A/N: I hope you liked the last chapter. I didn't really go too much into Sirius' and Katie's wedding because, let's face it, they are secondary characters and I wanted to use it as a way to get James to propose, Lily's and James's wedding will be more descriptive, I hope. Anyways, here is more for you and I hope you enjoy it.

Disclaimer: I don't own anything that you might recognize.



Chapter 8 ~ Wedding Bells



The wedding lasted until the early hours of the morning. Katie and Sirius left at midnight, guests waving and cheering as the car drove away. In all the excitement nobody noticed the young couple that sneaked back into the room, nor the exchange of amorous glances that they threw to each other. But a handful of people did, and they couldn't be any happier.

Most of the guests had come from far to take part on the festivities, some of them made reservations in the hotel, those who could not afford it stayed with the Potters, the Bennetts and the Blacks in their London houses.

It was very late the next afternoon when all the guests left. Everybody was rather late in getting up.

It was during afternoon tea (which was more like a late lunch) when James, Lily, Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans, sat together to discuss the previous day.

"Oh and I loved the way she looked." Mrs. Evans exclaimed.

"She did look wonderful." Agreed Mrs. Potter.

Lily nodded enthusiastically as she sipped from her tea.

"I did notice that you two were missing for a while from the party." Said Mrs. Potter lifting her eyebrows in a questioning manner.

James choked on his tea while Lily blushingly looked down at her lap.

"What makes you say that?" Asked James after he stopped coughing.

"We looked for you. Katie was going to throw her bouquet and you were nowhere to be found." Said Mrs. Evans.

"Oh, it must have been while we were walking on the park, it was rather stuffy in the room." James explained.

"Indeed." Said Mrs. Potter.

"Yes, and it was such a nice evening, we went for a stroll." James said.

"I see. You needed to stretch your legs." Said Mrs. Evans.

James nodded. Lily just played with the food she had left on her plate.

"Humph!" Snorted Mrs. Potter. "I expect you can explain why Lily is wearing the family engagement ring."

"Well that is because we are engaged." Said James.

"And when were you going to tell us?" Asked Mrs. Potter crossing her arms.

"When everything calmed down. You didn't expect us to announce it during Katie's and Sirius' especial day did you? Wouldn't do at all." James exclaimed.

"Well, that is certainly true. But you could've said something before we sat down to eat." Mrs. Evans said. "I would like to know when my daughter gets engaged to be married."

"I'm sorry mum, we just wanted to let you know at the right time." Said Lily hugging her mother.

"Well, in that case." Mrs. Evans said with a smile. "Now let me have a look at that ring." She said as she took hold of her daughter's hand and looked at the piece of jewelry adorning her finger. "Oh, it's wonderful isn't it?" She exclaimed.

"It is. It has been in the family for ages. I remember when Aliaster gave it to me twenty-eight years ago." Sighed Mrs. Potter.

"Oh, did James asked it from you?" Asked Mrs. Evans letting go of her daughter's hand.

"Oh no, it is customary for the ring to be given to the first born son when he comes of age. I gave it to James when Aliaster died." Mrs. Potter said. "I expect you put it in the Gringotts' vault then?" She asked turning to look at her son, who had resumed eating as the women talked.

James nodded. "Yes, I took it from the vault some weeks ago." He said.

His mother nodded in satisfaction.

"Have you two decided on the date?" Mrs. Evans asked.

"No, we haven't discussed a thing mum, we barely got engaged yesterday." Exclaimed Lily.

"The sooner the better, my dear." Said Mrs. Evans.

"Well, I do fancy having a summer wedding." Said Lily with a thoughtful expression.

"Oh, a June Bride, that would be perfect." Exclaimed Mrs. Evans.

"And we have six months to prepare, enough time." Said Mrs. Potter with excitement.

James groaned as the three women started to discuss wedding plans.



The days went by and the Manor was once more inhabited. Everybody who worked in the estate now knew of their master's impeding wedding and couldn't be any happier. A notice had been sent to the Daily Prophet announcing the engagement. Mrs. Potter cut it and started a scrapbook she planned to give them on the eve of their wedding.

This is what the notice said:

"Mrs. Susan Potter, wife of the former Ministry advisor, Aliaster Potter, gladly announces the engagement of her only son and heir, James H. Potter to Ms. Lily Marie Evans, daughter of Edward Evans (deceased) and Mrs. Rose Evans. The couple met while they attended Hogwarts School of Wizardry and Witchcraft. A summer wedding is planned."



After the announcement appeared in the Prophet, several owls with congratulations arrived at the Manor. The neighbors found excuses to go to the Manor and see the young couple.

The gardeners started to plan the flowers wanted to use for decorating the chapel. Mrs. Nichols, the housekeeper, along with a battalion of maids and house elves scrubbed and waxed every inch of the chapel. It didn't matter that both James and Lily reminded them that there were still several months to do so, they wanted to be prepared.

Christmas had arrived and the landscape was covered in snow. The pond had frozen and the gnomes found in Lily's and James' garden were hidden deep in the ground to keep warm. Things couldn't be better for the young couple, and they wished things could stay the same.



In a pub, far away from any major city, sat a young man in a booth near the fire. The place was empty, it was too cold and too icy for anybody willing to leave the warmth of their houses.

"I must be insane." He muttered as the door of the pub opened and a freezing breeze cooled the room.

A cloaked person sat in front of him. "Glad to see you made it." A sarcastic voice said. Peter turned to look at the leering face of Lucius Malfoy. "What do you want? I did what you wanted and they didn't know where Emma is." He said.

"Oh we know that, but my master believes that you will come in useful in the future." Luciius said. He clearly felt insulted that his master thought that Peter, a not so talented wizard, could be more useful than himself.

"Useful?" Asked Peter with fear in his eyes.

Lucius nodded looking around the pub with a disgusted expression. "He seems to think that the upcoming wedding of Potter and Evans will be something especial." He said.

"I will not spy on Lily and James." Peter said with bravado, even though in his heart he was quaking.

"You will do what you are told. We know where you live Pettigrew, the only reason you and your mother are alive is because my master thinks you might be useful, but if you go against us, you will regret it. Decide Pettigrew, your friends or your mother's safety." He said in a menacing tone.

Peter swallowed hard. He seemed to be struggling with himself. For years he had done all he could to keep his mother safe, and he knew he would do anything to keep doing so. But at the same time, he didn't want to betray his friends. Finally, he came to a decision. His friends could take care of themselves, his mother needed him. He slowly nodded.

"Good. Be here in two weeks, don't make us wait." Lucius said as he passed a piece of parchment to Peter.

Malfoy rose and quietly left the room. Peter looked down to the folded parchment; he opened it and read.

Green Moor, 8 p.m.

Peter refolded it and put it in one of his pockets. He finished his drink, placed some money on the table and taking his hat and cloak left the pub.



Christmas was a happy occasion at Gryffindor Manor. Everybody woke early, thanks to the twins, and congregated in the family parlor. A large pine tree stood in front of the windows decorated with ribbons and a colorful array of crystal balls. Each glittered and changed color as the light hit them.

The twins squealed and laughed as they opened their gifts, James looked indulgently as he stood by the mantel with a cup of tea in his hands. Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans clapped as they laughed along with the young girls. And Lily smiled as she looked down on them.

James liked the family scene that was in front of him. He turned to look at Lily as she giggled along with the twins as they showed her the gifts they had gotten. James smiled. He couldn't wait until next Christmas, their first as a married couple, and those that would follow, when, he was sure, there would be a new generation of Potters to make their Christmas more merry.

During the day, visitors came and went with Christmas greetings and small gifts for the family.

Before luncheon, Lily and Mrs. Potter went around the estate with baskets full of fruits and preserves for the tenants. In the afternoon, James and Lily drove around town visiting the merchants and neighbors with small gifts.

