Robert: "You did the hard work yourself, Daniel. I just showed you the way."
The sheriff shook his head.
Sheriff: "That's exactly what you've always said."
The female officer was now visibly uncomfortable.
Her shoulders stiffened. Her confident posture disappeared. She slowly lowered her notepad, realizing that the situation had become far more embarrassing than she could have imagined.
She finally managed to ask:
Female Officer: "So... you two have known each other for a long time?"
The sheriff looked at her in disbelief.
Sheriff: "A long time? This man practically raised me in this department."
Robert chuckled.
Robert: "I wouldn't go that far."
The sheriff smiled before turning his attention back to the female officer.
Sheriff: "Now, what seems to be the problem here?"
The officer hesitated.
For the first time that morning, she struggled to find the right words.
Female Officer: "I... I was just conducting a traffic stop, Sheriff."
The sheriff looked at Robert, then back at her.
Sheriff: "A traffic stop? For what reason?"
She opened her mouth, but no immediate answer came out.
Robert remained perfectly calm.
Robert: "I was hoping someone could explain that to me, too."
The sheriff's smile faded slightly.
He looked at the officer's notepad.
Sheriff: "Did you explain the reason for the stop before demanding his documents?"
The officer shifted her weight nervously.
Female Officer: "I was going to, sir."
The sheriff raised an eyebrow.