Hal's Story Continues

Hal's Story Continues

Another Greenville story

I had no intention of writing a second part to Hal's story. Then I figured what the heck. Let's see where it goes. This has become the largest cast of characters between the 2 parts and the longest as well as the easiest story I've ever written.. Its a Greenville story and I wanted to get away from ACR based characters.

This story is very dialogue heavy which is a big departure for me. I hope you can follow and enjoy it.

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¿Te estás volviendo gay por lo que te hizo esa perra? Maria asked me one Monday after another date that didn't work out. She had set me up with another friend of hers. Josefina was a beautiful and intelligent woman. We had a nice date, dinner at Luigi's and went to a play with drinks afterwards. I could tell she wanted to "extend" the date but I took her home instead.

When Maria was mad she spoke Spanish. She spoke Spanish a lot. "Gay?, Jesus no Maria I'm not gay, you know that. I'm just not going to jump into bed with everyone I take out."

"It seems like you're not taking anyone to bed lately Hal. You're a nice guy. I hate what that puta did to you. You deserve to be happy. Find a nice woman and start making babies. You're not getting younger and I want to be an aunt."

"Why do we have this conversation after every date. I'm not looking to settle down right now. Isn't Kira and Lita enough for you. How about Hector and Elena? I'm to busy with business to think about a family right now."

"Mierda, You don't do shit around here except get in the way. Me and the girls run everything. You just sign where we say sign. Go be the boss then, I got stuff to do besides trying to play Cupid for you."

"Umm, its my office Maria" I said with a laugh. She gave me a look only a Mexican women can and leaves with a huff.

This is the way its been since Karin and I divorced. I knew I had friends and they had my back beyond being employees. They were the family I didn't have.

I had gotten Jose a company truck to replace the truck he sold when I was going through my troubles. I didn't ask questions because I didn't want to know the answers. He was a friend, a good friend. I had no doubts about that. Sometimes in life you need friends to do things you won't or can't do. He helped me when I didn't know I needed help.

Business was good. We were growing by leaps and bounds as the city experienced a building boom. Jose and Ramon were now Supervisors over seeing multiple sites we were building. Oscar was Vice President of Operations. Maria was the office manager with 8 people working under her. She keeps the place running. Ramon finally married a nice girl who just moved from Wisconsin of all places. Ingrid is way too nice for him.

My business life was great and my social life was also wonderful. Was I dating, kinda. The ladies in the office were always trying to fix me up with this friend or that relative, especially Maria and Jennifer. I had some dates, blind and otherwise. But nothing ever stuck. It wasn't that I was gun shy. Well, maybe a little, I just never found anyone that held my interest.

A lot of my social activity revolved around 2 darling little girls, Kira and Lita 7 and 8 years old respectfully who lived next door with their mother Kim. I had rented Ms. Wilson's house to them when I inherited it. She was recently divorced and had moved from Delaware. She worked for an internet company that did something I did not understand. She was 31 years old, a pixie of a women at barely 5 foot. Auburn hair she keep in a short style that made her look younger then she was. She was always smiling and cheerful. The girls took after her in all ways.

I would get home and they would come running yelling and dancing. "Uncle Hal Uncle Hal, guess what happened today" And I would spend the next 30 minutes on the porch listening to their day until Kim would let me loose or invite me in for dinner.

They started calling me Uncle Hal within 2 weeks of moving in. I had fixed Kira's bike one day. I was cutting grass, I still did both yards even though I wasn't getting the oatmeal cookies anymore, and Kim was in the driveway pretty much looking at the bike holding a pair of pliers. Lita ran up to me and asked if I could fix the bike. It was an easy fix and I had it done in 10 minutes. 5 of it spent explaining what was wrong. Once it was fixed I had to watch them ride up and down the sidewalk of course. Then they invited me to have lunch with them. I looked at Kim and she just shrugged her shoulders in surrender.

It was the first time I had been in the house since they moved in so the girls just had to show me their rooms. Kim had decorated the house the way as only a woman could. It didn't look overly girly but tastefully done. The girls rooms definitely had the girly look. My house looks like I'm hiding from the law. Bare bones minimalist as they call it if you want to be fancy. Once the tour was over we sat down and had bologna sandwiches and chips. It was nice to talk to people who didn't smell like saw dust and curse every other word. The girls talked about their school. They liked it better than their old one in Delaware. They had made several friends.

Kim worked from home mostly, only going into the office once a week. She hadn't met many people. Well anyone besides me really. And didn't know the area at all. Kira piped up asking if I could show them the area. I got roped into giving a tour next week after I did the yards. The girls were excited.

That week I was meeting with a potential new plumbing supplier. Mark Andrews works for Martin Plumbing. He had been after our business for a while and I had finally decided to sign on. We had set up a meeting at Casa Pasta. The meeting went well and I got a chance to know Mark better after the contracts were signed. I noticed a very pretty lady walking in hanging on the arm of a very lucky guy. Mark turned to see what I was looking at and his whole demeanor changed.

It turned out to be his wife with some guy. They looked very chummy. He was ready to go confront them. I grabbed his arm and explained he didn't want to do anything in haste. He definitely didn't want to do something that could hurt him in the long run. I went through the same thing and almost lost everything I had worked for. He needed information. I offered to get some pictures that he might be able to use later.

We talked some more to make sure he had calmed down and we left.

I later heard it was all a misunderstanding and they are happier then ever before. I'm glad some things work out for people. We still do business with them.

That Saturday the girls were up and ready for the tour. Knocking on my door asking if I was ready to go. I told them I had to cut the grass first then we would head out. They pouted and complained. Being a weak ass that I am I put off cutting the yards and told them to see if their mother was ready to go. It was only 830 in the morning. She said she would be ready by 9.

