Chapter 1

Malcolm Carlton sat silently staring at the nameplate in front of him. The man opposite was Gerald Shipley, his boss. Malcolm thought Gerald never looked at ease behind his desk. Even though he wore expensive suits, Gerald's weather-beaten face revealed he had spent many years outdoors. On leaving school, he had become a labourer on building sites. He worked hard and learnt his trade until finally; he started up his own business. Shipley Construction was now one of the country's leading building firms.

              Gerald said goodbye and hung up the phone. Without looking up, he scribbled a note on a piece of paper. He folded it neatly in half and buzzed for his secretary to come in.

              Malcolm came out of his thoughts and noticed Gerald staring at him. He sat up straight in his chair and gave a half-hearted smile. Gerald drummed his fingertips on the desk and continued to look at him.

              There was a knock on the door.

              Gerald watched as his secretary entered the room. She smiled at Gerald, but gave Malcolm a sideways glance. She walked over and stood beside the desk. Gerald motioned her to come closer, then whispered something in her ear. He then handed her the note he had just written. His secretary nodded and peered over the top of her spectacles at Malcolm. Without saying a word, she left.

              As the door clicked shut, Gerald leaned back in his chair. 'Right then...'