[She has yet to take offense at his bluntness and if nothing else, it's keeping Monts on her toes and her mind off of the irritating sensation that threatened to overcome her.

Nodding in understanding, she replies cheerfully.]

It does that. A lot.

[She clasps her hands behind her and looks at her walking partner.]

Your dog is way cuter than what I have. For one thing, everyone notices this blotchy thing and I usually just make up a story about a botched tattoo job. You'd be surprised how easily they buy it.