Sweet Dreams

padfoot_puppyeyes

Rating: PG
Genres: Romance, Humor
Relationships: Lily & James
Book: Lily & James, Books 1 - 5
Published: 09/01/2004
Last Updated: 25/04/2004
Status: completed

Lily Evans hates James Potter. So when he starts invading her dreams, she's determined to get to the bottom of it, but it wouldn't be how she had originally planned. I'm not really too sure how long this peticular l/j will end up going, or WHERE it will end up going. I just know it'll be fun getting there. Watch Lily try to figure the dividing line between love and hate. (it seems to be growing thinner these days, doesn't it?)

Chapters

1. Good Morning

2. Dream Two, the connection.

3. The Full Moon and the Stag

4. Author

5. Guilty

6. So ends the beginning

1. Good Morning

A.N.- Alaina Lou, this fanfic is dedicated to you, only because you gave the idea to me in the first place! (Yes, Moony really can have a good idea, catch that, ProngsGurl?) It was excellent! I don't know where it'll end up, but I know it'll be kind of short, and it'll be a lot of laughs getting there.

“I hate you, Evans.” James said, as his face came closer to mine. Our lips were almost touching, and if I wanted to pull away, it had to be now. And even as I told myself not to, I felt myself give in and meet him half-way into the kiss, mumbling in reply,

“I hate you too.” The common room was bleary, and the noises of the crackling fire where muffled. Each breath seemed to burn my lungs, and as I struggled to breath, my lips barely met James Potter's for an innocent kiss. It was a simple, sweet kiss, but my lips felt as if they were on fire. The room seemed to spin dangerously, and yet still we were still kissing. I felt myself relax in James's arms, and allowed sleep to take me. I was in his arms, and everything would be all right.

I sprung strait up, were someone was leaning over me, and our heads met painfully in the middle. In the blinding pain and splitting headache, I fell off the bad, got tangled into the hangings, and landed in a knot of sheets and curtains on the stone floor. The water jug, balanced on the table next to the bed, tipped on its side, pouring the entire pitcher of ice-cold water onto my pajamas. Even as I tried to stand to turn the loud and beeping magical alarm off, I tripped on the hangings once again and brought them down on my head, landing flat on my face on the freezing cold stone floor. The person that had been foolish enough to lean over me to wake me, Marie, was already standing to turn off the alarm and holding her head with her left hand. Her normally perfect hair blond hair was in tangles, and her bright blue eyes seemed to be tearing in pain. Our dorm mates were only just waking up at the noise we had caused, and a few were clutching their wands and looking wide-awake, probably expecting another Death Eater attack. But this was much worse, I told myself. Not only had James Potter been in my dreams. He's kissed me!

Thankfully, that's all they were. Nightmares, really which weren't a very good sign of things to come, considering that this was the first day of my seventh and final year at Hogwarts. And it was bothering me that any boy, let alone James, had been in my dreams. As I said before, it wasn't a very good omen.

But when I told Marie, she seemed to agree. Her face was screwed up in disgust as we pulled back our hair, gathered our books and bags, and walked down the dormitory stairs to the common room. Hoping to avoid the Marauders on our first day, particularly James Potter, I rushed through the common room and down to the Great Hall, Marie at my heels.

My first class, had been Arithmancy, and as the Professor droned on and on about the importance of this year, with the N.E.W.T.'s, I ignored her easily, trying to figure out the dream and it's meaning, so I could stop it from happening again. As I rushed to grab my books and quills, Potter and his friends walked strait at me. Afraid of James Potter somehow knowing of the dream from the look in my eyes, I kept my head down and made a run for Marie. Too late.

“Oi, Evans, wait up!” James called, even as class ended and I hurried to avoid any conversation with him.

“Go away, Potter, I haven't changed my mind at all over the summer, and I know when the next date to Hogsmade is. Bring one of your fan club along, and LEAVE ME ALONE!” I think I said those harsh words more to assure myself that I still hated him, to assure myself that those feeling I'd had in my dream were only there because it was only a dream. Potter gave me an unfathomable look.

“Professor Dumbledore wants to meet with us to begin our planning as Head Girl and Boy after dinner tonight, the password's licorice.” James muttered, after a while, as Sirius Black and his other friends, including the spineless Remus Lupin, watched in pure amazement and disgust. I nodded, not wanting to thank or apologize to Potter, but unable to find anything else to say, and made my way out the door, joining Marie at her side.

“Look, I hate Potter too, but that might've been just a bit harsh.” She said, as all of the Marauders fan club stared at us both in anger on the behalf of James. Sometimes I swear Marie's way too soft hearted.

“What was I supposed to think he would say to me? I mean, that's the first time we've talked that he hasn't asked me to become one of his- his…”

“Toys?” Marie asked, and I nodded. I was starting to feel guilty for my temper. Then the yearly back-to-school prank was played, and the Slytherin first years jumped as their once silver and green ties now became living, scarlet and gold garden snakes. Somehow, I didn't feel very guilty for my actions anymore.

