“Lily! Get down here now!� a booming voice carried up the steps. Lily jumped, and sent hair pins flying everywhere. She looked in the mirror at her tumbled down red hair. It seemed that no matter what she did with her hair, by the end of the day it was a mess anyways. So she gave up on trying to look her best for her first day as Head Girl. She grabbed at her trunk and ran down the stairs. When she entered the kitchen her family was already seated at their usual chairs. Her mother beamed at her.

“You look lovely dear,� her father said, smiling too. Lily grinned broadly and sat down next to her sister.

“Morning, Petunia,� Lily said, in a falsely cheery voice. “Are you excited about Hogwarts? Oh…wait a moment.� Then Lily gave a mock laugh, staring into the murderous eyes of her sister. “You weren’t permitted into Hogwarts were you? Sorry, I’m always forgetting.� Lily then turned away from Petunia, and began eating her toast.

“Why would I want to go to Hogwarts anyways? It’s a school for freaks, people that are too unnatural to be let into normal school. So you learn magic, big deal. Do you even know how to add? Can you read Lily?�

“That’s enough. My goodness you two! Petunia, you should be proud of your sister. She is Head Girl!� Her mother beamed at Lily, and Lily beamed back, but not before she had sent a taunting sneer at Petunia. Petunia’s face turned sour. Of course, Lily was Head Girl! That made her close to royalty!

Petunia and Lily had been fighting with each other ever since Lily had gotten home from her first day at Hogwarts five years ago. Petunia had been insanely jealous, and had made sure she mentioned her views on magic at every possible moment.

Just then their father stood up. “We should be leaving. We’ll miss the train. Wouldn’t want our Lily to be late,� he said, looking at his wrist watch. Lily got up and stuffed the last of her toast in her mouth. Then she walked over to her mother.

“I’ll miss you mum,� she said through a mouthful of toast.

“I’ll miss you too my little Lily,� her mother replied and then kissed her lovingly on the cheek. A loud retching sound came from behind them as Petunia pretended to be sick all over the place. Lily’s mother shook her head as Petunia glared at Lily and then left the room. “She will miss you too. She always does. I just wish she would admit it to you.� Lily stared after her sister, wishing that she hadn’t made that remark over breakfast. She shrugged her shoulders, however, and decided that she would try to be nicer when she returned from school.

“We’d better be off, pumpkin,� her father said gruffly. Lily nodded and followed him out the door.

When they arrived at the station, Lily bid her father farewell, and he drove away. She lifted her trunk into an easier carrying position and walked onward. She was jumbled by the hustle and bustle of the crowd. Her ears rang with the clattering of feet on pavenment and chattering voices. She walked towards platforms 9 and 10. Looking around her, she watched the people scurrying frantically around. She waited until nobody was looking, and pulled her trunk towards the barrier. When she was only a couple feet away from it, she broke into a run; it still made her a little nervous to walk through an apparently solid wall. She closed her eyes right when she would pass through the wall.

WHAM!

Lily went sprawling across the floor, and her trunk went flying. She blinked stupidly, looking around. People were staring openly at her, muttering about her. Then their eyes darted to something lying a few feet away from her. She turned to see what they were looking at. Her heart sank. It was James Potter.

He had the messiest black hair she had ever seen. He was also wearing glasses, and had warm brown eyes. He would have been handsome if he hadn’t been wearing a knowing, slightly flirtatious grin. What was worse, he was sporting a badge identical to hers. He was Head Boy.

“Hullo, Evans,� he said smoothly, extending his hand to her. She refused it and stood up on her own.

“Good morning, Potter,� she said crisply. She refused to look at him as she gathered her things from the ground. He bent to help her. “Dare I ask?� she said, trying to keep her composure. “Just why you were leaving the station?!� James smiled wickedly.

“Honestly?�

“Honestly!� Lily was fuming, and James knew it.

“Well, I was hoping I would run into you.�

A/N: Please R&R! Tell me how I'm doing. If my writing isnt up to snuff PLEASE tell me how I can do better!!!

Several minutes later, Lily sat down heavily next to her best friend, Alice. She was fuming.

“What on earth is wrong?� Alice asked, her pale eyes wide. Lily glared at her feet.

“It’s that James Potter! You wouldn’t believe! I was walking through the barrier, minding my own business, and he came plowing through from the opposite direction! Made a complete fool of me. Then, to make things worse, his nasty little friends came out and started talking to me!� Lily said this all very quickly, and Alice was clearly trying not to laugh.

“He didn’t! You mean they...talked to you?!� Alice said in mock horror. Lily frowned at her friend, and then gave in as they both burst out laughing.

“Alright,� Lily admitted. “Maybe I’m a little wound up today. It’s just I was feeling all tense after breakfast with my sister this morning, and then to have that oaf sprang on me like that…�

“Well, at least he is good looking. It’s better than having…say…Severus knock into you,� Alice said, grimacing at the thought.

“Yeah, care for a game of Exploding Snap?� Lily asked. Alice nodded, and Lily rummaged in her bag. She came upon the cards and set them on the seat beside her. She looked at Alice, who was staring out the glass window of the compartment door. Lily sat up straighter to see what Alice found so interesting.

In the compartment opposite them sat a tall, gangly boy. Freckles dotted his cheeks and the bridge of his nose. He had slightly large, buck teeth, and bright blue eyes. His hair was the color of sand, and he had a forelock that seemed to get in his way as he pushed it out of his eyes constantly. It was Frank Longbottom. Lily grinned broadly.

“Should we see if Frank wants to join us?� Lily said innocently. Alice nearly leapt out of her seat.

“No!� she said. Then, realizing her outburst she cleared her throat and turned towards Lily. “No, I don’t think he would enjoy Exploding Snap.� Lily smirked at her.

“You’re not at all obvious Alice,� Lily said, winking at her friend.

“Shut up,� Alice said, but she was smiling. Then their conversation was interrupted by the opening of the compartment door. They turned to see Lucius Malfoy standing there. Lily stopped smiling at once. She had known it was coming. Lucius had to come and remark on her being a Muggle-born. She didn’t see a Head Boy badge on him, though, and that gave her a large amount of satisfaction. She stared coldly at him, and he smiled.

“Lily…how nice it is to see you. I trust your…family is in good health?�

“Perfect health,� Lily said shortly.

“That’s a pity,� Malfoy said. Lily glared at him. He walked over and sat down next to her. Lily would have moved to the seat opposite them, but didn’t want to leave Alice sitting next to him alone.

“Get out of here, Malfoy.�

“Now, now, Lily,� Malfoy said silkily, putting his arm around her shoulders. “That’s hardly good manners, but what could I expect from a…�

“Excuse me,� said a firm, dangerous voice from the doorway. Lily looked up to see James Potter standing there, his face was etched with silent fury. Lily’s heart did a somersault and she felt oddly relieved. “I believe, Malfoy, that Evans asked you to leave,� James said, his hands balled into fists. He was staring at the arm that Malfoy had put around Lily. Slowly, like a cautious snake, Malfoy moved his arm from around her shoulders and stood up. James never took his eyes off of him.

“What a temper we have,� Malfoy said, sneering. “Afraid I’m going to steal your prey? Well, Lily,� he said, turning to her, “there is always some other time. Perhaps we will meet in some dark corridor. That should wipe that smirk off your face.� He licked his lips tauntingly.

“GET OUT!� James and Lily roared together. James pulled out his wand and pointed it at Malfoy’s face. “You will never touch her again. Do you hear me?� Malfoy only smirked, and sauntered away. Lily stared at James, amazed at the difference she saw in him now. He was no longer cool and collected, but flustered and angry. He looked at her and then at Alice. She was staring between Lily and James. “Sorry…� James muttered to Lily. “I didn’t mean to get so worked up but…� he broke off, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Lily still did nothing but stare. She opened her mouth to thank him, but was interrupted by a bunch of cheery male voices.

Three young men walked in, Lily recognized them from her early years as Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew. Lily nodded to them all, and then looked back at James. Suddenly he was grinning ear to ear, his lazy ‘I-don’t-care’ pretense back in place. It was almost as if the whole incident had never happened.

“Well, Lily, I just came to tell you that we’re supposed to sit up front, being Head Boy and Girl,� James said, shrugging.

“Yeah, he’s too good for us, boys,� Sirius said in mock sadness. “I guess we’ll have to find a new idiot friend.� They all laughed, but none laughed as hard as Peter. He clutched his stomach, doubled over with laughter. Sirius shook his head, and said, smiling, “get help, Peter.� Alice, who still hadn’t moved from her spot on the seat, was sitting uncomfortably, watching the people around her. Lily tried to go sit by her but James stopped her.

“No, we really need to go. We are already late,� James said. Lily nodded, realizing he was right.

“I’ll see you later, Alice,� Lily said apologetically and left with James.

Lily followed James, glancing sideways at him, hoping to catch his eye. She had wanted to thank him for helping her out with that creep Malfoy. But his friends had burst in. James was either very interested in the floor, or he absolutely refused to look at her. After a few minutes of silence, Lily spoke, not wanting to have to say it in front of the other Heads.

“James, I…� Lily began, but James cut her off.

“Hey, it’s no sweat, red. Don’t even think about it, it never happened,� he said, rather sharply. Then he sighed. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to sound so harsh. Just…let’s just say it never happened.� Lily was confused, but she nodded anyways. When they reached the front compartment, they nodded to the other people in the room. Lily only recognized a few of them.

“Hello, there,� said a girl with long blonde hair. “I’m Haley, prefect of Hufflepuff. This is Sean, he’s the other prefect.� The boy nodded. He was tall and had jet black hair. Lily and James shook hands with the two. Lily opened her mouth to introduce herself but James spoke first.

“I’m James Potter, I’m the Head Boy. And this is…�

“Lily Evans, who is very capable of introducing herself,� Lily said, pointedly. James grinned and bowed in mock apology. The two Hufflepuffs stared and then Haley grinned.

“Are you two together?� she asked slyly. James and Lily stood dumbstruck. Then they both burst into exaggerated “NO!’s," explaining how they would rather eat slugs than so much as look at each other. Then they both heard each other’s insults and turned to argue.

“And what, exactly, do you find so repulsive about me?!� they both snarled at each other. But then Lily realized that Haley and Sean had left during their fighting.

“See what you did?� James said. “You made Haley leave.�

“Haley? Is that the only person you noticed? For your information there was a very handsome guy with her. And you made him leave!�

“Sean,� James snorted. “He looked like an idiot to me.�

“Well, I should trust your judgment, being an idiot yourself,� Lily retorted. They both succumbed to silence until they noticed the other people that they were supposed to introduce themselves to. They were greeted by the Ravenclaw Prefects; a rather short, plump boy named Carl Ferguson, and a brown haired girl named Ivy Finnigan. Lily smiled at them, and they carried on a conversation for awhile without fighting. Then the Slytherin Prefects came up. Lily stopped talking as she stared at them.

They were the creepiest looking people she had ever seen. James and the Ravenclaws stopped talking too. The girl had long brown hair, reaching past her waist. Her eyes were almost black, they were so dark. She had many a piercing in her eyebrows and lip. She had on heavy make-up, and looked very bored. Standing next to her was a very tall boy. He had extremely pale skin, and small, narrow eyes. They were the strangest color eyes, almost a deep, dark, blood red. They were looking her over, and Lily felt very uncomfortable. She saw that he had the dirtiest fingernails she had ever seen. They were long, longer than hers, and had a large amount of brown underneath. James moved uncomfortably, realizing that they had been standing and staring at these people for a very long time. He extended his hand. The girl shook it, but when James offered it to the boy, he just looked at him. When it was obvious that the boy didn’t want to shake hands with him, James put his hands down. Lily tried to smile at him, still feeling his gaze heavily upon her.

“My name is Lily. Lily Evans.� The girl nodded.

“My name is Patricia,� she said, with a deep, scratchy voice. “People call me Trish.�

“Alright then, Trish,� Lily said, smiling. Trish nodded. Lily looked at the boy, who still hadn’t spoken. The Ravenclaws, who still were staring avidly at the Slytherins, muttered something to each other, and then scurried away. James watched them, obviously wanting to go with them, but certainly not wanting to leave Lily with these two. Finally the Slytherin boy moved. He put his hands in his pockets and sniffed loudly through his very thin nose.

“You’re a Muggle-born,� he said. Lily nodded, wondering what he was getting at. “I thought so…� he muttered.

“Excuse me?� James said testily. The boy looked at James, then extended his hand, nodding.

“You come from a strong wizard family. I’m pleased to meet you.� James shook his hand. This was definitely the most bizarre, and creepy, person he had ever met. “I think we will be good friends.� James smiled slightly, though it was obviously strained.

“My name is James Potter, I’ve mentioned. But, I still don’t know your name.� James resisted the urge to wipe his hand off on his robes.

The boy nodded, taking his hand back and stuffing it in his pocket. “I’m Jack Mallon.�

After Jack and Patricia had walked away, Lily let out an audible sigh of relief.

“How did he know I was a Muggle-born?� Lily asked nervously.

“Who cares,� James replied trying to look bored, as if he thought nothing of the odd couple they had encountered. In truth, however, James was just as curious as Lily. And he certainly hadn’t liked the way Jack had looked at her. James made a mental note to keep an eye on him. Lily, who was still frowning, shook her head slowly.

“Come on, lets get some seats,� said Lily, trying to sound normal. James nodded and followed her. For some reason, that encounter with Jack Mallon had bothered them both quite badly. They could sense something was not quite right with him. The rest of the journey was very quiet, as both Lily and James were deep in thought. When the train finally stopped, they stood. It dawned on Lily how she and James could just sit in each others presence, only thinking, and not be at all uncomfortable. James seemed to realize it too, because he smiled at her.

“Hey Evans, I’ll tell you what. I will do you a favor and sit next to you during the feast,� James wiggled his eyebrows, and Lily couldn’t help but laugh.

“Oh, I wouldn’t want to ruin your reputation,� Lily said sarcastically and started walking away to find Alice. James put a hand on her shoulder to stop her.

“Hey, Lily…� he stopped and gave a meaningful look towards Mallon. He lowered his voice, “be careful alright?� Lily looked at him, realizing that he had called her Lily. She nodded, touched by his caring. She waited, almost expecting him to start grinning stupidly and tell her that he was joking or something. But he didn’t.

“I will, thanks…James,� Lily nodded, and he seemed reassured. Then he smiled.

“See you at dinner then,� and he walked away, not allowing her to answer. Lily giggled, and then stopped. What was she doing?! This was James Potter, the annoying boy who pulled her pigtails in class and called her ‘red’ and was so arrogant.

Perhaps, Lily told herself, he wasn’t so annoying. Perhaps he had changed, or she had changed, or both. Then she shook her head, very confused at the feelings rolling around inside of her. Then she saw Mallon looking at her. Her skin crawled as she realized that he was talking to Malfoy. They were snickering, and talking behind their hands. She knew they must be up to no good. She looked away from them determinably, and went to find Alice.

“What on earth took you so long?! I was looking all over for you, James said you were coming,� Alice complained as they walked up the drive towards the carriages that were pulled by some invisible force that Lily didn’t know about.

“I was…thinking,� Lily said, smiling at how inadequet that sounded. Alice shook her head.

“You’re very odd this year.�

“Yes, I know,� Lily said shaking her head. Alice smiled.

“It’s James, isn’t it?� Alice said slyly. Lily’s eyes widened in shock.

“What?! How could you possibly think such a disgusting thing! Never even mention that, I mean, who could like someone as annoying, and big-headed as James Potter?�

“You,� Alice said simply. Lily frowned, but decided not to say anymore. Maybe Alice was right....

Later, after they had made their way to the castle, Lily and Alice sat down together, their stomachs growling.

“I sure hope the Sorting doesn’t take too long, I’m starving!� Lily said, clutching her stomach.

“Me too,� said a voice that wasn’t Alice. Lily turned to see James shoving a third year aside so he could sit next to Lily. “Told you I would sit next to you.� Lily rolled her eyes. Then the headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, stood up. The Great Hall quieted.