She came out wearing a yellow sundress that fit her perfectly. She never wore makeup that I could tell but she had put on some lipstick today. Right about now you may be wondering if there are had been any flirting or attraction between the two of us. While she's a very beautiful lady inside and out I haven't had any sexual feelings for her. It was more of an Uncle towards a Niece. I was only 5 years older then she was. Its not such an age gap but I wasn't interested in anyone. I haven't been since Karin left me. I've been "with" women since then but nothing romantic. More of a need for physical release. As I said before Maria, Jennifer and other friends have tried to fix me up since then. None have broke through the wall I didn't realize I put up.

Kim has never shown any interest in me besides friendship. We would have dinner over each others house 2 or 3 times a week. Depending on where the girls happen to be. They catch me coming home and its off to the races. They sit in the living room watching my larger TV sometimes doing homework or just relaxing. It took a while before Kim was truly comfortable in them being alone with me and I could understand that. I wasn't entirely comfortable either at first. Last thing I needed was people talking about a grown man with 2 young girls. Luckily most people on the street knew me and I had a good reputation. For the first couple of times I called Kim to let her know where they were and always kept the front door open.

So our sight seeing tour happened a month after they moved in. I didn't take her on I-85 but up New Hope Road towards Cramerton, onto East Franklin Blvd to show her the shopping and entertainment area's. Then down to Belmont to show them the lake area and park. We took the back way into Lake Wylie down into Fort Mill SC and into Southwest Charlotte. Drove through the city, the NoDa, South End, Ballantyne and Uptown area's. Stopped at the Golden Cow Creamery and had lunch. Afterwards drove through Pineville, Mooresville. Mint Hill. Huntersville and finally Mt Holly where we had dinner at Bolton Curbside Cookery. It was a long day. The girls had been excited but by the time we finished dinner they were almost comatose on the ride home.

It gave us the first time to really talk about ourselves. "I married my high school sweetheart, as cliche as it sounds. We were together for 7 years before I realized he was still the same guy I met in high school. He lived in the past. Always talking about what happened at the homecoming game and other past glories. He was happy changing tires all day and had no aspirations for more. I had grown and he hadn't. There wasn't any animosity between us when we divorced. I think he was happy it was over. He sends a check every month but hasn't seen the girls in almost 2 years. They stopped asking for him not even 3 months after he moved out."

I gave hints about my separation and divorce. Leaving out the assault and jail time of course. Talked about my business and how the ladies in the office were always trying to fix me up with someone.

She asked "why aren't you dating anyone seriously? You're a good looking guy, owns your own successful business and seems to be a nice guy."

"I'm not ready to be in a serious relationship yet. Plus I'm to busy so it wouldn't be fair to someone." I replied with my patented answer.

She didn't buy it as much as Maria or anyone else didn't buy it.

After a couple months I was babysitting when she went on dates even though it was few and far between. Like me she was fixed up on dates with a few friends she met at work and some people from the church she started attending. There were times the girls just wanted to stay with Uncle Hal. Probably because I had the huge TV and all the streaming sites so they could watch whatever they wanted, within reason.

Life went on. 2 years later I decided to sell the house to Kim. She got a really good deal since it didn't cost me anything to begin with. The money I got from the sale went to charities like the other money Ms. Wilson left me. The girls were growing up quickly. They still came over but not as much.

I had started hosting BBQ's once a month for friends and coworkers. Usually anywhere from 20 to 30 people showed up. By now Jose, Oscar and Ramon had also become unofficial Uncles. Which made Maria, Jennifer and Ingrid Aunts. Ingrid had a 3 year old and the girls loved to babysit for her. Jose and Maria's 2 kids, Hector 20 and Elena 19 were attending college. Hector at Appalachian State studying to be an Architect and Elena at Catawba College to be a nurse. Oscar and Jennifer never had kids. So they spoiled the girls like they were their own.

Kim had family in Delaware but didn't have much contact with them. Her brother had visited once with his family. Her parents were retired and traveling Europe and Asia.

After all the years the ladies had finally given up trying to find the next Mrs. Green. So these BBQ's were very relaxing for me not having to worry about dealing with a strange woman vying for my attention. Until, One BBQ a strange woman did show up with a girl Kiras age who was 12 at the time in tow.

She was medium height with short blond hair. She was slightly chubby without being overweight. The sundress she wore fit her very well. She looked uncomfortable as she entered the backyard. She was looking around holding onto the girl when Kira yelled out, 'Heidi' and went running towards her. Heidi pulled away from her mother and ran into Kira's arms and went to be introduced to her other friends.

The woman I later found out was Lynn DeAngelis just kind of stood there not knowing what to do. So I went up to her, "Hi, I'm Hal, welcome to my BBQ. I take it your daughter was invited by Kira right?"

"Yes, I'm Lynn and that torpedo that just took off is my daughter Heidi and I was just dropping her off. So you're the famous Uncle Hal I've heard so much about. Kira and Lita talk about you all the time. Its nice to meet you. I didn't want to intrude on your party. I was going to drop her off and come later to pick her up."

"Please its not a problem. Why do all that running around and stay and enjoy the food. I have enough for an army and room for more people. Why don't you hang out for a while, unless you have something else to do."

"I don't know, I don't know anyone here. I feel like a fish out of water."

"But you do know someone, you know me. I come highly recommended by Kira and Lita you said. And I can take care of you not knowing anyone else, Maria, Ingrid, you got a second" I called out. When they seen me standing next to a strange woman they didn't know they came running to see what this was all about.

"Lynn, this is my boss Maria and her co-conspirator Ingrid. You'll meet Jennifer shortly I'm sure. Ladies, this is Lynn, Kira invited her daughter and she was trying to leave since she didn't know anyone. Since I wasn't enough I thought I'd introduce you two."

"Lynn is it? Ignore 90% of what he says. I'm not the boss I just run things. Come on let me introduce you around." Like a deer in headlights she was off. I knew once those two along with Kim and Jennifer got their hooks in her she would feel like she was at home.

"¿Quién es la nueva jefa?" Ramon asked sneaking up on me while I flipped more burgers and checked the ribs.

"She came to drop her daughter off and I asked her to stay. She seems nice enough."

