Ok, here's CHAPTER2. Sorry about the font. I'm not quite sure what's going on. Should be less typos then last time. Sorry about the last chapter. The format was screwy. Well, enjoy!
Chapter 2
Romeo and Juliet
Lisal had always been an early riser. When she first opened her eyes at 7:30 a.m. She turned toward her husband to be. Unlike herself, James never got up earlier then 10:00 if he could help it. Lisal smiled down at him, brushing a jet-black strand of hair from out of his eye. He had fallen asleep with his glasses on again. Laughing quietly to herself, Lisal gently removed them. He turned over murmuring, "lil. . ." She supposed he got S and L mixed up.
She hopped out of bed and began to dress. Today was the day she had to do all her Christmas wrapping. Lisal always bought Christmas present during the late summer months, so she wouldn't have to bother buying now. She loved to wrap them however. Since it was safe to say that James would be asleep for another two and a half hours, it was the perfect time to wrap his. Lisal dressed in her most comfortable jeans and pulled her long blonde hair back with the sliver hair barrette James had given her for their 1year anniversary. She gave the sleeping James one last smile, before heading out to the living room to wrap his presents.
Sirius Black set out early the next morning, around nine. He swiftly made his solitary way through the city of London, whose streets were crowded with late Christmas shoppers. Weaving his way in and out, he soon reached a respectable looking apartment building. Grinning, he walked inside.
When Lily Evans heard the knock on her door, the next morning at nine, she thought for a minute it might be James back again. But no, James always rang the doorbell. Wondering sleepily who her early morning visitor was, Lily trudged through the living room to answer the door.
Cautiously, she opened it. On the threshold stood a tall man with should her length black hair pulled into a ponytail. His deep brown eyes smiled at her as he said in a deep voice,
"Is Ms. Lily Evans at home?"
"Sirius!" she cried as she jumped on him, throwing her arms around his neck and giving him a big kiss on the cheek.
"Hey Lils!" he answered, returning her hug. After a moment or two, she let go and looked up at him with shining eyes.
"C'mon in!" she pulled him inside and gave him another fierce hug. "Oh, I've missed you!"
"I've missed you took, Hook!" he replied, using her old nickname. It had come about when, tired of being called TigerLily, she had asked for a new name. Remus who was reading a book full of muggle fairy tales for muggle studies, turned to the page entitled 'Peter Pan', and showed them the picture of a young Indian girl, named TigerLily, being kidnapped by a pirate named Hook. Lily had immediately christened herself 'Hook'.
Lily laughed and asked if he wanted any coffee. Sirius agreed and she disappeared into the kitchen. Sirius settled himself of the couch and looked around. The living room was medium sized and cozy looking. Pictures adorned every wall and shelf. Pictures of himself, Remus and Peter. Pictures of her family and friends. But - (Sirius frowned) no pictures of James. There were a few candles in silver holders, a small coffee table with about ten books piled on it. Sirius smiled. Lily loved to read. The room was neat and tidy, and besides the pictures of him, Remus, and Peter, held no sign that Lily was a witch.
He heard footsteps coming back his way. It was Lily returning with mugs of steaming coffee. She handed him one and gently cupped hers in her hands as though warming them. She sat down beside him.
"So what's up?" she asked him, taking a sip.
"James," he said setting down his own mug and looking her straight in the eye.
She lowered her eyes back to the dark brown liquid. "What about him?" she asked softly, taking another sip.
"He's getting married,"
"I know."
"I don't think he should."
"How come?"
"I'm not sure if he really loves her."
At these words, Lily took another sip and announced, "you know I think I need some more cream in here." As she started to stand, Sirius touched her arm and said softly, "Lily."
She sat back down sighing. "Alright, you want to know what I think?" she asked. When he nodded, she continued. "I think that if he wants to marry her, good for him. I mean, he's twenty-five years old. He should know what he wants."
"He should, but I'm not sure he does."
"Sirius Black, stop being cryptic. What are you saying?"
"Think about it. In the mean time, why don't you and I go out and do something, huh?"
"I went out and did something last night."
"What, puke when you saw James?"
She shook her head, sighing. "You know me too well. Alright, hang on and let me get dressed."
When she disappeared, Sirius shook his head. He needed to get Lily out more, find someone else for Lisal to fall in love with, sabotage a wedding and get those two together. And he only had two months. Well, no one ever said life was easy.
