The soft voice intruded on Jerry’s thoughts as he looked up. For the briefest moment irritation flashed across his face before he smoothed it away. “Of course. Hey there little man.” With a chuckle he helped the small kid up onto the bench. “Although you should certainly listen to your…” Jeremiah paused for a moment assessing Nana for a moment. “Mom, strangers can be dangerous. Although today is your lucky day. You can always trust a police officer.” Unclipping his badge Jerry held it out to the young kid. 

Letting the young guy take it Jeremiah slid over for Nana. “You’re welcome to sit, I don’t mind.” With that he shifted so that Nana could sit as well. Jerry shook Jude’s hand and gently shook it as it was offered. “I’m Jeremiah, but you can call me Jerry. Unless you’re doing something you shouldn’t be and then in that case you can call me Deputy Richman.” After shaking Jude’s hand he stood up and offered his hand to Nana. “Same goes for you Miss” 

He noted the lack of a ring on her left hand and made another educated guess about her marital status. “What brings such a wonderful pair out this time of day?” 

Sitting back down he positioned his back to the wall and made sure he was facing the two of them looking over their shoulder as Jude chowed down on his pretzel.

[@lovely complex]