IT IS HERE! THE EVENT THAT YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!
Hello fellow fanfiction readers! I have updated (applause and cheers)! I hope that all of you enjoy this chapter because it has taken me a while to write it. I just wanted to give a quick warning to all of you. My last year of college is starting in a week and I will unfortunately be consumed with the workload of 20 credit hours. Even though the classes I am taking are fairly easy, the homework is going to interfere with my L/J writing time. I hope that you don't get too mad at me if I take longer to update and please bear with me.
Also, just a quick couple of notes, some of you have expressed concern in your reviews about grammatical errors and such in my writing. Please keep in mind that I am human being and therefore not perfect. I do make errors and unfortunately do not catch all of them when I read the story over. I just want to apologize if it offends anyone when they are reading the story, but telling me about them is only stating the obvious. I know they are there and I am too lazy to go back and fix them. So bear with me and I'll try in the future to be a little more careful about errors. Also, there has been mention that I take up too much space in my story for shout-outs and the Marvin side story and that it has been requested that I discontinue it. However, by the amount of reviews that I get stating that they like the Marvin story and since my shout-out time is where I get to talk to my readers, I have decided to keep it. If you don't like it, then just scroll down; it takes an extra two seconds.
Okay, now that the ranting is done, it's my favorite time.....Shout outs!
Fighter-chick – I am so glad that you like my story. As to my knowledge, I don't believe that you have ever reviewed. But I am glad that you have been following my story and I hope that you keep reviewing to let me know what you think.
Padfootlet- I love field hockey! Did you watch it during the Olympics? There were some good matches. You are so right about us having our very own versions of Sirius. Hey, I have a cool idea. We should double date with our versions of Sirius. That would make for an interesting date. Anyhoo, I like your 'out of the orange' phrase. I may have to steal it. I'll talk to you laters.
Sammy, Sammy, Sammy Solo – Did I tell you how much I love your name? Foreshadowing? What foreshadowing? (I tried to pull it over on you, but I can't sneak past your eagle eye for foreshadowing. Hmm...drastic measures must be taken!) I hope that your freshman year is going great and that you are making lots of friends and having tons of fun. Just don't fall into the freshman party trap. But I have a feeling that you won't. Good luck with your classes and always remember to hold onto your drink at parties. Talk to you next chapter!
Pdlegirl – No you are the candy goddess! I love caramel and green apple suckers. But I must say that I am the gummy queen. I love gummy bears, gummy worms, gummy sharks, Swedish fish and Dots. I stop at Target at least once every other day to pick up some candy. No wonder I need to get my teeth filled. Sorry, a little off topic. Talk to you soon of Countess and Supreme Intaker of Sugar.
Shortiibabi- Hey, thanks for reviewing my story! I'm so glad that you liked it. Hmm, is Liz going to die? I'm not sure; I guess you'll have to continue reading. And when is Lily and James going to say the "L" word? Man, it is taking them a long time, but I'm with you and hopefully soon. You got rid of Peter? Shame, shame! I thought about getting rid of him, but I realized that I could have more fun with him if I left him in. Plus I need a villain for later chapters. I hope that you continue to read and review because I'd love to hear your reaction. Talk to you later.
Padfootedmoony- Like Mrs. Potter said, "Christmas is a time for secrets." You'll find out in the next chapter what Lily got for Christmas and I promise that you won't be disappointed. I'm glad that you like long chapters because this is a very long one. It was almost 24 pages typed up on my computer. So read and enjoy and let me know what you think. Bobo the monkey is awesome; he may be making another appearance soon.
Sweetness0984 – I have been analyzing your name. Does the 0984 stand for your birthday month and year? If it does, than happy birthday this month and if not, then just ignore me and my cracked out ideas. Talk to you next chapter.
LJstagflower4e/JCtigerwolf4e – Hey Rebecca! Yeah the last chapter was sort of a filler, but it was necessary for this chapter. You'll see that this chapter is definitely not a filler and I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did writing it. Oh, and look out for a special cameo. Talk to you later girl!
AnniePADFOOT- I hope that you are feeling better. There is nothing worse than being sick during the winter months. And to answer your question, I love raw cookie dough. It is the best thing on the face of the planet. My best friend and I always have a girl pig out fest where we rent movies and buy all sorts of chips, dips, cookie dough, candy and whatever else we are in the mood for. Those are good times I highly recommend them. I hope all is well and that you are staying warm! Talk to you soon.
Courtney- Hey Court! What's going on? How is school? Hopefully not to stressful yet. I start next week and I have the usual mixed feelings of anticipation and dread. But it's my last year! Yeah! And I'm glad to say that I'm also horrible at the drums. I'm getting better but I have so little time to play them that I'm making slow progress. But oh well. I hope that you enjoy the chapter and I'll talk to you soon.
lilchocolatechip011- Well, it's not two days, but will you still read it none-the-less? I glad that you like my story and I hope that you continue to review and let me know what you think. Talk to you laters.
dweem-angel- You asked for it and here it is. I have brought on the wedding! I hope that you enjoy it! Let me know what you think. Talk to you later.
blueviolinist33- Hey girl what's up! Yeah I've noticed that Sirius is kind of a horn-ball. But JK has said that he was a rebellious teenager, so, like most young men I know, he likes to joke around about 'snogging'. But Faith will keep him in his place make no mistake about that. To answer your question, Faith is the second eldest child and the oldest girl. I know how much you like her and I believe that she will be in the next chapter. I'm going to try and push the story along a little faster in the next chapter. Anyway, hang in there with high school. We all had to go through it and it is worth it in the end when you walk across the stage. But you seem like a good student so I know that you'll do fine. And when you need a stress reliever, read my story lol. Sorry a little shameless self-promotion. Talk to you laters!
Amanda – It crossed my mind to have him say that he loves her, but the only problem is that he doesn't know if Lily loves him back. I hate the awkwardness of relationships; one wrong word and the whole thing could fall apart. Hmm, oh well. I hope that you like the next the chapter and I'll talk to you soon.
Libby Bird- Thank you for the compliment. I'm glad that you like my story and I hope that you will continue to read it.
AurorLina- Hey girl, what's up? How is University? If it's anything like mine then it sucks. But it's only bound to get better....hopefully.....it will right?....Anyway. I'm so glad that someone else likes my L&J rambles. They are fun to write because relationships are mostly built on rambling conversations. But that's between you and me. I hope that all is well with you and I'll talk to you in the next chapter.
Becky- Hello, future fellow History teacher! Finally someone that I can identify with! You do not know how shocked I was to see that you were studying to become a history teacher in your review. Female history teachers are so few and rare that we are going to have no problem finding jobs hehehehehe! I'll try to update once more before school starts, but I can't make any promises, as you well know how the week before school goes. I hope that you'll continue to let me know what you think. Talk to you soon.