Suddenly Lily came back out. Even though they were just going out to do who knows what (Sirius still didn't know what to do) Lily had managed to look classy. It was her gift.
Her dark blue jeans showed slim legs, ending in leather boots. The cream turtleneck sweater and leather jacket looked almost new. (Although Sirius recognized the jacket from Hog warts) Her hair was tied back in a loose ponytail with a cream hair tie.
"Here she is, looking lovely as ever," Sirius commented, Liking the small red blush that crept up in her cheeks.
"What can I say?" she murmured. Grabbing her car keys, she waved them at Sirius. "Are you coming?" she asked.
Sirius chuckled. "You think I would get in a car with a twenty-three year old Lily Evans? Thanks, but I'll pass."
"Oh, come on! I'm a good driver, " she said, adding "Honestly!" when she saw Sirius's brown eyes twinkling at her. He laughing again, got up and followed her out the door.
At 10:00 on the dot, James Potter woke up. He groaned and stretched. Blinking he reached for his glassed. Fumbling, he put them on. He could smell burnt toast. Lisal had tried to make breakfast. How...er...nice.
He rolled out of bed and headed straight for the bathroom. After relieving himself, he glanced in the mirror. Only then did he remember the night before. He'd seen Lily Evans again. He's gone to her apartment, tried to talk to her and had gotten kicked out again. He groaned again. Taking off his glasses, he splashed water on his face, trying to wake up. The water felt cold and wonderful. He dried his face and replaced his glasses.
As he enter the kitchen, the sight of Lisal beating the air with a cookie sheet, trying to get rid of the burnt toast smell, greeted him. She stopped when she saw him and hid the sheet behind her back, smiling sheepishly.
"I...err...made breakfast."
He nodded. "I can smell."
She burst out laughing. "You wouldn't think it would be too hard to made toast, would you?"
James shook his head, grinning. She laughed again and gave him a good morning kiss. James returned it and then headed for the refrigerator. While he was rummaging around for the milk, and starting to made coffee, she snuck up behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist and whispering in his ear, "I decorated the house."
James turned to look at her. "You decorated the entire house in two hours?"
She grinned at him. "Well, I didn't cheat, but only a little..." she said pulling her wand out of her pocket. James chuckled. Lisal could made him laugh, but so could Lily...
He shook his head to clear it and went out to inspect. The little house looked wonderfully Christmassy. She had done a magnificent job.
"Dye like it?" she asked hesitantly a few steps behind him.
He turned and took two enormous steps toward her and said, "I love it." Glancing up he murmured, "What do you know? It's mistletoe."
And while she was looking up, James seized his opportunity and kissed her. She giggled and relaxed into the kiss.
Lily and Sirius spent a wonderful day reminiscing, (Remember when you accidentally turned Professor Kettle burn into a frog?"), laughing, meeting old friends, (Remus, I haven't seen you in ages! Look, Peter, I'm still taller then you!"), and generally having a splendid time.
They discussed Lily's non-existent love-life, ("You know, Hook, that's not healthy!"), Sirius's jam-packed one, ("You probably take a new girl home every night!" "That's not true! Ever other night, maybe.") They made plans to spend Christmas together, along with Remus and Peter. (James would probably be too busy with his fiancée, thought Lily bitterly.)
The day was perfect. Lily had not had that good of a time in months. When Sirius left her at her door, she gave him a huge bear hug, and whispered, "Thank you," before slipping inside. Sirius left in the direction of his house with as sly smile on his face.
Christmas passed for both parties, with wonderful gifts, happy singing and toasting, glad game sand laughter. For that one happy day, Lily and James both were too preoccupied by other things to think about each other.
After Christmas, Lily and her fell musicians played at some New Year's Eve parties, Lisal was busy planning her wedding, James was trying not to think about Lily, and Sirius decided they all needed a break. He called Lily about two weeks after Christmas with a proposal.
"Hey Hook, I got two tickets to see Romeo and Juliet at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre down in Stratford-on-Avon. How about it?"
Lily hesitated. She hadn't really been out much since her day with Sirius. But that day had been such fun, so she accepted. Sirius made arrangements to pick her up at eight Saturday night.
That same evening, the telephone rang at James and Lisal's. James answered.
"Hello?"
"Hey, it's me."
"Sirius, what's up?"
"Well, I have a date for Saturday night. We're going down to Stratford to see Romeo and Juliet.
"So?"
"Why don't you and Lisal come along?"
