FOREWORD
Well, finally chapter eleven has been posted and chapter twelve is here. IÕm very happy with how this is going, I have the rest of their lives pretty much planned. Ooo, IÕve also put more romance in it, anything for my reviewers! Also, I have decided that characters from other houses would be a nice addition to Something About You. Hence Winifred Wilkes, I like her character, Severus Snape, and some other Slytherins IÕm going to put in this story, maybe even in this chapter. I am also considering changing things around so that this story goes straight till the PottersÕ deaths instead of splitting it up into different stories. Anyway, please keep reviewing because itÕ almost my birthday! IÕll be fourteen! IÕll be expecting many more reviews by then, you brilliant reviewers, you! Thanks everyone!
-Lily (aka lttlered)
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ÒLily! Lily, wait!Ó James Potter ran after Lily Evans who had gone across the sloping lawns in front of Hogwarts castle. She ran into the Forbidden Forest and James lost sight of her. He sincerely hoped she hadn't gone too far into the forest because there were many worse things than werewolves in that particular forest.
Lily stopped in a clearing shortly inside of the forest and dropped to her knees. She lay onto her hands that rested on her thighs, sobs wracking her body. She was having a very difficult time breathing. She heard someone running up behind her, but couldnÕt tell who it was. They told her to hush and put their arm around her shoulders. It was then that she lost all conscious thought and gave up the struggle.
Lily screamed as she blacked out.
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James, Remus, Sirius, and Peter all waved as the Hogwarts Express took their friends back to their families for those two Christmas weeks. As the train disappeared from view, the Marauders turned around and made their way back to the castle. They made their way up the sloping lawns until they were in clear sight of the front of the castle. They stopped, mouths agape, at the scene in front of them.
Serpen Nott, a Slytherin Sixth Year, had his wand out and pointed at Lily lay in a crumpled heap on the ground, writhing with pain. Around them, Mary Tudor, another Slytherin Sixth Year, Regius Avery, a Slytherin Fifth Year, stood around, laughing at the scene. Severus Snape and Winifred Wilkes stood somewhat off to the side, but Snape had a look of pure disgust on his face while Wilkes had a slightly amused look to her.
The Marauders menacingly walked up, making Nott look over his shoulder at them.
ÒWhy, isnÕt it the Gryffindor heroes,Ó he spat.
ÒWhat are you doing to Lily?Ó James asked menacingly. Lily looked up from where she was shaking on the snowy ground. Her face was completely white and there was quite a lot of blood pooled around her that was soaking into the snow. She had lost a lot of blood. James gasped and ran over to her side, trying to help her up. Lily coughed some blood out and managed a weak smile at James, her heart was pounding.
James stood up again to repeat his question to Nott.
ÒWhat did you do to Lily?Ó
ÒWhy do you care about the bitchy Mudblood. She has no place here and she needs to be punished. What better way than to make her suffer pain and humiliation in front of her friends.Ó Nott smirked. ÒThe Mudblood needs to be punished.Ó
James drew out his wand and pointed it at NottÕs chest.
ÒStop it, now,Ó he snarled to the Slytherins. ÒApologize to Lily.Ó Nott sniggered.
ÒNot a chance, Potter.Ó
Sirius took three long strides to Nott and punched him in the jaw. Nott fell back and Mary Tudor and Regius Avery caught him. Sirius was shaking with rage, the fury he felt towards the Slytherins.
Lily struggled to get up. She was scared, even deathly afraid of what the slytherins might have said or done to her. She did the only smart thing she could think of at the moment.
Run.
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He rocked Lily in his arms after she screamed. He kissed her head, her hair, trying to comfort her in any way possible. It was cold in the snow and he would never let her go.
James cried for Lily. He cried to help her stay alive. He sobbed into her body, into her hair that was already wet and clinging. He closed his eyes and rocked back and forth.
Back and forth.
ÒLily...Lily, please,Ó James said in a faltering voice. ÒDonÕt leave me, please, Lily. You mean a whole lot to me. An awful lot to me. Oh please,Ó he whispered. ÒI love you.Ó
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Sirius gaped after James and Lily. He made to run after them, but Remus put a hand on his shoulder to hold him back.
ÒPadfoot,Ó he said in a hurried tone, they were now oblivious to the Slytherins. ÒTransform and run to make sure they are okay, IÕll distract the Slytherins and get Dumbledore.Ó
Sirius nodded and bounded off. Remus took up a fighting stance and flourished his wand.
ÒExpelliarmus!Ó he shouted.
When he was out of sight and around the castle, Sirius transformed into a black, shaggy dog and ran into the forest. They had to be here somewhere. Finally he caught the sent of fresh blood. He could smell Lily and James. He made it to the clearing and stopped at the edge.
ÒYou mean a whole lot to me. An awful lot to me. Oh please,Ó he heard James whisper to LilyÕs limp frame. ÒI love you.Ó
Sirius padded over to JamesÕs side and nudged him in the shoulder with his nose. James looked up with a tear stained face.
ÒPadfoot?Ó he whispered weakly.
Sirius transformed, still nodding at JamesÕs question. He motioned towards Lily and they picked her up and draped her arms around JamesÕs neck. James followed Sirius out of the forest in silence, still crying slightly.
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ÒWhat happened here?! Oh you poor things. Here, get her over to this bed now! Quickly,Ó Madame Pomfrey exclaimed in a worried tone as Sirius and James rushed into the Hospital Wing with a swollen Lily in their arms. James walked over to Madame Pomfrey and laid Lily down on the bed she gestured to.
Sirius walked forward.
ÒShe ran into a pack of ravenous Slytherins alone,Ó he explained in a hurried tone. ÒBut she can tell you the gory details later. Right now you need to tend to her. She lost a lot of blood. Remus is going to get Professor Dumbledore right now.Ó
Madame Pomfrey stared at the young and worried boy in front of her. this was not the sirius she knew. ÒYou DO know that ravenous means hungry...?Ó she inquired in a curious tone.
Sirius shrugged.
ÒPerhaps they were?Ó Sirius nodded. ÒVery well, I shall tend to her. But you two, go, be off.Ó Sirius nodded and walked out of the infirmary. Madame Pomfrey looked back at James who had set himself down in a chair next to LilyÕs bed. He tentatively brought his hand up, hesitating before he stroked her cheek affectionately. Madame Pomfrey sighed and left the boy there as she fetched her supplies to heal the redheaded girl.
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Remus ran up the the headmasterÕs office at full speed and skidded to a halt in front of the gargoyle guarding the entrance.
He didnÕt know the password.
ÒEr, Lemon Wedges, Fizzing Whisbies, Bertie BottÕs Every Flavor Beans, no he doesnÕt like those, Chocolate Frogs?Ó The gargoyle sprang to life and exposed a tight spiral staircase winding up to the office. Remus bounded up the stairs three at a time until he had to come to a sudden halt, face to face with Dumbledore.
ÒWhy, what are you doing here, Remus?Ó he inquired gently. Remus gasped for breath as he had just ran quite a long way from the entrance Hall.
ÒLily, sheÕs hurt really badly. Hospital Wing. There now...James...and...and Sirius. Slytherins attacked her,Ó he said very fast. DumbledoreÕs face became very stern and he swept past Remus and down the staircase, Remus following close behind him.
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ÒI miss them all already so much,Ó Chelsea sighed.
ÒYeah, I wonder what theyÕre all doing now,Ó Kate wondered aloud.
