Chapter 392: Fudge
Kyle and Kanna braved the snow and wind to make their way to The Three Broomsticks. The pub was bustling, far livelier and louder than the calm, frilly ambiance of Madam Puddifoot's Teahouse, and the freshly made Butterbeer was steaming, releasing a warm, frothy mist.
Behind the counter, the barman, a curvy, good-looking woman, was busy serving a rowdy group of wizards.
"I'll get the drinks; you find us a seat," Kyle said. "Hope we're not too late—seats are always scarce here."
Kanna headed to the back of the pub and found a small table tucked between a window and a Christmas tree, conveniently next to the cozy fireplace. Soon, Kyle joined her, with a large tray floating behind him. It was loaded with two bottles of Butterbeer, two plates of meat pies, and a dish of freshly baked pine nut cookies, filling the table with delicious aromas.
Kanna took a big bite of her pie, then sipped her Butterbeer, her face lighting up with satisfaction. "I really do like this," she said through a mouthful.
"Me too," Kyle replied, taking a bite of a pine nut cookie before lifting his glass. "Merry Christmas!"
"Merry Christmas!" Kanna replied, and their glasses clinked softly together. Kyle took a hearty sip, warmth spreading through him as he drank.
This is good, but it would be nice to have something a bit stronger, he thought. Kyle had originally wanted to order Ogden's Old Firewhisky, a pub specialty, but Madam Rosmerta had said it contained Firewhiskey and couldn't be served to students. So, Butterbeer it was. But he knew from Fred and George that on quieter days, Madam Rosmerta was a bit more lenient; they'd managed to buy mead, which also had Firewhiskey, from here before.
Setting down his glass, Kyle glanced around and noticed a few familiar faces. Behind the Christmas tree sat Harry, Hermione, and Ron, well-hidden in the corner, with Harry positioned farthest back. Kyle might not have seen them if Hermione hadn't waved to him. It seemed Fred and George had already given Harry the map.