“That he has.”
The gym leader briefly allowed a faintly fond smile to agree, agreeing with the sentiments. His friend also had a knack for researching and for teaching others, it had been a surprise when Birch expressed to be a Professor instead of a teacher. Yet, some how it wound up for the better.
“A… are you sure, Professor?”
“Now, when am I ever not sure?” The professor chuckled wryly, presses them into his hand. “I take little stock in hearing gossip when it comes to men like you - but I’ve never failed to hear a positive word about you - despite your rather rocky relationship.” He doesn’t add much further to that statement - Surely Norman knew who he referred to.
“Please. It’s the least I can do, if you had to travel all this way for Birch.”