Disclaimer. I don't own any of it... =(
I'm so sorry for not being able to update this sooner. I'm a bit of a perfectionist, (People who know me laugh hysterically) Okay, so I'm a huge perfectionist, =P Anyhow, I wasn't pleased with the beginning of this chapter at all for some reason. It still bugs me now, but oh well. And I've also been working on the later chapters, which are fun to write. =D So enough of my excuses, on with the story!
Oh, and thank you so much for all of you that reviewed! I'm glad you like it so far. Oh, and the humor will start when he makes it to his 'new life'. Or at least what I hope to be humor. =P Sorry again, now, on with the story!
Well, here's chapter two. =D
Chapter II. My Wonderful Life.
10 Years Later...
"James..."
"...You are one sexy king of the world." James grinned and winked arrogantly to his reflection.
Bare-chested and still a bit wet from his shower, thirty year old James Potter ran his hand through his messy hair, sending flecks of water flying. With one last wink and grin to the mirror he turned on his wireless and headed for his walk in closet.
Inside was an assortment of freshly pressed and expensive Quidditch robes and dress robes. After about fifteen minutes of playing air guitar and lip- syncing to the band on the radio he grabbed an impeccable robe of bright yellow, embroidered with a small black wasp on the chest. Pulling it over his head as he made his way out of the closet.
Using an old trophy as a microphone he continued to sing as he placed on a gleaming pair of silver glasses as well as newly polished shoes. Finally separating from the small gold trophy James was once again in front of his mirror. He smirked and ran a hand through his drying hair.
"Looking good as always dear." The mirror chirped.
"I know." He grinned, and grabbed his wand and a self- inking quill off his dresser amidst the many newspaper and magazine clippings of himself. Carefully placing the objects in his robe pocket, he took yet another look in the mirror and finally headed out.
James was barely a few steps out of his penthouse; still whistling to the tune, which was now in his head, as a chubby, slightly balding man, came running toward him carrying a small gleaming mug.
"Mr. Potter! Mr. Potter! Here's your coffee Mr. Potter! Can I get you anything else?! Please?" The small man squeaked.
"Now Peter," James said smiling as he took the mug, "You know I wouldn't make you get me-"James stopped and sniffed the coffee, "Actually, can you get me a pinch more sugar?" He added changing pegs in a millisecond. "Thanks Pettigrew you're a real pal." He smiled before Peter could answer and handed him back the mug.
"I'm dreadfully sorry Mr. Potter! I should have known you'd want more sugar! Right away sir, right away!" Peter's watery eyes shone with excitement as he scurried away.
"I don't know why you put up with that bloke Prongs, I mean he's not even good-looking... Or a woman for that matter..." A jovial voice sounded behind James.
"Jealous that you don't have someone worshiping the ground under your feet Padfoot?" He answered without turning.
"Dreadfully. I have to put up with millions." Padfoot grinned, falling in stride with James.
He was quite handsome, tall, with black hair that fell casually in his fathomless gray eyes. He was also wearing expensive dress robes in a brilliant shade of scarlet. Their looks and bright robes brought everyone's attention in the lobby to them.
The auror on guard, Kingsley Shacklebolt, nodded and smiled to the two of them. The other penthouse owners smiled and waved excitedly.
"Hello! Good morning all!" Sirius exclaimed cheerfully in a booming voice.
"Don't miss the Quidditch Cup tomorrow! Where I shall lead the Wasps to victory!" James called, with a haughty smile.
"I knew it! I was sure they were!"
"You're right! They are! It's James Potter and Sirius Black!" A woman screeched and with winning grins the two men turned, facing two women standing by the security desk with Shacklebolt, both of whom looked to be in their twenties.
"Hello ladies," James purred suggestively. The women giggled, one was a rather leggy blonde and the other a cutesy brunette. "Going to watch us in the game tomorrow?"
"Of course!" The brunette smiled excitedly. Sharing a glance with her friend, who nodded grinning, "Mr. Potter? I was just wondering..." The brunette started, seeming very shy, "Could I possibly, um, give you a kiss? Just to say I've, well, um, I don't want to if well," James quickly interrupted her babbling and kissed her on the lips dipping her low. James could hear Sirius let out his bark like laugh somewhere behind him.
"Mr. Potter sir?" A voice squeaked, and James dropped the girl, who looked ready to feint anyway. "I'm sorry if I interrupted but here's your coffee sir."
"Thank you Peter," James responded calmly taking a sip of his coffee.
