Disclaimer: I own absolutely nothing that you would recognize as the fantastic work of J.K. Rowling. I only take credit for those OC characters that appear here.
October 25, 1978
The blood was still pumping rapidly through his body as he closed the door on Eileen and returned to the kitchen. Remus was standing against the counter and James and Lily were looking between them curiously.
He ignored them all and grabbed his empty glass off the floor where it had rolled under the table. He poured a mouthful into the glass and downed it.
'What happened?' asked James finally, frowning.
'Yes Sirius what happened?' added Remus giving Sirius a hard look.
'Nothing.' He said refilling his glass.
Lily stood and neatly plucked it from his hand.
'What -,' he started.
'What were you thinking?' burst Remus suddenly, and James and Lily's heads snapped towards him. 'Or maybe you weren't thinking because that explains it better.'
'What happened?' repeated James again, looking increasingly confused and concerned. The last time Remus had taken that tone with Sirius had been when Sirius sent Snape into the Whomping Willow.
Sirius turned away from them and James could tell he was struggling with something because he ran both hands through his hair and let out a heavy sigh.
'You're a complete fool Padfoot.' Remus said, seeming to deflate slightly.
'You think I don't know that Moony?' said Sirius, turning back to them.
'Will one of you please tell us what's going on?' asked Lily in exasperation.
Sirius and Remus took their eyes of each other for a moment to look at Lily.
'I kissed Eileen.' He said flatly though he could still taste her lips and feel the warmth of her soft skin on his hands.
Remus let out a sharp laugh that took even Sirius by surprise. 'Bloody hell Sirius I think that's a bit of an understatement don't you? If I hadn't come down when I did – you know, never mind, I don't want to think about it.' Said Remus running a hand over his face.
'Sirius you didn't?' said Lily, sitting again next to James who hadn't said anything but was giving Sirius a searching look.
'I was drinking.' He said and he instantly felt guilty for lying. He had only had one drink and was nowhere near intoxicated.
Lily scoffed at him but Remus and James knew better.
'You're a bloody liar Padfoot, and a bad one at that.' Said James finally.
Sirius's temper rose sharply and without meaning too he raised his voice and started on his friends. 'What do you want me to say hmm? That I've wanted to kiss her since Hogwarts. That I've wanted her since she walked into my house two months ago? That dueling her was so thrilling that I forgot that Remus was feet away in real danger? You want me to tell you that I would do it again because I enjoyed it that much? Because I did and I do! Fuck the fact that she's a spy for the Order! It won't stop me.' Sirius breathed heavily and they continued to stare at him.
After a minute Sirius sighed and roughly pulled a chair out and sat in it.
'You could have just said you fancied her mate.' Said James and Sirius felt a bubble of hilarity form in his stomach. He pushed it down and glanced up at Remus.
His temper deflated as quickly as it had come on. 'Sorry Moony.' He said.
'What are you sorry for?' said Remus.
Sirius waved in the general direction of the hallway. 'That. Everything. Yelling at you all.'
'Why didn't you just say something about it earlier?' asked Lily.
'What would I have said Lily? You think I don't know how stupid it would be to be involved with her? She hangs herself under Voldemort's nose every day. I'd be handing him a present, gift wrapped and all.'
'Yet you decided to get involved anyway?' asked James and his tone was slightly accusatory.
Sirius locked eyes with him. 'Yes.'
'Why?'
Sirius didn't say anything and they continued to look at each other.
'Why Padfoot? Why risk both your lives?' asked James again and Sirius could see that James thought him reckless and for once Sirius wondered if he was right.
Recklessness was part of it for sure. The real reason was something he couldn't say because admitting it would cost him too much and the thought of it made his stomach roll with pleasure as well as terror. It was something he had backed away from for so long that it was almost unpleasant to experience again so violently. The thought of Eileen both ignited him and scared him because he knew how fragile their situation was. He both needed and wanted her, but was terrified to think that his need could kill her and the thought had been weighing on him for weeks since their first order meeting. He had made his decision tonight and had thrown all sense of caution to the wind and did the thing he had been yearning to do for weeks, months even. God help him now he thought.
'I'm falling in love with her.' He said and the words felt like honey and poison on his tongue.
'You're an idiot Padfoot.' Said Remus but he was shaking his head and smiling slightly.
'Tell me about it.' Sirius replied.
'When did this even happen?' said Lily looking exasperated.
'A little at a time and then sort of all at once.' He said and laughed slightly to himself.
'How do you expect it to work Sirius?' asked James.
'I hadn't really gotten that far mate.'
'Obviously.' Said James and there was a note of irritation in his voice.
'What are you trying to say Prongs?' he asked, sitting up straighter.
'Maybe the seriousness of this war is lost on you Padfoot.' Said James and Remus and Lily both gave him looks of surprise.
'You really think that?' whispered Sirius and he locked eyes with James across the table.
They stared at each other for a moment longer until James sighed and ran a hand through his untidy hair. He straightened his glasses before speaking. 'No Padfoot I don't think that and I'm not really surprised about Grey because it's been obvious for some time now.' Said James. 'I am slightly hurt that you didn't talk to us about it and that maybe for once you're being a touch too reckless. I'm worried.' He finished and Sirius watched Lily squeeze his hand slightly.