“Welcome to Hogwarts,� he said in a very cheery voice. “Before we begin our ceremony, I would like to make a few notices. To our Heads of Houses, I would like to ask them that, after the feast, they lead their first year students to their correct Common Rooms. When that task is finished, you will come to my office for further instructions. Also, to Prefects…� Lily stopped listening at that point. She knew she should be listening, but she couldn't help but remember her feeling of relief as James had walked into that compartment, warding off Lucius Malfoy. Then her thoughts traveled to the concerned look he had held in his eyes as he watched Mallon looking at her as if she were slime beneath his shoe.

James noticed her daydreaming and smiled.

“Dreaming about me?� James whispered sarcastically.

“NO!" she said dfensively. She turned to see James' shocked face, and realized that she had just exploded. "I was just thinking of how nice that Hufflepuff Prefect was," she said, covering up her odd explosion with something she was sure would irritate James. James shot a skeptical look over at the Hufflepuff table.

"He looks like a chipmunk," he decided.

"No he doesn't!" Lily protested, while silently agreeing, he did have rather large teeth. James began making bizarre faces, making his teeth protrude and crossing his eyes. Lily laughed, but then stopped after a fourth year girl glared nastily at her. Lily, immediately chastened, decided that she should pay more attention to what was going on around her, especially since she was Head Girl.

After the Sorting and Dumbledore's notices, the golden plates filled with food, and Lily dug in. She was starved, but even as hungry as she was, she hadn’t eaten as much as James.

“Good grief, you must have eaten half of the table! It’s a wonder you’re not as big as Hogwarts by now,� Lily said. James shrugged.

“It’s all that homework I do, it keeps me in shape.� Lily laughed.

“With the amount we get, I’m not surprised.� Then Lily remembered. “Wait! James, we have to take the Gryffindors to the Common Room.�

“Oh, yeah!� James said, remembering what Dumbldore had said. “We’d better go then.� He stood up, and Lily did so as well.

“First years, I am Lily Evans, and will be your Head Girl this year.� Lily smiled brightly. “And this is…� but she was cut off.

“James Potter, who is ‘perfectly capable of introducing himself,’� James said, mocking Lily’s earlier remark on the train. As soon as the children had turned the other way to go to the Common Rooms, Lily stuck her tongue out a James. Together they led the first years to their correct dormitories, giving them the password. Once they were finished, James rubbed his hands together. Lily looked at her watch.

“We need to go to the Headmaster's office, for our instructions,� Lily announced. James nodded and they took off.

When they got to the Headmaster’s office, they knocked on the door.

“Come in,� said a familiar voice. They entered. “Do sit down. I have compiled a list of the requirements of the Head Boy and Head Girl.� Lily held in a groan. Dumbledore saw this, and smiled. "I would like to say that you may go and rest, but Professor McGonogall believes it necessary to explain the list to you. Lily and James both jumped as McGonogall came from the corner. They hadn't noticed her before.

Lily wanted very much to go to sleep. She forced herself, however, to listen to the very long list of what she needed to do. The telling of the list took about a half-hour. Lily was nearly asleep, having given up twenty minutes ago to try and remember everything. When Professor McGonogall finished, she looked up at them expectantly. “Do you understand, then?� They both nodded, though Lily doubted James had listened any better than she had.

"Now, before you leave, the Head's are required to take a test on what they have learned today, to make sure they weren't sleeping during the list," Dumbledore said, amusement sparkling in his eyes. James gasped.

"Professor!" he complained.

"I, however, am afraid to say that I lost the tests in the mail. I hope you're not too disappointed. James let out an audible sigh of relief, and even Lily couldn't help but smile slightly.

"Thanks professor," she said. Dumbledore winked.

When James and Lily left Dumbledore's office, they were too tired to remark on how boring their training session had been. They walked about halfway to their Common Room, but then James stopped. Lily, not realizing he had, kept walking. James grabbed her arm, and she turned curious eyes on him. He put a finger to his lips, listening intently. And then Lily heard it too.

“He would never join us. He is too noble,� came Malfoy’s voice.

“Yes, I got that impression. But, I do believe that he could be turned. He may be noble, but if we did manage to get him on our side, things would be much easier,� Lily and James recognized the second voice as Jack Mallon's.

“Yes that is true. But how and when would we ask him? And what do we do if he says no?� Mallon didn’t answer for a long while, but waited quietly. Lily started to get nervous. Then she heard that horrible sniffing noise he had made in the train.

“Well, Lucius, we can ask him now, as he is listening to us right around the corner.� Lily jumped, and James stepped forward. Malfoy and Mallon came around the corner. Malfoy looked at Mallon, impressed, apparently, that he had known about their spying. “Well, Potter. You have heard enough. What do you say? Join us?�

“In what, exactly?� James said, his voice hard. He was completely serious. No joking, no playfulness, but hard, cold danger. Mallon smiled.

“I’ve heard that you are good at The Dark Arts,� he said. James shook his head.

“No, I am good at Defense Against the Dark Arts.�

“You mean you have never tried to practice any of the actual spells you are trying to protect yourself from?� Mallon snorted. “You will learn. We will teach you. We can practice on her,� he said, motioning towards Lily. Lily stiffened. James reached down and grabbed her hand.

“You won’t touch her,� James said murderously.

“She is a Mudblood. A complete animal,� Malfoy said.

“Is that what this is about?! All of that ‘Pure-blood’ crap?� Lily said hotly. Malfoy’s eyes narrowed.

“Yes, and you’re the first on our list. We are getting together those who agree that Muggle-borns are useless. And you, Potter, will join us.� James could feel Lily’s hand shaking in his.

“I will not join your little club, I think it’s disgusting. And I swear to god, if you so much as lay a hand on Lily, I will rip you to pieces,� said James. And he meant it. Malfoy started to laugh. But Mallonstared at James intently.

“Have you ever felt torture, Potter? Get ready for it now. You’ve made me angry…� he raised his wand.

“NO!� yelled Lily, knocking the boy's wand out of the way so that the blast from his wand hit the wall beside James.

“Why, you disgusting little MUDBLOOD!� Mallon yelled, raising his arm, getting ready to hit Lily across the face. James grabbed him by the throat, however, and slammed him into the wall.

James punched Mallon repeatedly as Lily struggled with Malfoy. She raised her wand, and sent a paralyzing spell at him, but he ducked, and it crashed into the wall behind him. He just as quickly sent a bright white bolt spitting from his own wand, right at her middle. She wasn’t fast enough, however, and she was knocked off her feet, her wand clattering away. She saw James struggling with Mallon. She had to think of how to get them out of this. But all that was knocked from her as Malfoy grabbed her from behind and slammed her against the wall. James roared in anger.

“LEAVE HER ALONE!� James yelled, delivering a final blow. He then grabbed Lily’s wand off the ground, and hit Malfoy with a spell so hard, he dropped to the ground. Lily looked at James, completely out of breath, her mind spinning a hundred miles an hour. Mallon was lying on the ground, unconscious.

“Thanks,� Lily panted. James walked to her, his eyes full of worry.

"Merlin, are you alright?� He said, his voice crackling. She nodded, still trying to get her breath. “I’m so sorry,� he whispered. His hand came to her cheek, where a bruise had begun to form. She winced, but smiled.

“It wasn’t your fault,� she said. But just then, out of the corner of her eye, she saw Malfoy, standing, with his wand pointed straight at James. She grabbed her wand out of James’ hand and shoved him flat against the wall. “EXPELLIARMUS!� she yelled. Malfoy was blasted against the wall, then he slumped to the ground unconcious. James stared.

“Nice shootin’ tex,� he said.

“�Well, I figured I owed you one, since if it hadn’t been for you I would probably be at the receiving end of some torture curse.� James shivered.

“I don’t even want to think about that,� he muttered, kneading his forehead with his hands. Lily felt a strong upsurge of emotion. She knew, at that precise moment, she had fallen in love with James Potter.

“Then think about this,� Lily whispered, and slowly, hesitantly, she lifted up on her toes to kiss him.

The whole next day Lily and James were on cloud nine. Alice kept asking repeatedly what was wrong, afraid Lily was coming down with something. Finally, Alice broke down.

“Alright, Lily. Either you tell me what’s going on or I’m going to Madam Pomfrey,� she said finally, her voice coated with worry.

“What? Oh, well. It’s really nothing. It was just…last night…James and I were walking back from our meeting with Dumbledore and…� Lily blushed violently. Alice’s eyes widened.

“Oh…my…gosh…Lily did he kiss you?!� Lily laughed.

“Of course not!� she said reassuringly. Alice looked relieved. “I kissed him!� Alice nearly fell out of her chair.

~~

After classes James came up to her. And it was the best moment of Lily’s life. James Potter, the cool, confident guy, was blushing. The only problem was, when Lily tried to feel happy about his embarrassment, she had quite a bit of trouble. She smiled, she didn’t really care. She honestly didn’t care! She, Lily, didn’t want to ridicule James anymore. It just seemed so silly now. James grinned.

“What are you thinking about?� he asked, watching the emotions play across her face. She smiled broadly.

“You,� she muttered. Alice coughed loudly behind them, causing them both to jump.

“Sorry to interrupt such a…tender moment…but I just wanted to let you know that everybody is listening to you.� Lily and James looked around, mortified. Then they burst out laughing, and Lily ran to eat with Alice.

“Thanks for telling us before we made a spectacle of ourselves, Alice,� said Lily sarcastically. Alice smiled.

“I didn’t realize it until you already had, so I figured I would just watch for a bit. It’s quite amusing.� Lily smacked her playfully on the shoulder, but then stopped as she glanced into the potion’s classroom. She did a double take, and grabbed Alice. They hid behind the statue of a rather ugly witch, and watched in horror. Their potion’s master, Mr. Klivank, was handing an odd looking potion to Severus Snape.

“How long will this work?� came a voice. Lily craned her neck and saw, to her horror, Jack Mallon. She almost gasped. He looked terrible! His face had matured, his close were too tight, and he looked at least twenty! Somehow…she knew it was far-fetched, but she thought he looked a little like Lord Voldemort. Lily shook her head; that was insane. Snape handed the potion over to Mallon.

“Well, it should keep you looking like Jack Mallon for about…a week. Right at this time, exactly a week from now, you should take another dose,� explained Klivank, “or you will start to see effects like this again, and it would be most unfortunate if these effects started happening in the middle of a class.�

“Thank you, Klivank, you have done well,� said Mallon.

“Pleased I could help, My Lord,� Klivank murmured. Mallon then stopped suddenly. He sniffed loudly in the air. Lily’s heart pounded. He knew she was there! He looked around the room they were in.

“Come on!� Lily whispered frantically to Alice. Alice followed quickly. They ran quickly down the hall and didn’t stop until they had run completely out of breath. “Did you get all of that?!� Lily practically wailed. Alice nodded frantically.

“Did you see how he looked? He looked twice his actual age!� Alice shrieked.

“No, didn’t you hear? He is taking a potion to make himself look like a student. So he actually IS twice the age we see him as,� Lily said, thinking madly.

“But…then…why would he want to be a student? And did you hear at the end?! Professor Klivank called him ‘My Lord’� Lily stopped. She remembered thinking he looked like Lord Voldemort, and then how silly it sounded. Was it really that silly? It certainly didn’t seem that silly now! She looked at Alice, who was shaking her head.

“You can’t possibly be thinking…no…it’s not possible!� Alice said, almost pleadingly.

“Think about it Alice. It would make sense. Jack Mallon is You-Know-Who!� Alice was looking terrified. But she had to admit, after what they just saw, it seemed possible. “We have to tell somebody,� Lily announced. Alice laughed.

“That would be interesting. ‘Excuse me Headmaster, I just wanted to tell you that one of the students is actually You-Know-Who taking a potion to make him look different,’� mocked Alice. Lily had to admit, it was far-fetched. Then she heard footsteps coming down the hallway. Lily’s heart leapt. Sure it was Mallon and Snape; she grabbed Alice’s robes and pulled her behind the wall. She crouched down, pulling Alice with her. She heard the footsteps getting closer and closer, her heart beating wildly. What if he caught her sitting here, hiding from him like an idiot? Then, Alice coughed right next to her. Lily closed her eyes tightly. What was that? That is only supposed to happen in really bad horror movies! Not now, when you’re hiding from a potential Lord Voldemort!

The footsteps stopped. Nothing happened for a long while, then “BOO!� Lily screamed, trying to back further into the wall. Alice fell over in terror, scrambling away from their attacker. Lily looked up to see James. Her heart was thumping wildly. He laughed, “Am I that bad a kisser? Do you really need to hide?� Then he saw their faces. He knelt down beside Lily, who was trying desperately to get her nerve back.

“Bloody hell, James! Did you have to do that?!� Lily yelled at him. James grinned, but then frowned in concern.

“Who were you hiding from?� he asked, helping Lily up. Lily started to explain when Sirius walked around the corner, grinning lazily.

“Thank you all so much for helping me up,� Alice grumbled from the ground, watching James help Lily up.

“You’re welcome, Alice. What’s up James?� Sirius asked, leaning against the wall.

“Well,� muttered Lily, “other than scaring the crap out of us…� but she was interrupted yet again by the arrival of Frank Longbottom. Alice’s eye’s lit up. Frank grinned at her, and moved to help her up from the ground.

“What’s going on?� Frank asked. Lily glared, and started to open her mouth, but stopped. She moved to look back down the corridor, making sure there would be no more interruptions. James stared at her.

“What? Just checking. Well, anyways. Alice and I were walking down to dinner just now, and we saw Mallon in the potion’s room with Professor Klivank and Snape.�

“Snivellus,� Sirius said in disgust. “Now I know this is bad news.�

“Yes, well Klivank was giving a potion to Mallon to make him look the way he does. When we saw him, he seemed to be turning into a whole different person. James…don’t laugh, I’m serious. But Alice and I think it’s…You-Know-Who.� A dead silence followed her announcement. Sirius barked out a laugh, but Frank and James looked at her in realization.

“I saw him taking a potion the other day, but didn't think it important enough to mention,� admitted James. Frank nodded.

“That explains why I saw him and Malfoy were talking about some sort of…club… in the library. They were talking about recruiting people for something. Maybe an…�

“Anti-Muggle movement,� finished Lily. “Almost like the Death-Eaters.� Alice nodded.

“Wait a second…You’re serious about this? You actually think Jack Mallon is Voldemort?!� They all nodded. Sirius laughed, and then shook his head. “Alright, so what do you plan on doing about it?� They all looked at each other.

“We need to tell somebody, somebody with authority. Somebody we can trust,� said Frank, thinking.

“Dumbledore,� said James. “We need to tell Dumbledore.� Lily nodded.

“Well, I think we would be able to think better on a full stomach, don’t you?� said Sirius. Everybody started laughing then, and they agreed to go to dinner. Everybody followed Sirius down to the Great Hall, and after a few minutes, Lily realized that James hadn’t spoken at all since they had left.

“James, are you alright? You’re awfully…James? Stop you guys, James isn’t with us!�



“Quiet, Potter, or I’ll curse you into oblivion,� said Mallon. “That’s right.� James glared daggers at the three boys who had their wands on him.�

“Now, we have a little job for you, Potter, and you’ll do it without a fuss,� whispered Malfoy.

“I won’t do anything for you. Curse me all you want, but I will never help your cause,� seethed James.

“Oh, I think you will. Once you listen to our…proposition,� Snape said, smiling evilly.

“There is nothing you can do that will sway me,� James said, shaking his head.

“Oh really? Last I remember, you seemed awfully fond of a certain red-head. What was her name again? Oh, yes…Lily Evans.� James’ face turned pale.

“Leave her out of this!� They all laughed.

“I thought that would change your mind, Potter. You will help us, then?� Mallon said, smiling menacingly. James glared, trying to think of another way out of this. He would never let them hurt Lily, this was the only way he could keep her safe....

“James, are you alright? You’re very quite,� Lily asked him after dinner.

“I’m fine,� James muttered shortly.

“What happened to you right before dinner? Where did you go?�

“I left something in the Common Room, I needed to double back,� James tried to keep his voice calm.

