Igniting the Flame.

"Will you, Lily Evans, go out with me?" He asked.

His face was, for once, incredibly serious. There was a panicking worry in his eyes, like if I said no this time it would surely be his breaking point. His mouth was in a determined straight line, his brow taunt.

But beside all the seriousness and the worry there was the gentleness that always accompanied James' presence. He wouldn't force me but I knew that he wanted this so much he almost needed it. I found I couldn't come to the conclusion this time that I could say no. That I had to say no.

I'd never really considered saying 'Yes' to begin with. It had been a firm 'No Potter' from the start. For a few seconds I let myself imagine what would happen if I said 'Yes' or even 'Maybe' to him. It would make the light re-enter his eyes that I knew for certain.

He had been sad ever since the holidays. He refused to tell me what happened. And until now I had been okay with that. It was his to tell. Not mine to ask. Now I wanted to know what made his hazel eyes constantly wary of everyone's moves. What had made him so glum?

What had made him like me? I wondered with sudden clarity. That must be how other people see me at times. James was almost entirely dedicated to his studies now. I hadn't heard of a single prank or detention from James since the holidays. He was, previous behaviour aside, a model student.

Like me.

Since September I hadn't heard anything from James besides the occasional Heads meeting. He hadn't approached me. He hadn't asked me out. He sat alone. He didn't speak unless spoken to. Sirius was often found watching him. Making sure nothing bad happened.

I wanted to ignite that flame again. To bring James back.

I guess that's what made me say yes this time.

"Okay James. Just this once."

At once his face lit. A spark entering his eyes. I was so happy that I reached forward and held him to me.

He wound his arms around me and whispered thanks in my ear. He kissed my cheek and I let him go.

He wasn't as lit up as he used to be but it was an improvement.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw Sirius standing watching. His eye reproachful.

I beckoned him toward James and I and held his arm. He was wary around James, I noticed. They were no longer as strong in their faith of each other.

I gave him a nudge and he stepped forward and held his hand to James.

"Alright mate?" He asked.

And suddenly, all was well.