The Adventures and Misadventures of Ricky, Maya and Ryan : Starstruck

Richard and Ryan were busy talking about a property they were planning to purchase when Maya and Ivy came over.

“Akala ko ba Sweetheart pumunta tayo dito para magenjoy. Hinahanap ka na ng mga bata dun sa dagat o. Sarap sarap kayang magswimming.”

The entire Lim household together with Ryan, Ivy and their son Raymond are having a weekend outing in Palawan.

“Sige na susunod na lang kami ni Ryan.”

“Ay brod, parang gusto ko na ring magswimming. Tara na dun na tayo.”

“Ah sige brod. Mauna na kayo. May kukunin lang ako sa kwarto. Sweetheart samahan mo ako.”

Maya accompanied Richard to their room.

“Anong kukunin mo Sweetheart?”

“This. Palagay ako sa likod Sweetheart.”

Naku Mr. Lim napaka vain mo. Akin na nga.”

Ricky asked Maya to put sunscreen all over his body.

“Ayan you are completely covered na.”

“Your turn naman Sweetheart. Talikod ka na.”

“Ay naku Sweetheart naglagay na ako kanina. Halika na.”

“You are scared aren’t you?”

“Scared?”

“Scared that you won’t be able to resist my soft fingers caressing your back…”

“Aynaku Mr. Lim nagiging naughty ka na naman. Let’s go na nga.”

“Ayan ka naman Sweetheart. Ikaw ang naughty not me. There’s nothing naughty with applying lotion on your back.”

Maya threw him a sharp stare.

“You are polluting my mind Sweetheart.”

“Ricky isa pa!”

“Biro lang Sweetheart. Eto naman pikon agad. Okay ako na. Ako na yun may 101 ideas of naughtiness. You want us to try them.”

She playfully slapped Ricky’s arm.

“Puro ka talaga kalokohan. Tara na.”

==========================

The families spent their time swimming, playing beach volleyball, building sand castles

The kids enjoyed especially Abby, Sky and Sunshine who were running around with Sabel, Leah and Doris running after them.

Luke, Raymond and Joma spent their time on the jetski while Nikki was tagging along with her mom and Tita Ivy enjoying their girl talk and bonding.

=============

Evening came and Ricky found Maya at the terrace with Ivy.

“Ang gwapo nya no?”

“Sobra Maya. Sobrang kisig, sobrang bango at nakakapanghina.”

“Siya na ang pinakagwapong nilalang sa buong mundo.”

“Oo nga eh. Ang swerte swerte natin, nakita natin siya.”

“Kelan kaya siya uuwi? Dapat mapicturan natin siya.

“Baka bukas. Halika puntahan natin.”

Ricky’s ears were alerted. He heard everything so he joined in.

“Sinong pupuntahan nyo?”

“Ah eh Sweetheart nandyan ka na pala. Asan si Ryan?”

“Magpapahinga na ata.”

“Naku Ricky ang aga pa para magpahinga. Tawagin ko na muna si Ryan. Pwede naman kayong mag tig-isang bottle of beer.” Ivy suggested.

“Oo nga Sweetheart. Doon na muna kayo sa cottage. Masarap magkwentuhan dun.”

“No. Im already tired, let’s go to bed na Sweetheart.”

“Ricky hindi pa ako inaantok. Sige na mauna ka na. Nagkukuwetuhan pa kami.”

“Sweetheart you know I can’t sleep without you.”

“Naku sige na Maya. Bukas na lang natin ituloy yun kwentuhan at stalking natin. Parang may gagawin pa kayo ni Ricky eh.”

Ivy teased her.

“Ah eh, wala naman kaming gagawin.”

Maya was still shy when being teased with things they do as couple.

“Sige na. Goodnight Ricky.”

====================

In their bedroom, asar si Maya. She and Ivy were supposed to go somewhere that night.

They were excited kaso nangungulit si Ricky.

“Tara na Sweetheart let’s sleep na.”

With brows furrowed Maya faced her husband.

“Alam mo nakakaasar ka. Nagkukwentuhan pa kami ni Ivy ang kulit mo.”

“Kasi nga Sweetheart matutulog na tayo.”

“Eh hindi ka naman si Sky na kailangan pang patulugin.”

Maya was really pissed at the thought that she and Ivy might not be able to do what they were supposed to do.

Ricky was curious as to why his wife and Ryan’s wife were acting strange.

Who could they be referring too.

He was annoyed but pretended that all is well.

They slept that night not even facing each other.

==================

The following morning, Ricky woke up and Maya was no longer beside him.

It was just 6 in the morning but his wife had already left their bed.

He immediately put on his glasses and went out to search for his wife.

He couldn’t find Maya anywhere.

He went to the kids room and found them still sleeping soundly.

He saw Manang Fe who was having coffee.

“Manang nakita nyo po si Maya?”

“Kanina Ricardo. Nakita ko siyang kasama ni Ivy. May pupuntahan ata sila.”

“Saan daw Manang?”

‘Hindi ko alam eh. Baka namasyal sa beach. Alam mo na. Masayang maglakad lakad kapag maaga pa. Antayin mo na lang. Hayaan mo na lang muna at nageenjoy yun asawa mo na kasama si Ivy.”

“Ah okay lang naman po yun Manang. Nagalala lang ako kasi wala siya. Hindi ko alam na may kasama naman pala siya.”

==============

It was already 7 in the morning when Maya and Ivy arrived with wide smiles on their faces.

Ricky and Ryan were already frowning.

Maya was the first one to greet them.

“Good morning sweetheart! Good morning Ryan! Eto may dala kaming mga local kakanin. Mainit pa. Masarap na breakfast. Gising na ba yun mga bata?”

“Hindi ko alam. Ryan, Ivy balik na muna ako sa kwarto.”

Ricky answered her in a pissed off manner then stood up to proceed to their room.

“Anong nangyari dun? Bakit nagsusungit?”

Maya asked Ryan.

“Mabuti pa kausapin mo na lang Maya. Mukhang mainit yun ulo eh.”

Maya followed her husband.

Ryan and Ivy went to the bigger cottage where breakfast was being prepared by Manang Fe and Sabel.

===============

Ricky was lying in bed when Maya went in.

He had a pillow covering his eyes.

“Sweetheart kong masungit….”

Hindi nya pinansin si Maya.

She went near him and tried to remove the pillow but Ricky held on to it.

“Uy sweetheart bakit ang suplado mo na naman? Akala ko pa naman tapos na yung sumpong mo kagabi. Kaaga aga ang sungit pa rin!”

He just ignored her.

“Uy Ricky! Bangon na dyan. Breakfast na tayo. Uy!”

“Nothing. I’m just tired. Mauna na kayo.”

“Tired? Kakagising mo lang. Eh wala ka namang ginawa atsaka nagbabakasyon tayo di ba? Bakit ka naman tired, aber?”

He just smirked, shook his head then covered his face again.

“Ay ang arte mo sweetheart, kung ayaw mo di wag!”

Then she bolted out of their room.

Sa loob loob ni Ricky… “Aba talagang iniwan ako!”

===============

“O Maya, asan na si Richard? Natulog uli?”

Nakasimangot si Maya.

“Ewan ko dun. Andropause!”

Humagalpak ng tawa si Ryan. Ivy sniggered and Ricky who actually followed Maya heard her.

Mas tiger mode na siya.

“What?!!!?”

Nagulat si Maya. Patay siya kay Ricky.

“Wala! Sabi ko ang cute mo, ang bango mo, ang bait bait mo at hindi ka sinusumpong. Kain na sweetheart!” She said in her saccharine voice.

Ricky just looked at her. Asar siya na inaasar siya ni Maya.

But Maya just downplayed it. Patay malisya lang. She is sure na di naman siya matitiis ni sweetheart nya.

Linapitan pa nya si Ricky na kasalukuyang nakaupo na to have breakfast, she back-hugged him and kissed his cheek from behind.

Nahiya si Ricky.

“Sweetheart we’re in front of Ivy and Ryan.”

“Sus nahiya ka pa eh kung ikaw nga ang gumagawa, okay lang kahit sa harap pa ng maraming tao. Ang cute mo talaga!”

Then she tickled his tummy. She knows that he is very ticklish in that area.

Napatawa nya si Ricky.

“Yehey tumawa na siya. Bati na tayo sweetheart!” Then she hugged him again sabay sabi..

“Tara na Ivy, puntahan na natin kasi uuwi na sila ngayon. Hindi pa tayo nakakapagpapicture.”

Then without waiting for their husbands approval or objection , the two ladies hurriedly left. They even brought Nikki with them.

Ryan and Ricky were left dumbfounded.

“Where will they go?” Ricky said in his higher-than-usual voice.

“Hayaan mo na brod. Minsan lang naman magbonding yun dalawa. Atsaka kasama naman nila yun anak nyo.”

“Pero why are they so excited?”

“Naku brod, may nakita atang artista. Si Ivy panay ang kwento kagabi. Si Maya ba hindi?”

“So yun pala yun pinaguusapan nila kagabi.”

“So alam mo pala brod?”

“Ah no. I just overheard them. Sino daw ba?”

“Ewan ko. Masyadong excited si Misis eh. Nagbihis pa yun at dala yun camera. Magpapapicture daw sila.”

“What? No! I won’t allow Maya to do that with an actor. It’s embarrassing.”

