Hello fellow Fan fiction readers!! It is a miracle, I have updated within
the week. I just could not stop writing. It is getting close to the wedding
and I know that you all can't wait. I figured that this would be a good
place to end the chapter, as it is already very long. So I am completely
shocked and speechless at the amount of reviews that you guys have sent in!
Over 300!!!!!! I am not only sending cookies to all of you, but a pastry
chef to prepare them! You guys rock! I am so glad that all of you are
enjoying my story enough to let me know. I just want to deeply thank all
you from the bottom of my heart! Just a little f.y.i., I tried a new style
of writing. It's a little more descriptive and romantic. Let me know if you
guys like it. Please keep reviewing and I will keep writing.
IT.......IS.......SHOUT OUT TIME!!!!!
Padfootlet – Oh Sirius, how could you! I can't believe he cheated on me, um I mean Faith. (laughs nervously) I must win him back, but how. I know! I will cook for him! A man can't resist the temptation of good food. And then after........well, I'll keep it PG and let it creep inside your mind and drive you slowly mad at the thoughts that would swirl around your head! Hmm...yes that sounds like a good plan. I must get cooking! Chocolate chip cookies don't fail me now!
Jack Robinson – The mighty Mr. R! How are you darling! I hope all is well. I am glad that you liked my version of Mr. And Mrs. Potter. I hope that you continue to like them the more you read about them, as they will play a key role in the story. Talk to you next chapter!
Kerrybear – Kerrybear!! Bouncing here and there and everywhere! (Gummibear Theme Song) That is going to be your new theme song. Your sad but happy comment made total sense to me because that is what I was going for. I really hope that you like Mr. And Mrs. Potter. I would feel nervous if I was Lily too. I hated meeting the parents of all my boyfriends. That one time was horrible. I'm just kidding. I hope that you are doing well and I hope to hear from you soon.
Amanda- Hi what's going on? I'm so glad that you loved the chapter. I hope that you like this one as well, and I know that you are going to like the next couple of ones. Keep reading and letting me know what you think. I hope that everything is going well for you!
Sammy Solo – Sammy, Sammy, Sammy! How are ya! The wedding is going to be in two chapters I think, I am hoping that Petunia's shower and some other surprises don't make the next chapter too long. But hey I am the writer so I can do what I want, right? I hope that you like this chapter, as we are getting closer to the wedding. Hope all is well with you! Talk to you next chapter.
Courtney – Hey Court! I hope that you don't mind me calling you that. I'm so glad that you liked the last chapter. This one is kind of long, but I like it. I tried a new style of writing and I hope that you guys like it. Hope life is treating you good and I'll talk to you in the next chapter.
Whitepaw- Hey, what's up! All I can say is that your review is the most entertaining (and slightly neurotic), one that I have ever read. But I think that I absolutely love you! (in a purely platonic way) It is absolutely hilarious that you are always hyper. I am usually always hyper, unless I am in a PMS mood, then watch out! Hahahhaa. But Pixie Stix and Fun Dip are awesome as well as eating sugar out of the box with a spoon. Hmm...is that why I have cellulite? (keeps eating sugar) I am so jealous that you live in Manhattan. I've never been to NYC, which is sad because I live in upstate New York. But hopefully this Christmas I will be able to visit and see the sights. I am a history major and that is why I tend to put in history of magic scenes in my story. I think that and D.A.D.A. would be my favorite classes. I am very sorry to hear about your grandpa. It really sucks when a grandparent passes. I love your bunny army. I may need to call upon them for future confrontations with Marvin. I'm trying to figure out what your name means. I can't think of anything. I'm thinking that it has to do with Lavender's rabbit, but I know that I am wrong. Oh, I better get going. Commander Bun Bun is threatening to spread rabbit pellets all over my new bed unless I post quickly! Farwell royal member and Countess of Fanfiction!
Desolation Lily- Hey, thanks for the review. I'm glad that you like my story and I hope that you continue to let me know what you think about the next ones. Ciao!
AnniePADFOOT- Hey! What's up! Redskins, I have not ever heard of them. I must find Redskins and try them. Must get sugar high and run around the neighborhood in my gym socks! I hate that Denny's Manager. The sad part is that I'm 22 and that 'manager' was like 19. Damn pepperoni face, booger nosed munchkin lover! But oh well, I went in there the other day and he was gone so Viva La Revolution against Denny's! Anyway, I hope that all is well and you are having some fun this summer. Talk to you next chapter! Ciao!
Pdlegirl- Hey girl, what's going on? I had to put that bit of fluff in there. I remembered the first time I ever woke up in a boy's arms, I was 15 and it was junior prom. Gosh, he turned out to be a hole. But oh well lol. You totally caught me on the "put a quarter in it" phrase. I didn't even pay any attention to it. So for noticing, I am going to send you an extra large box of cookies and some pixie stixs. I hope that everything is going well for you! Byes.
Nicole Kim- Hi! Thank you for reviewing my story. I am glad that you like it. I hope that you continue to read it and let me know what you think of the chapters.
Julia- Hola Julia! I am so jealous that you are in London! What is it like? I bet it is amazing. I want to go there so badly. Hopefully in the future. I hope that you find "The Notebook" by Nicholas Sparks. It is such a wonderful and romantic book. They just made a motion picture about it and it is equally as wonderful. I'm just going to give you a valuable piece of advice. Watch out for those French boys. They have grabby hands, if you know what I mean. (I dated one and my family is partly French) Write me quick, I'm dying to find out all about London! Hasta luego!
LoonyLupin2010- Hey! I am so glad that you like my story. To answer your question, I usually try and update once a week, but sometimes it is longer. It depends on my work schedule and if I actually want to stop being a hermit and go out and have some fun. But I promise I will try to update quickly. I hope that you like the next chapter!
Kittyofwonder- Hey Girl! What's going on? I must say that your love for Marvin slightly disturbs me. If you really want to chain yourself up and eat the autumn leaves, I can't stop you. (Yes it did sound poetic) Hmm...what is going to happen to Marvin? I don't know. Mwuahahahahha!
Charmed girl33- Hey girl, what's going on? You really had to dress up as a cartoon character? That is awesome! That is not too horrible. I think I would have some fun with it. Hmmm....what would I be? Maybe a powerpuff girl or velma from Scooby doo? I'd have to think about that. You skipped 7th grade? You must be really intelligent. Now I am nervous that my writing isn't good enough. Oh god, what have I done?!!! Anyways, I hope that school isn't getting you down too bad and that your nasty teachers aren't being homework-nazi's! Take it easy and stay cool! Ciao!
Nonymous- Your compliments were so nice! Thank you so much for liking my story and my characters. I love Faith and Liz; Faith especially because she is an extreme version of myself. But I hope that you continue to read my story and review it. Hopefully I'll talk to you in the next chapter. Ciao!
Luthein- Hey girl! What's going on? See how fast I updated for you. I'm so glad that you like the chapter. The bed moving thing is something actually happened to me. I was dating this guy and we fell asleep watching a movie. I woke up a few hours later and I thought that I was home and that the bed was moving. You know when you feel so relaxed that your body moving gives the illusion that the bed it moving? Yeah, I know. I'm a freak. But anyway. I hope that you like this chapter and I can't wait to read what you think of it! Adios!
The Continuing Saga of Marvin
STEPHANIE: (enters the room) Samantha? (looks around and finds the chair empty and the straps gnawed through) MARVIN: HEHEHEHEHHEHE!! STEPHANIE: (looks up at the ceiling to find Marvin hanging upside down like a cat) Um, Samantha, how did you get up there? MARVIN: Oh you think that you are so funny don't you Peter Rabbit! You had me confused for a while, but now I am the one that is going to steal from the land of lollypops! STEPHANIE: (looks confused and a little frightened) Er, okay? Samantha, why don't you come down here and have a seat in this chair. (Pats the chair) MARVIN: NOOOOO!!!!! (clings to the ceiling even more) You won't get me down there again. That man! That crazy, big haired, sequence wearing man! He KNOWS!!! STEPHANIE: (looks at Marvin like he is crazy) Er, right. MARVIN: He told me the truth! You are trying to get me to believe I am a woman! But I am not a woman. OH NO MONKEY PANTS! I am a man! STEPHANIE: Okay, I guess the jig is up on that one. It took you long enough to figure out that you were. I thought that one trip to the bathroom would make you realize that one in a hurry, but I was wrong. MARVIN: AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!HOW THE CRAZINESS FEELS THE LOINS OF THE HEADMASTER'S DOUGHNUT IS LIKE TO FEEL THE WIND OF THE TREES ON THE MOON WITH JOHN STAMOS PLUCKING A CHICKEN IN A BUNNY SUIT. Stephanie: (Looking very frightened and staring to back away towards the door) Um, sure, okay, Marvin. MARVIN: That's right! I am MARVIN! Ruler of the house and head puma of the puma's. You are to bow to me!! Hahahahahhhahaha!! STEPHANIE: Oh no!! ( runs out of the room and locks the door) MARVIN: (heard screaming behind the door) I AM BACK!!! HAHAHAHAHA!!!! I AM BACK AND THE WORLD OF HARRY POTTER IS MINE!!!
