Hey all, sorry I haven't written in a while but I getting complaints about it so I'll post what I have of this chapter. Hope you like it, especially Chelsea, who has been asking me every day if I have updated or not. So, without further ado, I present the Yule Ball and chapter 11! Enjoy!
-Red
"Oh my God, Lily. Absolutely stunning. He won't know won't know what hit him," Kate breathed as she stepped back and admired her work. She had completely transformed Lily. Lily reached up to clip her auburn hair back. She twirled slowly in front of the mirror and gazed at her pretty reflection. She had to admit, she looked good.
The three girls looked at each other and smiled. Chelsea was wearing lavender robes that had misty leaves printed on them. She had her long, blond, curly hair down and it reached the bottom of her back. Kate was wearing crimson robes and her brown and gold straight hair was in a tight bun at the nape of her neck.
They all grabbed their cloaks and went downstairs to meet James, Remus, and Sirius.
"Hey girls," Sirius said when they came down to the common room.
They grinned and went to stand by their dates.
"Shall we?" James asked politely, holding out an arm for Lily.
"We shall," she answered, taking the arm he offered. They all wandered down to the Entrance Hall, laughing and joking. Many heads turned to watch as they passed, not because they all looked so good, but because they were all getting along. Lily Evans and James Potter, actually walking down the hall...together. Many thought it a disaster waiting to happen. Others just thought that it was good the hall wasn't in ruins yet.
They entered the hall and it immediately took their breath away. There were candles floating all around, tiny fairies flitting here and there. The snow seemed to fall lightly down upon them but it disappeared before it touched their heads. The floor had been transfigured into grass and white flagged stones that shone with glassy dew. It was magical. Even the tables were decorated in fair, shimmery table clothes.
Awestruck, they made their way to a table near the dance floor where soft elven music played. They took another look around the hall and noticed that the walls were covered in leafy trees that shone with the fairies around the room. They had done a good job decorating.
"Would you like to dance, Lily?" James asked tentatively.
"I love dancing," she replied fervently as James grabbed her hand and led her out onto the dance floor.
They reached the dance floor that was white stone and smiled at each other. Lily snaked her arms around his neck and they began to dance to the sweet music filtering around the room. Now they were attracting many stares, but the two didn't seem to notice. They were soon the only two dancing as everyone in the hall turned to see with shocked faces, Lily Evans and James Potter dancing together.
The song ended and Lily smiled. James lowered his head and kissed her passionately [there's some romance for you people, since you wanted more. See the reviews...]. Dumbledore stood up and started clapping. Soon everyone in the hall too started clapping politely and the room was filled with laughter and cheers as Lily and James pulled apart.
"Talk about embarrassing," Lily whispered in his ear.
After a minute, the ruckus died down and Lily pulled James back towards their table. James was extremely happy. He had kissed the girl he had loved for years and she hadn't hit him or yelled at all. Tonight was going to be a good night, he thought.
"Hey James, ol' buddy, ol' pal," Sirius said as James and Lily sat down.
"What?" James asked, distracted.
"Oh, nothing," Sirius mumbled when the food appeared.
"Oh how do you DO that?" asked Kate, disgusted.
"What?" said Sirius defensively through a mouth full of food. Kate sighed and looked away. Even James and Remus, who were used to Peter's eating habits, were disgusted. Sirius shrugged and shoveled more food into his mouth.
"There's no way I kissing you tonight," Kate said, eyeing him reproachfully.
"Well I didn't know you wanted to, but by all means, go ahead. I don't mind. Besides, it's just food."
"Never mind," she said, scooting her chair over a couple of inches.
"Disgusting," said Chelsea pointedly. "Remus?" she said, gesturing towards the floor.
"Uh, er, I can't dance," he said sheepishly.
"Of course you can!" she said happily, dragging him behind her. He shrugged, looking back at his friends, who smiled encouragingly.
They stopped at the edge of the floor and smiled as the music began.
"See? You CAN dance!" Chelsea said.
"This is fun...oops, sorry...oh, ouch...."
"Do you want to go outside with me?" she asked, taking his hand and leading him out of the hall. They went outside and walked towards the tree at the lake.
"Doesn't look like I have much of a choice," Remus said. Chelsea laughed.
[A/N: to continue with the chapter. Hey, anyway, how about longer chapters? I like reading longer chapters myself because then I wonÕt be as sad at the end of the story cause I got to read a lot more. Anyway, if you review, you can go ahead and put it in. By the by, Chelsea: IÕm sorry I didnÕt post lately because of school and going to D.C., but I have the rest of fifth year planned out just for you, k? Happy reading!]
The two walked towards the tree at the edge of the lake.
ÒThanks for taking me to the ball, Remus,Ó Chelsea said after they were settled comfortably under the tree.
ÒYouÕre welcome. I wasnÕt going to go if you didnÕt want to go with me,Ó he stuttered.
ÒThatÕs really sweet.Ó She smiled up at him. Somehow, that small, encouraging smile made Remus forget everything bad in his life. Forget that he was a werewolf, forget that he was nervous about what he was about to do.
ÒEr, thanks.Ó He paused. ÒSo, would you want to go with me to Hogsmeade during break? That is, if youÕre staying.Ó
ÒYah someone has to make sure Lily and James donÕt kill each other, but IÕm going back home to my family for the break,Ó she said sadly. ÒBesides, I donÕt want to be there for when all hell breaks loose. We planned a big prank that Lily is going to execute during Christmas. Warn your comrades,Ó she said coyly. Remus grinned and saluted.
ÒWill do, General Killjoy!Ó
ÒHey!Ó she said, slapping him upside the head jokingly. She stood up and held her hand down to him. ÒLetÕs go back inside now.Ó
ÒYeah,Ó Remus said thoughtfully once he had stood up. Chelsea turned toward the castle. ÒHey, wait a minute,Ó he said, grabbing her wrist. She was about to ask what but he pulled her into his arms and gave a soft kiss before they went back to the castle.
This has been an interesting night, they both thought. How right they were.
---------------------------
When Chelsea and Remus got back to the castle, they were met by gales of laughter from Gryffindor and mad shouts from Slytherins.
ÒOh God,Ó Chelsea muttered under her breath.
Severus Snape, the SixÕs Slytherins enemy, was hanging from the chandelier of the Great Hall, hair that had turned into weeds and skin flashing different colors and patterns, clashing terribly with the pink ballet tutu and shoes he was wearing.
