-If anyone wonders why Harry/James is a little insane, other than being fun to write and being friends with Luna, it is because it is a coping mechanism. Harry was neglected by the Durselys (which I will point out in my other story), and didn't have a great childhood. I figure one of two things can happen: Harry can constantly doubt himself, but let's face it, there are too many scarred and emo Harrys out there, or Harry can become closed and defensive, refusing to let anyone in (Luna is a key of sorts in this story, and helps Harry evolve). I also call this bad-ass Harry.
-Harry will never be super in this story. He is actually weaker than in the original books (Harry doesn't know the patronus charm) for a very good reason. I want Harry to use this thing we call the mind to solve problems. Plus, I'm tired of all the Super-Harry's.
-You might not like me bashing Hermione in this story, but she has to fill Draco's spot in the orginal storyline. True, I am not fond of Hermione, but Ron Weasely I like (which is so strange that most people can't comprehend it). She won't be so evil forever, Hermione lovers.
Get Away From My Cousin!
James just realized one detail he failed to plan out: he had nothing to wear. Seriously, all his clothes were rags, and he couldn't be seen in them! His one pair of formal wear wasn't going to cut it for the movies. Then he had a brilliant idea: go to Draco! He threw some floo powder in the fireplace (he really wished they could just get a regular phone...but Draco wasn't hooked up) and shouted "Malfoy manor!"
He saw Mrs. Malfoy answer. "Who is it? James?"
"Um...I was wondering if I could come over to talk to Draco." James said.
"Sure...come right over!" Mrs. Malfoy said. James really had no idea why Mrs. Malfoy liked him so much, when her husband couldn't look in his direction. Maybe she saw the inner Slytherin. Maybe she thought they were family. Whatever the reason, it made heading to Draco's house a lot easier, even if he had to use Draco's real name.
When James stepped out of the fireplace, he was greeted by the familiar face of Draco Malfoy. "Hello Dray! I need help picking out clothes for a date!"
Draco's eyes lit up and dragged him in the direction of Draco's room. "So, since this is sort notice, I'm afraid we'll have to use my clothes for right now. Where are you taking her?"
"I'm fine with used clothes Dray, and I'm taking her to the movies." James smiled. "It took a lot of hard work to make her agree."
Draco felt a shiver go down his spine, but he handed James the clothes anyway. "Just who is the lucky girl?"
"Oh, Nymphadora Tonks!" James replied.
"Get away from my cousin!" Draco yelled. "What the hell do you think you are doing?"
"But I thought she was disowned..." James said.
"Still my cousin, and you still can't date her! What the hell were you thinking? She is seven years older than you!" Draco yelled. He was furious.
"But she's hot!" James complained. Then Draco took a lamp, placed it in his hands, and began chasing James. He began to run. "Mrs. Malfoy, your son is going to kill me!" Then James looked back. Draco was panting. "Purebloods can't run for shit. I guess I'll just take the clothes and leave. See you Mrs. Malfoy!"
"Oh, goodbye!" Mrs. Malfoy waved as James went home. What were they arguing about anyway?
"Sorry if I am a little late." James panted as he reached the door.
"You are right on time..." Tonks was still pissed. Jeez, first her cousin, now her? His luck must be down today. "Let's get going. What do you want to see?"
"Slasher film." James replied. "Blood is fun!"
"Well...at least we agree on the movie." Tonks smiled weakly. "What almost made you late?"
"You know...Dray was pissed I was going on a date with you. Something about you can't go out with my cousin." James answered.
"Glad to see he cares. I've been cut off from my Mum's side for so long...I must be boring you. Wonder if Aunt Narcissa still cares? I think Bellatrix has lost her mind, so she doesn't count." Tonks thought out loud.
"I think Mrs. Malfoy does care. She likes me...I think because she is cut off from everyone else, like you. So, shall we go into the theater?" James held out his arm. Tonks laughed and took it.
After the movie, was the dinner. Tonks was fun and interesting, but there was nothing romantic going on. Well, maybe next time I could actually win Tonks over instead of tricking her on the date. "This date isn't bad. I guess I was being a bit hypocritical when I asked the age of my date." Tonks sighed.
"What do you mean?" James asked. Maybe she is actually falling for me!
"I'm in love with someone twelve years older than me." Tonks admitted. Shit! Not me! "I shouldn't be talking about him on a date, even if I was tricked to go on this date anyway."
"Just talk." James knew he wasn't going to get Tonks at this point. He could clearly see that Tonks was head-over-heels in love with someone else, so in love that she wouldn't notice anyone else for a long time. "Maybe I could help. You never know." James cracked a smile.
"You actually know him." Tonks blushed. "He's a professor...well, I'll just say it. I'm in love with Remus Lupin." Surprise! Didn't see that one coming! "I know he and Sirius are best friends, and he is over at your house a lot, so is he open? I'm sorry about mumbling!"
Tonks really was in love with Professor Lupin...she is going to hurt when she knows the truth. "I'm sorry Tonks, but Professor Lupin's heart belongs to Sirius." Tonks mouth dropped open. "I guess you don't have gaydar. Don't worry about it, I don't either. Maybe next time we can send Nev to check if potential crushes are straight or not?"
Tonks laughed a little, but still was depressed. "You know, any girl would be lucky to have you Crim, if they bother to look past the surface." Tonks ruffled his hair. "Still...try to get a girl closer to your age? What is that girl you always hang out with...Luna Lovegood?"
"Best friend...I don't see her as a girlfriend yet, and I really don't think she is ready for a relationship yet, to be honest." James admitted. "Plus...who saids it has to be a girl?" James grinned.
"Just make sure they are decent." Tonks said.