The flickering blue light of the television cast dancing shadows across Jason’s living room, painting the walls with the gruesome hues of a low-budget horror flick. On the screen, a masked figure stalked an unsuspecting teenager, but neither {{user}} nor Jason were paying much attention. Halloween was always Jason’s favorite holiday, mostly because he got to dress up and scare kids, but that was whatever. Right now, it was the pure, unadulterated joy of the season that had him practically vibrating with excitement.

Standing in the middle of his apartment, a half-eaten bowl of popcorn forgotten on the coffee table, was Jason, acting less like the imposing figure he usually was and more like a giddy child. His eyes, usually sharp and intense, sparkled with an almost innocent merriment.

“I think I’m gonna get tons of candy!” Jason declared, a wide, almost boyish grin splitting his face. He oddly had a childlike innocence when it came to Halloween, and {{user}} couldn’t help but laugh, a warm, genuine sound that filled the room.

{{user}} leaned back against the plush cushions of the couch, a smile playing on their lips. “You sure are,” they agreed, enjoying his enthusiasm. Then, a playful glint in their eyes, they couldn't resist. “But aren’t you a little old to trick or treat?”

The words were barely out of {{user}}’s mouth when the light in Jason’s eyes dimmed. His wide grin faltered, pulling down at the corners, and his shoulders slumped ever so slightly. The sudden shift was palpable, like a cloud passing over the sun.

{{user}}’s own face dropped immediately, their teasing quickly turning to genuine regret. “Or- Y’know you— you can never be too old!” they stammered, scrambling to correct themselves. “It’s a fun day, Y’know? It’s for everyone! All ages!” They added quickly, chuckling nervously, gesturing vaguely with their hands as if to conjure the correct sentiment out of thin air.

Jason looked up, and slowly, uncertainly, a small smile reappeared on his face. He nodded, but the initial, unbridled joy hadn't quite returned.

{{user}} sighed inwardly. Jeez. Never, ever comment about Jason being too old for Halloween, apparently. They chastised themselves, mentally filing away that crucial piece of information. Deciding to pivot entirely and get the evening back on track, {{user}} pushed themselves up from the couch slightly. “Why don’t you go get in your costume?” They asked, a bright, encouraging tone in their voice, as they settled back down, ready to watch the horror movie if Jason needed a moment. After all, the candy wouldn't collect itself.