"tienes novia, tienes novia" Ramon said in a sing song voice.

"What are you 12? She's not my girlfriend I just met her and thought it would be nice to invite her to stay since her daughter was already here."

"Yeah, Okay, Wait until the 4 Musketeers get done with her. Look they are picking out flower arrangements for the wedding right now." I thought he would pass out from laughing so hard. Looking over I could see them all huddled around Lynn. I felt sorry for her.

Just then Oscar and Bernie came up. Ramon told them how I had new girlfriend and was going to get married. Which caused more jokes and laughter at my expense. Threatening to fire them didn't help at all. They in turn threatened to tell the girls I had threatened them. So we were at a stalemate.

One of the ladies noticed once or twice the guys pointing their way which would only mean we were talking about Lynn.

Out of the blue Kira and Lita along with Heidi went and grabbed Lynn and bought her back over to me. The guys just stood around waiting to see what was going to happen.

"Uncle Hal, have you met Ms Lynn, she's Heidi's mom. I invited them to the BBQ." Lita said breathlessly.

"We have met Pumpkin. Earlier when Heidi ran off and abandoned her to the wolves. I saved her from boredom and embarrassment." I said with a smile. Plus at 13 being called Pumpkin wasn't something she tolerated to well. I only did it now a days to tweak her.

All of a sudden we started hearing howling sounds. One by one the guys started howling like wolves. Jesus, I can't take them anywhere. Lynn had no clue what to make of what was going on. Kira spoke up, "Okay guys cut it out and give them some space. Uncle Oscar, why don't you make yourself useful for once and man the grill so Uncle Hal and Ms. Lynn and can talk like adults."

So somehow we both ended up by ourselves talking. She was as embarrassed as I was. "I'm sorry for this happening. I didn't plan it. I have a funny feeling I know who did plan it. Can we say first names begin with an K, L and H." I said with a smile.

"I have to agree. You're all I've heard about for the last 2 weeks. I expected you to wear a white robe, sandals and walking on water.' She couldn't help but laugh. 'I think I was being vetted by your lady friends earlier. They were very polite but if the police ever need help questioning a suspect they should call those four."

"Yeah, they can be very intense. Especially Maria. As long as she's not speaking Spanish your okay. If she is walk, no run away. I've been cursed out several times in Spanish at work."

"Don't you own the company?"

"Just because I own it doesn't mean I run it. Not with a room full of headstrong Mexican women in the office. I just stay out the way and sign what they want me to sign."

"That's an interesting way of doing business."

"I trust them with my life. Oscar, Jose and Ramon have been with me since I started. Maria and Jennifer were right there with them. When I went through my divorce I don't know if I would have made it through without them."

"That tells a lot about a man. I would ask if you were the girls biological uncle but they call everyone uncle and aunt."

"Yeah its an extended family kind of thing. I rented Kim and them the house when they were little and they kind of gravitated towards me. I was more surprised than anyone. I think kids know when they are needed in someones life. They moved in a little after my divorce and I had inherited the house from an elderly neighbor. Since they were around when my crew would stop by they started calling them Uncle. Oscar and Jennifer are the only ones besides myself who don't have children so they spoil them more than anyone. They babysit Ingrid and Ramon's daughter."

"So you own your own business, little girls love you, Elderly neighbors leave their homes to you. Is there anything else I should know? Do you fight crime at night?"

"A superhero never reveals his true identity. I'm not a perfect man. Far from it."

"Oh, so is there anything I need to worry about?" as she looks at me with the side eye and a slight smile.

"Besides maybe trying to kiss you on the third date I'm always a gentleman." I responded with my hand over my heart.

"Third date, we haven't had our first date and your talking about kissing me on our third?" She said with a slight smirk.

"Well at our age I think we could consider this our first date if you agree and our second date could be dinner at Casa Pasta next Friday if I should be so bold."

"Mr. Hal, I don't mind bold. Its been a while since a man has been so bold with me."

"I find that hard to believe Ms. Lynn. I was afraid I was going to have to take a number."

"Oh you really know how to flatter a lady. Have you noticed how quiet its gotten and that everyone is looking at us. I just realized that."

Looking up for the first time since we sat down to talk. All three girls were grinning at us and the ladies were definitely picking out flower arrangements for the wedding. I may have to call off work instead of facing the Inquisition I would get on Monday. The guys, well the guys were being guys. When they noticed I was looking at them I got lots of thumbs up, okay signs and laughs.

We were saved when Oscar said the food was ready. I usually provided the meats and the ladies bought the side dishes. Between the American, Mexican and Swedish sides dishes there was something for everyone. Speaking of Swedish, listening to Ramon talk the little bit of Swedish he can is funny as hell. Guys provided any drinks or beer if they wanted. Most of us didn't drink. I noticed a lot of them stopped when the girls would be around.

It didn't come as a surprise that Lynn and I found ourselves sitting next to each other while we ate. The conversation continued along with everyone else. It might have been the best BBQ I've ever had. Everyone seemed to like her and she was easy to like. I don't know what it was but I felt really comfortable around her.

When it was time to go I walked her and Heidi to their car. I had gotten her phone number to make better arrangements for Friday. The girls had already made plans to stay over Aunt Maria's house on Friday. I noticed Heidi had taken to calling people aunt and uncle also.

Monday wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I got in and no one said a word. Nothing, nada, zilch. I was scared because I was waiting all day for something to be said. Except tt was business as usual.

Tuesday Maria came into my office, unannounced of course, and told me "You have reservations at Supperland in Charlotte at 630. A car will be at your house to pick you up at 545 and then take you to pick up Lynn at 6. If you decide to go somewhere after that they will accommodate you."

"What?' I looked at her like she was speaking, I don't know some alien language.

"Do I need to speak slower or in Spanish. Be ready no later then 530 and a car will pick you up. Then pick up Lynn and take you both to Supperland Steak House. She knows what time to be ready. Everything is taken care of. Do you need me to come over and tie your tie for you? Do you even have a suit? I didn't think about that. Do I need to go buy you a suit?"

