tradition

05

Hogsmeade trips were something that every student at Hogwarts enjoyed. The village, quaint and charming, was always bustling with excitement and filled with the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods and the crisp, cool air of the Scottish Highlands. The cobblestone streets, lined with unique shops and cozy establishments, beckoned students to explore and enjoy the freedom from their usual academic routine. Whether they were going to Honeydukes and purchasing the sweet treats offered there or heading to Zonko's Joke Shop and finding things that could make them laugh for days, the students always found something to love. Harry Potter adored Hogsmeade and always looked forward to visiting with his friends.

As they strolled through the village, the group found themselves immersed in the vibrant atmosphere. They passed by the Three Broomsticks, where the delicious scent of butterbeer wafted through the open door, inviting them in. The windows of Honeydukes were filled with displays of colorful candies, from Chocolate Frogs to Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans. Zonko's Joke Shop was alive with laughter, its shelves stocked with prank items that promised endless fun.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione made their way through the throngs of students and villagers, enjoying the sights and sounds of Hogsmeade. The chatter of excited students filled the air, mingling with the occasional burst of laughter from someone who had just discovered a new joke item at Zonko's. Harry's eyes sparkled with excitement as he took in the familiar surroundings, but his thoughts were elsewhere.

"Did you see how she stood up for them?" Harry gushed, unable to contain his admiration. His thoughts were still on the recent Defense Against the Dark Arts class and how Briar had bravely confronted Professor Moody.

Ron patted Harry's shoulder and nodded, "I think we all did, mate." His tone was supportive, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes as he observed Harry's enthusiasm. Harry shook his head violently, his frustration evident. "I just don't understand... why won't she go out with me?" His voice was filled with genuine confusion and a touch of despair.

Hermione, who had been listening quietly, laughed and stopped walking to meet Harry's bright green eyes. "Maybe because you constantly ask her out," she suggested, her tone gentle but firm. Harry frowned, clearly perplexed by Hermione's words. "How else is he supposed to get her to like him?" Ron interjected, genuinely puzzled by the dynamics of relationships. Hermione scoffed and folded her arms across her chest, her expression one of exasperation. "You pay attention! Get to know her first. Do you even know the first thing about her?" she asked pointedly.

Harry frowned deeper, his frustration growing. "I mean she's nice, she's pretty, I don't understand..." he trailed off, clearly at a loss. Hermione shook her head and smiled softly, her eyes filled with understanding. "If you want her to truly like you, Harry, then you ought to get to know her first," she advised. Her tone was warm and encouraging, hoping to guide Harry in the right direction.

The trio continued their walk through Hogsmeade, the conversation lingering in the air. They passed by Scrivenshaft's Quill Shop, where a display of elegant quills caught Hermione's eye. She paused to admire them, her fingers lightly tracing the intricate designs. Ron and Harry waited patiently, their thoughts still on the topic at hand.

As they continued their walk through Hogsmeade, the conversation about Harry's attempts to woo Briar resumed. Hermione, always the voice of reason and strategy, suggested a new approach.

"You know, Harry, Christmas is coming up. Maybe... you could get Briar something. I'm sure she would appreciate it," Hermione said, her tone thoughtful as she glanced at Harry.

Harry nodded his head, considering Hermione's suggestion. His eyes wandered to Dominic Maestro's Music Shop, where he saw Briar holding up a vinyl record, examining it with a look of pure delight. The sight of her smiling so brightly made his heart flutter.

"Does Briar have a record player?" Harry asked Hermione, his curiosity piqued.

Hermione nodded her head, smiling at Harry's sudden interest. "Yes, her aunt is a Muggle, so she got one for her birthday in our third year. Why do you ask?"