It's a very long moment, to be sure, before Doc Hawthorn comes up behind them, placing two gentle hands on each man's back.

"Ah, forgive me, boys. I had a bit of business to tend to, over by the contest booths," he smiles good-humoredly. "Things have been well in my absence?"

Charles Jr. grins, and in the back of his mouth you can just see a glint of gold.

"Just dandy, Doc."

His eyes stay focused on 'Jay.'