How It All Began
Disclaimer: I do not own the Harry Potter characters, although I do wish that I did own a few!
Thanks: Thank-you to my friend Cassy, who is CONSTANTLY badgering me to write my next chapter. I get my motivation from her bugging me. I would also like to thank her for giving me the ideas for this chapter. Honestly, I was stuck in a rut, and I had NO idea what I was going to do for this. I mean I did have some idea, but it wasn't glued together. It just didn't seem right. Anyway, thanks!
(Sirius' pov)
"I wonder what's going on up there," I said, indicating the loud voice of Lindsey and James.
"Probably having a contest on who is the loudest. You know how strange they-" but before Lily could finish her train of thought, Lindsey came hurtling down the stairs and out of the portrait hole, crying. James strolled down moments later.
"What the hell did you do to her?!" I growled, cornering James. I was livid!
James shrugged. "Things happen, ya know," he replied.
I made to hit him, but I just couldn't. Instead, I dashed out of the common room to search for Lindsey, still carrying that necklace I had bought for her for the holidays.
Once I reached the door to the grounds of Hogwarts, I flung them opened and instantly shivered. It was pouring, not to mention that it is extremely cold in the middle of December. Biting back the frigidness of the day, I sprinted towards Lindsey who was positively soaked, sitting on a huge rock. Her hair hung limply, in loose curls, as she titled her head to hide her face. "Lindsey!" I shouted.
I got her attention, obviously, because she turned her head towards me. "What are you doing out here?" she whispered.
I took a seat down next to her, with my arm around her waist. "To see how you are. I was and still am worried about you," I replied genuinely.
"Don't be! You have nothing to be worried about," she said, shivering. She had run out without a cloak.
"Here, take my cloak. You are shivering," I said, handing her my cloak, and instantly shivered from the new coldness that enveloped me.
"But now you'll be cold," she replied earnestly.
"I don't matter. You matter. I want you warm," I said, wrapping my arms around her body. I could see new tears formulating in the corners of her eyes. Very quietly, I added, "I want you back. You mean the world to me!"
She looked up at me and then back down. "Do you mean that?"
"Of course I do," I said even quieter. I heard her give a sob. "Please don't cry. I couldn't stand being the one who made you cry again."
"Can I be totally honest with you as well?"
"You know you can."
"I want you back too." She smiled sweetly, and I leaned down, ever so slightly and was caught by her lips.
After a minute of sweet kissing, I said very confidently, "I love you. I want you to know that. I have never been so sure of anything in my life until now." I reached down into my pocket and pulled out that locket I was going to give her. "Look, I know this is a little early, but since you already knew what I was planning on giving you for the holidays, I might as well give you it now."
She gasped and lifted up her hair for me to clasp the necklace around her neck. "I love it! And, I love you too."
We sat there with our foreheads together for a long while, listening to the rain that engulfed us and the thunder that clattered in the near distance. "You know, this reminds me of another time we once shared," I muttered.
"And what time would that be?" she questioned.
"The first time I kissed you. We were in the rain, remember?" I said.
She beamed and gave me a kiss. "Yes, I remember."
I stood up, and took her hand in mine. We walked back to Hogwarts together.
((Written under the influence of 'The Scientist' by Coldplay))
(Meanwhile- James' pov)
"James, what did you do to her?" Lily questioned, now rounding on me.
"We broke up," I replied.
"What happened? Tell me really!" she pleaded. She gazed at me. I need to tell her the truth.
"Look, we didn't really break up and we never really went out to begin with. I 'went out' with her to make Sirius jealous so she can get him back. We didn't want to trick anyone. I just wanted to help her out. She has always been such an amazing friend to me," I answered.
Her brow was burrowed and then her face suddenly softened. "You did that for her?" she asked incredulously.
"Yes," I replied, uneasily.
"That has got to be one of the sweetest things I have EVER heard. Don't worry; your secret is safe with me. I won't tell anyone!"
I sighed. I hated doing this to her; lying and all, but this was the only way to explain myself to her. "You know James, I was just about to head down to the library, care to join me?" Lily asked.
"Sure, I'd love to!" I raced upstairs and collected my books.
"It is terribly dreadful outside," Lily muttered.
"I know what you mean. It is so dark and gloomy. It is definitely not the greatest way to end a weekend."
"I totally agree," she said, glancing over at me. I grinned at her and she blushed, turning away quickly. Before I had the chance to do anything, we had arrived at the library.
Madam Pince greeted us stiffly and we walked to the back where all the astronomy books were. Professor Sinistra had mentioned that we had a huge project coming up and that we better start looking up constellations and whatnot.
I opened up a rather large and dusty book and immediately began to cough. Lily looked up and began to giggle. "So I'm allergic to dust, sue me," I said while chuckling.
"No need to get snippy Mr. Potter," she replied laughing once more.
Another ten minutes or so passed and Lily was deeply absorbed by the book she was reading. I heard her faintly start to sing, '-I thought love was only true in fairytales. Meant for someone else, but not for me. Oh love was out to get me. That's the way it seems-'. She stopped the second she noticed me staring at her. "Oh Merlin! I am so sorry," she said quickly, blushing heavily.
"What was it that you were singing?" I asked curiously.
She looked down. "Just some muggle band called The Monkees. The song was 'I'm A Believer'. I used to love them when I was like 9. They broke up awhile ago. It is just that I can't get some of their songs out of my head," she replied quickly.
((Terribly sorry, I had to add that in. I'm currently listening to The Monkees, and I thought, 'hey, that would be perfect! Lily is a muggle- born, and the 60's was not that far away.' Anyway, on with the story!!))
