The Year It All Changed

x0xJames_Potter

Rating: PG
Genres: Romance
Relationships: Lily & James
Book: Lily & James, Books 1 - 6
Published: 19/01/2006
Last Updated: 24/01/2006
Status: paused

Follow the Marauders through their sixth year, with the ups and down, tears and laughter, confusion, love and hatred. (I still suck at summaries) Excerpt from the fourth chapter: “Lily! Hey Lily!” James hurried to catch up with her. She was walking with Davies. “Could I talk to you for a moment? It's quite important.” Lily sighed, looked at Adam and then nodded. “Alright Potter, but I only have a few seconds.” “Okay.” James led her a few feet away and then said, “We need to meet up in the Three Broomsticks…” Lily cut him off. “For heaven's sake Potter! I am on a date! I will not meet up with you in the middle. I am surprised you thought that I would meet…”

Chapters

1. Chapter One

2. Chapter Two

3. Chapter Three

4. Chapter Four

5. Chapter Five

1. Chapter One

The Year It All Changed

Disclaimer: Everything you recognize is JKR's.

A/N: Please review ^^

If it's veeeeeery terrible, blame education. I'm having end of semester exams and I decided to write it anyway.

I'll post the next chapter as soon as I can.

-x-

Chapter 1

James winced at the sunlight pouring in through the open window. “Damn sun.” he muttered, moving his right hand, hitting Sirius squarely in the face. The latter leapt out of bed yelling bloody murder about carnivorous steaks. James grinned, despite being up at an unearthly hour of the day and unwillingly at that.

“Padfoot, mate, I think you had a little too much to eat last night.” James joked, untangling himself from the sheets wrapped around him and stood up. He shook Remus who was on his left, none too gently. Remus mumbled something, turned onto his stomach and let out a soft snore.

How do you prefer your shower, Sirius?” James asked softly. He pointed his wand towards his friend.

“Cold, I presume?” A jet of water shot out from the tip of his wand, hitting Sirius in the face. Padfoot shot awake once again and glared somewhat groggily at James. “Prongs! That's the second time today! Right in my face too! Do you have something against me getting a peaceful sleep?”

James shrugged and then smirked. “I'm a Chaser and I have impeccable aim, if I do say so myself. And I figured, if I have to wake up, so do you.” Then to stop his friend's grumbling, he added, “Look at it this way, now you have the pleasure of waking up Moony.”

Sirius predictably brightened. “That makes up some, I suppose.” He said, looking for his own wand. James left him to his rummaging and headed for the bathroom. He was barely out the door when he heard Remus screaming girlishly, followed by a loud thunk. Mingled laughter and cries of pain reached his ears. He shook his head and laughed silently. Sirius was, as usual, spending his vacations with James and the Potters along with Remus.

-x-

The curtains flapped in the slight breeze stealing in through the window. Sunlight poured in, creating distorted shadows on the floor due to all the cracks in the windowpanes. The light was a weightless blanket on the sleeping figure lying on the rickety but comfortable bed. The room was furnished practically. It contained a chest of drawers made of highly polished oak, a door that opened into the bathroom, and a sturdy oak table beside the bed burdened with a lamp. A plush maroon carpet covered the stone floor.

It was several minutes later that a head emerged from under the heavy sheets clothing the bed and the figure gave any signal of awakening. A loud yawn erupted from the sixteen year old girl's mouth as she lazily opened her wide, startlingly emerald eyes and sat up. Her arms stretched and she sighed. Her lazy manner soon disappeared though with a quick glance at the clock next to her bed. It indicated that it was well past her usual wake up time and now almost 11:30 am.

She almost leapt out of bed and hurried towards the window. The sun had risen like a newly minted gold coin and was casting its warm light over the muggle side as well as the invisible world of Diagon Alley. The breeze caught Lily's hair in a game of hide and seek. Strands of auburn hair twisted away from each other and appeared as a spark of fire in the sunlight. Lily ran her hand through her sleek and long hair, sighing in happiness, the emotion coming over her in waves. She was happy, although it was her last day at the Leaky Cauldron.

She had spent the last two weeks at the pub. She simply had needed to get away from her older sister's ranting about her perfect fiancé. If being large, slow, with an enormous mustache was considered perfect, Lily completely agreed with her.

Her parents had agreed to let her spend the last two weeks at The Leaky Cauldron because their older daughter was likewise talking through their last nerves and they knew how Lily felt.

She was at her last day of summer vacation having to catch the Hogwarts Express back to the castle tomorrow. She had been Prefect the previous year and had received her Hogwarts letter late last night with the usual list of books and items needed. Lily was excited and anxious to start her 7th and last year at Hogwarts. As she thought about her last year, happy and some not so happy memories rushed to her mind.

She remembered her first train ride, her Sorting, her first feast, her first look at her dormitory. She remembered her first “Outstanding” in Charms and she recalled casting her first spell. She remembered meeting her dorm mates who were now her best friends. She felt a moment's distaste as some other memories rushed to the surface. Potter and his gang of friends. How she loathed the all except Remus. Nothing irked her more than James, Sirius and that tagalong Peter.

Lily crashed back to herself as the clock beeped to signify that it was now noon. She gaped at the clock. Had she really been daydreaming for half an hour? Briskly she headed to the bathroom and freshened herself up. Deciding to dress in muggle clothing, Lily pulled on a green sundress, which bought out the green of her eyes and set off her hair quite well. She strapped on a pair of green sandals and grabbed her list of school supplies.

Though it was her last day here, she had yet to get anything. She assumed most people were coming today too to get their supplies because she had rarely seen anyone over the last fortnight. Lily exited the room and made her way down the handsome wooden staircase to the dark and shabby pub downstairs. A number of tables sat in the shadows of the corners and were filled with customers.

It wasn't long before Diagon Alley was before Lily. A wooden sign hung over the door of the first shop she saw and read “Apothecary.” A barrel of black beetle eyes stood near the door. In the doorway, stood two wizards. One was apparently a customer while the other was the owner of the shop. They were arguing over the price of five ounces of dragon liver.

Lily smiled to herself and let her gaze wander to the next shop. “Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands Since 382 BC” read the sign. Lily didn't need a new wand either so she passed the shop. Besides Mr. Ollivander had watery eyes and he scared her a little. The next shop was the tiny shop next to the Quality Quidditch Supplies. “Stationers” was a shop that supplied ink, parchment and quills. Since Lily needed all three, she made a quick detour.

The next shop down the Alley was “Flourish and Blotts.” This was where Lily needed to get all her books. Staring with the first book on the list, “The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 7” by Miranda Goshawk, Lily worked down the list and was soon done. She left the store carrying two bags, one containing the heavy books and the other containing parchment and such. She passed Gringotts and Gambol and Japes Wizarding Joke Shop without a second glance.

The next half hour found Lily wandering in all of the shops lining the Alley. She had saved “Eeylops Owl Emporium” for last. She had wanted to get an owl for a really long time and thought this would be a great time to get one. She entered the shop. The interior was dark. Soft hoots could be heard here and there. Flickering jewel bright eyes looked back at her. Perched everywhere were Tawny, Screech, Barn, Brown and Snowy owls. Picking a beautiful and gentle looking Brown owl, Lily paid for it and left. “I'll name you Merlin,” she said, smiling at her new pet. The owl hooted as if to agree with her.