Remus seemed to be agreeing with James's words and he was slightly nodding and watching James.
'You don't need to be worried.' He said defensively.
'Good.' James said and they all seemed to realise that the discussion was nearly over. James stood and walked around the table to where Sirius was now standing. James embraced him for a moment before releasing him and saying 'If you get killed or worse while going after that bloody girl I'll kill you myself Sirius Black.'
He turned and marched out of the kitchen and up the stairs, out of sight.
'He loves you Sirius. We all do. Be careful for heaven's sake' said Lily and she kissed his cheek and took off after James.
Sirius was left standing there with Remus who looked vindicated.
'What Moony?' Sirius asked feeling tired all of a sudden.
'Next time save the snogging for somewhere private.' He smiled, amused but serious.
'If I ever get the chance. She bolted if you didn't notice.' Sirius said, and he felt a pang of worry in his stomach.
'She will be back.' Remus finally sat, taking the seat James had vacated.
'What makes you say that Moony?' asked Sirius curious.
'Sit down Padfoot.' He said and he pulled the glass Lily had stolen from Sirius towards him.
He waited while Remus sipped the whiskey, making a slight face as it slid down into his belly.
When he spoke he asked 'What did she say when she left?' ignoring Sirius's question.
'She said she wanted to too.' Said Sirius, leaving out the part where she had said it was a bad idea and he had kissed her anyway.
Remus gave him that knowing look but didn't question him. 'Then I think she'll be back Pads.'
'If one of us isn't dead before then.' He said, half-joking.
Remus gave him a sharp look. 'That's not funny Padfoot.'
Sirius frowned, 'I know. Sorry.'
'I guess we're staying the night here than.' Said Remus, finishing the rest of his glass and standing.
'I suppose so.' Sirius stood and the two men made their way silently up stairs and found an empty bedroom with two beds.
'Fancy cuddling Moony?' said Sirius, realising how filthy his clothes were and tossing his shirt unto the floor for the second time that night.
'Not particularly Padfoot.' Said Remus, removing his own filthy clothes and placing his wand on the table next to Sirius's. 'I know where your mind has been tonight and I have no desire to be groped by you while I sleep.'
'You say that as if it's happened before.' Said Sirius slipping under the sheets and looking over at Remus.
'It has but seeing as you don't understand what personal boundaries are you probably didn't think you were doing it.' Remus yawned and slid into the bed next to Sirius's bed.
Sirius propped himself on his elbow to look over at Remus. 'I think I'd know the difference between groping and not groping my best mate.'
Remus rose a brow at him 'Sure Pads, just don't tell Lily you've cuddled with James, she might get jealous.'
'If I didn't need this pillow I'd toss it at your head Moony.' Said Sirius, laying back down but grinning. 'And I only cuddled James that one time in fourth year when we got snowed into the shrieking shack. And it was cold!'
'Umhmm,' hummed Remus sleepily. 'You keep telling yourself that Padfoot.'
Before long Remus's snores filled the room and Sirius turned over unto his side, still awake.
He wondered where Eileen was now, and whether she was safe. The thought made him want to laugh. When she was near him all rational thought was lost and the idea of being with her seemed to outweigh the possibility of their danger. It was only when she wasn't here that he wondered and worried about it all. He felt slightly disgusted with himself for it but he couldn't deny how he felt about her. He would be damned if he let that slip away and after all she had said she wanted him too.
November 1, 1978
'You need to mean it Grey!' spat Bellatrix angrily as the man in front of them coward in the corner of the room.
Eileen shot her a hateful look and turned her wand back on the man in front of her. She'd been half-heartedly attempting the cruciatus curse on the skinny, blond man for the last hour and the most she had done was give him a bloody nose. Each time she failed Bellatrix would scream the curse and the man's body convulsed and screamed in front of her. She thought that the hatred bubbling under her skin towards Bellatrix must have been visible but she gave Bellatrix a practised blank look before replying.
'I don't see the reason for wasting our energies on scum like this.' She said, nodding her head towards the man panting on the floor.
'The reason! The reason is because the Dark Lord commands it Grey! If you cannot do it I'll save the Dark Lord some time and quit training you.' She snarled and Eileen wished fervently that she could turn her wand on Bellatrix and give her a taste of what this poor man was going through.
'Once again then.' She said angrily and Bellatrix gave her a nasty smirk.
She raised her wand once more at the man who was no longer facing them. She shot Bellatrix a look and using every bit of strength she had she pictured Bellatrix as the man on the floor and yelled 'Crucio!'
The man's screamed pierced her heart and she pulled the curse off him as quickly as she could.
'There.' She said as the man whimpered.
'Better.' Said Bellatrix and she slashed her wand at the man and a green jet struck him and he went still on the floor in front of them.
Eileen turned her eyes away from the man, and breathed in, trying to keep her breakfast down.
'You're not as talented as they think Grey. I honestly don't know why the Dark Lord is bothering with you.'
'Perhaps he doesn't tell you everything he thinks Bellatrix.' She spat back as the door opened behind them.
'Bellatrix, Grey. Oh you've finished with him, about time.' Said Rabastan coldly, eyeing the dead man on the floor.
