Remus’ attention was effectively piqued by that, eyes once again darting to Black with interest. The comparison meant nothing, likely just a friendly encouragement, but besides Mulligan himself, Black was the only one who could realistically speak on the matter.<br/>Seemingly catching himself lingering on it, Remus shrugged, downplaying the way he had perked up.<br/>“Thanks,” he exhaled, eyes to the paper as he fiddled with his pen. There was probably a greater sense of genuine gratitude audible in his voice than he had intended.<br/>Silence filled the air between them, broken by the sound of Remus’ turning his pen, tapping it against the table top.<br/>Eventually, he couldn’t help himself.<br/>“The others are struggling, too?” he asked too sincerely, eyes once again to Black.