The Legacy of Two Generations

by LadyoftheLake

Lily and James started dating in their last year at Hogwarts, but that is only the beginning. Now, what will happen to their notorious son? Rated PG13 for some language. Harry's 6th year has begun & new adventures. PreHBP. Please r&r :ON HOLD! For the

33. Part II Chapter 9

A/N: Sorry it's taking a while, time has not been enough for me lately. Anyways, here is the next chapter, there are only two more chapters left for this part, I will start the next one as soon as this one is over. I'm working on the next chapter now, so it might take a while for it to be ready. Thank you all for reading.

Disclaimer: I own nothing, but the plot and some minor characters.



Chapter 9 ~ Happily Ever After?



James and Lily finally arrived at the coast of Dorset earlier than they had expected. It had been twilight when they left the party. It was now very dark and the inn the car parked in front of was brightly lit.

"Mr. Potter, I presume." Said a round man standing on the door. He had a kind face, and a huge smile as he watched James helping Lily out of the car.

"Indeed." Said James turning to look at him. "And you are Mr. Edwards."

"Yes, sir. Everything is ready and I have dinner waiting for you." Mr. Edwards said as he led the couple through the barroom and into a private room.

"Thank you Mr. Edwards. Our luggage should be ready to take them to where they belong." James said.

"Of course Sir. Enjoy your meal." Mr. Edwards bowed and closed the door behind him.

Lily had been looking around the room as James and Mr. Edwards talked. The room was richly decorated with paintings of country scenery. There were lush arrangements of flowers around the room. A table was set in the middle of the room with several servings of food waiting for them. Bottles of champagne, wine and water were set among the platters. The sound of the waves hitting the cliffs further off the coast could be heard through the open windows. She turned to look back at James when the door closed.

"This is where we are going to stay?" She asked. She was expecting something else. Even though the countryside was calm and nice, she had expected to go somewhere exotic and special. Now, even Majorca would be good enough.

"We are only eating here, we still have a little way to go." James said with a smile. He knew what was going on his wife's mind and even though she was trying to hide it, he knew she was a little disappointed.

Now she was curious. "How much more do we have to go?" She asked.

"Just a couple of miles." He answered with a shrug. He motioned Lily to sit and soon both were partaking of the delicious meal Mr. Edwards had reserved for them.

They talked and laughed as they reminisced about the party and their friends. They wonder if the party was still on or if the guests had started to leave.

Lily also tried to get James to tell her where they were going for the honeymoon, but James turned to be as stubborn as she and didn't say a word about it.

After dinner was done and they had said goodbye, they climbed back into the car and drove off. Lily noticed that the luggage was no longer in the car and wondered where it had been taken to.

It didn't take very long. After driving for a few minutes they had arrived at a small port. Private yachts and small boats bobbed above the water. Hotels and small inns lined the street across the pier.

James stepped out of the car, looked around the pier before turning to help Lily out.

"Now, where are we?" Lily asked as she looked around.

"We are still in Dorset." James said.

"Are we staying here?" Lily asked looking questioningly up at James.

"Yes." Said James with a smile.

Lily looked around again. It didn't seem too especial to her. She sighed. She might as well make the most of it.

"Come let me show you our quarters." James said as he pulled her along with him.

Surprised Lily followed him as he pulled her toward the piers instead of the hotels. She didn't say much as he slowly passed several boats until he finally stopped in front of a large private yacht.

"Oh." Exclaimed Lily in awe. The large sails fluttered gently in the breeze and the hull bobbed gently above the waves.

"This is it." James said excitedly.

"It is?" Asked Lily a little surprised.

"Yes. I hired this boat to take us all over the Mediterranean. We can go to Monte Carlo and stay there for as long as we please. Then I thought a visit to Venice and Rome would be nice. We could also stop in Greece or even Egypt. Doesn't matter, we can stop wherever you want to." James said with a boyish smile.

"Oh James, that sounds wonderful. When do we leave?" Lily asked getting excited at the thought of sailing through the Sea.

"First thing in the morning. We'll spend the night here, thought it would be nice to see the sunrise above the sea." James said.

"Well then, what are we waiting for?" Lily asked, and laughing both climbed into the boat.

The boat was large compared to the others bobbing along side it. The wood in the hull was waxed and shining in the candlelight as Lily and James stepped on board. An area was designed for the comfort of the passengers. A small pool stood embedded in the hull, surrounded by chairs and a couple of covered tables. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Right behind the tables was a cabin. The dinning room and small kitchen was here, along with a small living room with the latest technology for entertainment.

A small door by the side of the cabin led to the lower deck. A large bedroom was found here. A king size bed stood in the middle of the room, a table and chairs stood on one side of the room, right underneath a set of portholes. The room was lit by candles, set all around the room. Plush rugs muffled their steps as they looked at every corner and cranny in the room.

Next to the bedroom were two small cabins. One for the captain and the other for the two men crew he would need. Above the cabins was the steering room. A small ladder by the captain's cabin led to the steering room.

"Where is the crew?" Lily asked as she looked around. "Don't tell me that you plan to steer this thing by yourself." She turned to look sternly at James.

"Oh no. I have to idea how to make this thing work. They will be joining us a little after four, tomorrow morning. I wanted to spend this night alone with you." He said as he approached her.

"Mmm.I'd like that." She smiled as he took her in his arms. "Should I change into something more comfortable?" She asked with a sly look in her eyes.

James' brows arched, what kind of delectable confection did she planned to change into? He'd better find out, he decided. "I urge you to." He whispered before sweeping down and taking her lips in a deep kiss.

"Mmm.I'll see you in a few minutes." She said and slid out of his arms. Took one of the bags that were placed near the door and slipped into the restroom at one end of the cabin.

James smiled and grabbing his bag decided to change as well while he waited for his wife to join him.

Half an hour later, he sat sipping from a glass. He had found a small bar, hidden behind the table. The door to the restroom opened and he almost chocked at the sight that met his eyes.

"Oh Lord. You look gorgeous Lily." He exclaimed.

Lily had decided to wear the nightgown that Katie had given him on her party. A lace, clear robe covered her, but the light coming from the behind her showed James every single curve in her body. He swallowed loudly. Lily smiled. "Thank you." She said before stepping into her husband's arms.



As James had said, the crew arrived before sunrise next morning. Lily barely heard them walk on the deck as she settled against the warm body next to her. James awoke by the sound and slowly rose from the bed, trying to be quiet about it so not to wake Lily up. He dressed and went up to the deck, where he met the captain and his two sailors, one of which was a woman, but James didn't say anything about it, if the captain thought she was good, so be it.

The boat started to wobble and roll as the waves started to drift into the sea.

"Almos' 'ime." The captain said. "Better go and join the wife." He motioned to James. James nodded and went down to the chamber and saw Lily by the table looking out the portholes.

"Are we going to sail soon?" She asked turning to look at him.

James noticed that she had put her gown and robe back on. "Yes. The tide has turned, we should be sailing in a few minutes." He said.

"Oh good, I want to see the sunrise." Said Lily as she skipped into the restroom.

James laughed. There was a knock on the door and he turned to answer.

Mrs. Reynolds, the only woman in the crew stood in front of him. "I'm sorry to bother you Mr. Potter, but I wanted to know when do you want breakfast ready." She said.

"That's all right Mrs. Reynolds, my wife wants to see the sunrise so I suppose we will have breakfast early." James said.

Mrs. Reynolds nodded. "I'll tell Henry then, he is the best cook in the seven seas, you'll see." She said happily before she turned to back to the deck.

Lily soon emerged from the restroom looking resplendent in her cotton emerald gown with lace sleeves.

"Ready?" James asked.

"Oh yes." She exclaimed.

An hour later, the boat was sailing through the waters. Lily stood by the rails, her back pressed to James' chest and his arms holding her tight against him. The sky was crimson and the bright sun was slowly rising from the waves.

"This is beautiful." Lily whispered.

"No more beautiful than you." James said.

Lily giggled and kissed him before turning back to watch the scenery.



The next weeks were rather pleasurable for James and Lily. They spent three days in Monte Carlo, it was the first time either of them had gambled and they seemed to be quite lucky. They continued down the Mediterranean stopping in islands and the big ports for a little sightseeing. Lily quite enjoyed her trip down the Grand Canal of Venice on a gondola, rowed by a gondolier named Giuseppe.

They took pictures as they stood by the Greek shore. They ate at an exclusive restaurant in Alexandria. But most of their time, they spend it on the yacht. Just them and the sea, that's how they liked it.

July had finally arrived when Lily and James found themselves driving down the lane back to Gryffindor Manor.

"Hmmm.How much longer do we have to travel?" Asked Lily as she groggily looked around. She had fallen asleep hours earlier and as James had been just as tired he didn't wake her.

"Only a couple of hours." Said James trying to fight a yawn.

"Mmm.Wake me up when we get there." Lily said and settled once more into James' arms.

