Author's note:
Hello! Now for my apology:
My laptop decided it wanted to be an ass, so I needed to get it fixed. (It is now fixed, thank goodness)
I'm sorry it took over 2 months. I had no intention of waiting that long. D:
I'm sorry this took so long! I love you all who are still waiting and reading this.
Wah! All right, enough complaining from me.
ALSO! This is a big one, mature content this chapter. Just a heads up!
P.S. - This is the last chapter. (Don't worry there'll be a epilogue)
Disclaimer: The wonderful JKR owns all things Harry Potter.
Chapter eight:
Bitter Sweet
This was Lily's last summer being a Hogwarts student. It was a bitter sweet feeling. She was sad that she had one more year, but kind of happy it was all almost over. She'd be on her own soon. On her own.
Lily got quite a bit of news over the summer. One, Petunia and Vernon announced their engagement. Needless to say, no one was surprised. Two, James and Sirius were heading to France for the summer. Lily was quite dismayed by this bit of news. She wanted to see James and Sirius over the holiday. Especially James. She wanted to tell him that she was ready. Three, she found out Snape was missing. She saw posters with his face on it. It worried her, but she then remembered everything that happened between them.
Petunia and Vernon's engagement wasn't a shocker to anyone in the family. It was just a matter of when for them. Neither Lily nor her father liked Vernon. The two of them would always have a laugh at his expense when he and Petunia came over for dinner. Lily's mum tolerated Vernon mainly because he made Petunia happy. She would always give Lily and her husband stern looks whenever they would poke fun at Vernon. Lily couldn't stand Vernon. It was okay because he didn't much care for Lily either. Lily was at least happy that Petunia was happy even if she didn't much care about Lily anymore.
"So, Petunia, Vernon, have you picked a date yet?" Elaine asked one night over dinner.
"We were thinking either August of September," Petunia answered.
"That s not very far away," her mother said thinking.
"If it's in September, I'll be back in school," Lily blurted out.
Petunia glared at Lily. Lily averted her eyes and looked down at her plate.
"That s true. Plus, in August it'd still be rather warm," Elaine said shrugging.
Petunia continued to stare at Lily and answered her mother.
"We'll think about it," Petunia said stiffly.
They all returned to eating. Lily felt the tension and awkwardness in the small room. She ate as quickly as she could so she could get out of there.
She ran up to her room and leapt on her bed. She lay on her back and stared at her purple ceiling. As she laid there and thought, she heard a tap at her window. She slowly sat up and saw a familiar eagle owl tapping its beak on her window. Lily smiled to herself and quickly walked over to the window. She opened it and the gorgeous bird flew in and landed on the end of her bed. She grabbed an owl treat and offered it to the bird. It took it as it gave her his leg. She took the letter and quickly opened it.
~Lils
I know it has been only a week and I miss you already. I have bad news, Sirius (who says hello and misses you as well) and I are heading to France with my family for the summer. I don't want to go because I rather lounge about with you and the Marauders. We haven't seen the family in years (my mum's side). I was half tempted to apparated over to your house, just so I could see you. Well, owl me back. I want to at least hear from you.
-James
Lily smiled and quickly grabbed parchment and a quill.
James-
I miss you as well! I d love to see you before you left. So, apparating here isn't such a bad idea. Hopefully I'll hear from you or see you soon.
~Lily
She tied the note to Henri, James owl, and he took off. Lily lay back down on her bed and re-read the letter. She couldn't help but smile as she read it over and over. It wasn't long until she got a reply back from James.
~Lil
I'll see you at midnight.
-James
Lily couldn't help it. She jumped for joy. She'd get to see James before he left for France.
Lily paced around her room as she saw the clock creeping ever closer to midnight. He'd be there soon. What she going to do? Hug him? Kiss him?
She heard a popping sound and saw James Potter standing there. She was glad she had used a silencing charm earlier. She quickly ran over to him practically leaping on him. James wrapped his arms around her. She pushed him gently back. They smiled at each other broadly.
"I'm so glad to see you," James said grinning from ear to ear.
"Me too," Lily said kissing him.
James was taken aback a bit and then launched full force into the kiss.
They both snogged the other into mush. When they pulled back, they were both out of breath and flushed.
"Merlin, Lil," James said panting.
"That was brilliant," Lily said smiling.
"You know blind apparition isn't as bad as the professors made it out to be. I just kept thinking about your bedroom and you. Sure, I know where you live, but I've never been in your bedroom."
"Obviously," Lily said sarcastically.
They both went to sit on her bed.
"Does Sirius know you left?" Lily asked lightly.
"Yeah, he didn't care. He was pretty happy that you wanted to see me," James said smirking at her.
"Oh, Sirius," Lily said smirking back at him.
"You have no idea how much I'm going to miss you while I m gone," James said sounding serious.
"I'll miss you as well. It just sucks that you and Sirius won't be here for my sister's wedding," Lily said looking down at the quilt on her bed.
"Why's that?" James asked cocking his head to the side.
"Well, she and my soon-to-be-brother-in-law don't quite like me. Petunia dislikes me for one reason and Vernon, because I'm strange. I rather not endure that alone," Lily said with a weak smile.
"Why does your sister dislike you?" James asked scooting closer to her.
Lily sucked a large breath in.
"Well, because I m a witch. She calls me a freak and it's been this way since I was eleven."
James hugged her to him.
"I'm sorry, Lil. I had no idea."
"No one really does except Tegan and Jen. I don't talk about it much," she said with a shrug.
"I'm still sorry. I couldn't imagine that if I had a sibling."
Lily simply nodded and nestled into him. They were quiet for awhile until Lily broke it.
"So why are you going to France?"
"Oh, visiting the family. I love my mum's side of the family. I m excited because I don t get to see them very often, but I'm upset that I won't be able to stay in England for the summer. I don t want to leave you," he said tenderly.
"I don't want you to leave me either, but I want you to spend time with your family. Especially since you don't get to see your mum's side of the family very often," Lily said biting her lip.
"I'm sure time will go quickly and you'll be too busy to miss me," James said with an over exaggerated sigh.
"Bollocks! You're going to be too busy to miss me," Lily said with a fake pout.
"That's the most ridiculous lie you've ever told Lily Evans," James said with a chuckle.
"So you won't be too busy to miss me?" Lily asked with wide eyes.
"I'm never too busy to miss you," he said kissing her gently.
Lily deepened the kiss and before they knew it, they were having a snogfest. After awhile, they pulled apart so that they could breathe. The two teenagers looked at each other and smiled broadly.
James looked at Lily s clock and gasped.
"Shit! It s almost 2 am. I should go," he said sorrowfully.
"Right," Lily said biting her lip again.
"I'm sorry, Lil."
"I know," she said with a small smile.
James kissed her one last time and apparated. Lily lay back down on her bed and sighed. James Potter brought out the very best and worst in her.
The next morning, Lily drug herself out of bed. She looked at her clock and saw it to be only 9:16 am. She groaned and slowly walked downstairs. As she walked towards the kitchen, she heard her mum and sister arguing.
"I don't want her in my wedding! She'd muck it all up!" Petunia practically screeched.
"Petunia, she's your baby sister; you're only sister at that! Why wouldn't she be in your wedding?" Elaine asked as her temper rose.
"Because she's a freak!" Petunia bellowed as if her mother hadn't heard her the first time.
"Petunia, your sister is not a freak. Stop calling her that!"
"She's a freak! But you and dad don't see that. She's your perfect gifted, freak of a daughter!" Petunia spat.
Lily heard Petunia storm off and slam the front door behind her. Lily instantly started nibbling on her lip.
It was no secret that she and Petunia don't get along. Nevertheless, it still hurt hearing Petunia saying she didn't want Lily in her wedding. It still hurt hearing her call her names even though she's not eleven anymore.
Lily loved Petunia regardless of what she thought or said about her. She knew their relationship would never be the same again. She knew Petunia would always be her older sister in a sense, but not the way Lily wanted her to be. It was heartbreaking. No matter how much time has passed, the rift between them only grows larger. It seems no matter how much Lily tries to salvage their relationship, Petunia resists. So Lily gave up. She couldn't take this constant cycle of trying, resisting and fighting. Lily keeps the Old Petunia in her memories as Petunia keeps the Old Lily in her memories.
When Lily got out of her thoughts and entered the kitchen, her mother wasn't present. How long was I thinking? She shrugged and thought it was probably a good thing her mother wasn't there. Lily quickly poured herself a bowl of cereal and ate in silence as her thoughts whirled around in her head.
Elaine entered the kitchen and discovered Lily picking at her breakfast.
"Hello, Lily dear," she said brightly.
"Morning mum," Lily said flatly.
"What's wrong?" Elaine asked as her brow puckered.
"Nothing," Lily said with a small smile.
Elaine put her hands on her hips.
"Lily Elizabeth Evans, I know when something's wrong. Now talk to me."
Lily bit her lip and nodded.
"Well, I overheard your conversation with Petunia," Lily said slowly.
"Oh. Don't mind her, darling. The stress from planning the wedding is getting to her," Elaine said rubbing Lily's back.
"Mum, you don't have to cover up for her. She hates me and I've come to terms with it," Lily said looking at her soggy breakfast.
"Lily, don't say that! Your sister loves you," her mum said softly.
"I want to believe that. I really do, but the evidence is there. She's hated me since I was 11!"
"No, dear. She doesn't hate you. You know how it was when you got your letter from Hogwarts. Deep down you know she loves you."
Lily nodded and continued to pick at her food.
"I love you, Lils."
"I love you, too, mum."
They sat there for a few minutes in silence until Elaine broke it.
"Are you bringing anyone to the wedding?" Elaine asked with a wink.
Lily smiled at her.
"I was going to, but they'll be out of the country."
"Are you talking about that bloke with the black, unruly hair and the spectacles that was here during New Years?" Elaine asked with a cheeky smile.
Lily blushed to the roots of her auburn hair.
"Ah ha! I see. Tell me about him."
Lily blushed again.
"Well, I'm waiting," her mum said with a smile.
"His names is James Potter. He's in the same year and House as me. He's a Pure Blood, but he's not into the whole Pure Blood Mania. He's liked me for years, but I couldn't stand him. Now, that's changed," Lily said quietly.
"Are you dating him?" Elaine asked with wide eyes.
"No, not yet. I haven't told him about how I really feel yet."
"What are you waiting on? He's a good-looking bloke!"
"Mum!" Lily said covering her face.
"What? He is," Elaine said with a shrug and a smile.
"I can't believe my own mum thinks James Potter is good-looking."
"Why is that a bad thing?"
"You're just like all of the girls at Hogwarts!"
"Well, I'm sorry. There's no denying the truth, Lily," Elaine said laughing.
Lily scowled at her mother as she left the room.
"Aw, how sweet. Lily has a crush. Is he a freak as well?" Petunia asked coming into the kitchen.
"Don't worry about it, Petunia," Lily said not looking at her.
"Oh, I'm just curious," she said sitting down.
"Why?" Lily asked narrowing her eyes at her.
"Someone has caught the elusive Lily Evans' eye," Petunia said with a sneer.
"Bugger off," Lily said standing up.
"Oh, Lily I'm only curious," Petunia said smiling at Lily.
Lily stared at her sister. She didn't know if her smile was genuine or not. She wasn't going to fall into Petunia's trap.
"So tell me about him," Petunia prodded.
"Again, why do you care?" Lily asked crossing her arms over her chest.
"You're my baby sister. I want to know what kind of man is in your life," Petunia said sounding actually genuine.
Lily was taken aback. Why was Petunia being so nice to her now? What was the motive behind this?
"Well, I'm waiting," Petunia said tapping her foot.
"Fine. His name is James and he goes to school with me," Lily paused looking at Petunia's face for her reaction. There wasn't one, so Lily went on, "we're in the same year and house."
"That's all? What made him so special that he caught your eye?" Petunia asked leaning forward.
Lily blushed.
"I don't know. One year I hated the bloke, the next it felt like I fell for him. It's the strangest thing," Lily said relaxing.
"I don't believe you hated him like you say you did. Why would you just randomly fall for him if that were the case? Sure, he may have matured or whatever, but I think deep down you always liked him. You were just too stubborn to admit it," Petunia said with a small laugh.
"I doubt it, Tuney. If you saw this guy, you'd think the same thing. He was an insufferable toe rag that would follow me around whilst getting himself and his mates into trouble. It was maddening."
Petunia smiled at the term of endearment Lily used. "Well, Lils, you can't help but feel flattered that the guy was determined. It's quite cute. Now, is he cute?"
"Petunia! You're engaged!" Lily said laughing.
"So? I'm simply asking for your sake."
Lily smiled at her sister. "He's really good looking. He's at least six feet tall, lean but a bit muscular because he plays a sport, unruly black hair, dazzling hazel eyes and glasses," Lily sighed to herself.
"He sounds perfect, for you," Petunia said smiling at her sister.
"Thanks, Tuney," Lily said quietly.
"Well, I should, er, probably go," Petunia said standing up.
"Oh, ok," Lily said watching her go.
Planning for the wedding was quickly consuming the better part of Lily's summer. Her days consisted of waking up early, helping Petunia and her mother with whatever they needed to do that day, writing her best friends about the horrors she has to live through and thinking about James (and Sirius). She was wondering what they were doing and if they were having fun. She missed them. She felt she would be more relaxed if they were in the country. Lily sighed to herself.
Today was going to be another busy day. She was to go with Petunia and her mother to pick out their dresses. Joy. She was glad that the planning was almost over and it was almost time to actually have the damn wedding. She and her father were secretly counting down the days until all of this craziness was over.
"Lily, are you ready?" Her mother called from downstairs.
Lily quickly walked downstairs. She knew that if she were to drag her feet, Petunia would make her life a living hell. So, Lily quickly walked into the living room and stood in front of her mother.
"Good, now we can leave."
Lily nodded and followed her mother outside and into the car.
The car ride was uneventful. Lily simply blocked out all of Petunia's ranting and raving. It was bad enough she had to be stuck in a dress shop with her until who knows when.
Elaine parked the car and the three of them scrambled out of the car. As soon as they got into the shop, the woman working there instantly swooped down on them.
"Hello, girls! What can I help you with?" She asked cheerfully, too cheerful for Lily's liking.
"Hello, well my daughters are here to be fitted and to pick out their dresses," Elaine said cheerfully back.
Lily rolled her green eyes at her mother's cheerfulness. How could she be so cheerful so early in the morning whilst planning this ridiculous wedding? One of the many mysteries of the world.
"So, who is the bride?" The woman, Liz, asked.
"I am," Petunia said with an air of superiority.
Liz nodded and looked at Lily. "You must be the Maid of Honor."
Lily nodded her head.
"All right, follow me girls," Liz said walking farther into the shop.
Once they reached their destination, she quickly turned to them and smiled.
"So, Petunia, what type of dress are you looking for?"
As Petunia began her tirade of what she wanted and didn't want her dress to be like, Lily quickly turned her out and walked to a rack of dresses. Lily was in her own world thinking about her own wedding. My wedding? Lily quickly mentally shook herself. One, she and James weren't even officially together. Two, who knew if she and James would last. She knew what James was like, but did James really know what she was like? Sure he stalked her for the past 6 years, but did he really know her like he thought he did? Lily started to panic. What if she wasn't what he wanted after all these years? She had finally fallen for the boy and now she was unsure if she would live up to his standards.
"Lily? Lily!" She heard her name being called. She quickly turned around and saw her mother standing there.
"Sorry, mum. What did you say?"
"I was just wondering where you roamed off to."
"I was just looking at dresses."
"Are you feeling ok, Lily? You're looking rather pale," Elaine said walking closer to her youngest daughter.
"I'm fine, mum," Lily said with what she hoped was a reassuring smile.
"All right. Just making sure, dear. Now come, I think your sister has found her dress."
Lily took her mum's hand and they walked back to where Petunia waited.
