Was it truly only yesterday that we parted? The hours between then and now have dragged on endlessly. At least I've work to keep busy, as I'm sure you know. They've made an interesting discovery in my absence. There's an obvious entryway into a tomb but no door to be found. Apparently, for the last week they've been tapping on each brick in the hopes of triggering a reaction of sorts. There's been no such luck yet, but I've now been granted the wonderful task of tapping.

Forgive me, I'm rambling.

I hope you've settled in well by the time you receive this. Was your trip back to Hogsmeade okay? I know portkey travel never does get any easier. Did the shop manage in your extended absence? Was there an uptick in business after the festival? Did the buyer enjoy the book we picked up in Corfu? It's funny, I can nearly picture your blush should anyone ask you about that island. I hope you've a better poker face than that I witnessed during our card game. Lord knows I don't have one. (Please, know I mean this only in jest. Letters can be so hard to read sometimes.)

Although I've no inkling as to when we might be able to meet again, I was thinking our next adventure might take us further into Africa. One of my colleagues raves about a safari tour where they came face to face with giraffes! And they also view lions from a safe distance, as well as a great many other wild animals. It won't be as relaxing or private as Corfu, but it would be an adventure all the same. In the new year sometime, perhaps. I swore to Kamal that I would request no personal time until after the holidays to be able to visit with you in Greece. Which isn't to say I regret Greece or the promise I've made. This year will hardly mark the first or last Christmas I've missed at home. Seeing you was worth it.

Please, write me back as soon as you receive this letter so I know you were transported back to Hogsmeade alright. I'd hate to belatedly find out you were mistakenly sent to Mongolia like those poor debutantes a few years ago.