Viktor had thought to drop by Hogwarts in the morning, but Headmistress McGonagall has not been available. His work schedule had been changed, and he had thought he would send her an owl, as he now had only Sundays off. He felt lucky that he hadn't put up a flier to advertise for weekend clinics; it would have been tough to let down the students who might have wanted some assistance. He had walked the path from Hogsmeade to Hogwarts, and now he walked back, enjoying the winter weather and snow. It was not like this in London; it was far fairer there than here, and Viktor enjoyed the brush with the cold weather thinking of home.
Making his way into the village, he was struck by the picturesque qualities it had in contrast to the busy city he now occupied. And he made the decision to stay, and have his dinner here before heading back to his solitary flat and his quieter evening. The Three Broomsticks was his destination; he'd found the place fascinating when at school, even if he hadn't been allowed to indulge as much as he had wanted to in those days. It had been a good place to find a secluded corner, to spend time watching other students and read a book. And in the past, it had usually worked until he was discovered by some gawking gaggle of girls who would loiter and peer at him until one was brave enough to intrude upon his solitude.
Viktor had to smile to himself, shaking his head slightly at how ridiculous girls could be at times. He entered the establishment and was immediately struck by an appreciated wave of warmth. Rubbing his hands as he removed his gloves, he glanced about the quiet bar. A pretty red headed woman sat alone, and other than that, it was fairly quiet. He stepped to the bar, and ordered something hot, with plenty of rum in it, and turned to look about again. He caught her eye and raised his glass in a small salute and dipped his head in a small nod, feeling like comrades in the small place.