Lily looked livid.
ÒJames Potter!Ó she screeched over the laughing crowd. ÒYou get your arse over here A.S.A.P.!Ó she yelled, sparks flying out her wand tip and gentle curls falling out of her clip.
James gulped and turned to Lily.
ÒWhat?Ó he asked warily.
ÒGet him down, now,Ó she said darkly.
James gulped again and shook his head.
Òand why not?Ó
ÒBecause he, er, he called you a, er, a....Ó James gulped yet again. ÒA...Mudblood,Ó he whispered. Lily flung her head back and laughed maniacally. James grinned sheepishly.
ÒJames Potter, get him down now, please,Ó she said calmly. ÒNow,Ó she growled. James nodded and, not taking his eyes off Lily, in case she felt the need to hex him, flicked his wand at Snape muttering the counter charm for the levitation spell he used on Snape.
ÒThank you, James,Ó Lily said calmly. ÒJames, I can fight my own battles, thanks. I can take care of myself because, and I swear I would have been kissing you if this were not the case, I am not a little girl,Ó she said, a slight edge to her voice.
ÒI donÕt need help from a bitchy Mudblood girl,Ó Snape said, finally speaking.
ÒAnd YOU,Ó Lily said, turning to Snape. ÒKeep your filthy mouth shut.Ó Her voice was going dangerously high.
Snape gulped and look away. A mad Lily was bad enough. A furious Lily could take over the world. A very mad and furious Lily, could kill. The teachers looked on with shocked expressions. Detentions and punishments could wait. Now they had to see what Lily would do.
ÒJames, I am diss--Ó James shrunk a bit. Ò--a--Ó He seemed to shrink some more. Ò--pointed in you.Ó He now shrunk about five inches. Lily scowled at them all. ÒWhat are YOU looking at?Ó Everyone started to grumble and walk away. The music had stopped and the ball seemed to be over. People started heading back to their common rooms. Lily could tell, rumors were already spreading.
ÒSheÕs never going to speak to me again is she?Ó James asked Sirius.
ÒNope!Ó he replied happily.
ÒYouÕre such a supporter.Ó
ÒYou are welcome, buddy. It is time you learned that snogging the hottest girl in school is a very hard and trying task.Ó
ÒAnd you would know from experience?Ó Sirius nodded. James gagged. ÒWeÕre getting off the subject. Wait a minute...Lily is the hottest girl in school....Ó Sirius grinned but shook his head at James.
ÒEveryone knows that Kate is the hottest,Ó Sirius said matter-of-factly. Remus, who happened to be listening on the conversation, tapped Sirius on the shoulder politely.
ÒIÕm sorry, but you must be mistaken. I believe, and I am right in saying, Chelsea is the hottest girl in the school.Ó Sirius and James swiveled their heads to stare at Remus. Sirius shook his head.
ÒIÕm worried about Moony,Ó Sirius said to James, turning his head to look at him again and jerking his thumb back at Remus. Remus grabbed his hand and twisted it backwards and down and stepped really close to Sirius to speak right in his face.
ÒI have the strength of a wolf and I can kick your butt back into last week, got it?Ó He made a face. ÒOh god, Padfoot, what did you eat? Your breath stinks!Ó
Sirius smiled at him. ÒHey James, does my breath smell?Ó Sirius asked James, twisting his head so he could exhale on the boy.
ÒYes,Ó James said, clamping his hands over his nose and mouth. ÒBut you might want to consider the fact that Moony has a super powered nose from all that sniffing he does a the Shrieking Shack.Ó James coughed and pretended to gag.
Remus rolled his eyes at the two boys. ÒCome on, letÕs go.Ó
----------------------------
The next couple of day, things just got worse. Lily and James were constantly at each otherÕs throats, bickering about everything.
ÒYou insufferable git!Ó
ÒCarrot Top!Ó
ÒArrogant prat!Ó
ÒCrybaby!Ó
ÒBullying toerag!
ÒStubborn, er, person!Ó
ÒI hate you!Ó
ÒYou wouldnÕt dare!Ó
ÒI HATE YOU!!!Ó
ÒYah? Well...I hate you, too!Ó
ÒFine!Ó
ÒFine!Ó
ÒJames Potter is so infuriating!Ó
ÒLily Evans, eurgh!Ó
It was either that or they werenÕt speaking to each other at all. They could barely stand being in the same room together, although Sirius, the randy wanker, thought that it was because they would immediately start kissing if they didnÕt get away in time. Well, for the most part, that just proves that Sirius is madder than we think. Classes often ended with smoke flying out the door or hexes flashing around and most likely another one of SiriusÕs randy remarks. Sometimes, classes ended early or were just called off completely because the teachers were so afraid of Lily and James, though, as usual, their potions master, Flavius Marulus [A/N: Thank you Shakespeare...], did not care.
ÒMr. Potter, is there something you would like to share with us?Ó Profesor Marulus said coldly.
ÒNo, Profesor,Ó James said innocently. Marulus glared and continued class.
ÒAs I was saying, we will be brewing Polyjuice Potions.Ó the whole class groaned loudly. they had done Polyjuice Potions in Fourth Year. Marulus grinned grimly. ÒAnd I will also be putting you all in pairs. When I read the pairs, you will go to sit with your partners. Okay, here we go. Purin, Alvaraz; Black, hod on, there is a smudge here, how about Kate A.; Pettigrew, Sanchez; Remus L. and Chelsea P.; Snape, Winnifred Wilkes [A/N: I liked this character so much from another fanfiction that I had to put her and a few others in. I hope Oy! Angelina feels flattered enough to UPDATE HER STORY!]; Potter, Evans--ÓLily stopped listening there. Great, Potter the Prat. She swore quietly and got up to go over to the messy haired boy.
ÒÕlo,Ó he said, setting out the potions ingredients. She nodded her head curtly in reply.
A couple minutes later, they were cutting and stirring ingredients into the cauldron. James sighed and turned to Lily.
ÒTruce,Ó they said at the same time and shook hands, both obviously vowing to prank the other later. The rest of the class was spent in silence only short sentences were exchanged such as:
ÒPlease pASS the dragon bial.Ó
ÒPlease pASS the newt eyes.Ó
ÒPlease pASS the blind worms.Ó
ÒPlease pASS the dragon blood.Ó
OF course both of them knew the message hidden within, but Marulus did not, thankfully. He did, although, tell them to shut up many a time, but they werenÕt really paying any attention to his requests.