"Do you know I'm commenting the game tomorrow Mr. Potter? I'm so excited! I mean, it's the World Cup!" Peter squeaked, although James continued to drink his coffee as though he had not heard him and Sirius was mocking him while the blonde stifled giggles. "I'd better go! See you!" With that Peter hurried away, unnoticed by James, while Sirius rolled his eyes.
"See, her-"Sirius started, pointing to the brunette who was still on the floor, "I can see her as your personal brown-noser, but why that guy?" declared Sirius pointing in the direction Peter left.
"Will you sign my robe?" The blonde questioned hopefully, interrupting James' answer. James and Sirius turned, both rather surprised as they had forgotten about her almost immediately. Sirius was the first to recover and gave her a quick glance over.
"I dunno, you may have to take it off for me to get it on a flat surface." Sirius commented in a suggestive voice. The blonde flushed red her eyes wide. Sirius suddenly snapped his fingers; he then started in the same deep, suggestive tone. "You know what, I left my quill up in my room. I could sign it there..."
"Coming!" The blonde squealed.
"See you later Prongs!" Sirius called back with a wink.
"You better not be late for the party!" He called to his fellow beater as Sirius turned the corner, arm in arm with the blonde. "Good 'ol Padfoot..." He chuckled to himself draining the rest of the coffee.
He was about to leave when a small bright yellow and black object on the security desk caught his eye. James carefully placed it in his hand.
"I didn't know you were part of my extensive fan club Kingsley," James responded, grinning at the miniature plastic figure of himself in his hand.
"I figured I'd get a souvenir. They were out of flags and pins. Oddly enough, you weren't sold out." Kingsley remarked in his low grumble voice grinning.
"Ah, that's only because they knew everyone would want one so they made double the amounts of this handsome little fellow," James remarked, prodding his little self, "Besides, they'll be sold out by tomorrow." James responded with utter confidence. Kingsley scoffed as James set his little self back on the desk, grinned a goodbye, and headed out.
...
"Chug! Chug! Chug!" A large crowd had made its way around James. He stood on a shining wood table, robes crumpled, with his head tilted back drinking from a large, blown glass bottle.
Sirius stood in an unimpressed stance, arms crossed, a smirk set on his handsome features until he could take no more. He hopped onto the table and grabbed the booze from James, grinning to the crowd Sirius began to chug where James left off, hand out to the crowd, calling for praise. James made a face to the crowd.
Not one to be outdone, James grabbed a rectangular bottle filled with a purple liquid, eyeing Sirius; he began to down the fluid.
"Hey Bagman, ten Galleons says Potter passes out first," Their seeker Lindsay Knight proposed loudly.
"Twenty says he doesn't!" Bagman shouted amidst the din in the pub. A few moments passed and the two men were still downing the drinks when all of a sudden-
"Hey owls!" Lindsay exclaimed pointing.
"A bit too much to drink then eh Knight?" Bagman joked, his round, boyish face a twinge pink."
"No, I think its Potters and Blacks fan mail." She responded matter- of-factly as a few brown barn owls swarmed in. The crowd in the bar seemed a bit shocked to see the owls fly in at first, but they soon turned their attention back to James and Sirius.
"Oy! You two prats! Mail!" Lindsay shouted as the owls flew around the two, yet to be seen.
Finally tearing themselves away from the bottles, James, a bit pink in the face grinned grabbing the closest owl. While the rest of the owls dropped the letters on the table and flew away, he haphazardly ripped open the letter and began to read, his eyes scanning the paper.
"Am I that irresistible? Honestly," he shouted grinning, "Hey bartender! Drinks all around! Put it on my tab!" James yelled as the crowd roared its approval. Grinning he turned to Sirius waiting for some comment or other form of attention seeking.
To his confusion, Sirius' eyes were focused on a single envelope addressed in emerald green writing.
"Padfoot?" James inquired, brows knitted. It wasn't like Sirius to behave like this over fan mail. Then, slowly, as though Sirius didn't believe it himself he showed the letter to James. All it said on the cover was Potter, in handwriting he would recognize anywhere. He quickly grabbed it from Sirius and checked the handwriting up close.
His stomach plummeted and he suddenly became very sober. The crowd was shouting around the two but for the first time in ten years, he wished they were gone. Just being in that bar, in the limelight getting hammered made him feel guilty and unworthy of even touching the letter in his hand. He had to get away... he needed to think...
He suddenly jumped off the table and pushed through the crowd, all giving him curious glances or moaning in protest.
"Potter? Where are you going? It's only ten! Besides, me and Knight here had a bet-"James felt Bagman's hand on his shoulder, he quickly brushed it off and kept walking. Pushing the door open he stalked out into the cool winter night. His hazel eyes fixed on the letter.
