Hello my beautiful readers!
I hope you're all well, because I certainly am. I am so overwhelmed by the response last chapter, you guys were all so kind to me and gave such wonderful feedback, you made me the happiest person in the world!
A massive thank you to HarryPotterfan, XLorienXWarriorsX, Raven that flies at night, madwamoose, Beetle126, , somranjan21 for their kind words and constant support.
I hope you all enjoy this chapter, so many cute shippy moments and the last chapter at Hogwarts! Don't forget to leave a review, the 150th reviewer gets a sneak peek!
"May the wind under your wings bear you where the sun sails and the moon walks,"- J.R.R Tolkein
"Over the years, many students have passed through these halls." Dumbledore said, "These walls have watched you all grow from timid, frightened first years to successful witches and wizards, and now it is time for these walls to bid you goodbye, and for you to spread your wings and find your place in the real world."
Elizabeth felt a bittersweet smile pull at her lips, She looked around the table she was seated at, tonight was the valedictory dinner, and tomorrow they bid farewell to their home. There were five large, circular tables in the hall, one for the staff and the other for each house.
Elizabeth leant over to James and Sirius and laughed just loud enough for the two to hear, "You know I got a photo of McGonagall hugging you two." James looked at her horrified and Sirius let out a bark of laughter, before getting shot a withering glance by said professor. Elizabeth bit her lip and leant over one more time, "Even better she looks like she's about to cry in it." Sirius snorted into his elf wine.
"Tonight we are gathered to celebrate the achievements of our students, whom I shamelessly admit are some of the best that have walked through these halls. Before we tuck into the marvellous feast the Hogwarts elves have prepared in your honour, we have several accolades to award in order to acknowledge the academic achievements of the best amongst us."
Remus felt anticipation at the headmasters words, he had spent his entire schooling trying to makeup for his illness, to be the best at something… He squeezed Lily's hand next to his, a small smile pulled at her cheeks and she turned towards him and leant over.
"No hard feelings if I beat you yeah?" he could hear the teasing tone in her voice, he rolled his eyes and a grin made its way up his face.
"As long as you grant me the same courtesy." She let out a laugh and leant back in her chair. Everyone's heart was beating in anticipation, they were all curious to whom would gain the title of mastery over a subject.
"The award for Defence against the dark arts goes to… Remus Lupin and Amelia Bones shared."
Everyone stood up and gave a round of applause, with an exception with the Slytherin table whom grudgingly clapped in respect for the two students, nobody could deny their expertise in the subject. Remus had a massive grin on his face which Amelia reciprocated. James clapped his hand on Remus's back and the two walked up to receive their awards. Elizabeth winked at the two of them as she clicked away on the camera.
Amelia Bones, was in the top percentage of students for their year, her duelling skills formidable and her passion for justice even greater. She was sharp minded, quick witted and loyal to a fault. They all knew that one day she would amount to something great.
It seemed that she also had impeccable taste in clothing.
She was wearing a simplistic burgundy mermaid style dress. It was skin tight yet modest with a high neck, however it had a subtle charm and hint of sensuality. The dress had a thigh high slit that showed off her muscular milky leg and she wore laced up black heels. Her hair was braided into a low, bun, dark brown curled tendrils framed her face.
"The award for transfiguration goes to James Potter and Sirius Black, shared."
Once again the hall erupted into applause, nobody had expected anyone to beat the two but they were over the moon. Mischievous smirks were plastered on their faces. McGonagall looked teary as the two boys got their prizes. The boys high fived as they took their places on the platform.
"The award for Charms goes to Lily Evans and Elizabeth Gilmore, shared."
Elizabeth quickly placed the camera down and tapped it so it automatically took pictures, a huge smile spread across her face as she saw her best friend approaching her with an identical smile. They ran into each others arms bubbling with laughing.
"Congrats Bestie." Elizabeth muttered as they took their places next to their counterparts, Lily murmured the same back at her. After many years of hard work, the most wonderful feeling in the world is knowing that you did something with it and you're recognised for it.
"The herbology prize goes to Mary Macdonald and Amycus Carrow, shared."
In the crowd Alecto was crying buckets worth of tears for her brother whom for the first time in his life had done something worth credit. Finally after 18 years he'd done something worthwhile, if anything he should be crying tears of joy. But his face remained stotic, you'd think the sister had won the award.
Alecto, well her outfit didn't boad well with many in the hall, it was an orange lace gown with thick straps and an orange belt around her slim waist. Orange chiffon then fell down the sides and back of the dress to make a short train and cover her disproportionate hips. The dress was quite beautiful, but it was more for a stroll in the garden and definitely didn't suit her matching orange hair which was pulled up into a severe bun at the nape of her neck.