Bellatrix pushed past him into the hall. 'Grey couldn't manage the spell.' She said and Eileen knew she was mocking her.
Rabastan raised his brows at Eileen. 'It can take getting used to. You have to mean it.' He said and Eileen once again felt like ice had dropped into her stomach. He moved to walk beside her down the hall and his arm was brushing hers.
Snape and Regulus were sitting in the Malfoy dinner room when they entered and Eileen took the opportunity to slip away from Rabastan and sat herself between them. Rabastan gave her a sorry look but took a seat next to his brother.
'Eileen!' said Regulus happily and Eileen for once felt relieved to see him.
'Regulus.' She smiled but the dead man's eyes were stuck in her brain. She pushed the thought away as Dumbledore had been teaching her to do and turned to give Snape a friendly smile.
He narrowed his eyes at her but nodded back politely.
'What you thought you were doing taking on those Aurors in the middle of the street I'll never know.' Said Lucius who was sipping wine and giving Goyle a frustrated look.
The man shrugged and looked confused. 'We would have been fine if the other three hadn't shown up.' He said before stuffing a roll in his mouth.
Lucius's nostrils flared slightly and he widened his eyes in irritation before returning to his own food. Eileen watched Narcissa give Lucius a loving look and she wished momentarily that she could see Sirius again sooner. No sooner was the thought in her head that she was trying to force it away. Now was not the place, or ever really, she thought, to think of Sirius Black.
Regulus pulled her attention back to him and she was again glad the two men looked so different from one another.
'Have you been having a good time with Bellatrix then?' he asked and Eileen wanted to laugh at the look of innocent concern on his face.
'It hasn't exactly been fun Regulus but I've learned a lot.' She replied honestly though greatly understating it.
'That's the purpose.' Said Rabastan who was listening to their conversation. He gave Eileen a smile that if she hadn't known better she would have thought was charming. 'You should have seen her the other day dueling your big brother Black.'
Regulus looked slightly annoyed with Rabastan for bringing up Sirius but he didn't say anything. Eileen decided the best thing to do was to deflect the conversation. 'Is it true Alastor Moody lost his eye?'
Bellatrix laughed happily and the others around the table smirked.
'Sure is. That idiot Bobbins managed to take a piece of Moody before getting himself killed anyway.' Said Rabastan, laughing.
'The Dark Lord is not pleased. You would remember not to be so careless next time.' Said Dougal who had walked into the room with Vera following behind him.
Crabbe and Goyle seemed to sink slightly into their chairs as Dougal found a seat next to Bellatrix. Eileen noticed that Rodolphus shot her father a nasty look but didn't say anything.
Bellatrix turned her attention to Dougal immediately and Eileen understood the look suddenly.
'The Dark Lord wishes to see us tonight Grey.' She said and her eyes seemed to lock on Dougal's with an intensity that surprised Eileen.
She caught her father's eye and he nodded at her. 'Eileen.'
'Father, Mother.' She said, smiling at both of them. She returned to the food in front of her, popping a small bite of cheese in her mouth and chewing slowly. She tried to focus on the food in front of her until she could escape Malfoy Manner that night. Her bedroom at the Grey house was the only place where she could let her mind escape back to the kitchen with Sirius. She was also looking forward to escaping Rabastan's persistent stares.
The chatter around the table continued until Eileen was finished her meal. She figured she would make her exit then. She stood and Regulus and Rabastan stood as well, both seeming to have anticipated her departure.
She looked at them both for a moment before turning to her father. 'I'll take my leave tonight unless there is something you need of me father?' she asked.
'No that is fine. Good evening.' He said, briefly glancing at her before returning to his conversation with Bellatrix.
Regulus sat back at the table but Rabastan, much to her dismay, followed her into the hall.
'Can I do something for you Rabastan?' she asked, walking towards the door.
'I thought I'd accompany you home.'
'I don't think that will be necessary, I haven't forgotten where it is.' She said coldly, pushing the door open and heading down the path.
A white peacock crossed the path in front of her and she frowned at it. 'Lucius likes his little pets.' Said Rabastan who had followed her out.
'Indeed.' She said, continuing until she reached the black gates. 'Well good night Rabastan.' She said, pushing them open, walking out and quickly closing them before he could follow her.
He covered her hand on the gate with his from the other side. 'No need to play hard to get Grey.' he said, giving her a smile that made her sick.
'I'm not interested Lestrange.'
'Oh Lestrange is it now?' he laughed heatedly. His hand tightened on hers and his arm snapped out from between the bars and pulled her by the arm closer to him. 'I'll keep playing for a while longer gorgeous, but my patience will run thin.' He released her and she stepped back from the gate quickly.
'Good night.' She replied, and turned on her heel, disaparating.
She felt the hard gravel under her feet as she reappeared on the path leading to Grey House. She felt instantly uneasy and pulled her wand out.
'Lumos' she said and the tip of her wand ignited, casting a light down the path. She pointed her wand into the woods to her left but seeing nothing continued up the small road. She had almost reached the gate when a cloaked figure sprung out of the woods and grabbed her around the middle. One hand went instantly to her mouth and they dragged her back into the woods while she struggled against them.