What in Merlin's name is this about?! Why would she write me? We haven't spoken or written in ten years! She- why would she do this? Ha! I know! She's jealous! And bitter! Ha, that's it! She's angry because she dumped me and now I'm on top of the world and she's still with nothing! That's what she gets, not believing in my dream, being moody all the time...
James found himself walking twice his normal speed, his eyes fixed on the letter but not seeing it.
What if she's in trouble? Oh no... Maybe she needs my help... Maybe some git is doing something to her. That bastard! Wait, why do I care? It was her decision to leave me at that air pert or whatever it was. I don't care about her anymore. So what if I almost married her? It's not like I care about her any more... right?
As his unsure thoughts filled his brain he slowed down, releasing his death grip on the letter, until he finally stopped. He was faintly shocked that he had made his way almost a mile away from the bar on an old steel bridge covered in snow.
Right! He told himself reassuringly, running his hand through his hair. I don't care... it's her loss anyway. I mean, she dumped me, me, of all people! Witches all over the world would give anything just to meet me and she flat out dumps me in ten minutes. Like I care about her and her stupid letter... Clenching his teeth, James crumpled up the letter.
"You hear me Lily! I don't care!" James shouted at the top of his voice and without thinking, he crumpled up his letter and threw it over the bridge, watching it land in the icy water below.
Then, as though waking from a daze, James' eyes widened as he frantically leaned over the edge.
"What did I just do?" He questioned quietly, "I do care!" He exclaimed before swearing and jumping up on the wide, concrete rail.
"You too huh? I suppose a girl can do that to you..." A mild voice proclaimed. With a shock James fell back over the railing to the snowy street. Looking up in shock, James saw a man who looked strangely familiar standing on the railing.
He was just a few inches shorter than James, with sandy hair flecked with premature gray and a tired face. His robes were grubby and tattered as was the suitcase he held in his hand. The words R.J. Lupin were stamped in small, pealing letters on the side.
James looked at the man curiously, still in shock. He found he couldn't say anything and he was a bit curious as to why R.J. Lupin was standing on the ledge of a bridge. Lupin turned to him and gave him a small smile.
What the hel-
And then Lupin took a step forward, his tattered shoes crunching the snow.
Holy Shi-
With a shocking realization James stomach plummeted for the second time that day. He didn't even have time to finish his thought when he was on his feet hand outstretched and said the only logical thing he could think of.
"NO!" He shouted and Lupin turned to face him. Still smiling that calm infuriating smile. James tried to think of something smart and compassionate and reassuring but his mind retained a sort of blank buzzing. "Uh...you, er, you can't- don't do this." James said weakly finally finding his voice.
"Why not?" Lupin questioned mildly, a trace of that calm smile still present on his features.
Why in the bloody hell-? Will you just step off the damn ledge you crazy bastard! Is what he would have liked to say, but seeing as though that wouldn't be very smart, or compassionate or reassuring he opted to go for something else.
"Because...What ever it is that you're going through, it isn't worth your life." James responded slowly, inwardly pleased with his answer.
"And, you're the judge of that?"
Damnit crazy guy! I mean! ah hell; Lily would know what to do... Lily... Focus James! Angry with himself for not taking the matter seriously enough and for thinking about Lily he struggled with the answer. Well, how could he answer when he really didn't know what was bugging this guy? That was his logic anyway.
"Well, no..." He responded slowly, "But if you would just talk to me about it, I'm sure we could talk this through..." Look at me; I'm such a great negotiator.
"You know James," James stiffened at being addressed by his name, but soon realized the man probably knew who he was from Quidditch so he let it go. "It's quite ironic really... You attempting to save me and all, when, inadvertently of course, you are the one who put me here."
"I am?" James questioned disbelievingly, wondering why this guy was talking to him as though this were no big deal and they were old friends.
"Yes. I'm afraid I made a rather... poor choice in betting against you in the Quidditch finals. I've lost everything, and I have some, unsavory characters after my blood. Mine as well save them the trouble." At first, James found himself furious that Lupin would dare bet against him. But then he excused him on the count of insanity, and found the situation quite ridiculous.
"You, you're going to throw your life away... because of Quidditch and money?" James questioned in shock. "Sir, believe me, I know that it might seem like everything, I mean, look at me, but I'd rather live and have a shot at a great life than throw it away for material things." At the end, James felt rather proud of his speech. It was quite good in his opinion. He especially liked the bit at the end.