Dinner was more sumptuous than usual. A large baked ham stood in the center of the table, ready to be carved, Cornish hens in marinated sauce, baked potatoes and green salad, bowls of fruit and pudding, and an endless amount of sweets.

The evening ended with the family convening in the parlor once more where they sang carols and drank hot chocolate.

James never thought he had spend a better Christmas. Except maybe for the one on his seventh year, when all his friends were around him.



The new year arrived and Sirius and Katie came along with it. For the first few weeks, family and friends left them on their own. They shopped and put things in order in their own house. Katie asked for the Magical Employment Agency for recommendations as well as the Potters while Sirius went shopping for a car and furniture. But after they had settled, it was time for open house and they were inundated with visitors.

Their house was one of the smaller houses built on Rowe Square after the incident on the last fall. Only a few of the original families stayed and rebuilt while others decided to sell and leave for a less known area. Smaller houses were built, especially made for small families or like Katie and Sirius, newly wed couples.

After the first week of their arrival they decided to have a small party, only for close family and friends. Everybody who was invited arrived to welcome them back, except for one person.

Peter was shivering as he stood in the porch of a small inn. The note he had received from Lucius Malfoy two weeks ago was hidden in his pocket.

It was starting to get dark and the moor beyond the road looked forbidding and dangerous. Peter shivered, but didn't know if it was caused by his fear or the cold.

Suddenly, he saw a light flashing on the moor. It looked as if a fire had been lit. He squinted his eyes, trying to get a better look, but it was of no use.

He continued to look toward the light and it was with big surprise that he noticed a cloaked figure coming toward him.

"I'm glad you are here on time Pettigrew. Follow me." Said the cloaked figure.

Peter didn't say anything, just followed him out to the moor.

Peter walked cautiously behind. He noticed that they walked toward the fire, the cloaked figure walked with no fear of stumbling or getting hurt in the marshy ground in the dark.

Peter looked around as they walked. They were getting deeper and deeper into the moor, if anybody noticed the light from the road they wouldn't bother to investigate in such a dangerous ground. There were pits all around, Peter had to keep his eyes on the ground to make sure he wouldn't fall into one.

Finally, they were near the bonfire. There were cloaked people around it, standing tall against the flames. He quickly noticed that they were all masked and that a tall figure stood in the center fearless of the flames dancing nearby.

Peter shivered once more, he had a feeling that this night would change his life, and he didn't like that, not at all.

The person leading him stopped in front of a section of the circle that had left open and motioned Peter to enter.

Peter breathed deeply and with a straight face walked into the circle.

The cloaked man who had brought him stood in the opening, closing the surrounding circle. Peter looked around, and saw that he had nowhere to go; he was trapped.

The figure in the center turned and Peter gasped. Unlike the others, he had no mask and his face was clearly lit by the flames. His skin was pale, dark, large snake-like-eyes looked down on him, and a cruel mouth leered at him.

"Welcome Mr. Pettigrew." He said.

Peter whimpered with fear. "Wh-wh-who are you?" He stammered.

The other man chuckled and approached Peter.

"You know me Peter, or at least you have heard of me." He said. "I am Lord Voldemort."

Peter gasped. His eyes were round and full of fear. "What do you want?" He managed to say in a breathless voice.

"I want your knowledge." Voldemort said.

Peter gave a nervous laugh. He instantly stopped when Voldemort's brows lifted and looked questioningly down at him. "Well - I meant to say - I'm not very adept at magic. You cannot get much knowledge out of me." He finally said.

Voldemort laughed. "That is true enough, but you have knowledge that might become precious to me. You have knowledge about the Potters and their relationship to Dumbledore." Peter noticed that there was a slight hesitation when Voldemort said the name of his former Headmaster.

"What kind of information? Everybody knows about Dumbledore's close relationship to James and Lily." Peter said.

"They do, but they cannot get close enough to either of them. I know that Dumbledore is planning to stop me, I need to know what he plans." Voldemort said.

Peter looked horrified at Voldemort. He wants him to spy on his friends? He instantly remembered the last time he had been at Hogwarts with the others. Dumbledore had spoken of a way to fight Voldemort, of stopping him from taking control.

"I see that you are familiar with this plan." Voldemort said with triumph in his voice.

Peter shook his head. "No, I'm not!" He exclaimed. Instantly unbearable pain ran through his body. He fell to the ground writhing and shaking in pain. Then, just as suddenly as it had started, it stopped. He stood. Voldemort was putting his wand back in his robes.

"You were saying? Don't lie to me Peter, I can see what is inside your head." Voldemort hissed. "Remember that I can kill you right now, no one the wiser. And tell me, who would take care of your mother then? My friends here could apparate in an instant at your house and make sure she is not a liability."

"But there is nothing, only plans, nothing more." Peter whimpered.

"They are enough. I know Dumbledore, I know he will not stop until he does what he means to do. If he plans to stop me, he will try, even if he dies doing so. And there are people fond of him that would be willing to stand beside him." Voldemort said.

Peter stood whimpering. Looking fearfully up at Voldemort.

Voldemort smiled cruelly down at Peter. "You will be of use to me Peter, very useful." He then grabbed Peter's left arm and held it in a tight grip. Peter didn't try to get lose, he was too scared to fight. Voldemort retrieved his wand and pointed to Peter's forearm. "Mortis Corpius." He whispered and pain started to burn through Peter's arm.

He screamed in agony. It felt as if he was being branded by heated iron. His flesh burning. It finally stopped and he looked down at his arm. A skull with a protruding snake from his mouth was now imprinted on his flesh.

"You will come to me every time you feel it burning Peter. Remember, if you want your mother to live, you will come to me and do what I say." Voldemort said.

"What guarantee do I have that you won't hurt her if I do." Peter whimpered.

"You have my word Peter. As long as you are with us, your mother will be safe." Voldemort said.

Peter looked up at Voldemort and knew that he was speaking the true. Voldemort might be a killer and power-hungry, but he was no liar. At least Peter thought so.



It was at the end of February when Peter, Remus, Sirius and James got a similar owl. Remus had gone out of the country right after Sirius and Katie's wedding. Sirius had spent the last months with his new wife in their small house taking care of putting things in order. Peter had gone back to his mother who had been feeling ill. And James had spent the last months in a house full of women making plans for a wedding that he thought was getting out of control.

On this cloudy day, James was sitting in the breakfast table. Lily, Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans had left early to spend the day on town looking for caterers and decorations for the wedding.

James was regretting not telling Lily to just elope to get this business over with. Now it was too late, the three women were too involved in the arrangements to think of anything else.

Just as he was about to leave the table, he saw an owl flying in front of the window. He looked around to see if Roberts was still in the room. He wasn't. James stood and walked toward the flying owl. He opened the window and the owl soared into the room. It dropped an envelop on the table, right in front of where he had been sitting and then flew out of the window.

James saw it leave, a frown on his face. He had recognized the seal on the envelope. It belonged to Dumbledore.

James had seen Dumbledore's seal many times, only used in personal notes, Dumbledore rarely made use of it. James had first seen the seal as a young boy, as he sat on his father's knee reading over the mail. He had received notes from Dumbledore after his father's death, but not many with the seal. It was an imposing seal. A flying phoenix, with a sword at its feet. James had never seen any like it.

James reached for the envelope and slowly opened it. A yellowed parchment falls into his hands.

He looked grim as he read the note. It was short, but to the point. They must unite, they must fight against Voldemort.

James sighed. There is no question on his mind. He will join Dumbledore against Voldemort.

James takes the parchment and throws it into the fire, crackling in the grate of the dinning room fireplace. It wouldn't do for anybody to find that note, he didn't want his mother nor Lily involved.

He quickly left the table and went out of the room.

Three other young men read the same message, all with different emotions. Two were determined to do what was required to succeed, one was afraid of what might be. Four notes were soon destroyed after they were read.



Spring had now arrived. The orchards were beginning to bloom, the gardens were beginning to flower, and the lawns were finally turning green.

