Page 61 of Jep

“I’ve had weapons training,” she said.

“That’s not what I asked.”

“It feels odd because I’m not used to it, but it’s also nice to know I can protect myself if I need to.”

They continued down the sidewalk as they entered the area of the park, and Jep pulled her closer, putting an arm around her. He felt her arm curl around his waist, but it was tentative.

“You going to be okay?” he said. “Remember what I said. You can return to the car at any time.”

“I don’t want to let you guys down.”

“You wouldn’t. You want to go back?”

“No. Not yet.” She looked around. “And now that we’re here, my anxiety is easing a bit.”

“Good. Anything stand out?”

“Nothing yet.”

“That’s the bench over there.” He steered her down a path. “We’ll sit down for minute together, then I’ll go have a look around— Hang on.” He bent down to pick up a candy wrapper that was wedged into the edge of the sidewalk.

“What’s that for?”

“I need a reason to look in the garbage can.”

“What about the other bins?” she said as he threw the wrapper away and peered inside at the collection of garbage. It appeared undisturbed.

“It’s a clean park,” he said. “But there’s always trash. I’m sure I’ll find enough if I look. Cigarette butts are always in abundance.”

When they reached the bench, they both sat, and Jep reached his arm around behind Em, who leaned into his shoulder. “I can’t see much from here,” she said.

“You won’t be the only one looking. Our bird watcher is on his way in now, and Bailey won’t be far behind with his lunch.”

“Still, I could see better from that rise over there.”

“That’s too deep into the park. There’s not a clear exit from that position except for the wooded area, and I don’t want you going that way.”

“But Cramer will be covering it.”

“I said no.”

She huffed. “What if you escort me over? I’ll have a look around for a few minutes, get a good look, then I’ll head back here.”

“Too risky. And I need you to cover this area.”

She was quiet for a minute as she continued to scan the area. “I thought you chose me because I could see things others couldn’t.”

“I did.”

“Then why aren’t you using me to my full potential?”

“I am.”

“No you’re not. If I can’t get a better view, there’s no point in me being here. I only have part of the picture. I need more. I know you’re a little gun shy after what happened last time, but it will be okay. I won’t stay long. I just want to get a view of everything.”

“I don’t like it.”

“I know. Tuck your emotions behind your training, and you’ll be fine.” She gave him a patronizing pat on the chest and stood. “Coming?”

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