Though, as soon as he finished, Lupin seemed beside himself with laughter. It echoed all through the bridge and he shook so hard James feared he would fall. He finally stopped, his face red and a wide grin on his face.
"Honestly James, I must say... Out of all the witches and wizards I've worked with, you take the cake." Lupin laughed. James stared confused. "I mean, you honestly don't get what you're saying do you?" James found himself getting a little annoyed.
"If you would just step down from that ledge, maybe we could-"James started, but was interrupted.
"I'm honestly surprised you stopped. I was under the impression you would mind your own business and walk away, or dismiss me as one less lunatic in the world-"
You got that right mister.
"But, I suppose you have more of the old you there than I guessed."
James found himself getting more irritated. He was doing this on purpose? To test him? Was he trying to give him a heart attack?
"Er, maybe if you would just step off that ledge, we could talk this over a cup of coffee. Um, maybe at St. Mungos... Not that you're crazy, but, uh, well, just have them help you out. Like a shelter, for those less fortunate, I'd pay for everything of course." James stuttered, before finally finding his cool.
"You really do amaze me James... but, you need to learn that money isn't everything, and well, it can't fix everything." Lupin continued with a pitying smile, finally jumping off the ledge landing a few feet in front of James. "Don't you ever regret it?" Lupin breathed. James head was reeling and his brain sagging.
What in the world...
At James silence, Lupin continued, lightly scratching his chin, frowning slightly.
"Pity... you really could've had a lot more..."
"You- Ha, You are telling me I could have a lot more." James scoffed, finding his arrogant tone, now that Lupin was safely on the ground.
"Oh dear, it looks as though, you'll be there for some time." Lupin replied humorously.
"What?"
"Well, just know, you brought this upon yourself." James looked at him incredulously. Lupin ignored James look and reached in his robe pocket for a tarnished pocket watch. "Consider yourself lucky James, a lot of witches and wizards don't get this offer. Most pass it up without even knowing it... Pity really... Ah, almost forgot," Lupin snapped his fingers and a light drizzle of snow began to fall.
You are one crazy son of a-
"Which reminds me...I'm going to be late. See you James." Remus called over his shoulder as he disappeared down the dark snowy road.
James stood there for minutes trying to swallow what had just happened, snow collecting in his windswept hair.
"What the bloody hell was that all about?!"
...
James stood in the shower letting the hot water cascade over him as he mulled the events over in his head. Strangely enough, though as vexing as his confrontation with R.J. Lupin was, his mind was focused solely on the letter sent by Lily. It had been plaguing his mind since he got home.
He found himself repeating all his thoughts and cursing himself constantly for his stupidity in throwing the letter overboard. Quite frankly, he felt as though he was going a bit overboard with the whole Lily incident. It was just a letter, no reason to get so worked up that he almost jumped off a bridge into rushing icy water...
Which brought him back to Lupin... He could have sworn he'd seen his face somewhere before... Perhaps somewhere near the mental hospital...
He stifled a laugh at his own thought and turned off the tap.
"Mental. Barking mad that one... Honestly, what offer? I see no rare offer Lupin!" He exclaimed grinning as he pulled on a pair of black boxers.
Besides... what do I have to regret? I have everything. He scoffed inwardly getting under his smooth, black silk covers, which felt pleasantly cool after his steaming shower.
"Lily..." He couldn't help it. He found those feelings of regret he pushed away ten years ago come seeping back at an alarming rate. Sitting bolt upright, he grabbed his glasses and wand. "Lumos," He muttered, and began digging through his nightstand drawer that was filled with old metals, a few Quidditch cards of himself and more magazines he had made the cover of. He finally found what he was looking for.
Hidden beneath everything was a soft velvet box. He took a deep breath, as memories he let go began to flood back. Gulping, he slowly opened the box revealing a simple gold ring, shining in the wand light. He smiled despite himself.
It was such a simple ring... nothing fancy, or expensive... he couldn't afford anything better then. But he knew she would love it... He knew, or hoped really, that she would accept...
He shut his eyes and shut the box with a snap before throwing it, the object hitting the wall with a dull, 'thunk'.
"Nox." He muttered, the room dark, save for a shred of moonlight pouring in from between his curtains. It fell right on the box like a spot light. James grit his teeth as the box stared at him. Unable to take it, and too tired now to move he put his head back down on his pillow, not even bothering to take off his glasses and curled up pulling the sheets over his head. His eyes, which were staring blankly at the black silk sheet, slowly became unfocused and closed, his breathing slow as the clock chimed twelve. The snow still softly drizzling outside...