'Quit it will you!' Said the man holding her and she realised with a shock that she recognized the voice.
She got her teeth around one of her attacker's fingers and bit down hard.
'Arggh! Eileen!' he said and released her to examine his hand.
Eileen whipped around to see Hector Grey, his hood having fallen down, and he was nursing a bleeding finger.
'You bit me!' he said indignantly.
'You deserved it Hector Grey! Why on earth would you pull me in here like some common kidnapper?' She shouted at him.
He looked around uneasily. 'Quit shouting.' He said in a much calmer voice.
'If I wasn't so bloody mad at you right now I'd hug you.' She said, her nerves returning to normal. Or as normal as they could be these days.
'Hug me anyway.' Said Hector and he stepped forward and embraced his sister. They broke apart after a moment. 'I had to see you. Dumbledore said he has you spying for the Order?' he asked, sounding both impressed and appalled.
'Yes he does. Hector you've risked a lot to come here. How did you know I'd be on the path this evening? It could have been mother or father.'
Hector waved her off with a hand. 'It doesn't matter. Listen I'll be around more often. I'm helping Dumbledore with something so I'll be around Head Quarters.'
'That's great Hector!' she said. 'What about Anna and the kids?
'They're safe. Anna is due soon and I'll be back with her before the baby is born.'
'I'm glad to hear they are well. I'd like to see the girls soon.' She said, feeling sorry for never having met her nieces.
'They're dying to meet you as well. It's about the only thing Lydia talks about and now she has Megara squeaking about it.' Hector complained but his eyes softened as he thought of his daughters.
Eileen smiled and it felt like the first real smile she had had in weeks. 'It's so good to see you Hector.'
'You too Eileen. So tell me about Black?' he added and she gaped at him, confused and startled.
'Which one?' she said, closing her mouth.
'The dog.' Said Hector who had leaned against a tree and was studying his sister.
'What about him?' she said, frowning.
'You know it's amazing you've lasted this long as a spy Eileen, you've got such a guilty face.' He said and she heard amusement in his voice.
'I have not and you're the only one who notices it apparently.' She snapped, feeling defensive.
Hector held out his hands 'I'm not mocking you sister. But really what about Black because as soon as I mentioned him you turned a good two shades pinker.'
'Nothing and if there was I wouldn't tell you Hector Grey.' She said and felt annoyed with him.
'Fine but I'm not going to say I believe you. I'm not a fan of that Sirius Black, you shouldn't get involved with him.'
Eileen raised her eyebrows at him. 'Bit of a hypocrite Hector aren't you? Running off with a muggle.'
'Fair enough.' He said, chuckling slightly. 'But I mean it about Black.'
'You don't know him Hector.'
'I remember him just fine.'
'You remember him as an eleven year old boy. Give it a break, he isn't any of your business.' She gave him a look that clearly said the discussion was over.
He shrugged. 'Anyway, I just wanted to see how you were holding in there. Dumbledore mentioned he was giving you occlumency lessons.'
'I'm fine. Nothing I can't handle and yes he is.' She sighed at him and as much as she loved seeing Hector his questions were wearing on her patience.
'Fantastic. I've got to get back but Dumbledore wanted me to let you know the next Order meeting will be on Christmas Eve.'
'Great. Will I see you there Hector?'
'Yes.' He gave her a quick hug and before saying anther word, turned on the spot and disaparated.
Eileen let the shock of the last few minutes run off her before walking back to the road and past the gates into the house.
She was pleased to see Hector, puzzled by his questions about Sirius and annoyed that he seemed to know something was happening between them. It was exactly like Hector to show up in the middle of everything and attempt to play big brother. Unfortunately for him and apparently against his wishes she had grown up and was now sticking her neck out every day to spy for the Order.
She wasn't angry at him for leaving her seven years ago but it had hurt at the time being left by the only friend she had ever had. She remembered the day as clearly as if it were yesterday. Hector was supposed to come home but had owled to say that he was going to do some traveling with friends first. Her parents hadn't been happy but they let him to it because in their eyes he could do no wrong. Voldemort wasn't as strong then as he was now so they weren't as eager for him to join. He had written her a few weeks later explaining that he was leaving and that he had met a muggle woman. He told her that she should remember everything he told her about not believing in pure-blood mania and that he would come for her eventually. She burned the letter after reading it, and at nearly twelve years old she had believed that he would keep his word and come back for her. Her parents were good to her but she was scared of them in a way no child should have been. She remembered hiding in her room the night Dougal had come back with the news of Hector's betrayal and listening to their screams from below.
Her mother had come into her room hours later and roughly woke her. She told her that Hector was dead to them and that he was a blood traitor that they would never speak of him again. Eileen had nodded and kept her mouth shut until her mother had left again and then cried into her pillow, feeling the loss of her brother and friend. He had written her a few times over the years to tell her about marring Anna and to make sure she was still against their parent's teachings. He had met her in Hogsmeade in her third year and told her about the birth of his first daughter Lydia. After that his visits and letters were fewer and more far between and at times she felt that maybe he had finally abandoned her and that she would be left with Dougal and Vera and forced into a life that Hector had always been so actively against.