James and Lily were sitting on one of the gardens watching the twins as they played before them.

"They are growing so fast." Lily said.

"Indeed. I shudder to think how it will be when they reached Hogwarts." James replied.

Lily chuckled. "Perhaps it won't be as bad."

"I hope so."

"Where did you go last night? Your mother and I looked for you but couldn't find you." Lily said looking down at her lap.

James quickly looked at her. "Just gone with Sirius, Remus and Peter, they were going to be in town and I wanted to be there." He finally said.

The real reason for James' absence was because he was with Dumbledore and his team. The Order of the Phoenix, as they called themselves, had met for the first time. For the safety of those present, no introductions were made. James still didn't want his mother and Lily to find out anything about it, and he would keep it that way.

"Oh." Said Lily. "Why didn't you tell us that Remus was in town? I thought that he was still out of the country."

"I thought so too." James said with a shrug. "I was surprised to see him there, I thought I was just meeting Sirius."

"Hmmm.Your mother and I were discussing the guest list and we wanted to know the names of those you want to invite, apart from Sirius, Remus and Peter of course, they are a given." Lily said.

James sighed with relief that Lily had believed his story. "I will have to think about it of course, but I guess you can add the Longbottoms, did you know that Frank married that Hufflepuff girlfriend he had? They eloped you know." He said.

"Did he really? I never thought that he would do such a thing. But wasn't she a little.hmm.dim?" Lily replied.

James laughed. "Rather nice way to put, but yes, she was, at least at Hogwarts, I don't know about now."

"Oh, well. Ok, Frank and his wife, who else?" Lily asked.

They continued discussing the list as the twins played and laughed. It was a nice day to be outside.



The next couple of weeks were very busy around Gryffindor Manor. James preferred to leave early each morning to ride across his estate than stay behind and get caught by Lily and their mothers as they planned for the wedding. Who would've thought that planning a wedding could be so exhausting?

He was sitting atop a wooden rail eating an apple, which he had stolen from the orchards, and sat watching the shepherds leading their charges up the field.

"In hiding are you?" Asked somebody from behind.

James turned and laughed. "In a matter of speaking. What about you?"

"Same. The moment we arrived Katie was brought into the planning." Sirius said as he leapt to join James on the rail.

James chuckled. "Think she would mind?"

"I doubt it." Sirius said as he reached into James' pockets.

"Hey, what are you doing?" James exclaimed.

"Looking for one of those apples you have hidden in here somewhere." Sirius said.

James pushed Sirius off, making him slip and fall on his back. Sirius groaned while James laughed.

"What did you do that for?" Sirius said as he stood up.

"Stop searching my pockets then, all you have to do is ask." James replied.

Sirius crossed his arms looking mutinous at James. "Oh fine." James said and threw an apple to his friend. "There, stop acting like a child."

Sirius didn't say anything more, just leapt up and sat by James.

"What are you doing now?" Sirius asked as both watched the herds of sheep running around the fields.

"Trying to think of something else to do, so I can keep away from the house." James answered.

"Hmmm.good luck then." Sirius said.

"Well, you are here, help me then."

"What for?"

"Because if you don't you will have to accompany me and deal with the women as they plan." James said.

"Very well then." Said Sirius with a shudder.



It was true, the women in the Manor had become rather involved with the planning of the wedding. Lists and more lists were created of everything that would be needed. Mrs. Nichols, the Potters' housekeeper, met with the women often to speak about menus, decorations, and the arrangement of the chapel.

By the end of May, everything was ready. The gown was made and waiting for delivery. Otty and the house elves had a menu planned to work on, the gardeners were ready to cut the flowers that would be needed for the day, Sirius had James' Stag Party all planned, and the invitations had gone out.



"Mrs. Rose Evans, widow of Mr. Edward Evans and Mrs. Susan Potter, widow of Mr. Aliaster Potter



Invite you to the wedding of their children

Lily Marie Evans and James Harold Potter

To take place the 15th of June At Gryffindor Manor Chapel

A three day event is planned. The first day, June 13 will begin with the opening of the town's Summer Feast, the family has planned many entertainments for the guests to conclude on the third day with the wedding. If you wish to participate in the three days of celebration please RSVP. If not, and only will come to the wedding, the ceremony will take place at 11:00 the morning of the 15th."

Everybody was excited about the upcoming celebration, even the town seemed festive and that their Summer Feast would be included in the wedding celebration was a great honor for them. There was only one thing missing for Lily, and she knew what she must do.



It was the night before the guests would start to arrive, four before the wedding. Lily and James were walking about the gardens holding hands.

"Nervous?" Asked Lily as they walked into their garden. The starts were shinning, the fairies where happily dancing on the flowers and the pool was shining in the moonlight.

"A little, you?" James asked as he led her to the bench beside the pool.

"A little." Lily replied as they sat on the bench. "But I'm also very happy."

"So am I." James smiled as he pulled her into his arms and held her against him.

"I asked Dumbledore to come early, maybe before the other guests start to arrive." Said Lily as she settled her face against his chest and leaned into him.

"Hmmm.why?"

Lily shrugged. "Just wanted him to be here early." She said.

"If you wish. Is mother driving you crazy?" He asked as he kissed her hair.

"She is not too bad, not compared to my mother." Laughed Lily.

James laughed. The older ladies had certainly been on tender hooks and frayed nerves since the invitations had gone out. On the last week they had received the owls and post of those who would be staying for the three days of celebrations. Muggles and wizards would be coming, for that reason, those wizards who were coming had been warned to dress as muggles and to behave as muggles while they stayed at the Manor. Some had not been too happy about that, but if they didn't want to miss the wedding that the Daily Prophet had dubbed the Wedding of the Year, then they would do whatever was needed to be present. Everybody who was anybody in the wizarding world had been invited, that many of them were relatives or close friends of the Potters was a plus. Lily and Mrs. Evans had only invited close friends and family to the wedding. Both were unhappy that Petunia had been the only one to decline the invitation.

The Ministry had sent Aurors to check the security of the town and the Manor. The Minister himself was arriving on the following day. He would never miss the most important day of his good friend's son, he had said, no matter that it had been four years since the death of Aliaster Potter.

Mrs. Nichols and Mr. Roberts were busy though out the house, making sure that all the guest rooms were ready and that there were enough provisions to feed everybody. Mr. Sanders, the estate manager, was also busy checking with the gardeners and the tenants, making sure that all was ready for the Feast as well as the other entertainments planned for the next days.



The next morning was chaos in Gryffindor Manor. Elves and servants alike ran from one wing of the house to the other making sure all was in order. Mrs. Nichols was in the kitchen checking with Otty that the food was ready and that the platters were piled high with food. Mr. Roberts was in his pantry with his footmen making sure that the bottles of wine and champagne were chilled and ready to serve and that the silver was shinned.

Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans awoke early to check on the household, while Lily and Katie were in Lily's room talking. The only ones who rose at the same time they always did were James and Sirius. But then again, they had nothing to worry about.

Everybody was sitting in the family dinning room finishing breakfast when the first guest arrived.

Roberts appeared on the door, and cleared his throat.

"Yes Roberts." Said Mrs. Potter as she helped the twins with buttering their toast.

"You have a guest ma'am." Roberts said.

"Oh dear." Exclaimed Mrs. Potter while Mrs. Evans dropped the toast she was holding.

"It's Professor Dumbledore Ma'am." Roberts replied.

"Oh and we are still eating. We should've eaten earlier." Groaned Mrs. Evans.

"Not to worry dear lady, I do not mind." Said a voice from behind Mr. Roberts. Roberts stood aside and Professor Dumbledore walked into the room.

"Oh Albus, welcome." Said Mrs. Potter coming to her feet and approaching the older gentleman.

"Thank you for having me my dear." Albus Dumbledore said as he greeted Mrs. Potter and turned to look smiling at the others. "I believe congratulations are in order." He said as he spied Lily and James sitting at one end of the table.

