How to Win a Witch in 10 Days

by adenei

Summary:

“She’s going to find some unsuspecting wizard, get him to fall for her, and then do all the things that turn men away to get him to break things off! Won’t it be the best way to see what witches do that drives men crazy?” But what happens when the man in question is a blast from Lily Evans's past? A Jily Magical AU based on the romantic comedy "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days."

Notes:

Hi! First off, thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoy this twist on a popular Rom-Com! The idea stemmed from the 'romione-com' movement, but I thought this would be a perfect match for Jily!

Chapter updates will be every Saturday.

Chapter 1: Thursday Pt. 1

Lily 

Lily Evans sits down at her desk. It’s a typical Thursday morning at the office of Witch Weekly for the ‘How To’ columnist. Parchment is strewn about everywhere due to a hasty departure the night before, but with a flick of her wand, the papers arrange themselves into neat piles. Satisfied with the restored order, she turns to her magical typewriter and the most recent article that lies next to it: How To Make the Transition from Hogwarts Graduate to Adult . 

 

She smiles at her hard work and hopes that this time Amelia will go for her pitch. A new batch of Hogwarts students graduated last week, and this was the type of information she would have loved to have when she finished her education three years ago. Being a Muggleborn made the transition into life as an independent witch more difficult. There aren’t many resources to help young adults find their way in magical society, and even though she met with Professor McGonagall numerous times about her future, the meetings weren’t as helpful as Lily preferred.

 

Perhaps this is why Lily lives in a small flat in muggle London and commutes to the office via taxi or apparition to Diagon Alley every day, depending on her mood. She tucks the article safely into a desk drawer before setting about her first task of the day: coming up with new ideas for future articles. Grabbing a blank piece of parchment, Lily begins brainstorming as more how to article ideas begin flitting through her mind.

 

Lily always knew she wanted to be a writer. The excitement she felt after securing a job at the highly respected go-to magazine for witches was only to be rivaled with receiving her Hogwarts letter at the age of eleven. At least, that’s how she used to feel. Now, she’s stuck in a perpetual wheel of pushing out article after article on how to incorporate the newest beauty, fashion, and health trends that flow into the magical world faster than a Cornish Pixie prison break.

 

Lily shakes her head as she writes down another idea: How To Secure an Interview for the Job of Your Dreams. She’s sick of all the superficial fluff she’s been writing for the past two years. It’s time for something more.

 

“Morning!” Alice chirps as she passes Lily’s cubicle.

 

“Good morning!” Lily gives Alice a warm smile in return. 

 

Alice Fortescue is one of her closest colleagues and friends at the publishing company. That’s the one perk of this job, working with some amazing people.

 

“Amelia called a staff meeting in thirty minutes. Have you seen Marlene?”

 

Lily feels as if a bludger has knocked the wind out of her. She was so preoccupied this morning that she didn’t realize her best friend of ten years wasn’t at her desk.

 

“No, she hasn’t shown up yet,” Lily worries. 

 

Marlene has recently been dumped— again— and she is never one to take a break-up lightly, even if said relationship only lasted a few weeks.

 

Alice sighs. “I’ll get the coffee, you floo to her place?”

 

Lily nods and grabs her bag, following Alice toward the exit. She digs a knut out of her purse and places it into the slot before grabbing a handful of floo powder. It’s common courtesy to donate money to replace the office’s stock if you use it for anything other than transportation to or from your residence.

 

She tosses the powder into the fireplace and steps into the green flames, announcing Marlene’s address in a clear, firm voice. Lily prepares herself for the sensation of the ground dropping out from below her as she free falls into the imaginary slide that transports her where she needs to go. The trip is short, and within seconds she is stepping out of the fireplace into Marlene’s flat.

 

“Marly? You here?” Lily calls. 

 

Her best friend tiptoes out of the kitchen, still in her dressing gown. She’s carrying a cup of tea close to her face to hide her puffy eyes.

 

“Oh, Marly, I’m so sorry,” Lily reaches out to comfort her friend with a hug.