"Really? I was expecting it to be Liz." Sirius joked causing everyone in the vicinity who heard his joke to snigger, even Dumbledore's shoulders seemed to shake in amusement.
Elizabeth leant over to Mary when she stood next to herself and Lily. "Alecto looks like a carrot with curves." Mary snorted as she looked over towards the Slytherin seventh year.
"Bev would've spent the entire night pulling her hair out over that dress!" Mary sniggered causing Lily to snort in an unladylike manner.
"I think you're insulting carrots." She murmered as the hall silenced.
"I think you're right Ms Evans, I quite like carrots…" Mary trailed off,
Elizabeth interrupted her sentence in a joking manner, "Well I hate carrots with a vengeance so carrot it is!" the three girls laughed silently until Dumbledore continued.
"The award for Potions goes to Lily Evans and Severus Snape."
Sirius rolled his eyes muttering about Snivellus and snakes, James rolled his eyes and nudged him,
"Shut up and be happy for my girl." Sirius reciprocated the action and replied,
"I am happy for Lilykins, just not about Snivellus."
They stood in silence as Lily approached them with a large smile spread across her face.
"The award for Astronomy goes to Sirius Black and Hailey Sonda."
The seventh year Slytherin was wearing a floor length a line hemed dress that had a sweetheart neckline. The bodice was beaded and black whilst the skirt flared out into a black skirt with a yellow and green floral pattern printed onto it. She was wearing yellow pumps and her hair was in a long braid down her back.
Lily leant over towards Elizabeth and laughed,
"I never realised your boyfriend was so academic." Elizabeth snorted and looked at her her dimples peeking as a result of her large smile.
"Neither did I."
"The prize for History of magic goes to Mary Macdonald and Remus Lupin."
Mary blanched in her spot as the other burst out laughing, she went to that exam hungover and half asleep. Remus looked at her with a raised eyebrow. They linked arms.
"Good job history partner."
"Back at you History partner." He leant over and pressed a kiss to her soft lips causing a round of swoons to go through the hall and some of the professors to tear up, their star students had all grown up and were in love.
"The award for Ancient runes goes to Pandora Nolan."
The bubbly blonde made her way upto stage and smiled at the others and stood next to Mary who squeezed her hand. Pandora was wearing a beautiful, pale pink, floor length cap sleeved dress. The bodice was embellished with beads and lace, the back was in a beautiful v upto her waist. Around her waist was a pale pink, pearl adorned belt and then the layered sheer skirt fell softly to the ground. With her every step the bottom swayed showing off her high nude heels and her hair was pulled to the side in soft blonde waves.
"The award for Arithmancy goes to Elizabeth Gilmore."
The crowd erupted into applause once more, nobody had expected anyone but Elizabeth to win the award, her skills in the subject were renowned and her reputation spread much further than Hogwarts. Elizabeth took the award and shook dumbledores hand, she smiled at him and felt a blush line her cheeks as Dumbledore winked at her. She felt pride well up in her as she held the accolade that showed her talent in arithmancy.
"The prize for Divination goes to Peter Pettigrew and Clarissa fawley."
The marauders jumped Peter and gave him claps on the back, all of the seventh year Gryffindor's had at least won one accolade and it made them feel proud, even legendary, perhaps they were the first group to have ever done that! McGonagall looked at them with prize and they all held in their laughter as they watched her stealthily wipe her eyes.
Clarissa was wearing a baby blue asymmetrical gown that fell to the ground at the back and just above her ankles at the front. It was strapless and had a sweetheart neckline. The waist was nipped and the fabric had a slight tonal print that was a beautiful texture. She matched it with baby blue strappy pumps and her strawberry blonde hair was in loose curls down her back.
"The prize for Muggle studies goes to Dorcas Meadows and Sirius Black."
There was one word to describe Dorcas that night, stunning. Her dark brown hair was pulled up into a straight ponytail, leaving her back and shoulders bare, showing off her bronze skin and taute muscles. Her dress was a firey red that had a deep v-neck neckline, the bodice was tight and the dress fell to the ground and resembled a mermaids tail. The dress was like a second skin, it hugged all of her curves. She matched this with bronzed makeup and a red lip. When she got onto the podium an awed Elizabeth turned to the girl and whispered.
Sirius had the largest smirk on his face as he saw the Slytherins look at him with distaste. He knew that letters would be sent home that night and he didn't even need the award. it was just the thought of his mothers reaction to the subject that would be more than enough. He was more proud of this than transfiguration award.
"You look Amazing Dorcas!" Dorcas's smile widened to show off her perfectly straight teeth and she leant forward and hugged the girl.
"Thanks love, so do you! And great job on the awards… people are betting on you getting dux you know?"
Elizabeth blanched and looked at her bewildered. "Well some people are going to leave tonight with emptier pockets than they arrived with, I reckon it'll be Lily or Remus."