James chuckled. "You'll have to wake me first." He said. Minutes later, both were deeply asleep.

Neither saw as they drove through the town, nor the sight of the Manor as the sun set behind it, lending it a peaceful and colorful atmosphere. It looked as a landscape done in the rich colors of oils.

James was the first to wake as he felt the car stopping. He looked around and sat abruptly as he saw Martin turning to open the door. In his hurry, he almost unseated Lily.

"James!" She exclaimed.

"Sorry sweetheart. We are here." He said.

"Oh." Lily said as she sat up. She patted her hair and her tried to sweep the wrinkles in her gown with her hands. It wouldn't do to look like a mess when she first sees her mother and mother-in-law.

"You look fine dear." James said kissing her cheek. "Come." He stepped out of the car and turned to help Lily out.

Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans along with the twins, who were craning their necks in order to get a look of their uncle, were standing by the door. Behind them stood Roberts and Mrs. Nichols, accompanied by the rest of the staff, including the elves, ready to welcome their masters home.

Lily smiled brightly at the group standing before her. As much as she enjoyed her time with James, she had missed this place. She had missed the camaraderie of its people and the merriment that lived in within its walls. She was glad to be back.

"Oh my dear, you look wonderful." Exclaimed her mother as soon as Lily and James had approached them.

"Thank you mum." Said Lily, kissing her cheek and hugging her tightly.

James was getting a similar welcome from his own mother, who was mistily looking up at him and saying how proud his father would be of him if he had been here.

"I know mum, he would be enjoying himself immensely." James said as he hugged his mother once more.

"And Lily dear, did you enjoy yourself? You didn't let James keep you away from having fun, did you?" Mrs. Potter asked turning to Lily.

"No, I didn't. We had lots of fun." Answered Lily as Mrs. Potter hugged her tightly.

"Uncle James."

"Uncle James." The little girls jumped beside their grandmother.

"Hello girls, miss me much?" James asked as he hugged each of his nieces.

"Uh-ha." They nodded.

"Uncle James." One of them whispered, but not low enough to keep the others from listening.

"Yes, Francie." James whispered back.

"What is a honeymoon?" She asked.

"Is the moon made of honey?" Cassie whispered.

"How did you got there?" Francie asked.

"What do you do there?" Cassie wanted to know.

James laughed. "I'll explain it to you when you are older."

"Uncle James!" Francie frowned

"We just turned eight." Cassie crossed her arms.

"We aren't babies." Francie said.

"Never the less, you will find out about it later." James said.

The girls pouted but soon forgot all about it when Lily, chuckling, turned to greet them and gave them a couple of bags with souvenirs. The girls squealed and soon ran off to the nursery to see what their new aunt had brought them.

James and Lily slowly walked down the line of servants, smiling as they were welcomed and congratulated.

It started to get dark. The line of servants had now disappeared, Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans had elected to retire to the family parlor room while James and Lily went up to their quarters.

Lily's things had been taken to the Master's rooms. Mrs. Potter had moved to the wing where Mrs. Evans and Lily had inhabited in order to give the young couple more privacy.

Lily looked around the huge room. It was the largest bedroom in the house. Huge, wall-sized windows stood on one side of the room, leading off to a large balcony. These windows gave a perfect view of the mazes and the lake on one side and the formal gardens leading off to the orchards in the other.

On the wall opposite to the windows stood a large bed. It was the biggest bed that Lily had ever seen. Curtains made of velvet surrounded the woodwork. It seemed old and ancient, and Lily was quite sure that it had seen generations of Potter marriages sleeping on it.

There were plush sofas and chairs around the room. Tables decorated with flowers. On two walls, opposite each other, was a door. The one on the left was James' dressing room, with a large bathroom at one end and a door that led to the hall. The door on the right of the bedroom led to Lily's dressing room. A large vanity table stood on one side, wardrobe, and dressing tables stood around the room. At one end of the room was a large bathroom. The bathtub was big enough for five people. A door on this room also led to the hall. There was no entrance to the bedroom except from the dressing rooms.

"Like it?" Asked James coming from behind her as she looked out the windows. He put his arms around her shoulders and pressed her against him.

"Very." She said, leaning back to look up at her husband with a smile.

"Good. We have a lifetime to spend in this bedroom." He chuckled.

"And I'm looking forward to every year we are together." She said.



Their first month of their marriage passed with no problems. Life at the Manor eventually fell into a routine. Mrs. Potter had now left all the household issues to Lily and she had taken over the twins, helped by Mrs. Evans. Both ladies enjoyed taking the girls under their wings. As James had said one evening to Lily, it seemed that the older ladies just missed having little girls around the house. Lily had agreed with him. She was happy to see her mother so enthused about working with the little girls.

Fall was now near, time for the gathering of the harvest was only a couple of months away and the Harvest Festival would soon follow. As the preparations for both events started to take place, Lily could only smile. It was some weeks before those events that she had come to Gryffindor Manor as a tutor for two twin girls. Who would've thought that one year later, she would be married? So many things had happened since then and she wondered about the things yet to come.

Lily and James were eating one morning in early August when an owl came flying through the window. It circled the room for a couple of minutes before landing in front of James. Roberts made to take the owl but James motioned him to stay where he was.

"I'll get it." James had said.

He reached for the note attached to the owl's leg. The owl stayed motionless watching as James untied the note. The moment James took the note, the owl spread its wings and flew out the window.

Lily had watched all of this in silence. Usually, the owls flew to a hidden tower on the north wing of the Manor. The notes would then be presented to its recipient at the table. But only urgent messages flew to the recipient. At least, that had been the case while Lily had been here. She looked at James as he read the note. He was silent and of what she could see, worried.

"Is something wrong?" Lily asked.

"I don't know. It's from Dumbledore. He wants us at Hogwarts as soon as can be." He said.

A sense of foreboding slid through her body. What had happened now?



A small group sat around Dumbledore's desk that evening at Hogwarts. The castle was silent and dark. The corridors quietly waited for the students that were yet to come in the fall.

"I'm sorry my friends to have called you, but this is of the most urgency." Dumbledore began.

The room was lighted. Even though the faces of all of those around were clearly lit, everybody just looked at Dumbledore taking no notice of anybody else.

"Are any of you acquainted with Jack Robinson?" Dumbledore asked abruptly.

Many blinked in surprise, what did Mr. Robinson had to do with this? A few nodded.

"He is the Head of the Department of Experimental Charms and Potions." James answered. Only a few turned to look at him. Many just kept their eyes on Dumbledore.

"He was. He was killed this morning." Dumbledore said.

"Was it him? Was it Voldemort?" A witch asked from inside her cloak. She wasn't the only one who had kept her cloak on in order to remain incognito.

"That is the problem, according to the media, a group of Aurors went to his house this morning due to an anonymous note saying he was a death eater. According to the Prophet, there was a fight. Jack Robinson was killed along with everybody in the house." Dumbledore said.

"Well, that is good isn't it? A Death Eater was killed." Somebody said.

"But according to the Ministry, no such note existed and all Aurors were accounted for, none were directed to go to the Robinson's house." Dumbledore said.

"Are you saying that somebody staged his death?" Sirius asked. James turned to look surprised at his friend. He hadn't even noticed that he was there.

"That seems to be the case. The Ministry and I have a theory. In order for you to understand it, you must know about some other things as well.

"A couple of years ago, a secret plan was developed. Experiments were done with potions and charms in order to find a way to defeat Voldemort. Information about that work was kept secret, but somehow it leaked to Voldemort. The attack last year on the Ministry was the first time Voldemort and his followers tried to get their hands on the research that had been completed. A few days later a Ministry worker was kidnapped for that information. Both didn't work. The Ministry thought that they had given up after no more incidents occurred. Jack Robinson was in charge of the research, his daughter worked along with him, the next stage of the project was about to commence." Dumbledore spoke as those around him kept silent and listened with care.

"Our theory of this morning's attack is that Voldemort's followers were the ones to kill him." Dumbledore was saying.

"But that doesn't make sense Professor, they would've sent the Dark Mark above the house if they did." Somebody said.

"Indeed, they would, but if they had then that would ruin their plans. You see, they knew that Jack Robinson would be hard to break, if they couldn't get Jack then they would try his daughter. Jezebel Robinson knows as much as her father about the project. She wasn't in the house at the time, they knew they had another chance. But if it was widely known that the Death Eaters had killed her family, she would work harder to protect the work that her father was killed for. They need her and that information. If it was known that Jack was killed by Ministry agents then she would have every right to feel anger and betrayed by the office that her father had worked for, she would seek revenge." Dumbledore said.

"And Voldemort would have a dedicated follower that also possessed the knowledge of the Ministry secrets." Remus finished.

