Lupin looked at her.
He had needed an excuse to leave the school for a while anyway.
Some matters had piled up at Wolfmane Academy that required his personal attention.
According to Douglas's plan, he needed to wait for Umbridge to come looking for trouble, then take the opportunity to leave.
She was, after all, an official sent by the Ministry of Magic.
Letting her feel she had won a round would give her some sense of accomplishment, so she would not pester them over more important matters.
But he still could not help sighing inwardly.
Douglas's prediction had been accurate down to the last detail.
He had even guessed almost exactly what wording Umbridge would use.
"I don't have that approval document."
Lupin answered truthfully.
The corners of Umbridge's mouth nearly reached her ears.
But she did not immediately launch her attack.
She did something smarter.
She walked over to Lupin and lowered her voice.
Low enough that only the two of them could hear.
"Mr. Lupin, you're an intelligent man."
Umbridge's tone suddenly changed. Though still sugary, it took on a bluntness found only in seasoned politicians.
"I know Professor Holmes cured your werewolf curse."
Lupin's pupils contracted.
"You owe him your life. I understand that kind of loyalty."
Umbridge's gaze sharpened.
"But you really ought to think carefully about whom you're serving now."
She jerked her chin toward the Castle.
"That brute Black has pushed you to the front lines to take the bullets for him. Who knows where he's hiding, leaving all the dirty work and heavy lifting to you."
"If a safety incident occurs, you'll be held responsible, not him."
"A man without formal teaching credentials, leading underage students in high-risk outdoor training."
Every word Umbridge uttered was like another trap laid at Lupin's feet.