Chapter 554: Cooperation
Lupin had been seriously considering the opportunity in Romania. A few months ago, he had sent a letter to the Dragon Reserve, candidly including not only his teaching experience at Hogwarts but also his status as a Werewolf. To his surprise, their response had been neither a rejection nor a demand for a reduced salary—a condition he had grown accustomed to. Instead, they offered him an interview.
The only stipulation was that he needed a recommendation letter from Dumbledore or at least two Hogwarts professors, serving as a testament to his qualifications and character. Lupin understood this request. Compared to the obstacles he had faced in the past, it seemed almost trivial. In fact, it felt like an incredible opportunity. The Dragon Reserve appeared to be one of the few places willing to offer him a fair chance at a normal job.
Yet, his thoughts kept shifting between the prospect of work and concerns about Harry.
Kyle, watching Lupin's inner turmoil play out on his face, finally spoke up. "I have an idea that would let you stay here without worrying about money. Would you like to hear it?"
"You have an idea?" Lupin asked, startled. He knew Kyle was clever—it had been Kyle's ingenuity that helped clear Sirius's name. Perhaps he truly had a solution.
"Well, I could lend you some Galleons," Kyle offered.
Lupin sighed, his initial hope fading. "Lend me Galleons? No, I can't take money from a student."
"But you're not a professor anymore," Kyle pointed out.
"Still, I really can't. It's not just the principle—I wouldn't be able to pay it back," Lupin said, shaking his head with a bitter smile.
"That's not true," Kyle said confidently, gesturing toward the Shrieking Shack. "You already have a solution right in front of you."
"What?" Lupin looked at him, confused.