"I have a suit Maria. And I can tie a tie thank you very much. So whats with reservations?"

"Hal, we all love you, We've never seen you talk to someone like you talked to Lynn. We all seen it. There's something there even if you don't realize it yet. Men are slower than women anyway. All you have to do Friday and be ready, be a gentleman, make sure to use a knife and fork and enjoy yourself. Everything is taken care of."

"What do you mean everything is taken care of?"

"The girls are staying with me and Jose, and Jose says he has friends that will take care of everything else."

I put my head in my hands. Jose and his damn friends. I've never won an argument with Maria so I surrendered and just said thank you.

I left early Wednesday to go buy a suit. I had one but it was probably out of style. This free date cost me almost $500 since I bought a suit, tie, shirt, shoes, even socks. I almost bought underwear but I was getting ahead of myself.

The rest of the week went by with no issues. Anything that came up was handled without me having to deal with it. Maria and the ladies chased me out of the office early telling me to go get a haircut. So at 1pm I found myself at Great Clips.

When I got home at 3 I took a shower and got the suit out making sure it wasn't wrinkled. I found myself nervous for the first time since high school. Why was I nervous. I'm a 45 year old man who has dated since I was 15. It wasn't like I was meeting her for the first time. It had me perplexed.

At 5pm the doorbell rang and Kim walked in. I don't know what it is with women in my life walking into my spaces. She said "I came to check to make sure you were able to tie your tie correctly." And started a belly laugh.

"Is this a conspiracy or something. Is everyone in on it?"

"Relax Hal, its people who love you is all. Be glad because we're all happy for you."

"Its a date, you all act like I'm getting married, jeez."

Laughing again, "Would you be mad if the girls are picking out bride maids dresses already."

"Jesus, really. Its our first date for Christ sake."

"From what I understand its your official second date since you decided to count the BBQ last week."

"I surrender" thankfully the Limo pulled up. A damn limousine for a second date. As I walked out Kim stopped me and kissed me on the cheek. "Good luck and have fun."

The driver opened the door for me which felt weird. I really wanted to sit up front. It felt unnatural being driven around. Couple of the neighbors came out to see what was going on. As we were pulling off several had walked over to talk to Kim.

The ride to Lynn's house was only 20 minutes but it felt like the longest 20 minutes of my life. Pulling up to her house I told the driver I would go to the door. Lynn lived in a neighborhood similar to mine. Older 3 or 4 bedroom houses with well kept yards. Everyone knew everyone else. Seeing a limo pull up caught peoples attention. I went to the door and rang the bell. Who should answer it but Ingrid!

"What the hell! If I see Jose or Ramon at the restaurant I swear to God someone will die!"

"Are you done?, you finished, you get it out your system?" She looks at me like I'm a little kid who just threw a tantrum. Okay maybe I did but still... "Lynn will be down in a second. You look nice by the way, who helped you get dressed?"

"I'm a big boy, I dressed myself and even tired my own shoes. You know I'm starting to hate all of y'all."

"Oh Hal, you could never hate us, we know that." She said in that Midwest accent with a sickly sweet smile.

Lynn walked into the living room. Should I say glided into the room. She was wearing a royal blue dress that accented every curve she had. 4 inches heels made her even with my height. Her hair was done in a slightly different manner than it was last week and her make up was immaculate. I stood there speechless.

Ingrid laughed and reached over and shut my mouth that I didn't know what hanging open. "Lynn, you're beautiful." She was probably in all my life the most beautiful person I've ever seen.

"Thank you Hal. That's a big compliment." She said blushing.

"Okay you two, I need to get some pictures before you leave."

"What is this, our prom or something?"

"Hal, I've been told to tell you if you give me a hard time don't come to work Monday, or go home because you will have to answer to Maria and the girls, respectively. So get together so I can take the damn picture so you won't be late for dinner."

So we took a picture like we were going on our first date in Junior High. We walked out to the limo with Jacob, the driver, opening the door for us. It was a 25 minute drive to the restaurant. Supperland is THE restaurant in the city. It usually takes weeks and sometimes months in the summer to get a reservation. I wondered how they were able to get one so quickly. Jose and his friends.... jeez.

I asked Lynn how much she knew about these plans.

"Kim called me Tuesday evening to let me know plans had changed. I asked her how she knew about the plans. Boy did she laugh. She said to be ready no later than 6 and told me where we were going. She told me a car would be here to pick me up. I had no idea what was happening. I didn't know if you arranged everything or not. Heidi just had this silly look the whole week."

"I hate to admit but I had no idea what was happening. Maria came into the office Tuesday and told me what was going to happen. Not what I wanted to happen, but what was going to happen. The reservations to a restaurant that takes weeks to get in. The limo. They made me leave early today to get a haircut. Kim came over to make sure I was dressed right."

"I have a feeling everyone but us was in on it. From the girls to my coworkers. I apologize for you having to deal with all this."

"No need to apologize. Last time I was I a Limo was for my Nana's funeral. And I wasn't dressed this nice."

We pulled up to the restaurant and Jacob opened the door for us. Going into the restaurant we were immediately greeted by the Maitre De. "Mr. Green, Ms DeAngelis, so glad you could join us this evening. We have your table waiting for you."

Lynn and I looked at each other. I hadn't given our names but he seemed to know us. He continued as he lead us to our table. "My name is Nestor, if you need anything please feel free to ask. Jessica will be your server." He seated us, leaving menu's that didn't have prices on them and left.

Our server, Jessica, came up and introduced herself. "Mr. Green, Ms. DeAngelis, have you decided what you would like to drink?" Again with the names without being introduced. I ordered an Old Fashioned and Lynn ordered a white wine. She left to get our drinks.

"Have you noticed how everyone knows our names?" Lynn asked.

"I wondered the same thing. I have a funny feeling about this. But you know what, there is nothing we can do so we might as well enjoy ourselves. If we don't I'll have a lot of mad women to answer too."

