Jim had to fight to keep from bursting out laughing. "Remind me to tip my barber," he grinned, nudging Clark. "I think somebody likes it."

But all casualness, he headed over to the table and took a seat. "Is it about time for me to get the salad ready?"

There was something just slightly different about him, though, beyond his new haircut. A little bit of inherent pride. Maybe even slight preening.