“Hayan mo na brod atsaka bata pa naman si Maya. Okay lang yan. Si misis nga di ko naman pinagbawalan.”

“You allowed Ivy?”

“Oo naman. Para naman kiligin at matuwa siya.”

“What! I won’t allow my wife na kiligin sa iba.”

“Brod artista yun, paghanga lang, fan lang sila. It’s not like they will pursue him.”

“Kahit na. I won’t allow them to join the crowd of shrieking people begging to have their picture taken with an actor.”

“Naku brod, normal yan. Ang kj mo naman. Mamaya maaasar talaga sayo ang misis mo pati si Nikki. Atsaka wag mong itutulad sa edad mo yun edad ni Maya. She’s fun-loving, free-spirited. You can’t curtail her from acting her age just like when doesn’t complain if your being your grumpy old self.”

“I am not!”

“Yes you are. Kaya ka napagkakamalang….”

Then Ryan laughed.

Ricky just shook his head.

He was annoyed at the thought of his wife feeling giddy, kilig over someone other than him.

Siguro he is jealous too.

Ryan could easily read the mind of his friend.

“O sige brod para lang makampante ka, halika sundan natin sila.”

“Okay. Para makita ko rin yun siguradong pangit na artistang yun.”

“Wow ang gwapo natin brod!”

“Yes we are! Tayo lang ang dapat gwapo sa paningin nila. I can’t even believe that you’re cool with it.”

“Kasi brod you are overreacting. Atsaka are you doubting Maya’s taste of who’s gwapo or not? Kasi if oo, e di alanganin yun hitsura mo? Hindi ka rin sure if you are kasi baka nagkamali lang ng taste si Maya.”

“Stop being her lawyer brod. Tara na puntahan natin.”

==================

In the beach, a shooting for a show was being held. The camera is rolling.

The fans who were watching the shoot were all giddy and excited to see their favorite actors.

Nikki was so kilig with the teenage actor while Maya and Ivy was eyeing the mature actor.

The actor was still inside the cottage. Maya and Ivy overheard that he will go out of his cottage to join his family in swimming.

Everyone was excited. Cameras were ready for the shoot.

Even the fans who were watching had their own cameras not wanting to miss the opportunity to take pictures of the actor.

Maya was so kilig. She was squeezing Ivy’s arm.

“Naku lalabas na siya. Makikita natin yun abs nya? Mag swimming trunks kaya or shorts?”, she told Ivy.

“Kahit ano Maya basta lumusong siya sa tubig at makita ang abs nya okay na sakin.”

The two were so kilig.

“Okay take. Lights camera action!”, the director shouted.

Everyone waited with bated breath.

Then the actor came out in his pajamas and proceeded near the shore to assist his onscreen wife.

“Cut! Good take!”

Murmurs of disappointment were heard.

“Pajama sa beach? Naku naman!” Maya was complaining as if nalugi siya.”

“Tapos hindi man lang nabasa yun paa!” Ivy added.

Natapos yun shoot.

The fans were given the chance to mingle with the cast.

The lead actress and actor was so indulgent with the fans who wanted their signatures and pictures.

Hindi napigilan ni Maya yun sarili nya.

“Ms Jodi bakit nakapajama si Sir Richard sa eksena?”

The actress laughed. She mischievously glanced at her onscreen husband then burst into laughter again.

She patted his back while saying..

“Dadami kasi yan si partner kapag nababasa ng tubig. Ipinaglihi kasi sa gremlins.”

Her partner added.

“Oo at pag dumami ako baka magkaproblema sina Direk.”

The two joked which made their fans very happy and Maya and Ivy less disappointed even if they didn’t see what they expected to see.

After taking pictures and giving signatures, the cast were called by the crew to prepare to leave.

Yes the show being shot at the same beach where Richard Lim and his family together with Ryan Molina and his family were staying was ABS-CBN’s top show Be Careful With My Heart and the actors were Richard Yap and Jodi Sta. Maria.

======================

Maya, Ivy and Nikki were on their way back to their own cottage when they met Ricky and Ryan.

“O akala ko ba magtatagal kayo dun. May shooting daw sabi ng staff ng resort?” Ryan asked.

“Tapos na.” Ivy answered.

“O why do you look disappointed?” Ricky asked as well.

“Kasi dad, yun crush ni mom na actor, hindi man lang nag proper beach attire. He’s in pajamas dad.”

Ricky sniggered.

“Anong tinatawa tawa mo dyan?”

“Sweetheart ikaw kasi nandito naman ako pupunta punta ka pa dun. I bet his body and legs needed to be covered. Baka mataba, baka may peklat yun legs. Tama ako brod pangit yun.” Ricky confidently said.

“Oy hindi ha! Gwapo kaya siya. Kamukhang kamuha mo nga.”

Then Maya showed them the pictures she took.

“Brod kamukha mo nga!”

“Aba oo at gwapo pala talaga.” Ricky agreed.

Pero feeling lugi pa rin si Maya so she dragged her husband.

“Tara na sweetheart swimming tayo at mag beach attire ka ha!”

“Hey hey wag mo akong idadamay sweetheart. I don’t wanna swim now. Mamaya na.”

A look of disappointment was seen on Maya’s face. Ricky was quick to notice it.

He hugged her. Sabay bulong….

“If you want me to do that dahil lang hindi ginawa ng actor na yun, I’ll give you a better alternative.”

She also answered in a whisper.

“At anong alternative yan sweetheart?”

“Siyempre a better place to swim at hindi tayo mangingitim kahit wala swimming attire.”

He naughtily smiled at her.

“Puro ka talaga kalokohan!” She slapped him.

“Oy brod, Maya bakit panay ang bulungan nyo?”

“Nothing brod. Pasok muna kami ni Maya sa kwarto. I’ll pacify her muna.” He grinned.

Nagblush si Maya at she lightly slapped him.

“Grabe ka!”

Then the couple proceeded to their room.

Ryan shook his head and placed the “don’t disturb” sign at his favorite couple’s door.

A/N. Mashed up story kasi di gumagana braincells ko for a serious story. Pasensya po. Pero yes, kamukhang kamukha ni Ricky ni Maya si onscreen hubby Richard ni Jodi. And si Nikki? Si niccolo yun fave naman nya. Magulo ba? ✌😊

The Heart Never Forgets 21

Richard basked in the warmth of the hug his son gave him. He held him tighter. His son’s small arms tried to embrace him too.

“Luke daddy loves you so much. I hope its okay with you that I’m your dad”, he said while still embracing Luke.

He felt his son nodding his head.

Then as he disengaged from the embrace he stared at his son’s teary face.

“Luke don’t get mad at daddy and mommy. We love you so much. I’m so happy right now holding you like this.”

He wiped his son’s tears then Luke wiped his tears too in return.

“Hindi naman po ako galit.” The boy said in his small voice.

“But you’re sad kaya mom and dad is worried.”

“Baka po you won’t like me.” Luke’s eyes which was like his mom’s stared at him.

“Luke don’t say that. I already liked and loved you even when I was just Tito Ricky. All the more now that I found out that you are my son. I love you so much and daddy is very proud of you.”

=================

Earlier….

The merry-making continued but Luke was still quiet. He would laugh at jokes by Joma and would play with the other kids but he would avoid Richard.

“Chard ipasok ko na si Luke. Patulugin ko na muna.”

“Okay Maya.” He felt dejected by Luke’s reaction.

Inside the room, Luke was still quiet but he was extra clingy to his mom. He requested for his mom to stay in the room and not leave while he’ll be taking a shower.

Maya had prepared his pajamas while Luke was inside the bathroom to clean up and brush his teeth.

As Luke was getting ready for bed, Maya took the chance to talk to her son.

“Anak, galit ka sa akin?”

“Hindi po.”

“I’m sorry. Mommy wasn’t brave to tell Tito Ricky that you are his son before. I’m sorry anak. I was scared din to tell you.”

“Mommy what if he doesn’t like me?”

“Anak he loves you. He was so happy when he found out.”

“Paano si daddy James?”

“Si daddy James ang nagsabi kay Tito Ricky. He wants you to be happy. He wants you to have a daddy who will always be here.”

“Hindi na po aalis si Tito Ricky?”

“No anak, he will stay with us if okay sa’yo.”

“Mommy you love him?”

“Sobra Luke and he loves me too, he loves you. Mabait siya and hindi nya kasalanan na hindi nya alam. It is mommy’s fault.”

The boy gave a small smile.

“Mom anong itatawag ko sa kanya? Dad or papa?”

Maya hugged her son knowing that he finally showed some acceptance.

“You can call him dad or even papa, its up to you.”

“Eh si daddy James po?”

“Daddy James will always be a dad to you. O di ba nadagdagan pa siya. Dalawa na ang daddy mo.” She tried to make the mood light.

Luke slept with his mom hugging him.

But as soon as Maya slept, the boy sneaked out of his room to call his daddy James.

===============

Luke didn’t want to disturb his mom so he decided to make a call outside the room. He knows everyone was sleeping already.

When he wasn’t able to call his daddy James, Luke stayed in the cottage and cried.

He loved his Tito Ricky but he doesn’t know him. He was just a new friend to him.

He stayed there until his dad saw him.

=================

Maya woke up very early but Luke was no longer beside her. She wasn’t aware that her son went out last night at actually slept with his dad.

She hurried to seek for Luke worried on where he must be.