"Welcome Professor, glad you could make it." James said stretching out his hand to the Professor.

"Oh I'm glad you are here Professor." Exclaimed Lily.

"I wouldn't miss this for the world." Dumbledore said.

He then noticed a pair of giggling girls sitting beside him. "Ah, hello there my dears." He said. The girls giggled some more.

"You are going to have to keep an eye on them in a couple of years Professor. A handful, these two are." Said Sirius as they all made room for Professor Dumbledore.

"You mean they are more troublesome than you and Mr. Potter were, Mr. Black?" Asked Dumbledore with laughing eyes.

"Indeed sir, much worse." Sirius said with a laugh.

"I'm going to have to warn Minerva then, she might have to deal with them more often that I will." Dumbledore chuckled.

"Poor Professor McGonagall, I don't think she will survive another generation of Potters." Laughed Katie.

"And to think that as soon as Hogwarts survives these two James' and Sirius' children will be ready to go." Said Mrs. Potter.

"Oh dear, I hope you are retired by then Professor." Said Lily.

Professor Dumbledore laughed. "Indeed, it seems like a wise plan."



The rest of the morning was spent in getting ready for the guests that would soon follow.

As soon as the luncheon was done Lily took Professor Dumbledore for a tour of the gardens.

"I wanted to ask you something Professor." Lily began as they came to Lily and James' garden.

"Of course my dear. Ask away." Said Professor Dumbledore with a chuckle.

Lily smiled. "Well I was wondering if you could do me a favor." Said Lily.

"Anything I can do for you, my dear." Said Dumbledore.

"Well, I was wondering, - that is, - if you were willing." Lily tried to find the correct words but they didn't seem to come out.

"Something wrong Lily?" Dumbledore asked with a frown.

"Oh no, it's just that." Lily sighed deeply. "Could you walk me down the aisle? My father is not here anymore and if it can't be him, I would like it to be you." She finally said.

Dumbledore smiled kindly down at Lily. "It would be my pleasure."

Lily smiled. "Thank you." She said, and both continued on their way through the gardens.



The guests started to arrive. Cars drove up to the Manor full of luggage and people waiting to spend the best time of their lives.

Roberts and his footmen stood by the door ready to unload the luggage and lead the guests to their quarters. Mrs. Potter, Mrs. Evans, Lily and James waited for their guest to be brought to them in the front parlor.

"Anne, welcome, I hope you had a wonderful trip." Said Mrs. Potter as a middle aged lady was brought into the room, closely followed by two girls who seemed to be in their late teens.

"Oh Rose darling, you would not believe the state of the roads, I think the roads really need a quick fix, or driver just drove over every pothole he could find." The lady commented as soon as she reached Mrs. Potter. "And look at this young man, who would've thought that he would marry some day. I was sure he would end up in Azkaban sooner or later." She said getting hold of James and pinching his cheek.

"Hello Aunt Anne." James finally managed to say somewhat reluctantly.

"Oh, and is this the young lady who managed to bring him under control? Welcome to the family my dear." Aunt Anne said when James pulled Lily from her seat. His objective was to give his Aunt Anne a new target so she would leave him alone.

"Good afternoon ma'am." Said Lily with a curtsey.

"Oh there is no need to be so formal my dear. I might be old but not that old. Let me introduce you to my daughters, this is Elizabeth and this is Serenity." The two young women stepped forward and curtseyed to the others.

"Hello." Lily managed to say.

No sooner had she said that, when the doors opened and Roberts led another group in.

The whole afternoon continued in like manner, Potter connections and Evans relatives continued to arrive throughout the evening. It was late by the time all were reunited in the parlor to await dinner, and guests continued to arrive. The latecomers ate in their quarters while those who had arrived earlier joined the family at the table. The room seemed to have been expanded to accommodate all the guests, only those who were good at charms were able to see that a spell had been used to stretch the room and the table to allow everybody to seat at the table.

The dinner was sumptuous and of numerous servings. First the salads were brought in, all arranged differently and with many dressings to chose from. The butler, Roberts, and his army of footmen went around the table serving the guests as they made their choices. The appetizers followed along with the soups. Finally the courses followed. Dressed partridge, grilled venison, roasted turkey, pork chops, lamb chops, marinated chicken, and there were some courses for those who preferred to skip the meats.

Everything seemed delicious and several people sent their congratulations to the kitchens for such a great dinner. As the food was eaten, Roberts and the footmen surrounded the table with bottles of wine and cider offering drinks to the guests.

The homemade wines and cider were a great favorite among the guests, as a result, several bottles were opened and discarded during the course of the evening.

After dinner, everybody reunited in the parlor. The doors to the music room were opened and the young people were encouraged to make use of the exquisite instruments waiting within for the entertainment of everybody. Many agreed to do so, and the evening ended with music and laughter.

It was very late when guests started to retire and still more guests continued to arrive. They did so through out the night. The footmen had to take turns relieving each group so that they could have some sleep throughout the night.



The day was bright and the sun was shinning. The full moon had passed and the Summer Feast was about to begin in town.

The Feast first started with a service in the town church. A blessing for the crops that had been planted during the spring and ending with a special blessing for the upcoming wedding. After the service the town became a kaleidoscope of color and merriment. The shops were richly decorated and the town square became a place for dancing and eating out of doors.

A small stage had been placed by the fountain in the center of the square and a small band played as people danced and laughed around them.

It seemed more crowded this year than it had been on previous years. Maybe it was because those at the Manor had walked on droves down to the town to participate in the fun.

Lily and James walked hand in hand, stopping periodically to receive the congratulations of those around them. They visited all the shops, and James bought flowers and small trinkets for Lily from the flower booths and the shops. Lily smiled up at him and allowed him to spoil her as much as he wanted to.

She had been in rather low spirits during the last days. The memory of her father intruded on her every waking hour and sadness filled her heart whenever the thought of him not being with her during the most important day of her life intruded. She was happy that she was marrying James, it felt right and meant to be, but she had always thought that her father would be the one walking down the aisle with her. She knew that he would want her to be happy. "Be happy Lily, I'll always be with you." That was something that he had always said to her. For that reason she had asked Professor Dumbledore to give her away. He was the closest thing she had to a father and she knew her father would agree.

James knew what had been going on in Lily's mind. He understood her sadness. He had also missed his father during the last weeks, but he had had time to deal with the grief much longer than Lily had. But he knew that both their fathers were sitting on a cloud (at least, he hoped it was a cloud and not a fiery pit) and smiled down at them blessing their union.

The twins were everywhere at once. Nurse and the grooms accompanying them couldn't keep up with them.

Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans had stayed behind on the Manor to wait for any guests who still had to arrive.

As a whole, it was a wonderful day, and everybody enjoyed themselves. When the evening arrived they retired to their quarters right after dinner in exhaustion.



The second day of the festivities was bright and warm. Most of those invited had already arrived and only those who would only attend the wedding were expected to arrive later in the evening. Guests had arrived at all hours during the last couple of days. The servants had been kept busy trying to make everybody comfortable. Because the elves couldn't be used since there were muggles present, extra people were hired, all from the town, to help out. The servants could be seen hurrying from one place to the other very early each morning. Most guests didn't bother to go down to breakfast until very late, for which reason, luncheon was pushed back to late afternoon, and a late dinner later that evening.

Mrs. Potter, Mrs. Evans and Lily had decided to serve luncheon outdoors on this warm day. As guests started to leave their rooms and go to the dinning room to get some breakfasts, servants took tables, chairs, pillows and rugs and spread them through the lawn near the lake. Boats were also brought out and settled in the shore of the lake ready for those guests who would like to have a row around the lake.

Covered tables with chairs stood waiting for the guests, the rugs were piled with pillows and spread underneath the shadow of the large trees around the lawn. A large table was placed underneath a tent where all the food and drinks would be placed.