The-Four against Marauder- Julia!!! How the heck are you! It sounds like you are having an awesome summer! You have been traveling so much, you are going to have to email me and tell me all about it! When do you return home? I'm glad that you liked the chapter and I can't wait for you to read this one. Let me know how your summer is going and I'll talk to you soon.
htebazile9851 – Hi Elizabeth. I love that name because it is my confirmation name. Anyway, I can't believe that you read this all in one sitting! I don't think I could have done that. My butt would have been so sore, not mention I would have been hungry afterwards. I understand your concern about the shout-outs and if you do not want me to write to you then I respect that and I will not. But I do hope that you continue to read and review my story nevertheless. Hmm...will Liz find out about Remus? I don't know. (wink)
MooningOverMoony- I loved the "GAH" that you put in the beginning of your review. I laughed so hard and I don't know why. Maybe I was drunk? Anyway, I know exactly what you mean about the L&J boredom that usually follows after they get together. I hope that mine does not do that and if I start I am leaving up to you to notify me! I mean it!! I am so glad that you had a good time a PEI! Shame, shame for driving the car around at 15! But it's all right because I did too. My grandma, god rest her soul, used to let us steer the car when we were like 11 and 12. (hehehe) I hope that you like this next chapter! I'll talk to you soon!!
Jack Robinson- Jack you are going to make me blush!! Your review was such a nice treat to come home to after a very horrible day at work. I appreciate it and thank you from the bottom of my little black heart! I am so glad that someone else got my Marge as a gym teacher bit. No one mentioned it and I thought that it was above people's heads for a moment. I hope that you like this chapter. It is very long, just to warn you. Anyway, I hope that everything is going well with you and I can't wait to hear from you after the next chapter. Talk to you soon, girlie!!
siriusgirl89- Hey how are you? Thank you for reviewing my story. To answer your question I read the first few chapters of Prior Incantaem but I have not read it since. I just haven't had time. So if anything is similar it is totally by accident. I am a little distraught about Marvin, but you'll see what happens if you read down a little bit. I hope you like the next chapter and hopefully I'll talk to you later.
charmed girl33- Well, I guess I can forgive you for reviewing late. (j/k) I totally understand about school so no need to apologize to me. I just hope that you are not being killed too badly with piles of homework. I just want to tell you not to worry too much about Faith because she will be in the next chapter, Chapter 27, as well as Remus and Liz. Hehehehe, the evilness of dreams! Oh how they tease. Ell, I hope that you like this chapter and I will definitely talk to you soon. Keep up the good work!
Marvin and Stephanie: The Conclusion
(Last week on Marvin: MARVIN: AHAHAHAA! Looks like I am going to win. You are no match for me. Puma's are more powerful than pesky humans! I will win and at the end you will bow to me and call me master once again! STEPHANIE: Over my dead body Marvin! (Stephanie picks up a broken piece of glass and so does Marvin. They ready themselves in attack positions.) MARVIN: There is one thing that you must know before I kill you. STEPHANIE: Yeah, what's that? MARVIN: I am your father! STEPHANIE: NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! MARVIN: (laughs) Yes, it is true! STEPHANIE: NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!)
STEPHANIE: You can't be my father! It is not possible! MARVIN: Yes it is true! STEPHANIE: No, I mean it is not really possible! That would mean that my mother would have had to have an affair with you and that is just wrong. Plus, you are only seven and I am twenty-three, so it really isn't possible. (Marvin and Stephanie stand in silence looking at each other). MARVIN: Okay, well maybe I lied.....but it sounded really good didn't it? STEPHANIE: (laughs) Yeah it kind of did. MARVIN: (laughs right back) Can you imagine how hairy you would be if that was true. STEPHANIE: I would have to have a full body wax every week. MARVIN: I wouldn't want to be that bikini waxer. (Stephanie and Marvin fall on the ground laughing and drop their shards of glass. STEPHANIE: I think that would hurt so bad. All that hair and having it ripped from your body? That just sounds way too painful! MARVIN: I had it done once and it was the worst experience of my life. I've never been in so much pain. STEPHANIE: (laughing) You had a bikini wax? But you are a boy? MARVIN: Well, I was going to Nice and I didn't want to be the only hairy guy at the nudist beach. (Stephanie and Marvin roll on the floor laughing for a very long time. Finally they stop and look at each other.) You know, I don't really want to kill you. STEPHANIE: I don't either. MARVIN: So let's not. STEPHANIE: Okay. Ya know Marvin, you are kind of a cool puma. I never knew that you could be this much fun. MARVIN: I had no idea that you could be this much fun either. (Both of them smile at each other.) STEPHANIE: Hey! I have a crazy idea. MARVIN: What is that? You want to go play racquet ball with some German potatoes? STEPHANIE: (laughs) Well that does sound like fun, but no. I was thinking that since we both have world domination in common, that we should do it together. MARVIN: (thinks for a moment) Hmm...that could work. We would be unstoppable! Let's do it. STEPHANIE: (grinning evilly) Shall we talk about it over coffee and strumpets? MARVIN: (getting up) I'll get the cream.
Chapter 26: The Wedding of Mrs. Vernon Dursley
James apparated onto his front step. The sky was starless, making it darker than it really was. There was a soft, orange glow radiating from several windows out onto the freshly fallen snow. James tapped his wand on the lock and the door swung open. He stepped inside and was immediately basked in warmth.
"James?" called his mother's voice from the living room.
"Yeah, it's me," said James taking off his cloak and hanging it on the hook in the hallway.
"How was Lily's?" asked his mother looking at him from over a book as he walked into the living room.
"Lovely," said James throwing himself down on the couch nearest to him.
"Did you eat dinner?" asked Mrs. Potter putting the book down on her lap.
"Yeah, I ate at Lily's," said James looking around the living room. "Where's dad?"
"He had to run into the office for a quick minute," sighed Mrs. Potter. "He got an urgent owl at dinner and off he went." She looked into the fire with a worried expression.
"Is Sirius home yet?" asked James trying to take his mind off the horrible possible situations running through his mind's eye.
"Um-hm, he is upstairs I believe," said Mrs. Potter shaking the invisible thought from her mind and turning to smile at James.
James smiled at his mother and got up off the couch. He walked into the kitchen and grabbed two butterbeers from the cupboard. Then, walking up the stairs leading from the kitchen into the back part of the upstairs, he made his way to Sirius's bedroom. The door was partially open, but to James's surprise the room was empty. Looking down the deserted hall his attention was drawn to a soft glow spilling out from under the door of the den. He softly knocked as he opened the door. Sirius was lounging on one of the big overstuffed leather couches. He looked up from his book as James entered.
"Back so early?" asked Sirius, marking the page in his book.
"Early? It's nearly nine, where have you been?" grinned James as he sat down opposite him in one of the brown leather chairs and throwing his feet on top of the coffee table in front of him.
"How is Remus?" He opened the bottles and handed one to Sirius.
"He's all right, the same as usual. Cheers," said Sirius taking the bottle and raising it slightly towards James. He took a large gulp and settled back onto the couch. "We went into Diagon Alley and hung around for a while."
"Anything interesting?" asked James.
"Nah, but you should see the way people are acting lately. There is hardly anyone on the streets, they all apparate inside the stores. You won't believe the suspicious looks we got," said Sirius taking another gulp of his drink. "I tell you, mate, things are getting bad. People look at you and you can see the distrust in their eyes. I even found myself looking at people suspiciously after a while." He took another long swig and put the empty bottle down on the table.
"Well, just be careful who you go eyeing. You don't need a jumpy person to hex your eyebrows off," said James seriously. "Why did you go there anyway?"