“Are you sure you’re alright?�

“Yes! Will you just get off my case?!� James exploded. He was breathing heavily, his brown eyes blazing. Lily’s eyes widened. She looked away, nodding, her feelings obviously hurt.

“Sorry, I just…� but she broke off, and hurried away.

“Damn!� James cursed, slamming fist in the stone wall he was leaning against. He rolled his eyes at the excruciating pain he received in his right hand. He shook his fist, and realized that everybody in the hallway was staring at him. He glared at them, and they scuttled away. He couldn’t do what Mallon had asked him to do! Sure, he had never exactly followed rules, and enjoyed breaking them whenever he got bored, but this was too much. Never in a million years would he ever take his rule breaking to the extent they wanted. But he had to…for Lily.

He started plotting in his head. How could he do what they asked? They wanted him to break into Albus Dumbledore’s office and steal his Time-Turner, not an easy thing to do by yourself. He would first need a distraction to lure Dumbledore away from his office, then he would have to find the damned thing, and who knows where Dumbledore would put it. After he had gotten it, he needed to make sure that the theft would go unnoticed for at least a few days. And to make things worse, the damage Mallon would cause would be massive. He rubbed his eyes with the heels of his hands.

He, James Harold Potter, would be responsible for whatever evil Mallon had in mind. But at least Lily would be safe. No, that was unacceptable. He could not allow so many people to die on his account. He had to find another way. He had to make a plan. But he would need help.

While he was still deep in thought, leaning against the wall, he heard somebody coming down the hallway. He froze, listening. It wasn’t one of the teachers, and whoever it was was in a big hurry. It was Snape. James face was contorted in disgust.

“What are you doing here, Snivilus? Lost your shampoo? It sure looks like it,� James said, his nose crinkled in disgust at the other boy’s lack of hygiene. Snape stopped, and then looked relieved to see him.

“Shut up, potter. We have a serious problem. Mallon is going into the past, and he is going to kill Dumbledore, Lily, and you,� James snorted.

“That’s rich Snape. And I’m supposed to believe you? Any special reason? I knew he was jealous of my looks but…�

“THIS IS NOT A GAME, POTTER! Jack Mallon is Lord Voldemort! He is taking a polyjuice potion so that he can be a student here at Hogwarts.� Snape said, sending spit flying everywhere. James shrugged.

“Yeah, we already figured that one out.� Snape looked taken aback, but then continued to glare.

“Take a walk with me Potter, we need to talk,� Snape said.

“Sorry Snape, I don’t date freaks,� James said scathingly. Snape practically growled at him.

“Haven’t you wondered why Voldemort would want to come back to Hogwarts?�

“The good food?� James suggested. Snape glared.

“Well, to go back in time he would need Dumbledore’s Time-Turner. He knows who his enemies are. And his greatest enemy of all is Dumbledore, and following at a close second, are you and Lily. He knows you two are the best in your year, he also knows that as soon as your done with school, your going to be Aurors,� Snape said. James stopped, starting to believe Snape against his will. “You have to understand, Potter. He will go back in time, and he will kill you all as infants.�

“Why do you care? You’ve never given a damn about anybody but yourself,� James spat.

“That’s not true!� Snape said through gritted teeth, his cheeks were red hot. Then James understood. "I don't hate Lily."

“Lily,� James said, comprehension dawning. “You stay the hell away from her!� James roared. Snape glared daggers at James.

“We can’t let him get the Time-Turner.�

“What do we do, then?� snarled James.

“We destroy it. It’s the only way.� James rolled his eyes.

“You idiot, Snape. Do you think Dumbledore keeps the only Time-Turner in the world? They keep hundreds of them at the Ministry of Magic!� Snape smiled slightly.

“Is that funny?� James asked icily. Snape shook his head. He looked at James, who crossed his arms impatiently.

“We have to tell Lily. She needs to know,� Snape said. James glared hard at him, but then nodded stiffly. That bastard was trying to take his Lily!

“Well, let’s just worry about the one in Dumbledore’s office first, then we can worry about the ones in the Ministry,� Snape said. “The one in Dumbledore’s office should be simple, I mean, we can just ask him to remove it, and tell him why. We can get him on our side. He can help.� James nodded, and then sighed. He had to get a grip.

“Nobody else will believe us…hell; I’m surprised I believe us!� James said as an after thought. “Dumbledore won’t be able to convince the the Ministry. The Minister is an idiot, and only believes what his wife tells him is true. And boy what a piece of work she is!� They laughed, and then stopped abruptly. “I guess, if this is going to work, we are going to need to trust one another,� suggested James with a pained look on his face. Snape nodded.

Just then footsteps rang down the hallway. Snape and James held their breaths. Then, to James’ relief, they saw Lily, Sirius, Peter, and Remus coming down the hall. Sirius pulled out his wand at the sight of Snape. James moved in front of him.


“Don’t, Sirius. He is on our side,� said James, calmingly. Sirius snorted, causing Peter to jump.

“Since when have we wanted him on our side?� Sirius asked gruffly. Remus eyed Snape suspiciously.

“What’s going on, James?� asked Lily. James told them everything Snape had told him. By the end, Sirius was laughing.

“And you believe him?!� Sirius asked incredulously. James nodded. Sirius looked at Remus for support.

“All the evidence does point to that,� Remus said, shrugging as Sirius stared at him in disbelief. Sirius looked at Peter, who looked away timidly.

“Do you believe this?!� Sirius demanded.

“I…well I…yes I do…� Peter said quietly. Sirius slowly turned toward Lily.

“Lily…?� Sirius pleaded. Lily looked at James. James blushed and looked away, remembering how he had treated her earlier, he was sure Lily would hold it against him, just to teach him a lesson. Then she smiled.

“I trust James, and if he says that we can trust Snape, then I believe we can,� she said. James wanted to kiss her right there. Snape smiled triumphantly, and Sirius snarled at him.

“We’re not going to force you to come, Sirius,� James said. Then Sirius smiled.

“Oh, I’ll come alright, no need to worry there but…with him?!� Sirius said, motioning towards Snape. James laughed.

“Sorry mate, but we need all the help we can get,� James said grinning.

"We need to act like nothing is happening between us, or Mallon will get suspicious. Potter will act like nothing has happened, and he will pretend to get him the Time-Turner. Did he give you a time limit?" asked Snape.

"No," said James.

"Good," Snape said. "Then we can ask Dumbledore for help.

“So, let me get this straight,� Remus said, smiling. “We are going to recruit Dumbledore, break into the ministry of Magic, destroy all the Time-Turners, and basically thwart the most evil wizard in the world?� Everybody looked at each other.

“Ummm…yeah, that’s about right,� said James, thinking, “Are we all in?� Everybody nodded, tension filling the air. Peter looked around nervously.

“I have to go to the bathroom,� Peter whispered.

Sirius smiled hopelessly; “We’re all going to die.�

“Come on, Lily, you’re going to miss breakfast!� Alice rushed. Lily groaned and rolled over, looking out the window. It was very bright outside, and Lily pulled her covers over her head. She had felt very guilty towards Alice ever since she, Snape and the Marauders had decided to stop Voldemort from going back in time. They had all agreed that, since there were already too many people involved, Alice and Frank should be left out.

Although Lily saw why this had to be, she felt bad about doing something behind Alice’s back. “Did you even hear me?�

“Alice, it’s Saturday! I don’t even want breakfast!� Lily groaned. Alice pulled the covers from Lily’s head, smirking at her friend’s disgruntlement.

“Don’t you remember what Dumbledore said, silly? He said that everybody should be present for today’s breakfast, as he had a special announcement he wanted to make. Aren’t you even curious?�

“I dunno. Yeah, I guess. Alright, I’ll come,� Lily said, getting out of bed. Alice grinned knowingly.

“That’s what I thought; I’m going on down, maybe I can catch a seat next to Frank. See you downstairs!� and with that Alice ran down the steps. Lily smiled, shaking her head. But then stopped, thinking.

What did Dumbledore want to tell them? She couldn’t lie to herself, she was extremely curious. Walking over to her dresser, she put on some jeans and a sweater. She looked in the mirror, scrutinizing her reflection. Running a brush through her hair a couple of times was good enough, she decided, and then she followed Alice down to breakfast.

The Great Hall was crowded and much noisier than usual. People bent their heads together, looking anxiously up at Dumbledore, waiting for him to stand up and say something.

“Hey! Lily, over here!� She turned her head to see James standing on one of the chairs, waving his arms frantically. She grinned. Ever since their decision to break into the Ministry, James and Lily had been closer than ever. They shared everything with each other, no matter what it was, and had the grandest time talking to each other. Taking a deep, satisfied smile, she went to sit in the seat he had saved her.

“Sleep well?� James asked.

“Not too good, actually. Dunno why, and you?� Lily replied, buttering some toast. James shrugged.

“So-so, I kept thinking of you all night,� James said, winking and making Lily blush. Sirius rolled his eyes.

“What do you think Dumbledore’s going to announce?� asked Frank who was, Lily noticed with a grin, seated next to a delighted Alice.

“Well,� Sirius said shrugging, “I have been expecting him to announce me the most dashing young man Hogwarts has ever seen, I suppose that’s it.� Remus laughed. Peter came up just then, looking exhausted, and sat down heavily.

“Where were you last night Peter? I didn’t see you come in,� Remus remarked, noticing the heavy shadows under Peter’s pale eyes. Peter jumped and looked around.

“I forgot the password, no don’t laugh, it was a hard one this time, and nobody came through the portrait hole until about ten!� Peter said indignantly. James snorted.

“Yeah, you're right, that password was a real bear to remember,� James said sarcastically. “It was a whole three syllables, ‘Cu-cum-ber.’� James said this slowly as if for a two year old. Everybody laughed, Peter blushing madly.

“Ahem!� said Dumbledore. The entire room got deadly quiet. James grinned at Lily, excited. “I hope you all had a good breakfast?� There were some murmurs of ‘yes’ but Lily thought she distinctly heard some ‘no’s from the Slytherin table. She glared at them, and then turned her attention back to Dumbledore. “Now, I’m not sure if any of you have heard or not, but the Huddersfield Hurricanes Quidditch team had a very bad incident with another team during a very intense game. One man from the opposite team was killed. Two players from the Hurricanes were permanently injured, and one scared bad enough that they resigned, making three open spots. They are looking for a new Seeker, a new Keeper, and a new Chaser.� The hall was filled with excitement. James and Lily’s eyes lit up. James, who played Chaser and Lily, who played Seeker, were both very good. They grinned at each other, and Lily could have sworn that Dumbledore had just winked at her.

“There is, however, an age limit, and I’m quite sure that you will all understand the reason. No person under the age of 16 will be allowed to try-out,� Dumbledore’s last words were met with a loud uproar of disappointment. Lily and James, however, nearly jumped into the air, they were JUST old enough. Lily was so excited, she hugged James tightly. James sat dumb-struck for a moment, and then hugged her back. “Now, as for those 16 and older: The try-outs will be held on Tuesday, so I suggest you start training hard. Your classes for that day will be canceled, and a train will take you all to the necessary place, where they will begin promptly in the morning. I suggest you get plenty of sleep the day before. The train will bring you back to Hogwarts that same day,� there were some groans, and Dumbledore grinned, “as we wouldn’t want you to miss an opportunity to do homework!

“Now, the Captain is a very strict woman, and will not be trifled with, so no fooling around. Her name is Fran Lochlan, and she is very strict. If you manage to get on her team, you must be prepared to do your best and give it your all. Needless to say, this is a once in a life time opportunity, I suggest you take it.� Dumbledore sat back down, and continued eating his breakfast.

If Lily had thought it loud when she had first come down, she was sadly mistaken. Some people boasted loudly of how they, surely, would get on the team. Other complained even louder of how they weren’t old enough. Lily and James sat, already planning how to work this around their plans to stop Voldemort.

“We will have to postpone our Ministry break-in until after the try-outs,� James said. Lily nodded.

“Do you think you’ll be able to keep Riddle busy until after Tuesday?� Remus asked, looking at James uncertainly.

“Don’t worry about that, I’ve gotten it taken care of. He thinks that Dumbledore doesn’t have his yet, and is ordering it from the Ministry. That buys a couple of days at least,� James explained.

“He actually believed that?� Remus said, frowning.

“Well, I figured if he didn’t believe me, I’d be dead, so…�

“Stop it James, don’t joke about that,� Lily said, frowning. James grinned, but nodded obediently.

“Would you look at that,� remarked Frank, shaking his head. “Somebody has tamed our James.� Everybody laughed, even Lily. Peter looked around awkwardly, apparently not understanding.

The next few days were spent, not relaxing and playing chess or Exploding Snap like they normally would, but outside on the grounds. Sirius, Remus and Peter watched as Lily and James trained from dawn until very late at night. Sirius shook his head, smiling.

“I really hope they make it, you know?� Sirius said. Remus looked up from the book he was reading, and looked up at them, flying around and practicing catching golf balls and practice Quaffles. Remus grinned.

“I really think they will make it, look at them. They’re excellent.�

“Amazing,� Peter said, practically drooling with awe. Sirius snorted at Peter’s enthusiasm. “Why aren’t you trying out, Sirius?�

“Me? No way! And risk my good looks?� Sirius said smugly.

“Right, what’s the real reason?� asked Remus. Sirius smiled.

“You know me too well, mate. No, I dunno, It’s just kind of dumb, I’d rather be out their doing something to stop people like my parents from taking over. It’d be cool to be an Auror,� Sirius admitted.

“They would never let me be an Auror,� Remus said sadly. Sirius felt very bad for him.

“Remus, you never know. They say they are working on a cure, if it turns out, you could be a werewolf-free man!�

“Right, like that will ever happen,� Remus said depressed. Sirius didn’t know what to say. He knew nothing could make Remus feel better about his being a werewolf, and throwing false hopes in his direction definitely wasn’t a good idea. He resigned himself to watching James and Lily.

~~

“Come on James, we need to hurry! They are loading the train!� Lily yelled excitedly, grabbing James’ hand and dragging him away from the breakfast table. “Do you have your broom? Everything? Alright, let’s go!�

James muttered something through his toast, but Lily was too excited to listen. The sixth and seventh years bustled around, checking and double-checking that they had all of their stuff. It’s too early to play Quidditch, thought James, and he allowed Lily to drag him into the train.

“Move along now, move along!� came a rough voice. Lily and James turned to see Hagrid. They waved.

“I suppose Hagrid will be escorting us to the try-outs,� James said delightedly. He always got on really well with Hagrid, their new game-keeper. “Come on, maybe we can get a compartment to ourselves.� Lily and James were squashed by the huge crowd. James had no idea there were this many sixth and seventh years in Hogwarts! James held tightly to Lily’s hand, keeping her close to his side. James, who was much taller than Lily, ended up having to shove many people out of the way so they wouldn’t trample her.

“Are we getting closer?� Lily asked, standing on tip-toe, and trying to see over the sea of people. James nodded, and they managed to get onto the train. The rushing didn’t stop thre, however, as it was equally crowded in the train. James dragged Lily to a compartment, and they toppled in. Lily dropped down onto a seat ,out of breath.

“What a mess!� he said. She nodded, leaning back against the seat.

“I wonder how much smaller this train is than the Hogwarts Express,� James said. Lily shrugged, now taking her broom off her shoulder and standing on tip-toe to get it into the compartment. It was just above her reach. James watched her struggle for a couple of minutes, smiling to himself. Lily turned around haughtily.

“Are you going to help me or not?� she asked very red in the face. James grinned and bowed.

“Of course, milady,� he said, reaching the compartment easily.

“It’s higher than the other train,� Lily muttered. James made a very loud cough that sounded very much like ‘shorty.’ Lily turned on her heel, and then started laughing. “You’re wretched,� she muttered, still laughing. “Pure evil.�

“I wonder how long it will take to get to this place,� said James sitting down.

“No idea, ask the drivers, they’ll know,� Lily suggested. James nodded.

“Yeah, I’ll be back in a minute. Don’t miss me too much,� and with a wink, he left. Lily smiled to herself. James…to think, a year ago, if you had mentioned his name in her presence she would have thought you mad. Now she was mad; madly in love. Then the compartment door slid open.

