55 Call me "babe" and we'll be even

With a slight chuckle, she rubbed the little puppy's fluffy coat. "I'll name you Des. It suits you."

As if trying the name out, she gently called, "Des?"

As if understanding that it was his new name, the puppy stuck out his tongue adorably, climbing onto her arm to ask for pats.

She happily scratched it gently behind its neck. "You like it right? I like it too."

She was just about to settle down and start working when she recalled Desmond's description of her the day before.

"She is… Beautiful… Hilariously snarky when she is irritated but gentle when she should be. Hardworking, treasures friendships…"

Her gaze narrowed dangerously. Was that his evaluation of her? Her lips pursed as she shot a look in the direction of his office. Do you think I'm snarky? I'll show you the real meaning of 'snarky.'