ÒI donÕt know, but I have this weird feeling that something bad is going on back at the castle.Ó
ÒYah, me too. I wish we werenÕt leaving.Ó
ÒI hope the boys take good care of Lily.Ó
ÒYeah, if we get any reports about exploding toilets and people in the Hospital Wing, I am going to personally slaughter those boys, whether they're my boyfriend now or not.Ó
ÒSpeaking of Sirius, do you really like him that much?Ó
Kate shrugged. ÒYeah, we are so much alike, but I donÕt think itÕs going to work. WeÕve talked about it a couple of times and we have realized we are better off as friends. WeÕre just experimenting right now. I think we both miss our old dating schedule.Ó Kate was referring to hers and SiriusÕs interesting dating habits. Their usual relationships only lasted about two weeks or so, but they had never tried dating each other. ÒWhat about you and Remus?Ó
ÒI really like him, but I think thereÕs something he isnÕt telling me. ItÕs been nagging at the back of my mind for quite a while now, you know. I just wish he would tell me, but IÕm slowly starting to piece things together. Him being sick every month near the full moon, how his boggart was a shiny orb in Third Year, how heÕs so quiet and reclusive, like heÕs afraid heÕll be rejected if he tells. Well, I think IÕve figured it out.Ó
They waited in silence for a minute or two.
ÒWell,Ó Kate prodded insistently.
ÒRemus is a werewolf.Ó
Remus is a werewolf.
HeÕs a were wolf.
Remus, sweet Remus, a werewolf.
KateÕs eyes widened.
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ÒHow is she?Ó a gentle voice asked by her bed. Lily tried to open her eyes but couldnÕt, thought she could see the gentle glow of the sun shining through the windows and feel the warmth of its rays on her face.
ÒSheÕs fine,Ó another voice said. It was deeper, lined with sorrow and sorry. It sounded familiar to her. ÒPomfrey said sheÕll wake up in about two hours.Ó
ÒOh,Ó yet another voice said. She could tell who this one belonged to: Sirius.
The first voice sighed.
ÒCome on, Moony,Ó the voice that was Sirius said to the first voice. Remus nodded and the boys turned to look at James, who was still sitting by LilyÕs side. He had stayed there for the past week straight. It was Christmas Eve today and the boys had placed a small pile of presents at the foot of her bed in the Hospital Wing. Remus and Sirius left their friend alone with Lily.
Lily smiled. The deeper voice came close to her. ÒLily?Ó She recognized the voice now. It sent shivers up her spine.
James.
ÒJames?Ó she croaked out. LilyÕs eyes fluttered open. James was leaning over her, smiling. His hand was resting on her cheek and his other was holding hers. Lily smiled again.
ÒAre you all right, Lily Flower?Ó Lily nodded. James did, too.
ÒI heard you...in the forest,Ó she said softly. James smiled warmly and, though Lily couldnÕt tell, lovingly at her. ÒThank you, for caring about me like that, I mean, I was scared to death and the last thing I heard was you saying was to hush and then everything went black. What happened?Ó James was slightly taken aback, yet slightly relieved. She hadnÕt heard him say those three words that meant so much to them.
James sighed and looked down at her. He gave her a bracing smile.
ÒI should be asking you the same question.Ó He chuckled. Lily tried to laugh, but coughed instead.
ÒOkay, Mr. Funny Guy, no more jokes or else IÕll end up hacking all my organs out. But thanks anyway, for everything.Ó
ÒYou welcome,Ó he whispered. Someone cleared their throat behind the,. Lily shifted her eyes up to the person and James turned around.
Dumbledore stood over them, eyes sparkling behind his crescent moon glasses.
ÒHello James, Miss Evans.Ó James nodded in reply. ÒJames, IÕd like to have a quick word alone with Miss Evans.Ó James got up and strode out of the Hospital Wing, looking back over his shoulder at Lily and giving her a worried look.
Dumbledore sit down in JamesÕs vacated seat.
ÒAre you feeling better?Ó Lily nodded. ÒLillian, IÕd like to ask a few personal questions with your permission.Ó
ÒGo ahead.Ó
ÒFirst, why were you out alone?Ó
ÒSaying goodbye to my friends.Ó
ÒYes, but you were with Mr. Potter, Mr. Black, Mr. Lupin, and Mr. Pettigrew before you left...on your own. IÕm not blaming you for what happened, but from what I know about the Slytherins, they are a pack of ravenous wolves.Ó
ÒDoesnÕt that mean hungry?Ó
ÒMy point exactly,Ó he said with a chuckle. Then he sighed. ÒNext, what did they do to you in as much detail as you will permit to?Ó
ÒI donÕt know the spell, but it hurt a lot. My body hurt all over and it split and bled in places. I...I coughed up blood, sir.Ó Dumbledore nodded sadly.
ÒWho did this to you?Ó
ÒSerpen Nott, the others cast a few hexes, but he did the worst.Ó Lily looked around. She noticed all the Slytherins who attacked her were lying unconscious in other beds around the ward, some sporting nasty injuries. ÒWhat happened to them?Ó
Dumbledore smiled. ÒYour friend Remus disposed of them before he came to get me. Very smart fellow.Ó
ÒRemus?Ó she asked, puzzled. ÒHe wouldnÕt hurt a fly.Ó
Dumbledore chuckled and stood up.
ÒWell, that seems to be all for now. IÕll send young Mr. Potter back in, shall I?Ó Lily nodded and smiled at Dumbledore.
A few minutes later, James came running in. There was a look of positive glee on his face. Lily looked up and smiled. Madame Pomfrey was currently helping her stand up.
ÒHey James!Ó
James strode over to her and braced her elbow to help her.
ÒHello. Hi Madame Pomfrey.Ó
ÒWhy hello, James. thank you for your help!Ó
ÒNo problem. Is Lily better yet?Ó
ÒShe can walk around some, but she musnÕt do anything too trying...and she canÕt go outside, too cold.Ó
ÒCan I take her for a walk?Ó
ÒYes, just let her get ready. Here you go dear, you can go back in my office to change.Ó
Lily took her clothes and went back to the office Madame Pomfrey had gestured to. A few minutes later she came out and stood beside James while she took her medicine.
ÒThanks, Madame Pomfrey. IÕll be back to take it again later.Ó Lily and James walked out of the Hospital Wing, Lily waving back to Madame Pomfrey.
ÒSuch a sweet little girl,Ó Ms. Pomfrey said to herself.
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ÒIÕm so sorry that happened to you Lily,Ó James began when they were out of ear shot of the Hospital Wing. ÒWe should have gone back with you. IÕm so sorry--Ó
Lily cut him off. ÒJames, itÕs okay. I was being a prick to all of you at the time. ItÕs all right if you didnÕt follow me.Ó
ÒYes, but no matter how pricky you were, we still should have been with you. Gryffindors stick together. I donÕt know what I was thinking.Ó
ÒYou were thinking that I could handle a pack of Slytherins alone.Ó James looked hurt at these words. They had stopped along another corridor, in the alcove made by a stain glassed window, the soft sunshine rays filtering in. Lily turned to face him. She clasped her hands in his and brought them up between the two. James stared down at her. ÒI truly am thankful for what you did for me. How can I ever repay you?Ó
ÒYou canÕt,Ó he said softly. ÒYou donÕt know how much you mean to all of us. How much you mean to me. If something had happened to you, weÕd be lost without you. IÕd be lost without you.Ó James brought their hands up and he kissed them softly.
Lily watched him in wonder. She knew he had liked her and cared for her as only a friend would, why else would he be so enamored with her? Why else would he have gone to the Yule Ball with her if he didnÕt care for her. She had known for a while that he had really liked her, maybe even more, but he had never said it to her before. It was all very puzzling, and all Lily could do fall he kissed her hands was stare at him with wonder.
James brought their hands down and put one of his hands on LilyÕs cheek. Lily was still clasped onto his other hand with a very strong grip. He stared down at her lovingly.