James hesitated. Sirius went on dates all the time and never invited him. There was something going on...
"Please?" Sirius asked into the silence.
"Sirius, you're twenty five, I think you can date without a chaperone."
"C'mon James!"
"I've seen Romeo and Juliet about a thousand times." At that moment, Lisal entered the room, over heard the name of the play, demanded what was going on, and then insisted they go.
When Sirius hung up the telephone, she smiled slyly.
Saturday night, Lisal was getting ready. She loved going down to plays. She loved dressing up. Her wedding dress was incredible... She fastened her diamond bracelet around her wrist, glancing admiringly at herself in the mirror. Her dress was a deep red. It had a fitted bodice and long skirt. Perhaps it was a little too dressy for a play but Lisal didn't care. She slipped on her satin shoes and adjusted her purse, waiting her James.
He appeared out of the closet wearing dark blue shirt to match his eye and black pants. Lisal sighed. James only dressed up when he had to.
Lily looked at herself, scrutinizing. Her dress was the same cream color of her turtleneck sweater and Lily was positive that when they ate, she would get ketchup or mustard of something on it. The dress had the same thick straps as her black dress, but this one was shorter. A little above her knee. Her strappy cream heeled sandals once again boosted her height a few inches. She threw on the leather jack (After all it was only a play.) and examined her reflection again. Her neck needed some kind of necklace... Lily rummaged through her small jewelry box and came up with a small green emerald on a thin gold chair. She wondered fleetingly if she should war it... She wondered if Sirius would know who gave it to her... Throwing caution to the wind, she fastened it around her neck and smiled. Perfect.
When Sirius arrived, she was ready. Even he, who was used to seeing her, was speechless for a moment. He recovered himself and paid her a compliment. "Lily, I do declare you become more ravishing ever time I see you!"
Lily grinned cheekily at him. "You sure look spiffy yourself!" she replied, tweaking his nose.
"Ummm...Lils, we're meeting some friends of min at the play and then we're going to join them for dinner. Sound good to you?" he asked hesitantly, wondering if she saw through his scheme. But no, she was to busy locking up her apartment to pay any attention. She mumbled a vague assent and Sirius grinned.
James grumbled all the way down to Stratford. He knew Sirius was up to something. All he had to figure out now, was what. Lisal was in her element. She was wearing some ridiculous dress that was meant for a fancy party. He had to admit she looked nice though. The way she pulled her hair back was very attractive, like the way Lily wore it for that party... James slapped himself.
Why, why did Lily keep appearing in his mind? He was getting married! He had to stop thinking about her and focus on Lisal. James thought back to what Sirius had said that night.
*"Sirius!" exclaimed James. "I love Lisal!"
"Do you really?"*
As they pulled into the theater parking lot, Sirius glanced over at Lily. He noticed the emerald. Were his eyes playing tricks on him or was that the necklace...
"I like you necklace," he said nonchalantly, retrieving the keys.
Lily let out a small gasp and her hand flew to her throat. "D-D-Do you really? Is it a bit much? Maybe I should take it off..." She reached behind her neck to unfasten it.
"No don't!" Sirius cried and Lily looked sharply at him. "I like it. Leave it on." Slowly, she brought her hands down and stared at him suspiciously.
Sirius nervously offered his arm and led her inside. Once they had been seated, he jumped up again, saying, "I'm going to go and wait for m friend. You stay here."
"No, I think I'll come with you."
No! I mean, no. You stay here and save our seats."
"Alright, but hurry, the play starts in about ten minutes."
"I won't be long," he promised.
As soon as James pulled into the parking lot, he saw Sirius. He was pacing up and down on the little boardwalk in front of the theatre. When James turned the motor off, he looked up. Spotting Lisal emerging from the passenger side, he grinned. James groaned.
"Thank God! I was afraid you wouldn't be coming! James, Lisal, I have someone I want you to meet. A very special friend of mine. In fact unless I'm much mistaken, I think you've already met her." He led them inside and down the isle.
As they neared the front of the auditorium, James could see a woman with dark auburn hair sitting with her back to them. Was it... Could it be... Would Sirius do this?
It turned out he had. "Hook, darling, allow me to introduce James Potter and Lisal Adams? But I think you've already met?"
'Hook' slowly turned around. It was Lily Evans. James wanted to strangle Sirius. He saw her eyes flicker as she stood up. She shook Lisal's hand first, smiling quite warmly, James thought. Slowly she turned to him. James gulped. Then he saw something. It was a small emerald on a thin gold chain. James remembered that day as clear as if it had been yesterday.
