Hello Everybody! (In unison "Hi Dr. Stephanie!") Now, before I reveal the
chapter, I used my super sixth sense to figure out that all of you are mad
at me for taking too long to update. Don't ask me how I figured it out, but
I think it was the hoard of howlers that you guys keep sending me saying
things like "Update soon or feel my wrath" or "If you don't update I'll
hunt you down and make you squeal like a pig," or "This is the last warning
we are giving you, Tony will be there Thursday to collect the $1,000 or
your head." Wait, how did that get in there? (Laughs nervously) Anyway. In
order to keep my sanity, and my kitchen clean from owl pellets, I wrote an
extra long chapter for your reading enjoyment.
Now it's my turn to send some Howlers! Mwwahhhhahahahhahaha!
Padfootlet- Have no fear, I have located the person that posted the picture with "Die Sirius Die" and I now have him locked up in my room. Just come on over and help me figure out what to do with him. I think maybe I'll send Snuggle Bear into the closet with him. Hehhehehe!!!! Oh and just to let you know, I also have Sirius tied up (But's a different situation ;) )
Luthein- I can't resist the fluff!
Sammy Solo- Sammy, Sammy!!! Thank you so much for the kind words. You don't know how good they made me feel! You are truly a special person and I respect you for your compassion. That is why you are my favorite reader! I hope that everything is well with you and that you like the chapter. P.S. Marvin is going to get it!
AnniePADFOOT- Don't panic! Pixie stixs are on the way! The cold chills are only temporary! My friends and I like to make milkshakes out of the free creamer and sugar packets at diners. It's a good way to get you sugar high quickly. Although, I found out that if you go to Denny's and use up all of the creamer and sugar at your table, it is not wise to go table-hopping and take the rest of them. That stupid manager! Thinks he can ban me from going in there!
Lady Friday- I am so happy! I got the Evil Elvis Monkey Impersonators to play at my cousin's wedding. It should be a good time, although it may be a little slippery. Oh well. I hope everything is well with you.
flyingwind33 –What's up girl!!! I love writing patrolling duties. It's one of the only times went James and Lily can truly be alone. Plus, I think that if I were a prefect I would take full advantage of that time alone with my boyfriend. Opps, I did not say that ;) Will the secrets be revealed? Well we know Remus's will for certain. Stay cool woman!
Jack Robinson – Hey what's up 'Jack'? I'm glad that you liked this chapter. I'll give you a little hint, if you liked this one then you are going to love the New Year's Eve Party chapter. I can't wait for you to read it. Hope all is well with you and yours. Talk to you soon.
charmed girl33 – Hey girl, what's up? How do you like being a freshman? I totally hated it. We had freshman Friday's where the older grades tortured us. Fortunately for me I looked older than I was and I was spared being given a swirly or hung on a hook in the locker room. But since you go to an all girls' school, hopefully it is a little better. I went to a public school and I hope that the girls aren't as vicious in the private school as they were in the public. But if they give you a hard time, do what Faith would do and tell them to "eat shit and die". Lol I hope that things are well and that you like this chapter. One hint, Lily meets James's parents. Hehehehe. Talk to you later.
Julia – Hey girl what's up? James is going to be Lily's date to the wedding. I can't wait to write that part. I have some good ideas for it. I liked POA a lot better the second and third times I saw it. I didn't like it the first time I saw it, but it's growing on me. I can't wait for the sixth book! I wish she would hurry up. I'm reading "The Notebook", by Nicholas Sparks right now. It is such a wonderful romantic story. Too bad there aren't good, romantic men like that in real life. But oh well. I hope everything is well with you and I'll talk to you soon.
Kittyofwonder- Hey what's up? Thanks for the suggestion. I was actually thinking of something like that. But I have come up with something so sweet and romantic that I guarantee that you will cry. It's not in this chapter, but it is coming up soon. I hope that you are doing all right and I hope you like this chapter.
Swishy Willow Wand- What's up? If you want ,I have some pictures from the Chimp Nudist Colonies. I would hate to have to have you mentally picture it. Actually it's very amusing to see all of those chimps running, swimming and playing chess nude.
alicia spinet – Ut oh! What did you do to be punished? If you did anything like me, then you trashed your hated math teachers car, put rotten eggs and fish into the ceiling tiles off your aunt's house, snuck out and went down to the dock to go swimming with your friends and painted your father's toe nails when he was sleeping. No, I really didn't do any of those things, but I'm glad that you are off punishment. I'll talk to you soon!
LJstagflower4e/JCtigerwolf4e – Hey what's up? I know that you are not going to be home, but I wanted to say Hi anyway. I hope that you had fun at your movie camp! Talk to you later Rebecca!
Val – Hey what's up? Unfortnualtey I am not brown all year long, but I use a sunless bronzer so I at least look brown. Hmm...M.J guilty or innocent. I think he's guilty. He is a strange boy and if I had a child, I would not let him stay over at his house. That is just wrong on so many different levels. Thank you for your condolences, I really appreciate them! I liked HP3 a lot better the second and third times I saw it. I think it is the best one so far, but it felt a little rushed. I hope that HP4 is longer. I love Fred and George. I would date them, I think the are much cuter with the longer hair. Hmm..I don't really know what my favorite animal is. Probably dogs. I love dogs, but big ones, not little ones. I hope that you are doing great and I'll talk to you later.
blueviolinist33- Hey girl, what's up? I hope that you passed your audition. I always wanted to play an instrument and I know that the violin is a very disciplined instrument to play. But I bet that you passed. Let me know if you did! I understand the mountain of homework thing. I hated and to this day still hate homework. I figure that home is for me to do whatever I want, not to be typing papers until 2 am about whether I think that Ethics are important enough to be taught in schools. Anway, kind of rambling there, I hope that you like this chapter. Talk to you later girly!
Courtney – Hey, thanks for the review. I hope that you like this chapter too. I have a feeling that you will. Talk to you soon and keep on reviewing.
Amanda – Hey what's up? I hope things are going well with you. I'm glad that you liked the chapter. I think that everyone knows that James has been in love with Lily for a long time, but he just doesn't have the guts to say it to her face....yet. I can't wait to write the chapter when he says it to her face. Hehehe. Talk to you laters.
RebelSheep – I have the documentary taped if you want to borrow it. It actually is very interesting. I'm glad that you liked the chapter and I hope that you like this one as well. It's getting closer to Petunia's wedding. I can't wait for you all to read it! Talk to you soon.
devil-aimee- Hey Aimee! What's up girl? I'm so glad that you had a goat- free internship. I prayed that you wouldn't see any and if you did that you would destroy it with your ray vision. Hmm...about the saying I love you to a guy thing. That is hard. I am 23 and have only said I love you to one guy and I didn't really mean it. He said it to me and I felt bad, so I said it back. I don't recommend that. I would say that if you really, really love him and you feel that he loves you, and you have been in a relationship for a while, then I would say it. Just whisper it or something in his ear. I'm quite sure that he will say it back and if he doesn't then he isn't worth saying it too. But I hope that it goes well for you and keep me posted. Talk to you later.
Bloody Murder- I have posted to cure you insanity! I totally agree with you about the rest of them (motions to other reviewers). They are a bunch of nutters. But let's keep it between you and I and the fencepost. Besides, I am their Queen and I like to live on the Happy Acres Insane Farm that I have built. Mwwuuuahhhahaha! Come join me and I will name you Sally! Sorry, too much sugar. Thank you for the wonderful comments and I hope that you like this chapter as well. Talk to you later.
Pdlegirl – Wow, you read this story straight through? How long did that take? I have respect for you because on my computer it says that it is 215 pages long. I am psyched that you like my story and I hope that you keep reading and reviewing to keep me updated on what you think about it! Talk to you later.
Cynthia- Thank you for the wonderful review. You really touched my heart and it was nice to know that you appreciate my story. I have to agree with you that I love long stories. I don't like to rush into the story; I think that it is bad for character and plot development. Anyway, I hope that you continue to read my story and let me know what you think. Talk to you laters.
Marvin the Gender Confused Puma and Stephanie the Mad Mistress present a Crack Monkey Cartoon!
