“Yes,” Judy tried not to show her impatience. “But all those sales, the reporters present will run stories. So will others. I assure you, today there will be a run on Massot showrooms. Not just in Paris, but across France, in Rome, and London. By next week the buzz will be in New York and Tokyo. Fashion loves a story like this: the revival of haute couture, jewels considered as works of art. Sexier than a painting, and more portable.”

“And Massot stock will rise.”

“And shareholders may very well reject Mayberry’s offer. Even some of their insitutional investors may pull out. A deal like this can fall apart very quickly.”

“I see.” Tom drained his coffee; he was starting to get jittery. The next one should be decaffeinated. Was it that, or was it the prospect of real power, at last?

“Mayberry will not want to lose in the vote.”

“And with the stock they already have plus yours and Katherine Massot’s . . .”

“They could just take over.”

“No need for a vote. Majority control transfers.”

“And what would they do to obtain our votes?”

Judy leaned back and spread her hands. “Almost anything, M. Massot.”

He smiled at her. “You know it’s Tom. You don’t need to speak so respectfully to me.”

“Well, as the future chief executive of House Massot, you deserve a little respect.” She winked at him, and Tom was enchanted.

“Then we ask that Hugh Montfort be dismissed?”

“Indeed.” Judy looked solemn. “That will satisfy your father’s honour. He always hated Montfort.”

“And require that I be named chief executive—now, not merely in three years?”

Judy said “Of course they will want to name a few of their own people to management spots.”

“But as long as I am head of the company.”

“You would be.” Only nominally, but she didn’t say that. “And of course you don’t actually sell them your stock. You will keep the forty-five percent in the family. It will always give you protection; in three years you will control it all.”

“And my mother?”

Judy sighed delicately. “She loves you, I’m sure she’ll come around. You can announce the deal carefully. Go to see her—after it’s done, of course. I would advise distance from her until it’s finalized.”

“Of course.”

“I have something else I must tell you, too. I resigned from House Massot today.”

“You did?”

“I took the view that I could no longer go on working for Sophie. Not after meeting you. What she is doing is against the wishes of your father, and my first loyalty must be to his heir.” She gazed at him soulfully. “I hope that doesn’t offend you, Tom.”