“Hello, Lily,� came a smooth voice. Lily turned to see Snape. She almost cringed.

“What do you want?� she said, sharply.

“Can’t a friend simply want to talk?� Snape said innocently.

“Oh, sure, Snape. But you’re not a friend, so it doesn’t really work.�

“I could be your friend, you just need to get to know me,� Snape said, moving towards her.

“Stay away from me Snape,� Lily said, backing up against the wall. Snape started to move forward but was stopped by a hand that came to rest roughly on his shoulder. James was standing behind him.

“Is there something you came to say, Snape?� James said, moving to stand beside Lily.

“I…yes I wanted to make sure you hadn’t forgotten our deal?� Snape said, greasily.

“Nope, we haven’t,� Lily said shortly. “Goodbye, Severus.� Lily waved sweetly. Snape turned to leave, but then, seeming to get his nerve back, he turned around.

“Why on earth should I listen to you anyways? You’re just a filthy, disgusting little devil-headed Mudblood, not worthy of…� James moved forward, but Lily beat him to it.

“You evil, disgusting, nasty little disgrace to worms everywhere!� Lily screamed at him, she balled her hand into a fist and slammed it right into Snape’s deserving face. He flew back into the compartment door. James walked up and turned the latch, causing Snape to fall into the hallway. Lily looked at James, slightly surprised.

“Nice hit,� James said, smiling.

“Well, you always get to hit ‘em. It was my turn,� she said simply. James laughed and put his arm around her, shaking his head.

“Be careful or I’ll have to start protecting Snape from you!� James said.

“That’ll be the day,� Lily said. “How much longer until we get there?�

“About an hour,� James said. Lily groaned. “Hey, at least you can spend more time with me now!�

“Oh, goody!� Lily said sarcastically.

“That hurt Lily, that hurt me real deep,� James said, hanging his head in mock hurt.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll let you beat me in a game of Gobstones, will that make you feel better?� Lily said, feigning pity. James pouted even more. “Alright, two games.� James grinned, and they sat down together, playing Gobstones and making up for the five years of a lost friendship.

Lily’s heart was fluttering nervously as she stepped off the train, her broom hung in a bag over her shoulder. James came up behind her, and put his arm around her. She was very aware of the bolt of lightning that shocked her when they touched. She stared up at James.

“Nervous?� he said, misreading her expression. But she nodded, because she was nervous. “Trust me, you’ll do fine. You’re the best seeker I’ve ever seen!� he said. She smiled.

“Thanks, James,� she muttered. She looked up at his rich brown eyes, and for a second, the world around them vanished, and it was only them, standing together. James put his hand on her cheek, but pulled away slightly, trying to read her face. She did nothing to discourage him, so he moved closer. Lily couldn’t breathe! She suddenly found that she didn’t know what to do with her hands.

She was sure she looked like an idiot, standing there with her arms dangling at her sides. James didn’t seem to care though, as he was inches away from her. She parted her lips slightly, and James took that as an invitation. He pressed his mouth against hers, and pulled her closer. Lily was in complete shock. He just put his tongue in my mouth! She was about to shove him away, but it felt so right…. She put her hands on his shoulders, and could feel the hard muscle that came from years of Quidditch. James pulled away, grinning ear to ear.

“That was your first kiss wasn’t it?� he asked. She blushed red.

“I know, I’m terrible aren’t I? You don’t have to say it, I understand…� but James cut her off with another quick kiss.

“No, you were wonderful. I’m just…honored, that’s all,� he said gently. His eyes were so open, and slightly vulnerable. “I love you, Lily Evans,� he stated, matter-of-factly. Lily stared, but then she grinned.

“I know you do,� and with that she walked away. James stood there, dumbstruck. That wasn’t the response he had been expecting, and she knew it. Lily then turned around, smiling widely.

“Why…you!� James said, and started chasing after her. She laughed, and started running towards the field. James caught her around the middle, however, and swung her over his shoulder like a bag of potatoes.

“James Potter! Let me down right now!� Lily said, punching his shoulder, trying to get free.

“Tell me you love me!� James yelled back over his shoulder.

“PUT ME DOWN!� she roared. “James…please…they’ll see us!� she whispered horrified. “We’re supposed to set an example!� James nodded.

“That’s a very good point. And I’ll let you down…right after you admit that you love me!� she tried to scream in anger, but only ended up laughing.

“I’m getting dizzy! My face hurts!� she tried to sit up more comfortably so that all the blood wasn’t rushing to her head. Then, she suddenly flopped motionless on his back, almost as if all her bones had vanished.

“Complain and complain all you want, I’m not going to let you down,� James said, getting quite a few stares. He didn’t feel her move. “Lily? Did you hear me?� he asked. No response. He stopped moving. “Are you alright?� he sounded worried. He pulled her off his shoulder and into his arms. He saw her face, and his blood ran cold. What had he done? Had he made her pass out from all the blood rushing to her head? “Lily? Lily!� he said, shaking her. Then he saw something, her mouth twitched. She couldn’t hold it any longer, and burst out laughing. James set her on her feet.

“I got you so bad!� she said through gales of laughter. James closed his eyes.

“You scared me to death! I thought I’d hurt you,� he choked, and Lily saw that his face did look pale. She stopped laughing.

“Did I really scare you that bad?� she asked, looking at him. He didn’t answer, but ran his hands through his hair.

“Well, what would you do if you thought you had somehow hurt me? And I wasn’t moving?�

“Scared,� Lily admitted. “I’m sorry.� James nodded and started to walk away, but Lily grabbed his hand. She lifted up on her toes and whispered into his ear. “I love you too.� James grinned, and pulled her into a hug, but just then a loud whistle blasted through the air. Lily could hear James’s heartbeat speed up.

“Come on,� James said, pulling Lily along.

“Yes, dear,� she said, rolling her eyes at his leader instinct. They hurried to the large clearing, both very nervous. A large crowd was already there, and standing in front of them was a very wiry looking woman. She looked like a stork, to be quite honest. She stood extremely straight up, and had wire-brush grey hair. Her eyes were small and bright blue, and her eye brows made her look angry even when her face was relaxed.

“QUIET!� she roared. Silence fell over the muttering crowd almost immediately. James glanced sideways at Lily, who grinned slightly. Dumbledore wasn’t kidding, this woman meant business. “My name is Fran Lochlan. You may not call me Fran; you may not call me Franny. You may not call me Lochlan. You may only call me Captain. Is that understood?� A murmur of understanding rippled throughout the crowd. She nodded. “ALRIGHT! I want those who will be trying out for Keeper, move over towards that tree to the right. NOW!� All of the Keepers moved quickly. “All of you who want to be Chaser, move over to that tree to the left. NOW!� James gave Lily’s hand a farewell squeeze, and set off. “The rest of you are obviously trying out for Seeker, and you shall STAY WHERE YOU ARE!� Nobody moved a muscle.

“Okay! We are going to be doing short scrimmages. I will pick at random two people from the Seeker group, two people from the Keeper group, and four people from the chaser group. I will put you into teams, and you will play against each other while I make notes on the sideline. Got it? Good. LET’S GET STARTED!� Captain said. She looked through the crowd of Keepers.

“You and…you. Come here now,� she said sternly, pointing to two very nervous boys. They went up to her, obviously terrified. “Put these on,� she said handing one of them a black tee-shirt, and one of them a white tee-shirt. They both slipped them on over their heads, looking at each other, sizing their opponent up. Captain began scrutinizing the Seeker group.

“Pick me, pick me…� Lily muttered under her breath. But Captain pointed to two girls, who smiled excitedly and ran to get on their tee-shirts. Next, Captain looked at the Chaser group.

“You, in the red. You there, next to her. You boy, with the glasses, and…you in front. Come up here NOW!� she said. Lily craned her neck, and saw that James was one of the ones she had picked. Lily gave him the thumbs up, and he winked at her. James put on one of the black tee-shirts. “Okay! Everybody onto the field!� she yelled after them. James went with the rest of his small team, and Captain walked over to a small box. She let out the small, golden snitch, and allowed it a few seconds head start, before she pulled out the Quaffle. This was apparently going to be a game with no Bludgers. Lily was glad, she didn’t want James to get hurt. Captain walked to the middle of the field.

“GET IN POSITION!� she screamed. James moved over slightly, and watched the Quaffle intently. Then, without warning, Captain threw the red ball into the air. James leapt for it, but was practically elbowed in the face by one of the other team’s Chasers. Lily glared at the boy, wanting to hex him. James flew after him, and started to circle him, making the boy nervous. James then started to dart in and out of his way; the boy panicked, and threw the Quaffle upwards to his team mate. James intercepted the pass easily, however, and zoomed off in the opposite direction. Lily clapped, smiling. A few people stared at her, and Lily slowly stopped clapping, but continued to grin. The other Chaser was hot on his trail, swerving in front. James, realizing that if he tried to shoot the goal with the other Chaser in front of him he would miss, looked around for his team mate. He saw her, and threw the Quaffle to her. She caught it, and advanced on the Keeper, who was ready, guarding his middle hoop. The Keeper was so preoccupied with the Quaffle, that he didn’t see James sneakily setting himself up for a perfect shot at the left hoop. The girl raised her arms, apparently getting ready to throw the Quaffle into the right hoop, but, at the last possible moment, when the Keeper had dove to the left, the girl threw the Quaffle to James, who scored. Lily jumped and down cheering loudly. She got more stares but she didn’t care. James was doing wonderful!

Three more goals later, scored by James and the other Chaser, and the other team was getting frustrated. Their Seeker was searching frantically under the pressure. Lily was busy watching James, who was attempting to pass to the Chaser, when the crowd around her gasped. Lily looked up to see the Seeker on James' team diving. He was chasing after a gold shimmer, and the other Seeker was immediately on his tail. Lily covered her mouth, as the suspense went on. They were neck and neck, both reaching and grasping. Just as they hit the ground, however, the white team’s Seeker swooped up, clutching the struggling golden Snitch in his hand.

“Damn!� Lily muttered. But it didn’t matter, James had done extremely well. Then again, so had his team mate…Captain blew her whistle sharply, and the teams flew down to the ground. James was panting slightly, and beads of sweat were trickling down his face. He ripped off the tee-shirt, and handed it back to the Captain.

“When you have already played, you are free to either watch over on the other side of the feild, or go back to the train and wait until the rest are finished. But decide QUICKLY!� she yelled. Most people scurried back to the train, but a few, including James, went to sit in the grass on the other side. Captain then came back over. She picked another group. Lily hoped she would choose her, but again, Lily was not chosen. Instead she was left to frown while the new teams battled each other. This game ended extremely quickly, in fact, it lasted only five minutes. A rather short black boy had caught the Snitch with speed, grace, and skill. Lily groaned, that was going to be tough to beat. Captain again started looking for new players.

“Please…come on…pick…�

“You, there, with the red hair!� Captain said, pointing at Lily. Lily leapt into the air. YES! She grinned, and ran to take the white tee-shirt that Captain offered. A boy came up behind her, and put on the black tee-shirt. Lily turned to wish her opponent good luck, and saw that it was Snape. She groaned audibly. Snape was obviously still very mad about the incident during the train ride. She saw that he had a bruise on his cheek where she had punched him.

“Good luck, Evans. You’re going to need it,� Snape said, smiling evilly. “You’re my prettiest opponent yet,� he said, reaching out to shake her hand. Lily didn’t want to take, it, but Captain was watching and she didn’t want to look like she wasn’t being a team-player. She shook his hand, and then tried to pull away. He wouldn’t let go.

“Get the Hell off me!� Lily growled. Snape then yelped in pain, grabbing his hand. It had a large cut on it. Lily stared, had she done that? “Did I…I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt…� Lily said, seeing the murderous look in his eyes.

Why couldn’t he get over her? he thought angrily. She had just sliced his hand open, and yet he loved her. He had to get rid of her! He glared at her, and, seeing that Captain’s back was to them, picking out the Chasers, he spat at her feet. Lily leapt back, just as Snape yelped again. He pulled up his shirt sleeve, and Lily saw a large burn mark in the shape of the words ‘Leave her alone’

“I didn’t do that!� Lily said. Snape stared at his arm, and then it dawned on him. What an idiot! He looked over towards the sideline, and saw that Potter had his wand pointed directly at him. He glared. Lily followed his gaze, and saw James with his wand pointing at Snape. She shook her head, indicating for him to stop.

“Alright! Everybody get into positions. NOW!� Lily took her broom out of the carrying case she had had over her shoulder, and mounted. She flew into the air, and was flooded with happiness. She loved to fly. She flew into position, facing Snape. Captain strode over to the middle of the field, and looked to see the Quaffle all the way at one end of the field. “ACCIO QUAFFLE!� she barked. It flew to her hands. “GO!� she yelled as she threw the Quaffle into the air. Lily started moving at once, Snape trailing her closely.

“Nice view back here, Evans,� Snape said silkily. Lily ignored him. He was just trying to distract her, and she had to concentrate. Her eyes flew around the field. She heard some cheers as the other team scored the first goal. Snape grinned happily. She had to catch it quickly, quicker than five minutes. And she had to do it smoothly; she had to use some difficult moves or something. Her heart leapt at the glittering of something, but it was just the sunlight bouncing off a piece of jewelry their team’s Keeper was wearing.

“I saw you snogging with Potter earlier. Of course, who didn’t? You would think the Head Boy and Head Girl would be a little more discreet. Especially you,� Snape said, flying beside her. Lily ignored him completely however, searching for the Snitch. “Of course, you’re not at all what you pretend to be. You think your perfect, prim, proper little Lily Evans? Well, I think it’s an act. You think you’re so innocent, never dated a guy before? Yeah right. You’re just a Mud-blood whore. You’d do anything to get in bed with Potter, wouldn’t you? I see through your mask, Lily. I know you better than you…� But Lily had just dived. It took Snape a few crucial seconds to realize what had just happened.

Lily was speeding as fast as her broom would take her. There it was, the Snitch, floating a few inches above the ground. Then it started flying again, staying parallel to the ground. Lily was now inches from the ground, her toes brushing the grass. She extended her hand, but then she realized that Snape was right beside her. He swerved into her, cause her to roll over and over. She kept moving at the same speed though. She righted herself, and seconds later, the Snitch changed direction immediately, shooting straight up into the air. Lily was quicker to react than Snape, and shot straight up after it. She was completely vertical now, moving at top speed, holding on for dear life. She extended her hand.

Her fingers were so close, any second now, she would grab it. Then Snape was beside her, he was leering, his hand trying to push her out of the way. His weight was much greater than hers, and she went swerving to the right, but then a split-second before that, so did the Snitch. It practically flew into her hand. She closed her hand around the fluttering gold ball. She was about to raise it proudly in the air, but Snape grabbed her wrist.

“Let go,� Snape said, nearly breaking the bones in her wrist. Lily looked down, they were too far up, so Captain couldn’t see that Snape was cheating.

“Go to Hell, Snape,� Lily said, struggling madly. Tears sprang to her eyes as Snape tightened his vice-like grip.

“Give the Snitch to me. I swear to god, if you let it free into the air I will tell Mallon all about James betraying him,� Snape said icily. He knew he had struck a chord. Lily had no choice. No way would she risk James’ life.

“Alright, ok. Just don’t tell Mallon. I’ll give it to you, just…don’t let anything happen to James. Please,� she said, trying not to let the tears from the pain slide down her face. She handed the Snitch to Snape, who grinned evily. He flew back down, his hand held high. Lily slowly followed him, her wrist throbbing. She had just blew it, her chance of being Seeker was gone. But she was not upset about her decision at all. James would do the same for her, and more. She loved him, she truly did, and without him…life would be nothing.

“Lily! What happened up there? It looked like you were going to get it for sure!� James said. Lily shrugged.

“A gust of wind messed me up big time. So, Snape got it instead,� she said.

