By the time Dumbledore left Longbottom Manor, several hours had passed. He politely declined Mrs. Longbottom's invitation to lunch.
It wasn't that he didn't want to stay. He had simply been busy lately. If not for the guilt he felt toward Frank and Alice, he would never have stayed so long.
Besides, he really did need to visit Will's home at once...
It was lunchtime, and Will was making lunch.
In England, lunch was often treated as fuel for the afternoon's work. Efficiency came first: something quick, filling, and high in calories. Many people settled for sandwiches, salads, or a simple meal.
Will saw things differently—he preferred a hearty lunch.
That day, he had made a thick vegetable and beef soup, crispy duck leg confit, Italian meatballs, osso buco, and porcini risotto.
Will was slicing porcini mushrooms with Sectumsempra when he heard a noise by the front door.
Pop! Will went on alert at once.
He knew the crack of Apparition all too well.
Silver light flashed in Will's eyes. He leaned halfway out of the Kitchens and looked toward the door, Wand in hand, ready to strike.
Then a familiar voice called out, "Will, could you open the door for an old man?"
Will flicked his Wand, and the front door opened to reveal the white-bearded old man outside. Will went back to cooking. Who in the Wizarding World would dare use Polyjuice Potion to impersonate Dumbledore?
"Oh, that smells wonderful, Will." Dumbledore smiled. "Filius is always praising your cooking, but I've hardly had a chance to try it."
"Then you can try it today." Will directed a spatula, spoon, and kitchen knife as they flew about, working steadily. He gestured toward the sofa. "Please sit down and rest for a moment, Professor Dumbledore. It'll be ready soon."