In coordinate space, for two points $\mathrm { A } ( 2 , a , - 2 ) , \mathrm { B } ( 5 , - 3 , b )$, when the point that divides segment AB internally in the ratio $2 : 1$ lies on the $x$-axis, what is the value of $a + b$? [3 points]\\
(1) 6\\
(2) 7\\
(3) 8\\
(4) 9\\
(5) 10