"Remus needed to go shopping for Christmas presents. You are going to like what he got you," grinned Sirius.
"What is it?" inquired James, half-heartedly.
"A picture of his mum in a bathing suit," said Sirius lazily. James laughed and shook his head.
"Wicked, now I can put it next to the one of your mum," grinned James.
"That's bloody sick," shivered Sirius. "So, how is Evans?"
"Good. It was nice, for the most part," shrugged James. He took a long drink and placed the empty bottle on the table next to him. He lightly pounded his chest twice and belched loudly.
"Well I hope you did that at dinner. I bet her mum and dad would have found that highly amusing," grinned Sirius, moving a piece of hair out of his eyes. James grinned at him triumphantly. "How are Lily's parents anyway? Did her dad do the over-protective, 'you are not good enough for my daughter' thing?"
"Nah, actually her parents are nice. Her dad is really funny and I think they both approve of me," said James crossing his arms over his chest and resting his elbows on the arm cushions.
"That's good. So you are going to the wedding on Saturday then?" asked Sirius casually.
"Yeah," snorted James. Sirius raised an eyebrow and eyed James curiously.
"What is tat about? Is her sister as hideous as horrible as the girls said she was?"
"Well, let me just say that if she was a witch she would fit in perfect with your family," said James shaking his head in disgust.
"That's a pretty heavy statement, mate. Are you sure she is that wretched?" asked Sirius with a tone of disbelief.
"Well, within the fifteen minutes that I had spent with her she managed to snub my very existence twice and insult Lily and I by calling us freaks," said James disgusted.
"I'm surprised you didn't curse her into next week," said Sirius mildly amused.
"Trust me I wanted to very badly. If I didn't have to go to this stupid wedding I would have transfigured her into the blonde-haired, snot-nosed pig that she is," spat James angrily.
"The poor old fool that is marrying her is going to have his hands full," laughed Sirius. James nodded his head in agreement. "That is why I am never going to let some dame rope me into it."
"You're a damn fool if you think I believe that," said James staring at his best friend with disbelief.
"Oh no I'm not. I'm absolutely serious about that one," said Sirius folding his hands and casually resting them behind his head.
"You are telling me that you never plan on marrying? Ever?" asked James eyeing him curiously.
"That's what I'm saying."
"What about Faith?" inquired James.
"What about her?" asked Sirius lazily.
"Does she know about your plan?" asked James curiously.
"Mate, a girl like her isn't interested in that sort of thing. Why do you think I'm with her?" Sirius was silent for a moment. He raised an eyebrow and stared directly into James's eyes. "Are you thinking about marriage?"
"What?" asked James a little startled. "No I'm not thinking about it, have you gone completely mad? I'm only 18."
"See then I don't want to hear or talk about it anymore," said Sirius satisfied at last. He sat up quickly. "Say, why don't we go outside and explore something." James thought about it for a moment.
"Let's wait until mum goes to bed," said James, the familiar mischievous twinkle sparkling behind his glasses, in his eyes.
Lily woke up Saturday morning bright and early. She slept very lightly the night before which she attributed to a combination of indigestion and dread. The rehearsal dinner, which was held at a Greek bistro, went fairly well. As she lay there in her warm bed her stomach gave an unpleasant gurgle.
"I shouldn't have had that fried calamari and clams platter," said Lily to herself.
She closed her eyes for a second, wishing she could fall back to sleep for a few more minutes and not have to get up and be a participant in the day's events. A faint clunking from downstairs and the smell of brewing coffee that wafted into her room told Lily that she had to get up. With a deep sigh she three the covers off of her and rolled out of bed. She shivered slightly as the cold floor stung her toes. She grabbed her bathrobe and undergarments and headed for the shower.
Half and hour later Lily emerged in the kitchen, freshly showered and hair up in a purple towel.
"Good morning," said her mother cheerily from behind her teacup at the table. "Pastry?"
"Yeah, thanks," said Lily pouring herself a cup of tea and sitting down next to her mother. "Is Petunia up yet?"
"Yes she's getting ready I believe," said Mrs. Evans. She took another sip of her tea and was silent for a moment. She sighed, put her teacup down on the table with a soft clunk and stared determinately at Lily. "Lily, I need to discuss something with you." Lily looked up at her mother. She learned from past experiences that when her mother wanted to "discuss something" it usually wasn't going to be about something pleasant.
"What do you want to discuss?" asked Lily steadying herself for anything she could think of. Her mother took in a deep breath and looked her straight in the eyes so that both pairs of emerald eyes were mirrored in each other.
"Now, I want you to know that your father and I are extremely proud of you and your abilities..."
"But," said Lily knowing exactly what was coming next.
"But, seeing that Petunia doesn't exactly understand your talent..."
"You mean since she thinks I'm a complete freak of nature," said Lily, leaning back in the chair and crossing her arms.
"No, since she just doesn't comprehend how wonderful and special they are..." Lily snorted and rolled her eyes at the ceiling. "Anyway, I just wanted to remind you that just because you can do those things does not mean that you should, especially in front of a lot of people. Do you understand what I am trying to say?"
"Yeah I get it. Don't do magic in front of Petunia or the other muggles," said Lily sarcastically.
"They are not muggles Lily. They are your family. I wish you would stop referring to them as such," said her mother irritably.
"All right," huffed Lily. "I won't do anything that would cause precious Petunia any anxiety because I know that is what you are getting at. Although, it's not like she would do the same for me." Lily stuffed the rest of the pastry into her mouth and angrily stared at the table in front of her.
"I don't know what I've done to make my only pieces of flesh and blood despise each other so badly," said Mrs. Evans tiredly shaking her head at the ceiling. Lily sighed and get up. The last thing she wanted right now was to go round and round with her mother about Petunia and why they didn't get along.
"I'm going to get ready," snapped Lily making her way towards the swinging door.
"Lily, one more thing." Lily stopped and turned around to face her mother. "I need you to pass that along to James as well. He is a nice boy, don't get me wrong, but I don't need the whole wedding to be turned upside down with suspicious or unusual behavior."
Lily glared at her mother for a moment before turning to walk out the door. She marched up the stairs and into her room. She slammed the door a little harder than she normally would have done, causing it to echo throughout the upstairs. She tramped over to her television set and angrily flicked the dial on. She was so angry, she could scream. She could not believe how two-faced her mother was. One second she was saying how wonderful her abilities were, the next how it was suspicious and unusual behavior. And for her to bring James into it! Lily plopped herself down at her vanity and ripped the towel from her damp hair.
"Unusual behavior," huffed Lily taking out her wand and touching her head with it. Instantly hot air came out the tip of the wand. Lily gave her wand a little flick and almost immediately her hair was dry. Lily waved her wand in a spiral motion and instantly her straight hair was done up in long, loose curls. Lily opened the right drawer of the vanity and began to pin up pieces of her hair with bobby pins. "It would be just a shame if something unusual happened at her wedding."
As Lily continued to pin up her hair and apply her makeup she felt the flare of anger that her mother inspired earlier drain out of her system. She was still a little angry with her mother, but deep down she understood that she meant well. It was, whether Lily liked it or not, Petunia's day and she would be civil and do everything that she was suppose to do for the sake of not starting a family war. Lily put on the finishing touches of her makeup. She sat and stared at herself in the mirror for a second to make sure that she had not missed something. A forceful knock on the door dragged Lily away from her self-analysis.