“I’m so sorry Lily. But hey, it’s not over until it’s over. Your posture and everything was much better than Snape’s and plus you’re much better to look at,� he said, trying to cheer her up. Lily tried to grin, so he wouldn’t worry about her. “Listen, I watched Franny while she was taking notes, she definitely liked your style. You did some nice moves out there, especially that one when Snape bumped you and you rolled over. That was terrific!� he said, going on and on about how wonderful she had done. Lily stayed silent. James put his arm around her. “What was Snape saying to you, over there before the scrimmage?� he asked.

“You know, the usual. I’m a Mud-Blood, that sort of thing. Thanks for what you did, even though you shouldn’t have done that,� Lily said, leaning against him as they walked back to the train. “How many more scrimmages are left?� she asked, trying to change the subject.

“Probably about two,� James said. Lily nodded. Damn, her wrist hurt, she wanted to look at to see if Snape might have sprained it or something, but didn’t want James to see, so she kept pulling her robe sleeves over her hands.

Once they were in their compartment, Lily and James sat down.

“You look a mess. Seriously, Lil, don’t worry. Just because you lost doesn’t mean anything,� James said encouragingly. Lily nodded, but that wasn’t what was bothering her. Her wrist was throbbing, and she was having a hard time dealing with a fact that she had just realized.

Snape had total control over her. He had James’ life in his hands, and he could make her do whatever he asked if he thought to. All he had to do was mention revealing James’ true intentions, and Lily would do whatever he asked…anything for James. She had never felt so vulnerable in her entire life. “I think you’re not telling me something,� James said, frowning. Lily smiled.

“I’m just really tired.�

“Come here,� James said, pulling her onto his lap. She laid her head on his shoulder.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you James,� she muttered. He kissed the top of her head, and settled her more comfortably. She sighed contentedly, and together, they fell asleep.

By the time James had woken up, they had reached Hogwarts. He saw that Lily was still sleeping, and her head against his shoulder. He smiled contentedly. He had dreamed of this for so long, now that it was actually happening, he felt he had walked into paradise. He stroked her long red hair. She was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen.

“Lily,� he whispered softly. She stirred slightly, looking up at him. She smiled when she caught his gaze.

“Are we there already?� she asked groggily. He nodded. She sat up, running her fingers through her hair to get rid of some of the tangles from playing Quidditch.

“Want me to carry you?� he asked playfully, seeing how tired she was.

“I’ll pass, thanks,� she said, laughing.

“Come on then,� he said, grabbing her hand. She hid her wince from him, trying not to let him see the large bruise that had formed around her wrist. As they stepped off the train, Sirius, Remus, and Peter ran up to them. Their faces were flustered. “What’s the matter?� James asked them, frowning.

“They are going to try and steal the Time-Turner from Dumbledore themselves!� Remus said.

“How do you know?� Lily asked, perplexed.

“We over-heard,� Sirius said out of breath.

“It’s true,� said a slick voice from behind them. Lily trembled slightly, and James looked at her worriedly.

Then he saw Snape standing behind them. He immediately moved Lily to his other side, keeping himself between her and Snape. Lily glared at Snape, who smiled, nodding in satisfaction. Obviously she hadn’t told on him. “We need to move...now. We shouldn’t have gone to the try-outs.� Lily glared. She hated him so much...yet he was helping them! It was so frustrating.

“We need to go and get Dumbledore now,� James said. Lily nodded her agreement.

“What if he doesn’t believe us?� Peter said quietly. They all stopped. James hadn’t even considered that. He had always taken for granted that Dumbledore would believe them. Dumbledore had always believed them before. Lily looked at him worriedly.

“I’m afraid, Mr. Pettigrew, that I would need a little more detail, but I am definitely not apposed to listening to what you have to say,� said a calm voice just behind them. Everybody jumped a foot in the air. They turned around abruptly to see Professor Dumbeldore. Snape looked terrified to see him there, even after he saw who it was. Lily didn’t understand why, why should Snape fear Dumbledore? He was on their side...

“Professor Dumbledore, we think that Lord Voldemort is trying to steal the Time-Turner in your office,� Lily said anxiously.

“And all of the ones at the Ministry,� Snape reminded urgently. James looked at Dumbledore, and saw that he was looking curiously at Snape.

“I heard it with my own ears, Professor. They wanted me to steal it for them,� James said. Dumbledore nodded.

“We should inform the Minister,� Peter said, almost a question. Dumbledore coughed slightly at this and Remus raised his eyebrows.

“If you don’t mind my suggesting, Professor, but I really don’t think we should involve the Minister. He would be...reluctant in believing that the student named Jack Mallon is actually the evil Lord Voldemort,� he said. Dumbledore chuckled, nodding.

“Well, normally I would object to this, but I believe you are right Mr. Lupin,� he said, apparently thinking. Lily noticed that Snape was staring curiously at Peter, who was looking extremely uncomfortable. Lily frowned in confusion. It was almost as if Snape was trying to read Peter’s mind. What was going on with Snape and Peter? James nudged him.

“Wake up Snivilus,� James said. Snape turned around. Lily expected him to retort some snide remark, but he remained grinning in that self-satisfied way that infuriated her.

“I’m afraid, Mr. Potter, that if we are to do this together, we must refrain from fighting with each other,� Dumbledore said calmly. James nodded apologetically.

“Well, if we’re going to do this, we need to do this quickly,� Lily said. Snape nodded.

“I agree Miss Evans,� Dumbledore said, and he looked at around them. He stopped and took his hat off his head. “Portaticus,� he murmured, and his hat glowed blue for a second, and then went back to normal. Then he turned to the students. “When we arrive, I want you all to drop to the floor immediately,� he explained. James looked at him questioningly.

“Please make sure that you are touching my hat.� Everybody layed their hands on the hat, Snape looking a little worried. Lily looked at James, slightly nervous. He put his arm around her, pulling her closer. She felt better, but then felt way worse as she saw the way Snape looked at James. Pure jealousy. She snuggled closer to James as Dumbledore began to count down.

“Five...four...three...two...one...� They all felt a jerk. Lily landed on her feet, but James pulled her down onto the ground. He rolled on top of her, shielding her with his body as a blinding purple light filled the room. Lily closed her eyes tightly, burying her face in James shoulder. After a few seconds, the light began to fade. Lily looked up at James, who was staring at her.

“Are you alright?� they both asked simultaneously.

“Yes,� they said together. Then they started to laugh. James, not caring if anybody was watching, leaned down so that his face was a hair's-width away from hers. She looked up at him, her breathing jagged. Seeing that she wasn’t opposed to him being this close, he brushed his lips against hers. Her body immediately responded as if she had been struck by lightening.

Smiling at her response, he deepened their kiss. She began kissing him back, until her whole world started spinning, landing face down when somebody cleared their throat loudly. Lily blushed crimson, but James grinned widely. He lifted himself up off the ground, pulling her with him. He chanced a glance at Dumbledore who was watching them with a smile, his eyes twinkling merrily over his glasses.

“I hate to interrupt, but I believe we have more pressing matters to attend to,� Dumbledore said. Sirius was sniggering loudly behind his hand, but stopped at a glare from James. Lily looked around, smiling and blushing, until her eyes fell on Snape. He mouthed the word ‘whore.’ She leaned up and kissedd James firmly on the cheek in response. Snape snarled.

“What exactly did you just do?� James asked Dumbledore. Dumbeldore smiled.

“I just froze anybody at the Ministry,� Dumbledore said.

“How come we’re not frozen?� Lily asked.

“I told the spell to freeze all but this room,� Dumbledore explained. Remus nodded, obviously having read about this in a book or something.

“Where are we?� Peter asked, looking around them in awe.

“We are in the Once and Again Room,� Dumbledore said grandly. Lily looked at her surroundings. The whole large room seemed to have a strange, pale blue mist floating around them. But every time one of them tried to focus on the mist, it vanished. Lily was in awe, as hundreds of Time-Turners hung from the ceiling and walls. Other devices, maybe more time-travel instruments, also hung all over the place. Lily looked down at her feet, and saw that they were standing on a huge, moving clock. As Lily listened, she could her a faint ticking. Then it started to get louder as she focused on the noise. This had to be the most bizarre room she had ever been in.

“Well....we’re here. What do we do now?� James asked, rather stumped. Lily stopped. She had never actually thought about how they were going to destroy the things once actually there. She looked at Dumbledore, who was blinking sadly.

“That will be simple enough, but realize, that by destroying all of these, we are cutting ourselves off from mass discovery,� he said. Lily took this in slowly.

“It has to be done, Professor,� Remus said boldly. Dumbledore nodded.

“Are you sure though? Maybe we should just keep one...� Peter said. Everybody stared. Peter rarely spoke, especially about his opinion. “Just so that all the information isn’t lost,� Peter said, hastily. Snape grinned.

“That’s very wise of you, Peter, but I don’t think we should take any chances,� Remus said. “We need to destroy them all, as quickly as possible.� Peter nodded, going beet-red. Dumbledore smiled at Peter, he was such a foolish boy.

“Very well, Mr. Lupin,� he said, and he waved his wand. There was a loud blast, and all the devises burst into tiny pieces. James held fast to Lily, as tiny bits of metal bounced off him. He looked up and saw that all the bits of metal started to melt. They started to form a small circle in the middle of the room, and the ticking sounds got much, much louder. Lily covered her ears, sure the pounding would deafen her. The huge puddle of melted metal started to ripple violently. Then the ticking stopped suddenly, and the puddle sank through the floor as if it had been floating in midair the whole time. Sirius started clapping loudly.

“Would that trick work on homework?� Sirius asked excitedly. Dumbledore smiled.

“I’m afraid not, Mr. Black. Now, I am going to Apparate back to the school and bring the Portkey back with me. Hold tight, I’ll be right back,� he said, smiling.

"But...Professor...you can't Apparate inside Hogwarts!" Lily said. Dumbledore smiled slighty, and vanished. Many of them just kept staring at the spot where the puddle had been moments ago. They had done it...right?

“Well, what a coicidence. We're all here....together," said a cool voice. They all turned to see their worst nightmares come true. A fully grown Lord Voldemort stood in the middle of the room, holding Dumbledore’s Portkey. James grabbed Lily’s hand. Behind Voldemort were Malfoy, Bellatrix Black, Theodore Knott, and a boy that James recognized as the Slytherin Keeper, Sebastian Harridson.

“How did you know? How did you know what we were up to?� Lily gasped at last. Voldemort chuckled, and somebody shifted uncomfortably behind her.

“You know, you Mud-Bloods and Muggle-Lovers are all the same. All of you are weak, all of you are simple, all of you are...trusting,� Voldemort said, putting much emphasis on the last word. Lily then realized something. Somebody must have ratted them out. But who?

Lily looked around. She saw Peter whimpering, Sirius snarling like a dog, Remus glaring cooly, James holding her protectively and Snape...Snape looking rather pleased with himself.

“You!� Lily cried moving away form Snape. James jumped, and followed Lily’s gaze. His eyes narrowed.

“You bastard!� James roared, he started towards Snape but the wands of the Death Eaters were all pointed suddenly at him. Snape walked cooly over to stand beside Malfoy.

“Sorry, Potter. But I’ve got better things to do with my life than follow the “Marauders� around, watching you befriend Mud-Bloods and not do anything about it. I had to act.�

“You’re disgusting,� Lily spat at him. “And an idiot! What do you expect to gain from all of this?! Do you think Voldemort is just going to let you go do whatever you want now? You’re a slave for him now, with nothing in return!� Snape sneered greasily.

“Do you honestly think me that stupid, Lily?� he asked, walking towards her casually. James bristled. “What would make you think that there is nothing in this for me?�

“What could you possibly want that Voldemort could give you? If you’re looking for shampoo he obviously doesn’t use it either, so you’re out of luck,� Lily said scathingly. Snape smiled.

“Oh, you can’t think of what I could possibly want? You’re the idiot then. How about I tell you what I want. I’ll tell you after a good, long session in bed, how’s that Lily?� Snape whispered, lolling his tongue at her in a sexual way, very unlike the Snape she had thought she’d known. James snapped completely. Ignoring the wands that were pointed at him, he leapt at Snape, Sirius and Remus joined in as well.

“STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM HER!� James roared, pounding his fist into Snape’s deserving face.

“James Don’t!� Lily cried in horror. She could hardly see anything in the large pile of bodies. She ran to pull James out of the mess, but two large, beefy arms grabbed her. Her arms were pulled roughly behind her back. The next thing she heard was “CRUCIO!� in Voldemort’s sleek, raspy voice.

“No!� she yelled, trying to get free. She saw the spell hit the mass, praying it hadn’t hit James. It didn’t. Sirius stopped fighting at once, and was rolling on the ground in pain. James looked up and saw this.

“Stop!� he cried, trying to get to Sirius, who was nearly unconscious. Lily struggled even harder, but it was no use. As James was distracted with Sirius, he didn’t see the Death Eater behind him. Lily opened her mouth to warn him, but a hand was clamped roughly over her mouth.

Tears jumped into her eyes as another Death Eater put the Cruciatus Curse on James. Remus was jerked off the ground by another Death Eater, and was bound like Lily was. She looked around and saw that Peter too was being withheld. Then she saw something that made her eyes light up. Snape’s wand lay forgotten on the ground. Looking around, she saw that everybody else was too pre-occupied with James’ and Sirius’ torture. If she could get to the wand, she might be able to save James. She shivered at the risk, she could definitely lose her life. But before she even thought that, she had come to the conclusion that he was worth it.

With a swift movement, she jerked her leg up behind her, right up between the Death Eaters legs. She heard a grunt and a curse and she was let go. Now or never, Lily. She darted across the room and snatched up the wand. A curse was sent her way from a quick thinking Death Eater, but she dove behind Malfoy, and the spell hit him instead. He dropped to the ground, stunned. She grinned, but then stopped as she heard another cry of pain from James. God, these people would kill him! She leapt from behind the stunned Malfoy.

“PROTEGO!� she yelled, and her spell surrounded James and Sirius, they stopped moving completely. The only problem with that was that now all the Death Eaters, including Lord Voldemort, were focused on her. She saw Snape running towards her, but she balled up her fist and moved slightly to the left. Snape was knocked off his feet as her fist buried itself in his face, but that only made him angrier. She cursed herself. Her father had always told her, if you’re going to hit somebody, make sure they don’t get back up to retaliate. She had definitely failed that little lesson.

“Stupify! Stupify!� she yelled, pointing her wand around, hoping to hit somebody. Her first shot ricocheted off the clocks, knocking them off their shelves and clashing to the ground. Her second, however, hit one of the Death Eaters.

“Lily! Behind you!� she heard Remus calling. She spun around quickly, and accidently shovef Snape’s wand right into the woman’s eye. She looked around frantically and saw that James and Sirius still weren’t moving. Her heart nearly stopped. Were they dead?!

“What idiots!� an insenced cry rang throughout the room. Everybody shook, It was Voldemort. “You can’t even take on a skinny little Mud-Blood?!� Lily glared, but still didn’t stop trying to fend off the continuous stream of Death Eaters. “Complacento!� Voldemort cried. Lily was agile from playing Quidditch and she managed to dodge it, but as she lunged left, strong arms caught her.

“That will be enough from you, Evans!� Snape snickered in her ear. He wrapped his arm around her throat. She struggled for air, and dropped his wand. He caught it, and pointed it at her. “Confinesia,� he muttered, and ropes snaked around her wrists..

“You son-of-a-bitch!� She choked, but the ropes that had just finished binding her upper arms to her torso moved to her mouth, and stopped all of her cutting insults. Snape chuckled snidely into her ear, and he shoved her forewards. She tripped and fell, glaring at him.

“You’re even pretty when you’re mad,� Snape remarked. “And I must admit I do like the ropes, we’ll have to try that out together.� Lily said something, but it was garbled, and nobody could make it out. “That’s not very nice, Lily." Lily retorted with a hand gesture involving a certain middle finger. “Oh, don’t worry. We’ll be doing much of that.�

“Leave her alone, Snivilus!� Remus yelled across the room. Snape stood, sauntering closer.