Guests stood by the windows and balconies, sipping their teas and coffee, watching the arrangements being made for their entertainment.

Some guests took advantage of the open stables and rode out early. Others decided to tour the gardens and many groups had fun trying to find their way around the mazes. By mid afternoon everybody walked down to the lawn, ready to have a good time.

James had been able to convince the town band to come and play for them. The greenhouses and orchards where ransacked for the best fruit available and Otty and the elves were able to produce a large meal.

Bowls of exotic fruit, platters filled with juicy meats and marinated birds, salads, pastries and puddings, all spread through the tables underneath the tent. People were awed and pleased at the arrangement and eagerly served themselves before going to choose a table or a rug on which to seat.

Lily, James, Sirius, Katie, Remus and Peter (both had arrived late the previous evening) sat on a spread rug near the food tent.

Lily had laughed and shaken her head as she followed Katie to the boys chosen stop.

"Only you would want to be near the food." Lily exclaimed.

"Oh just because we are old married men doesn't mean we will go hungry." Said Sirius.

"You are the only one who is married." Said Remus.

"And we are not old. Speak for yourself." Said Peter.

"Honestly, I think poor Professor McGonagall must be shaking her head and hoping that you four have matured just a little to not cause any problems." Said Katie.

"Oh is she here?" Asked Peter dropping a piece of chicken he had in his hand. He had always been a little scared of Professor McGonagall and it seemed that he hadn't grown out of it.

Lily nodded. "She and the rest of Hogwarts staff arrived just before you did last night." She said.

"Dumbledore has been here for a couple of days." Said James.

"Are you two nervous about tomorrow?" Remus asked after a moment.

"Not really." Said James with a shrug.

"Everything is in order." Lily said.

"Aren't you supposed to be apart from each other? I thought the groom was supposed to see the bride for twenty four hours before the wedding or it would be bad luck." Said Peter.

"No it's supposed to be on the day of the wedding. The groom can't see the bride before the wedding." Said Sirius.

"I don't actually know." Exclaimed James with surprise. "Is it twenty four hours or on the day of the wedding?"

"Well, if it is twenty four hours it's too late because you have seen each other." Said Katie.

"We are not going to see each other before the wedding, that should count for something." Said Lily.

"Oh well, let's not worry about that, what could go wrong?" Said Remus.

"They could die before they return from their honeymoon?" Whispered Peter.

"Don't say that!" Said Katie as she hit him on the head.

"I'm just saying." Protested Peter.

James shrugged. "I don't believe in such things anyways, you are what you make of yourself." He said.

"I agree." Said Lily in a final tone.

Nobody said any more about it, they just discussed about other things.

".can you actually believe it? I never would've thought it of her." Katie was saying as she gossiped with Lily.

The boys had returned several times to the food tent for food and were not paying much attention to what the girls were talking about.

"Neither would I. In Hogwarts she was so nasty, and then her constant flirting with James was so annoying." Lily responded.

"Well, I supposed that her father had something to say to her about her behavior, I don't think Jack Robinson would've been too happy to see his only daughter acting that way." Katie said.

"Well, I hope she doesn't do anything to put his work in danger. Jezebel always seemed to be very fond of her father." Lily said.

"Humph! Rather surprising wasn't it?" Katie snorted.

Lily smiled.

The boys were back with more food and were rather engrossed discussing Quidditch and the national team's chances of winning the World Cup.

Lily and Katie groaned, they could talk about this for hours!

"Come, hurry up, finish with your food." Katie urged them.

"What's your hurry?" Sirius said turning to his wife.

"I want you to row me in a boat around the lake." She said.

Sirius sighed. "All right." He said and quickly swallowed the food he had left. Once he finished, he put the plates aside and reached for her. "Come then." He said and pulled her to her feet.

Lily could hear Katie giggling as the two ran toward the boat.

"Want a ride around the lake?" James said in her ear.

Lily turned to smile at him. "Sure." She said. James helped her up and slowly walked toward the lake.

They weren't the only ones walking to the lake. There were several couples and groups around the lake, waiting for a turn around the lakes. Some couples decided to walk around the lake as they waited, others sat on the shore skipping stones. Most of those around the lake were married or dating couples, most of the young people were by the band dancing and drinking the wines and cider that had been served with the luncheon. The older guests sat in their tables looking indulgently at their children.

Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans were sitting in a table surrounded by the Dumbledore and his staff.

"I'm glad Minerva that you could make it. It has been a while since I last saw you." Mrs. Potter said at the stern woman sitting with them.

"Oh, I would never miss this for the world. I never had imagined that a young lady existed that would keep James under control." Professor McGonagall had replied with one of her rare smiled.

Mrs. Potter laughed. "I was afraid that the young lady didn't exist. But I'm happy with his choice, Lily is such a sweet child." Mrs. Potter said looking at Mrs. Evans.

"She always was. Petunia was fussy and mean-spirited at times. Lily couldn't be any different, her father just doted on her and I was afraid that it would spoil her, but it didn't." Mrs. Evans said with a pleased smile.

"Oh, I don't think there is a self-conscious bone in her body. I was quite please with her at school, I haven't had a student with half the talent she has." Squeaked Professor Flitwick.

"They make a wonderful pair. I can't think of anyone who will be any more happier." Said Madam Hooch as she watched the young people walking around.

"Indeed. They will have a lot to overcome, life couldn't be more complicated for our young people than at present. But I have great confidence in them and I'm sure that both will one day be great. I wouldn't be surprised if everybody in our world would one day know the names of James and Lily Potter." Said Professor Dumbledore.

Those around him nodded and turned their attention to the young couple, who had given up waiting for a boat and were now dancing as the band played a slow melody. Such radiance and happiness surrounded them and those watching couldn't doubt the love that they had for each other.



Twilight had arrived and the guests had returned to the house. Only a few stayed behind in the lawns. Some were rowing around the lake, others were touring the gardens. The band had long gone and the servants were breaking down the tables and chairs to get it all inside. It was now time to prepare for dinner.

Some of the last guests had finally arrived, only those who lived around the town were not present, they would meet the others during the ceremony.

It was late that evening when the guests started to congregate in the parlor. It was immediately obvious that something was missing.

"Where are they?" Somebody asked.

"I don't know."

"Where could they have gone?"

"I hope nothing has gone wrong."

People whispered as they sat waiting for dinner. Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans sat frowning at one corner of the room.

All the young people had disappeared, and the happy couple along with them.

"Did Lily tell you anything?" Mrs. Potter asked.

"No, she said nothing to me. I gather James mentioned nothing either." Mrs. Evans replied.

"Those four are up to something. I thought that with Sirius married and James soon to follow, the four boys would settle down and behave themselves." Groaned Mrs. Potter.

"Are you sure they are involved in this?" Mrs. Evans asked.

"Oh I'm sure." Mrs. Potter said.

At that moment a footman came in a presented a note to Mrs. Potter. She opened it promptly and read it.

"I told you. It seems that the young men have taken James to town for a stag party." She said.

Some people around them heard and soon the news had spread throughout the room. Soon another note was brought in. This time Mrs. Evans read it.

"The girls have take Lily to town." She said, laughter in her voice.

"Why were we not invited?" Somebody asked.

"I wouldn't have minded a stag party." An older man said.

"You wouldn't!" Snorted his wife.

"Well, it seems that it would be just us, older people." Mrs. Potter laughed. "Really, they should've said something."

"Perhaps they wanted it to be a surprise." Mrs. Evans said.

Dinner was soon announced. Everybody made their way to the dinning room speculating on the entertainment that the young people were taking advantage of.



The Three Broomsticks was host to a group of wild young men, eager to have fun the whole night. Rosmetta had been told, fortunately, about the party days in advance. Thus, the place was closed to customers and was open to only those who had come with the groom. The place was packed with young men, merrily drinking and singing as the night wore off. Rosmetta and her staff, wisely, stayed behind the bar and kept a wary eye on the boisterous group.