He and the others understood what Jezebel Robinson would feel. They were all together in this room because of a common bond. All had been influenced one way or another by the cruelty of Voldemort. Some had lost their family to him, others had sent loved ones to be hidden to keep them safe. All of them wanted to stop Voldemort, and in some way avenge, those that he had killed.

"It is of the outmost importance that she is found before Voldemort does. This is our chance to keep him from gaining more power, without the work of Jack Robinson, Voldemort might never be destroyed." Dumbledore said.

Those around him nodded, now they understood what was the importance of their mission.

"Where was she seen last?" Lily asked.

"She was in the Ministry last night. We don't know where she might have gone this morning, only her family knew, and they cannot tell us now." Dumbledore said.

"We are going to have to look separately. London seems the best place to start." Sirius said.

Dumbledore nodded. "The Ministry is also looking for her. I'm afraid that it would only make her more hostile if the Ministry agents find her first and might not be too amendable. Be careful. Voldemort is also looking for her." He said before everybody nodded and silently walked out of the room.

Dumbledore stayed in his desk, worriedly looking out the window. "Where are you Jezebel?" He silently asked.



For the next two weeks Lily and James, along with many others, tracked every step of Jezebel Robinson. Every time there was a reported sight of her, many flocked to that spot only to find her gone by the time they got there. The only good thing about this cat and mouse game was that Voldemort and his followers were playing it along with them.

"I would never have thought that I would be encouraging you to look for Jezebel Robinson." Said Lily one morning as Lily and James sat on their table eating a late breakfast. James smiled. "I never would have thought that I would be looking for her." He replied. "Why didn't you tell me that you were part of Dumbledore's group?" He suddenly asked.

"Why didn't you tell me that you were part of his group?" Lily countered.

It was a question asked every day for the last two weeks. Even though the answer had always been the same.

"I didn't want you to worry." James had replied.

"Neither did I." Lily answered.

On this morning, neither had the opportunity to answer as Sirius walked into the room looking exhausted.

"Well that's that." He exclaimed as he sat heavily into a chair.

"What happened Sirius, you look horrible." Said Lily pouring a cup of tea for him.

"Night shift?" James asked. He was glad that it had not been his turn to look for Jezebel last night, he had enjoyed some time with his wife for a change.

Sirius nodded as he tried to gulp down his tea. "We don't need to continue looking for her anymore." He finally said.

"You found her?" Lily asked.

"Where was she?" James queried.

"We didn't, Voldemort did." Sirius said sounding defeated.

"Oh no!" Gasped Lily as James swore.

"Now what?" Asked James.

Sirius shrugged. "Dumbledore hasn't said a word, I think he knew because he wasn't surprised that she was finally sighted with the Death Eaters."

"He must be saddened that our mission failed." Lily said.

"If he is, he hasn't shown it." Sirius said. "I expect he will owl us later."

"Go home Sirius. Rest. There is nothing more we can do at the moment. Let's wait and see what happens." Said James.

Sirius nodded and promptly left the room.

"What do you think will happen now?" Lily asked turning to look at James.

"I don't know." James said worriedly.



The couple read the Daily Prophet constantly during the following weeks, so far, nothing had seemed to have had occurred and slowly both started to relax.

The weather started to get colder. James started to go around the estate making sure that everything was in readiness and the crops had began to be collected.

Lily spent her morning with Mrs. Nichols as they planned the chores and the menus for the week.

It was at the end of August when Lily and her mother finally received news from Petunia.

"There is a post for you ma'am." Roberts bowed to Mrs. Evans one morning.

"Thank you Roberts." She smiled and looked at the sender. Her brows shot up in surprise.

"Something wrong mum?" Lily asked.

"No dear, at least I don't think so. I'm just surprised that's all. This is from your sister." Mrs. Evans said.

"Petunia? What does she has to say?" Lily asked as she turned back to her meal.

"Well, it seems that a new member of the family it's on its way. She is pregnant." Mrs. Evans said.

"Well, I hope she is happy." Lily said sincerely, deep inside, she still held hope that one day her sister would get over her bigotry and they could be a family once more.

"She seems so. She expects the baby for the end of spring or early summer." Mrs. Evans said as she continued reading the letter.

"She isn't sure?" Lily asked.

"She doesn't seem to." Mrs. Evans laughed.

Lily laughed along with her. "Do you think she would come for the Harvest Festival if I invite her?" Lily asked hopefully.

"I doubt it dear, but give it a try." Mrs. Evans had quickly added at the sight of her daughter's crestfallen face.

"I'll send her a letter then." Lily said happily. "I don't dare sending an owl, she might not like it."

"I'm sure she wouldn't." Mrs. Evans smiled. She was saddened for Lily's sake that her older daughter had turned out the way she did. Her constant denial of Lily's existence or of her talent grabbed at Mrs. Evans heartstrings, and that she had married a man like Vernon did not sit well with her. She was still angry at Petunia for what had happened at her husband's death. She had hoped that with time things would change, but that didn't seem to be the case. The letter was only addressed to her, and no mention of Lily had been made.



The end of September was upon them and time for the Harvest Festival along with it. Lily was glad that the Potters had hosted the Ball the previous year, it meant that she wouldn't have to worry about it for a few years more. Even the hunt was being taken care of by another estate. The only thing that they had to do was help with the town festival and the Quidditch match, and that she didn't have to worry about, James would take care of it.

The twins kept the older ladies happily busy in the mornings and the afternoons were busy with meetings with all the ladies around the town and the neighboring states making plans for the upcoming festival.

On this sunny fall day, Lily sat on the parlor with her mother, talking about the upcoming festival.

"I sent an invitation to Petunia today. I invited her to come for the Festival." Lily said.

"Hmmm.I'm sure she will get it soon." Mrs. Evans said. She didn't want to give hope to Lily that Petunia would show up. If she didn't deign to be present for her sister's wedding, what would make her come for a visit?

"James and I are planning on going to London next week." Lily continued when she noticed her mother wasn't going to continue on about Petunia. "I'm going to have some of the paintings father left me brought here to the estate and the rest I will keep in a secured vault at Gringotts."

"That is wise dear, those painting are worth a small fortune. Which ones are you planning to bring?" Mrs. Evans asked, happy to talk about something besides her oldest daughter.

"I'm not sure yet. Do you want to come with us? Maybe you could help me choose." Lily asked.

"I was planning in helping Susan with her garden, but I'll see. It would be good to go to London for a day, I could go and talk to my solicitor and see how the lease of the house goes on." Mrs. Evans said.

Lily nodded.

"Did you invite anyone else for the Festival?" Mrs. Evans wanted to know.

"Katie and Sirius. And I think James sent an owl to Remus and Peter as well." Lily said with a smile.

"You are not planning to have a house party then?" Mrs. Evans said. Most families living in large estates in the area had house parties during the Festival, the year before the Potters hosted the annual ball, this year it would be their turn to have a house party if they wished.

"No. James and I were discussing it the other night and we decided it that it was too soon for us to try to have a house party. He is so busy now with the crops and the harvest, he wouldn't be here all the time and he says he doesn't want to leave everything to me. So we decided that if we are going to have a house party we will have it for Christmas." Lily said.

"Oh, that sounds like fun." Mrs. Evans said remembering clearly the last Christmas House Party the Potters had.

"I thought so. It's not clear yet if we are going to do so or not, but what do you think? Can we have a house party this Christmas?" Lily asked somewhat concerned. It would not be the first house party that she planned. She had helped her mother and Mrs. Potter in the past, but there was always someone to lead her. Planning a party on her own was something completely different and she wanted James to be proud of her and show him that she could do it.

"Of course you can dear, this is your house now, you can do whatever you wish. You know Susan and I will be here to help you if you need us." Mrs. Evans said looking proudly at her daughter.

"Oh mum, thanks. I'll talk to James about it then." Said Lily hugging her mother. She skipped out of the room soon after.

Mrs. Evans watched her go with a smile. "You would be so proud of her Edward." She whispered. With a sigh she returned to her knitting, which had been laying on her lap as she talked to Lily.



The weather was getting colder in the coast as well. Peter stood by the door of the house he shared with his mother. The note he had received from James was clasped in his hand. He was filled with sadness and shame. How could he be truthful and happy with his friends when the knowledge he gathered from them could be used for evil?

The choices he had made had been done for the safety of his mother, he didn't regret that, but would his friends understand that?

"They can take care of themselves." Peter kept telling himself. "They are more talented than I am. They know how to take care. Nothing will happen to them." Peter whispered. "Nothing will happen."



The servants were happily working in the orchards. Lily and James had come, along with the twins and their mothers to help gather the ripe apples.

Ladders stood against the trunks of the trees. One person pulled the apples from the branches and threw it down for those below him to gather and place in baskets. Lily and James had appropriated a tree to themselves. James climbed the ladder and sat on the branches pulling apples. Lily and the twins stood below gathering them as he threw them down.

"Be careful James." Lily said for the tenth time.