Lily was shocked when she saw her older sister. The dress she wore was perfect. It had short lace sleeves that were loose around her skinny arms. The bodice was formfitting, but conservative. The bottom flared out about her waist. All-in-all, Lily thought she looked beautiful.
"Tuney, you look…gorgeous," Lily breathed.
Petunia stopped admiring herself in the mirror and turned to her sister.
"Thank you, Lily," she said quietly.
Lily simply nodded.
Lily looked over at her mother and saw that she had unshed tears in her eyes. Lily put an arm around her and smiled. Elaine returned the smile and looked at Petunia again.
"Lily, did you find a dress?" Elaine asked her youngest daughter.
"No, I should probably go do that," Lily said walking towards the rack she was at before.
After searching for what seemed like forever, Lily found it. She quickly ran into the area where Petunia tried on her dress. Petunia was now dressed in her normal clothes and she and their mother were sitting talking quietly.
"I found it! What do you think?" Lily asked holding up the dress.
The dress was a soft yellow color that came to Lily's knees. It had thick straps on either side with off-white lace in between the straps to form a collar. It was simple, but elegant.
"I like it a lot. Maybe there's still hope for you," Petunia said with a small smile.
Lily rolled her eyes and smiled back at her sister.
Elaine burst into a fresh wave of tears.
"Mum, what's wrong?" Lily asked.
"I'm just so happy. Petunia's getting married and she looks so gorgeous in her dress. And you're her Maid of Honor and you're going to look beautiful as well. My girls are growing up," Elaine said in between sniffs.
"Oh, mum. We'll always be your little girls," Lily said walking over to their mother.
"I know, but it's still so hard to take."
"It'll be all right, mum," Petunia said.
Elaine looked at them both and smiled while wiping her eyes.
"Lily, go try on your dress," Petunia said.
Lily nodded and walked over to the dressing room.
Moments later, Lily came out slowly. Petunia and Elaine sat up and stared at her. Lily feeling self conscious blushed.
"Lily, you look amazing!" Elaine said clapping her hands.
"That dress does look great on you," Petunia agreed.
"Thanks," Lily mumbled.
Lily turned and looked at herself in the mirror and was taken aback by what she saw. The dress did look nice on her. It hugged her slim figure and flared out at her waste.
"All right! We got everything we need. Let's go pay for these and go home," Elaine said smiling.
Lily quickly changed out of her dress and headed to the cashier with her mother and sister.
Two weeks passed uneventfully. The wedding was in one days and everything seemed to be running smoothly besides the occasional bitch fit Petunia threw. Lily invited Tegan and Jenna to the wedding so she wouldn't have to suffer through the event alone.
Even though Lily was dreading this wedding, she was happy for her sister. Petunia was happy even if she was marrying a complete idiot, but if Petunia was happy so was Lily. Things seemed to be ok between them since the day at the dress shop. Lily was a bit wary of this change, but she welcomed it at the same time.
The wedding was to be held at the large Catholic Church outside town. Lily wasn't really religious, but she had to admit the church was beautiful. This decision was made by Vernon and his family. Petunia quickly obliged.
Lily was extremely grateful that Jenna and Tegan got to stay over the day before the wedding. She needed people, that weren't her family, to keep her sane. Plus, she wanted to know what's been happening in the magical world.
"Lily, your friends have arrived!" Her father called from downstairs.
Lily launched herself down the steps. She was quickly covered in hugs.
"I missed you guys!" Lily said smiling at her two friends.
"Oh, we missed you as well. We have so much to tell you!" Jenna squealed.
"Well, dinner is almost ready girls," Elaine said coming out from the kitchen.
"Hello, Mrs. Evans!" Tegan and Jenna said in unison.
"Hello girls," she said smiling at them before disappearing into the kitchen.
"Come on. Let's put your stuff upstairs," Lily said.
They followed Lily up to her room and sat on her bed.
"So, what's been going on?" Lily asked.
"Well, Jenna has a boyfriend," Tegan said smirking at her.
"What! Who? Details!" Lily exclaimed.
"If you MUST know, I'm now dating Robert Burns," Jenna said turning red.
"The boy you snogged last summer?" Lily asked with a smile on her face.
"Yes. He's more than a great snogger," Jenna said with a shrug.
"Aw, our little Jenna is growing up," Tegan said with a laugh.
Lily joined in.
"So, what's been going on with you Miss Lily?" Jenna asked.
"Honestly, nothing. I've just been immersed in this wedding," Lily said with a shrug.
"You haven't heard from James?" Tegan asked.
"No, not since I saw him the night before he left."
"Sirius hasn't owled you either?" Jenna asked.
"No. I'm sure they're both too busy to write. I'll be happy to see them once school starts."
"So when are you and dearest James going to officially go out?" Jenna asked eagerly.
"I don't know," Lily said with a laugh as she blushed.
"Dinner's ready, girls!" Elaine called from downstairs.
"You're lucky your mum called for us or we'd be asking a lot more questions," Tegan said with a smirk.
Lily rolled her eyes and headed downstairs with her best mates.
"Lily, wake up," her mother called.
Lily opened a green eye and saw her mother's blurry form standing over her.
"What time is it?" Lily asked rubbing her eyes.
"It's almost 8 a.m."
Lily instantly lay back down.
"Lily, you must get up! You have to get ready!" Elaine said ripping the covers off of her daughter.
Lily sighed and sat up. Lily wasn't a morning person. With Petunia getting married so early, Lily wasn't particularly happy.
"Good, now that you're up, you can go shower. I'll have breakfast ready."
"What about Tegan and Jenna?" Lily whined.
"You can wake them up after you're done showering."
"That isn't fair."
"Life isn't fair, Lily. You're also your sister's Maid of Honor, so therefore you have a lot more to worry about. Now, into the shower you go," Elaine said with a smile.
Lily glared at her mother and headed across the hallway to the bathroom.
When Lily was done showering, she discovered both of her mates were up already.
"Good morning!" Jenna said cheerfully.
Lily grunted.
"Oh, Lils, stop being such a grouch. Your sister is getting married today and from what you told me your dress is smashing," Jenna said with a smile.
"What are you two doing up already?" Lily asked sitting on her bed.
"We're always up early. It's you that we have to wake up usually," Tegan said smirking at her.
"Well, you're bloody both nutters to want to be up this early in the day."
"After almost 7 years, you tend to get used to it," Tegan said.
"I never have and never will," Lily said drying her hair with her wand.
"Obviously," Jenna said quietly.
"What was that, Jen?" Lily asked.
"Nothing," Jenna said with a laugh.
After Jenna and Tegan got ready, the three girls headed downstairs for breakfast.
It was a cornucopia of sorts when they saw the kitchen. Elaine had outdone herself. There were pancakes, waffles, muffins, eggs and several breakfast meats.
"Wow, mum. You have clearly outdone yourself. Also, you must have been up since dawn to cook all of this," Lily said sitting down.
"Yes, Mrs. Evans you are amazing," Tegan said sitting next to Lily.
"Mrs. Evans this all looks delicious," Jenna said sitting opposite of the two girls.
"Thanks, girls. I couldn't sleep! I was just so excited," Elaine said sitting down at the table as well.
"Good morning, girls," Geoffrey said walking into the kitchen.
"Morning, dad!"
"Morning, Mr. Evans!"
"Good morning, dear!"
"And where is Petunia?" Geoffrey asked sitting down at the head of the table.
"I tried to get her to come down, but she's making sure everything's perfect," Elaine said.
Geoffrey rolled his green eyes. "Sounds like Petunia."
"Speaking of the devil," Lily muttered.
Petunia walked into the kitchen looking stressed and panicked.
"Is everything okay, Petunia?" Elaine asked.
"Yes. Everything is fine on my end. I just have to make sure everything is fine on Vernon's end. But I won't know that until I'm at the church," Petunia said sitting down and placing a hand over her face.
"It'll be ok, Tuney. I'm sure everything will be fine," Lily said between mouthfuls of eggs.
"I hope so," Petunia whined.
"Don't worry, sweetie. Like Lils said, I'm sure it'll be all right," Geoffrey said with a smile.
Petunia nodded and grabbed some fruit.
"Aren't you going to eat more than that, dear?" Elaine asked.
"I'm too stressed to eat, mum."
Elaine simply nodded and continued to eat her food.
After everyone was done eating, Lily, Tegan and Jenna ran upstairs to get ready.
Lily quickly put her dress on. She curled her hair and put it in an elegant up do with help from Jenna. Lily did her makeup. She put a bit of eyeliner on her top lids, cover up and lip gloss. Petunia wanted her bride's maids to be simple, but elegant. Lily quickly put on her off-white pumps on and was done.
After Tegan and Jenna were done getting ready, they headed downstairs to wait on Petunia.
"Lily, you look absolutely gorgeous," her father said as she came into the den.
"Thanks, daddy. You look handsome."
"Thanks Flower."
Moments later, Petunia came down the steps quickly. Petunia's blond hair was down in loose curls that hung a little past her shoulders. Her makeup was flawless. She had eyeliner on her top and bottom lids, a light dusting of cover up, light red lipstick and crème eye shadow.
She was dressed in her everyday clothes because she was going to change at the church. Petunia stopped at the bottom of the steps and looked at her staring family.
"What? Is there something wrong?" Petunia asked gingerly touching her hair.
"No, not at all, Petunia. You look beautiful," Geoffrey said quietly.
Petunia smiled for a moment. "Thanks dad."
"Shall we?" Elaine asked opening the door.
Everyone filed out of the house in a hurry. The church was only fifteen minutes away, but Petunia wanted to make sure that the church was up to her standards.
Since there were too many people to fit into one car, Elaine drove her car with Lily and her mates. Geoffrey and Petunia rode together so Petunia could put her dress and everything else she needed in the backseat.
They finally arrived at the church. Lily quickly got out and helped grab a few of Petunia's things. Jenna and Tegan followed her lead and helped her carry Petunia's things in. As they entered the church, Lily, Tegan and Jenna turned left and entered the first room in the hallway.
Lily and the girls hung up and placed everything in the room and sat down. It was barely 9 and Lily already felt exhausted. This wedding was going to be the death of her.
Petunia walked in moments later and looked around the room. She nodded her approval and sat down in front of the vanity.
"How does the church look?" Lily asked her sister.
"It's perfect. I knew Vernon would pull through," Petunia said looking at herself in the mirror.
"I'm glad to hear it," Lily said smiling at her reflection.
"Lily, can I talk to you? Alone?" Petunia asked looking at Lily's friends.
"Sure. Um, Tegan, Jen you can go find seats. I'll come find you in a few minutes."
They both nodded and headed out of the door. As the door closed with a small click, Petunia turned to Lily.
"So, what do you want to talk about?" Lily asked looking around the room.
"Well, after this we probably won't see each other a lot. I'll be moving away, you're going back to school soon and let's face it…we're both completely different now," Petunia said matter-of-factly.
"Oh. Erm, yeah. I suppose," Lily said fidgeting.
"And I know we haven't gotten along very well over the years. I'm sorry. It's just I was so used to the old you that it's hard to think of you as this new Lily," Petunia said scrunching her nose.
"Tuney, I haven't changed," Lily said finally looking at her sister in the eyes.
"You have changed. I've changed. We grew apart."
"I'm still your little sister. I'm just not following you around anymore. I always will look up to you because you're my big sister. I love you, Tuney," Lily said quietly.
"I know, I know. It's just our worlds are so different. You don't just fit into one world anymore, Lil. You shift between two and one day you're going to have to choose."
"No, I can still fit into both. I'm not just one or the other. I just have more to me now," Lily said as her eyes brimmed with tears.
"No, Lily. It doesn't work like that. You will have to choose one day. And having you as my Maid of Honor is more than having you part of my wedding. It's a goodbye," Petunia whispered.
Lily's eyes grew wide as she looked at her sister. The tears that were threatening to spill over only minutes ago finally gave way. Lily didn't know what to say. Could she say anything? Her only sister—her only sibling, was telling her goodbye. She was letting her go. She didn't even give her a chance.
Lily and Petunia were silent for awhile. Lily finally came back to her senses.
"Well, I should go check on things. I'll send mum in," Lily said getting up.
"Lily," Petunia called.
She turned and looked at her sister.
"I'm sorry. I don't want it to be this way, but it has to be. I love you, Lily. I always will."
"Love you too, Tuney," Lily said opening the door and shutting it softly behind her.
Lily walked around the church until she found her mother and father. They smiled at her as she neared them.
"Hello, darling," her mother greeted.
"Hi mum. Petunia's ready for you to put her dress on," Lily said with a small smile.
"All right, darling. I'll go right now."
Lily was alone with her father.
"Flower, what's wrong?" He asked.
"Nothing, dad," Lily said not looking at him.
"Lily, you're a terrible liar. What's going on, love?"
Lily sighed and turned to look at her father.
"Petunia told me goodbye," Lily choked on the last word.
"Goodbye? She'll see you during holidays," he said standing in front of his youngest daughter.
"No, no she won't. She told me that it basically won't be the same and that I can't shift between the Muggle world and the Wizarding world. She said I'll have to pick eventually," Lily said as tear threatened to roll down her face again.
"Lil, you don't have to choose. You'll always be a part of both. I know you and Petunia will see each other no matter what. Don't worry, baby," he said hugging her.
Lily hugged her father back and silently cried into his suit.
"I hope you're right," Lily said wiping her eyes.
"I'm always right," he said with a smile and a wink.
Lily smiled back at her father and headed to the bathroom. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she saw that her makeup was a mess. She pulled out her wand from her bag and quickly cleaned her face and reapplied her makeup. She sighed and headed into the church to find her best friends.
She found them sitting on one of the pews to the left. She quickly walked over to them and sat down next to Jenna.
"Hello," Lily said with a smile.
"There you are. We thought Petunia locked you up or something," Jenna said.
"No, not this time," Lily answered.
"What did she want?" Tegan asked.
"Just to talk. Nothing major," Lily said with a shrug.
She knew that her mates would see through her lie, but she didn't feel like explaining herself at the moment.
They nodded and had small talk until Elaine came into the church and told Lily it was time to line up. Lily bid her friends farewell and walked back into the lobby.
Lily saw Petunia all the way in the back whispering to their father. She sighed and turned to face the front. Lily was walking down with one of Vernon's best friends. Needless to say she wasn't impressed, but he seemed to be impressed by her. Lily ignored him.
The music started and Lily began to walk. This wedding symbolized much more than Petunia getting married. This was the end of their relationship. They hadn't had a proper relationship in years, but this was the true end. In a way, she believed Petunia was right. She would have to pick a world to live in. Lily Evans couldn't always flit between worlds.
It made her extremely sad, but the Wizarding world chose her. And she didn't want to give it up. She also didn't want to give up the Muggle world either. It was all she knew for 11 years. She couldn't turn her back on it. Or her parents. Lily decided to think about this later. She was supposed to be doing her duty as a Maid of Honor.
The music changed and Lily saw Petunia and her father stand at the doorway. Lily's eyes brimmed with tears. Petunia was radiant. Her dress was perfect. Her veil was short; it covered half of her face. Lily could see Petunia's smile as she came down the aisle.
Lily looked over at Vernon and he was smiling back at her sister. She hated to admit it, but she saw that he truly did love Petunia. Lily felt some of the tension leave her body. He would take care of her. He would love her no matter what. It would be ok.
Their father handed Petunia over to Vernon and quickly walked to his seat next to their mother. Lily turned to look at the couple. They beamed at each other.
The service was short and that was fine with Lily. She was happy to be a part of her sister's wedding, her life. Just one last time. After Petunia and Vernon were officially husband and wife, the wedding party followed the married couple out.
Pictures were soon taken and the real fun began. Lily was supposed to sit at the wedding party table, but she didn't want to neglect her mates. She sat at a table with her parents and friends temporarily.
"Ready to give your speech?" Tegan asked.
"Speech?" Lily asked raising an eyebrow.