Today's Episode:
STEPHANIE: Yes, today is the day that Marvin will pay for all of the horrible things he did to me. (rubs hands together and grins) Oh Samantha! Come in her please. (Marvin comes prancing into the room in a pink ballerina tutu and a flannel shirt. MARVIN: Yes Mistress Stephanie? STEPHANIE: Samantha, come here. I would like to sit and talk with you. (points to a chair with leather straps on the seat.) MARVIN: Oh goody, goody gum drops! (He prances over to the chair and plops down upon it happily) What do you want to talk about? How about butterflies or how bark is made or OH, how about what smell you would have come out of your armpits? (Looks hopeful at Stephanie who scowls back at him) STEPHANIE: No Samantha, I was thinking something more along the lines of fun. (The straps spring to life and tie around his wrists. Marvin laughs as he thinks they are entertaining) MARVIN: Ohh, look at this! I think they like me! STEPHANIE: (Shakes her head in disgust) Yes, that's it. They really like you. (in a sarcastic tone). Now, I have a surprise for you Samantha. (Walks over the DVD/TV and presses play. Richard Simmons Sweating To The Oldies starts to play) MARVIN: What is this? Why does his hair look like he just put his finger in the light socket? And why is that man wearing a sequence jumper? Doesn't he know that that is so eighties and makes him look......well.......not manly? STEPHANIE: Oh yes he is well aware of it. Now, pay attention my little puppet. I want you to tell me what exactly is your plan for world domination? What are you going to do, who is involved and where do I fit in? MARVIN: I don't know what you are talking about Mistress? (stares at the TV.) Why is that woman hurting herself like that? STEPHANIE: Playing tough are we? Well two can play at that game. Let's see how long you will watch this before you crack under the pressure. (She walks out of the room and closes the door shut. MARVIN: This isn't too bad. (He smiles and starts to sing to the music) TWO HOURS LATER: MARIVN: (screaming) I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE! TOO MUCH FAT FLYING THROUGH THE AIR! HIS VOICE! I CAN'T TAKE HIS VOICE! MY GOD! (Stephanie laughs evilly from behind the door) STEPHANIE: Hehehe, he is finally ready!
Chapter 23: Separate Ways
The warm morning sunlight cast its rays upon Lily's face. She lay still, not wanting to open her eyes and commit to the day just yet. She was so comfortable and so warm that she buried her head into the pillow a little deeper. She felt her body become completely relaxed and heavy as the pillow moved up and down very subtly. She let out a soft sigh as she wrapped her arms around the pillow. She felt her blanket wrap itself around her a little more tightly and gently rub her back. As she lay there, she listened to the faint snoring that sounded so close to her.
"Faith must be up and looking for a station," she thought groggily to herself. A soft grunt interrupted the snore and Lily felt her bed shift a little and the blanket stop rubbing her back. "The bed moved. That's nice.........Wait a minute."
Lily slowly opened her eyes as reality began to seep into her brain. She looked around and to her surprise she wasn't comforted by the familiar surroundings of her dorm room, but the harsh gold and burgundy tapestries that decorated the common room. A loud yawn caused Lily to look up at the end of the couch. James was just starting to wake up as he ruffed his hair with closed eyes.
"Good morning," yawned James, ruffling up his already untidy black hair with his right hand.
"Good morning to you," smiled Lily up at him. "I take it we have been here all night." Lily made to sit up, but James had grabbed her and threw his arms around her again.
"What's the rush?" asked James, sliding down the couch a little more so he could cuddle with Lily a bit easier. Lily smiled and sank back down into his chest. Even in the morning he smelled good.
"Did you sleep well?" asked James quietly.
"The best I have in months," whispered Lily honestly. "I forgot where I was for a moment. Did you sleep all right?"
"Excellent," said James as he kissed her forehead. "I think that we should do this on a regular basis." He gave Lily a playful smirk as she gave him a tired smile.
"What time is it?" asked Lily lazily, looking at the clock.
"Seven," answered James. "But don't worry, it's Sunday and no one gets up before eight on the weekends."
"Well we should probably head back to our rooms before someone gets up and notices that we are not in our beds or they discover us down here. I don't want to have to explain that one," said Lily rubbing her eyes.
"You are probably right," stretched James.
A dull soreness spread through James's back as he made to stand up. He did not realize that he probably had lain in that same uncomfortable position all night. Lily tried to wake up her left arm as it tingled from falling asleep. They both walked quietly and groggily to the stairs separating the girls and boys dormitories. James leaned in to kiss Lily, but she yawned and backed away, secretly afraid that her own morning-breath would scare him away. James smiled and kissed her forehead. Both of them turned and walked into their dormitories and closed the door as quietly as possible. James walked up the stairs towards his room and quietly turned the doorknob. He did not want to draw attention to the fact that he was just now entering the room. As the door creaked open James was relieved to see that Sirius, Remus and Peter were all soundly snoring in their beds. He let out a slow breath and stepped into the room. Closing the door behind him, he tried to avoid the creaky spots on the hardwood floor. As he reached his bed he quickly took off his glasses, socks, shirt and pants. A loud snore drew his attention to the far side of the room where Peter was half laying off his bed with his mouth wide open. James grinned to himself and pulled back the comforter. He carefully slipped into bed and pulled the covers up to his chest. He let out a deep breath, feeling that his mission was successfully accomplished and closed his eyes. He shifted his body and sank a bit more into the soft mattress. A soft popping noise echoed throughout the room and suddenly James found himself being enveloped in a cloud of bluish-green smoke. James flew upright in his bed. All he could see was a dense smoke embracing him in his bed. He tried to wave it away from him but it seemed only to worsen the situation.
"YOU BLOODY GITS!" shouted James as he heard loud, rapturous laughter fill the room around him.
"That's what you get Prongs old boy for staying out all night and being a bad boy," James heard Sirius laugh.
"GET ME OUT OF THIS STUFF!" yelled James in Sirius's direction.
"It's more fun to watch you try and fight your way out," giggled Peter.
James felt anger rising through out his body. James grabbed at his nightstand and eventually his fingers found his wand. He waved it in a swift motion and the smoke disappeared. He threw on his glasses and looked around. Sirius was crumpled up on his bed in hysterics. Remus was laughing loudly and shaking his head at James as Peter giggled excitedly at end of his bed.
"What was that prank for?" yelled James angrily.
"No reason," laughed Sirius as he sat up. "Just thought it would be funny."
"Are you aware of the time?" asked Remus curiously and highly amused.
"What are you talking about? I've been here the whole time," said James, trying to cover his embarrassment.
"Yeah, sure you have pal," smirked Sirius. James threw him a dirty look.
"We placed that paint bomb in your bed last night," grinned Remus. "Where were you anyway?" James let out a low grunt, realizing it was no use trying to play innocent anymore.
"Lily and I fell asleep on a couch by the fire," confessed James.
"Snogging will do that to you," smirked Sirius, stretching his hands into the air.
"You know Padfoot, not everything is snogging related," said James. Peter giggled loudly from the corner of the room.
"Relax mate," laughed Sirius. "We saw you two sleeping. But, being the true pranksters we are, we thought that it would be truly awful to miss such an opportunity." James grinned in spite of himself and shook his head.
"But have fun getting that blue and green paint off of you," grinned Remus, laying back down and making himself comfortable. Sirius and Peter erupted into laughter and lay back down in their beds as James looked down at his body. Sure enough, he was covered in blue and green paint.
"Laugh it up now because I vow that I will repay you lot for this one," smirked James as he waved his wand over his body and made the paint disappear.
"Well then, as long as you vowed your revenge I guess I can go back to sleep," said Sirius sarcastically. Laughs and snickers echoed through out the room as James lay back down in his bed and rested his head on the pillow.
"Just keep on laughing now because you won't be laughing after what I have planned for you," muttered James as he closed his eyes.
"And what time did you get in this morning?" Lily felt her bed sink under the weight of a new person sitting on the edge of it. She groggily opened her eyes to see Faith peering down at her curiously.
"What time is it?" asked Lily tiredly. It felt like she had just closed her eyes.
"Nearly nine you bum," said Faith. "Did you have fun last night?"
"Yeah it was an all right time," said Lily trying to block the sunlight out of her face. "What time did you get in?"
"Earlier than you. I think I strolled in around four and to my surprise your bed was empty," smirked Faith as she lay down at the end of Lily's bed.
"I think I came in right after you," said Lily rubbing her eyes.
"Sure you did. When Sirius and I saw you and James on the couch both of you were out like lights. So how was it to wake up in James's arms?" smirked Faith mischievously.
"Oh Faith leave her alone," called Liz as she walked into the room freshly showered.
"I am her best friend and there is no harm in me wondering," said Faith sweetly. She turned her attention back onto Lily.
"So how was it?" Lily stopped rubbing her eyes and rested the back of her hands on her forehead. All she could do was grin. "I thought so," said Faith obviously satisfied. "Come on its time to get up and enjoy this beautifully cold Sunday morning at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry."
She tapped Lily on the side of her leg twice and Lily felt her bed rise as the added pressure of Faith's body lifted from it. Lily didn't feel like getting up just yet. She wanted to lie there and pretend that James's arms were still around her. She swore that she could still smell him on her clothes as she cradled her head in her arm. Waking up in his arms was one of the most wonderful feelings that she had ever experienced. Just thinking about him filled Lily with warmness as bright as the sun.
"Come on lazy butt we can't get anything to eat until you get going," came Faith's voice interrupting her thoughts. Resigned to the fact that she would be taunted and bothered until she got up, Lily reluctantly threw the covers off her and slowly got up out of bed to start the new day.