 

Lily takes the cup of tea from her hands and steers Marlene to her bedroom. “I know how hard break-ups can be, but we’ve got a staff meeting in twenty minutes, and I’m not going to let you lose your job over another lousy guy.”

 

Lily doesn’t notice Marlene crawling back into bed as she busies herself with sifting through outfits in her friend’s closet.

 

“But what we had was special, Lil! I really thought he was different! He could have been the one!”

 

“How long were you seeing him?” Lily asks, trying to recall any details of Marlene’s latest fling.

 

“Only a week,” she pouts.

 

Lily freezes midway through pulling a dress from the closet. She knows this is Marlene’s M.O. but Lily still can’t help but feel frustrated. 

 

“Marly, really—”

 

“Don’t! I know what you’re thinking, but he was special , I’m telling you! We even had sex and everything. It was magical. I cried…”

 

“You what? Marly, tell me it was just a glisten of tears,” Lily wills her friend to say it isn’t as bad as she thinks.

 

“Oh no, I full-on bawled,” Marlene responds, not even attempting to lie, “told him I loved him, too.”

 

Lily wishes her best friend is kidding but they have been friends long enough for Lily to know that she’s not. With a silent sigh, Lily switches gears. She realizes she can’t take the sympathetic route anymore. No, Marlene needs tough love. She strolls over to the bed with the outfit in hand and plops down.

 

“Marlene, I know you’re a hopeless romantic looking for your Prince Charming, but in order to find him, you’re going to have to put yourself together and get back out there. You’re not going to find him wallowing in bed all day. Now come on, you’ve got fifteen minutes to get dressed so we can get to work and not piss off Amelia. Alice is out getting coffee right now.”

 

Lily yanks back the bedspread, forcing Marlene to get up, albeit begrudgingly.

 

There, one potential crisis averted for the day.

 

Ten minutes later, Lily floos back to the office after ensuring Marlene goes first. They run into Alice on their way back to their desks, and there’s just enough time for Alice to dole out the coffees before grabbing their notes and heading down the hall to their boss’s extravagant office. 

 

Amelia Bones is the no-nonsense editor-in-chief of Witch Weekly , who is well respected by her staff. Her office is spacious yet welcoming and not at all like what one might expect. Where a conference table and chairs should be, Amelia has sofas and squashy chairs, similar to the Gryffindor common room. When the writers meet to go over stories for upcoming publications, they gather there. The three girls barely make it in time, taking their seats on the sofa nearest Ms. Bones. It’s the only empty spot left.

 

Amelia clears her throat. It’s all she needs to do to command the attention of her staff. “Alright, let’s get started everyone. We need to go over assignments for the July issue. Dorcas, what are you thinking this month?”

 

Dorcas, the office suck-up, bounces up and down in her seat as she lays out her laundry list of articles. “I’ve got an exposé on gilly water with an exclusive interview from a mermaid who says it will help keep you thin, but I haven’t come up with a title yet. And Traveling by Portkey: What to Pack and Not to Pack . Then, I’ve also got an interview set up with Madam Malkin, who details the latest robe trends. Oh! And I almost forgot about my outline of A Look Into a Day in the Life of The Hobgoblins !”

 

Lily needs to remember to keep her face passive as Dorcas prattles on. Does she do anything besides work? Who has time for four articles? She has to suppress the eye roll that’s threatening when she catches Alice’s glance. It’s evident her friend is sharing the same thoughts.

 

“Wonderful, wonderful. Lily, what’s our resident How To girl have in store for us this month?”

 

Here goes nothing…

 

“Well, actually, I’ve been working on this piece that I think will be a great spin on the How To article. It’s about helping recent Hogwarts graduates find their footing after they finish their seventh year.”

 

She gauges the room for reception and notices blank stares coming from the entire writing team. Fighting to keep her facial expression passive, Lily chances a glance at her boss, whose opinion is the one that matters most. There’s an uncomfortable churn in her stomach as a result.