"Are you sure you told my mother that we were coming? We stole half of the men from dinner." James said.

"Don't worry, Prongs old friend, old pal. Everything is taken care of." Said Sirius.

"Sirius, I think you have drank a little too much." Laughed Remus.

"Not enough. Peter has though." Sirius said motioning at their friend who had fallen asleep underneath the table, an empty glass in his hand.

James shook his head. "He really never learned how to hold his drinks." He said.

"Should we leave him there?" Asked Remus.

Sirius shook his head. "What would we move him for? Nothing he can do really."

Remus and James shrugged.

"So tell us Sirius, what kind of entertainment do you have planned for us?" Somebody from the crowd called.

"Oh you will see, should be starting any minute." Sirius called with a laugh.

The others clapped and whistled.

"Just make sure mother and Lily don't hear about this." James whispered to Sirius.

"Not to worry Prongsy, my boy. They won't have anything to complain about." Sirius said. Some scantly dress females walked into the room. Drinks were served to the guests, many of whom where watching speechless as the girls made their way around the room walking toward James.

"Oh boy, I'm going to be in trouble if Lily finds out about this." James said before the room was swallowed by darkness and music floated through the room.

The rest of the group seemed to snap out of their stupor as they clapped and laughed.



The girls had taken Lily to Diagon Alley. A room was reserved in an elite restaurant. The girls were all surrounding Lily as they gossiped and laughed.

They had just finished playing some games and were now sitting eating before the presents were opened.

"I just hope I don't get any gifts similar to those given to Katie." Lily said.

Several of those who had been present at that particular party laughed or giggled.

"But Sirius sure liked them." Katie said.

Everybody laughed at this comment.

"Of course he would, all those gifts were bought with Sirius in mind." One girl said.

"Where are you going for your honeymoon Lily?" Another girl asked.

"Oh, I'm not sure yet, James says it's a secret." Lily said.

"Ooooh! Do you think he will take you to a nudist colony?" Another girl said.

"Honestly, do you see these two in a nudist colony? That wouldn't do at all." Katie exclaimed as Lily blushed.

"No they are going to the beach, it's perfect weather for it." Another girl called.

"Maybe he is taking her for a tour in the Mediterranean, that would be really romantic."

"Maybe he is taking her to Godric's Hollow."

"I don't think so. He is definitely taking her out of the country."

"Maybe he is taking her in a tour around the continent where all the Quidditch games are being played this summer."

"That I can see him doing." Laughed Katie, Lily along with her.

"Come Lily open the gifts." Somebody called.

"Oh yes, we want to see."

"Yes!" All cheered.

Lily smiled and reached for one of the boxes that was floating in front of her. Everybody seemed to have used the Levitating Charm to summon the gifts to her.

"Very well, let's see what we got here." She said as she started to unwrap the box. Everybody leaned in eagerly to see what was inside.

The box was opened and the tissue paper put aside. Slowly a lacy garment was revealed. Those around her started to giggle while Lily took in her hand and bikini top and bottom.

"What - what is this supposed to be?" She gasped.

"Don't be silly, you know what it is." Katie squealed with laughter.

"I can't wear this, this is transparent for goodness sake!" Exclaimed Lily.

"That's the whole point Lily, I'm sure James will like it." One of the girls said.

"Oh, James will like it all right!" Another girl said.

"It seems that it won't matter where he is taking you for your honeymoon Lily, you two won't be out of the bedroom at all." The girls laughed at this comment while Lily blushed.

"Come, open mine now." Said Katie putting a box onto Lily's lap.

Lily eagerly put the lacy underwear aside and opened the box. Underneath all the tissue paper an emerald satin garment appeared. Lily looked at it in awe as she took it out.

It was a nightgown, made in the style of a Greco-Roman dress. The shoulders were held together by a pair of clasps and long slits at each side of the skirt.

"Oooh!"

"Aaaah!" The girls sighed.

"I thought it would look perfect on you on your wedding night." Said Katie.

"Oh, thank you. It's gorgeous." Lily said hugging her friend.

"That settles it Lily, you are definitely staying in the bedroom during your honeymoon." One of the girls said breaking the silence.

The others laughed, Lily along with them.

"Come Lily, open the rest, we want to go to that club around the corner from the Leaky Cauldron." Katie urged.

"But, that is a strip-tease club." Lily exclaimed.

"WE KNOW!" Everybody squealed with anticipation.



It was late after midnight when both groups finally arrived to the Manor, amongst laughter and cheers Lily and James were led to their respective rooms, much to the consternation of those trying to sleep.

An hour later the Manor was finally silent. Everybody had fallen asleep, except for one couple. Lily and James lay in their respective beds thinking of the same thing. Morning would bring their wedding day.



It was early morning when James was woken by Lotty.

"Master James must wake up. It's Master James' wedding day." Lotty was saying as he shook James awake.

"Oh Lord!" James exclaimed jumping out from the bed. "Am I late Lotty? How long do I have?" James said, frantically running around the room.

"It's early still Master James. Master James has four hours to prepare." Lotty said, his tennis-ball sized eyes following James, pacing the room.

"Thank God! For a moment there I thought I had overslept." James sighed sitting at one of the chairs in the room.

"Lotty has prepared Master James' bath. Will Master James prefer breakfast before the bath?" Lotty asked.

"I think I will have the bath first Lotty." Said James. He slowly made his way to the bathroom. Lotty stood by the door with James' robe and towels in his tiny arms.

"Lotty will have breakfast ready for Master James." Lotty squealed a minute before James closed the door.



Lily had woken early that morning. She stood by the windows looking out to the gardens as she waited for Minnie to come and help her.

As James' wife, Minnie would be her personal elf until their first son was born, when Minnie would magically become the child's personal elf. From that moment on James and Lily will share Lotty as their personal elf. It had always been so since the Potters had become one of the most important family in the magical world and it would continue to be so.

The door slowly opened behind her. Lily turned and smiled.

"Hello dear, how are you feeling?" Mrs. Evans asked coming into the room.

"A little nervous." Lily said.

"Oh that is to be expected. Don't worry, everything is under control. Just have fun and enjoy your special day." Mrs. Evans said hugging her daughter. "Oh, I can't believe my baby is getting married."

"Oh, mum. I miss Daddy." Lily said, tears starting to fill her eyes.

"I know darling, I miss him too. He would be so proud of you today, even if he didn't show it. He was a little strict but he always wanted the best for his daughters." Mrs. Evans replied.

"Why is Petunia not here? I thought that at least she would be here, if not because she wanted to be here at least for show." Lily said.

"Humph!" Mrs. Evans snorted. "Don't talk to me about your sister, I'm not very happy with her at the moment."

Lily smiled sadly. The door opened once more, and Minnie walked in the room. A box levitated behind her.

"Your dress is ready Miss Lily." Minnie squealed.

"Thank you Minnie, put it on the bed." Lily ordered.

Mrs. Evans stayed in the room as Minnie helped Lily prepare.



In the chapel, everything was in order. Lilies and white orchids had been arranged in the vases at the altar and in small bundles placed along the aisle. The red carpet had been set out and cleaned and now covered the aisle leading to the altar. Tall candles were placed in pedestals along the walls, the aisle and the altar, making them the only source of light for the ceremony. The glass stained windows sparkled in the sunshine and the pews shined after the thorough scrub the servants had given them on the previous days.

People from the town and those around the estate were starting to line up the entrance to the chapel. Because the chapel was not big enough to hold everybody, the guests in the house and the elderly of the town and estate tenants would sit inside during the ceremony, the rest will stand outside listening to every word.

Excitement permeated the air. Everybody was looking forward to the ceremony, especially those who had know James since he was a child. Many of them were thinking of the former Mr. Potter and how proud he would've been of his son on this day.