The next two weeks passed in a blur. Sensing the approaching holiday, all the teachers in Hogwarts seemed determined to squeeze in as much lessons and homework as possible before the students left for a whole two weeks and there brains turned to mush. Lily felt over worked as she continuously had a mountain of homework in front of her every night. Plus Head duties, patrolling duty and trying to sneak in some time with James was causing her wish for vacation more desperately by the minute, even if along with the holiday meant spending time with Petunia. The only saving grace that Lily was grateful for was that the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, Professor O'Malley, had decided to cancel dueling until after the holiday break. Although he said that it was because they needed to learn more defensive spells, Lily secretly thought that it was out of respect for the students who had suffered at the recent increase in Death Eater attacks on wizarding families through out the country. Before Lily realized she was sitting in the Great Hall, enjoying the end of semester feast that introduced the holiday break.
"So, when does your portkey leave?" asked Liz as she helped herself to more pasta.
"Um, it leaves at noon from the station," said Faith as she sipped her pumpkin juice.
"Are you excited to be going back to the States?" asked Lily.
"I guess," shrugged Faith. "I mean it is beautiful where my parents are stationed. You know Lils, you've been there." Lily nodded in agreement and continued eating. "It will be nice to see my parents, brothers and sister. But it's not really my home so it feels like I am just visiting them. You know like the old spinster aunt that everyone dreads when she suddenly shows up for two weeks."
"Oh come on Faith, I'm quite sure that your family doesn't think of you like that," reassured Lily. "A crotchety grandmother maybe, but not an old spinster aunt."
"Well as long as we've got that straight," grinned Faith. "I'm not looking forward to the reaction my dad is going to have when I tell him that I'm permanently moving here after term though. I bet he threatens to lock me up and throw away the key."
"I think you're overreacting," said Liz from behind a glass of pumpkin juice. "I think your parents will understand eventually."
"Ah, we will see I guess," smirked Faith. "But if I don't come back for New Year's Eve, then I'm expecting a full out rescue mission by you two. So anyway, when is Petunia's shower?"
"Sunday I think," said Lily shrugging. "I'm not really looking forward to it. She told me that she has taken care of everything and that all I have to do is just show up and not be a nuisance. Why I have to be there is beyond me."
"Well at least it will be nice to see your relatives again, Lils," said Liz.
"Yeah that's true," shrugged Lily searching the table for something to fill her sudden chocolate craving.
"So are we all set for tomorrow?" asked Sirius as he helped himself to a third helping of sweet mashed potatoes.
"Yeah. Mum and Dad sent me an owl yesterday saying that they will meet us at the platform," said James, gulping down his drink.
"Excellent. I bet they are absolutely ecstatic to be seeing me again," grinned Sirius digging into the pile of potatoes on his plate. James laughed and shook his head.
"Your mom coming to the platform, Moony?" asked James from behind his fork full of chicken.
"No, I told her that it would be faster for me to apparate home then for her to drive down here and back. Plus, I didn't want a confrontation with Liz and her. All I need is someone saying something they shouldn't and exposing everything," said Remus darkly from behind his glass of pumpkin juice.
"Good thinking," said James, shoveling more food into his mouth.
"Well all I know is that I can't wait for a little bit of fun and relaxation away from this place. I feel like I'm being cooped up here," said Sirius polishing off his chicken. "You two are still coming for New Year's Eve right?"
"Of course, I wouldn't miss it for anything," smiled Remus.
"Are you parents going to have it catered again?" asked Peter from behind his plateful of desert.
"I think so," shrugged James.
"The food was so good last year," said Peter casually as he inhaled a piece of cherry pie.
"The quidditch was even better," said James. "I can't wait for us to challenge my dad and his friends again."
"We are absolutely going to win this year. Especially since we will have most of our team with Liz and Faith are going to be there," said Sirius searching the table for his next item for consumption. "Yeah, it's going to be a good holiday." Sirius grabbed a platter of chocolate macaroons and dumped them on his plate.
"Faith come on or you are going to be late!" called Lily as she crammed some last minute things into her trunk and jumped on it to close it tight.
"I'm coming, I'm coming," said Faith lazily as she waved her wand at her books and they flew into her trunk.
"Well we have to get down to the Great Hall in fifteen minutes or we are going to miss the carriages," said Lily hurriedly.
"This bloody thing weighs a ton," huffed Liz as she tried to pull the trunk across the floor without success. She stopped and waved her wand at the trunk. Immediately it lifted off the ground and floated idlely in front of her. "There, that's much better."
"I think I am good to go," said Lily glancing around the room once more and looking for something that she might have forgotten.
"Accio robes!" said Faith waving her wand at the pile of clothes on her bed. They flew of the bed and into the trunk. "I love that charm." Faith looked around the room for anything she might have missed. "I think I'm good too."
"All right then let's go," said Lily elevating her trunk off the floor and steering it out of the room in front of her.
"Bye room, see you next year," said Liz as she took one last look around the room before closing the door tightly behind her. The three girls made their ways down the hall way and down the stairs. They had become pros at steering their trunks down the narrow hallway. The dormitory door had been kept open and Lily skillfully steered her trunk threw the door. The common room was half empty, as most students had made their way down to the Entrance Hall by now. James, Sirius and Remus were in the common room waiting for them to come down.
"It's about time. I though you were going to miss the carriages," said James as he elevated his trunk off the floor.
"Well we aren't in the carriages yet so don't go saying anything until we are actually in one and on our way to the train," said Lily steering her trunk towards the portrait hole.
"Are we ready?" asked Liz looking around the common room.
"I believe we are," said Faith annoyed. "Can we stop second guessing everything and just get out of here!"
"What about Peter?" asked James quickly. "He said he'd only be a minute."
"I'll get him," said Sirius, setting off at a run towards the boy's dormitories. He opened the door and stuck his head in. "HEY PETER! PUT A QUARTER IN IT!"
"I'm coming!" huffed Peter as he tried to pull his trunk down the steep stairwell.
"Peter, you have a wand or have you forgotten?" said Sirius in disgust. "Levitate your bloody trunk and lets get on with it!"
"Oh, right," said Peter turning a deep shade of red that made him look like an over cooked pig with blonde hair. He charmed his trunk and in a matter of minutes he was downstairs with the rest of the group.
"All right, let's go!" called James motioning towards the portrait hole.
One by one the group exited the portrait hole. Lily said goodbye to the Fat Lady, who was wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday, and happily began her journey to the entrance hall. Half way down the hall the boys decided to engage in the festive spirits floating in the air by singing carols. Lily laughed as James, Sirius and Remus conducted a rather out of tune version of Jingle Bells. Faith decided to join in on the fun and sang so loudly that several second years ran in fear of being seen near her. The entrance hall was filled with students making their ways out into the night to hop on a carriage to take them away to holiday bliss. All seven of the Gryffindor's dropped their trunks inside the Hall with the others and stepped out into the cold, crisp December air. Lily wrapped her burgundy and gold scarf around her a little tighter and walked towards the next available carriage. The carriage was warm and cozy inside. She slid all the way over towards the opposite window as James slid in next to her. Sirius, Faith, Liz and Remus all took seats opposite Lily and James as Peter plopped down in the only available seat next to James. James threw his arm around Lily as the carriage lurched forward. It seemed like they were only in there for a minute before the carriage stopped and a train station attendant was opening the door for them.
"You lot go and find a compartment. James and I have to make sure that everyone gets on the train all right," said Lily hugging her body against the coldness. Faith, Liz, Peter, Remus and Sirius boarded the train and disappeared from James and Lily's sights.
"I think we are pretty much the last carriage to arrive," said James looking up and down the platform. Lily nodded in agreement.
"I think you're right, but let's just make sure," said Lily walking towards the front of the train.
"Okay. I'll go this way and we'll meet back here," said James turning to walk towards the back of the train.
Other than a few confused looking first years needing help boarding the train, Lily found that everything was satisfactory. She headed back towards the middle of the platform and was joined moments later by James. They both boarded the train and began to search the compartments for their friends. Sure enough, they found them occupying the second to the last compartment.
"Well, I'd like to be the first to wish everyone a happy vacation," announced James as he slid the door shut behind himself.
"Hear, hear!" shouted Sirius, Liz and Remus in unison.
"I'm so glad that we finally get a nice long break," said Liz as she settled herself more comfortably against Remus's side.
"You said it. It will be nice not to have to think about homework, lessons or anything for two weeks," said Remus casually, throwing his arm around Liz.
"When are you coming back?" asked Sirius to Faith from the other end of bench on which James and Lily were sitting.
"I'll be here on the twenty-ninth," said Faith, sitting with her back pressed against the window, facing Sirius. "I'll be staying with Lily."
"That's a pretty long time to be away. Good thing I know that you are going to miss me terribly," smirked Sirius, grabbing Faith's hands in his.
"Who said I'm going to miss you?" asked Faith coyly. Sirius gave her a dashing grin and leaned in to kiss her.
"Petunia's shower should be interesting," said Lily answering Liz's question.
"Well please promise that you will send me an owl to let me know all wonderful details," grinned Liz.
"Of course," said Lily, leaning into James a little more.
"England certainly has a chance for the Quidditch finals this year. I think this will be their best year so far," said James to Remus and Peter.
"If they can beat Germany and Greece then I think they will be in a good position," said Remus thoughtfully.
"Yeah, but Austria is going to be tough to beat," said James, throwing his arm around Lily.