"No offence but so do I" Dorcas looked at her unabashedly.
"None taken Dorcas." She laughed and hugged the tall girl once more.
When Sirius came Back, Amycus leant over and whispered in his ear maliciously,
"You filthy bloodtraitor." He spat.
"And proud." Sirius laughed and turned away from him.
"Your parents would be so disappointed in you." Sirius turned to him and smirked,
"That has been my life aspiration since day one, I live to disappoint my parents."
"The award for Care of Magical Creatures goes to Pandora Nolan."
Dumbledore waited for the applause to die down before continuing, he looked out to the crowd with a grandfatherly look in his eyes, "The award for excellence in duelling goes to Sirius Black."
Sirius smirked at Snape who scowled at him as he went to receive his prize. Obviously someone was still sore over his loss.
"The award for excellence in quidditch goes to one of the best players I've ever seen, James Potter."
The audience was roaring with applause and cheers, however one of the happiest faces came from the only person standing at the Slytherin table, Lucinda Talkalot, his fellow captain and one of the largest competitors and best players he'd had the honour of knowing and meeting. If all Slytherins were like her than he'd probably like Slytherins, too bad that they were more like Snape than her.
James had a massive smile on his face, in a way he felt bitter over the war because that night, through the accolades he had gathered he had been given so many opportunities, but now...all he could do was fight.
Once the applause died down everyone was leaning at the edges of their seats, this was what they'd been waiting for all night.
"It is my pleasure to announce that the accolade for academic excellence goes to Remus Lupin!"
Lily squealed and hugged an overjoyed Remus, "You better get dux Lils." He whispered in her ear, the Marauders clapped him on the back and Mary pressed a chaste kiss on his lips.
Dumbledore cleared his throat, an affectionate smile on his face as he looked upon the crowd. "At last, it is with pleasure to announce the Dux of the Graduating year of 1978…Lily Evans!"
The great hall echoed with applause and tears welled up in the head girls emerald eyes, she was enveloped in a tight group hug by her classmates who had teared up, the emotions of that day finally hitting everyone. This was it.
Lily felt tears fill her eyes and her cheeks start hurting from the massive smile on her face, merlin it felt so good to be recognised officially. All her hard work, tears, essays and effort had payed off that night. The past seven years had payed off and it felt bloody brilliant!
However that joy wasn't reciprocated by everyone, disgust painted itself onto the Slytherins faces, a Mudblood had beat all of them, they felt as though they had been slapped in the face.
She had beat each and every one of them.
The filthy Mudblood.
She would pay.
The marauders were standing on the tips of their toes, faces flushed with excitement and exhurberant smiles on their faces, Two of their own had gotten the two greatest honours of the night!
Dumbledore once more cleared his throat, silence set across the hall, "Congratulations to those whom acquired awards tonight, you have all placed hard work and dedication into your schooling over the last seven years, and that goes for all of you, myself and this entire faculty are extremely proud of all your achievements and how far you've come in the last year."
Before Dumbledore could continue a loud bang echoed around the room, and a flash of light followed, many of the students took out their wands until they looked up. Fireworks began erupting all over the great hall, streaks of Crimson and Gold, Yellow and Black, Blue and bronze and Silver and Green decorated the ceiling.
Lily let out a laugh, "This is why you were all restless!" she wrapped her arms around James, The fireworks, instead of dissipating formed shapes, of each of the houses, a snake, a lion, an eagle and a badger. Glowing in the sky. Laughter and applause graced the grandiose hall.
One more firework appeared right in the middle of the dance floor, a stag, a rat, a wolf and a dog dancing around in a circle. The marauders were gripping eachother tightly, their eyes watering slightly at what would be their finale, their farewell to Hogwarts. Underneath the dancing animals was signed, Farewell Fuckers, The marauders.
Lily looked up at James with the largest grin, he was laughing himself to tears "Let me guess, Sirius did that part."
"Well they aren't going to give him a detention on the last day are they?" he laughed caused her shoulders to shudder as her kept in laughter erupted. To her side Mary was laughing at Sirius whom was being berated by Remus for using such rude language.
Dumbledore cleared his throat causing everyone to silence, but every once in a while a giggle would begin and would be infectious. Dumbledore let out a laugh before continuing, "Ah, Hogwarts will not be the same without our resident pranksters, you will be missed my boys, you will be missed."
The boys seemed to grip eachother tightly at his words, they had found eachother at the start of their Hogwarts journey as high pitched, nervous 11 year olds, now they ended their journey as grown men, still together and closer than ever, with the ever occasional voice crack. It was daunting, tomorrow they were leaving, and then they would never return, they too would become forgotten faces that ran through the halls, they'd just be another person.
"Alas as is tradition, I welcome the head boy and Headgirl, James Potter and Lily Evans for the first dance of the evening."
