October 3 2019
The sun was bright but gentle, filtered through big leafy trees. Birds chirped, kids giggled in the distance, and the smell of fresh grass and hot pretzels filled the air. It was a perfect day for some fresh air and family time.
Dave pushed Mateo's stroller slowly along the paved path while AJ walked beside him, sipping an iced tea. She wore a cozy matching tracksuit and sneakers, looking every bit the chill mom — despite the fact that Luke, her security, trailed behind them in all black, with aviators on and an earpiece in.
AJ (murmuring to Dave)- I feel like we're in a movie about a presidential family. Look at him. He's scanning the trees.
Dave (laughing)-You *are* kinda presidential, babe. The hospital's basically your White House.
AJ (glancing back at Luke)- This is Mateo's first time at the park. Not a secret mission.
Just then, Mateo kicked his little feet in the stroller, babbling at a squirrel that had scurried past.
Dave- He's already making friends.
AJ-And probably plotting his first squirrel chase."
They reached a shady bench under a big oak tree. Dave parked the stroller, and AJ unbuckled Mateo, lifting him out with ease. He squealed with excitement as she cradled him against her chest.
Luke (finally speaking)- Perimeter looks clear."
AJ (rolling her eyes but smiling)-Thank you, Agent 007.
Luke (dryly)-Just doing my job, AJ.
Dave (grinning)-You wanna hold the baby? Might lower your heart rate.
Luke (taken aback)-Me? Uh...
AJ (handing Mateo over)-You've been around him long enough. Time to earn your stripes.
Luke hesitated — then gently took Mateo in his arms, surprised by how small and calm the baby was. Mateo stared up at him, then gave a slow blink and reached for the lanyard on Luke's neck.
Luke (softly)-Huh. He's cool.
AJ (teasing)-He's cooler than you, let's be honest.
Dave-By a mile.
The family sat on the grass while Luke stood nearby with Mateo, slowly rocking back and forth, clearly warming up to the little guy. A group of moms nearby smiled at the sight.
Random Mom (whispering to her friend)-Is that her bodyguard? He's holding the baby like it's national treasure.
Friend-That baby *is* a national treasure
As the afternoon stretched on, they took Mateo to the little baby swing, holding him while it gently rocked. AJ and Dave took turns pushing him while Luke stood by with a stoic face — except for the tiny smile he couldn't quite hide.
AJ (snapping a photo)-This is going on the fridge. Mateo's first park day.
Dave (leaning in)-First of many. One day he'll be running all over this place.
AJ (smiling down at Mateo)-Not too fast, little man. Let mama hold onto you just a little longer.
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**Later That Night:**
On the fridge sat a printed photo of **Mateo in his stroller**, **AJ laughing**, and **Luke awkwardly holding a half-eaten pretzel Mateo tried to chew**, all while **Dave grinned behind the camera**.
The caption in AJ's handwriting read:
"Mateo's First Park Day: Security, Squirrels, and So Much Sunshine."
