The Christmas letter
The weeks at Hogwarts flew by in a blur of classes, Quidditch practice, and late-night studying in the common room. Before Harry knew it, the castle was covered in snow, the Great Hall was decorated with twinkling lights, and students were buzzing about the upcoming holidays.
One morning in early December, a large barn owl swooped down at breakfast, dropping a thick envelope in front of Harry’s plate. The handwriting on the front was instantly recognizable—Sirius’s messy scrawl, with a few neater lines underneath that had to be from Remus.
Curious, Harry tore it open.
Dear Prongslet,
I hear you’ve already managed to get detention with Snape—on the first day, no less. I have never been prouder. Five Galleons well spent.
But that’s not the real reason I’m writing. Christmas is coming up, and Moony and I had a brilliant idea. How would you like to invite some of your friends over to Grimmauld Place for the holidays? The house is big enough, and honestly, it could use a bit more life in it. You wouldn’t believe how miserable it is here without you. I keep trying to convince Moony to let me decorate, but he says if I put up one more enchanted snowstorm in the kitchen, he’s moving out.
We figured you’d rather spend Christmas somewhere fun than at Hogwarts, and besides—Marlene’s been asking about you constantly. She’s really missing you and can’t wait to see you again. (She also says, and I quote, “Tell Harry if he doesn’t come home for Christmas, I’m marching up to that castle myself.”)
Let us know soon so we can start making plans. I’ll even let you help me pick out a Christmas tree—provided Moony doesn’t beat us to it.
See you soon, kid.
- Padfoot & Moony
“What’s that?” Ron asked, glancing at the letter.
Harry passed it over, watching as Ron and Hermione read it.
Ron’s eyes lit up. “You can have a Christmas party at your house?”
Harry smirked. “Looks like it.” warm and cozy. And I’d love to see your home, Harry.”
Harry beamed. “It’s going to be Brilliant. I’ll write them back after class.”
.