She broke away from her own thoughts as she reached her bedroom and removing her cloak she sank down on her bed and closed her eyes, falling asleep almost immediately.
December 1, 1978
James, Peter, Remus and Sirius stood side by side in front of the little muggle jewelry store. The street was bustling happily behind them as muggles made their way to and from work and others to do some early Christmas shopping. They had been standing in front of the store for the last ten minutes while James stood silently, lips pressed tight together staring at the store front display as if he was walking to his doom.
'Think he'll actually go in?' whispered Remus to Sirius next to him.
'Eventually. He's just building up to the whole thing.' Said Sirius, amused.
'If you say so.' Said Remus who threw a concerned look towards James.
Another few minutes past and Peter had started shivering slightly, bringing James out of his thoughts. He looked sideways at his friends as if remembering suddenly that they were there.
'Well let's go inside then.' He said firmly but with an air of a man doing something he was dreading.
Sirius and Remus jumped on the suggestion and pushed their way into the store with Peter and a reluctant James behind them.
A pleasant-looking middle-aged muggle women greeted them and told them to let her know if they needed assistance. Sirius had given her his best smile and thanked her, watching the women blush slightly.
James had made his way down an aisle and Sirius walked over to see what he was staring at. The case was full of shinning diamonds in every size, shape and colour. James's face was pale as he looked down at them.
'Prongs.' Said Sirius, placing his hand on James's back for reassurance. 'You've wanted to marry her for as long as I can remember.'
'I know Padfoot that's what I'm so worried about. What if she doesn't want to marry me?' said James, voicing the thought that was clearly eating at him.
Sirius squeezed his brother's shoulder. 'She wants to marry you Prongs, trust me.'
'How do you know?' asked James, looking hopefully at Sirius.
'Have you seen the way she looks at you? Of course she wants to marry our Prongs, who wouldn't?' said Sirius, grinning.
James seemed to deflate slightly. 'I don't know. What if she says no?'
'She won't.' said Peter who had come with Remus to join them at the counter.
James and Sirius looked at him. He shrugged and smiled. 'We asked her.'
Sirius and James's mouths popped open in identically looks of comical surprise. 'You did what?' said Sirius, both impressed by the genius of it and jealous he didn't think to ask her. He had just figured it would be a no brainer that Lily would say yes.
Remus was flipping through a small book on the counter. 'We asked if she wanted to marry Prongs.' He said casually.
'What did she say?" asked James who looked anxious.
Remus looked away from the book and up at James and was surprised by his intensity. 'She said she would marry you of course. Though she made us swear not to say anything.'
'How long ago was this?' asked Sirius, mentally reminding himself to buy Moony and Wormtail a drink on him later.
'Months ago, after graduation.' Said Peter who was keeping his eye on the pretty muggle cashier across the store.
'That long!" said James, blanching slightly. 'I could have asked her months ago?' James turned back to the display case with a look of dawning realisation and excitement.
Sirius gave Remus and Peter a huge grin over James's shoulder.
'What're you lot grinning about help me pick one out!' said James, and his whole demeanor had changed.
Peter and Remus turned to the display and started making suggestions. Sirius moved slightly down the aisle, eyeing a selection of emerald rings. 'Prongs mate, what about these?' he asked and James shuffled over to see the ones he was pointing to.
Sirius watched James's face light up at the sight and Sirius sent a silent thank you up for bringing Lily Evans into their lives.
'Is there anything you'd like to see?' asked the pretty blonde that Peter was eyeing.
'Can I see that one there.' James asked, pointed to a large round emerald in a simple band with diamond accents.
'Of course.' The young blond unlocked the case and slid the ring off its cushion. She handed the ring to James who raised it to his eye and was studying it.
'I'll take it!" he said suddenly, handing the ring back to the blond. Remus, Peter and the girl all stared at him.
'You don't want to look at any others Prongs?' asked Remus and Sirius noticed the girl looked confused.
'This is the one.' Said James firmly.
'Listen to the man!' Said Sirius, leaning into the girl who blushed scarlet. 'Mind wrapping that one up from my good friend here?' he said, giving her his most charming smile.
She nodded happily and bustled off to polish and package the ring.
'Thought you'd want a few other options.' Said Remus, gazing into the showcase.
'Don't question it Moony, he picked the perfect one from the start, exactly the way he did with Lily.'
The three men looked at him in surprise.
'You know Padfoot you do sometimes have a way of saying exactly the right thing.' Said James who beamed at him.
'It's a talent.' Said Sirius, letting out a bark of laughter.
The young blond came hurrying over to them then and asked them to follow her to the cash. The older woman rang the ring in for James, who had, thanks to Remus, exchanged his money for muggle cash. The blond was standing behind the counter eyeing Sirius while Peter eyed her.
James was finishing up with the older women when the girl gathered the courage and approached the three of them standing near the door.
'I'm Wendy.' She said slightly breathlessly.
Sirius seized the opportunity and reaching out pulled Peter towards him. 'This is Peter, he's a close friend of mine. That's Remus.' He said and Remus gave her a polite nod, turning away from them to hide his laughter.
'Oh um, hi.' She said, looking awkward and confused. This clearly wasn't how she intended the conversation to go.
'You see Peter is an exceptional man and he confessed to me just now that he thought you looked absolutely magical.'
