A Budding Romance

NatiFcs28

Rating: NC17
Genres: Romance, Humor
Relationships: Lily & James
Book: Lily & James, Books 1 - 6
Published: 08/09/2005
Last Updated: 04/12/2005
Status: in_progress

The classic story of how Lily and James used to argue and hate each other and came to love each other. Smut, fluffy enough for three years of boredom, AU. Extremely edited from original version.

Chapters

1. One: The Introductions of...

2. Two: The Benefits of Being...

3. Three: The Reaction To...

4. Four: The Officiation Of...

5. Five: Let The Games Begin

6. Shameful

7. My Bet Is...

8. The Waltz

9. Monopoly and Strip Poker

1. One: The Introductions of...

This was my very first ever, posted online fanfiction, with some edits, because my writing has come a long way since then... It's the first part of A Budding Rose. I'll do a quick disclaimer and summary.

Disclaimer: Yada, yada, yada. I own nothing except that which JKR would not recognize as her own.

Summary: No idea, `cause I don't remember what happened. LOL. Um, basically, the plot doesn't begin until the sequel, but you need the back story, a bit. The classic story of how Lily and James used to argue and hate each other and came to love each other. Smut, fluffy enough for three years of boredom, AU (I think… Don't remember, as I said…), Lily/James. A lot of made up characters here.

How does this work? Well, as I used to do my stories by way of point of views (POVs), I'd hate to change it so much that I drop that. So, it will always say “So and So's POV”. And, as such, there are thoughts. Originally, they were just normal dialogue that you had to sort of figure out they were personal thoughts. But as everything that is not in quotations is a thought… Yeah. It's not that hard.

And now, ladies and gentlemen… A Budding Romance.

Chapter One: The Introductions Of The Great And Powerful Lily Evans and James Potter

By Natali

-Lily's POV-

“Where is it?” I hissed, throwing things around my dormitory. “Where is that bloody assignment?”

Ariana Brasseur grimaced, ducking a hair brush I'd thrown her way. “Lils, promise you won't freak?”

I whirled around and stared her down. “Not particularly.”

“Potter was up here.”

“But boys can't get up the sodding stairs, Ari!” I shrieked, a sinking feeling growing in my gut. Not a good thing happening here…

She smiled mysteriously, and I glared at her. I knew what was coming.

“Potter's not just any old boy though, is he?”

Told you.

Hello, I'm a paperless Lily Evans. I'm seventeen and I go to Hogwarts. I'm not the Head Girl, and I'm not a prefect. I'm just a regular, normal teenage girl who's just trying to get by in life, which is pretty good.

Yeah, right. And I'm the bloody Queen of Nincompoops. Sans the paperless Lily Evans part. That, I really am. Especially the paperless part. I'm a tad bit stressed at this moment.

What's my main problem? Two words: James Potter. And what has that stupid son of a bitch done now?

I'll only give myself high blood pressure if I get into it. I'd rather save that for when I unman him.

Now, just exactly how many times can someone bother you to no end? Ask Potter…

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-James's POV-

“Good one, Prongs,” my best mate Sirius told me. “What do you think she'll do once she finds out what you did?”

“POTTER!” came a girl's angry voice from somewhere in Gryffindor Tower. Ah, the voice of an angel. A very angry, very bad-tempered angel. A very hot angel. I love it when she gets into that whole “fiery redhead” character. Bloody well the sexiest thing known to English men.

“That,” I replied with a grin, high-fiving him. “This is going to be so wicked!”

Just then, a very angry redhead came thundering down the stairs that led to the dormitories. And she was heading straight for me. I don't think she was planning on stopping... If only she'd just bump into me in just the right way.

“Hey, Evans,” I said, trying to control my laughter. “You called?”

“You are such a jackass,” she screamed at me, finally arriving in front of me. “Do you know what you just did?”

“Well, let's see here,” I mused, tapping my chin mockingly. “I just finished my Defense Against The Dark Arts homework. Is that what you mean, muffin?"

If looks could kill, I would have been dead three times over. The girl was looking homicidal. Maybe it was just the fact that her face was about as red as her hair… I perked up a bit. I've never seen her this mad. This would make sure for an extra yummy argument, no doubt.

“You prick!” she screamed. “Where the fuck did you put my goddamned paper! Did you honestly think that I wouldn't notice the difference—especially when the replacement you put was titled Goblins In My Gizzard.”

“I've no clue what you mean. And you don't need to scream. I'm right in front of you,” I said calmly, catching Sirius laughing silently out of the corner of my eye. Ah, the things I do for my friends' amusement.

“I spent hours on that bloody paper! And it's due in two hours!” she snapped at me, her face getting redder and redder all the while. “I want it back!”

“And I want my own personal prostitute, but I'm not getting that, am I? Anyway, I'm sorry, poppet, but I haven't a clue what you're talking about,” I grinned. “But I'm sure Professor Martin will be most forgiving.” I smiled falsely.
Out of nowhere, she picked up her wand and burned the paper that I had just finished writing. All that was left were ashes. After you spend two days writing a major exam paper, you wouldn't be too ready to let it go anytime soon. Or ever, rather. I would give my left hand to protect that paper.

I gawked at the remains, anger (and this empty, somewhat girly feeling of depression) welling up inside of me. “That was a meter long paper, Evans,” I said with deathly calm. “Tell me it's safely hidden in your room and that you didn't just do what I think you did.”

There was a pause while our gazes locked and she slowly raised a perfectly shaped eyebrow. “Or what?”

I took a step closer—I couldn't even feel my hands and feet I was so mad. She was my only target, all I was concentrated on. “You're the biggest bitch I have ever met, Evans. What exactly is it that you have up your arse? The Devil's pitchfork?”

—Now, before you go around saying that James Potter is a heartless git that offends poor, helpless females, I'd like to defend myself. Evans is just as mean to me, and a guy can only take so much. So, I hope you understand that I'm not really cruel, only very pissed off at a certain stupid, pain in the ass, beautiful, disgustingly shaggable redhead…—

“You, Potter.”

I couldn't resist it. I smiled charmingly, pushing away the anger. “I would adore being up your arse, Evans. I wasn't aware I had the option.”

“Fuck off, Potter,” she snarled.

“I'd rather have you fuck me.” I'd decided to leave it at that—I did, after all, have to go make up some shit paper for Dark Arts—except that the lovely Miss Evans felt it appropriate to slap me.

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-Lily's POV-

I wasn't planning on slapping him. It just sort of happened. Honest. Sure, I've thought about it several—countless—times. But I've never really gone through with it. But I really did not get a good night's sleep, and then it was sort of early… Could you blame me? Really? And it just felt so good.

But I will apologize. We've never actually gotten physical. Oh, yeah, we must've done a trillion and two things to each other's possessions and clothing and features, but we'd never gotten physical. So, even I can admit when I'm wrong.

“What the fuck was that for?” he asked me in a dangerously low voice.

“For being such a stupid git,” I snapped. I had been about to apologize, but never mind that if he's going to be so snappy about it. I don't waste my time or my breath. “Think about that next time you play a prank on me, eh?”

“I swear, if you weren't a bloody girl…” He took a breath and said, “Just get out of my sight.”

“I will when you get a life and leave me alone,” I replied just as menacingly.

“Lils,” a voice said from behind me. “Just back off.”

It was Ariana—my best mate, the peacemaker of our little group. Ari doesn't hate anyone, and she just can't understand how liberating it is to release some of those pent up emotions. My hatred for Potter, for instance… She could never get it.

And now Potter and I were having a staring contest. Neither of us blinked, spoke, or I don't think even breathed. How much more juvenile could we get?

“You're the most pathetic, sorriest thing that I've ever had the misfortune to meet, Lily,” he said.

I blinked twice, backing away from him slowly. “Just stay away from me. That's all I want from a no good like you. Pretend I don't even exist.”

What he'd said… It'd hurt. I don't know why. But it'd just cut so deep into me. But I'm not the sorriest thing. Right? After fighting for so long with someone whom you've known for so long, and know as only an enemy knows another enemy, it takes the smallest of caustic remarks to cut you deep. Yet here I am, hurt. And it did. Hurt, I mean. No one has ever called me pathetic. Bloody fuck, people lust after me, envy me, want to be me! But I feel just like what he called me-a pathetic, sorry thing, one that he's had the misfortune to meet. To top that off, I came back with the weakest comeback ever known to man (that part grates quite a bit).

Turning on my heels, I started for the stairs. I didn't feel like putting up a fight with that git today. It was Friday, the best day of the bloody week. And nobody was going to ruin it for me—anymore than he had already anyway. Who knows? Maybe Professor Martin will be forgiving about it... The little perv likes to look at me enough. Maybe if I open my top a bit...?

I shook my head. What had happened?

When I reached my room, I flung myself onto my bed and sighed very deeply. Besides the fact that I would now have to turn in a blank paper and get no credit-that is, unless Martin's pervy side comes out, of course-, my head was killing me. Fighting with a long time foe took energy.

“Lils?” Ari asked. “What's wrong?”

“Nothing,” I said. “He just really upset me. And now I don't have a paper to turn in. That's a detention for sure. Or having to endure Martin ogling me. I haven't decided which one I prefer yet.”

“Well, look on the bright side. Potter doesn't have a paper either,” she smiled, sitting down next to me as I laughed. “Come on, get a move on,” she said. “We've got a class.”

I sighed and rolled off my bed. “Fine. But I'm not happy about it. I wonder if I could feign the flu?”

“Don't try it,” Ari said simply, holding the door open while I rushed out, throwing on my bag. “Because whenever you're not there, Martin stares at my chest. Not my thing, Lils. You're used to it.”

I threw her a look, and made my way down the stairs behind her.

We were making our way to our first class of the afternoon—Transfiguration—when Ari said what is perhaps the most idiotic thing that has ever escaped her lips (and there have been a lot of those-trust me).

“Wouldn't it be hilarious if you two hooked up?”

“If who hooked up?” Chloe asked, joining us in the walk to class. Chloe is what you'd call… Nosey. All five feet and three inches of her. Mind you, she's got more than enough personality and charisma to make up for whatever height she's missing. “Lily and who?”

“Potter,” Ari snickered evilly, dodging a blow from me.

“Do you know what would be funnier, Ari?” I asked her. “You falling into a ditch and dying accidentally.” I lifted one of my eyebrows for effect, and I think it was quiet effective.

“Thing is, I'm not really sure if you were kidding about that…” Ari muttered. “Oh, no.”

Thing is, I'm not really either. Ha, ha.

“You're so dramatic, Lils,” Chloe rolled her eyes. “Potter's really not that bad...”

“Er, hello, he is a back-stabbing, cocky, piece of shit, I'm-the-frosting-on-the-cake, cherry-on-your-sundae, God's-greatest-gift-to-man, arrogant asshole who never knows when to stop it and just shut up.”

“Yeah, well,” Marioly paused. “Doesn't matter, does it? He's still really gorgeous.”

“Hello all!” came a voice from behind them. It was Remus, coming up to Ari and giving her a kiss. “So Lily, I heard you and James got into this major fight today, eh? What'd he do this time? Everyone is saying you were in a pissy mood to top them all! I couldn't wait to hear the details.”

“Ugh, please don't even remind me of that. Because of the prat that he is, I don't have the DADA homework.” I began to pout again.

“Oh well,” Remus shrugged. “Then just say that you're sick or something. Turn it in next time. You know Martin will be glad to glance down your shirt and give you a free grade if you'd just let him.” He gave Ari one last kiss and gave one last snicker before departing.

I rolled my eyes. “I don't care what you say. There's no way on heaven, earth, or hell that I'd ever even think about dating that mother fucker.”

“Lils,” Ari sighed. “You need to be more open minded. Besides,” she looked at me slyly, “I just know you haven't gotten laid in a long while.”

“You're such a dork. I don't have sex with every guy I'm with,” I smiled, walking into the Transfiguration classroom, preparing myself mentally for what was about to come—I sit next to guess who. I swear that McGonagall did it on purpose, just to get back at me for that time I called her an ugly old troll and she caught me.

I swear it.

“So that's why you're always so bitchy!” Chloe exclaimed.

I made sure that my book made nice, hard contact with that empty head of hers.

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-James's POV-

“Listen, Prongs,” Remus whispered to me. “Just don't make a big scene, alright. We really don't need you to get expelled for Saturday's game. I personally will kill you if you do.”

“She started it,” I snarled, winking at a group of girls. They in turn began to giggle. I love the way that I have girls at my fingertips… In more ways than one, if you get my meaning.

“No, not really,” Sirius shook his head. “But that was wickedly awesome though, the way that she slapped you.” He broke into a fit of laughter.

“Right,” I replied dryly. “Just downright wicked.”

“Just don't do anything...rash, ok? You sit next to her in this class. Try not to kill yourselves,” Remus told me.

“I can't make any promises,” I grumbled.

“Hey, where's Peter?” Remus asked.

“Who cares?” Sirius asked. He never really liked Peter. “The ninny can stay away from us for awhile for all I care.”

I snickered as we entered the classroom. Peter was sort of a girl. But we put up with him anyway. Lately though, he's been disappearing a lot. Wonder what for…

McGonagall had the stupid windows open and it was the middle of bloody January. Stupid git of a teacher… Is she daft? Good chance of that though.

Ah, and there was Evans, laughing and talking in the center of a circle. She always had to be the center of attention. It was unnerving. Really, what's special about her anyway?

She's pretty, smart, and has got the best arse in the whole Seventh Year.

Hormones are a bitch. I can't even properly hate my sworn enemy. Oh well, whatever. Blame it on my male parts, and then move on!

I took my seat next to her, ignoring her existence and turning to this girl that sits in front of me. “Hi, Nina.”

Nina was a tall blonde-haired girl with nice long legs that liked to part for anything with two balls and a penis-sometimes even less than that. In other words, she was about as easy as it got. “Hi, James,” she smiled.

“What are you doing tomorrow?” I asked. I need a date to go to this club—if I decide to go. And anyway, I could always use a snog session if the club idea didn't go through.

“Not much,” she giggled, twirling her hair. “Why do you ask?”

“How about going out with me?”

“I'd love to,” she gushed just as the bell rang for class to start. “Later, sexy,” she winked, turning around.

I heard Evans snort beside me. What the fuck is her problem?

“Don't do that,” I warned. “You might turn into a pig someday.”

*~*

A/N: Alright, that's the first chapter. I intend to, as I do my other current fanfictions, to update every Saturday. I'm not sure if I'll be able to post this Saturday. It's still up in the air (I might not be here… Yeah.)

Please read, and review. Spank you!

Love,

Natali

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2. Two: The Benefits of Being...

Chapter Two: The Benefits of Being Deliciously Loathed

By Natali

-Lily's POV-

“Piss off, Potter. You wish you had this pig,” I whispered as our teacher entered the room. “And don't look at me.”

“Don't look at me then.”

“Mr. Potter, Miss Evans? Are you done working out your social lives? Or should I give you a minute?” McGonagall asked from the front of the classroom. A bunch of snickers ran throughout the room.

“We're finished, Professor,” I replied, my face growing red, wishing her a slow and painful death.

“Thank you. Like I was saying, today we'll be studying...” I stopped listening to her. James had just written a note to me.

Happy? You got us into trouble!

“You prick,” I snapped, “I didn't do a thing. You're the one who spoke to me.” I crumpled the note, wishing it was his head—or something else that's somewhat round and would hurt a lot, for the sole reason of causing him intense pain.

“You're the one who overreacted about the paper for Defense Against the Dark Arts,” he whispered back. “I had your paper in my room.”

“Then where the bloody hell is it then?” I asked, daring to dream that I could still turn it in.

