smiles lovingly at her sleeping husband and gives him a kiss. Richard is suddenly awakened by Maya’s kiss.

Richard: Gising ka pa, Mahal? O, bakit ka umiiyak?

Maya: Ang saya-saya ko kasi. Kanina nung tinawag nila akong Mommy, biglang tumalon ang puso ko. Sobrang saya ko talaga, Mahal.

Richard: Me, too, Maya! I felt your happiness. I felt so happy, too. Our kids really love you.

Maya: And ako din, Mahal ko. Mahal na mahal ko sila. Kahit pa ilang babies pa magkaroon tayo, hinding-hindi mababawasan ang pagmamahal ko kay Luke, Nikki, and Abby.

Richard kisses Maya on the lips and tells her, “I know, Mahal! And you know what? I love you all the more for that. You are God’s best gift to me.”

Maya: And siyempre, yung mga anak natin, best gifts din yun, diba?

Richard: Of course. I love you, Mommy. Dream of me, okay?

Maya: Siyempre naman. I love you, Daddy!

Unknown to Richard and Maya, Nikki is still wide awake and can hear them as they talk.  And like her Mommy, she is in tears, too. Nikki wipes away her happy tears and silently prays, “Thank you for the best family, Papa Jesus. Thank you for giving us Ti– Mommy.  When Mom left, I thought we will never ever be one happy family again. What Daddy said is true. She is God’s best gift to us. Thank you for allowing her to enter our lives and making us happy and whole all over again. I am so sorry for being so mean to Mommy in the beginning. We all love her so much. Please keep her and the baby or hopefully, the babies, in her tummy safe. Thank you, Papa Jesus. Good night.”

One Sweet Surprise

Written: early morning, DECEMBER 18, 2013

A/N: This piece is inspired by the December 18 teaser of BCWMH where we see the three Lim kids finally settle their differences and patch things up. Now that all is well among Luke, Nikki and Abby, I cannot help but wonder what will happen next at the Lim mansion. Here go the scenarios that popped in my head…

~*~

Part 1

Maya is at the nearby flowershop in their village buying a bouquet of flowers, her peace offering, for Richard.

Looking back at the day’s events, she cannot help but think about how much she misses her dear husband and how much she longs to embrace him and talk to him about the misfortunes she encountered during the day. She knows she’s about to get a mouthful from Richard once he finds out she actually put herself in danger by riding a public utility jeepney to get to work and by getting her bag slashed inside the jeep, but that’s the least of her concerns for now. The tension in the Lim mansion has gone on long enough and it’s time everyone makes peace.

Once at home, Maya heads to Abby’s room with the intention of calling all three kids one by one and gathering them in the family area so that they can settle their issues and address their concerns against each other.

Imagine Maya’s surprise when she finds all three of them inside Abby’s room, seated on Abby’s bed, happily bonding with each other.

Luke, Nikki & Abby: Hi,Tita Mommy!

Maya: (Smiling) O, okay na kayo?

Luke: Yes, Tita Mommy!

Maya: Mabuti naman kung ganun.

Abby: Is Daddy downstairs na po ba?

Maya: Naku, baby wala pa.

Nikki: I was supposed to surprise you and Dad!

Maya: Pwede pa naman natin surpresahin ang Daddy nyo, eh.

Abby: We can? How po?

Luke: (Smiling while nodding) May naisip na ko.

Nikki: What, Kuya?

Luke: Remember last year nung nag-away tayong dalawa? Diba di tayo ni Dad pinapasok dito sa bahay hanggang di tayo nagkakaayos?

Nikki: Yes! We had so much fun that night after the flying ipis came out. Hahaha! Nagkabati tayo dahil sa flying ipis, Kuya! So, what does that have to do with surprising Daddy now?

Abby: Wow, Kuya, magca-camping po ba tayo tonight and cook hotdogs and marshmallows on stick tulad po last year?

Luke: Yes, baby! Tingin niyo po, Tita Mommy, ma-appreciate po kaya ni Daddy kung mag camping po tayo as peace offering namin sa kanya?

