Chapter 301

Finally Presidents Hanson and D’Anjou shook hands and all three men smiled as they took their seats. Steve quickly returned to his table.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” began President Novokov in Russian, “France, America, and Russia have reached a basic agreement. It will be the foundation for these trade talks. It will involve France releasing Sergei Smirnoff, America selling France natural gas at a fixed price for ten years, and Russia and the other Eastern European Nations engaging in greater trade with the West. Details will be forthcoming.”

As those in attendance clapped loudly, Novokov spoke briefly to an assistant who in turn hurried over to the orchestra with instructions. As the applause died down, the orchestra began playing. Identifying the song immediately, Gwen looked toward the Russian leader. He smiled and nodded to her.

“Steve, that’s our cue,” prompted Gwen as she quickly stood, having no intentions of insulting Novokov by refusing his implied request. “