When the other boy shouts the word go, Doc and young James put their Grand Plan into action, with the grown adult sweeping the boy up into his arms and setting off with a laugh that is only somewhat devious in nature.

Just a little.

He cannot even begin to recall the last time he did this.

(And he's very grateful that Billy, or Dave, or hell any of the other boys, are not here to witness him skipping around a maypole while surrounded by a group of young and excited children.)

While his focus is on keeping hold of the child in his arms (he'll set him down once the pole is wound a bit closer with the ribbons) his eyes do glance occasional at Katherine, the smile on her face absolutely beaming.

It makes his heart beat a little harder in his chest without even realizing it.