"Yeah, you know. Since you're the Maid of Honor, you have to give a speech," Jenna said looking at Lily.
"No, I didn't know that," Lily said biting her lip.
"Well, now you do," Tegan said with a smirk.
Lily returned to the table in the front of the room. She sat down next to Petunia and started eating her food. The whole time, Lily thought about what she was going to say during her speech. It seemed that the time had slipped by because it was time for Lily to speak. All eyes were on her as she stood up slowly. Someone handed her a microphone and Lily blanched.
"Hello," Lily said swallowing," I'm Petunia's younger sister. And I'm quite happy for Petunia…and Vernon. I know that their marriage will be everything they hoped and dreamed. And I feel extremely relieved to know this. It's true, Petunia and I haven't really gotten along in years, but I still love her regardless. And Vernon, I hope that no matter how many times Petunia makes you mad, you still love her no matter what as well. I hope you take care of her like I know you will. I wish you both the best."
Lily smiled at her sister and sat down. The place exploded with applause. Lily had her own sort of closure with her sister. She said her goodbye without actually saying the word. She knew Petunia was right, even if she didn't want to admit it.
If Lily was going to be with James, her world would be chosen for her. James knew nothing of the Muggle world, but if she loved him like she said she did, she would do anything to keep them together. Lily wouldn't completely abandon her Muggle life, but she knew where she would mostly belong. Her choice was made.
The whole time Lily thought about her future, Vernon's Best Man was giving his speech to the couple. Lily obviously didn't pay him any attention, but what did catch her attention was when the DJ announced it was time for the couple's first dance. Lily couldn't help but watch her sister and brother-in-law dance together. She saw how much he and Petunia truly cared about each other. It made her miss James.
She hadn't seen him in a month and a half. She wouldn't be seeing him for at least another month. Lily sighed to herself. After the couple's dance, an upbeat song came on and Lily went to grab her best mates. They all stood together and danced and laughed. It was what Lily needed to keep her thoughts at bay. She needed to stop thinking about such serious topics and let her hair down.
It had been two weeks since Petunia's wedding. In the time span between the wedding and the present, Petunia had gone on her honeymoon and moved out. To Lily it felt incredibly strange to see Petunia's bedroom door open with nothing inside. Often Lily found herself walking into the room and looking around as if expecting Petunia to scream at her to get out of her room that instant, but it never happens. It almost makes Lily feel lonely. It felt weird to actually miss the presence of her sister. Lily left the room and returned to her own.
When she got there, she saw her owl sitting her bed with a letter tied to its leg. Lily instantly recognized the letter and the emerald scrawl on the front of the envelope. She quickly untied the letter and ripped it open. As she took out the contents carefully, she noticed something hard at the bottom. She slowly pulled out a badge. She stared as the gold glinted from the morning sun.
Lily's lips quickly turned up into a smile and then she screeched. Her mother and father both were standing in her doorway moments later looking worried. Lily slowly turned towards them giving them a sheepish grin.
"What's wrong, Lils?" Geoffrey asked as he caught his breath.
"I made Head Girl!" Lily yelled standing up.
Her parent's features morphed from worry to elation.
"Oh, Lils! I'm so happy for you!" Her father exclaimed pulling her into a bear hug.
"Oh, Lily. This is amazing news. We'll have to celebrate," her mother said taking Lily into her arms.
"I'm sorry for scaring you earlier. I was just so excited," Lily said as she took a step away from her parents.
"It's all right, darling. I must call and tell your sister," Elaine said running out the door before Lily could stop her.
"She doesn't have to do that," Lily said sobering.
"I'm sure your sister will be proud," her dad said planting a kiss on her head.
"Possibly," Lily said staring out the window.
"Well, don't worry about that right now. Tonight, we're going out for dinner to celebrate. So, look nice," he said smiling at her as he walked back downstairs.
Lily quickly grabbed bits of parchment and sat down at her desk.
Jen-
Great news, I got Head Girl! I can barely contain my excitement! It makes me wonder who Head Boy will be. I'm betting on Remus. He's the best candidate. Anyways, what do you think? Oh, shopping for supplies sometime this week?
~ Lil
Tegan-
So, I got Head Girl! I'm so happy! I was wondering to myself who could possibly be Head Boy and my money's on Remus. What do you think about this? Also, shopping sometime this week? I asked Jen and I was when would be the best time for all of us.
~ Lil
Lily beckoned her owl over to her and tied both letters to her leg. She watched as the owl flew out of her window. Lily lazily got up and lay on her bed. She didn't have to wait long to get her replies. She heard the sound of wings and saw her owl perched on the windowsill. Lily got up and took the letters and lay back down.
Of course you got Head Girl. Who else would? No one is as much of a suck up as you are. Plus, you're all of the professors' favorites. So, congrats, even if you born to get it. I vote for going to Diagon Alley Friday.
~Tegan
P.S. As for Head Boy assumptions, I lay money also on Lupin. He seems like the male version of you. It just works.
Congratulations Lily! I knew you'd be Head Girl since our first year. I've never met someone so determined as you. Your hard work as paid off. Anyways, I say we go to Diagon Alley Friday. And I think Remus will be Head Boy. He's perfect for the job.
~ Jen
Lily quickly wrote them and informed them that Friday at noon will be when they meet up.
Just as her parents promised, they took Lily out to dinner to celebrate her Headship. It was one of the most expensive restaurants in town. Lily and her parents usually went there if it was of the upmost importance. And with Lily getting Head Girl, it was a very important event to celebrate.
As Lily and her parents sat in the booth towards the back, Lily felt extremely happy. She had proved she worked hard and done well at school and her parents were extremely proud of her. Despite what Petunia said about her over the years, her parents were proud of her. And that's all that mattered to her.
As the three Evans ate their food, Elaine held up her glass and beamed at her daughter.
"I want to make a toast to Lily. All of your hard work has paid off and we're terribly proud of you. I hope your last year and years afterward are amazing. We love you Flower," she finished as continued to beam at her daughter.
"To Lily," Geoffrey chimed in.
Lily held up her glass and they all clinked them together.
"Thank you. I love you both so much," Lily said smiling at them.
Geoffrey looked at his wife and she quickly took a box out of her purse and slid it over to Lily.
"What's this?" Lily asked with wide eyes.
"Open it and find out," her father said with a smile.
Lily quickly took the top off and stared at a white gold charm bracelet. It was perfect. Lily picked it up and placed it in her hand to examine. It had a small lion, a picture of her parents, a picture of herself and Petunia when they were children.
"We figured you could add more whenever you want," Elaine said.
"Thank you. I love it," she said squeezing their hands.
"I'm glad you like it, love," Geoffrey said.
Lily couldn't thank and appreciate her parents enough. They would always be part of her world.
Friday morning rolled around as Lily rolled herself out of bed. She was to meet her best friends in Diagon Alley so they could pick up their last years worth of school supplies. It was almost sad.
Lily quickly walked over to the bathroom and turned the water on so she could take a shower. After a quick shower, she walked clad in her towel to her room. Lily dressed in a pair of jeans and a simple t-shirt. She slipped a pair of trainers on and walked downstairs.
Her mother and father had already gone to work, but they left her Muggle money so she could convert it and buy her supplies. Lily made herself a bowl of oatmeal and quickly scarfed it down. Lily pocketed the money and quickly apparated outside of Leaky Cauldron.
As she walked in, she looked to see if her friends had arrived yet. Lily saw no signs of them, so she sat down at a table towards the back.
"Hello, Miss Head Girl," Jenna said beaming and sitting down in front of Lily ten minutes later.
Lily rolled her green eyes and smiled at her friend.
"Where's Tegan?" Lily asked.
"Right here! Sorry, my mum would not shut up," Tegan said sitting down next to Lily.
"S'all right. Jen just got here too," Lily said.
"Shall we, girls?" Jenna asked.
The other two girls got up and they headed into bustling streets of Diagon Alley.
The first stop was Gringgots so Lily could exchange her Muggle money for Wizarding money. After that, the three girls ripped and raced to every store they needed to go to. As they got their supplies, they ran into school mates and said their hellos. The girls were done buying all of their supplies and celebrated with ice cream.
"A good end to a productive day," Tegan said with a sigh.
"In total agreement," Jenna said.
"Couldn't have said it better myself," Lily said licking her ice cream.
"I'm surprised we haven't bumped into any of the Marauders," Tegan said turning to look at Lily.
Lily simply shrugged. "I figured James and Sirius weren't back from France yet and the Marauders usually come get their supplies together."
"Still haven't heard from him?" Jenna asked as her brows knitted with worry.
"No. I'll see him on the train. I'm not worried," Lily said with another shrug of her shoulders.
"All right," Tegan and Jenna both said.
"What?" Lily asked looking over at her two best mates.
"Nothing, Lily. Just strange that you haven't heard from him is all," Tegan answered.
"Well, he went to visit his family. I'm sure everything's fine."
They nodded and lapsed into silence.
"Ready to go home?" Lily asked.
They nodded again, hugged and parted ways.
Lily hated to admit it, but they did have a point. It was a bit strange that she hadn't heard from James or Sirius for a whole summer. Sure, she and James hadn't been friendly and cordial for that long, but she thought since he came over to her house before he left, he would write. Lily and Sirius had been friendly for a lot longer than she and James and she hadn't heard from him either.
Maybe she was right. Maybe James and Sirius were just busy having fun with James' family. It's not a big deal. Things were fine. Lily would see them soon and everything would be great.
But why did she have such a heavy feeling in the pit of her stomach?
The last few days of summer went by at a snail's pace, but it gave Lily time to pack her trunk and make sure everything was in its proper place. She was excited because she would finally get to see the Marauders and finally start to learn about everything she had skimmed in her books.
Lily walked down the stairs with her trunk in tow. She placed it in the den next to the door. She walked into the kitchen and saw her mother and father at the table sipping tea and talking quietly. Lily's mum looked up and saw their daughter enter.
"Good morning, darling!" She said cheerfully.
"Morning mum and dad," Lily said taking a seat at the table.
"Morning, Lil. Excited to be heading back to Hogwarts?" Her father asked.
Lily nodded her head. "I just can't believe it's my last year."
"Me either, Flower. It feels like you were only eleven yesterday," Geoffrey said.
"I'll always be your little girl, daddy," Lily said with a smile.
"I know, baby, but it's still hard."
"Aw, daddy," Lily said walking over to him and giving him a hug.
He hugged her back and laughed. "I'll be fine. Now, eat something before we leave."
Lily moved away from him and grabbed a bowl of cereal.
After finishing her bowl of cereal, she double checked she got everything out of her room that she needed and came back down the stairs.
"Ready Flower?" Her father asked.
Geoffrey grabbed her trunk so Lily nor her mother had to lift it. He put in trunk of their car and headed to King's Cross.
As the station came into view, Lily's excitement grew. She was so excited to see people and to see that scarlet train for the last time.
Geoffrey parked and Elaine went to grab a trolley. They placed her trunk of the trolley and walked slowly towards the wall between platform 9 and 10.
For Lily it brought back memories of when she was eleven. Her sister teasing her and telling her Hogwarts didn't exist. Then Lily saw Severus and he showed her everything he promised before was indeed real. Then she met James Potter and Sirius Black. It's funny to think so much had changed in 6 years.
Lily knew and loved Hogwarts like it was a second home to her. She was now Head Girl. She was friends with Sirius Black. She loved James Potter. She and Severus weren't on speaking terms and she didn't know where he was. And now her and Petunia weren't speaking and were out of each other's lives. So much had changed.
Lily turned to her parents and gave them a smile. She hugged each of them at a time.
"I'll write you when I get settled in. I'll tell you who is Head Boy and such. I love you," Lily said.
"We love you too, Flower," Elaine said.
With one last look at her parents, Lily walked into the barrier.
The station was alive with parents and students of all ages. Lily smiled to herself. As she walked towards the train she looked around for a familiar face. As she made her way to the train, she didn't see anyone. She decided to board. Lily found the compartment she usually shared with her mates and quickly settled in.
Fifteen minutes later, Jenna burst through the door.
"Hello, lovely," Jenna said sitting down.
"Hello!" Lily said back smiling at her friend.
Five minutes after that, Tegan slid the door open and beamed at her two friends.
"Hello, darlings," Tegan said.
"Hello!" Lily and Jenna said.
"You two haven't started the gossip without me, have you?" Tegan asked sitting down next to Jenna.
"No, of course not," Jenna said with a laugh.
Relief flooded Tegan's face.
The train started to move a minute after the girls got settled.
As the three girls were busy discussing the gossip they heard as they boarded the train, Lily saw familiar hazel eyes peering at her through the window of the compartment.
Lily stopped talking and gave the boy her full attention. The two girls sitting around her looked at the door and both let out ooh-ing noises. Lily both gave them a look at they stopped. She got up and opened the door.
"Hi," Lily said biting her lip.
James didn't say anything. He just stared at her.
Lily started to feel self-conscious.
"Is there something on my face?" Lily asked letting out a nervous giggle.
"No. I just haven't seen you in months. My dreams don't do you justice," James said still staring at her.
Lily smiled at him.
Jenna and Tegan brushed past their best mate with a wink.
Lily moved aside and James walked in.
"So, how are you?" Lily asked sitting down on her abandoned seat.
"I'm great now that I finally get to see you. How are you?" He said with a smile.
"A lot better now that you're here," Lily said with an equally goofy grin.
The pair lapsed into silence, but Lily broke it after a few minutes.
"How was France? And where is Sirius?"
"Padfoot is back in our compartment. I told him to let me see you before he mauls you," James said with a laugh, "and France was…all right. I guess."
"Just all right? It's France James. How could France just be all right?" Lily asked shocked.
"It was just all right," James said with a shrug and a smirk, "How was the wedding?"
"Oh. It was all right," Lily said looking at her hands.
"Just all right, Lils? What happened?"
"Everything went fine. Petunia said goodbye to me," Lily said with a shrug.
"Goodbye? Why? She's your sister, how could she say goodbye to you?" James asked looking distraught.
"She told me that one day I'm going to have to choose a world to belong to—the Muggle world or the Wizarding world—and she's right. I know that I can't keep straddling both, I'll have to choose. And I know any one I choose, I'll always have a piece of it with me," Lily whispered.
James got up and sat next to Lily. He put a comforting arm around her shoulders.
"Lily, no matter what world you choose, I'll be there with you. If you want me to," James said.
"Of course I want you to be there," Lily said looking up at him.
James gave her a small smile.
"James, is everything all right?" Lily asked as her eyebrows knitted in concern.
"I believe so," James said looking out of the window.
"You don't sound too sure," Lily said looking at his face.
"Everything's fine, Lil," he said squeezing her shoulders.
"All right," Lily said not completely believing him.
"Oh, do you know if Remus got Head Boy?" Lily asked.
"No, he didn't," James said.
"What? I was so sure he would have gotten it."
"Me too."
"Do you know who got it then?" Lily asked.
"Yes," James said evenly.
"Then who?" Lily asked.
"I…did," James said looking over at her.
"You what! Why? Oh my Merlin," Lily said jumping up.
"Thanks, Lil. I thought you would be happy that we would be Heads together," James said looking hurt.
"I am happy, but no offense, you aren't Head material."
"Um, ouch!"
"I said no offense. I mean, between you pranks and your lack of work ethic, I didn't expect it. It's a pleasant surprise, but just a bit of a shocker."
"My ego is thoroughly bruised," James said holding a hand to his chest.
Lily stopped pacing and walked until she stood in front of him. She leaned down and kissed him square on the lips. James let out a sigh and kissed her back, but not with his usual vigor.
Lily pulled away and looked James in the eyes. She saw they weren't as bright and clear as they usually were. It worried her, but she figured now was not the time to ask.
"Am I forgiven?" Lily asked.
"I'll think about it," James said with a smile.
"I think I more than made up for it," Lily said crossing her arms.
"Fine, you are forgiven," James said getting up.