Graduation 1977
James Potter walked proudly up to Professor Dumbledore to receive his diploma to certify him as a fully trained wizard. As soon as he grasped it in his hand, he turned to the cheering crowd, and waved energetically. One face stood out in particular, one with red hair and green eyes... James sighed remembering the little box in his pocket.
A while later, when he finally found the opportunity to grab Lily alone, he gave her the box. Inside was the emerald.
"Hook, I know you're only fifteen, and I'm not asking you to marry me-"
"I should hope not!"
"-yet," he finished. "But I want you to remember me. And I'll remember you. And when you graduate, we'll get married and live happily ever after and all that."
"She had looked up at him with soft green eyes that looked...scared? They began to fill with tears. She gave him a soft kiss, whispered, "I love you," and disappeared into the crowd. James never saw her again.
She shook his hand, looked hi, straight into the eye and said, fingering the emerald, "I do remember you."
Was it possible that she remembered that night too? Suddenly, the lights dimmed and soft music began to play. Sirius made his way to the other side of Lily and sat down. Lisal sat down on the end, which left one spot. Right in between Lily and Lisal. James sat down rather stiffly.
The curtains opened, and the play began. James watched it as though in a daze. As soon as Romeo died, he began to wonder. Would he die for Lily? The answer was yes. Would he die for Lisal? James pondered this and then repeated to himself that he loved Lisal. But, then if he loved Lisal, why was he so quick to think that he would die for Lily and so slow to think that he would die for Lisal?
As soon as the play was over, James slipped into the men's room to take an aspirin.
Dinner that evening was quite pleasant, despite the circumstances. Lisal chatted to Lily about the wedding, and Lily answered politely. When asked again to sing for the ceremony and reception, she agreed. James sat in silence and only spike when spoken to. Sirius joined the girls in the matrimonial conversation, coming up with obscene suggestions.
"Lisal, picture this. You take your whole wedding party to Las Vegas. All the bridesmaids could wear short little whit thing with see-through lace..." he drifted off.
"Black, get your mind out of the gutter," Lily said, taking a sip of water.
"Oooooh, that reminds me! Lily, my cousin was supposed to be my maid of honor, but her and her boyfriend suddenly eloped, and no one has the vaguest idea where they are! Can you imagine?"
"Erm...no. I don't suppose I can," Lily said, wondering what on earth this had to do with her.
"So can I ask you a favor?"
"Yes, of course."
"Will you be my maid of honor?" At these words, James, who had been sipping on his wine, choked Sirius had to work hard to keep his mouth shut and Lily, who had been holding her water, dropped it on the burgundy carpet, where it fell with a splash and a soft tinkle.
"You want me to be your maid of honor?! We've only met twice and you hardly know me at all and tank you," she added to a waiter who was kneeling down at her side and picking up the broken glass.
"Of course I do! I know he don't know each other very well, but I like you already. I think we're going to be great chums, you and I. Oh, I think it'll be loads of fun, don't you?"
At this point James broke in, his face very red from coughing.
"Lisal, darling, erm...didn't we agree that Melinda would be the back-up maid of honor?"
"Yes, we did, but I like Lily much better, I know I can trust her, Melinda isn't at all like that. Why? Don't you like Lily?"
" I-" He stopped abruptly and glanced at Lily, who was looking at him with an innocent face. "I like Lily greatly, and of course you're right," he relented at last, thinking that it wouldn't Lily, Lisal would have to trust, it would be him. How on earth was he supposed to keep his mind on the wedding and Lisal if Lily was running around?
Lisal turned to Lily, smiling. "That's what I love about James. He always says I'm right, even when I know he doesn't think so."
"That not my experience with him," Lily muttered quietly.
"What was that?"
"I said, that's not my experience with men," Lily lied, while Sirius snorted.
"So it's all settled then? Excellent. Lily, meet me Friday at 9:00a.m. And we'll have a little shopping spree."
Lily nodded mutely, James groaned inwardly, and Sirius tried to keep his smiles to himself.
When James stumbled home that night, accompanied by Lisal, he was in a daze. Surely Lily Evans was not taking part in is wedding...surely. But maybe things would be better in the morning. They always were, right?
Whoever said that was sorely mistaken. As soon as James woke the next morning, memories of the previous night flooded his brain and he got up to take another aspirin.
