Gentleman Jole and the Red Queen (37 page)

“Mm, I might know a couple of people who are adept at finding funding. Don’t give up on that idea too soon.”

“Hadn’t planned to. It’s a grand buffet, but no one could eat it all at once.”

Cordelia’s grin widened. “
God
I’ve missed the sound of scientific greed. You could almost be—”

“Betan?”

“I was going to say, Betan Survey. We lot were always, mm, not as good a fit back in the home tunnels as some.”

Her hand stole into his, and he gripped it back.

After a little, she said, “I know where you might find a navigator for that boat, for cheap. She’d probably work for foot rubs. And lab access.”

“It’s a deal,” he said, and they stood a while longer, looking to the horizon line where a new sun would rise tomorrow.