We chatted while looking at the menu. We both ordered. I got the porterhouse with loaded baked potato and Lynn and a sirloin also with a loaded potato. Our salads came. Talking to Lynn was very easy.

She told me about her marriage. "I married my husband out of college. He had studied computer science and I was a music major. I got pregnant 3 years after we graduated. We hadn't planned on it but life happens. We had a good marriage. He worked while I stayed home with Heidi. He was a very active father. We were doing very well. He had started with a new company called Hinge as their 5th employee. He was smart enough to take raises and bonuses in stock options. 10 years later they were bought out by Google for 50 million dollars. He walked away with 6 million dollars but took 3 million cash and the rest in Google stock. To celebrate we took a trip to Asia. We went to Japan, the Philippines, Thailand and Cambodia. The problems started in Thailand. Mark, her husband got sick. They couldn't figure out what was wrong until it was to late. He was one of the first people to get Covid. No one knew what it was then. It was terrible. Being in a foreign country. We had to get the state department involved just to get the body home. I'm sorry this isn't second date kind of talk."

"No need to apologize. It part of who you are. Have you lived in Greenville your whole life?'

"Yep, I'm one of the few who were born and breed here. My family still lives in the area. My mom and dad live in Huntersville, I have an older brother and his family live in Monroe and a younger sister whostill lives in Greenville off Hudson in one of those new developments."

"My company might have built that development. We did a lot of work along Hudson. Its good to have family close by. My mother moved to Florida and is living her best life. I don't have any other close family. Well besides the 3 Amigos and the 4 Musketeers."

"4 Musketeers, who are they?"

Laughing I said, "its what the guys call their wives and Kim. Maria, Kim, Jennifer and Ingrid. And of course the girls, Kira and Lita. They are closer than any family I could ever want."

"They seem like a tight bunch. How long have you known them?"

"Since before I started my business. Oscar, Jose and I worked together and they came with me when I started Green Construction. Ramon is Oscars brother in law."

"So Ingrid is Oscar's sister?"

"What? No, he was married to Jennifer's sister until he caught her cheating and she ran back to Mexico. He met Ingrid 5 years ago. I'm glad he did. We thought he would never settle down again."

"Its that the pot calling the kettle black?"

"You must have talked to one of the ladies." I laughed because I had heard that before.

"Almost everyday since the BBQ. They really want you to be happy."

Dinner was delicious. Again we were surprised when the Head Chef came out to our table and introduced himself. "Mr. Green, Ms. DeAngelis, how was your meal? I hoped you enjoyed everything?"

"We did it was the best I've had ever." Lynn agreed with my assessment.

"I'm glad to hear that. We've prepared a special dessert for both of you if you will allow me. I understand that you like Strawberries Ms. DeAngelis?"

"Umm, yes I do." Lynn said bewildered that he would know that.

"And Mr. Green you're a gentleman who favors caramel correct?"

"Chef, your spies should work for the CIA or MI6. You are spot on."

"No spies, just people who care about both of you. We have strict orders to make your meal memorable."

"Well you have exceeded anything we could have hoped for."

"I don't think I've ever had a better date in my life. Great food, a handsome man, what more can a woman ask for?"

"I'm so glad you're both enjoying yourselves. Dessert will be out shortly"

Jennifer had kept our glasses filled throughout dinner. I had switched to soda after the 2nd drink. Lynn was having sparkling water.

10 minutes after the chef left the Pastry Chef came to the table. I've never gotten service like this before. She presented Lynn with Mini Strawberry tart, a strawberry rhubarb crumble bar and a mini strawberry cobbler. I received a mini caramel-pecan pull apart, a mini Dulce de Leche cheesecake and a turtle brownie.

Lynn and I just sat there looking at each other. Other patrons had noticed the service we were receiving and was wondering what was going on.

"There's no way I can eat all of this!" Lynn said looking at all the plates on the table.

"Me either. We can take the rest home."

I could only eat half the brownie and Lynn took 2 bites of her tart. We had Jennifer put the rest in doggy bags and asked for the check.

Nestor came to the table. "Mr. Green everything has already been taken care of. I hope you enjoyed your dinner?"

"Yes it was great but what do you mean it was taken care of?"

"As I said Mr. Green, Everything was taken care of even the gratuity."

"How is that possible when we didn't even know what we were going to order?"

"Please Mr. Green, I have been instructed to say everything has been taken care of, under penalty of great physical harm if you try to pay."

"Maria" We both said together. Looked at each other and laughed. "Thank Nestor, please let everyone know this was amazing."

"Thank you folks, your car waiting out front."

I felt bad that Jacob had been sitting outside this whole time. I know its his job but still. It just seem inconsiderate.

Going to the car Jacob again opens the door for us. I apologize to him for having to sit out here the whole time. He laughed and said its okay. He got something to eat while we were inside. But he appreciated the concern.

He asked where we wanted to go. I looked at Lynn and asked if she wanted to go for a walk at the park in Belmont by the water. So we went to the park to walk off some of the meal.

It was a beautiful night for a walk. We talked some more. I actually told her more about my divorce and how I ended up in jail for a brief moment. Luckily she felt it was justified since the guy was in my house. Talked briefly about my business. The construction business isn't that exciting.

She talked about volunteering at Heidi's school to have something to do during the day since she didn't have to work.

We walked back to the car and had Jacob take her home. I walked her to the door. I noticed a curtain move in the house when I got out the car.

"Lynn, this was the best date I've ever had. It didn't hurt that you look absolutely gorgeous tonight. I was so proud to be seen with you tonight. I felt like a peacock with his feathers out. I've never felt more comfortable with anyone ever. I hope we can do this again?"

"I would love to Hal. This is the first time I've wanted a second, or should I say third date with someone. How about I cook you dinner Sunday night. If you're not doing anything?"

"If I was I would cancel. I would love to have dinner. What's a good time?"