"No need to be sorry," I said smiling. She nodded and then went back to reading. That girl will be my wife one day. She just doesn't know it yet!
"Uhm, James? What was our project about again?" Lily asked an hour later.
"Research a star or constellation in books and then observe it at night every so often. After that is all done, we have to make a life-like diagram showing its movements in the sky."
"And we get partners for this?"
"Yep!"
"Would you like to be my partner James?" Lily inquired shyly.
"Of course. It would be an honor to work with dear Miss Evans," I answered jovially.
She smirked and went back to work. "Do you know if we get to pick what constellation or star we want?"
"I'm sure we get to. We'll just have to check with Sinistra. I'm sure Sirius will of course pick the Dog Star!"
Lily let out a roar of laughter that was enough to surprise me. "Oh gosh! Aren't I just a class act today? I'm sorry!"
"Stop apologizing. It is okay to have fun every once and a while!"
"You are right and oh Merlin, look at the time! We should head on up now!"
We checked out some books and made our way to Gryffindor Tower, 7th floor.
We reached the Fat Lady portrait, said the password, 'Ursa Major', and entered into the comfy common room. Sirius and Lindsey were huddled by the fire, very much asleep. I grabbed Lily's hand and we quietly tip toed to the bottom of the girl's dorm steps.
"Good night James!" Lily whispered.
"Night!" She got on the tips of her toes and gave my cheek a kiss.
"See you tomorrow, partner!" She ran upstairs and out of sight.
"Aha, she kissed me!" I shouted quietly and I, myself, ran up the stairs to my dorm to go to bed and dream of my Lily flower!
"Morning Prongs!" Remus shouted into my ear.
"Nice to see you this morning," I mumbled, my eyes still closed.
"Indeed, now get up Prongsy Wongsy!" Moony exclaimed right into my ear. "Anyway, do you have a partner for Astronomy yet?"
"Actually, I do."
"No! Who?"
"Lily!" I said, sighing, as I put on my glasses.
"Are you kidding me? How did you ask her?"
"I didn't ask her my dear friend. On the contrary, she asked me last night while we were at the library together."
"I'm happy for you!"
"Thanks. I haven't been this happy in a long time. Now, who do you suppose you'll work with on this project Moony?"
"I'll ask Frank (Longbottom). No worries!"
(Astronomy class)
"Take your seats, take your seats!" Professor Sinistra exclaimed as she entered the Astronomy Tower.
I took a seat next to Lily, and Remus was on my other side. Sirius and Lindsey situated themselves in the back of the class. Bella was sitting in front of me, Mikul next to her. She turned around and said to Lily, "Lily, I am so sorry about these past couple of weeks. Can we be friends again?"
"Sure. It has been awkward in the dorm with us not talking."
This was new. Lindsey and Sirius were back together, Sirius will barely speak three words to me, and Lily and Bella are friends again. I am truly pissed off that Sirius won't talk to me though. My best friend who just happens to live at my house is angry at me. Does he even realize that I did that for him and Lindsey and partially to benefit myself, which honestly didn't work out as well as I had planned? Does he realize that if it weren't for me, he and Lindsey would only be 'friends'?
"Mr. Potter, would you please break out of your reverie and join us here back in class?" Sinistra said curtly.
"Ah yes! Sorry about that professor," I said apologetically.
"Anyway, as I was saying, you are to pick a partner and study either a star or a constellation from books and then observe it outside in the night sky. After that is done, I want you all to make a diagram of the star or constellation's movement in relation to the Earth's rotation. Any questions?"
Sirius immediately raised his hand. "Can I have-"
"Yes Mr. Black, you may have your star. Any other questions class?" Sinistra asked, quite exasperated. She looked around. "No questions, right then! Pick partners!"
"Hey partner!" Lily exclaimed, scooting closer to me.
"Why hello Lily flower!" Lily blushed at the name.
"Okay well, Prongs (she emphasized the name), let us pick our star or constellation!" Lily pulled the list closer to herself to examine it. "Ah yes! Can we pick this one: Perseus?"
"Whatever you want luv," I replied cheekily. Once again, I had hit something, and Lily flushed.
"Great! Do you want to go to the library with me during lunch or after dinner?"
"How about after dinner? I work better at night," I answered.
"That's fine with me. Anytime is good!" she said cheerfully.
(Lily's pov)
Okay, so I REALLY like James Potter. I admit it! His charms got to me and now I find myself hanging on his every word. There is something seriously wrong with me. I have to meet James in an hour. I am currently in my room, stressing out! Lindsey is on her bed, reading an article on Jim Morrison. He was in the muggle band, The Doors, but what most didn't know was that he is a wizard and is at large in the wizarding world.
"Lily, you have got to read these lyrics to his new song!" Lindsey said, jumping up and down on her bed.
"I don't have time. Can you please do my hair and makeup for me?"
Lindsey arched an eyebrow at me. "Sure, what is the occasion Lils?"
"No occasion. I just want to look nice, you know, for when I meet James in the library," Lily said quickly.
"Just admit it, you like him!" Lindsey exclaimed, tossing her magazine to the side and leaping off of her bed. "Now turn around so I can work with your hair!"
Half and hour later, I stood in front of the mirror. My hair was down, in loose curls that framed my face, and cascaded down my back. Two front strands were pulled back and tied together in an emerald green ribbon to give me that 'hippy' look. My eyes were outlined in black eyeliner and had a shimmering white and light green shadow on it. My lips were glossed as well. Lindsey also decided that I was in need of a clothing change. I now wore an emerald green ribbed V-neck sweater with a denim skirt that ended just below my knees. I had on my regular shoes. I didn't even recognize myself.