James laughed. "Not to worry Lily, I've done this often." Throwing an apple, trying to make it go into the basked that the girls had placed some feet away from the tree.

The twins were happily running around the tree trying to catch each other. Lily smiled indulgently at them, trying to keep an eye on her husband.

"Are you sure you should be doing that. Wouldn't it be better if one of the footmen did it?" Lily asked once more.

"No. They are busy with their own trees." James said.

"Don't worry Lily dear, James has been doing that for years, and he has been lucky enough from breaking any bones." Mrs. Potter said as she sat on a rug nearby. She and Mrs. Evans were putting the apples into boxes. Preparing them for the servants to take them for storage.

"Well, I still think it's dangerous." Lily said as she started to gather the apples from the ground.

They continued to work. Some of the servants had started to sing as they worked. Lily hummed along as James sang at the top of his voice. Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans laughed at the antics of the twins as they twirled and danced to the songs.

"Are you ready dears, for the Festival tomorrow?" Asked Mrs. Potter as the twins sat beside her.

"Oh yes."

"We like the Festival."

"When are we going?"

"We'll go first thing in the afternoon. The morning they will spend in getting things ready." Said Mrs. Potter.

"We'll join you." Said James, finally climbing down, much to the relief of Lily.

"I'm sure it will be fun." Lily said.



The sun had set, darkness had fallen and the stars had began to appear in the velvety sky. All the ripe apples had been collected, the baskets had been stored and the servants were back in the house finishing their evening chores.

Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans were in the family parlor knitting and chatting after putting the girls to sleep.

James and Lily stood by the pool in their garden, watching the stars shinning above them. Lily was leaning against James, her back to his chest. His arms were around her, warding off the chill from her.

"Why isn't she coming James? Why does she hate me so much?" Lily asked sadly.

"Don't worry about your sister Lily, you are better off without her." James said, kissing her hair.

"But she is my sister James, I thought family was supposed to stick together, be there for each other." Lily replied.

"We all wish that Lily, but it's not always like that. There is always someone we don't get along with in our family. In your case, it's your sister. Don't worry about her sweetheart, you don't need her." He said.

"I wish things would be easier with her. We don't know when we might need each other's help." Lily said turning her head to look at her husband.

"Humph! I doubt it. No offense Lily, but your sister is a nosey, mean- spirited git and that husband of hers in no better. I shudder to think what that kid of theirs is going to be like. It's better this way, the less our children have to deal with them, the better we all will be." James said.

"But they will be cousins, they need to know each other." Lily exclaimed.

"They won't need to. Our children will be better off, you will see. Now stop worrying, we have a fun day ahead of us." James said as he started pulling her out of the garden.

"I don't know James, I still think that it would be better if they developed a kind of relationship." Said Lily as they approached the house.

"I don't think your sister would look forward to that Lily." Said James.

The house was now dark, only some light flickered in the halls to light the way. Lily and James slowly made their way to their chamber; all thoughts about Petunia and their future children out of their minds at the moment.



The first day of the Harvest Festival arrived. The sun shone, the birds chirped and a cool breeze blew through the open window of Lily and James' room.

Lily snuggled against the warm body beside her. Heavy arms clasped her around the waist. She smiled.

"Good morning!" Her husband whispered in her ear.

"Morning." She answered before giving him a peck on his cheek.

"I suppose it's time to get up." Groaned James as Lily moved his arm and sat up on the bed, ready to be up and about and enjoy the day.

"Yes. We have Sirius and Katie coming this morning, and you know the twins will be up soon waiting to go down to the village." Lily said as she gathered her robes.

Lotty was quietly walking around the room, cleaning and putting things in order.

"Good morning Lotty!" Lily exclaimed.

"Good morning Mistress Lily. The bath is ready for you." He said with a bow.

"Thank you Lotty." Lily called closing the door to her dressing room behind her.

"Is Master James rising?" Lotty asked. His tennis-ball-sized eyes and bat like ears straining toward James.

"Might as well." Sighed James. "Is my bath ready?" He asked.

"Yes Master James. Lotty will bring breakfast while Mistress Lily and Master James bathe." Lotty said and with a bow disappeared from the room.

James dragged his feet toward his dressing room. The first time for a while since he didn't have to be up and about the estate and he couldn't stay in bed!

When Lily emerged from her bath she found a robed James eating in a table set by the large windows. The aroma of hot chocolate and tea permeated the room. The cook had also sent some buttered bread, eggs and warm porridge.

James smiled at the sight of his wife. "When I left Hogwarts I thought I wouldn't have to have any more porridge every morning. Otty doesn't seem to agree with me. You'll have to see how to get him to change his menu dear." James chuckled as he raised his spoon full of porridge to his mouth.

Lily laughed. "I'll see what I can do, but I like his porridge." She said.

"You can have the porridge then, I want chicken and ham on my plate." Said James.

"Really James, that's too heavy to eat in the morning." Lily exclaimed as she poured some chocolate on her cup.

"No it's not. Just the thing to get me up in the morning." James said with a smile.

Lily shook her head. Only James would say such a thing.

Squeals and laughter soon filled the corridors of the Manor. The twins were up and eager to join the festivities.

"We better finish here and help nurse with the twins, they must be excited." Lily laughed as she heard tiny footsteps running past the room; heavy steps followed.

James nodded. "Yes, poor nurse, I think I will have to give her a raise. At least we just have three more years to wait for them to get their letters from Hogwarts." He sighed.

"Nurse will bless the day those letters arrive." Laughed Lily. She threw her napkin on her plate and stood. "I'm getting ready, you should do the same James. We have a long day ahead of us." She said kissing his cheek before walking toward her dressing room once more.





The whole household was in good spirits that day. The twins were hidden in the kitchen, Otty was sneaking sweets and pastries to the girls, the maids happily went around doing their chores, the footmen eagerly followed to help, even Roberts and Mrs. Nichols could be seen around the house, humming as they worked.

James entered the breakfast room looking for his mother.

"There you are, we wondered if you had found the warmth of your bed to good to leave it." Said Sirius as he sat sprawled on a chair buttering some rolls and a steaming cup of tea in front of him.

"Don't you ever eat at your own house?" Laughed James as he took a seat across from his friend.

"I do, but somehow I get hungry once I get here." Said Sirius with a smile.

"How long have you been waiting?" James asked, shaking his head when Sirius offered some rolls.

"Hmmm.about half an hour. Katie was eager to arrive. She woke me up at an ungodly hour James! Let me tell you, once a woman is up, there is no way a man can go back to sleep." Sirius complained.

James laughed. "Well, I won't say anything about that, I don't want to get in trouble with my own wife, and living in a house full of women doesn't help." He said.

"Poor chap. You really have a hard time here don't you?" Chuckled Sirius.

"What is so amusing?" Asked Katie as she and Lily walked in the room.

"Nothing. Just thinking of what we might do today." Said Sirius. "Oh James, I wanted to ask, are you hosting the Quidditch Game again?" He asked turning quickly to James.

"As I am the only one with a Quidditch Pitch in the estate, yes, I am." Said James after rolling his eyes.

"Oh, that's right." Sirius said.

"Do you want to referee this time? As far as I know, we don't have one yet." James urged.

"All right. It would be fun. I don't enjoy losing to you anyways." Sirius said popping a buttered roll into his mouth.

Lily laughed. Katie just shook her head. "He moped for hours last year." She said.

"But you took care of it dear." Sirius said with a sly smile.

"Oh you! Here eat this." Katie said as she shoved another roll into his mouth.

James and Lily laughed and turned to look at each other with merriment.

"Ready for the Festival?" James asked.

"Yes. The twins are so excited, they cannot wait." She said.

"I imagine so. Where is mother, I was looking for her but I stumbled into Sirius here and I got distracted." James said.

"She is in the parlor with mum. They wanted to work on this project both of them are planning." Lily said.

"What kind of project?" James asked curious.

"Don't know, they wouldn't tell me, I think they are planning it as a surprise for us." Lily answered.

"Really? I wonder what they are working on." James said.

"Never mind. Let them have their fun. When are we going down to the village?" Katie asked keeping an eye on her husband who so far had stayed busy enough with his rolls.

"After luncheon. The crowd is larger and there should be enough to see by then." James said.

"Good. I want to try some of those pies I smelled on our way here." Sirius said.

"How can you eat so much?" Asked Lily. "When are you going to outgrow it?"

"Only if I have to go to Azkaban for murder." Sirius said.

"I think he would eat the dementors if he's ever thrown into Azkaban." Katie said

The others had no time to respond as Francesca and Cassandra ran into the room.

"Uncle James."

"Aunt Lily."

They yelled as they stumbled into the room.

Lily and James turned to look at them with huge smiles.

"Good morning girls." James said as the two girls stopped in front of them.

"Look what Otty gave us."

"To put all our purchases into."

They said as they showed them a large wicker basket.

"That is nice dears, what are you planning to buy?" Lily asked.