I'm so sorry for not being able to update this sooner. I'm a bit of a perfectionist, (People who know me laugh hysterically) Okay, so I'm a huge perfectionist, =P Anyhow, I wasn't pleased with the beginning of this chapter at all for some reason. It still bugs me now, but oh well. And I've also been working on the later chapters, which are fun to write. =D So enough of my excuses, on with the story!
Oh, and thank you so much for all of you that reviewed! I'm glad you like it so far. Oh, and the humor will start when he makes it to his 'new life'. Or at least what I hope to be humor. =P Sorry again, now, on with the story!
Well, here's chapter two. =D
Chapter II. My Wonderful Life.
10 Years Later...
"James..."
"...You are one sexy king of the world." James grinned and winked arrogantly to his reflection.
Bare-chested and still a bit wet from his shower, thirty year old James Potter ran his hand through his messy hair, sending flecks of water flying. With one last wink and grin to the mirror he turned on his wireless and headed for his walk in closet.
Inside was an assortment of freshly pressed and expensive Quidditch robes and dress robes. After about fifteen minutes of playing air guitar and lip- syncing to the band on the radio he grabbed an impeccable robe of bright yellow, embroidered with a small black wasp on the chest. Pulling it over his head as he made his way out of the closet.
Using an old trophy as a microphone he continued to sing as he placed on a gleaming pair of silver glasses as well as newly polished shoes. Finally separating from the small gold trophy James was once again in front of his mirror. He smirked and ran a hand through his drying hair.
"Looking good as always dear." The mirror chirped.
"I know." He grinned, and grabbed his wand and a self- inking quill off his dresser amidst the many newspaper and magazine clippings of himself. Carefully placing the objects in his robe pocket, he took yet another look in the mirror and finally headed out.
James was barely a few steps out of his penthouse; still whistling to the tune, which was now in his head, as a chubby, slightly balding man, came running toward him carrying a small gleaming mug.
"Mr. Potter! Mr. Potter! Here's your coffee Mr. Potter! Can I get you anything else?! Please?" The small man squeaked.
"Now Peter," James said smiling as he took the mug, "You know I wouldn't make you get me-"James stopped and sniffed the coffee, "Actually, can you get me a pinch more sugar?" He added changing pegs in a millisecond. "Thanks Pettigrew you're a real pal." He smiled before Peter could answer and handed him back the mug.
"I'm dreadfully sorry Mr. Potter! I should have known you'd want more sugar! Right away sir, right away!" Peter's watery eyes shone with excitement as he scurried away.
"I don't know why you put up with that bloke Prongs, I mean he's not even good-looking... Or a woman for that matter..." A jovial voice sounded behind James.
"Jealous that you don't have someone worshiping the ground under your feet Padfoot?" He answered without turning.
"Dreadfully. I have to put up with millions." Padfoot grinned, falling in stride with James.
He was quite handsome, tall, with black hair that fell casually in his fathomless gray eyes. He was also wearing expensive dress robes in a brilliant shade of scarlet. Their looks and bright robes brought everyone's attention in the lobby to them.
The auror on guard, Kingsley Shacklebolt, nodded and smiled to the two of them. The other penthouse owners smiled and waved excitedly.
"Hello! Good morning all!" Sirius exclaimed cheerfully in a booming voice.
"Don't miss the Quidditch Cup tomorrow! Where I shall lead the Wasps to victory!" James called, with a haughty smile.
"I knew it! I was sure they were!"
"You're right! They are! It's James Potter and Sirius Black!" A woman screeched and with winning grins the two men turned, facing two women standing by the security desk with Shacklebolt, both of whom looked to be in their twenties.
"Hello ladies," James purred suggestively. The women giggled, one was a rather leggy blonde and the other a cutesy brunette. "Going to watch us in the game tomorrow?"
"Of course!" The brunette smiled excitedly. Sharing a glance with her friend, who nodded grinning, "Mr. Potter? I was just wondering..." The brunette started, seeming very shy, "Could I possibly, um, give you a kiss? Just to say I've, well, um, I don't want to if well," James quickly interrupted her babbling and kissed her on the lips dipping her low. James could hear Sirius let out his bark like laugh somewhere behind him.
"Mr. Potter sir?" A voice squeaked, and James dropped the girl, who looked ready to feint anyway. "I'm sorry if I interrupted but here's your coffee sir."
"Thank you Peter," James responded calmly taking a sip of his coffee.