"You like it?" Lindsey asked shyly.
"Like it? I love it! Thank you so much. And now, let me see those lyrics you were talking about!"
Twenty-eight minutes later, I threw the magazine on the bed. "Oh but Jim Morrison is so dreamy!" I called out goofily. Lindsey laughed.
"Go! I do believe a certain chaser is waiting for you!"
I ran down the stairs rather ungracefully, tripping on my shoes and stumbling down the stairs. I landed on my arse and glanced above me. James was towering over me, he looked amused. "What an entrance!" James said, grinning. He offered a hand to me, which I, of course, accepted.
"Thank you," I mumbled, now very red in the face. Oh boy! That was happening to me a lot lately.
"You look great! Mind if I ask what the occasion is?" James inquired, smirking. We exited the common room and made our way to the library.
"Thanks. You know, Lindsey asked me the same exact question. There is no occasion. I just felt like looking nice, that's all!" I said, 'accidentally' brushing my hand across James' hand. I felt little tingles go up and down my spine. I was not beginning to fall for him, I already fell! I heard James gulp and out of the corner of my eye, I saw him take peek at me.
We arrived at the library and took a seat at the far end of it, totally secluded.
I took out a book and started writing down notes. James started drawing what Perseus looked like and what stars were around it. After about an hour, we shared our notes.
"Perseus can be best seen in December at 9 PM, so we are in luck! There are 8 named stars in it and its visible latitudes are between 90 degrees and -35 degrees. Now that we know that, let's head to the Astronomy Tower to check it out!" I said excitedly.
James nodded. I shouldn't be this excited at the thought of me and James in the Astronomy Tower. If anyone found out, they would quickly jump to the conclusion that James and I were snogging, which isn't necessarily a bad idea but nevertheless, it isn't the best rumor to spread around school. I have a reputation to uphold. But before I go on, I should explain this; the Astronomy Tower is notoriously known for where all the couples go for some 'privacy'.
"Come on Lily! We have to go to Gryffindor Tower first so I can get something and then we can head to the Astronomy Tower!" James said, breaking me out of my thought. He grabbed my hand and led me to the tower. "I will be out in one minute!"
True to his word, James was back in one minute time and whisked me off to the Astronomy Tower. Climbing up the steep staircase, giggles were heard. "Oh shit! There are couples there."
"Eh, don't worry about it! Just pretend they aren't even there!" James said, taking the steps two at a time.
We entered a cozy circular dome. The ceiling was all glass, so one could see through it. At one spot in the room, a Ravenclaw was busy making out with her Hufflepuff boyfriend. I turned around and opened up the door to the terrace part of the room. James followed.
"It is chilly out here," I stammered, shivering from the cold.
"Here, take this," James said, offering me his Gryffindor cloak. He, himself, had an all black one on. I took it obligingly and pretty soon, we were lying down, facing the starry night sky.
"It is absolutely gorgeous out here!" I whispered.
"It really is. Ah, look, there it is!" James said, pointing to a far off constellation.
I followed his finger and saw the figure. "That is very nice!"
We made a chart and labeled where it was, and at what latitudes. Twenty minutes later, we entered the room to see the couple gone.
"How about we sit over there, just to warm up," James suggested, tossing his cloak to the side.
"Good idea!" I took off his cloak, folded it and placed it on one of the nearby chairs. I sat down next to him and rested my head on his shoulder. I don't know what's coming over me. I am becoming a terrible flirt.
"Tired?" James asked, stroking my hair.
"Mmhmm," I answered incoherently. James suddenly stopped and turned me around. "Yes?" I questioned.
"I need to do this, just, don't say anything," James said hurriedly.
"Okay, what-" he cut me off with a finger to my lips.
"Shh," he whispered. He leaned in and I automatically knew what was going to happen. I felt his hot breath on my face as he inhaled and exhaled sharply. He then went in for the kill and I felt his warm, sweet lips on mine. I almost got lost in his kiss, but soon put my hands on his chest and pushed him away.
"James, no."
"Why not?" he questioned, looking me in the eye.
I glanced down, breaking the eye contact, "Because, I just can't."
"But, you were, flirting with me. All the signs..." James mumbled.
"There were no signs James. I'm so sorry!" I now felt horrible. Not only was I flirting with him and giving off quite an air that screamed, 'KISS ME DAMMIT', I lied to him.
I picked myself up, and ran down the stairs. "Lily, wait!" I turned around. "Don't risk getting caught. I have an invisibility cloak. Just come back up!" I slowly walked up the stairs. James wrapped the cloak around both of us and we began our trip at a slow and steady pace. My heart was pumping and so was his. I don't think I can face him tomorrow! It would hurt my heart too much.
After arriving in Gryffindor Tower, I said goodnight and sprinted up to my dorm, to find Lindsey lying on her bed, with a sleeping Sirius next to her. She made to sit up. "Anything happen?" she murmured.
I let out a sob and collapsed onto my bed. She quickly took Sirius' arm, which was draped around her and put it to his side. She rushed over to me. "Lily, what happened?"
"I like him so much, and I broke his heart, and I can't face him anymore and I don't know what to do!" I cried, burying my head in my pillow.
"Aww, sweetie! Don't worry! Just tell me what transpired tonight."
"Library, astronomy tower, stars, fire, kiss, pushed away, awkwardness!" I mumbled.
"Is that all?" Lindsey asked, trying her hardest to comprehend this all.