"Candy."

"Cakes."

"Bracelets."

"Flowers."

"Lace."

"Ribbons."

James laughed. "Are you sure that basket will be large enough to carry all of your things?" He asked.

The girls looked worried.

"Should we ask-"

"-For a larger basket?"

"Don't worry dears, I think that basket will be enough." Lily said with a smile.

The girls smiled brightly once more.

"Why don't you go and show your grandmother. I'm sure she will want to see it as well." James urged.

"Luncheon should be ready in a couple of hours so don't go far." Lily called after them as the two girls ran out of the room.

"I seriously think that Hogwarts will not survive those two." Katie said.

"Oh, I think it will. They cannot be worse than these two were." Lily said motioning at James and Sirius.

"Hey!" They exclaimed while Lily and Katie laughed.





Booths full of merchandise, aromas, music and color, all this and more met the eyes of every visitor in the village that afternoon. It looked as if everyone around the town had decided to visit. People bumped against each other as they walked from one booth to another, but nobody seemed to mind.

"James, please keep an eye on the girls for me, I don't want to lose them." Called Mrs. Potter as the group from the Manor arrived to town.

"Why don't you and Mrs. Evans take them to the square? There should be more space there because of the dancing. And there are chairs around the place so you could rest. Lily and Katie want to see around the booths." Said James.

"You are probably right. Come Rose, let's get out of this crowd." Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans took hold of the twins and led them through the crowd, bumping and stopping to greet neighbors as they walked.

"Shouldn't we go with them?" Asked Lily as she watched the crowd close behind her mother.

"Not to worry Lily, I'm sure they'll enjoy watching the couples dance." Said Katie.

"Come, there are those pastries I want to try." Urged Sirius pulling Katie along.

"But Sirius!" Katie exclaimed.

"You just ate!" Lily sounded surprised.

James laughed. "You should know by now that Sirius is always hungry." He said.

"Well, I for one, do not man to stand by watching him eat." Said Katie.

"Neither do I. James, stay with him, Katie and I will look around." Lily said. With a nod, Katie followed Lily into the crowd.

James and Sirius didn't seem to notice, they had arrived at the pastry booth and they were busy choosing the pastries they wanted to taste. The baker's wife smiled brightly once she saw them approach, she was sure that her best customers had just arrived.

The group was in high spirits, enjoying their time and absorbing all the sights. A major contrast from the previous year.

It was one year ago when the Ministry was attacked by Voldemort and his Death Eaters. The Potters' town house was destroyed along with several members of their household. Emma had been injured and kidnapped on the day she left the hospital. Those were dark times for the small group.

Lily had remembered these events that morning, and along with Mrs. Nichols, the housekeeper, and some of the maids, had gone to the chapel. They had taken pictures of all of those lost in the attack and placed them before the altar, flowers and candles were placed around them.

She had also remembered Emma, and that it had been close to one year since they last saw each other. After being kidnapped by the Death Eaters, Emma escaped and was found near Hogsmeade. The Ministry and Professor Dumbledore agreed to keep her at Gryffindor Manor as they made arrangements for her. Emma stayed in the Manor for less than a week. Dumbledore had then taken her to somewhere safe. Nobody knew where she was or how long she would be gone. Lily had hoped that with the murder of Jack Robinson and Jezebel's escape to the Death Eaters, Emma would be brought back, with the knowledge she possessed about the project Mr. Robinson had worked on she could easily counterattack any problems Jezebel's defection would've caused. But that had not been the case and Emma stayed in hiding.

Lily thought about her lost friend as she and Katie looked at the crafts displayed in the booths around them.

"Emma would've liked this." Lily said as she held up a handmade brass bracelet.

"She would. She liked everything that was handmade. Have you heard from her?" Katie asked looking at Lily with worry in her eyes.

"No. I sent an owl to Dumbledore and enclosed a note for her, I'm hoping that he would be able to send it to her." Lily said.

"I miss her." Katie said. "She missed so much. She should've been there when we got married."

"I know. I wish she was here now." Lily whispered.

"Oh come, let's not get moody. Let's go find those husbands of ours, hopefully they haven't caused any trouble." Katie said pulling Lily from the booth.

Lily smiled. Emma is fine, she thought, Dumbledore would keep her safe.

Sad memories were soon put aside and happy moments were taking their place. Lily and Katie met James and Sirius by the dance floor, and soon both couples were twirling through out the floor.



Night had fallen and the tired group was making its way to the Manor. James had called Martin to drive the car to town and pick up his mother along with Mrs. Evans and the twins. Lily and Katie walked beside their husbands, laughing and joking as they walked down the lane.

The weather had turned cold. The leaves in the trees had turned golden and crimson. The breeze made the falling leaves dance. The sky had turned scarlet and the stars had started to appear, but the music and noise from the Feast was still in the air.

Katie was pulling Sirius down a slope toward a hill. She wanted to see the lights as they appeared on the horizon.

James kept a tight hold on Lily's hand. Lily smiled at him happily.

"I love you." He whispered.

"I know. I love you too." She said kissing his cheek before leaning her head on his shoulder.

"Are you happy?"

"Of course I am, I couldn't be any happier." She answered.

James smiled.

"You won't mind if I plan the Christmas house party?" She asked turning to look at him.

"I don't mind, all I have is yours now sweetheart, you can do whatever you wish." He answered kissing her nose.

She laughed. "You shouldn't have said that, now you won't have reason to complain if I do something you don't like."

"Oh, I'm sure that whatever you do will be perfection." He replied with a smile.

"Flatterer. I'm sure your mum and mine will be happy to help me, I don't like the idea of doing all the planning on my own." She said.

"I'm sure they will be happy to help." James replied.

The Manor came into sight. The lights shone through the windows. The door stood open as servants arrived from their time off in town. The squeals and laughter of the twins could be heard around them. Lily smiled. This was home now, and she couldn't be happier anywhere else.



The Festival was now over, Sirius and Katie had returned home and the Manor was settling to its normal routine.

The fields were covered with fallen leaves and the weather had turned chilly, Halloween was soon approaching and the year was almost over.

"Have you heard from Remus?" Asked Lily one morning.

"Not lately. The last time I heard from him he was in Africa." James said looking up from his Daily Prophet.

"I wonder if he is all right." Said Lily with a frown.

"Don't worry my dear, he can take care of himself." James said. "I got an owl from Peter last night, it seemed that his mother was sick but she is now much better."

"Oh, that's nice to hear." Lily said.

Lily was busily scrawling on a piece of parchment. James put aside his paper to look at his wife as the quill looked to be flying off the parchment.

"Lily?" He said tentatively.

"Hmmm?"

"What are you doing?" He asked, curious of what was keeping his wife preoccupied.

"I'm writing a list." She said, barely paying him any attention.

"A list? A list for what?"

"For the Christmas House Party. I'm doing the guest list now, do you have somebody that you want to invite?" She asked finally turning to look at James.

"Well, now that you mention it, just Sirius, Remus and Peter, there is nobody else I want here for Christmas." James said.

"Very well. I plan to have a small party anyways, I don't think I'm up to something big." Lily replied.

"Whatever you want dear." James said once again turning to his paper.

Lily smiled at her husband before turning back to her list.

Lily was really excited, she was looking forward to having people in the house once more. Both Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans had agreed to help and they were happy to be able to be doing something to help.

And if everything went as expected, thought Lily, she would have a great present for James.



Halloween passed by quickly. The weather was turning colder, the days were shorter and the household at the Manor was busy cleaning every surface around the building. James escaped the chaos at home every morning and joined his tenants around the estate as they readied for winter. He took off his jacket like the others did and took an ax to chop wood. The wood supply grew day by day, the hay was stored and the grains and fruit that had been harvested earlier in the season were bagged in the storeroom.

He was supervising the feeding of the cattle one morning when somebody slapped his back.

"There you are chap, I have been looking all over for you young man." Said a booming voice behind him.

James turned with a smile. "Hello Colonel, did you need me for something?"

"Indeed my dear lad. I need to go to London, the wife wants to do some shopping and my car broke down, wondered if I could borrow yours for the day." Colonel Mathews said smiling down at his young neighbor.

"Of course, Colonel. I'll tell Martin to drive you to the city, I'm sure he would enjoy a day off from all the chaos in the house." James said.

"Young Mrs. Potter busy with the party planning is she. I can commiserate with you there, the wife is planning for a party as well, got the idea from your wife." The Colonel said.

"I'm sorry sir, I suppose you must be happy to go to the City for the day then." Laughed James.

"Indeed I am. She can shop all she wants and I'll be in my club puffing a cloud and drinking some wine." Boomed Colonel Mathews.

James laughed. He liked the old man standing beside him. The Colonel was really no military man, but the way he run his estate and his household he might as well had been. The Colonel was army mad, when he was a young man he had wanted to enlist and go off to war, unfortunately his father was ill, and the care of his mother and estate had fallen on his shoulders. He never regretted his choices, he was easy going, and well liked, it was the wife that was unwelcome to most of the leading people in town, but he didn't seem to mind. He was happy just as he was.