It was almost time for the ceremony to begin. James paced around the vestry with Remus, Sirius, and Peter. The vicar sat beside the door chuckling to himself as he saw the nervous groom pacing in front of him.

"What if she changed her mind?" James was saying.

"She didn't change her mind. When it comes to weddings, women do not change their minds." Sirius said.

"Oh, and you are the expert on the subject." Peter said.

"Well, as the only married man among us, yes, I am." Sirius preened.

The others groaned and shook their heads.

"Do you have the ring? You didn't lose it did you?" James snapped at Sirius.

"Will you relax, yes, I have it." Sirius said.

"Let me see it." James commanded.

"Why? Don't you trust me?" Sirius asked in with mock hurt.

"No I don't, you almost lost your own." James said.

"I was drunk then." Sirius exclaimed.

"Doesn't matter, let me see it." James ordered.

Sirius sighed and reached into his breast pocket and brought out a small box.

"Here they are." Sirius said as he opened the box and a set of matching wedding bands glistened in the light. "Now, will you relax?"

James nodded and continued pacing.

The other three looked at each other and chuckled.



Lily stood by the entrance of the Manor, waiting for the carriage to be brought to take her to the chapel. The chapel wasn't very far, they could easily walk down the lane toward it, but it was customary for the bride to arrive by carriage, drawn by four white horses.

Mrs. Potter, Mrs. Evans and Dumbledore would accompany her to the chapel. Everybody else, the servants the guests, even the elves (although they were made invisible by Professor Flitwick before they left) had gone to the chapel. Bells started to ring and minutes later a carriage stood in front of them.

"Ready dear?" Asked Mrs. Potter.

Lily nodded. Slowly, the four climbed into the carriage and drove toward the chapel.



The chapel was full. People stood around the lane of the chapel, craning their necks hoping to catch a glimpse of the happy bride. James stood by the altar, Sirius, Peter and Remus stood beside him. The vicar, smilingly, stood in front of the altar as they waited for the bridal party to arrive.

Suddenly, applause filled the air. Everybody in the chapel turned around hoping to get a sight of the bride as she arrived. Many wished that they had stayed behind and stood upon the lane to get a better sight.

Lily waved from the window of the carriage as the townspeople and tenants applauded and cheered as the carriage slowly made its way to the chapel.

They finally stopped. Dumbledore stepped down and helped Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans down. Finally he turned to help Lily down.

"Ready my dear?" He asked offering his hand.

Lily nodded and grasped his hand and slowly emerged from the carriage.

Those standing by the door cheered and applauded. As the carriage pulled and drove beside the chapel, Lily turned and waved before stepping into the chapel.

The organ had commenced to play. Katie and the other bridesmaids walked slowly to the altar. The twins before them, spreading their petals along the way.

Finally, the wedding march started to play. James gulped loudly and turned to look down the aisle and smiled.

Lily stood by the door. Dumblodore beside her.

Dumbledore smiled down at Lily. "Shall we go?"

Lily nodded and slowly the pair started to walk down the aisle.

People stood looking at her and smiling. She saw several older women with their handkerchiefs in their hands and sobbing quietly. Lily finally looked to the front. She saw her mother and Mrs. Potter smiling at her and then she saw him. James. He stood looking at her with pride and love in his eyes. All the nervousness she was feeling evaporated at the sight.

She smiled brightly. This is what she wanted, this is how it was meant to be.

They arrived at the front. Dumbledore kissed her cheek and shook James' hand before taking his seat. James took her hand and smiling, they turned to look at the vicar.

"We are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony."

Lily and James turned to look at each other as the vicar continued with the ceremony. Both were smiling as they caught each other's eyes. 'You look beautiful.' James mouthed. 'Thank you.' Lily mouthed back. They both turned to the front to hear the vicar.

".if anybody knows of a reason why these two cannot be joined, speak now, or forever hold your peace." The vicar said.

Lily and James stood looking toward the front waiting for the silence to be over. Sirius had turned to look back and glowered at the audience daring them to say anything to stop the wedding.

The vicar nodded and turned to the couple. "I understand that Miss Evans and Mr. Potter wish to speak their own vows." James nodded and turned to look at Lily.

Lily was smiling with teary eyes as James pressed her hand and put it on his chest.

"Lily, you are the light of my life, the vessel of my strength and the joy of my heart. I cannot imagine spending another minute without you. I promise to relish you, protect you and love you for the rest of my life." James said.

Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans were quietly sobbing into their handkerchiefs. And they weren't the only ones to do so.

"James, you have brought laughter and pleasure to my life. You have been there in sadness and joy, I cannot think of a better person to spend the rest of my life with. I vow to respect you, laugh at your jokes even if they are not funny." She chuckled, many laughed along with her, including James. "And to love you for the rest of my life." Lily finished.

The vicar nodded. "Do you James Harold Potter, accept this woman, Lily Marie Evans as your wedded wife?"

"I do." James responded.

"Do you Lily Marie Evans, take this man, James Harold Potter, as your lawful wedded husband?" The vicar asked turning to Lily.

"I do." Lily replied.

The vicar smiled and turned to Sirius. "The rings please."

Sirius nodded and reached for the box in his breast pocket. The matching rings were promptly given to the vicar, who blessed them before turning back to Lily and James.

"Mr. Potter, repeat after me." He said giving James one of the rings. "With this rings I thee wed."

"With this ring, I thee wed." James repeated starting to slide the ring down Lily's finger.

"With my body, I thee worship." The vicar continued.

"With my body, I thee worship." James repeated.

The vicar then turned to Lily, giving her the other ring he said: "Ms. Evans please repeat after me. With this ring, I thee wed."

"With this ring, I thee wed." Lily repeated sliding the ring down James' finger.

"With my body, I thee worship." "With my body, I thee worship."

"By the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Let this union be blessed and unbreakable. You may now kiss the bride." The vicar said with a huge smile.

James promptly turned to Lily and lifted the veil before taking her in his arms and kissing her.

"Ladies and gentleman let me introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. James Potter." The vicar announced before the chapel broke into applause and cheers.

Sirius spun James around and hugged him, closely followed by Remus and Peter as Lily was being hugged and sobbed over by her mother and Mrs. Potter.

"Come, we need to walk down the aisle or everybody will come and surround us here." James said to Lily after Mrs. Evans and Mrs. Potter had hugged him.

"Oh yes dears, go on ahead." Said Mrs. Potter.

The organ played and people shouted around them as they walked down the aisle. They were met at the door by the people from town and the estate, who were cheering loudly as they welcomed the new mistress of Gryffindor Manor.

They were soon joined by those who had been inside the chapel. They were pressed as people tried to hug them and congratulate them.

The bells of the carriage sounded around them. Lily and James slowly made their way to the carriage. People applauded and cheered as they climbed up the carriage. They were going to tour the town and the estate, a custom that had been in the Potter family for centuries, and give time for the guests to return to the Manor and await for the dance.

Lily settled into the seat and as soon as James sat beside her and the door had been closed she turned to him and leaned against his chest.

"Happy?" James asked, putting his arms around her.

"Very." Lily sighed happily.

James chuckled and kissed the top of her head as the carriage started to move.

"Wave to the people Lily, they all want to see the happy bride." James said as the faces of his servants, tenants and neighbors passed by.

Lily sat up and turned to wave to those around the carriage, waving and wishing them happy.



The ballroom was full, as guests walked and chatted in groups, waiting for the happy couple to arrive.

The music room had been opened and tables brought in to hold refreshments for the guests. A small orchestra stood on a balcony overlooking the ballroom, tuning their instruments. And the dining room was readied to hold the massive number of guests that it would hold.

Finally, the bells of the carriage were heard and people queued around the doors ready to greet the newly weds.

The door was opened and Roberts walked in. "Mr. and Mrs. James Potter." He announced. The room exploded into cheers and applause as Lily and James walked into the room.