Chapter 24: Reacquainted with Old Ways
Lily apparated onto the familiar front steps of her house. The house was covered in a blanket of snow and little puffs of smoke floated into the air with each exhalation of Lily's breath. She stared at the front door for a moment. The nervousness that rested in the pit of her stomach just moments before when meeting James's parents was replaced with a new feeling. Her heart was filled with a pang of loss as the image of James's smiling face when she left him resurfaced into the foremost of her thoughts. Lily took a deep breath and unconsciously read the sign on the door that had hung there for as long as she could remember. Faded painted flowers of blues, purples and pinks surrounded the bold gold letters, 'God Bless This House'. Lily's owl, Grace, hooted softly next to her as if encouraging her to enter the house. Lily closed her eyes and with a deep breath opened the door. The warm fragrances of vanilla and cleaning cleanser filled her nostrils; welcoming her home as if she had been on a long journey. She missed these smells as they were a symbol of her childhood and one of the most comforting to her in the world. No lights were on in the house but they weren't needed as the sun illuminated the rooms; bouncing its rays off the walls and into even the most darkest of corners. She could tell that her mother had just vacuumed by the parallel wheel roads in the beige carpet. From the living room to the left Lily could hear the sounds of a soap opera flowing through out the house.
"Hello!" called Lily in a cheery voice out into the empty air.
She picked up her trunk and pushed it into the house. She set Grace's cage down on the ground next to it and opened it to let her out. She removed her coat and laid it on top of it. She heard the quickened footsteps of someone approaching from the kitchen. A moment later, her mother appeared. She was a thin woman with thick blonde hair, which was pulled up on both sides. Her mouth was thin and resembled that of Petunia's. Her eyes were the same shape as Lily's and they both shared the beautiful emerald eyes that had been passed down in each generation in her family.
"Lily! I was hoping that was you when I heard the door open," beamed Lily's mother as she crossed the hallway and embraced her daughter. Lily took in the smell of her mother's perfume. She had worn the same perfume for most of her life and it always comforted Lily when she would hug her mother.
"How are you dear?" Lily pulled away and her mother beamed down at her as she held Lily's arms in her hands.
"I am excellent," smiled Lily. "How are you?"
"Just fine, dear, fine." She looked proudly into Lily's eyes and pulled her into another hug. "It is good to have you home," she whispered into her ear. "Come, how about a spot of tea?" Lily smiled and nodded and followed her mother into the kitchen.
"You repainted it?" said Lily as she entered her kitchen in awe.
"Yes, your father and I decided that it needed painting and since Petunia is getting married we figured that there is no time like the present." She had her back to Lily as she spoke, reaching inside one of the cupboards to pull out two china cups and a decorated tin containing tea leaves. "Do you like it?"
"It is beautiful," said Lily honestly as she walked over to the teakettle. "Is the stove on?"
"No, but it should only take a moment. That kettle heats up relatively quick." Lily's mother put the cups down and walked over to the stove to turn it on.
"No need, mum," said Lily, reaching inside her jeans pocket for her wand. The red light hit the pot and instantly made it look as if it was glowing. The kettle whistled and, satisfied, Lily put her wand back inside her pocket.
"I'm still not used to you doing that," said her mother in amazement. She turned back to the cups and placed several tea leaves inside them. "So tell me everything that has been happening with you?"
"Um, where do I start," said Lily reaching inside the refrigerator for some cream. "I've been really busy."
"I figured as much and the reason why your letters are so short and sporadic lately," said Lily's mother pouring water into the cups. Lily felt a twinge of guilt in her heart at the thought of not writing her parents as much as she probably should.
"I really am. I did not know that my Head duties would be so time consuming and all of the homework is unbelievable this year," said Lily, grabbing the sugar bowl and placing it on the table next to the creamer. "It is so unreal! I barely have time to sleep and eat, let alone do anything else." Lily took a seat at the kitchen table and waited for her mother to join her. Grace flew into the kitchen and landed on the back of one of the chairs in between them. Her mother gave Grace a gentle welcoming stroke on her back. "But over all I am really enjoying this year."
"How are Elizabeth and Faith?" asked her mother as she placed the cup in front of Lily and sat down in her chair opposite her daughter.
"They are doing really well," said Lily pouring creamer into her cup. "Faith might be going into an advanced Auror program when she graduates. So that means that she would be moving here permanently."
"Is that good or bad?" asked Lily's mother, stirring her tea casually.
"A little of both," said Lily adding sugar. "Good that she is moving here. I'm glad that she will be closer and that we can see each other. And I know that she is happy about it because it is something she has always wanted to do. But the job that she is going into is dangerous. So that is the only bad thing."
"That doesn't surprise me at all. She has a knack for danger and I think she can handle what she encounters. Does she have a boyfriend?" asked Lily's mother, taking a sip of her tea and holding it close to her face as she rested her elbows on the table. Lily nodded as she took a sip of her tea. Her mother smiled at her mischievously. "What's he like? Knowing Faith he must be something uniquely different."
"Sirius?" Lily looked at the ceiling, searching for words. After a moment Lily spoke with a smile. "I guess he is perfect for her. You know how she is and he can actually semi-control her and he knows how to get her out of her deepest, darkest moods. I think they are good for each other, although she will never admit it." Lily's mother laughed lightly to herself.
"And Elizabeth? How is she doing these days?" inquired her mother as she took another sip of tea.
"Liz is probably doing the best out of all of us. She applied to Healer College and is waiting to hear back from them soon. I know that she will get in. She is so smart at stuff like that. And she is dating a very nice boy named Remus Lupin," finished Lily as she took another sip of her tea. She reached into the bowl and added a touch for sugar.
"That name sounds familiar?" said Lily's mother to herself more than to Lily. "Where have I heard that name before?"
"He is in the same house as me. He was my fellow Prefect for the last two years," said Lily simply. "I thought that he was going to be Head Boy."
"He isn't?" asked Lily's mother curiously. Lily shook her head.
"No, James Potter is," said Lily casually.
"Oh, who is James Potter?" asked her mother; a grin spread across her face. "I think I have heard that name before too."
Lily took an extra long sip of tea. She had mentioned James before at her house, but it was most likely when she was talking to Faith or Liz about him. Anyway, the things she had said had not been very nice and it was going to be difficult to explain how she ended up dating this boy. Perhaps that was why she had not told her parents about James. Another reason that nested in the back of her brain was that she didn't want her father to freak out on her about having a serious boyfriend at age seventeen. Plus she knew that if she told her mother about James that she would tell her father and then Lily would be subject to a discussion that she really didn't want. But Lily realized that the time had come for her to tell her parents about him. After all, they were going to meet him at the wedding and she wanted to make it a little easier on James when he finally did meet her parents.
"He is the Head Boy of the school and he is in my house," said Lily putting down her tea. "He is captain of the house's Quidditch team. It is a game on broomsticks that is sort of equivalent to football here," said Lily at the puzzled expression on her mothers face. "He is very talented and extremely intelligent." Lily smiled despite her best efforts to keep a serious face. "He makes me laugh hysterically when we patrol together and he is very good looking." Lily blushed and looked at her tea. When she raised her eyes to look at her mother, she was a bit surprised to see her smiling knowingly at her.
"So this is the reason for the glow and the absence of letters." She put down her tea cup and gave Lily a warm smile. Lily grinned in response. "I figured as much." All though her mother was not a witch, Lily often thought that there was a little bit of a witchy sixth sense about her. She had a way of reading people and knowing exactly what was going on by the way they acted.
"He truly is wonderful, mum," said Lily quietly. Lily's mother searched her eyes and when she spoke it was in a soft whisper.
"I'm sure he is." They smiled at each other and both took another sip of their teas. "So when do I meet him?"
"Um, he is, er, coming to Petunia's wedding as my date," said Lily nervously. Lily expected her mother to protest or to tell her to uninvite him. But instead she smiled at her from behind her tea cup.
"That should be interesting," she said. Lily swore as she looked into the eyes that were so similar to her own, that a twinkle lingered behind them.
James looked around his living room, glad to finally be back home. Everything looked exactly the same as it had when he left only four months earlier. As he stood there, taking in everything that he may have forgotten, he heard voices from inside the kitchen. He strolled in to find Sirius and his father at the kitchen table and his mother setting down a try of sandwiches.
"Ah, there he is," said his mother happily. "Did you see Lily off, dear?"
"Yeah," said James, seeing the image of Lily's smiling face before she apparated inside his mind's eye.