When she went out of their room, she heard the most beautiful sound she never gets tired of hearing, her son’s giggles and chuckles.

She saw Richard and Luke together with Joma and Fely’s kids playing patintero by the beach. They seemed so happy. It warmed her heart knowing that they are okay now.

“Maya halika join us.” Richard called her.

After a few more minutes of playing, they were called by Manang Fe to have their breakfast.

Richard and Luke went to wash their hands. Maya was surprised at the sudden closeness of Luke to his dad.

Richard caught her expression and he just winked at her.

Before starting breakfast, Richard led the prayer then gave his message to the very special people with him at the moment.

“Thank your for the warm welcome. Thank you at hindi nyo pinabayaan ang bahay at mga negosyo ni lolo, natin. Wala man akong pamilya, madami namang naging kapalit. Nandyan kayong lahat. Manang Fe salamat sa pagaruga, pagalaga, pangungunsumi at pagtyaga sakin, Mang Anastacio at Mang Lem salamat at tumayo kayong parang tatay ko. Liza, I can’t thank you enough for keeping everything in order. Joma, Sabel, Doris salamat sa pagaalalay nyo kina Manang Fe. Maraming salamat sa inyo. At dito din sa despedida na naging welcome party nyo.”

They all approached to hug him.

Richard added.

“Ngayon naman, may surprise din ako sainyo. Gusto kong ipakilala si Maya bilang future wife ko.”

She was beside him and his arms were draped on her shoulders while Luke was on his other side. She blushed and felt embarrassed at his announcement.

A lot of teasing and congratulatory messages followed.

He continued.

At ipapakilala ko din, ang aking anak, anak namin ni Maya, si Luke.

Everyone was surprised. Manang Fe immediately hugged the little boy. She was overwhelmed.

“Sinasabi ko na nga ba. Tama yun hinala ko.” She said while in tears.

Everybody was happy. Luke finally accepted his dad. They even got a call from James who was dying for updates from them. James promised to come home to settle the annulment so Maya and Richard could get married the soonest time possible.

================
After the weekend together, Richard brought Maya and Luke to Father Francis.

She didn’t like the idea at first. She was apprehensive on how he would react but Richard assured her that everything will be okay.

It was Richard who first entered Father Francis’ room at the convent. Maya and Luke stayed at the visitors area. Visitors especially ladies can’t be allowed to enter the priest’s private quarters.

“Ricky you’re really back!”

Father Francis gave him a big welcoming hug.

“So naasikaso mo na?”

“Opo Father. Maayos naman pong lahat.”

“Ano na ang balak mo? Akala ko you will still stay there in Rome at di lang tutuloy sa ordination.”

“Father may sudden changes sa plan eh. I found out that the son was mine and her husband even suggested annulment.”

He was beaming.

Father Francis on the other hand was surprised.

“What? So you’ll pursue her? You’ll marry her?”

“Yes Father. And kayo ang napili namin to officiate our wedding. In fact kasama ko sila. Ipapakilala ko po. I’m really very happy.”

Father Francis couldn’t react anymore. He was also excited to meet this woman who turned Richard Lim’s life around.

He was just by the door when he saw Maya and Luke.

“Oh my God! Si Maya and Luke?”

He gathered both in his arms.

“I don’t know what to say. Kanina may agam agam pa ako when you said you’re getting married. Pero ngayon naku, I’m accepting the invitation to officiate it.”

“Salamat po Father.” was all Maya could say.

“Luke, kaya pala ang galing ng batang to manang mana sa daddy nya.”

“I’m happy for you Richard. I’m now assured that you’ll be in good hands.”

“Si Father talaga.”

“So kelan ang kasal? Ay teka, kailangan muna ang masinsinang usapan. Since I’ll be your wedding priest, you need to have a one on one seminar under me. Para naman masermonan ko kayong dalawa.” He was joking but he indeed would love to hear the story of the two and give them his advice and guidance as well.

My Safe Refuge 1

“Mom! Mom! The architect is here.”

Luke Andrew dela Rosa was at the foot of their stairs calling his mom.

“I’ll be right there anak.”

Maya hurriedly changed into a pair of jeans and white shirt and proceeded to meet with the architect, her friend, Rafi recommended.

“Good morning Architect Molina. Glad that you made it here. Medyo malayo talaga itong lugar namin.”

“Hi Mrs. dela Rosa. No worries about that. I have projects farther than your place. Anyway just call me Ryan. I prefer it that way.”

“Okay. You might as well call me Maya.”

“So Maya can I check the place now?”

“Sure.”

Maya led Ryan as he checked her vacation house to be renovated.

================

It was an old wooden two storey house built by her parents some 50 years ago.

When both her parents were murdered by the robbers who entered their house, Maya, who was an only child, decided to leave the place, find a job.

She met her husband, James Ventura and they had a son Luke Andrew.

They lived in a village in the city. Maya never visited their old house. She never mentioned it either. She wanted to forget the sad memories of that house.

She had a blissful married life with James for 7 years until he suddenly changed.

He became alcoholic, he got into drugs and started doing illegal stuff like smuggling, gun running and selling illegal drugs as well.

James also got into gambling and womanizing that even their personal savings and even the small fortune left by her parents was beginning to be consumed.

Maya tried to put up with him. She would always rationalize that James was a good guy and he was just under the influence of drugs and alcohol that’s why he tended to be violent at times.

Yes he would be violent.

He would hurt her. He would be rough to her in their bedroom and he would also humiliate her in public.

She suffered in silence. She never told anyone of her pain and hurt.

She shielded her family from what others would say. It was the only one she had anyway.

James and Luke were the only ones she had and as long as her family were together, she could sacrifice even herself. She wants to do this for their son.

But the very reason for her holding her family together was also the reason why she decided to let go.

What made Maya decide to leave James was when he started hurting their son Luke.

So one night while still black and blue from being beaten up by her husband, Maya and her son Luke was fetched by her very best friend Rafi and her husband Charlie.

James was soundly asleep when they escaped. Luke and Maya only had a small bag for themselves. She couldn’t bring many clothes for she didnt have time to prepare. James would also definitely be aware of it once he sees their bags.

It was a good idea that she never introduced Rafi to James. James would be jealous of anyone so she never mentioned any of her friends to him.

James knew that it was only him and Luke in her life. He was so secured with the fact that Maya didn’t have anyone else to even think of leaving him.

=================

“Hesusmaryosep! Anong nangyari sa’yo Maya?”

Manang Fe, Rafi’s childhood nanny was shocked when she opened their front door.

She knows Maya and Luke.

“Manang pakiayos na po muna ng guest room. Dito muna sina Maya at Luke.” Rafi requested her nanny.

“Maya don’t worry. He couldn’t hurt you anymore. Safe kayo ni Luke dito.” Charlie assured her wife’s best friend.

Maya still in tears and trembling in fear just nodded her head.

“Hon, I’ll go to the pharmacy first. Maya needs medicines and bandages for her wounds. Wala na tayong supplies.”

“Okay hon.”

“Charlie, Rafi salamat ha!”

“Don’t mention it Maya. Basta ang importante is wala na kayo dun and he won’t be able to hurt you again.”

Luke just remained in the arms of his mom.

===================

Maya and Luke stayed with Rafi and Charlie. She used her savings for their needs. Good that her husband wasn’t aware of all the properties and small fortune her parents left. At least she has fund to use in times of emergency like now. Luke was forced to stop going to school for his safety.

They stayed for 7 months when Charlie was suddenly assigned by his company to work at their main office in Canada. Rafi is included as well.

Maya and Luke had no choice but to leave the place.

Rafi already suggested that they stay with Manang Fe but Maya decided to leave and go somewhere her husband won’t be able to find them.

She decided to go back home to their old house in San Nicolas.

Rafi and Charlie decided that Manang Fe would be better left with Maya. The old nanny agreed. She loves Maya and Luke already.

Before the couple left, they helped Maya and Luke settle on their old house. Since repairs are needed, she recommended her colleague Architect Ryan Molina.

==================

Preview of the next chapter:

“Maganda siya brod.”

“Brod, isusumbong talaga kita kay Ivy nyan eh.”

“Ang kj naman nito. Just a little companionship or friendship, masama ba yun?”

“I know what runs in your mind Ryan. Tigilan mo na.”

“Pero malungkot naman siya. Namatay ata yun asawa. I could make her happy.”

Richard Lim just shook his head, totally annoyed with his playboy friend.

A/N New story. Let’s see how this will go. Matatapos na kasi yun THNF and also AOUH. This is pure fiction.

The Heart Never Forgets 20

After sharing their very first kiss after 7 years, both disengaged with very contented smiles.

Richard embraced her and kissed her forehead. Her arms encircled his waist.

“I never imagined that this could still happen Maya. I am very happy right now.”

“Ako din Chard. I’m very happy. Hindi ko inakala na maaakap kita ng ganito.”

“At mahahalikan din?” He teased.

“Oo.” She shyly admitted.

He smiled and shook his head amused at how awkward yet giddy they felt at this very moment.

“Me too Maya. Hindi ko inakala na I could still find you and be with you.”

She slid her palms to his and was comforted by the warmth it brought her.

Both were overwhelmed.

“Halika dun sa loob ng bahay. Ano ang gusto mo? Magluluto ako. Magcelebrate tayo.” She was excited.