ÒWhat can I do for you now?Ó he whispered.
Lily was caught up in the moment. Time was slowing down for her and she barely heard herself utter the words.
ÒYou can kiss me,Ó she said, slightly dazed.
James leaned down and placed a short, sweet kiss to LilyÕs angel lips.
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Ah, young love, Professor Dumbledore said as he watched the two. How I wish I were that young again, or that enamored with another. They will go far together, if only sheÕd give him a chance. James would prove how much he loves her time and time again. If only fate were not so cruel. I have a nagging in the back of my mind. I sense something is going to go wrong in the near future. The Dark Lord Voldemort is growing steadily stronger. And I am getting too old to fight. James will have to continue this legacy, sacrificing himself for Lily and all of wizard-kind.
Dumbledore left the couple and headed back towards his office. Maybe he would have a chat with a painting of a quirky knight he was rather fond of. Sir Cadogen would definitely ease some of the stress from his mind.
The last thing Dumbledore wanted to think about now was the fate of the two students and the rise of Voldemort. He did not want to think of the dark days to come and how he would have to punish the students responsible for LilyÕs pain.
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ÒSo you really think heÕs a werewolf, Chelse?Ó Kate asked as the train came to a stop and they stepped off onto the busy platform.
ÒYes, IÕm pretty sure. I think IÕll ask him about it when we get back, but IÕm really worried about him. The full moon is in a week. I wish I could be there for him.Ó Chelsea stood on her tiptoes and waved to her parents who were off a little down the platform.
ÒYeah, me too. I know IÕm not as enamored with him as you are, but heÕs still my friend.Ó Kate said. The two girls walked down the platform to greet Chelsea's mother and father.
ÒHello, Chelsea, Kate,Ó her father said, pulling his daughter into a gruff hug. ChelseaÕs mother stood to the side, a smile plastered on her face.
ChelseaÕs dad was tall, with brown, sandy hair and vivid green eyes. He had a very charming smile and got along with almost everyone. He was an auror for the ministry, and a good one at that. Her mother was slightly shorter, with long, cascading, blond curls, not unlike ChelseaÕs and blue eyes. She was a caretaker at St. Mungos Hospital for Magical Maladies.
ÒHello, darling. Doing well in school, I hope?Ó
ÒYes, Mum. Mum, this is Kate, the girl I told you about. Dad, youÕve already met Kate in Diagonal Alley, no?Ó
ÒYes, I have,Ó he father, Paul, said, smiling down at his daughter.
ÒWhat a lovely girl. IÕm Danielle, and this is Paul,Ó ChelseaÕs mother said in a sweet voice.
ÒHi, Danielle. Hello, Paul. Pleasure meeting you.Ó Kate grinned.
ÒKatie! Katie Moyra Angella, darling! [A/N: Wendy from Peter Pan: ÒHello, IÕm Wendy Moyra Angella Darling!Ó Get it? He he...he....]Ó a voice screeched over the heads of the many students on the platform. Kate cringed, Chelsea sniggered. ÒKatie, darling. How wonderful to see you! Why didnÕt you come home sooner, we missed you so much!Ó A short, squat woman with vibrant red hair came over to Kate and clung to her arm. The woman resembled a toad of some sort, fat and bright red.
ÒHello, mum,Ó Kate sighed. It was then that her mother noticed Chelsea and her family.
ÒWhy, hello, you must be Mr. and Mrs. Pendragon. IÕm Ms. Walters, KateÕs mother. Pleasure to meet you. And where is that Black boy you were telling me about? It would be nice if at least one person in our family married into the Black line. Tell me, has he proposed to you yet? WhenÕs the wedding? Oh, Chelsea, darling, you must come. And that young Miss Evans youÕve been telling me about all these years. Where is she by the way? Stayed at home for the holiday? I did that when I was in your Year. Never wanted to leave my friends and come home. So has the Black boy proclaimed his forever lo--Ó
ÒMother!Ó Kate shrieked. She was hyperventilating. Her mother, if possible, had even brighter red cheeks, as she had said this all very fast and the PendragonÕs stood there gaping at the obnoxious old lady.
ÒDid you know that Katie, here, used to run around the house dressed like an indian? she invited the PottersÕ boy over many a time to play. God rest their souls. Too bad they had to die so young. And the young Potter, an orphan. We offered to adopt him, but Dumbledore wouldnÕt have it. I always said that the safest place besides Gringotts to keep anything is Hogwarts. Even if the Headmasters a wee bit mad. Rather fond of him myself, but they should really go back to the old ways. It was nice being able to go to a school Mudblood, free, if youÕll excuse my French--Ó
Chelsea and Kate exchanged wearied glances. THIS was why they had never taken Lily to meet their parents. The PendragonÕs were nice and kind folk, but both families were Pureblood through and through, and still supported the old ways of doing things. Chelsea and Kate were almost positive that at least half their family were Deatheaters, the supporters of Voldemort. James, Sirius, Remus, and PeterÕs families were the same. Supporters of Dumbledore, but of the old ways as well.
There was another thing to think about. They hadnÕt known James was an orphan. He never talked about, but it was obvious. He always spent time at RemusÕs or PeterÕs with Sirius. Sirius was shunned from his own home as well, but it was only because he was a Gryffindor instead of a Slytherin like the rest of his family. They had heard the story of the time he went home, only to find that his face and name had been burnt of the prized family tree that hand in Number 12 Grimmuald PlaceÕs dusty parlor.
Tired of their parents giving off embarrassing facts about their daughters, Chelsea and Kate, dragged their families off and down opposite ends of the platform so they could go home and hope that the end of the holiday would soon come around.
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ÒThere you are, Lillian, darling! Why didnÕt you come earlier? The effects of the potion I gave you should be wearing off any moment now. Good thing James was with you. That couldÕve been the second time in two days that he has had to carry you in here! Come along now and get in bed. IÕll be back with your medicine in a moment....Ó Madame Pomfrey ranted on and on. She gave Lily her medicine and left the two alone, James sitting in a chair next to LilyÕs bed. They stayed silent for a while, each within their own thoughts.
But what did it mean, Lily thought. It was just a show of affection, between two close friends. Nothing more will come of it. IÕll just go back to hating Potter after this. I wonÕt be as harsh on him, unless e does something really stupid.... I never really went out with him, did I? We just went to the Ball as friends. Gosh, that seems so long ago.
SheÕll hate me now, thought James. I shouldnÕt have done that. IÕll be driving her off, I know how she gets. IÕll just end up hurting her in the end. IÕve got to get over her, thatÕs the only way I can get on with my life and leave her to hers. Find another girl. Fall in love again. Maybe get married in a couple of years...or be a bachelor forever like Sirius! Ah! What is this world coming to? No, I am NOT going to be another living Sirius. No way. Glad I got that out of my system.
James looked down at Lily.
SheÕs so pretty when sheÕs thinking like that.... You know, sheÕs pretty all the time. SheÕs just pretty...pretty. SheÕs pretty. No, gorgeous. Maybe sheÕll let me kiss her again. Hey, IÕm supposed to be getting over her! Stupid brain. Maybe one last kiss, and then IÕll realize I donÕt like her anymore. But she IS a damn good kisser. Oh! Stupid brain! Die, brain, die! Hey, doofus, sheÕs talking to you!
ÒWhat?Ó James asked, snapping out of his reverie. Lily scrunched up her nose in annoyance.
ÒItÕs impolite to stare, you now.Ó
ÒNot if the person youÕre staring at is really, REALLY pretty.Ó Lily blushed a deep crimson red.
ÒYou fool yourself.Ó
ÒClever, arenÕt I? I still think youÕre pretty.Ó
ÒAnd I think youÕre handsome,Ó she said, exasperated.