"She is a very lovely young lady," said Mrs. Potter fondly. James grinned broadly at his mother.
"Did you finish saying your goodbyes and making a sick bloody mess of yourself," asked Sirius, grabbing a sandwich off the plate and looking at James mischievously.
"You're one to talk, mate," smirked James as he took a seat next to his father at the round kitchen table and helped himself to a sandwich. "The way you and Ravenwood said goodbye made people on the next train sick."
"Who is Ravenwood?" asked Mr. Potter, laughing slightly at the two boys.
"His girlfriend," said James, shoving a corner of the sandwich into his mouth.
"You have a girlfriend, Sirius?" asked Mrs. Potter, raising her wand and summoning four butterbeers from the cupboard. Sirius smirked at her through a mouthful of food. "That doesn't surprise me at all. Well, what is she like? Is she like Lily?"
"Not really," said Sirius once he had swallowed. "However, she is Lily's best mate."
"Interesting. Well then, by the looks of Lily she must be pretty?" asked Mrs. Potter curiously.
"Yeah," said Sirius, taking another bite of his sandwich. "She's all right I guess. For now anyway."
"Come off it mate," smirked James. "Don't listen to him. He is hardly ever separated from her. She says jump and he's already on the roof before she can finish." Mr. Potter laughed and shook his head.
"You, mate, are one to talk," grinned Sirius. "She has you wrapped around her wand." James shrugged and took another bite of his sandwich.
"Does this remind you of anything?" smiled Mrs. Potter across the table to her husband.
"It sounds vaguely familiar to me, Allie," grinned Mr. Potter as he reached out for her hand. She took it and he squeezed it lovingly. They smiled warmly at each other as they gazed for a moment into each other's eyes; sharing a memory that only the two of them seemed to possess.
"Come on you two! We are trying to eat here," said James in mock tones of disgust. Mr. Potter gave his wife's hand another loving squeeze and let their hands drift back to their plates.
"Are Remus and Peter coming by later?" asked Mrs. Potter, picking up her sandwich again.
"Nah. But they'll be by in a few days for a visit," said James. "We have planning to do for the party." James and Sirius exchanged smirks.
"As long as you don't go blowing up the house or any of the guests," said Mr. Potter in a fatherly tone. "Just remember that these are your mother and mine's friends."
"Speaking of your friends," said Sirius abruptly. "You better tell them to start practicing now because we have half our team coming."
"I know that I can speak for them when I say that we are not intimidated by your teammates. You are still going to lose Mr. Black," said Mr. Potter with the same mischievous spirit that he passed down to James, glittering in his eyes.
"Yeah well, you haven't met Faith and Liz and they are pretty good," said Sirius humorously playing along.
"Who are they dear?" asked Mrs. Potter, taking a sip of her butterbeer.
"Faith is Sirius's girlfriend and Liz is Remus's girlfriend and they are pretty good dad," said James, through a mouthful of food.
"Remus has a girlfriend?" asked Mrs. Potter. James and Sirius nodded and shoved the rest of their sandwiches into their mouths and both grabbed for another one. "So I'll get to meet them at the party then?"
"Yeah, they are coming," said James.
"Will we be meeting them before the party?" asked Mrs. Potter, dabbing her mouth with a napkin.
"Probably not," said James casually. "Liz lives in the South near the English Channel and Faith lives in the States."
"Your girl is American?" asked Mr. Potter, looking at Sirius. Sirius nodded his head, as his mouth was too full to speak.
"Good luck, mate," grinned Mr. Potter with a slight laugh.
"William, hush," laughed Mrs. Potter at her husband.
Lily finished her tea with her mother and made her way up to her room to unpack her trunk. The first time that she walked into her room after being away for so long always felt strange. Although her room was kept just the way that she had left it, it had the feeling that it had not been occupied for a long time. The purple walls still proudly held pictures of family and friends, a Gryffindor banner, a few posters of her favorite bands from over the years and two shelves filled with her books from Hogwarts and other novels she had acquired over time. Her twin size bed was still covered in the purple, yellow and blue flowered bedspread that she had had since she was eleven. In the corner of her room stood the small white wicker vanity that her parents had given her for her sixteenth birthday. Lily smiled to herself and pushed her trunk inside the room. As if on cue, Grace glided into the room and rested on top of her dresser. She closed the door behind her and opened the trunk. She hung up her school robes and other garments in the closet. She kept her books inside the trunk but took out three pieces of parchment and her favorite quill. She sat down at her vanity and began to write similar letters to James, Faith and Liz. As soon as she was done, she tied them to Grace's leg.
"Want some exercise?" asked Lily patting her on the head. The howl hooted softly at her as she looked up with great gleaming eyes. "Take them to James, Liz and Faith and be careful."
She petted the owl lovingly. Grace gently nipped her finger to tell Lily that she understood and set out immediately. Lily felt a sudden sadness as she saw her friend fly out into the afternoon sky. Lily kept herself busy over the next few hours by reacquainting herself with muggle life. Even though Lily had lived as a muggle for most of her life, living at Hogwarts and using magic for every little thing quickly became routine. Of course she was of legal age now to use magic at her desire, but she knew that it made her mother and father a bit uncomfortable so she tried to keep its use to a minimum. Plus for the days and events leading up to Petunia's wedding, she would have to keep her magic usage down to a bare minimum in front of her extended family and guests.
A little after five in the evening Lily heard a car pull up into the drive and a car door slamming shut. A few seconds later the door opened and two voices drifted up the stairs. Lily felt a sudden rush of joy as she leapt from her bed, where she was watching television and bounded down the stairs.
"Daddy!" shouted Lily as she practically ran towards him to give him a hug.
Her father was a tall man and he was in rather good shape; lean from years of manual labor. Except for a few lines in the creases of his brown eyes and some visible thinning of his red hair, Lily often thought of how young her looked for his age. Lily had always had a close and special relationship with her father ever since she was born. Lily had always regarded her father as a wise man and often looked to him for pieces of advice. She had always felt that he was constantly proud of her accomplishments. He was the first person to be excited for her when she received her letter to Hogwarts. Every holiday break he would ask her to fill him in on what she was learning. As of late, he even asked her to perform some of the things that she had learned. He was very interested in her subjects and often she would catch him gazing through her books in the evening, by the fire or outside on the patio. Even though he said that he did not favor one daughter over the other, Lily always felt that he favored her a little more than Petunia. Lily had always felt that she was his pride and joy and secretly she loved it.
"My Lily flower! How are you dear?" said her father as he embraced his daughter.
"Wonderful! How are you?" asked Lily as she pulled away, but not before kissing him on the cheek.
"Excellent now that I am home. How was the train ride in? Everything good I hope?" said Mr. Evans. Lily nodded.
"Hello, John," greeted Mrs. Evans warmly as she emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron.
"Hello, Evie," smiled Mr. Evans as he gave his wife a kiss.
"Dinner is almost ready. Lily come and give me a hand," said Mrs. Evans.
"Where is Petunia this evening?" asked Mr. Evans, setting down his toolbox and following the girls into the kitchen.
"Having dinner at the Dursley's. She'll be home a little later," said Mrs. Evans as she walked over to the stove and stirred the contents inside the pot.
Mr. Evans gave a soft grunt but said nothing more. Lily caught his eye and laughed silently to herself. She knew that, like herself, her father was not fond of Petunia's fiancée. Lily remembered that right after they had all met him for the first time, her father commented that he was a pompous bag of hot air that should be sent into the atmosphere to be popped. Lily's mother however, felt that he was a decent man with a good sense of goals and ambition. She did not approve of either Lily or John to poke fun at him and this feeling had only deepened since Petunia announced her engagement. Lily felt that it was best just to keep her feelings to herself or with her father when her mother was out of earshot.
Dinner that night was one the most delightful ones that Lily had ever spent with her parents. Both her parents wanted to know everything that was happening with her studies and her other life away from home. Lily was quite embarrassed when her mother mentioned the fact that Lily had a boyfriend to her father. He was quiet for a moment and looked at Lily skeptically. Her stomach clenched as she looked into her father's brown eyes. She had never had a serious boyfriend before and honestly she didn't know how he was going to take it. She breathed a slight sigh of relief when he smiled and said that he would like to 'meet this boy.' She told him that he would be attending the wedding as her date and her father nodded solemnly.
After dinner Lily helped her mother clean the dishes and then both of them joined John in the living room. It had been so long since Lily watched television. It felt almost unnatural not to be sitting behind a mountain of books or practicing new spells for classes the next day. She smiled to herself as she watched from the floor as her mom and dad laugh at the television. She had missed her parents more than she knew. It was nice to be sitting there with them, enjoying each other's company but not having to constantly make conversation. Silence was a gift that only years of comfort could bring. Just as the show was ending, signaling that it was almost nine o'clock at night, Lily heard a key turning the lock, followed by the sound of the front door opening. She closed her eyes for a moment as dread filled her body. A few seconds later Petunia stood in the doorway leading into the living room.