“No. Wag na. Let’s just go out. Ipapasyal ko kayo ni Luke.”

She got worried.

“Chard, baka may makakita sa atin at kung ano ang isipin ng mga tao.”

“Bakit naman? We hang out naman before di ba when we were practicing for the school concert?”

“Kahit na.”

“Don’t worry too much Maya. I won’t allow na malagay kayo ni Luke sa alanganin.”

“Alam ko naman yun.”

“Yun naman pala. For now, magprepare na kayo ni Luke at ipapasyal ko kayo. We won’t tell anyone as long as hindi pa natin naaayos ang lahat. I just want to spend time with both of you.”

Maya relented. She wanted to spend time with Richard too especially now that the hope of being together is getting clearer. She would not think of his vocation, her marriage with James and other complications yet. All she wants right now is to be with him and their son.

==================

Richard brought Maya and Luke to their beach resort.

Yes the resort where they created Luke.😊

The resort was well maintained and it remained operational even if Richard wasn’t around.

The resort had been opened to the public but usually it was rented for family events and company gatherings.

All of Richard’s family businesses have been flourishing despite his absence. His grandfather was really blessed with a competent and trusted staff who were actually like family already.

The proceeds of the businesses were used to finance all the charities and foundations they support. They were also used as source of fund for the expenses of the staff and household.

Liza with the guidance of Manang Fe manages all the businesses of the Lims. Mang Lem oversees the farm with the help of Joma. They actually grew up in with the Lims already and out of love and respect to Don Roberto and Richard, they made sure that everything is well taken cared of.

They regularly call Richard to update him and for his final say on important decisions.

When he arrived he was so impressed on how they managed to retain all the businesses, they even improved and embarked in new ventures.

He couldn’t ask for more. Everything was doing well in the home front then now…

Maya is with him and they even have a son.

Richard Lim is the happiest person at the moment.

“Chard ang ganda na dito. Sainyo pa rin to?”

“Yes Maya. Sila Manang, they manage it. Well magagaling yun staff. Actually mga alaga ni lolo before, malalaki na sila at sila na rin namamahala dito. You liked it?”

“Oo naman. Siguro magandang magretreat dito kesa doon sa pinuntahan natin.”

“Ah where you slipped?”

She slapped him lightly.

“Pinaalala mo pa.”

Then she shyly averted her gaze. She remembered the reason why she slipped and became embarrassed all of a sudden.

“O Bakit?”

“Wala. Naalala ko lang kung bakit naslide ako nun.”

“Oh? Bakit ka nga ba nagslide. From what I know, antok at pagod ka that time. You were even a little bit grumpy then. Masungit.”

“Kayo kasi ni Rafi. Akala ko you were courting her. Naasar ako kasi she is married and I thought you were too.” She was blushing now.

He raised his eyebrows amused at what she was saying.

“Naasar or nagselos?” He teased her.

She didn’t say anything but just avoided his gaze.

He gathered her in his arms again.

“Oh my God Maya. Why haven’t I noticed?”

He regretted not having seen the signs of her jealousy. He was so busy trying to control what he was feeling for her that he totally missed the glaring evidence that she was still in love with him.

“Ang importante ay nandito ka na sa tabi ko, sa tabi namin ni Luke. Ang saya ko Chard.”

“Parehas tayo.” He held her hand and brought it to his lips.

“Halika na let’s go to Luke. Pa set up na rin natin kila Joma yun barbeque. Manang Fe will be arriving later. You want to spend the night here? They have a live band kapag gabi.”

“Ah eh gusto ko sana kaso hindi pa nila alam? Paano yan? Nakakahiya ata.”

“Bakit naman? Besides they know we are very good friends anyway. Sige na Maya para maenjoy naman ni Luke yun very significant place for him.” He smiled.

She understood what he meant and shyly smiled.

“Ikaw talaga. Sige payag na ako pero wala kaming dalang damit eh.”

“Can we ask Leah to prepare it? Samahan na lang siya ni Joma.”

They both decided to spend the night at the resort. Leah went back to the house to prepare clothes for Maya and Luke.

==================

Since it was on a weekday, there were few guests on the beach.

Luke happily swam together with his dad while Maya just watched them by the shore.

It was such a heartwarming scene before her eyes. She can’t help but regret the years wasted for not telling him the truth.

She vowed to herself that she will do everything to make up for the years lost.

After over an hour Luke got tired and asked his mom if he could go inside and play with his tablet.

Maya agreed and Richard led them to the cottage he asked Manang Fe to prepare for them.

“Maya you and Luke can rest here. Complete naman yun gamit sa bathroom and may snacks din sa fridge. I’ll just stay dun sa labas. Antayin ko rin sina Joma.”

“Sige Chard, thank you.”

“Thanks Tito Ricky.”

==================

“Si Luke?”

“Nakatulog na. Napagod yun kasi bihira naman magswimming. Hindi sanay.”

Richard was seated at the sofa of the cottage.

It was actually a villa type made of coconut and shells. It had 3 bedrooms each with a bathroom. The villa has complete facilities, a kitchen, a dining area and a living room. At the back of it was a covered pool for guests who preferred to take a dip indoors.

“Come here Maya.” He asked her to sit beside him.

Maya took the empty space beside him and comfortably leaned her head on his shoulder.

“Chard so paano yan? Hindi ka na babalik sa Rome?”

“Nagpaalam na ako Maya. I also resigned from my job. I teach kids kasi there. Okay naman sila with my decision.”

“Eh ikaw, okay lang sayo na hindi ka na magiging pari?”

“I’m very happy with my decision Maya. I wanted to be a priest but knowing that you’ve always owned my heart, and i also own yours, I don’t think I would be able to be a good priest. Hindi ko mabibigay yun buong sarili ko. Even kung wala si Luke, and I’ve learned that you still love me and pwede pa rin tayo, I would still choose you. I could help naman even if I’m not a priest.”

She stared at him.

“Oh why are you looking at me like that?”

She is misty eyed.

“I just want to memorize your face. Kasi ngayon matitingnan kita ng hindi lang sa picture.”

He held her hand and placed it on both his cheeks.

“You can stare at me all you want. Ako din, it’s your picture that kept me company all these years Maya. At least ngayon hindi rin lang picture.”

He kissed her forehead.

“Chard paano natin sasabihin kay Luke?”

“We can tell him together. I hope he will be happy to know that I’m his dad. I would love that very much.”

“Baka magalit sya sakin. Baka magalit siya na naglihim ako sa kanya.”

“Luke is a sensible boy. I’m sure he will understand. Let’s do this together.”

“Salamat ha.”

“Salamat?”

“Kasi di mo ako sinumbatan sa paglihim sayo.”

“I know you had your reasons Maya. I respect your reasons. What’s important is we are given the chance to correct all our wrong decisions.”

“Ambait mo Chard alam mo yun?”

“Maya I’m doing this hindi dahil mabait ako. I do this because I love you. I love you so much. Kayo ni Luke.”

Then unable to control herself, Maya cupped Richard’s face and kissed him tenderly pouring her love for the only man whom she loved in her entire life.

“Mom you’re kissing Tito Ricky?”

A bewildered boy witnessed her mom kissing his Tito Ricky, the person he is so fond of.

“Anak…”

“Luke…”

The boy alternately stared at them with confusion.

Richard held Maya’s hand tightly as they both face the most important person to them, their son Luke.

She immediately went to Luke’s side and hugged him.

“Anak… Mom and Tito Ricky, we want to tell you something very important.”

The boy was still staring at Richard. His young mind couldn’t comprehend what he saw. He was still engulfed in his mom’s hug.

Maya carried him and they sat beside Richard on the sofa.

“Anak… Tito Richard… he is your real daddy.”

Luke looked at both of them alternately then without saying anything, he just cried and hugged his mom.

Richard was alarmed. Luke mustn’t have taken it positively.

The boy remained hugging his mom, not letting go.

Richard decided to leave the two by themselves. He needed some fresh air too.

================

It was already evening and Manang Fe, Joma, Sabel, Doris, Leah, Liza, Mang Lem, Felt and her kids were all in a celebratory mood.

They were happy with Richard’s decision to stay for good. They weren’t aware of Maya’s role in that decision yet.

Manang Fe on the other hand already suspected something but chose to wait for Richard tell her.

Maya and Richard decided to lessen their closeness while in front of Luke.

After their confession to Luke, the boy had been quiet and distant to him. He would be extra clingy to his mom.

He remained polite though. He would play with Fely’s kids but would immediately go to his mom once he sees her. He wouldn’t smile or acknowledge Richard at all.

Richard understood how it must have been hard for Luke to take all of these.

They’ve been close, but its entirely different now that he learned about his real dad.

He doesn’t know what’s in his son’s mind.

He hopes Luke’s thoughts weren’t unpleasant.

===================

It was already late and everyone retired to their own rooms. Ricky couldn’t sleep so he decided to walk around, to clear his mind as well.

Then as he neared one of the small cottages at the resort, he heard sobbing sounds and found his son Luke, sitting by himself.

He immediately darted towards his son worried.

“Luke….”

Then with the same doe-shaped eyes as his mom the boy stared at him and cried.

He threw himself to his dad and was immediately engulfed in Richard’s hug.

“Dad….”

“Oh Luke.”

Right there at the small cottage by the beach, a new relationship started, that is the relationship of the father and his son.