ÒReally?Ó James grinned hopefully. Lily scoffed.
ÒAnd modest, too! Oh yes, not a one as modest as James Òthe PratÓ Potter.Ó
ÒIÕll have you know, my middle name is Harold.Ó Lily sniggered. ÒWhat?Ó
ÒHarold? What kind of name is Harold? James, if we EVER have kids, we are NOT naming them after you.Ó Lily realized what she said and blushed again.
ÒSo, weÕre having kids now, are we? Tell me, my dearest Lillian, my lovely Lily Flower, my precious dew drop, when we planned on getting hitched?Ó
ÒAs soon as we graduate, happy?Ó She crossed her arms.
ÒVery!Ó James said in a singsong voice. They tried to keep a straight face, but couldnÕt manage. They burst into giggles. ÒHey, Lily,Ó James said after minute or two or silence, Òyou really mean that?Ó
Lily thought for a moment. ÒNo,Ó she said, as though it were quite obvious.
ÒWhat?! Why?! Why not?!Ó James half asked, half yelled in a strangled voice.
ÒShush, James! YouÕre lucky youÕre even allowed in here with me. Quite down. IÕll tell you why.Ó She grew silent for a second. ÒOh yeah, because you are a delirious prat who will eventually break my heart.Ó
ÒOh, yeah? IÕll prove to you IÕm not, if you want! I wonÕt go near another girl for as long as you want if you go out with me!Ó James said in a pleading voice.
ÒWhat? And give up all your fun? I would never think to do such an awful thing to James Harold Potter,Ó she said sarcastically. ÒYou know what? why donÕt you just go back to your girl-of-the-week ways and leave me alone?! IÕll never go out with you, Potter. You want to know why? Because you are a stupid, inconsiderate, prat, git, bigheaded bastard and I will never go near you with a ten foot pole again!Ó LilyÕs voice was very shrill. James gaped at her. So this was why she hated him.
ÒLily, you confuse me so much! One minute you donÕt care if I kiss you or try to flirt with you, the next, you hate my guts? I donÕt get it! Why canÕt we just go back to things the way they were before the Yule Ball, where we were just friends with benefits, or something?Ó James was on his feet now.
ÒSee, this is exactly what IÕm talking about! Your head is so big, you canÕt even see whatÕs in front of you! YouÕll go and dump me for some blonde, Hufflepuff ditz who only knows you because of the rumors! Oh yes, you and Sirius are such sex gods! Why donÕt you just go off and hit on someone other than me! Obviously, your feelings for me aren't mutual. Our relationship is strictly platonic, donÕt you get it? I can never return your feelings for me because by the time I even realize my feelings for you, you will be long gone! Off with another flavor of the week girl. Your usual dating habits do not interest me, Mr. Potter. Now kindly, leave me alone.Ó James gaped at her.
ÒLily, I--Ó
ÒBugger off, Potter! I donÕt want to hear it!Ó she shrieked. James spun around and stalked out of the Hospital Wing, already coming up with a plan to prove Lily wrong.
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ÒCheck and mate! Ha! I finally beat you, Moony.Ó Sirius jumped up and down in the common room where he and Remus were playing a game of Wizard Chess. Remus frowned.
ÒThat was an illegal move.Ó He smiled then and moved SiriusÕs piece back. He then took his Queen and captured SiriusÕs King. ÒAh, much better. Checkmate, Padfoot.Ó Sirius gaped and the smiling Remus.
ÒArgh! Help me, Moony, Padfoot! SheÕs going to attack me now! She hates me! She really does!Ó James wailed as he bust through the portrait hole. He ran over in front of the fireplace and collapsed onto his knees, his head in his hands. He moaned loudly.
ÒWho, Lily?Ó asked Remus, who was setting the pieces back on the board. He looked over at James.
ÒWell, isnÕt it obvious, Moony?Ó Sirius asked, also looking down at James with a sympathetic face.
ÒWell, yes, but James already knows that she hates him. Now should be no different.Ó
ÒYou know, Moony, I think you must have bitten James sometime down the road. You ever noticed how he gets so worked up over little things around Christmas?Ó
ÒSirius, please donÕt joke about that,Ó Remus said gently. Sirius pouted. Remus grinned. ÒAw! IÕm so sad, cause wunca Wirius said JameypooÕs a werewolfy!Ó Remus pretended to bawl. Sirius scoffed.
ÒRemus Lupin, up to your room with you, young man! I am ashamed of you!Ó Sirius shrieked in a high, feminine voice. Remus grinned again and did as he was told.
ÒJames, if you need any REAL advice, you can always come to me.Ó Remus was responded with a pillow from the couch chucked at his head. ÒSirius, god, you need to calm down, mate,Ó he said before disappearing into the boysÕ dormitories.
Sirius shrugged and looked back at James.
ÒSo, what are you going to do about it?Ó he asked carefully.
James looked up. His hair was extremely messy and his eyes had a strange glint to them.
ÒMake her wish she never turned me down.Ó
ÒAh, I see. The flirt with her to death tactic. I hope you remember the last time you turned on the famous Potter charm.Ó James nodded. ÒAll right. your funeral.Ó James glared at him and Sirius dawned a serious expression. ÒNow, Mr. Potter, would you like the casket to be engraved with your name? White or red roses? Would you request that your friends and family, family being me, cry?Ó James chucked a pillow at Sirius.
ÒOh, go away. Leave me alone to curl up in a ball and die just like your demented familyÕs house elves. Oh,Ó James said as an afterthought, ÒIÕd like white roses, please.Ó Sirius nodded and padded up the stairs to the boysÕ dormitories, no doubt to antagonize Remus some more.
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Lily tried to sleep, but she kept tossing and turning. Something about James. He was in trouble. She had to save him. Then she was in a house, in a dark room with someone else. There was a banging downstairs and a cold laugh. The man next to her turned to her and put his hands on her shoulders.
ÔItÕs him, take Harry and go! IÕll hold him off!Õ The man sprinted out the door and downstairs. She could hear things exploding down stairs and could hear the incantation that killed the man.
ÔAvada Kadavra!Õ the high-pitched and cold voice shrieked. She could hear the man fall to the floor and she realized. It was her husband. She started to cry and hugged herself, but something was in the way. She looked down. A baby with messy black hair and vibrant green eyes was in her arms.
Lily looked up at the sound of the door bursting open. She set the boy, Harry, on the bed behind her and stood in front of him.
ÔYouÕll have to go through me!Õ she yelled. ÔI loved the man you killed more than anything can measure and I love my son! YouÕll have to kill us all!Õ She saw the man laugh and point his wand at her chest. She didnÕt hear him utter the curse, but she saw the flash of green light and could hear the rush of death coming upon her.
ÒNo! Harry! No! I love him!Ó Lily screamed. Madame Pomfrey came running over to her and shook the crying and shaking girl in the bed at the back of the Hospital Wing.
ÒShush, honey, it will all be okay. It was just a dream.Ó LilyÕs eyes snapped open and she sat up in her bed, wildly looking around.
ÒWhereÕs Harry?Ó she asked.
ÒWho?Ó
ÒHarry, he was my son...but, then I died. And the man! I knew him, but who was it! He died for me! And there was another one. He was snakelike and he had a cold voice. He killed us. He killed us all!Ó Lily sobbed into her hands, Madame Pomfrey shook her head sadly at the girl and rubbed her back soothingly.
ÒGo back to sleep now, Lily. Everything will be fine in the morning.Ó Lily nodded and sank back into the bed, hugging the sheets around her. Madame Pomfrey left her alone and Lily cried herself back to sleep. In the morning she didnÕt even remember the dream.
