Atticus and Miss Mountbatton had fallen into a semblance of easy friendship over the past month, and he was pleased to she had accepted an invitation to this event. “Well, Miss Mountbatton, I was a chess champion at Hogwarts.” His corner of his lips quipped into a smile as he watched her make her first move; it was one of the most aggressive opening moves for white. “Although I can see you’ve come to play. Perhaps we should make a bet?” Atticus flicked his gaze up to her for a moment. He had a prize in mind he wanted from her, although he hoped she would accept a dance later in the evening, win or lose.

His lips pressed together as he considered his options, although moments later his black moved to begin a Dutch Defense against her pieces. Atticus laughed then, his eyes drawn toward the house before he glanced back at her. A footman had appeared earlier to tell him of the gifts, and his owl had been on the pillows before Atticus could even say they were his. “He is enjoying his new silk pillows, so I am afraid I am second best to him right now. Thank you for that, and the treats. I’m not sure Merlin will ever leave the house now.” Of course a traditional thank you card would follow, but it had been thoughtful to bring something for his beloved owl.

“And how is Sakura?” He paused before adding, “It would be rude of me not to ask about Yuki, Adzuki and Taiyo as well.”

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