"That's cause they have Zingwilder," said Peter. "He is awesome."
"That he is. But I wouldn't count out Bulgaria just yet. Who do you bet will win, mate?" asked James looking over Lily and at Sirius. "Oh come on mate! Give it a rest!" Sirius and Faith were passionately kissing next to Lily. They both were too absorbed in each other to notice that the others began to laugh at them.
"Gits," muttered James, the corners of his mouth twitching as he turned back to the conversation at hand.
Faith and Sirius finally broke apart when it was time for them to change into muggle clothes. The mood in the compartment slowly became darker as the train pulled into the King's Cross station. Lily felt a twinge of dread as she reluctantly got up from the bench. For the first time Lily dreaded going home. Inside she felt like a little kid throwing a fit because she didn't want to leave. She didn't want to leave James or her friends but most of all she did not want to go home to deal with the horrible events that she knew awaited her. Everyone was very somber as they grabbed their trunks, exited the compartment and headed out the train door and onto the platform.
"There's my portkey," said Faith as she looked over at an older man who was standing guard next to an old purse by the opposite wall in the station. "Well have safe trips home all of you and I'll see you after Christmas."
"Be careful and send me an owl as soon as you get home," said Lily as she hugged Faith goodbye. "And good luck telling your dad about your plans on moving here after term."
"Thanks. I'm just glad that I get the results back after the first of the year when I'm here," said Faith with a small smile. "But good luck with Petunia's shower and wedding and let me know what happened." Lily nodded and she gave her best friend a hug once more.
"Potter," said Faith turning to face James, "Take care of yourself and watch out for Lily while I'm gone."
"Don't worry. You just take care of yourself and keep practicing so we can beat my dad on New Year's Eve," smiled James. Faith gave him a small smile and turned to Liz.
"Send me an owl too as soon as you get there," said Liz, grabbing Faith and hugging her tightly. "And don't worry about anything."
"I will and I'll see you real soon," said Faith giving Liz an equally tight hug.
"Remus, take care of yourself and I'll see you at New Year's," said Faith turning to Remus.
"Take care of yourself, Faith," said Remus giving her a quick hug goodbye.
"Hey now! Keep your hands to yourself there, Moony," joked Sirius.
"Goodbye Peter, have a good Christmas," said Faith letting go of Remus and ruffling up Peter's hair.
"Goodbye Faith," blushed Peter.
"Come on, I'll walk you over to the portkey," said Sirius grabbing Faith's hand and her trunk with the other. "Watch my trunk will you, Prongs?" James nodded and Sirius and Faith headed off to the other end of the station.
"Are you parents here?" asked Lily, as she watched Faith and Sirius kiss goodbye once more.
"They should be right outside the barrier," said James looking at the barrier as students walked through it in small groups, as to not draw too much attention to themselves in the muggle world. "How about your parents?"
"No. It is much easier for me to just apparated to our house than to have them drive all the way here and then drive all the way home," said Lily as she watched Faith mouth "Bye" to Sirius and grab a hold of the portkey. In an instant she was gone. Sirius stood there for a moment and then turned to walk back to the group.
"Well good then, I want you to meet my parents real quick," said James, looking at Lily.
"Huh? Already?" said Lily, sounding a little more nervous than she would have liked to.
"Yeah," laughed James, noticing her nervousness. "I thought that it would be nice if you met them before my party so that way you wouldn't feel so nervous. But, you have nothing to be worried about; I know that they will absolutely love you."
"Okay," said Lily looking at Liz nervously who in turn gave her a sympathy smile.
"All right mate?" asked James as Sirius walked up to the group.
"Yeah," said Sirius looking a little disheartened. "Are we all ready then?"
The group took their positions in line before the barrier. With each step that Lily took closer to the barrier, she could feel the nervousness in her stomach intensify. Before she knew it she was stepping through the barrier with James and thrust into the hustle and bustle of muggle life. Liz, Remus and Peter all said their goodbyes and apparated off the platform, leaving Sirius, James and Lily alone to meet James's parents.
"Over here," said James, steering Lily away from a crowd of people and over towards one of the brick columns. As they walked Lily saw two figures standing in clear view. She relaxed a little as she saw a tall man with James's messy black hair and his lean build. The woman next to him was very pretty. She had brownish-black hair and was slightly shorter than James. She was thin and Lily could see that James had inherited her hazel eyes and her nose.
"There he is," said the man, grinning broadly at the three of them. Lily noticed that he shared James's smile and mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Lily fell back slightly as James strode forward to hug his mother and shake his father's hand.
"All right mum and dad?" asked James, pulling back to address both of them.
"Oh, Sirius! How are you dear?" asked Mrs. Potter as she grabbed him and pulled him into a tight embrace.
"Mrs. Potter you are looking lovelier than ever," said Sirius as he kissed her cheek and released her.
"Oh stop," blushed Mrs. Potter swatting away the compliment. Sirius turned to Mr. Potter and shook his hand.
"Staying out of trouble, are we Sirius?" asked Mr. Potter, still grinning proudly at the boys standing in front of him.
"Of course," smirked Sirius. "You act like you don't know us by now." The four of them laughed and Mrs. Potter turned to address Lily.
"And who is this lovely young lady," smiled Mrs. Potter inquiringly at Lily.
"Mum and Dad, this is Lily Evans," said James proudly, striding over to Lily and putting his hand in hers.
"Oh so this is the Lily Evans that we have heard so much about," said Mr. Potter striding forward and extending a hand towards Lily. "It is very nice to meet you and put a face with all the descriptions." Lily felt the blood rushing to her cheeks as she stood there. How much had James talked about her to his parents? Her stomach tightened a little more at the thought.
"Thank you, sir. It is very nice to meet both of you," said Lily as James's mother shook her hand also. Mrs. Potter beamed as she looked from James to Lily and back again.
"So you are James's girlfriend," she said finally. "Knowing my son the way I do, all I can say is that you must be a very special girl to be able to endure his personality." Lily laughed and Mrs. Potter smiled down upon her.
"Oh mum, come on," said James, blushing and trying to hide his embarrassment. He reassuringly squeezed Lily's hand.
"James says that you are in Gryffindor also," said Mrs. Potter to Lily.
"Yes. We are the school's Heads and that is how we really came to know each other," said Lily. She didn't want to burst out and say that up until a few months ago she couldn't stand to be in the same vicinity as her son.
"Yup. Up until then she practically despised my very existence," smirked James.
"Thought you were a bit conceited and arrogant," chimed in Sirius taking great pleasure at the subtle dirty looks Lily was giving them.
"Ah, I like this girl already," joked Mr. Potter proudly. "Are you coming to our New Year's Party, Lily?"
"Um, I believe so," said Lily, trying not to blush from embarrassment. 'I'd give anything for Faith or Liz to be here right now,' she thought to herself. But in all honesty, it wasn't going too badly.
"Well I truly hope so," said Mrs. Potter. "I want to get to know the girl that stole my son's heart." She beamed at James, who gave her the shut-up- you-are-embarrassing-me look.
"I look forward to it," smiled Lily.
"Well, we'll let you two say goodbye," said Mr. Potter, winking at James. "Just meet us at home." James nodded and in a soft 'pop' both adults were gone, leaving Lily, James and Sirius in the station.
"Well Miss Evans, have a splendid holiday and I do believe that I shall be seeing you in the near future," said Sirius, bowing and grabbing her hand. He kissed it gently and let her hand fall back down to her side as he straightened up.
"Get off," smirked James playfully as he swatted at Sirius. Sirius smirked at him.
"Have a good holiday yourself, Sirius," said Lily. "And do try to stay out of trouble. Both of you." She looked from one to the other suspiciously.
"You have my word as a gentlemen," smirked Sirius. "See you at your house, mate." With a 'pop' the spot were Sirius occupied was empty. James turned to Lily and took her hands in hers.
"That wasn't too painful," smiled James, gently taking Lily's hands in his.
"No, not at all," said Lily returning the smile. The anxiety of meeting his parents was slowly draining from her body.
"I am going to miss you," said James, looking at her hands and gently tossing them in his own.
"I'm going to miss you too," said Lily realizing that she honestly was going to miss him. James wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close and kissed her. Lily did not want the kiss to ever end. She wanted to say right there in the station in James's arms. Neither one of them knew how long they had been there, but when they finally broke apart, there was sadness in both of their eyes.
"I don't know how I'm going to get through the day without seeing you," said James as he held Lily in his arms.
"I know," agreed Lily, staring into his hazel eyes. "But we will see each other soon. You are my date to my sister's wedding after all. And if you and Sirius get bored don't be afraid to send me an owl or visit. I'll need it."
"It's a deal," smiled James. He kissed her once more before realizing that it was inevitable to delay any longer. "Owl me to let me know that you got home all right."
"I will," laughed Lily. They broke away and stood a few feet away from each other.
"Ladies first," said James, gesturing for her to apparate first.
"I'll talk to you soon. Goodbye James," smiled Lily.
"Goodbye, Lily," grinned James.