A.N.- sorry, this prelude/chapter one had to be short, as I was writing and checking it, my mother was forcing me to be in bed by ten, as it's a Thursday, and I'm only thirteen. I know this was sort of rushing it, and could've used more time to develop, but I found the idea of her first day being a nightmare, and had make the Chapter quicker than most. I need three reviews before I can do any updating. I know it's a little mean, but they only take one word, maybe two seconds, and then you can pretend you never read my story. I really do appreciate all reviews, thank you.

2. Dream Two, the connection.

A.N.-I said I would update within three reviews, did I not? So here it is, chapter two, only this time I'm awake and have slightly more time to write it, seeing as (thank god,) it's Friday and still light out. Also, I would like to thank last night's reviewers. So before I can continue Lily's nightmare, (evil though I know it is I rather enjoy writing her night terrors! He he he continuous mad cackle.) I shall thank you four.

No name number 4- thanks for the review, I liked the idea behind it too, but I still will stubbornly give all credit to Alaina. (Referred to commonly on here as MoodyMoony,) I'm only building on her wild but funny ideas! *smile*

Ren- yeah, I kind of liked it, hopefully this chapter will still please you, though it will be hopefully be a bit longer. And yes, you were that praised third reviewer, so thank you for allowing me to continue this story, I really would have stopped, had you not written.

Thumbs_up_no_name- thanks for your review, short or not, I really appreciate your taking the time to read and review my story!

Sauron the Dark- I love the name!! Yours was counted to me as a review, and my first, believe it or not. Thank you so much for the rating, and the encouragement! And your correct, a review can be one word, but yours was so much more! 97 reviews, really! *A bigger smile! * And yes, you were correct, that'd be black mail, but it worked, didn't I? And here's the requested chapter two…

Oh, yah, I forgot yesterday, didn't I? Oh well…

Disclaimer-I own nothing, I'm a thirteen year old, and making no money off of this brilliant idea, so I beg the many J.K. oriented companies not to sue me! And all that are reading should know, I now pronounce that all italicized is Lily having another nightmare.

“Is something wrong, James?” I heard myself ask. He had been acting very distant since the beginning of the date, and I was starting to panic. He couldn't dump me here, not when I was about to leave the secure halls of Hogwarts and walk into the future.

“Lils, we've got to talk…” Bloody Potter. He was not going to dump me, even if I had to beg. I put on the brave front. I loved him, I really did, but I was not going to plead in front of him.

“About what?” I said coolly, as my mind raced.

“About were all of this is going. In a month, we leave Hogwarts, and at least half of our friends. We wont be in school anymore, it'll be the real world, and Voldemort's really gaining power fast. We've been dating for a year now, but-“

I didn't want to stick around and find out what he had to say. I stood rather abruptly from my bench and left the Three Broomsticks at a run, feeling sick. Unfortunately, James followed. He chased me through the Hogsmade streets and alleys, all the way to the carriages, and finally caught my forearm, then hugged me gently but firmly. I started crying. What was that promise I made to myself, something about not pleading? It was forgotten the moment I though of the future, of what would change and come in the next month, and I found myself begging him not to say anything about us splitting up or taking breaks. But he was the one on his knees in the dirt, a wane smile on his face.

“Well, that ruins it.” He said. I slowly stopped crying.

“Ruins what?” If he hadn't been breaking it off between us, then…

“Guess I'll say it anyways.” I saw him take a deep breath and look back up at me, hazel eyes anxious and bright. “Lily Evans, will you ma-“

“Prongs, did we miss it?” Sirius Black came out from under the invisibility cloak, out of breath from the run and followed shortly by Lupin and…Marie?

James turned back to me, ignoring his best friend. This alone stunned me; I'd always thought he put Sirius before any of his dates, which included me. “Lily Evans, will you marry me. I can't lose you after I lose Hogwarts, I want to stay with you after we lose our friends, our homes, and-“

“Lily, are you alright?” Marie? But she was right next to me... “What are you so happy about? C'mon, wake up, that smile's really freaking me out.” Something seemed wrong with my hearing, as though everything were slightly muffled. “Lily, you were supposed to wake us all up today, your lucky I woke up when I did, we're already really late.” Marie continued as I dragged myself from my comfortable warm bed.

“But the alarm-“ I began. Marie scowled and pointed to the nightstand across the room, were the alarm seemed to be ringing fully, though none of us could hear it. Wondering if this was the Marauders idea of revenge, after I had humiliated James yesterday in front of sixth year Slytheriens, I looked at the alarm. As if to prove my first thoughts right, the tag tucked neatly under the card said “courtesy of the Marauders”. Seeing the last word on the card, my face flushed as I remembered my dream. Seeming to read my very thoughts, Marie asked,

“What were you dreaming about anyway? It couldn't have been Potter, you were too happy, I actually heard you laughing in your sleep. So what was it about?” I shook my head, insisting I was too tired to deal with any questions right now, and that I had some business as Head Girl to attend to. Assuming that I meant dealing with the Marauders, Marie left it at that, and gathered her books, waiting for me to run the comb through my hair and run, still fuming, down to the Great Hall for breakfast.

