#goldfishfiasco

“Another one. Maker Cullen the front yard is loaded.” Diana chuckled as Cullen carefully set down two large pumpkins on the dining room table. “Did you miss a particular image”?

“Funny. I enjoy it. And this time of season is the only time I get to do it. Perhaps you’re just jealous I’m good at it and you aren’t.” Pressing a kiss to her cheek he didn’t bother to dodge when she turned to swat at his rear. Dorian had caught the muffled talking from the library and came to investigate, “another set of pumpkins, precious.” Dorian leaned in the doorway, eyeing Diana as she shrugged her shoulders. Cullen was already preparing for his task. Collecting a knife, plastic bag and bowl. Diana spread out some newspaper as Cullen caught sight of Dorian, “care to...”

“No. No thank you. I just had my nails done. Don’t want them to be stained orange for a week.” Sitting next to Diana at the counter he helped himself to a cup of tea. “Though I will watch.” 

“Of course you both would.” Cullen smirked as he plunged the knife into the top of the pumpkin. “Staying for Halloween or do you have other plans?”

“Staying. Then I’ll be on my way back home. Vacation time is precious these days, like clean water.” Sipping away he and Diana keenly watched as Cullen drew out the image he was thinking upon the flattest face of the gourd and began cleaning the insides out.  

An easy half hour later and he was beaming, his latest creation complete. “That’s... rather impressive.” Dorian nodded his approval. Carefully setting the pumpkin in the sink full of a vinegar and water solution Cullen thanked Dorian. “Well, I best return to my work. I’ll meet you all for dinner later.” Rising he slowly strolled back to the library, leaving Diana alone with Cullen. 

“Come here.” He crooked his finger and bit his bottom lip. “I want to show you something.” Diana could tell his version of show and tell wasn’t for Dorian’s eyes. “Alright.” Coming close he wrapped her in his arms, “I’m going to teach you how to carve one of these crafty villains. You’ll be an expert in no time.”