“Oh, I got rid of it after you did mine in,” he grinned. “So there.”

“You idiotic, self-absorbed, conceited, arrogant, mother-fucking son of a bitch,” I whispered. “I cannot believe you did that!”

Chloe turned around in her seat and looked at us. “Shut up or you're going to get into trouble.”

“I hate you, Potter,” I snarled.

“Lucky for you, the feeling's mutual,” he said back.

“Potter! Evans! Detention tonight! Report to my class at eight this evening,” McGonagall called from the front.

I glared at him, wishing I could just murder him and get it over with. I hate him so much.

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-James' POV-

“I've got to go,” I told Sheryl. She was the lucky girl whose throat I got to stick my tongue down today.

“Why?” she frowned, her hand going to my crotch. “I thought the fun was just getting started.”

I will seriously hurt Evans. “Some bitch landed me with detention,” I sighed.

“Don't go,” she whimpered. “I wanted you to come up to my room with me.”

Talk about tempting.

“Sorry, I don't want to get double detention.” …Or would it be worth it?

Lately, I've been thinking about how completely entertaining it'll be whenever I finally settle down. Wonder if that will ever happen?

But I did eventually disentangle myself from her, with a promise to continue what we'd started later to boot.

I made my way through the castle, bumping into Evans in the corridor before the Transfiguration classroom. This could only get better… Well, why count your chickens before they hatch? Maybe we'll actually end up getting along quite well together and becoming life long best friends and give a toast at each other's weddings…

“I cannot believe you landed us detention,” she told me, starting the ensuing argument.

So much for that plan. Scratch that life long friends thing. Anyway, fighting is much more fun.

“You're the one that was talking out loud. Should've written on the damn paper,” I retorted.

“Shouldn't have written me a note in the first place, eh?” she said. “I told you to leave me alone.”

“Don't talk to me,” I snapped. “Let's just get this detention over with. You know, the one that you landed us.”

“I hate you, do you know that?” she snapped at me, stopping. “Can't you ever take the blame for something that is all your fault? Or are you always innocent? Innocent Potter, oh, let's give him a fucking bottle so that Mummy and Daddy can pay his way through school!”

“Leave my parents out of this, Evans,” I bit out. “And as for taking the blame for something, this is not my fault. If anything, we're both at fault. But I guess you're a hypocrite when you say that I can't stand to take the blame for something.”

She narrowed her eyes. “What the hell is that supposed to mean?”

“You can never take the blame either.”

“Because it's not my bloody fault! All you ever think about is you. You don't care that you play girls and use them and hurt them. You don't care that you hurt people over and over again. Because to you, life is only a game where you can step all over people just because you think they're not as good as you.”

Had it been any other time, I would have laughed at the simply hilarious shade of red Lily's face was. Of course, this was hardly the time or place… And it irked me that she thought I didn't care about other people's feelings.

“Why do you hate me? I haven't done anything to you. Before you could actually have a conversation with me and now you can't stand the sight of me. Why?” I asked.

—Not that I care; I couldn't give a shit if she liked or hated me. Only… Well, Evans is Evans, isn't she? She's a pretty, fiery redhead that will bite your head off as soon as she gets the chance. I set out trying to be nice, I do. I think she does too. But we just bump heads and it's fireworks. No way to explain it, it's just something you have to accept…

“Because for everything that you've done, everything you've said, I still cannot for the life of me figure out what still makes you so attractive, Potter,” she said through gritted teeth. “Even though we can't spend more than two minutes without arguing or making some body part another color or smaller or bigger, there is just something about you that keeps me coming back. And I hate it. Therefore, I must hate you.” She looked up at me. “And also, you have… You have what I want so badly. And I just hate you.”

“That's fucked up reasoning,” I said as she turned and headed for McGonagall's office. We must be at least ten minutes late. She'll be furious, I'm sure. “I don't know why you judged me.”

“Because you did it first,” she replied, not turning around.

I frowned, trying to remember when I did. Honestly, the girl knows how to hold grudges, doesn't she? And why the bloody hell does she remember when I “judged” her, but I have absolutely no recollection of such an event. In fact, I don't actually remember noticing Evans until somewhere in Third Year. Shrugging, I gave up and headed into the Transfiguration classroom.

“You're late,” McGonagall said.

“I swear you're a big bitch,” I muttered, sitting down and mentally giving my professor the finger for putting me here with Evans.

“What was that, Mr. Potter?”

“I've got a big itch.”

“Humph, I highly doubt it, Potter. If I knew you didn't mean it, I'd triply your detention.”

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-Lily's POV-

I gathered up my things as I finished writing my lines, hurrying to get out of there before Potter could follow. I managed to do so, but he caught up with me. Damn him.

“Lily, wait.”

“It's Evans. Only my friends call me Lily,” I said indifferently. I was dead tired. Not to mention I canceled this date I had with this very cute Hufflepuff guy with a supposedly big wand… and I'm not talking of the wooden sort.

“Just give me a chance,” he begged. “I'm a good guy. I've been thinking about this for the past few hours. And I truly have thought about it, and I don't remember ever judging you.”

“And why should I give you a chance?” I asked, wishing that we would just come up to our dorms. I really wanted to get rid of him. How could he not get that I didn't want to hear it? How thick-skulled could you be for that hint to just bounce off?

“Because I'm willing to give you one,” he replied, stopping me dead in my tracks. He did not just say what I think he said…

“Excuse me?” I asked. “You're willing to give me a chance? I haven't done anything.”

He looked at me. “Really?”

You know how you feel sometimes when you want to say no but you know you have to say yes? Feeling that way right now… Alright, but I'd just like to make one clear thing clear: He started it!

“Ok, I have, but only because you've done something to me first,” I admitted, which was true. Sort of.

“Sure about that?” he asked. “What about last week when you set my hair on fire for no reason?”

Oh that! That had been just a hilarious event that will forever bring tears to my eyes, I'll be laughing so hard. His beloved hair, all aflame and crap...! It's just too good! I must say, I was quite upset because he looked exceptionally delicious that day—he hadn't shaved in about three days and had that sexy rugged look…

“Oh,” I said offhandedly. “Well...” Truth was I really couldn't think of an excuse—besides the obvious one: my own amusement. “Fire is such a nice addition to your gorgeous hair, though.”

“Yeah, that's what I thought,” he smirked. “So then? Will you at least try to be civil with me?”

I hate it when I'm wrong.

“Whatever,” I sighed, looking him in the eyes. “You seem to think that I actually care about what you think.” But I can't avoid fate. I can't avoid the way he's been looking at me lately. Not so much that he likes me, but that he really wants to get to know me. That he doesn't really mean the things he does—at least not entirely. I suppose I feel the same. It's more of a game—who can get to the other first? How far do you have to go to be hexed so bad you're sent to the hospital wing (it's happened a handful of times)?

And his eyes. That's the worse. One moment they're angry and glaring, the next warm and kind. Comforting, strong, caring… loving. And I hate that I see that when I look into his eyes. I hate that I could get to know him, and that I know that. I hate that we could be one of the best things to happen to the world.

But I love that there's someone who can possibly understand me.

His gaze turned hard. “You care, Evans. More than you'd like to, but you do. I know because I feel the same way. I'm trying to fix what we've had between us for so long. I'm not asking for best mates or anything—Lord knows I'm not looking for that. I'm just tired of fighting with you. A little. I'm still looking forward to the occasional argument. I think it's just part of life now.”

My shoulders slumped in defeat. “I'm not promising anything. If you piss me off, things will go back to what they were.”

“Lucky for you, I'm not asking for the world.”

Silence. An awkward one. When was the last time I had an awkward silence with a guy? I must've been fourteen or so, out on my first date! I hate James Potter, and these emotions he brings out in me!

“I-I've got to go,” I stuttered. “Bye.” I turned and practically ran up to my dorm room. I'm not sure that I'm ready for this. I'm not sure I'm ready to be “civil” with him. I don't think I want this to happen…

I used to like him. But I think that's not too hard to believe. He judged me the moment he first set eyes on me during the second week in First Year. His eyes read: stupid, useless Mudblood. He never said it, and he would never, ever call me a Mudblood—to my face or otherwise—but I could see it. I could see that Miss Lily Evans wasn't pretty enough, slutty enough, or witch enough for the likes of one of the wizarding world's oldest families.

Panting, I got into the bathroom I shared with my roomies and splashed cold water on my face. It just couldn't be. All this time, certain circumstances have kept us apart. But a couple things are inevitable. For me, it's remaining a virgin until I die (which is the way it's looking right now…) and the other is getting together with James Potter, ex-arch enemy and future… something. Not quite sure what it is now. Whether I get together with Potter as a friend or as more, who knows? But it's just going to happen.

Does it make sense? Sometimes you just know something's going to happen… As I said, it's inevitable.

Do you believe in love at first sight? No, well neither do I. But then… There's always different kinds of “sight”. No more. I don't want to think about this… This is avoidance of a problem if there was ever an example.

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-James' POV-

I watched her head to her room, wondering slightly. It'd be hot, I think, if we could date. We'd probably break up more times than anything, but I bet the makeup sex would be worth it.

I'm not a man-whore, as much as many people think anyway. Sure, there's always a couple girls on my arms, but I don't sleep with all of them. I've probably only had five partners throughout my entire sexual life (one of the major differences between Sirius and I).

And yeah, the slutty girls are fun for now, but in a real relationship?

I suppose that's one of the reasons I admire Evans (yes, I do admire her. She's a mastermind): she doesn't just get on her back for no reason.

Mind you, a lot of blokes will gloat about it in the boys' bathroom or in the dormitories, but I hardly ever believe them. From all I can tell, she might be a virgin (though I doubt it. If she is, what of waste of those lovely long legs…). She's not ashamed of doing what she thinks she should do.

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-Lily's POV-

I lay in bed, glaring up at the ceiling. I hate James Potter. I don't. But I feel like thinking it, so I'll think it.

I think he means it, that he wants to be friends. God knows I'll be able to turn in a few more homeworks. And there's a few things in Transfiguration that I'm having trouble with, and as much as it'd hurt my pride, there's no one better to ask. McGonagall is annoyed with me for not getting it.

I tossed and turned for a few minutes, but sat up soon. I'm not the type of person who can lay in bed for hours doing nothing. I've always got to be doing something.

I leaned over to my night table, snatching the books I was reading off of it. I'll head down to the common room, and maybe if I see a House Elf I can ask for cookies…

It's eerily silent so late at night in Hogwarts. There's the occasional noise of ghosts or funky magical creatures in the attics above, but for the most part it's a deathly quiet. What's more, it feels like you're breaking some sort of law by making noise.

This was my reason for tiptoeing down the stairs, even though I doubt anyone could hear me if I'd walked normally…

I sat down in the armchair, preparing myself for a long night. I hated these insomniac nights. It happens when I'm stressed. And what could be more stressful than Potter?

I sighed and allowed myself to get sucked into the world of fancy dresses, nightly balls, and handsome men sneaking in through windows to make love to their beloved.

There you have it, my guilty pleasure—romance novels.

-----------------------------------------------------

-James' POV-

I jumped out of bed after a couple hours or so of not being able to sleep, fed up with it all. Peter's snores were getting on my last bloody nerve. Nasty little git. And me, being the manly man that I am, still growing and all that, decided to sneak down to the kitchens for the blueberry pie the Elves had made last night for dinner.

I spotted Evans lounging in an armchair, one leg tossed casually over its side. She looked… sexy, really. In a very comfortable way.

“Mind if I join you, Evans?” I asked, switching my destination.

She jumped about five feet in the air. “Oh bloody hell, you scared the life out of me.”

“Sorry,” I mumbled, sitting down on the couch. Lily was staring into the flames of the fire, a blank look on her face. “Are you ok?”

She snapped out of her trance. “Yeah,” she whispered. “I'm just sort of not in the mood to sleep.”

“Er, particular reason?” I asked.

“Not really,” she shrugged. “Long week. Wish that I could eat something.”

“Why didn't you just say so?” James grinned. “I have a whole stash in my room.” Not that delicious blueberry pie, but a stash all the same.

A few minutes later, we were pigging out on “a bunch of fattening, pimple-inducing foods”, to quote her, and comfortably silent.

“Well, I've got a problem of sorts, and I think that you're just the guy to help me solve it.” She took a deep breath before continuing. “You see, there's this… situation I have. And there's not really anyone to talk to… Not really.”

“Not even your friends? I would've thought they'd love a bit of gossip to spread around the school,” I chuckled.

She gave me a look. “Why do you think I can't tell them? I'd rather not have the entire sodding school know. It's not so much that they do it on purpose, they just have naturally big mouths that never seem to keep secrets! And of course, it'd be interpreted the wrong way—just like our new `friendship' will get people to think we're dating or crazy. Maybe both.”

“You can always talk to me,” I offered. “I can't promise that I'll give you good advice, but I'll try my best.” Yeah, I'm not sure that she'd want me giving her advice… I don't make the wisest choices sometimes.

“Er, no. Sorry, I just don't feel comfortable. Nothing personal,” she said.

Yeah, I believe that about as much as I believe in Santa Claus.

“I think that you should just tell Ariana and Chloe. I mean, it can't be that bad. For instance, it's not like you're crushing on me.” I laughed.

She chuckled. “Yeah, that would be kind of funny. It's not that I like someone. It's… hard to explain. I'm just too young for all this—the stress is taking its toll. I'm too young for sleepless nights.”

----------------------------------------------

-Lily's POV-

“You need a hug?” he teased.

The way Hogwarts students tease is not like the regular teasing. When we tease, we get right nice and personal. So, he gave hug, I accepted hug, we didn't pull away from our hug. That is the Hogwarts students' way.

Hey, if I get nothing better out of this, maybe I could at least experience the wonderful Potter “gifts”. I'm always hearing about his fantastic sex. Might as well, right?

And he kissed me. Very softly, and very quickly.

Like I said… Might as well. But not tonight. Baby steps, Lily, baby steps.

I was overwhelmed with sudden fatigue, and the temperature was just right in the room (for once. I have this queer little thing where I'm always either too hot or too cold). I'd finished the book (and the sexy man had saved the damsel in distress and made wild, hot, passionate love to her all over the city), and I felt satisfied (who doesn't like cupcakes?).

“James,” I whispered, briefly brushing my lips over his. “I'm going to sleep now.”

“All right.” He let me go so that I could stand up. What a complete moron. Stupid, stupid boy!

“Silly,” I said in a throaty voice. “I meant with you.” I gave him a slight grin, which he returned, and gestured with my finger for him to come closer. I cuddled up to him and promptly fell asleep.

As I said: that's the Hogwarts students' way.

----------------------------------------------------------

-James' POV-

That kiss—however short it might have been—was simply incredible. All she had to do now was just say the words—just a few!—and we could be more than “friends”. I've always been partial to friends with benefits myself…

I grinned, laying my head back against the cushion. I might as well rest my eyes a bit. It was going to be a long, painful night.

---------------------------------------------------------

-Lily's POV, Three Hours Later…-

I woke up, snuggling down into whoever's arm I was on.

“'Morning, beautiful,” I heard a deep, groggy voice whisper next to my ear.

Already this was starting out to be a simply delightful morning. I'd slept with an extremely cozy guy. Let me assure you, that's a pretty bloody awesome way to wake up. It would have to take an out-of-this-world, worse-than-ever-before fight with Potter to get me into a bad mood.

Oh, bloody fuck.

Potter. I looked up into his face through sleepy eyes. Oh, that's right. Hmm… So much for that. Well, that fortune teller did warn me.

“Good morning,” I smiled back. “What time is it?”

