Chapter 683: The Mutual Harm Between Kyle and Dumbledore
Dumbledore was clearly enjoying himself, his eyes twinkling with delight as he observed Kyle's helpless expression. He looked so pleased that he seemed on the verge of laughing out loud.
The petty side of the Hogwarts headmaster had not forgotten the relentless avalanche of owls and teasing letters he had received in the past, poking fun at the idea of him becoming Minister of Magic. Those memories had left him contemplating how to make Kyle feel the same frustration, especially since it was clear Kyle wasn't fond of the tedious bureaucracy of the Ministry.
However, the unexpected announcement by Fudge in the Daily Prophet—publicly admitting that You-Know-Who had returned—had been a pleasant surprise for Dumbledore. He was acutely aware that this was Kyle's doing; Fudge would never have made such an admission unless Voldemort had marched into his office and handed over his wand.
Because of that, Dumbledore had already abandoned any notion of getting even with Kyle. But then, Fudge had delivered an unexpected twist that very afternoon.
When the Ministry of Magic sent an exceptional employment form for Kyle, Dumbledore had signed it almost instinctively. The offer was too extraordinary to decline: a sixth-year Hogwarts student being appointed as Senior Assistant to the Minister for Magic, complete with a full salary.
As he had told Chris, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Refusing such an offer would have been irrational.
Kyle's opinion, of course, wasn't factored into the decision.
Dumbledore glanced again at Kyle, who stood silently before him. The satisfaction of the moment tempted him to indulge in a slice of egg and custard pie.
But as Kyle prepared to leave, Dumbledore called out to him.
"Yes, Professor?" Kyle responded flatly. "I still need to write a report."
"Already back to work?" Dumbledore asked, his tone light. "What is it about? Perhaps I can assist you."