The Colonel stayed with James for a moment, discussing crops and cattle. Even though there was a big age difference between the two, there were certain events in their lives that made them relate to each other.



December had arrived. The days had turned cold and the nights even colder. Every fireplace was burning and the gray clouds threatened to let the first snowstorm to fall.

Lily had been busy for the last weeks getting the Manor ready and thinking of ways to entertain their guests. The twins had been surprisingly helpful, they seemed to be artists when it came to flowers, all the rooms had been gloriously decorated with flowers and the girls had been responsible for that. They were happy to feel useful and Lily let them do what they pleased with the flowers picked to decorate the house.

"Oh, the twins have done a great job in this room." Mrs. Potter said as she entered the formal parlor room.

Vases were placed on pedestals at every corner of the room. Small flower chains had been made and placed around the walls and the windows. Garlands made out of vines and lilies hanged from the curtains and were placed around the doorway.

"Yes, they did great. I never thought that they were so artistic, I can't wait to see what they are capable of with a little more practice." Lily replied as she stood in the middle of the room looking around.

"They certainly did good and I'm sure that liked feeling that they had something to do." Said Mrs. Evans.

"Oh yes, they were ecstatic. Maybe we should let them to the flower arrangements from now on, I'm sure that they are ready now to start with a little responsibility." Said Lily.

"Oh certainly. They have to start learning how to manage a house this big, it's a part of their education that they must learn before going to Hogwarts." Mrs. Potter said.

Mrs. Evans nodded her agreement. In her opinion, household management was something that all little girls should be thought, whether it was a small house or a large one, it didn't matter, the time would come for them to have a home of their own and they needed to know how to go on.

The ladies settled in the parlor to wait. The house was clean and the aromas from the kitchen enticed them. Everything was ready for the arrival of their guests.

Katie and Sirius were the first to arrive. Sirius went off to look for James, whom, he was told, had gone to the stables to check on the cattle, while Katie stayed with the ladies of the house to greet the rest of the guests. Family and close friends had been invited to attend. Like the last time, Lily had sent an invitation to her sister, and like the last time, there was no response.

"I refuse to kiss Aunt Olivia, every time I get near her she pinches my cheeks." Complained James some time later as he joined the ladies in the parlor.

"Oh James, but you are her favorite nephew." Exclaimed Mrs. Potter.

"I don't care." James pouted.

"Really James, you are being childish, now smile and get ready to greet our guests, I think I hear a car coming." Said Lily, quickly kissing her husband and turning to look toward the door, waiting for Roberts to announce the guests in.

The door soon opened and Roberts entered, their first guests right behind him. The next few hours were busy greeting people as they arrived. Roberts was busy in the hall directing his footmen toward the guest rooms with the luggage. A pair of dark haired heads kept bobbing up and down behind the banister on the top floor, peaking to see all the commotion and traffic going on down in the foyer. The footmen smiled to themselves as childish giggles followed them up the stairs.

The Manor was soon brightly lit and full of merriment. Dinner had been put back and would be served later than usual to give time to the guests to refresh themselves. James was not too happy about this, and Sirius had been devastated when he found out. He was truly looking forward to the glazed ham he had glimpsed in the kitchen when he went looking for James.

The guests continued to arrive. Mrs. Nichols directed the maids in the guests rooms making sure that all the luggage was placed where it was supposed to go and that enough linen and towels were placed in the bedrooms closets.

James sat pouting in the parlor, Aunt Olivia had arrived and as he suspected, she pinched his cheeks the moment she saw him.

"Oh my dear Jamie, look at you, you have grown so much." Aunt Olivia squealed the moment she saw him seating by Lily.

"Hello Aunt Olivia." James sounded like a bored child.

"Who would've thought that this child would get married so soon? My dear, you look gorgeous, I see what James saw in you to actually take the plunge." She said to Lily with a huge smile.

"Thank you Mrs. Landy." Lily said with a smile as she nudged James to stop scowling.

"Oh, call me Aunt Olivia dear, we are family now. Susan, how is life treating you?" She exclaimed moving on to Mrs. Potter.

Lily giggled behind her. James was scowling again.

"Don't laugh." He hissed. "It hurts when she pinches my cheeks."

She couldn't help it, she laughed.

Soon, the guests stopped arriving, most of those invited had arrived.

"Where is Remus? I thought you said he had accepted your invitation." Said James as soon as the guests had left them to get ready for dinner.

"He owled and said he would be coming." Said Lily. "It's not a full moon, is it?" She asked peering out the window to look at the moon.

"No, it just passed." James said.

"Don't worry, he will show up, perhaps he got held over somewhere." Lily said.

"Hmmm.perhaps."

"Come, let's freshen up before we go in to dinner." Said James pulling him from his seat.

"It is about time. I'm hungry." James complained.

Lily laughed. "I can imagine, I could hear your stomach above all the noise."

James smiled sheepishly and followed her out of the room.



Dinner was a big success. The glazed ham stood in place of honor at the center of the table, several mouths watered at the sight of it.

"Will you look at that? It looks delicious." Whispered Sirius in awe to his wife.

Katie just chuckled. "Only you would pay more attention to the food than to anything else."

Sirius smiled charmingly at her. "The food is not the only thing that looks delicious." He said.

"Sirius! Honestly!" Katie said, slapping his arm.

Sirius chuckled before turning to the full plate in front of him.

Dinner was merry and noisy. Everybody spoke at once. News about other family members were discussed and the latest Quidditch games were fought over. It seemed that Mrs. Evans was the only muggle sitting at the table. But she didn't seem to mind. She had been living with the Potters for a year now and she could hold her own with this wild group of wizards.

After dinner, they all retired to the music room, where the twins awed their audience with their music prowess. Lily and Mrs. Evans had worked for hours with them on the pieces they chose to play and were proud for the twins' performance.



By the time next morning arrived Lily was feeling extremely tired. In fact, she had been so occupied with all the planning and making sure all was in order that she had been very tired for the past few days. She opened her eyes to see the room bathed with bright sunlight. She blinked a couple of times to clear her sight and smiled.

Everything was going better than she thought it would. She was happy. Her tiredness now forgotten she turned to her husband, who was still asleep beside her.

"James." She whispered in his ear.

"Hmmm?"

"Wake up."

"Why?" He mumbled.

"You are taking the men out on a hunting party remember, they must be getting ready now." She reminded him.

James groaned. "You should've hit me when I thought of it. I would be staying in bed a while longer if you had." He said as he started getting up from the bed.

Lily smiled and settled back into the warm bed.

"Oh fine, you can stay there but I can't." James called from his dressing room.

"You know that the women will not be leaving their beds until later. They are most likely to stay in bed and have their breakfast in it." Lily replied. "I think I will do the same."

"Fine, but we are taking food along with us. I know I'm going to be hungry later on." James said coming out of his dressing room, Lotty stayed behind putting away his nightclothes. He approached his sleepy wife and kissed her cheek. "Rest my dear, you have been busy lately, you must be tired. I'll see you later." He said.

"Bye. Have fun!" She called as James walked out of the room.

"I will bring you lots of game for Otty to prepare for tonight's dinner." He called.

Lily snuggled deep into the bed and fell asleep once more.



Lily had been right, the men were all ready waiting for him at the stables. The stablemen stood by the horses with rifles ready and empty sacks to hold the game hunted.

"There you are, we were wondering what kept you." Somebody said as James stepped into the stables.

"What else, his wife, that's what kept him." Sneered Sirius.

"Honestly, Sirius!" James said.

The others laughed. James was glowering at Sirius but said no more as his groom approached with his horse.

Everybody mounted their horses and soon set out toward the woods surrounding the northern side of the Manor.

They stayed out the whole morning. Lily had been right in assuming that the women would not leave their rooms until later. It was almost noon when all made their appearance into the parlor. They were sitting around the breakfast table eating a light luncheon when they heard the men walking in. Their laughter and high spirits letting them know that their trip was a success.

James entered the room followed by the rest.

"We bagged a lot of game for you my dear." He said kissing her head.

"I'm sure Otty will be glad. Did you have fun?" She asked to the group in general.

"Oh yes, the ride was certainly invigorating." Sirius said stealing some food from his wife's plate.

"Sirius! If you are hungry go change, then you may return and serve yourself." She scolded.

Those around them giggled or chuckled.

Sirius looked sheepishly at her and kissing her cheek said: "I'm sorry my dear, I'll be back soon."

Others followed him out of the room, wanting to change and get something to eat as well. James was the last one to leave the room, after kissing his mother's cheek.

The afternoon was cold but the group didn't mind as they trekked down to the lake. Benches and barrels of hot cider were brought to the shore. The party from the Manor was soon skating around the frozen lake. Few decided to stay from the ice and sat on the benches near the lit fires, keeping warm by the flames and by the warm cider.

