The person perceived by the old-timers as reckless and crazy had already walked up behind Charlotte Allison.
In the midst of discussions about what's going to happen to him:
"He's got guts, being so direct! Just going up and flirting with Mr. Allison—I'm impressed; he's got guts."
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, another one headed for trouble."
"Mr. Allison turned his head, and he actually leaned in... kissed Mr. Allison on the cheek!"
...
While everyone was waiting for Mr. Allison to have that person chopped up, they saw Mr. Allison actually... smiled?!
Even though the smile was just a faint curve, it was still a smile!
Charlotte Allison just noticed someone standing behind her and thought it was someone reckless. When she turned around and saw who it was, she was slightly taken aback.
He leaned in, his warm lips touched her cheek, and he whispered with longing, "Sister, I'm back."