"Petunia, dear, how was dinner?" asked her mother cheerfully from the couch.
"Absolutely delightful," said Petunia. Her eyes wandered over to Lily and the familiar stony expression, that usually warranted her welcome, began to take shape. "When did you get home?"
"This afternoon. And it's wonderful to see you too," said Lily as she rolled her eyes and gave her attention once again to the television.
"So tell me everything that happened," said her mother, patting the open cushion next to her for Petunia to sit on. She walked over and regally placed herself down next to her mother.
"Well, everyone is very excited about the shower on Sunday. Mrs. Dursley said that she has everything on her end ready. Vernon is absolutely ecstatic about it too. I just hope that everything goes smoothly." Although Lily had her back to her, she feel her sister's eyes on the back of her head, burning into her. "Vernon is signing the lease on the apartment on Wednesday. It is in such a wonderful neighborhood. We hope that we get a lot of nice things, because we are going to have so much space to fill in that place."
"It is a very nice apartment and relatively close to here which is nice," said her mother fondly. "Oh Petunia, I can't believe my eldest daughter is getting married!" Lily made a slight retching noise to herself as she rolled her eyes. She really didn't feel like lying there and having to listen to her mother fuss over the wedding. She got up off the floor and headed towards the doorway. "Lily where are you going, dear?" asked her mother concerned.
"Um, I forgot that I need to write to Liz and Faith," lied Lily with a pleasant smile.
"Oh, all right then," said her mother; a shadow of disappointment in her expression. "Just make sure that you are ready to go around 10 tomorrow morning."
"For what?" asked Lily, dreading the answer.
"We have to go and grab things for the shower on Sunday. We have a lot to do so make sure you are ready."
"Will do," said Lily, forcing a small smile.
She turned from the room and headed up the stairs. It was still too early to go to bed, but Lily didn't feel like staying down there and listening to Petunia. She didn't exactly hate her sister, but she wasn't exactly fond of her either. Although her mother tried her best to keep the sisters close, it was the fact that Petunia considered Lily abnormal that continuously drove them apart. Lily reached the top of the stairs and headed into her room. She shut the door behind her and flicked on the light. She crossed over to the television and flicked it on. As she lay on her bed, half watching the television, she realized how alone she felt.
"Come on mate, you can do better than that!" shouted James as he and Sirius raced around on their brooms through snow covered wooded back yard.
"Just worry about yourself and trying not to catch a mouth full of bark all right," yelled Sirius as he ducked out the way of a stray branch. The boys raced through the forest at great speed.
"It feels so good to be back home!" shouted James as they boys jerked their brooms up toward the sky and burst out into the openness.
Sirius nodded and together they speed above the trees and back towards the house. The sun was beginning to set lower into the sky. The dim light cast a peaceful but eerie shadow over the snow covered ground. James suddenly realized that they had been out there for almost two hours. As they approached the house, James could see lights on in various parts of the house. He figured that his mother was probably close to finishing dinner. As the boys circled around the house he could see his father bent over some paperwork in the den. They landed by the back entrance and slipped off their brooms.
"Nothing like a little flying to welcome in vacation," remarked Sirius as he flung his broom over his shoulder. James nodded in agreement and opened the kitchen door. Just as he predicted, his mother was finishing up dinner.
"Smells good. What are we having tonight?" asked James, looking into the nearest pot.
"Let's see, um, baked rat with cornbread stuffing, blood blister potatoes and frog legs," grinned his mother mischievously.
"Well I never said that you were a wonderful cook," smirked Sirius. Mrs. Potter laughed.
"Go get ready you two. Oh and grab your father!" called Mrs. Potter as the boys raced each other out of the kitchen and up the stairs to their rooms.
"Ha!" laughed Sirius as he triumphantly reached his room first. "You may be faster than me on a broomstick, but on foot you can not win Mr. Potter!" Sirius ran inside his room.
"It's only because your room is closer to the stairs than mine, mate," grinned James as he entered his room. He pointed his wand at the lanterns inside and immediately the room was illuminated. James jumped slightly as he turned towards the window. To his surprise, he wasn't alone in the room. A beautiful owl sat on his window sill, looking at him through great big black eyes. His nerves disappeared as he recognized it as Lily's owl, Grace.
"Why hello there," greeted James as he set down his broom and removed his jacket. The owl hooted softly in response. He walked over to the owl. There were three letters tied to her leg, but immediately James spotted his and removed it from her tiny leg. He walked over to his desk and opened the second drawer to pull out some owl treats.
"There you go, Madame, and give my love to Lily," said James as he lowered the palm of his hand to her face. She ate the treats quickly and gently nipped him in gratitude. Just as swiftly as she had appeared, she was gone.
"Are you ready to go and stuff our faces......what's that?" asked Sirius as he entered into James's room.
"A letter from Lily," said James as he stared at the black ink that eloquently scrawled his name.
"Do you want me to give you a minute?" asked Sirius in tones of mock- concern.
"Do you mind?" asked James looking at him above his glasses. Sirius laughed and turned to leave the room.
"Dear James, I miss you so much. I can't wait to have your powerful lips pressed against mine again," said Sirius in a girly voice as he exited the room. "Let me count the ways that you make me feel like the luckiest woman on earth, one.....two....thrrreeee......" Sirius's voice faded as he walked down the stairs.
James laughed despite himself. He flipped the envelope over and eagerly took out the piece of parchment. He unfolded it and found that oddly enough, his hands were shaking slightly.
Dear James,
It feels so strange to be writing to you. I am so used to being able to see you every day that writing just feels aberrant. Well, I got home safe and I am assuming that you did as well. Your parents were very nice and I am looking forward to seeing them again on New Year's Eve. Even though it was a very mean trick of you to spring that upon me. But I guess I will forgive you since you have yet to meet my family. I hope that you are enjoying your holiday thus far. It feels so odd to be back home. When I walked into my room this afternoon, it didn't even feel like it was my room. I guess that Hogwarts has become more of a home to me over the past few years than my own home has. I do hope that you and Sirius are staying out of trouble and not causing too much of a fuss for your parents. But if you both get bored please come and save me for a little while. I would be absolutely thrilled to see you again and hopefully get to spend some time quality time with you. I miss you desperately and I am counting the days until we can finally see each other again. All my love, Lily
James read the letter over twice. Had she really meant what she said or was he just imaging the words. Was she really missing him right at that moment? James closed his eyes and tried to picture her writing the letter. Her beautiful red hair was probably adorned around her face as she bent over the table to write. He bet that she probably had one side tucked behind her ear as she always did when her hair was down and she was writing. His mother's voice, calling him to dinner, called him back to reality. James folded the letter and placed it back inside the envelope. He laid it on top of his desk. As he walked out of the room he made a mental note of writing her back after dinner.
"So, how is the lovely Miss Evans," asked Sirius with a plateful of food sitting in front of him. "Has the last few hours been terribly lonely for her without you there?"
"Stuff it you git," grinned James, trying not to let Sirius's words make him blush.
"Lily wrote you a letter already?" asked Mrs. Potter, sipping on a glass of red wine. James nodded his head. Mrs. Potter gave a slight smile and raised her eyebrows at her husband but said nothing. James ignored this and continued eating.
Dinner was very pleasant. James was glad to be home again. He had missed his parents a lot over the past few months. James felt that he was rather lucky to even be sitting and enjoying a meal with his parents considering the state of the wizarding world these days. After dinner, James and Sirius went into the den to play a game of chess. Sirius and James had a tradition of starting a tournament every holiday. It did not end until the last day of vacation. The person who had the most wins was declared the winner and the loser had to either pay or give up something that they had bet on. This holiday they had bet upon two bags of dung bombs, a set of gobstones and five galleons. The bets always started out as being nothing big, but both of them new that with each loss or win, the stakes would get higher and more ridiculous.
After five games and three losses, James decided to turn in. He said goodnight to his parents and Sirius followed him up the stairs as well. Both boys entered their separate rooms and James found the peace and quiet very relaxing. He sat down at his desk and reread the letter that Lily sent him once more. He pulled out a piece of parchment and began to write her back. When he was finished, he sealed it inside an envelope. He scrawled her name on the cover and left it on his desk. He figured that he would send it tomorrow, as it was well past ten o'clock at night and he didn't want to send a letter now. It was a common rule among the wizarding world lately that you only sent owls in the daytime because it was easier for Death Eaters to intercept them at night. James undressed and put on a pair of comfortable pajamas. He crawled into his bed and allowed some time for his body to become familiar once more to his own bed. As he lay there, all he could think about was Lily standing on the platform after their kiss goodbye. It did not seem possible that it had been the same day. Then his mind wandered to the other night. It had felt wonderful to wake up with Lily in his arms. As sleep transported him to another world, James felt his arms wrap tight around the pillow as Lily's face danced in his mind.