-x-

“Sirius Orion Black! You get down here this instant young man!” Miriam Potter bellowed from the bottom of the stairs. Sirius, who'd been hiding, glanced guiltily at her. “Alright.” He started walking down the stairs reluctantly. “And fast!” “Yes ma-am!” Sirius practically ran down the stairs, slipped on the last step and crashed. Standing up sheepishly, he smiled at Mrs. Potter. “Did you need me?”

She glared back at him. No, she usually didn't treat guests like that, but Sirius Black was no guest. He was her son's best friend and equally as mischievous as him, if not more. “Did you fill all the firewhiskey bottles with Pepperup Potion?” Sirius smiled innocently at her. “Me? No! I'd never do anything like that!” Mrs. Potter ignored him. “And, then you emptied the firewhiskey on my prized roses! How could you?”

Sirius continued to look at her woefully. “I'm sorry, Miry darling.” Miriam gazed at him, confused. “Really, Sirius, I have half a mind to hug you and the other half tells me to smack you upside the head. If you do anything like that again, I will spank you.” Sirius nodded meekly, before answering, “Yes ma-am.”

He smiled angelically at her, before running back up the stairs. Shaking her head in amusement, she muttered fondly, “Honestly, boys. They never change.” She returned to the kitchen; where she'd been preparing breakfast before James, Sirius and Remus came down to eat. Together, Sirius and James ate faster than she could conjure up food. Poor Remus was an angel.

Sirius meanwhile was running towards James' room, yelling “Prongsie, hurry! We're going to Diagon Alley!” Yes, it was that time of the year. School was starting tomorrow, and it was time to get their supplies. Gray eyes dancing wickedly, Sirius' mind was a jumble of plans on how to make the trip more exciting. Who had fun buying a bunch of books?

Maybe he could slip a toad down the Flourish and Blott's shopkeeper's shirt. She was a bit squeamish. Sirius Black was one of Hogwarts most eligible bachelors. With startlingly deep gray eyes, and ebony black hair, which fell elegantly into the aforementioned eyes, he wasn't one to be found alone on a Hogsmeade trip. And Sirius didn't mind at all.

What was better than meeting Julia at 2 pm, Deanna at 2:30, Sydney at 3 and then Heather at 3:30? I guess you could say Sirius was a ladies man. But at this particular moment, it wasn't girls that clouded his mind; it was mischief.

“And take a shower, Sirius! You smell like a dog!” Miriam called up the stairs. Sirius made a face, as he headed towards the bathroom at the end of the hall.

-x-

James emerged from the bathroom at the opposite end of the hall from the bathroom Sirius was in. His hair glistened with water, some of it dripping steadily on the floor. He was wearing jeans only as he had yet to find a clean t-shirt in his closet. From down the hall, he could hear Sirius singing -very loudly and off key- “All a wizard needs.” James winced as he made his way back to his room.

Opening the door revealed Remus tidying up their beds. James sighed in mock frustration. “Oi, Moony, mate, we have house elves to do that.” James remarked, making his way over to his cupboard. He pulled the door open, and started searching for a t-shirt in the clutter on the floor. Remus shrugged. “I don't have a house elf, so I'm used to cleaning up after myself.” He finished folding the sheet.

James pulled on the black t-shirt he was found and turned around to face Remus. “You'd better hurry and take a shower. We're going to Diagon Alley today.” Remus nodded. “Sirius is already in the bathroom.” He remarked, opening the door. James shook his head. “Yeah, I heard him all the way down the hall.”

Remus laughed as he opened the door. “What's he singing this time?” James walked towards the door, as he responded, “All a wizard needs.” As if to confirm his reply, Sirius' voice carried down the hall. “All a wizard needs is loooooooove….” Remus pretended to sigh sadly. “I actually used to like that song before Sirius heard it.”

James grinned and playfully slapped Remus on the back as Moony headed for the bathroom. James on the other hand followed the smell of food down to the kitchen. Mrs. Potter stood over the stove. “Morning dear.” She said, smiling at her son.

James had his mother's wide hazel eyes but inherited his messy jet-black hair from his father. His mother turned around holding a plate of pancakes. “Here you go.” She said, placing them in front of James, who was already seated. “Where are Sirius and Remus?”

James picked up a fork. “Remus is in the bathroom and Sirius is…” His voice was drowned out as the two heard, “And all a wizard needs is loooove. All a wizard needs is LOOOOOOOOVE!” James winced. “He's just out of the bathroom.” Mrs. Potter laughed as she got up. “I guess I better start on their breakfast. With Sirius around, nothing seems to last very long.”

-x-

A/N: Was it horrible? Review and tell please ^^ I love reviews xDD

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2. Chapter Two

The Year It All Changed

Disclaimer: Everything you recognize is JKR's.

A/N: Please review ^^ I updated really fast ^^ One day, wh00t!

I'll post the next chapter as soon as I can.

-x-

Chapter 2

“Okay boys, gather around.” Mrs. Potter said, holding out a flowerpot full with floo powder. “I've got a few errands to run and I have to visit Mrs. Charms. Really, that woman truly needs to…yes well.” Mrs. Potter cleared her throat. “Never mind.”

She sent a flustered smile towards the boys. “Point is, I won't be joining you today. You just come back by Floo Powder, from the Leaky Cauldron. Tom's kindly given you permission to use the fireplace in the pub.”

Her voice took on a sterner note. “And no joke rubbish whatsoever. I will not have you concentrating on pranks, what with the N.E.W.Ts (Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Tests) coming up next year. You see they behave, Remus dear.” James nodded impatiently. “Yes Mum.” Mrs. Potter held out the floo powder. “Who's going first?” Sirius nudged Moony forward.

Remus smiled at Mrs. Potter and took a handful of the silvery powder and stepped into the empty fireplace. “Leaky Cauldron!” he said clearly, throwing the powder into the fireplace. Emerald flames emerged from beneath his feet and Remus disappeared. Sirius went next and James followed him, dropping a quick kiss on his mother's cheek.

Remus and Sirius were waiting for him when he stumbled out of the Leaky Cauldron giant fireplace. Remus dusted James off as Sirius hauled him to his feet and remarked, “Wormtail's here. Says he's done getting supplies already.” He moved aside and Peter came into view. James grinned and slapped Wormtail on the back.

“Good to see you mate.” He said. “How's your sick aunt?” Peter looked disconcerted. “My aunt? Oh… she's fine. It was just a cold.” James nodded. “We're here to get our stuff. Want to come along?” Peter shook his head quickly. “No, I have to… meet my aunt here in a few minutes. You go ahead.” James shrugged. “Alright.”

The three Marauders, Prong, Padfoot and Moony left the pub and walked to the back door, where the entrance for Diagon Alley was hidden. Sirius took out his wand and tapped a few bricks. The bricks immediately shifted away, forming an archway. The boys split up, James heading towards Quality Quidditch Supplies, Sirius to Gambol and Japes and Remus to Flourish and Botts.

-x-

Lily looked up in astonishment as her ice cream was plucked out of her fingers. She turned around to face a grinning Sirius eating what was left of her cone. “You really should guard your things better.” Sirius remarked, sitting beside her on the bench. Lily smiled wryly at him. “Especially with you around?” She asked.

She stood up and started gathering her packages and Merlin's cage. “Do you really dislike me that much that you don't even want to share a bench with me?” Sirius asked, looking shocked. No girl had ever given up a chance to sit with him. Lily laughed and shook her head. “It's not that, I was just finishing my ice cream and since you've done that for me, I have to get back to the Leaky Cauldron and drop off all this stuff. I`m staying there for a few days.”