"Do you know I'm commenting the game tomorrow Mr. Potter? I'm so excited! I mean, it's the World Cup!" Peter squeaked, although James continued to drink his coffee as though he had not heard him and Sirius was mocking him while the blonde stifled giggles. "I'd better go! See you!" With that Peter hurried away, unnoticed by James, while Sirius rolled his eyes.
"See, her-"Sirius started, pointing to the brunette who was still on the floor, "I can see her as your personal brown-noser, but why that guy?" declared Sirius pointing in the direction Peter left.
"Will you sign my robe?" The blonde questioned hopefully, interrupting James' answer. James and Sirius turned, both rather surprised as they had forgotten about her almost immediately. Sirius was the first to recover and gave her a quick glance over.
"I dunno, you may have to take it off for me to get it on a flat surface." Sirius commented in a suggestive voice. The blonde flushed red her eyes wide. Sirius suddenly snapped his fingers; he then started in the same deep, suggestive tone. "You know what, I left my quill up in my room. I could sign it there..."
"Coming!" The blonde squealed.
"See you later Prongs!" Sirius called back with a wink.
"You better not be late for the party!" He called to his fellow beater as Sirius turned the corner, arm in arm with the blonde. "Good 'ol Padfoot..." He chuckled to himself draining the rest of the coffee.
He was about to leave when a small bright yellow and black object on the security desk caught his eye. James carefully placed it in his hand.
"I didn't know you were part of my extensive fan club Kingsley," James responded, grinning at the miniature plastic figure of himself in his hand.
"I figured I'd get a souvenir. They were out of flags and pins. Oddly enough, you weren't sold out." Kingsley remarked in his low grumble voice grinning.
"Ah, that's only because they knew everyone would want one so they made double the amounts of this handsome little fellow," James remarked, prodding his little self, "Besides, they'll be sold out by tomorrow." James responded with utter confidence. Kingsley scoffed as James set his little self back on the desk, grinned a goodbye, and headed out.
...
"Chug! Chug! Chug!" A large crowd had made its way around James. He stood on a shining wood table, robes crumpled, with his head tilted back drinking from a large, blown glass bottle.
Sirius stood in an unimpressed stance, arms crossed, a smirk set on his handsome features until he could take no more. He hopped onto the table and grabbed the booze from James, grinning to the crowd Sirius began to chug where James left off, hand out to the crowd, calling for praise. James made a face to the crowd.
Not one to be outdone, James grabbed a rectangular bottle filled with a purple liquid, eyeing Sirius; he began to down the fluid.
"Hey Bagman, ten Galleons says Potter passes out first," Their seeker Lindsay Knight proposed loudly.
"Twenty says he doesn't!" Bagman shouted amidst the din in the pub. A few moments passed and the two men were still downing the drinks when all of a sudden-
"Hey owls!" Lindsay exclaimed pointing.
"A bit too much to drink then eh Knight?" Bagman joked, his round, boyish face a twinge pink."
"No, I think its Potters and Blacks fan mail." She responded matter- of-factly as a few brown barn owls swarmed in. The crowd in the bar seemed a bit shocked to see the owls fly in at first, but they soon turned their attention back to James and Sirius.
"Oy! You two prats! Mail!" Lindsay shouted as the owls flew around the two, yet to be seen.
Finally tearing themselves away from the bottles, James, a bit pink in the face grinned grabbing the closest owl. While the rest of the owls dropped the letters on the table and flew away, he haphazardly ripped open the letter and began to read, his eyes scanning the paper.
"Am I that irresistible? Honestly," he shouted grinning, "Hey bartender! Drinks all around! Put it on my tab!" James yelled as the crowd roared its approval. Grinning he turned to Sirius waiting for some comment or other form of attention seeking.
To his confusion, Sirius' eyes were focused on a single envelope addressed in emerald green writing.
"Padfoot?" James inquired, brows knitted. It wasn't like Sirius to behave like this over fan mail. Then, slowly, as though Sirius didn't believe it himself he showed the letter to James. All it said on the cover was Potter, in handwriting he would recognize anywhere. He quickly grabbed it from Sirius and checked the handwriting up close.
His stomach plummeted and he suddenly became very sober. The crowd was shouting around the two but for the first time in ten years, he wished they were gone. Just being in that bar, in the limelight getting hammered made him feel guilty and unworthy of even touching the letter in his hand. He had to get away... he needed to think...
He suddenly jumped off the table and pushed through the crowd, all giving him curious glances or moaning in protest.
"Potter? Where are you going? It's only ten! Besides, me and Knight here had a bet-"James felt Bagman's hand on his shoulder, he quickly brushed it off and kept walking. Pushing the door open he stalked out into the cool winter night. His hazel eyes fixed on the letter.