I walked briskly into the Great Hall, and headed strait for the Marauder's end of the table, where the Marauders and their fan club had been sitting since first year. Knowing that I generally go out of my way to avoid this end of the table, a good portion of the Great Hall, mainly Slytherien or Gryffindor, turned to see what promised to be and interesting argument.

Knowing Potter as the ringleader of the little group, I naturally headed in his direction and accused him, (a little louder than necessary, I think, because I couldn't hear properly,) of magically ruining our hearing. So I found it a little more than odd when James cringed at my voice, and spoke in his own defense, but not in his friend's.

“Whatever it is, I didn't so it, and I told them not to!” he may as well have yelled it in my ear, as that's how loud it was. Covering my ears, I spun around to glare at the snickering Marauders and their annoying and twittering fan club.

“Why, did you take away the seventh year Gryffindor girl's dormitory's hearing?” By now Black was doubled over with laughter.

“We took theirs away so you could all sleep in a little bit! It was out of the goodness of our hearts!” Squeaked Peter Pettigrew, the only un-attractive Marauder, while still snickering at my livid face.

“You were a little grouchy yesterday, Lily.” Remus said, who wasn't sniggering in the least. Only the light of amusement found in his eyes showed his immense humor at my expression. And to think Dumbledore made him a prefect! “We thought you could all use the extra few minutes of sleep.”

“What about him?” I asked, jabbing my finger in Potter's direction. “Why can I hear him louder than normal?” Even as I said this, I knew that it wasn't their doing. James Potter was nodding, agreeing with me for perhaps the first time in his entire life, and the Marauders look of amusement was instantly replaced with a look of puzzlement.

“Didn't think of that one.” Sirius Black said, a look of deep thought crossing his face. “Should've, though. What about you, Prongs? You hear Evan's voice too?” James nodded, and the amusement on Black's face quickly returned. “Excellent!”

“Not.” I whimpered. Unfortunately, Potter said something similar at the same time, and his response, while murmured, gave me a headache for the rest of the day.

Both of us were determined to avoid speech, and it didn't prove easy. So it was no surprise to anyone when both of us had to whisper, and both Potter and I agreed to turn in early. My head hurt too much to concentrate anyway. But as luck would have it, I couldn't sleep. I felt as though someone where watching me in my dorm, and finally made to go back down to the Common Room, when I heard “Evans….EVANS!!!”

“What?” I asked groggily, afraid someone would know he was up here in the girls dorm… wait… Potter was in the girl's dorm. “What are you doing up here?” I said choked out. I hadn't properly slept since I had gotten back to school, with the nightmares and pranks, and now this.

“Drink it.” He said abruptly, shoving a small vial into my hands. Obeying, I drank, and my hearing seemed to come back to normal, though my throat and lungs now burnt. Potter went strait to the point. “I did some extra reading. I guess if the spell's put on one person, and they have a connection with another, this is the result.”

“Connection?” I asked, fighting back a large yawn.

James only blushed, muttered “tomorrow”, and disappeared. Too tired to notice his strange absence, or indeed, care, I fell into the first dreamless sleep all year.

A.N.- I bet yah all want to know how James will explain the connection, why Lily didn't have her nightmares, and when the romance part of this story will start. Seeing as the chapters are lightly shorter than expected, it might be about seven chapters. I'm sorry, I know my chapters are extremely short, but I promise it'll all end well.

Blackmail- I'm not updating until I get… 5 reviews this time. Five new ones, even if it's from the same reviewer as last time. You just have to review again! I promise that as long as I get my 5 new reviews I will update tomorrow, and the chapter will be quite a bit longer, seeing as it's Saturday and I'll have more time on my hands. I'll even start it tonight please, if you've read this story, review. It can be constructive or complimentary. Also, I know this was an very uneventful chapter, but it was the spur of the moment idea, I'll explain in the next chapter. Please, keep reading, I promise it'll get interesting, or at least I'll try. Thanks. -you only resident Marauder.

3. The Full Moon and the Stag

A.N.- hey everyone, I'm so sorry it took so long to update. I'll try to speed it up, but I'm back to school tomorrow, and with all of my homework it's difficult. I'll try though. Feed me the reviews, I'll give you the story. Anyways, I have some people to thank on this chapter.

Sauron the Dark- thank you for reviewing. I read your concerns, and don't worry, I thought of them too, before I wrote it, and was honestly hoping someone would catch that and ask me about it so I could tease them. (He he he!) But your question will be answered… in the last chapter. And Lily will be talking in her sleep, in the next chapter though, and Marie's going to hear her. (Read at the end for a little clip from the next chapter.) Thank you for reviewing and looking forward to my updating, hopefully you'll this chapter!

Fire Queen-thanks for reviewing for both chapters, I like to know people look forward to the next update! Hopefully I can change that 6 into an 8 by the end of the story, I'll try!

