tradition

06

Eloise, Briar, and Georgia made their way toward Hogsmeade, their footsteps crunching rhythmically in the fresh snow. The air was crisp and cold, every breath forming small puffs of mist in front of their faces. Snowflakes drifted lazily from the gray sky, settling softly on the ground and the rooftops of the village ahead, covering everything in a thick, white blanket that shimmered in the muted winter light. The three girls were bundled up in their winter cloaks, scarves wrapped snugly around their necks, and gloves warming their hands. Despite the chill, there was a warmth in their hearts—a rare moment of calm amid the tension that had been simmering over the past few months.

"He gave you his jersey?!" Eloise exclaimed, her voice ringing out in shock against the snowy silence. Briar nodded quickly, her cheeks flushing as she hurriedly clamped a gloved hand over Eloise's mouth. "Why don't you tell the whole school?" she whispered fiercely, though her eyes danced with amusement. Eloise gave a sheepish grin, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper.

"But, don't you like Seamus?" Georgia asked, her eyes searching Briar's face for an answer. Briar shook her head gently, her gaze lifting to the delicate snowflakes falling softly around them. "He's a great guy, and an even better friend... but, I just can't imagine him as anything more," she confessed, her voice barely audible over the crunch of their footsteps. Eloise nodded in understanding, her eyes scanning the snow-covered path ahead. Suddenly, she spotted the familiar figures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione—the Golden Trio. "Anyone fancy a Butterbeer?" she asked, her voice full of excitement.

The girls nodded eagerly, their laughter ringing out as they broke into a run, their boots kicking up snow as they made their way to the warm, welcoming glow of the Three Broomsticks. As they pushed open the heavy wooden door, a burst of warmth and chatter enveloped them. The pub was filled with the cozy hum of conversations and the clinking of mugs.

A woman with curly blonde hair and bright blue eyes spotted them from behind the bar and waved cheerfully. "Madam Rosmerta!" Briar called out, hurrying over to greet her. "Hello, Briar, it's good to see you," Madam Rosmerta said with a kind smile, her eyes twinkling. "Three Butterbeers?" she asked, already reaching for the mugs. Briar nodded enthusiastically, grinning as the frothy drinks were set down in front of them. Georgia quickly dug into her pocket for a few Galleons and handed them over, thanking Madam Rosmerta.

The girls found a small table near the roaring fire and sat down, their hands warming around the mugs. The sweet, buttery aroma of the drink filled their senses, and they felt a wave of comfort wash over them. Eloise glanced around the bustling pub and spotted Harry, Ron, and Hermione making their way inside. "Mione!" Eloise shouted above the lively chatter.

Hermione looked up, her face breaking into a smile as she saw Eloise. "El, what brings you here?" she asked as she approached their table. Eloise shrugged playfully, her smile softening. "Same as you, I suppose," she replied. Briar's eyes shifted slightly, catching sight of Harry standing just behind Hermione. He looked over, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth as their eyes met briefly. 

"We're going to find a table, will I see you at Slughorn's ?" Hermione asked the girl. Briar nodded and Hermione smiled softly.

Yesterday, Briar had been approached by Professor Slughorn in one of the most unexpected ways. She had been leaving Potions class, her mind still focused on the intricate brew they had been working on, when Slughorn had stopped her. He'd given her one of his jovial smiles, the kind that made his eyes twinkle, and gestured for her to stay behind. At first, Briar hadn't thought much of it, assuming he wanted to discuss her potion or offer advice on improving her technique. However, as he began speaking, it became clear that this was not a casual conversation.

Slughorn had spoken at length about her academic promise, praising her skills with an enthusiasm that felt almost too deliberate. Briar, caught off guard, had listened as he subtly shifted the topic to his exclusive club. There had been no denying the flattery woven into his words as he laid out the benefits of joining, emphasizing connections and opportunities. The weight of his offer lingered in the air, his eyes watching her closely, measuring her response.