Chapter Five
It had been a month since their grand discovery and the buzz was waning. Grant had submitted a full report to InGen and to the National Paleontology Association while Orwell and a small crew continued their debate on just how old the othnielia skeleton was. Grant, however, agreed with Orwell's determination that the fossil was anywhere between hundred fifty-one million to hundred forty-nine million years old, which put it around the time birds evolved. When the subject of birds had arisen, a few of the members had groaned, knowing that this gave Grant an opportunity to once again stress his viewpoint.
Grant believed that birds were the result of small predatory dinosaurs evolving into something more adaptable. His notion, which he'd accepted since college, related to an 1861 discovery of a pigeon-sized fossil named Archaeopteryx. Yet, over the years he'd grown more and more passionate about the matter until he finally published a book stating scientifically his opinion.
"Dr. Grant," James Williams intervened. "There aren't any solid fossil findings to support your theory."
"James," Grant turned thoughtful. "The Archaeopteryx had a bird-like skull with perching feet and have you ever seen its wings? Other than having claws, which gives it a reptilian derivation, it has the fundamental pattern and evaluation of the modern avian wing. The Archaeopteryx may not be a true dinosaur in the sense of the word since it was much closer to the evolutionary avenue to modern birds than the other dinosaurs, but it was definitely related to dinosaurs."
"Why? Because it had claws? Dr. Grant, that doesn't represent reptilian ancestry. The ostrich has claws, but is it a dinosaur? No, it's not."
Granted enjoyed intellectual debate. "Who knows, maybe the ostrich are from the same tree as reptilians, but diverged and turned into true birds." He paused a moment, lost in thought. "What about the Mononykus that's been in the articles? It was found seventy years ago, but recently its been viewed as having bird-like qualities. Has anyone here been reading up lately? Who can tell me what Mononykus has in common with birds?"
"It has a keeled sternum," Ellie spoke up, making her presence known; and marveled at the approved smile Grant gave her. Encouraged, she went on: "It also has some fused wrist bones. And, it has reduction of the lower end of the fibula. These three things correspond with birds."
"Excellent, Ellie. You're exactly right."
James turned towards Ellie. "Do you believe dinosaurs turned into birds?"
"I don't think we should eliminate the possibility. It is plausible that some smaller dinosaurs evolved into birds, but I've yet to see any concrete evidence. Then again, where's the concrete evidence that says they didn't? So, James, I don't have an answer for you. I'm not willing to wholly accept or deny the feasible theory."
Grant was impressed and he showed her by a wink before clasping his hands together to get everyone's attention. "Ok, enough for now. I want all of you to return to work. We'll wrap up in a couple of hours." He maneuvered his way through the group to Ellie. "Exceptional answer, Dr. Sattler."
Ellie ducked her head to the side. "Quite a compliment coming from you, Dr. Grant." She met his eyes dead on. "I was sure you would be disappointed that I didn't back your theory a hundred percent."
"On the contrary, I appreciate your honesty." He placed his hand on the small of her back and guided her toward the lab, removing his hand only once they were a few feet from the trailer. He stopped mid-stride and slowly came to face her. He suddenly looked a little shy. "How about dinner tonight?"
Ellie looked confused. They usually had dinner together considering they shared the same trailer. Why was he asking? Then it dawned on her and her face radiated with delight. "I would love to."
End Chapter Five
That's right, their relationship is finally starting.