Tad's heart skipped a beat in the spit second he saw the flash of recognition in Derby's eyes and the way Derby lowered his ice cream like something much juicier had materialized unseen behind Tad. But of course it couldn't be him. That would be far too coincidental, even considering the size of the town.
The face he did see was far more welcome, although no less nostalgic. Tad turned fully and took a step toward the object of Derby's interest, raising his hand in acknowledgment.
"Jim!" he called. "What are you doing here? I thought beggars generally prefer to work in New Coventry."
Tad had little problem with Jim, but he was hanging out with Derby, and he was much richer these days. He couldn't have people thinking Tad Spencer consorted with the unwashed masses.