Title: Lily by The Zazu
Rating: T
Disclaimer: The Harry Potter series belongs to J.K. Rowling. The movie Hum Tum, off which this story is based upon, belongs to Yash Raj Films.
Author's Note: So, I have promised myself that I will finish a multi-chaptered Harry Potter piece sometime in the future. This story is based on the Bollywood film Hum Tum – it's one of my favourites, actually. Just as an additional reminder, this is an AU (Alternate Universe) story, meaning there is no magic. Hmm, I think that's all I have to address! Enjoy!
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Prologue
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"The new release from Marauder's Press, Lily, is novel that presents a fresh look at the battle of the sexes. Lily, the protagonist of the story, finds herself at odds with a man who completely her opposite – immature, irresponsible, and carefree. The amazingly witty book goes to show how love is not always instantaneous, but can develop over the years…"
"Mr. James H. Potter has brought his humour from the comic pages of the Telegraph – which feature the comic Lily – to the pages of the book. Who would have though that comic artist was capable such eloquent words? This highly-lauded novel is another well-deserved notch in Mr. Potter's belt…"
"It's almost time for the press conference with James Potter the media has been waiting for with bated breath. It's the first time since his rapidly selling novel's release last month that he has agreed for such vast media coverage. Now to our correspondent on site, Hazel Perkins…"
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It was almost time for the conference to begin. James Potter, thirty years old, leaned leisurely against the table behind him as he scanned the forming crowd. Mostly reporters and their crews made up the large audience, but there still were many ordinary people jostling among them, vying to see now famed Potter in person. James cracked a rakish, yet nervous smile, as he raked a slender hand through his messy, black hair. It always looked tousled or rumpled and today was not an exception. He sighed slightly.
The man was not used to such a crowd. He hated being put into the spotlight. It was too much pressure. And when under pressure, James was apt to do stupid things. This was his first press conference ever, and he certainly didn't want to botch the situation. In all reality, James had no idea what to do and how to conduct it… He would simply go with the flow. I wonder what she would have done… James let the through trail off mournfully.
Almost moments later, the crowd fell quiet, and the only sound came from the light breeze ruffling the leaves of the trees. James gulped uncomfortably, his hands immediately flying up to his silver-framed glasses by habit. His glasses were a source of comfort, one could say. Once more, James broke into a rakish smile, this time aiming it at the crowd. "Hullo there! Glad you all could make it this fine afternoon. I'm very honoured by your presence. Now, let's just hope it doesn't rain," he commented humorously, sending a wary glance to the mildly cloudy sky.
A smattering of laughter came from the audience. James continued speaking; now feeling a bit reassured. The nervousness had almost dissipated. "Well, this book was a big task for me. After all, how can you write three hundred and twenty-six pages about two characters from a comic? I really don't know. What I do know is that without your encouragement, Lily," James paused pointing to a large comic poster of a slim, redheaded woman, "and Harold – well, Harry – wouldn't have come to life to explore the strange relationship between man and woman!" He then motioned to the poster of a messy-haired man who resembled himself somewhat.
"Thank you all, again, for the success Lily is having. That comes from the bottom of my heart, seriously." Sticking his hands into the pockets of his black sports jacket, James flashed a grin to the audience. "Well, this is my first press conference, so please forgive any mistakes on my part," he disclaimed with an amicable smile. "So, what next? Ahh, yes. Questions. Now, I would like to handle this part like normal, civilised members of society. That means, please raise your hand to be called upon – humour me. Now that we have that minor fact settled, let's get on with it!"
A thin woman in an oversized blue suit raised her hand. James nodded in her direction. The woman, her large pen poised over her notebook, then continued. "Why did you think that writing about the relationship between men and women was a good idea?"
James's expressive hazel eyes lit up at the question, giving a chance for the other reporters to ready themselves for some note-taking. "Well, is there a more enigmatic, confusing topic out there in the world? Men have never understood women, and women always think they understand men," he added with a chuckle. "You see, this is one of those subjects that there's always new material to write about. The man-woman relationship is a bit of a never-ending tale, I think. I hope that answers your question! Any more?"
A fat, chubby man who had raised his hand nodded slowly and quickly spoke. "Yessir. Why did you choose the name Lily for the title of the book? Frankly, I don't see such a manly man like you giving such feminine name to a book."
A loud laugh erupted from his lips. "Good Lord, that has to be one of the best I've heard recently!" James chuckled for a bit more before fully answering the man's question. "Have you read the novel, sir? One reason I titled it Lily was because that was the name of my protagonist. In addition, lilies are such lovely flowers. Most every single bird I've encountered really appreciates a good bouquet," He produced a sheepish smile and winked broadly at the audience. "Now men, that's your cue to run off and purchase some flowers to romance your lady love with. The female species only deserves the best, don't they?" James commented with a wink, much to the delight of all the women present. "Any other questions?"
"Yes, I have one, if you don't mind Mr. Potter," stated a petite, blonde woman with blue eyes. James nodded his approval. The woman continued, not unkindly, "Excluding the obvious jabs at women that have been perpetuated by your character Harry in the novel, I have reason to believe that this story about Lily is based on your own experiences. Am I correct?"
James crossed his arms defensively, wondering how in the world the reporter was so perceptive. There was something strikingly familiar about the woman too… He shook off the feeling. Feeling incredibly nervous and alone, James attempted a weak half-smile before responding. "Yes, you could say this is based upon my past. If love is requited, there is no story to tell at all. Now, if it is unrequited, an interesting story emerges, well at least a somewhat interesting one. She brought so much into my life... I just didn't realize it then," James answered quietly, so quietly that everyone present had to strain to hear him. He once again letting his mournful eyes drift to the cloudy sky before abruptly focusing on the hushed audience with a strange solemnity.
"And I know I'll meet her again... Because life is long; far too long."
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Author's Note: I hope it doesn't seem too melodramatic. Also, the 'Harry' character in James's book, Lily, is not Harry, as in Lily's son. 'Harry' is based off of James's middle name, Harold. (Well, the middle name that I have given him!) Just in case anyone was confused. Other than that, I hope people are interested in this fic! Reviews are just lovely, too.