Soon class was over and everything was back to normal, the two often forgetting their truce.
--------------------------------- Severus Snape stood up and walked over to the girl Winnifred Wilkes with a scowl on his face. It wasnÕt that he neccessarily disliked his cousin, he just thought that he could at least have someone other than the gothic girl for his partner.
ÒHello, Winnifred.Ó
ÒHello,Ó she replied back, flipping her long, dark hair over her shoulder and staring at him with he navy eyes. Severus sat down next to her and took out his extensive amount of potions supplies. WinnifredÕs own scowl deepened, which was not uncharacteristic for a Slytherin. ÒWhy do you carry so much supplies with you, Severus?Ó
He stopped what he was doing to look at her.
ÒI happen to enjoy potions, unlike some people in this putrid school.Ó He glared over at the Marauders.
Winnifred smiled coldly. ÒWell, IÕll stir the potion if you cut up all the disgusting worms and whatnot.Ó
Severus grunted in reply.
They both got silently to work, asking questions every now and again. All they had to do now was sit and let the potion stew. They resigned themselves to talking quietly until class was over.
ÒSo,Ó Winnifred started, Òthat Lily Evans sure is a looker....Ó She always figured Severus had a small crush on Lillian Evans, even though it was microscopic. Besides, Lily Evans was his weak point and she could quickly annoy Severus to no end on the subject. As predicted, Severus stiffened slightly.
ÒIf you like prissy Mudblood Gryffindors, sure, Evans has some charm about her, though not enough to make up for her severe brain loss.Ó He glared at Winnifred for bringing up the subject.
ÒFestering feelings for the bitch, are you?Ó
ÒNo, Winnifred, however hopeful you may be, I do not like Evans.Ó Snape smirked at his succeeding in antagonizing Winnifred.
ÒSure....Ó she smirked even more than Severus and glanced at the Gryffindor subject to their conversation. ÒI bet you would have asked her to the Yule Ball if Potter didnÕtÓ
Severus glowered at the mention of James PotterÕs name. He hated him. Hated him and all his Gryffindor friends and stupid fans and followers.
ÒI most certainly would have not,Ó he replied coolly, noticing Winnifred smile widely. Great, she was going to start antagonizing him again.
ÒNext year, you will, wonÕt you, Sev?Ó
Severus shook his head. ÒYou ought to know by now, Winnifred, I do not go to Yule Balls.Ó He spat out that lasts words with disgust.
ÒHmmm. I would have asked maybe Sirius Black. He is a looker in his own sense, no?Ó Severus glowered.
ÒYou will not ask one of those...common voyeurs to go anywhere with you, Wilkes,Ó he snarled.
Winnifred shrugged, standing up and flinging her bag over her shoulder while flicking her long hair back.
ÒIÕll see you later, Severus,Ó she replied, stalking off and out of the classroom.
Severus shook his head. He would kill Black if he ever did anything to Winnifred.
-------------------------
ÒSo, whoÕs going home for break?Ó Sirius asked that Friday afternoon, the last day of classes.
Lily, James, Sirius, and Remus all raised their hands.
ÒSorry Lils,Ó Chelsea and Kate said, shrugging apollagetically. Lily waved it off.
ÒJust as long as HE stays away from me,Ó she said glaring and pointing at James. James grinned manically and Lily Lily edged away from him fearfully. He grinned even wider and flung his arm around her shoulders. Lily gagged dramatically and pushed his arm off.
ÒReally, Lils, it was a small prank. Why the big grudge?Ó Sirius asked.
ÒBecause he had it coming. Potter, youÕd better be careful and not get on my nerves or else there will never be a chance of me forgiving you for your forthright acts,Ó Lily said primly.
Sirius and Remus grinned at each other. this only meant one thing: pranks, pranks, and more pranks. They had already stocked up on FillibusterÕs Fireworks and packages of dungbombs. LilyÕs face went white and she gulped, looking toward Chelsea and Kate.
ÒHelp me,Ó she mouthed. Chelsea and Kate laughed and shook their heads.
ÒLetÕs go to dinner, then, hm?Ó Sirius half whined, half asked. Everyone laughed and walked out of the protrait hole and down to the Great Hall.
When they got to the Hall, almost no one was there. The Six sat down at the end of the Gryffindor table. As immpossible as it swounds, Sirius practically inhaled the whole table in his hunger. The only thing stopping him from completing this feat was that Peter Pettigrew, the watery fourth Marauder, sat down next to him and piled food on his plate.
ÒWhat the hell do you think you are doing with my food?!Ó Sirius demanded to the fat boy next to him. Peter shrugged and opened his mouth to say something in reply. Sirius gagged and closed his eyes. ÒKeep your mouth closed when you eat, Wormtail.Ó Peter swallowed and smiled at the others.
ÒGlad to see you back, Pete,Ó Remus said kindly, though sarcastically, to the boy. Peter grinned even wider.
Òglad to be back.Ó The others groaned. ÒWhat?Ó he asked, sounding slightly offended.
ÒNothing, Pete,Ó Sirius relpied disgustedly. He glared at Peter. ÒWell, IÕm down with MY dinner.Ó
Remus scoffed. ÒPadfoot, giving up a meal? Wow...that must be like, what, a first? Tell me, Peter,Ó he said turning to stare scrutinizingly at Peter, Òhow did you do it?Ó Sirius hit him on the arm and the SEVEN [A/N: I hate Peter, but he IS neccessary for the plot line....] left the Great Hall and headed back to common room. A few minutes later, they were all snuggled on the couches in the Gryffindor commons, staring into the fire, reading, or playing wizard chess in Remus and PeterÕs case. Sirius, on the other hand, was actually living up to his name sake for once. he seemed to be deep in thought.
James looked over at his friend and smirked. ÒWhatcha doing, Padfoot?Ó
ÒJust thinking....Ó he replied, not looking up from the fire.
Remus did however look up from his game to stare at Sirius. ÒSirius...thinking?Ó He scoffed and shrugged. ÒWell, thatÕs a first. We should start weening you off of dinner so that you can use your head a bit more often.Ó This time Chelsea smacked him on the arm. ÒWhat?Ó
She smirked. ÒYou are in an awfully foul mood, arenÕt you?Ó
ÒYah, whatÕs up, Moony?Ó James asked.
