An incredulous look grew over the young witch's face. A tutor for Potions class? Millie had never thought about it, and now that she did, the young witch wasn't sure about it. It didn't seem entirely fair to the tutor, unless they had been tutored in the material as well. Otherwise, Millie felt she would simply be taking all their hard work instead of working hard herself. Her hair shook a little as she answered honestly, "I never thought about a tutor...I think I just need to apply myself better. Maybe if that doesn't work."

Her parents thought it would work, and they were probably right. Millie knew she spent too much time in her novels and stealing moments away to her trees. If she would just focus on her coursework, she'd be the best witch at Hogwarts. Besides, the young witch already had started applying herself, like with the dueling tournament. "There's a dueling club?" She paused, her thumb rubbing over the links of her necklace chain. "I think I'll join that when I go back. As long as..."

As long as her father wouldn't learn about it, he might not see it the same way Millie did.

"Oh, please!" She nearly jumped up with a shout, a wan smile growing under a set of warm cheeks. Her eyes searched the room until Millie located the goodies in the kitchen, and they lit up in a renewed sense of the holiday's cheer. Growing mindful of herself once more, the young witch clasped her hands together, bouncing them slightly against her belly as she took a step toward the kitchen and its promise of hot cocoa. She eyed her cousin's glass of cider, then took another step away from the intensely decorated parlor.

The young witch nimbly avoided the older adults in the path between her and the kitchen treats, weaving to and fro between their clusters of conversation. Her arms bounced lightly as her feet stepped as softly as she could, making little sound to avoid drawing the attention of her aunts or mother. She made her way to the hot cocoa, hesitating for a moment to let her eyes soak up the rich texture of the chocolately liquid. Even its smells were sweet!

Millie busied herself with pouring a glass —as full as she dared!— of the hot cocoa. With the knowledge of hot cocoa awaiting between the palms of her hands, the young witch looked around to see if Daffy had followed, or who else was in reach of conversation. If no one else appeared, she thought she might get to know some of the treats decorating the kitchen counters today.

"Merry Christmas!" She said, either to her relative or her next sweet ambition for the day.

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