The couple linked arms and made their way to the middle of the hall which was empty of tables.
"Through the chaos of today I reckon I forgot to tell you how beautiful you look." James whispered in her ear as their hands intertwined and a soft ballad streamed through the hall.
She looked up and scrunched up her face in an expression one would make when constipated. "How about now?" she laughed causing James to chuckle and pull her closer towards him.
"Always Lils, always."
She could feel his heartbeat under her ear as she leant her head on his chest. "Thank you." She whispered. She felt him squeeze her waist as a reply.
Elizabeth leant into Sirius's side as they watched their best friends take the first dance, they looked so perfect together, like they had at the Halloween ball, months prior. Elizabeth jumped when she felt someone poke her. She turned around to see Mary smirking at her whilst holding Remus's hand.
"Don't do that!" Elizabeth harshly whispered,
Mary rolled her eyes, "You do it all the time!" In turn Elizabeth rolled her light blue eyes and looked forward towards James and Lily once more. She heard Mary sigh causing her to turn around and look at her in curiousity. Mary was tearing up…
"Hey whats wrong?" she leant out of Sirius's embrace and hugged her best friend.
"We're all grown up." A watery smile spread across her face, "Look at them, I bet in a year they'll be dancing like this again, except lils will be in a white dress and they'll have bands across their fingers." At the thought Elizabeth felt her heart speed up and a soft smile spread across her cheeks. Merlin her friends deserved nothing more, she wished for her friends to be happily married, she could just envision mini James and Lily's wrecking havoc.
"They deserve all the joy they can get." She whispered and squeezed Mary's hand. Mary nodded in agreement.
"I just hope we're all alive to see it."
Tears welled in Elizabeths eyes, "Please don't." she shook her head, her voice laced with implorement. She didn't want to hear it, she just wanted one day where she didn't need to think of what was happening outside the walls they were encased in. "Not today, not when we have so much to celebrate. Lets just pretend that the war isn't happening, for one night."
She sighed and looked towards the dancing couple, Lily was wearing a floor length jade gown. It had a strapless sweetheart neckline and the bodice was embellished with silver jems and beads. She was wearing strappy silver heels that peeped from underneath the scalloped hemline every step she took and her hair was pulled into a half up-half down hairstyle which fell straight down her back. James was wearing Dark green dress robes with black dragon hide boots, his cloak went upto his ankles and his glasses were rimmed gold. They looked a pair.
Dumbledore and McGonagall made their way to the dance floor hand in hand giving the notice that couples could make their way onto the dance floor.
Sirius turned to Elizabeth and bowed, taking her petite hand in his. "Will you give me the honour of a dance mi'lady?" Elizabeths glossy pink lips stretched into a wide smile and she let out a huff of laughter.
"You don't even need to ask, mi'lord."
A bark of laughter escaped him as they walked hand in hand towards the right hand corner of the dance floor. As they walked Sirius couldn't help but watch the beautiful angel that was holding his hand and walking next to him, was she even walking? It looked as though she was gliding in mid air.
Elizabeth was wearing a stunningly beautiful navy blue gown, it had a deep v-neck, the bodice was embellished with lighter blue crystals, a slender belt defined the waist and was adorned with silver beads. The A-line skirt felt to the ground in invisible layers covered by feathers all over. She wore nude pumps and her hair fell in loose curls around her shoulders.
He couldn't help but admire the way the feathers streamed in a train behind her, dragging across the floor tantilisingly. She bit her lip and looked up at him as her hands slid behind his neck and his muscled arms settled around her slim waist. He was the luckiest man in the world, she was so beautiful and intelligent and kind, she was perfect, an angel.
"Lizzie, you're an angel." A crimson blush spread across her dewy cheeks and she bit her lip, casting her gaze towards the floor. Her long lashes cast shadows across her high cheekbones. "The most perfect, ethereal person in the world. l'ange"
She looked up in surprise, she hadn't known he knew French. "Tu parle français."
Curiosity glimmered in her eyes as he too looked at her in surprise, "Oui, je ne savais pas que vous avez fait." He spoke with confidence and could barely contain her surprise
"That went over my head!" she laughed, throwing her head back, her slender neck stretched and the muscles pulled taught against her skin. His intense grey eyes flew straight to the crook of her neck, he craved to press his lips there, to bruise her, to kiss her, to lick her. He wanted to press himself close enough to her to nuzzle his head in the crook in her neck. He felt himself flush and his collar and pants felt tighter than they were moments prior.
"You okay?" He heard through the hazy fog in her brain, his entranced grey eyes diverted towards her blue eyes, seeing the pure innocence and kindess in her eyes, he felt his temperature drop slightly. She was too pure, too angel like. Every single time he'd ever felt the need to relieve pressure or one of his more risqué dreams featured her, afterwards he always felt like a perverted old man.