Sooooooo..... Another one done. Yes! *Punches the air* So tell me what you think.
Chapter 2
Romeo and Juliet
Lisal had always been an early riser. When she first opened her eyes at 7:30 a.m. She turned toward her husband to be. Unlike herself, James never got up earlier then 10:00 if he could help it. Lisal smiled down at him, brushing a jet-black strand of hair from out of his eye. He had fallen asleep with his glasses on again. Laughing quietly to herself, Lisal gently removed them. He turned over murmuring, "lil. . ." She supposed he got S and L mixed up.
She hopped out of bed and began to dress. Today was the day she had to do all her Christmas wrapping. Lisal always bought Christmas present during the late summer months, so she wouldn't have to bother buying now. She loved to wrap them however. Since it was safe to say that James would be asleep for another two and a half hours, it was the perfect time to wrap his. Lisal dressed in her most comfortable jeans and pulled her long blonde hair back with the sliver hair barrette James had given her for their 1year anniversary. She gave the sleeping James one last smile, before heading out to the living room to wrap his presents.
Sirius Black set out early the next morning, around nine. He swiftly made his solitary way through the city of London, whose streets were crowded with late Christmas shoppers. Weaving his way in and out, he soon reached a respectable looking apartment building. Grinning, he walked inside.
When Lily Evans heard the knock on her door, the next morning at nine, she thought for a minute it might be James back again. But no, James always rang the doorbell. Wondering sleepily who her early morning visitor was, Lily trudged through the living room to answer the door.
Cautiously, she opened it. On the threshold stood a tall man with should her length black hair pulled into a ponytail. His deep brown eyes smiled at her as he said in a deep voice,
"Is Ms. Lily Evans at home?"
"Sirius!" she cried as she jumped on him, throwing her arms around his neck and giving him a big kiss on the cheek.
"Hey Lils!" he answered, returning her hug. After a moment or two, she let go and looked up at him with shining eyes.
"C'mon in!" she pulled him inside and gave him another fierce hug. "Oh, I've missed you!"
"I've missed you took, Hook!" he replied, using her old nickname. It had come about when, tired of being called TigerLily, she had asked for a new name. Remus who was reading a book full of muggle fairy tales for muggle studies, turned to the page entitled 'Peter Pan', and showed them the picture of a young Indian girl, named TigerLily, being kidnapped by a pirate named Hook. Lily had immediately christened herself 'Hook'.
Lily laughed and asked if he wanted any coffee. Sirius agreed and she disappeared into the kitchen. Sirius settled himself of the couch and looked around. The living room was medium sized and cozy looking. Pictures adorned every wall and shelf. Pictures of himself, Remus and Peter. Pictures of her family and friends. But - (Sirius frowned) no pictures of James. There were a few candles in silver holders, a small coffee table with about ten books piled on it. Sirius smiled. Lily loved to read. The room was neat and tidy, and besides the pictures of him, Remus, and Peter, held no sign that Lily was a witch.
He heard footsteps coming back his way. It was Lily returning with mugs of steaming coffee. She handed him one and gently cupped hers in her hands as though warming them. She sat down beside him.
"So what's up?" she asked him, taking a sip.
"James," he said setting down his own mug and looking her straight in the eye.
She lowered her eyes back to the dark brown liquid. "What about him?" she asked softly, taking another sip.
"He's getting married,"
"I know."
"I don't think he should."
"How come?"
"I'm not sure if he really loves her."
At these words, Lily took another sip and announced, "you know I think I need some more cream in here." As she started to stand, Sirius touched her arm and said softly, "Lily."
She sat back down sighing. "Alright, you want to know what I think?" she asked. When he nodded, she continued. "I think that if he wants to marry her, good for him. I mean, he's twenty-five years old. He should know what he wants."
"He should, but I'm not sure he does."
"Sirius Black, stop being cryptic. What are you saying?"
"Think about it. In the mean time, why don't you and I go out and do something, huh?"
"I went out and did something last night."
"What, puke when you saw James?"
She shook her head, sighing. "You know me too well. Alright, hang on and let me get dressed."
When she disappeared, Sirius shook his head. He needed to get Lily out more, find someone else for Lisal to fall in love with, sabotage a wedding and get those two together. And he only had two months. Well, no one ever said life was easy.
Suddenly Lily came back out. Even though they were just going out to do who knows what (Sirius still didn't know what to do) Lily had managed to look classy. It was her gift.