Peter and Wendy the blond turned equal shades of pink as Remus's laughter slipped out and he tried to cover it with a hacking cough.
To Peter's horror and Remus and now James's, who had finished with the woman, amusement, Sirius continued, 'He's a touch shy but I guarantee you won't find a more sensitive, attentive and loyal man around. Say you give Pete your number and he'll think about taking you out sometime.' Said Sirius and the girl looked at him confused for a moment then over to Peter and quickly pulled out a notebook, scribbled her number into it and handed it to Peter.'
'Fantastic! Have a spectacular day.' Said Sirius and he turned and headed out of the shop with Peter quickly following behind him.
When the four of them reached the street James and Remus could hardly contain their mirth and they burst into laughter, drawing attention from passersby. Peter didn't know whether to look embarrassed, amused or thrilled and opted to just smile awkwardly and let them each pound him on the back.
'I guarantee she'll let you take her out Wormy.' Said Sirius as Peter tucked the note into his pocket.
'Thanks Padfoot.' Peter mumbled.
Remus and James collected themselves and still laughing slightly they headed down the muggle street.
'So when are you going to ask Lily?' asked Remus.
'I was thinking Christmas, it'll be special that way.' Said James thoughtfully.
'I think it will be special either way Prongs.' Said Peter who had finally stopped blushing.
'Thanks Wormy.' Said James, chucking Peter a smile.
'Look we're here, let's get inside I'm freezing my arse off out here.' Said Sirius, pointing at the Leaky Cauldron and speeding up.
December 24th, 1978
Someone had gone to great trouble to decorate the headquarters of the Order for the Christmas holiday. There was a tree in almost every room and the walls were covered in holly and mistletoe. Sirius made a mental note not to get trapped under any of that, especially with Marlene who had been giving him the eye from across the room. It had been nearly two months since the last order meeting as everyone was too busy and he was looking forward to seeing certain people including the Prewett brothers who he had grown to like. Sirius, James, Remus, Peter and Lily had been by a few times in between training but this was the first time everyone was expected to meet and Sirius couldn't help feeling slightly anxious to see if Eileen turned up.
The chatter around the table was happy and friendly and Sirius thought it was a nice change in the usual discussion of Voldemort and his Death Eaters. There hadn't been much incident since the attack in Diagon Alley and Dumbledore had figured that Voldemort had not been happy with those involved. This had worried Sirius considerably, since Eileen had been there, and not for the first time he found himself hoping she was alright.
A knock on the front door momentarily quieted the chatter but Benji Fenwick rose and went into the hall and everyone returned to chatting happily. Benji returned a moment later with his arm around the shoulders of a tall blond man who Sirius recognized as Hector Grey.
Fabian, Gideon and Frank all let out excited greetings and went over to shake Hector's hand and thump him on the back.
'Bloody hell it's good to see you Grey!' Said Benji and Sirius vaguely remembered that they were friends at Hogwarts.
'You too, all of you! It's been too long.' Said Hector and he waved across the room to Hagrid who had spotted him and was making his way through the room, almost knocking Dedalus Diggle into the table.
'Isn't that Hector Grey?' asked Remus who came to stand next to Sirius and James.
'Yes.'
'Thought he was off with a muggle?' asked James, looking curiously at Hector.
'He married one but I have no idea what he's doing here.'
'He must be a member of the Order.' Said Remus.
Sirius shrugged, 'Apparently. Where are Lily and Peter?'
'Over there talking to Marlene and Alice.' Said James who was paler then normal and Sirius watched him run a hand through his unkempt hair.
'When are you going to do it then?' asked Remus, leaning in so as not to be overheard.
'Later, when things settle down.' Said James and his hand went to his robes where the ring was resting.
'It'll be fine Prongs, she's going to say yes, you'll have tons of little Prongs Juniors and Moony Wormtail and I will be awesome uncles.' Said Sirius, laughing.
'I suppose you're right.' Said James, looking amused.
'What're you three talking about?' asked Lily who had walked over to join them.
'Nothing to worry your pretty red head about.' Said Sirius smiling at her.
She rolled her eyes at him and took James's hand. 'Come let's say hello to Caradoc and Edgar.' She said.
'You guys coming?' asked James who was being led away.
'No you guys go.' Said Sirius as he spotted a blonde head he recognized entering the room.
Remus followed his gaze and rolled his eyes before grabbing Peter's arm and trailing off after Lily and James.
Sirius cut through the crowd towards her. She was wearing a black dress and long red robes over it and Sirius felt his breath hitch slightly as he got closer to her. She was hanging around near the entrance to the room, a glass of wine in her hand.
She had her back to him when he reached her and he bent his head to her and whispered, 'You look lovely tonight.'
To her credit she didn't jump but simply turned her head towards him and smiled. He came to stand beside her, looking out the front window of the house as snow fell lightly around the street outside.
'It's been a while, I was beginning to wonder if you'd gone and got yourself blown up yet.' Said Sirius, trying to joke, but his voice betrayed him and the concern he had been feeling was laced in it.
She gave him a sad smile, 'Not yet.'
'I'm glad.' He said, turning slightly towards her.