I nodded my head furiously and threw my pillow across the room. "I'm such a dolt!"
"No you are not! Don't say that. I understand how you feel. But, I must ask this because it is truly bothering me; why did you push him away?"
"I don't want to get hurt again. After what happened with Remus, and he is SUCH a nice guy, usually dependable and loyal, I figured that if Remus was capable of something like that, James would be too. Leave it all to my over active imagination I guess."
"Trust me on this one; James is a dependable friend and a very loyal one at that. I can imagine he would be the same in a rela-" Lindsey started saying but soon covered her mouth. "Oh bugger!"
"No need to do that. James told me what you guys were doing before. And I think it's sweet, you know, helping you get back with Sirius," I whispered.
"See, he is a sweet guy! Besides, I know you fancy him, so just go with your feelings. They always guide you correctly," Lindsey said, rising from my bed to join Sirius back on her own. "Goodnight Lily. See you in the morning. I trust you'll be going to classes?" Lindsey stated as more of a question than anything.
"Yes, classes, I shall be there!" I said while drawing my curtains closed.
I heard Sirius grumble and Lindsey laugh. "Is it morning?" Sirius muttered.
"Nope, not yet sweetheart. Go back to sleep and I'll wake you up," Lindsey murmured. I heard bed springs move, the smack of lips and then more bed springs. All was quiet after that.
(James' pov)
I woke up early this morning and took a very cold shower. Lily was on my mind ALL night. I am bugged that she wouldn't give into her feelings and just kiss me back. What the hell is holding her back?
I might be the only one, but I also realized that Sirius did not sleep in his bed at all last night, which leads me to believe that he was with Lindsey. Sure I helped out a friend, it is the noble thing to do after all, but only she is benefiting from it! I am so tempted to go over to Sirius and tell him everything. However, if I did, the consequences of my actions would be quite dismal. For one, Lindsey would NEVER EVER talk to me ever again. As well as the fact that Lindsey would then in turn tell Lily that this little pretend dating was not only in her favor, but also trying to help me out. That would not be good at all. So in conclusion, I will try to be strong and keep my mouth shut when it comes to this; as hard as it may seem.
"Hey Remus," I said as Remus opened up his curtains. His normally shaggy hair was sticking up in odd angles all over his head. "Nice hair!"
Remus smirked as he looked into the mirror. "Tell me about it, I think I'm going to leave it like this today!"
"What is on the agenda for today Moony?" I said, changing the subject.
"Eating, classes and then a little sleeping."
"Maybe we can fit in a prank today, at lunch?" I said hopefully.
"That would be good. We need something special though. We haven't made the Marauder's mark this year. We need something that stands out!" Remus said pulling on his slacks.
"How about we hang Snivellus from a tree, upside down?"
"You did that last year, don't get sloppy with your work now!" Remus said smiling.
"Hmm, let me think!" After about five minutes of heavy thinking I finally came up with it. "I KNOW WHAT WE CAN DO! We can cast a charm on them so that everything they say comes out jumbled!"
Remus grinned, "That's perfect!" I strode over to my trunk and opened it up. I rummaged through it a bit and managed to find the one book I was hoping to come across, Fantastic Spells for Fantastic Pranks, thanks dad. It was he who had purchased this book for me one Christmas.
I scanned the pages quickly and found the spell that was required to do the prank. "Now! We must do this now!" Moony and I finished getting changed and ran downstairs. I came face to face with Lily. "I- uh, hi" I said lamely.
"Hi James," she replied quietly.
Remus took my arm and we raced out of the common room.
Once we reached the Great Hall, Remus and I were some of the only Gryffindors down there. However, all the Slytherins were there already.
"Take aim James."
I positioned my wand on the table and became eye level with it. "Mumbulous Jumbulous," I muttered. I straightened myself up and saw that Lily, Lindsey and Sirius were walking their way towards us.
"Mind if I sit down?" Lily asked Remus timidly. What?!
"Not at all," Remus said, throwing me a glance.
Lily sat down and the affect of the spell started to work.
"Thaw het yodblo lehl si iogign no!" Snape yelled. (Translation: What the bloody hell is going on!) Ah this is great!
"I'm going to class. Catch up later!" I said getting up. I gave a fleeting look at Lily and exited the Great Hall.
"Talk to him Lily!" Lindsey persisted.
"No!"
"Oh come on! You are breaking his heart! Go after him!" Lindsey hissed to me under her breath.
"FINE!" I yelled and I too ran out of the Great Hall.
I walked slowly the entire time. I didn't want to get to where he was any time soon. I rounded the corner and saw James waiting outside of the Charms classroom.
"Hi James," I said, feeling my heart rattle against my ribcage.
"Lily," he acknowledged.
"Can we talk?"
"We are, aren't we?" he said coolly.
"I know I deserved that. I don't want to merely talk every day conversation. I want to talk about last night."
"No need to. Let's just meet tomorrow outside to observer Perseus." I frowned. He was playing dumb.
"I wasn't talking about that!" I said, now fully exasperated.
"If it is about what happened while we were inside, then totally forget it ever happened. I know I sure did," James said leaning against the wall.
"Uh, sure, forgotten," I said fully downtrodden
"Good-" James went to say more but quickly noticed that the rest of the class was just around the corner.
I like him, but at the present moment, it is no use really. I hurt him, and if I could, I would go back in time and change that! But I can't, so I shall let time run its course.
A/N: Hello everyone. Hope you enjoyed this very long chapter; longest chapter so far, and personally I think it is my best! Please review. I would be much appreciated!