“About five or so.” He shifted a little to get more comfortable and brought me closer to him. “You know, you look wicked gorgeous in the morning, just after you wake up.”

“Really?” I asked, sliding my hand under his shirt. What was it exactly that the fortune teller had told me? What was it that I was supposed to beware of? I ran my hand over his ripped abdomen. I felt the muscles ripple at the contact. I felt extreme pleasure at that.

“Yes… Your hair is all messed up and your eyes have this dazed look. Very enticing,” he purred in my ear.

“More enticing than Nina?” I asked. Yes, I was purposely trying to set him up. Damn it, what had that fortune teller told me?

“Twice as enticing as Nina. You're much more fun—especially when you're angry.”

I grinned and circled his belly button with my thumb. I wouldn't mind doing a few things to this body, all sculpted and probably tanned from many shirtless trips on his broom.

“You know that I'm going to kiss you now, right?” he questioned, kissing my nose. “I think I'm going to like this friendship of ours, Lily.”

“Only my friends call me Lily.”

“Then what am I?”

“A friend with benefits.” We both laughed softly as our lips met.

-------------------------------------------------------

-James's POV-

Oh, dear God. And there is a God in heaven. What does this girl do, massage her mouth or something? Does she practice kissing with her mates when no one is around (what a nice thought)? She has the softest mouth that I've ever had the pleasure of kissing in my life. And a good kisser; almost as good as myself.

She can claim to loathe me as much as she liked—if this is what loathing is, I want to be loathed by every chit on earth! It was delicious, frankly…

“What the hell did that woman say?” she muttered.

What?

“Huh?” I asked stupidly.

“Oh, just talking to myself. Do continue.”

I was about to do as she asked—after all, I'm here to please—when just about one of the worst things happened.

“Lily? Are you down here?”

Ariana Basseur, the biggest thorn in my ass as of this moment! Lily and I are finally starting to do what I've wanted to do for awhile—shag her silly. And she has to interrupt!

“Shit,” Lily sighed. “Stay here. I'm… not ready to tell her just yet.” She pushed me down and jumped off the couch we were on. “Yeah, Ari?”

“Just checking where you were. Noticed your bed was empty. Is someone there with you?” Ari asked. I could hear her start to come closer to my “hiding spot”. And what did Lily mean by she “wasn't ready to tell her just yet”? It's not as if we're engaged.

God forbid.

“No,” Lily said quickly. Really, what was the big deal? “I'll be up in a minute. I just fell asleep on the couch, is all.”

She would what?! I thought we were just getting started!

“Alright,” Ari said warily. “Don't forget we're gonna go shopping for my mum's birthday present.” I could hear her begin to head up the stairs muttering, “What do you get a 52 year-old woman, anyhow?”

Once Lily was sure that her best mate was safely upstairs, she knelt down next to me. In the firelight, I could see her blush crimson.

That's just cute.

“Look, about that, I'm sorry. I just don't want them to find out like that. I'm going to sit my mates down and have a nice, long chat about…well, I don't know really. Your kisses perhaps, and how much I like them.”

“You do?” I asked, kissing her. “I've only kissed you a few times. How would you know?”

“I have a knack for these things. Anyway, you're my new friend with benefits—I'm forced to like everything you do to me.” She stood and was about to take a step forward when I tugged her arm and brought her down to the couch next to me.

“Do you have to go? We're building up our friendly relationship here.”

She nodded. “Yes. Are you doing anything tomorrow night?” she whispered, brushing my hair away from my eyes—not that it did much. My hair was always all over the place, though I kind of like it.

“I don't think so,” I shrugged. “What'd you have in mind?”

“Nothing,” she smiled. “You haven't told me where and what yet.” She stood after kissing my eyebrow softly. “Sleep tight, Potter. And go up to bed. You'll be warmer.”

“I'd be warmer with you!” I called after her, watching her up the stairs.

“Too bad, huh?” she laughed.

My eyes followed her swaying hips up the stairs until it disappeared. Who is just the slyest devil? And then, of course, I remembered a certain little something.

But it's not bad.

Not at all…

Only some dead mouse that Sirius was going to put in Lily's bed, because he was part of the pranks I did to her. Seeing as I am—or was, maybe—going to get some action pretty soon, I would think it to my best advantage to stop this from happening.

“Oh, fuck,” I groaned. “This can't get any worse.”

“Eeek!”

I cringed. And things were going so well too…

*~*

A/N: Thanks to everyone that reviewed! Until next Saturday then!

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3. Three: The Reaction To...

Chapter Three: The Reaction To A Warning

By Natali K. A.

-Lily's POV-

It smelled so bad, and it was nasty. I'm not easily disgusted, but really… Too much. I'm all for the ugly, furry little beasts, but not in my bed!

“What's wrong, Lils?” Chloe asked sleepily. “Something the matter?”

“Yeah,” I snapped. “There's a dead mouse in my bed.”

The moment I said that, I regretted it. Was I nuts? When I knew how girls usually reacted to anything dead, especially if it was already nasty to begin with? Well, that's me for you.

“Ah!” everyone screamed, jumping out of their beds to run to one another and cower together.

“Where is it?” Ari asked hysterically. “I hate mouses.”

“Mice,” I corrected.

“Does it look like I give a fuck what it's called?” she yelled. “Just kill the damn thing!” She began to whimper.

“Idiot,” I rolled my eyes. “Didn't you just hear me say that it was a dead mouse?”

“Just get it out of here,” one of my roommates, Serena, said. Someone burst into our room. I decided not to turn around in an attempt to restrain myself from murdering a certain someone. I was still somewhat horny, after that little episode on the couch, which is quite a contrast from the torture I now want to inflict upon his body.

On the other hand, you can't really trust my judgment because I'm sexually frustrated and horny just about every second of every day...

“Oh, James!” Serena squealed. “Please help.”

Potter walked up to my bed and vanished it with his wand. Oh. I could've done that…

I could see him look at me warily from the corner of his eye. He was awaiting my attack, I'm sure. (Really, now why couldn't I have done that on my own, instead of having to complicate things so much? No, wake up the whole damn dorm, and all that stuff, and look like a helpless girl who can't even get rid of a dead mouse!)

“So…” I said through clenched teeth. Some people never change. “Whose idea was it, Potter? `Cause I don't think it was very funny.”

“Sirius', but I approved it,” he muttered.

“And you knew about it?”

“Yeah,” he sighed. “I just kind of forgot about it. Sorry.”

I shook my head, turning to face him suddenly. “You know what I've gotta do, right? You've forced me to…”

Forced me to do something I want to do very badly… Very, very badly… I could've killed my mates there, just for the chance to do what I really wanted to do…

“Um, I'm not quite sure what you're capable of, and that sort of is the part that scares me,” he whispered. “What're you gonna do?”

I walked toward him and stood an inch away from him. “The only thing that I can do. Right, where to begin...?”

He was starting to look puzzled when I jumped on top of him and brought him down to the bed with me, where I began to tickle him. My mates looked at us oddly, before turning back into their beds.

“I don't care what you do,” Chloe muttered from her bed, “but shut the hell up, Lily. Do whatever you're doing quietly, if you please.”

I giggled as James grabbed my hands to stop tickling him.

“Oh, we will, Chloe,” he promised wickedly.

“I told you they'd hook up, Clo. You owe me nine galleons,” Ari mumbled into her pillow, holding out her hand as Chloe grudgingly gave up her gold. “Thank you.”

“Screw you, Ari. I was going to buy a pair of shoes with that.”

This was the last I heard of their conversation, because Potter had shut the curtains, sound proofing it.

“You are so horny!” I accused, laughing. Really, who am I to talk? “Get out, and I'll see you in the morning.” With a smack on his bottom, I sent him out of my room. It was extremely mean of me to do it—and I was being a tease—but I couldn't do anything about it.

Shagging with my mates in the room is definitely not something I'll do in this lifetime. Well… Not unless we're roaring drunk, but I'm not at the moment, so yeah.

No. No way.

----------------------------------------------------------

-James' POV-

Since when did I listen to her? To anyone, for that matter (besides Mummy, who's just downright scary at times)? As soon as I thought she was asleep, I went back in, moved her to the other side of the bed, and snuggled down with her. Of course, protecting our privacy was my main concern, so I pulled her curtains shut and fell asleep.

This is a complete turn around in our prior relationship. Normally, Lily would've bitten my head off… Maybe she'll be biting some other head later on?

Naughty, naughty thought, James. Naughty.

-------------------------------------------------------------

-Lily's POV, Later That Morning…-

I stretched, feeling someone beside me. It was very warm, and I was grateful to that person. Probably Ari—she tends to do things like that when she's cold.

“'Morning.”

Well… It wasn't Ari. As if the voice hadn't been enough, I could feel James get hard under my butt. When had he gotten in? Hadn't he been sent away?

“Do me a favor,” I murmured, turning onto my stomach. “No more creatures in my bed. At least, not the nasty little ones. Dogs are ok.”

He chuckled. “Is that what you'd like for Christmas?”

“Can't have dogs here.”

“Your point being…?”

I opened one eye at him. “I'd rather not get expelled, thank you.” Then I added, “Want to make me breakfast in bed to compensate for it?”

“Later. I have to go do something for Dumbledore.”

I nodded, burrowing closer. “Sounds like a blast. Leave then so I can get back to sleep.” I shoved him off the bed and put the pillow over my head to block out the light.

“Will do.”

When I next awoke, there was a piece of paper stuck to my forehead. I tried not to find it odd.

Curious, I took it off and read:

Lily,

Morning, hope you got this. Meet me at the East Turret at noon today. Come alone.

-Rat Boy

What on earth did he have planned?

But there wasn't any time to think about that now. I looked at the clock and realized it was 12:15.

Whoops.

Well, guys wait around anyway.

Chloe stepped out from the bathroom, toweling her hair dry.

“Good afternoon, Miss I-Shagged-Potter,” she sang, smirking. “What happened to hating him, and there never being a chance of you two hooking up, and—”

“We're friends with benefits, and it's just for a good time, Clo,” I rolled my eyes. “I might hate him, but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate his skills.”

Chloe gave me a doubtful look, and set about getting dressed. “Fine, Lils. Not my place to judge.” She pulled on her bra. “Whore.”

“Shut up, you've had more one night stands than Dumbledore has candles on his birthday cake!”

Chloe shrugged. “Somehow, I think we can agree you're far worse off.” She turned around and gave me a pointed look. “You're not the sort to be friends with benefits, Lily.”

“What are you worried about? It's just fun,” I snapped, annoyed. Where did she get off calling me a whore? She didn't really mean it or anything, it was just insulting.

“You're going to get hurt. You were somewhat right. Potter does tend to leave a trail of broken hearts wherever he goes,” she sighed. “It's not on purpose, but it happens. He knows what he wants and when he finds out that she's not it, it's goodbye and he doesn't think twice.”

I stared, dumbfounded and, quite frankly, pissed.

“You've got to be kidding me! I'm not hearing this!”

“You're emotional, Lils, and you've got a fantasy of finding true love fresh in your heart,” Chloe said quickly. “It's not a bad thing, but you aren't the type of person that can just fool around with no strings attached, and not fall in love.”

I shook my head, grabbing a pair of jeans and a shirt as I made my way for the bathroom to shower. “Screw you, Clo. You and Ari are a couple of hypocrites. I've gotta get ready, I'm going somewhere.”

“Where?”

“Wherever I damn well please.”

I slammed the door to the bathroom shut. I know, it was wrong. I should've been a little more understanding—she was only trying to help.

But I'm a big girl. If I get hurt, I'll just move on.

---------------------------------------

-Chloe's POV-

Ok, I should've been a little more tactful. But it's true. He doesn't do it on purpose, but the fact of the matter is that James Potter just does what he does—uses women.

Frustrated and a little hurt—don't know why she got all bitchy—I threw on a shirt and applied eyeliner and eyeshadow. I left our room, as I didn't want to run into Lily any time soon.

Ariana was coming up the stairs just as I was going down.

“Watch out, Lily's being a bitch,” I warned her. “Hey, those are my shorts!”

Ari grinned, shrugging. “Too bad, so sad. Mine for now! Don't worry, I can handle her.”

She probably could too. There were two that were simply meant to be together.

They're so stubborn and so blind…

But me? I'm on my way to threaten Potter. And him? Well… I'm sure he'll have nothing but good intentions after I'm through with him. And he might just refuse to touch her.

You don't want to get on my bad side.

*~*

A/N: Shorter than usual, I know. But here's the thing. If I don't post what I've got so far now, I won't post at all. I've got things to do today, and I'm a bit overrun with a certain deadline for a certain class. So, I'm sorry, but that's just how it goes, and I'm really just grateful to have this much to post.

Another thing—sorry for yet another minor cliffhanger. You'll have to wait to see what James has planned.

Mind you, not that I know myself, I'm just saying. Lol.

Thanks for the reviews, I really enjoyed them all!! Much love,

Natali K. A.

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4. Four: The Officiation Of...

Chapter Four: The Officiation Of “Jily”

By Natali K. A.

-Ariana's POV-

I walked through the door to our room, and Lily was fuming on the floor, trying to decide which shoes to wear.

“You're spending too much time on this, Lily,” I sighed, shaking my head. “I'm not sure what exactly Chloe told you, but I want you to know that I agree with her. You're not the type of person that can handle a relationship without emotion. You're not a whore.”

Lily glared at me, clearly pissed. “Listen, I've had it up to my fucking elbows with you two and your warnings. I'm not five.”

“No, worse. You're seventeen,” I snapped, tossing her one of my gold sandals. “Wear those, you cranky bitch. You know you wanted to anyway.”

I crossed my arms, and she stared me down, before finally conceding and slipping on my shoes.

“Damn you. Both of you. And stay out of my business,” she hissed. “If it bugs you so much, don't worry. You won't hear another thing about it.” With that cold statement, she walked out of the room, late for her little date with Potter, I presume.

It disgusts me sometimes, her attitude towards getting corrected or warned. As if she knows everything!

But Chloe's mostly the one that's upset about the Lily-Potter-friends-with-benefits thing. I, on the other hand, am completely convicted in the fact that Lily needs to grow up, and if that includes getting hurt, well there it is.

Tough world out there.

And she took my favorite earrings, didn't she?!

“Meanie,” I muttered, grabbing a book I'd been reading and heading for the library. “I won't ever see them again, no doubt.”

-----------------------

-James' POV-

“Potter.”

I turned around, expecting to see Lily but instead finding one of her best friends—Chloe, if I'm not mistaken.

“Know where Lily is? I told her noon, and—”

“She's on her way,” she cut me off, looking livid. “But I've got a few questions for you first. Where do you get off using her like that, Potter? I might not give a flying fat rat when you hurt other girls, but Lily's my best mate. If you're going into this just for some arse—”

“So glad you think so highly of me,” I muttered. “What's the problem?”

“The problem is that you have a tendency of leaving sobbing girls in your wake. Lily doesn't need that. But not only that, you're not even dating her—you're only getting friendly.” She said it as if it was the most disgusting thing she'd ever heard of, and for a moment I appreciated just how loyal Lily's friends must be.

Then common sense got the better of me, and I got a bit peeved.

“It's purely consensual, thanks. I won't do anything that she doesn't want to. I wasn't aware I had to ask your permission first,” I said dryly.

Chloe glared at me. “Watch it, Potter. Believe me when I saw I'm watching you.” She left, going in the opposite direction from whence she came, to avoid Lily I suppose.

Speaking of, where was that girl? I know girls take a long time to get ready for dates, but we were just having a bloody meeting—how long could it take? And hadn't Chloe said she was on her way?