Well, finally chapter eleven has been posted and chapter twelve is here. IÕm very happy with how this is going, I have the rest of their lives pretty much planned. Ooo, IÕve also put more romance in it, anything for my reviewers! Also, I have decided that characters from other houses would be a nice addition to Something About You. Hence Winifred Wilkes, I like her character, Severus Snape, and some other Slytherins IÕm going to put in this story, maybe even in this chapter. I am also considering changing things around so that this story goes straight till the PottersÕ deaths instead of splitting it up into different stories. Anyway, please keep reviewing because itÕ almost my birthday! IÕll be fourteen! IÕll be expecting many more reviews by then, you brilliant reviewers, you! Thanks everyone!
-Lily (aka lttlered)
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ÒLily! Lily, wait!Ó James Potter ran after Lily Evans who had gone across the sloping lawns in front of Hogwarts castle. She ran into the Forbidden Forest and James lost sight of her. He sincerely hoped she hadn't gone too far into the forest because there were many worse things than werewolves in that particular forest.
Lily stopped in a clearing shortly inside of the forest and dropped to her knees. She lay onto her hands that rested on her thighs, sobs wracking her body. She was having a very difficult time breathing. She heard someone running up behind her, but couldnÕt tell who it was. They told her to hush and put their arm around her shoulders. It was then that she lost all conscious thought and gave up the struggle.
Lily screamed as she blacked out.
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James, Remus, Sirius, and Peter all waved as the Hogwarts Express took their friends back to their families for those two Christmas weeks. As the train disappeared from view, the Marauders turned around and made their way back to the castle. They made their way up the sloping lawns until they were in clear sight of the front of the castle. They stopped, mouths agape, at the scene in front of them.
Serpen Nott, a Slytherin Sixth Year, had his wand out and pointed at Lily lay in a crumpled heap on the ground, writhing with pain. Around them, Mary Tudor, another Slytherin Sixth Year, Regius Avery, a Slytherin Fifth Year, stood around, laughing at the scene. Severus Snape and Winifred Wilkes stood somewhat off to the side, but Snape had a look of pure disgust on his face while Wilkes had a slightly amused look to her.
The Marauders menacingly walked up, making Nott look over his shoulder at them.
ÒWhy, isnÕt it the Gryffindor heroes,Ó he spat.
ÒWhat are you doing to Lily?Ó James asked menacingly. Lily looked up from where she was shaking on the snowy ground. Her face was completely white and there was quite a lot of blood pooled around her that was soaking into the snow. She had lost a lot of blood. James gasped and ran over to her side, trying to help her up. Lily coughed some blood out and managed a weak smile at James, her heart was pounding.
James stood up again to repeat his question to Nott.
ÒWhat did you do to Lily?Ó
ÒWhy do you care about the bitchy Mudblood. She has no place here and she needs to be punished. What better way than to make her suffer pain and humiliation in front of her friends.Ó Nott smirked. ÒThe Mudblood needs to be punished.Ó
James drew out his wand and pointed it at NottÕs chest.
ÒStop it, now,Ó he snarled to the Slytherins. ÒApologize to Lily.Ó Nott sniggered.
ÒNot a chance, Potter.Ó
Sirius took three long strides to Nott and punched him in the jaw. Nott fell back and Mary Tudor and Regius Avery caught him. Sirius was shaking with rage, the fury he felt towards the Slytherins.
Lily struggled to get up. She was scared, even deathly afraid of what the slytherins might have said or done to her. She did the only smart thing she could think of at the moment.
Run.
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He rocked Lily in his arms after she screamed. He kissed her head, her hair, trying to comfort her in any way possible. It was cold in the snow and he would never let her go.
James cried for Lily. He cried to help her stay alive. He sobbed into her body, into her hair that was already wet and clinging. He closed his eyes and rocked back and forth.
Back and forth.
ÒLily...Lily, please,Ó James said in a faltering voice. ÒDonÕt leave me, please, Lily. You mean a whole lot to me. An awful lot to me. Oh please,Ó he whispered. ÒI love you.Ó
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Sirius gaped after James and Lily. He made to run after them, but Remus put a hand on his shoulder to hold him back.
ÒPadfoot,Ó he said in a hurried tone, they were now oblivious to the Slytherins. ÒTransform and run to make sure they are okay, IÕll distract the Slytherins and get Dumbledore.Ó
Sirius nodded and bounded off. Remus took up a fighting stance and flourished his wand.
ÒExpelliarmus!Ó he shouted.
When he was out of sight and around the castle, Sirius transformed into a black, shaggy dog and ran into the forest. They had to be here somewhere. Finally he caught the sent of fresh blood. He could smell Lily and James. He made it to the clearing and stopped at the edge.
ÒYou mean a whole lot to me. An awful lot to me. Oh please,Ó he heard James whisper to LilyÕs limp frame. ÒI love you.Ó
Sirius padded over to JamesÕs side and nudged him in the shoulder with his nose. James looked up with a tear stained face.
ÒPadfoot?Ó he whispered weakly.
Sirius transformed, still nodding at JamesÕs question. He motioned towards Lily and they picked her up and draped her arms around JamesÕs neck. James followed Sirius out of the forest in silence, still crying slightly.
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ÒWhat happened here?! Oh you poor things. Here, get her over to this bed now! Quickly,Ó Madame Pomfrey exclaimed in a worried tone as Sirius and James rushed into the Hospital Wing with a swollen Lily in their arms. James walked over to Madame Pomfrey and laid Lily down on the bed she gestured to.
Sirius walked forward.
ÒShe ran into a pack of ravenous Slytherins alone,Ó he explained in a hurried tone. ÒBut she can tell you the gory details later. Right now you need to tend to her. She lost a lot of blood. Remus is going to get Professor Dumbledore right now.Ó
Madame Pomfrey stared at the young and worried boy in front of her. this was not the sirius she knew. ÒYou DO know that ravenous means hungry...?Ó she inquired in a curious tone.
Sirius shrugged.
ÒPerhaps they were?Ó Sirius nodded. ÒVery well, I shall tend to her. But you two, go, be off.Ó Sirius nodded and walked out of the infirmary. Madame Pomfrey looked back at James who had set himself down in a chair next to LilyÕs bed. He tentatively brought his hand up, hesitating before he stroked her cheek affectionately. Madame Pomfrey sighed and left the boy there as she fetched her supplies to heal the redheaded girl.
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Remus ran up the the headmasterÕs office at full speed and skidded to a halt in front of the gargoyle guarding the entrance.
He didnÕt know the password.
ÒEr, Lemon Wedges, Fizzing Whisbies, Bertie BottÕs Every Flavor Beans, no he doesnÕt like those, Chocolate Frogs?Ó The gargoyle sprang to life and exposed a tight spiral staircase winding up to the office. Remus bounded up the stairs three at a time until he had to come to a sudden halt, face to face with Dumbledore.
ÒWhy, what are you doing here, Remus?Ó he inquired gently. Remus gasped for breath as he had just ran quite a long way from the entrance Hall.
ÒLily, sheÕs hurt really badly. Hospital Wing. There now...James...and...and Sirius. Slytherins attacked her,Ó he said very fast. DumbledoreÕs face became very stern and he swept past Remus and down the staircase, Remus following close behind him.
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ÒI miss them all already so much,Ó Chelsea sighed.
ÒYeah, I wonder what theyÕre all doing now,Ó Kate wondered aloud.
