She had a sixth sense when it came to her son. "Homework?" "Just some calculus and a history paper." She nodded, then paused, studying his face. "Something happened today.
It wasn't a question." Jallen considered brushing it off, but knew it was pointless. His mother always saw through him. Got stopped by a cop on the way home. Angela stiffened, her casual demeanor instantly replaced with alert concern.
What happened? What did he want? Nothing. Just the usual. Asked what I was doing here.
Check my backpack. Did he give a reason for stopping you? No. Angela's jaw tightened. Did you get his name or badge number?
Grayson. I think he's new. She nodded, filing the information away. What else? I know there's more.
Jallen hesitated. He asked about dad. The change in Angela was subtle but immediate. A slight narrowing of her eyes, a barely perceptible straightening of her already perfect posture. What did you tell him?
Just that he's in special forces. Nothing else. Angela was quiet for a long moment. Jaylen, we've talked about this. You know not to.
I know, Mom. He interrupted. But he was saying stuff about how kids like me never have dads at home. I didn't give details. I just I couldn't let him think dad abandoned us.
Angela's expression softened. She crossed the kitchen and pulled her son into a hug, something she knew he was increasingly reluctant to accept as he grew older. But tonight, he didn't pull away. "Listen to me," she said, her voice low and serious. Your father's work is not something we discuss with strangers, especially not with police.
It's not just about privacy. It's about safety. Our safety. Your father's safety. I know.
Jaylen said, "I'm sorry. It's okay. Just be careful." This officer, Grayson, if he asks again, just say your dad works in government consulting, nothing more. Jallen nodded, though he wondered why the mundane cover story was necessary if his father's work was legitimate.
Later that night, as Jallen worked on his history paper, his phone buzzed with a text from Maya Thompson. They weren't close friends, more like acquaintances who shared a few classes, but her message was direct. Need to talk to you tomorrow about what happened after school. Jallen stared at the message, wondering how Maya knew about his encounter with Grayson. He typed back a simple okay and set his phone aside, unease settling over him like a fog.