A Mistletoe Proposal by Lucy Gordon

decisions without further consultation. Only the best and most trusted brokers could do this, and it came as no surprise to know that Roscoe Havering was one of them.
    â€˜A lot of brokers came out of the recession looking bad,’ David told her. ‘Not him. If anything, his trade has doubled because clients have flocked to him, disillusioned with the others. Plus there are rumours of a link-up with the Vanlen Corporation that would make Havering one of the richest and most powerful men in the financial world.’
    Pippa mulled this over on the journey to Threadneedle Street, in the financial heart of London. Now the snow had properly started and, as she stepped out of the taxi, she pulled her coat tight, relieved that she would get her car back tomorrow.
    Roscoe’s office was located in a historic building, converted to modern day requirements. Dark deeds had occurred there centuries ago. Dead bodies had once been discovered in the cellar, one of which was a man known personally to the reigning monarch of the time. But only the building’s outside reflected the dramatic past. Inside, all was corporate efficiency, bland colours and straight lines.
    But I’ll bet there are still plenty of dark deeds, Pippa reflected as she hurried into the elevator. Just a different kind.
    She was curious to see how well Roscoe’s establishment reflected the man, and it was no surprise to discover that he was on the top floor, with a view down on the world. As expected, she found the atmosphere subdued, even slightly haughty.
    The receptionist showed her to a seat. ‘I’m afraid there’llbe a slight delay,’ she said. ‘Mr Vanlen just walked in without warning. He’s going to Los Angeles for some big international gathering, and he’s annoyed because Mr Havering won’t go too. But Mr Havering says those meetings are all talk and no substance, and he won’t budge. Vanlen did a quick detour on his way to the airport, so at least he can’t stay long.’ She made a wry face. ‘He never seems to think that other people might be busy.’
    â€˜I know the type,’ Pippa said with feeling.
    From behind a door she could hear a voice raised in argument. ‘We can’t waste time. This is a big deal for both of us. When everything’s signed we’re going to be the kings, and you want that as much as I do… What’s that? The hell with keeping my voice down! Let them know that they’ve got to be afraid of you, that’s what I say. It’s where half the pleasure lies.’
    The secretary groaned. ‘You hear him. That’s how Vanlen thinks. Heaven help us all when that tie-up goes through. Mr Havering’s a tyrant now but when he—’
    She stopped as Vanlen’s voice was raised again. ‘I can’t believe you’re really not coming to Los Angeles. Surely that’s—?’
    â€˜I’d better go in,’ the secretary said hastily. ‘Mr Havering is fed up with that subject.’
    She hurried over and knocked on Roscoe’s door, opening it just in time for Pippa to hear him saying harshly, ‘I’m not going and that’s final. I don’t have the time. Anyway, the conference starts tomorrow and I’d never change my mind at this late date.’
    Too right, she thought. Anyone who tried to divert Roscoe from the course that suited him was in for a nasty surprise.
    â€˜Hey! It’s you!’ The delighted voice came from Charlie who’d just appeared, his eyes shining at the sight of her.‘Thanks heavens you’re here!’ he exclaimed, coming to sit beside her. ‘This place is doing my head in!’
    â€˜I gather great things are afoot,’ she said.
    â€˜You mean Vanlen? Oh, yes! We’re going to be the greatest. No one will be able to touch us or compete with us, and then Roscoe will have everything he wants.’
    â€˜Nobody has everything they