“Yes, OK, Lek, it would be my pleasure. Now?”
“Yes, if that’s convenient.”
Tong called the shop-keeper over and took out his wallet, “No, please allow me, Lek,” another display of superiority and another attempt at a seductive smile, then she allowed him to guide her out into the waning sunshine by the elbow.
Once outside, he let her elbow go, which was sensible in a village where his wife, her family and all of her friends lived, but Tong did not move from her side. As they approached the contractors, Tong held up his hand, an easier way of getting their attention than trying to make himself heard over the distance and the machinery. The site agent was made aware that Tong was approaching, so he said something to the driver of the road roller, who glanced over, slipped the huge machine
