After hearing Harley's words, Professor Lockhart shook his head.
"It seems our Miss Harley doesn't understand her own political standing! But time is short, and I don't want to make Professor Sprout any angrier, so I won't explain it to you in detail.
"If you really want to know, you could consider coming to my office tonight! My office door is always open to any young witch who wants to learn!"
As he said this, Professor Lockhart paused and winked at Harley.
Harley's expression didn't change in the slightest. She still wore a smile.
Professor Lockhart continued, "Anyway, what I mean is, how about we work together?"
"Hm?"
"I mean, work together to get on the front page of the newspaper!" When it came to his own interests, Professor Lockhart was very thorough in his explanations.
"Just look at me—I'm so handsome, and you're so beautiful, Harley. We're both incredibly charming.
"I'm an honorary member of the Defense Against the Dark Arts League and a recipient of the Order of Merlin, Third Class. You, meanwhile, defeated the Dark Lord and have a very high political standing.
"On top of that, I hear you're an excellent student, and I'm a genius too.
"So you see, we have so much in common, and we're such a good match!
"That means we can work together long-term and dominate the headlines!
"All we have to do is drum up a few hot stories. A few years from now, we can stir up some rumors, and then it'll be so easy to..."
Professor Lockhart suddenly couldn't say another word. He realized that he couldn't move.
It felt as if invisible ropes had wrapped around his entire body, pinning him in place.
He could also clearly feel a faint sting at his throat, as though a