"Come in." She turned to face the door, but she had a gut feeling as to the identity of the person standing behind it. Sure enough when the door opened, her gut feeling was right.
"I need to talk to you for a moment," said Petunia, stepping inside Lily's room and closing the door behind her.
"If it is about what I think it is then you can save it because, mum already spoke to me about it this morning," said Lily lazily turning away from her sister and back to the mirror.
"Well that's fine if she did, but I need to talk to you anyway," said Petunia looking at Lily through the mirror.
"Petunia, can't you just drop it," sighed Lily. "Look, we both know that we don't get along. We both know that mum forced you into having me be your maid of honor. Why must we drag it up?" Lily picked up her lip liner and applied it to her lips, outlining them in a soft pink. Petunia pursed her lips together and glared at Lily. "I mean, don't you want to start the best day of your life off with a good memory?"
"Well that is what I am doing by talking to you and making sure that your abnormality doesn't destroy the best day of my life," snapped Petunia. Lily took in a long, slow, steadying breath. She did not want to get into an argument with Petunia and she was determined not to let her start an argument.
"Petunia, you have my word that I will not do any magic of any kind today," sighed Lily. "As a matter of fact, I don't know why are even having this conversation to begin with."
"You don't know why we are having this conversation," huffed Petunia in exasperation. "Are you serious?"
"Yeah actually I am," snapped Lily. She could feel the familiar hot tingle of anger boiling in her stomach but she tried her best to keep it there on a low simmer. Petunia snorted and crossed her arms in disbelief.
"Don't snort at me!" snapped Lily turning to face her sister square on. "Have I given you any reason not to trust me? Have I once used magic in front of your friends and future in-laws at any of the events? Has anything even remotely suspicious happened where you would suspect me? No, it hasn't. So like I said before there is no reason to repeat this conversation. And quite frankly, I am sick and bloody well tired of you constantly up my ass about my abilities. Yes that's right, my abilities not abnormalities." Petunia stood in the doorway stunned and with her mouth hanging open.
"How dare you talk to me like that!" huffed Petunia.
"Well prepare yourself because it's not over yet!" yelled Lily letting her anger take over her senses. She could feel years of pent up anger and resentment towards her sister flow through her veins and spill out of her mouth. "You know, you were never this bad until you met that horrid excuse of a fiancée."
"Don't you dare speak about Vernon in that way!" yelled Petunia. "You have no right to talk about him like that. You don't know what kind of a man he is!"
"Well I'm getting a pretty damn good idea from the way you've been acting," shouted Lily. "Ever since that bumbling bag of hot air entered into this family you have become worse. My condition never bothered you this bad before Vernon told you he didn't like it because it wasn't his idea of normal."
"Well it isn't normal Lily! I've always felt that you were abnormal; Vernon had nothing to do with it! Coming home from that wretched excuse of a school of yours turning mice into tea cups and making objects levitate all over the house! And the worse part of it all is that mum and dad think it's brilliant. They think that it is part of everyday normal life! Normal life does not involve those things!" Petunia shouted and glared at Lily.
"What is normal Petunia? Tell me that much, because somewhere along the line you and I got completely different ideas about what is normal. I know what normal is for you Petunia; I can map out your entire life right now! You are going to marry this fool, become pregnant and have a bunch of selfish, screaming little brats that you spend the best part of your years chasing after and kissing up too. Then at night you'll make dinner and wait hand and foot on that poor excuse of a husband. That is your idea of normal and to me you are the freak! Because only a person with an abnormal brain would want to waste their life like that." Lily stood from her bench and squared up to Petunia. Both girls were red in the face and if looks could kill, both would have been on the floor in a crumpled heap.
"Well, since we are mapping out each other's futures I have one for you!" shouted Petunia. "You are going to marry that freak that invaded our house and is going to invade my wedding. You are going to have a lot of children that are just as abnormal as you. He will probably be dirt poor and unemployed and you will spend the rest of your years bouncing from job to job to keep from kicked out into the streets," snapped Petunia with eyes flashing.
"Shut your mouth Petunia before I shut you up," screamed Lily at her sister. "You don't know James, he isn't anything like that!"
"What is going on here!" yelled Mr. Evans angrily as the bedroom door flew open. Lily and Petunia stood in the middle of Lily's room facing each other as if preparing themselves for a duel. "Well, what is all of the screaming about?" He looked from Lily to Petunia and back again. Neither girl spoke but instead kept a distrusting glare on the other. "Answer me!"
Lily tore her eyes away from Petunia and faced her father. "We were just having a little girl talk." Mr. Evans looked at Petunia who inhaled deeply and cast her eyes towards the ceiling.
"Petunia, your mother needs you downstairs for something," said Mr. Evans briskly. Petunia gave Lily one last glare before turning to walk out of the room. Lily watched her go with a feeling of relief. "Everything all right? There was a lot of noise coming from up here," said Mr. Evans looking at Lily with concern.
"Everything is fine dad," said Lily trying to compose herself and make it seem like everything was fine. He looked at her suspiciously. "What did mum want?"
"Something having to do with the dress," shrugged Mr. Evans. "Are you sure you are all right?"
"Fine daddy," nodded Lily with a small smile.
"Okay then. I suspect that you better start getting ready." He gave Lily a small smile and turned to leave the room. As the door closed shut Lily let out a long sigh. The last thing she wanted to do when she woke up this morning was to go to this wedding. Now, she was considering blasting off a limb to prevent her from going. Any small fragment of joy that she had for her sister was completely wiped away. Lily turned from her door and looked at the hideous gold and white dress hanging from her closet.
"I think this is the icing on the cake," said Lily nodding her head in disgust. Lily undid her robe and threw it on the back of her chair. She took the dress off of the hanger and slipped it over her head. She adjusted the shoulders and zipped up the back of the dress. She walked over to the full-length mirror on the inside of her closet door. She stared at herself for a long time. The colors, she decided, were the least dreadful element of the dress. The only word to describe the dress was puffy. Lily thought that she looked as if a man-eating pile of gold and white fabric had swallowed her body. The dress made her look like a swollen, demented birthday clown. The more Lily surveyed herself in the mirror the angrier she became. She critiqued every inch of the dress. Finally her gaze was met as her eyes stared at each other in the mirror.
"She's going to wish that she never crossed me," said Lily to her reflection.
"So what are you going to be doing today with all of your free time?" asked James. He tapped his wand to his face and instantly he was clean-shaven. Sirius twirled his wand casually as he lay on James's bed
"Ah, I'm not to sure. Whatever I feel like I guess," said Sirius lazily. "I might go visit Remus. Peter and Liz are suppose to go over and he told me that I was more than welcomed while you were off at the muggle wedding."
"I think I'd rather go there then go to this wedding," said James trying to make his hair lie flat.
"It will be fine, mate. I mean what do you really have to do? You sit and watch the ceremony. Then you congratulate them with false sincerity. After that, it's eating as much generic wedding food as you possibly can stuff into your mouth and dance and drink all night on them. Plus you get the company of your lady, so the way I look at it, it's a win-win situation," grinned Sirius as he flicked his wand and summoned a magazine towards him.