==============

The Heart Never Forgets 19

“Ricardo bakit naman madalian ang alis mo? Di man lang tuloy kami nakapaghanda.”

A very upset and annoyed Manang Fe was fixing Richard’s clothes.

“Manang emergency po kasi. Kailangan ko talagang makabalik doon at makausap si Father Santi.”

“Hindi ba pwedeng ipagpaliban yan?”

“Hindi na po Manang. Mas makakabalik ako agad dito kapag naasikaso ko lahat sa Rome. Kailangan ko na talagang makausap si Father Santi.”

“Makakabalik dito? Babalik ka pa?”

A hopeful smile was seen in Manang Fe’s face. This stopped her from ranting.

Richard hugged her from behind. Nilambing nya si Manang Fe coz he knows how sad she felt when she knew about his flight tomorrow.

“Opo Manang babalik ako kaya wag ka ng magalit. Dito na ulit ako. Makikita nyo na ako palagi.”

===============

He was on an early flight to Manila and since there’s only one flight from San Nicolas, he was sure that James will be on the same flight. He wanted to talk to him and fix things asap.

True enough James was there.

When they landed in Manila, they spent an hour discussing about the possible annulment and what both their plans for Maya and Luke are.

It was decided that Richard will fix everything in Rome first. He will resign too from his teaching jobs and turnover all his unfinished projects.

James needs to go back to his work as well but he promised to come home if he will be needed by both Maya and Richard.

=====================

“Hi Luke. How are you? How’s mom?”

He called Luke the moment he arrived in Rome.

“Tito Ricky! Okay naman po kami ni mom. She’s cooking spaghetti. I requested it kasi.”

The little boy chuckled. He teared up just hearing his son laugh. He gripped his phone tightly trying to control his tears from falling and trying to control his voice from breaking.

“Asan ka po Tito Ricky? Punta ka dito sa bahay. Eat tayo ng niluluto ni mom.”

That did it. He could no longer control himself that he allowed his tears to flow. He was trying so hard to normalize his voice and stop sniffling but the boy already heard it.

“Tito Ricky, okay ka lang po? You sound like may sipon ka po. Wait I’ll call mom.”

Before he could stop Luke, he already left the phone to call his mom.

“Chard you’re sick daw sabi ni Luke.”

“Hindi naman Maya. Sipon lang.” He lied.

“Naku uminom ka ng maraming tubig at magpahinga ka agad. Papuntahin mo dito si Joma. Nagluto kasi ako ng spaghetti kasi Luke topped his class. Padalhan kita.”

“Maya wala ako jan. Nakabalik na ako dito sa Rome.”

“Ha! Okay. Akala ko kasi dadaan ka pa do to bago ka umalis.”

Her voice turned sad.

“Babalik naman ako. May kailangan lang asikasuhin. O sige Maya. Congrats kay Luke. Hug him for me. You guys take care.”

He abruptly ended the call for he can’t control his emotions anymore.

=================

It’s been a month after Richard left.

“Tito Ricky!” Luke hurriedly met him by their gate.

The boy leaped in his arms. He carried Luke and he hugged the boy tightly.

They were on the phone daily when he was still in Rome.

Richard makes is a point to call his son. They talk about piano, school, toys, Maya and anything they could think of. Maya never suspected anything. She was beyond happy that Luke is in constant communication with his dad.

Maya was surprised to see him.

“Hi Luke! I got some goodies for you. Go inside na muna and ask yaya Leah to prepare it.”

When Luke left to go find his yaya Leah, Richard approached a dumbfounded Maya who was glued to where she was standing.

He stared at her and with all the love he was feeling, he gave her a very tight hug.

He had tears in his eyes when he disengaged from the hug. He stared at her eyes…

“Why didn’t you tell me Maya?”

“Chard?”

“Why didn’t you tell me about Luke?”

Then she bowed her head, her misty eyes avoiding his gaze.

He held her face gently and wiped the tears in her eyes.

“I’m sorry Chard. I’m very sorry. Gusto ko namang sabihin pero… pero…”

Then she cried.

He gathered her in his arms.

“It’s okay Maya. Nandito na ako. I won’t leave you and Luke.”

In between sobs, she asked.

“Pano mo nalaman?”

“James. He went to my place before he left. He gave me your box.”

She was surprised and embarrassed as well. She knows then contents of the box bared her life to him.

He noticed it.

“Thank you Maya. Thank you for Luke. Thank you for those letters. Thank you for all the memories you had in that box. I could relive the early years of our son which I missed with that.”

Then she slowly gazed at him with her doe-shaped eyes brimming with happy tears.

He smiled.

Both of them with eyes welling with tears, he slowly claimed her lips and kissed her with the longing, love he felt for her. He hopes for the wonderful future together.

=================

Preview of the Next Chapter:

“Mom you’re kissing Tito Ricky?”

A bewildered boy witnessed his mom kissing his Tito Ricky, the person he is so fond of.

“Anak…”

“Luke…”

The boy alternately stared at them with confusion.

Richard held Maya’s hand tightly as they both faced the most important person to them, their son Luke.

The Heart Never Forgets – A note on the story

A note on the story

I wrote this story when Be Careful with my Heart was still being shown, last months of 2013 to be exact. I never intended to post this.

I got my inspiration from the story of my friend Amy and her husband Nick.

Earlier this year, as i was fixing my files, i saw this story again together with my other bcwmh files – pics, videos and some stories i tinkered on. I read her story and I told my friend that her very moving journey deserves to be shared.

She agreed thats why i decided to revise, edit and post it para hindi naman masyadong heavy. It was also sort of a catharsis for me since I was also affected by her life.

Baka may lessons din na makuha from their story. Sana.

Since I so love the characters of Richard and Maya and since the show helped me when I was so sad for my friend, I decided to write their story using Richard and Maya in their place.

Yes. Amy and Nick are Maya and Richard in the story. And Luke was their son Archie.

They encountered the same ups and downs like Richard and Maya of the fanfic but in the end they also found their way to each other and spent a happy and blissful life with their son.

I won’t include the details of their real story na out of respect for both of them. Ayaw din naman nya. 3/4 of the one I wrote naman are really true.

They were together for almost 9 years until binawi na ni Bro si Nick. He died in a car accident last 2013. Yes when ongoing yun show. Kaya nga big help talaga ang bcwmh to forget sadness even for few minutes a day lang.

We were kidding each other nga na pinahiram lang sakanya si Nick kasi nga he was about to be a priest before.

But my friend said that she was very grateful that they were given a chance to be a family and spend their time together with their son, albeit, a very short-lived life together.

Now her son will be graduating in college and my friend is now taking charge of the businesses her husband left with their true to life dependable staff they consider as family. She stopped teaching already.

Si James? Well he is our friend, John. Same yun kwento nya sa story but he is not a pilot but an engineer in Dubai. He frequently visits my friend pa rin. I asked him and Amy if hindi ba pwedeng sila na lang, their answer was Nick could never be replaced and they love and respect him so much to do that. No hindi sila nagkatuluyan ng true Rafi. Rafi is already married but very good friends sila. Single pa rin si James, gusto nyong makilala? Joke! Ipapasubo yun friend.

Si Mother Elena? She really exists din but di naman siya aunt ni James in real life. At siya talaga reason why naglihim si Maya. (Sinisi talaga. Hahaha!)

The true Maya has no nanay tere. Siguro part of her bad decisions came from the fact that she has no loving mom who took care of her. At siguro kaya nalito na rin ako kung saan ko isisingit si Nanay Tere sa story. I realized na missing na siya sa last chapters I posted.

Asan ako sa story? Aba siyempre hindi ko isasali sarili ko. Pero isa ako sa super kinulit ng Richard ng story ng pinagtaguan siya ni Maya. I honestly didn’t know where she was then kaya abswelto ako.

Sad? Yes but life was still good to them. They also have their son who grew up like his dad.

You wonder why hindi nakilala ng dad yun anak nya? Hindi naman po kasi sila singkit like Richard Lim na madali madistinguish eh. Seriously, he looks more like his mom when he was younger. Now, aba kamukha na ni dad nya. Kaya parang lagi lang naman ni Amy nakikita si Nick.

And my friend said, the memories they shared could sustain her until they see each other again. Huhuhu…

Thanks for reading and sorry if pinaiyak ko kayo.

And yes. Amy is okay now. In fact she sometimes reads stories here and is amused with your comments. Yun son pala nila is Nicolas (di ba connect din sa San Nicolas ng bcwmh) ang name but medyo slow ang daddy for he never realized it. Sabagay he doesn’t use the name naman at napakalayo ng nickname nya na Archie (very sly ang mom.. tsk!) But yes pagong din yun daddy ng slight, hahaha!

Sad to say hindi bcwmh adik ang friend ko kasi she doesn’t have time to watch TV eh. She buried herself in work. But pipilitin ko talaga to be one of us (parang cult lang😁).

She also insists na mas gwapo yun asawa niya kay Richard Lim. Owwkayy… Sige na nga pagbibigyan ko tutal I used their story naman eh, hehehe! ✌

Well, I’m just trying to lighten the mood kasi as I said mabigat at hindi careful sa heart ang story nila.

I was supposed to post this after ko matapos yun Richard and Maya version kaso I prefer na happy and good vibes yun last few chapters ng story and if I’ll post this in the end, aba eh di malungkot yun last part.

