That comment didn’t merit itself a laugh, but it did make Remus’ breath hitch, a surprised little snort.<br/>“Fuck off,” Remus dismissed as he cocked his head, though the hashness of his words were undermined by a smile. Black was laying it on thicker than was necessary, Remus could tell as much, but it was the most encouragement Remus had gotten in weeks, and it was hard not to bask in it, even if only for a moment.<br/>Not keen on letting Black go on, Remus instead picked up a forgotten tangent.<br/>“Can I ask you something -” he started, but while it was phrased as though he was asking for permission, he didn’t seem to expect an answer.<br/>For the first time, Remus’ posture showed a real sense of engagement. He sat up straighter, elbows on the table as he leaned forward towards Black. Though his movements seemed filled with intent, he stalled, looking for words.<br/>“At what point does a hunch become a hypothesis?” He paused, brows quirking. “Does it ever?”