"I guess you are right, Padfoot. But the worst parts are that I have to wear this uncomfortable muggle suit and actually congratulate her horrible sister after all of the awful things she said to Lily and I." James adjusted his glasses and tapped his wand to his tie. Immediately the tie folded itself into a perfect Windsor knot. He turned around and stood up. "Well, how do I look? Suitable enough to pass as a muggle." Sirius peeked out from around his magazine and let out a loud, bark like laugh. "Oh come on! It's not that bad."
"All I can say is that you must really like this girl to go out dressed like that," laughed Sirius. "I wouldn't be caught dead in that crazy clown suit."
"You would do it if Faith asked you too so shut your hole," said James as little self-conscious. He adjusted the sleeves of his jacket and the waistband of his pants. "It tends to ride up a little in the crotch," said James tugging down on the inseam of his pants.
"Just don't do it while you are dancing with Lily, Prongs," laughed Sirius. James laughed at the mental image that played before his mind's eye. He casually glanced at the clock on the wall. "Well I should get going. It's nearly one." He straightened up and grabbed a jacket off of the chair he was sitting on. "Any last minute advice?"
Sirius raised his hand to his chin and stroked it as he stared that the wall in concentration. "Don't do anything that I wouldn't do."
"Thanks mate, that was a lot of help," said James sarcastically. Sirius shrugged and got up off the bed.
"Have fun and don't get caught snogging by her dad," said Sirius clasping James on the shoulder.
"You git," laughed James as he pulled on his jacket. "All right then, I am off. I'll see you later." The last thing James saw before apparating was Sirius saluting him with a smart grin.
The next thing James saw was the front door to the Evans house. He straightened himself once more and checked his reflection in the screen glass door. Once he was satisfied he took a deep breath and rang the doorbell. It seemed like ages before Mr. Evans smiling face appeared where the Christmas wreath was only seconds before.
"James, good to see you," said Mr. Evans opening the door and moving aside so James could enter. "Come in, come in!"
"Thank you Mr. Evans," said James stepping inside. "How are you sir?"
"MUM! WHERE ARE MY WHITE STOCKINGS?" screamed Petunia's voice from upstairs.
"THEY ARE IN YOUR TOP DRESSER DRAWER NEXT TO YOUR UNDERWEAR!" shouted Mrs. Evans from the kitchen. Mr. Evans raised his eyebrows and shook his head in defeat.
"Well, I'm fine I guess. I think I am the only one in this house that is sane this morning, but..." he shrugged his shoulders and closed his eyes. "Anyway, I believe Lily is upstairs in her room if you want to go and see her. I know that she will want to see you."
"Okay sir," said James taking off his coat and hanging it on the hook on the wall. He straightened himself once more and climbed the stairs. He could see Lily's room from the third stair from the top. Her door was open and music was blaring out of it. He crossed over to it and stood in the doorway. Lily was standing in front of a mirror examining herself with a disgusted expression. Her red hair was pinned up in the back and long, curly tresses fell softly about her face. She was wearing a little more makeup than James was used to seeing on her, but she looked beautiful none-the-less. James grinned as he saw her try to smooth out the puffy gold sleeves of her dress. After two tries without success, she placed her hands on her hips and shook her head with displeasure as she surveyed her appearance. He knocked softly on the door and immediately Lily turned to see who was there. Her face lit up in a smile when she saw James.
"Excuse me miss, but I am looking for my date. We are supposed to go to a wedding and I can't find her. But since you look so beautiful, would you mind being my date?" asked James in mock-sincerity.
"Oh James," said Lily as she practically ran over to him and embraced him. James squeezed her gently as she hugged him and he could smell a faintly pleasing scent of lavender. She kissed him softly and stood back to get a decent look at him. "You look wonderful! I can't believe that you actually wore a muggle suit."
"Well, for my lady I would go stark naked if she asked me too," grinned James looking her up and down. "You look beautiful." Lily snorted and rolled her eyes.
"You don't have to be nice. I look completely hideous in this horrible outfit." She let go of his hand walked back over to the mirror. "If I could just get these sleeves to not be so puffy....and maybe if I could get rid of some of the extra hundred yards of material in the skirt..." she tried pulling the skirt back so that it was more form fitting. She looked at James through the mirror with a pained expression. James grinned and shook his head.
"It would still be awful," they said together. They broke out into laughter and James walked over and grabbed Lily around the waist; pulling her close to him.
"Well I think that you look absolutely breath taking, despite the dress." Lily blushed and looked up at him coyly. "In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if you get more attention than the bride."
"You say the sweetest things," cooed Lily in mock-sweetness, leaning in and giving him another kiss.
"Lily are you almost ready?" came her mother's voice. They broke apart just in time to see her mother hurriedly walk into the room. "Oh, hello James. I didn't know you were here. And don't you look smashing."
"Thank you Mrs. Evans. You look very stunning yourself," smiled James walking over and kissing her hand. Mrs. Evans giggled and playfully swatted him away.
"Lily, it's almost time to go, I need you downstairs for a quick photo with the photographer," said Mrs. Evans, slightly out of breath before rushing out of the room and down the stairs.
"I guess it's starting," sighed Lily. James could hear the dread in her voice and wished that he could stop time so she wouldn't have to go through this day.
"It will be alright," said James, taking her hand and leading her out of the room. "Just think it could be worse."
"How?" asked Lily as they walked down the hall.
"It could be a snow storm," grinned James.
The photographer was already taking pictures of Petunia near the fireplace in the living room. Lily grudgingly stood next to her sister and parents for a family picture. At one-thirty the limo came and took Petunia to the church. Lily's parents drove in her father's car and let Lily and James follow them in her mother's car.
"So, your sister seems to be in a good mood today," said James lightly as Lily drove.
"I guess. She wasn't in one this morning I can tell you that," said Lily darkly.
"What happened?" asked James studying Lily.
"Nothing, I don't really want to talk about it," said Lily, concentrating on the road. "It doesn't matter right now. In a few hours, she will be out of my life and good riddance."
"Lily, you know that you can tell me anything," said James concerned.
"We just had a big blow up fight this morning and she said some really mean things and I said some really mean things. Let's just say that I am really tired of her and very glad that she isn't going to be living at home anymore," said Lily darkly as she concentrated on the road. "It just makes me sick at how much she hates me for what I am and what makes me even more sick is that I have to go around all day acting like I am so happy that she is marrying that pompous toerag."
"I'm sorry that your sister is so horrible to you Lily. The way she treats you makes me very angry. I wish that there was something I could do to stop her from hurting you," said James more to himself than to Lily as he stared out the passenger window.
"That's sweet James and I appreciate your gesture, but deep down I know that half of the reason why she hates me so much is because she doesn't understand. People tend to fear and hate people that are different from their idea of normal." The car pulled to a stop as the streetlight turned red. Lily turned to look James straight in the eyes. "It's the same thing with all of the you-know-who business. His Death Eater's hate people like me because I am not their idea of what normal is. I am not pureblood." Lily held his gaze for a moment and then slowly let her eyes fall towards the ground. "It's amazing how I don't fit in either world. It's like I'm stuck in limbo. Both worlds view me as abnormal. Kind of ironic huh?"
