When Harley had eaten her third mint, Hermione returned carrying two large mugs of frothy Butterbeer.
The Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks contained only a trace of alcohol. Its main ingredients were butter, sugar, and water, so it was safe to serve to students.
As for stronger drinks, such as Firewhisky, they weren't sold to students here.
Of course, during Quidditch practice, Fred had told all the team members that the Hog's Head would sell strong liquor to young wizards. The only downside was the steep price.
But Harley couldn't exactly fly over to the Hog's Head now. Why not sit down and enjoy some Butterbeer instead?
They raised their mugs and clinked them together, then began to drink.
The Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks tasted different from the kind served at the Order of Merlin ceremony dinner. This one was sweeter.
But once she'd swallowed some, Harley felt warmth spread through every inch of her body.
In the cold month of October, it was a wonderful feeling.
"Harley, Hermione."
Harley and Hermione had barely managed a sip of Butterbeer when they heard a voice.
Professor McGonagall, holding a glass of violet water, sat down beside them.
The atmosphere in the area grew tense in an instant. The young wizards at the surrounding tables all lowered their voices and stopped discussing plans to copy one another's homework.
A few fourth-year Hufflepuffs who had been sitting closest to the girls exchanged glances, quickly downed their Butterbeer, and left the Three Broomsticks.
Several other young wizards who had been planning to sit nearby also changed their minds when they saw Professor McGonagall.
"Good morning, Professor McGonagall," Harley and Hermione said in unison.
"Good morning, girls." Professor McGonagall raised the glass of violet water in her hand.
"If I remember correctly, this is