Nikki: Oh my gee! That’s exciting. Do you think Daddy will like that and will forgive us for causing him a major headache?

Maya: Oo naman. Matutuwa yun na makita na hindi na kayong tatlo nag-aaway at nag-effort kayo na mag reach out sa kanya. Pero siyempre maganda pa rin kung dadagdagan niyo yun ng pag-sorry sa kanya. Maganda rin siyempre makipag-usap kayo sa Daddy niyo, diba?

Nikki: Of course, Tita Mommy! I miss Daddy na and I don’t want to see him all sungit again.

Manang Fe then knocks, opens the door and calls on them to go down for dinner.

Maya: Okay, pero bago yan, bumaba na muna tayo para makapag-dinner na and maplano natin surprise sa Daddy niyo.

Abby: Where is Daddy po? Is he not joining us for dinner?

Manang Fe: Male-late ang Daddy niyo, nasa meeting pa daw.

Together, Maya, Luke, Nikki, Abby and Manang Fe all go down for dinner.

Part 2

It’s past 8 and the meeting with his staff just ended. Richard is no longer left with any excuse to stay in the office. It’s finally time to head home. As much as he misses and longs for Maya and the kids, he’s also feeling bad that they seem to be mad at him, not in the least bit sorry for the offenses they committed, and can’t even seem to understand why he had the internet connection cut off in the first place.

As he drove his car home, he cannot help but think of how Maya’s and the kids’ day went. He misses them as much as they miss him.

Unknown to him, one sweet surprise is waiting for him at home.

Part 3

Richard is finally home. He does as Maya imagined he will. He heads to his office, sits and leans his back on his chair, and closes his eyes for at least a full minute. Then he slowly opens his eyes, looks around him, and notices the flowers on his desk. He pulls out the card and reads the message–

Mahal ko,

Sorry na. Hindi na ko uulit. 

I love you.

Love, Maya

He smiles, gets the flowers and heads upstairs to see Maya. He enters their room, sees Maya in bed reading a book–

Richard: (Approaches her) Maya…

Maya: (Smiles, stands up, and gives him a tight embrace) Mahal ko! Sorry na. Naiintindihan naman talaga kita.

Richard: Really? Parang hindi naman.

Maya: (Breaks their embrace and motions him to sit on the bed) Akala mo lang yun. Pero alam ko na tama ka. Nase-stress lang ako na may nag-aaway kaya nasabi ko na ibalik na lang yung internet. Pero kuha ko kung ano pinupunto mo. Sorry na ha. Sobrang na miss kita, mahal ko.  Ang sakit sa dibdib kanina ha nung halos hindi mo ko pinapansin.

Richard: Na-miss din kita, mahal ko.  If you only saw how cranky I was at work all day cos I felt so bad about having a misunderstanding with you.  (Smiles mischievously) Apology accepted on one condition. Kiss muna.

Maya: Yun lang pala, eh. Miss ko na din kaya yan. Hahaha.

And they kissed, and then kissed some more.

Maya: Okay na, mahal ko?

Richard: Okay. And thank you for the flowers.

Maya: Nagustuhan mo talaga?

Richard: Oo naman.

Maya: Sige na mag-freshen up ka na muna. Bababa muna ko para maghanda ng pagkain mo. Tapos sunod ka na dun sa baba ha…

Richard: (Smiles) Okay, mahal.

Part 4

Richard walks to the dining area to find his wife seated at the dining table sans any food.

Richard: O, Maya, where’s the food?

Maya: (She stands up, reaches for his hand and leads him to the porch.) Tara na mahal ko.

Richard: Where?

Maya: Basta sumunod ka lang sa kin. Magugustuhan mo ‘to sigurado ko.

Hand in hand, with Maya leading the way, Richard and Maya pass by the porch and head downstairs to the exact same spot where Luke set up a tent the year before.

Richard: What’s with the tent and all these hotdogs and marshmallows ready to be grilled? Magpi-picnic tayo?

The moment the kids heard his voice, they all get out of the tent and shout, “Surprise, Daddy!” Then they all run to him to give him and Maya a group hug.

