A/N: A little plot bunny decided to burrow into my brain. This is kinda like "Stages" except it's a more intimate look into the characters of the Marauder time era. Wee-ha.

Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter. They are J. K. Rowling's creations being used for my entertainment only.

"Now, Lily, I want you to be have yourself."

"Yes, and do well in class."

Her parents looked at her with teary eyes. Lily looked at them both, fearing for her life.

"Th-they've made a mistake, you know. I want to go back home."

"Oh, nonsense, Lily, we always knew you were special." said her mother.

"Mum, you know as well as I do I'm not meant to do this. I'm normal. I want to go home."

"Now, go on, Lil, put on your brave face," said her father gruffly.

"But-"

"Lily, go on. The train's going to leave without you," warned her mother.

Lily shook her head, red curls bouncing around her face.

"I'll be in touch."

The young girl took a shaky breath and boarded the train.

Lily heaved her trunk up the stairs of the train, panting.

"Need a hand?" asked a thin boy of around her age. He had untidy black hair and hazel eyes, framed by round glasses. His smile was wide and addicting, causing the young girl to smile, too.

"Please," she answered.

With his help, Lily was able to secure her luggage and find a compartment with a place for her to sit.

"Well, there you go," said the boy walking to leave.

"Wait! I never thanked you properly, or introduced myself."

The boy looked back.

"Go on, then," he chuckled.

Lily grinned shyly at him.

"Thank you," she said extending a hand.

"You're quite welcome...?"

"Lily. Lily Evans."

"James Potter. Pleasure to meet you, by the way."

Her grin broadened.

"The pleasure's all mine."

"You're a first year, too," noted James.

"Yeah. Looks like we'll be in the same classes."

He smiled.

"Then I won't hate school as much as I thought I would."

A/N: Well, what do you think? Good? Bad? Review to tell me!!!