Remus sighed. ÒFull moon is...er...soon....Ó James nodded and Lily paled a bit, though not wanting to release any of RemusÕs personal secrets to Chelsea and Kate, he could tell them on his own, she refrained from questioning him about his health.
ÒWhatÕs wrong with the full moon, Rem?Ó Chelsea asked curiously. RemusÕs eyes widened in shcock. What to do?
ÒEr,Ó Remus thought fast. ÒI just seem to feel under the weather and cross around this time of month.Ó Chelsea emitted a small ÔohÕ. She knew he wasnÕt telling her something, but she figuered he would tell her when he was ready. She trusted Remus very deeply and did not want to hurt him by rushing into anything.
Kate, on the othered hand, sniggered. Remus shot her a questioning look. She giggled some more. ÒOh, nothing. It just sounded as though you had the same thing going on with use three.Ó She motioned at herself, Lily, and Chelsea. ÒYou know how we get all cross around that time of the month.Ó she giggled again.
Remus, being the under-educated one himself, well, when it came to girls, gasped.
ÒYou guys are just like me!Ó he said, amazed. ÒI fell that way every month, too! Oh, glad to meet another one! What time did it happen to you?Ó he inquired politely. James and Sirius sniggered at their lost friend. The three girls stared at Remus as though he were a giant flobberworm.
ÒWell, I was, er, fourteen, and they were both thirteen,Ó Lily said. ÒBut I donÕt think weÕre talking about the same thing.Ó
ÒWait, are you telling me that I have been dating a girl-boy this whole time?Ó Chelsea asked, apalled.
Remus stared at her. ÒWhat?Ó His eyes suddenly widened. ÒOh! Oh my, I didnÕt mean that! Really, honestly.Ó He chuckled nervously.
ÒOnly one way to prove it to her, mate,Ó Sirius said, waggling his eyebrows suggestively. Remus and Chelsea blushed.
ÒSirius Black!Ó Lily shrieked. ÒI have had enough of this conversation! Shut up unless you have something worthwhile to say!Ó she pleaded. Sirius nodded guiltily and settled back into the couch. Suddenly his face lit up.
ÒI have an iedea!Ó he exclaimed dramatically. Òsnowball fight!Ó he said, tagging James and runnig out of the Gryffindor commonroom.
ÒHey! YouÕll pay for that one, Black!Ó James hollered after him before running out the portrait hole to chase Sirius.
Lilu shrugged. ÒIf you canÕt beat Ôem, join Ôem. Get back here, Potter!Ó Lily ran out after James. Lily kept running until she was close enough to grab the back of JamesÕs shirt, resulting in them both falling over as Lily tackled him.
ÒLily! Get off!Ó James whined, though he was laughing. Lily giggle manically. James stuck his bottom lip in a pout. Lily grinned.
ÒNever.Ó
ÒLily!Ó James pleaded with her. Lily was surprised to see the paind and pleading in his voice and on his face. She had unconciously forgotten all about teenage hormones.
ÒWhat--?Ó Lily asked, confused.
ÒPlease, or else I have to--Ó
ÒHa! Or else what?Ó
ÒOr else this!Ó James exclaimed. He pushed himself up off his back with his hands and met her with a fevereish and longing kiss. She was surprised to say the least, but they soon found themselves being observed by a pair of saphire blue eyes standing above them. Sirius.
ÒWell, well, well, what have we here?Ó he asked, amused, while staring down at the two. James was now on top of a mauled-looking Lily, looking up at Sirius with a glare on his face. Lily just blushed and looked away. ÒOh, no need to stop for me. Goodness knows IÕve seen this type of thing before. I just want to warn you that it is a nice day for a stroll around the castle and others might not take to kindly to this scene. Most especially Profesor Mcgonigall or Monsiur Filch and Madame Norris. I suggest you scamper off.Ó
James pushed himself up and stood up next to Lily, holding his hand out to help her up.
ÒCome on,Ó he said, leading her back to the Gryffindor commonroom. ÒSirius is a lowly bastard. DonÕt worry about him.Ó
ÒNot unlike yourself,Ó Lily commented dryly. She laughed really hard and looked back where Sirius was standing with an amused expression on his face.
------------------------------
ÒThey did WHAT in the middle of the hall?Ó Remus asked disbelievingly.
Sirius shrugged and smiled suspiciously at Remus. ÒJealous or James?Ó
ÒOh Lord, no!Ó Remus exclaimed frantically.
ÒSure....Ó Sirius said, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. Remus scoffed.
ÒYou bloody bastart.Ó
ÒTwice in one day, thatÕs a record.Ó
ÒThat it is,Ó Remus said exasperatedly.
Sirius flung his arm around Remus and smiled goofily. ÒI love you, Moony.Ó
Remus scoffed again and went down to the commonroom to say goodbye to chelsea snd Kate as they were laeving for home that night.
--------------------------
ÒIÕm going to miss you so much!Ó
ÒKate, you are only leaving for two weeks.Ó
ÒJust the same, IÕll miss you, Lils!Ó
James, Sirius, Remus, and Peter stood off to the side, staring amusedly at the three girls.
Chelsea resigned herself to hugging Lily silently before she stepped back and smiled. She walked over to Remus and gave hima hug and a goodbye kiss.
ÒHey! Do I get a goodbye kiss?Ó Sirius asked chelsea. She laughed and kissed him on the cheek. ÒKate?Ó Sirius asked, grinning like a maniac at all the attention. She kissed him on the cheek as well. ÒLily?Ó He smiled even wider.
ÒIÕm not even leaving, Black,Ó Lily scoffed.
ÒGet your hands off my girl,Ó James said to Sirius.
ÒI am NOT you girl, Potter,Ó she snapped back at James.
ÒDonÕt forget you have a GIRLFRIEND,Ó Kate prompted.
ÒSince when?Ó everyone asked. Kate looked slightly disgruntled at their question.
ÒSince five seconds ago,Ó she replied as though it were quite obvious.
Sirius shrugged. ÒIt must be my undefinable allure and charms.Ó Lily snorted.
ÒYah right. Since when have YOU been charming?Ó she asked.
SiriusÕs face fell slightly as he looked at her. She was surprised by how hurt he looked by her small comment. James glared at her.
ÒYou really shouldnÕt be that mean,Ó Chelsea said softly to Lily. Lily scowled.
