Chapter 535: Herbology Class, Returning to Its Owner
Kyle wasn't sure if his words had truly sunk in with Hermione, but at least for now, she seemed to be considering them seriously.
"You did the right thing," Hagrid said gruffly. "Hermione tried to rope me into her cause before, but I refused."
"I didn't think she'd go asking all the House-elves to demand pay, though. She clearly didn't listen."
Kyle glanced at Hagrid, noticing his weary demeanor and the faint but distinct scent of alcohol. "Oh, Hagrid... I couldn't help but notice—"
"Oh, no," Hagrid interrupted, waving his hands. "I didn't drink! I just spilled the Firewhiskey we keep for the Abraxan. Those big beasts need it, not me!"
"I hope so," Kyle said, though his tone carried a note of doubt. "School starts tomorrow, and don't forget—you're still a professor. You need to pull yourself together."
But Kyle's words seemed to have the opposite effect. Hagrid slumped even further, his shoulders drooping as he muttered, "I may not be a professor for much longer... Parents won't stand for it. Same thing happened with Lupin, didn't it?
"All I can hope for now is that Dumbledore lets me stay on as Gamekeeper. I just don't want to be kicked out of Hogwarts altogether."
Kyle shook his head. "It seems you haven't been listening to us either. Just wait one more day. After the Christmas holidays, the Daily Prophet will publish a new edition. Trust me, it'll bring good news."
"I don't want to read it," Hagrid said stubbornly, his voice rising with agitation. "I'm sure it's just more of that woman's slander, accusing me of Merlin-knows-what. I don't need to see those mean words again."
"Trust me, Hagrid," Kyle said earnestly, patting the man's arm. "This time, it'll be different. There's a surprise waiting for you."