Her dark blue jeans showed slim legs, ending in leather boots. The cream turtleneck sweater and leather jacket looked almost new. (Although Sirius recognized the jacket from Hog warts) Her hair was tied back in a loose ponytail with a cream hair tie.
"Here she is, looking lovely as ever," Sirius commented, Liking the small red blush that crept up in her cheeks.
"What can I say?" she murmured. Grabbing her car keys, she waved them at Sirius. "Are you coming?" she asked.
Sirius chuckled. "You think I would get in a car with a twenty-three year old Lily Evans? Thanks, but I'll pass."
"Oh, come on! I'm a good driver, " she said, adding "Honestly!" when she saw Sirius's brown eyes twinkling at her. He laughing again, got up and followed her out the door.
At 10:00 on the dot, James Potter woke up. He groaned and stretched. Blinking he reached for his glassed. Fumbling, he put them on. He could smell burnt toast. Lisal had tried to make breakfast. How...er...nice.
He rolled out of bed and headed straight for the bathroom. After relieving himself, he glanced in the mirror. Only then did he remember the night before. He'd seen Lily Evans again. He's gone to her apartment, tried to talk to her and had gotten kicked out again. He groaned again. Taking off his glasses, he splashed water on his face, trying to wake up. The water felt cold and wonderful. He dried his face and replaced his glasses.
As he enter the kitchen, the sight of Lisal beating the air with a cookie sheet, trying to get rid of the burnt toast smell, greeted him. She stopped when she saw him and hid the sheet behind her back, smiling sheepishly.
"I...err...made breakfast."
He nodded. "I can smell."
She burst out laughing. "You wouldn't think it would be too hard to made toast, would you?"
James shook his head, grinning. She laughed again and gave him a good morning kiss. James returned it and then headed for the refrigerator. While he was rummaging around for the milk, and starting to made coffee, she snuck up behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist and whispering in his ear, "I decorated the house."
James turned to look at her. "You decorated the entire house in two hours?"
She grinned at him. "Well, I didn't cheat, but only a little..." she said pulling her wand out of her pocket. James chuckled. Lisal could made him laugh, but so could Lily...
He shook his head to clear it and went out to inspect. The little house looked wonderfully Christmassy. She had done a magnificent job.
"Dye like it?" she asked hesitantly a few steps behind him.
He turned and took two enormous steps toward her and said, "I love it." Glancing up he murmured, "What do you know? It's mistletoe."
And while she was looking up, James seized his opportunity and kissed her. She giggled and relaxed into the kiss.
Lily and Sirius spent a wonderful day reminiscing, (Remember when you accidentally turned Professor Kettle burn into a frog?"), laughing, meeting old friends, (Remus, I haven't seen you in ages! Look, Peter, I'm still taller then you!"), and generally having a splendid time.
They discussed Lily's non-existent love-life, ("You know, Hook, that's not healthy!"), Sirius's jam-packed one, ("You probably take a new girl home every night!" "That's not true! Ever other night, maybe.") They made plans to spend Christmas together, along with Remus and Peter. (James would probably be too busy with his fiancée, thought Lily bitterly.)
The day was perfect. Lily had not had that good of a time in months. When Sirius left her at her door, she gave him a huge bear hug, and whispered, "Thank you," before slipping inside. Sirius left in the direction of his house with as sly smile on his face.
Christmas passed for both parties, with wonderful gifts, happy singing and toasting, glad game sand laughter. For that one happy day, Lily and James both were too preoccupied by other things to think about each other.
After Christmas, Lily and her fell musicians played at some New Year's Eve parties, Lisal was busy planning her wedding, James was trying not to think about Lily, and Sirius decided they all needed a break. He called Lily about two weeks after Christmas with a proposal.
"Hey Hook, I got two tickets to see Romeo and Juliet at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre down in Stratford-on-Avon. How about it?"
Lily hesitated. She hadn't really been out much since her day with Sirius. But that day had been such fun, so she accepted. Sirius made arrangements to pick her up at eight Saturday night.
That same evening, the telephone rang at James and Lisal's. James answered.
"Hello?"
"Hey, it's me."
"Sirius, what's up?"
"Well, I have a date for Saturday night. We're going down to Stratford to see Romeo and Juliet.
"So?"
"Why don't you and Lisal come along?"
James hesitated. Sirius went on dates all the time and never invited him. There was something going on...
"Please?" Sirius asked into the silence.