James stared at her. He had never thought of her situation like that before. He had always taken it for granted that she fit into the wizarding world. He had always thought of her as a very gifted witch and absolutely never as abnormal because of her bloodline. He had figured that Lily had thought of herself as a full-fledged member of the wizarding community and it had never occurred to him that she would feel like a drifter caught in two very different worlds. Now for the first time, he saw how she truly viewed herself in the scheme of the world.
"I wish that you wouldn't view yourself like that Lily," said James quietly. "You are not abnormal in either world and I hope that you truly don't see yourself in that way because the people that care about you don't view you that way. I certainly don't view you in that way."
Lily looked back up into his eyes and for a brief moment James saw a twinkle of gratitude. The light changed to green and a honk from the car behind them made Lily quickly turn her attention back on the road. They were quiet for a rest of the ride to the church. As they approached they saw the limo that carried Petunia parked in front of the doors. Lily pulled into a parking spot and they both got out. The air was chilly and the ground covered in white and brown snow. The snow sloshed under their feet as they walked to the church entrance. James grabbed Lily's hand to help her steady herself.
"Thanks," said Lily taking his hand, "You have no idea how hard it is to try and walk in this slush with three inch heels."
"Well, why walk at all," grinned James stopping behind her and picking her up off the ground.
"James!" laughed Lily as she was caught by surprise. "What are you doing!"
"It would be a shame my dear Lily if that beautiful dress of yours got ruined by the snow," smirked James as he walked past the limo. Lily could not help but giggle as she lay there in his arms. She threw her hands around his neck and kissed his cheek.
"What on earth are you doing!" said a cold, horrified voice. James and Lily spun around to see Petunia's head peaking out of the half cracked window.
"Why Petunia, don't you look just lovely," said James with sarcastic sweetness. Petunia glowered at him and looked at Lily.
"Stop acting like a child, Lily. These are my guests and I will not be embarrassed because of you two acting like immature playmates."
"Petunia, is there any champagne in there?" asked Lily sweetly.
"Yes, why?" asked Petunia cautiously.
"Well I suggest that you pop it open and drink the whole bloody thing. Maybe then that bug up your ass will die," said Lily batting her eyes at her sister. James erupted into laughter. Petunia glared at Lily with such intense hatred that if it were a real force, would have knocked them both over. She rolled up the window and James carried Lily to the stairs.
"Sorry, love, but I don't trust myself going up these icy stairs with you. I'd feel horrible if I slipped and fell," said James, tipping Lily onto her feet.
"You'd be doing me a favor," said Lily straightening her coat and grabbing James's hand. James laughed as they entered the church. It was nice and warm and had a faint smell of incense. The church was dimly lit and the dark wood interior made the church seem darker than it really was inside.
"I have to wait back here with the rest of the wedding party," said Lily taking off her coat.
"Lily! Don't you look beautiful!" said a tall dark haired woman with sea blue eyes. A tall, handsome and distinguished looking older man escorted her as they came walking towards them.
"You are so full of it, but thank you anyway," said Lily hugging the woman. The woman laughed and looked at James over Lily's shoulder.
"Oh and you must be Lily's boyfriend, James is it?"
"Yes," said Lily grabbing James's arm. "James this is my Auntie Catherine and my Uncle Michael."
"Well you are cuter than Lily described," said Aunt Catherine reaching out to shake his hand.
"Thank you, it is very nice to meet you Aunt Catherine," said James, flashing her a dashing grin. He turned and shook the tall man's hand.
"I take it the bride of Frankenstein is in the limo out front?" asked Aunt Catherine. Both women giggled and exchanged knowing looks. James laughed despite himself.
"Catherine, be nice," said Uncle Michael in a loving tone. "She is your niece and this is her wedding day."
"You are right dear. I'll save it for the reception where the insults will be a lot more fun, right Lily," winked Aunt Catherine. Lily and James burst out into laughter. James could not believe his ears. This woman was perhaps the coolest Aunt he had ever met in his life. "Oh, and speaking of the bride." Petunia had just made her grand entrance into the back of the church. Immediately her friends flocked to her and bombarded her with compliments and statements of how beautiful she looked.
"Well that's enough to make me sick for the rest of the day," said Aunt Catherine, making a sick face. Lily let out a loud laugh and immediately Petunia's attention was drawn over to the noise. She pursed her lips together as she walked over to the group.
"Hello Petunia. Don't you look lovely," said Aunt Catherine sweetly.
"Thank you Aunt Catherine, I'm so glad that you both could come," said Petunia just as sweetly. She turned to Lily and her expression fell into the familiar scowl that Lily had become accustom too. "Lily you are supposed to be with the other girls picking up your flowers and preparing to walk down the isle. It's bad enough that mum made you my maid of honor, the least you can do is act like one." She turned on her heel and strode back to the gaggle of girls.
"Well it's nice to see that she is a happy bride," said Aunt Catherine sarcastically. "I guess we better take our seats then. Come on James, you are sitting with us." She slipped her arm into James's arm and steered him towards the ushers.
"Good luck," said James from over his shoulder.
Lily gave him a small smile. For a fleeting second James saw hurt in Lily's eyes and his heart melted. Her sister had caused her so much pain and embarrassment in the past few weeks, let alone the countless months and years prior to that. James turned back around to face the church. He was seated with Lily's aunt and uncle. Although he made light conversation with them, he could not shake the look in Lily's eyes. It was at that moment that he felt the familiar mischievous tingle in his stomach. James let his mind wander as he stared around the church. He saw Petunia once again snap at Lily as she tried to fluff her dress and it was then that his marauder instinct took over. After all, he wasn't at school and there was no way for him to get into trouble. And it's not like he would do anything that would imprint lasting damage to her. James felt his hand slip to his wand inside his suit coat jacket.
The organ music started, echoing throughout the church. One by one the wedding party walked down the aisle, past the people in the pews and to the front of the church. Lily gave him a small wink as she passed and James's felt his heart swell with pride. Even in that horrible dress, she still looked absolutely stunning to him. The bridal party took their spots in the front of the church and immediately afterwards the first seven notes of the wedding march announced that the bride was coming. Petunia regally held onto her father's arm as she smiled arrogantly at the guests. James steadied his wand inside his jacket pocket as she neared him. She grandly strolled past his pew and James murmured a quick incantation. A wisp of white air dashed along the ground and hit Petunia square in the feet. Her face expressed the surprise she felt as she tripped over her dress and fell flat on her face. The wedding march came to a screeching halt and a loud, excited murmur echoed throughout the church. James tried to suppress his amusement as Mr. Evans helped her back to her feet. Petunia wobbly stood on her feet and her face was beat red with embarrassment. Once she had straightened her veil and composed herself she started back down the aisle. James looked at Lily and he could see her trying to look concerned rather than amused.
The ceremony started and James figured that he should behave himself for now. After all, he didn't want people to get the idea that something out of the ordinary was happening. In particular, he didn't want Petunia to get the idea that Lily was doing something to her to cause her embarrassment. The last thing he wanted was for Lily to get accused and yelled at more than she already had been today. But, being the true marauder that he was, he was a master in picking the right moments for pulling off a prank. The ceremony was almost over and the priest was just about to ask the couple if they would take each other in marriage.