The twins were giggling as Sirius and James took them by the hands and twirled them across the ice. Lily and Katie worriedly kept an eye on them, but the happy squeals from the girls soon filled the air.

When the sky turned dark and the stars started to appear, the group made its way back to the house. The servants right behind with the kegs of cider. The fires had been put out and the lake was once more deserted.

They walked through the lighter trees. All the trees in the estate had been decorated with fairies, they danced and played, making beautiful displays as they did so. It was a magical view for a magical time.

Everybody happily sat around the fireplace in the parlor. The twins had been taken to the nursery to get ready for bed. Dinner was soon served, and famished, everybody enjoyed the fruits of their labor as the food contained some of the game hunted that morning.

Lily looked happily down the table. Everything was going great.



Later that night, James sat in his bookroom. The guests had gone to their beds, as had Lily. He was worried that she was running herself ragged with all the planning and hosting duties. He thought that perhaps it would have been better if they'd stayed by themselves that Christmas. It was their first as a married couple, but she had been so excited about it, he didn't have the heart to deny her anything.

Christmas was approaching, it was only a few day away. The next morning they would all go to town for some last minute shopping. The women had decided that they preferred to go to London, and they would be apparating or flooing to Diagon Alley early in the morning.

He was so lost in his thoughts that didn't hear the knock on his door. The knock came again and James shook his head as he heard it.

"Come in." He called.

The door opened and a tall, thin young man entered the room.

"Where the hell have you been? We were expecting you yesterday." James exclaimed.

"I'm sorry, I had to report to the Ministry before I came." Remus said as he sat on one of the chairs facing James' desk.

"Report? Why?" He asked.

"Oh, there has been some research going on about werewolves. They reckon that they have found a way to diminish the effects of the bite." Remus said accepting a warm cup of cider from James.

"Well, those are good news." James said.

"It would be, if it had worked. They asked me to be part of the research you see, so before this past full moon I reported to the Ministry and took the potion they had created. I reported back last night to tell them of the results." Remus said as he sipped the warm liquid.

"Oh, I'm sorry it didn't work. But if they are working on the subject they might come up with something that would help." James said in an optimistic tone.

"Hopefully." Remus replied.

"Are you hungry? I'm sure that Otty stored all that was left over from dinner. We can go a check." James said as he noticed how thin and tired his friend looked.

Remus nodded. "Perhaps it's best if I do get something to eat before going to bed." He said.

James happily led him to the kitchens. He didn't mind getting a second helping from the venison served at dinner.



Snow fell through the night. When Lily awoke the next morning she found herself looking out the window to a landscape blanketed in snow. The snow glistened in the sunlight. A perfect picture for a Christmas card, she thought.

She heard James' mumble as he snuggled deep into the pillows.

She smiled. It was his turn to stay longer in bed. She and the rest of the women would be going to London to make any last minute purchases.

She dressed quietly and kissed his cheek before she left the room.

James sighed but didn't wake.

It was two hours later when he finally rose from bed to notice that his wife was no longer beside him. He groaned. He had hoped to be up by the time his wife left the house, he wanted to see her off but it looked like he was late for that.

James joined the rest of the men as they ate breakfast and read their papers.

The morning passed and the men spent it at their leisure. Some stayed in the game room, others went to the stables and rode around the estate. Others closeted themselves in the library and sat to read. Sirius took Remus to the kitchen where James later found them tasting every dish that Otty created.

A large luncheon was served. One made to tease the taste buds of a large group of men.

It was late in the evening when the women returned. They were cheerful and happy about their purchases. Several took their husbands to their respective rooms to show them all that had been bought; some were happy to go, others were not.

Lily had taken hold of James and had taken him to their rooms.

"Oh and look at this, I bought it for the twins. Do you think they will like it?" She eagerly said as she held a pair of porcelain dolls.

James smiled at his wife, she was as eager as the twins were sure to be.

"I'm sure they will love it." He said.

"Oh, and I found this, I just couldn't resist it. I just had to have it." She said as she held a bolt of fabric up for his inspection. "I'm sure I can get a gorgeous dress robes made from this fabric."

"It will look great on you." He said.

"Oh and look at this, I found this for your mother, I saw her looking at it earlier and she seemed to like it." She continued.

James resigned himself to be shown every single thing his wife had purchased.

The next two days were full of expeditions to the woods. A search for the perfect tree brought out all the men. After finding one that met the specifications of everyone in the group, they all helped carrying it to the house. The women had taken over the decorations. The younger crowd was sent to look for greenery and collect mistletoe and pine cones. Mrs. Potter took the older ladies to the attics where decorations were inspected and chosen. Lily stayed in the parlor, leading the maids and the other women through the house and deciding in ways to decorate.

It was on Christmas Eve when they finished with the decorations. Candles lighted every corner of the main rooms. The large Christmas tree decorated one of the corners of the formal parlor room. Some of the guests had started to pile their gifts underneath the tree.

The twins entertained themselves shaking each package, hoping to find out what was inside. Tables laden with food were kept in the music room throughout the day. Wine and cider flowed as laughter and good will reign throughout the house.

Impromptu music lessons kept erupting at every hour. Carols were sung and some danced along with the melodies.

Sirius sat himself in the music room near the food tables. Sometimes he deigned to join Katie on the floor and twirled her around with the rhythm of the music but most of the time he spent it by the food table piling his plate high.

James mingled and eat with his guests, Lily by his side.

It was a fun day, ending only after the twins had fallen asleep on top of the gifts and everybody was tired after some merrymaking.

Snow had started to fall when everybody retired to their respective rooms.





James woke up early the next day. It was Christmas day and his wife was sleeping by his side. He smiled at the thought of it. The first Christmas they spent together, and he looked forward for those to follow.

He sighed and gathered her in his arms. She slowly opened her eyes and looked up at him.

"Merry Christmas." She said.

"Merry Christmas to you too." He answered kissing her nose.

"Do you want your gifts now, or do you prefer to wait?" She asked.

"Gifts? Does that mean that there are more than one?" He asked brightly.

Lily laughed. "Yes there are." She said.

"Hmmm.let's open them now." He said, jumping out of the bed.

Lily laughed as she slowly followed him out of the bed.

Several wrapped packages were placed on top of the table at the center of the room. James promptly made his way toward them.

Lily followed him and sat on one of the chairs beside the table. James was eagerly looking through the cards on top of the packages.

"Here my dear, this is for you." He said as he turned to her with a large package in his arms.

"Thank you dear." She smiled. "You will find yours at the bottom of that pile." She said motioning to a pile at one end of the table.

James smiled and dived in to open his gifts.

Laughing, Lily started to unwrap her gift. A set of gold jewelry boxes appeared. She opened it. A slow melody started to play as a small fairy danced across the velvet setting. She smiled and turned to look at her husband.

He was looking at her. "Do you like it? It is real gold you know, and that fairy is real as well." He said.

"I love it." She said and stood from her chair.

"Thank you for my gift this will come very handy." He said as he held up a large crystal ball, through it a Quidditch game seemed to be played. "Now I can see all the games I want without having to leave the house. Sirius will be so jealous." He smiled brightly as his wife sat on his lap.

"Katie got him one as well." Lily laughed.

James chuckled. "Oh well. Do you want to eat something?" He asked putting his arms around her waist.

"No. I don't think I can handle any food right now. I don't think I can handle this morning sickness for the next seven months James." She said.

James looked at her with a mixture of happiness and surprise. "Morning sickness? Are you saying that you are-"

"We are going to have a baby." She finished for him.

"Are you sure?" He asked tightening his arms around her waist.

"Yes. I went to St. Mungos' when we went to London. They confirmed it for me. That's why I have been feeling so tired lately." She said.

"You should be in bed. You need rest." James exclaimed as he stood with her in his arms and carried her to the bed.

"James, relax. I'm fine." Laughed Lily.

"Are you sure?" James asked.

"Yes."

"We are going to have a baby." He said with excitement.

"Yes we are. Are you happy? I know it's a bit soon-" Lily started to say.

"Not soon enough. We are ready for this Lily. And I am happy about it. This is the best gift you could have given me." He said before swooping down and kissed her.

"Hmmm.I'm glad you liked my gifts then." She smiled before her husband leaned in to kiss her once more.



It was near noon when everybody left their chambers. They partook of a late luncheon in a merry mood. The news of Lily's pregnancy was spread due to James' actions.

"Here, you need your strength. Eat this I'm sure that he will like it." James said as he piled food onto Lily's plate. "We have to take care of you, in your condition it's necessary that we take care." He said.

"Will you stop it James, I'm fine, are you trying to make me sick?" She suddenly asked as James put some marinated liver and eggs into her plate.

Everybody was looking at them. Surprise and speculation in their countenance.