Sirius nodded but didn't question why. If Lily wanted to tell him then she'd do it without him prodding her. “Here, I'll help you with those.” He remarked getting up and grabbing a few packages. He and Lily walked down Diagon Alley in silence, Lily thinking, “He really isn't that bad when he's not around James. Maybe Potter is the bad influence.”

“So erm… how was your summer?” She asked Sirius, shifting Merlin's cage in her hand. Sirius shrugged. “It was better than most of my previous summers. I spent it with James and his folks. Peter wasn't there because his aunt…” He broke off and grinned. “Well, speak of the devil! There's James now.” Lily looked up abruptly to stare at the back of James' head. Devilishly handsome was definitely the right term.

“I'll go get him.” Sirius said. He left Lily and started making his way towards the entrance of Quality Quidditch Supplies. Lily didn't want to see James, especially when she was feeling so confused about him. She hurried away, oblivious to the fact that Sirius still had some of her supplies. She went into the one shop she knew that James would never enter. Flourish and Blotts.

Dragging along an indignant Merlin, Lily hid herself into one of the many rows of book-occupied shelves. It couldn't have been more than a few minutes later when she heard three awfully familiar voices. “…right there and I don't know where she went.” Three boys came into view. Lily turned the other way, thinking, “I hope they don't see me, I hope they don't see me, I hope they…”

“Oi Evans!” James' cheery voice cut through her silent pleading. So much for hoping. She turned around. “Oh my gosh!” She ran towards Remus and enveloped him into a hug. “ I haven't seen you since forever!”

James smiled. “What? I don't get a hug too?” Lily backed away a few steps, a look of pure alarm clearly visible on her face. She was feeling a trifle excited though at his suggestion.

She buried the first reason that popped into her mind as to why this was so damn exciting for her. She was not going to let Potter charm her now. Not after so many years of bickering and arguing. “I am so not hugging you.”

Remus stifled a smile. At this, James' eyes lit up and he opened his mouth to comment when Lily said, “Don't even think of saying anything, Potter. I had enough of you to last me the whole day.” She picked up Merlin's cage and leaned forward to take the packages that Sirius was still holding.

Somehow though, in the process, she tripped and landed right into James' arms. Great. Exactly what she needed. James smirked down at her. “I always knew you'd fall into my arms one day, Evans.” He said. Lily, who had been marveling at the fact that James hadn't even stumbled when she had crashed into him, stiffened. She flushed, as her eyes grew angry and she struggled against him.

“Let. Me. Go.” She ground out through clenched teeth. James sighed dramatically as Remus and Sirius broke into laughter. “If you insist, Evans.” James remarked, removing his arms from around her. “Oh I do!” Lily muttered, gathering her things. James smiled. “What was that?” Lily sent an annoyed look his way before turning and heading out of the bookstore.

She had barely made it out when they caught up with her. Remus moved forward. “I'll help you with those.” He said and took all of the packages except Merlin's cage. Lily started to protest but stopped. Who was she to argue? It would take her ages to get everything to the Leaky Cauldron. She didn't necessarily have to talk to Potter.

Managing a small smile, she said, “Thanks Remus.” The group walked in silence towards the pub. Apparently Sirius had told Remus and James where she was staying. Lily was wondering why they hadn't asked her why she staying there when James spoke up. “So how come you're staying at the Leaky Cauldron?” Lily grinned and plunged into the explanation, finishing with, “And my parents finally let me stay here.”

Sirius grimaced. “Your sister doesn't sound quite…like you.” At this, James spoke up. “I'm guessing she's really excited.” Then Sirius and James looked at Remus. Avoiding their gaze, he said, “I knew. Lily wrote to me over the summer.” Both eyes immediately turned to Lily. She nodded. “I wrote to him every week.”

“And why exactly didn't you tell us that Moony?” James queried. “Why didn't we know about these letters?” Remus shrugged. “I figured if Lily wanted you to know about the things she wrote to me about then she would have written to you too. So you know those letters I received from my cousin? They were actually from Lily.” James glanced at Lily. “And what kind of things does she write to you about?”

Lily responded before Remus had a chance. “It's none of your business.” An awkward silence fell upon them.

-x-

“Hazel! Melody!” Lily exclaimed, thrusting Merlin's cage towards James and rushing forward. “It's so good to see you! I got your letter but I didn't know when you were arriving.” These three girls hugged each other as the Marauders watched on. “I didn't know they were going to be here.” Sirius said, watching Melody and grinning.

Melody Ann White was one of Lily's best friends. Loud and fun loving, things were never dull around her. A petite 5'4, Melody had a lively spirit and one of the fieriest tempers in Hogwarts. Her build, small and shapely was perfect however for the position she played on the Gryffindor Quidditch Team. Seeker. And she wasn't too modest to admit she was a great player. It wasn't only the Quidditch skills that drew the boys in though.

Melody had flawless, tanned skin, with a few sprinkles of freckles that sometimes popped up here and there. She had dark blue eyes, deep and intense, eyes that betrayed her every emotion. Long, curly locks of strawberry blond hair framed her face, falling delicately to her waist. Katie however had no time for playing with her hair. It was usually tied up in a messy ponytail or put in a bun to keep from distracting her.

Spending her time with Lily and Hazel, she had learned to organize her time to finish homework, have Quidditch practices and go on the countless dates she had.

Hazel on the other hand was more like Lily. She was Lily and Katie's other best friend. Born to muggle parents, Hazel Elizabeth Fawcett had learned early at Hogwarts that if she wanted to avoid getting tormented by Slytherins she had to be quiet and blend into the background. Around third year, all `mud-blood' jokes about her had stopped and most people didn't notice she was there.

She loved reading and was near the top of every class. In many ways, she and Melody were like Remus and Sirius. Hazel would often run into Remus at the Library at Hogwarts. Hazel had beautiful sparkling hazel eyes and light brown hair bordering her heart shaped face. She was neither petite nor large and seemed to slip into the back ground whenever she felt like it.

Lily and Melody knew how embarrassed Hazel usually got around a few people and never dragged her into conversing with them. They shared a dormitory with three other girls at Hogwarts. There was Heather Thomas, who was a sweet and shy girl and fit in quite well with Lily and her friends. The other two were twins. Becky and Sydney MaCilson. Hazel, Katie and Lily didn't particularly like them since they tended to look down on anyone that wasn't at their `social' status.

Remus was staring at Hazel from the side of his eyes, as the girls hugging broke apart. Each was wearing a huge grin. Lily walked forward and claimed Merlin from James. “Melody and Hazel are spending the night here and we're going over together to King's Cross tomorrow.” Although Lily was sure that no one else noticed, she caught the glances Remus kept sending Hazel.

Melody grinned too. “I need to get rid of all this stuff.” She gestured around to her bags. “My mum already picked up everything for me and Hazel.”

Hazel nodded, staring at the floor. “Yes, we'd better go and freshen up.” Lily retrieved her packages from Remus and thanked him. “I guess we'll see you tomorrow. Bye, Remus, Sirius. And Potter.” She added reluctantly. Hazel giggled as the three girls headed up the stairs to their rooms.

-x-

If you looked in a particular dark corner of the pub, you'd notice Lily conversing with the innkeeper. She had been there for several minutes, talking Tom into putting a charm onto her room so they could fit two more beds into it. The girls had wanted to have a slumber party sort of thing, before heading off to Hogwarts and it didn't seem possible with one bed in a tiny room. After making sure several times that Hazel and Melody would be paying for their rooms anyway, Tom agreed and left to place the spell.

