Professor Dumbledore did not involve Hector in the matter concerning Rita. According to him, secrets of the magical world were not quite suitable for a young wizard of Hector's age to understand. Dumbledore also believed that the confrontation with Mr. Malfoy had already given Hector enough to think about; what Hector needed now was to return to the Hog's Head for a good rest, and if he had any spare energy, he could spend some time with Aberforth, since after the term started, Hector would not have nearly as many opportunities to see the old man.
It had to be said that this was a very far-fetched excuse. If Hector was allowed to participate in the business regarding Mr. Malfoy, could Rita's affairs possibly be any shadier than that? Hector found it hard to comment, but Dumbledore's attitude was extremely firm. Coupled with the fact that Dumbledore had almost let something slip just moments before, Hector easily accepted Grandpa Albus's arrangement.
Hector walked toward the door. As he passed the counter, Madam Rosmerta actually wore a puzzled expression.
Chapter 102