When they break the hug, Luke heads to the hotdogs and starts grilling them. Maya joins Luke and gets the dinner plate she prepared for Richard and hands the plate to him. All Richard could do was smile and say  ‘Thank you’ to his wife.

Maya: Mahal ko, wala ako kinalaman dito. Pag-uwi ko kanina sinorpresa nila ko na okay na sila. Teka, mabuti pa, Nikki, samahan niyo muna ni Abby ang Daddy mo dun sa may tabi ng tent para makakain muna habang kami ni Luke mag-iihaw muna dito.

Nikki: Ok, Tita Mommy. Let’s go, Daddy.

Richard: Okay.

Once Richard and his two daughters were seated Indian style on the ground, Nikki and Abby blurt out their “sorry” to their Dad at the same time, eliciting a chuckle from Richard.

Abby: Dad, I’m sorry po. I know po that I’m not allowed to open an FB account pero I opened an account pa din. I’m sorry for lying to you and to Tita Mommy po.

Richard: So you understand why Daddy got mad?

Abby: Yes, po. I’m sorry, Daddy, I promise I will never lie to you and to Tita Mommy again. (Stands up, approaches Richard and hugs him)

Richard: Okay, baby. You’re forgiven.

Abby: Thanks, Daddy. Wait lang po ha. I want to help Kuya and Tita Mommy grill hotdogs.

Richard: (Nods) Be careful, okay?

Abby: Okay, Daddy.

Nikki: Daddy, I’m really, really sorry about making parinig kay Nicolo sa Twitter. I’m sorry if it seemed like I was allowing him to court me na.  Pero there’s really nothing to those tweets, Dad. And pati naman po siya, he stopped tweeting na. I made a promise to you po, diba? And I will never break that promise, Dad. I will never give you any reason to be disappointed in me, Dad.

Richard: That’s a relief to hear, Nikki. I hope you understand why I raised my voice then. But I still stand my ground. You are too young to be getting involved in all this. And you really have to be careful with your “tweets” or words, Nikki. Words are powerful, baby. So you have to be very careful about what you write on those social networking sites. Besides, you seem to be too hooked on those already, you’ve been spending less time with Abby. She says she opened an FB account because she wants to be just like you daw. You have many friends online. Your little sister idolizes you, Nikki.

Nikki: About that Dad, I’m so sorry din po. I know I should not have made Abby feel and think that way. I guess, Kuya’s right. He’s been telling me na kasi before pa not to be too engrossed on FB and Twitter and make Abby think it’s so much fun to have one, pero I didn’t listen to him.

Richard: Well, now you know.

Nikki: Yes, Dad. So, am I forgiven?

Richard: Of course. Come here, Niks. (He kisses Nikki’s forehead and embraces her.)

Maya, Luke and Abby join them each carrying a tray.

Richard: Good you’re all here.  Put that down  first. Sit and listen up.  I’m allowing you guys to start watching TV or DVD starting tomorrow.  But I’m not going to have our internet reconnected through the duration of the Christmas break.  I’ll have it back on in January.  I want you and Luke and Abby to use your idle time bonding and doing activities together during the break.  If you need to do research, Luke, let me know.  You can use the books I have here in the office.  Your Tita Mommy and I are also planning activities we can do as a family without the internet.  There are other more interesting things to do other than Facebook, Twitter, using gadgets, etc.

Nikki: I totally understand, Dad. 

 

Luke & Abby: Yes, Dad.

 

Richard: And once we have the internet back on, your Tita Mommy and I will set rules on how long you can use your iPads and other gadgets during the day.  You can no longer use it at will.   Using those will entail responsibilities.  Okay? I hope you understand why you’re Tita Mommy and I are doing this.  

 

Luke, Nikki & Abby: Yes, Dad. 

Maya:  Ok good. O eto na hotdogs and marshmallows on stick.

Luke: Nikki, anong ginawa mo?

Nikki: What, kuya?

Luke: Tingnan mo kaya plate ni Daddy. Sa sobrang tagal mo di pa rin siya nakakakain.