He wanted to badly to tell her that he loved her right then and there. 'This isn't the time or the place,' he said to himself. A soft 'pop' told James that she was gone, but the smile on her face and the love in her brilliant emerald eyes still lingered after she had gone. James smiled to himself and felt a rush of wind as he left King's Cross Station and arrived in the living room of Godric's Hollow; his home.
Now it's my turn to send some Howlers! Mwwahhhhahahahhahaha!
Padfootlet- Have no fear, I have located the person that posted the picture with "Die Sirius Die" and I now have him locked up in my room. Just come on over and help me figure out what to do with him. I think maybe I'll send Snuggle Bear into the closet with him. Hehhehehe!!!! Oh and just to let you know, I also have Sirius tied up (But's a different situation ;) )
Luthein- I can't resist the fluff!
Sammy Solo- Sammy, Sammy!!! Thank you so much for the kind words. You don't know how good they made me feel! You are truly a special person and I respect you for your compassion. That is why you are my favorite reader! I hope that everything is well with you and that you like the chapter. P.S. Marvin is going to get it!
AnniePADFOOT- Don't panic! Pixie stixs are on the way! The cold chills are only temporary! My friends and I like to make milkshakes out of the free creamer and sugar packets at diners. It's a good way to get you sugar high quickly. Although, I found out that if you go to Denny's and use up all of the creamer and sugar at your table, it is not wise to go table-hopping and take the rest of them. That stupid manager! Thinks he can ban me from going in there!
Lady Friday- I am so happy! I got the Evil Elvis Monkey Impersonators to play at my cousin's wedding. It should be a good time, although it may be a little slippery. Oh well. I hope everything is well with you.
flyingwind33 –What's up girl!!! I love writing patrolling duties. It's one of the only times went James and Lily can truly be alone. Plus, I think that if I were a prefect I would take full advantage of that time alone with my boyfriend. Opps, I did not say that ;) Will the secrets be revealed? Well we know Remus's will for certain. Stay cool woman!
Jack Robinson – Hey what's up 'Jack'? I'm glad that you liked this chapter. I'll give you a little hint, if you liked this one then you are going to love the New Year's Eve Party chapter. I can't wait for you to read it. Hope all is well with you and yours. Talk to you soon.
charmed girl33 – Hey girl, what's up? How do you like being a freshman? I totally hated it. We had freshman Friday's where the older grades tortured us. Fortunately for me I looked older than I was and I was spared being given a swirly or hung on a hook in the locker room. But since you go to an all girls' school, hopefully it is a little better. I went to a public school and I hope that the girls aren't as vicious in the private school as they were in the public. But if they give you a hard time, do what Faith would do and tell them to "eat shit and die". Lol I hope that things are well and that you like this chapter. One hint, Lily meets James's parents. Hehehehe. Talk to you later.
Julia – Hey girl what's up? James is going to be Lily's date to the wedding. I can't wait to write that part. I have some good ideas for it. I liked POA a lot better the second and third times I saw it. I didn't like it the first time I saw it, but it's growing on me. I can't wait for the sixth book! I wish she would hurry up. I'm reading "The Notebook", by Nicholas Sparks right now. It is such a wonderful romantic story. Too bad there aren't good, romantic men like that in real life. But oh well. I hope everything is well with you and I'll talk to you soon.
Kittyofwonder- Hey what's up? Thanks for the suggestion. I was actually thinking of something like that. But I have come up with something so sweet and romantic that I guarantee that you will cry. It's not in this chapter, but it is coming up soon. I hope that you are doing all right and I hope you like this chapter.
Swishy Willow Wand- What's up? If you want ,I have some pictures from the Chimp Nudist Colonies. I would hate to have to have you mentally picture it. Actually it's very amusing to see all of those chimps running, swimming and playing chess nude.
alicia spinet – Ut oh! What did you do to be punished? If you did anything like me, then you trashed your hated math teachers car, put rotten eggs and fish into the ceiling tiles off your aunt's house, snuck out and went down to the dock to go swimming with your friends and painted your father's toe nails when he was sleeping. No, I really didn't do any of those things, but I'm glad that you are off punishment. I'll talk to you soon!
LJstagflower4e/JCtigerwolf4e – Hey what's up? I know that you are not going to be home, but I wanted to say Hi anyway. I hope that you had fun at your movie camp! Talk to you later Rebecca!
Val – Hey what's up? Unfortnualtey I am not brown all year long, but I use a sunless bronzer so I at least look brown. Hmm...M.J guilty or innocent. I think he's guilty. He is a strange boy and if I had a child, I would not let him stay over at his house. That is just wrong on so many different levels. Thank you for your condolences, I really appreciate them! I liked HP3 a lot better the second and third times I saw it. I think it is the best one so far, but it felt a little rushed. I hope that HP4 is longer. I love Fred and George. I would date them, I think the are much cuter with the longer hair. Hmm..I don't really know what my favorite animal is. Probably dogs. I love dogs, but big ones, not little ones. I hope that you are doing great and I'll talk to you later.
blueviolinist33- Hey girl, what's up? I hope that you passed your audition. I always wanted to play an instrument and I know that the violin is a very disciplined instrument to play. But I bet that you passed. Let me know if you did! I understand the mountain of homework thing. I hated and to this day still hate homework. I figure that home is for me to do whatever I want, not to be typing papers until 2 am about whether I think that Ethics are important enough to be taught in schools. Anway, kind of rambling there, I hope that you like this chapter. Talk to you later girly!
Courtney – Hey, thanks for the review. I hope that you like this chapter too. I have a feeling that you will. Talk to you soon and keep on reviewing.
Amanda – Hey what's up? I hope things are going well with you. I'm glad that you liked the chapter. I think that everyone knows that James has been in love with Lily for a long time, but he just doesn't have the guts to say it to her face....yet. I can't wait to write the chapter when he says it to her face. Hehehe. Talk to you laters.
RebelSheep – I have the documentary taped if you want to borrow it. It actually is very interesting. I'm glad that you liked the chapter and I hope that you like this one as well. It's getting closer to Petunia's wedding. I can't wait for you all to read it! Talk to you soon.
devil-aimee- Hey Aimee! What's up girl? I'm so glad that you had a goat- free internship. I prayed that you wouldn't see any and if you did that you would destroy it with your ray vision. Hmm...about the saying I love you to a guy thing. That is hard. I am 23 and have only said I love you to one guy and I didn't really mean it. He said it to me and I felt bad, so I said it back. I don't recommend that. I would say that if you really, really love him and you feel that he loves you, and you have been in a relationship for a while, then I would say it. Just whisper it or something in his ear. I'm quite sure that he will say it back and if he doesn't then he isn't worth saying it too. But I hope that it goes well for you and keep me posted. Talk to you later.
Bloody Murder- I have posted to cure you insanity! I totally agree with you about the rest of them (motions to other reviewers). They are a bunch of nutters. But let's keep it between you and I and the fencepost. Besides, I am their Queen and I like to live on the Happy Acres Insane Farm that I have built. Mwwuuuahhhahaha! Come join me and I will name you Sally! Sorry, too much sugar. Thank you for the wonderful comments and I hope that you like this chapter as well. Talk to you later.
Pdlegirl – Wow, you read this story straight through? How long did that take? I have respect for you because on my computer it says that it is 215 pages long. I am psyched that you like my story and I hope that you keep reading and reviewing to keep me updated on what you think about it! Talk to you later.
Cynthia- Thank you for the wonderful review. You really touched my heart and it was nice to know that you appreciate my story. I have to agree with you that I love long stories. I don't like to rush into the story; I think that it is bad for character and plot development. Anyway, I hope that you continue to read my story and let me know what you think. Talk to you laters.
Marvin the Gender Confused Puma and Stephanie the Mad Mistress present a Crack Monkey Cartoon!
Today's Episode:
STEPHANIE: Yes, today is the day that Marvin will pay for all of the horrible things he did to me. (rubs hands together and grins) Oh Samantha! Come in her please. (Marvin comes prancing into the room in a pink ballerina tutu and a flannel shirt. MARVIN: Yes Mistress Stephanie? STEPHANIE: Samantha, come here. I would like to sit and talk with you. (points to a chair with leather straps on the seat.) MARVIN: Oh goody, goody gum drops! (He prances over to the chair and plops down upon it happily) What do you want to talk about? How about butterflies or how bark is made or OH, how about what smell you would have come out of your armpits? (Looks hopeful at Stephanie who scowls back at him) STEPHANIE: No Samantha, I was thinking something more along the lines of fun. (The straps spring to life and tie around his wrists. Marvin laughs as he thinks they are entertaining) MARVIN: Ohh, look at this! I think they like me! STEPHANIE: (Shakes her head in disgust) Yes, that's it. They really like you. (in a sarcastic tone). Now, I have a surprise for you Samantha. (Walks over the DVD/TV and presses play. Richard Simmons Sweating To The Oldies starts to play) MARVIN: What is this? Why does his hair look like he just put his finger in the light socket? And why is that man wearing a sequence jumper? Doesn't he know that that is so eighties and makes him look......well.......not manly? STEPHANIE: Oh yes he is well aware of it. Now, pay attention my little puppet. I want you to tell me what exactly is your plan for world domination? What are you going to do, who is involved and where do I fit in? MARVIN: I don't know what you are talking about Mistress? (stares at the TV.) Why is that woman hurting herself like that? STEPHANIE: Playing tough are we? Well two can play at that game. Let's see how long you will watch this before you crack under the pressure. (She walks out of the room and closes the door shut. MARVIN: This isn't too bad. (He smiles and starts to sing to the music) TWO HOURS LATER: MARIVN: (screaming) I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE! TOO MUCH FAT FLYING THROUGH THE AIR! HIS VOICE! I CAN'T TAKE HIS VOICE! MY GOD! (Stephanie laughs evilly from behind the door) STEPHANIE: Hehehe, he is finally ready!
