Only two more little doors to open on the Advent Calendar. Millicent Bulstrode wasn't excited for Christmas, after yesterday she didn't think she'd be excited about anything anytime soon.
Her father had purchased the calendar for her and every night when he tucked her in they would open a door together and share the treat inside. Last night when Millie was asleep someone from the Ministry had come to the house and taken him to Azkaban. Mummy tried to convince he'd be home in time for Christmas but Millicent could tell she didn't even believe her own words.
With a sad look Millicent opened the second to last door. Behind it another treat; she took a bite chewing slowly. Marshmallow creme, her fathers favorite. She ate half of it, leaving the other half on her nightstand as a lonely reminder of her fathers absense.
The next morning she woke earlier than she normally would. It was Christmas. She eyed the gifts on her bed trying to cheer herself up with prospect of gifts. It wasn't working. Millicent couldn't forget even for a single second that her father wasn't there. Ignoring the presents she angrily strode across the room to her Advent Calendar. She yanked the last door open with tears welling up in her eyes. There was no treat instead a small box and a tiny rolled up note sat in the final hole.
Her hands trembled as she opened the note and began to read through her blurry wet eyes.
Merry Christmas Millicent! I have a bad feeling I won't be there this Christmas, I'm very sorry my little dove. Believe it or not fathers make mistakes as well as children do. And just like when you get in trouble I have to serve a timeout. I hid this gift in the calendar to remind you that we're always together because we're family. I love you Millie, go easy on mum, this is hard on her too. I promise I'll never get in trouble again!
Love,
Dad
Tears were flowing steadily down Millie's face now. She picked the small nox and opened it; inside a locket with a button. When she pushed the button it opened up to reveal three pictures. Her mum, her father, and herself all grinned up at her. Her hands shook as she placed the silver chain around her neck. Now to see about those other presents...