Chapter 391: Madam Puddifoot, the Candy-Making Expert
Christmas was drawing ever closer. One morning, a sparkling frost covered the castle grounds, and a festive buzz filled the air inside Hogwarts. Professor Lupin had set up a few small Christmas trees in his classroom, with various sweets hanging from the branches for students to enjoy—probably his biggest splurge of the term. Over in Charms Class, Professor Flitwick had gone all out with decorations, stringing the classroom with colorful lights that morphed into tiny, winged fairies whenever someone approached, zooming around the room like magical fireflies.
The final Hogsmeade trip before Christmas was set for the last weekend of term. Fred and George opted to stay behind for a bit, deciding it was time to inject Harry with some holiday cheer before they left.
Hogsmeade was enchanting under a fresh blanket of snow, like a Christmas card brought to life: the cottages and shops were dusted with white, doors were adorned with holly wreaths, and trees along the streets glowed with enchanted candles. Having bought most of their essentials on the last visit, Cedric suggested they check out the one spot they hadn't been yet: Madam Puddifoot's Tea House.
As if on cue, Cho immediately agreed, even urging Kanna and Kyle to come along. "Penelope says it's the best spot in Hogsmeade," she added. "And we haven't been there before."
Kanna's interest was piqued, and she joined eagerly. Kyle trailed behind, casting a questioning glance at Cedric.
"Why do you want to go there?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
"What?" Cedric shrugged, feigning innocence. "I'm just curious. Besides, Madam Puddifoot's and the Shrieking Shack are about the only Hogwarts spots we haven't explored."
"True," Kyle replied, though his voice held a hint of suspicion. "But, as far as I know, that's usually a couples' spot. Haven't you heard?"
"Oh, um..." Cedric stammered, clearly flustered. "I hadn't, actually..." He awkwardly changed the subject, mumbling, "Do you think Fred and George will have any trouble finding us here...?"