“What’s this? Looks like Remus has lost his famous, Prefect composure,� he said. Then he looked at James. “Shame he’s not awake, I would have liked him to see this.� Remus struggled madly. Snape turned to Peter. “Have you nothing to say for your best-friends?� Peter whimpered something, and Remus felt a twinge of disappointment; he would have hoped Peter would be more supportive of his friends.

“Alright, that’s enough. I grow bored,� Voldemort said harshly. Snape looked terrified suddenly.

“Sorry Lord. May I take the girl then?� he asked, leering slightly. Voldemort seemed to think very hard.

“Not yet, I wish the Potter boy to watch. He isn’t yet awake,� he said firmly.

“Yes Lord. But when he is awake?�

“You may have her. But I want her as soon as you are done, Snape, or my gratitude to you will waver. I need them dead. And quickly,� Voldemort said smiling at the thought.

“Of course, my Lord,� Snape said, but Remus saw the resent on his face as his back was to Voldemort. Remus shrugged it off however, maybe it had just been his imagination. Snape saw Remus looking at him oddly, and shot him a warning look. Remus dropped his gaze. What was going on?

“Come, put them in one of the rooms and lock them in. There is a matter I need to discuss involving our plans once they all are dead,� Voldemort said, sweeping out of the room. A Death Eater moved to grab Lily, a slight grin of anticipation on his face. He was cut off as Snape cut in front and picked Lily up.

“Keep away from her,� Snape snarled. Malfoy grinned.

“That’s right Snape. Don’t let anybody take what is yours,� he said encouragingly. He patted Snape on the back. Lily frowned slighty, did Snape just grimace?

Many minutes later, they were all shoved roughly into the cell. Sirius woke up upon hitting the ground.

“Bloody hell,� he muttered, trying to sit up. Remus went to help him.

“You alright, Padfoot?� Remus asked. Sirius nodded.

“Man, I feel like I’ve just had sex with a rhinoceros,� he said. Peter squeaked. Remus grinned. At least he’s got his sense of humor back.

“Hey, mate, some of those girls did look like rhino’s,� Remus commented. Sirius grinned, but then stopped as his face paled. He saw James lying unconscious on the ground and Lily kneeling beside him, the roped still tightly binding her. Sirius tried to get up to help her untie herself, but received a great deal of pain.

"Go help Lily,� he grunted. Remus did so, pulling the ropes off of her.

“Are you alright?� he asked her soothingly. She didn’t say anything. Her eyes were filled with tears. She ran her hands over James’ face.

“He’ll...he’ll be alright?� she choked, holding one of his cold hands in hers. Remus nodded, though he wasn’t sure. Lily saw the uncertainty and let out a pent up sob. She looked around, seeing that they were in a jail-like room. She wondered why they needed one of these in the Ministry. She saw a table, a flipped over chair, and small, ratty looking blanket. Sirius stood up, testing his legs. “How come you’re awake and he’s not?� Lily accused.

“I don’t know,� Sirius said earnestly. “Glad to know you care so much about me though, Lil.� Lily ignored his comment and started dragging James over to one side. Remus helped her, and then retreated to a corner. Sirius looked around him, and saw Peter huddled in the corner. He eyed the ratty blanket and wrapped it greedily around himself. “You’re disgusting, Peter,� Sirius said, too sore to do anything about it.

They sat in that tiny room for hours. Peter dozed off first, snoring loudly. Then Sirius and Remus followed suite. Lily stayed awake however, laying next to James, trying to keep him warm with her own body. He started shivering after a long while, and she took off her robes, leaving only her school blouse and small skirt. She was freezing, but at least James was warm. She lay back down, tears staining her face. She had almost fallen asleep when James awoke.

“LILY!� He roared, and the first thing he noticed was that somebody was on top of him. He rolled over, pinning the person to the ground.

Whoever it was, they would pay. He felt the person squirming beneath him. He stopped the struggling easily, however, as he caught small wrists in his much larger hands and held them still.

“James...� Lily muttered, terrified. “James! It’s alright. Nobody is going to hurt you now!�

“Where’s Lily!� he said, rather stupidly, and then he saw the face beneath him. His eyes widened as he realized he pinned poor Lily beneath him. “Shit! Oh, Lily, I’m so sorry,� he said, rolling off of her and pulling her against his chest. She was breathing hard, he had scared her.

“It’s alright, it’s alright,� she comforted. James was crying, tears falling down his face. He hugged her to him.

“I’ll never let anybody hurt you again. I swear to god,� he muttered.

“I know, James. I know. I love you so much. Before we die, I want you to realize that,� Lily whispered despairingly.

"God, I love you so much it hurts. Just looking at you brings my heart to tears. You're everything I've ever wanted." He brought her forward into a heartbreaking kiss. Just then the door opened, and Snape strolled in, smiling.

“I thought I heard you wake up,� he said. “Come, we’re going to have a little fun.�

Lily struggled quite valiantly, trying desperately to loosen Snape’s grip on her. She failed miserably. Another Death Eater followed closely behind them, dragging an unconscious James. He had tried to single handedly take on five Death Eaters, not the smartest move, but a brave one in any case. Snape snickered loudly.

“It looks like James has fallen asleep on us, maybe we could wake him up with a passion wrought scream?� he asked tauntingly, rather loud for what was supposed to be a whisper in her ear. The other Death Eater laughed sinisterly. Lily glared. Snape shoved her along, however.

“Don’t touch me, slime!� Lily yelled. Snape laughed, but otherwise ignored her. When they reached their destination, Lily was thrown in, as was James, who toppled to the ground, rolling over onto his side. “James!� she said, rushing over to him. She looked around, and saw that the room they were in was much like the one she had just left. It was completely empty, and very dank. She shook James slightly. “Come on, James! Wake up!�

“Here, let me help you with that,� Snape said, raising his wand.

“NO!� Lily cried, unsure what he was going to do. “Luiqwavius!� he whispered, and a gush of water slammed into James from right above his head. He shot up, coughing and spluttering. He began shaking, brushing his long, dark-brown hair out of his face.

“Lily!� he yelled, looking through his splattered glasses. The other Death Eater laughed at his reaction.

“The Dark Lord said I could have them both ‘alone’,� Snape pointed out firmly. The Death Eater nodded.

“You have an hour,� he said, and left swiftly. Snape turned to James, and raised his wand.

“Sorry about this Potter. Marrolissumptia,� he said, pointing his wand at James. Suddenly, James went, still. He couldn’t move anything below his neck.

“What did you do to him?!� Lily said frantically, grabbing his hand in terror. “James? James!?�

“I’m fine, Lily. I’m ok. Listen, slug him and get out of here, now!� James said urgently.

“There is no chance in Hell I’m going to leave you here!� Lily said.

“Lily!� James roared, trying his best to intimidate her.

“What did you do to him? Why can’t he move?!� Lily yelled again.

“Shut up! I paralyzed him from the neck down. Temporarily,� Snape explained, looking around the room. Lily looked around too, wondering what he was looking for. Snape looked into the far corner, and seemed to spot something. He quickly looked away, obviously thinking hard.

“What is it?� Lily asked, frowning. Something odd was definitely going on. Snape turned to her, and then seemed to make up his mind about something.

“Alright,� he said firmly to himself, and he conjured a fluffy looking mattress, right next to the spot he had been looking at so intently. Lily suddenly became terrified. Snape was going to rape her. She backed against the wall. James looked almost as scared as Lily felt.

“Snape, please,� James said brokenly. “I’ll do any damn thing you ask. I’ll do anything. Just don’t hurt Lily.� Snape ignored him, and conjured up a rather odd looking book. Lily stared at it. What was he going to do with that book? Read her poetry? “Snape, listen to me! I’ll give you anything that is in my power. Join Dumbledore’s side.�

Snape continued to ignore him, now conjuring a blanket. “SNAPE IF YOU TOUCH HER I�LL RIP YOUR GOD DAMN HEAD OFF!� James finally yelled realizing that negotiating wasn’t going to work. Snape turned at this, looking James up and down in his paralyzed form.

“I’m simply terrified. What are you going to do? Glare me to death?� he said, sitting on the end of the mattress. Lily had noticed something. The Snape she was looking at now was obviously a very different Snape from the one that had been gloating outside. She looked at him curiously, and he looked back. His eyes were not filled with anger, or lust, but great amounts of pain.

“Snape?� she asked softly, trying to talk to him. Maybe she could save herself. “Snape, listen, I know you get pushed around a lot in school. I’ve seen the way you’re treated. I want you to know, you can back out of this now, I’m sure Dumbledore would understand…� but Lily was interrupted by Snape’s laugh. James’ heart broke. Lily was always so kind, so caring. Even to old Snivelly.

“You know, Lily you’re a very smart girl, but you can be a bit of a child at times," Snape said, looking rather lke an old man now. He glanced back into the corner, and closed his eyes in stress. When he next opened them, his eyes showed a great amount of sexual threat. “I think I’m going to have some fun teaching you a few things,� he said rather loudly. He advanced on her. Lily looked at James. His face was beet red from trying to break the spell. It was useless. He couldn’t move an inch,

“Snape, don’t!� James cried desperately. “DON’T!� he then yelled furiously. Snape ignored him and kept stalking towards Lily. She stood up slowly from her spot beside James. Backing up against the wall, she saw James’ look of utter desperation.

“Don’t watch James,� she said soothingly. “I love you.� James opened his mouth to say something, but his head was pounding so hard, from trying to break the spell. He had to get out of this, for Lily. Snape had her up against the wall, and he placed each one of his grimy hands on either side of her, caging her with his arms. He moved his face closer to her, and when Lily thought he was going to kiss her, he missed her mouth, and hung his head just above her head.

“I’m sorry,� he muttered. Lily had almost grasped his simple words when he grabbed her roughly, pinning her against him. She struggled, trying to scratch at him with her nails. She got the side of his face, and he cursed as the blood dripped from the gouges. He practically picked her up, and threw her on top of the mattress.

Lily knew nothing but terror. He leapt on top of her, and tiny black spots flitted before her eyes as all the wind was knocked from her lungs. Snape was kissing her, she realized that. Hands were everywhere. All she could feel were his hands on her, all she could hear was his ragged breathing, and all she could think was that James was sitting not three feet away, unable to help her.

As her eyes rolled around in terror, she noticed that one of his hands had grabbed the book beside the bed. He started moving their bodies to one side of the mattress. To an on-looker it would seem that Snape didn’t realize where his body was taking him, but to Lily, she could see that, even though he was looking at her, his entire being was focused on that something he had been distracted by earlier in the corner.

SLAM!

Lily’s heart leaped as she heard Snape slap the cold ground with the book. He froze then, and looked to see where the book had landed. He smiled gleefully.

“Gotcha,� he whispered. He looked at Lily then, still smiling. She was so confused, her mind reeling, her body screaming in terror. She looked up at Snape, and saw his face change from victory to sorrow. He moved off her slightly, and Lily vaguely realized that Snape was getting off her. Then, quite suddenly, Snape was was saved the trouble by being ripped from her into the air. Lily looked above her to see James, his face glistening with sweat.

In that moment, as she stared up at him, his body drenched, his tee-shirt sticking to his well muscled chest, his floppy black hair hanging in his now rigid hazel eyes, she knew that the only person she would ever love, would be James Potter.

James held Snape up off the ground, and then turned quickly, slamming him into the wall. Never in his life had he ever wanted to kill somebody. Now he did. He wanted to kill Severus Snape for hurting the only thing that had ever mattered to him; Lily Evans.

“I’m going to kill you, you slimy, greasy, fucked-up little bastard,� James whispered murderously into his ear.

“James…you don’t understand,� Snape started. James interrupted him by slamming his fist into Snivelly’s face a few times.

“I understand all I need to. You just forced your slimy little body on the girl that means the world to me. Very stupid, I thought you knew better. She even gave you a damned chance! She never did anything to hurt you! SHE EVEN STOOD THE HELL UP FOR YOU!� James roared, making himself even angrier. He threw Snape onto the ground and kicked him in the stomach. Snape raised him wand, trying to cough out a spell, but James quickly yanked the wand out of his hand, pointing it at Snape. “They say you have to really want hurt somebody to use the Cruciotus Curse. I never was able to manage it, but I think I’ll be able to do it with pleasure now.�

“James, you must listen!� Snape insisted through a bloody nose. James raised his wand, ready to make him pay when Lily spoke up.

“James, don’t,� she said, standing up slowly. James immediately dropped the wand to his side and rushed to her. He pulled her into his arms, kissing her all over.

‘I have to, Lily. I can’t let him get away with hurting you like that,� he said firmly. Lily shook her head.

“I’m fine,� Lily said, looking away.

“Lily, I saw the whole damned thing. He had his hands all over you!� James said, breathing loudly. Lily looked up at him, and James saw that she was struggling not to cry. “Jesus…� James muttered, pulling her against him again, closing his eyes and trying to rid himself of the image of Snape on top of Lily.

“I think, just before you grabbed him, he was going to get off of me,� Lily said.

“Lily, you’re just confused.�

“James! I am not a stupid little girl! I know what I’m talking about! I have not addled my brains, I am not a ditzy girl who can’t take care of herself, and I don’t need you to go all macho on me right now! It’s really sweet James, but don’t take it to the point where you think I can’t think for myself!� Lily yelled, quite incensed. James looked away.

“I’m sorry,� he said, sighing in shame. “It’s just…I can’t stand the thought of anybody else touching you. It drives me crazy Lily. Thinking of anybody giving you any amount of trouble…I just can’t stand it,� he admitted softly.

“Let’s just listen to what he has to say,� Lily said soothingly, looking up into his soft brown eyes. James nodded, still holding her tightly. Lily turned towards Snape, fear trickling in her blood. She stood proud, however, not showing her fear. That was rule number one when dealing with a Slytherin. “Alright, Snape. I’m giving you a chance. Spill it.�

“If I try and speak is that oaf going to blast my head off?� Snape asked glaring at James. James twirled the wand in his fingers casually.

“Shut it, Snape. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but you’re not exactly in the right position to be making comments like that,� Lily said. Snape nodded. He started to stand up, and Lily jumped back out of reflex. She blushed horribly. So much for acting brave. She needed strength. She reached for James hand, seeking his comfort.

“Fine,� Snape said, pretending not to notice her fear of him. He started to walk back over to the bed, and James raised his wand. “I’m going to show you something,� Snape said, seeing their suspicion.

“Keep your pants on, Snape. I don’t want to see it,� James said boldly. Snape smiled slightly.

“I’ll try,� he remarked dryly, sitting on the edge of the mattress. He pointed to the book, looking expectantly at James and Lily.

“What? You want a bed-time story or something?� Lily said. “Just cut the crap Snape. We don’t have all day. Tell us what you’re on about.� Snape nodded and lifted the book up. Lily grimaced as she saw the smashed up bits of a spider.

“Are we supposed to be impressed by your spider squashing skills or what?� James said angrily.

“You really are an idiot, Potter. This is, or was, an Animagus. Karl Ublane. A faithful spy for Voldemort. I’ll expect Voldemort put him in here to make sure I wasn’t going to do what I plan on doing,� Snape said to the awestruck Lily and James.

“So you were never going to…� Lily said breathlessly. Snape shook his head. James still hadn’t blinked.

“I’m sorry, Lily. I didn’t want to, but I had no choice. I thought I would be able to just explain as soon as we got into this room, but I saw that we had a visitor, and I had to put on the show to get close to him,� Snape said.

“Why couldn’t you just walk over and step on him? Why did you have to pretend to do that to Lily?!� James roared.

“If you were sitting as he was, wouldn’t you be a little suspicious if I came up to you, and tried to bluntly squash you? No, he would have turned back into a human, and I would be no match for him. I am surprised I didn’t give it away to him when I conjured the book,� Snape explained.

“So what are we going to do now?� Lily asked nervously.

“Well,� Snape said, standing back up and walking towards them. James grabbed Lily protectively, still pointing the wand at Snape. “What? You still don’t trust me?�

“I’m fine as long as you keep a healthy distance between you and Lily,� James remarked. “And don’t leave my sight.� Snape rolled his eyes, and looked at Lily to back him up. She didn’t however, still looking slightly scared of him. He hung his head. He did all of this to get them out, and this was his repayment?

