a drink or ten
Mary laughed, her mood immeasurably better. Hestia always managed to make her feel good about herself and tonight was no exception. The girl was definitely an angel in disguise and she could only tighten her hold on the girl, not wanting to let go and absorb her positivity. If there was a time Mary needed it, it was right now. “Oh, those Chinese Chomping Cabbages,” she remarked with a hint of teasing in her voice, “You better make sure it doesn’t chomp up the rest of your plants or else we’ll have to look for another supplier of herbs.” She was joking, of course, knowing full well Hestia knew what she was doing. The older girl has always been quite brilliant, especially when it came to Herbology.
She sighed as the conversation returned back to her. “I knew being a Healer was going to be difficult,” she answered with a shrug. “I knew what I was getting into and I love helping people, so I can’t complain.” It was the exhaustion Mary wasn’t quite prepared for as she found herself passing out the moment she got home and then waking up just to go to work again the next day, but she figured she’d get used to it eventually. Complaining, however, was never in Mary’s nature and she wasn’t about to start now.
“I’m thinking the Leaky Cauldron?” Mary suggested, turning left to the direction of the pub as it was the closest wizarding pub to them. “Besides, I think Tom fancies you quite a bit.”
As soon as Hestia heard the faint sarcasm and the familiar sparkle in Mary’s eyes, she allowed her eyes to roll, her smile giving away her true emotions. She lifted her free hand towards her chest, faking a gasp as she turned dramatically to Mary. “Why my chomping cabbages are well trained, thank you.” she stated in a serious tone that soon broke to another. She didn’t mind if Mary messed with her. Afterall, she knew Mary acted with good intentions.
Hestia listened to her friend as they walked aimlessly, nodding every once in a while to encourage the girl. It was a hard job, that went without saying, and at times like this, it was even harder. She embraced the girl’s arm tighter against hers, hoping to be somewhat comforting. “That’s why we’re going out tonight. So you can rest and enjoy yourself for once.”
“That would be nice!” Hestia chimed. Despite it’s dimly lighted atmosphere, Hestia had always liked Leaky Cauldron. It was so easily accessible that it was almost impossible not to like it. “No, he does not!” Hestia protested, scrunching up her face. Mary was a master at making her feel odd. Especially when it came to guys. “He’s my friend!”












