Liam Linden washed the dishes, casually asking, "What's the total score?"
Faye Vaughn stood nearby, watching him wash the dishes without making the usual polite offer to take over. "One hundred points total," she replied.
"So I only have twenty points? That's a failing grade." Liam Linden gave a light smile.
Perhaps it was because a full stomach had lifted his spirits, or maybe the atmosphere was just too cozy. He shed his tension and solemnity, making a rare joke.
"You have other bonus points." Faye Vaughn looked serious as she counted on her fingers. "High-IQ genius, add ten points. Handsome, add ten points. Great singing voice, add ten points. Thoughtful of me, add ten. You protect me, add ten points."
That made seventy points.
Liam Linden listened quietly.
Faye Vaughn continued to count, "You saved my life, add ten points. You're grateful, add ten points. You're kind-hearted, add ten points."
One hundred points.
'But, kind-hearted?'
