Chapter 1- Red Hair and Bets

It was Five 5 O'clock late in September and a cool breeze was gently blowing across the majestic sweeping grounds of Hogwarts. James Potter was sitting on the hill his hair getting more tousled by the wind. Overlooking the lake he watched as his two best friends approached him Sirius Black, and Reamus Lupin. With a jolt he redirected his thoughts and took his gaze away from the girl reading by the waterfront her long red hair gently swirling around her face. Looking slightly stupidly at his friends still trying to come back to the present he called to them.

"What took you guys so long? You can't possibly have detention by now and without me can you?"

The two 17 year-olds laughing trudged up the hill.

"Not yet but that's bound to change soon." Sirius said

"We just laid a nice little trap for the new head boy" Lupin said with a smile

"Padfoot and Moony what did you two do to traumatize Snivilous without me? I could use a great laugh too you know."

"Oh you'll see, and you don't have to be in on it to get a great laugh." Sirius said a knowing smile gracing his lips.

With that the two boys sat down. Padfoot's messy black hair tumbling in the wind, and Moony's golden brown hair getting in his face.

"I can't wait to see it; it must be good if you two won't let me in on it." James said breaking the silence

"This is for you mate so be happy that this is our gift to you." Moony said

"So have you noticed the pretty redhead by the lake yet?" Sirius said a teasing look about his face

"Oh shut up you git!" James said rather hotly making an attempt to hit Padfoot, who quickly scurried out of his reach laughing

As two of the boys laughed the other let his gaze fall upon the girl they we just talking about. Maybe he did harbor a liking for her maybe he didn't but he didn't need crap about it from Padfoot. As he watched the girl closed her book, sat for a second longer and then elegantly got up, her long legs unfolding as she stood. She started walking back to the castle.

"I've got to go, I err need to go to the library." James said lamely getting up quickly and heading off to follow the girl.

Left behind the two boys began to talk.

"Two gallons says they go out before the end of the year." Moony said studding his friend as he hurried to catch the girl.

"I'll make that bet Lily hates him, it will never happen." Padfoot said as the two shook hands, got up, and followed the two retreating figures.