"yeah, of course." He muttered and raked his eyes over her elegant features. "So you don't speak French fluently?"
"Before I came to Hogwarts they started teaching us at school and I've been there afew times." She shrugged, she had wished to have been able to learn in fluently, it was such a beautiful language. "Maybe you can teach me?"
At her words some of his more risqué and wild fanatasies entered his mind, teacher, student, he instantly felt his pant tighten once more. He shook his head and felt himself blushing slightly at the thought. He was Sirius black…HE DID NOT BLUSH!
"You're not going to teach me?" she questioned, hiding her disappointment well on her face, but her eyes seemed downcast at his apparent rejection.
"No, no, no! Sorry!" he laughed uneasily, "yeah, of course I'll teach you."
The way her face lit up, her eyes shimmered and her smile widened. She was so easy to please, so happy and greatful with what she had. She was truly an angel, she was content with what she had and hoped everyone better. The way she smiled, laughed, the way her eyes shimmered and her cheeks reddened. To know he elicited such a reaction from her, made his heart soar.
He loved making her laugh, being the reason she laughed. He never wanted to see her cry, and if he did, he wanted to be there to wipe her tears. He wanted to share her joy. He wanted to cuddle with her in a house that was there's. He wanted her to be a part of his future, and she wanted to be apart of his.
He loved her.
That realisation was something he'd never thought he'd feel romantically, he loved all his friends, he'd loved his cousin, he'd loved his uncle… he'd loved Elizabeth… but never romantically. But now… he loved her, he wanted to spend his days with her. She was his angel, his light.
He looked into her beautiful blue eyes and gazed into them, "We can start now if you like." He whispered, She gazed back into his stormy eyes and nodded with a grin.
"I'm up for it anytime." She laughed with a wink and leaned against his chest, his heart raced at the wildness of her words, the sheer possibilities.
He bit his lip as anxiety plagued him, what if she didn't feel the same way, what if she didn't love him, what if she didn't want to spend her days with him. His palms began to sweat and his skin became clammy. His heart was beating so far he was surprised he hadn't collapsed. What if she rejected him, or ran away… what if he ruined this magical moment and ruined their entire relationship.
But in the deep recesses of his mind, there was a part of him wondering…what if she did love him? What if she would say the same back? What if she wanted to spend the rest of her life with him?
He took a deep breath and sniffed the coconutty, vanilla scent of her hair and held her tighter against him than before.
"je t'aime mon ange"
His words startled her, she had understood what he had meant, her heart sped up and she felt her cheeks flush crimson. She exhaled and unknowingly tightened her grip around him. A girlish glee encased her and made her want to jump up and down on the spot. He loved her, he loved her!
She felt like a princess and he was her prince charming, she felt over the moon. Was this what the muggles meant when they said that they felt like they were on cloud nine? Her heart thumped in her chest and she felt breathless.
Her mouth felt dry as she pulled away slightly and looked up into his eyes. He looked so anxious and afraid at the thought of rejection. But she'd realised she loved him weeks ago, when he was battered and bleeding after he saved her that full moon. He had nothing to be afraid of, because she loved him in a way so wild and young. She craved him, she craved his heart and soul, she craved his touch and his words.
She leant up on her tip toes and placed a soft hand on his strong jawline, she pressed a soft kiss onto his full lips, he leant into the kiss and pulled her towards him. She sighed against him and ran a hand through his curly locks. His lips were smooth but rough, perfect, he moved them in circles against her own causing her to moan lightly. She pulled away and pressed her forehead against his, chest heaving after the passionate kiss. She gazed into his lust filled eyes with equal fervour.
"je t'aime aussi" she whispered, her hot, minty breath tickling his skin. A large smile spread across his face, he placed both his hands on her face and placed a chaste kiss on her pink lips.
"I will never get sick of hearing you say that." He laughed as he wrapped his arms around her waist.
"je t'aime." She whispered causing him let out a bark of laughter. She wanted to spend the rest of her days telling him she loved him.
"et je vous." He whispered back, she looked back at him curiously, her blue eyes wide with confusion as she tried to piece. "And I you."
She had never felt more alive in her entire life, and she berated herself for saying that over a boy, it was against everything she had ever instilled in herself. But she could not argue against something that made her feel more alive than she ever had in her past eighteen years.
Mary pinched the bridge of her nose, "That is disgusting." She stated bluntly as she watched Remus demolish the steak on his plate.
"This is how a steak is cooked! You kill it twice!" Remus exclaimed with his mouth full of meat, waving his fork around to emphasise his point. He looked over at her plate of Salmon which was only half finished, looking pitful compared to his near empty plate. "I don't understand how you eat that!" he laughed disdainfully. "Its dry and crumbly and just…" he grimaced. Just…Salmon, or fish in general, he hated it. The smell, the taste, the texture; it made him feel ill, Remus had always put it down to his senses being in overdrive.
