On the final day of the holiday, just as Hermione stepped off the train, she spotted that familiar figure sitting on a carriage.
Hector was chewing on a lollipop, sitting on the edge of the carriage with his legs dangling in the air. Sitting right behind him was Aberforth. At first, the old man had been deeply reluctant to let Hector return to Hogwarts so early; usually so indulgent of Hector's wishes, Aberforth had stubbornly insisted on a reason this time. After stammering and hesitating for quite a while, Hector finally spilled the reason with utmost reluctance, though he naturally omitted any mention of tracking down Nicolas Flamel. Weighing his options carefully, Hector had ultimately thrown Hermione under the bus.
Even then, Hector could see Aberforth's expression instantly shift from disappointment to delight. Hearing the reason, Aberforth raised not a single objection further and even eagerly volunteered to escort Hector to school himself.
Chapter 34