ÒFine. Bye you guys, have fun over Christmas break. I hope you enjoy your holiday.Ó With that, Lily stalked off down Platform 9 and 3/4, back to the castle, back to her home, leaving her friends all staring after her with bewildered looks on their faces.
-Red
"Oh my God, Lily. Absolutely stunning. He won't know won't know what hit him," Kate breathed as she stepped back and admired her work. She had completely transformed Lily. Lily reached up to clip her auburn hair back. She twirled slowly in front of the mirror and gazed at her pretty reflection. She had to admit, she looked good.
The three girls looked at each other and smiled. Chelsea was wearing lavender robes that had misty leaves printed on them. She had her long, blond, curly hair down and it reached the bottom of her back. Kate was wearing crimson robes and her brown and gold straight hair was in a tight bun at the nape of her neck.
They all grabbed their cloaks and went downstairs to meet James, Remus, and Sirius.
"Hey girls," Sirius said when they came down to the common room.
They grinned and went to stand by their dates.
"Shall we?" James asked politely, holding out an arm for Lily.
"We shall," she answered, taking the arm he offered. They all wandered down to the Entrance Hall, laughing and joking. Many heads turned to watch as they passed, not because they all looked so good, but because they were all getting along. Lily Evans and James Potter, actually walking down the hall...together. Many thought it a disaster waiting to happen. Others just thought that it was good the hall wasn't in ruins yet.
They entered the hall and it immediately took their breath away. There were candles floating all around, tiny fairies flitting here and there. The snow seemed to fall lightly down upon them but it disappeared before it touched their heads. The floor had been transfigured into grass and white flagged stones that shone with glassy dew. It was magical. Even the tables were decorated in fair, shimmery table clothes.
Awestruck, they made their way to a table near the dance floor where soft elven music played. They took another look around the hall and noticed that the walls were covered in leafy trees that shone with the fairies around the room. They had done a good job decorating.
"Would you like to dance, Lily?" James asked tentatively.
"I love dancing," she replied fervently as James grabbed her hand and led her out onto the dance floor.
They reached the dance floor that was white stone and smiled at each other. Lily snaked her arms around his neck and they began to dance to the sweet music filtering around the room. Now they were attracting many stares, but the two didn't seem to notice. They were soon the only two dancing as everyone in the hall turned to see with shocked faces, Lily Evans and James Potter dancing together.
The song ended and Lily smiled. James lowered his head and kissed her passionately [there's some romance for you people, since you wanted more. See the reviews...]. Dumbledore stood up and started clapping. Soon everyone in the hall too started clapping politely and the room was filled with laughter and cheers as Lily and James pulled apart.
"Talk about embarrassing," Lily whispered in his ear.
After a minute, the ruckus died down and Lily pulled James back towards their table. James was extremely happy. He had kissed the girl he had loved for years and she hadn't hit him or yelled at all. Tonight was going to be a good night, he thought.
"Hey James, ol' buddy, ol' pal," Sirius said as James and Lily sat down.
"What?" James asked, distracted.
"Oh, nothing," Sirius mumbled when the food appeared.
"Oh how do you DO that?" asked Kate, disgusted.
"What?" said Sirius defensively through a mouth full of food. Kate sighed and looked away. Even James and Remus, who were used to Peter's eating habits, were disgusted. Sirius shrugged and shoveled more food into his mouth.
"There's no way I kissing you tonight," Kate said, eyeing him reproachfully.
"Well I didn't know you wanted to, but by all means, go ahead. I don't mind. Besides, it's just food."
"Never mind," she said, scooting her chair over a couple of inches.
"Disgusting," said Chelsea pointedly. "Remus?" she said, gesturing towards the floor.
"Uh, er, I can't dance," he said sheepishly.
"Of course you can!" she said happily, dragging him behind her. He shrugged, looking back at his friends, who smiled encouragingly.
They stopped at the edge of the floor and smiled as the music began.
"See? You CAN dance!" Chelsea said.
"This is fun...oops, sorry...oh, ouch...."
"Do you want to go outside with me?" she asked, taking his hand and leading him out of the hall. They went outside and walked towards the tree at the lake.
"Doesn't look like I have much of a choice," Remus said. Chelsea laughed.
[A/N: to continue with the chapter. Hey, anyway, how about longer chapters? I like reading longer chapters myself because then I wonÕt be as sad at the end of the story cause I got to read a lot more. Anyway, if you review, you can go ahead and put it in. By the by, Chelsea: IÕm sorry I didnÕt post lately because of school and going to D.C., but I have the rest of fifth year planned out just for you, k? Happy reading!]
The two walked towards the tree at the edge of the lake.
ÒThanks for taking me to the ball, Remus,Ó Chelsea said after they were settled comfortably under the tree.
ÒYouÕre welcome. I wasnÕt going to go if you didnÕt want to go with me,Ó he stuttered.
ÒThatÕs really sweet.Ó She smiled up at him. Somehow, that small, encouraging smile made Remus forget everything bad in his life. Forget that he was a werewolf, forget that he was nervous about what he was about to do.
ÒEr, thanks.Ó He paused. ÒSo, would you want to go with me to Hogsmeade during break? That is, if youÕre staying.Ó
ÒYah someone has to make sure Lily and James donÕt kill each other, but IÕm going back home to my family for the break,Ó she said sadly. ÒBesides, I donÕt want to be there for when all hell breaks loose. We planned a big prank that Lily is going to execute during Christmas. Warn your comrades,Ó she said coyly. Remus grinned and saluted.
ÒWill do, General Killjoy!Ó
ÒHey!Ó she said, slapping him upside the head jokingly. She stood up and held her hand down to him. ÒLetÕs go back inside now.Ó
ÒYeah,Ó Remus said thoughtfully once he had stood up. Chelsea turned toward the castle. ÒHey, wait a minute,Ó he said, grabbing her wrist. She was about to ask what but he pulled her into his arms and gave a soft kiss before they went back to the castle.
This has been an interesting night, they both thought. How right they were.
---------------------------
When Chelsea and Remus got back to the castle, they were met by gales of laughter from Gryffindor and mad shouts from Slytherins.
ÒOh God,Ó Chelsea muttered under her breath.
Severus Snape, the SixÕs Slytherins enemy, was hanging from the chandelier of the Great Hall, hair that had turned into weeds and skin flashing different colors and patterns, clashing terribly with the pink ballet tutu and shoes he was wearing.
Lily looked livid.