What in Merlin's name is this about?! Why would she write me? We haven't spoken or written in ten years! She- why would she do this? Ha! I know! She's jealous! And bitter! Ha, that's it! She's angry because she dumped me and now I'm on top of the world and she's still with nothing! That's what she gets, not believing in my dream, being moody all the time...
James found himself walking twice his normal speed, his eyes fixed on the letter but not seeing it.
What if she's in trouble? Oh no... Maybe she needs my help... Maybe some git is doing something to her. That bastard! Wait, why do I care? It was her decision to leave me at that air pert or whatever it was. I don't care about her anymore. So what if I almost married her? It's not like I care about her any more... right?
As his unsure thoughts filled his brain he slowed down, releasing his death grip on the letter, until he finally stopped. He was faintly shocked that he had made his way almost a mile away from the bar on an old steel bridge covered in snow.
Right! He told himself reassuringly, running his hand through his hair. I don't care... it's her loss anyway. I mean, she dumped me, me, of all people! Witches all over the world would give anything just to meet me and she flat out dumps me in ten minutes. Like I care about her and her stupid letter... Clenching his teeth, James crumpled up the letter.
"You hear me Lily! I don't care!" James shouted at the top of his voice and without thinking, he crumpled up his letter and threw it over the bridge, watching it land in the icy water below.
Then, as though waking from a daze, James' eyes widened as he frantically leaned over the edge.
"What did I just do?" He questioned quietly, "I do care!" He exclaimed before swearing and jumping up on the wide, concrete rail.
"You too huh? I suppose a girl can do that to you..." A mild voice proclaimed. With a shock James fell back over the railing to the snowy street. Looking up in shock, James saw a man who looked strangely familiar standing on the railing.
He was just a few inches shorter than James, with sandy hair flecked with premature gray and a tired face. His robes were grubby and tattered as was the suitcase he held in his hand. The words R.J. Lupin were stamped in small, pealing letters on the side.
James looked at the man curiously, still in shock. He found he couldn't say anything and he was a bit curious as to why R.J. Lupin was standing on the ledge of a bridge. Lupin turned to him and gave him a small smile.
What the hel-
And then Lupin took a step forward, his tattered shoes crunching the snow.
Holy Shi-
With a shocking realization James stomach plummeted for the second time that day. He didn't even have time to finish his thought when he was on his feet hand outstretched and said the only logical thing he could think of.
"NO!" He shouted and Lupin turned to face him. Still smiling that calm infuriating smile. James tried to think of something smart and compassionate and reassuring but his mind retained a sort of blank buzzing. "Uh...you, er, you can't- don't do this." James said weakly finally finding his voice.
"Why not?" Lupin questioned mildly, a trace of that calm smile still present on his features.
Why in the bloody hell-? Will you just step off the damn ledge you crazy bastard! Is what he would have liked to say, but seeing as though that wouldn't be very smart, or compassionate or reassuring he opted to go for something else.
"Because...What ever it is that you're going through, it isn't worth your life." James responded slowly, inwardly pleased with his answer.
"And, you're the judge of that?"
Damnit crazy guy! I mean! ah hell; Lily would know what to do... Lily... Focus James! Angry with himself for not taking the matter seriously enough and for thinking about Lily he struggled with the answer. Well, how could he answer when he really didn't know what was bugging this guy? That was his logic anyway.
"Well, no..." He responded slowly, "But if you would just talk to me about it, I'm sure we could talk this through..." Look at me; I'm such a great negotiator.
"You know James," James stiffened at being addressed by his name, but soon realized the man probably knew who he was from Quidditch so he let it go. "It's quite ironic really... You attempting to save me and all, when, inadvertently of course, you are the one who put me here."
"I am?" James questioned disbelievingly, wondering why this guy was talking to him as though this were no big deal and they were old friends.
"Yes. I'm afraid I made a rather... poor choice in betting against you in the Quidditch finals. I've lost everything, and I have some, unsavory characters after my blood. Mine as well save them the trouble." At first, James found himself furious that Lupin would dare bet against him. But then he excused him on the count of insanity, and found the situation quite ridiculous.
"You, you're going to throw your life away... because of Quidditch and money?" James questioned in shock. "Sir, believe me, I know that it might seem like everything, I mean, look at me, but I'd rather live and have a shot at a great life than throw it away for material things." At the end, James felt rather proud of his speech. It was quite good in his opinion. He especially liked the bit at the end.