Please Update- that is your new name, for you don't like fanfic authors that rarely update. I completely have to agree with you, some stories are so good but are never even finished, the author has to keep writing constantly to keep the story read and alive. Thanks for reviewing; hopefully this one will meet your standards!

hermy- thanks for the rating and reviewing, I know it's somewhat rushed, but it's a project I can only do in my spare time, when I'm not writing my other story. (I'm trying to become a real published author, but it requires a lot more work than I'd originally anticipated.) Hopefully I can keep you rating!

Katie- thanks for the review, and I hope this story's funny, it's more comedy than romance! Hopefully I can raise that 9 to a 10 by the end of the story!

Ren- my first reviewer of the next chapter, thank you! (between you and me, I'd probably write even if it wasn't for the reviews, so don't worry!) Anyways, thank you, you really boosted my confidence. You seemed to read my mind, I was really afraid that the story was going a little corny! Thank you!

Please read the author's note at the end for a sample of the next chapter!

-padfoot_puppyeyes

I know, as Head Girl, I should be following the rules, after all, I'm an example to the younger students, and I'm sure many of them would have found it odd, seeing the example of the school walking on the edges of the Forbidden Forest to meet the other “example” of the school, (James,) in the early hours of the morning. But I had begun to fear sleep, because almost every time I did, I had nightmare of Potter and myself. Somewhere, I had begun to notice that I rather enjoyed these dreams. They weren't really, in my mind, nightmares any longer. Until I reminded myself that he was Potter, and felt a deep disgust for even wanting to fall asleep and into that again. So here I was meeting Potter in the middle of the night by the most dangerous place on Hogwarts grounds.

After about a half hour of waiting there, near Hagrid's cabin, there were whispering but angry voices, apparently in a disagreement about something or another. Knowing that this had to be James, (at which point I wondered silently to myself when had I begun to consider him James? we never used first names!) I debated on listening. I distinctly heard the words “Promised,” “secret” and, most frightening, “monster,” which sounded as though it were Black. Thinking that they were planning some horrid prank, I hid in the shadows, eavesdropping.

“I'm not telling her our secret, I'm only telling her what I read. It's her problem as much it was mine, and she's probably as tired as I was. She doesn't' need to know about moony, and I'll join the three of you in Hogsmade in a few hours. Can't you control him for a-“

Sirius interrupted James “Why'd you wait for a full moon? Can't you put it off another night?” He asked. James, when he answered, sounded exasperated, and I could assume that he had been asked this very same question by his friend since this idea had come up. Wondering if this was something serious, something I shouldn't be listening to, I almost went to greet James when I heard Black mutter. “Where'd Moony go?”

“Oh, Lily…” James gave a start when he saw me, then looked at Sirius, as if to say, `do you mind?' taking the hint Black shook his head in defeat, told James that they'd talk about this later, and walked at his ease into the forest, as if he did this every day. (Which he might, you never know with Black.)

“You said something last night, about the hearing problems. They're gone now, but…the dreams aren't.” Even though I knew he could relate to the dreams, having similar dreams, from what I'd heard them talking about before.

But potter seemed to be elated after hearing me say that, as he began walking along the very outskirts of them forest. I hesitated, not very comfortable with the Forbidden Forest, until I heard James call, “you coming aren't you Evans?” In a smart voice, as if gloating, and I immediately fell for it and followed.

As we walked, each of us fighting back many yawns, James explained. “I think I've been pretty nice this year, haven't I? To most people at least. And even more people seem to like me than last year. But you, Evans, you truly hate me. All year you've been blaming me for things I've had nothing to do with. You-“

“Get on with it, Potter.” I as ready to slap him, and only because I knew it was true, and I'd been on enough guilt trips over him this year without his help. He just smiled as though my frustration was amusing. This helped me get past the guilt, and must have helped Potter to continue his explanation.

“You feel guilty, Evans? I did, after we hung your underwear in the Great Hall.” I felt my face go bright red and the memory.

Thankful for the cover of the dark, I asked. “Can I get that in writing?” to which he only smiled and said.

“Anyways, that's when the dreams began.” I noted that he too thought of them more as dreams than nightmares, and, despite myself, felt my spirits lift slightly. Potter continued. “ They kept going, too, for weeks, and I actually started to….”Potter blushed. He actually blushed, but continued all the same. “I guess I started to enjoy them a little, but that's not the point. Anyways, remember at the end of the year when I apologized?” I nodded. “The guilt and hate and all of that went away.”

“So all I have t d is apologize?” I asked, amazed. James blushed, and I knew the answer wouldn't be good.

“If you want the dreams to stop.” he replied, but then trailed off. He signaled for silence, and when I went quiet, a look of panic crossed his face.

“Moony…?” He whimpered. I'd never seen Potter scared before, and it was starting to scare me. “Moony?” I heard a rustling in the trees of the Forbidden forest. James looked at me, stricken, and muttered “don't tell.” What I saw next scared me even more. Soon, a shining white stag was prancing around me nervously. Amazed, and forgetting my moment of panic, I reached out to pet its glossy white fur.