I decided to go and investigate, heading for the door to the stairs. The east turret was of average size compared to all the other turrets and towers and such, but it was the least used and furthest from the usual traffic of students. It would have been good for snogging or having a private place to shag, but for the cool weather at night, and the rain cloud that always seemed to form whenever students came up with that intention in mind.

And if it was winter, you could bet on inch-think hail. You wouldn't believe how fast that sends the kids running…

I went to push open the door, but it didn't budge at first, so I gave it an extra hard push, knocking into someone's head on the other side.

The chit just can't like me that much anymore. In less than eight hours, there's been a dead mouse in her bed, a paper stuck to her forehead, a confrontation with her best mate (and she'd probably argued with her already), and a nice big bump on her head because I banged her with the door.

People are going to start saying I'm abusive, really.

“Are you ok?” I asked, afraid to hear her response.

-------------------------

-Lily's POV-

Ouch.

Ouch.

Did I mention, ouch?

“Am I ok?” I repeated.

It wasn't so much that I was dumbstruck. It was that I found it immensely amusing.

“Lily, are you alright?” James asked bewilderedly. “Are you delirious?”

“No, it's just funny,” I laughed from the ground, unable to bring myself up.

James grinned slowly. “You're out of your mind. I gave you a good bump on your forehead there.”

I put fingers to the bump and felt around gingerly and found out he was correct.

A battle wound! Oh joy!

“Yeah, but wounds heal. Memories last forever. Or at least until you get Alzheimer's.” I accepted his outstretched hand and stood up. “Now, you called me?”

(~_-Later that afternoon…-_~)

“How'd it go, Lils?” Chloe asked tentatively as I shut the door behind me and made for my bed.

“Fine.”

I saw her share a glance with Ari, who asked, “What did you do?”

“Not a thing.”

Ari raised an eyebrow. “Oh, really now? Nothing?”

“No.”

“He fancies you,” Chloe declared, awestruck.

“Yup, I know,” I said, flinging myself onto my bed.

“He told you?”

“No, it's just not that hard to guess, is it? We met somewhere and talked. He didn't even try to hug me,” I informed them, shaking my head. “It doesn't take Einstein to figure that one out.”

Chloe hung her head. “I'm sorry about this morning—”

“Don't mention it. It was stupid.” I was quiet for a moment. “But you were wrong, you know. I think he's dead serious about this.”

Ariana's eyes were wide as she said, “I always thought he was just playing around, trying to annoy you when he'd ask you out over the years.”

“So did I,” I agreed, leaning on my elbow. “But no heterosexual male spends hours with a heterosexual female with no one else around and doesn't make a single move on her unless he's completely serious about his intentions.”

When Chloe opened her mouth, I cut her off.

“Believe me, he's heterosexual, and I definitely am.”

Ariana grinned, unable to refuse saying, “Well there was that time last year when I questioned your sexual preference, Lils. I believe that was when I caught you and a certain Hufflepuff stepping out of an out-of-the-way broom closet…”

“I told you, that was Joseph with his hair down and dressed as a girl so we wouldn't look conspicuous!”

“Of course,” Ariana snickered. “I never doubted you.”

There was silence in our room for a moment as we thought about my current situation. What should I do? Should I break off all ties and go back to being my usual bitchy self toward him?

Problem was, I didn't know if I could. I'd enjoyed myself today. Nothing special, nothing out of the ordinary. Just two friends, chatting.

What happened to that friends with benefits thing?!

“Lily?” Chloe asked finally. “What are you going to do?”

I sighed, tugging on a piece of my hair in frustration.

“See where the wind takes me, Clo. That's all I really can do.”

It was six weeks later when James Potter entered my room for the second time. It was by pure luck that I was the only one left sleeping. It would have raised definite eyebrows if James had sauntered into my room without a second thought.

Naturally, Ari and Clo probably wouldn't even have noticed. The other three girls might have an issue though.

I wasn't actually sleeping, I just found it impossible to lift myself out of bed. It was the first Saturday in a month that I'd been able to sleep in—the workload for N.E.W.T. level classes was outrageous.

“What, James?” I mumbled as he stood over me. He'd moved the curtain and the sun was hitting me right in the face. “Move over to block the blasted sun at least, would you?”

“Time to wake up.”

“For bloody what? I've got the day off today. No work.” I shut my eyes, trying to block out the light.

The bed shifted under his weight as he sat down, and I felt his hand cover mine.

Ugh. He was terribly infatuated.

Warm, hard lips pressed against mine in a fleeting kiss.

Ugh. I was terribly infatuated as well.

I've absolutely no notion whatever happened to that “friends with benefits” idea. We'd forgotten about the last to words and went directly for friends. So that's what we were right now.

Friends.

That desperately wanted to shag like rabbits all day.

But we haven't given in to temptation—in fact, I doubt we've kissed more than three times, minus that first snog the night we'd agreed to be civil. His defenses were always down early in the morning or late at night. If we were the last ones left in the common room late one night—which seemed to happen often—we got a little more comfortable than we usually did.

But those kisses. I looked forward to them, as few as they were.

The first one had been nearly three weeks ago, when he'd chased me throughout the castle in a purely immature game of hide and seek. Nothing more than a “I've-got-you-now!” peck, but there it is. So quick, I might have imagined it, and it was the sweetest thing I've ever seen a guy do.

We never talked about our relationship, perhaps for worrying it might change something if we verbally acknowledged that we were attracted to each other.

Not that it took verbal affirmation.

“It's eleven. If you get up now, you won't be able to get to sleep early tonight to wake up early Hogsmeade Sunday.”

“You're too practical. I wouldn't mind sleeping in tomorrow, too,” I smiled. But I sat up nonetheless and threw the covers off. “Be right back,” I said over my shoulder as I grabbed a shirt and a pair of jeans and went into the bathroom to change.

-----------------------------

-Sirius's POV-

I smirked at Remus who was sitting to my left as I caught sight of James and Lily walking down the stairs together.

“Look who it is—Jily,” Remus muttered, using our nickname for the couple. They'd been spending so much time together we'd begun to refer to them as one.

Ariana came up behind us. “You said it, Lupin. They're practically attached at the hip.”

“Cute couple though,” Chloe remarked from her armchair to my left, not looking up from her magazine. “The entire room stops whatever it's doing just to try and catch gist of what they're up to.”

I looked around, noticing that she was completely correct. What few students were inside were all pretending to be busy while actually marking every step “Jily” made.

I couldn't blame them, frankly. It was quite a sight, to see James and Lily descend the stairs. A beautiful redhead followed by one of the hottest guys at Hogwarts—I, of course, taking first place.

“You guys look cute together,” Ariana said dryly. “Just make it official already, would you? Everyone's waiting for it.”

Lily gave her a cheeky grin. “Let them wait.”

“We'll see you later, we're going to visit Hagrid,” James informed us, following Lily out the portrait door.

“I remember the days when we'd be invited,” I grumbled.

Chloe snorted. “I'd rather not spend time with them until they finally hook up. I'm just waiting for this explosion of pent up sexual frustration between them. Frankly, I don't want to be there to witness that.”

There was a collective chuckle around the room.

“Too right,” Remus nodded, grabbing Ariana's hand to tug her onto his lap. “What do you say, Miss Brasseur? Would you like to vent our very own pent up sexual frustration?”

“Sounds positively sinful, love. Let's.”

I rolled my eyes as they stood and headed for our dormitory.

“Well, Chloe, I think you're quite stuck with me for today,” I smiled. “We've been deserted.”

Chloe glanced up from her magazine with a raised eyebrow. “I haven't been deserted. Chloe never gets deserted. We choose not to follow, got that, Black?”

I nodded, sniggering. “I like the way you think. Shall we choose to go down to lunch?”

“We shall.”

-James' POV-

“See you tomorrow,” Lily yawned, pushing herself off the couch. I extended my hand and she helped me up. It was when she made to release my hand that she realized I had no intention of doing so.

“James?”

“I've been thinking,” I said hesitantly. “About what Ariana said. I know we said we'd start off with friends with benefits—”

“You don't still believe that, do you?” Lily asked skeptically. “After the taunting cries of `Jily' up and down the corridors whenever we happen to be walking to class together?”

I suppressed a smile. “I just thought, since…”

She seemed to be making fun of me a bit as she asked, “Thought what since what?”

I gave her hand a gentle tug, and she obligingly stepped forward.

“How about we make it official?” I asked against her lips, not allowing her a chance to respond. I pulled her against me and felt a wave of satisfaction roll through me when she melted and opened her mouth beneath mine.

But Lily pulled away, setting her hands on my chest.

“Good night, James.”

I stood, feeling a bit rejected as I watched her walk away. But providence was yet again good to me.

“And I agree.”

*~*

A/N: Ok. I know. Late. Whoops. School, church, party. Yearbook. Not giving an excuse, just letting you know what my life has been lately.

So, um, yeah. This chapter is 100% brand spanking new, never before seen ABR material. Hope you all enjoyed, and I can't wait to read your reviews!

I've just realized once more that I used to write terribly. People let me post this? Oh, my…

I'm watching Grey's Anatomy, and it so RULES!!!!!

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5. Five: Let The Games Begin

Chapter Five: Let The Games Begin

By Natali K. A.

-Lily's POV-

The next week there was a Quidditch game. I won't lie and say I'm a major Quidditch fan, but I definitely don't mind seeing everyone flying about and having a good old time. There was, of course, the added fact that my boyfriend was the Gryffindor team captain, which sort of required me to attend and root on.

But I definitely didn't mind.

It was quite amusing, actually, to see how everyone reacted to our relationship. Most couldn't believe it, some thought it was a joke, others thought we'd gone mad. Considering how we used to fight (well, alright, how we fight period because we still love having those arguments), I cannot actually say that I blame them.

Yet here I am, James Potter's girlfriend and everyone is looking to me for… well I don't know what exactly. But I know everyone's eyes are on me.

I was made to be famous!

“Good luck,” I told him, right outside the changing rooms. I'd snatched him before he went out to give him a good luck kiss. I pressed another to his lips. “Kick their arse, alright? I've heard way too many taunts from the Slytherins to let them get away with it.”

He grinned handsomely and popped a kiss on my nose. “Will do, Lils. Go sit down, I want to see you cheering for me.”

“You do get a little thrill from that, don't you?” I snorted, walking with him towards the pitch where the fans were already rooting or booing loudly as Slytherin came onto the field. “I hate how cliché we're becoming.”

“Got to run.” He jogged off toward the rest of the team. They were met with wild applause and cheering. I smiled and made my way for the seat I usually occupied next to Ariana.

“Look at that girl,” Ariana scorned, pointing her chin in Chloe's direction. “Disgusting, isn't it? I sometimes wonder if she's got any femininity about her. She's probably got more testosterone than Pettigrew.”

“Let's be honest, Ari,” Remus snickered. “Any female's got more testosterone than Wormtail.”

I shook my head but smiled nonetheless. “You two are terrible. She's a spectacular Beater, Ari. I don't know why it bugs the hell out of you so much.”

Ariana scrunched her nose. “The Quidditch pitch is no place for a lady.”

“And you would know what a lady is because…?” I asked, laughing when she glared at me. “Now shut up, the game's about to begin. The team captains shook hands (I am quite proud in saying that the other captain winced as James succeeded in strangling his hand) and when Madame Hooch blew the whistle, they were off.

“Speaking of spectacular,” Ari leaned over to whisper in my ear, sniggering. “You're infatuated, aren't you?”

“Unfortunately,” I conceded. With a sigh, I added, “Now I have to play the besotted, excited cheerleader girlfriend. Oh, joy.”

---------------

-Three Months Later…-

---------------

-James' POV-

“Hate to rush you,” I muttered as I leaned against the doorway. “But we're going to be late.”

Lily rushed around, throwing things into the smallest purse I've ever seen. It was amazing what she fit into it though.

“Damn it,” she mumbled as she dropped her lipstick. I peered at her arse appreciatively as she bent over to retrieve it. “Stop looking at my bum, James.”

I frowned. She was getting exceptionally good at reading my mind lately.

“All set,” Lily declared. “We're using the Floo, right?”

“Yep. McGonagall's office is all set up.”

“Nice to be a Seventh Year, eh?”

“Undoubtedly.” He ushered her out the door.

It was a privilege of Seventh Years to be able to go home once a month with permission, something James used to full extent. Only this time, he was bringing home a girlfriend for his parents to meet and approve of.

But I seemed to be more nervous than Lily, because she was as suave as could be. Not a single hair out of place. Mind you, she always looks awesome (and I mean that, besides having been trained since birth that your woman was the most beautiful person on earth and never looked bad), but there was a sort of confidence about her that escapes me at the moment.

It's not so much that I think my parents won't like her, it's… well I don't know. She'd taken it as her due to come with me to my parents' dinner party and though I had planned on inviting her anyway, I hadn't known she was so… comfortable.

Adapted.

It was definitely something new for me, to be with someone for as long as I have been with Lily. Chloe probably hadn't been too unjustified in warning me not to hurt Lily—I just got bored. I'm not the type of bloke that can stay with a girl just because everyone expects me to.

“Good, you're ready,” I nodded to Sirius as he met up with us at the portrait hole. “You're usually an hour late or so.”

“I want to see your parents' reactions,” Sirius grinned, kissing Lily's cheek. “You look lovely, my dear.”

“I try,” Lily sighed prettily. “You wouldn't believe the price at which I got this dress—just 30 pounds, isn't it a find?”

Sirius—who I sometimes wonder about—nodded, looking over it. “Plain yet elegant. Excellent stitching.”

I rolled my eyes. “Bloody hell, you're a faggot.”

“Just because your father was concerned about your masculinity later in life and refused to teach you about the finer things does not mean I'm a faggot,” Sirius replied smoothly. “Years ago, every noble wizarding male knew about fashion. It's a dying art.”

Even Lily couldn't resist giving him a patronizing look. “Welcome to the 20th century, Black. Get out of the Old World, would you?”

“Now, now, ladies, don't get your knickers all in a bunch,” I said. “The party hasn't yet begun and there's plenty of time for that later, isn't there?”

-------------------

-Lily's POV-

“This is Lily Evans. Lily, my mum and dad. I apologize beforehand.”

This was cake. Right off the bat, the mother loved me and the father was intrigued. I had learned from a young age to assess a person's thoughts, especially when meeting them for the first time.

“Well you're certainly a pleasant surprise,” his mother—whose name I knew to be Kathryn—smiled. “We always thought James tended to sway towards the docile ones. But everyone knows redheads have quite a nasty temper.”

I inclined my head. “Never more true in my case.”

“I can second that.” Sirius joined us, hugging and kissing Kathryn and giving James' old man a slap on the back. “Hello there, Bobby.”

“I hate that name,” Robert Potter rolled his eyes. “I remember when you used to call me Mr. Potter.”

“Yes, but that hasn't been since I was seven.”

“Ah, the good times.” Mr. Potter turned to James and me. “Go get yourselves a seat. We'll be serving dinner soon, I think.”

“Usually seats?” James asked his mum.

“Yes. Give Lily the one next to me.” She gave me a wink before walking away.

“Now you've done it,” Sirius cried in a sing-song voice as if Christmas had come early. “Lily's going to get tested.”

James grimaced. “Sorry. I suppose you might as well know, in case you want to get out early.”

“Know what?” I asked casually, trying not to laugh.

“Mum tends to ask embarrassing questions without feeling the slightest bit guilty. She'll know if you lie to her too.”

“But I have no intention of doing so and I've got nothing to hide besides. Now why don't we have a seat, I'm starving.”