"Where are you going?" Lily asked.
"We have a meeting soon," James said, "or has Lily Evans forgotten about said meeting?"
"No, I was just testing you."
James opened the door and let Lily leave first. He followed after her without a word. As they walked to the first car at the top of the train, Lily thought about how odd James' behavior was.
He seemed all right, but the little things Lily noticed, like how his eyes weren't their normal bright hazel. Maybe she was just imagining things. Maybe he seemed different because she hadn't seen him since June. That had to be it. She wasn't used to him anymore.
As James opened the door to the compartment, Lily's train of thought stopped. She smiled at him and entered the compartment. She saw not many people had arrived yet. Remus was sitting in the front and Lily walked over to him with a smile on her face.
"Hello, Lily," Remus said with a smile.
"Hello, Remus. How was your summer?"
"It was pretty good. How was yours?"
"It was all right," she said sitting down next to him.
James walked over to them and sat next to Remus. Lily noted his distance. She chided herself. He didn't have to sit next to her. Gosh, she felt like she was becoming like every other girl in Hogwarts. She was becoming clingy and got easily miffed over the dumbest shit. She needed to stop. So, Lily engaged in conversation with Remus until all of the Prefects shuffled in.
Lily looked at James and they stood.
"Hello, everyone. I'm glad to see some familiar faces as well as a bunch of new ones. I am Lily Evans, your new Head Girl, for those who didn't know. This is James Potter—as most of you may know—your new Head Boy," Lily said looking over at James.
Lily continued on with her speech with a few interjections from James. It went painlessly as possible. As they dismissed the Prefects, Lily smiled and thanked them for coming. Remus hung back and looked at James. James looked back at him as if they were having some kind of silent conversation.
"Um, I'm going to go. I'll see you both later," Lily said awkwardly.
They looked up at her and nodded. She shut the door behind her and headed back towards her compartment.
Lily wasn't paying attention; she was too buried in her thoughts. Wondering about what the look Remus gave James.
"Lily-Flower!" She heard a voice in front of her.
She looked up and saw Sirius standing a few doors from her. She gave him a smile as she walked towards him.
"Hey, Sirius!" Lily said trying to sound cheerful.
"What's wrong?" Sirius asked looking Lily in the eye.
"Nothing, Sirius. I just got done conducting a meeting," Lily said with a shrug.
"Liar. Remember, Lils. I know you better than you think. Maybe even better than you know yourself."
"Maybe," Lily said with a small smile.
"Now, spill."
"Can we talk somewhere a bit more private?" Lily asked looking around.
"Yeah, you can come in here. Wormtail isn't here."
Sirius moved aside and let Lily in and shut the door behind him. He casted a silencing charm and sat down on the opposite bench that Lily sat on.
"All right, talk."
"Fine. Did I do something wrong? I feel like I did something wrong, but I don't know what," Lily said in a rush.
"What do you mean Lily-Flower? You could never do anything wrong," Sirius said with a smile.
Lily rolled her eyes. "I'm being serious!"
"You're pretending to be me?"
Lily gave Sirius a look. "You are so bloody difficult to talk to!"
"I'm just kidding, Lils. Talk to me."
"I just feel like I did something wrong. James is acting so weird around me. I don't know if I'm imagining things because I haven't seen him in months or if I did something completely wrong without realizing it! Oh Merlin! What if I upset him when I was ranting that he was a very unlikely candidate for Head Boy? How could I see so insensitive? What is wrong with me, Sirius?"
"Lily! Calm down! Why do you blame yourself for everything? Can't other take the blame too? Not everything is your fault. You are fine. You haven't done anything. James may just be acting strange. I don't know," Sirius said looking at Lily.
"You would tell me if James did something while you were away, right?"
"Yes, Lily-Flower. Nothing happened. James is just being James. Strange."
Lily cracked a smile.
"That's what I like to see. You smiling. Now, go back to your compartment and everything is fine," Sirius said standing up.
Lily hugged the boy in front of her and then left. She felt better now that she talked to Sirius. Lily opened the door to her compartment and saw her two best mates sitting there.
"Well, hello. Where have you been?" Tegan asked.
"I had a meeting with the Prefects. Oh, James is Head Boy. Who would have thought…"
"Is Dumbledore off his rocker? James isn't Head Boy material," Jenna said wide-eyed.
"Well, I believe we were all wrong in our assumptions then," Tegan added.
"Dead wrong. This year shall be interesting," Lily said grabbing her robes out of her trunk, "I'm going to change. We'll be at the school soon."
Lily sat in her new dorm room. It was the size of her room she shared with the girls last year, but it was just her room. It was strange to think that this huge room was just hers. She laid back on her king-size four poster bed. She hadn't unpacked yet.
The feast went well. Lily felt like she hadn't eaten that well in years. She noticed that James seemed to be out of his bad mood. He sat next to her during dinner. He also invited her to hang out in his new Head dorm later. Lily felt like they were on the right track again.
Lily thought about telling James she was ready to date him now. Might as well start off the year right since she didn't get to tell him before he left for France. She wanted to make sure all of her feelings were out on the table.
Lily slid off of her bed and decided to unpack until it was time to go to James' room. The Heads dorms were separate this year, but they had their own common room. Lily's dorm was up a few stairs above the 7th year girl's dorm. It was password protected. James' dorm was the same way, but at the top of the boy's staircase.
Lily looked at the time and saw that it was almost time to head to James' dorm. The corners of her mouth turned up instantly as she thought about seeing James, even if she saw him hours ago at dinner.
Lily quickly exited her dorm and bound down the stairs. As she looked around the Common Room she saw three out of four Marauders in the corner of the room with their heads together. It looked strange without having James' head mixed in with theirs. Lily turned and headed up the boys' staircase.
Lily knocked on the door and waited patiently for James to open the door. When he opened the door, she smiled instantly at him.
"Hi," he said smiling at her.
"Hello," Lily said.
James moved out of the way and let her in. When Lily walked in, her senses were assaulted by the many pictures and smells. There were pictures of James, his parents, the Marauders, herself and Lily guessed other relatives. The smells coming from the room were pleasant. The room smelled of James already. It was a blend of the woods and cologne. Lily slowly walked over to his bed. As she sat down, he shut the door and walked over to sit next to her.
Lily felt a bit awkward sitting there with James. She knew she shouldn't feel this way, but she couldn't help it. She hadn't seen him in so long, but he hadn't changed. She was just being stupid. She turned to look at him and saw that he wasn't looking at her like he usually did. Again, his eyes didn't seem as happy as they were when she saw him last. What had happened to him? She was about to ask when he said something.
"I'm sorry for my behavior. I didn't mean to act so strangely around you," James said giving Lily a small smile.
"It's all right. I think I've been acting a bit strangely as well," Lily said to make him feel better.
"No, you've been fine," James said taking her hand in his.
"So why have you been acting so weird then?" Lily asked rubbing his hand with her thumb.
James froze.
"If you don't want to talk about it right now, that's all right. I was just curious," Lily said back peddling.
"Yeah, I don't think I could talk about it right now," James said exhaling.
"That's fine. Whenever you're ready."
"So why have you been acting so weird?" James asked mirroring her question.
"Oh. Well, don't take this the wrong way. Since I haven't seen you in months, it sort of feels strange being back together like this. I know it sounds stupid, but I don't know. Maybe I'm just being ridiculous," Lily said taking her hand out of his.
"No, you're not being ridiculous. It does feel a bit weird, but I missed you the entire time I was gone. You know that right?" James asked.
"Of course, but I doubt you missed me more than I missed you," Lily said with a smile.
"Oh, you dare challenge me, Evans?" James said with a smirk.
Lily's heart melted. In that instant she needed to tell him.
"I believe I can beat you, easily."
"And how can you do that pray tell?" James asked lifting an eyebrow.
"I said easily."
"Well, show me then."
"It's more of a-tell-you thing," Lily said starting to squirm.
"Ok, tell me then," James said watching her squirm about.
"Ok, here goes. James, I've been thinking since night you came to visit me—no—when school ended last year. I want you in every sense of the word. And I'm hoping you still want me. I believe I love you, James. You're it for me. And I'm sorry if I'm being so forward, but I think it's about time we're finally together," Lily said not looking at him.
It was quiet in the room. Lily didn't dare look at James. She didn't know what to expect. She knew that his feelings towards her hadn't changed, but there was always a possibility that he might have found someone better. Possibly in France. And as much as Lily didn't want to think about it, it had crept into her mind several times during the summer.
"Lily…" James started.
"James, you don't have to if you don't want to. I know I took my good ole time and I know you may have been tired of waiting on me. Hell, you may have found someone better when you were away. And I'll understand. I wanted to tell you this before you left, but I was afraid. You deserved to know, but I couldn't say it. And you don't know how much I've regretted it over the summer. But now you're here in front of me and I just had to tell you. I'm sorry."
"Lily, shut up," Lily heard the smile in his voice, "Silly girl. I was going to say something completely different from what just spewed out of your mouth. So, let me finish before you go spewing off nonsense."
Lily looked over at him and nodded and waited for him to continue.
"All right. Lily, you obviously know how I feel about you. You've known for years now. And they haven't changed. If anything, they've grown especially since you finally gave me a chance with you. And Lily, I love you too. I think I always have. And you have no idea how amazing it is to hear you say it! And you also know that I've wanted us to be together. So, Lily Evans, will you finally go out with me?" James asked looking at her hopefully with a mix of something else, but Lily wasn't sure what it was.
"Yes, James," Lily said with a huge smile on her face.
James moved closer to her and kissed her hard and full on the mouth. James savored every moment of it. He knew everything could possibly be all right. James nipped at Lily's bottom lip and Lily opened her mouth a bit. James took the opportunity to slide his tongue in her mouth. Lily moaned in his mouth as their tongues twirled around each others. Lily was the first to break the kiss.
"Well, I missed that," Lily said out of breath and smiling at James.
James smiled back. "I can't believe you finally said yes! And you love me!"
"Don't let it go to you already inflated head," Lily said with a giggle.
"Too late."
Lily rolled her eyes and looked at the clock on James' dresser. She quickly got up.
"Where are you going?" James asked with a pout.
"It's getting quite late. I need to go to bed. Classes start tomorrow bright and early," Lily said matter-of-factly.
"I know, but you can always stay here," James said gesturing to the bed.
"You wish, Potter. Yes we may be together, but that doesn't mean I'm staying in your bed the first night. I'm not daft."
"But you're willing some other night?" James asked as his face lit up.
"One day, just not tonight," Lily said standing by the door.
"That's all I need, hope," James walked over to Lily and kissed her once again.
Lily pulled away again and smiled at him. "Goodnight, James. I'll see you tomorrow."
"G'night Lils. I love you," James said beaming.
"I love you, too," Lily said as a blush crept to her cheeks.
Lily turned and walked down the boys' staircase and then up to her own dorm. Jenna and Tegan were going to freak out when once she told them. Lily lay back on her bed and sighed contently. Not a bad start to her 7th and final year.
James lay back on his bed and sighed. He was finally dating the girl of his dreams, but something in the back of his mind was bothering him. Maybe he didn't have to tell her. Maybe things could stay this way sans everything that happened. He loved Lily and he was finally happy, but why did his mind scream to him to tell her? He ignored it and went to sleep.
The next morning, Lily got up earlier than she usually did. She felt well-rested as well as happy. She hopped out of bed and went on with her morning routine. It felt strange to her to have her own bathroom. She didn't have to fight the other girls for it. She smiled to herself and headed down a few stairs to the dorm her best friends were in. She skipped over to their beds.
To wake them or not to wake them? She couldn't contain her happiness. But the downside of waking her friends at 6:30 a.m. was that Tegan would personally kill her. She would hex her into oblivion. Lily wasn't too particularly happy with that option, but again, she couldn't contain her happiness.
Lily grabbed her wand out of a pocket of her robes and splashed water on her mates' faces. She knew it was cruel, but it was the easiest way to wake them. She stood as far back as she could and waited. They bother stirred with a shriek.
"Good morning sleeping beauties," Lily said with a smile.
"Lily Elizabeth Evans, I will murder you," Tegan said through clenched teeth.
"I second that motion. It's super early in the morning as well! What has gotten into you?" Jenna asked sitting up.
"I have fantastic news to tell you. I swear you'll love me after you heard," Lily said bouncing on the balls of her feet.
"You're glowing, Lils," Jenna said with a smirk.
"What is this news then? Go on," Tegan said.
"Go get dressed and I'll tell you on the way to breakfast," Lily said sitting down on Jenna's bed.
They both grumbled and went to get ready.
Twenty minutes later, her two best mates were dressed and ready.
"All right, let's go!" Lily said cheerfully.
"This better be good, Evans," Tegan grumbled.
"It is. It's quite fantastic really."
As they walked out of the portrait hole, Lily turned quickly to her best friends and beamed.
"James Potter and I are dating," Lily said with a smile plastered to her face.
Jenna and Tegan both stared at her with their mouths agape.
"FINALLY!" Tegan and Jenna yelled in unison.
"I know!" Lily said laughing.
"When? Where? Why?" Jenna asked.
The three girls began to walk down to the Great Hall.
"Well, I went to visit him last night in his rooms—no nothing bad happened—and we started talking. I just blurted out how I felt and I thought he was going to reject me, so I started to reject him before he could do it to me. And he laughed at me and told me that I was being silly. He asked me out and I said yes," Lily finished.
"How could you think that James Potter wouldn't fancy you anymore?" Tegan asked with a laugh.
"I don't know. I was feeling a bit insecure. I've never felt this way about anyone before and I really didn't believe I would ever feel this way about James Potter!"
"What about me?" They heard a voice behind them.
"Oh, hello James!" Jenna said with a snicker.
"Good morning, ladies."
"I suppose we owe you a congratulations for finally getting the elusive Lily Evans," Tegan said sending Lily a smirk.
Lily rolled her eyes. James was blushing.
"Thanks," he said walking over to Lily.
"I'm surprised you're not telling the whole school by now," Jenna said laughing.
"I figured that I embarrassed Lily even over the years," James said looking down at Lily.
She mouthed a 'thank you'. James smiled and turned them around to head into the Great Hall.
Lily, Tegan and Jenna all sat down at their usual spot. James stopped, kissed Lily on the cheek and headed down to sit next to his friends.
The three girls went out with their morning laughing, talking and gossiping as usual. It wasn't long until Sirius walked over to them and sat down next to Lily. Lily turned to look at Sirius expectantly.
"Hello Lily-Flower," he said not as cheerful as he usually was.
"Hello, Sirius. How are you?" Lily asked still cheerful.
"I'm all right. I'm guessing you're over the moon?" Sirius said with a small smile.
"How could you guess?" Lily asked grinning.
"A little birdie told me," Sirius said sounding more like his old self.
"Well, the 'birdie' was quite correct."
"Yes, about this so-called 'birdie', I need to speak to you about it," Sirius said as his voice dropped.
"Why? What's wrong?" Lily asked concerned.
"Well, that's not my place to say, but I do have a few concerns."
Lily looked in Sirius' stormy grey eyes and saw concern, seriousness and a hint of anger.
"All right, tell me," Lily said slowly.
"Can we go somewhere more private?" Sirius asked, "No offense, ladies."
"None taken," Jenna said.
Lily nodded and she and Sirius headed out of the Great Hall. Sirius walked over to a cupboard and gestured for Lily to get in. Lily shook her head and walked inside. Sirius shut the door, used a silencing charm and lit his wand.
"All right, what are you concerns?" Lily asked sitting down on the floor.
Sirius sat down as well. "Well, for one, I don't want you to get hurt. I love you like a little sister Lily-Flower and I couldn't bear to see you hurt, even more so since you're dating my best mate. Also, I think you and James shouldn't be together."
"What? Why? And why aren't you giving me that whole 'if you hurt my best mate' speech? What's going on Sirius?"