Lily was a few paces behind him when she saw two people rise from a nearby table and hurry towards the door. One of them she instantly recognized. Peter Pettigrew. The other wizard however, was decked in a black cloak from top to bottom and it was impossible to see the face. Peter mumbled something as he walked past her and the hooded wizard followed. As he passed Lily, she heard him hiss `Mudblood' and Lily looked up to stare into the lifeless, cold eyes of…

-x-

A/N: Was it horrible? Review and tell please ^^ I love reviews xDD I'm going to wait until I have 8 reviews until I post the next chapter. Whee, cliffhanger =)

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3. Chapter Three

The Year It All Changed

Disclaimer: Everything you recognize is JKR's.

A/N: Please review ^^

3 chapters in two days. You all better appreciate it xD

I'll post the next chapter tomorrow, probably.

I think that I might have called Melody ‘Katie’ sometimes in the last chapter. Someone mentioned that in a review. I was going to make one of Lily's friends Katie but then I decided on Melody and I had to go through and change them all. I guess I missed some ‘Katies’

So if there any confusion, I’m sorry. =)

Also, I don’t have a beta so I might have some mistakes. I tried my best to go over it and check it.

-x-

Chapter 3

...Lucius Malfoy.

Lily stared at him in shock as he sneered at her, his eyes narrowing. She hadn’t seen him in over four years. She had only been in third year when he had left Hogwarts. He had made those first three years of hers miserable. In a way, he was worse than all the Slytherins that she had to deal with now.

Lily had been so caught up in her thoughts that she didn’t notice she was standing alone. Malfoy had left. She suddenly shivered, even though it was warm enough to be July. Seeing Lucius again had slightly unnerved her. Another thing also came to her mind. Why was Malfoy talking to Peter? From what she knew, the Slytherins held Peter in high contempt.

Shaking her head, she turned and hurried towards the stairs. Tom was just coming down the stairs. She thanked him again and he bowed deeply. Now if Lily had done that while standing on the stairs, she would have surely fallen. She smiled as she walked to her room. It was the first door to the right on the second landing.

“Where were you?” Melody asked as soon as Lily entered. “Tom came and enlarged the room.” She picked up a pillow and threw it at Lily. “It was your idea to finish packing before we did anything fun. And you left us here to do it.” Hazel grinned. “Quit complaining Mel. You would have had to do it anyway tomorrow if you didn’t do it tonight and that would have meant getting up early. Did you really want to do that?”

Melody shook her head thoughtfully. “You’re right. So, Lils, where were you?” Lily shrugged as she tossed the pillow back at Melody who caught it about two inches away from her face. Her Seeker skills did come in handy sometimes. “I met someone downstairs. Peter Pettigrew. I doubt you know him.” She had purposefully left out her meeting with Malfoy.

“Pettigrew?” Melody echoed, wrinkling her nose. “That… boy that follows Sirius and the Marauders around?” Lily nodded. Mel snorted. “And you stayed to talk to him? I wouldn’t.” Hazel laughed. “That’s because you don’t know how to be polite. Although, I must admit, he reminds me of a rat.”

Melody sat up and remarked, “I don’t know why they let him tag after them. I mean their group, with the exception of Peter, could be made up of the most handsome and talented wizards at Hogwarts and…” She paused.

“Oh wait. They are the most handsome and talented wizards at Hogwarts.” She grinned as she rolled onto her stomach. “So, you spent your whole day with them?” She asked Lily, giving her a mischievous smile.

Lily quickly shook her head. “No, I only met them a few minutes before we headed back. Remus offered to help me with my things, which is why they all came with me. I had a lot to carry.” Hazel grinned this time. She wasn’t shy at all around her friends. “And you just happened to run into them?” Lily tried to glare at Hazel but failed. Her mouth curved into a smile.

“No, in fact, I ran into Sirius and he spotted James and wanted me to meet him and I obviously didn’t want to see him so I left and they ran into me at Flourish and Blotts and I was leaving when Remus asked me if I needed help.”

“Why do you go to such lengths to avoid James? You know he’s not a bad person. I mean, I work with him every week at Quidditch practices.” Melody remarked. Lily snorted. “Oh, sure, you think that. You’re interested in Sirius.” Melody laughed. “And so what if I am? He happens to be 10 on our cute looking scale. You remember when we made that in 4th year?”

Hazel giggled. “Yeah, I remember. It was in History of Magic and we were bored. We rated every person in our year. And if I remember correctly, Lily gave James a 10, didn’t she?” Lily threw the pair of socks she was folding at Hazel. “I was young, I didn’t know any better. If I had known what an arrogant jerk he was, I wouldn’t even have bothered rating him.”

Melody smiled. “Then why are you blushing?” Lily was turning a light shade of red. “Well, I wasn’t the one eyeing Remus.” Lily said defensively. This time, Hazel blushed. “I wasn’t eyeing him.” Lily grinned. “I didn’t say you were. But since you just admitted it…” She smirked.

“Let’s play a game. Hazel, pick. Helping Filch separate rotten beetle eyes from good ones or kiss Peter?” Hazel grimaced. “At least give me a decent choice.” Mel grinned. “Come on, pick one.” “As if I really have a choice.” Hazel grumbled. “Clearly I’d pick helping Filch. My turn. Lily, pick. Kissing James or Severus.”

Melody laughed. “Good one. And you have to tell the truth. One second.” She retrieved her wand and pointed it at Lily. “Truso noir!” She muttered. “I still remember this spell from when you taught me. Now if you lie, your tongue is going to turn black.” Lily groaned. “Do I really need to answer this?”

Hazel smiled. “I had to do it, so do you.” Lying down, Lily sighed. “Alright, if I absolutely had to pick, which I never will, I’d pick James. And don’t dare tell this to anyone, either of you!” She threatened.

They both laughed. “Alright, we won’t.” Mel assured her. “Now, my turn.” Lily pondered thoughtfully and then asked, “Would you rather go on a date with Sirius or get the Nimbus 1001?” The Nimbus 1001 was the latest broomstick model at Quality Quidditch Supplies.

“That’s a no-brainer. I’d go on a date with Sirius. Because my mum already bought me the Nimbus 1001.” She grinned.

-x-

“Rise and shine, sweethearts!” Hazel called over to Lily and Melody, grinning. “We have about an hour and a half before the train leaves.” Lily yawned as she sat up. “Good morning.” Melody however grunted and kept on sleeping. Hazel winked at Lily and said, “Sirius is going to be there. If you want to share a compartment with him, we better get there before the rest of his fan club.”

Mel sat up abruptly. “You’re right; we’re going to be late.” The next hour was spent getting ready, making sure everything was packed and placed into the trunks. Melody and Hazel went to check their rooms to see they had everything. With about 45 minutes before the train left, they were getting into the muggle cab that was waiting for them.

It was about 35 minutes later that the girls arrived at King’s Cross station. They all entered from the secret way to Platform together, in order to get on the train without being late. Platform 9 and ¾ was bustling with families. Parents were hugging their kids goodbye and there were several owls hooting. Lily looked over the familiar sight and smiled happily. She was going back to Hogwarts.

The girls levitated their trunks and got onto the train, as they had no one to say goodbye to. Lily and her friends headed towards the front of the compartment where the Prefects meeting was going to be held.

