Malachi wasn't sure if he should tell the other man that he knew him. Clearly he didn't recognize him and wouldn't with the age difference. But it didn't feel right not telling him he knew him. Seeing how he'd already met Lavender he was sure he already knew about the years. Or how there is no year at this place.
"I didn't come say hello either, Mr. Pepper. If I had then maybe I wouldn't have been surprised when Lavender said you were in the village," he said, deciding to be as blunt as he could possibly be. It wasn't like Mr. Pepper would react angrily; he'd just be surprised at best. Maybe leave at worst.