“No,” he said gently. “Not sufficient evidence. I had problems with the fact that the human brain is seven times larger than it should be considering body size. In almost all other species, brain and neural track go along with their comparative sizes. There must be a reason that our minds have to be that complicated, and it’s not reasonable that communication would be possible with animals who don’t have an equal advantage.”

“Yet the dolphin’s brain is even larger than the human brain on the comparison scale.”

“An exception to prove the rule.” He smiled. “But maybe when I get the time, I’ll do some research to see how such a brilliant woman managed to delude herself.”

“Don’t bother. You’re a busy man and I don’t care if you believe me or not.” Not true at this strangely intimate moment. It mattered very much to her. “You were demanding reasons and I gave them to you. You didn’t like them. That’s the end of it.” She changed the subject to escape the sharpness of disappointment. “Did you call Vogel and check on that team that’s supposed to show up tomorrow? Did you give him the go-ahead?”

“Tentatively. If I don’t cancel after Margaret comes back, Vogel and company should be streaming in here about four in the afternoon to set up a base camp. Weapons. Equipment. Tents. You won’t be able to recognize this place by the end of the day. Relieved?”

“Yes. It’s one step closer.” She looked back at him. “Now, if you don’t mind, I’d like to sit here and eat my banana and ignore you until Margaret comes back. I might not have told you the exact truth. I’m always a little worried while they’re gone.”

“I could see that when I walked over here. The body language was loud and clear. At least that’s not a lie.” He paused and then muttered, “Son of a bitch. And I’ve managed to hurt you again, haven’t I? I always think you’re so damn tough, and then you close up inside yourself after I say something. It makes me feel as if I’ve kicked that dog of Margaret’s.”

She stiffened immediately. “Don’t be ridiculous. You couldn’t do anything that would hurt me. You’ve no idea who I am or what I’ve gone through. No one can hurt me unless I let them. And you actually think something you could say would bother me?”