-------------

-Kathryn's POV-

“So Lily, how long have you and my son been on speaking terms? From what I gathered, you weren't the chummiest pair.”

Alright let's just admit it, shall we? I'm impressed. I've always been rather displeased—disgusted, really—with the choice of girls James has chosen to surround himself with. They whimper, they whine, and they're bloody annoying. Not to mention that they couldn't run a household to save their lives. As James is going to come into a lot of money when we croak, he needs to have a wife who knows what she's doing or who is at least capable of learning from her mistakes.

My prayers have been answered.

“Early this year, actually,” Lily replied smoothly. “We weren't very amicable the first six years of school, I must admit.”

“We hated each other is more accurate,” James quipped.

“Hush, I'm interrogating her not you,” I told James. I saw him smirk. “What changed your minds?”

“It all started with a detention,” Lily said histrionically. “Then he begged for me to be civil and lo and behold, here we are.”

“I highly doubt that's the end of the story.”

“We'd originally agreed to try a friends with benefits thing—there was no denying some sort of attraction—but that never worked out.” James choked on his chicken on overhearing this. “After spending a lot of time with a person, you begin to like them no matter how hard you try not to. Of course, this was after I found a dead mouse in my bed.”

“Carrots, Lily?” James asked loudly, heaping a gigantic amount of carrots on her plate. “I think you need carrots. You obviously don't have enough in your mouth, even with your foot in there.”

I laughed, glancing at Robert. “Sounds exciting.”

“Life is never boring with James,” Lily mused.

“With Potters in general, dear. It's a hereditary thing that I just happened to get by marriage. Some consider it a disease but I think it's quite entertaining.”

Lily turned her head to look at me better. I saw her emerald green eyes assessing me and I couldn't help but feel elated that she liked what she saw immensely. “It's utter chaos.”

--------------

-James' POV-

“I'm going to steal her for a minute or thirty.” I gently grabbed Lily's elbow and led her away from my mother. God only knows what the devil woman has been up to (whether I'm referring to Lily or my mother is beyond me).

“Yes, sweetheart?” Lily asked in a honeyed voice.

“I thought you might like a tour of the house.”

“With a rest stop in your room, no doubt.”

I grinned wolfishly at her and she had the good grace to blush.

“One hell of a tongue on you, Lils.”

“Your mum seems to appreciate that.”

“No doubt,” I said under my breath. “They're completely besotted with you, you know.”

Her tinkling laughter bounced off the empty hallways as we walked toward the beginning of my tour. Opening one side of the wooden double doors at the very end, I let Lily in first. Her gasp was barely audible.

“Bloody hell.”

“This is the Hall.”

“Just the Hall? Looks like a bloody cathedral to me.”

I chuckled. “It is rather impressive isn't it?” I watched as Lily's eyes took in the surroundings. The carpet from the Middle East, more books on more bookshelves than I'd care to count (though I did once have a House Elf tally it up though the sum must have changed since), couches and poufs and little secret niches all throughout. It was one of the larger rooms but also my favorite.

Each and every time I took a minute or so to explore it, I found something new.

“But we can peruse this place later.” I grabbed her hand and led her to one of the several doors against the wall. Taking two flights of stairs, we came onto my floor.

“This is definitely your room,” Lily stated as she stepped inside. “Quidditch posters and clutter.”

“This isn't cluttered!”

“Yes, it is. I can't even see the carpet in that corner.”

“Well of course. That's my Pile.”

Lily shook her head as she walked over to my dresser mirror. She reached up and took out a few of the pins holding up her hair and shook it out. I caught her gaze through the mirror and she smiled invitingly.

Bloody siren.

“My parents and a whole lot of their guests are downstairs,” I warned. “If they notice we're gone…”

“What? They'll gasp and point fingers?” She turned. “These aren't the times ruled by society and strictures. Everything's pretty lax nowadays. Let go.”

“I knew there was a reason I liked you.”

“What, I'm easy?”

“No. You're in charge of your life.” I kissed her and it'd never felt any better. It wasn't the smartest thing to do with at least 100 of the most influential magical folk of the magical world downstairs, but it didn't seem to bother me much.

I lifted her up and carried her to my bed, not breaking contact.

“Careful with my dress,” she muttered. “Hair I can redo, but I'm not such a hot seamstress—wand or no wand.”

“We'll just have to take it off then, won't we?” I whispered. She raised herself up so that I could reach the zipper and I slowly peeled the white material from her skin. In a moment of prudence, I released her and slung the beautiful dress over a chair. “Is it ok there?”

“Yeah.” She beckoned to me with arms open wide and I couldn't help but smile fondly at her.

“We go well together don't we?” I asked as I kissed her neck.

“I think so,” Lily replied. Her nimble fingers worked on my shirt buttons. I shrugged off my dress robes and helped her with the damned buttons.

After we'd overcome that particular obstacle (bloody buttons, who the devil made them so impossible to deal with? I was tempted to just rip it off but I thought that might raise a few eyebrows), I went back to kissing my way around Lily's body.

“I see London, I see France…” I said hoarsely when my lips found the elastic of her white knickers.

That made her chuckle, which made me look up at her. She had the sexiest look I've ever seen in her eyes, her hair a red halo about her.

My heart stopped beating just for a second.

“Did I say you could stop?” she asked cheekily, tapping my nose with her finger. “Back to work.”

--------------

-Sirius' POV-

“Have you seen James anywhere?” Bobby asked me.

“I believe he went into the kitchens to fetch something for Lily,” I lied through my teeth. I'd wondered how long it would take the horny pair to get up to his room.

Bobby looked at me doubtfully but nodded nevertheless. “I must keep missing him. Is Lily with him?”

“Yes.” Which was the truth.

“In the kitchens?”

“I would suppose so.”

Bobby rolled his eyes at me. “You're terrible. Never would betray him, would you?”

“I haven't the foggiest idea of what you speak of, Bobby m'boy,” I said, chuckling.

“If I know James, he is nowhere near the vicinity of the kitchens.”

“Depends what you consider `near'.”

Bobby grinned appreciatively. “Yes, I suppose that would be it, wouldn't it? He's definitely within a mile of the kitchens, but probably closer to his bedroom than anything.”

“You didn't hear it from me.”

“I just hope they finish with whatever they're doing because I'd rather not have the Minister of Arabia suspect things.”

“I'll keep an eye on that.”

-------------

-Lily's POV-

“We should get back downstairs,” James said into my hair, his voice muffled.

“I can't be bothered to move just yet,” I sighed. “I can barely keep my eyelids up.”

“Falling asleep is not an option.”

“Never said it was. Doesn't make it any less difficult to refrain from doing so, however.”

James turned onto his side, drawing me even closer to him. “I wish we'd had more time.”

I beamed at him lazily. “I'm quite satisfied anyway. I like your bed. It's fit for a king.”

Which was the truth. Goose down and some of the warmest sheets that I've ever lain in my entire life.

“If the queen approves, it must be good.” He pressed a kiss to my temple and sat up with a groan. “Come on, we've got to put on appearances.”

I didn't budge. “You go down first and spread the rumor that I had to use the powder room. My hair might take awhile to put up again.” I did finally roll out of bed, yawning. I glanced at his window, but there was nothing to see. It was pitch black as English country sides tended to be. There weren't any city lights, something which I always appreciated.

“Be quick,” James said as he zipped up my dress and prepared to back downstairs. “Remember: you're beautiful no matter what. Try not to get lost.” With a final kiss he departed.

I licked my lips, staring at my hair. At least I'd had the foresight to do something simple to it. It shouldn't take me more than five minutes.

After a quick check for any hickies (which I told him repeatedly to avoid), I joined the rest of the party downstairs.

*~*

A/N: Ok, so I'm still sick, and yes, I know I'm a day late, and no, I don't feel particularly bad about it as I'm sick and do not feel well. It's not just a minor sore throat. No, I've got to have fever, a stuffy nose, and my body's got to ache from head to toe (I want to inject morphine into myself). I don't know if any of you have ever felt like you forgot what it feels like to feel good, but I have. I'm sure it must be pleasant.

On the bright side, I haven't vomited, and I haven't had a fever so high that I've gotten the chills for more than ten minutes (which I really, really hate as I abhor the cold).

So I basically wrote this in two hours, after I woke up at 3 am (yuck) because of course the Benadryl wore off and I'll overdose and I don't have Nyquil and Dayquil keeps me up for days. Ok. But I'm alright.

I changed this chapter completely from what it originally was. Originally James was accosted by Lily's “colorful” family and James' parents were quite boring in the sense that they were normal.

I deleted that because it was Boreville and I almost put myself to sleep. The only thing that did remain the same is that A) Lily met James' parents and B) they shagged.

Read and review, it's like cough medicine to me. Please? (*wink*) Love you all!

Natali K. A.

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6. Shameful

Chapter Six: Shameful

By Natali K. A.

-Lily's POV-

“Lily, dear,” Kathryn said, coming toward me the instant I made it downstairs. “Since it's after dinner, the parties have split up a bit. The younger ladies are in the front parlor, if you'd care to go there.”

“Sure,” I smiled. “Point me in the direction.”

“Down that hall and the door on the left.”

I made my way down the hall and to the left, just as she'd said and opened the door to find some of the most beautiful women in the world. Damn it.

From what I gathered, the Potters hosted these dinners quite often, and were also invited to others. Did that mean James and all these beautiful women were also at those?

They turned to look at me collectively, and it was quite annoying. I was a few minutes later than the others, and it's understandable that everyone would be curious as to who entered the room, but this was just rude.

I was being scrutinized from head to toe.

“And you are?” one of the girls in the center asked haughtily.

“Lily Evans,” I replied strongly and clearly.

When I was young, Mum had taught Petunia and me how to deal with the wealthy. She'd grown up in one of the homes as somewhat of a foster child known as a “cousin”. I could dance social circles around these bitches.

“Evans?” another blonde said. I noticed how low the neckline to her dress was, the whore. “I don't remember anyone at the dinner tonight with the last name Evans.”

“Well, there's me, isn't there?” I smiled coolly.

A brunette sitting near me suppressed a grin. “True. Who's your father?”

“Pardon?”

“What's the reason you are here,” the first blonde snapped.

I raised a brow. “Oh, my father isn't anyone you'd know.” A few of the girls—I calculated seven—seemed to think that was obvious.

“Then why are you here?”

“James Potter is my boyfriend.”

That was satisfying. The first blonde's eyes narrowed.

“Really?” she asked disbelievingly. “I'm Fira, daughter of the Head of the British Auror Department. This is Anneliese—her father is a great benefactor to the Ministry, Sarah, Joanna, Dahlia—granddaughter of the Arabian Minister, Christine, and Debra.”

Dahlia was the brunette who had spoken to me. I decided I liked her.

“You're so lucky,” she said with just a twinge of an accent.

“While I agree, I wonder specifically why you think so,” I said. I had no idea why she would be jealous.

Sarah, a short girl with tiny, pinched lips and eyes too far apart said, “You're dating James.”

I raised my eyebrow. Bloody hell. Beautiful women—and all of them were diamonds of the first water—and they'd formed some sort of James Potter fanclub? No wonder he'd acted so sodding bigheaded before! I would too if I'd had my own fan club.

“Yes, I am, but I hardly think it's a big deal.”

They all stared at me including Fira.

“Haven't you seen those eyes of his?” Sarah asked, sighing dreamily. “They're like caramel! Beautiful color…”

“And that strong nose,” Joanna interjected. “So straight and charismatic. I've never seen such a handsome nose before.”

“That sexy hair,” Anneliese blushed. She looked to be rather shy but had a pair of the loveliest white shoes I've ever seen.

By now, I was freaked out. Not nervous per se, because honestly I'm not insecure like that. But if they've known him for so long, and I was sure they'd known him for years…

“And he's strong,” Christine commented. “During the summer parties, he and the other blokes always go for a game of Quidditch, usually involving removing their shirts. It's like the best damned Christmas present ever—only during the summer.”

Finally, Fira was the last to speak.

I didn't think it would be anything nice.

“I wonder why he didn't introduce you to any of us?” she asked sweetly. “We've known him for years. That's a bit odd. But I'm sure there's a perfectly good reason.”

Yes, I was too busy getting to know his parents. Oh, and don't forget the part where I fucked him just a floor above you!

I shrugged though, holding my tongue. “We were busy. His parents and I were talking. But now I can become the best of friends with you all, so don't worry yourself, Fara.” I purposely messed her up name, and you could tell she knew that.

Good. I want it to grate.

“It's Fira.”

There was an uncomfortable silence, before Dahlia spoke up. “Here, Lily. Have a seat.” I took the seat next to her. I'd won one of them over, and most others seemed to want to follow—with Fira as the exception.

“How long have you and James been dating?” Christine asked.

“About three months.”

“You're very James-like,” Sarah commented. “I mean, you're definitely the type of girl we always thought he'd end up with.” She cast Fira a nervous glance. “Well, we'd always thought it'd be Fira, but—”

“I wasn't aware you'd dated.” It was cruel of me, and I knew I'd touched a sore point with her immediately.

“We didn't.” Her unsaid yet hung in the air.

------------

-Sirius' POV-

“Lily, you've got to come back very soon,” Kathryn said once all the guests had left. “We can get to know each other better then without these distractions.”

“I agree,” Lily smiled, kissing her cheek. “Thank you for inviting me.” She hugged Bobby then waited while James and I said goodbye to both.

Seconds later, we'd stepped through the fire to McGonagall's office.

“How did the girls treat you?” I asked Lily as we headed back for the Gryffindor tower. “They're vultures.”

“They were lovely, actually,” Lily said. “Wary at first, but then they heard I was dating the mighty James Potter and they were won.”

“Even Fira?” I didn't believe for a second that Lily had gained Fira's friendship. Once Fira found out that James was dating someone who seemed very capable of keeping his attentions for a long time, she'd be pissed.

No wonder she hadn't even bothered to corner James when she asked if he wanted to go up to his room. It had been as if I wasn't even there. That had been during the dancing, when Lily had been on the dance floor with Bobby.

Lily's expression turned smug. “Of course not Fira.”

James cast me a glance. “Had I known Mum was planning to throw you into the proverbial lions' den—”

“It was a pure sink or swim situation, and I swam like the very devil, James,” she interrupted. She almost seemed offended. “You don't have to worry about that.”

“I wasn't worried, but you didn't have any warning.”

“I can handle myself just fine socially.”

“I never said you couldn't. But those girls are just a nasty bunch to someone they feel threatened by.”

Ah. This was uncomfortable. I thought Lily would feel a bit… disturbed is probably the word I'm looking for. There was no doubt that there were very beautiful, very rich, very educated, and very bitchy ladies in that room. James and I have known them all our lives and they're more like sisters, but it's no secret that they've all got crushes on James.

And me, but I tend to be thought of as the “bad boy” you need for a good time.

We'd reached the common room, which was empty at this late hour. I made to leave, because this was not an argument I wanted to witness.

“James, why didn't you introduce me to anyone unless they came up to us?”

I winced, my foot on the first step. So that was it. She couldn't give a shit if they tried to feed James love potions. She was upset because she'd noticed that James didn't go out of his way to introduce her to everyone.

I couldn't leave. I had to back James up on this. I turned around to watch them, resolving not to intercede unless I needed to.

James' face clouded with anger. “So, Fira decided to pull that one, did she?”

-------------

-James' POV-

Fucking bitch. I'd wondered why she'd been so blunt about trying to screw me this time around. I was so pissed—incensed. She had absolutely no right to do that.

“Leave her out of this,” Lily snapped. “Why didn't you, James?”

I shrugged. “Lils, it's not how we do things. It raises unwanted questions.”

