Chapter 8
"And now I would like to honor the Head Boy and Girl along with their friends. These young people have created a family here at Hogwarts. They have caused mischief and trouble, but they have also shown us professors what it is like to be young once again. With that we honor these fine men and women by graduating them first. When your name is called people come up to receive your diploma."
"Lily Evans."
Lily walked over and shook hands with Dumbledore.
"You are the brightest witch of your age. You will go very far," Dumbledore said to her privately. Lily smiled.
"Thank you Professor," Lily said politely before leaving for her seat.
"James Potter."
James walked over as Lily did and shook hands with Dumbledore.
"I see you becoming a hero. Don't let it effect your ego," he advised. James gave him a sly smile.
"Why Professor. Whatever do you mean?" James scoffed jokingly.
"Sirius Black."
"Your kind heart and sense of adventure will lead you to danger if you allow it, Mr. Black." Sirius shrugged.
"Then let it catch me," he retorted causing Dumbledore to chuckle.
"Remus Lupin."
"If you ever need help with anything just write." Remus nodded.
"I will. Thank you."
"Peter Pettigrew."
"Remember that friendship is extremely important," Dumbledore told him with a wink. Peter just looked at him blankly.
"Thank you sir," was all he said.
The ceremony continued as Dumbledore had started it. Professor McGonagall stood at the other podium, calling names and Dumbledore would give them each a special message, a word of wisdom that they could carry with them the rest of their days.
The rest of the ceremony was a blur to the Mauraders and their respective girlfriends. As people began to rush around to hug fellow students and family members, James had pulled the group away from the rest of the chaotic bunch.
"Us four," James showed, "are the original Mauraders. However, today we want to extend membership to all of you. As fellow members you are now family. We stick together, stand together, fight together, live together, and die together. From this day forth we are a family. A unique family that no one can break up. So now, repeat after me. I solemnly swear."
"I solemnly swear," they said in unison.
"That we are up to no good."
"That we are up to no good."
"And will always be up to no good together,"
"And will always be up to no good together." James smiled and nodded.
"You are all Mauraders now! Let's celebrate Maurader style!" Sirius shouted. They cheered together and headed back into the Great Hall. Lily followed when someone grabbed her wrist and pulled her back. She spun around and found James smiling gently at her.
"I want to go see my parents, James!" Lily protested.
"You will. But I have a question to ask you first," James said. Lily gave him a curious look.
"Okay, then ask it," she replied. James nodded and swallowed hard. He reached into his pocket and brought forth a little black box.
"I know we've only been dating this year and I know it's early to be asking this, but I know that we will be together forever. I know that inside my heart, Lily. So. Will you marry me, Lily Evans?" James asked, getting down on one knee and opening the box to reveal a very simple diamond ring. Lily gasped, tears sparkled in her green eyes.
"Oh James," she breathed.
"We don't have to get married right away, but at least we would be engaged and . . ." James started by he was cut off when Lily began to snog him senseless for a moment. When they broke away James smiled at her slyly.
"So can I take that for a yes?" James asked her. Lily nodded and laughed.
"Yes James. There is nothing I could want more than to become Mrs. Lily Potter," she answered. James smiled brightly.
"Come Mrs. Potter. We had better tell your parents," he said, getting up off the floor and offering her his arm. Lily took it and smiled, knowing that her future was going to be bright as long as he was by her side.