The shrill ringing of a telephone cut through Hilary’s dream. She turned over in bed and grabbed the handset. “Hello...” She yawned groggily. “I see.” Suddenly she was wide awake as she took in what she was being told. “I will be there as soon as possible.” Hilary dressed quickly and made her way to the underground car-park.
The journey from London was uneventful, the sun was just rising as she pulled off the motorway and headed towards Marlborough, Hilary gave an involuntary shudder as she passed her old school and on towards Pewsey.
It had taken her just over an hour and a half to travel to the mansion, she could not fail to be impressed as she drove down the sweeping driveway, through the forest and then acres of deer park before the house came into view ahead of her. It had been built to be impressive, the current owner had chosen the location to ensure those who arrived were aware of his wealth and stature. Hilary had usually approached the mansion from the rear but felt that the occasion deserved arriving properly rather than sneaking in through the tradesman’s entrance.
Hilary pulled up and stepped out of her car, twenty five years old with a tall, slim body and beautiful well defined looks she walked assuredly into the main hallway. Waiting for her was a well dressed older man in a well tailored suit. “Thank you for joining us at such short notice.” He smiled and briefly embraced Hilary. Paul Simpson was the head of the internal legal team. He was a highly accomplished lawyer who understood the mechanics of the Thompson business and was willing to assist and turn a blind eye to some of the less than legal activities.
“Thank you Paul.” She paused glancing at her watch. “How long do we have?”
“No long, she is on her way.” Paul frowned. “I suggest we get straight down to business.” He ushered Hilary through an oak panelled door and on into the library beyond. “I will make this brief. You are aware of the situation.” Hilary nodded. “Of course you would not be here if you did not. Well we are ready for the next stage.” He stopped. “Are you sure you wish to go ahead with this? You could walk away now if you wished.”
Hilary smiled. “No, I have a duty to fore fill. Walking away is not a viable option.”
“I understand. I will give you all of the documents you require before you leave.”
“Thank you. Is there any advice you would give me?”
Paul shrugged, “If I felt it would make any difference?” He paused smiling. “You have been preparing for this time for some years, I know you are totally ready.”
“You are flattering me.” Hilary smiled. She looked up as she heard a woman shouting from the reception area. “Ah, I see that my sister has arrived. I had better leave. I will see you shortly.” Hilary stepped towards the door and opened it quietly. Standing before her was Jemma Thompson her half-sister, she turned around and stared at Hilary as she stood in the doorway.
“What the hell is she doing here?” She screamed at nobody in particular.
“Good evening Jemma.” Hilary stepped through the doorway smiling coldly.
“Fuck you!” Jemma snarled at her sister.
“Hilary was invited by me.” Jemma span around to face Paul who had stepped into the reception area through another door. “If you would like to, both, follow me please.”
“No!” Jemma snarled.
“I’m sorry?” Paul turned to face Jemma.
“I am going nowhere if she is here. I want her out.” She gesticulated towards Hilary.
“I am sorry it is not that simple.” Paul smiled. ”I presume that you still wish to inherit your father’s business and fortune? Well, you will need to both work to achieve that goal. Your father has set you a little task before you will be allowed to take over.”