ÒJames Potter!Ó she screeched over the laughing crowd. ÒYou get your arse over here A.S.A.P.!Ó she yelled, sparks flying out her wand tip and gentle curls falling out of her clip.
James gulped and turned to Lily.
ÒWhat?Ó he asked warily.
ÒGet him down, now,Ó she said darkly.
James gulped again and shook his head.
Òand why not?Ó
ÒBecause he, er, he called you a, er, a....Ó James gulped yet again. ÒA...Mudblood,Ó he whispered. Lily flung her head back and laughed maniacally. James grinned sheepishly.
ÒJames Potter, get him down now, please,Ó she said calmly. ÒNow,Ó she growled. James nodded and, not taking his eyes off Lily, in case she felt the need to hex him, flicked his wand at Snape muttering the counter charm for the levitation spell he used on Snape.
ÒThank you, James,Ó Lily said calmly. ÒJames, I can fight my own battles, thanks. I can take care of myself because, and I swear I would have been kissing you if this were not the case, I am not a little girl,Ó she said, a slight edge to her voice.
ÒI donÕt need help from a bitchy Mudblood girl,Ó Snape said, finally speaking.
ÒAnd YOU,Ó Lily said, turning to Snape. ÒKeep your filthy mouth shut.Ó Her voice was going dangerously high.
Snape gulped and look away. A mad Lily was bad enough. A furious Lily could take over the world. A very mad and furious Lily, could kill. The teachers looked on with shocked expressions. Detentions and punishments could wait. Now they had to see what Lily would do.
ÒJames, I am diss--Ó James shrunk a bit. Ò--a--Ó He seemed to shrink some more. Ò--pointed in you.Ó He now shrunk about five inches. Lily scowled at them all. ÒWhat are YOU looking at?Ó Everyone started to grumble and walk away. The music had stopped and the ball seemed to be over. People started heading back to their common rooms. Lily could tell, rumors were already spreading.
ÒSheÕs never going to speak to me again is she?Ó James asked Sirius.
ÒNope!Ó he replied happily.
ÒYouÕre such a supporter.Ó
ÒYou are welcome, buddy. It is time you learned that snogging the hottest girl in school is a very hard and trying task.Ó
ÒAnd you would know from experience?Ó Sirius nodded. James gagged. ÒWeÕre getting off the subject. Wait a minute...Lily is the hottest girl in school....Ó Sirius grinned but shook his head at James.
ÒEveryone knows that Kate is the hottest,Ó Sirius said matter-of-factly. Remus, who happened to be listening on the conversation, tapped Sirius on the shoulder politely.
ÒIÕm sorry, but you must be mistaken. I believe, and I am right in saying, Chelsea is the hottest girl in the school.Ó Sirius and James swiveled their heads to stare at Remus. Sirius shook his head.
ÒIÕm worried about Moony,Ó Sirius said to James, turning his head to look at him again and jerking his thumb back at Remus. Remus grabbed his hand and twisted it backwards and down and stepped really close to Sirius to speak right in his face.
ÒI have the strength of a wolf and I can kick your butt back into last week, got it?Ó He made a face. ÒOh god, Padfoot, what did you eat? Your breath stinks!Ó
Sirius smiled at him. ÒHey James, does my breath smell?Ó Sirius asked James, twisting his head so he could exhale on the boy.
ÒYes,Ó James said, clamping his hands over his nose and mouth. ÒBut you might want to consider the fact that Moony has a super powered nose from all that sniffing he does a the Shrieking Shack.Ó James coughed and pretended to gag.
Remus rolled his eyes at the two boys. ÒCome on, letÕs go.Ó
----------------------------
The next couple of day, things just got worse. Lily and James were constantly at each otherÕs throats, bickering about everything.
ÒYou insufferable git!Ó
ÒCarrot Top!Ó
ÒArrogant prat!Ó
ÒCrybaby!Ó
ÒBullying toerag!
ÒStubborn, er, person!Ó
ÒI hate you!Ó
ÒYou wouldnÕt dare!Ó
ÒI HATE YOU!!!Ó
ÒYah? Well...I hate you, too!Ó
ÒFine!Ó
ÒFine!Ó
ÒJames Potter is so infuriating!Ó
ÒLily Evans, eurgh!Ó
It was either that or they werenÕt speaking to each other at all. They could barely stand being in the same room together, although Sirius, the randy wanker, thought that it was because they would immediately start kissing if they didnÕt get away in time. Well, for the most part, that just proves that Sirius is madder than we think. Classes often ended with smoke flying out the door or hexes flashing around and most likely another one of SiriusÕs randy remarks. Sometimes, classes ended early or were just called off completely because the teachers were so afraid of Lily and James, though, as usual, their potions master, Flavius Marulus [A/N: Thank you Shakespeare...], did not care.
ÒMr. Potter, is there something you would like to share with us?Ó Profesor Marulus said coldly.
ÒNo, Profesor,Ó James said innocently. Marulus glared and continued class.
ÒAs I was saying, we will be brewing Polyjuice Potions.Ó the whole class groaned loudly. they had done Polyjuice Potions in Fourth Year. Marulus grinned grimly. ÒAnd I will also be putting you all in pairs. When I read the pairs, you will go to sit with your partners. Okay, here we go. Purin, Alvaraz; Black, hod on, there is a smudge here, how about Kate A.; Pettigrew, Sanchez; Remus L. and Chelsea P.; Snape, Winnifred Wilkes [A/N: I liked this character so much from another fanfiction that I had to put her and a few others in. I hope Oy! Angelina feels flattered enough to UPDATE HER STORY!]; Potter, Evans--ÓLily stopped listening there. Great, Potter the Prat. She swore quietly and got up to go over to the messy haired boy.
ÒÕlo,Ó he said, setting out the potions ingredients. She nodded her head curtly in reply.
A couple minutes later, they were cutting and stirring ingredients into the cauldron. James sighed and turned to Lily.
ÒTruce,Ó they said at the same time and shook hands, both obviously vowing to prank the other later. The rest of the class was spent in silence only short sentences were exchanged such as:
ÒPlease pASS the dragon bial.Ó
ÒPlease pASS the newt eyes.Ó
ÒPlease pASS the blind worms.Ó
ÒPlease pASS the dragon blood.Ó
OF course both of them knew the message hidden within, but Marulus did not, thankfully. He did, although, tell them to shut up many a time, but they werenÕt really paying any attention to his requests.
Soon class was over and everything was back to normal, the two often forgetting their truce.