The party behind them seemed to fade away as they stood in front of the window, silently watching the snow. She raised her glass to her lips and took a small sip. Sirius could feel the warmth radiating off her and he turned slightly so that their arms were touching. She sighed slightly at the contact and feeling encouraged by it he reached up and touched her face, his thumb grazing her lower lip.
'Sirius,' she breathed, her lips parting slightly and her eyes flicked to his mouth and back to his eyes.
'Eileen.' He said and he felt the familiar rush of being close to her that he had missed since last seeing her.
'This isn't a good idea.' She whispered, turning back to the window.
'Why not?' he asked, still looking at her.
'You know why.' She said but her voice gave her away and Sirius smiled.
'I've already said I don't care about any of that.' He said.
She gave him a sharp look. 'You're a fool.'
'You can't tell me for one second that you don't feel this.' He said and he found her hand with his and weaved his fingers through hers.
Her hand was warm in his and he moved his thumb over the soft skin. She swallowed and took another sip. She lowered the drink slowly and extracted her hand from his, using both to hold the glass.
'We're both fools then.' She said and a small smile played on her lips making Sirius's stomach flip happily.
'Eileen!' said a voice and the bubble of privacy around them popped and was gone in an instant as Hector Grey came and Sirius stepped to the side to allow Hector to stand between them.
'Hector, you've made it.' She said and she threw Sirius an apologetic look that Hector caught.
He turned and gave Sirius a frown. 'Black.'
'Grey.' Said Sirius with equal distaste.
Eileen stared between the two men for a moment and Sirius thought she looked amused.
'I heard you were in Auror training that must be challenging.' Said Hector and Sirius knew he was making a jab at him.
'Not in the least. In fact it's been very straightforward.' Said Sirius giving Hector a challenging smile. 'Have you brought your family along to London with you?' he asked.
Hector narrowed his eyes at him. 'No they're staying in Berlin, they will be safer there.'
'One would think they'd be safest with you there don't you think?' said Sirius raising his eyebrows and adding as much concern to his voice as he could muster.
Hector scowled at him and was about to respond when James and Remus approached them.
Eileen seemed to sense the impeding stand off and jumped to introduce James and Remus to Hector. They shook hands rather formally and Hector said something about catching up with Sturgis and stocked off.
'What was that about?' asked James, looking from Sirius to Eileen.
'Nothing at all mate, where did Lily wander off to?' he asked, changing the subject.
'She's saying goodbye to Marlene, Alice and Frank. A few people are starting to take off. They've got families to get back to.' Said James, looking over his shoulder as people filed out of the room.
'Would you join us for a drink in the sitting room Eileen?' asked Remus.
'Um, sure why not.' She said and the four of them headed into the hall.
Sirius exchanged a glance with Eileen, remembering the last time they were in the hall together and he grinned as she blushed, narrowing her eyes at him.
Lily and Peter joined them with Fabian and Gideon and Emmeline went to fetch some more wine. There was a little radio in the corner and a witch was singing out Christmas tunes.
Emmeline came back carrying a tray of glasses and they all took one and passed around a bottle of a fruity wine. 'Albus and the others are chatting in the kitchen they'll be over in a bit.' She added as Gideon gave her a quick peck on the cheek.
Dorcas managed to get Peter involved in a game of wizard's chess and James, Sirius, Remus, Eileen and Lily found themselves standing near the tree which was decorated lavishly with icicles and Sirius wasn't quite sure but he thought something inside the tree had winked at him.
'So how did you manage to get away on Christmas Eve?' Lily asked Eileen.
'Wasn't difficult,' she said after swallowing some wine. 'There is some important meeting happening tonight and I wasn't expected to be there so here I am.' She said shrugging.
'Well we are happy to have you here.' Said Remus smiling at her warmly.
'Thank you Remus, you certainly make better company than Rabastan and Bellatrix Lestrange.' She said and Sirius noticed a look of disgust cross her face.
'I imagine so.' Said James.
'Well either way it's good you're here.' Said Sirius and he locked eyes with her.
James coughed slightly and motioned Lily over away from the group.
'You think he'll do it now?' asked Remus, stepping in closer to Sirius to get a better view of James and Lily.
'Do what?' asked Eileen.
'James is asking Lily to marry him tonight.' Said Sirius, watching her closely.
'That's brilliant!" She said and she gave him that crinkle nosed smile.
Sirius laughed at her and smiled back, 'Yea it is, listen I think he's asking now.'
James was holding Lily's hands and his face was a bright pink and he looked slightly ill. Sirius watched him pull the box out of his robes and sink to his knee in front of her. The room around them went suddenly quiet as everyone realised what was happening.
'Lily Evans I've loved you from the moment I laid eyes on you in our first year and I've only fallen more in love with you since then. The day you agreed to go out with me was the happiest day of my life,' James said and Lily, realising what was happening had her hands covering her mouth and her eyes were fixed on James. 'I've always loved you and I always will. I can't help it Lily and I can't wait any longer to ask you this. Lily Evans will you do me the honour of making me the happiest man on Earth and spend the rest of your life with me? Marry me Lily?' he asked.
The room around them was completely silent except for the witch on the radio, humming out a soft musical tune. Remus and Sirius exchanged looks of equal delight and then looked back to the pair as Lily launched herself into James's arms.