The girls were just getting seated when there was a knock on the door and the Prefects entered. The first to come in were the Slytherin Prefects. They were talking animatedly about something. But when they spotted Lily, they stopped and a disdainful expression came over their faces.

The Ravenclaw Prefects and then the Hufflepuff ones followed them. The last to arrive were James, Sirius, Remus and Peter. The Head Boy and girl were last to enter. This year the Head Boy was Frank Longbottom and a girl from Ravenclaw. Frank looked around before saying, “Anyone who isn’t a prefect clear out now.”

He was looking at the Marauders. Although his words might have sounded offensive, his tone certainly wasn’t. James and Sirius grinned cheekily at him before filing out, followed by Peter and finally Melody and Hazel. Lily and Remus received the password to the common room, and their patrol schedule and they stayed to chat a while before leaving themselves.

They both went looking for their mates. As it turned out, they had chosen a compartment quite near that of the Prefects. Peter had fallen asleep and Melody and Hazel stayed as far away from him as possible while being polite. “You know, the Slytherins are excited about something.” Sirius remarked. James nodded. “Something happened. Or they’re planning something.”

Lily was about to tell them about the Slytherin Prefects when the door opened and they heard someone say, “No, Regulus…” Severus Snape came into sight. They saw him the same time he saw them. He immediately stopped what he was saying. “Sorry. Did know the compartment was occupied with mudbloods and blood traitors.” He sneered.

James stood up, his hand reaching for his wand. “What did you say?” Severus smirked. He was a medium height, greasy looking, 7th year Slytherin, who looked like he hadn’t taken a bath for the past several months. His dark robes were covered with stains and his overly large nose had several large hairs sticking out.

“Oh nothing. I got the compartments mixed up. My friends are in the next compartment. Your brother’s there too, Black.” Sirius scowled at him. “I don’t care where he is.” James glared at Snape. “Clear off Snivillus before I make you wish you never boarded the train.” Lily rolled her eyes and looked away. “I should have expected this. Some people never change.”

-x-

The students of Hogwarts were welcomed back to the castle in pouring rain. Buckets of water rained on them as they hurried from the carriages to the Front Doors of the castle. Lily felt sorry for the poor first years that had to cross the lake as was the tradition to get to the castle. Hazel, Melody and Lily entered the castle together, sopping wet. The Marauders immediately followed them.

Sirius stepped inside and shook his head to free it of the water, much like a dog. “Merlin, it’s raining hard out there.” He glanced down at the large puddle of water forming beneath their feet. This’ll be some mess to clean up,” He remarked, grinning. “It’s like a welcome back present for Filch.” Mel rolled her eyes.

“Let’s go. It’s freezing cold here.” She led the way towards the Great Hall, a steady stream of water following her. Lily and Hazel followed. The Marauders however hung back. Sirius and James had gotten to whispering and were grinning nonstop. If a teacher had spotted then supporting that look, they would have been on their guard at once. That was their ‘We’re-planning-something-against-the-rules-and-it’s-most-likely-to-explode’ look.

“There’s a seat.” James pointed towards Lily and the girls. Remus looked over in that direction. “James, there are no seats there.” He frowned. Sirius who had caught on to what James was going to do, grinned. James smiled at Moony and strode purposefully towards where he had pointed. “Excuse me, you’re in my seat.” He told the boy, sitting right next to Lily. The boy, who had been working his way through enough mashed potatoes to feed an army, looked up.

“I was here first. Go find…” His words died from his lips as he spotted who it was. “Potter. I didn’t know it was your seat. Sorry, mate.” He stood up, as did the four boys sitting next to him. James grinned. “I knew you’d cooperate.” He took a seat and looked towards Lily. “Oi, Evans, missed me?”

Lily had been engrossed in conversation with Mel and Hazel. Hearing the familiar voice she was starting to like, she looked up. “Potter? Why on earth would I miss you? I have better things to do with my time.” Hazel laughed. Melody however, leaned forward and grinned. “Yes, Lily doesn’t think about you, even though you’re a 10 on the cute looking scale.” Lily swatted at Mel. “What she means is that she used to like you. Isn’t that what you mean?” She glanced threateningly at Melody.

“Oh, yes, I used to like you.” She confirmed hastily. By then Sirius and Remus had sat down next to James and were listening curiously. James himself was looking confused. Shaking his head he turned to Padfoot and Moony. “So ready?”

They nodded and the three boys happily indulged themselves in the feast, until it disappeared and was replaced by the desserts. “This is it.” James whispered, looking at Sirius and Remus and drawing his wand. No one had even touched any of the desserts when James whispered a spell, pointing his wand in the general area towards the Slytherin Table.

It happened almost at once. Every Slytherin’s clothes, including the males’ turned shocking pink. It wouldn’t have been so appalling though if the Slytherins themselves hadn’t turned a dark shade of pink.

The Great Hall rang out with laughter. Even all of the teachers looked amused. And if that wasn’t enough, the custard pies exploded, coating the Slytherins in sticky yellow custard. Dumbledore stood up, his eyes crinkled in amusement.

“I must say, pink isn’t really in these days. Especially not with yellow. I’d advise you to clean up before we continue the feast.” The Great Hall burst out in laughter again. The Slytherins looked livid and ready to kill someone. Soon most of them looked presentable again, thanks to the ‘scourgify’ spell. Their skins however, were still a shocking pink.

Lily looked at James, an appalled look on her face. “That was you! Oh James, how could you? You should be setting an example for the younger students, not teaching them how to blow up food. You should be ashamed of yourself! And here I was thinking that you might have matured over the summer!”

Glaring at him, she stood up and moved to the far end of the table. She couldn’t leave since she had the password needed to enter the common room and she had to wait for everyone to be done. Melody glanced at Sirius, sighed and she and Hazel followed Lily.

Their seats were immediately taken by a group of girls that had been hovering near them for quite a while. One of them immediately draped herself across Sirius while another did the same with James. “How dare she talk to you like that? I thought that was rather funny.” The brunette, that was almost lying across James remarked. James nodded, forcing a smile. The truth was, he was starting to fell guilty about it.

After all, the Slytherins hadn’t done anything this time. The Marauders had picked a fight with them. He looked over to where Lily and her friends were sitting. Sirius however, seemed to be enjoying himself as he flirted like mad with the girl sitting on his knee.

Lily was shooting murderous looks at James as he turned back and grinned at the girl on his lap and played with her hair. This was exactly why she didn’t want to go out with him. James never wanted to commit.

Here he was, practically declaring undying love for her and the next second he had some airhead flirting with him. Really. Lily snorted. She had no idea why, but it annoyed her greatly.

The desserts disappeared in the next couple of minutes, and Dumbledore made his usual speech about the Forbidden Forest, the rising Dark Lord and Filch’s ongoing list of forbidden items.

As soon as the Headmaster said goodnight, Lily stood up and said in a clear voice. “All first years over here please. All first years follow me.” She smiled as a crowd of tiny kids gathered around her. Remus made his way towards her.

“I’m sixth year Gryffindor Prefect and we,” She glanced at Remus, “Are supposed to take you to the Gryffindor common room. From there, the fifth year prefects will show you to your dormitories.” She led the crowd towards the doors.

The group started climbing the stairs. Some Ravenclaw students were heading up too and Lily and James, who was walking right behind Lily, had to move closer together so it was possible for them all to pass. Lily got something akin to butterflies in her stomach, as James leaned closer and closer.

The butterflies also kept increasing the more time they spent together, the more accidental touches there were… James looked at Lily and grinned. “Evans, is something wrong? You’re staring at me.” Lily snapped out of her daze.