Though, as soon as he finished, Lupin seemed beside himself with laughter. It echoed all through the bridge and he shook so hard James feared he would fall. He finally stopped, his face red and a wide grin on his face.
"Honestly James, I must say... Out of all the witches and wizards I've worked with, you take the cake." Lupin laughed. James stared confused. "I mean, you honestly don't get what you're saying do you?" James found himself getting a little annoyed.
"If you would just step down from that ledge, maybe we could-"James started, but was interrupted.
"I'm honestly surprised you stopped. I was under the impression you would mind your own business and walk away, or dismiss me as one less lunatic in the world-"
You got that right mister.
"But, I suppose you have more of the old you there than I guessed."
James found himself getting more irritated. He was doing this on purpose? To test him? Was he trying to give him a heart attack?
"Er, maybe if you would just step off that ledge, we could talk this over a cup of coffee. Um, maybe at St. Mungos... Not that you're crazy, but, uh, well, just have them help you out. Like a shelter, for those less fortunate, I'd pay for everything of course." James stuttered, before finally finding his cool.
"You really do amaze me James... but, you need to learn that money isn't everything, and well, it can't fix everything." Lupin continued with a pitying smile, finally jumping off the ledge landing a few feet in front of James. "Don't you ever regret it?" Lupin breathed. James head was reeling and his brain sagging.
What in the world...
At James silence, Lupin continued, lightly scratching his chin, frowning slightly.
"Pity... you really could've had a lot more..."
"You- Ha, You are telling me I could have a lot more." James scoffed, finding his arrogant tone, now that Lupin was safely on the ground.
"Oh dear, it looks as though, you'll be there for some time." Lupin replied humorously.
"What?"
"Well, just know, you brought this upon yourself." James looked at him incredulously. Lupin ignored James look and reached in his robe pocket for a tarnished pocket watch. "Consider yourself lucky James, a lot of witches and wizards don't get this offer. Most pass it up without even knowing it... Pity really... Ah, almost forgot," Lupin snapped his fingers and a light drizzle of snow began to fall.
You are one crazy son of a-
"Which reminds me...I'm going to be late. See you James." Remus called over his shoulder as he disappeared down the dark snowy road.
James stood there for minutes trying to swallow what had just happened, snow collecting in his windswept hair.
"What the bloody hell was that all about?!"
...
James stood in the shower letting the hot water cascade over him as he mulled the events over in his head. Strangely enough, though as vexing as his confrontation with R.J. Lupin was, his mind was focused solely on the letter sent by Lily. It had been plaguing his mind since he got home.
He found himself repeating all his thoughts and cursing himself constantly for his stupidity in throwing the letter overboard. Quite frankly, he felt as though he was going a bit overboard with the whole Lily incident. It was just a letter, no reason to get so worked up that he almost jumped off a bridge into rushing icy water...
Which brought him back to Lupin... He could have sworn he'd seen his face somewhere before... Perhaps somewhere near the mental hospital...
He stifled a laugh at his own thought and turned off the tap.
"Mental. Barking mad that one... Honestly, what offer? I see no rare offer Lupin!" He exclaimed grinning as he pulled on a pair of black boxers.
Besides... what do I have to regret? I have everything. He scoffed inwardly getting under his smooth, black silk covers, which felt pleasantly cool after his steaming shower.
"Lily..." He couldn't help it. He found those feelings of regret he pushed away ten years ago come seeping back at an alarming rate. Sitting bolt upright, he grabbed his glasses and wand. "Lumos," He muttered, and began digging through his nightstand drawer that was filled with old metals, a few Quidditch cards of himself and more magazines he had made the cover of. He finally found what he was looking for.
Hidden beneath everything was a soft velvet box. He took a deep breath, as memories he let go began to flood back. Gulping, he slowly opened the box revealing a simple gold ring, shining in the wand light. He smiled despite himself.
It was such a simple ring... nothing fancy, or expensive... he couldn't afford anything better then. But he knew she would love it... He knew, or hoped really, that she would accept...
He shut his eyes and shut the box with a snap before throwing it, the object hitting the wall with a dull, 'thunk'.
"Nox." He muttered, the room dark, save for a shred of moonlight pouring in from between his curtains. It fell right on the box like a spot light. James grit his teeth as the box stared at him. Unable to take it, and too tired now to move he put his head back down on his pillow, not even bothering to take off his glasses and curled up pulling the sheets over his head. His eyes, which were staring blankly at the black silk sheet, slowly became unfocused and closed, his breathing slow as the clock chimed twelve. The snow still softly drizzling outside...