She rolled her eyes a picked some salmon off her plate, "Its honestly not that bad! Have you even tried it?"
Mary brought the fork closer and closer to Remus, merlin it stunk. He shook his head and backed away slightly. "Don't you dare!"
"What will happen if you try just a tiny bit?" she whined, widening her eyes and her lips formed into a slight pout. Her puppy eyes, he could never, ever resist those.
The stench was making him sick, he could feel it, that whiff of salty, sour, crumbly glump of shit Mary called healthy food. "I will literally chuck all over your beautiful dress and your outfit will be ruined."
She shrugged, a smirk tattooed on her pale face. "That's what magic's for."
He sighed and leant back, eyes pleading, "I will embarrass myself on the last day of school and that is how everyone will remember me."
Mary began to lean forward in her seat and his hazel eyes drifted downwards to her creamy, toned legs that were peeking through her aqua dress. He loved her legs, they were perfect to lie on, to look at, to grip, to… he shook his head, now was not the time for that train of thoughts.
"Come on Mare! Spare me tonight, I just got the Academic Excellence accolade, I'm the second smartest person in the year level, you should be rewarding me, not torturing me!" A wide smile broke out on her beautiful face, the same smile he had fallen in love with. With a mock sigh and a huff she retracted the fork with the vile fishy glump on it and put it in her mouth, she let out an exaggerated moan and leant back in her chair.
"Oh alright!" she rolled her eyes, "Just this once though! One day you're going to like Salmon." She laughed causing him to roll his eyes and intertwine her hand with his. She bit her pale pink lips and squeezed his hand.
He squeezed her thin hand back and smiled, "Come dance with me Mare." He whispered in her ear, and pressed a kiss behind her jaw. He smiled against her neck as she muffled a moan, Remus retracted and looked into her perfect sapphire eyes. "What'd you say?"
"I'd be a fool to say no." she whispered with a wink, she stood up and pulled him along with her, his eyes were glued to her, with every step she took her hips swayed side to side emphasising the muscles in her back…amongst other places; her bouncy blonde hair cascaded down her upper back, the dress had two straps crisscrossing across her shoulder blades. She was wearing an aqua frosted satin dress that had a floor length outer skirt that was slightly pleated up top with a short, mid thigh length mini dress underneath. She was wearing nude peeptoe platforms.
She looked magnificent.
As they reached the dance floor she turned and spun into his arms, she looked up and wrapped her arms around his neck, Mary hummed afew notes before looking up into his hazel eyes.
"I love this song." She whispered, as they swayed along to the slow music, this was so beautiful, glittering lights adorned the walls of the great hall and the floor was a beautiful silverfish blue.
With a smug smirk Remus let out a laugh, "And I love you." Marys smile widened once more showing off her white teeth, he loved her smile, and the adorable gap between her two front teeth that he knew irked the living day lights out of her. She rolled her eyes and leant up on the tips of her toes, she pressed her lips against his slightly chapped lips, he felt the sparks that were described in muggle fairytales, the fireworks that erupted between the two…
It was magical.
Peter stood to the corner nursing a goblet of pumpkin juice, the whole formal party thing just wasn't his scene, it never had been and he suspected it never would be. Everyone just seemed too perfect, and dolled up, everyone had immaculate manners and knew how to dance, they knew the difference between the fish fork and the salad fork, they knew there was such thing as an oyster fork! He would've just thought to use the fish fork. But no, there was a tiny fork with three prongs instead of four that made the entire difference. Galas just…they made him feel dumber than he already felt.
Everyone was perfect, and he wasn't.
It seemed that that was his greatest failure, not being able to look beyond the surface, He'd see an extremely hardworking, intelligent person and think that they wanted to be smart, but perhaps they want to make someone proud, or have a secret ambition, or something that they've wanted to accomplish their whole life. But all he'd see is a smart person.
Perhaps that would be his downfall, seeing everything in Black and white, or maybe his greatest accomplishment. Only the ticking of clocks would tell.
As he took a long sip from the heavy goblet he noticed someone dressed in red standing next to him from his peripheral vision. What on earth? He turned in surprise and shock, still struggling to swallow all the pumpkin juice in his mouth. Next to him was standing one of the hottest birds in their year level, next to him!
Dorcas Meadows.
A soft smile graced her angular features as she watched his struggle. "You might want to swallow that first." She laughed softly, her voice was so musical and graceful. He felt himself flush crimson, this beautiful girl, this hot as girl, the girl that was every fifth years wet dream, was speaking to him. Peter Pettigrew!
After a moment he swallowed and let out a cough at the sensation, Dorcas had put her hand on her back and tapping him lightly to clear his throat.