"Like I told you, I can't tell you that. It's not my tale to tell. And I'm telling you this because I know you, you would never hurt James. I mean, minus bruising his ego something terrible during our younger years," Sirius smiled.
"Sirius, please. If it's something terrible, you must tell me. You're my friend as well as James'."
"I know, Lily, but I still can't betray James."
"Did he do something bad? I have to know. You're scaring me," Lily said taking Sirius' hand.
"Lily, I cannot tell you. Just think about what I said about breaking up with James."
"I find it ironic that over the last few years people have been begging me to go out with James Potter and when I decide that I finally want to, everyone tells me to break up with him," Lily said biting her lip.
"I'm simply trying to look out for you," Sirius said starting to stand up, "I know you're confused now. And I wish I could tell you more, but I cannot."
Lily didn't respond, but simply nodded.
Sirius undid the silencing charm and opened the door. He let Lily go out first and then walked out after she did. Lily gave Sirius a small smile.
"Thanks for looking out for me Sirius, even if I don't understand what's going on," Lily said giving him a hug.
"You're welcome and I'm sorry," Sirius said hugging her back.
Lily nodded again and walked back into the Great Hall to sit down with her friends again.
As she walked into the Hall she saw that James was staring at her and Sirius. He had a concerned look on his face with a hint of anger. Why was everyone so angry? Lily cocked her head to the side and gave him a questioning look. James shook his head and sighed. Lily was even more confused as she sat down with her mates.
"So what did Sirius want?" Tegan asked.
"I really don't know. He wanted me to break up with James, but he didn't tell me why. He said he couldn't," Lily said looking down at the table.
"If Sirius Black tells you to break up with his best mate, it has to be for a good reason. I mean, he knows James better than anyone. I trust his judgment," Jenna said.
"I know, but wouldn't you still want to know why though?" Lily asked looking up at her friends.
"Of, course, but I would at least take his request into consideration and then try to find out what's going on. Either by asking James' himself or asking others, as a last resort. Of course," Tegan said.
"All right. I'll consider it, but I'm putting it in the back of my mind. I've been dating James for less than a day and things seem to be falling apart."
"Well, don't worry about it. Anyways, here comes James," Jenna said.
Lily gave them a concerned look. They both shook their heads and smiled at her. Lily took a deep breath and turned towards her boyfriend. Boyfriend. Boyfriend for how long? No, I mustn't think about that.
"I got your schedule. Seems like we'll both be in Defense together. Shall we?" He asked extending his hand.
Lily took his hand, her schedule and her rut sack and left.
The day passed without much to do. Lily and James enjoyed each other's company when they had classes together. She and Sirius' talk was constantly nagging her from the back of her mind. Lily kept trying to push it as far down as she could, but it kept drifting upwards anyways. Lily just tried to focus on James. He seemed to be acting like himself, but why were his friends giving him glares and such during the day?
That night, Lily walked into the Head's Common Room so she could have some peace and quiet as she did her essay. She figured she would be completely alone. James probably wouldn't come in there tonight because she doubted he would work on his essay yet. They did have several days to complete it, but Lily being Lily, wanted to get it done as soon as possible. So that gave her a place to think as well.
Lily spread her books, scroll and ink on the large table. Instead of digging into her essay, she merely sat there. She looked at the materials in front of her and just sat there. It almost felt too good, but with lack of things to focus on, it also let her mind wander.
What had the Marauders on edge today? It seemed like every one of them was angry with James. I don't understand it. James seemed to be fine. Maybe he doesn't realize they're mad at him? No, that's silly. How could he not know they're mad at him? Was it because he's dating me? Maybe they feel I'm going to take James away from them? Maybe it's because I know too much about them. I just wish Sirius would have told me today during breakfast. This is becoming maddening. Maybe I can get James to tell me later.
With that, Lily finally started her essay. Her mind was a bit more at ease now that she decided she was going to ask James what's going on.
She was half way done with her essay when the door opened. Lily stopped writing and waited to see James, but it wasn't James. It was Remus Lupin.
"Hello, Lily," Remus said walking towards her.
"Hello, Remus. Not to be rude, what are you doing in here?" Lily asked setting down her quill.
"Oh, sorry. I was looking for you, actually," he said sitting down across from her.
"Oh. Well, you found me. What's going on?" Lily asked.
"I just wanted to talk to you about something," he said fidgeting.
"Does this have to do with anything Sirius told me earlier today?" Lily asked with a raised auburn eyebrow.
"Yes," Lupin said simply.
All right, out with it."
"All right. Well, Sirius has told you how he feels about you and James and I have to agree with him," Remus said slowly.
"Why?" Lily asked crossing her arms.
"I can't tell you that. Not my story to tell. Sorry."
"Ugh! This frustrates me! How am I supposed to take you all seriously if you all won't tell me what's going on?"
"I know, but I feel James should tell you, not any of us."
"Just tell me, Remus. I've been trying not to think about this all day and now I can't stop. Is it me? Is it my fault that you're all so angry with him?" Lily asked desperately.
"No Lily! You're wonderful and we've all wanted this to happen for years, but it's not you. It's all James."
"He seemed fine earlier today, though," Lily said mostly to herself.
"I think he's still having a hard time with it himself. He promised us all that he'd tell you. If he doesn't we promised we'd kill him," Remus said with a small smile.
"I believe it. After I finish with this essay, I'm going to talk to him," Lily said.
Lupin nodded and got up to leave.
"Thanks for talking to me, Remus. And also, if you want to, you can come in here to study or do work whenever you want," Lily said smiling at him.
"Thanks, Lily," he said before leaving.
Lily sat there once again. She was already going to talk to James about whatever this was all about, but now she was even more terrified than she was before. Remus didn't tell her what was going on either, but for him to tell her the same thing Sirius told her it seemed a lot more real. Sure Lily believed Sirius when he talked to her earlier, but with Remus also telling her it really didn't help. Lily quickly shook her head to dislodge these thoughts so she could finish and then speak to James.
Lily slowly walked back to Gryffindor Tower. Her mind was abuzz with everything she talked about, or lack thereof, with Lupin and Sirius. Now she was going to face James. She didn't know what to expect. What he did could literally be anything.
Lily gave the Fat Lady the password and walked into the Common Room. Everyone was talking and having a grand old time. Lily stopped and looked around the room. She saw three out of four of the Marauders in the corner playing a game of Exploding Snap. Lily smiled to herself and then stopped. She had things she needed to talk about, no time for distractions.
As she made her way through the Common Room and towards the boys' staircase, she heard her name being called. She spun around and saw her two best mates along with a few of their dorm mates sitting down by the fire. Lily smiled at them and walked over to them.
"Where have you been?" Tegan asked.
"I was in the Heads' Common Room working on our DADA essay," Lily said with a shrug.
"That's not due for awhile, Lils," Tegan said levelly.
"I know, but you know me," Lily said with a smile.
Jenna gave her a knowing smile.
"Yes, we know you very well, Lils," Tegan said with a laugh.
"I have to go, but I'll talk to you two later?" Lily asked before turning away.
She heard her best mates consent and Lily dashed up the boys' staircase. As she got closer to James' room, her pace went from a light jog to a leisurely walk. Her heart was beating, not from the jog up the stairs, but from the nerves. She didn't know how to conduct this talk. Before Lily knew it—and warranted—she was at his door. She took a deep breath, shut her eyes and went to knock on the door when it opened.
Lily opened her eyes and saw her boyfriend standing there with a knowing smirk.
"How did you know I was outside of your door?" Lily asked incredulously.
"I have my ways," he said letting her in.
Lily walked across the vast room and sat down on the bed like she did a fortnight ago.
"That doesn't surprise me," Lily said with a wistful smile.
James' eyebrows knitted together. "What's wrong, Lily?"
Lily looked down at her pale hands and pretended her nails were the most interesting thing in the world. She finally sighed and spoke.
"I have to talk to you," Lily said taking a peek at James.
"What about?" He asked sitting down in a chair a meter away from her.
"Well, I-I've heard some things. Well, I actually haven't heard a thing. Just…I've had warnings thrown at me. And I don't know what to make of it! So, I came to the source, or so it seems," Lily said flustered.
James was quiet. Lily looked over at him to see what was going on with him. His face was blank and pale. Lily bit her lip and waited.
"Who warned you?" He asked, but he already knew the answer to the question.
"Sirius and Remus. They seemed rather adamant about it and it frightened me. I don't know why. Maybe because I've never seemed them so serious about something that dealt with my well-being, especially since I'm not close to them. It made no sense," Lily said seemingly speaking to herself more than James.
"What did they say?" James' said as his throat grew dry.
"Sirius said that we should break up. He said that you've done something, and he wouldn't tell me what, and that he doesn't want to see me hurt. Remus agreed with Sirius. And I asked him if this was my fault in any way and he assured me it wasn't. So, James please tell me what's going on," Lily said as her emerald green eyes bored into his hazel ones.
James held her gaze and quickly averted his. He sighed.
"Lily, I don't think I'm ready to tell you yet. I just…I just can't. Yet. I will tell you and you deserve to know every bit of it. I'm just scared and terribly selfish, but I promise you I'll tell you. I wish I were stronger," James said as he ran his hands through his hair.
"James, I'll give you a bit of time to tell me, but it won't be long. Whatever you have to tell me is going to worry me to death. So, I'll give you until the end of the week. Ok?" Lily said walking over to him.
James looked up at her and nodded. Lily stopped inches from where he sat. She bent down and looked at him in the eyes.
"I love you James Potter and whatever you have to tell me, you can. I know everything will be all right in the end. Do you believe me?" Lily asked.
James kept looking into her eyes as if he were mesmerized. After a moment, he nodded.
"I love you too, Lils," he said quietly.
Lily nodded, kissed him on the forehead and left the room.
When she came back down the stairs, she saw that most of the occupants were gone. Only Sirius, Remus and her best mates still remained.
Four pairs of eyes were trained on her as she stopped at the bottom of the stairs. She looked at them all and slowly walked over to the couch. She sat down and rested her auburn head on the back of it.
The room was eerily quiet as they waited for her to say or do something.
"I know you're all waiting on me to say something, but for tonight, I rather not," Lily said still in the same position.
"We understand," Remus said from the corner of the room.
"Thank you," Lily said quietly.
Lily lifted her head as Sirius and Remus stood up. They both gave her a small smile and headed up the boys' staircase. Her best mates walked over to the sofa and sat next to her.
"I know you don't want to talk about it, but we just want to make sure you're ok," Jenna said.
"Mmm hmm. I'm fine. I still don't know what he has to tell me, yet, but it can't be good. I've never seen James Potter at a loss for words before. It was…strange," Lily said slowly.
"What do you think it may be?" Tegan asked softly.
Lily shrugged. "It could be anything. I know we haven't been together during the summer, but I feel that in a way, we were. I didn't tell him I loved him until yesterday, but I feel I showed him I did when he came to visit me before he left. And I just feel that if he…snogged or shagged someone else whilst in France, I'd feel betrayed. Maybe I'm being stupid," Lily said staring into the fire.
"Lils, that's not stupid. I mean, you told him you fancied him finally. And he'd be a fool to mess that up. I'd kill him myself if he did. Plus, it wouldn't make any sense for him to go after some other bimbo because he's been after you for years," Jenna said.
"I know, but I can't help to think that I waited too long," Lily said quietly.
"No. You had to make sure James Potter grew up. You had to make sure this whole thing wasn't one of his pranks. We all understand that," Tegan said.
Lily nodded. "I did want to be sure he had grown up. And he has and I couldn't help but to fall in love with him. I'd be a fool not to."
The three girls were quiet. Lily broke the silence.
"Thanks for listening to me. I appreciate it so much. I'm going to go to bed. Try to sleep off this whole night. I'll see you two tomorrow," Lily said standing up.
"It's honestly no problem at all," Jenna said with a smile.
"What kind of best mates would we be if we didn't let you talk our ears off?" Tegan asked with a smile.
Lily smiled at them and headed up the stairs to her room.
Sirius and Remus walked up the boys' staircase, but not to their dorm, but up to James' room. They knocked and waited. After a few minutes, the door opened a crack.
"Prongs, let us in," Sirius said.
Without a word, James opened the door and let them in. He shut the door behind him and sat down on his bed. The others followed suit.
"I'm guessing you didn't tell her," Remus said calmly.
James simply shook his head. "I can't tell her yet. I-I just got her, Moony. I'm going to lose her," James said forlornly.
"I know you don't want to hear this, Prongs, but I think you lost her as soon as you did what you did," Sirius said crossing his arms over his chest.
"I know, but I-I love Lily. No one else," James said looking down at his feet.
"We know you do, mate. Just tell her. Maybe once you do and give her time to take it in. Maybe she'll come around. No promises, but just maybe," Lupin said.
"I know I have to tell her. She gave me until the end of the week to get my shit together and tell her."
"Well, take the week to get your shit together and then please tell her. Lily deserves to know," Sirius said looking at James.
"I know that Padfoot! I've wanted to tell her what scum I am since it happened, ok?" James lashed out.
"Sorry, mate. I'm just trying-"
James cut him off. "No, I don't want to hear it. I'll tell her when my time is up and that'll be that."
The other two boys nodded and got up. They didn't say anything to James nor did he say anything to them.
The next day, Lily went about classes, Head duties—sans James and socializing as she usually did. She didn't give anyone any indication that she wasn't completely there. She was still heavily thinking about things with James. The end of the week seemed to loom at her. Everything she didn't want to know about would come to a head. She wasn't ready, but she had to be.
Lily didn't say much to James that day. She only spoke to him when she needed to. She didn't care what the populace of Hogwarts thought about their behavior. All she cared about was getting whatever they needed resolved. She just wanted to go back to how it was only two days ago. Lily wanted the Old James back.
The rest of the week seemed to pass in the same fashion. Lily did what was expected of her and nothing more like she usually did. It was becoming alarming to her close friends. Usually, no matter what, Lily always went above and beyond what was expected of her, but not now. They knew this whole situation with James Potter needed to be resolved and quickly.
In just two days, it would be. It was Friday night and Lily holed herself up in her room with her best mates. It seemed like one of the most normal things she's done all week. They sat around and laughed, talked and ate. It was almost a ritual after all these years. It felt nice.
"Our first week of our last year of Hogwarts is over!" Jen said stuffing her face.
"Jen, you're making it sound like this week was our last week of our last year of Hogwarts," Lily said with a laugh.
"I'm sorry, I'm feeling sentimental," Jenna said with a smile.
"Well, we have awhile until you can truly feel sentimental," Tegan said.
"I can't help it! Plus, both of you will be blubbering idiots when it is our last week of school," Jenna said pointing to the two of them.
The three girls giggled together.
"I know I will be," Lily said sighing.
"Me too," Tegan said.
"Me three," Jenna said laying back on the bed.
The lapsed into quiet. All three in their own little world. Thinking about the future.
"Is anyone frightened about truly growing up?" Tegan asked looking up at Lily's canopy.
"It is scary, isn't it? With the war looming overhead and just going out there being on our own," Jenna said with a sigh.
"It is scary. I often forget about the war. I know it's going on, but living in the Muggle world sometimes you just…forget. Also being at Hogwarts really makes you feel safe. Like nothing will ever harm you here," Lily said.
"I feel that way as well. I feel like we're in our own protective bubble here in Hogwarts. I wish it were like this everywhere," Jenna said.
"Me too," Tegan agreed.
They all lapsed into silence once again. After ten minutes, Tegan set up and stretched.
"I think I'm going to go to bed," she announced.
"Me too. I'm terribly tired," Jenna said.
"Goodnight, girls," Lily said with a wave.
"Goodnight!" They said leaving the room.
Lily lay back down and looked up at her canopy.
She did feel like she lived in a protective bubble. Living within the confines of Hogwarts, Lily felt immensely safe. It also bothered her in a way. Shouldn't everyone in the Wizarding and Muggle world feel this safe? When she left this place, she knew that she would never be this safe ever again. But Lily vowed to herself and everyone in the world that she would help to protect them. She wanted everyone to feel like they lived at Hogwarts. With that thought, she fell into a peaceful sleep.