'Yes! Yes James of course I'll marry you!' James stood and caught her around the waist, twirling her slightly and kissing her.
Sirius couldn't help himself and whooped in delight, clapping his hands loudly. 'Way to go Prongs!' he shouted and James and Lily broke their kiss to look over at him. 'They're getting married!' he shouted to the room which was now clapping happily with him.
'You'll be my best man of course.' Said James as Sirius reached him and engulfed him in a hug.
'Of course Prongs! I'd be honoured to give you away to this beautiful woman.' He said, beaming and kissing Lily on the cheek.
Lily laughed with a joy that made Sirius and James feel lighter than air. Remus and Peter reached them as Sirius turned to see where Eileen had gone. He saw her watching him, smiling and looking happy where he had left her.
He crossed the room in a few strides, the joy at seeing James so happy coursing through him. Eileen seemed to see his intentions on his face and she handed her glass to the person next to her and it happened to be Minerva McGonagall who was looking wet eyed and happy. She took the glass in confusion as Sirius seized Eileen's face in his hands and kissed her, there in the middle of the room filled with their friends and Order members.
Her hands were against his chest as he deepened the kiss and her lips parted, letting his tongue explore her mouth which tasted as sweet as the wine she had been drinking. She moaned slightly against his lips and Sirius felt a fire raging in his belly and explode with happiness. This was where he was meant to be, here holding this woman that had intoxicated him from the beginning, surrounded by his friends.
He broke the kiss as more people entered the room and looked down at Eileen whose eyes were alight with the same fire that was consuming him.
'Oi!' Said Hector Grey who had spotted them immediately and was heading towards them looking angry.
The others were surrounding Lily and James, congratulating them, oblivious to what was happening a few feet away. The only people that seemed to be paying attention to them was McGonagall, looking torn between laughter and scolding and Remus who was inching closer and eyeing Hector.
'What exactly do you think you're doing Black?' asked Hector, reaching them and groping inside his robes for what Sirius assumed was his wand.
Eileen's hand closed on her brother's arm in a flash and she was looking back at him with equal irritation. 'Don't Hector.' She nodded towards the group clustered around Lily and James. 'You'll ruin the moment.' And Sirius thought that she wasn't referring to just Lily and James's proposal.
Hector glared at Sirius but removed his hand from his robes. Remus reached them and deftly stepped between Hector and Sirius, making Hector step back next to Minerva.
James and Lily fought their way through the crowd still clapping them on the back to their friends who beamed at them.
Sirius was grinning widely, not fazed by Hector Grey and found Eileen's hand undercover of their closeness and entwined his fingers in hers. He gave her hand a light squeeze and let go.
'More wine!' he said, and he gave Eileen a questioning look before heading back into the kitchen.
He reached the kitchen and started digging some more glasses out of the cupboard. He found another bottle of wine and pulled out his wand to uncork it.
A soft hand closed around his wand hand and he felt her body press against him before he heard her.
'Who's the fool now?' he asked, stowing his wand and turning so that she was pressed against his chest.
'I guess that would be me.' She said and she reached up and pulled his lips down to hers.
She felt wonderful in his hands and his desire for her was obvious to both of them. He sighed against her lips and forced himself to break it. He didn't want another scene in this kitchen and he knew he was close to giving in to his need for her.
'Come home with me?' he asked, staring into her eyes and running his hand through the wavy blond hair near her ear.
Her hands were holding the lapels of his jacket and her breathing was as uneasy as his. She searched his face for a moment before letting go of him. 'I can't Sirius you know that.'
He took his hands away from her face and turned back to the bottle at the table. 'I know.'
She caught his arm and lifted her hand to touch his face. He stilled under her gaze as she ran her hand through his black hair and traced the line of his upper lip with her finger. When she spoke her voice was sad and scratchy with repressed feeling. 'Maybe when this is all over, when you can't be used against me. Maybe then.' She said and she dropped her hands to her side again.
'Why would I be used against you? He asked, confused for a moment. He understood that their relationship could get her killed but to be used against her would have to mean that she -
She cut his thought off by kissing him again swiftly and then turning on her heel she crossed the room as James and Lily entered.
'Congratulations both of you. You deserve happiness.' She said and gave them a stunning smile.
'Thank you.' Said James, who looked to Sirius then back at Eileen.
'Happy Christmas.' She said and she disappeared into the hall.
They heard the door open and shut and Sirius knew she had gone.
'What?' asked James.
'Nothing mate, congratulations!' he said, filling a few glasses and handing one to Lily and James. 'When should I expect the babies?' he winked at James as Lily scoffed at him.
His insides still felt hot and James gave him another concerned glance and Sirius shook his head slightly telling him they'd discuss it later.
Remus and Peter made their way in and taking a glass from Sirius they raised them around in toast.
'To Prongs and Lily, our dearest friends. It's about time!' said Sirius and they all laughed happily.
Sirius drank and the wine swished around in his belly and he felt both happy and sad at the same time and he wondered whether there ever would be a time when this war was over.
Author's note: Thank you for reading! Please continue reading and leave a review! They really are an encouragement and it's so fantastic to hear from you!