Gemotions

The crisp autumn air bit at Clara's cheeks as she watched Ben carve the pumpkin. He remembered the crisp leaves, the cozy fire, and the perfectly roasted marshmallows. The shared Halloween memory was a Technicolor film for him. Clara, however, recalled the chill in the air, the difficulty getting the fire started, and the way her marshmallows always burned.

"That was the best Halloween ever," Ben said with a grin, holding up the carved pumpkin.

Clara felt a knot forming in her stomach. She forced a smile, her voice sounding strained. "It was... certainly memorable." She pretended to examine the pumpkin closely, avoiding Ben's eyes.

"We should do it again this year!" Ben said, his excitement practically radiating off him.

Clara nodded slowly, her gaze lingering on the discarded pumpkin guts.