"Thanks." He muttered whilst clearing his throat,
"Anytime." She whispered back, flicking her straight brown locks back off her shoulder, his pale blue eyes studied her shoulders and back which had been exposed at that moment, the way her quidditch toned arms rippled softly with every movement, or how her shoulders were elegantly defined. In his eyes she was more beautiful than those sickly thin models of the muggle world. Dorcas let out a heavy sigh as she looked forward towards the dance floor where couples were swaying to a Celestina warbeck song.
"They don't realise how lucky they are do they?"
Peter looked towards her and revelled in the fact that she could've gone to anyone, but she went to him. Her studied her high cheekbone and the pretty slope of her nose, her thin dark brown eyebrows and long dark eyelashes. He shook his head in response.
"But perhaps we're the lucky ones, we don't have to be tied down by somebody else, the decisions we make are for ourselves, we don't need to consider that many outside factors."
She turned and looked at him, Peter was pensive, she was right, but Dorcas had never seemed to be the type to settle down, she was carefree and independent, however he'd always dreamed of one day marrying and having kids. Of being someone's husband and father, of growing old with someone he loved.
"If that's how you choose to spend the rest of your years, I reckon it'd get pretty lonely after a while." He scuffed his foot against the shining floors, she let out a musical laugh and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"I like it, you're spunky when you want to be." He looked into her chocolate eyes, "It's a great quality." His stomach churned and his heart felt like it was soaring, he…he liked something about him. He felt like a fourth year teenage girl but he felt so overjoyed!
After a moment of awkward silence she spoke up once more, but not before looking around cautiously, "Have you thought about joining the order?" startled at her line of questioning he too glanced around paranoid about others listening in.
"All of us are, in honour of Beverley." He puffed out his chest as a searing pain surged through him at the mention of her name, she ought to have been here tonight, they shouldn't have argued that day, that day should not have happened. She should be out there dancing, and yelling and laughing.
She should be alive.
He missed her, he never held romantic feelings for her, but not having her around, not speaking to her or seeing it. It was so foreign, she had been a constant for so long and just like that, she was gone.
"Just in honour of Wilkins, or because youse want to?" she questioned, raising her dark eyebrow.
"Of course we want to!" he exclaimed insulted, "We all want a world where can raise our children, and not worry about getting killed at work, or just walking down the street, we want to keep our family and friends safe, we don't want to worry about the reason why friends are late. We want to be normal people, and if it takes a shitload of fighting to accomplish that goal then so be it!" His chest heaved as he gasped for air. Dorcas looked at him appraisingly and nodded with a small grin.
"Inspiring." She shook her head and looked forward, "I already informed Dumbledore of my decision."
He turned and raised an eyebrow, "Am I going to receive the honour of finding out what said decision is?" She let out a soft laugh and took a sip of goblin wine, before looking to him.
"It was never a choice for me, I was always going to say yes."
And then she began to walk away leaving him stunned. He couldn't just let her go, not after that. "Thanks for the chat!" he yelled loud enough for her and fifty people to hear, she turned around and sunk a sharp tooth into her crimson lips,
"Anytime."
Lucinda Talkalot sat in a chair on her table by herself and gazed around the grandiose hall, she let out a sigh as she picked at the churros and the treacle tart on her plate, why she'd chosen treacle tart she would never know, she didn't even like treacle tart!
During the night she'd danced with most of her friends, thanked her teachers and even the other quidditch captains, except for one.
James Potter.
Its not that she was afraid to, no, she was just as brave as the bloody Gryffindor, but she didn't want to make much of a scene as he did beat her, in the cup and at getting the award. Not that she minded, she had always known that he was a better player.
But time was ticking all too fast for her liking, she couldn't not approach him, she wasn't a coward, and she wasn't going to leave on unresolved terms. Just because of stupid prejudices.
Her black eyes glanced with resolve across towards the opposite side of the room where she knew the seventh year Gryffindor's was sitting. Thinking of the devil. She rolled her eyes as she saw an emerald clad Lily Evans sitting next to the messy haired quidditch captain crying with laughter. Despite her dislike of all things lovey dovey, looking at them and seeing their visible love for eachother made her crave everything they had, it was intoxicating.
"Potter." The bespectacled teenager jumped in his seat and turned to see the dark skinned Slytherin sitting in the empty seat to his left.
"Talkalot." The grin on his face everpresent, "Are you here to Talkalot."he chortled with a wink. Evans coughed to hide her snigger. She, herself rolled her eyes and leant back,
"Potter, that got old in third year." She laughed and leant back. The silver gems of her bodice reflected off the royal blue fabric. The neck line was high up and haltered. It was a two piece gown, the skirt had a waistline covered in the same gems of the bodice. The skirt was the same royal blue silk and flowed, it had a thigh high slit that showcased her quidditch toned leg, paired with silver pumps. The skirt of the dress splayed across her lap.