Today's chapter was brought to you by the letter R and the number 14. Stay tuned for Martha Stewarts neighborhood with special guests Tom Arnold and the guy who plays the janitor on Scrubs. They are going to make bunt cake! Mmmmmm, delicious and exciting!
IT.......IS.......SHOUT OUT TIME!!!!!
Padfootlet – Oh Sirius, how could you! I can't believe he cheated on me, um I mean Faith. (laughs nervously) I must win him back, but how. I know! I will cook for him! A man can't resist the temptation of good food. And then after........well, I'll keep it PG and let it creep inside your mind and drive you slowly mad at the thoughts that would swirl around your head! Hmm...yes that sounds like a good plan. I must get cooking! Chocolate chip cookies don't fail me now!
Jack Robinson – The mighty Mr. R! How are you darling! I hope all is well. I am glad that you liked my version of Mr. And Mrs. Potter. I hope that you continue to like them the more you read about them, as they will play a key role in the story. Talk to you next chapter!
Kerrybear – Kerrybear!! Bouncing here and there and everywhere! (Gummibear Theme Song) That is going to be your new theme song. Your sad but happy comment made total sense to me because that is what I was going for. I really hope that you like Mr. And Mrs. Potter. I would feel nervous if I was Lily too. I hated meeting the parents of all my boyfriends. That one time was horrible. I'm just kidding. I hope that you are doing well and I hope to hear from you soon.
Amanda- Hi what's going on? I'm so glad that you loved the chapter. I hope that you like this one as well, and I know that you are going to like the next couple of ones. Keep reading and letting me know what you think. I hope that everything is going well for you!
Sammy Solo – Sammy, Sammy, Sammy! How are ya! The wedding is going to be in two chapters I think, I am hoping that Petunia's shower and some other surprises don't make the next chapter too long. But hey I am the writer so I can do what I want, right? I hope that you like this chapter, as we are getting closer to the wedding. Hope all is well with you! Talk to you next chapter.
Courtney – Hey Court! I hope that you don't mind me calling you that. I'm so glad that you liked the last chapter. This one is kind of long, but I like it. I tried a new style of writing and I hope that you guys like it. Hope life is treating you good and I'll talk to you in the next chapter.
Whitepaw- Hey, what's up! All I can say is that your review is the most entertaining (and slightly neurotic), one that I have ever read. But I think that I absolutely love you! (in a purely platonic way) It is absolutely hilarious that you are always hyper. I am usually always hyper, unless I am in a PMS mood, then watch out! Hahahhaa. But Pixie Stix and Fun Dip are awesome as well as eating sugar out of the box with a spoon. Hmm...is that why I have cellulite? (keeps eating sugar) I am so jealous that you live in Manhattan. I've never been to NYC, which is sad because I live in upstate New York. But hopefully this Christmas I will be able to visit and see the sights. I am a history major and that is why I tend to put in history of magic scenes in my story. I think that and D.A.D.A. would be my favorite classes. I am very sorry to hear about your grandpa. It really sucks when a grandparent passes. I love your bunny army. I may need to call upon them for future confrontations with Marvin. I'm trying to figure out what your name means. I can't think of anything. I'm thinking that it has to do with Lavender's rabbit, but I know that I am wrong. Oh, I better get going. Commander Bun Bun is threatening to spread rabbit pellets all over my new bed unless I post quickly! Farwell royal member and Countess of Fanfiction!
Desolation Lily- Hey, thanks for the review. I'm glad that you like my story and I hope that you continue to let me know what you think about the next ones. Ciao!
AnniePADFOOT- Hey! What's up! Redskins, I have not ever heard of them. I must find Redskins and try them. Must get sugar high and run around the neighborhood in my gym socks! I hate that Denny's Manager. The sad part is that I'm 22 and that 'manager' was like 19. Damn pepperoni face, booger nosed munchkin lover! But oh well, I went in there the other day and he was gone so Viva La Revolution against Denny's! Anyway, I hope that all is well and you are having some fun this summer. Talk to you next chapter! Ciao!
Pdlegirl- Hey girl, what's going on? I had to put that bit of fluff in there. I remembered the first time I ever woke up in a boy's arms, I was 15 and it was junior prom. Gosh, he turned out to be a hole. But oh well lol. You totally caught me on the "put a quarter in it" phrase. I didn't even pay any attention to it. So for noticing, I am going to send you an extra large box of cookies and some pixie stixs. I hope that everything is going well for you! Byes.
Nicole Kim- Hi! Thank you for reviewing my story. I am glad that you like it. I hope that you continue to read it and let me know what you think of the chapters.
Julia- Hola Julia! I am so jealous that you are in London! What is it like? I bet it is amazing. I want to go there so badly. Hopefully in the future. I hope that you find "The Notebook" by Nicholas Sparks. It is such a wonderful and romantic book. They just made a motion picture about it and it is equally as wonderful. I'm just going to give you a valuable piece of advice. Watch out for those French boys. They have grabby hands, if you know what I mean. (I dated one and my family is partly French) Write me quick, I'm dying to find out all about London! Hasta luego!
LoonyLupin2010- Hey! I am so glad that you like my story. To answer your question, I usually try and update once a week, but sometimes it is longer. It depends on my work schedule and if I actually want to stop being a hermit and go out and have some fun. But I promise I will try to update quickly. I hope that you like the next chapter!
Kittyofwonder- Hey Girl! What's going on? I must say that your love for Marvin slightly disturbs me. If you really want to chain yourself up and eat the autumn leaves, I can't stop you. (Yes it did sound poetic) Hmm...what is going to happen to Marvin? I don't know. Mwuahahahahha!
Charmed girl33- Hey girl, what's going on? You really had to dress up as a cartoon character? That is awesome! That is not too horrible. I think I would have some fun with it. Hmmm....what would I be? Maybe a powerpuff girl or velma from Scooby doo? I'd have to think about that. You skipped 7th grade? You must be really intelligent. Now I am nervous that my writing isn't good enough. Oh god, what have I done?!!! Anyways, I hope that school isn't getting you down too bad and that your nasty teachers aren't being homework-nazi's! Take it easy and stay cool! Ciao!
Nonymous- Your compliments were so nice! Thank you so much for liking my story and my characters. I love Faith and Liz; Faith especially because she is an extreme version of myself. But I hope that you continue to read my story and review it. Hopefully I'll talk to you in the next chapter. Ciao!
Luthein- Hey girl! What's going on? See how fast I updated for you. I'm so glad that you like the chapter. The bed moving thing is something actually happened to me. I was dating this guy and we fell asleep watching a movie. I woke up a few hours later and I thought that I was home and that the bed was moving. You know when you feel so relaxed that your body moving gives the illusion that the bed it moving? Yeah, I know. I'm a freak. But anyway. I hope that you like this chapter and I can't wait to read what you think of it! Adios!
The Continuing Saga of Marvin
STEPHANIE: (enters the room) Samantha? (looks around and finds the chair empty and the straps gnawed through) MARVIN: HEHEHEHEHHEHE!! STEPHANIE: (looks up at the ceiling to find Marvin hanging upside down like a cat) Um, Samantha, how did you get up there? MARVIN: Oh you think that you are so funny don't you Peter Rabbit! You had me confused for a while, but now I am the one that is going to steal from the land of lollypops! STEPHANIE: (looks confused and a little frightened) Er, okay? Samantha, why don't you come down here and have a seat in this chair. (Pats the chair) MARVIN: NOOOOO!!!!! (clings to the ceiling even more) You won't get me down there again. That man! That crazy, big haired, sequence wearing man! He KNOWS!!! STEPHANIE: (looks at Marvin like he is crazy) Er, right. MARVIN: He told me the truth! You are trying to get me to believe I am a woman! But I am not a woman. OH NO MONKEY PANTS! I am a man! STEPHANIE: Okay, I guess the jig is up on that one. It took you long enough to figure out that you were. I thought that one trip to the bathroom would make you realize that one in a hurry, but I was wrong. MARVIN: AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!HOW THE CRAZINESS FEELS THE LOINS OF THE HEADMASTER'S DOUGHNUT IS LIKE TO FEEL THE WIND OF THE TREES ON THE MOON WITH JOHN STAMOS PLUCKING A CHICKEN IN A BUNNY SUIT. Stephanie: (Looking very frightened and staring to back away towards the door) Um, sure, okay, Marvin. MARVIN: That's right! I am MARVIN! Ruler of the house and head puma of the puma's. You are to bow to me!! Hahahahahhhahaha!! STEPHANIE: Oh no!! ( runs out of the room and locks the door) MARVIN: (heard screaming behind the door) I AM BACK!!! HAHAHAHAHA!!!! I AM BACK AND THE WORLD OF HARRY POTTER IS MINE!!!