“Admit it. You're ashamed of me because I'm muggle-born and my father isn't someone powerful.”

If Fira had pissed me off, Lily infuriated me, just like she'd always had the knack of doing.

“I have never cared about your background,” I said in a lethal whisper, and I could tell Lily regretted crossing that line. “I have never been ashamed to associate myself with you, even when we were much less than friends.”

She didn't reply, and for a moment I thought the old us would come back. I knew I was ready to explode—how dare she think that of me? I couldn't give a bloody shit if she was the daughter of a potato and a parsley leaf!

But when Lily broke eye contact with me, I knew. She was hurt.

Sirius must have sensed it too because I heard him continue his way up the stairs.

“Alright. Goodnight then, I guess.”

“No, it's not.” I wrapped her up in a hug. “Lils, how could you think that? You let Fira get to you.”

“Why do you think it has to be Fira?”

“Because only the spawn of Satan could get something so untrue into your head. Don't listen to her. She's just in a snit because I don't find her remotely attractive.”

“That still doesn't change the fact that you didn't introduce me to a lot of the people there. I kept getting strange looks and I swear I saw people whispering about me.”

“I don't doubt it. Come on, let's sit.” We walked over to one of the couches and sat next to each other. “It was a social strategy. I didn't want everyone to know who you were. Mum and Dad agreed it was a good idea. Obviously, if someone came to talk to us we'd have to introduce you—it's just plain rude otherwise. But with a party that big, with people so influential, I could hardly go around introducing you.”

“You could have tried.”

“Yes, but I told you it was a strategy. Now when we have another party—next month by the way, in southern Wales—the gossip will have spread if it hasn't already.”

Lily didn't say anything, and I knew she hadn't caught on.

“Lils, it was a way of getting everyone to want more of you.”

“It's ridiculously complicated, James.”

“That's how the political life goes,” I snorted. “I've never before brought anyone outside of the circle to one of these things before. It's obvious that you're not some girl I picked up for a good shag.”

At this, I earned a smile from Lily that warmed me to my toes.

“Then shouldn't have you introduced me?”

“No, because now,” I whispered, “when you pop up again at another party, you'll be the very center of it.” I tipped her chin up. “But the thought of being ashamed of you has never entered my mind for even a second.”

Lily sighed. “Yeah, I know. It was stupid, but I couldn't help—”

“Shh.” I leaned down and kissed her, like I'd been longing to do for hours now, ever since we'd left my room. “Always remember, Lils, how beautiful I think you are.”

She touched her lips to mine again, crawling into my lap.

It'd felt so satisfying to have her in my bed. It's a fantasy I'd been toying with ever since I found out about the party and knew Lily would be going, and it was better than I'd expected.

Just heavenly.

She was my angel and I think she knew it. She knew just how whipped she had me. If she wanted the Crown Jewels, I wouldn't have stopped until I'd gotten them for her.

I deepened the kiss, learning every single crevice of her warm, delicious mouth.

“Lily. Come up to my room with me,” I whispered.

“But there's other people there. That's just… nasty.”

“I'll move them out of their bed. They can sleep on the couches tonight.”

She laughed a little. “No, there's no need. Really.”

I thought for a moment, then came up with the perfect solution.

“I know what to do. Come with me.” I stretched out my hand and took hers, hoisting her up. “I'm going to take you to a place where we'll be more alone than you could ever dream of.”

She looked weak for a moment, her eyelids going down. “Alright. Let's go.”

We made our way deep into the castle, to a corridor that is hardly ever passed and one that many students never even see in their time here. The room hidden there is even more of a secret, and of this moment I'm pretty sure only the Marauders know where it is. As far as professors go, I'm not sure.

But it's got its endless uses.

“What is this door?” Lily asked once I'd walked past three times and the door had appeared. “Where does it lead to?”

“You'll see.” I opened the door and let her go in first.

“This is your room.”

“Yeah.”

“Your real room?”

“Yes.”

She gave me a funny look. “What if someone comes in? Or if they hear?”

I took out my wand and locked the door. “My room's soundproof from the outside. I can hear outside but they can't hear me,” I said. “I've had the spell up for about four years. Mum and Dad never found out. It's useful for when the Marauders are doing things we aren't supposed to do.”

“Like what?”

“We've tried inventing a few things we shouldn't be working on,” I grinned. “Mum's wondered about the odd smells, but she's never quite figured it out.”

Lily's lips formed an “o” and she wrapped her arms around my neck. “Sounds naughty. What are we doing here, then?”

“I'm going to make love to you,” I smiled, dragging her toward my bed. “Nice and slow, like you deserve.”

“Hmm, sounds nice.”

“I'll try my best.”

*~*

A/N: Ok, I seriously enjoyed writing this chapter. It is by pure chance that I am able to post this today, because I discovered that I do have an internet connection at my dad's girlfriend's house—no matter that it's practically nothing and I have to squat in one of the corners, praying for a connection. BUT IT IS THERE! I feel proud.

But anyway, I really enjoyed writing the scene between Lily and Fira. I don't know why, but I love it when girls go at it (well, when one good girl everyone loves and another bitch that needs to get over herself go at it anyway). I got to introduce different characters and show how much better Lily is than everyone else.

Ooh, and James was particularly fine in this chapter. Sexy. Blah. I wish he really existed.

Moving on! Review, please!! I might not be able to post next weekend because I'm being dragged away to Halloween Horror Nights against my will. I'll try to post Friday, but… eh, time might not be something I've got. Will try my hardest, however.

Much love,

Natali K. A.

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7. My Bet Is...

Chapter Seven: My Bet Is Before The Story's Over

By Natali K. A.

-Lily's POV-

Oh my gosh.

Oh my fucking gosh.

“This is too good to be true,” I muttered, sitting up in bed. His bed. James' bed. Perfectly nice night, perfectly nice food, perfectly nice bitch to bug me, perfectly nice argument, and a perfectly nice shag.

I could hear the shower running, and had to worry about the strength of the charm on his room. Someone must hear something. I mean, water running through pipes all throughout the house has to make noise.

Well, what would I say, if we were found out?

“Yes, Mrs. Potter, we were shagging under your roof.”

I snickered as I imagined Mrs. Potter's response.

“I should bloody hope so. If I'm lucky, you'll get pregnant and the wedding will be all the more sooner.”

It would be so like her to say a thing like that.

“Are you planning on getting out of bed today, Miss Lily?” James asked, opening the bathroom door clad in just a towel tied around his waist.

“If I bloody feel like it, I will.” I stretched, all the while surveying James' bum as he searched in his closet for a shirt. “What's with this sudden sense of propriety, James? Take the damned towel off.”

He grinned at me. “Now, Lils, it won't do for you to be so commanding.”

I yawned lazily. “Take the towel off,” I repeated, lowering my voice and throwing the covers off of me. “Then come back to bed, baby.”

He turned around and looked sorely tempted for a moment. His eyes looked over my naked body with such pleasure that I felt myself blush. Gosh he's so hot.

“We need to get back to school,” he muttered. “I'd rather not have everyone yelling about, asking where we are. Doesn't take a genius.”

“They can't possibly know where we've got to, though,” I pointed out smartly. “What's the rush?”

“They might not know how, but they know what and why. Bad enough.”

“I don't care,” I shrugged.

“I do.”

“Can't see why.”

“Because the entire world doesn't need to know when we're off sleeping with each other, Lily,” he sighed. “I'm going back to the shower.”

“But you just—”

“A cold shower, you evil little strumpet. Sitting yourself like that on my bed, all innocent and naked.” He gave a cry of frustration. “We're never going to make it to school like that!”

I sat back on my heels, unable to keep a howl of laughter inside.

-----------------------

-Robert Potter's POV-

“Kathryn, did you manage to catch a word with James before he, Lily, and Sirius went back to school?” I asked my wife the morning after our party. I'd just stepped into the kitchen where she was already sipping her tea.

“No, dear. Did you?”

“Nope.”

“Ah. I'll make sure to pen him a letter later today then.” She took a sip of her tea, looking over its rim at me with a look that reminded me of why I married her. “Anything in particular you'd like me to say?”

“What is it that you're planning on saying?”

“The usual. If he's changing his underwear daily, if he's eating properly—”

“You'll never have to worry about his appetite. It's fine.”

“—if he's had a chance to realize that he needs to marry that girl and marry that girl soon as possible. You know, just the usual.” She grinned at me. “What do you make of it?”

“Sounds good,” I chuckled, pouring myself a cup of black coffee, as one of our servants had already made it. “Tell him that I want my cuff links back.”

“No, I meant about Lily Evans.”

I cocked my head to the side and squinted, thinking. “Well, that would depend.”

“On what exactly?”

“On which opinion you'd like.”

“What are they?”

“Spectacular and just right for the wife that James will no doubt need one day to run this house after we're old and decrepit. The other is so fan-fucking-tastic and perfect for him that he shouldn't let another day go by without making sure he's snatched her up. Women like those only come by once in a lifetime.”

“I was one of those, right dear?”

“Of course,” I replied smoothly, smiling. “As if you'd be anything different.”

“Never.”

“The only thing my mother ever disliked about you was that I was entirely too head over heels for you,” I pointed out, laughing a bit.

“The only thing?” Kathryn snapped. “That woman hated my very guts until the day she died. Even when I had James, she found reason to fault with me. Says his `crooked nose' comes from my side of the family.” I grinned at her as she practically threw her cup into the sink.

“Our son doesn't have a crooked nose, and if he does it's from my side,” I said soothingly. It always does give me some secret pleasure to see her so upset. Mother had always been a cool and difficult person to live with. She'd often gasped and asked how dare I place my wife over his own mother…

I would then look at my father who would automatically answer, “Any man who wants children knows to please his wife first, and then his mother. I did the same with you.”

To which my mother would shriek, “You can hardly compare me—me, who is always ready to lend a helping hand—to that wretched woman you call your mother! She was a pest!”

Oh, Mother, Mother…

I glanced back at my wife, who seemed to have cooled down a bit.

“Right, as for you being head over heels for me”—she beamed at me—“there is no better way to have it. Had I been in any better state, I would have thought to abuse your little crush on me.”

“Little?” I asked with raised eyebrow. “My `little crush' has resulted in nearly thirty-eight years of marriage and a certain son you like to dote on every now and again.”

She humphed. “Yes, well… I never said it was an unfortunate little crush, but you're little more than besotted. One day I'll get too old and wrinkled for you and you'll find some younger witch that can make your wand do things it hasn't done in years.” Her pretty blue eyes twinkled mischievously and I swear I fell in love with her all over again.

“Not to be crude, my love,” I said, lowering my voice in case any servants were about—wouldn't want to frighten them, “but my cock has not had a day's rest ever since we got married. And a bit before that, as well.”

“Robert!” Kathryn gasped, grabbing a hand towel that had been on the counter and swatting at me with it. “Go wash your mouth out with soap.” But I knew that when she turned around to replace the towel, she was grinning anyway.

“Want to place a bet?” I asked.

“On what?”

“How long it takes them to get engaged. I'd say get married, but you know how these young things nowadays like to put it off for a year or so. I can't wait that long.”

Kathryn considered it, then nodded. “Under a month, and if not, on the day they get off the Hogwarts Express for the last time. Three-hundred galleons.”

I gave a low whistle. “Heavy bet there, Kathy. Sure you're up for it?”

“Not like I'm going to starve anytime soon or anything,” she scowled. “Are you in? You need to name a specific time period that does not include my own.”

I nodded, pondering. “I say under six months after they graduate, and then the hours after their actual graduation. The ceremony, I mean.”

Kathy nodded. “Good choices. Very specific. But do you really think it'll take them that long? James isn't a very patient person. I highly doubt that Lily is either, and she most certainly will not wait so long for a proposal once she sees that it's the only thing to do.”

“Do you really think he'll propose at Kings' Cross?” I laughed. “I've never heard of such a corny proposal in my life! James is a charmer, but he isn't disgustingly corny either, Kathy. How well do you know your son?”

“Here is my reasoning. They will get so caught up in the moment, so afraid that they might lose whatever it is they've had all year long and suddenly he'll see there's only one thing for it.” She picked up one of the apples that had been in a bowl and bit into it. “He'll ask her in a spur of the moment sort of thing, but he'll have the ring on him.”

“Why?” I asked, amused. She had a good point. I'd asked her in much the same way, only in different circumstances. She had been about to go off to her distant aunt's house straight out of school because her father thought I hadn't been serious about marrying her (conflict of station, long story), in order to find someone else. And the only way I could think of to stop her from doing so was to ask her to marry me.

Worked, didn't it?

Kathy crossed her arms satisfactorily. “Why, because he'd realized back a month after the party last night that he wanted to marry her and was just keeping it warm. He'd probably almost left it in his room and had gone up last minute to retrieve it and had had to slip it into his pocket for lack of a trunk.”

I raised a brow. “That's far-fetched, Kath.”

“So was your coming to my rescue thirty-eight years ago,” she smirked. “But you came, didn't you? And with a very important question as well. Imagine my luck.”

“Luck my arse, you planned the entire thing!” I laughed. “Fine. If that happens, Kathy—just as you say it will and every bit, including that part about him almost forgetting the ring—then not only will I give you 300 galleons, but I'll also cook for you every day for a month and give you foot massages once a week for a year.”

The confident look on her face almost made me regret that. Of course, I'd probably end up doing most of that without betting it (love cooking and I love making her feel better, even if it's feet), but it felt very obligatory suddenly.

“Deal.”

---------------

-Three Days Later, James' POV-

“My parents are incredible,” I sighed to Sirius, throwing myself onto my bed. “You won't guess what they've just written.”

“To marry Lily?” he asked offhandedly, studying his shoes. “Which pair goes best with that mustard yellow shirt I've got, Prongs? With the black slacks.”

“I like your penny loafers myself,” I answered automatically. This was my usual response. He knew how clueless I was about fashion, especially about what matched with mustard yellow. What had possessed him when he'd bought that shirt? He looked like a giant walking bogey in it.

“As for your little dramatic entrance,” Sirius said, turning this way and that in front of his full-length mirror, “my guess is that your parents have written you saying how much they want you to marry Lily, and how it should be A.S.A.P., without delay. Though I'm sure your mother added something about your parents having placed a bet on when you get engaged, but not to feel pressured. And then Bobby's handwriting would pop up, saying something which your mum scratched out. Am I close?”

“You've been reading my mail again, have you?” I asked dryly.

“I have.”

“Good, I don't have to explain it all to you. What do you think?”

“I agree. It's a good bet to make.”

“What do you mean?”

Sirius turned around and gave me a hard stare. “Well, it's sort of bloody obvious the two of you are getting married, therefore engaged. It's only a question of when. We don't think it'll take too long—you're not a patient sort of chap, Prongs, and anyhow, true love conquers any qualms about losing your freedom. So, it's just a question of when. I think you should wait, however, until the next party if you are thinking about it. Or at least until a party. Girls love that.”

I glared at my supposed best mate. “You bet on our engagement, didn't you?”

“Yes, and be a dear, would you? There's 300 galleons on the line, and not to be blunt, but your parents hardly need the money.” He began to head for the door.

“Sirius, what would you do with 600 galleons?” I asked curiously, though a bit afraid to do so. I wasn't so sure I wanted to know the answer.

“Buy that bike I've always wanted and buy Fira's pain in the arse of a father out of his position.” With a wink, Sirius left.

“Faggot,” I muttered under my breath. “Bloody faggot.”

------------------

-Letter to Mr. and Mrs. Potter, written later that evening…-

To Mr. and Mrs. Potter,

These are the bets we'd like to place. Please put us down.