"Perfect," James thought to himself. He had laid his wand on the bench next to him and placed his coat over it so no one could see. Sitting on the end, he was in the perfect position. He casually slipped his hand under the coat and around his wand. The priest was looking at Petunia.
"Do you Petunia, take Vernon to be your lawfully wedded husband. To have and to hold, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in heath, for richer or for poor, until death do you part," asked the priest.
"I do," said Petunia looking lovingly at Vernon. Vernon's chest swelled with pride as he looked at the priest for his turn.
"Vernon, do you take Petunia to be your lawfully wedded wife. To have and to hold, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in heath, for richer or for poor, until death do you part," asked the priest. James seized the opportunity and sent a rush of air at Vernon.
"I don't," said Vernon in a monotone voice. Petunia's mouth dropped open as she looked at Vernon in shock. Guests in the pews conversed with one another to make sure that they were not hearing things. The priest was the first to recover. He cleared his throat and addressed Vernon again.
"Er, what was that you said Vernon," asked the priest carefully. Petunia continued to gape at Vernon. The priest leaned in towards Vernon. "This is the part where you say I do. You do understand that don't you?"
"Can you repeat the question," asked Vernon vaguely. The priest looked at Petunia and then back at his book. He repeated the question and at the end Vernon was silent for a moment. James laughed to himself and decided that enough was enough. He lifted the curse and slipped his hand back out from under the coat. Vernon blinked and looked around.
"What is everyone looking at?" he asked Petunia. She continued to look at him with her mouth open and a horrified expression on her face. Vernon looked at the priest who looked at him as if he was crazy.
"Er, we are waiting for you to answer. Do you take this woman?" asked the priest.
"Well why didn't you ask that before. I do, of course I do," huffed Vernon, turning a slight shade of purple. Petunia relaxed and the murmurs in the church died down. James couldn't help but laugh and be highly pleased with himself.
"Well wasn't that strange," said Lily once her and James were back inside the car. "You know for a minute there I thought that my dream had come true and that pompous airbag wouldn't become by brother-in-law." Lily started the car. Her breath exited her mouth in little white puffs as she spoke each word. She grabbed her wand from inside her coat and waved it once. Immediately the chilliness in the car was replaced with warm heat.
"So where is the reception?" asked James, trying to steer her away from the subject.
"The Plum Flower Garden," said Lily, pulling out of the church parking lot and onto the main road. "It's about ten minutes away."
"So, do I get to sit with you?" asked James, looking out the window.
"No, I am sitting at the head table and you are seated with my parents and my Aunt Catherine. Is that all right?" asked Lily looking at James. James nodded his head.
"That's fine. I'm glad that I am not seated with a group of people I have never met before. That would be a very long dinner," smirked James.
"Will you dance with me at least once?" asked Lily sweetly.
"If I have to," groaned James. Lily laughed and hit him lightly on the arm. He grinned and gazed at her for a moment. Lily looked at him out of the corner of her eye.
"What?" asked Lily not taking her eyes off the road.
"Nothing."
"Why are you staring at me?"
"Am I not allowed?" asked James playfully. Lily laughed and shook her head.
"You are allowed to do anything.... well almost," smiled Lily catching herself. James gave her a mischievous grin. "Don't get any ideas Potter." Lily smiled at him warmly.
"I'm not," reassured James, but somehow he got the feeling that Lily didn't believe him.
They pulled up into the reception hall and a few minutes later they were walking in. The room was a sea of gold and white. The tables and chairs were both covered with white linen. The gold bows tied to the back of the chairs matched the gold napkins. The flowers were a mixture of white carnations, yellow roses and pink daisies. Three votives surrounded the flowered centerpieces, creating a romantic mood. Lily and James found their seats and ventured over to the bar. Lily tried not to laugh at the bartender's reaction when James tipped him with a silver sickle. Just as Lily had taken a sip of her white zinfandel, she was summoned away to join the rest of the wedding party for the introduction. James took his seat and once again was found in conversation with Lily's Aunt Catherine, who already seemed half in the bag.
One by one the members of the wedding party were announced. James cheered the loudest when Lily's name was called. The announcer asked everyone to stand for the entrance of the bride and groom. Once everyone was standing and straining their necks to see the entrance, the announcer introduced the newly married couple Mr. And Mrs. Vernon Dursley. The room cheered and Lily clapped politely as they walked to the center of the dance floor. The music started and Frank Sinatra's rendition of "The Way You Look Tonight" rung out from the speakers. Petunia and Vernon formally held onto each other as they danced. Neither one of them looked at each other but instead smiled haughtily at the guests in the room. James held his wand underneath the table. He looked around to make sure that no one was looking. Confident that everyone was focus on the dancing couple, he murmured an incantation. The spell it Vernon square in the left foot and almost instantly he stepped on Petunia's big toe. She winced and looked up at Vernon questioningly. James laughed as he saw Vernon mumble an apology. As the couple kept on dancing, James continued to send jinxes at them. Petunia kicked Vernon in the ankle and Vernon retaliated by trampling the front part of her dress and almost causing it to rip down the front. Gradually the guests started to laugh at the awkward dancing skills of the couple. Between the kicks, elbowing and steppings on, James caught Lily's eye and both of them broke out into silent laughter.
When the song finally ended, Petunia and Vernon were covered in bruises underneath their clothes. Everyone looked relieved that they did not have to bear further witness to the horrendous first dance. The wedding party took their seats and the best man stood up to make his speech. James caught Lily's eye and winked at her. She smiled warmly back at him and returned the wink. The best man cleared his throat and began his speech. After thirty seconds, James decided that it was way too good to go on undisturbed. He aimed his wand at the best man from under the table and sent a rush of air him. Almost instantly the best man began to speak in French. Everyone looked at each other in confusion. The best man stopped and cleared his throat. James sent another spell at him and when the best man opened his mouth again he was speaking in Spanish. People began to murmur and once again the best man stopped and cleared his throat. He stuck a finger inside the tuxedo shirt's collar and tugged on it to loosen it. He cleared his throat again and James sent one last curse at him. Immediately he began to speak in pig Latin. At hearing this, people began to laugh and clap. The best man stopped and cleared his throat. He looked around the crowded room and opened his mouth again. More pig Latin spewed from his mouth. At this, the room was roaring with laughter. Petunia and Vernon were transfixed with horrified expressions. Lily was bent over her place setting practically crying from laughter. Vernon muttered something to the best man and immediately he sat down. James decided that enough was enough and sent the counter curse at him.
The laughter did not die down until they were half way through their salads. Occasionally through out the meal guest would clang their silverware against their water or wine glass to make the newly married couple kiss. After baring witness to several kisses, James decided that enough was enough. He steadied his wand under the table and waited patiently for the glasses to start clinging once more. After several minutes of silence, he decided to start it. He picked up his spoon and began to clang it against his wine glass. As if it were an unspoken code, most of the other guests in the room followed suit. Petunia and Vernon leaned towards each other and that's when James hit them both with a spell. Immediately they began to kiss passionately. A little too passionately that was suitable for a wedding reception filled with family and close friends. Some people whistled while Lily's parents looked horrified. Most of the guests were thunderstruck at the obscene sight that was playing before them. Vernon's grandmother fainted and the best man tried to get Vernon's attention by tapping him on the back. Several people, including Lily, let out a gasp of disgust as they both fell off the chair. James laughed and hit them with the counter spell. Mrs. Evans marched straight up to the both of them and pulled them outside the reception hall. Lily looked and James with wide eyes and shook her head to clear the image. James tried his best to look as shocked as everyone else but could not suppress his amused grin.