As she got ready to answer the porch lights flashed off and on and we heard laughter coming from inside. "I think that's a signal. How about you call me around noon."

"Sounds good." She reached up and kissed me on the cheek and went inside. I think I floated back to the car. Jacob was waiting with the door open. I told him I'm sitting up front. I don't need to be fancy anymore. He laughed and got in to drive.

It took a minute to get to sleep. I went over our date. It really was the best date I've ever had. And she was truly beautiful. The more I found out about her the prettier she got. She was smart and witty. For someone who didn't have to work she was really down to earth. And she raised Heidi right. She was a sweet young lady. Very polite from what I could see and what Kim had said.

I woke the next day feeling more at peace than I've had in a long time. It felt like I was looking forward to the future. I got up and cut the grass, both yards. Kim came out and watched for a minute. The whole time she had a smirk on her face. I finally stopped, pulling the mower to where she was. "Good Morning Kim"

"Good Morning to you Hal"

"Its killing you isn't it?"

"What's killing me Hal?"

"You want to know what happened last night don't ya?"

'Oh you mean about you ordering the porterhouse and Lynn ordering the sirloin and you both getting loaded potatoes. Getting dessert and not being able to finish them. You two spending most of the night making googly eyes at each other? You mean that's what I want to know?" She said with an even bigger smirk.

"What the hell, were you all spying on us?"

"No Hal, no one was spying on you. I'm really glad you enjoyed yourself. She looked beautiful in that dress didn't she?"

"Yes she did. Very beautiful. Kim, I have to tell you I haven't felt like this about a woman in a very long time. I don't know what it is. I was actually nervous about the date. Like a high school kid taking his girlfriend out for the first time."

Smiling Kim said, "You ever hear the term, Thunderstuck? That's what you are. We could all see in last week at the BBQ. Even the guys could see it and men never notice stuff like that. It's a good thing, you deserve to be happy. The girls are so tickled about it. You know they plotted to get you two together."

"Yeah Lynn and I figured that out eventually. After all you ladies have tried to do to introduce me to someone it took 3 preteen girls to finally do it. I wonder how Maria feels about this."

"She is ecstatic. Who do you think planned the dinner for you? Well, she had some help from Jose and other people. We all pitched in for the limousine and dinner. Almost every employee contributed to pay for it. Bernie got the limo for the night. Jose knew the Maitre de and got the last minute reservations. Had the Chef's come out to your table. We thought that was a nice touch. The girls told them about what flavors you would probably like for dessert. I think they over did it giving you each three, especially after a big dinner. Did you see the look on the other peoples faces as they came out. And you should have seen your faces when everyone knew your names without being introduced. It was priceless."

"It was quite a surprise. When Nestor said Mr. Green I didn't know what was going on. I could smell a rat but jeez, the night got better and better. Lynn looked so good it was hard to concentrate sometimes. I felt like I was getting lost in her eyes. It was scary feeling like that and honestly still does."

"Go with the flow Hal. How many times have people told you that you deserve to be happy? What you're feeling is the beginning of love. Don't over think it. Just go with it. I'm sure she's having the same conversation with Ingrid and Jennifer right about now. And I'm sure you'll be getting a visit sometime today.' She said cryptically. 'I have to go pick up the girls from Maria's. And then pick up Helene at Jennifer's so they can babysit tonight."

I went back to cutting grass and finished doing the yard. I didn't have any other plans so I just relaxed around the house and checked on some possible jobs to bid on that were coming up in the next several months. I didn't want to appear to eager to call Lynn about dinner tomorrow so I waited until 12:05 to call instead of noon.

She picked up on the third ring, "Hello?"

"Hi Lynn its me Hal. I was calling about dinner."

"Oh yes Hal. How are you doing today?"

"I'm good, just got done cutting grass and working in the yard. I had an interesting talk with Kim."

"Ingrid and Jennifer just left. Ingrid stayed over last night and Jennifer came over and we all went to breakfast. The interrogation wasn't as bad as I thought it would be."

"That's because they knew everything that happened, from what we ordered to how much we took home. I was afraid to find out if they knew what we talked about."

"How did they know all of that? Were they spying on us?"

"I asked the same question but Kim said they weren't. Maybe someone on the staff told them. Jose seems to know a lot of people. What time do you want me to come by for dinner and can I bring anything?"

"How about 6 and only your smile, that's all I need."

"All I do around you is smile so that will be easy. Someone's at the door, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Can't wait, Bye." I could hear the smile in her voice.

Going to the door I open to see the grinning faces of Oscar, Jose, Ramon, Bernie, Edgar and Johnny.

"Hola jefe, ¿cómo te va hoy?" Edgar said as they all entered carrying beer and what looked like a boat load of taco's.

"I hope you got those from Moco Loco?"

"Where else would we get tacos? How's it going" replied Johnny.

Bernie and Johnny had joined the company as I did my first expansion. They were foremen on jobs sites under Ramon and Jose. Edgar was another Brother in law of Oscar, being married to another sister and having just moved from Cuidad Jaurez in Mexico. He started 2 years ago.

"So who sent you knuckleheads? Maria, Jennifer, Ingrid?" I asked heading out to the deck out back.

"Oh boss, that hurts, can't friends come by and visit with taco's and beer. Do we need a reason now. I'm really hurt, How about you Oscar?" Bernie asked

"I'm so hurt I should turn around and leave. And take my share of tacos with me'" Oscar said in mock indignation.

"You know what, you all can kiss my ass. Especially if you didn't bring any Lengua tacos."

"Don't worry we got 10 each of Lengua, Birrea, Al Pastor, Chicken and Chorizo." Ramon said with a smile.

"Okay you assholes can stay for a while."

We sat around the table eating tacos, drinking beer and shooting the shit. It wasn't particularly atypical but we did get together every now and then at each others house. When the women weren't around we talked about them. Ramon was saying how Ingrid was making noise for another baby. He wouldn't mind another as long as it was a boy. Hector, Jose's son, was the only boy if you count all the play nieces we have. Jose said Hector wanted to join the company when he graduated. We talked a little about work. I told them about some projects we were going to bid on. I asked them what they thought of us doing on own projects? Buying some land and developing it.