And yes, iba yun magiging takbo ng R & M version of this story.

Buti pa si Maya at Ricky may happy ending at may forever.😊

I’m supposed to post this tonight but since dalawa na napost ko today, I’ll schedule this for 9:30 tomorrow that is if hindi pumalpak ang wp.

Thanks again for reading. Good eve/ day!

The Heart Never Forgets 18

Richard was inspired after his talk with Maya. He could settle for a friendship, really. If that’s his only way to be able to be in touch with her or show his care for her.

The concert he directed was a huge success again. It was attended by the bishops, clergy and the religious of different provinces. He gave his best knowing that it will be his last directing job while he was still a deacon.

In a few days he will be leaving the country. He already had a talk with his Spiritual Director and had confessed his intention of leaving his vocation. He vowed though to still continue teaching the kids if they will still allow him.

Though the future is not yet clear for him, he still feels contented with the current state of his life.

Lying in his bed, he was looking at some pictures of him and Maya years ago. They indeed looked so good together. She was so beautiful then, so innocent, so sweet. She is definitely stunning now. She became sexier too. He wanted to scold himself for where his thoughts were leading to.

A knock on his door was heard.

He opened it to find Manang Fe.

“Ricardo may naghahanap sa’yo.”

“Sino po Manang?”

“Siya daw si James Ventura. Yun asawa ata ni Maya?”

“Po?”

He was surprised. He never expected a visit from the guy whom Maya chose over him.

He tried to remember what he must have done to make James pay him a visit. He can’t remember anything wrong from that date or rather time together they had days ago. It was even James who brought her there. They just talked.

He can’t help but feel apprehensive of James’ sudden visit especially at 9 in the evening especially when he was actually thinking about James’ wife.

“Sige po Manang. Papasukin mo na po. I’ll be right there.”

Richard hurriedly fixed himself and went to meet James who was ushered by Manang Fe to his home office.

=================

“Richard good evening pare.”

They shook hands.

“Good evening James. What brings you here? May kailangan ka ba? Si Maya? She needs something? Is she okay?” He couldn’t help but worry.

James smiled. He realized that the guy in front of him is indeed still in love with Maya. Pareho lang yun dalawa at masarap silang pag-untugin he thought.

“No pare. Okay si Maya. I just dropped by kasi I’ll be on an early flight to Manila tomorrow. Alis na ako bukas ng gabi. I just want to give you this before I go back to London.”

James hands Richard the box that Maya had treasured all these years.

“Open it pakaalis ko na. Its kinda confidential and very important. Hindi alam ni Maya yan. I actually got that without her permission. She was supposed to tell you kaso you know Maya. Our dear Maya always choose to keep things to herself.”

Richard couldn’t understand what James was talking about. He just held the box.

“Hindi naman to detrimental to my health, I suppose?”

“Hahaha! No pare. Hindi. Safe naman yan at di naman sasabog yan. Pero it might not be too safe for your heart. Dapat may tubig ka kapag binuksan mo yan.”

James joked. He was really a great guy.

“Okay pero pare, though i don’t know what this is, I just want to thank you for allowing me to talk to Maya the other day.”

“No problem pare. You both needed that. And what’s in that box is yun mga hindi na nasabi ni Maya sa’yo. I have to go. Sumaglit lang ako. She doesn’t know I will be going to your place. Si Mother Elena ang nagbigay ng address mo.”

“Ah okay. I will be leaving rin in a couple of days. Dadalawin ko sila before I leave. I hope its okay with you.”

“No worries pare. There is really no problem at all with me.”

Then James hands Richard his calling card.

“I’m sure you will have to contact me soon Richard. Just call me anytime. If I don’t answer, just leave a message.”

“I will James. Sige pare salamat!”

“Okay. Thanks for taking good care of them while I was away. Luke thinks highly of you.”

“Ah.. Kids always think highly of their teachers.”

“I suppose so. I better get going.”

===================

James left Richard’s place with a contented smile and light heart. He knows that what he did was the best decision ever. He did it for his special friend.

He is convinced that its time to put an end to their marriage. Maya doesn’t need him anymore. Richard could very well come back to her life and their son’s life as well. They all deserve to be happy. Maya deserves to be happy. She suffered long enough already. And Luke definitely needs a dad who could be there for him.

When Mother Elena told him about Richard Lim who was supposed to be a priest but was contemplating of not going through the process of ordination, James decided right there and then that he needs to do something to bring him and Maya together.

They were clear with their setup. They just got married to keep each other company but he isn’t even able to keep his part of the deal. How can he take care of Maya and Luke when he was in London most of the time. And her opportunity to be reunited with Richard is here.

Now that he knows Richard is still free, he must make the move, he is very sure his friend Maya would never have the guts to do so.

================

Richard carefully read the documents inside the box with trembling hands.

He first saw Luke’s birth certificate which was dated a year earlier than what Maya told him. There were Luke’s ultrasound pictures, baby pictures, toddler pictures. Every picture has a note at the back which was addressed to him.

His first piano recital picture which was taken when he was 4 years old has a note which said…

“Chard, this is our son’s first recital. I’m sure you will be proud of him once you hear him play. He got his talent from you. I miss you. -Maya”

There was a picture with Luke and Maya in the dentist.

“Chard see hindi siya takot sa dentist like you. Our son Luke’s first dental appointment. -Maya”

There were lots of pictures documenting Luke’s growing years. Each of them has a note.

Then he saw her marriage certificate with James’ note attached to it.

“Richard, call me so we can talk about the annulment. Maya was never mine. She was completely yours. Sa papel lang ang kasal namin.”

He also saw an album of all their pictures together. Maybe James wasn’t able to remove it anymore. They were the same pictures he was looking at earlier before James arrived.

There was another album. It had pictures of a pregnant Maya. He learned from the pictures that she was with her Nanay Teresita and they stayed at the convent of Northwest Hills Antipolo campus.

The pictures showed the sadness in Maya’s eyes. She looked dull and pale. It seemed she had a difficult pregnancy.

Richard’s eyes were puffy from crying after going through everything that’s inside the box. He closed it and went on to dial a number.

“Sir?”

“Liza, please book me a flight tomorrow to Manila and please move my flight for Rome tomorrow night.”

“Sir may emergency? Why a sudden change in schedule?” Liza was upset because they actually prepared a despedida party for him.

“Yes Liza. May emergency. I have to go back to Rome the soonest time possible. Babalik rin naman ako dito pagkatapos. You can make your party a welcome party instead of a despedida.” He was aware of the surprise and he knows that his staff will be disappointed to know that they won’t be able to have the despedida party.

“Sir Richard talaga.” Liza just shook her head on the other line.

“Seriously Liza, I need the tickets.”

“Yes Sir.”

==================

Preview of the next chapter:

It’s been a month after Richard left.

“Tito Ricky!” Luke hurriedly met him at their gate.

Maya was surprised to see him.

He hugged the boy tightly while kissing his forehead.

“Hi Luke! I got some goodies for you. Go inside na muna and ask yaya Leah to prepare it.”

When Luke left to go find his yaya Leah, Richard approached a dumbfounded Maya who was glued to where she was standing.

He stared at her and with all the love he was feeling, he gave her a very tight hug.

He had tears in his eyes when he disengaged from the hug. He stared at her eyes…

“Why didn’t you tell me Maya?”

 

The Heart Never Forgets 17

As soon as James left, Richard led Maya to a private corner at South Curves restaurant.

Since he arrived earlier than Maya, he chose and reserved a table for them. He picked the table which is in the farthest area from the entrance and from the restaurant staff to give them the privacy they needed.

“Okay lang dito Maya?”

“Okay lang Chard.”

He assisted her in her seat.

The palpable tension is present and both are feeling uncomfortable already.

“Buti naman at pumayag kang makipagkita sakin Chard.”

“Free naman ako Maya and I also wanted to talk to you. I’m glad you brought it up. So order muna tayo?”

“Sige.” Maya shyly replied.

Richard called the waiter and they both ordered some coffee and cake.

Richard was suggesting some of the restaurant’s specialty but Maya declined saying that she just had lunch though she really wasn’t able to eat lunch at all with the tension and anticipation for their date.

Richard wasn’t also able to eat the meal prepared by Manang Fe.

“So Maya what’s our agenda?” He said in jest.

“Ikaw talaga.” She slapped his arm which was on top of their table. They were seated across each other but since the table was quite small, they are practically very close to each other.

“Seriously Maya, why do you want to talk to me?”

“Well, di ba, uhmmm, aalis ka na? Gusto ko sanang bigyan ng linaw yun mga nakaraan. I just wanted us to be okay bago ka umalis.To have peace of mind na rin. Alam mo naman ang ibig kong sabihin Chard, di ba?”

“Yes Maya, I do understand.”

“Alam ko naman kasi na marami akong nagawa kung saan nasaktan kita. Hindi ko yun maalis sa kunsiyensya ko. Mabigat pa rin sa loob ko na nasaktan kita noon Chard.”

“Maya….”

She continued.

“When we were supposed to have dinner, sinadya ko talagang hindi magpakita sa’yo. Umalis kami ni nanay at balak kong kausapin ka kapag nasa Boston ka na. Naniniwala ako na maipapaliwanag ko lahat kapag nakaalis ka na. Ayaw kong naiiwan, alam mo naman yun di ba? I mean, that’s what happened to Tatay. Umalis siya at di na bumalik.”