-MissSiriusBlack1020
Disclaimer: I do not own the Harry Potter characters, although I do wish that I did own a few!
Thanks: Thank-you to my friend Cassy, who is CONSTANTLY badgering me to write my next chapter. I get my motivation from her bugging me. I would also like to thank her for giving me the ideas for this chapter. Honestly, I was stuck in a rut, and I had NO idea what I was going to do for this. I mean I did have some idea, but it wasn't glued together. It just didn't seem right. Anyway, thanks!
(Sirius' pov)
"I wonder what's going on up there," I said, indicating the loud voice of Lindsey and James.
"Probably having a contest on who is the loudest. You know how strange they-" but before Lily could finish her train of thought, Lindsey came hurtling down the stairs and out of the portrait hole, crying. James strolled down moments later.
"What the hell did you do to her?!" I growled, cornering James. I was livid!
James shrugged. "Things happen, ya know," he replied.
I made to hit him, but I just couldn't. Instead, I dashed out of the common room to search for Lindsey, still carrying that necklace I had bought for her for the holidays.
Once I reached the door to the grounds of Hogwarts, I flung them opened and instantly shivered. It was pouring, not to mention that it is extremely cold in the middle of December. Biting back the frigidness of the day, I sprinted towards Lindsey who was positively soaked, sitting on a huge rock. Her hair hung limply, in loose curls, as she titled her head to hide her face. "Lindsey!" I shouted.
I got her attention, obviously, because she turned her head towards me. "What are you doing out here?" she whispered.
I took a seat down next to her, with my arm around her waist. "To see how you are. I was and still am worried about you," I replied genuinely.
"Don't be! You have nothing to be worried about," she said, shivering. She had run out without a cloak.
"Here, take my cloak. You are shivering," I said, handing her my cloak, and instantly shivered from the new coldness that enveloped me.
"But now you'll be cold," she replied earnestly.
"I don't matter. You matter. I want you warm," I said, wrapping my arms around her body. I could see new tears formulating in the corners of her eyes. Very quietly, I added, "I want you back. You mean the world to me!"
She looked up at me and then back down. "Do you mean that?"
"Of course I do," I said even quieter. I heard her give a sob. "Please don't cry. I couldn't stand being the one who made you cry again."
"Can I be totally honest with you as well?"
"You know you can."
"I want you back too." She smiled sweetly, and I leaned down, ever so slightly and was caught by her lips.
After a minute of sweet kissing, I said very confidently, "I love you. I want you to know that. I have never been so sure of anything in my life until now." I reached down into my pocket and pulled out that locket I was going to give her. "Look, I know this is a little early, but since you already knew what I was planning on giving you for the holidays, I might as well give you it now."
She gasped and lifted up her hair for me to clasp the necklace around her neck. "I love it! And, I love you too."
We sat there with our foreheads together for a long while, listening to the rain that engulfed us and the thunder that clattered in the near distance. "You know, this reminds me of another time we once shared," I muttered.
"And what time would that be?" she questioned.
"The first time I kissed you. We were in the rain, remember?" I said.
She beamed and gave me a kiss. "Yes, I remember."
I stood up, and took her hand in mine. We walked back to Hogwarts together.
((Written under the influence of 'The Scientist' by Coldplay))
(Meanwhile- James' pov)
"James, what did you do to her?" Lily questioned, now rounding on me.
"We broke up," I replied.
"What happened? Tell me really!" she pleaded. She gazed at me. I need to tell her the truth.
"Look, we didn't really break up and we never really went out to begin with. I 'went out' with her to make Sirius jealous so she can get him back. We didn't want to trick anyone. I just wanted to help her out. She has always been such an amazing friend to me," I answered.
Her brow was burrowed and then her face suddenly softened. "You did that for her?" she asked incredulously.
"Yes," I replied, uneasily.
"That has got to be one of the sweetest things I have EVER heard. Don't worry; your secret is safe with me. I won't tell anyone!"
I sighed. I hated doing this to her; lying and all, but this was the only way to explain myself to her. "You know James, I was just about to head down to the library, care to join me?" Lily asked.
"Sure, I'd love to!" I raced upstairs and collected my books.
"It is terribly dreadful outside," Lily muttered.
"I know what you mean. It is so dark and gloomy. It is definitely not the greatest way to end a weekend."
"I totally agree," she said, glancing over at me. I grinned at her and she blushed, turning away quickly. Before I had the chance to do anything, we had arrived at the library.
Madam Pince greeted us stiffly and we walked to the back where all the astronomy books were. Professor Sinistra had mentioned that we had a huge project coming up and that we better start looking up constellations and whatnot.
I opened up a rather large and dusty book and immediately began to cough. Lily looked up and began to giggle. "So I'm allergic to dust, sue me," I said while chuckling.
"No need to get snippy Mr. Potter," she replied laughing once more.
Another ten minutes or so passed and Lily was deeply absorbed by the book she was reading. I heard her faintly start to sing, '-I thought love was only true in fairytales. Meant for someone else, but not for me. Oh love was out to get me. That's the way it seems-'. She stopped the second she noticed me staring at her. "Oh Merlin! I am so sorry," she said quickly, blushing heavily.
"What was it that you were singing?" I asked curiously.
She looked down. "Just some muggle band called The Monkees. The song was 'I'm A Believer'. I used to love them when I was like 9. They broke up awhile ago. It is just that I can't get some of their songs out of my head," she replied quickly.
((Terribly sorry, I had to add that in. I'm currently listening to The Monkees, and I thought, 'hey, that would be perfect! Lily is a muggle- born, and the 60's was not that far away.' Anyway, on with the story!!))