They were promptly surrounded by people congratulating them, and a few with pieces of advice, that made Lily blush and James chuckle.

Soon, the clamor was left behind and the festive atmosphere stayed. Dinner was announced and slowly people filed out behind Lily and James.

The large dinning table had been taken out, in its place, small round tables were spread throughout the room. At the very front, a large table was set apart for Lily and James and the guests of honor.

People readily looked for their seats, marked with white cards and the names written in golden letters.

As soon as everybody had found their seats, Roberts directed the footmen to serve the food and the drinks.

People chatted as they ate. The footmen, directed by Roberts as he served the main table, went around the room, serving the guests and filling glasses with wine, cider, water or any other drink they preferred.

When all the food had been served and most of the guests had cleaned their plates, the bottles of champagne was brought in and poured into glasses which were promptly served to the guests.

Somebody signaled from the main table for silence. The guests turned and saw Sirius waiting for them to be silent.

As soon as the room fell silent, Sirius held up his glass.

"I would like to say a few words. I've known James since we were two bundles of unspent energy." People laughed while those who knew both boys since they were children nodded and said 'too true'. "I met Lily when we were eleven in our first day of September on our way to school. It is no secret that our lot liked to tease and prank her and her friends. Of course they were not the only ones. But in retrospect we might have been only trying to get their attention, if you consider that I married one of her friends, James here married Lily and although the last member of their group could not be here, I believe wedding bells would be in her near future as well. It was very clear on our last year in school that Lily and James meant to be together. They are so right and perfect for each other. Lily was always the foil to James' high spirits as if she was the missing part of him, and I'm glad that once he found her he refused to let go. Let's raise our glasses and toast to Lily and James' happiness."

Everybody raised their champagne and said: "To their happiness." And drank.

Several toasts were said. Some more appropriate than others as among laughter and cheers, Lily blushed and James smiled.

Soon after, the dinning room was emptied and the ballroom started to fill. The band was getting ready in the balcony and the guests found chairs in which to seat around the wall, the dance floor was cleared and the music started to flow.

James took Lily's hand and led her to the middle of the floor. A waltz started to play, Lily swayed along with the rhythm as James twirled and led her through the dance. Others soon joined them and the dance floor was full of swaying and spinning couples.

Lily dance the whole night. After their first dance was over, James turned her over to Professor Dumbledore and Lily was surprised to find that the older gentleman still possessed a lot of energy to dance gracefully. Sirius soon followed, then Remus took his place. Peter came to her after Remus; and he was closely followed by friends and family members. It was hours later when she found herself into her new husband's arms once more. The small orchestra were taking a break and James took her out the room for a stroll.

"I love you." Said James as he held her in his arms. Her head was leaning against his chest, her arms around his waist.

"I love you too." Lily whispered.

"Perhaps it's time for you to make your escape, I'm sure you would like to change before we leave." James said kissing the top of her head.

"Are we leaving soon?" Lily felt James' nod.

"I'll get Roberts to get the car to the front. We should leave now so we won't be too late on the road." James said.

"Where are we going?" Lily asked turning her face up to watch her husband's face.

"It's a surprise, you don't want me to spoil it for you, do you?" James chuckled and gave her lips a swift peck with his own.

"Very well, I hope Minnie packed the correct clothes then." Lily murmured.

"Oh, she did, I told her what to pack." James said smugly.

"Oh you!" Lily exclaimed pushing him off from her. "You told her and not me?"

"I didn't tell her where we are going, just what to pack." James laughed.

"Hmmm.I don't trust you. But you are right, I need to change. See you in a bit." Said Lily kissing his cheek before she disappeared into the kitchen gardens so not to go back to the dance.

James smiled and turned back to the ballroom. He would look for his mother and Mrs. Evans and tell them that they would be leaving soon and make his escape to his bedchamber to change. Hopefully, Sirius and the others won't be in his way and make him late.

The guests soon noticed that the couple was missing and knew instantly that their departure was imminent.

Mrs. Evans and Mrs. Potter joined Lily in her bedchamber minutes after James had made them aware that they would be leaving soon. Both ladies helped Lily dispose of her gown and change.

"Now dear, I know I don't need to talk to you about the birds and the bees." Mrs. Evans started to say but was interrupted by Lily's "Mum!" " Now dear, hear me out." Mrs. Evans continued. Lily grudgingly nodded. "I know that I don't need to talk to you about it. You are old enough to know. And I'm aware that this generation is more active than mine was at your age. I'm not naïve to think that you are my virginal little girl I once had. But make sure that you enjoy yourself Lily. Have fun. Bring lots of pictures, we will want to see them."

"And don't let James persuade you to miss anything just because he wants to do something else. Potter men can be very persuasive for their own good." Said Mrs. Potter.

"Oh, I know how persuasive James can be when he wishes something. Don't worry, I know how to deal with him. I'm stubborn as well." Said Lily with a laugh.

"Oh, my dear. You look so beautiful. I wish your father could've seen you today." Mrs. Evans sobbed looking at her daughter.

"I missed him too mum, but I know he is watching me in heaven." Lily said kissing her mother and hugging her.

"Oh I know he is. He wouldn't have missed this for the world. And I'm sure Aliaster was sitting there with him." Mrs. Evans said turning to Mrs. Potter who was also sobbing quietly in her handkerchief.

"Of course he was. He and Elizabeth were sitting there with Edward watching from above. After all the years I bothered James about a wife they would've like to see my triumph." Mrs. Potter said drying her tears.

Lily turned to hug her as the three ladies laughed.

"Come my dear, I'm sure the guests have figured out that you two are leaving and must be waiting by the entrance to see you off." Said Mrs. Evans.

There was a knock on the door and some footmen entered to take the luggage to the car. Lily and Mrs. Evans made to follow.

"Dear, don't forget your bouquet. I'm sure there are several single ladies waiting for this moment." Mrs. Potter said.

Lily laughed. "I'm sure you are right. Lets go then." She said and grabbing the bouquet of white water lilies, with fern leaves and tied with lace, as she left the room.

The guests were indeed waiting at the entrance hall, ready to see them off. James was standing at the bottom of the stairs waiting for Lily to join him. He was speaking with Sirius, Remus and Peter but turned when Remus nudged him and motioned him to turn. James turned and saw his wife stepping off the stairs toward him. His mother and Mrs. Evans closely behind her.

Lily smiled brightly at the sight of her husband. His face brightly lit the moment he saw her and waited patiently for her to join them.

"You look wonderful." He whispered kissing her the moment she was beside him.

"Thank you." Lily whispered back.

The guests cheered and applauded as they pressed to the sides and left a lane in the middle for them to pass. James smiled down at Lily, and taking her hand, started to pull her through the crowd. The guests quickly filled the space behind them and followed them out to the car.

Lily laughed as the group of single ladies pressed behind her. She turned and threw the bouquet over her head. She heard squeals and laughter followed by cheers and applause. She didn't turn to look, she was too engrossed in getting into the car and making room for James.

Soon after, they were waving out the windows, the guests pressed against each other waiting to see the car leave.

Lily leaned against James as soon as the car started down the road. "Mmmm.this is nice." She sighed.

James chuckled as he put his arms around her. "Yes it is." He said.

"Where are we going?" Lily asked.

"I'm not telling you." James replied.

"Oh, why not?" She turned in her seat to look at him.

"Because it's a surprise." James said looking down at his wife's face.

"But I want to know." Lily said.

"You'll soon find out. We should be on the coast before it's too late." James sighed.

"Oh so we are going to the beach." Squealed Lily.

"But not for long." Said James. He stopped any further questions by kissing her deeply.

Lily sighed and settled into her husband's arms. Any thoughts about where they were going soon left her mind and she concentrated on the emotions that James' kiss evoked.





A/N: They finally married. I'm happy with how this chapter came out, I hope you like it as well. You will find out where James is taking Lily for their honeymoon on the next chapter. Enjoy, and don't forget to review.