When Lily woke the next morning, she found a note on the floor next to her door. She stared at it. Someone must have slipped it under there sometime last night or this morning. She bent over and picked it up. She unfolded it slowly and read:
Lily-
I know you gave me until the end of the week, but I think we need to talk tonight. I can't take this much longer. Meet me in my room at 8 pm.
-James
Lily refolded the note and placed it on her dresser. She sighed. She knew it was coming, but deep down she still wasn't ready. Regardless if she was ready or not, it was going to happen.
Lily took a shower and got dressed. She headed down to breakfast knowing her friends would already be there.
And was right. Jenna and Tegan were sitting in their usual spot. Lily slid in where she usually sat and started piling food on her plate.
"Good morning, Lils," Tegan said.
"Morning. Sorry, I'm starved," Lily said digging in.
"I can see that. You're like a ravenous Hippogriff," Jenna said with a smile.
Lily rolled her eyes and continued to eat.
After finishing half of her plate, she spoke up.
"So, James wants to speak to me today," she said nonchalantly, even though she didn't feel that way.
"Oh?" Jenna asked.
"Yeah. Tonight around 8."
"And how are you, uh, feeling about this?" Tegan asked.
Lily simply shrugged. "It's about time, but I'm still dreading this whole talk," she said.
"I can understand. I'd be very apprehensive about this as well. Don't worry, Lils. Whatever it is, it'll be all right," Jenna said.
"I hope so," Lily said starting to get up, "I'm going to go to the Head's Common Room. I want to get some work done."
She bid her friends goodbye and headed upstairs. She quickly ran to her room and grabbed her bag. She headed towards the Head's Common Room. Lily gave the password and stepped in. With a great sigh of relief, James wasn't occupying the area.
Lily quickly sat down and pulled out her supplies. She quickly busied herself in her work. She didn't realize someone had opened the door. When she heard a chair scrap the floor, Lily looked up to see a pair of hazel eyes staring into her green ones.
Lily didn't do anything, didn't say anything. She just stared. James sat down and placed his hands on the table. Lily finally let exhaled.
"Hi," James said quietly.
"Hello," Lily said just as quietly.
"I've been looking for you," James said fidgeting.
"Oh? Well, you have found me," Lily said feeling as if this conversation felt familiar.
"I have. I decided we need to talk now," James said.
Lily didn't say anything, but simply nodded.
James sucked in a breath and then exhaled.
"All right. I-I'm sorry that I didn't tell you sooner. And I just want to let you know that I love you. I love you more than anyone. And you have to know this was a mistake. This wasn't what I wanted to do. I take complete blame for this. I should have known better. And I'm terribly sorry, Lils," James said sadly.
"James, just spit it out."
"All right…one night Sirius and I got piss drunk with my cousins. I can usually hold my liquor, but I don't know what I was even drinking the whole night. Well, my cousins, Padfoot and I all headed into town to just start some fun. Well, my cousins were all flirting and such with the girls in the town. Padfoot was as well. I was just enjoying myself and finishing off the bottle. A girl approached me. She sat down next to me and we talked. She asked if I had a girlfriend and I answered yes because Lils you're it for me and now that you reciprocate my feelings, I felt we were together, but not. Anyways, we talked more and before she left, she leaned down and kissed me. I was so shocked that my drunken mind pulled away when it was too late. I should have been on guard. I don't want anyone but you, Lily. After pulling away, I ran for it. I'm not asking for your immediate forgiveness, but please know that this was eating me up inside since it happened," James finished quietly.
Lily continued to stare at the boy in front of her. She didn't know what to think.
He didn't want to kiss this girl, but he was so drunk and out of his normal mindset that he didn't react to it until it was too late. She and James weren't officially together at the time, but he felt like they were together regardless of title. Lily felt the same way. So, all-in-all, he had cheated on her.
James finally looked up at her. She saw unshed tears in his eyes. Lily looked at him with no emotions giving her away.
"Lily, please say something," James pleaded.
Lily sucked in a breath and exhaled it like James had moments before.
"James…I don't know what to say. I mean, we weren't officially together, but I felt the same way you did. I felt like we were together—in a way. That night you came to my room, I felt that we made a silent promise to one another that I was yours and you were mine. I know that it wasn't completely your fault, but I suppose you should have known better. Especially since you were knackered! James, I want this to work out between us and you're right into believing that I won't be forgiving you for, I don't really know how long. I just need some time. Maybe you need a bit of time as well," Lily said starting to pack up.
"I-I understand. Again, I'm sorry. I can't even put into words how sorry I am. Just know I love you," James said staring right into her eyes.
"I know you do James and I-I love you, too. I mean, you should have told me as soon as possible. That's what's really pissing me off. Things may not have been so bad if you just told me over the summer. All summer I thought about you. And wondering and worrying. And in the end, all the things I told myself wouldn't or couldn't happen has happened. I almost feel foolish believing that you've grown up."
"Lily, I have grown up! I have. It was a dumb mistake and I am regretting it more than you know. I know that means nothing right now, but I have to tell you that. I've grown up and I've changed. I'm not the same 15 year old boy that you grew to hate. And I promise for the rest of the year, I will prove to you that I have changed. I promise," he said getting up.
Lily nodded. "Then show me."
With that, Lily walked out of the Common Room and headed to her room. All the while tears pricking her eyelids.
Later that evening, there were several knocks on Lily's door. Lily had been sprawled upon her bed, crying since she'd come back from talking to James. Lily got up slowly and lumbered over to her door. When she opened it, she saw Jenna, Tegan, Remus and Sirius standing there.
"We heard you spoke to James, let us in," Tegan said behind the boys.
Lily silently let them in.
All four of her friends sat on the floor in a semi-circle around her bed. They looked like a bunch of kindergarteners sitting there waiting on the teacher to read them a book. Lily smiled to herself for a moment and then sat on her bed.
"All right, what happened?" Tegan asked impatiently.
Lily sighed. She gave them the abridged version of everything they said.
"That fucking arsehole!" Jenna yelled.
Tegan and Lily looked at their conservative friend.
"What? You two are acting as if you've never heard me swear, ever. Which is a lie. I've swore many of times. Now, I am going to kill him," Jenna said.
"No, don't kill him," Lily answered quietly.
"And why the hell not?" Tegan asked.
"Because I'm giving him a chance," Lily said.
"What? To cheat on you again!" Tegan asked angrily.
"Whoa, whoa! Even though Prongs has done something completely thick and mental doesn't mean he's going to do it again. Ever since that night, he's been beating himself up about it. I had to watch over him for the rest of the summer to make sure the bloke didn't off himself," Sirius said crossing his arms and glaring at Tegan.
"I agree with Sirius. I know James would never want to hurt Lily again. He couldn't ever hurt Lily again. I haven't seen him this upset since Lily rejected him all those years ago. I know you're doing the 'best mate' thing right now, but if Lily's willing to give him a chance, maybe you two shouldn't be ready to kill him off. I know you're going to protect Lily no matter what, but in the end Lily's the one who's going to make the decision," Lupin said.
"Thanks for agreeing with me Moony!" Sirius said with a smile.
"Pads, you're not as daft as I thought you were," Remus said smiling at him.
"Thank you all for your concern and Sirius and Remus are right. I will be making the decision in the end. And Tegan and Jen that's for wanting to protect me. I'll see if James can prove to me that he has indeed matured and gain my trust back," Lily said to her friends.
"We'll always try to protect you, Lils. You're our best mate. It's in the job description!" Jenna said with a smile.
"And we hope James proves you can trust him again. He loves you. He truly does," Tegan added.
Lily nodded thoughtfully.
"Well, Lily-Flower, we should go so that you can get some rest," Sirius said as he kissed her cheek.
Remus, Tegan and Jenna all followed suit and headed to her door.
"Bye guys and thank you ever so much," Lily said before they left.
They all smiled at her and went back to the Common Room.
After her visit with her friends, she felt a tiny bit of hope that wasn't there hours ago. She hoped as well as they did that James Potter proved he had matured and that she could trust him. She loved him still even after learning what happened.
Lily sighed to herself and changed her clothes so should could get ready for bed.
Several months had passed. It was now February. During the months that passed, many things had transpired.
Jenna and Robert Burns broke up
Lily stayed at Hogwarts for the holidays (for the first time in her Hogwarts career)
Many others also stayed during the holidays
Lily saw an old acquaintance and wished she hadn't
Things between Lily and James weren't so frigid
One November day, Jenna ran into Lily's room without knocking. Lily was lying on her stomach doing a bit of homework when Jenna burst in. Lily sat up startled.
"Lily!" Jenna called.
"Yes Jenna? And you don't have to yell, I am only a meter away from you," Lily said sitting Indian style on her bed.
"Sorry," Jenna said quietly.
Lily finally noticed the tears streaming down Jenna's face. Lily instantly got up and hugged her. Jenna clung to Lily as the sobs increased.
"Jen, what happened?" Lily asked while rubbing her back.
"R-Robert broke up with me!" Jenna sobbed.
"What? Why?" Lily asked holding her friend at arm's length.
"B-b-because I wouldn't have s-s-sex with him."
"Are you fucking kidding me!" Lily said.
Jenna quickly shook her head.
"I know you aren't, Jenna. That is the worst excuse I've ever heard. You shouldn't be wasting your tears over that bastard. If you didn't want to have sex with the slimy git, you don't have to. Plain and simple," Lily said looking at her best mate.
"I know," Jenna said quietly.
"Good, then why are you crying?" Lily asked.
"Because it makes me feel that that's all boys want from me and I'm sick of it!"
"Oh, Jen. You're gorgeous, inside and out and you know there's a boy out there that won't solely want you for sex. They'll see what I've seen for seven years. Don't worry about Robert or any other boy that thinks of you in that way. Ok?" Lily asked with a smile.
Jenna nodded and hugged her best friend. "Thanks, Lils."
"No problem love."
Jenna let her go and headed to the door. With one last smile, Jenna closed the door.
It was getting close to the holidays. The signup sheets for who was staying at Hogwarts over the holidays were already posted on the wall outside of the Great Hall. Lily looked at them every time she came down for a meal. She was half tempted to sign up. Christmas wouldn't be the same when she went home. Petunia wasn't going to be there now that she and Vernon were married. Mum and Dad could go visit them for Christmas this year.
Lily decided and quickly scrawled her name on the list. If she looked closely she would have seen a few other names that would have maybe changed her mind about the matter. But alas, Lily signed her name and didn't give it a second thought. After she signed her name, she wrote to her parents telling them that she was staying for the holidays and would see them soon enough.
The time for the others to leave was drawing close. Tegan and Jenna begged her to come home with one of them over the holidays, but Lily declined. She wanted to stay at the castle. She thought it would be fun without having hundreds of students roaming around all day. It would just be her and a few others that decided to stay.
Lily told her two best mates goodbye and happy Christmas before they departed. They exchanged gifts and said their goodbyes. Lily promised to write them if something interesting happened while they were away.
It had been several hours since the last student left. Lily was lying on her bed, enjoy the silence. She felt that she was the last Gryffindor in the tower. Was she? Lily got up and walked down to the Common Room. It was empty, but she heard a few voices. Curiosity getting the best of her, she went to find these voices.
She stood at the bottom of the boys' staircase. Whoever was still in the tower was definitely up there. Lily slowly started climbing up the stairs. The voices sounded like they were coming from James' room. Oh no he was still here. Lily stopped in front of the door and placed an ear to it.
"I think we're the only ones left in the tower," Peter said with a smile in his voice.
"I think we may be the only ones here in the school. I doubt anyone else wanted to stay," Sirius said barking a laugh.
"If only we could be so lucky," Remus said.
"No, I think someone else is in the tower as well," James said.
"Take out the map and see," Peter suggested.
They all stopped talking and Lily heard someone take out what sounded like parchment.
Without another word, the dorm door opened and Lily almost fell into the room.
"Hello Lily," Peter said with a smile.
"Oh, um, hello," she said turning as red as her hair.
"Spying on us Lily-Flower?" Sirius asked amusement dancing across his face.
"No. I was seeing if anyone else was in the tower and I heard voices. So I came up to see who was still here," Lily ended lamely.
"Using your Head Girl skills," Remus said with a knowing smile.
Lily glared at him and looked down at her shoes. "You could say that."
"It's all right Lily. We were equally as curious as you to see if anyone was indeed still here. If you want, we were going to go around the castle to see if anyone else was here," Remus said.
"Oh no, that's all right. I'll leave you four to it. I'm going to go do some work or something. Thanks for the invite," Lily said with a small smile.
"Oh come now, Lily-Flower! We invited you. You should come. Who wants to work on holiday homework when you could hang out with us, the coolest people in the castle? No, don't answer that. Only you and Moony would ever want to willingly work on homework," Sirius said with a chuckle.
Lily gave him a smile. "If you all don't mind."
Sirius looked around at his best mates. "Do any of you oppose?"
All three boys shook their head.
"All right! It's settled, let's go!"
The five of them set out of the tower and walked every nook and cranny of the castle. Lily was amazed by their knowledge of the castle. She would have never guessed that there were so many hidden passages and rooms. Ultimately Lily enjoyed herself.
She and James barely said anything to each other. They only spoke when it was necessary. This was the first time they really had been in close proximately to one another since James told her what had happened over the summer. It was still a bit uncomfortable for Lily, but James seemed to be handling their closeness well. Or he hid it. Lily didn't quite know.
The night ended with them getting food and butterbeer from the kitchen and sitting in the Common Room together. It was a fun first night. They all laughed and talked. All awkwardness between her and James was momentarily forgotten.
The grandfather clock next to the fire chimed. Lily looked at the time and saw that it was one am. She quickly threw her bottles away and started walking to the girls' staircase.
"Where are you going Lily-Flower?" Sirius asked.
"To bed Sirius," Lily said with a giggle.
"It's still early. It's not like we have anything to do tomorrow anyways. What's the hurry?"
"I am tired and I do have things to do tomorrow, er, today," Lily amended.
"Such a killjoy," Sirius said with a smile.
"No, I'm practical."
"If you say so," Sirius said taking a sip from his fire whiskey bottle.
"Goodnight Lily!" Remus and Peter called.
"Goodnight boys."
"Goodnight Killjoy," Sirius called.
"Goodnight Sirius," Lily said with a laugh.
"Goodnight Lily," James said quietly.
"Um, goodnight James," Lily said with a slight blush.
She quickly headed up the stairs without a backwards glance.
Days passed. It was Christmas morning. Lily sat on her window seat and watched as the snow fell silently to the ground. Hogwarts was beautiful surrounded by snow. Lily sighed. She wished she stayed previous years so she could savor this feeling, but this was her first and last time to ever feel this way. She felt at peace.
Sure things weren't as well as they should be, but in that moment she felt that everything would be okay. She just knew it. With one last look at the snow-covered grounds, Lily got up and got ready for the day.
She headed down to breakfast. It felt strange walking by herself. It also felt strange that the castle was so quiet. It had been several days, but she still wasn't used to the feeling yet. There was one table in the middle of the room. Lily, the Marauders and a few students from Hufflepuff remained. Lily was the first of all of the students to arrive for breakfast.
She smiled and said her good mornings to the staff as she sat down. She focused on her breakfast in front of her and nothing else. So when Sirius Black called her name from right behind her, Lily was quite startled.
"All right there, Lily-Flower?" Sirius asked with a grin.
Lily glared at him. "Yes, Sirius, I'm fine. You just startled me is all."
Sirius chuckled and sat down next to her.
"So the lads and I are planning to go to Hogsmeade today to get in the holiday spirit. Do you wish to tag along?"
"What? Dumbledore hasn't given us a Hogsmeade weekend during holiday," Lily said turning towards him.