A searing pain spread across my back as sharp claws tackled me to the ground. I saw the narrowed pupils, much more like a cat's than any wolfs, and the glowing yellow eyes. Then everything went black…

“How do you think he'll take the news? We didn't want this to happen during the war, what if something happens to one of us?” I asked Marie, she just gave me a comforting smile, put a gentle hand n my shoulder, and said,

“I'm sure he'll take the news fine. Relax, Lil's. You and Potter-“

“James.” I corrected automatically, as though I myself hadn't called him by his surname only a year and a half ago. But now that we were married, and his surname was mine, I felt an insane need to correct my friend each time she called him potter. She never objected, only rolled her eyes, and this time was no different.

“Fine, James, and you will make wonderful parents.” She said consolingly.

“Talking about me?” James asked, giving me, his wife a light kiss, and going through the post our old barn owl had just brought in. after giving Marie an un-sure look, and seeing h encouraging smile, I said,

“James, honey, um… I went to the doctor today, a muggle one.” James rolled his eyes but nodded. The thing was, I'd been raised a muggle, and magical medicine scared me. “Well, he figured out really quickly why I'm throwing up every morning.”

“And?” James asked, holding me by the shoulders. Afraid, I looked into his eyes and said, hesitantly,

“He'll be born next July.” First, James looked confused. Then, after he had a moment to let it sink in, his expression was one of pure shock. Noticing his panic, I started to elaborate. “I mean, maybe the war will be over by then, and look at the bright side, Dumbledore might give us less dangerous assignments, and-“ I never really finished my comfort speech, because James kissed me in the middle of it. His smile was the widest I'd ever seen, his hazel eyes bright. As I took the moment to admire him, Sirius Black came bounding in the room, yelling, “Excellent, I'll be a godfather!”

A.N.- It took a while for everything to some into focus. And when it did, I didn't like what I saw. For starters, Marie was watching me with a strange expression on her face, and I could tell we were in the hospital wing. Then there was Potter, sleeping in the chair next to me, which jogged my memory, and not in a good way.

“Potter, you're in for it!”

-I know, that was a little sad, but I don't want to give too much away, and it's already ten. I have school tomorrow, and my mom's hounding me to get to bed, so I've got to go! Oh, and I need 7 reviews before I can update, that should give me enough time to write the story!

4. Author

Author's note- you guys, I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO sorry, I was grounded off the computer for the last few weeks, and were having…trouble at home, and right now my life is really screwed. But I am trying to bring my life back together, and in doing so I plan to throw myself into my writing. I am so sorry about the long break, but I promise to update as soon as I can. Thank you for any patience, Padfoot_puppyeyes

5. Guilty

A.N.- Again, I apologize for the delay. I've had a lot going on in the last few weeks, and I guess it all sort of caught up with me. This is one of those nights were I could stay up till around four, so hopefully this chapter will be posted soon. I appreciate any reviews, but understand if I don't receive any. I had to re-read the story to fully remind myself of the plot and my previous plot bunnies, (I hate that word, too much fluff, too much…) anyways, I still have a few people to thank for chapters three and four review-related.

First off-

Sauron the Dark- thank-you for your review! I was really afraid a mighty lord of the Dark such as yourself might not be so understanding, but that was some much-needed kindness right now, so thank you for your support, it's really appreciated, and I might have to take you up on that offer soon! Sorry, I don't mean to complain to you! Anyways, to the point…thanks for the support. I needed it.

Fire Queen- I'm guessing you like my story? (Smile) Thank you. I'll hurry!

hermionegranger-thanks, I'm glad you like it! Hope I can raise your rating by the end of the story!

LadyAkako- wow, I love the name, and I've read some of your previous works, I love your stories and plots! Can I safely guess you're a fan of manga too?

Jara Cassanelli- wow, I really like you name too, and I'm grateful for your review! Thank you thank you thank you thank you!

Again, thanks to all for any remaining support! To my reviewers (And Alaina!)

Chapter four; guilty

I knew from the moment I'd woken up that I wasn't in my dorm. And I hadn't been in a normal sleep, because I hadn't had any of the dreams, or a chance to apologize to James and get rid of the -ahem- nightmares. (Dreams,*cough cough)

But seeing Potter sitting in a chair next to my bed? Yeah that woke me up.

Only, not for the reason I thought it would. Because as much as I hated to admit it, it wasn't a bad way to wake up. He was actually quiet for the first time I'd seen him, and he didn't have that glint of mirth in his eyes. Because his eyes weren't open. Yup, you read right. James was sound asleep; slumped down in the stiff-looking wooden chair next to the hospital bed with white sheets I was laying in. he had the smallest smile playing on his lips. It was a little secret smile, making his sleeping face look amused and calm at the same time.