Chapter 23: Separate Ways
The warm morning sunlight cast its rays upon Lily's face. She lay still, not wanting to open her eyes and commit to the day just yet. She was so comfortable and so warm that she buried her head into the pillow a little deeper. She felt her body become completely relaxed and heavy as the pillow moved up and down very subtly. She let out a soft sigh as she wrapped her arms around the pillow. She felt her blanket wrap itself around her a little more tightly and gently rub her back. As she lay there, she listened to the faint snoring that sounded so close to her.
"Faith must be up and looking for a station," she thought groggily to herself. A soft grunt interrupted the snore and Lily felt her bed shift a little and the blanket stop rubbing her back. "The bed moved. That's nice.........Wait a minute."
Lily slowly opened her eyes as reality began to seep into her brain. She looked around and to her surprise she wasn't comforted by the familiar surroundings of her dorm room, but the harsh gold and burgundy tapestries that decorated the common room. A loud yawn caused Lily to look up at the end of the couch. James was just starting to wake up as he ruffed his hair with closed eyes.
"Good morning," yawned James, ruffling up his already untidy black hair with his right hand.
"Good morning to you," smiled Lily up at him. "I take it we have been here all night." Lily made to sit up, but James had grabbed her and threw his arms around her again.
"What's the rush?" asked James, sliding down the couch a little more so he could cuddle with Lily a bit easier. Lily smiled and sank back down into his chest. Even in the morning he smelled good.
"Did you sleep well?" asked James quietly.
"The best I have in months," whispered Lily honestly. "I forgot where I was for a moment. Did you sleep all right?"
"Excellent," said James as he kissed her forehead. "I think that we should do this on a regular basis." He gave Lily a playful smirk as she gave him a tired smile.
"What time is it?" asked Lily lazily, looking at the clock.
"Seven," answered James. "But don't worry, it's Sunday and no one gets up before eight on the weekends."
"Well we should probably head back to our rooms before someone gets up and notices that we are not in our beds or they discover us down here. I don't want to have to explain that one," said Lily rubbing her eyes.
"You are probably right," stretched James.
A dull soreness spread through James's back as he made to stand up. He did not realize that he probably had lain in that same uncomfortable position all night. Lily tried to wake up her left arm as it tingled from falling asleep. They both walked quietly and groggily to the stairs separating the girls and boys dormitories. James leaned in to kiss Lily, but she yawned and backed away, secretly afraid that her own morning-breath would scare him away. James smiled and kissed her forehead. Both of them turned and walked into their dormitories and closed the door as quietly as possible. James walked up the stairs towards his room and quietly turned the doorknob. He did not want to draw attention to the fact that he was just now entering the room. As the door creaked open James was relieved to see that Sirius, Remus and Peter were all soundly snoring in their beds. He let out a slow breath and stepped into the room. Closing the door behind him, he tried to avoid the creaky spots on the hardwood floor. As he reached his bed he quickly took off his glasses, socks, shirt and pants. A loud snore drew his attention to the far side of the room where Peter was half laying off his bed with his mouth wide open. James grinned to himself and pulled back the comforter. He carefully slipped into bed and pulled the covers up to his chest. He let out a deep breath, feeling that his mission was successfully accomplished and closed his eyes. He shifted his body and sank a bit more into the soft mattress. A soft popping noise echoed throughout the room and suddenly James found himself being enveloped in a cloud of bluish-green smoke. James flew upright in his bed. All he could see was a dense smoke embracing him in his bed. He tried to wave it away from him but it seemed only to worsen the situation.
"YOU BLOODY GITS!" shouted James as he heard loud, rapturous laughter fill the room around him.
"That's what you get Prongs old boy for staying out all night and being a bad boy," James heard Sirius laugh.
"GET ME OUT OF THIS STUFF!" yelled James in Sirius's direction.
"It's more fun to watch you try and fight your way out," giggled Peter.
James felt anger rising through out his body. James grabbed at his nightstand and eventually his fingers found his wand. He waved it in a swift motion and the smoke disappeared. He threw on his glasses and looked around. Sirius was crumpled up on his bed in hysterics. Remus was laughing loudly and shaking his head at James as Peter giggled excitedly at end of his bed.
"What was that prank for?" yelled James angrily.
"No reason," laughed Sirius as he sat up. "Just thought it would be funny."
"Are you aware of the time?" asked Remus curiously and highly amused.
"What are you talking about? I've been here the whole time," said James, trying to cover his embarrassment.
"Yeah, sure you have pal," smirked Sirius. James threw him a dirty look.
"We placed that paint bomb in your bed last night," grinned Remus. "Where were you anyway?" James let out a low grunt, realizing it was no use trying to play innocent anymore.
"Lily and I fell asleep on a couch by the fire," confessed James.
"Snogging will do that to you," smirked Sirius, stretching his hands into the air.
"You know Padfoot, not everything is snogging related," said James. Peter giggled loudly from the corner of the room.
"Relax mate," laughed Sirius. "We saw you two sleeping. But, being the true pranksters we are, we thought that it would be truly awful to miss such an opportunity." James grinned in spite of himself and shook his head.
"But have fun getting that blue and green paint off of you," grinned Remus, laying back down and making himself comfortable. Sirius and Peter erupted into laughter and lay back down in their beds as James looked down at his body. Sure enough, he was covered in blue and green paint.
"Laugh it up now because I vow that I will repay you lot for this one," smirked James as he waved his wand over his body and made the paint disappear.
"Well then, as long as you vowed your revenge I guess I can go back to sleep," said Sirius sarcastically. Laughs and snickers echoed through out the room as James lay back down in his bed and rested his head on the pillow.
"Just keep on laughing now because you won't be laughing after what I have planned for you," muttered James as he closed his eyes.
"And what time did you get in this morning?" Lily felt her bed sink under the weight of a new person sitting on the edge of it. She groggily opened her eyes to see Faith peering down at her curiously.
"What time is it?" asked Lily tiredly. It felt like she had just closed her eyes.
"Nearly nine you bum," said Faith. "Did you have fun last night?"
"Yeah it was an all right time," said Lily trying to block the sunlight out of her face. "What time did you get in?"
"Earlier than you. I think I strolled in around four and to my surprise your bed was empty," smirked Faith as she lay down at the end of Lily's bed.
"I think I came in right after you," said Lily rubbing her eyes.
"Sure you did. When Sirius and I saw you and James on the couch both of you were out like lights. So how was it to wake up in James's arms?" smirked Faith mischievously.
"Oh Faith leave her alone," called Liz as she walked into the room freshly showered.
"I am her best friend and there is no harm in me wondering," said Faith sweetly. She turned her attention back onto Lily.
"So how was it?" Lily stopped rubbing her eyes and rested the back of her hands on her forehead. All she could do was grin. "I thought so," said Faith obviously satisfied. "Come on its time to get up and enjoy this beautifully cold Sunday morning at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry."
She tapped Lily on the side of her leg twice and Lily felt her bed rise as the added pressure of Faith's body lifted from it. Lily didn't feel like getting up just yet. She wanted to lie there and pretend that James's arms were still around her. She swore that she could still smell him on her clothes as she cradled her head in her arm. Waking up in his arms was one of the most wonderful feelings that she had ever experienced. Just thinking about him filled Lily with warmness as bright as the sun.
"Come on lazy butt we can't get anything to eat until you get going," came Faith's voice interrupting her thoughts. Resigned to the fact that she would be taunted and bothered until she got up, Lily reluctantly threw the covers off her and slowly got up out of bed to start the new day.
The next two weeks passed in a blur. Sensing the approaching holiday, all the teachers in Hogwarts seemed determined to squeeze in as much lessons and homework as possible before the students left for a whole two weeks and there brains turned to mush. Lily felt over worked as she continuously had a mountain of homework in front of her every night. Plus Head duties, patrolling duty and trying to sneak in some time with James was causing her wish for vacation more desperately by the minute, even if along with the holiday meant spending time with Petunia. The only saving grace that Lily was grateful for was that the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, Professor O'Malley, had decided to cancel dueling until after the holiday break. Although he said that it was because they needed to learn more defensive spells, Lily secretly thought that it was out of respect for the students who had suffered at the recent increase in Death Eater attacks on wizarding families through out the country. Before Lily realized she was sitting in the Great Hall, enjoying the end of semester feast that introduced the holiday break.