“I wouldn’t have done that Maya. You were my life, di ba?”

“Oo pero hindi ko na naisip yun Chard. Ang alam ko lang aalis ka at maiiwan ako. Hindi na ako nakapag-isip ng tama.”

She was trying so hard to maintain her composure as she was already finding it so difficult to talk about the past.

“Ng bumalik kami ni Nanay, alam kong nakaalis ka na nun. Nagulat ako ng malaman na araw araw kang pumupunta sa bahay. I found out that you haven’t left yet. I was so guilty then. I wanted to go to your place pero I was so ashamed of myself, of what I have done. Hindi ko magawang harapin ka at sina Manang Fe. Nagdesisyon ako na hintayin ka na lang pumunta sa bahay at doon ko na lang balak magpaliwanag. Pero hindi ka dumating.”

“I got sick Maya. I stayed in the hospital for almost 2 months. At hindi ako makatakas kay Manang Fe.”

Maya was surprised. She didn’t know that Richard got sick then. All she thought was he was mad at her that’s why he didn’t bother to visit anymore.

Her eyes instantly welled with tears. She realized that when Manang Fe requested for her to visit Richard, that was the time he was in the hospital.

“Oh my God! I am so sorry… I’m sorry Chard..”

Then her tears now flowed freely. She was unable to control it after hearing what he could have gone through.

“Hey Maya don’t cry. Matagal na yun at okay na okay ako, o! Naku naman baka may makakita sa’yo, akalain na sinaktan kita tapos bugbugin ako.”

He frantically wiped her cheeks. She was smiling amidst tears, amused at his effort to lighten the mood.

“Anong sakit mo? Bakit ang tagal mo sa hospital?”

“Sipon at ubo lang.” He joked.

“Richard seryoso.”

“Maya matagal na yun.”

“Kaya nga tayo naguusap di ba para maliwanag ang lahat.”

“Okay. I had a mild stroke then the doctor did a surgery. Pero it wasn’t serious. Kailangan lang gawin para hindi na maging delikado.”

Her doe shaped eyes, brimming with tears again stared at him. He held her hand.

“Hey I’m okay. Kaya ayaw kong sabihin eh.”

“Dapat dinamayan kita noon. Ang sama sama ko.”

“No you’re not. I’m sure fate had a hand in everything that happened. See, we are even given a chance to face each other now and clear things.”

But Maya just covered her face with her hands, regretting what she did in the past.

“Manang Fe said you went to Dubai?”

That’s the reason she gave Manang Fe when she decided to hide from him and keep her pregnancy to herself.

She didn’t answer his question.

He decided to tell his story.

“Maya nung dinner, I was supposed to propose to you then. I decided na mag short course na lang sa Berklee. That was my surprise.” He smiled at her.

“Pero don’t feel bad kasi we turned out to be okay. I mean look at you. Who would have thought that it’s possible for us to talk to each other like this.”

“Chard ng umalis ako, anong nangyari sa’yo?”

“I was sad Maya. I mean ikaw lang yun pamilya ko. You were my life. Sila Manang Fe was different. I needed you then. I thought we were really meant for each other. But you left. Nawalan ako ng direksyon noon. I stopped for a semester then I realized that I should get back on track, shape up. I convinced myself that hindi ko na mababago ang mga pangyayari. I need to take care of myself and be a better person. Maybe kung hindi ko man saiyo maibaling yun pagmamahal na meron ako, I could give it to others. I decided to enter the seminary. Then the opportunity to go on a mission abroad came. I grabbed it. I was so eager to leave the Philipines, to forget the pain. I found myself again. I buried myself in work, in music, in my vocation, in my faith, in God. I found happiness again. My love for you never changed Maya. I can love you in a different way now. We can be friends, best friends I hope so, like the way it was before. And I’m really grateful that you allowed me into your life again. You even allowed me to mentor your son. I really appreciate that Maya. That meant a lot to me.”

“You’ve always been special Chard. Hindi naman nagbabago yun. And the biggest regret I have was letting you go. But I am happy to know that you had lived a very meaningful life. You’re a priest now?”

She asked with dejected eyes.

“Not yet. Next year pa but a lot can still happen.”

“I’m … I’m happy for you.” was all she could say.

He smiled. He was unaware of the things going through her mind.

“Ikaw Maya, how did you meet James?”

“Ah he was Mother Elena’s nephew. He helped me during my lowest times. We became friends before we got married.”

“He’s a levelheaded person. I mean allowing you to meet me, after what he witnessed the other night.”

“Mabait naman si James at wala naman dapat ikagalit. Alam din nya na boyfriend kita noon.”

“I’m happy that you’re in good hands Maya. Your husband seems to be a great guy. Even your son. Very sweet and talented. Maswerte ka. Siguro that’s the reason why hindi naging tayo.”

“Chard, please promise na you will be in touch even after you leave. Si Luke, he was more inspired when you became his mentor. Please promise me that.”

She doesn’t know how she could tell him about Luke anymore. It seemed inconsequential now after learning that he was to be a priest. She can never complete with God. She made many wrong decisions in her life. Ayaw na nyang dagdagan pa.

But she was desperate to maintain the connection between her son and his father that she could settle for anything, even a mere coach/mentor and student relationship.

“Of course Maya. I will always be in touch with Luke. Even with you if okay lang sayo. Best friends ulit?”

She smiled but it was a pained smile that didn’t reach her eyes.

“Best friends Chard!”

They continued talking about the past, reminiscing about the first time they met, his years at Northwest Hills.

They had fun. Ricky was so happy to be allowed in her life again. He may no longer be a husband but he can be her very best friend again.

Maya tried her best to make this very rare and even last moment with him memorable.

They talked about James and Luke too and Maya even mentioned that she thought he was married when she saw him with someone at the restaurant.

It turned out that it was his friend, Catherine, who just got married. She was the reason why he came home. He sang on their wedding.

They both enjoyed their time together. At least they were about to clear things up, though Maya didn’t have the heart to tell him about Luke. Her conscience couldn’t do it for she knows that it will confuse him again.

====================

It was already 7 pm when Richard drove her home.

As he parked his car in front of her gate…

“Thank you Maya for this. I will still see you and Luke before I leave.”

“Thanks din Chard. Please take care of yourself.”

“I will Maya. Ikaw din. Kayo ni Luke. Please thank James for me too.”

Then after giving each other a very tight hug, he kissed Maya on her forehead. Maya in turn kissed his cheek as well.

He assisted her as she alighted his car.

=================

It was already 12 midnight and James was anxiously waiting for Maya in their garden.

He was excited to know about Maya and Richard’s date which Maya vehemently considers as a plain conversation and not a date.

“Tulog na si Luke?”

“Kanina pa. Bakit ang tagal mo? Kausap mo pa siguro si Ricky sa phone ano?” James was teasing but Maya totally ignored it.

Maya sat beside him.

The moment Maya arrived earlier, she wasn’t her jolly self anymore. She was quiet and it was totally the opposite of what James expected from her going out with Richard.

“Hindi. Kausap ko si Edz. Nagpatulong lang sa grades ng mga estudyante nya.”

“So how was it? Yun pag-uusap nyo kanina?”

“Okay naman James.”

“What did he say?”

“Sabi nya he will keep in touch. Lagi naman daw siyang tatawag kay Luke.”

“And?”

“He will guide Luke and be his coach kahit malayo siya. May Skype naman daw.”

“Tapos?”

“Yun. Friends pa rin kami. And the best part of it is close pa rin sila ni Luke.”

James now faced her. He was already annoyed with Maya’s dull, unexciting answers.

“He will support Luke? I mean financially?”

This got Maya’s attention and heightened her emotion which was James real intention for his remark.

“I will never ask for any financial support! If I’ll tell him about Luke, its not because I needed his financial support!”, she unintentionally said it in a higher voice showing she was upset.

Maya’s impassioned response to James supported his suspicion that she didn’t tell the truth about Luke.

“So tama ang hinala ko. Hindi mo inamin yun tungkol kay Luke.”

Maya now suddenly softened up and her sad doe-shaped eyes stared back at him.

“Paano ko naman sasabihin James? Magpapari siya. Ano naman ang laban ko dun? Guguluhin ko lang siya. Sisirain ko na naman ang maayos na nyang tinatahak na buhay.”

“Pero Maya we already talked lengthily about this. Di ba nga ang sabi mo regardless of him being married aaminin mo na sakanya na may anak siya. That’s the plan. Whatever happened to that?”

“James yun ay kung may asawa siya. Iba naman yun sitwasyon James. Magpapari siya.”

“Parehas lang yun. And besides hindi pa naman siya pari.”

“Hindi. Magkaiba yun may asawa sa magpapari. Ayaw kong maging dahilan si Luke sa kung ano man ang magiging desisyon nya sa buhay.”

“But that’s the choice he has to make. And you don’t have the right to make decisions for him either. The only thing you have to do is tell him the truth. Kung ano man ang desisyon nya, that’s for him to make Maya. Wala kang karapatan na pangunahan siya.”

“Ayokong maging dahilan si Luke ng kung ano man ang pagbabago sa buhay nya James. Ayoko na sisihin nya ang bata.”

“You think that’s what he’ll be doing? Blaming Luke or you? Kasi Maya sa lahat ng naikuwento mo about Richard, I don’t believe that he would do that to you or Luke.”