“Well, we need to get Sirius and Remus out too,� Snape said.

“And Peter,� Lily reminded.

“Oh yeah,� Snape said with a little disgust. James glared.

“How do you suppose we do that?� James asked. Snape smiled.

“No idea,� he said. Lily sighed.

“Does Dumbledore know you were faking?� Lily asked. Snape shook his head.

“No,� he said.

“Well, I don’t know how much time is past, but you were only given an hour by Voldemort. We need to do whatever we are going to do now,� James said fervently. Lily nodded. Snape grinned.

“This should be fun.�

“Move your big feet, Potter,� Snape said, tripping.

“Snivellus, if you step on my foot one more time...� James growled as they snuck around the corner, leaving behind three unconscious Death Eaters. Lily rolled her eyes.

“Honestly, if you two don’t shut up–yes, you too James– I am going to leave you both behind!� Lily breathed irritably, stopping so the two boys could catch up. She gave a rather sly smile. She was much smaller than Snape and James, allowing her to sneak around quieter and easier. Therefore she got to go first, much to the discomfort of James.

“Sorry dear,� James mocked, making a face like a beaten child. Lily had to stifle a laugh. The smile was whipped off her face as she heard voices. James froze, snatching Lily’s hand and pulling her back. Lily rolled her eyes at his protectiveness, but a part of her smiled, enjoying the feeling.

Snape’s eyes narrowed in disgust, his greasy lip pulled over his teeth in a terrible sneer. Lily saw this and shivered a little. How she hated him. Even though she realized he had been trying to help them, she couldn’t help but be afraid. She mentally kicked herself for feeling so weak. She realized then that James had been watching her emotional struggle the whole time and blushed. James squeezed her tightly, sighing at what they had just been through.

“When is he preparing to start?� a deep voice asked, very harsh and strict. Lily was sure that the “he� the Death Eaters were talking about was Lord Voldemort.

“Whenever Snape is done with the girl,� another said. James tightened his hold on Lily even more.

“It should be soon. What about the others?�

“We’ll have to kill them too. They’ve seen too much.�

“But...what if we could get them on our side?� the harsh voice said, rather nervously.

“Maybe the one...but the other two are hopeless! The one I tortured earlier...the one with longer hair...he has already shown his devotion to that old fool, Dumbledore. The lighter haired one is just as bad!� the other said, as though explaining that two plus two was four.

“What about the fat one?� the harsh voice said. There was a silence, and they both started laughing loudly. James didn’t understand this, but held up three fingers to Lily and Snape. Lily nodded. They would attack on the count of three. Lily pulled out her wand as did Snape.

The Death Eaters talked on, completely unaware. James put down one of his fingers. Then another, looking at the two to make sure they were ready. Then, at last, he laid down his final finger and they all jumped out.

“EXPELLIARMUS!� Lily yelled, as did James. Snape, on the other hand, did a spell neither of them had seen or heard before. The Death Eaters were first slammed against the wall, their wands knocking out of their hands. And then Snape’s spell took effect, turning each of their eyes a deep purple color. Lily stared.

“What the hell was that?!� James whispered loudly. Snape shrugged.

“Just a spell,� he said, walking over to pick up their discarded wands.

“What will it do to them?� Lily asked, rather nervously, looking into the purple depths.

“Blind them permanently. And trust me, when they wake up, they will personally want to rip out their own eyeballs. Very painful...� Snape replied with a wicked grin. Lily frowned.

“I’ve never heard of a spell that did that, and I’ve read all the textbooks we were assigned...� Lily muttered.

“You wouldn’t have read this one. Not unless you frequently visit the restricted section, looking for Dark Arts material,� Snape snickered.

“Shut up Snape. Come on, Lily, we need to keep moving,� James said starting to walk ahead. Lily didn’t move.

“We can’t just leave them here,� she muttered, and whispered a spell. Both the bodies turned into rocks. James gaped. “They will turn back in about two days,� she explained. James burst out laughing, kicking the small rocks into a corner.

“Can you imagine when they wake up, they’ll be blind rocks!� he said. Lily rolled her eyes, and Snape glared, passing up ahead, looking around corners.

“Quiet James, we’ll get caught. Snape, do you know where they have Sirius, Remus, and Peter?� Lily asked. Snape nodded, and began leading the way quietly. They got to the room, and again they had to confront some more Death Eaters. Snape sighed in relief as they reached the door. James wrenched it open, peering inside. They all sat dumbstruck for a few seconds.

“Where...where are they? SNAPE?!� James roared as he looked into the empty room. Lily put a hand on his shoulder.

“Please be quiet James,� she pleaded. James sighed, calming himself, but still glaring expectantly at Snape, who was looking quite uncertain.

“I don’t know...I guess they started without us...but that means...� Snape began but was interrupted.

“That means that we realized you had helped them escape...� the voice of Lucius Malfoy said right behind them. Snape spun around to see four wands pointed in each of their directions. Lily inhaled sharply as Malfoy’s wand was pressed to her throat. Lucius saw James’ reaction and smiled. “One move, Potter, and I’ll kill her.� James remained frozen.

Lily’s heart thumped painfully, her brain struggling for an idea. Anything that would help them out of this! She could think of none, and could see by the look on James’ and Snape’s face that they couldn’t either.

“Where are our friends?� James asked.

“They are being taken to their deaths as we speak. You shall join them,� Malfoy said. Then he turned to Snape.“You, my friend, will undoubtable receive a special treat from the Dark Lord himself. I can’t wait to watch...� Snape spat at him, and Malfoy received it right in the face. Lily grinned triumphantly. Wiping his face off with the front of his robes, Malfoy motioned to one of the men behind him. They moved forward and yelled, “CRUCIO!�

“Really, Malfoy. You can’t even torture him yourself?� Lily said mockingly. “I didn’t know you were such a softy.�

“Shut up!� Malfoy yelled, digging his wand into Lily’s throat. She chocked, grabbing at the wand. Malfoy pulled her wrists away however, pushing her into the wall. James grabbed Malfoy, shoving him off of her, and she grabbed at her neck, feeling as though her throat was on fire.

Soon all four Death Eaters were leaping on Lily, James, and Snape. Lily was rather proud of herself as she managed to take down one of the Death Eaters by shoving the heel of her hand into his nose. She heard James yelp in pain and turned to see Malfoy had him in a head lock. She grabbed up her wand.

“Stupify!� she yelled, but missed. “Damn,� she muttered. Malfoy then threw James from him and focused his attention on Lily. He grabbed a handful of her hair, slamming her head into the wall. Spots danced before her eyes, and she saw James struggling madly to get to her through another Death Eater. Malfoy raised his wand, as blood from Lily’s injured head seeped into her eyes.

“CRUCIO!� Malfoy yelled. Lily raised her wand to defend herself.

“Protego!!� somebody yelled, and it took a few minutes for Lily to realize that it hadn’t been her. It had been James. She struggled to stay conscious, the gash in her head bleeding freely. She saw Death Eaters fighting with everybody else, and was dimly aware of being jostled around. But then, very suddenly, the three moving Death Eaters stopped moving.

Lily’s eyes widened and she wiped the blood out of them. At first she thought she was hallucinating, but then she saw somebody running towards them all. It was Sirius.

“Merlin! Are you alright?!� he yelled, looking around. James didn’t acknowledge his presence at all, but rushed towards Lily, shoving frozen Death Eaters out of his way. His heart pounded in terror as he saw the gash on her forehead. It looked extremely serious. He remembered all the times he had been in the hospital wing for Quidditch injuries and such. He cursed himself a hundred times. If only he had paid a bit of attention when Madam Pomfrey had mended him up. If only he could remember some of those spells!

“James,� Lily said, her throat slightly raspy.

“I’m here honey. I’m sure somebody here knows a healing spell,� he whispered, running a hand through her hair.

“Get me my wand,� she said. James stared.

“Lily, the Death Eaters are gone now. It’s alright, it’s going to be alright,� he said, terrified now. He had never seen Lily this injured before.

“James!� Lily said irritated. “Give me my wand! I hit my head, it doesn’t mean I’ve suddenly become an idiot. I know the spell for stitches,� she said exasperated, smiling slightly as she realized that he was so much more worried than she was, yet he was still trying to comfort her. James scrambled to get her wand. He gave it to her. “Thanks,� she muttered, trying to aim her own wand at the wound, but couldn’t quite see where it was. James saw her struggling.

“You want me to do it?� he asked anxiously. She grinned.

“I love you,� she said, shaking her head. It wasn’t so much as a reassurance to him, but a funny realization to her. He noticed her face and smiled.

“Yeah, and I love Snape, now can we get on with it? Wait...SNAPE?!?!� Sirius said, as though just realizing he was standing there. He raised his wand immediately, pointing it at Snape.

“Shut up Sirius,� James muttered, “now what’s the spell?� he said to Lily. She grinned.

“It’s not that I don’t trust you to point a wand at my face and say a spell that you’ve never even heard of before but...I don’t,� she concluded. James laughed. “Just aim my wand for me.� James held her hand softly, pointing it at the cut.

“Amendio,� she muttered. The spell did wonders. The blood was cleared away, and all that was left of her injury was the stitches in her forehead. James sighed in relief, embracing her in a hug,

“Alright, love is great, but you two are D.I.S.G.U.S.T.I.N.G!� Sirius said. “And just to let you know, while you two are making with the lovey-dovey on cloud nine, REMUS AND PETER ARE BEING LED TO THEIR DEATHS!!!� James and Lily stopped immediately. James stood, pulling Lily with him.

“You’re right, sorry Sirius,� Lily muttered. Sirius grinned, shaking his hair out of his eyes.

“Yeah, yeah. Okay, now does anybody mind telling me why we like Snivellus again?!� he said.

“He was just faking it. Look, it’s a long story, and Peter and Remus need our help,� James said. Sirius pretended to be shocked.

“What gave you that idea?!� he said.

“How did you get free?� Lily asked, stopping the two boys from arguing further. Sirius’ face went solemn.

“I wouldn’t have if not for Remus. He bit the girl that was holding me at wand point...� he said. Snape snorted.

“He bit her?� Lily asked, and James suddenly went very cold, realizing that she still didn’t know Remus was a werewolf.

“Remus is a werewolf, and the rest of us are Animagi,� James said uncomfortably.

“Yeah, I know,� she said.

“YOU WHAT?!� Sirius roared. Lily rolled her eyes.

“I’ve known about it for ages. Do you honestly think I couldn’t notice how he goes to visit his sick mum every full moon? Now, what I meant was, I didn’t know a werewolf could still effectively bite a person unless it was full moon,� she explained.

“Yeah, well when it gets close to full moon, like now it’s in two weeks, he starts to get some of the venom in his teeth,� James supplied. Lily nodded.

“That’s not all!� Sirius said. “Haven’t you guys ever noticed how his knuckles get like a hundred times hairier?! And he has to shave like every three hours, unless he wants to look like Dumbledore!� he said starting to laugh. There was silence as the others took in his immense stupidity.

“You’re an idiot,� Snape said. Sirius growled, literally.

“Come on, before Sirius hurts himself from thinking too much,� James said sardonically, and he, Snape, and Lily started walking away. Sirius frowned, crossing his arms in indignation.

“You guys can’t tell me you haven’t noticed his hairy knuckles!� Sirius said in exasperation. Nobody answered so he hurried on, sprinting to catch up.

As they walked further, with Sirius in the lead, they began to hear loud voices.

“YOU LET THEM ESCAPE?!� somebody was yelling. Lily shivered as she recognized the poison voice as Voldemort.

“I’m...I’m sorry, My Lord. I sent Malfoy and the others to find them...they haven’t returned yet!� somebody whimpered.

“They had better, Knott. For your sake...�

“Yes, they will, of course, My Lord,� the relieved voice said. Lily peered into the room, and saw that it was a very simple room. It had no furniture, but bare stone floor. It was very large, however, and gave her the creeps.

“Well, we might as well start now, with what we’ve got. We’ll kill the two Muggle-Lovers, and if Potter and Evans are not brought to me by that time, you will pay...� Voldemort said.

“What about the other one?� another voice asked.

“He is not as important,� Voldemort said. James had to kick Sirius as he scoffed in indignation. “Now. Let us begin with this one.� he said, grabbing Remus by the scruff of his neck and throwing him onto the ground. He raised his wand high, preparing to bring it down on Remus. Lily, James, Sirius and Snape looked at each other. The Avada Kedavra Curse could not be blocked by a protecting charm... but maybe it could be stopped by four?


a/n: The more reviews I get the faster I'll update!! SO PLEASE REVIEW!!

Remus closed his eyes, trying to stop his heart from beating so fast. He looked around the room, sighing choppily as he did so. Black faces hissed death in his direction, sneering their blank sneers. Contorting their faceless masks with horrid, hopeless, deadly emotions.

He saw only one familiar figure, and that figure was crumpled in a heap at the feet of a stout Death Eaters. Peter Pettigrew whimpered and cried, covering his fat face with pudgy, shaking hands. This image did nothing to comfort Remus, as he knew that Peter would die soon. This all wouldn’t be so bad if he didn’t know that the rest of his friends would most likely follow in his footsteps.

He knew it was too much to ask that Sirius had saved himself like Remus had told him to. Sirius was as stubborn as any Marauder, with the exception of Peter. Remus’ eyes shot away from the hopeless figure of Peter, as he burst into a fresh peel of sobbing. The Death Eater, growing annoyed with the racket, kicked him around the head, causing him to stop immediately.

“Why don’t you let Peter go,� Remus said defiantly, mustering all of the courage he could and forcing it into his voice. “All you have to do is put a memory charm on him, he won’t remember a thing.� Peter froze at this, looking up for the first time, hope gleaming in his slightly manic eyes. Remus had to admit he was rather disappointed in his friend. He had hoped he would be a little more composed than this, not to mention less selfish.

Remus chided himself. Here he was, about to die, and the only things he could think about were the problems with his friends? It wasn’t as if he was perfect. Far from it.

“I don’t think so,� Voldemort said with a slight grin. “I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I enjoy killing people.�

“You’re disgusting,� Remus seethed. He instantly doubled over as something slammed into the back of his head, causing a terrible pain. He cried out slightly, feeling as if he had eaten one thousand pounds of ice cream and had gotten a thousand times the brain-freeze.

“Enough. I will deal with him. Stay out of it, Avery,� Voldemort commanded, severing the curse with a wave of his own wand. “Why do you not ask for your own safety? Too noble? I see the slime of Albus Dumbledore has contaminated most of his students.�

“I should hope so,� Remus yelled, trying very hard to keep on his feet. His head still pounded, and he was finding it very hard to concentrate on what Voldemort was saying. Why didn’t he stand up for himself? That was easy. He simply didn’t deserve to live. Why should he? He was a werewolf.

He snorted in disgust at himself. The only reason he hadn’t committed suicide was because he had been too cowardly. Too weak. Well, now Voldemort would do it for him. He looked up, his light brown eyes blazing.

“Filth. I will enjoy killing you,� Voldemort said. Remus opened his mouth to reply, but then he saw something. He nearly slapped his forehead in frustration. Snape, Lily, James, and Sirius were all standing at the doorway, wands out, looking terrified. Surely they couldn’t be trying to help him? He realized that he would bring attention to their presence if he just stood there, gaping at them like an idiot.

“No matter if you kill me or not, Dumbledore’s still gonna kick your ass!� he yelled, spitting on the ground at his feet. There was a dead silence. Well, at least he had gotten their total attention. He gulped, realizing that now he had done it, now he had crossed the line. Voldemort drew himself up to his full and considerable height. He walked over and grabbed Remus by the throat.

“You will pay for that, you disgusting little...� Voldemort started, throwing him to the ground. Remus stood up, but was hit from a spell by a Death Eater. He dropped to the ground again, his legs turning to jelly beneath him. Remus watched as Voldemort raised his wand, about to kill him. He closed his eyes, willing death to come. He knew it was terrible of him, but he couldn’t help but think…‘finally.’