ÒI donÕt know, but I have this weird feeling that something bad is going on back at the castle.Ó
ÒYah, me too. I wish we werenÕt leaving.Ó
ÒI hope the boys take good care of Lily.Ó
ÒYeah, if we get any reports about exploding toilets and people in the Hospital Wing, I am going to personally slaughter those boys, whether they're my boyfriend now or not.Ó
ÒSpeaking of Sirius, do you really like him that much?Ó
Kate shrugged. ÒYeah, we are so much alike, but I donÕt think itÕs going to work. WeÕve talked about it a couple of times and we have realized we are better off as friends. WeÕre just experimenting right now. I think we both miss our old dating schedule.Ó Kate was referring to hers and SiriusÕs interesting dating habits. Their usual relationships only lasted about two weeks or so, but they had never tried dating each other. ÒWhat about you and Remus?Ó
ÒI really like him, but I think thereÕs something he isnÕt telling me. ItÕs been nagging at the back of my mind for quite a while now, you know. I just wish he would tell me, but IÕm slowly starting to piece things together. Him being sick every month near the full moon, how his boggart was a shiny orb in Third Year, how heÕs so quiet and reclusive, like heÕs afraid heÕll be rejected if he tells. Well, I think IÕve figured it out.Ó
They waited in silence for a minute or two.
ÒWell,Ó Kate prodded insistently.
ÒRemus is a werewolf.Ó
Remus is a werewolf.
HeÕs a were wolf.
Remus, sweet Remus, a werewolf.
KateÕs eyes widened.
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ÒHow is she?Ó a gentle voice asked by her bed. Lily tried to open her eyes but couldnÕt, thought she could see the gentle glow of the sun shining through the windows and feel the warmth of its rays on her face.
ÒSheÕs fine,Ó another voice said. It was deeper, lined with sorrow and sorry. It sounded familiar to her. ÒPomfrey said sheÕll wake up in about two hours.Ó
ÒOh,Ó yet another voice said. She could tell who this one belonged to: Sirius.
The first voice sighed.
ÒCome on, Moony,Ó the voice that was Sirius said to the first voice. Remus nodded and the boys turned to look at James, who was still sitting by LilyÕs side. He had stayed there for the past week straight. It was Christmas Eve today and the boys had placed a small pile of presents at the foot of her bed in the Hospital Wing. Remus and Sirius left their friend alone with Lily.
Lily smiled. The deeper voice came close to her. ÒLily?Ó She recognized the voice now. It sent shivers up her spine.
James.
ÒJames?Ó she croaked out. LilyÕs eyes fluttered open. James was leaning over her, smiling. His hand was resting on her cheek and his other was holding hers. Lily smiled again.
ÒAre you all right, Lily Flower?Ó Lily nodded. James did, too.
ÒI heard you...in the forest,Ó she said softly. James smiled warmly and, though Lily couldnÕt tell, lovingly at her. ÒThank you, for caring about me like that, I mean, I was scared to death and the last thing I heard was you saying was to hush and then everything went black. What happened?Ó James was slightly taken aback, yet slightly relieved. She hadnÕt heard him say those three words that meant so much to them.
James sighed and looked down at her. He gave her a bracing smile.
ÒI should be asking you the same question.Ó He chuckled. Lily tried to laugh, but coughed instead.
ÒOkay, Mr. Funny Guy, no more jokes or else IÕll end up hacking all my organs out. But thanks anyway, for everything.Ó
ÒYou welcome,Ó he whispered. Someone cleared their throat behind the,. Lily shifted her eyes up to the person and James turned around.
Dumbledore stood over them, eyes sparkling behind his crescent moon glasses.
ÒHello James, Miss Evans.Ó James nodded in reply. ÒJames, IÕd like to have a quick word alone with Miss Evans.Ó James got up and strode out of the Hospital Wing, looking back over his shoulder at Lily and giving her a worried look.
Dumbledore sit down in JamesÕs vacated seat.
ÒAre you feeling better?Ó Lily nodded. ÒLillian, IÕd like to ask a few personal questions with your permission.Ó
ÒGo ahead.Ó
ÒFirst, why were you out alone?Ó
ÒSaying goodbye to my friends.Ó
ÒYes, but you were with Mr. Potter, Mr. Black, Mr. Lupin, and Mr. Pettigrew before you left...on your own. IÕm not blaming you for what happened, but from what I know about the Slytherins, they are a pack of ravenous wolves.Ó
ÒDoesnÕt that mean hungry?Ó
ÒMy point exactly,Ó he said with a chuckle. Then he sighed. ÒNext, what did they do to you in as much detail as you will permit to?Ó
ÒI donÕt know the spell, but it hurt a lot. My body hurt all over and it split and bled in places. I...I coughed up blood, sir.Ó Dumbledore nodded sadly.
ÒWho did this to you?Ó
ÒSerpen Nott, the others cast a few hexes, but he did the worst.Ó Lily looked around. She noticed all the Slytherins who attacked her were lying unconscious in other beds around the ward, some sporting nasty injuries. ÒWhat happened to them?Ó
Dumbledore smiled. ÒYour friend Remus disposed of them before he came to get me. Very smart fellow.Ó
ÒRemus?Ó she asked, puzzled. ÒHe wouldnÕt hurt a fly.Ó
Dumbledore chuckled and stood up.
ÒWell, that seems to be all for now. IÕll send young Mr. Potter back in, shall I?Ó Lily nodded and smiled at Dumbledore.
A few minutes later, James came running in. There was a look of positive glee on his face. Lily looked up and smiled. Madame Pomfrey was currently helping her stand up.
ÒHey James!Ó
James strode over to her and braced her elbow to help her.
ÒHello. Hi Madame Pomfrey.Ó
ÒWhy hello, James. thank you for your help!Ó
ÒNo problem. Is Lily better yet?Ó
ÒShe can walk around some, but she musnÕt do anything too trying...and she canÕt go outside, too cold.Ó
ÒCan I take her for a walk?Ó
ÒYes, just let her get ready. Here you go dear, you can go back in my office to change.Ó
Lily took her clothes and went back to the office Madame Pomfrey had gestured to. A few minutes later she came out and stood beside James while she took her medicine.
ÒThanks, Madame Pomfrey. IÕll be back to take it again later.Ó Lily and James walked out of the Hospital Wing, Lily waving back to Madame Pomfrey.
ÒSuch a sweet little girl,Ó Ms. Pomfrey said to herself.
---------------------------------------------
ÒIÕm so sorry that happened to you Lily,Ó James began when they were out of ear shot of the Hospital Wing. ÒWe should have gone back with you. IÕm so sorry--Ó
Lily cut him off. ÒJames, itÕs okay. I was being a prick to all of you at the time. ItÕs all right if you didnÕt follow me.Ó
ÒYes, but no matter how pricky you were, we still should have been with you. Gryffindors stick together. I donÕt know what I was thinking.Ó
ÒYou were thinking that I could handle a pack of Slytherins alone.Ó James looked hurt at these words. They had stopped along another corridor, in the alcove made by a stain glassed window, the soft sunshine rays filtering in. Lily turned to face him. She clasped her hands in his and brought them up between the two. James stared down at her. ÒI truly am thankful for what you did for me. How can I ever repay you?Ó
ÒYou canÕt,Ó he said softly. ÒYou donÕt know how much you mean to all of us. How much you mean to me. If something had happened to you, weÕd be lost without you. IÕd be lost without you.Ó James brought their hands up and he kissed them softly.
Lily watched him in wonder. She knew he had liked her and cared for her as only a friend would, why else would he be so enamored with her? Why else would he have gone to the Yule Ball with her if he didnÕt care for her. She had known for a while that he had really liked her, maybe even more, but he had never said it to her before. It was all very puzzling, and all Lily could do fall he kissed her hands was stare at him with wonder.
James brought their hands down and put one of his hands on LilyÕs cheek. Lily was still clasped onto his other hand with a very strong grip. He stared down at her lovingly.