“I wasn’t staring at you. I was staring behind you.” She said lamely. James smiled knowingly. “Yes, of course you were.” Lily glared at him. And then there were moments where she really felt like smacking him.

“Potter, I am in no mood to put up with you. I’m tired and I’d like to get some rest. So if you don’t mind, you can flirt with me some other time.” Realizing what she had said, she quickly shook her head. “I don’t really mean that.” James shrugged. “Alright, Evans.”

Remus walked ahead of Lily and led the first year students to the portrait of the Fat Lady. “Fairy Lights.” Lily muttered. The Gryffindors stepped inside. Bidding goodnight to everyone Lily, Melody and Hazel went up to bed.

The fifth year prefects dealt with the new students as the Marauders took a seat on one of the sofas. “What were you and Lily talking about?” Sirius asked at once. “She had that look on her face. The look you get when you’re staring at her.” Remus smiled. From some of the things Lily had wrote to him, Remus thought that she might be stating to like him. She just didn’t know it yet.

Or maybe she did.

Maybe that was why she was so touchy when James had asked her what she wrote to Remus about. The Marauders conversed for a few minutes before heading off to bed themselves. Tomorrow was the first day of school.

-x-

A/N: What did you think of this chapter? Review and tell please ^^ I love reviews xDD I'm going to wait until I have 13 reviews until I post the next chapter.

4. Chapter Four

The Year It All Changed

Disclaimer: Everything you recognize is JKR's.

A/N: Please review ^^

I'll post the next chapter tomorrow, probably.

I think that I might have called Melody ‘Katie’ sometimes in the previous chapters. Someone mentioned that in a review. I was going to make one of Lily's friends Katie but then I decided on Melody and I had to go through and change them all. I guess I missed some ‘Katies’

So if there any confusion, I’m sorry. =)

I tried my best to go over it and check it. Excuse any mistakes.

-x-

Chapter 4

Sirius moaned dramatically, holding up his schedule. “I’ve never had my mood this spoiled when there was breakfast right in front of me.” He frowned at the sheet of parchment in front of him. “All the worst subjects bunched together.” He glanced over James’ shoulder to look at his schedule and grinned. “Hey, I have everything with you. I don’t feel so bad now.”

Remus compared his with James. “Well, we have almost everything together. I took Ancient Runes instead of Muggle Studies.” Meanwhile, right next to the Marauders, Lily and her friends were doing the same thing. Hazel and Lily had every class with James and Sirius but Mel was taking Ancient Runes instead of Muggle Studies.

“What do you have Wormtail?” Sirius asked, pulling Peter’s schedule from his hands. “You don’t have Muggle Studies and Potions with us. You…” His mouth opened in shock. “You’re taking Divination? That bloody class that we couldn’t wait to get out of, with that fanatical old bird?” Peter shrugged. “I couldn’t get into N.E.W.T level Potions so I had to take some other class.”

Sirius nodded, looked at his own and groaned. “I have Transfiguration and Charms first.” He muttered something under his breath about McGonagall and bloody birds. Lily smiled slightly. “Sirius, it was your decision to take these classes.” Sirius shook his head. “Stop right there, Lily. I’m trying to make myself feel better by blaming this on someone else.” Lily laughed.

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Sirius placed his hand on his temple and groaned. “I think I’m coming down with too-much-information-itis.” Remus poked him from behind with his wand. “Hurry up, will you? You’re blocking the door.” Grumbling, Sirius shifted out of the way. He hovered near the door, waiting for everyone else.

As soon as Melody stepped out, he grabbed her hand and placed it on his temple. “I am coming down with something, aren’t I?” He asked, grinning. She laughed. “What are you talking about? Let go of my hand.” She squirmed a bit, but Sirius held it firmly. For some reason unknown to her, she blushed. By then, every one had exited and was watching the couple. Lily and Hazel were exchanging knowing glances and grinning.

“Oi, you two. When you’re done with flirting, mind joining us for Charms?” Sirius glanced up to see James’ smirking face. “We weren’t flirting.” He said, defensively, letting go of Mel’s hand, winking at her. “I was admiring her fingers. They’re so long and slender.” Remus snorted. “Padfoot, when you’re done reciting poetry, we’d like to get to class.” Their audience laughed and the group broke up, everyone hurrying to their classes.

The Marauders and the girls walked quickly to Charms. Professor Flitwick was waiting in the door. He beamed at the group. “Hello! So nice to see you all back.” He remarked in a high squeaky voice, rather like the rubber sole of a shoe rubbing against a polished floor. The group greeted him and looked around for un-occupied seats.

James winked at the Marauders and they immediately got the signal. Remus and Sirius sat together in one seat, while Hazel and Mel sat down together. Lily was about to join them, when Flitwick spoke up. “Miss. Evans, would you please sit with Mr. Potter? We’re going to be working in partners today.” Now, normally, the class was allowed to sit in groups of three. Lily eyed James sullenly. He hadn’t done anything yet but she was sure he was up to something. Why else would he be grinning like that? Sighing, she placed her bag on the floor and reluctantly took a seat. James’ reaction was quite the opposite. He thanked the professor heartily while the class tittered and made a big show of sitting down next to Lily.

The whole period was spent practicing spells. James had given up paying attention and was staring at Sirius dip the long blonde braids of the girl sitting in front of him in a bottle of disappearing ink. Her braids were rapidly disappearing. James looked up abruptly, when the bell rang. “Is it time to go already?” Lily rolled her eyes.

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

Everyone had been back for a week. It was a Saturday and most of the Hogwarts population was just arriving to breakfast. The first-years were getting over their fright and just starting staring in awe at the seventh years.

The Marauders were about their dormitory, getting ready to go down to breakfast. 11 am wasn’t too early and they could make a great entrance. Peter had already left, too impatient to wait for them. As he stated, “All the good pastries always get eaten before we get there.” Moony was standing in the doorway, studying Sirius.

“Padfoot, mate, you need to get a move on. They’ll be serving lunch before you’re ready.” Sirius was standing in front of the mirror, admiring his reflection. He was about to pick up a comb and run it through his hair when he grinned and dropped it. “Don‘t I look perfect?” He questioned his reflection. Remus rolled his eyes. “Really, Padfoot, your vanity is quite astounding.”

Sirius shrugged. “What can I say? I have something to be vain about.”

“Of course you do. Nobody has such a big head as you.” James spoke up from behind him. He brushed his wet hair and tossed the comb at Sirius who ducked. “Hey, this head is flawless, and you know it.” He winked at his reflection again.

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

“What is he doing, sitting with her?” James hissed. He was sitting a few seats down from Lily and the Ravenclaw Quidditch Team Captain, Adam Davies. The two looked quite cozy. A bit too cozy, if James had any say in it.

Remus sighed. “Prongs, Lily isn’t your girlfriend. She can date anyone she wants.” James looked at Moony in shock. “They’re dating? This is way worse than I thought!” Sirius snorted, looking up from his plate of scones. “Where’ve you been? They have been seeing each other since the third day of school. It’s been four days or something.” James moaned, putting his head in his hands.

“And why didn’t you tell me about this?” Sirius answered before Moony could say anything. “We thought you already knew. I mean anyone could’ve seen those two were acting lovey-dovey.” James glared at him. “Gee, thanks Sirius, that makes me feel quite better.” Sirius grinned. “No problem, mate.” The only way to deal with James when he went on one of his rants was to tease him. Or ignore him. The marauders usually preferred the latter one.

