As everyone knows, it's impolite to stare but, really, what did the man expect? It couldn't possibly be envy. Gratitude maybe, for not parading into his shop like an ally cat in heat dangling this plastic monstrosity before him. Yes, definitely a sense of gratitude towards the man, and a fair bit of relief as it occurred to him that his being away may have saved him. Apparently though, not by much, as if sensing his lingering gaze the loud man was heading his direction with his . . .

"D! What are you doing here?"

His tone is friendly rather than accusatory, but it does take him a moment to formulate a reply. He blames the "Protect Your Nuts" t-shirt the cop is wearing, and the supple lime & apple accessory tied to his back jean pocket.

"The same thing you are, Officer, enjoying an afternoon in the park, taking in the sights." His eyes glance just once behind the detective, and had Leon not been in eye contact he would have missed the movement, but it was enough to bring a faint blush to his cheeks as he turned.

"Uh, yeah. Count D I'd like you to meet my friend Candice Hart, Candice."

"Candy, please."

"Ah, like the Conversation Hearts," the Count purred as he stood, never minding the woman's outstretched hand, which she quickly retracted into the pockets of her fuchsia windbreaker when she realized.

Her painted mouth twisted into an unsure smile, "umm, yeah." Green eyes darting back to Leon.

"Dammit, D, don't start with this shit, can't you be nice for once? It's bad enough everything reminds you of sweets."

"My dear Detective, I have been nothing but polite. And Conversation Hearts are not sweets, they're made of synthetic ingredients compacted into a man-made shape promoting nothing but cavities and bad English."

"Man, you're in a real mood. Sugar is sugar."

"I highly doubt that particular candy is made of real sugar."

Leon snorted. "Sure, and the white powder on Necco wafers really is the same crap they put on condoms."

D momentarily deadpanned, then smiled. "So it may be, but I'm sure you'll agree that neither belong in your mouth. After all, some plastics, and powders, are harmful to ones health."

Frozen, stunned, mouth agape, Leon mustered a heavy breath, took hold of the arrested woman beside him, and with a growl to do justice to his namesake stormed off, dragging the startled young lady away. The smirk on D's face lasted well into the night.