Ariana: 20 galleons they get engaged before school ends but don't say a word of it until sometime during the summer.

Remus: 50 galleons it's in the month of July. (With the exclusion of July 5th, as I'd like to trade that in return for August 5th.)

Chloe: 30 galleons, ten knuts that they're engaged before August, and Lily gets pregnant. Expectedly or unexpectedly.

Peter: 2 knuts they don't.

*~*

A/N: Late, Wilma, etc. I just got power back early this morning, but I posted as soon as I could (I had to actually write it. Thankfully, I already had an idea of what I wanted to do…). Um, the reason I didn't do smut in this chapter is simple: I did it in White Houses. I don't have the energy to come up with two good smut scenes! Maybe next chappie? Who knows.

Be warned. Cazzy is my assassin. This goes for all stories, however, and not just A Budding Romance. She says no one is allowed to flame. I give a bit more freedom here in my realm of fanfiction, but as Caz would no doubt be a duchess or something in my little monarchy (or perhaps tyranny, I don't know, ha ha!), I would fear her wrath. I am also here to warn against Amanda's wrath. Let me assure you, these are not people I'd cross. As I'm on their good side (so long as I update on time), I am safe, but I fear for my people! Lol. Wow. It's 3 a.m., forgive the hyper-ness. Right. But they can badger me without getting on my bad side. Tell me then, how good are they at it? (Answer: Very) They use just the right amount of guilt, too…

To Janine: No, chapter five was not their first time together sexually. Sorry if I gave that impression. Just their first time together in his bed (I might be making up a male fantasy here. My silly little romance novels have given me the impression that men have some sort of possessive issue with the women they love and want desperately to make love in his bed. I don't know, shows ownership or something. Perhaps it goes back to the primitive “This woman mine” days… Again, might be incorrect. But as I don't have male genitals, we can hardly blame me, can we? But I shall alert you if and when I ever do acquire those—I do not plan to do so, however).

Thanks for your patience and your reviews, as well as those I intend on receiving tomorrow morning (or later this morning, more specifically), all filling up my inbox.

Hint, hint.

To Amanda, Goddess of White Houses: Yes, I know I said I wouldn't post just yet, until I was sure you were asleep as to not distract you. But I couldn't help myself. If you're reading this before having gone to school on Wednesday, October 26, 2005, YOU ARE IN BIG TROUBLE, MISSY! Beware the wrath of the Goddess of Bed-Pissing Dogs!! Lol. Just kidding. But seriously. Homework!!

Natali K. A.

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8. The Waltz

Chapter Eight: The Waltz

By Natali K. A.

-Lily's POV-

“Lily?”

My head snapped up, looking around to see who had called my name. (Well, not quite true. I knew who had called for me I just didn't know where James happened to be.)

“Yes, James?” I replied, digging around in my jewelry box again. I couldn't find these blasted earrings and they were being such a terrible bother!

“Are you ready to go?” He stepped out of his walk-in closet (lucky bastard), in the process of tying his tie. “Mum and Dad've already left, and while it's great to be fashionably late, you can only stretch it so far.”

“I can't find the emeralds my father gave me for my tenth birthday,” I muttered. “It's the only thing that goes with this dress. I knew I should've laid them out beforehand…”

James sighed a little and walked over to where I was sitting. Opening the last drawer, his fingers went in and came back out with my emerald earrings.

“Why, thank you, sweetheart.” I stretched up and gave him a pop kiss. “Will you put the necklace on me?”

He did as I asked—what a good little boy he is. But the look he was giving my reflection in the mirror was nothing boyish in the least.

“You look amazing.”

I smiled up at him. I was officially ready to go to my second political party now and James had assured me that by the end of tonight, everyone would be all over me.

Surprisingly, I'd received a letter from Dahlia a week after that first party, inviting me to go shopping in Paris with a bunch of the girls I'd met that night. Unfortunately, Fira was not there.

I had been in the mood to bitch at her.

Sirius had assured me she'd be in attendance tonight. Along with this promise was the warning that Fira wouldn't be afraid of making a pass at James right in front of my nose. He also told me how to retaliate.

I believe his exact words were somewhere in the neighborhood of being very firm but clear all while remaining polite and telling her to fuck off.

I adore how Sirius doesn't mince words.

The day shopping in Paris had been delightful. Unbeknownst to me, James had supplied Dahlia with money to buy me whatever caught my eye. As a result, I now have more clothes than I know what to do with. I would've been extremely upset with James had he not begged my forgiveness, saying that he couldn't bare to think of me roaming Paris without having the liberty of buying whatever caught my fancy.

(Dahlia didn't shirk at the task either. I am now the proud owner of a camel which resides somewhere in Saudi Arabia. When I said I wondered what it was like to have one, I did not literally mean I wanted one. The camel's name is Armeg. I made it up—it cost an arm and a leg.)

“Hang on tight,” James told me as I grabbed his arm in order to apparate with him.

Three seconds later, we were in the house of some duke or earl or something of Wales.

Oh, my. Lots of people.

-----------

-Sirius' POV-

“There they are,” I muttered to Bobby and Kathy. “God only knows what took them so long.” We watched as James walked over to us, the beautiful flower—the topic of all conversations now—on his arm.

I wonder if the Potters know that James and Lily spent the night in his room…? Probably not. We have always been excellent at charms and the one on his room is no different.

“Lily, dear!” Kathy exclaimed, practically pushing Bobby aside to get to her. “You look fantastic. Did you buy that on your Parisian excursion?”

“I didn't know you knew about that.”

“Of course I did. The mothers are always in touch.”

“I didn't actually,” Lily said, kissing Kathy's and then Bobby's cheeks. She gave me a little hug. “James bought it for me.”

“James, since when do you have fashion sense?” I asked cheekily.

“She means she got it in Paris but I supplied the money,” James muttered, glancing around. “I think we should get started introducing her, don't you? The French countess is here, isn't she?”

“There in the corner,” I replied. “I'll let you go. I have someone I want to bother.”

Bobby raised a brow at me. “Leave Miss Fira alone, Sirius.”

I shrugged. “If she gets in my way, she will regret it.”

I walked off, fuming once again. How dare she make that jibe about my family? It's no secret, obviously, that I'm estranged from my crazy family but there was no reason to bring the Potters into it.

I think that it's time, once and for all, to tell Fira exactly what she is to James and what she isn't. But for the sake of Mr. and Mrs. Potter—and Lily, who would no doubt get some of the stray bullets from Fira's few faithfuls—I'll let Fira make the first move.

“Black, come on over.”

Alright, so I purposely walked past her.

“Yes, Fira?” I asked tersely. Oh, please let her give me a reason… Anything will do.

“Jenkinson here seems to be of the opinion that I was purposely making a stab at the rift between you and your family, but I insist that I wasn't. Please correct him?” She smiled prettily at me, daring me with her eyes to contradict her.

How she underestimates me.

“Not only was she bringing out my family history, Jenkinson, she was also dirtying the Potters' fine name by saying they encouraged it,” I told the man flatly. “You see, Fira's been peeved for years because James won't have sex with her. One can't blame her, I suppose, her being the little slut that she is. Now that Lily Evans is in the picture—you should stop by and meet her, she's a dear—she wants to tarnish the Potter family name as much as possible so they won't be respected.” I turned then to Fira. “But you are very mistaken if you think people will actually care.”

Without awaiting a response, I turned on my heel and headed back in the direction of Lily and James, my job completed.

It wouldn't have been more satisfying if I'd been able to physically slap her. Though that's always a thought... I am only so much a gentleman, after all.

---------------

-James' POV-

“James, you have to let me dance with her,” Charles Smith said when a waltz started up. “I hope you'll let me steal her for just a dance.”

“Sorry, Charles, I'm quite possessive about her,” I shrugged, knowing he'd understand. Good ol' Charles. “You're lucky I let you talk to her.”

Lily sniffed indignantly. “Thank you for giving me my own choice, James.”

“Anytime, Lils.”

“If you won't let Charles dance with her, I suggest that you go and do it yourself. I can see several men heading in this direction,” Sirius muttered, sipping some whiskey he'd nicked from a House Elf.

“Lily?” I asked, taking her hand in mine. The party was almost over, thankfully. If I have to put up with anymore winks and nudges or compliments I'm going to hang myself.

“I don't know how to waltz,” Lily hissed. “Why are you dragging me out on the dance floor?”

“It's easy. Anyhow, I'm good enough for the two of us. Just follow my lead,” I muttered. I found an empty spot and drew her close to me. I began dancing and she caught the hang of it eventually. She definitely wasn't a professional, but she was passably good. I even got a giggle out of her when I whirled around a corner sharply.

“I could get used to this,” Lily said, relaxing enough to enjoy the dance. “These parties aren't as boring as you think they are.”

“After seventeen years, I think you'll find them dull,” I grumbled. Ah, my mouth is loose from drinking those cups of wine… “But I'm glad you like them. I'm hoping you'll be accompanying me from here on out.”

“That's a lot of parties,” Lily replied, leaning her head on my shoulder.

“I know.”

“I'd be happy to come with you and entertain you.”

“I'm glad to hear it.” I want very badly to kiss her or something, but with everyone looking on… I sighed, loathing every single person that was standing in my way of kissing her. “I love you,” I blurted out in compensation.

Oh. Hmm.

“I love you, too,” she whispered.

We finished out the song like that, after which we made our way back to our group as if nothing had happened.

And perhaps nothing really had. I don't think the words really needed to be said. I'd known she loved me—I didn't need it spelled out for me. But there was, however, something very official about stating it aloud.

I think it was then that I realized I wanted to marry her, and that I would very soon. Not sure when, but soon. Ideas started formulating in my head as to when I'd go buy the ring—with Sirius by my side since he is the stylish faggot of the group and all—and how proud I'd be when she finally wore it.

“Sirius, mate,” I muttered, drawing him aside a little. “Leave next weekend open, alright?”

Sirius raised an eyebrow. “Oh? I was wondering how long it'd take you to figure it out. I've been leaving my weekends open for a few weeks now.”

I glared at him. “You think you know me so well, don't you? What made you think that you'd be invited to come along?”

“Because you have terrible taste, James,” Sirius said flatly. “Duh.”

I punched him, not at all nicely, and he grimaced obligingly.

“I shouldn't let you go, just for that. Remus doesn't have too bad of an eye, you know.”

“Ha! Remus would probably get something even uglier than you would. Remus can dress himself just fine, but I assure you that he can't pick out jewelry,” Sirius snorted. “What are you looking for exactly and how much are you willing to spend?”

“Shut up,” I snapped, making sure Lily hadn't heard. She hadn't; she'd been too busy talking to Dahlia and showing off her dress. “You know very well I'll probably put myself in debt for it. It doesn't matter. We'll talk about this later, eh?”

“Done deal,” Sirius grinned. “When are you going to ask?”

“I don't know, leave me alone.”

“Are you going to take her to dinner?”

“How should I know?”

“Are you gonna get down on bended knee?”

“Sirius, I am not discussing this anymore.” I turned and began talking to one of my father's friends, Sirius' chuckle irritating me.

Idiot.

------------------

-Fira's POV-

“Go on over, Fira,” one of my friends, Stacey, whispered. “You're never going to get him alone; she's been stuck to his side all night.”

“If my father hadn't just had to introduce me to that old coot Warrington, I would have gone over while that whore danced with Mr. Potter,” I grumbled, pissed off at my waste of a father.

“Well, she's busy talking to Dahlia and that crowd. She won't even notice you.”

“I doubt that. She's an evil, conniving little—Ugh, there's not even an insult bad enough to describe her!” I hissed angrily. “But no matter, it's not like I care. I give it another month and she'll be gone and barely even a memory. It takes more than pretty looks and a low cut dress to keep up with us—though I, personally, think she's hideous.”

“Fira, you're my mate and everything,” Stacey told me, “but that girl's gorgeous. There's no doubt about it.”

I glared at her. “Go suck your dad's balls.” I headed for James, convinced that I would get him to shag me. The reason he's never said no is because he's such a gentleman or doesn't wish his parents to know. But at the moment, his parents are nowhere near him and I'll relieve him of any such silly concerns as manners.

The bedroom is no place for manners. Though I don't restrict myself solely to a bed.

“James,” I smiled, using my most winning smile. I put my hand on his arm and leaned close. He gave me the strangest look but didn't pull away—a sign that he has no wish to!

“There is this lovely little backroom,” I whispered into his ear, “where no one goes and there's sure to be a lot of privacy.”

“Is there really?”

Hmm. Had I known any better, I would have said he was… uninterested. How silly.

“Yes, really,” I giggled. “Come check it out with me, would you? I've always wanted to explore it, but I am so afraid of dark places.”

“Fira, I really don't think that would be such a great idea. You'll have to ask your father to take you or something like that.”

Was that an insult?

My smile began to strain. I decided to play myself up a little more. I let my breast touch his arm.

“Fira. How lovely to see you again. You mustn't have seen me earlier, because you completely ignored me,” Lily interrupted, disengaging me from James to give me a hug.

The bitch!

“Yes, I'm afraid I missed you. How have you been?” I asked dryly.

“Great and yourself? Oh, do come with me to speak to your friend there, Stacey was it? I've just finished hearing that she collects dolls.” She steered me away from James, to my annoyance.

The little skank. I hope she rots in hell.

“Stacey? It's a silly thing really,” I snapped, not bothering to contain my hatred. We reached Stacey. “I didn't know you were interested in things like that, Lily.”

Lily nodded, an evil smile on her lips. “If it's a silly little hobby and just something Stacey collects on the side, I do pray you'll excuse me. I left Dahlia in the middle of a thrilling tale and I promised I'd be back. Stacey, I would, however, love to hear about your doll collection at a later time. Later, girls.”

My eyes bore holes through her retreating back, and I wished with all my might that her ugly little red head would just pop off or some bloody thing like that!!

“What do you mean `silly'? My collection isn't silly! Is that what you really think, Fira?” Stacey gasped. “All the others are right.”

“Right about what exactly?” I rolled my eyes.

“You are a self-centered, lying skank whore bitch,” Stacey said in a whisper, eyes narrowed. “Excuse me, I've got better people to chat with.”

Who said that about me?!

------------------

-Chloe's POV-

I drew my robe tighter around me as I stepped down into the common room. Sirius Black was there, looking at some weird piece of parchment.

“You're up late,” I yawned. “Or did you just get up like me?”

Sirius started and looked at his watch. “Wow, I hadn't noticed it was past four.” He shrugged, rolling up the parchment. It intrigued me because I knew he was hiding something, even though he'd been very nonchalant about it. “Couldn't sleep?” he asked.

“I was sleeping fine until Ariana started snoring loudly,” I growled. “It's not her fault, I suppose. She's got sinuses again. But it was irritating nonetheless. What about you?”

“I suffer from insomnia.”

“I didn't know.”

He smiled. “Usually I stay up in the dormitory, but… Well, James and Lily were up there.”

I snickered. “Yes, I know. She never came in last night. Didn't they put a Silencing Charm though?”

“Oh, of course, but it creeps me out anyway,” he shuddered. “Have a seat, Chloe.” He patted the couch next to him and I plopped down, yawning again.

“Was the party fun?”

“Not really. It never is. I don't know why I even bother going anymore.”

“I say you enjoy it even though you won't admit it. It must be nice.”

“It lost its novelty long ago,” he said under his breath. “Unfortunately, I think I still go because it's a link to my old life and my family, no matter how much I dislike them. It's still a part of me.”

I nodded. “So, this girl you've told me about. Fara?”

“Fira. Yeah, what about the ogre?”

I suppressed a grin. “I've heard nasty little stories from Lily—all from that one night and one party! Did she act up tonight in any way?”