"No need to be sorry," I said smiling. She nodded and then went back to reading. That girl will be my wife one day. She just doesn't know it yet!
"Uhm, James? What was our project about again?" Lily asked an hour later.
"Research a star or constellation in books and then observe it at night every so often. After that is all done, we have to make a life-like diagram showing its movements in the sky."
"And we get partners for this?"
"Yep!"
"Would you like to be my partner James?" Lily inquired shyly.
"Of course. It would be an honor to work with dear Miss Evans," I answered jovially.
She smirked and went back to work. "Do you know if we get to pick what constellation or star we want?"
"I'm sure we get to. We'll just have to check with Sinistra. I'm sure Sirius will of course pick the Dog Star!"
Lily let out a roar of laughter that was enough to surprise me. "Oh gosh! Aren't I just a class act today? I'm sorry!"
"Stop apologizing. It is okay to have fun every once and a while!"
"You are right and oh Merlin, look at the time! We should head on up now!"
We checked out some books and made our way to Gryffindor Tower, 7th floor.
We reached the Fat Lady portrait, said the password, 'Ursa Major', and entered into the comfy common room. Sirius and Lindsey were huddled by the fire, very much asleep. I grabbed Lily's hand and we quietly tip toed to the bottom of the girl's dorm steps.
"Good night James!" Lily whispered.
"Night!" She got on the tips of her toes and gave my cheek a kiss.
"See you tomorrow, partner!" She ran upstairs and out of sight.
"Aha, she kissed me!" I shouted quietly and I, myself, ran up the stairs to my dorm to go to bed and dream of my Lily flower!
"Morning Prongs!" Remus shouted into my ear.
"Nice to see you this morning," I mumbled, my eyes still closed.
"Indeed, now get up Prongsy Wongsy!" Moony exclaimed right into my ear. "Anyway, do you have a partner for Astronomy yet?"
"Actually, I do."
"No! Who?"
"Lily!" I said, sighing, as I put on my glasses.
"Are you kidding me? How did you ask her?"
"I didn't ask her my dear friend. On the contrary, she asked me last night while we were at the library together."
"I'm happy for you!"
"Thanks. I haven't been this happy in a long time. Now, who do you suppose you'll work with on this project Moony?"
"I'll ask Frank (Longbottom). No worries!"
(Astronomy class)
"Take your seats, take your seats!" Professor Sinistra exclaimed as she entered the Astronomy Tower.
I took a seat next to Lily, and Remus was on my other side. Sirius and Lindsey situated themselves in the back of the class. Bella was sitting in front of me, Mikul next to her. She turned around and said to Lily, "Lily, I am so sorry about these past couple of weeks. Can we be friends again?"
"Sure. It has been awkward in the dorm with us not talking."
This was new. Lindsey and Sirius were back together, Sirius will barely speak three words to me, and Lily and Bella are friends again. I am truly pissed off that Sirius won't talk to me though. My best friend who just happens to live at my house is angry at me. Does he even realize that I did that for him and Lindsey and partially to benefit myself, which honestly didn't work out as well as I had planned? Does he realize that if it weren't for me, he and Lindsey would only be 'friends'?
"Mr. Potter, would you please break out of your reverie and join us here back in class?" Sinistra said curtly.
"Ah yes! Sorry about that professor," I said apologetically.
"Anyway, as I was saying, you are to pick a partner and study either a star or a constellation from books and then observe it outside in the night sky. After that is done, I want you all to make a diagram of the star or constellation's movement in relation to the Earth's rotation. Any questions?"
Sirius immediately raised his hand. "Can I have-"
"Yes Mr. Black, you may have your star. Any other questions class?" Sinistra asked, quite exasperated. She looked around. "No questions, right then! Pick partners!"
"Hey partner!" Lily exclaimed, scooting closer to me.
"Why hello Lily flower!" Lily blushed at the name.
"Okay well, Prongs (she emphasized the name), let us pick our star or constellation!" Lily pulled the list closer to herself to examine it. "Ah yes! Can we pick this one: Perseus?"
"Whatever you want luv," I replied cheekily. Once again, I had hit something, and Lily flushed.
"Great! Do you want to go to the library with me during lunch or after dinner?"
"How about after dinner? I work better at night," I answered.
"That's fine with me. Anytime is good!" she said cheerfully.
(Lily's pov)
Okay, so I REALLY like James Potter. I admit it! His charms got to me and now I find myself hanging on his every word. There is something seriously wrong with me. I have to meet James in an hour. I am currently in my room, stressing out! Lindsey is on her bed, reading an article on Jim Morrison. He was in the muggle band, The Doors, but what most didn't know was that he is a wizard and is at large in the wizarding world.
"Lily, you have got to read these lyrics to his new song!" Lindsey said, jumping up and down on her bed.
"I don't have time. Can you please do my hair and makeup for me?"
Lindsey arched an eyebrow at me. "Sure, what is the occasion Lils?"
"No occasion. I just want to look nice, you know, for when I meet James in the library," Lily said quickly.
"Just admit it, you like him!" Lindsey exclaimed, tossing her magazine to the side and leaping off of her bed. "Now turn around so I can work with your hair!"
Half and hour later, I stood in front of the mirror. My hair was down, in loose curls that framed my face, and cascaded down my back. Two front strands were pulled back and tied together in an emerald green ribbon to give me that 'hippy' look. My eyes were outlined in black eyeliner and had a shimmering white and light green shadow on it. My lips were glossed as well. Lindsey also decided that I was in need of a clothing change. I now wore an emerald green ribbed V-neck sweater with a denim skirt that ended just below my knees. I had on my regular shoes. I didn't even recognize myself.