 

Amelia clicks her tongue in a disapproving tone. “Lily, Lily, Lily. How many times do I have to tell you that most of our clientele are in their twenties and thirties? No one is going to want to read something like that! That’s what they have parents and families for! Besides, aren’t the Hogwarts professors supposed to help the young ones with their career choices? That’s not our wheelhouse.”

 

“But—”

 

Lily wants to bring up the Muggleborn perspective, but Amelia doesn’t give her the chance.

 

“Lily, your job is to write the How To column for Witch Weekly , not to help recent grads find their place in this world. I hired you to write fun, upbeat stories that will help witches in all aspects of their lives, and that is what I expect.” Lily’s shoulders droop in disappointment as Amelia wastes no time moving on to her next victim. “Marlene?”

 

“Oh, um, I—I’m still thinking—” Marlene stutters.

 

Lily notices Amelia’s hard stare and speaks up on her friend’s behalf.

 

“Amelia, Marlene’s going through a rough time right now. She got dumped.”

 

“Oh, no. I’m so sorry, Marlene,” Amelia sympathizes as the rest of the group murmurs their respects to her unfortunate news.

 

Marlene grimaces as she explains, “Yes, I’m sorry, Amelia. I’ve been taking things a bit hard and haven’t really been eating. It’s just hard to move on when I thought he was—” she hiccups and Lily can tell she’s stifling a sob, “the one.”

 

“Hmm, yes, that is a predicament, isn’t it?” Amelia agrees before perking up. “Write about it.”

 

“What?”

 

“You can make an article out of that, can’t you?” Amelia asks the question as if it’s the most natural thing in the world.

 

“N-no! I can’t write about my personal life!” Marlene argues.

 

“If she won’t, I will,” Dorcas chimes in. She sounds too eager at the prospect of taking on a fifth article.

 

Amelia’s eyebrows crease as she ponders Dorcas’s proposition. Lily is horrified that Amelia is even considering this and decides to step in.

 

“Or I can!”

 

“What?” Marlene looks at her with wide eyes as Amelia trains her narrow gaze on Lily.

 

“How?” her boss wants to know.

 

“Well, I—I wouldn’t write about the break-up, per se, since that wouldn’t be a good How To article, but what if I turned it into something different?”

 

Lily is grasping at straws, trying to come up with something that would prevent her friend’s dirty laundry from being hung out to dry. She finds herself stuttering and stalling until suddenly, an idea pops in her head.

 

“What if I wrote the opposite of getting dumped? Well, it wouldn’t exactly be the opposite, but I’d find a guy and do all the classic things that women do that drive men away. Instead of trying to win the guy over, I’ll get him to dump me instead. Then readers will know what to do and what not to do.”

 

Lily watches her boss for any indication that she approves. Amelia’s pensive look quickly turns to a conspiring smile as she points her quill at Lily with a gleam in her eyes.

 

“That’s brilliant, Lily, absolutely brilliant! You think you can find a man, win him over and get him to dump you?”

 

“Well, when you put it that way…” Lily doesn’t appreciate her boss’s insinuation that she’d be easy to break up with, but if it gets Amelia off Marlene’s back, she’ll take it.

 

“I can see it now. We’ll call it How To Lose a Guy in Ten Days .”

 

Lily is relieved, having succeeded in giving Marlene extra time to come up with a story, but the timeframe concerns her. 

 

“Um, Amelia...why ten days?”

 

“Because we have to publish in eleven.”

 

She says this as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world. And it’s only after Lily processes Amelia’s words that she realizes how impossible it all seems. She hasn’t dated anyone in a while. No one is even on her radar to date. 

 

Looks like my Thursday is now going to be spent looking for an unsuspecting suitor.

 

Lily stifles a sigh as she attempts to focus on the rest of the meeting, but her mind has other plans. She fixates on whether or not she’ll be able to pull this off. It seems impossible, but she has no choice. She has to at least try.

 

As they exit the meeting, Lily, Alice, and Marlene are trailing behind Amelia, who is on her way to fetch her next appointment.

 

“If I’m going to pull this off, I need to find a guy tonight ,” Lily expresses to her friends.