ÒWhat can I do for you now?Ó he whispered.
Lily was caught up in the moment. Time was slowing down for her and she barely heard herself utter the words.
ÒYou can kiss me,Ó she said, slightly dazed.
James leaned down and placed a short, sweet kiss to LilyÕs angel lips.
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Ah, young love, Professor Dumbledore said as he watched the two. How I wish I were that young again, or that enamored with another. They will go far together, if only sheÕd give him a chance. James would prove how much he loves her time and time again. If only fate were not so cruel. I have a nagging in the back of my mind. I sense something is going to go wrong in the near future. The Dark Lord Voldemort is growing steadily stronger. And I am getting too old to fight. James will have to continue this legacy, sacrificing himself for Lily and all of wizard-kind.
Dumbledore left the couple and headed back towards his office. Maybe he would have a chat with a painting of a quirky knight he was rather fond of. Sir Cadogen would definitely ease some of the stress from his mind.
The last thing Dumbledore wanted to think about now was the fate of the two students and the rise of Voldemort. He did not want to think of the dark days to come and how he would have to punish the students responsible for LilyÕs pain.
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ÒSo you really think heÕs a werewolf, Chelse?Ó Kate asked as the train came to a stop and they stepped off onto the busy platform.
ÒYes, IÕm pretty sure. I think IÕll ask him about it when we get back, but IÕm really worried about him. The full moon is in a week. I wish I could be there for him.Ó Chelsea stood on her tiptoes and waved to her parents who were off a little down the platform.
ÒYeah, me too. I know IÕm not as enamored with him as you are, but heÕs still my friend.Ó Kate said. The two girls walked down the platform to greet Chelsea's mother and father.
ÒHello, Chelsea, Kate,Ó her father said, pulling his daughter into a gruff hug. ChelseaÕs mother stood to the side, a smile plastered on her face.
ChelseaÕs dad was tall, with brown, sandy hair and vivid green eyes. He had a very charming smile and got along with almost everyone. He was an auror for the ministry, and a good one at that. Her mother was slightly shorter, with long, cascading, blond curls, not unlike ChelseaÕs and blue eyes. She was a caretaker at St. Mungos Hospital for Magical Maladies.
ÒHello, darling. Doing well in school, I hope?Ó
ÒYes, Mum. Mum, this is Kate, the girl I told you about. Dad, youÕve already met Kate in Diagonal Alley, no?Ó
ÒYes, I have,Ó he father, Paul, said, smiling down at his daughter.
ÒWhat a lovely girl. IÕm Danielle, and this is Paul,Ó ChelseaÕs mother said in a sweet voice.
ÒHi, Danielle. Hello, Paul. Pleasure meeting you.Ó Kate grinned.
ÒKatie! Katie Moyra Angella, darling! [A/N: Wendy from Peter Pan: ÒHello, IÕm Wendy Moyra Angella Darling!Ó Get it? He he...he....]Ó a voice screeched over the heads of the many students on the platform. Kate cringed, Chelsea sniggered. ÒKatie, darling. How wonderful to see you! Why didnÕt you come home sooner, we missed you so much!Ó A short, squat woman with vibrant red hair came over to Kate and clung to her arm. The woman resembled a toad of some sort, fat and bright red.
ÒHello, mum,Ó Kate sighed. It was then that her mother noticed Chelsea and her family.
ÒWhy, hello, you must be Mr. and Mrs. Pendragon. IÕm Ms. Walters, KateÕs mother. Pleasure to meet you. And where is that Black boy you were telling me about? It would be nice if at least one person in our family married into the Black line. Tell me, has he proposed to you yet? WhenÕs the wedding? Oh, Chelsea, darling, you must come. And that young Miss Evans youÕve been telling me about all these years. Where is she by the way? Stayed at home for the holiday? I did that when I was in your Year. Never wanted to leave my friends and come home. So has the Black boy proclaimed his forever lo--Ó
ÒMother!Ó Kate shrieked. She was hyperventilating. Her mother, if possible, had even brighter red cheeks, as she had said this all very fast and the PendragonÕs stood there gaping at the obnoxious old lady.
ÒDid you know that Katie, here, used to run around the house dressed like an indian? she invited the PottersÕ boy over many a time to play. God rest their souls. Too bad they had to die so young. And the young Potter, an orphan. We offered to adopt him, but Dumbledore wouldnÕt have it. I always said that the safest place besides Gringotts to keep anything is Hogwarts. Even if the Headmasters a wee bit mad. Rather fond of him myself, but they should really go back to the old ways. It was nice being able to go to a school Mudblood, free, if youÕll excuse my French--Ó
Chelsea and Kate exchanged wearied glances. THIS was why they had never taken Lily to meet their parents. The PendragonÕs were nice and kind folk, but both families were Pureblood through and through, and still supported the old ways of doing things. Chelsea and Kate were almost positive that at least half their family were Deatheaters, the supporters of Voldemort. James, Sirius, Remus, and PeterÕs families were the same. Supporters of Dumbledore, but of the old ways as well.
There was another thing to think about. They hadnÕt known James was an orphan. He never talked about, but it was obvious. He always spent time at RemusÕs or PeterÕs with Sirius. Sirius was shunned from his own home as well, but it was only because he was a Gryffindor instead of a Slytherin like the rest of his family. They had heard the story of the time he went home, only to find that his face and name had been burnt of the prized family tree that hand in Number 12 Grimmuald PlaceÕs dusty parlor.
Tired of their parents giving off embarrassing facts about their daughters, Chelsea and Kate, dragged their families off and down opposite ends of the platform so they could go home and hope that the end of the holiday would soon come around.
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ÒThere you are, Lillian, darling! Why didnÕt you come earlier? The effects of the potion I gave you should be wearing off any moment now. Good thing James was with you. That couldÕve been the second time in two days that he has had to carry you in here! Come along now and get in bed. IÕll be back with your medicine in a moment....Ó Madame Pomfrey ranted on and on. She gave Lily her medicine and left the two alone, James sitting in a chair next to LilyÕs bed. They stayed silent for a while, each within their own thoughts.
But what did it mean, Lily thought. It was just a show of affection, between two close friends. Nothing more will come of it. IÕll just go back to hating Potter after this. I wonÕt be as harsh on him, unless e does something really stupid.... I never really went out with him, did I? We just went to the Ball as friends. Gosh, that seems so long ago.
SheÕll hate me now, thought James. I shouldnÕt have done that. IÕll be driving her off, I know how she gets. IÕll just end up hurting her in the end. IÕve got to get over her, thatÕs the only way I can get on with my life and leave her to hers. Find another girl. Fall in love again. Maybe get married in a couple of years...or be a bachelor forever like Sirius! Ah! What is this world coming to? No, I am NOT going to be another living Sirius. No way. Glad I got that out of my system.
James looked down at Lily.
SheÕs so pretty when sheÕs thinking like that.... You know, sheÕs pretty all the time. SheÕs just pretty...pretty. SheÕs pretty. No, gorgeous. Maybe sheÕll let me kiss her again. Hey, IÕm supposed to be getting over her! Stupid brain. Maybe one last kiss, and then IÕll realize I donÕt like her anymore. But she IS a damn good kisser. Oh! Stupid brain! Die, brain, die! Hey, doofus, sheÕs talking to you!
ÒWhat?Ó James asked, snapping out of his reverie. Lily scrunched up her nose in annoyance.
ÒItÕs impolite to stare, you now.Ó
ÒNot if the person youÕre staring at is really, REALLY pretty.Ó Lily blushed a deep crimson red.
ÒYou fool yourself.Ó
ÒClever, arenÕt I? I still think youÕre pretty.Ó
ÒAnd I think youÕre handsome,Ó she said, exasperated.
