The spotted pumpkin reference was so ridiculous, so awkwardly endearing, breaking for a second the cool attractive exterior to reveal a slightly dorky, sentimental, charming man beneath. Anthony was cute. He was a mess, but he was sweet and adorable. And Aziraphale, despite trying valiantly to distance himself, fell a little more in love. Dangerously, and for the first time he was aware of, it wasn't colored by the rosy lenses of memory's influence.

"Anthony..." he began and didn't have a follow-up. Aziraphale took a step toward him, still cautiously searching for the right words. He was acutely aware Alec was still in the room with them and it stayed his steps before he could come toe-to-toe with Anthony.

He wanted something profound, something supportive. Instead, he gave a soft, sad little huff and offered a small, tender smile.

"Maybe that's why they're screaming."