After taking this moment to admire him, I let the events of last night run through my mind, trying to piece it all together. I saw Black come out from a closed off area, with a curtain concealing whoever was in the bed. It took a moment to realize that whatever it was, Black and James (ahem) Potter knew about it, and it was probably the thing that had attacked so eagerly last night. How much did I want to bet it was a Slytherin? I knew it couldn't be any Gryffindor behind that curtain, because whoever or whatever was behind it was a monster that cared not for my life nor James', and I knew that while James had been protecting me from it, he could have whipped out his wand and killed it. What was to stop him from killing in self-defense?

Black came over to us and shook J- I mean, Potter awake. Neither seemed aware that I was conscious yet, and I watched subtly as James rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and listened to Black's annoyingly deep voice.

“He'll recover, Pomfery already gave him some chocolate, and put him back to sleep for a while. She just can't seem to figure out what could have been on the grounds last night with enough power to hold Moony off, and how he got out in the first place. Said something about tightening security.” He shot Potter, (yes, that's right, Potter,) a stern look, a glare that would have sent Professor McGonagall into a fit. It was amazing how serious this topic seemed, even to him. It was this look that really caught my attention. “Prongs, I know you care about Evans, and I know you didn't want her getting hurt, but you should put your friends before your enemies. She doesn't like you, and she's right about one thing. You do have a fan club. I mean I know more than half of the girls in the school who would be willing to take Evan's place. And none of those girls would be nosy enough to be figuring out our secret. Moony was really upset about it!”

“Lily's not nosy, she's smart, which explains why she can figure out things most of those girls could never pick up on. And I know she doesn't like me now, but it doesn't mean I can't keep trying.” James retorted, clearly annoyed for the interruption of his little nap. But yeah, after that little speech, I felt another guilt trip coming on. J-Potter continued by saying, “and I'm not giving our secret away to her, so you shouldn't be worrying. The Marauder's will always come first, but his bite…”

Bloody hell, why hadn't I felt this pain before? It was mind numbing, and at the same time piercing, a line of fire down my back. When he mentioned a bite, I realized what we were dealing with, somewhere in my mind, I flashed through images of the night before… the full moon, the howl… a werewolf. I had been bitten by a werewolf last night.

“Well, she wasn't bitten, and you can let go of her hand now. She isn't going to die.” Black said, snickering. Git. But he was right. I hadn't noticed this before either, but James was indeed holding my hand, gently, as though afraid the slightest pressure would break it. James just gave another one of his secret smiles, like the one he was wearing a moment ago, and gave my hand a light squeeze.

“Why hasn't Pomfrety mended the scratch?” James asked. A logical question, I realized, as it appeared there as sunlight coming through the curtains of the hospital wing, meaning it was day, around noon judging from the light. Pomfrey should have mended me by now. New panic over-took me as I realized that while I hadn't been bitten or killed, a scratch from a beast as horrible as a werewolf could be just as dangerous. I know from my reading that not very many who encountered werewolves lived through the memory. While I was worrying, I heard Black say,

“She's just making sure it was Moony and not whatever beast attacked him. Guess we'll have to lay low for a while, huh?”

James simply nodded, then un-tangled his fingers from mine and left me to my thoughts. We both knew I was awake, and wanted to be left alone. I watched his retreating back and felt that hollow feeling of guilt surge up. Maybe I should have apologized then… if it meant that the dreams would stop. But he had already left, and I'd just have to avoid sleep until the next time I saw him.

I was alone in the Hospital Wing, which was un-usual since Madam Pomfery usually never leaves her patience side. Then I heard the ragged breath from behind the drawn curtain, reminding me of the other person only a few steps away from me. The monster invading the grounds each full moon.

Whether it was a monster or not, I didn't want to wake it. I just wanted to know whether it was a Slytherin or Ravenclaw haunting the grounds so late at night, I didn't want a Slytherin with a grudge against me. So quietly I removed my covers and set my bare feet on the freezing floor, aware that I myself must look like a monster with my mushroom cloud or red-bed-head and smeared eye make-up. Had Potter really seen me like this? It was odd that I was thinking such random and ludicrous thoughts when I was about to accidentally stumble onto a secret I wouldn't want to be a part of, a secret that would make me look at all four Marauders with a new respect, (whether they respected me back or not.) so I silently pulled back the curtain.

There sat Remus Lupin.

A.N- yah, I know what you're all probably thinking. “That's not what she said would happen at the end of the last chapter!” (Dodges tomatoes) well, I'm sorry, but don't worry, I realized I enjoy writing this story much more than any previous ones, so I think I'll continue it a bit longer. And I'll explain many of your questions, (including the one about the girl's Dormitory) in future chapters. Also, I know you want these chapters to be longer, but please understand, my computer time is very limited, and I'm trying to up-date on a regular basis now that I'm back! I'll up-date soon, any reviews, even those involving corrective criticism and burns, (avoids rotten lettuce thrown by angry reviewer,) yes, well, thank you for your time.

