Duncan placed his cup on the table without taking his eyes off my proposal. He frowned occasionally, but said nothing. I waited patiently, understanding that it was a big decision.
I used the opportunity to calm myself. I took a slow breath to ease my pounding heart. We were husband and wife. I didn't need to be embarrassed or afraid to initiate the intimacy first.
"I like your suggestion," Duncan said. He turned to me. "I'll have Clyde send this reply to Jonas."
"Jonas is the head of the merchants' association?" I asked.
"Yes." Duncan placed the proposal on the table.
"I should tell him the answer myself. He can ask me questions or raise objections. We can schedule a meeting with the other association officials to discuss the tax," I suggested.
Duncan smiled. He held my hand. "I tho