James glanced down the table again just in time to see Adam kiss Lily on the cheek and both of them getting up. His fists clenched without him noticing. “He kissed her!” He whispered. Moony rolled his eyes. “Thank you for the play by play commentary.” James ignored him. “He’s holding her hand!” Suddenly, Lily looked up and stared right at James. They’re eyes locked into each other’s and Lily suddenly felt breathless.

Then Adam leaned over and mumbled something in her ear. She shook her head and said something back. James sighed. Unbeknownst to him, Lily quietly slipped her hand out of Adam’s as they left the Great Hall.

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“He’s sitting with her!” James muttered again, shooting killing glares at the Adam’s head. He hadn’t noticed before that they shared Transfiguration with Ravenclaws. But then, since such few students got into N.E.W.T classes, they probably grouped the houses together.

“James! Let it go! They’re dating! You do the same with your girlfriends.” Sirius muttered back. James really was getting on his nerves.

“Why can’t she sit with Hazel and Melody?” James questioned stubbornly. Sirius sighed and returned to drawing Slughorn on a piece of parchment. This version resembled more a cross breed of a hog and a slug.

“He’s rubbing her thigh!” James said, jabbing Moony in the stomach. Moony sent an annoyed glare his way before replying, “James, why don’t we…” He was cut off by McGonagall. “Alright class, I want this essay done for tomorrow. Remember, two and ½ feet and don’t use large handwriting.”

A ripple of agreement went over the class as they shuffled out of their seats. James and the Marauders made it outside just in time to see Lily and Adam kissing. “Now they’re exchanging spit!” James hissed loudly. He immediately felt someone poking him from behind. It was Mel. “Shut your mouth Potter. Lily doesn’t need you ruining her chances.”

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

Lily smiled and waved at Adam as he walked away. He had Ancient Runes. She turned back to Hazel and Melody who were waiting for her with the Marauders. “Oh. My. Gosh!” She grinned. “I can’t believe that I am dating Adam Davies.” She really couldn’t. He’d approached her the second day of school, asking for help in Charms and ever since then, they’d been sitting together and he’d even asked her out for the first Hogsmeade trip of the year.

“He is soo cute!” She added, forgetting that the Marauders were also listening. “Ahem.” Sirius muttered waggling his eyebrows. Lily blushed.

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

“There he is!” Sirius mumbled, pointing at Snape who had just come into view. “So, Moony, are you ready?” Remus reluctantly nodded and pointed his wand at Snape. “Athemom Hangius!” He muttered pointing it at the offending Slytherin. What happened next was something that not even Sirius had expected.

Snape moved down the corridor and the brilliant orange light that had burst from Remus’ wand headed straight for Lily, who had been standing right behind Snivillus. “Lily, watch out!” James yelled. Lily looked up in surprise, just as the spell hit her squarely in the chest. She immediately felt herself rise in the air, quite violently. Her eyes widened in fear as her books fell from her hand.

After she was sure that she wasn’t going to fall, her eyes darted around the corridor, looking for someone who could’ve done this. A group had gathered around and she saw the Marauders forcing their way to the middle just as Melody and Hazel did the same. “Potter!” She screeched. “Get me down at once! You can be sure I’ll be reporting this to McGonagall!” James grinned at her.

“Calm down Evans. We’ll get you down in a jiffy.” He motioned towards Remus who reversed the spell. Lily slowly felt herself float back to firm ground.

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

Lily settled down in Potions, still shooting murderous glances at James. “I cannot believe he did that! I was late for History of Magic because of him!” Hazel sighed. “Well, you’re fine and nothing happened, so isn’t it better to forgive and forget?” Lily shook her head savagely. “I am not going to forgive that arrogant, big-headed…berk!”

“Alright class, listen up.” Slughorn beamed at them from the front of the room. “We’ll be learning how to prepare a Polyjuice Potion. You were introduced to them last year and I think you’re quite capable of making them. Now, I’ll be putting you into partners, someone you wouldn’t normally work with.” He picked up a list from his desk. “Now, let’s see. Frank Longbottom and Alice Boothby. Melody White and Sirius Black. Hazel Fawcett and Remus Lupin.”

Lily looked at him suspiciously. This was going in a pattern. Her suspicion unfortunately, turned out to be true. “Lily Evans and James Potter.” Lily groaned loudly, causing everyone to look at her. Slughorn looked up. “Is there a problem Lily?” Lily blushed. “No, none whatsoever.” Slughorn smiled. “Yes, well then.” He carried on with the list and then said, “Move and sit beside your partners.”

James jumped up at once. “Hullo partner.” He grinned. Lily took a deep breath. Now, don’t get mad at him. She thought and then managed a feeble smile. “Potter.”

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

Lily groaned as she hid her face in a pillow. The three girls were sitting in the common room, working on their Transfiguration essays. “I cannot believe I have to work with that… that scum! He was flirting with me all through Potions and I hardly got anything done.” Melody completely ignored her. Lily had been going on like that for the past one and a half hours.

Hazel smiled. “I am partnered with Remus Lupin. Can you believe my luck?” Mel grinned. “Yes, you get partnered with the smartest bloke in Potions and I’m stuck with Sirius. Can you believe that he talked about his hair the whole 45 minutes? Who can talk about their hair for 45 minutes straight?”

Lily sighed. “You’re not getting my point. I’m working with Potter.” Mel grinned. “Yes Lils, we go it when you mentioned it about two hours ago.” Lily smiled. “I have been complaining a lot, haven’t I? I’m sorry.”

-x-

A/N: What did you think of this chapter? Review and tell please ^^ I love reviews xDD I'm going to wait until I have 35 reviews until I post the next chapter.

5. Chapter Five

The Year It All Changed

Disclaimer: Everything you recognize is JKR's.

A/N: Please review ^^

I'll get the next chapter up as soon as I can. Exams started today and I really have no time.

This chapter is a bit short, because I didn't have a lot of time to type it.

-x-

Chapter 5

The last place James Potter had ever expected to find himself in the entire wizarding world, no, scratch that, in the entire world was the Library. It was nauseating. It was even worse than being caught naked in the Slytherins common room! No, well, maybe not quite that much. But really, If it wasn't for the wretched Gryffindor girl behind him, he could be safe and warm in his bed, asleep, or better yet, he could be out and about stalking Lily, instead of having her following him in the Library.

Quickly swiping away shaggy, messy dark hair, a grin came upon his face. "Oh, look at this. Do my eyes betray me? Could it be? It's a Quidditch book!" James said grabbing the book from the shelf before him and flipping through it.

"If you don't put that book down, Potter, I'm going to remove your arms." The girl snapped from beside him, and James almost instantly threw the book back into the shelf. Lily, I-had-to-get-up-at-6am-because-of-a-potion-project-and-I'm-working-with-Potter-Lily wasn't someone James wanted to mess with. Despite the fact that she was several inches shorter than him, James knew of her reputation and her temper.

He watched sullenly as Lily moved towards the shelves containing Potion books. “Look Potter. Here it is. Polyjuice Potion. We need Fluxweed, Horn of bicorn, Knotgrass, Lacewing flies, Leeches and skin of Boomslang.”

James looked at the page over her shoulder. “This potion allows the drinker to assume the appearance of another person. The effect lasts for an hour. This potion also requires a part of the person you want to assume the appearance of. The fluxweed has to be picked at full moon, and the lacewing flies stewed for 21 days before the potion is made.”