"James, what condition?" Sirius asked. For once food lay forgotten on his plate.

"Yes." Was all James said as he kept putting food on Lily's plate. Lily was trying to put back some of the food back into the platters and was paying no attention to those around the table.

"Lily dear, are you saying you are with child?" Mrs. Evans quietly asked beside her daughter.

"Yes, but mum, will you tell James that I'm not going to break, he is going to make me sick with all this cuddling. I don't like it." Lily exclaimed.

Mrs. Evans and Mrs. Potter shouted with happiness and hugged Lily. James looked smugly at his friends as they congratulated him. Soon the meal turned into a celebration and many of those present started talking about the happy news.

Lily had to sit and listen to those who had children give her advise from how to deal with morning sickness to what happens when the child comes home with a wife. James was teased and congratulated but he kept an eye on his wife's plate and had to be stopped several times from filling her plate as soon as she emptied it. She was not eating as she should, in his point of view, how could some pieces of plain toast and tea be enough for a growing child? It didn't matter that his mother had told him that when a lady was expecting a light meal helped with the morning sickness. He had to ask the Old Doctor if there was something that could be done about it, so she could eat as she should.

Lily sighed with relief, when at the end of the meal, Sirius and Remus took James away for a ride around the town. She settled down in the parlor and allowed the others to keep her entertained with talk of children and happy memories.

She couldn't wait for the day to be done and have James all to herself later that evening. For all his cuddling and overprotective behavior, he was the man she loved and was happy to know that their family would soon grow.

The evening passed in quiet entertainment. Some of the guests took themselves to the music room where the air was soon filled with music and dancing. Others preferred the quiet atmosphere of the library where many settled in the plush sofas and chairs to read and lose themselves in fantasy and memories. Others went to the game room; where the television, the radio, and the game tables were soon surrounded by people seeking to entertain themselves.

James, Sirius and Remus hid in the kitchens, where Otty kept them busy tasting the dishes being prepared for dinner.

"Otty is very happy for Master James and Mistress Lily." Otty was saying as he placed a hot apple pie in front of the young men to cool.

Sirius surreptitiously placed a cooling charm on it and reached for a knife to cut it.

"Thank you Otty, I'm sure Lily would be happy to hear that." James said.

"Otty will make many baby food for Mistress Lily, Otty remembers what Master James ate when Master James was a baby." Otty said with a happy expression.

James laughed. "I'm sure you do Otty."

"Minnie is happy too Master James. Minnie will care for the young master and Mistress Lily when the time comes." Minnie squeaked beside Otty.

"Thank you Minnie, I'm sure you will be of great help." James replied.

Sirius had cut the pie and had served himself a large piece. Remus nudged him and motioned for a plate for himself and James. "Don't hog it, I want some too." He whispered.

"Fine." Sirius said passing the pie to Remus.

"Oh Master James, I didn't know you were here." Mrs. Nichols, the housekeeper said as she stumbled into the kitchen. "Do you need something Sir?"

"No Mrs. Nichols, Otty is taking care of our needs." He laughed motioning at the large pieces of pie in the plates of each of them.

"Very well Sir. Sir? I want to say that all the household are glad of the happy news, it was about time for baby cries to be heard around this old house once more." Mrs. Nichols said with joy.

James laughed. "Let's see if you and Roberts say the same once the baby is born. You still complain about me!" He exclaimed.

Mrs. Nichols chuckled, it was true, James had been a very energetic child. She had been his nursery maid at the time and it had been hard to keep up with the toddler James, who kept escaping from the nursery to join Mr. Sanders and follow him around the estate. She was glad she wasn't a nursery maid anymore, and she doubted that Nurse would be able to handle it, with the twins to keep an eye on, another energetic child would give her a heart attack. Maybe it was good that Minnie would become the primary caretaker of the unborn child, Minnie and her own brand of magic might be able to handle the child. She didn't want to think that it hadn't worked for James. Hopefully, the child would be born with Lily's disposition and wouldn't be a terror for the staff as James had been in his youth.

James was oblivious to his housekeeper's worries. Life couldn't be better in his eyes. His family was growing and his relationship with Lily couldn't be better. He ate his food with gusto and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon in the kitchen with his friends.

Dinner was served later than usual. Everybody sat around the table ready to devour the exquisite dishes Otty had prepared for their Christmas Dinner. A large baked ham stood in the center of the side table, accompanied by stuffed Cornish hens, marinated turkey, soups, salads and in the center of honor, large pies of every flavor.

Those seated couldn't be any more eager to begin the feast. Everything looked delicious and watched closely as Roberts and his footmen surrounded the table ready to serve.

Some of the best wine was brought up from the cellar, the homemade cider was warm and sweet, and the champagne flowed as toasts were made, celebrating the holiday and the next to come.

James looked with pride at his wife as she sat across the table from him. They had been married no more than six months and the first house party she planned was a success so far. Now they were ready to begin a new life as the child growing within her made its way to their world. He was proud and happy. It was the best Christmas he had ever had.



The following week passed with no incident. The guests continued to entertain themselves. The music room was always full of young people singing and dancing. The library was kept warm and lighted for those who wished to spend time there. The servants kept snacks and drinks in the game room. James, Sirius and Remus took the girls everywhere, and sometimes the twins would join them. They rode a sleigh into the forest, they skated across the frozen lake, they played in the snow and impromptu snow fights were fought across the gardens.

The New Year was soon approaching and everybody was looking forward for the Ball on New Year's Eve. People from across the district had been invited and expected to come and join them.

That morning was spent with last minute plans and purchases for their gowns. The ballroom was richly decorated and the refreshment tables were being laden with rich foods and drinks for the enjoyment of the partygoers.

The afternoon was spent getting ready. Lily ran from one place to another in her dressing room making sure that she had everything . James sat on a chair watching her.

"You should calm down Lily. You are looking gorgeous, there is nothing more than you need." He said for the tenth time that hour.

"Are you sure? Should I wear my red gown instead?" Lily asked looking out from her dressing room.

"No, the one you have on is perfect. I'm going to be envied by everyone in that room tonight." James exclaimed. He didn't think he could stand it much longer if Lily decided to change once more.

"Oh that is sweet of you. I hope our child is just like you." She said approaching him and kissing his cheek.

"Hmmm.I'm sure that everybody is hoping that he is born with your disposition my dear, I'm sorry to say that nobody wants another child just like me." James laughed putting his arms around her waist and pulling her down to sit on his lap.

Lily laughed. "I'm sure you weren't that bad."

"Oh, I was." He grinned. "But don't worry, if he isn't then he will learn it from me or Sirius."

"Oh dear, maybe you should be kept away from the baby. You are really sure that it's going to be a boy aren't you?" She asked with laughing eyes. It hadn't escaped her noticed that he kept calling the baby 'he'.

"Of course it is a boy. I wouldn't mind if it's a girl you understand, but I have a feeling that it is a boy." James said smugly.

"We'll see." Lily said. "Come let's go to the parlor to greet our guests."

Together they retired to the parlor, hoping for that the new year would bring them new happiness.



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A/N: I know that I skipped a lot during this chapter, but I really couldn't come up with much to write about. I hope that you still like it and enjoy it. It took me a while to get it ready but I tried to get it ready for you before Christmas, and I'm happy to say that I made it.

Thank you all for your reviews:

bubblegum*girl ~ lol, you are not the only one to have that wish, all I can say is that I have plans for them.

Lostinthesupermarket ~ Thank you for reading, I'm glad that you have enjoyed the story so far.

Tina ~ lol, that was quite a coincidence. Glad you liked it.

Angelangie ~ I know what you mean about the emotional rollercoaster I have noticed it as well.

Elvenprincess ~ Here is the next chapter, hope you like it.

Rodhrrypttr ~ I liked the barroom brawl as well, it is one of my favorite scenes. About James not asking for Mr. Evans blessing before he died, well, I thought about it and I was going to include it, in fact I had that scene written but somehow it didn't seem right. The man was dying and I thought it would be better if he spent most of the time with family. I had not noticed that Sirius' initials spelled SOB, lol, thanks for pointing that out.

Anorel ~ hope you liked where they are going.

Twisted Rose ~ hope this chapter is enjoyable.

Starlight Eve ~ What do you think, is it romantic or not? ; )

Punkkittin01 ~ Don't worry I won't explain.

Jessica ~ Here is the next one! : )

Julie Jewelrannah ~ Sorry it took a while.

Skysong ~ Glad you enjoy it so far.

I'm sorry if I missed your name, but I truly appreciate all your reviews and your input. Hope that you continue to enjoy it.

Did you know that the last chapter was the one to get the most reviews? Wow! I truly appreciate it. Thank you!

It might take me a while to get the next chapter done, I'm still writing it and it's taking me longer than I thought, somehow I keep thinking of ideas for Harry but not for Lily and James.

Oh well, hope you all liked this chapter. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!!