Combative he could deal with, regardless of gender.<br/><br/>"You've asked one question, Laurell, which I have answered despite its rather insipid nature. In turn I have asked you two questions, one of which you've answered and one you've pointedly ignored. Though that one was rhetorical in nature, designed to replace the need for an indeterminate number of other queries. If that's an issue for you, I can refrain from that particular sort of indirectness in the future. I do hope that there is a future here, as your reputation is sterling, and there are at least three signs that Reese thinks well of you, which I count as a very strong mark in your favor."<br/><br/>He took a sip of espresso, then continued. "I'll also measure any sixty second period that contains the phrase 'the boy' as not counting against your promised ten minutes of civility. Reese gets a pass because I've worked with her before, and because she included the word 'dear'." Only at the end of his monologue did he smile, slightly.<br/><br/>"Now, can I assume by your presence that you're committed to this job, or is there additional information that you require?"<br/>