What Happens Over the Summer

"I thought I told you to stay on the bench," R.J. said to Max.
"Well I did. Then Jo," he looked back at me, "she asked if I wanted a drink. You said policemen were okay to talk to. And it was really hot. And she has her own handcuffs just like the police on TV! And-"
"Alright sport save the play-by-play," R.J. said with a smile.
Chief turned to him. "Sir we're going to have to ask you some questions. You can't just leave your child unattended at an amusement park."
I was curious how R.J. was going to talk himself out of this one. He always had been a smooth talker but Chief wasn't so easily swayed.
"I got lost. I was going to get cotton candy and I thought it was right around the corner. That's where it was when I visited last but the whole place has changed. I didn't realize how long I'd been gone until I asked for directions at one of the security stations. When I came back and Max was gone, I freaked. I went right back to the station and you brought me here."
"I've been with him for several hours," I pointed out. "It couldn't have taken you that long to realize you were lost."
"You're biased," he teased.
"Excuse me?" I demanded.
"You don't like me anyway. And it hasn't been that long. Only about an hour."
I looked at the clock. I took an early lunch.
"The guard at the station told you," R.J. said to Chief. "Look I'm sorry but everyone gets lost now and then right?"
"Not if they have a five-year-old they don't," I said, eyes blazing. Not only was I mad about him just leaving Max to fend for himself. He had lied to me. I'd been taken for a fool. He'd obviously had a girl waiting at home for him. Hell, he'd probably already been involved when he met me. If Max was already five, he would have had to been born at least earlier this month. I'd met R.J. in June five years ago. And there was not denying that the two were related.
"I'll have to go verify with the guard again," Chief said. He turned to me. "Jo I know you're off duty, but can you keep an eye on them, make sure he doesn't try to run."
I considered it. I didn't really want to be around R.J. but I needed answers. And it would be so satisfying if he did try to run and I had to shoot him.
"Sure Chief," I said sweetly. The older man turned and left the restaurant. I watched him until he was out of earshot. Then, my fake smile faded and I turned to R.J. "My gun's loaded and I would love an excuse to use it on you."