Chapter 24: Reacquainted with Old Ways
Lily apparated onto the familiar front steps of her house. The house was covered in a blanket of snow and little puffs of smoke floated into the air with each exhalation of Lily's breath. She stared at the front door for a moment. The nervousness that rested in the pit of her stomach just moments before when meeting James's parents was replaced with a new feeling. Her heart was filled with a pang of loss as the image of James's smiling face when she left him resurfaced into the foremost of her thoughts. Lily took a deep breath and unconsciously read the sign on the door that had hung there for as long as she could remember. Faded painted flowers of blues, purples and pinks surrounded the bold gold letters, 'God Bless This House'. Lily's owl, Grace, hooted softly next to her as if encouraging her to enter the house. Lily closed her eyes and with a deep breath opened the door. The warm fragrances of vanilla and cleaning cleanser filled her nostrils; welcoming her home as if she had been on a long journey. She missed these smells as they were a symbol of her childhood and one of the most comforting to her in the world. No lights were on in the house but they weren't needed as the sun illuminated the rooms; bouncing its rays off the walls and into even the most darkest of corners. She could tell that her mother had just vacuumed by the parallel wheel roads in the beige carpet. From the living room to the left Lily could hear the sounds of a soap opera flowing through out the house.
"Hello!" called Lily in a cheery voice out into the empty air.
She picked up her trunk and pushed it into the house. She set Grace's cage down on the ground next to it and opened it to let her out. She removed her coat and laid it on top of it. She heard the quickened footsteps of someone approaching from the kitchen. A moment later, her mother appeared. She was a thin woman with thick blonde hair, which was pulled up on both sides. Her mouth was thin and resembled that of Petunia's. Her eyes were the same shape as Lily's and they both shared the beautiful emerald eyes that had been passed down in each generation in her family.
"Lily! I was hoping that was you when I heard the door open," beamed Lily's mother as she crossed the hallway and embraced her daughter. Lily took in the smell of her mother's perfume. She had worn the same perfume for most of her life and it always comforted Lily when she would hug her mother.
"How are you dear?" Lily pulled away and her mother beamed down at her as she held Lily's arms in her hands.
"I am excellent," smiled Lily. "How are you?"
"Just fine, dear, fine." She looked proudly into Lily's eyes and pulled her into another hug. "It is good to have you home," she whispered into her ear. "Come, how about a spot of tea?" Lily smiled and nodded and followed her mother into the kitchen.
"You repainted it?" said Lily as she entered her kitchen in awe.
"Yes, your father and I decided that it needed painting and since Petunia is getting married we figured that there is no time like the present." She had her back to Lily as she spoke, reaching inside one of the cupboards to pull out two china cups and a decorated tin containing tea leaves. "Do you like it?"
"It is beautiful," said Lily honestly as she walked over to the teakettle. "Is the stove on?"
"No, but it should only take a moment. That kettle heats up relatively quick." Lily's mother put the cups down and walked over to the stove to turn it on.
"No need, mum," said Lily, reaching inside her jeans pocket for her wand. The red light hit the pot and instantly made it look as if it was glowing. The kettle whistled and, satisfied, Lily put her wand back inside her pocket.
"I'm still not used to you doing that," said her mother in amazement. She turned back to the cups and placed several tea leaves inside them. "So tell me everything that has been happening with you?"
"Um, where do I start," said Lily reaching inside the refrigerator for some cream. "I've been really busy."
"I figured as much and the reason why your letters are so short and sporadic lately," said Lily's mother pouring water into the cups. Lily felt a twinge of guilt in her heart at the thought of not writing her parents as much as she probably should.
"I really am. I did not know that my Head duties would be so time consuming and all of the homework is unbelievable this year," said Lily, grabbing the sugar bowl and placing it on the table next to the creamer. "It is so unreal! I barely have time to sleep and eat, let alone do anything else." Lily took a seat at the kitchen table and waited for her mother to join her. Grace flew into the kitchen and landed on the back of one of the chairs in between them. Her mother gave Grace a gentle welcoming stroke on her back. "But over all I am really enjoying this year."
"How are Elizabeth and Faith?" asked her mother as she placed the cup in front of Lily and sat down in her chair opposite her daughter.
"They are doing really well," said Lily pouring creamer into her cup. "Faith might be going into an advanced Auror program when she graduates. So that means that she would be moving here permanently."
"Is that good or bad?" asked Lily's mother, stirring her tea casually.
"A little of both," said Lily adding sugar. "Good that she is moving here. I'm glad that she will be closer and that we can see each other. And I know that she is happy about it because it is something she has always wanted to do. But the job that she is going into is dangerous. So that is the only bad thing."
"That doesn't surprise me at all. She has a knack for danger and I think she can handle what she encounters. Does she have a boyfriend?" asked Lily's mother, taking a sip of her tea and holding it close to her face as she rested her elbows on the table. Lily nodded as she took a sip of her tea. Her mother smiled at her mischievously. "What's he like? Knowing Faith he must be something uniquely different."
"Sirius?" Lily looked at the ceiling, searching for words. After a moment Lily spoke with a smile. "I guess he is perfect for her. You know how she is and he can actually semi-control her and he knows how to get her out of her deepest, darkest moods. I think they are good for each other, although she will never admit it." Lily's mother laughed lightly to herself.
"And Elizabeth? How is she doing these days?" inquired her mother as she took another sip of tea.
"Liz is probably doing the best out of all of us. She applied to Healer College and is waiting to hear back from them soon. I know that she will get in. She is so smart at stuff like that. And she is dating a very nice boy named Remus Lupin," finished Lily as she took another sip of her tea. She reached into the bowl and added a touch for sugar.
"That name sounds familiar?" said Lily's mother to herself more than to Lily. "Where have I heard that name before?"
"He is in the same house as me. He was my fellow Prefect for the last two years," said Lily simply. "I thought that he was going to be Head Boy."
"He isn't?" asked Lily's mother curiously. Lily shook her head.
"No, James Potter is," said Lily casually.
"Oh, who is James Potter?" asked her mother; a grin spread across her face. "I think I have heard that name before too."
Lily took an extra long sip of tea. She had mentioned James before at her house, but it was most likely when she was talking to Faith or Liz about him. Anyway, the things she had said had not been very nice and it was going to be difficult to explain how she ended up dating this boy. Perhaps that was why she had not told her parents about James. Another reason that nested in the back of her brain was that she didn't want her father to freak out on her about having a serious boyfriend at age seventeen. Plus she knew that if she told her mother about James that she would tell her father and then Lily would be subject to a discussion that she really didn't want. But Lily realized that the time had come for her to tell her parents about him. After all, they were going to meet him at the wedding and she wanted to make it a little easier on James when he finally did meet her parents.
"He is the Head Boy of the school and he is in my house," said Lily putting down her tea. "He is captain of the house's Quidditch team. It is a game on broomsticks that is sort of equivalent to football here," said Lily at the puzzled expression on her mothers face. "He is very talented and extremely intelligent." Lily smiled despite her best efforts to keep a serious face. "He makes me laugh hysterically when we patrol together and he is very good looking." Lily blushed and looked at her tea. When she raised her eyes to look at her mother, she was a bit surprised to see her smiling knowingly at her.
"So this is the reason for the glow and the absence of letters." She put down her tea cup and gave Lily a warm smile. Lily grinned in response. "I figured as much." All though her mother was not a witch, Lily often thought that there was a little bit of a witchy sixth sense about her. She had a way of reading people and knowing exactly what was going on by the way they acted.
"He truly is wonderful, mum," said Lily quietly. Lily's mother searched her eyes and when she spoke it was in a soft whisper.
"I'm sure he is." They smiled at each other and both took another sip of their teas. "So when do I meet him?"
"Um, he is, er, coming to Petunia's wedding as my date," said Lily nervously. Lily expected her mother to protest or to tell her to uninvite him. But instead she smiled at her from behind her tea cup.
"That should be interesting," she said. Lily swore as she looked into the eyes that were so similar to her own, that a twinkle lingered behind them.
James looked around his living room, glad to finally be back home. Everything looked exactly the same as it had when he left only four months earlier. As he stood there, taking in everything that he may have forgotten, he heard voices from inside the kitchen. He strolled in to find Sirius and his father at the kitchen table and his mother setting down a try of sandwiches.
"Ah, there he is," said his mother happily. "Did you see Lily off, dear?"
"Yeah," said James, seeing the image of Lily's smiling face before she apparated inside his mind's eye.
"She is a very lovely young lady," said Mrs. Potter fondly. James grinned broadly at his mother.
"Did you finish saying your goodbyes and making a sick bloody mess of yourself," asked Sirius, grabbing a sandwich off the plate and looking at James mischievously.
"You're one to talk, mate," smirked James as he took a seat next to his father at the round kitchen table and helped himself to a sandwich. "The way you and Ravenwood said goodbye made people on the next train sick."