After ten minutes Petunia, Vernon and Mrs. Evans reappeared and took their seats. James was very tempted to cling the glass again to see if the couple would have the fortitude enough to kiss, but decided that it was better not to as dinner was now being served. The waitress poured Petunia and Vernon more wine and James debated with himself whether or not they had had enough embarrassment for one day. Lily handed Petunia the roll basket and she snatched it away with anger and annoyance. Lily glowered at her in response and turned to talk to a brown haired girl with glasses. James glared at Petunia and decided that she obviously wasn't humbled enough by the pranks he had pulled on her. Petunia reached for her glass of cabernet and held it to her lips. She turned to look at Vernon, who had just said something to her. She smiled at him and went to take a sip of wine. Her glass slammed into her cheek and red wine spilled all down the front of her dress, staining it a nasty shade of blood red. Petunia let out a loud cry and the room went silent. Her mother got up and practically ran over to the head table. She escorted Petunia to the bathroom, followed by several relatives and friends of Petunia. Lily caught James's eye and tried to keep herself from bursting out in laughter. James put his wand back inside his pocket and continued to eat his dinner.
When Petunia returned to the reception twenty minutes later, her dress had a large faded pink stain all down the front of it. Most people tried to comfort her but Petunia remained inconsolable. The band entered the room and began to play, taking the focus off of Petunia and onto the dance floor.
"Some dinner huh?" said James as Lily came over and sat down next to him.
"I must say it was one of the most enjoyable I have ever had," grinned Lily.
"Can I get you a drink?" asked James. Lily nodded and James went to the bar. When he returned the same brown haired girl that Lily talked to during dinner was seated next to her and they were in a fit of excited giggles. "What's so funny?" asked James handing Lily the cosmopolitan he ordered for her.
"James, this is my favorite younger cousin Rebecca," smiled Lily taking the drink from him.
"Nice to meet you," said James extending a hand and taking a seat.
"It's very nice to meet you too," said Rebecca. "Lily has told me so much about you." She looked at Lily and both of them began to giggle again. James smiled and shook his head. If he learned one thing about women, it was never to ask what the giggle meant.
They sat there and talked through several songs. A slow, romantic song struck its first few notes and James asked Lily to dance. Lily excused herself from the conversation with Rebecca and followed James to the dance floor. They found a spot on the outside of the dancefloor and James slipped his arms around her waist.
"It's hard to hold you properly with all of this dress in the way," said James swaying back and forth.
"Try walking in it," smirked Lily throwing her arms around his neck.
"Your cousin seems really nice," said James steering her away from other couples so the wouldn't bump into each other.
"She is. We were very close when we were younger. I don't get to see her too often so it's always fun when we do see each other," said Lily staring up into his eyes. James was silent for a moment and let himself become lost a sea of emeralds.
"Did I tell you how beautiful you look today?" asked James, removing a hand from her waste and gently touching a soft, curly lock of hair by her face.
"Yes, but you can say it again if you want. Flattery will get you everywhere with me Mr. Potter," said Lily coyly.
"Really," grinned James raising an eyebrow. "Well you look absolutely stunning. By far the most gorgeous girl in the whole place." He leaned in and softly kissed her cheek. Lily giggle.
"Go on," she whispered in his ear.
"You took my breath away when I saw you walk down that aisle." He softly kissed her other cheek and he could feel her smile against his lips.
"I am so proud to be here with you today. Thank you for letting me come with you," said James in her ear.
"I wouldn't want to be with anyone else," whispered Lily back. She tenderly kissed his lips and felt a tingle as they pushed against hers.
The rest of the night went fairly smoothly. Petunia was definitely humbled by the wine accident and although she was very happy, the cocky edge that she usually carried when attention was poured on her, was absent. The bouquet toss was quite a spectacle to witness. Lily's Aunt Catherine forced Lily to go into the group of unmarried women waiting for the bouquet. Petunia tossed the bouquet high into the air and straight at Marge, who was waiting, in her gold and white bridesmaid dress, to catch it like a receiver in the end zone waiting for the game winning touchdown pass. Just as the bouquet was descending, Aunt Catherine hip checked Marge and sent her flying into the empty cake table She caught the bouquet and held it up as if it were a trophy. Mostly everyone applauded her as she walked over to Lily and dropped it into her hands. Lily blushed as she looked at it and then at James. The band struck up again and James grabbed Lily and kept her on the dance floor until the final song ended at midnight.
Once Petunia and Vernon were sent off to their honeymoon by loud and enthusiastic cheers, everyone decided to call it a night. Lily said goodbye to most of her family and finally headed for her car.
"Are you going to drive back with me?" asked Lily as they approached the car.
"Of course. I don't want you to drive home by yourself," said James lifting the door handle and getting inside. He waved his wand and the car was instantly warm and toasty.
"Thanks. I didn't want to drive alone," said Lily getting in and starting the car. She pulled out of the parking lot and onto the road. "Quite an interesting day."
"Yes it was," yawned James.
"I've never seen so many odd things happen at a wedding before," said Lily looking at the road ahead of her.
"Well there is a first for everything," said James trying not to elaborate on the subject.
"I'll say. Petunia falling down the aisle, Vernon forgetting his vows, the best man speaking in tongues and the disgusting display of affection," Lily sighed, "It's almost as if there was a curse on them or something." She looked at James out of the corner of her eye. James yawned and shook his head. He rubbed his eyes from under his glasses to try and act nonchalant about the idea Lily was insinuating.
"James, you didn't have anything to do with it did you?" asked Lily, turning to look at him.
"Of course not. I would never do such a thing," said James in between yawns. Lily smirked and they drove in quiet until they reached Lily's house. They got out of the car and Lily looked for her key. James walked her to the door and Lily unlocked the door.
"Do you want to come in?" asked Lily, flicking on the inside hallway light.
"I think we should call it a night. I don't know about you but I am whipped," said James.
"Me too," yawned Lily. "My parents will be home any minute anyway. They were right behind us when we left."
"So, will I see you before Christmas?" asked James throwing his arms around Lily's waist and pulling her close to him.
"You better if you don't want to be hexed," teased Lily hugging him back.
"I had a wonderful time tonight, Miss Evans," said James, looking down into her eyes.
"I did too," said Lily. James leaned down and kissed her. When they finally broke apart Lily hugged him. "Thank you for everything you did tonight. I appreciate you sticking up for me to my sister," whispered Lily in James's ear.
"Anytime," whispered James. Lily broke away from him and walked to the door and opened it.
"I'll see you soon," said Lily turning to look at him.
"Most definitely," said James. "Goodnight Lily."
"Goodnight James," smiled Lily. She turned, walked into the house and shut the door. James stood on the dimly lit front step for a moment. Finally he looked up into the star lit sky. He smiled to himself and with a swish of the cloak he was gone.
Don't forget to review. Stay tuned for Banana Theater presenting the Francis Ford Chimpola acclaimed movie The Godmonkey.