"Sirius, you're twenty five, I think you can date without a chaperone."
"C'mon James!"
"I've seen Romeo and Juliet about a thousand times." At that moment, Lisal entered the room, over heard the name of the play, demanded what was going on, and then insisted they go.
When Sirius hung up the telephone, she smiled slyly.
Saturday night, Lisal was getting ready. She loved going down to plays. She loved dressing up. Her wedding dress was incredible... She fastened her diamond bracelet around her wrist, glancing admiringly at herself in the mirror. Her dress was a deep red. It had a fitted bodice and long skirt. Perhaps it was a little too dressy for a play but Lisal didn't care. She slipped on her satin shoes and adjusted her purse, waiting her James.
He appeared out of the closet wearing dark blue shirt to match his eye and black pants. Lisal sighed. James only dressed up when he had to.
Lily looked at herself, scrutinizing. Her dress was the same cream color of her turtleneck sweater and Lily was positive that when they ate, she would get ketchup or mustard of something on it. The dress had the same thick straps as her black dress, but this one was shorter. A little above her knee. Her strappy cream heeled sandals once again boosted her height a few inches. She threw on the leather jack (After all it was only a play.) and examined her reflection again. Her neck needed some kind of necklace... Lily rummaged through her small jewelry box and came up with a small green emerald on a thin gold chair. She wondered fleetingly if she should war it... She wondered if Sirius would know who gave it to her... Throwing caution to the wind, she fastened it around her neck and smiled. Perfect.
When Sirius arrived, she was ready. Even he, who was used to seeing her, was speechless for a moment. He recovered himself and paid her a compliment. "Lily, I do declare you become more ravishing ever time I see you!"
Lily grinned cheekily at him. "You sure look spiffy yourself!" she replied, tweaking his nose.
"Ummm...Lils, we're meeting some friends of min at the play and then we're going to join them for dinner. Sound good to you?" he asked hesitantly, wondering if she saw through his scheme. But no, she was to busy locking up her apartment to pay any attention. She mumbled a vague assent and Sirius grinned.
James grumbled all the way down to Stratford. He knew Sirius was up to something. All he had to figure out now, was what. Lisal was in her element. She was wearing some ridiculous dress that was meant for a fancy party. He had to admit she looked nice though. The way she pulled her hair back was very attractive, like the way Lily wore it for that party... James slapped himself.
Why, why did Lily keep appearing in his mind? He was getting married! He had to stop thinking about her and focus on Lisal. James thought back to what Sirius had said that night.
*"Sirius!" exclaimed James. "I love Lisal!"
"Do you really?"*
As they pulled into the theater parking lot, Sirius glanced over at Lily. He noticed the emerald. Were his eyes playing tricks on him or was that the necklace...
"I like you necklace," he said nonchalantly, retrieving the keys.
Lily let out a small gasp and her hand flew to her throat. "D-D-Do you really? Is it a bit much? Maybe I should take it off..." She reached behind her neck to unfasten it.
"No don't!" Sirius cried and Lily looked sharply at him. "I like it. Leave it on." Slowly, she brought her hands down and stared at him suspiciously.
Sirius nervously offered his arm and led her inside. Once they had been seated, he jumped up again, saying, "I'm going to go and wait for m friend. You stay here."
"No, I think I'll come with you."
No! I mean, no. You stay here and save our seats."
"Alright, but hurry, the play starts in about ten minutes."
"I won't be long," he promised.
As soon as James pulled into the parking lot, he saw Sirius. He was pacing up and down on the little boardwalk in front of the theatre. When James turned the motor off, he looked up. Spotting Lisal emerging from the passenger side, he grinned. James groaned.
"Thank God! I was afraid you wouldn't be coming! James, Lisal, I have someone I want you to meet. A very special friend of mine. In fact unless I'm much mistaken, I think you've already met her." He led them inside and down the isle.
As they neared the front of the auditorium, James could see a woman with dark auburn hair sitting with her back to them. Was it... Could it be... Would Sirius do this?
It turned out he had. "Hook, darling, allow me to introduce James Potter and Lisal Adams? But I think you've already met?"
'Hook' slowly turned around. It was Lily Evans. James wanted to strangle Sirius. He saw her eyes flicker as she stood up. She shook Lisal's hand first, smiling quite warmly, James thought. Slowly she turned to him. James gulped. Then he saw something. It was a small emerald on a thin gold chain. James remembered that day as clear as if it had been yesterday.
