“Carly, the documents were returned, in shreds, inside an envelope. Does that sound like my romantic declarations would then be welcomed?”
Carly paused thoughtfully, and then said with conviction, “Yes.” She saw him glance back at her with narrowed eyes, and she went on relentlessly, “Trust me, Jude; I’m a female and we sort of have some intuition when it comes to these things. I can almost guarantee you’ll get her.”
Jude’s face seemed to brighten, but then he grimaced. “Too risky, Carly. If she says no, or if I end up making a fool of myself, I’m not sure how I’ll take it.”
“Well, I can imagine your dilemma, since, let’s face it - no woman has ever said “no” to you before,” his PA said drily. “I’m afraid you’ve never had much practice at being refused, Mr Jude Stone. But now I think a little insecurity is actually going to do you good.”
He was staring at her and shaking his head in wonder. “Why do you like to see me suffer?”
“You’re my boss,” she said with a huge, spreading grin. “That’s my prerogative. So...are we doing this or not?”
***
Miranda was looking forward to this appointment. After all these months of sending out feelers, trying to make designated links with a financial consultancy ready to handle their stock portfolio, she’d hit pay dirt.
“The Bretton Group...these guys are the best there is,” Jeff told her approvingly. “Good work, Miranda; this is your baby, so you should handle the proposal. Think you’re up to it?”
She inhaled deeply, taking in a bracing breath. It was true that she was the one who’d got them the deal, but it was cool of her brother to consider letting her do the pitch, even though this would technically be the first time she’d be making one.
“I think so,” she said, shrugging. “I mean, I’ve done the research, worked out the ground plan. I’m definite I can make a commendable presentation.”
Jeff nodded approvingly. “That’s the spirit,” he said, with a playful chuck to her chin.
“So, what time do you need to be there?”
“They’re sending me a car,” she said, glancing at her watch. “At noon. And it’s a few minutes till then.”
“Well, let me leave to finish with preparations,” Jeff said, heading out the door of her office, glancing back with a small smile and a nod. “Once again, sis, great job.”
***
Miranda looked out of the car window, turning to the driver in surprise. “Excuse me; I don’t think this is the way to the Bretton offices...”
It was barely five minutes since she’d been picked up from her office, and she was only just realizing that they’d taken a wrong turn.
“Oh, I forgot to mention it, ma’am, but I’m supposed to take you to the Marquis instead; there’ll be a lunch meeting instead.”
“I see,” Miranda said, sitting back with a slight frown as she recognised the name of the high-end restaurant. But then she shrugged. One couldn’t really be surprised at these top-playing businessmen. It was best to just flow along with their whims. If she would have to give her presentation over the lunch table, then so be it.
In barely ten minutes, she was at the restaurant. She walked into the elegant interior, and was met by the headwaiter who proceeded to lead her to her table. She had a courteous smile on her face, her hand gripping tighter on her case as she mentally schooled herself for what lay ahead. She reached the table, and saw a devastatingly familiar figure rising as she appeared.
“Jude,” she gasped, standing stock still as her eyes locked with his calm gaze. “What’s going on?” And then realization dawned, making her jaw clench. “Don’t tell me...you’re the Bretton Group.”
“I am now," he murmured. "Please, sit down. I want you to at least hear me out."
"I don't think that's wise, do you?" She asked with dripping sarcasm. "Because the last time I did that, look what happened."
"Miranda, please." He held her gaze with compelling warmth. "I promise, this time, no games, no tricks. I just want to talk."
Reluctantly, she sank into a chair, and saw him signal for the waiter. Scowling, she told him, "Look, Jude, I'm five seconds from walking out of here, so..."
"Okay, I'll make it quick," he said drily, holding up his hands. "I found out the Bretton Group were interested in handling your interests?” he said with a calm tone, indicating the chair across from him.
“We both know what happened the last time I did that, now don’t we?” she said ironically, and felt his gaze hold hers compellingly.