She was already on the verge of crying and can’t take it anymore so she allowed herself to drown in sorrow and regret.

She can’t help but think of the what-ifs and what-could-have-been if she only made the right decisions years ago. Now she’s faced with it again and she feels so helpless choosing what is right or what the best decision is for her, for Luke, for Richard.

James gathered her in his arms, allowing her to cry in his chest.

“Sshhh… It will be okay Maya. It will be.”

When her sobs died down…

“Sige na Maya. You better rest now. Ipapasyal ko kayo bukas ni Luke. Mag-absent na muna kayo sa school.”

She stood up.

“Salamat James. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight Maya. Rest ka na. Stop thinking about it na muna.”

“What will I do without you James.”

“You’ll be fine without me.”

James smiled at her and she nodded her head and proceeded to her room.

James just sighed heavily thinking of the predicament of this woman and the boy he cares for.

===============

Preview of the next chapter:

A knock on his door was heard.

He opened it to find Manang Fe.

“Ricardo may naghahanap sa’yo.”

“Sino po Manang?”

“Siya daw si James Ventura.”

“Po?”

He was surprised. He never expected a visit from the guy whom Maya chose over him.

He tried to remember what he must have done to make James pay him a visit. He can’t remember anything wrong from that date or rather time together they had days ago. It was even James who brought her there. They just talked.

He can’t help but feel apprehensive of James’ sudden visit.

“Sige po Manang. Papasukin mo na po. I’ll be right there.”

The Heart Never Forgets 16

At the convent, Father Francis was harvesting tomatoes from his vegetable garden when Mother Elena arrived for a visit.

“Wow Father ang dami nyan. Who would have thought that the soil here is good for vegetables. Dati kasi they just use this area as garage. I’m really impressed on how you transformed the sad state of this backyard to a vegetable garden.”

“Marami nang naharvest dyan Mother. I actually sent you a basket of tomatoes tapos may avocado din yesterday. Yun driver na nagdala kasi pumunta ako ng cathedral kahapon.”

“Oh thank you. Baka nandun na sa kitchen namin. So how’s the bishop?”

“He is so excited for his big show. Everyone is so busy there. He invited many visitors. Stressed na yun mga pari dun.”

“Si bishop talaga. I heard he even hired someone from abroad to be in charge of the show.”

“Ah oo si Ricky. He is the same person who directed your school play actually. Swerte ng diocese that he’s around. Pabalik na rin yun sa Rome next week. He is teaching there.”

Mother Elena was surprised. She never knew anything about Richard Lim anymore. The only thing she knows was that he lives and works overseas. That’s what Manang Fe told her the last time they accidentally saw each other in church.

“You mean Ricky? Richard Lim?”

“Yes. He’s the one who directed your school concert. You already met him Mother. He’s a very talented young man, charismatic and very passionate in everything he does too.”

“Yes I know him already. He lives in Rome? Ano siya doon?” Mother Elena can’t help but ask Father Francis.

“He’s assigned there. He teaches too and is also in charge of the choir and orchestra there. He will be ordained next year and I hope he still decides to be a priest. Medyo nalito ata ng umuwi dito.”

Francis Francis said in jest. He never suspected that the person he is talking to is very significant in Ricky’s life.

“He’s going to be a priest? Oh I thought he was just connected to you because he was teaching music.”

“Ah no. I met him years ago in Rome during my short studies there. I learned that he’s from the Philippines too so we got close. He was still a seminarian then and he just came from a mission in some African country I couldn’t even remember, marami na kasi siyang napuntahan. He was a favorite sa lahat ng communities na napupuntahan nya. Very selfless. He’s actually alone. No parents and no siblings as well.”

Mother Elena nodded, digesting all the information Father Francis was telling her.

Father Francis continued.

“He was to be ordained next year. Umuwi lang naman siya for the wedding of his friends. He just opted to stay a bit longer kasi inasikaso nya yun properties nila. Coincidence that I was assigned here to where he came from.”

“I thought he was married. You never mentioned he was a seminarian.”

“A deacon actually. He requested not to be treated such kasi daw he wants to be a normal guy when he’s here. Nagkamali ata kami eh. Dapat hindi namin pinayagan with that set up.”

“Oh. He wanted out?”

“He’s considering it. He’s confused now. Reconnected with a past girlfriend ata. Kaso she is already married and with a son.”

“He will leave the church to pursue her?”

“I don’t think so. He said he will leave the church not to pursue her but because it would be unfair if he couldn’t give his entire self anymore.”

Mother Elena was in deep thought.

“Masyadong mahirap Mother to give advice kasi I wanted him to continue to be a priest. We really need people like him but he’s also a very good person, very selfless. Yun buong taon nya in the seminary, in his missionary work, even in school, he never complained, he was always giving and sharing. Right now I’m just praying for the happiness he deserves. Whatever decision he makes, I’m sure that wouldnt change him. Innate na yun pagiging mabuting tao nya.”

“If he decides to go out, what does he need to do?”

“He needs to speak with his Spiritual Director first then decide from there. Itutuloy pa rin ata nya yun pagtuturo doon. I can’t see him staying here to pursue the lady and destroy her family. He is not like that.”

“I am sure he’s not.”

=================

“Maya can you please calm down. Nahihilo na ako sa’yo.”

Maya was preparing for her meeting with Richard. It was just 12 noon but she already dressed up and was badgering James to bring her to the venue.

“Eh James paano naman ako kakalma. Natatakot ako kung anong magiging reaksyon nya. Baka magulo ko siya, baka magalit siya, baka kunin nya si Luke sa akin.”

She was really worried, scared even.

“You know him better than I do Maya. Sa tingin mo, kaya nyang gawin ang mga yan?”

“Hindi. Pero paano kung sa galit nya, gawin nga nya. Hindi ko kakayanin na kunin nya si Luke.”

“I don’t think he will do that Maya. He is a sensible man from everything you told me about him. He has the right to know about his son. Luke has the right to know who his real dad is. Siguro it was fate that the two of you crossed paths again to be able to settle everything that needs to be settled.”

“Madaling sabihin yan James kasi hindi ikaw ang nasa sitwasyon ko.”

“Maya alam ko but when will you tell him? Consider  today as your only chance to tell him. Its either you tell him or not. Pero once pinalampas mo, don’t regret anything, don’t sulk. Panindigan mo ang desisyon mo. You have to think about Luke.”

“Alam ko James. Salamat ha. Duwag lang talaga ako, alam mo naman yan.”

“Hindi ka duwag Maya. You are brave kasi kung hindi, you wouldn’t have raised Luke on your own. Di mo sana siya napalaki ng maayos.”

“Hindi naman ako nagiisa. Nandyan ka naman.”

“No. I was not. I was far. I’m just someone whom he calls dad but I wasn’t really a dad to him.”

“James ikaw ang dad ni Luke at kahit na sabihin ko kay Richard and totoo, hindi ko naman inaasahan na gagampanan nya ang pagiging tatay nya kay Luke. May sarili na siyang buhay. ”

“No Maya. After you tell him the truth, let him decide what he will do. Pag-usapan nyo for Luke’s welfare. And you my dear, don’t be too harsh on yourself. Don’t fret about things na di pa naman nangyayari. Malay mo everything will be in your favor. Malay mo, Ricky would go back to your life.”

She sharply stared at James.

“Hindi magandang biro yan James. I’m not amused.”

“Hey relax! Okay sorry na. Ang seryoso mo kasi. Don’t worry whatever the outcome is, nandito lang ako Maya. I’ll always be here for you and Luke. Halika na nga.”

James gave her a hug to comfort her. He knows the inner turmoil Maya is going through.

===============

Maya and James were on their way to South Curves.

James would just drop her off and proceed to Mother Elena who called awhile ago requesting for James to visit her. Luke stayed home to do his homework. Leah was with him.

“James kumusta hitsura ko?”

Natawa si James.

“Stunning. Lovely. I don’t think Richard Lim could stay still in his seat.”

“Hindi ako nagbibiro James!” She was upset.

“Oy ang init ng ulo mo, relax ka nga.”

“Ikaw kasi eh. Kinakabahan na nga ang tao. Ano nga hitsura ko? Maputla ba? Halata bang kinakabahan?”

He reached for her hand.

“Hey Maya, si Richard lang yun. Kumalma ka nga. Halatang halata ka naman nyan na sobrang affected sa presence nya. Relax, okay?”

She inhaled deeply.

“Okay.”

=================

“Good afternoon James. Maya. Doon tayo.”

Richard was waiting for Maya at the entrance of South Curves. He needed to calm his nerves too. He was disappointed to see James with her but he maintained his cordial demeanor.

“Ah no Richard. Hinatid ko lang si Maya. See you at home na lang mamaya? Richard okay lang sa’yo na ihatid siya sa bahay? Wala kasing kasama si Luke at yun yaya nya.”

He was surprised that James would entrust Maya to him but he also realized that the two must have a very secured relationship for him to completely trust his wife.

“Oh no problem James. Ihahatid ko si Maya sainyo. Thank you.”

“Sige pare. Maya.”

Then he gave Maya a hug and a kiss while whispering..

“Everything will be alright Maya.”

James left them to finally have their long overdue heart to heart talk.

A/N Oftentimes it is very easy to see what needs to be done but if you’re in the situation itself, the whole decision-making becomes very difficult.