Page 6 of Unpermitted Love

“I wanted to be an artist, but I was unable to follow my passion. Instead, I had to fulfill my duties as MD/CEO. Yet, I think I’ve probably made Torres Holdings one of the best conglomerates in America.”

Hal and his dad have had their disagreements over the years, probably because of Hal’s passion to become an artist which doesn’t really fit in with Jeff’s vision for the business. However, they still have a good relationship. Jeff never has a family gathering without Hal present, and he always sought his opinion on things before making any decisions.

So why did Tasha hate him so much? She was smart but didn't have what it takes to run such a large company. Torres Holdings had a foothold in almost every industry in the United States and some parts of Europe.

“Perhaps I should have given Tasha a chance because I don't really know her, but I think that ship has sailed. As you and I are going to be neighbors, I thought it was best I came over here and broke the ice, and to also give you my side of the story as I’m sure you’ve heard hers. Oh, and to give you these ….”

Hal leaves my apartment for a minute or two and reappears holding a large bouquet of flowers.

“Oh my goodness …!” I exclaim.

“Do you like them?” He asks.

“Oh, I love them.” He hands me the stunning display that I can’t help but marvel at. “But what is this in aid of?”

“Let’s just say it's a moving in present.”

"Thank you, they’re stunning. And thanks for putting me in the picture, Hal. Do you think there’s any possibility of a reconciliation between you both? I'm sure your dad's not cool with what's going on. And why doesn't he say anything?"

"My dad is a diplomat. He's trying to keep the peace. She's his wife. Besides, I have never really cared about what anyone thought of me. Until now."

A breath catches in my throat. The way he looks at me is so intense. I feel my body come alive.

"So, what’s changed?"

He smiles down at me again. "Well, let's just say that I’m very keen for you to know the truth. You're different. I have always known you were different."

"And here I was thinking that I had ruined your first impression of me with my attitude that day." I lower my head so he doesn’t see me blushing furiously. His intense gaze is making my heartbeat faster.

"I want us to start over. Put the whole family feud behind us. Can we do that?"

"Sure,” I say, smiling back at him. “But can you promise me one thing?"

"What is it?"

"You won't close the door to a reconciliation between you and Tasha."

Hal smiled sadly. "I’ll try. I'll let you get back to whatever you were doing before I interrupted your evening." Hal walks towards the front door and I follow closely behind. Just before he leaves, he turns back to look at me.

"What are you doing tomorrow night?"

"Um ... nothing I guess ... I mean I have some research that I need to finish but it’s not urgent.”

"Can I take you out to dinner?"

I hesitate, unsure of what he’s asking me. "Um ... is this like a friendly night out or ...?"

Hal laughs loudly, his gorgeous smile reaching up to his dark handsome eyes, "I'm asking you out on a date, Anna! A dinner date."

My knees almost buckle underneath me. The way he calls me ‘Anna’ is so different to anyone else who pronounces my name. People don’t usually call me Anna. But, I like it.

"Hal ... I don't ..." I look at him but I can’t read the expression on his face. I fear that if I decline his offer, he’ll back off and never bring it up again.

Is that what you want?

"Anna, you don't have to if you don't want to."

Oh God, but I do. I really do.

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