Suddenly, there was a large blast of noise as many things happened at once. Remus opened his eyes as “AVADA KEDAVRA!� filled the air. Then opened his eyes even wider as he heard four voices yell “PROTEGO!� Just when Remus knew his eyes couldn’t get any larger, they grew to the size of watermelons as one of the Death Eaters levitated off the ground and flew in front if him, catching the spell straight in the chest. Remus stared, thinking for a split second that the Death Eater had done that of his own will. But then he spotted someone...Albus Dumbledore.




Lily stared, amazed at what she saw. Albus Dumbledore had just levitated a Death Eater in front of Remus! Right before their own spell reached him.

“What should we do?� Sirius asked stupidly.

“Help!� cried Lily, James, and, to their surprise, Snape. Sirius stared, and then grinned excitement.

“YES! Finally, some bloody action!� he said, punching the air and running forwards to fight with the nearest Death Eater.

“I swear, one of these days he is going to start going backwards in evolution and turn into a caveman,� Lily muttered. James sniggered, looking ahead apprehensively. He turned to Lily.

“I guess it’s to much to ask that you stay here? Out of danger?� he asked, hopelessly.

“Yes,� Lily said simply, and readied her wand. James sighed and nodded.

“I thought so.� He grabbed her, not softly, or tenderly, or anything like their other kisses, but needing, and demanding. Then he let her go, feeling rather dazed and depressed. His kiss told her everything. He didn’t think they were going to make it through this.

She ran forward, trying to take out as many Death Eaters as possible while still keeping an eye on James. She saw Dumbledore still hadn’t moved from his spot in front of Voldemort, and vise versa. They simply stood there, almost unaware of the fighting going on around them.

Dumbledore seemed to snap out of his trance first, seeing James, Lily, Sirius and Snape fighting against more than three times the amount of Death Eaters. He almost smiled, he was so proud of them. He raised his wand lightly, giving a small tap to the air.

“NO!� Voldemort yelled, but it was too late, Dumbledore was already standing back, watching his spell in motion. The room around them seemed to freeze, and then everything went completely black. Lily felt numb, and she dropped to the ground, unable to feel anything. It wasn’t necessarily a bad feeling, but it was extremely bizarre.

She looked around nervously, wondering if a Death Eater was going to come and take advantage of her awkward position. Nothing in the room seemed to move however. The silence pounded into her ears, staring to fog her brain. Her breathing started to quicken as she waited for something, anything, to happen. Then, as she thought that, a whip-like sound cracked across the entire room, and light blinked on and then off again. She saw the room, in that instant, and was amazed to see that the Death Eaters were on the ground as well. Another whip-like sound and the lights turned on again, this time for good. Lily felt a warm rush of blood pumping backing into her veins, giving her life.

She stood up, her head tingling. “Lily! Are you alright?!� James’ frantic voice yelled.

“I’m fine,� Lily assured, looking around the room in distracted awe. All of the Death Eaters were gone. Not one was left. Only Voldemort remained, standing, surrounded by an odd material. It was like liquid fabric, it’s shiny blue quivering slightly, sending delicate ripples all along the material. Lily shot James and odd look, and not knowing what to do, they decided it was just better to watch. Sirius, however, seemed to think the fight was over, and marched towards Dumbledore.

“DON’T MOVE! Mr. Black,� Dumbledore shouted, startling the students. Lily couldn’t ever remember Dumbledore raising his voice. She continued to watch the form of Voldemort struggling in the material. Dumbledore took a deep breath and blinked slowly. Then, Voldemort disappeared, and the material floated softly to the floor. Lily looked around, nobody moved. Dumbledore’s eyes filled with terror, and Lily knew then and there that this was not good. Wherever Voldemort was, Dumbledore obviously didn’t like it. She looked around the room, and then saw James look up at the ceiling in horror.

“LILY! MOVE!� he yelled, running towards her, flailing his arms. He grabbed her, and pulled her out of the way just as a large chunk of the ceiling fell from the sky. Her heart beat quickly, but James allowed for no time wasting. He snatched her hand, pointing his wand at the rock. Just then, a tiny sliver snake slithered out from beneath the rock. Lily looked at Dumbledore, waiting to see his next move, and she saw his wave his wand. He shot a spell at the snake, but it missed, as the snake turned into Lord Voldemort and levitated off the ground.

“I’ve been waiting for this, Albus,� Voldemort said, floating inches above the floor.

“As have I, Tom,� Dumbledore replied cooly.

“You always were an old fool,� Voldemort hissed at hearing his true name.

“I should hope so,� Dumbledore said, with a slight smile. This seemed to infuriate Voldemort as he flew high into the air, until his head nearly bumped the ceiling. Dumbledore looked confused for a moment, and then a split-second later, Voldemort shot like a bullet towards the floor, his eyes screwed up in concentration. He slammed into the rocks, and it was as if he had dived into a pool. The rock floor rippled beneath his feet, and then shattered like glass.

Lily screamed as she began to fall through the floor. She had thought she would simply hit the earth, but she kept falling into a dark abyss. She held tightly to James, unsure of what to do. She raised her wand, willing to try anything that would help them, but was stopped as a large red bird flew beneath them. James, who was closest, grabbed onto the tail feathers of the bird. He held Lily to him, assuring her.

“I’ve got you,� he said, looking more scared than she. Then, in a swoop, they started flying downwards again, and Lily saw Sirius. The bird let out a beautiful song, a slightly eerie, warning song. Lily reached out her hand, trying to grab Sirius’. Their hands met, and Lily’s arm nearly jerked out of her socket as Sirius’ weight was added to the string of people. They started soaring downwards even farther, and Lily winced as yet another body, she guessed Peter by the squeal of terror, was added to their chain.

“Peter, you idiot! Turn into a mouse, so our arms can stay attached!� Sirius yelled. Peter abruptly turned into a rat, and Lily almost yelled out as the rat scurried up her arms and onto James’ shoulder. Then, yet another weight was added, and she saw the top of Remus’ head. She looked up, glad they would finally be able to fly back up, but she saw, to her horror, that the floor had reappeared, sealing them beneath it. She looked at the bird, and it let out a cheerful, reassuring song. It was a phoenix. She smiled, her heart lifting. But then she remembered, they had forgotten somebody!

“Dumbledore! WE HAVE TO GET DUMBLEDORE!� she yelled to the bird, but it let out another song, much to her frustration. It started flying even faster towards the ceiling. They were going to crash right into it! She winced, burying her face in James shoulder.

He looked up grimly, before closing his eyes, waiting for the impact. It never came. James opened his eyes, and saw that they were once again in the room. This wasn’t necessarily a good thing, but it certainly was better than being beneath the room. The phoenix let its beautiful song reverberate throughout the room, before swooping down, letting them all down. It swooped around even more, and James scanned the room, his heart beating frantically.

“Where’s Dumbledore?!� Lily breathed, voicing his own fear. He shook his head. “Do you think he is still falling? We need to tell that Phoenix to go back and...� Lily broke off as the bird landed. It chirped a beautiful, slightly taunting note, before bursting into flames.

“NO!� Sirius cried in terror. Lily was still staring in shock, unable to move, as yet another amazing things happened, knocking her backwards. The ashes started to float upwards, ever so slightly, as if a breeze had disturbed them. Then the wind seemed to intensify, floating the ashes more vigorously. They began to swirl, terribly fast now. Lily’s eyes nearly glazed over as a mini tornado began to form before her very eyes! Then the ashes settled, and standing there now, was Albus Dumbledore.

“Bloody hell!� was all Sirius could stammer. Lily gave an airy laugh, glad they hadn’t left anybody to fall into the abyss. Then she frowned slightly, and looked at James, who was also frowning. She could tell he was wondering the same thing she was. Where was Snape?

“Hello, Professor,� Snape said, giving a slightly malicious smile. He was standing in the middle of the room, twirling his wand. Lily’s eyes widened. Why hadn't he fallen?

“How?!� Dumbledore gasped, looking at Snape in horror. “But he...�

“Isn’t one of your nancy-boys. He is a Slytherin,� Snape said, utterly confusing all who watched. Dumbledore frowned in bewilderment.

“I thought...�

“You thought wrong, Dumbledore. You thought he grew up in a happy house-hold? This boy’s life has been Hell. He has a fair amount of hate for you, Dumbledore. I will be happy to help him vent some of it,� Snape said. Lily looked at Remus, who gave a soft gasp of surprise.

“What?� she whispered.

“Voldemort...he’s taken over Snape’s mind!� Remus replied, and they all stared. Lily knew at once it was true.

“Come on, Dumbledore. Kill one of your students. It’s only a Slytherin.� With that he raised his wand, shouting a bizarre spell that Lily had never heard before. Dumbledore blocked it...almost. A large gash was cut across his wrinkled face and Lily stared as blood trickled down his face. He tapped the wound with his wand, and it vanished.

“I will not fight you,� Dumbledore said calmly.

“I know,� Voldemort said, and raised his wand, sending another spell at Dumbledore. “AVADA KEDAVRA!� he yelled, but Dumbledore sank through the floor, the spell flying over top of him.

“JUST KILL HIM!� Sirius roared, unwilling to watch Dumbledore get taken down, piece by piece.

“Give him time...� Dumbledore said, smiling slightly. Lily frowned. What did this mean? Give Snape time to what? Kill him?

“Time will not heal his wounds, Dumbledore. His suffering goes too deep. Beyond time...� Voldemort said through Snape. Lily started to wonder what terrible things might have happened in Snape’s childhood...

“Snape is stronger than you think. He is stronger than you all think,� Dumbledore added, giving a reproving look at Sirius, who was very eager to just kill him and get it over with. Voldemort laughed.

“Fine. Believe what you want, you old fool. Believe right up to the time when I kill...� but he broke off, coughing slightly.

“What’s that? Didn’t catch that last bit,� Dumbledore said, smiling widely. Lily frowned. Personally she didn’t see why he looked so sure of himself. All he had done was cough.

“I SAID...� Snape tried again, his voice getting slightly raspy, “THAT I’M GOING TO...� but he broke off again, sneezing. Lily saw Remus grinning too. What were they so happy about? Remus saw her looking confused.

“Snape’s body is having a reaction,� he whispered.

“Snape’s allergic to Voldemort?� Sirius asked, bewildered.

“Something like that...� Remus said.

“SHUT UP!� Voldemort yelled, noticing the students talking. “I AM NOT...� But he grabbed his face, which started turning beet red. Lily screwed up her eyes and saw that he had a rash! He began scratching his face. “NO! NO! HE IS A SLYTHERIN! HE CAN NOT FIGHT ME!� he yelled, sneezing again.

A large bubble of light consumed Snape. Snape was now completely obscured, and Lily couldn’t see anything. Then they heard pained screams. First the screams of Severus Snape, then the screams began to mold into the anguished screams of Lord Voldemort. The light bubble disappeared, and Snape dropped to the ground, unconscious. There wasn’t a trace of Voldemort anywhere.

“Is he dead?� Peter asked, speaking for the first time. Dumbledore shook his head sadly.

“No. He is just unconscious,� he said. Snape started to stir, and Dumbledore walked over to him. Lily grabbed James’ hand for support, wondering what would happen. Snape sneezed again, looking at Dumbledore, then around at everybody who was staring at him. He groaned loudly.

“Is he gone?� he asked.

“Yes, he is,� Dumbledore supplied, helping him up. Snape sighed in relief, holding his head. “May I inform you, Mr. Snape, that you have just defeated Lord Voldemort?�

“No,� Snape said grumpily. The Gryffindors just stared, not sure what to do.

“Well, this certainly is awkward,� Sirius said cheerily. “Normally in the movies, there is always nice background music to fill in those awkward silences. Shall I sing?�

“NO!� they all said urgently, but Sirius burst into song.

“Oh, we just beat the Lord Voldemort,
He’s gone and left old Snape with warts!
What to do now that we’ve won?
I say we sing and have some fun!
Though everybody’s getting mad,
I think they think my singing is bad!
Should I stop? Or should I care?
Snivelly needs to wash his hair!
Lord Voldemort is dead and GGGOOONNNEEE...�

“SHUT UP!� everybody yelled.



~~~
Lily laughed loudly as she broke off a kiss with James as Sirius burst burst through the curtains.

“Hi guys!" he said cheerfully. James rolled his eyes, but laughed as well. “Caught you red handed. So...How are the two lovey-doveys?�

“Sirius, it hasn’t even been an hour since you’ve seen us last. We’re in the same bloody hospital wing!� James said. Sirius rolled his eyes.

“Details, details. Man, I don’t even understand why I even have to be in here! It was only a few scratches and Pomfrey acts like I’ve just had all of my arms cut off!� Sirius complained loudly.

“I’ll give you a few wounds if you don’t get back to your side, Mr. Black!� Pomfrey said loudly from right behind him, making him leap a foot into the air. Sirius grumbled about psychotic nurses and followed her. Lily turned back to James, still grinning. She leaned in to get yet another kiss from him, when the curtains flew open yet again. James growled in frustration. Remus and Peter entered, smiling brightly.

“Lily! James! Guess what?!� Peter yelled excitedly.

“You have some mail,� Remus said, smiling broadly. Lily and James each took identical, plain white envelopes. They read the return address and gulped, looking at each other in terror. It was their letters from the Huddersfield Hurricanes. Lily’s hands shook slightly. Remus saw their excitement and grinned. “I’ll leave you two alone now, we’ve got to go visit Snape. Dumbledore’s orders.� James and Lily nodded, not even really listening. They simultaneously opened their letters. Lily held her breath as she skimmed her letter.

Dear Miss Evans,

I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected to play the position of Seeker on the Huddersfield Hurricanes Quidditch team. You will be required to attend each and every practice, a schedule of which will be sent to you shortly. On no account shall you miss a Quidditch game, unless dead or dying, then, and only then, will I make acceptance. I wish you a happy summer, and hope to see you very soon.

Fran Lochlan,
Captain of the Huddersfield Hurricanes,


~~

James’ heart beat as he read his letter. He had made it! He had made the position of Chaser! He closed his eyes, trying to calm himself. A new fear was instilled in his heart, one he hadn’t considered. What if Lily hadn’t been accepted? Well, that was simple, if she wasn’t accepted, he couldn’t play Quidditch knowing she hadn’t been allowed. He took a deep breath, knowing she would never allow him to do that. He made a final decision. If she wasn’t accepted, he would simply say that neither was he, and leave it at that. He turned a blank face to her. She was staring at him, her eyes wide. His heart fell. She hadn’t made it?

“Well...?� she muttered.

“You first,� James said firmly. She shook her head. James grinned. “Alright, on three, we’ll both say it. One...Two...Three...� they both opened their mouths to say it, but neither spoke. They both laughed, realizing that they were both just as stubborn as the other.

“Alright,� Lily said, having had enough of this idiocy. “I made it on the team.� There was silence, as she waited with baited breath. James grinned broadly.

“Me too,� he said, his heart pounding with relief. This had to be one of the happiest days of his life! It wasn’t often he got to be on a famous Quidditch Team with the girl of his dreams. He grabbed her in a tight embrace. Then Lily smiled, realizing something.

“You know what. You have gone all year without asking me on a date,� she said, rather proudly. James grinned.

“I know how much it always bugs you,� he said slightly sadly, shrugging his shoulders. Lily grinned, taking his hand in hers.

“James Harold Potter, will you go out with me?� she asked. A few seconds of stunned silence filled the air. James blinked.

“Wh...wh...what?� he said.

“Will you go out with me?� she asked again, smiling at his shock. His face split into a huge, sloppy grin.

“You have no idea how many times I have dreamed of you doing that,� he said, breathlessly.

“What else have you dreamed about me?� she asked, grinning wickedly. He laughed, pulling her into his arms.

“Allow me to show you...�





~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE END~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: Alrighty, this was the last chapter! I hope you guys liked my story! I certainly liked writing it. So come on, since it's the last chapter, can't I get a few extra reviews from you silent readers out there?? Pleeeeease? If you don't I'll have Sirius come and sing to you! lol, while your at it, if you liked this story, maybe you could chack out my other romance fic, Collision. It's a Sirius/OC story. Lemme know what you think of that one?