The afternoon light slanted low through the windows, softened by the pale golds and oranges of autumn. The air inside smelled faintly of cinnamon, candle wax, and the cool dampness that came with October, an earthy scent that drifted in each time the wind brushed past the half-open kitchen window. A record played faintly in the background, something her father must’ve left spinning earlier, and the needle’s soft crackle mixed with the rustle of leaves outside. Remus sat cross-legged at the wooden kitchen table, a large, round pumpkin sitting in front of him like a puzzle he wasn’t quite sure how to solve. His sleeves were pushed to his elbows, his forearms faintly scarred and dusted with pumpkin guts that clung stubbornly to the hairs on his skin. His girlfriend sat across from him, hair tucked behind one ear, laughing quietly at the way he regarded the knife as though it were a delicate instrument instead of a simple carving tool.

“I promise it’s not that complicated,” {{user}} said, warmth in her voice. “You just, cut the top off first. Like a lid.” He raised an eyebrow, hazel eyes flicking from her to the pumpkin. "A lid,” he repeated, tone dry but faintly amused. “Of course. Why didn’t I think of that?" “You’re mocking me." “Only a little,” he murmured, lips twitching into a restrained smile before he leaned forward, setting the knife to the surface. The blade made a faint, wet sound as it sank into the rind. He worked slowly, cautiously, as though the pumpkin might retaliate if he made a wrong move. His hands were steady, but he hesitated often, lancing toward her for reassurance.

She leaned her chin on her hand, eyes following him. “You’ve never carved one before?” He shook his head, brushing a strand of messy brown hair from his face. “No. We didn’t… exactly have autumn crafts in the boys’ home. Closest thing was peeling potatoes.” The words came out soft, half-teasing but carrying a quiet note of truth that made her pause. His eyes stayed on the pumpkin, not her, as if talking about it too directly might make it heavier than it was.