Catalan business owners are no longer scared of the word "independence." Many of them, albeit small, are backing Arturo Mas and believe that a fiscal pact is necessary. If not reached, they think want to push forward elections.
Even though they are not likely to take a radical approach, the changes underway are significant. They view the long-standing, shared stalemate between Spain and Catalonia as a marriage of convenience.
The problem is pretty serious, and initiating a split would create problems for both sides. In his meeting with Mas, Rajoy should make his points without shooting for impossible objectives. And Mas should lower his expectations for what Catalonia needs to stay conjoined with Spain. A hard bargain.