Written for:
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry: Eastern Fun Fair
Ferris wheel - (action) crying
Always There
xXx
James came upon Lily while she was crying. "Lily? What's wrong?"
"I confronted Severus. I asked him if he started the rumor about me shagging you."
James reached for her, but his hand dropped, unsure of how she would take his offered comfort. "And?" he asked, afraid of her answer even though he knew what it would be.
"He admitted it!" she screamed. "He accused you of being scum, and tried to explain he was just opening my eyes to the truth! That I just needed to see you were no good for me. He didn't even seem to think what he did was wrong! In his eyes, it was all for the greater good!" With her rant done, she began crying again, her shoulders shaking as she rubbed her swollen eyes.
"I'm sorry, Lily."
"No, you're not! You hate him!" she screamed.
James didn't try to deny it. He never made his hatred a secret. "I do hate him, but that doesn't mean I'm not sorry because, despite everything, I know he has been your best friend since you were little kids, and I hate the fact that he's hurt you in such a way."
Lily's tears slowed. "I don't know what to do."
James finally found his bravery and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. "Whatever you decide, I'll back you up."
She rested her head against his shoulder. Her breathing was harsh as hiccups shook her body. "I just…" A hiccup interrupted her speech. "How can I walk away from nine years of friendship? At the same time, how can I forgive him for spreading such nasty lies about me? What do I do?"
"You have to decide if you can forgive me. You have to decide if you can trust him."
Lily turned in James' loose embrace and wrapped her arms around James' torso. He held her close and rubbed her back as her sobs started anew.
He didn't offer her any more words of comfort. He just held her and was there for her. Just like he would always be there for her when he was needed.
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(word count: 354)