It's Just a Cat Or is it?

by MaisyK

Bless J K Rowling for her creation of Harry Potter. Every time I watch a movie or re-read the books, I find a new thread to pull on. Little is discussed of Lily's friends. At her wedding, she must have had a maid of honor. A best friend. A friend that would be as loyal as Sirius, and who would possibly be an unusual ally later in HIS life. Possibly another secret animagus? It's jus

1. Chapter 1

IT'S JUST A CAT. OR IS IT?

Chapter 1

A nervous and shaking Rose sat on the stool where the Hogwarts sorting hat was placed on her head. She was small for her age, so the hat sank so low, she couldn't see anyone or anything. Her shoulders relaxed when she discovered the inside of the hat smelled like a flowering magnolia tree. It smelled like home.

"So," began the hat, "You are very loyal, aren't you? And kind. Your mother was a Ravenclaw and a very talented witch. But you… Hmm... You'll do best in…Gryffindor!"

Applause and cheers went up from the table decorated in scarlet and gold. A kindly old teacher, who said her name was Professor McGonagall, patted her on her back and encouraged her to move towards the table, and then focused on the next child in line.

Rose approached the table where a very pretty girl with auburn hair and green eyes gave a sharp look at the boy next to her, who reluctantly slid over to make room.

Rose sank down on the bench and smiled at the girl, who held out her hand.

"Hi," she said. "I'm Lily. Lily Evans."

Rose took the warm hand and shook it. "I'm Rose Hanks. Nice to meet ya'.

"Oh!" exclaimed Lily. "You're American!"

"Yes," Rose responded. "But my mother is from England and attended Hogwarts. She married a muggle American and moved there a long time ago. I was born there, but she wanted me to attend school here."

Rose flushed with embarrassment and wondered if Lily thought she was babbling. Lily nodded her head before she responded, also a little embarrassed.

"My parents are both muggles."

"Oh, so how did you know you were a witch?" Rose asked, curious. "I bet you were scared! I know I was, but I had my mom to guide me through what was happening."

Lily nodded. This girl understood so well. They continued chatting and getting to know one another. Before Rose knew it, the feast was over, and they were herded up the stairwell to the Gryffindor common room. Lily and Rose were thrilled to be in the same room and they chose beds next to one another. Rose, tired and full of yummy food, was happy to have found such a good friend so soon after arriving to this strange country and this strange school. She snuggled down in the comfortable bed and was soon asleep.