"So, when does your portkey leave?" asked Liz as she helped herself to more pasta.
"Um, it leaves at noon from the station," said Faith as she sipped her pumpkin juice.
"Are you excited to be going back to the States?" asked Lily.
"I guess," shrugged Faith. "I mean it is beautiful where my parents are stationed. You know Lils, you've been there." Lily nodded in agreement and continued eating. "It will be nice to see my parents, brothers and sister. But it's not really my home so it feels like I am just visiting them. You know like the old spinster aunt that everyone dreads when she suddenly shows up for two weeks."
"Oh come on Faith, I'm quite sure that your family doesn't think of you like that," reassured Lily. "A crotchety grandmother maybe, but not an old spinster aunt."
"Well as long as we've got that straight," grinned Faith. "I'm not looking forward to the reaction my dad is going to have when I tell him that I'm permanently moving here after term though. I bet he threatens to lock me up and throw away the key."
"I think you're overreacting," said Liz from behind a glass of pumpkin juice. "I think your parents will understand eventually."
"Ah, we will see I guess," smirked Faith. "But if I don't come back for New Year's Eve, then I'm expecting a full out rescue mission by you two. So anyway, when is Petunia's shower?"
"Sunday I think," said Lily shrugging. "I'm not really looking forward to it. She told me that she has taken care of everything and that all I have to do is just show up and not be a nuisance. Why I have to be there is beyond me."
"Well at least it will be nice to see your relatives again, Lils," said Liz.
"Yeah that's true," shrugged Lily searching the table for something to fill her sudden chocolate craving.
"So are we all set for tomorrow?" asked Sirius as he helped himself to a third helping of sweet mashed potatoes.
"Yeah. Mum and Dad sent me an owl yesterday saying that they will meet us at the platform," said James, gulping down his drink.
"Excellent. I bet they are absolutely ecstatic to be seeing me again," grinned Sirius digging into the pile of potatoes on his plate. James laughed and shook his head.
"Your mom coming to the platform, Moony?" asked James from behind his fork full of chicken.
"No, I told her that it would be faster for me to apparate home then for her to drive down here and back. Plus, I didn't want a confrontation with Liz and her. All I need is someone saying something they shouldn't and exposing everything," said Remus darkly from behind his glass of pumpkin juice.
"Good thinking," said James, shoveling more food into his mouth.
"Well all I know is that I can't wait for a little bit of fun and relaxation away from this place. I feel like I'm being cooped up here," said Sirius polishing off his chicken. "You two are still coming for New Year's Eve right?"
"Of course, I wouldn't miss it for anything," smiled Remus.
"Are you parents going to have it catered again?" asked Peter from behind his plateful of desert.
"I think so," shrugged James.
"The food was so good last year," said Peter casually as he inhaled a piece of cherry pie.
"The quidditch was even better," said James. "I can't wait for us to challenge my dad and his friends again."
"We are absolutely going to win this year. Especially since we will have most of our team with Liz and Faith are going to be there," said Sirius searching the table for his next item for consumption. "Yeah, it's going to be a good holiday." Sirius grabbed a platter of chocolate macaroons and dumped them on his plate.
"Faith come on or you are going to be late!" called Lily as she crammed some last minute things into her trunk and jumped on it to close it tight.
"I'm coming, I'm coming," said Faith lazily as she waved her wand at her books and they flew into her trunk.
"Well we have to get down to the Great Hall in fifteen minutes or we are going to miss the carriages," said Lily hurriedly.
"This bloody thing weighs a ton," huffed Liz as she tried to pull the trunk across the floor without success. She stopped and waved her wand at the trunk. Immediately it lifted off the ground and floated idlely in front of her. "There, that's much better."
"I think I am good to go," said Lily glancing around the room once more and looking for something that she might have forgotten.
"Accio robes!" said Faith waving her wand at the pile of clothes on her bed. They flew of the bed and into the trunk. "I love that charm." Faith looked around the room for anything she might have missed. "I think I'm good too."
"All right then let's go," said Lily elevating her trunk off the floor and steering it out of the room in front of her.
"Bye room, see you next year," said Liz as she took one last look around the room before closing the door tightly behind her. The three girls made their ways down the hall way and down the stairs. They had become pros at steering their trunks down the narrow hallway. The dormitory door had been kept open and Lily skillfully steered her trunk threw the door. The common room was half empty, as most students had made their way down to the Entrance Hall by now. James, Sirius and Remus were in the common room waiting for them to come down.
"It's about time. I though you were going to miss the carriages," said James as he elevated his trunk off the floor.
"Well we aren't in the carriages yet so don't go saying anything until we are actually in one and on our way to the train," said Lily steering her trunk towards the portrait hole.
"Are we ready?" asked Liz looking around the common room.
"I believe we are," said Faith annoyed. "Can we stop second guessing everything and just get out of here!"
"What about Peter?" asked James quickly. "He said he'd only be a minute."
"I'll get him," said Sirius, setting off at a run towards the boy's dormitories. He opened the door and stuck his head in. "HEY PETER! PUT A QUARTER IN IT!"
"I'm coming!" huffed Peter as he tried to pull his trunk down the steep stairwell.
"Peter, you have a wand or have you forgotten?" said Sirius in disgust. "Levitate your bloody trunk and lets get on with it!"
"Oh, right," said Peter turning a deep shade of red that made him look like an over cooked pig with blonde hair. He charmed his trunk and in a matter of minutes he was downstairs with the rest of the group.
"All right, let's go!" called James motioning towards the portrait hole.
One by one the group exited the portrait hole. Lily said goodbye to the Fat Lady, who was wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday, and happily began her journey to the entrance hall. Half way down the hall the boys decided to engage in the festive spirits floating in the air by singing carols. Lily laughed as James, Sirius and Remus conducted a rather out of tune version of Jingle Bells. Faith decided to join in on the fun and sang so loudly that several second years ran in fear of being seen near her. The entrance hall was filled with students making their ways out into the night to hop on a carriage to take them away to holiday bliss. All seven of the Gryffindor's dropped their trunks inside the Hall with the others and stepped out into the cold, crisp December air. Lily wrapped her burgundy and gold scarf around her a little tighter and walked towards the next available carriage. The carriage was warm and cozy inside. She slid all the way over towards the opposite window as James slid in next to her. Sirius, Faith, Liz and Remus all took seats opposite Lily and James as Peter plopped down in the only available seat next to James. James threw his arm around Lily as the carriage lurched forward. It seemed like they were only in there for a minute before the carriage stopped and a train station attendant was opening the door for them.
"You lot go and find a compartment. James and I have to make sure that everyone gets on the train all right," said Lily hugging her body against the coldness. Faith, Liz, Peter, Remus and Sirius boarded the train and disappeared from James and Lily's sights.
"I think we are pretty much the last carriage to arrive," said James looking up and down the platform. Lily nodded in agreement.
"I think you're right, but let's just make sure," said Lily walking towards the front of the train.
"Okay. I'll go this way and we'll meet back here," said James turning to walk towards the back of the train.
Other than a few confused looking first years needing help boarding the train, Lily found that everything was satisfactory. She headed back towards the middle of the platform and was joined moments later by James. They both boarded the train and began to search the compartments for their friends. Sure enough, they found them occupying the second to the last compartment.
"Well, I'd like to be the first to wish everyone a happy vacation," announced James as he slid the door shut behind himself.
"Hear, hear!" shouted Sirius, Liz and Remus in unison.
"I'm so glad that we finally get a nice long break," said Liz as she settled herself more comfortably against Remus's side.
"You said it. It will be nice not to have to think about homework, lessons or anything for two weeks," said Remus casually, throwing his arm around Liz.
"When are you coming back?" asked Sirius to Faith from the other end of bench on which James and Lily were sitting.
"I'll be here on the twenty-ninth," said Faith, sitting with her back pressed against the window, facing Sirius. "I'll be staying with Lily."
"That's a pretty long time to be away. Good thing I know that you are going to miss me terribly," smirked Sirius, grabbing Faith's hands in his.
"Who said I'm going to miss you?" asked Faith coyly. Sirius gave her a dashing grin and leaned in to kiss her.
"Petunia's shower should be interesting," said Lily answering Liz's question.
"Well please promise that you will send me an owl to let me know all wonderful details," grinned Liz.
"Of course," said Lily, leaning into James a little more.
"England certainly has a chance for the Quidditch finals this year. I think this will be their best year so far," said James to Remus and Peter.
"If they can beat Germany and Greece then I think they will be in a good position," said Remus thoughtfully.
"Yeah, but Austria is going to be tough to beat," said James, throwing his arm around Lily.
"That's cause they have Zingwilder," said Peter. "He is awesome."
"That he is. But I wouldn't count out Bulgaria just yet. Who do you bet will win, mate?" asked James looking over Lily and at Sirius. "Oh come on mate! Give it a rest!" Sirius and Faith were passionately kissing next to Lily. They both were too absorbed in each other to notice that the others began to laugh at them.
