Chapter 140: The Trio’s First Meeting Is Not Pleasant
After pocketing the money, Kyle lifted the Leg-Locker Curse from Malfoy and untied Crabbe and Goyle, who stumbled back to their places behind Malfoy, trembling. Their faces looked like rippling puddles, clearly rattled, yet staying put out of loyalty to Malfoy.
Malfoy, frowning with some disappointment at his lackeys' poor display, lifted his head and addressed Kyle in a lofty tone. "Once again, I apologize, Kyle. See you at school."
His dignified tone and composed expression suggested well-bred confidence—though it was somewhat undercut by the dust and grime covering his robes. His earlier struggles had inadvertently polished the train compartment floor with his robe, even picking up a piece of Drooble's Best Blowing Gum on the hem.
Kyle, noting the gum with mild amusement, chose to ignore it. For the sake of the 150 Galleons, he overlooked these minor details and responded smoothly, "See you at school, Draco. I can already tell that Slytherin will be welcoming an exceptional new student this year."
Malfoy's face practically glowed with restrained pride, as if he'd been given a large dose of Elixir to Induce Euphoria. Though he'd heard similar words before, praise from Kyle, Hogwarts' youngest recipient of the Special Award for Services to the School, felt far more sincere.
However, Malfoy kept his cool, downplaying his pleasure. "Well, I still have a long way to go," he replied modestly. "You're the truly remarkable one. Few can earn that Special Award in their first year—not even Headmaster Dumbledore did."
"Oh, don't say that. I was just lucky," Kyle replied with a smile, preparing to head back to his compartment.
"Wait..."
Kyle turned back, curious. "Anything else?"