--------------------------------- Severus Snape stood up and walked over to the girl Winnifred Wilkes with a scowl on his face. It wasnÕt that he neccessarily disliked his cousin, he just thought that he could at least have someone other than the gothic girl for his partner.
ÒHello, Winnifred.Ó
ÒHello,Ó she replied back, flipping her long, dark hair over her shoulder and staring at him with he navy eyes. Severus sat down next to her and took out his extensive amount of potions supplies. WinnifredÕs own scowl deepened, which was not uncharacteristic for a Slytherin. ÒWhy do you carry so much supplies with you, Severus?Ó
He stopped what he was doing to look at her.
ÒI happen to enjoy potions, unlike some people in this putrid school.Ó He glared over at the Marauders.
Winnifred smiled coldly. ÒWell, IÕll stir the potion if you cut up all the disgusting worms and whatnot.Ó
Severus grunted in reply.
They both got silently to work, asking questions every now and again. All they had to do now was sit and let the potion stew. They resigned themselves to talking quietly until class was over.
ÒSo,Ó Winnifred started, Òthat Lily Evans sure is a looker....Ó She always figured Severus had a small crush on Lillian Evans, even though it was microscopic. Besides, Lily Evans was his weak point and she could quickly annoy Severus to no end on the subject. As predicted, Severus stiffened slightly.
ÒIf you like prissy Mudblood Gryffindors, sure, Evans has some charm about her, though not enough to make up for her severe brain loss.Ó He glared at Winnifred for bringing up the subject.
ÒFestering feelings for the bitch, are you?Ó
ÒNo, Winnifred, however hopeful you may be, I do not like Evans.Ó Snape smirked at his succeeding in antagonizing Winnifred.
ÒSure....Ó she smirked even more than Severus and glanced at the Gryffindor subject to their conversation. ÒI bet you would have asked her to the Yule Ball if Potter didnÕtÓ
Severus glowered at the mention of James PotterÕs name. He hated him. Hated him and all his Gryffindor friends and stupid fans and followers.
ÒI most certainly would have not,Ó he replied coolly, noticing Winnifred smile widely. Great, she was going to start antagonizing him again.
ÒNext year, you will, wonÕt you, Sev?Ó
Severus shook his head. ÒYou ought to know by now, Winnifred, I do not go to Yule Balls.Ó He spat out that lasts words with disgust.
ÒHmmm. I would have asked maybe Sirius Black. He is a looker in his own sense, no?Ó Severus glowered.
ÒYou will not ask one of those...common voyeurs to go anywhere with you, Wilkes,Ó he snarled.
Winnifred shrugged, standing up and flinging her bag over her shoulder while flicking her long hair back.
ÒIÕll see you later, Severus,Ó she replied, stalking off and out of the classroom.
Severus shook his head. He would kill Black if he ever did anything to Winnifred.
-------------------------
ÒSo, whoÕs going home for break?Ó Sirius asked that Friday afternoon, the last day of classes.
Lily, James, Sirius, and Remus all raised their hands.
ÒSorry Lils,Ó Chelsea and Kate said, shrugging apollagetically. Lily waved it off.
ÒJust as long as HE stays away from me,Ó she said glaring and pointing at James. James grinned manically and Lily Lily edged away from him fearfully. He grinned even wider and flung his arm around her shoulders. Lily gagged dramatically and pushed his arm off.
ÒReally, Lils, it was a small prank. Why the big grudge?Ó Sirius asked.
ÒBecause he had it coming. Potter, youÕd better be careful and not get on my nerves or else there will never be a chance of me forgiving you for your forthright acts,Ó Lily said primly.
Sirius and Remus grinned at each other. this only meant one thing: pranks, pranks, and more pranks. They had already stocked up on FillibusterÕs Fireworks and packages of dungbombs. LilyÕs face went white and she gulped, looking toward Chelsea and Kate.
ÒHelp me,Ó she mouthed. Chelsea and Kate laughed and shook their heads.
ÒLetÕs go to dinner, then, hm?Ó Sirius half whined, half asked. Everyone laughed and walked out of the protrait hole and down to the Great Hall.
When they got to the Hall, almost no one was there. The Six sat down at the end of the Gryffindor table. As immpossible as it swounds, Sirius practically inhaled the whole table in his hunger. The only thing stopping him from completing this feat was that Peter Pettigrew, the watery fourth Marauder, sat down next to him and piled food on his plate.
ÒWhat the hell do you think you are doing with my food?!Ó Sirius demanded to the fat boy next to him. Peter shrugged and opened his mouth to say something in reply. Sirius gagged and closed his eyes. ÒKeep your mouth closed when you eat, Wormtail.Ó Peter swallowed and smiled at the others.
ÒGlad to see you back, Pete,Ó Remus said kindly, though sarcastically, to the boy. Peter grinned even wider.
Òglad to be back.Ó The others groaned. ÒWhat?Ó he asked, sounding slightly offended.
ÒNothing, Pete,Ó Sirius relpied disgustedly. He glared at Peter. ÒWell, IÕm down with MY dinner.Ó
Remus scoffed. ÒPadfoot, giving up a meal? Wow...that must be like, what, a first? Tell me, Peter,Ó he said turning to stare scrutinizingly at Peter, Òhow did you do it?Ó Sirius hit him on the arm and the SEVEN [A/N: I hate Peter, but he IS neccessary for the plot line....] left the Great Hall and headed back to common room. A few minutes later, they were all snuggled on the couches in the Gryffindor commons, staring into the fire, reading, or playing wizard chess in Remus and PeterÕs case. Sirius, on the other hand, was actually living up to his name sake for once. he seemed to be deep in thought.
James looked over at his friend and smirked. ÒWhatcha doing, Padfoot?Ó
ÒJust thinking....Ó he replied, not looking up from the fire.
Remus did however look up from his game to stare at Sirius. ÒSirius...thinking?Ó He scoffed and shrugged. ÒWell, thatÕs a first. We should start weening you off of dinner so that you can use your head a bit more often.Ó This time Chelsea smacked him on the arm. ÒWhat?Ó
She smirked. ÒYou are in an awfully foul mood, arenÕt you?Ó
ÒYah, whatÕs up, Moony?Ó James asked.
Remus sighed. ÒFull moon is...er...soon....Ó James nodded and Lily paled a bit, though not wanting to release any of RemusÕs personal secrets to Chelsea and Kate, he could tell them on his own, she refrained from questioning him about his health.