"You like it?" Lindsey asked shyly.
"Like it? I love it! Thank you so much. And now, let me see those lyrics you were talking about!"
Twenty-eight minutes later, I threw the magazine on the bed. "Oh but Jim Morrison is so dreamy!" I called out goofily. Lindsey laughed.
"Go! I do believe a certain chaser is waiting for you!"
I ran down the stairs rather ungracefully, tripping on my shoes and stumbling down the stairs. I landed on my arse and glanced above me. James was towering over me, he looked amused. "What an entrance!" James said, grinning. He offered a hand to me, which I, of course, accepted.
"Thank you," I mumbled, now very red in the face. Oh boy! That was happening to me a lot lately.
"You look great! Mind if I ask what the occasion is?" James inquired, smirking. We exited the common room and made our way to the library.
"Thanks. You know, Lindsey asked me the same exact question. There is no occasion. I just felt like looking nice, that's all!" I said, 'accidentally' brushing my hand across James' hand. I felt little tingles go up and down my spine. I was not beginning to fall for him, I already fell! I heard James gulp and out of the corner of my eye, I saw him take peek at me.
We arrived at the library and took a seat at the far end of it, totally secluded.
I took out a book and started writing down notes. James started drawing what Perseus looked like and what stars were around it. After about an hour, we shared our notes.
"Perseus can be best seen in December at 9 PM, so we are in luck! There are 8 named stars in it and its visible latitudes are between 90 degrees and -35 degrees. Now that we know that, let's head to the Astronomy Tower to check it out!" I said excitedly.
James nodded. I shouldn't be this excited at the thought of me and James in the Astronomy Tower. If anyone found out, they would quickly jump to the conclusion that James and I were snogging, which isn't necessarily a bad idea but nevertheless, it isn't the best rumor to spread around school. I have a reputation to uphold. But before I go on, I should explain this; the Astronomy Tower is notoriously known for where all the couples go for some 'privacy'.
"Come on Lily! We have to go to Gryffindor Tower first so I can get something and then we can head to the Astronomy Tower!" James said, breaking me out of my thought. He grabbed my hand and led me to the tower. "I will be out in one minute!"
True to his word, James was back in one minute time and whisked me off to the Astronomy Tower. Climbing up the steep staircase, giggles were heard. "Oh shit! There are couples there."
"Eh, don't worry about it! Just pretend they aren't even there!" James said, taking the steps two at a time.
We entered a cozy circular dome. The ceiling was all glass, so one could see through it. At one spot in the room, a Ravenclaw was busy making out with her Hufflepuff boyfriend. I turned around and opened up the door to the terrace part of the room. James followed.
"It is chilly out here," I stammered, shivering from the cold.
"Here, take this," James said, offering me his Gryffindor cloak. He, himself, had an all black one on. I took it obligingly and pretty soon, we were lying down, facing the starry night sky.
"It is absolutely gorgeous out here!" I whispered.
"It really is. Ah, look, there it is!" James said, pointing to a far off constellation.
I followed his finger and saw the figure. "That is very nice!"
We made a chart and labeled where it was, and at what latitudes. Twenty minutes later, we entered the room to see the couple gone.
"How about we sit over there, just to warm up," James suggested, tossing his cloak to the side.
"Good idea!" I took off his cloak, folded it and placed it on one of the nearby chairs. I sat down next to him and rested my head on his shoulder. I don't know what's coming over me. I am becoming a terrible flirt.
"Tired?" James asked, stroking my hair.
"Mmhmm," I answered incoherently. James suddenly stopped and turned me around. "Yes?" I questioned.
"I need to do this, just, don't say anything," James said hurriedly.
"Okay, what-" he cut me off with a finger to my lips.
"Shh," he whispered. He leaned in and I automatically knew what was going to happen. I felt his hot breath on my face as he inhaled and exhaled sharply. He then went in for the kill and I felt his warm, sweet lips on mine. I almost got lost in his kiss, but soon put my hands on his chest and pushed him away.
"James, no."
"Why not?" he questioned, looking me in the eye.
I glanced down, breaking the eye contact, "Because, I just can't."
"But, you were, flirting with me. All the signs..." James mumbled.
"There were no signs James. I'm so sorry!" I now felt horrible. Not only was I flirting with him and giving off quite an air that screamed, 'KISS ME DAMMIT', I lied to him.
I picked myself up, and ran down the stairs. "Lily, wait!" I turned around. "Don't risk getting caught. I have an invisibility cloak. Just come back up!" I slowly walked up the stairs. James wrapped the cloak around both of us and we began our trip at a slow and steady pace. My heart was pumping and so was his. I don't think I can face him tomorrow! It would hurt my heart too much.
After arriving in Gryffindor Tower, I said goodnight and sprinted up to my dorm, to find Lindsey lying on her bed, with a sleeping Sirius next to her. She made to sit up. "Anything happen?" she murmured.
I let out a sob and collapsed onto my bed. She quickly took Sirius' arm, which was draped around her and put it to his side. She rushed over to me. "Lily, what happened?"
"I like him so much, and I broke his heart, and I can't face him anymore and I don't know what to do!" I cried, burying my head in my pillow.
"Aww, sweetie! Don't worry! Just tell me what transpired tonight."
"Library, astronomy tower, stars, fire, kiss, pushed away, awkwardness!" I mumbled.
"Is that all?" Lindsey asked, trying her hardest to comprehend this all.