"Who is Ravenwood?" asked Mr. Potter, laughing slightly at the two boys.
"His girlfriend," said James, shoving a corner of the sandwich into his mouth.
"You have a girlfriend, Sirius?" asked Mrs. Potter, raising her wand and summoning four butterbeers from the cupboard. Sirius smirked at her through a mouthful of food. "That doesn't surprise me at all. Well, what is she like? Is she like Lily?"
"Not really," said Sirius once he had swallowed. "However, she is Lily's best mate."
"Interesting. Well then, by the looks of Lily she must be pretty?" asked Mrs. Potter curiously.
"Yeah," said Sirius, taking another bite of his sandwich. "She's all right I guess. For now anyway."
"Come off it mate," smirked James. "Don't listen to him. He is hardly ever separated from her. She says jump and he's already on the roof before she can finish." Mr. Potter laughed and shook his head.
"You, mate, are one to talk," grinned Sirius. "She has you wrapped around her wand." James shrugged and took another bite of his sandwich.
"Does this remind you of anything?" smiled Mrs. Potter across the table to her husband.
"It sounds vaguely familiar to me, Allie," grinned Mr. Potter as he reached out for her hand. She took it and he squeezed it lovingly. They smiled warmly at each other as they gazed for a moment into each other's eyes; sharing a memory that only the two of them seemed to possess.
"Come on you two! We are trying to eat here," said James in mock tones of disgust. Mr. Potter gave his wife's hand another loving squeeze and let their hands drift back to their plates.
"Are Remus and Peter coming by later?" asked Mrs. Potter, picking up her sandwich again.
"Nah. But they'll be by in a few days for a visit," said James. "We have planning to do for the party." James and Sirius exchanged smirks.
"As long as you don't go blowing up the house or any of the guests," said Mr. Potter in a fatherly tone. "Just remember that these are your mother and mine's friends."
"Speaking of your friends," said Sirius abruptly. "You better tell them to start practicing now because we have half our team coming."
"I know that I can speak for them when I say that we are not intimidated by your teammates. You are still going to lose Mr. Black," said Mr. Potter with the same mischievous spirit that he passed down to James, glittering in his eyes.
"Yeah well, you haven't met Faith and Liz and they are pretty good," said Sirius humorously playing along.
"Who are they dear?" asked Mrs. Potter, taking a sip of her butterbeer.
"Faith is Sirius's girlfriend and Liz is Remus's girlfriend and they are pretty good dad," said James, through a mouthful of food.
"Remus has a girlfriend?" asked Mrs. Potter. James and Sirius nodded and shoved the rest of their sandwiches into their mouths and both grabbed for another one. "So I'll get to meet them at the party then?"
"Yeah, they are coming," said James.
"Will we be meeting them before the party?" asked Mrs. Potter, dabbing her mouth with a napkin.
"Probably not," said James casually. "Liz lives in the South near the English Channel and Faith lives in the States."
"Your girl is American?" asked Mr. Potter, looking at Sirius. Sirius nodded his head, as his mouth was too full to speak.
"Good luck, mate," grinned Mr. Potter with a slight laugh.
"William, hush," laughed Mrs. Potter at her husband.
Lily finished her tea with her mother and made her way up to her room to unpack her trunk. The first time that she walked into her room after being away for so long always felt strange. Although her room was kept just the way that she had left it, it had the feeling that it had not been occupied for a long time. The purple walls still proudly held pictures of family and friends, a Gryffindor banner, a few posters of her favorite bands from over the years and two shelves filled with her books from Hogwarts and other novels she had acquired over time. Her twin size bed was still covered in the purple, yellow and blue flowered bedspread that she had had since she was eleven. In the corner of her room stood the small white wicker vanity that her parents had given her for her sixteenth birthday. Lily smiled to herself and pushed her trunk inside the room. As if on cue, Grace glided into the room and rested on top of her dresser. She closed the door behind her and opened the trunk. She hung up her school robes and other garments in the closet. She kept her books inside the trunk but took out three pieces of parchment and her favorite quill. She sat down at her vanity and began to write similar letters to James, Faith and Liz. As soon as she was done, she tied them to Grace's leg.
"Want some exercise?" asked Lily patting her on the head. The howl hooted softly at her as she looked up with great gleaming eyes. "Take them to James, Liz and Faith and be careful."
She petted the owl lovingly. Grace gently nipped her finger to tell Lily that she understood and set out immediately. Lily felt a sudden sadness as she saw her friend fly out into the afternoon sky. Lily kept herself busy over the next few hours by reacquainting herself with muggle life. Even though Lily had lived as a muggle for most of her life, living at Hogwarts and using magic for every little thing quickly became routine. Of course she was of legal age now to use magic at her desire, but she knew that it made her mother and father a bit uncomfortable so she tried to keep its use to a minimum. Plus for the days and events leading up to Petunia's wedding, she would have to keep her magic usage down to a bare minimum in front of her extended family and guests.
A little after five in the evening Lily heard a car pull up into the drive and a car door slamming shut. A few seconds later the door opened and two voices drifted up the stairs. Lily felt a sudden rush of joy as she leapt from her bed, where she was watching television and bounded down the stairs.
"Daddy!" shouted Lily as she practically ran towards him to give him a hug.
Her father was a tall man and he was in rather good shape; lean from years of manual labor. Except for a few lines in the creases of his brown eyes and some visible thinning of his red hair, Lily often thought of how young her looked for his age. Lily had always had a close and special relationship with her father ever since she was born. Lily had always regarded her father as a wise man and often looked to him for pieces of advice. She had always felt that he was constantly proud of her accomplishments. He was the first person to be excited for her when she received her letter to Hogwarts. Every holiday break he would ask her to fill him in on what she was learning. As of late, he even asked her to perform some of the things that she had learned. He was very interested in her subjects and often she would catch him gazing through her books in the evening, by the fire or outside on the patio. Even though he said that he did not favor one daughter over the other, Lily always felt that he favored her a little more than Petunia. Lily had always felt that she was his pride and joy and secretly she loved it.
"My Lily flower! How are you dear?" said her father as he embraced his daughter.
"Wonderful! How are you?" asked Lily as she pulled away, but not before kissing him on the cheek.
"Excellent now that I am home. How was the train ride in? Everything good I hope?" said Mr. Evans. Lily nodded.
"Hello, John," greeted Mrs. Evans warmly as she emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron.
"Hello, Evie," smiled Mr. Evans as he gave his wife a kiss.
"Dinner is almost ready. Lily come and give me a hand," said Mrs. Evans.
"Where is Petunia this evening?" asked Mr. Evans, setting down his toolbox and following the girls into the kitchen.
"Having dinner at the Dursley's. She'll be home a little later," said Mrs. Evans as she walked over to the stove and stirred the contents inside the pot.
Mr. Evans gave a soft grunt but said nothing more. Lily caught his eye and laughed silently to herself. She knew that, like herself, her father was not fond of Petunia's fiancée. Lily remembered that right after they had all met him for the first time, her father commented that he was a pompous bag of hot air that should be sent into the atmosphere to be popped. Lily's mother however, felt that he was a decent man with a good sense of goals and ambition. She did not approve of either Lily or John to poke fun at him and this feeling had only deepened since Petunia announced her engagement. Lily felt that it was best just to keep her feelings to herself or with her father when her mother was out of earshot.
Dinner that night was one the most delightful ones that Lily had ever spent with her parents. Both her parents wanted to know everything that was happening with her studies and her other life away from home. Lily was quite embarrassed when her mother mentioned the fact that Lily had a boyfriend to her father. He was quiet for a moment and looked at Lily skeptically. Her stomach clenched as she looked into her father's brown eyes. She had never had a serious boyfriend before and honestly she didn't know how he was going to take it. She breathed a slight sigh of relief when he smiled and said that he would like to 'meet this boy.' She told him that he would be attending the wedding as her date and her father nodded solemnly.
After dinner Lily helped her mother clean the dishes and then both of them joined John in the living room. It had been so long since Lily watched television. It felt almost unnatural not to be sitting behind a mountain of books or practicing new spells for classes the next day. She smiled to herself as she watched from the floor as her mom and dad laugh at the television. She had missed her parents more than she knew. It was nice to be sitting there with them, enjoying each other's company but not having to constantly make conversation. Silence was a gift that only years of comfort could bring. Just as the show was ending, signaling that it was almost nine o'clock at night, Lily heard a key turning the lock, followed by the sound of the front door opening. She closed her eyes for a moment as dread filled her body. A few seconds later Petunia stood in the doorway leading into the living room.
"Petunia, dear, how was dinner?" asked her mother cheerfully from the couch.
"Absolutely delightful," said Petunia. Her eyes wandered over to Lily and the familiar stony expression, that usually warranted her welcome, began to take shape. "When did you get home?"
