James
You are my friend first and foremost. That is why I am trying to help. I want to get that very clear first and foremost. If you haven't noticed, my general mode of friendship is using my trust fund and my family connections to help people because it's what I have to offer. So please understand that comes from there. I would do the same for Cal, Jo, or even your brother.
I know you want to put in the hard work - and I respect that. I am in the same place. I could have gone to a boutique muggle firm in London, worked part time, and made partner by the time I was 30. That isn't who I am. But I don't see any shame in taking help that is offered, especially when that help is a friend offering to expand your network, skills, and palate.
We are friends and I am totally fine with us just being friends. I have discovered when something is meant to happen, people find a way to make it happen. This isn't one of those things. You will always be my favorite Potter.