Most were for it, some had questions. It s big step from contracting to developing. More upfront money and bigger risk but huge rewards if things are priced right. It's something I've been thinking about for a while and wanted to bounce it off them. One advantage we had is we would be a one stop shop. Only we would have to pull our crews strictly for our own jobs.

The taco's were delicious as usual. Moco Loco has best tacos in the city. Good beer and better friends. The talk finally turned to what I knew was coming.

Edgar kicked the door in, "So Boss how was the date last night. We all want to know?"

"I'm sure you all already know at least the women do. It was really nice. I have to say the best I've ever had. Thank you all for doing that for me. Lynn was very impressed and so was I. I've never been in a limo besides going to a funeral or wedding. Same with Lynn. She had a beautiful blue dress. Let me tell you, I was speechless for a good 5 minutes she looked so good."

"Ingrid was laughing so hard when she told me about that,' Ramon said, 'She even had to shut your mouth for you because it was hanging open and she thought something would fly in it."

"I felt like the luckiest guy in the world walking into the restaurant with her. I could see guys looking at her as we were seated. I understand I need to thank you for the reservations Jose. You did a great job, Thanks so much."

"It was all Maria's idea. She said you were going out to dinner Friday but knew you would take her somewhere stupid like Dairy Queen or Jake's Chicken Hut.' They all laughed at that. 'she wanted to make it special for the both of you so she made some calls. Everyone and I mean everyone did their part. Even if it was donating $5 to the cost. We just wanted to show our appreciation to you."

"I'll be honest. I had no intention of even asking her out when I first met her at the BBQ. I was just trying to be polite. I still can't figure it out but it was something about her that drew me in. The more we talked the more I liked her. I even told her the whole story about my divorce, even the assault and jail time. I was surprised she understood where I was coming from when it happened."

"We could all see the way you were looking at each other when you were talking at the BBQ.' Jose said, 'I overheard Kira, Lita and Heidi conspiring to get you both together. They were so pleased with themselves."

"Well I can't say we together as a couple.' Using air quotes 'So lets not get ahead of ourselves. Its only been one date."

"I thought it was your second date?" Bernie asked

"Yeah, I thought the BBQ was your first date?" Chimed in Ramon

"Okay, second date, Jesus you guys are worse than the girls."

"Relax boss, We're just busting your chops."

I plan on taking it slow, one step at a time and see where it goes.

Sure one step, We took very big steps. That dinner on Sunday was great. She's an excellent cook. Heidi was there with us and we had a great time. She made Pot Roast. It had been a while since I had that. We dated almost weekly. Some dates included Heidi and some even included her plus Kira and Lita. We even went out in groups with the other couples. She fit in with everyone very well.

Once about 6 months later the three of us were at The Puttery when a nice old lady told me I was lucky to have such a wonderful family. We looked at each other and I realized I could have a wonderful family. Had I thought about marriage. Not really. Did I love her, yes I did. I even loved Heidi. I don't know why it never came to mind until that day.

The next day I had Kira call Heidi to invite her over telling her I would pick her up. After picking her up we all went to Jack's Drive Inn and I told her I needed to talk to her about something very important. She got a serious look on her face.

"Heidi, you know I love you mom don't you?"

"Oh My God, you're going to ask her to marry you aren't you!" She jumped up and hugged me crying. The girls were clapping and hugging me.

"Wait, hold on. I didn't ask the question yet."

"Whatever it is its a yes!"

"Okay so I should get her a dog? What kind should I get her, German Shepard or Poodle?"

They all stopped hugging me and looked at me like I had 3 heads. I started laughing. "I do love your mother and I want you permission to marry her."

"Yes, a hundred times Yes! Why did you take so long." She was crying again.

"I'm sorry baby, I don't know what took me so long. I should have did it at the BBQ when I first met her. Can we keep it a secret for a week or so until I pop the question?"

"Sure, we can keep a secret as long as we don't tell Aunt Ingrid." Lita said laughing knowing once Ingrid knew everyone would know.

"Don't tell anyone, Kira, Lita that even means your mom. Not Aunt Maria or Jennifer. The uncles, I mean no one. Only us 4 know it will happen okay?"

They all looked very solemn and serious and promised not to say anything.

By then I had met her family and we got along very well. So after buying a 2 carat diamond engagement ring we were having another Barbecue 2 weeks later. I know the girls were going crazy keeping the secret. I didn't know how much longer they could hold out.

There were at least 60 people there this time. Besides the usual suspects, Lynn's family were there also. I went all out with someone else doing the cooking so everyone could have fun and relax. I even had a bartender and DJ. We had some cakes and desserts from Desta Bakery.

At 4pm I used the DJ's mic and called for everyone's attention. It took a while because people were spread out over the yard. Once I have everyone's attention I asked Lynn and Heidi to come up. I thought Heidi's smile was going to break her face. Lynn looked bewildered not knowing what was going on. When she got to me I took her hand. Told her how happy she had made me over the last 7 months. How I never thought I would find love again. I could see the tears glistening in her eyes as she realized what was happening. I heard some ohs and ahs in the crowd.

I got down on one knee and asked if she would do me the honor of becoming Mrs. Green?

She had covered her mouth with her free hand was openly crying. She didn't say anything at first. For a moment I wondered if I had made a mistake. We had never even talked about marriage.

She slowly started nodding her head and said yes, almost in a whisper. I almost didn't catch it than she repeated it louder. "Yes, I'll gladly marry you Mr. Hal Green!" I put the ring on her finger as a huge cheer went up in the crowd. Everyone rushed up to us to shake my hand or hug her and see the ring of course. I was going to have bruises from being slapped on the back.