"This afternoon. And it's wonderful to see you too," said Lily as she rolled her eyes and gave her attention once again to the television.
"So tell me everything that happened," said her mother, patting the open cushion next to her for Petunia to sit on. She walked over and regally placed herself down next to her mother.
"Well, everyone is very excited about the shower on Sunday. Mrs. Dursley said that she has everything on her end ready. Vernon is absolutely ecstatic about it too. I just hope that everything goes smoothly." Although Lily had her back to her, she feel her sister's eyes on the back of her head, burning into her. "Vernon is signing the lease on the apartment on Wednesday. It is in such a wonderful neighborhood. We hope that we get a lot of nice things, because we are going to have so much space to fill in that place."
"It is a very nice apartment and relatively close to here which is nice," said her mother fondly. "Oh Petunia, I can't believe my eldest daughter is getting married!" Lily made a slight retching noise to herself as she rolled her eyes. She really didn't feel like lying there and having to listen to her mother fuss over the wedding. She got up off the floor and headed towards the doorway. "Lily where are you going, dear?" asked her mother concerned.
"Um, I forgot that I need to write to Liz and Faith," lied Lily with a pleasant smile.
"Oh, all right then," said her mother; a shadow of disappointment in her expression. "Just make sure that you are ready to go around 10 tomorrow morning."
"For what?" asked Lily, dreading the answer.
"We have to go and grab things for the shower on Sunday. We have a lot to do so make sure you are ready."
"Will do," said Lily, forcing a small smile.
She turned from the room and headed up the stairs. It was still too early to go to bed, but Lily didn't feel like staying down there and listening to Petunia. She didn't exactly hate her sister, but she wasn't exactly fond of her either. Although her mother tried her best to keep the sisters close, it was the fact that Petunia considered Lily abnormal that continuously drove them apart. Lily reached the top of the stairs and headed into her room. She shut the door behind her and flicked on the light. She crossed over to the television and flicked it on. As she lay on her bed, half watching the television, she realized how alone she felt.
"Come on mate, you can do better than that!" shouted James as he and Sirius raced around on their brooms through snow covered wooded back yard.
"Just worry about yourself and trying not to catch a mouth full of bark all right," yelled Sirius as he ducked out the way of a stray branch. The boys raced through the forest at great speed.
"It feels so good to be back home!" shouted James as they boys jerked their brooms up toward the sky and burst out into the openness.
Sirius nodded and together they speed above the trees and back towards the house. The sun was beginning to set lower into the sky. The dim light cast a peaceful but eerie shadow over the snow covered ground. James suddenly realized that they had been out there for almost two hours. As they approached the house, James could see lights on in various parts of the house. He figured that his mother was probably close to finishing dinner. As the boys circled around the house he could see his father bent over some paperwork in the den. They landed by the back entrance and slipped off their brooms.
"Nothing like a little flying to welcome in vacation," remarked Sirius as he flung his broom over his shoulder. James nodded in agreement and opened the kitchen door. Just as he predicted, his mother was finishing up dinner.
"Smells good. What are we having tonight?" asked James, looking into the nearest pot.
"Let's see, um, baked rat with cornbread stuffing, blood blister potatoes and frog legs," grinned his mother mischievously.
"Well I never said that you were a wonderful cook," smirked Sirius. Mrs. Potter laughed.
"Go get ready you two. Oh and grab your father!" called Mrs. Potter as the boys raced each other out of the kitchen and up the stairs to their rooms.
"Ha!" laughed Sirius as he triumphantly reached his room first. "You may be faster than me on a broomstick, but on foot you can not win Mr. Potter!" Sirius ran inside his room.
"It's only because your room is closer to the stairs than mine, mate," grinned James as he entered his room. He pointed his wand at the lanterns inside and immediately the room was illuminated. James jumped slightly as he turned towards the window. To his surprise, he wasn't alone in the room. A beautiful owl sat on his window sill, looking at him through great big black eyes. His nerves disappeared as he recognized it as Lily's owl, Grace.
"Why hello there," greeted James as he set down his broom and removed his jacket. The owl hooted softly in response. He walked over to the owl. There were three letters tied to her leg, but immediately James spotted his and removed it from her tiny leg. He walked over to his desk and opened the second drawer to pull out some owl treats.
"There you go, Madame, and give my love to Lily," said James as he lowered the palm of his hand to her face. She ate the treats quickly and gently nipped him in gratitude. Just as swiftly as she had appeared, she was gone.
"Are you ready to go and stuff our faces......what's that?" asked Sirius as he entered into James's room.
"A letter from Lily," said James as he stared at the black ink that eloquently scrawled his name.
"Do you want me to give you a minute?" asked Sirius in tones of mock- concern.
"Do you mind?" asked James looking at him above his glasses. Sirius laughed and turned to leave the room.
"Dear James, I miss you so much. I can't wait to have your powerful lips pressed against mine again," said Sirius in a girly voice as he exited the room. "Let me count the ways that you make me feel like the luckiest woman on earth, one.....two....thrrreeee......" Sirius's voice faded as he walked down the stairs.
James laughed despite himself. He flipped the envelope over and eagerly took out the piece of parchment. He unfolded it and found that oddly enough, his hands were shaking slightly.
Dear James,
It feels so strange to be writing to you. I am so used to being able to see you every day that writing just feels aberrant. Well, I got home safe and I am assuming that you did as well. Your parents were very nice and I am looking forward to seeing them again on New Year's Eve. Even though it was a very mean trick of you to spring that upon me. But I guess I will forgive you since you have yet to meet my family. I hope that you are enjoying your holiday thus far. It feels so odd to be back home. When I walked into my room this afternoon, it didn't even feel like it was my room. I guess that Hogwarts has become more of a home to me over the past few years than my own home has. I do hope that you and Sirius are staying out of trouble and not causing too much of a fuss for your parents. But if you both get bored please come and save me for a little while. I would be absolutely thrilled to see you again and hopefully get to spend some time quality time with you. I miss you desperately and I am counting the days until we can finally see each other again. All my love, Lily
James read the letter over twice. Had she really meant what she said or was he just imaging the words. Was she really missing him right at that moment? James closed his eyes and tried to picture her writing the letter. Her beautiful red hair was probably adorned around her face as she bent over the table to write. He bet that she probably had one side tucked behind her ear as she always did when her hair was down and she was writing. His mother's voice, calling him to dinner, called him back to reality. James folded the letter and placed it back inside the envelope. He laid it on top of his desk. As he walked out of the room he made a mental note of writing her back after dinner.
"So, how is the lovely Miss Evans," asked Sirius with a plateful of food sitting in front of him. "Has the last few hours been terribly lonely for her without you there?"
"Stuff it you git," grinned James, trying not to let Sirius's words make him blush.
"Lily wrote you a letter already?" asked Mrs. Potter, sipping on a glass of red wine. James nodded his head. Mrs. Potter gave a slight smile and raised her eyebrows at her husband but said nothing. James ignored this and continued eating.
Dinner was very pleasant. James was glad to be home again. He had missed his parents a lot over the past few months. James felt that he was rather lucky to even be sitting and enjoying a meal with his parents considering the state of the wizarding world these days. After dinner, James and Sirius went into the den to play a game of chess. Sirius and James had a tradition of starting a tournament every holiday. It did not end until the last day of vacation. The person who had the most wins was declared the winner and the loser had to either pay or give up something that they had bet on. This holiday they had bet upon two bags of dung bombs, a set of gobstones and five galleons. The bets always started out as being nothing big, but both of them new that with each loss or win, the stakes would get higher and more ridiculous.
After five games and three losses, James decided to turn in. He said goodnight to his parents and Sirius followed him up the stairs as well. Both boys entered their separate rooms and James found the peace and quiet very relaxing. He sat down at his desk and reread the letter that Lily sent him once more. He pulled out a piece of parchment and began to write her back. When he was finished, he sealed it inside an envelope. He scrawled her name on the cover and left it on his desk. He figured that he would send it tomorrow, as it was well past ten o'clock at night and he didn't want to send a letter now. It was a common rule among the wizarding world lately that you only sent owls in the daytime because it was easier for Death Eaters to intercept them at night. James undressed and put on a pair of comfortable pajamas. He crawled into his bed and allowed some time for his body to become familiar once more to his own bed. As he lay there, all he could think about was Lily standing on the platform after their kiss goodbye. It did not seem possible that it had been the same day. Then his mind wandered to the other night. It had felt wonderful to wake up with Lily in his arms. As sleep transported him to another world, James felt his arms wrap tight around the pillow as Lily's face danced in his mind.
Today's chapter was brought to you by the letter R and the number 14. Stay tuned for Martha Stewarts neighborhood with special guests Tom Arnold and the guy who plays the janitor on Scrubs. They are going to make bunt cake! Mmmmmm, delicious and exciting!