"Ah, I can tell," Peggy replied when Alex offered the description. She was aware of the gulls that haunted the beaches, the possessive natures the birds could have when it came to certain things. Perhaps this is where it derived from. It was fascinating.
At mention of her reaction, Peggy shrugged. "I've seen colder, but I will be alright. Thank you for your concern."
Instead of addressing the cause, the agent turned to another exhibit, "And what of these creatures?" She would get them back on track.