[11]
The scene then jumped to later that evening, and instantaneously, Harry and Ginny could see Lily pacing nervously back and forth on a small section of the beaten path surrounding the lake.
"This is ridiculous. I don't know why I'm even here. I could be studying, reading, or sleeping." Taking a cursory glance down at her watch, Lily muttered crossly, "Drat that Potter! He's late. I knew I should have stayed in bed."
"And missed this spectacular view?" James hovered over her on his broomstick, grinning.
"Potter," Lily greeted through clenched teeth.
"Wait, you don't have a broom with you?" James asked in disbelief. Lily looked at the ground, her cheeks burning with embarrassment.
James looked like he was about to have another go at Lily but quickly shut his mouth. "Er—never mind, we can use mine."
"Let's start with the first thing, mounting. Don't let the broomstick kick you. It's just like those Muggle horses. Always be at the front of the broomstick where it can see you," James began.
The broom quivered slightly in Lily's gentle grasp. A few minutes later of thorough instruction, Lily got on the broom. She was shaking nervously. "Great. Lesson's over, right?"
James expertly mounted onto the broom and placed himself close behind Lily.
"Potter, stay three feet behind, and don't you dare touch me with your filthy hands," Lily glared menacingly.
James looked annoyed. "Lily, a broomstick is only about five feet. You're taking up one feet already, so do you expect me to just dangle from the bristles until it bucks me off?"
"Fine. Two and a half feet," Lily decided, nearly grinning as James gave a defeated sigh and mounted the broom far behind Lily, making sure to give her enough space. The broom looked close to springing James right off it.
Lily ducked her face into her robes, hiding a smile.