“Of course. Tried to get James to sleep with her. Again. As always.”

“What did he say?”

Sirius snorted. “Didn't have to say a word—didn't get the chance. Lily stepped in and redirected her back to her friend, who stormed off just seconds after. She got less than she deserved, but I'm satisfied for now.”

I smiled proudly. “Lily's such a strong person. I'd be afraid to go against her in a fight. Or at least, if she disliked me. I fight with her often enough, but we like each other.”

He nodded. “Uneventful otherwise. She was a big hit, as ever.”

“Very attractive personality. James too.”

“And me?”

“You too,” I laughed. “You especially. So now she's like the most interesting this since the self-destructing letter?”

“In a sense. She was definitely the topic of conversation tonight. The dress sure did help.”

“She did look spectacular,” I said, not without a hint of envy in my voice. Lily always got to go to all the exciting parties in the amazing dresses with a handsome man.

I sensed his gaze and turned to look at him curiously.

“I would be very honored if you came with me to the next party.”

Oh, well if that just isn't a big surprise!

“No, Sirius, I couldn't,” I said nervously. “I wouldn't know how to act, I—”

“You just act like yourself.”

“Sirius, no, I—”

“Please? They're becoming increasingly dull now that James is off seducing Lily and we don't play pranks.” He gave me his favorite puppy dog eyes and I couldn't resist.

What witch could??

“Alright,” I groaned. “I'll go with you. But only if you're absolutely sure!”

“I am,” he said happily, laying his head on my shoulder. “I think I'm going to sleep now. You're welcome to use my good-looking self to lean on if you'd like.”

I rolled my eyes. He's so arrogant.

So damn sexy.

*~*

A/N: Still on time!!! I have more than half an hour left till midnight and it's still Saturday!!! No apologies, because it's on time!!

I do, however, apologize for last week. My laptop was absent from me, and the story had been started here and yeah. Anyone who knows me knows I'm too lazy to rewrite it, lol.

As for “oz” (dontcare89), thank you for reminding me to post, and you were not being pushy at all.

Mucho love to all who review,

JOSH GROBAN IS LOVE!!!!!

Natali K. A.

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9. Monopoly and Strip Poker

Chapter Nine: Monopoly and Strip Poker

By Natali K. A.

-Lily's POV-

I sighed, very sad. My school life is officially over, and I'll never be a student again. Off to the real world.

Damned real world.

“Where's James?” Chloe asked as she helped Ari drag her trunk off the train. “I thought you were going to ride back together.”

“So did I,” I muttered. “Whatever. Probably off playing pranks on some poor soul. Or Snape.”

Ari nodded. “Well, you might be perfectly okay with it, but I for one am a bit peeved that Remus didn't so much as tell me he'd be off somewhere else.”

“You'll get over it,” Chloe and I said simultaneously. I kicked my trunk for lack of anything better to do.

In all honesty, I was a little upset. I mean, I did want to share our last train ride together—perhaps christen the train and scratch that off our list of places we want to shag. But I guess it just wasn't meant to be.

“Lily!”

I turned around, smiling. Kathy walked up to me and gave me a big hug with a kiss on either cheek, “Bobby” not far behind her.

“Have you seen our misfit of a son? We promised him we'd take him out to his favorite restaurant tonight,” Robert said, glancing around.

“No, I don't know,” I said, feeling my irritation again. Where the devil was he? “We were supposed to sit together on the train but I haven't seen him since breakfast. For all I know, he got left behind at school. Or he's chained himself to a desk, refusing to leave.”

“Good chance of that,” Kathy laughed.

“I've got to go though. Promised my parents I'd be home as soon as I could.” I bent down to grab my trunk.

“We'll expect you later then?”

I looked up at her. “Later? Why later?”

“Well, you're coming to dinner too! James told you that, didn't he?”

I couldn't help but notice the look that she and Robert shared. Huh, wonder what that's supposed to mean?

“He must have forgotten to mention it.” How strange. I knew very well he'd been on that train and he'd simply chosen to ditch me. Same as he'd simply chosen not to tell me of our supposed plans for dinner that night.

“Do come,” Kathy murmured, looking as concerned as I felt. “Idiot son of mine.” Her eyes focused on something over my shoulder. “Speak of the devil. So nice of you to finally show up, James.”

“Quite,” I said dryly. “I have to go. You didn't tell me about dinner.”

“Sorry, I just—”

“Forgot, yes, I know,” I said bitterly. “I've got to go, the parents are expecting me.” I was just about to disapparate in a very unhappy mood when he stuck out his hand to stop me.

“Hang on, I've got to apologize. I almost forgot something in my room so I had to run back at the last minute. I just caught the train. By then, Sirius, Remus, and Peter had convinced me to go frolicking around, wreaking havoc for the last time without major consequences. Got quite a lot accomplished.”

“No, that's just fine,” I said stiffly. I saw the look Kathy gave Robert and almost asked what she was thinking but then thought better of it. I'm not entirely sure that I really want to know.

“Don't be cross,” he begged, taking my hand and kissing it. “You will come tonight to dinner, won't you?”

“We'll see. I've got parents too, you know,” I snapped, instantly regretting it. He looked genuinely hurt and apologetic.

“Yeah, `course. Senseless of me.”

By then, the others had moved away either to speak to other graduates of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry or because they sensed we needed some privacy.

“Sorry I'm cranky. But you could have at least told me something. I waited half the trip before I finally gave up on your coming. I would have let you go off and cause mayhem and mischief,” I hissed. “I understand that you and your mates needed to bond.”

“I'm going to miss you,” he said randomly, kissing my hand again. “A lot.”

“James, we're not breaking up, last time I checked.”

Oh, fuck. Don't suppose that that's what he's here to say? Oh, I'll castrate him if he does! It's going just fine and I'm perfectly happy and whatever problems he's having he's just going to have to suck up!

“No, no, naturally. It's just going to be different. We're not going to be living under the same roof any more,” he explained, eyes browsing through the crowd.

I nodded, feeling forgiveness creep into my heart. The bugger was being completely truthful and sincere. Bugger.

“We'll see each other loads,” I promised, pulling him into a tight hug. I realized then that I'd miss him just as much. It would all change, no matter how hard we tried to keep it from doing so. That's the way things go. It's a rule of life.

---------

-James' POV-

“Marry me,” I whispered into her ear. The sky could've fallen on my head then and I wouldn't have noticed. I was only focusing on Lily.

“What?” she stuttered.

I reached into my pants pocket and pulled out the ring I'd almost left behind—like the nitwit that I am—and slipped it onto one of her tapered fingers.

“James, we—I—It's just… Oh, I don't…”

I grabbed her and kissed her, not knowing what to do. If she was doubtful in any way, I would probably lose my life right then, especially as I'd never known such a sure thing before. I wanted to marry her and I would, whether she consented to it or not.

She brought her hand up to face level once I'd released her and blinked back tears.

“You're a rotten man.” She sighed, throwing her arms around my neck. “Alright, yes. Let's do this.”

I couldn't restrain myself. I gave a gleeful whoop, attracting the attention of everyone still on the platform. I twirled her, laughing and kissing her. I heard vaguely in the background my mother demanding that my father pay up some money, but I didn't really understand it. Didn't care to.

“Nothing short of death is going to keep me from marrying you, so there's no turning back. That's it. You're committed,” I said in one happy rush, kissing her multiple times in between.

----------

-Ariana's POV-

Two months out of Hogwarts, and this is where we are—baking biscuits and throwing a concert for the pots and pans?

Bloody hell, how did we ever make it through seven years of school? And who in their right mind would have ever made Lily Head Girl?

While Chloe sang way off key, prancing around the kitchen like the twit that she is, I leant over to Lily while we prepared our fourth batch.

“Are you two gonna move in together or not?” I asked, slipping a bit of the raw dough into my mouth.

“Wouldn't know. Haven't talked about it. Haven't really mentioned our engagement at all except to tell anyone we can that we're engaged,” Lily said brightly. “No rush, after all.”

I snorted. No rush? Sure. Says the one who got engaged soon as she got off the Hogwarts Express. No rush my arse.

“But you're going away together? Don't you think you should be having this conversation some time soon?” Chloe asked nosily, reaching over my shoulder to grab a ball of dough of the sheet and shove it in her mouth.

“We are going away together. It's not exactly like a pre-honeymoon sort of thing. It's six mates going down to Brighton and lounging around.”

Chloe and I caught each other's eye and smirked. Sure. Just “lounging”. I doubt that we'll even see Lily and James out of their room for more than twenty minutes except to eat—if even that. There's always room service, after all.

“Might as well move in, you know. You practically live here as it is,” I piped up. “Tad uncomfortable with his parents and all, but I'm sure these walls are soundproof.”

“Shut up,” Lily hissed. “There's loads of servants wandering about. Could you just close your mouth?” She closed the oven door. “Anyway, what'll my parents think? Daddy can barely handle that I'm engaged. He almost went into a rage. Don't see what the big deal is, but I think he's still ticked off from Petunia eloping.”

Chloe snickered. As I'd never had the grand pleasure of meeting Petunia though she had, apparently it was some great joke. From all I'd heard, it was quite an ordeal.

Suddenly, the door of the kitchen opened and three very sweaty males walked through, heading directly for the pile of biscuits we'd already had laid out.

“No, you are not touching them!” Lily shrieked, running towards James with a wooden spoon and whacking his knuckles.

“Ow! Why not, they're baked in my house!”

“They're for the girls later this afternoon. Get your nasty hands away from them. If there's any left over, you can have some.” She stood on tiptoe and gave him a peck on the lips. “You're smelly. Go up and shower.” She turned to Remus and Sirius. “You two, as well. Grab one of the guest room bathrooms and change. You'll stink up the house.”

They grumbled, but you could tell they didn't really mind. Probably had something to do with the fact that Sirius had swiped about ten biscuits from a plate behind Lily when she wasn't cooking.

“Fun game?” I called after them.

“Very,” Remus replied.

“They were so very filthy,” Chloe said, scrunching her nose. “I've never seen guys get so messy playing Quidditch. It's almost as if they do it on purpose. You're in the air for heaven's sake, why is there dirt on them?!”

“You look just as bad at times. You know, you and your Quidditch playing self,” I sniffed. Still can't understand why she would want to straddle a broom and ride on it through the air, waving a big ugly bat at people and trying to knock them off their brooms. It's just no sport for a girl!

Chloe rolled her eyes and gave me a not-so-gentle shove. “Fuck off, Ari. I'm not having this argument again. Anyway, you won't have to see me play anymore. Any games I have will not be in your vicinity.” Under her breath, she added, “You're just mad because my legs are nicer than yours as a result.”

“I am not! You have a man's legs, Clo! All muscular and—”

“Stuff it, both of you,” Lily interrupted. “Ari, for the billionth time, leave Chloe alone about Quidditch. Chloe, you shouldn't even have brought it up. Let sleeping dogs lie, will you? Ugh, what are you, eight?”

Both Chloe and I grumbled grudgingly, but we did eventually let it alone.

----------

-Natali's POV-

Now, as an author, this leaves me in quite a difficult position. Should I or shouldn't I post this small portion of my own thoughts and everything that I would have said?

Ah, oh hell. My story, my rules.

The story. Right.

They're all playing Monopoly right (which James can't pronounce right. He keeps calling it “Mo-no-ply” or “Monpoly” and once even “Morepoley”, which, of course, angers Lily because it's easy enough to say and oh, why can't he put some effort into learning muggle ways?) now, and I seat myself at an empty, fluffy armchair that happens to recline and has a nice can of diet coke waiting for me.

“Naw!” Lily shrieked, reaching over and grabbing the piece from James' hand. “You can't do that! It's against the rules.”

James shrugged, chuckling, and skipped three spaces just to piss her off. After all, fighting is what James and Lily do best.

“Ja-ames,” Lily whined, pouting. “Guys, tell him he can't do that.”

“Dunno, Lily,” Remus sighed. “James is above the law.”

“Are you out of your mind?! He is not above the law!”

“No, Remus is perfectly right,” Ari said rationally, patting James on the head. “The dear really is. You see, when you're an old wizarding family like the Potters, you tend to have the power to bend the rules to your will.”

“But that's a double standard! How very… Pureblood of them all!” Lily gasped.

Chloe gave her an askance look. “Lils, you'll be a Potter. You'll have that very same power.”

“Behold, Lily,” James said, picking up her left hand. “The power.” She supposed he meant the ring.

I know he meant the ring, which symbolizes their impending marriage. Why? Because I wrote it!

I scratched my chin, thinking. Something was very, very the matter here. But what could it be?

Pop!

“Uh…” Amanda looked around suspiciously. “Where am I?”

“My story,” I replied. “I need your help.”

“Omigosh, is that James!” she squealed, running over to pour loving kisses all over James. After I pulled her away (I had to threaten her with adding James to our list of castrations if she continued), I decided the Potter drawing room needed another chair and suddenly there was one.

How utterly beautiful.

“What's wrong with this picture?”

“James isn't naked,” Amanda said instantly.

I thought it over. “Good point. Nor is Sirius or Remus.”

Pop!

Cazzy smiled at me from my left. “If they get naked, this story might go XXX rated.”

“You and your slash,” I rolled my eyes. “Save that for our fic.” I snapped my fingers and instantly the three males were naked in all their splendor.

Yum.

“But why are they naked?” Cazzy asked, cocking her head to the side.

Amanda and I glared at her, though she responded for me.

“The Marauders don't need a reason to go naked. Except Peter. Peter should never allowed to show even an inch of skin.”

“Something's still bugging me about this scene,” I sighed, putting my chin in my hand and watching the six interact with each other. “And Caz is right—they do have to have a reason to be naked because this is a story and a story has to have some sort of plot and reasons and… Yeah. It's a huge mess, really.”

They nodded simultaneously and a ribbit was heard behind my armchair.

“Sorry,” Cazzy giggled. “Natali snuck in with me.”

I narrowed my eyes. “No frogs allowed in my fic.”

“I've got it!” Amanda cried suddenly, standing up (though we all knew it was to get a better look of James). “Strip poker!”

Ah-hah.

“Alright, thanks,” I smiled. “We can go now.”

------

-Sirius' POV-

Humiliation. Utter humiliation.

Lily, Chloe, and Ari were all laughing… laughing… laughing their oh-so-amused arses off.

“You lot,” I said through gritted teeth, glaring at James and Remus, “are the absolute worst poker players I've ever seen. I think there should be some sort of law stating that you're never ever to go near a deck of cards ever again.”

“It's been a great pleasure playing,” Lily said with a smug smile on her face. “But we'll be going up to bed now, as we've got to wake up early to leave on our vacation. And I do suggest you three do the same.” She sat up a bit straighter. “A bit chilly, Remus?”

“Oh, shut up!” Remus hissed, grabbing a pillow off the couch and holding it over his privates. “You're conniving little things, did you know? Yes, you. Don't look at me all innocently, Ari. Now I know your true self!”

Then, with all the elegance and self-assurance in the world, the girls left us to our naked selves.

I started snickering. “Do you think that we really care about taking our clothes off?”

“Yep,” James and Remus chorused, standing up. I joined them.

Remus was staring down at himself. “I do not look cold. Tell your girlfriend to go… I don't know what, but to leave me the hell alone.”

James and I looked at each other and burst out laughing, accidentally knocking all the chips off the card table.

Not cold indeed.

*~*

A/N: Yes, sorry, late. One thing: that my POV thing?? One time thing. I don't know, the notion appealed to me. And… well, sorry. Feel free to ignore it completely.

Much love and happy belated Spanksgiving!

NKA

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