Graduation 1977
James Potter walked proudly up to Professor Dumbledore to receive his diploma to certify him as a fully trained wizard. As soon as he grasped it in his hand, he turned to the cheering crowd, and waved energetically. One face stood out in particular, one with red hair and green eyes... James sighed remembering the little box in his pocket.
A while later, when he finally found the opportunity to grab Lily alone, he gave her the box. Inside was the emerald.
"Hook, I know you're only fifteen, and I'm not asking you to marry me-"
"I should hope not!"
"-yet," he finished. "But I want you to remember me. And I'll remember you. And when you graduate, we'll get married and live happily ever after and all that."
"She had looked up at him with soft green eyes that looked...scared? They began to fill with tears. She gave him a soft kiss, whispered, "I love you," and disappeared into the crowd. James never saw her again.
She shook his hand, looked hi, straight into the eye and said, fingering the emerald, "I do remember you."
Was it possible that she remembered that night too? Suddenly, the lights dimmed and soft music began to play. Sirius made his way to the other side of Lily and sat down. Lisal sat down on the end, which left one spot. Right in between Lily and Lisal. James sat down rather stiffly.
The curtains opened, and the play began. James watched it as though in a daze. As soon as Romeo died, he began to wonder. Would he die for Lily? The answer was yes. Would he die for Lisal? James pondered this and then repeated to himself that he loved Lisal. But, then if he loved Lisal, why was he so quick to think that he would die for Lily and so slow to think that he would die for Lisal?
As soon as the play was over, James slipped into the men's room to take an aspirin.
Dinner that evening was quite pleasant, despite the circumstances. Lisal chatted to Lily about the wedding, and Lily answered politely. When asked again to sing for the ceremony and reception, she agreed. James sat in silence and only spike when spoken to. Sirius joined the girls in the matrimonial conversation, coming up with obscene suggestions.
"Lisal, picture this. You take your whole wedding party to Las Vegas. All the bridesmaids could wear short little whit thing with see-through lace..." he drifted off.
"Black, get your mind out of the gutter," Lily said, taking a sip of water.
"Oooooh, that reminds me! Lily, my cousin was supposed to be my maid of honor, but her and her boyfriend suddenly eloped, and no one has the vaguest idea where they are! Can you imagine?"
"Erm...no. I don't suppose I can," Lily said, wondering what on earth this had to do with her.
"So can I ask you a favor?"
"Yes, of course."
"Will you be my maid of honor?" At these words, James, who had been sipping on his wine, choked Sirius had to work hard to keep his mouth shut and Lily, who had been holding her water, dropped it on the burgundy carpet, where it fell with a splash and a soft tinkle.
"You want me to be your maid of honor?! We've only met twice and you hardly know me at all and tank you," she added to a waiter who was kneeling down at her side and picking up the broken glass.
"Of course I do! I know he don't know each other very well, but I like you already. I think we're going to be great chums, you and I. Oh, I think it'll be loads of fun, don't you?"
At this point James broke in, his face very red from coughing.
"Lisal, darling, erm...didn't we agree that Melinda would be the back-up maid of honor?"
"Yes, we did, but I like Lily much better, I know I can trust her, Melinda isn't at all like that. Why? Don't you like Lily?"
" I-" He stopped abruptly and glanced at Lily, who was looking at him with an innocent face. "I like Lily greatly, and of course you're right," he relented at last, thinking that it wouldn't Lily, Lisal would have to trust, it would be him. How on earth was he supposed to keep his mind on the wedding and Lisal if Lily was running around?
Lisal turned to Lily, smiling. "That's what I love about James. He always says I'm right, even when I know he doesn't think so."
"That not my experience with him," Lily muttered quietly.
"What was that?"
"I said, that's not my experience with men," Lily lied, while Sirius snorted.
"So it's all settled then? Excellent. Lily, meet me Friday at 9:00a.m. And we'll have a little shopping spree."
Lily nodded mutely, James groaned inwardly, and Sirius tried to keep his smiles to himself.
When James stumbled home that night, accompanied by Lisal, he was in a daze. Surely Lily Evans was not taking part in is wedding...surely. But maybe things would be better in the morning. They always were, right?
Whoever said that was sorely mistaken. As soon as James woke the next morning, memories of the previous night flooded his brain and he got up to take another aspirin.
Sooooooo..... Another one done. Yes! *Punches the air* So tell me what you think.