Nikki: Oh no! I’m so sorry, Dad! You eat na muna. I’ll stop talking na.

Maya: O, upo na kayo, Luke, Abby. Kain na.

Richard smiles as he eats his dinner. He cannot help but say a silent prayer to God, thanking him for blessing him with Maya and the children.

Part 5

Left with no more hotdogs to grill, Maya asks Nikki and Abby to help her bring back the empty trays and empty pitchers of water and glasses inside the mansion, while Richard and Luke throw their trash and clean the griller.

Luke: Dad, sorry po for not telling you about my low grade in one of the major subjects po. Di ko naman po plano na itago sa inyo eh.

Richard: Luke, keep this in mind. I’m your Dad. You can always come to me for whatever concerns or problems you have. Sa school, sa bahay, sa panliligaw.

Luke: (Chuckles) Okay po, Dad.

Richard: Besides, if your problem concerns a major subject, I might even be able to help you with that. I’m an engineer, remember?

Luke: Yes, Dad. I’m really sorry po.

Richard: No problem, son. Your Tita Mommy already told me how you’ve been striving so hard to get your grades up. But if your still need my help, don’t ever hesitate to come to me, okay?

Part 6

The Lims continue to sit (Indian style) side by side each other near the tent as they exchange stories with each other…

Nikki: So yun. Abby and I sang the national anthem in front of everyone as form of punishment.

Richard: But didn’t that girl push you first, Niks? Why didn’t you tell your teacher that?

Nikki: I did, Dad. Pero okay na din po kasi I did something wrong also naman. I made her tulak din kaya after I saw that Abby fell on the floor because of what she did. No one messes with my little sister…

Richard: Even so, Niks.

Nikki: Dad, okay na din po that that girl made me tulak kasi naging okay na po kami ni Abby after that. No more tampo na. Tapos we got to fix things na with Kuya after we got home.

Maya: O yun naman pala, eh.

Abby: Daddy, it’s your turn na. We all made kwento na po.

Richard: Okay… Do you want to know when I fell in love with your Tita Mommy?

Maya looks at him, smiling.

Luke, Nikki, Abby: YES!?!

Richard: (Looks at Luke and Nikki) It was that night when we camped out right here after you both patched things up and all four of us ended up sleeping sa tent.

Nikki: Really, Dad?

Maya: Dahil sa flying ipis?

The kids laugh.

Richard: (Smiles at Maya) No, silly. The moment just felt so right then.

Luke: What moment, Dad?

Richard: I’m not exactly sure. But I felt then the same thing I’m feeling now. Happiness, bliss, contentment and love. I am with the four people I love most in the world. I was in love with your Tita Mommy na pala. Then a few days after , the same feeling came to me. It was that night you lit the lantern bearing Abby’s letter for your Mom.  Once again, I felt I was in love with your Tita Mommy.  And then in Baguio I remember describing to her the kind of woman I want to marry. I didn’t realize until later that she was already the woman I was describing.

Nikki: Aaaw! That is so sweet, Dad! So, when did you tell her you love her?

Richard: That day I came back last May and took Luke to PUS…

Nikki: Huh?

Richard: I took your Tita Mommy to PUS that same night. And that was when I told her how much I love her.  Pero we started dating a week or so after your prom.

Nikki: It took you that long, Dad? That’s like so many, many months pa after the night we camped out, ah. Why? You’ve been in love with her for so long na pala.

Richard: Because true love waits, Niks. Because I love your Tita Mommy and her dreams are important to me. I didn’t want to rush your Tita Mommy into anything. I was willing to wait for her no matter how long it takes.

Nikki: Awww! Oh my gee, Daddy!  You are such a romantic!  Tell me, did you also watch a lot of rom-com when you were younger?

Richard smiles knowingly at Maya as he recalls how he admitted to her the night before their wedding that he has seen My Bestfriend’s Wedding and other similar films when he was younger.

