"James Rollins - Subterranean" - читать интересную книгу автора (Romeyn Henry)

"I'm afraid those names are confidential. But I can tell you we're talking to a leading biologist in Canada
and a geologist from Egypt. And a few . . . others."

Ashley could tell this line of questioning was futile. "Fine. Back to the diamond statue, then. You never
told me where the artifact was discovered."

He pursed his lips. "That information is also confidential. Only for those involved with the research." He
folded the gingham napkin on his lap.

"Doctor, I thought this was going to be a discussion. You're rather lean on your answers."

"Perhaps. But you still haven't given me a concrete answer yet either. Are you willing to join my research
team?"

"I need more details. And more time to reorganize my work schedule."

"We'd take care of such minor concerns."

She thought of Jason, who was eating dinner from a rickety tray in front of the television. "I have my son.
I can't just up and leave. And he's nominor concern."

"You have an ex-husband. A Scott Vandercleve, I believe."

"Jason's not staying with him. Forget it."

Blakely sighed loudly. "Then we do have a problem."

This point was going to be a stickler. Jason had been having trouble at school, and this summer Ashley
had vowed to spend some time with him. "This is not up for debate," she said with as much conviction as
she could muster. "Jason accompanies me, or I have no choice but to decline."

Blakely studied her silently.

She continued, "He's been on other digs with me. I know he can handle this."

"I don't think that would be prudent." He smiled wanly.

"He's a tough and resourceful kid."

Blakely grimaced. "If I agree to this point, then you'll join the team?" He paused, removing his glasses
and rubbing at the indentations on the bridge of his nose. He seemed to be thinking aloud. "I suppose he
could stay in Alpha Base. It's secure." Replacing his glasses, he reached across the table and held out an
open palm. "Agreed."

Relieved, she let out her breath and shook his dry hand. "So why so much effort to get me on your
team?"

"Your specialty. The anthropology of cliff-dwelling primitives. Your work on the Gila dwellings was
brilliant."