"Gits," muttered James, the corners of his mouth twitching as he turned back to the conversation at hand.
Faith and Sirius finally broke apart when it was time for them to change into muggle clothes. The mood in the compartment slowly became darker as the train pulled into the King's Cross station. Lily felt a twinge of dread as she reluctantly got up from the bench. For the first time Lily dreaded going home. Inside she felt like a little kid throwing a fit because she didn't want to leave. She didn't want to leave James or her friends but most of all she did not want to go home to deal with the horrible events that she knew awaited her. Everyone was very somber as they grabbed their trunks, exited the compartment and headed out the train door and onto the platform.
"There's my portkey," said Faith as she looked over at an older man who was standing guard next to an old purse by the opposite wall in the station. "Well have safe trips home all of you and I'll see you after Christmas."
"Be careful and send me an owl as soon as you get home," said Lily as she hugged Faith goodbye. "And good luck telling your dad about your plans on moving here after term."
"Thanks. I'm just glad that I get the results back after the first of the year when I'm here," said Faith with a small smile. "But good luck with Petunia's shower and wedding and let me know what happened." Lily nodded and she gave her best friend a hug once more.
"Potter," said Faith turning to face James, "Take care of yourself and watch out for Lily while I'm gone."
"Don't worry. You just take care of yourself and keep practicing so we can beat my dad on New Year's Eve," smiled James. Faith gave him a small smile and turned to Liz.
"Send me an owl too as soon as you get there," said Liz, grabbing Faith and hugging her tightly. "And don't worry about anything."
"I will and I'll see you real soon," said Faith giving Liz an equally tight hug.
"Remus, take care of yourself and I'll see you at New Year's," said Faith turning to Remus.
"Take care of yourself, Faith," said Remus giving her a quick hug goodbye.
"Hey now! Keep your hands to yourself there, Moony," joked Sirius.
"Goodbye Peter, have a good Christmas," said Faith letting go of Remus and ruffling up Peter's hair.
"Goodbye Faith," blushed Peter.
"Come on, I'll walk you over to the portkey," said Sirius grabbing Faith's hand and her trunk with the other. "Watch my trunk will you, Prongs?" James nodded and Sirius and Faith headed off to the other end of the station.
"Are you parents here?" asked Lily, as she watched Faith and Sirius kiss goodbye once more.
"They should be right outside the barrier," said James looking at the barrier as students walked through it in small groups, as to not draw too much attention to themselves in the muggle world. "How about your parents?"
"No. It is much easier for me to just apparated to our house than to have them drive all the way here and then drive all the way home," said Lily as she watched Faith mouth "Bye" to Sirius and grab a hold of the portkey. In an instant she was gone. Sirius stood there for a moment and then turned to walk back to the group.
"Well good then, I want you to meet my parents real quick," said James, looking at Lily.
"Huh? Already?" said Lily, sounding a little more nervous than she would have liked to.
"Yeah," laughed James, noticing her nervousness. "I thought that it would be nice if you met them before my party so that way you wouldn't feel so nervous. But, you have nothing to be worried about; I know that they will absolutely love you."
"Okay," said Lily looking at Liz nervously who in turn gave her a sympathy smile.
"All right mate?" asked James as Sirius walked up to the group.
"Yeah," said Sirius looking a little disheartened. "Are we all ready then?"
The group took their positions in line before the barrier. With each step that Lily took closer to the barrier, she could feel the nervousness in her stomach intensify. Before she knew it she was stepping through the barrier with James and thrust into the hustle and bustle of muggle life. Liz, Remus and Peter all said their goodbyes and apparated off the platform, leaving Sirius, James and Lily alone to meet James's parents.
"Over here," said James, steering Lily away from a crowd of people and over towards one of the brick columns. As they walked Lily saw two figures standing in clear view. She relaxed a little as she saw a tall man with James's messy black hair and his lean build. The woman next to him was very pretty. She had brownish-black hair and was slightly shorter than James. She was thin and Lily could see that James had inherited her hazel eyes and her nose.
"There he is," said the man, grinning broadly at the three of them. Lily noticed that he shared James's smile and mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Lily fell back slightly as James strode forward to hug his mother and shake his father's hand.
"All right mum and dad?" asked James, pulling back to address both of them.
"Oh, Sirius! How are you dear?" asked Mrs. Potter as she grabbed him and pulled him into a tight embrace.
"Mrs. Potter you are looking lovelier than ever," said Sirius as he kissed her cheek and released her.
"Oh stop," blushed Mrs. Potter swatting away the compliment. Sirius turned to Mr. Potter and shook his hand.
"Staying out of trouble, are we Sirius?" asked Mr. Potter, still grinning proudly at the boys standing in front of him.
"Of course," smirked Sirius. "You act like you don't know us by now." The four of them laughed and Mrs. Potter turned to address Lily.
"And who is this lovely young lady," smiled Mrs. Potter inquiringly at Lily.
"Mum and Dad, this is Lily Evans," said James proudly, striding over to Lily and putting his hand in hers.
"Oh so this is the Lily Evans that we have heard so much about," said Mr. Potter striding forward and extending a hand towards Lily. "It is very nice to meet you and put a face with all the descriptions." Lily felt the blood rushing to her cheeks as she stood there. How much had James talked about her to his parents? Her stomach tightened a little more at the thought.
"Thank you, sir. It is very nice to meet both of you," said Lily as James's mother shook her hand also. Mrs. Potter beamed as she looked from James to Lily and back again.
"So you are James's girlfriend," she said finally. "Knowing my son the way I do, all I can say is that you must be a very special girl to be able to endure his personality." Lily laughed and Mrs. Potter smiled down upon her.
"Oh mum, come on," said James, blushing and trying to hide his embarrassment. He reassuringly squeezed Lily's hand.
"James says that you are in Gryffindor also," said Mrs. Potter to Lily.
"Yes. We are the school's Heads and that is how we really came to know each other," said Lily. She didn't want to burst out and say that up until a few months ago she couldn't stand to be in the same vicinity as her son.
"Yup. Up until then she practically despised my very existence," smirked James.
"Thought you were a bit conceited and arrogant," chimed in Sirius taking great pleasure at the subtle dirty looks Lily was giving them.
"Ah, I like this girl already," joked Mr. Potter proudly. "Are you coming to our New Year's Party, Lily?"
"Um, I believe so," said Lily, trying not to blush from embarrassment. 'I'd give anything for Faith or Liz to be here right now,' she thought to herself. But in all honesty, it wasn't going too badly.
"Well I truly hope so," said Mrs. Potter. "I want to get to know the girl that stole my son's heart." She beamed at James, who gave her the shut-up- you-are-embarrassing-me look.
"I look forward to it," smiled Lily.
"Well, we'll let you two say goodbye," said Mr. Potter, winking at James. "Just meet us at home." James nodded and in a soft 'pop' both adults were gone, leaving Lily, James and Sirius in the station.
"Well Miss Evans, have a splendid holiday and I do believe that I shall be seeing you in the near future," said Sirius, bowing and grabbing her hand. He kissed it gently and let her hand fall back down to her side as he straightened up.
"Get off," smirked James playfully as he swatted at Sirius. Sirius smirked at him.
"Have a good holiday yourself, Sirius," said Lily. "And do try to stay out of trouble. Both of you." She looked from one to the other suspiciously.
"You have my word as a gentlemen," smirked Sirius. "See you at your house, mate." With a 'pop' the spot were Sirius occupied was empty. James turned to Lily and took her hands in hers.
"That wasn't too painful," smiled James, gently taking Lily's hands in his.
"No, not at all," said Lily returning the smile. The anxiety of meeting his parents was slowly draining from her body.
"I am going to miss you," said James, looking at her hands and gently tossing them in his own.
"I'm going to miss you too," said Lily realizing that she honestly was going to miss him. James wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close and kissed her. Lily did not want the kiss to ever end. She wanted to say right there in the station in James's arms. Neither one of them knew how long they had been there, but when they finally broke apart, there was sadness in both of their eyes.
"I don't know how I'm going to get through the day without seeing you," said James as he held Lily in his arms.
"I know," agreed Lily, staring into his hazel eyes. "But we will see each other soon. You are my date to my sister's wedding after all. And if you and Sirius get bored don't be afraid to send me an owl or visit. I'll need it."
"It's a deal," smiled James. He kissed her once more before realizing that it was inevitable to delay any longer. "Owl me to let me know that you got home all right."
"I will," laughed Lily. They broke away and stood a few feet away from each other.
"Ladies first," said James, gesturing for her to apparate first.
"I'll talk to you soon. Goodbye James," smiled Lily.
"Goodbye, Lily," grinned James.
He wanted to badly to tell her that he loved her right then and there. 'This isn't the time or the place,' he said to himself. A soft 'pop' told James that she was gone, but the smile on her face and the love in her brilliant emerald eyes still lingered after she had gone. James smiled to himself and felt a rush of wind as he left King's Cross Station and arrived in the living room of Godric's Hollow; his home.