Lily shifted uncomfortably. James really was too close to her for comfort. “Get away from me Potter.” She stood up abruptly. “We've got what we need. Now lets start working.” Besides having to actually make the Potion, the two had to write down what side effects the Potions could have, the consequences of drinking Polyjuice and things that had gone wrong in the past.

**************************

It was about 11 am in the Gryffindor common room. Most of the students were lounging about, having nothing to do. It was the weekend. Sirius, Melody, Hazel and Remus were seated on a sofa close to the fireplace. It was getting rather chilly for October. “Have any of you seen James or Lily?” Hazel questioned, peering around the noisy common room. Remus and Melody shrugged, while Sirius piped up, “I saw Lily come in at the crack of dawn and kidnap him, muttering something about idiotic partners.”

Melody grinned. “Ah. She's going to finally finish off the bloke, is she? Good for her.”

“Hey! That's my friend you're talking about!” Remus said, making a wounded face as everyone burst out in laughter. “So, Mel, there's a Hogsmeade trip coming up. Who're you going with?” Sirius asked, trying to sound casual. Mel frowned at him. “First of all, don't call me that. My name is Melody. Only my friends can call me Mel. Second of all, it's none of your business. And third of all…” She paused. “Oh, wait. That's it. Never mind.”

Hazel smiled. “That's her way of saying that she has no one to go with.” “Hazel!” Mel smacked her with a scarlet cushion with a golden fringe. “I don't want you to tell my dating habits out to the world. Especially people who'll hold it against me that they got a date before me.”

Sirius smirked. “Face it Mel, I can get a date with whoever and whenever I want. You cannot beat that.” Melody scowled at him. “Is that so? Well, then. I'll bet you that I'll get a date before you and with the most handsome bloke you've ever set your eyes on. And I'll do it before the Hogsmeade trip.” She smiled triumphantly.

Sirius nodded slowly. “And if I get a date with the most gorgeous bird you've ever seen before you get your date, then what?” Melody pondered this for a moment. “Well, whoever gets the date second has to do whatever the other asks for a week.” “Alright, agreed.” Sirius said quickly.

“So, who do you think is going to win?” Remus asked Hazel in a low voice. Hazel smiled quietly. “It'll be close and quite interesting, but I think that Mel is going to win.”

*******************

“Okay, we're done.” James sighed and slumped back into his chair. Who knew copying down things from a bloody book could be so tiring? He snapped the book shut and glanced at Lily who seemed to be perfectly awake and energetic. How did she do it? Lily smiled at James. “Alright, let's go.” Lily stood up and the two stepped out of the Library. They were close to the Potions class when Lily stopped. “Oh no! I left my bag in the Library. The list of ingredients is in it.” She glanced at James. “Could you please get it?”

He nodded. “Wait right here. I'll be right back.” Lily didn't really feel comfortable staying alone near the Slytherins common room, but she agreed. James had barely been gone a couple of minutes, when Lily heard low voices coming towards. She really wasn't in the mood to face any insulting Slytherins. She quickly jumped behind a statue standing close to her.

“We'll be meeting him in a couple of months. You'll have to be ready of course. He'll want to question you about everything you know.” The voice that answered was strangely familiar. Lily peeked out from behind the stone statue. There, standing right in front of her was Narcissa Black and Severus Snape.

*******************

It was a week later that the six, the Marauders, Lily, Melody, and Hazel were sitting in the Great Hall eating breakfast. “So, Mel, got a date yet?” Sirius smirked as he shuffled scrambled eggs into his mouth. “The Hogsmeade trip is only a week away.”

Melody avoided his gaze. “Of course I have. What do you think? Do you have a date?” She turned to look at him. Sirius nodded immediately. “I'm going with Sydney MaCilson. Asked her last week. So, I guess we both win then?”

“I guess so.” Melody said, gulping down her pumpkin juice. She jumped up a few minutes later and headed for Amos Diggory who was sitting at the Hufflepuff table. She sat down next to him and soon, loud giggles could be heard from her.

She walked back to the group several minutes later, looking like a satisfied cat that'd gotten a bowl of cream. “That was my date. Just wanted to go over and say hello.”

**********************

Two of the three girls rushed about getting ready before the Hogsmeade visit. Which was in one hour. Lily and Melody both had dates while Hazel sat, ready, on her bed, looking amused. “Adam's probably waiting for me outside the portrait. He said he would.”

“Amos is waiting for me in the Great Hall.” Mel said, as she quickly applied lipstick. “I'm almost done.” She ran her hand through her hair and smiled. “There, that was easy.” Hazel snorted. “You've been getting ready for almost three hours. I didn't know you liked Amos that much.”

“I don't. I want Sirius to think I do so he gets jealous.” Melody smiled angelically and sat down on her bed. She was dressed in a pale pink blouse and a black skirt. Lily too, had just finished. Her hair was pinned up in a sophisticated bun and she was dressed in a black sweater and surprisingly, blue jeans. “Okay, lets go. I'm ready too.”

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“Lily! Hey Lily!” James hurried to catch up with her. She was walking with Davies. “Could I talk to you for a moment? It's quite important.” Lily sighed, looked at Adam and then nodded. “Alright Potter, but I only have a few seconds.”

“Okay.” James led her a few feet away and then said, “We need to meet up in the Three Broomsticks…” Lily cut him off. “For heaven's sake Potter! I am on a date! I will not meet up with you in the middle. I am surprised you thought that I would meet…”

“Lily! We need to meet because the potion is due next week and we haven't made any preparations. We need to finish them today so we can be done in time.”

“Oh.” Lily said, frowning. “Well, this is a problem. I guess we can meet for half an hour and figure out the details.” James nodded. “I'll wait for you in the Three Broomsticks around three.”

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Lily and Adam were walking hand in hand, around Hogsmeade. They'd been doing that for the past hour. And Lily loved it. “Adam, I need to stop at the Three Broomsticks.” Lily said hesitantly. She hadn't felt like telling him before it was necessary. It would just have spoiled their date.

Adam smiled at her. “Do you want a butterbeer?”

“No, actually, I have to meet Potter there.” Adam stopped and stared at her. “Well, I didn't know you had a date with Potter later.” Lily quickly shook her head. “No, well…er, I have to meet him there to finish some Potions assignment. I completely forgot about it and we have to be done in a week.” Adam slowly nodded. It was apparent that he didn't at all like the idea of Lily meeting another bloke while on a date with him.

“I suppose it's okay. Let's get on with it then.” He let go of her hand and walked slightly ahead of her. Lily sighed. The date had been going so well. She really detested overprotective boyfriends. The two entered the cozy and crowded pub. Lily immediately caught sight of James. It was as if her eyes were magnetically drawn to him. He was sitting with Remus and Peter.

She walked over to him, with Adam dogging her footsteps. “Hello Potter.” She took a seat, removing her scarf. “Let's get on with it, shall we?” Adam purposefully sat down next to her. “Potter, Remus.” He ignored Peter. “Where that other person that hangs around you? Black, is it?”

James nodded at him. “Davies. He's on a date.” Lily meanwhile was pulling out a list from her bag. “Here we are. Let's get it done with Potter.” She quickly scribbled “Polyjuice” on the top. “Right then. We're done all the written things. And we've started brewing the potion. Now we need to figure out who's going to tend to it at what times.”

-x-

A/N: Review please ^^ LOTS of James/Lily action coming in the next chapter. Oh, and the description for Polyjuice Potion from Mugglenet.

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