Richard: (Looks at Luke and Nikki) Let that be a lesson for you two, as well. Don’t be in a hurry. If you’re truly meant to be with the person you love, it will happen at the right time and at the right place. No need to rush.  You don’t even have to go out and look for that person. That person you’re destined to love will just come unexpectedly like how it happened between me and your Tita Mommy.  Love was the last thing on our minds when we first met.

Abby: For me, too, Daddy?

Richard: Yes, baby. Count 20 more years, though!

Abby: Daddy!

Richard, Maya, Luke and Nikki all laugh.

Nikki: That’s the best story ever. What about you, Tita Mommy? When did you realize you were in love with Dad?

Richard: Maybe, you guys can ask your Tita Mommy another time. It’s getting late. Time for you to all head to the tent. Go! Your Tita Mommy and I will stay here by the bench muna and finish our coffee before we join you.

Abby: Wait lang po. (Looks up and points to the stars) Look o! Ang dami pong stars.  

 

Maya: Oo nga ‘no?  What can you see, baby?

 

Abby: A baby boy and a baby girl.

 

Nikki: Huh?  (Looks up) Abby’s right!  Diba sabi mo nga dati Tita Mommy connect the dots lang yan. Haha.  You can see whatever you want to see.

 

Luke: Ako I can see all the formula I’ve been studying in Physics. Haha.  So, anong nakikita mo Niks? Marshmallows ba?

 

Nikki: Daddy o, si Kuya!

 

Richard: That’s enough, Luke.

 

Nikki: What about you, Daddy?

 

Richard: (Gazing at the stars) I can see your Tita Mommy.

 

Nikki: Where? I can’t see.  

 

Richard: Look closely. There you can see Polaris.  The north star.  That’s your Tita Mommy.  

 

Nikki: Awww! Daddy that’s so sweet!  What about you, Tita Mommy?

 

Maya: Ako tiger. Gwapong tiger na nakangiti!

 

They all laugh.

Part 7

Seated on the bench near the tent with his arm resting on her shoulder and coffee cups in hand, Richard and Maya sip the remainder of their coffee.

Maya: Mahal ko, may kasalanan pa ko sa yo.

Richard:Hmm. Ano yun?

Maya: Hindi ako nasundo ng service kanina.

Richard: And?

Maya: Kaya nag-commute ako.

Richard: Maya! Diba napag-usapan na natin na hindi ka na magco-commute?

Maya: Eh kasi male-late na ko tapos yung service pabalik na ng airport ng ma-contact ko.

Richard: Diba I asked kung sasabay ka?

Maya: Oo.

Richard: So? Bakit di ka sumabay?

Maya: Eh di mo ko pinilit, eh. Sorry na. Next time di na ko magpapakaarte, sasabay na ko kahit pa magkaaaway pa tayo.

Richard: (Smirks) Okay. Fine.

Maya: Mahal, may isa pa… Naalala mo yung bag na bigay mo sa kin? Na-slash kanina sa jeep! Sira na. Sorry na!

Richard: What?!?  Maya, are you okay? ! (Checks her out from head to foot). Maya naman kasi. Tell me what happened.

Maya: Yun na nga pagbaba ko ng jeep, isa-isa nahulog gamit ko. Yun pala butas na bag ko. Okay naman ako. Walang nangyaring masama. Nawalan nga lang ako ng wallet. Sorry na mahal.

Richard: (Hugs her tight) I’m sorry, too. I should’ve have insisted on taking you to work kahit may tampuhan tayo. Let’s promise each other from now on, we’ll fix whatever issues we have with each other before going to bed. Okay ba sa yo yun, mahal ko?

Maya: Okay na okay, mahal ko.

And they seal their promise with a lingering kiss.

Richard: O, let’s go to our room na.

Maya: Anong room? Sa tent tayo matutulog kasama ng mga bata.

Richard: Eh diba hindi ka pa rin safe, so dapat…

Maya: Ricky!!!

Richard: Oo na. I was just joking!

Richard and Maya ease their way inside the tent to join Luke, Nikki, and Abby. The tent was too cramped for the five of them, but none of them noticed. They all slept ever so peacefully through the night with happy, contented smiles on their faces.