The Guest

Alex instantly recognized the Lovegoods as quintessential Ravenclaws, with a distinct flair Augusta had once called "eccentric." Ravenclaws often had a way of expressing themselves that others might see as unusual.

'Honestly, I probably should've been in Ravenclaw myself,' Alex thought, remembering his own love of learning and interest in academics.

The Longbottoms made wonderful hosts, guiding everyone to the courtyard, where the rare sunny day brought warm light to the whole yard. Adults gathered with drinks, chatting and laughing, while children played games on the grass.

Back in the kitchen, Alex wiped the sweat from his brow, feeling satisfied as he floated the last few dishes into the large ceramic serving platters with a simple wave of his wand. He guided each platter in a neat line out to the courtyard, where they landed gracefully on the buffet table. He covered each dish to keep them warm and ready.

Augusta tapped her glass, drawing everyone's attention. "Welcome, everyone! Thank you for joining us today. And a special thanks to Alex for preparing this wonderful feast. Now, let's dig in! Don't be shy—help yourselves!"

Alex smiled, hearing Augusta's message summed up simply: 'Eat well, drink well, and don't hold back.'

The children dashed to the buffet first, led by a stampede of redheaded Weasleys. Alex couldn't help but grin, especially at the sight of Fred and George, identical twins already eyeing the food with mischievous looks.

As Alex watched everyone enjoy the meal, a friendly voice spoke beside him. "Alex, my older brothers have mentioned you, but I didn't expect you to be such a great cook! The aroma from the kitchen had my mouth watering from the moment I arrived."

Turning, Alex saw Mrs. Weasley, her warm smile lighting up her face. Though she was late in her pregnancy, she seemed to handle everything with ease. "Thank you, Mrs. Weasley. But honestly, I'm amazed by how well you manage such a large family."

"Please, call me Molly," she replied. "You have no idea how much work it takes to feed this crowd every day!"

Arthur Weasley, holding a chubby toddler with red hair—likely Ron—joined them. "Alex, I've heard quite a bit about you from Moody and Kingsley," he said. "Is it true you helped them fend off Death Eaters?"

The couple's interests were clear: Molly was interested in food, while Arthur seemed more intrigued by Alex's skills in battle. Alex answered each of their questions, feeling both amused and slightly overwhelmed.

After the children finished their first round, they came back for seconds. "You two go ahead and get some food," Alex told the Weasleys. "We can chat more while you eat."

Grateful, Arthur handed little Ron over to Alex and joined Molly at the table. Ron, comfortably seated in Alex's arms, was well-fed and content, reaching up to pat Alex's face with a curious, chubby hand.

Around the long table, guests enjoyed their food, each family bringing their own special energy. The Diggorys were cheerful, and the Lovegoods quieter, with Xenophilius giving Alex polite nods now and then. The Weasleys filled the yard with laughter, making everyone feel at home. Even Cedric, usually shy, was eating happily, a bit of sauce smudged on his cheek.

Molly tasted the chicken and mushroom soup, her face lighting up. "Alex, this is delicious! I've never had soup like this before. What's your secret?"

"Just a mix of simple ingredients," Alex said humbly, sharing a few cooking tips. Soon, he and Molly were chatting like old friends, swapping recipes and laughing.

Then, eight-year-old Charlie Weasley approached, holding a chicken wing in each hand. "Brother Alex," he said shyly, "will you come over to our house sometime? You could cook for us, too."

Alex chuckled. "I'd be happy to visit if the chance comes up, Charlie, as long as you don't mind my cooking."

Arthur grinned from across the table. "You're welcome anytime, Alex! The whole family would love to have you."

Alex felt the start of a lasting friendship with the Weasleys, all brought together over good food.

As lunch turned into a lively afternoon, the adults enjoyed tea, and the children ran around the yard, laughing and playing. The peaceful scene felt like a much-needed break from the worries of the outside world.

Xenophilius Lovegood, watching his wife, Pandora, and baby Luna from a distance, came over to thank Alex. "Young man, your hospitality is appreciated. My wife has had such a good day, and little Luna can feel her mother's happiness—she's been laughing all afternoon."

Alex smiled. "I'm glad to hear it, Mr. Lovegood. I'm just happy everyone is enjoying the day."

"Luna's enjoyed it too, even if she's too young for the food," Xenophilius added with a dreamy smile, as though the baby's approval was clear.

Though unsure how Xenophilius reached that conclusion, Alex replied politely, "I'm honored little Luna likes the atmosphere."

Xenophilius's eyes brightened as he changed the topic. "You know, I'm the editor of The Quibbler, the only magazine that dares to print the truth about magical creatures like the Crumple-Horned Snorkack and the Blibbering Humdinger. The rest are frauds—they ignore it all."

Alex was a bit taken aback by Mr. Lovegood's bluntness, but he could tell the man meant well. "It must be challenging to stand by your beliefs," Alex said thoughtfully.

Xenophilius beamed. "Perhaps one day, young man, you might publish some recipes in The Quibbler. I'm sure it would be a hit."

"Recipes… in The Quibbler?" Alex wondered aloud, but Mr. Lovegood had already waved goodbye, mentioning something about "not letting the flies of falsehood bother him." Alex watched as he rejoined Pandora, who smiled and waved, with little Luna cooing in her arms.

After mingling with the neighbors and guests, Alex gained a clearer picture of the wizarding families he'd met. Mr. Lovegood brimmed with strange yet harmless ideas, often delving into unusual theories about magical creatures. His wife, Pandora, was a spell researcher known for her work with unique charms.