It was one of the happiest days of my life but I wasn't done. I again asked for everyone's attention. They were all wondering what else could it be. I asked Heidi to come to me. I said, "Heidi, as much as I love your mother I love you too. Would you do the honor of being my daughter?" And I presented her with a smaller version of her mothers ring. She burst out in tears and hugged me like her life depended on it. I even started crying.

I had never talked to Lynn about this and I prayed she would be okay with it. I would find out eventually. There was more applause and good wishes. The girls came up crying with joy hugging me and Heidi. We ate and celebrated. I found out Marcus had won the bet on when I would propose. The pot was almost $2000!

Lynn, Heidi and I sat together while everyone took turns congratulating us. I got several "what took you so long" and "how lucky I was" which I already knew. An hour later the food was served and we all ate. Afterwards Lynn and Heidi where whisked away to discuss wedding plans. I was told my job was to show up and pay for everything.

The guys gave me a hard time as guys will do. Asking if really wanted to get married. Was I being forced to do it because Lynn was pregnant. The big argument was who was going to be the best man. No matter the jokes I could tell they were really happy for me.

A few days later Lynn and I did have the talk about me adopting Heidi as my daughter. It was hard for her. I know she still had love for Mark, her deceased husband. She was torn because she felt she was betraying him by giving his daughter away, yet Heidi didn't really have much memory of him besides pictures and stories she had been told. I told her I would love Heidi as my own with or without a formal adoption. At the BBQ she had asked if she could call me Dad, I told her as long as her mother was okay with it I would be happy to be called her Dad.

Over the coming months we had many talks, were to live, wedding plans, more about Heidi. But we were always moving forward. We decided that we would move into my house only because it was next to Heidi's best friends and still in her school district. I would adopt Heidi after the wedding.

The wedding day finally came with 350 of our closet friends and relatives. The 4 Musketeers took care of most if not all the planning. I was asked who I wanted to invite and what flavor cake I liked.

Who was my best man? That's the problem when you have 3 really great close friends. At one of our little get togethers I explained I couldn't chose which one of them to be my best man. I loved them all like brothers. So they decided amongst themselves and Jose was chosen to be my best man. My side included not only Jose, but Oscar and Ramon of course, Bernie and Edgar as Groomsmen. Lynn was having the same problem picking a Maid or Matron of Honor. Kim was chosen to be the Maid of Honor and of course, Jennifer, Maria, Kira and Lita Bridesmaids.

The wedding went off without a hitch. When the door opened and she walked out in her lavender dress she was even more beautiful then during that second date. Jose reached over and shut my mouth for me. I actually teared up a little watching her walk down the aisle on the arm of her father.

Did I ever think I would be doing this again? Not in a million years. After all this time I was prepared to be the eternal bachelor. I was okay with my life at the time. I had good friends, I was financially independent. I thought I had everything until she walked into the Barbecue that day. After all the pushing to date by Maria, Jennifer and Kim it was 3 little girls who found the perfect person for me. I never figured out what it was that attracted me so much to Lynn that day and moving forward. She was almost the total opposite of Karin. Maybe that was it. But whatever it was I was happy for it. I always had the family I wanted with my great friends and the girls. Now I had the family I didn't know I needed.

The reception was pretty wild. We had a DJ, and a Mariachi band! We danced we song we danced some more. I danced with my new mother in law. Since I didn't have any male relatives Lynn danced with almost every guy there as they all took turns lining up for their turn. Did I ever say I had good friends.

Instead of presents or gifts we asked people to donate to one of three charities in Ms. Wilson's name. Food Bank of Greenville, Autism Greenville. Helping Abused Mothers of Greenville. Somehow the local Newspaper got wind of these donations being made in Ms. Wilson's name over time years ago and started investigating. Of course they found it was me who did it, I politely asked them not to publish the report with my name but to say the person wanted to stay anonymous. Which they did. With the article donations increased to each charity.

We honeymooned in the Seychelles for a week. Than came home and took the girls to Disney World for a week and than rested for a week after all that travel. I wasn't needed in the office as Maria kept things running smoothly. She oversaw 12 people in the office now. Oscar had been promoted to President, Jose to VP of Operations and Ramon to VP of Product Development as we had started doing our own projects. Bernie, Johnny and Edgar were now Supervisors. I never mentioned but after our second as a way to say thank you for all those that contributed I gave everyone a $100 bonus on their next check.

When we got back things settled down. We found we got along very well as a couple. I had formerly adopted Heidi and she took my last name. Lynn and I decided that she would open a non profit music school. She had never gotten a chance to use her degree and this would give her something to focus on. It was a huge success. It was off West Franklin which is the older section of the city and offered instrumental lessons to under privileged kids. Well any kids really who wanted to learn. Cost was based on income. It was supported by a foundation she started in her late husbands name using some of the stock they had purchased while he was alive. My company as well as some others, Allied Carolina Rubbish, Apex Accounting.

She ended being recognized by the Mayor and City Council at different times for benefiting the cities youth. A marching band and drill team that first started appearing in local parades and eventually marched in the Macy's Day parade years later. Their concerts were sold out each year. They had a jazz band, concert band later a symphonic band with violins and other string instruments. Many kids had gotten music scholarships because the of school.

Our life was better than I could have ever dreamed. Heidi grew into a wonderful woman. She ended up going to East Carolina for Engineering of all things. Kira went to the University of Delaware to study business. Lita went to Clemson as undecided and eventually ended majoring in Music.

Green Construction grew beyond anything I thought of when I first started. As a young man I only thought about being able to pay the bills and keep a roof over my head. We now employee over 150 people. Contract out with 12 other companies and have 4 properties under development with a total of 500 homes.

If you Google the good life my families picture will probably come up!

The End

Mark Andrews Appeared in Actions vs Words in Loving Wives

Desta Bakery was mentioned in Yes Chef in Romance.

Apex Accounting was mentioned in More Than Equal in Loving Wives

Allied Carolina Rubbish has been mentioned in Trash Man and A Mouse that Roared in Romance, This is a Test in Loving Wives