ÒWhatÕs wrong with the full moon, Rem?Ó Chelsea asked curiously. RemusÕs eyes widened in shcock. What to do?
ÒEr,Ó Remus thought fast. ÒI just seem to feel under the weather and cross around this time of month.Ó Chelsea emitted a small ÔohÕ. She knew he wasnÕt telling her something, but she figuered he would tell her when he was ready. She trusted Remus very deeply and did not want to hurt him by rushing into anything.
Kate, on the othered hand, sniggered. Remus shot her a questioning look. She giggled some more. ÒOh, nothing. It just sounded as though you had the same thing going on with use three.Ó She motioned at herself, Lily, and Chelsea. ÒYou know how we get all cross around that time of the month.Ó she giggled again.
Remus, being the under-educated one himself, well, when it came to girls, gasped.
ÒYou guys are just like me!Ó he said, amazed. ÒI fell that way every month, too! Oh, glad to meet another one! What time did it happen to you?Ó he inquired politely. James and Sirius sniggered at their lost friend. The three girls stared at Remus as though he were a giant flobberworm.
ÒWell, I was, er, fourteen, and they were both thirteen,Ó Lily said. ÒBut I donÕt think weÕre talking about the same thing.Ó
ÒWait, are you telling me that I have been dating a girl-boy this whole time?Ó Chelsea asked, apalled.
Remus stared at her. ÒWhat?Ó His eyes suddenly widened. ÒOh! Oh my, I didnÕt mean that! Really, honestly.Ó He chuckled nervously.
ÒOnly one way to prove it to her, mate,Ó Sirius said, waggling his eyebrows suggestively. Remus and Chelsea blushed.
ÒSirius Black!Ó Lily shrieked. ÒI have had enough of this conversation! Shut up unless you have something worthwhile to say!Ó she pleaded. Sirius nodded guiltily and settled back into the couch. Suddenly his face lit up.
ÒI have an iedea!Ó he exclaimed dramatically. Òsnowball fight!Ó he said, tagging James and runnig out of the Gryffindor commonroom.
ÒHey! YouÕll pay for that one, Black!Ó James hollered after him before running out the portrait hole to chase Sirius.
Lilu shrugged. ÒIf you canÕt beat Ôem, join Ôem. Get back here, Potter!Ó Lily ran out after James. Lily kept running until she was close enough to grab the back of JamesÕs shirt, resulting in them both falling over as Lily tackled him.
ÒLily! Get off!Ó James whined, though he was laughing. Lily giggle manically. James stuck his bottom lip in a pout. Lily grinned.
ÒNever.Ó
ÒLily!Ó James pleaded with her. Lily was surprised to see the paind and pleading in his voice and on his face. She had unconciously forgotten all about teenage hormones.
ÒWhat--?Ó Lily asked, confused.
ÒPlease, or else I have to--Ó
ÒHa! Or else what?Ó
ÒOr else this!Ó James exclaimed. He pushed himself up off his back with his hands and met her with a fevereish and longing kiss. She was surprised to say the least, but they soon found themselves being observed by a pair of saphire blue eyes standing above them. Sirius.
ÒWell, well, well, what have we here?Ó he asked, amused, while staring down at the two. James was now on top of a mauled-looking Lily, looking up at Sirius with a glare on his face. Lily just blushed and looked away. ÒOh, no need to stop for me. Goodness knows IÕve seen this type of thing before. I just want to warn you that it is a nice day for a stroll around the castle and others might not take to kindly to this scene. Most especially Profesor Mcgonigall or Monsiur Filch and Madame Norris. I suggest you scamper off.Ó
James pushed himself up and stood up next to Lily, holding his hand out to help her up.
ÒCome on,Ó he said, leading her back to the Gryffindor commonroom. ÒSirius is a lowly bastard. DonÕt worry about him.Ó
ÒNot unlike yourself,Ó Lily commented dryly. She laughed really hard and looked back where Sirius was standing with an amused expression on his face.
------------------------------
ÒThey did WHAT in the middle of the hall?Ó Remus asked disbelievingly.
Sirius shrugged and smiled suspiciously at Remus. ÒJealous or James?Ó
ÒOh Lord, no!Ó Remus exclaimed frantically.
ÒSure....Ó Sirius said, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. Remus scoffed.
ÒYou bloody bastart.Ó
ÒTwice in one day, thatÕs a record.Ó
ÒThat it is,Ó Remus said exasperatedly.
Sirius flung his arm around Remus and smiled goofily. ÒI love you, Moony.Ó
Remus scoffed again and went down to the commonroom to say goodbye to chelsea snd Kate as they were laeving for home that night.
--------------------------
ÒIÕm going to miss you so much!Ó
ÒKate, you are only leaving for two weeks.Ó
ÒJust the same, IÕll miss you, Lils!Ó
James, Sirius, Remus, and Peter stood off to the side, staring amusedly at the three girls.
Chelsea resigned herself to hugging Lily silently before she stepped back and smiled. She walked over to Remus and gave hima hug and a goodbye kiss.
ÒHey! Do I get a goodbye kiss?Ó Sirius asked chelsea. She laughed and kissed him on the cheek. ÒKate?Ó Sirius asked, grinning like a maniac at all the attention. She kissed him on the cheek as well. ÒLily?Ó He smiled even wider.
ÒIÕm not even leaving, Black,Ó Lily scoffed.
ÒGet your hands off my girl,Ó James said to Sirius.
ÒI am NOT you girl, Potter,Ó she snapped back at James.
ÒDonÕt forget you have a GIRLFRIEND,Ó Kate prompted.
ÒSince when?Ó everyone asked. Kate looked slightly disgruntled at their question.
ÒSince five seconds ago,Ó she replied as though it were quite obvious.
Sirius shrugged. ÒIt must be my undefinable allure and charms.Ó Lily snorted.
ÒYah right. Since when have YOU been charming?Ó she asked.
SiriusÕs face fell slightly as he looked at her. She was surprised by how hurt he looked by her small comment. James glared at her.
ÒYou really shouldnÕt be that mean,Ó Chelsea said softly to Lily. Lily scowled.
ÒFine. Bye you guys, have fun over Christmas break. I hope you enjoy your holiday.Ó With that, Lily stalked off down Platform 9 and 3/4, back to the castle, back to her home, leaving her friends all staring after her with bewildered looks on their faces.