It had been a frustrating day for Galen.
He had spent much of the morning arguing with his mother about where his younger sister would be going during her winter break from school. Since he has moved out a few years prior, Flannery would switch houses each year, and this year was supposed to be his—but his mother was insisting against it. Since leaving home, Galen’s relationship with his mother had become increasingly strained. They disagreed about many things, and he tried quite hard to not have to speak with her. However, she had contacted him this morning and insisted on talking, and Galen had done his best to get through it without allowing his anger to seep through. Nevertheless, he was exhausted, and he needed space to clear his head. Therefore, on this blustery November afternoon, Galen found himself walking swiftly down the lane toward Hogsmeade.
Galen was not the type to spend his time perusing the small town. As he was a healer-in-training, his time was often spent studying, and the bustling energy that Hogsmeade contained was much too distracting for him. However, today he needed distance from his regular life, which made Hogsmeade the perfect place to be. Of course, in his rush to get away from his mother and out of the house, he had forgotten his scarf, leaving his face and neck exposed to the wind. A light snow was falling, blowing and sticking into his dirty blonde hair. He was very chilly, and was intent upon reaching the nearest warm room with access to a strong drink.
He walked quickly along the path, putting his arm up to shield his face as he glanced up to see his progress. He could see the Three Broomsticks looming in the distance, and quickened his pace even more. The wind bit into his face, turning his cheeks a rugged red. As he reached the entrance to The Three Broomsticks, he pulled the door open with haste and rushed in all too quickly. In his hurriedness to reach the warmth he had accidentally plowed right into someone.
“I am so sorry!” he blurted, reaching out to the girl to prevent her from toppling. The door slammed behind him and eyes from around the whole bar shifted toward him. He grimaced at the unwanted attention, still supporting the girl, and helped get her back on her feet.
“Please forgive me—wasn’t paying attention, in a rush to get inside!” He motioned to the blustery wind through the window in the shop and waited awkwardly to be received by the girl.