Padfoot_puppyeyes(ouch)

6. So ends the beginning

AN- I know, I know, right now you all hate me. I kept starting different trials of this, but never ending up actually finishing one. This is the last chapter of Sweet Dreams, seeing as I am starting a new fanfic, “Marauder's secret”. Hopefully you'll agree with it, and right now I really don't need flames, but if you must, please feel free to, it would probably do my writing some good. I have no beta, and only continue this for the love of my reviewers, and because if I don't ProngsGurl would skin me alive the next time I got to school. By the by, I have a little lost-and-found poster I need someone to help me with;

Missing- my muse. Black hair, wicked black eyes, devilish smile and a habit of giving this author good ideas and plots but no ending. Answers to the name `Devil'. If found, please send via review or e-mail. Thank you.

Thank you to:

Shortcake- short and sweet, but to the point, wow you really live up to your name don't you? Thank you for taking the time to review! It really means a lot to me, especially those that doesn't flame me.

sweetkiwi- Hey! Sorry it took so long. I've been a bit busy, but it's nice to see you reading my other stuff, including Depression! I really really really appreciate that. Hopefully you'll continue reviewing what you've been reading, and soon I plan to e-mail you about my novel, (because I'm still working on it!) hopefully you can forgive my little break.

Anonymous- sqee? Cannot translate, but thank you for trying. I still appreciate all reviews.

ProngsGurl- did you ever consider my not wanting you to review because I talk to you every day at school? And you should know, 39 days till the midnight premiere of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Plus, YOU TOOK THE BLOODY NOTEBOOK! I demand you write at least four pages by Monday! I mean it!

Wanting an update- thank you for your review, it encouraged me to finish instead of dropping it. And yes, I know I hate cliffhangers too! Sorry for leaving you so long on that ledge.

Disclaimer- notices this site is portkey.org as in, `a non-profit organization'. `Nuff said, really…

They had tried explaining themselves over and over again to me so afraid I would tell them off they wouldn't let me speak. It was almost, to some degree, amusing, watching them defend themselves, when they really didn't need to. I found their loyalty to their bitten friend a Gryffindor trait, but I was enjoying this so much that I didn't bother stopping them to tell them this. They told me about how they had worked so hard to become animagus's, how if I told I'd be putting the only studious trips Black had ever made to the library to waste, even how Lupin hurt himself if he didn't have them to occupy him. (Which, I admit, made me think him no longer spineless.)

“And think of what you could wind up doing! In the long-run, all of us would be kicked out of school!”

“That would hang onto your conscience for the rest of your life!” Black was saying. Pettigrew refused to try and plead with me, insisting he was too tired, (I swear, I distinctly heard him say `mudblood!') but James, Black and Lupin were still awake and fighting. Bloody gits.

But stubborn, kind-hearted, handsome gits. “I'm not going to turn you in.” I assured them, unknowingly interrupting Black in another argument he was making in his werewolf friend's defense. His mouth was half open in protest, and he said

“Now I know what you're thinking, but Dumbledore knows about Remus, and he wouldn't hurt anyone cause he's supposed to be locked up and… wait, what was that you said?” I told you he was a git.

“I said I'm not going to turn you in.”

“Oh.” I'd never seen Black blush, but it was pretty amusing, knowing I was the one that had caused it. Potter sat silent, eyeing me as though not sure whether or not to trust me. I honestly couldn't blame him. I suppose, after all these years, I had been a bit difficult on him.

Black and James sat in silence, coldly calculating my every word, and weighing the trust in them. Remus Lupin, who had so far refrained from defending himself, still sat silently on the floor by the fire. “Lupin?” He didn't respond, and I felt a need to get him to talk, to understand that I would keep his secret. “Hey, er…Remus?” he looked up, seeming afraid of what I was going to say to him. When he finally met my eyes, I saw unshed tears and guilt hung heavy in them. They looked grey* and dull, lifeless almost, and were shadowed from the lack of seep the night before. His skin was pale and his hands, clasping each other, were shaking. He looked like hell.

“You shouldn't have been out there last night.”

“I know.” there was no way he was going to say something about being out there sneaking about once when I'd just found out that they were animagi. There was absolutely no way! But I felt a need to defend myself. “I know, but Potter had some ridiculous reason and told me three in the morning to meet him outside the following night about how to…” I drifted off, partly because I really didn't want Black and Remus to know about the dreams and partly because I had a feeling that wasn't what Lupin was referring to.

“You could've gotten seriously hurt. If you had, I probably wouldn't have forgiven myself.” He put his head in his hands. “ I know I ought to be able to control myself, but…” He drifted off. His eyes shone with tears, and then met mine again as though looking for reassurance. “ I suppose that's why I need Padfoot and Prongs. I don't know anything that happens when I transform, I even forget who they are. I just know that they're other animals with no fowl intentions. But you…I could've bitten you, I could've…”

“Moony, you're tired and blaming yourself for things you really can't control. It wasn't your fault and still isn't. If it's anyone, it's Prongs for luring Evans-

“Lily.” James said firmly. Black rolled his eyes, but complied, and I felt an inner glow, (I really hope James didn't notice, but I think from the look he had that he did.)

