"You're welcome. It was my pleasure," Tate gave the boy a nod again for good measure. "You should consider a career in law enforcement. I say that a lot, but the world could someone who is interested in protecting the underdog." He left it unsaid that since Jake had experienced life as an underdog, he was particularly suited.

"You should probably run along and wrap up whatever you have left before the term ends. I would hate for you to lose that chance."