Lily was done at last. She looked at herself in the mirror in her room. Only half an hour left for the big event.
She was smoothing her dress when her mother appeared in her doorway and raised an envelope.
"Who on earth will send you a letter on your wedding day?" she asked with curiosity.
"Is there any name on it?" Lily inquired, turning around to face Mrs. Evans.
"Nothing except your name on the back," her mother answered.
Lily went over and looked at the hand writing.
"Please throw it," she said suddenly.
"Why?"
"It's from Severus," she said with a tone of hatred in her voice.
"Why would I throw it if it's from a friend of yours?"
"He's not my friend," Lily said flatly, walking back to her mirror.
"Okay then," her mother said, giving in. "But before I throw it, I'll read it."
"NO!" Lily exclaimed.
"Why not? If you are not going to read it, at least listen to me dictate what it says."
"Fine! I'll read it," she told her, taking the paper that her mother is handing out to her.
She tore it open and unfolded the parchment, staring at the handwriting of the boy she used to be friends with.
Lily,
I didn't write this letter to ask for forgiveness or stop you from marrying Potter. I just want to congratulate you in advance for your wedding. No sarcasm intended. I'm very glad you find the man who will be able to love and protect you.
Me? Just her, waiting for acceptance of my application for a job at Hogwarts; still haven't seen the girl for me; reminiscing the past, especially good memories.
I wish the pair of you a long-term marriage, countless blessings and a fruit of the love you share.
Tell James Potter I congratulate him for not stopping to pursue you. He really proved himself: a persistent toerag, that one. If he'll leave you, give me a chance to punch him in the face.
Guess that's all I want to say.
Your friend always,
Severus
Lily folded the letter, already wanting to go to James and make him read the letter. She wanted to cry and laugh at the same time.
She lifted the envelope and a small piece of parchment fell out of it. She picked it up and saw a note.
If you want to see me for the last time, just look outside your window.
She rushed towards the window and looked down.
On the pavement stood Severus, wearing the largest smile Lily had ever seen. He gave her a wave and bow then raised his thumbs up.
Congratulations, Lily, he mouthed.
A thought crossed Lily's mind. She signaled Severus to wait for a while. She turned away and walked towards her table. This is not enough, she thought, picking up her quill. I still have to give something to Severus in return.
After a while, even though she didn't want to do it, she crumpled the parchment and peered again outside the window. Severus stood on his spot.
Lily threw it to Severus, who looked at her questioningly and picked up the ball.
He undid what Lily had done and looked at the writings on the paper, and smiled.
He looked up and gave her his smile and mouthed, Thank you.
Lily gave Severus a wave, and he turned his back.
He gently folded her letter and put it in his pocket.
Sev,
Thank you for always being at my side. You're really the greatest friend anyone could ever have. I miss you. I hope to see you again soon.
Lots of love,
Lily