ÒReally?Ó James grinned hopefully. Lily scoffed.
ÒAnd modest, too! Oh yes, not a one as modest as James Òthe PratÓ Potter.Ó
ÒIÕll have you know, my middle name is Harold.Ó Lily sniggered. ÒWhat?Ó
ÒHarold? What kind of name is Harold? James, if we EVER have kids, we are NOT naming them after you.Ó Lily realized what she said and blushed again.
ÒSo, weÕre having kids now, are we? Tell me, my dearest Lillian, my lovely Lily Flower, my precious dew drop, when we planned on getting hitched?Ó
ÒAs soon as we graduate, happy?Ó She crossed her arms.
ÒVery!Ó James said in a singsong voice. They tried to keep a straight face, but couldnÕt manage. They burst into giggles. ÒHey, Lily,Ó James said after minute or two or silence, Òyou really mean that?Ó
Lily thought for a moment. ÒNo,Ó she said, as though it were quite obvious.
ÒWhat?! Why?! Why not?!Ó James half asked, half yelled in a strangled voice.
ÒShush, James! YouÕre lucky youÕre even allowed in here with me. Quite down. IÕll tell you why.Ó She grew silent for a second. ÒOh yeah, because you are a delirious prat who will eventually break my heart.Ó
ÒOh, yeah? IÕll prove to you IÕm not, if you want! I wonÕt go near another girl for as long as you want if you go out with me!Ó James said in a pleading voice.
ÒWhat? And give up all your fun? I would never think to do such an awful thing to James Harold Potter,Ó she said sarcastically. ÒYou know what? why donÕt you just go back to your girl-of-the-week ways and leave me alone?! IÕll never go out with you, Potter. You want to know why? Because you are a stupid, inconsiderate, prat, git, bigheaded bastard and I will never go near you with a ten foot pole again!Ó LilyÕs voice was very shrill. James gaped at her. So this was why she hated him.
ÒLily, you confuse me so much! One minute you donÕt care if I kiss you or try to flirt with you, the next, you hate my guts? I donÕt get it! Why canÕt we just go back to things the way they were before the Yule Ball, where we were just friends with benefits, or something?Ó James was on his feet now.
ÒSee, this is exactly what IÕm talking about! Your head is so big, you canÕt even see whatÕs in front of you! YouÕll go and dump me for some blonde, Hufflepuff ditz who only knows you because of the rumors! Oh yes, you and Sirius are such sex gods! Why donÕt you just go off and hit on someone other than me! Obviously, your feelings for me aren't mutual. Our relationship is strictly platonic, donÕt you get it? I can never return your feelings for me because by the time I even realize my feelings for you, you will be long gone! Off with another flavor of the week girl. Your usual dating habits do not interest me, Mr. Potter. Now kindly, leave me alone.Ó James gaped at her.
ÒLily, I--Ó
ÒBugger off, Potter! I donÕt want to hear it!Ó she shrieked. James spun around and stalked out of the Hospital Wing, already coming up with a plan to prove Lily wrong.
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ÒCheck and mate! Ha! I finally beat you, Moony.Ó Sirius jumped up and down in the common room where he and Remus were playing a game of Wizard Chess. Remus frowned.
ÒThat was an illegal move.Ó He smiled then and moved SiriusÕs piece back. He then took his Queen and captured SiriusÕs King. ÒAh, much better. Checkmate, Padfoot.Ó Sirius gaped and the smiling Remus.
ÒArgh! Help me, Moony, Padfoot! SheÕs going to attack me now! She hates me! She really does!Ó James wailed as he bust through the portrait hole. He ran over in front of the fireplace and collapsed onto his knees, his head in his hands. He moaned loudly.
ÒWho, Lily?Ó asked Remus, who was setting the pieces back on the board. He looked over at James.
ÒWell, isnÕt it obvious, Moony?Ó Sirius asked, also looking down at James with a sympathetic face.
ÒWell, yes, but James already knows that she hates him. Now should be no different.Ó
ÒYou know, Moony, I think you must have bitten James sometime down the road. You ever noticed how he gets so worked up over little things around Christmas?Ó
ÒSirius, please donÕt joke about that,Ó Remus said gently. Sirius pouted. Remus grinned. ÒAw! IÕm so sad, cause wunca Wirius said JameypooÕs a werewolfy!Ó Remus pretended to bawl. Sirius scoffed.
ÒRemus Lupin, up to your room with you, young man! I am ashamed of you!Ó Sirius shrieked in a high, feminine voice. Remus grinned again and did as he was told.
ÒJames, if you need any REAL advice, you can always come to me.Ó Remus was responded with a pillow from the couch chucked at his head. ÒSirius, god, you need to calm down, mate,Ó he said before disappearing into the boysÕ dormitories.
Sirius shrugged and looked back at James.
ÒSo, what are you going to do about it?Ó he asked carefully.
James looked up. His hair was extremely messy and his eyes had a strange glint to them.
ÒMake her wish she never turned me down.Ó
ÒAh, I see. The flirt with her to death tactic. I hope you remember the last time you turned on the famous Potter charm.Ó James nodded. ÒAll right. your funeral.Ó James glared at him and Sirius dawned a serious expression. ÒNow, Mr. Potter, would you like the casket to be engraved with your name? White or red roses? Would you request that your friends and family, family being me, cry?Ó James chucked a pillow at Sirius.
ÒOh, go away. Leave me alone to curl up in a ball and die just like your demented familyÕs house elves. Oh,Ó James said as an afterthought, ÒIÕd like white roses, please.Ó Sirius nodded and padded up the stairs to the boysÕ dormitories, no doubt to antagonize Remus some more.
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Lily tried to sleep, but she kept tossing and turning. Something about James. He was in trouble. She had to save him. Then she was in a house, in a dark room with someone else. There was a banging downstairs and a cold laugh. The man next to her turned to her and put his hands on her shoulders.
ÔItÕs him, take Harry and go! IÕll hold him off!Õ The man sprinted out the door and downstairs. She could hear things exploding down stairs and could hear the incantation that killed the man.
ÔAvada Kadavra!Õ the high-pitched and cold voice shrieked. She could hear the man fall to the floor and she realized. It was her husband. She started to cry and hugged herself, but something was in the way. She looked down. A baby with messy black hair and vibrant green eyes was in her arms.
Lily looked up at the sound of the door bursting open. She set the boy, Harry, on the bed behind her and stood in front of him.
ÔYouÕll have to go through me!Õ she yelled. ÔI loved the man you killed more than anything can measure and I love my son! YouÕll have to kill us all!Õ She saw the man laugh and point his wand at her chest. She didnÕt hear him utter the curse, but she saw the flash of green light and could hear the rush of death coming upon her.
ÒNo! Harry! No! I love him!Ó Lily screamed. Madame Pomfrey came running over to her and shook the crying and shaking girl in the bed at the back of the Hospital Wing.
ÒShush, honey, it will all be okay. It was just a dream.Ó LilyÕs eyes snapped open and she sat up in her bed, wildly looking around.
ÒWhereÕs Harry?Ó she asked.
ÒWho?Ó
ÒHarry, he was my son...but, then I died. And the man! I knew him, but who was it! He died for me! And there was another one. He was snakelike and he had a cold voice. He killed us. He killed us all!Ó Lily sobbed into her hands, Madame Pomfrey shook her head sadly at the girl and rubbed her back soothingly.
ÒGo back to sleep now, Lily. Everything will be fine in the morning.Ó Lily nodded and sank back into the bed, hugging the sheets around her. Madame Pomfrey left her alone and Lily cried herself back to sleep. In the morning she didnÕt even remember the dream.