"No shit Lily-Flower!"
"Then how are you and the rest of the Marauders planning on getting there without anyone knowing?" Lily asked raising an eyebrow.
"Love, you must not know us by now. We know how to get places," Sirius said with a wink.
Lily rolled her green eyes.
"So are you in?" Sirius asked smiling.
"I suppose. When are we going?"
Sirius clapped his hands with a huge grin on his face. "Sometime during the afternoon. I'll find you."
With that, Sirius got up silently and walked out as quickly as he came.
Lily sat there shaking her head and smiling. What had she just agreed to?
Lily was sitting in the Common Room reading a book when Sirius bound in.
"Ready to go Lily-Flower?" He asked with his grey eyes alight with mischief.
Lily giggled and got up. "Let me grab my cloak and shoes."
Sirius nodded and watched as Lily ran up the stairs. Moments later she returned in proper weather attire.
Sirius held out his arm and Lily took it without a word. The two friends walked out of the tower and towards an old classroom with an ugly statue of a woman with a hump. Lily looked around confused.
"I thought we were going to Hogsmeade," Lily said.
"And we are. We have to wait on the others," Sirius said leaning against the wall.
They didn't have to wait long, the other three Marauders could be heard yelling and laughing as they made their way towards Sirius and Lily. Sirius pushed himself from the wall and turned himself towards the sound of the voices.
James followed closely by Remus and Peter came around the corner.
"Happy Christmas," Remus said to Lily.
"Happy Christmas, Remus. And Happy Christmas to the rest of you," Lily added.
"Happy Christmas!" The other three chorused.
"Shall we go now?" Peter asked.
James took out his wand tapped the Old Crone's humped and said Dissendium. The statue moved out of the way and revealed a passageway. Lily's eyes bugged out of her head. Sirius rolled his grey eyes and took hold of her arm. He led her into the passageway after the others.
"Where does this lead?" Lily asked no one in particular.
"Honeydukes," Remus answered.
Lily nodded even though no one could see her.
Moments later they walked into Honeyduke's cellar. James told the others to stay down there and he'd check to see if the coast was clear. It was, so the five of them made their way up to the shop and out onto the street.
"Good, no one's out," Sirius said rubbing his hands together.
"What did you think Padfoot, it is Christmas after all," Remus said with a smile.
Sirius crossed his arms and walked in silence.
They headed to the Three Broomsticks. There were only a few people in the bar. All at their own tables nursing a drink.
The five of them sat in a booth together.
"Drinks? Food?" James asked.
"Mhm. Five Butterbeers?" Remus asked the table.
They all nodded in agreement.
James got up and went to order their drinks. James came back holding their drinks and quickly dispersed the drinks.
The five of them spoke of nonsense the whole time, telling stories, laughing and arguing. Lily—who sat closest to the window—glanced out of the window into the snow-covered street. Lily did a double take. She couldn't have seen him. It had to be someone who looked like him.
Lily stood up.
"Lily, are you ok?" Peter asked.
She nodded. "If you don't mind, I'm going to head over to Zonko's. I'll be right back."
The boys all looked at her with confused expressions and simply nodded.
Lily dashed out of the bar and looked around the street. No one was there. She went the way she saw the person that looked like him went. As she walked carefully down the street, she saw two figures ahead of her. As she got nearer, he suspicions were confirmed.
Severus Snape was standing at the end of the street with someone else that Lily couldn't quite make out. Lily looked around for a place to hide. There was an alleyway next to her. She quickly dashed into it and peeked around the corner.
Snape looked pissed off. Lily could tell by his body language. He was tense and his face was in the same cold mask. Lily couldn't hear what the two were saying however, but it couldn't be good.
Before she realized it, their talk was over. Severus was walking towards her. Lily started panicking. She swiftly flattened herself to the wall of the alleyway.
"Lily, I know you're there," she heard.
She bit her lip. What was she to do now? She decided to go out and face him.
"Hello, Severus," Lily said coolly.
"What are you doing here?" He asked looking around.
"What does it matter to you? Oh, right. You shouldn't get caught talking to me Severus, you'll get in trouble."
Snape stood up straighter. "It doesn't have to be this way."
"You're right, but you blew it."
"I know I did, but Lily…"
"No, don't 'but Lily' me. Why aren't you in school?" Lily asked crossing her arms.
"I completed my education early," Snape said slowly.
"I see. Well, I should be getting back to my friends," Lily said turning to leave.
"You mean Potter and company?" Snape drawled.
Lily turned back around. "Does it matter if I'm friends with him! You gave up on me. You have no rights, friends of not, to delegate who I'm friends with! That's my decision."
"He's no good for you, Lily. When will you see that?"
"You're wrong, he deserves me," Lily said turning and walking back towards the bar leaving a stunned Severus Snape behind her.
"Where'd you go, Evans?" James asked.
Lily turned to look at him. Her green eyes holding unshed tears.
"I ran into someone," Lily said quietly.
"Who?" James asked gently.
"Severus," Lily said barely audible.
James didn't say anything. He merely stared at Lily's downcast fast.
"I'm sorry, Lily," he said quietly.
"It's all right. I thought it was him and I shouldn't have gone after him. I don't know what I was thinking."
Silently, James walked closer to her. She looked up at him and saw his hazel eyes full of concern.
"You just let your curiosity get the best of you, is all," he said walking closer to her.
When she didn't tell him to back away, he hugged her. Lily stood there for a moment and then wrapped her arms around him.
The short-lived familiarity of it all was over-whelming. Lily felt safe and warm. It was intoxicating. Lily quickly pushed herself away and gave him a small smile.
James gave her a small smile back. The awkwardness seeped in.
"Prongs? Did you find her yet? Oh, there you are Lily-Flower!" Sirius said.
"Yup, here I am," she said with a smile.
"Ready to go?" Remus asked as he and Peter made their way over to the others.
They nodded and headed towards Honeydukes.
When they made it back to the Common Room, Lily told the boys she'd see them at dinner and went up to her room.
When she got to her room, she sat on the window seat by her bed.
Lily missed James. Yes, he messed up—yet it really wasn't his fault—and she was still mad about it. But yet she still loved him. How could see not? But she was still hurt about what happened over the summer. It didn't help that he seemed so intoxicating to her. Dammit.
Lily realized she hadn't opened her presents yet. The small pile was sitting at the bottom of her bed. She walked over to her bed and sat down. She quickly opened the present from her parents, Tegan, Jenna, Sirius and Remus and then…James. James still got her a gift regardless of the fact they weren't really speaking to each other.
Lily lifted up the bracelet and looked at it in the light. It was beautiful. It was pearl and simple. Lily never liked ostentatious things. Lily smiled to herself. She placed it on her left wrist and admired it against her milky skin.
Lily grabbed her parchment and decided to write to her friends and parents to thank them for the gifts. Also to inform her mates about what was happening at Hogwarts whilst they were away. She'd personally thank Sirius and Remus for their gift. Would she personally thank James or would she be cowardly and write him a thank you letter as well?
In the end, Lily took the coward's way out and wrote James a quick note.
James-
Thank you ever so much for the bracelet. It's beautiful and perfect. I feel like a right ass for not getting you anything (yet again). You seem to never tell me we're getting anything for one another for Christmas. I will get you something, mark my words.
Lily
She folded the note and quickly walked down the girls' staircase and crossed to the boys'. She quietly walked up to James' door, slid the note underneath and darted back to her room.
It was hard being sneaky, Lily decided. She went to sit back on her window seat. The sun was setting and she soaked up the last remnants of the sunshine. As she was lost in her thoughts, she heard a noise and discovered a note lying on her floor.
Lily got up and picked it up. She knew immediately that it was from James. It read:
Lily-
Again, you don't have to get me anything. You never do. I'm glad you liked your bracelet. I saw it and it immediately screamed "Lily". Happy Christmas, again. I'll see you soon for dinner.
And you're welcome.
James
P.S. Sirius is quite upset that you haven't thanked him for the gift he and Remus gave you.
Lily smiled and folded the note up again. She shook her head and sighed. She opened her door and headed down to dinner. She would thank Sirius and Remus when she saw them so Sirius could stop fuming.
Days flew by. It was New Years Eve already. After the New Year, there were only a few months left of school left. Their last year at Hogwarts was quickly coming to a close.
Lily was sitting downstairs in the Common Room doing last minute homework. She realized she had been a bit lax over holiday, more so than she has ever been over the years. She also realized she's been having fun, more so than she has in years. Change was good.
Lily's thoughts were interrupted when she saw Remus Lupin sit down next to her.
"Hello Remus," Lily said with a smile.
"Hello. Doing work as well?"
"Yes, I realized I got a bit behind schedule," Lily said with a shrug.
"I did as well," he said with a smile.
"Well I can see why. Hanging out with you and the Marauders is a full-time job."
"That it is. Speaking of hanging out with us, Sirius has this silly idea of having a New Years Eve party."
"It sounds silly especially since there's only the five of us in the tower and the scant few in Hufflepuff."
"Well knowing Sirius, that won't stop him. He'll have this party as if the whole school was present."
They both laughed together and then lapsed into silence.
"So how have you been, really?" Remus asked.
Lily exhaled loudly.
"I've been all right. I mean things with James and I aren't as bad as they were. We're on speaking terms and ever since Christmas day; I've felt all right around him again."
"That's good. I know he misses you. I'm glad that he's not acting like James from the past. If he were, he would be complaining every few minutes about how he misses you, but James now is being more reserved. It's…strange," Remus said knitting his eyebrows together.
"Really?" Lily asked thoughtfully.
"Mmm hmm."
The two friends didn't say anything for awhile. All was heard was the scratching of their quills on parchment. After a few minutes, the portrait opens and Sirius and Peter bust in.
"The party has arrived!" Sirius yelled.
Lily turned around and looked at the boy. "Sirius, there's barely anyone here, no need to yell."
"I'm sorry Lily-Flower, I'm fucking excited!"
"I can see that."
"And we brought fire whiskey," Peter added with a smile.
"I can see that as well," Lily said.
"Aw, Lily-Flower you aren't going to celebrate with us?" Sirius asked giving her puppy dog eyes.
"I don't know yet," Lily said turning back around.
"Aw come on! This may be the last year you get to celebrate Marauders style," Sirius said sitting on the arm of the couch.
"That's what frightens me," Lily said looking up at him.
"What does?" Sirius asked confused.
"Marauder's style," Lily said with a smirk.
"Oh Lily-Flower there isn't anything to worry about!"
Lily saw Remus shaking his head next to her.
"If Remus thinks it's a bad idea and he's a Marauder, then there's something wrong!"
"Don't pay attention to straight-laced Remus. He knows he enjoys every second of our greatness," Sirius said with a smile.
"Not every second, Padfoot!" Remus corrected.
"Whatever, don't listen to him. Just have fun with us!" Sirius said pleading with Lily.
Lily rolled her eyes. "Fine, but this is the last time."
"Never say never, Lily-Flower," Sirius said with a smirk.
After dinner, the New Years festivities began. Sirius poured them all fire whiskey and broke out the records.
Lily noticed throughout dinner that James was missing. She thought it odd considering he's usually front and center for a Marauder's party. Lily saw that Sirius was distracted and set her drink down. She quickly headed for James' room.
Lily inhaled and knocked on the door. No answer. She knocked again. Again, no answer. She was about to walk away when she heard the door open a crack. She turned around and saw James Potter squinting at her.
"Hey," Lily said quietly.
"Hi," James said sleepily.
"Were you sleeping the whole time?" Lily asked.
"Yeah, I fell asleep after lunch."
"Well, you've missed dinner and you're missing Sirius' New Years party."
James chuckled. "I'll be down. I'm just going to go change."
Lily nodded and headed back downstairs.
"Lily-Flower where did you go!" Sirius yelled.
"Sirius Black what did I tell you about yelling?"
"Sorry."
"And if you must know I went to see if James was in his room since he didn't turn up at dinner," Lily said with her hands on her hips.
"Was he still asleep?" Remus asked taking a sip of whiskey.
Lily nodded.
"Good old Prongs. He probably would have slept through the New Year if you didn't wake him," Peter said.
"My thoughts exactly," Lily said sitting back down.
"Prongs!" Sirius yelled happily.
Lily just shook her head. She knew he wouldn't listen to her about yelling for no reason.
"You've finally decided to join us, eh?" Remus said with a laugh.
"Shut up, Moony. I was tired," James said sitting on the couch next to Remus.
"I'm only joking with you," Remus said nudging him.
Sirius came over to the couch and handed James a glass of whiskey.
"Thanks mate," James said to Sirius.
Sirius nodded and sat back down in his chair.
The night consisted of singing—albeit badly—to songs, talking, more storytelling and of course meaningless arguments.
Lily was enjoying herself even if she was a little concerned about this Marauder style Sirius was talking about earlier. As the time drew closer to midnight, Lily felt oddly reminiscent to the year prior. It had been Sirius, James, Tegan, Jenna and herself. Would she kiss James again? Part of her wanted to, but the other part was scared to.
"Excellent, it's almost that time," Sirius said looking over at Lily.
Lily gave him a confused look.
"Oh, no! You're not going to make us go around and tell everyone our resolutions?" Peter groaned.
"I actually am, Wormy," Sirius said with a mischievous smirk, "you can go first by the way."
Peter groaned. "I just want this—our friendship—to continue."
"It will Wormy, don't worry. Moony, your turn!"
"I just want…a job where I'm accepted," he said quietly.
"Moony, you'll be fine. Don't worry," James said with concern.
Remus nodded and remained quiet.
"Your turn Prongs!" Sirius said.
"I just want to fix everything and continue to be mates with you all," he said with a smile.
"Oh, Prongs. You'll never lose us. And I think everything will be fixed soon," Sirius said with a wink, "Lily-Flower your turn!"
"Erm, I plan to do well in my career choice and also to make sure everything is fixed in my life," Lily said quickly.
"Lily-Flower, you're always the over achiever," Sirius said with a laugh.
Lily stuck her tongue out at him.
"Now it's my turn!" Sirius said rubbing his hands together, "I plan to finally get my motorbike."
The three boys that sat around him let out a round of laughter.
"You're finally going to get it then Padfoot?" James said after his laughter died down.
Sirius nodded vigorously.
They started up again.
"You know, it's not that funny. When you arseholes are going to be riding brooms, I'll be riding in style. And you'll ask me for a ride and I'll tell you no because you all laughed at me," Sirius sniffed.
"You tell them, Sirius," Lily said with a smile.
"At least she understands me!" Sirius said pointing at Lily.
The three boys finally stopped their laughing.
"So you think," Peter said with a smile.
Sirius crossed his arms and turned his head away from his friends.
"Oh! It's midnight! Happy New Year everyone," Lily said holding up her glass.
The others followed suit and clinked their glasses together.
"Happy New Year," they all said in unison.
After a bit more chit chat, Lily decided to call it a night.
"Well, I will bid you all goodnight," Lily said finishing her glass and setting it down.
"Aw, so soon?" Sirius whined.
"'Fraid so," Lily said with a smile.
Sirius got up and hugged her and gave her a sloppy, wet kiss on her cheek. Lily giggled and wiped the kiss off.
Remus and Peter merely said goodnight instead of following Sirius' ridiculousness.
"Um, can I come talk to you for a bit?" James asked Lily.
Lily nodded and started for the stairs. James ran up the boys' staircase and grabbed his broom. He flew up Lily's staircase and saw her door was already open. He landed at her doorway.
"You can come in and shut the door if you want."
James nodded and walked in.
"So what did you want to talk about?" Lily asked sitting on her bed.
"I was just wondering if you wanted to fix us as well. Was that what part of your resolution was about?" James asked sitting on the floor.
Lily nodded. "Yeah, after you hugged me on Christmas, I can't deny it any longer. I still feel the same way about you, but I'm still scared. I just want to take it one step at a time."
