Elgin Scamander

“Yes, but working for MACUSA, I’m always busy. Even plants keep one working hard.”

“I was always bad at herbology. I killed just about every plant I touched.” Elgin paused. “Well, I guess that came in handy the other week.”

“Who the fuck is Daphne?”

“This woman I met at the winter festival. She was my date to the New Years thing. I’m, uh...dating, I guess.”

“Is this where I’m meant to say something witty like ‘so only yesterday, huh?’ and give you an over the top wink?” she laughed slightly, instantly regretting her attempt at a joke as soon as the words fell from her lips.

Elgin laughed. “I think it might be. But since you already said it I don’t think you need to.” He said with a smile. “Do you want anything to drink?”

“I might even let her keep it,” she laughed, giving the girl a grin so she wouldn’t feel ignored. “It’s nice, very festive, could possibly do without the carolers on every corner, but it does feel very Christmassy, doesn’t it?”

“Oh, see, I love the carolers. They bring a lot of the holiday cheer that this festival thrives on.” Elgin countered lightheartedly. “I see where it might be too much, though.”

“Thank you for asking me,” she bowed her head at the compliment, trying to hide her blush. “You look very nice yourself. So, tell me, are you the partying type outside of New Year’s?”

“Oh, goodness no. I haven’t partied since I was in my early twenties.” Elgin laughed. “I got consumed by work and life and lost the time to party.”

“So you would rather have come with her than alone,” she nodded, somewhat understandingly, rather aware that these things weren’t really for people on their own. “Why not bring her tonight then?”

“Yeah. Pretty much.” Elgin shrugged. “I didn’t bring her because my mom wanted her for the night. She helps out a lot, thinks I should socialize. I can’t really say no to her.”

“Yeah, but she can’t skate with my advanced figure skating class,” Hope replied. “No matter how ham she goes on the skates. “She has to stay with the tots till she’s old enough.”

“But she’s really good.” Elgin frowned slightly. He didn’t realize quite how difficult figure skating could be.

Inside the box was a pair of engraved cuff links with Elgin’s initials. Tucked into the side of the black foam was also a couple of gift cards to the local no-maj theater. “I figured you could take your special girl out for a fancy date to the movies.”

He pulled out one of the cufflinks, running his fingers over it. “Thank you, Ember. These are beautiful.” He put the cufflink gently back into the box. He looked at the gift cards with a smile. “Thanks, sis. It’ll be so much fun.” Elgin pulled Ember into a big bear hug.

“Then I’ll text you every five minutes! I don’t mind as long as you feel comfortable and have fun. You deserve to have a nice life as well, El.”

“You’re too sweet, Em. Thank you.”

“Well, she is a very cute little thief,” Daphne laughed, taking his hand with a smile. “Very nice to meet you, Elgin, I’m Daphne. Have you been enjoying the festival?”

“Careful or she’ll steal your heart.” Elgin joked. he shook her hand, still wondering why he would do that. “I have been, thank, you.” He pulled his hand away slowly. “How about you?”