“Fine then. Lily. It's Prong's fault for luring Lily here outside in the dead of the night in a full moon. By the way, Prongs, what's that about? You never told me what was in those dreams you had of Evans.” James blushed, and I could only assume Sirius thought they were nightmares as much as Marie did. He looked to me, winked so subtly I thought I'd imagined it, then said

“Well… lets just say they were dreams caused by years of hate.” And they were, because that's what had caused them. But the way he made it sound, they were nightmares. Black seemed to take it this way too and nodded in understanding.

“I'm off to bed. I've had enough all-nighters, and I swear I'll never sleep again.” This was addressed to James. Then he looked at me and said, “Evans, don't go out under a full moon again, I'd hate to have to keep you company all night as a wolf, you're bad enough as a human.” He smirked, but I could tell from the way he looked at me that something had changed. I had just earned his respect.

I turned to Potter, expecting him to head up too after all those nights of no sleep. He just looked back at me solemnly, his hazel eyes serious and smiling as much as could be expected. The laughter in them outdid the dark purple shadows surrounding them. “ So Lily, have anything to say to me?”

He meant the apology. But as stupid as it seemed, with all I had been through to get rid of the dreams, I wasn't sure I wanted to now. What if that meant they would never happen, not only with Potter but also with anyone else. I'd been so happy in them, even the first. Was I actually missing out on something by turning Potter down? “So all I have to do is apologize and stop hating you?”

Potter smirked in reply. “Don't make it sound so easy. I really wouldn't worry Lily, I'm sure you'll hate me for the rest of our lives, but if you just say sorry and forget it out now, you'll get rid of the nightmares.” Somehow I had the feeling he knew what I was thinking. I didn't want the `nightmares' to go anymore.

“And that's all you wanted to tell me last night?”

“That and ask you out again.”

“Ever plan on giving it up?” Yeah, I was starting to reconsider his offer. But hey, I'm a normal seventeen-year-old witch, (though I guess that's not saying very much for me and my normalcy) and I can't think of very many of them who would have rejected as long as I have to James Harrison Potter. (Don't ask how I know his middle name. I heard it once and never really forgot it. I'd always liked the name.) Anyway, he continued,

“You can hate me as much as you want. Those dreams only enforced it. I'm not giving up on you yet, and if I have to you'll hear from me after school.” I smiled, still facing the fire.

“How did you get to the girl's dorm in the first place, those stairs are rigged, and you of all people should know it. I could bet you've set it off once or twice.” While I was really curious, I was also hoping that the change of topic would make him forget about the apology.

“I beat the stairs.” He said simply, smiling. It was a true smile, not a smirk, and it made me want to keep going.

“What?”

“Yeah. It took loads of hours, but you remember all those times Sirius and I got caught doing pranks and banned from Hogsmade?” I nodded, very aware I was responsible for more than half of those times. James grin only widened as he continued. “Well, we spent hours alone in the common room, timing it just right so we could get up those blasted stairs. If you get a running start and jump the first three, you're set. They take one and a half seconds to become a ramp, and during that time you've got to grab the ramp ledge and pull yourself up. Or you could sort of wedge yourself up using the walls, as long as you get that running start, because the stairs can sense that you're a boy and become a ramp anyways.” Leave it to a couple of Marauders to figure something like this out. They were gits, but they were bloody brilliant ones. That took some pretty accurate calculations. And I couldn't help it. I laughed.

“Lily, I'm really sorry about last night, I figured you would want to know before the dreams got any worse, but I didn't take into consideration that Moony would be out, or I really wouldn't have done it.” And before, I would've doubted him. But the hazel eyes shone with sincerity, and I believed him. He really wouldn't have put me in danger.

He sat tense and unsure, awaiting my answer, and it occurred that he must think I would snap at him. It's what I would've done not too long ago. “Relax, James. I know.” He blinked in surprise, and I suddenly felt my face flush as I realized my mistake.

“You called me James.”

“You called me Lily.” I challenged. It was a weak one, but I met his eyes anyways. I was very suddenly aware that this scene looked quite a bit like the one from my original dream, the first one. I was made even more aware when James leaned in.

“All you have to sat is sorry and the dream will go away.”

“What if I don't want them to?” It felt like I couldn't breathe, like I needed to whisper to keep the moment.

“Then don't.” He replied simply. “You always challenge me.”

“I know.”

“I hate you Evans.” He said, but the words were a tease from our past that now held a different meaning. Was I dreaming again?

“ I hate you too.” His lips touched mine, and everything felt all right again.

But this time I didn't wake up.

* the way to spell grey in England, and Lily's English. No grammatical error.

AN- well, what do you think? I know I can no longer you extortion or blackmail, but I really appreciate parting reviews, and hopefully will see you or your reviews in the future regarding my other stories. Thank you for taking the time and effort to read and/or review. I don't have anything else to say to waste space really, except to also thank you for any patience you have with me regarding this particular fic. Maybe when I'm older I'll write a longer, more detailed one, but right now I don't have a large enough vocabulary or enough time.

And so ends the beginning.