Outside the window, the street was still bustling. George and Fred pressed their faces against the glass, pulling ridiculous expressions. Within two minutes, they ran off into Zonko's Joke Shop.
"Those two clowns." Sylvia watched them go and shook her head.
Just then, the pub door opened, letting in a gust of cold air.
Two figures entered, followed by a woman bundled in heavy fur.
They were Barty Crouch and Ludo Bagman.
The woman behind them had blonde hair set in stiff curls, jewel-studded glasses, and a professional smile: Rita Skeeter.
The three immediately drew plenty of attention in the pub.
Bagman cheerfully waved to people he knew. Crouch remained expressionless, while Rita Skeeter swept her shrewd gaze across the pub as though searching for prey.
Then her eyes settled on Will.
"Well, well," she said in a syrupy voice. "If it isn't our champion, Mr. Behrens."
Will set down his knife and fork and glanced at her.
"Ms. Skeeter," he said calmly.
Rita Skeeter sashayed over, with Crouch and Bagman following. Crouch still looked cold, while Bagman appeared curious.
"Mr. Behrens," Rita Skeeter said, stopping before him with a broad smile, "what a coincidence. I'm writing a feature on the Triwizard Tournament champions, and this is the perfect chance to ask you a few questions.
"I just ran into Mr. Potter and Miss Roberts. Mr. Behrens, do you think Mr. Potter's personal feelings might affect the tournament as a whole?"
"It's a Hogsmeade day," Will said, still calm. "I came here to relax."
Rita Skeeter's smile stiffened for an instant, then returned. "Of course, of course. I won't take much of your time. Just a few simple questions—"
"Ms. Skeeter," Sylvia said suddenly. Her voice was quiet but carried an unmistakable chill. "Will said he came here to relax."