"I understand. I really do. I'll take it slow as long as I get you back because I've been miserable without you. It hurts to have had you and then to lose you so quickly," James said playing with his broom.
"I know. It hurts me as well, but we'll get back to that," she said with a small smile.
"I'm glad to hear that."
Lily nodded again and got up.
"Well, I'll let you go to bed then. Happy New Year again. I'll see you later."
Before James could turn around and open the door, Lily was standing in front of him.
He could see the light freckles on her nose. He wanted to reach out and lightly touch them with his index finger, but he restrained the need.
Lily leaned in closer. He could feel her warm breath, that smelled like fire whiskey, on his face. It was intoxicating. He leaned forward as well.
James felt Lily's lips upon his. James was shocked, but then quickly responded back to her lips. He missed the feel of her lips on his. He savored the moment. He didn't get aggressive like he wanted to, but kisses her like she was fragile. Lily's tongue darted out and licked his bottom lip. James opened his mouth and rolled his tongue around hers. This was pure pleasure.
Lily pulled back moments later. Her face was flush and her breathing coming out in quick sprits. James was in the same state.
"Goodnight, Lily," he said lightly stroking her face.
"Goodnight, James."
With that, he turned around and flew back down to the Common Room.
Present day (February)
Lily was sitting around with Jenna and Tegan in the Head's Common Room when the door burst open. The three girls sat up straighter and looked to see who came rushing into the room. It was Sirius, Peter and Remus.
"Lily!" Remus said out of breath.
"What's going on?" Lily asked standing up.
"You have to come with us," he said gasping.
"Why? What happened?" Lily asked her voice full of concern.
"Just come with us," Remus said quickly.
Lily looked at her mates and they told her to go. Lily nodded and ran out of the room with the three boys.
"Tell me what's going on!" Lily said.
"James, James isn't doing so well," Sirius said quietly.
"Why?" Lily asked.
"His parents were killed, Lily-Flower," Sirius said slowly.
Lily gasped and put a hand over her mouth. "What? How?"
"They were on a mission and they-they were surround…" Sirius didn't finish the sentence.
Lily quickened her pace as did the others.
"He won't let us anywhere near him, so we were hoping that you could try," Remus said.
"I'll try," was all she could say.
Peter yelled the password to the Fat Lady and they hurried inside. They all ran up the boys' staircase and stopped in front of James' door.
Lily stepped closer to the door and knocked. No answer. Lily knocked harder.
"Go away!" James yelled.
"James, it's Lily. Let me in, please," Lily said with desperation.
"Lily? Just leave me alone," he said.
Lily looked around at the boys and bit her lip.
"The password to his room is flower," Remus said quickly.
Lily nodded and muttered the password. The door opened with a small click. She gave his friends one last look and headed inside.
The room was dark. The red and gold velvet curtains were drawn. The lights in the room were out. Lily could barely make out James' shape on his bed. Lily slowly walked over to him.
"James?" She said quietly.
"How'd you get in here?" He asked just as quietly.
"Remus gave me your password."
"Oh. Well, I don't want to see anyone right now, Lily. Can you please leave?"
"I can't do that, James."
"Why?" He asked sitting up.
"I have to make sure you're all right," she said sitting on the edge of his bed.
"I'm not all right, Lily. I doubt I'll ever be all right again," James said softly.
"I know it hurts right now, but you will be all right again James. You have to be. Your parents would want you to live a long, happy life."
"You don't know how this feels, Lily. And how would you know what my parents would want!"
"I know I don't know how it feels to lose parents, but I do know how it feels to lose others. I admit, I don't know what your parents would want, but I'm sure they wouldn't want you to throw your life away because they aren't around anymore."
James didn't say anything for awhile. He merely soaked everything in. He scooted closer to Lily.
Lily hesitantly put an arm around his shoulders. He laid his head on her shoulder and sighed.
"I'm glad you're so hard-headed," James said with a smile in his voice.
"Well, I'm guessing that's the best thank you I'm going to get," Lily said with a laugh.
James lifted his head and turned to look at her. Lily couldn't make out his features in the dark, but she knew he was looking at her. She could feel it.
"I love you, Lily. I feel like I have to tell you that."
"I love you too, James."
"You know, I always thought my parents were invisible. I mean, I know they really weren't, but I just felt that they were. I know it sounds ridiculous and childish, but that's how I saw them. With them…dying, reality has finally set in. And I'm actually scared. I'll admit it; the Great James Potter is scared. If my parents could be done away with so easily, could I?"
Lily rubbed small, soothing circles around his back. "It's not ridiculous or childish to think that your parents were invincible. I think we all think that way. We love them so much that we think nothing bad could ever happen to them. And maybe that isn't such a bad thing, but it hurts twice as much when we discover it's not true. And James, you're allowed to be scared. I'm scared too. All of us are scared. With this war looming over our heads, it makes sense to be scared. And don't worry about being done away with. You're the Great James Potter," Lily said with a smile.
James chuckled beside her and rubbed his knuckles over her cheek.
Lily leaned into his hand and closed her eyes. She was startled when she felt his lips on hers. Lily responded to his urgency. She felt the need in his kisses. He needed to be reassured. He needed to feel loved. He needed to forget for awhile. And Lily would give him all of those things.
James's tongue brushed her bottom lip. Lily opened her mouth slightly to grant him entrance. Their tongues danced together as Lily fisted her small hand in James' hair. It was as soft as she imagined. She felt James' hands rub her back up and down as they continued to snog.
Lily broke the kiss, out of breath and shaking. She felt James was in the same state.
"Lily, I-I want to make love to you," he said softly.
Lily was shocked. "Are you sure, James?"
He chuckled. "Shouldn't I be asking you that question?"
Lily giggled. She placed her lips back upon his and gave him a soft kiss.
James deepened the kiss and went back to where they left off. Lily's hands slid down his chest to his torso. She played with the hem of his shirt. James started to lift his shirt with Lily's help. James broke the kiss long enough to bring his shirt over his head and throw it into the distance. He quickly started kissing Lily again.
Lily gingerly touched James' chest. He couldn't help but smile as she slowly explored his torso. James broke contact with her mouth and slowly kissed her cheeks, her forehead, and her neck. Anything he could reach, he kissed. Lily felt more comfortable now and slowly stroked James' chest and torso. She liked how he shivered under her touch.
James' hands went down Lily's torso slowly. He enjoyed the feel of her curves under his finger tips. His fingers danced around the bottom of her shirt. He lifted her shirt and pulled it over her head. Since James couldn't see her—he wished he could—he lightly traced her body with his hands. Her small, supple breasts felt heavenly even with her bra still securely on. James wanted to feel them without the damned bra.
He slid his hands over her ribs and smirked when she shivered. He slowly caressed her back and unhooked her bra. Lily took the straps down and James' hands instantly went for her chest. His calloused hands were rough, but the feel of them over Lily's soft skin felt amazing. She left out a small groan. James decided to try someone else. He gradually leaned forward and placed chaste kisses all over her chest. When he got close to her nipple, he laved around the taunt bud and then sucked on it softly. Lily's drew back her head and let out a moan. James did the same with the other.
Lily pushed his head away from his breasts and pushed his down. She started kissing him all over. She started at his strong jaw, down his neck and down his chest and stomach. She stopped right above his pants and James thought he was going to pass out from the pleasure her lips brought. Lily sat up and kissed James on the lips.
James flipped them over. Lily could feel his erection pressed to her belly. She gulped. He pulled back and rested on his knees between her legs. She jumped when she felt his hands rubbing up and down her thighs.
"All right there, Evans?" James asked with a smile in his voice.
"Yes, I'm fine," Lily said sounding a bit nervous.
James laughed as his hands inched their way up her skirt. James' hands finally stopped and rested right at the top of her thighs. Lily let out a shaky breath. She then felt his thumb upon her. Lily let out a breathy moan. James' thumb slipped inside her knickers and continued his ministrations. Lily felt her body grow hot. She had never felt so much in such a small amount of time.
She felt like she was losing control of her body. It felt hot and cold at the same time. She felt tension in her stomach and it was growing by the second. Soon the tension was gone and so was her ability to move. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head as she clutched the bed sheets. James removed his thumb laid down next to Lily.
"Bloody hell," Lily whispered.
James let out a soft chuckle and kissed her neck.
"That, that was amazing."
"There's more to come," James said kissing her lips.
She felt James pull off her skirt and knickers. She shivered. She heard James' undoing his belt and slip off his pants. Lily lifted her left arm and ran it down his stomach and stopped at his erection. She gingerly placed it in her hand. Lily heard his breath become shallow. Lily, not having any sexual experience, slowly moved her hand up and down his length. James let out a low moan. Lily smiled to herself and kept going. James grabbed her hand and stopped her.
"Did I do something wrong?" Lily asked with much concern.
"No. You were doing everything quite amazingly, but if you kept going I'd literally explode," James said in a forced voice.
Lily giggled. "I'm sorry."
"S'ok."
James took off his boxers and lay down next to Lily again.
"Are you sure about this?" James asked.
"You finally asked me, eh?" Lily asked with a laugh.
"Shut up, Lils. I'm being serious."
"I know. And I'm very sure about this," Lily said kissing his cheek.
James got up and kneeled between her legs again. Lily felt the heat radiating off of his cock. He scooted closer to her entrance. The head was right between her legs. James rubbed her legs to ask if she was ready. Lily took his right hand and gave it a squeeze.
With that, James slowly pushed his way into her. Lily let out a gasp.
"Am I hurting you?" James asked.
"A little, but it'll go away. Or so I've read."
James let out a nervous laugh and continued to push all the way inside of her. He stopped when his cock was buried inside of her warmth. The warmth and wetness was enough to make James come instantly. But he squeezed his eyes shut and held his breath.
"James?" Lily called.
"Yes?"
"You can move now," she said quietly.
James pulled back bit by bit and then slid back into her. Lily let out a moan as did James. He repeated the process again and again.
James and Lily simultaneously moaning and saying each other's names.
James felt his balls tighten. He knew he was about to come. Lily knew she was close as well.
"Lily, I love you," James said before he threw his head back and came hard.
"I love you too, James," Lily said as her climax hit.
James rolled off of her, but draped a leg over her hip. Both out of breath and sweaty.
Lily turned towards James and kissed his sweetly on the lips.
"So, I think that warrants us being together again," Lily said as she propped herself on her elbow.
James smiled and kissed her nose. "I'd say so."
They both laughed as James wrapped Lily in his arms.
Months passed quickly without any incidents. James and Lily were back together and happy, the Marauders were planning their graduation prank and life—despite the war—wasn't so bad.
Graduation was soon approaching and the 7th years were beyond nervous to be flung into the real world. They were all so accustomed to Hogwarts that it was hard to imagine a life outside its walls. They spent some of their childhood and teenage years at the castle. It was almost unfair that they didn't get to spend their young adult lives at the castle as well.
"So did you write your speech then?" Lily asked James as they sat by the lake with their friends.
"Speech?" James asked raising a black eyebrow.
"Yes? We both have to give one at graduation. Did you not hear McGonagall three days ago when she told us we needed to write speeches?" Lily asked with a smile.
"Lils, when do I ever pay attention to Mcgonagall?"
"Yes, I know stupid question, but I at least hoped you caught that little tidbit."
James smiled charmingly at his girlfriend.
"Give it up, Lily. I'm sure he'll ask me to write his speech at the last minute," Lupin said with a smirk.
"I'm sure he will," Lily said sticking her tongue out at James.
"No, I'll actually write it myself and it'll be excellent," James said crossing his arms with a sniff.
Everyone laughed around him. James glared at them all.
"Prongs, it's all right mate. I believe in you," Sirius said with a wink.
"At least someone does!" James said.
Lily fondly remembered that day by the lake. She was sitting on stage looking out in the crowd of faces of her peers. James sat next to her tapping his foot in anticipation. Dumbledore stood at the podium and smiled at the crowd. He cast a sonorus charm on himself.
"Good morning everyone," he started. The crowd grew quiet as Dumbledore made his speech.
When he was done, the crowd clapped and he looked over at Lily and James. Lily took a deep breath and walked over to the podium.
"Good morning, peers, students and families. My seven years at Hogwarts has taught me a lot. I'm honored I was allowed to come here. The people, teachers and even the odd creature or two has taught me more about myself and the world than I think anyone or anything else could.
Hogwarts has been my home, as it has been for many others. I feel the safest when I'm behind its walls. Now that I am leaving, I don't feel safe anymore. I feel like I'm leaving my childhood and early teenage years behind. I feel like I'm leaving part of myself behind.
It's a strange feeling, but it's part of growing up. And I'm happy to have had the chance to grow up here. And I hope you all feel the same way. And good luck on all of your future endeavors. Thanks," Lily said as she walked away from the podium.
Everyone burst into applause. Lily sat down next to James and winked at him. James smirked at her and got up. He cleared his throat and began.
"Hello people I have grown to like and dislike over these many years. This will probably be the most informal speech you've heard, but what did you really expect from me?
Well, as Evans said, Hogwarts has too been my home and I wouldn't change a thing about it. I found fantastic mates here along with other things. I don't think I've ever gotten in so much trouble anywhere else, but here. And I formally apologize to Dumbledore and the rest of the professors. But just remember that you will sorely miss me and the rest of the Marauders. I guarantee that.
But enough with the mushy stuff and on with more important matters. Let's graduate and show Hogwarts that we're the best class they'll ever have," James finished and smirked at his peers.
He went to sit down with cheers and applause. He took Lily's hand and walked down to where the others were sitting.
Dumbledore once again took the podium and calmed everyone down. He began calling the students' names.
After the last name was called—Zabini, Thaddeus—everyone threw their hats in the air like Muggles did when they graduated. Cheers and fireworks were also heard.
Lily heard her name being called from the crowd. She saw her parents standing there and ran to hug them.
"Congratulations Flower!" Geoffrey said with a grin on his face.
"Thanks daddy!"
Elaine hugged her daughter and sobbed into her neck.
"I'm so proud of you darling," she said wiping her eyes.
"Oh, mum, no need to cry. But thank you," Lily said with a smile.
Lily turned around to see where James was. He was standing next to the Marauders. When she got his attention she motioned him over to her. He slowly walked over to her.
"Mum, dad, this is James Potter…my boyfriend," Lily said biting her bottom lip.
"Well, hello," Elaine said hugging the boy.
"Nice to meet you Mrs. Evans," James said shocked.
When Elaine let the poor boy go, Geoffrey stood in front of him. James gulped and held out his hand.
"Nice to meet you as well Mr. Evans."
Geoffrey took his hand and shook it. "Nice to meet you as well James."
The four became silent.
"Well, this is awkward. I'm going to go," Lily said grabbing James' hand and waving goodbye to her parents.
"Well that was awkward," James said with a smile.
"Indeed. I'm sure I'll hear a lot more about it when I go home," Lily said.
The rest of the Marauders and Tegan and Jenna were sitting down by the lake. The Giant Squid was splashing water about. James and Lily sat down next to their friends.
"We did it. We've survived seven years," Jenna said.
"We did. Who knew it would go so quickly?" Peter asked.
"I sure as hell didn't. It's almost sad," Sirius said watching the squid.
"It is sad. I'll truly miss this place," Lily said putting her head on James' shoulder.
"As will I. We've had a lot of brilliant memories here," James said with a sigh.
"And terrible ones," Remus added.
"But this place will always be our home in a way," Tegan said.
The seven of them grew silent and just soaked in what was going to be their last time looking at Hogwarts.
A/N: Whew! All done! Don't worry there will be an epilogue. I also promise it won't take as long as this did. I have free time now. And I am sorry that this did take so long, as I said before.
I hoped you enjoyed it. I sure did. 74 pages this chapter. I knew it seems rather rushed and I'm sorry. I was trying to get this done as soon as possible! If there's spelling and grammar mistakes, I'll fix them later. I just want to get this out.
Well, reviews are nice, even if you yell at me for taking so long. Lol!