I nodded my head furiously and threw my pillow across the room. "I'm such a dolt!"
"No you are not! Don't say that. I understand how you feel. But, I must ask this because it is truly bothering me; why did you push him away?"
"I don't want to get hurt again. After what happened with Remus, and he is SUCH a nice guy, usually dependable and loyal, I figured that if Remus was capable of something like that, James would be too. Leave it all to my over active imagination I guess."
"Trust me on this one; James is a dependable friend and a very loyal one at that. I can imagine he would be the same in a rela-" Lindsey started saying but soon covered her mouth. "Oh bugger!"
"No need to do that. James told me what you guys were doing before. And I think it's sweet, you know, helping you get back with Sirius," I whispered.
"See, he is a sweet guy! Besides, I know you fancy him, so just go with your feelings. They always guide you correctly," Lindsey said, rising from my bed to join Sirius back on her own. "Goodnight Lily. See you in the morning. I trust you'll be going to classes?" Lindsey stated as more of a question than anything.
"Yes, classes, I shall be there!" I said while drawing my curtains closed.
I heard Sirius grumble and Lindsey laugh. "Is it morning?" Sirius muttered.
"Nope, not yet sweetheart. Go back to sleep and I'll wake you up," Lindsey murmured. I heard bed springs move, the smack of lips and then more bed springs. All was quiet after that.
(James' pov)
I woke up early this morning and took a very cold shower. Lily was on my mind ALL night. I am bugged that she wouldn't give into her feelings and just kiss me back. What the hell is holding her back?
I might be the only one, but I also realized that Sirius did not sleep in his bed at all last night, which leads me to believe that he was with Lindsey. Sure I helped out a friend, it is the noble thing to do after all, but only she is benefiting from it! I am so tempted to go over to Sirius and tell him everything. However, if I did, the consequences of my actions would be quite dismal. For one, Lindsey would NEVER EVER talk to me ever again. As well as the fact that Lindsey would then in turn tell Lily that this little pretend dating was not only in her favor, but also trying to help me out. That would not be good at all. So in conclusion, I will try to be strong and keep my mouth shut when it comes to this; as hard as it may seem.
"Hey Remus," I said as Remus opened up his curtains. His normally shaggy hair was sticking up in odd angles all over his head. "Nice hair!"
Remus smirked as he looked into the mirror. "Tell me about it, I think I'm going to leave it like this today!"
"What is on the agenda for today Moony?" I said, changing the subject.
"Eating, classes and then a little sleeping."
"Maybe we can fit in a prank today, at lunch?" I said hopefully.
"That would be good. We need something special though. We haven't made the Marauder's mark this year. We need something that stands out!" Remus said pulling on his slacks.
"How about we hang Snivellus from a tree, upside down?"
"You did that last year, don't get sloppy with your work now!" Remus said smiling.
"Hmm, let me think!" After about five minutes of heavy thinking I finally came up with it. "I KNOW WHAT WE CAN DO! We can cast a charm on them so that everything they say comes out jumbled!"
Remus grinned, "That's perfect!" I strode over to my trunk and opened it up. I rummaged through it a bit and managed to find the one book I was hoping to come across, Fantastic Spells for Fantastic Pranks, thanks dad. It was he who had purchased this book for me one Christmas.
I scanned the pages quickly and found the spell that was required to do the prank. "Now! We must do this now!" Moony and I finished getting changed and ran downstairs. I came face to face with Lily. "I- uh, hi" I said lamely.
"Hi James," she replied quietly.
Remus took my arm and we raced out of the common room.
Once we reached the Great Hall, Remus and I were some of the only Gryffindors down there. However, all the Slytherins were there already.
"Take aim James."
I positioned my wand on the table and became eye level with it. "Mumbulous Jumbulous," I muttered. I straightened myself up and saw that Lily, Lindsey and Sirius were walking their way towards us.
"Mind if I sit down?" Lily asked Remus timidly. What?!
"Not at all," Remus said, throwing me a glance.
Lily sat down and the affect of the spell started to work.
"Thaw het yodblo lehl si iogign no!" Snape yelled. (Translation: What the bloody hell is going on!) Ah this is great!
"I'm going to class. Catch up later!" I said getting up. I gave a fleeting look at Lily and exited the Great Hall.
"Talk to him Lily!" Lindsey persisted.
"No!"
"Oh come on! You are breaking his heart! Go after him!" Lindsey hissed to me under her breath.
"FINE!" I yelled and I too ran out of the Great Hall.
I walked slowly the entire time. I didn't want to get to where he was any time soon. I rounded the corner and saw James waiting outside of the Charms classroom.
"Hi James," I said, feeling my heart rattle against my ribcage.
"Lily," he acknowledged.
"Can we talk?"
"We are, aren't we?" he said coolly.
"I know I deserved that. I don't want to merely talk every day conversation. I want to talk about last night."
"No need to. Let's just meet tomorrow outside to observer Perseus." I frowned. He was playing dumb.
"I wasn't talking about that!" I said, now fully exasperated.
"If it is about what happened while we were inside, then totally forget it ever happened. I know I sure did," James said leaning against the wall.
"Uh, sure, forgotten," I said fully downtrodden
"Good-" James went to say more but quickly noticed that the rest of the class was just around the corner.
I like him, but at the present moment, it is no use really. I hurt him, and if I could, I would go back in time and change that! But I can't, so I shall let time run its course.
A/N: Hello everyone. Hope you enjoyed this very long chapter; longest chapter so far, and personally I think it is my best! Please review. I would be much appreciated!
-MissSiriusBlack1020