She bit her lip and let out a sigh, Evans looked over in curiosity, "I don't mean to be rude, but why are you sitting with us and not out dancing with your friends." She gestured towards her fellow Slytherin housemates. She once more rolled her obsidian eyes.
"Because I've been waiting all night to get the chance to say this and this is probably my last chance." She smiled and looked into Evans emerald eyes. They looked at her expectantly causing her to sigh. "Look I just wanted to say congratulations on the award, and say that it has been great to play against you, maybe one day when you're a famous quidditch player I'll tell my kids that I got to play against the famous James Potter." She let out a laugh. Potter looked at her with a smirk on his face, he shook his head,
"Nah, I reckon I'll be the one telling my kids that I played against Lucinda Talkalot in Hogwarts if the rumour mill is correct." He winked at her, she looked down in embarrassment, it was true, the holyhead harpies had invited her to try out for the reserves. She nodded eliciting a hug from Evans.
"Congratulations! You'll be great!" she was shocked from the warmth emancipating from the redhead, she'd never really had the chance to get to know Evans but through partnering and homework assignments they had become aquainted. To be hugged from a friend, a genuine hug, it felt…it felt beautiful.
She cleared her throat and smiled brilliantly, "Thanks Evans."
"Call me Lily, It's only taken seven years." She let out a soft snort, Lucinda rolled her eyes,
"In that case call me Lucinda."
"Great, you too have been aquainted, now you'll have to send me a letter telling me all about try outs and how cool it is and get me tickets and all that jazz. Okay?" james had taken her by the shoulders and shaken her. She nodded in shock,
"I don't even know if I'll get it but okay."
James rolled his eyes, "You're the best player I know, besides myself." He added when he saw her raise her eyebrows, "Trust me, you'll get it."
Lucinda sent him a grateful smile before looking back at the dance floor where she saw Hailey gesturing for her to join them, she nodded and turned back to Potter and Lily. She stood up and they followed, She pulled Lily into a hug, grateful for her kindness and generosity.
"Congratulations on Dux, Lily, you deserved it." The girls emerald eyes slightly reddened at an effort to hold in tears,
"Thank you." She whispered back, "And good luck." Lucinda turned to Potter and stuck out her hand, James incased it in his much larger hand and shook it.
"Thanks Potter, and good luck. I'll ah, catch you on the flip side." James snorted and rolled his eyes,
"This isn't goodbye Talkalot, I'll be watching your games."
She released his hand from hers and let out a loud laugh, "Oh you better be!" as she walked away she heard him yell out a thanks, she turned around and gave him a thumbs up.
It took her seven years to realise…but Gryffindor's weren't all that bad.
"To many of you we bid farewell, as you will be leaving the protection of these walls and venturing out into the world and finding your places. As I have mentioned several times, the world out there is a dangerous and uncertain place, Keeping that in mind I implore you to remember all your teachings over the past seven years, don't just remember the potions and the spells, but remember to be intelligent, to be brave, to be loyal and to be ambitious."
Elizabeth gazed around the compartment all the Gryffindor seventh years had squished themselves into, these people, these amazing people were the bravest, most beautiful people she had met and she was forever grateful to have them in her life.
She looked behind her where Sirius was settled, "I hope I'm not squashing you." She whispered into his ear, he let out a bark of laugher and pressed a chaste kiss behind her ear,
"Never mon ange."
She rolled her eyes before leaning into his chest, "I love you." She whispered, listening to his heart beat against her.
"I love you too." He whispered back and wrapped his arms around her.
"I hope that peace can once again be brought to light by you, our future. All of you will soon make choices that will define your pathways and who you will one day become, But I implore, Whether you are bidding these walls farewell or returning next year, to choose what is right, no what is easy."
They all looked out of the compartment window in silence as the magnificent castle grew smaller and smaller the further they went, emotions thick between them, a tear ran down Elizabeths cheek, this was farewell to her home, to her carefree years.
It was time for her to bid farewell, and move onto the next chapter, a small watery smile graced her face as she remembered a conversation from not long ago.
. "lets just not think of this as the beginning of the end…but erm…"
"The end of the start?" Peter added in with a mouth full of toast, Beverley wrinkled her nose at the lack of etiquette before nodding.
"yeah, the end of the start."
*wipes away tears* How emotional, this is the end of part one folks! It has been an adventure all right! I am so excited to bring you the upcoming chapters since they are so action packed! So as a thank you for all your support below is two sneak Peeks.
please meet with me this coming Tuesday at 11:40 on level 9.
She left him.
Obviously the next chapter is extremely action packed aha! Don't forget to follow, favorite and review! I cant wait to hear your feedback!
Lots of love,
Ruby xoxo