 

“Don’t worry, we’ll help!” Alice reassures her. “Let’s go to that swanky bar after work. The prospect of this article calls for a finer crowd.”

 

“Abbott's?” Lily shoots an incredulous look at her friend. 

 

At first, she wants to protest, but Alice has a point. Lily needs to dupe a guy who’s not just out for a one-night stand, and there are no promises that she’ll be able to find that at the Leaky. No, she needs to glam up and go all-out to find a guy. One that shows promise, but not too much promise because she can’t let herself fall for him anyway.

 

Her thoughts are cut off as Alice and Marlene both stop, causing her to stumble into them. She looks up to see the source of their delay. Amelia has reached her destination, which happens to be directly in front of them as she greets two women. Lily isn’t quite sure why they didn’t swerve and continue around them.

 

“...Ah, Narcissa, Andromeda, it’s so nice to meet you! Come with me to my office so we can discuss the ads for this issue. I’m hoping you can help us spice up our pages through your clientele.” Amelia turns and sees Lily and her colleagues standing there. A friendly smile crosses her face as the three realize they’ve been caught eavesdropping and scurry to get back to their cubicles.

 

Lily returns the smile and looks to the two women to see the blonde eyeing her, a sense of intrigue dancing in her eyes. She wonders what that’s about. 

 

“Aren’t you the How To girl?” the blonde asks.

 

Lily’s not sure what she’s expecting the woman to say, but it’s not that. It takes her a moment to respond.

 

“Um, yes. It’s Lily, Lily Evans. Nice to meet you.” 

 

Lily doesn’t bother to extend a polite hand because of the blonde’s now scrutinizing gaze. She’s ready to turn and walk away before the awkward conversation can continue, but Amelia stops in her tracks.

 

“Yes! Lily is wonderful, isn’t she? She’s just about to start on her newest article: How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days . Doesn’t it sound exciting?”

 

The darker haired woman raises an eyebrow. “It does. What does that entail?”

 

Lily opens her mouth to speak, but Amelia cuts her off again. “She’s going to find some unsuspecting wizard, get him to fall for her, and then do all the things that turn men away to get him to break things off! Won’t it be the best way to see what witches do that drives men crazy?”

 

“That does sound interesting,” the blonde responds.

 

“Yes, fascinating,” agrees the brunette in a bored tone.

 

Lily doesn’t appreciate their judgmental stares and chooses to dismiss herself. “Thanks. It was nice meeting you,” she lies as she continues on toward her office.

 

The day is young, but she no longer has time to waste. She needs to develop her plan before setting out to find a wizard later in the evening. This is turning out to be the most peculiar assignment yet, but if Lily can pull it off, then maybe Amelia will give her a chance on the other articles she has in her queue. 

 

You’ve got this, Evans. Now get to work.

Chapter 2: Thursday Pt. 2

Notes:

Special thanks to my betas Be11atrixthestrange, Accio_broom, Cheesyficwriter and SM_JL!

Reviews are always welcome :)

James rolls out of bed after the third snooze of his alarm clock. He knows exactly how long he can wait until he has to get out of bed so he won’t be late for work. Sometimes he misses living with Sirius and Remus, who used to help make sure he was up and at ‘em on time. 

 

Stretching, James releases a groan as he goes to the bathroom and turns the water on for a shower. At least I’m not competing for hot water anymore. He steps into the scalding hot spray. He’s barely been living on his own for a month, and has to admit the perks certainly outweigh the drawbacks. Besides, they still work together for Alastor’s Ads, so it’s not like they never see each other.

 

After a quick lather and rinse, James steps out and towels off. He figures he has a good ten minutes to floo to the office. He’s pulling clothes out of his closet when Remus’s Patronus bursts through the window. 

 

Get to the office. Now .

 

“Well, that doesn’t sound foreboding or anything,” he mutters to himself.

 

He quickly dresses and grabs his bag before heading to the fireplace. He’ll have to take a mid-morning break to get a bite to eat since the wolf interrupted his usual routine. Tossing the powder into the hearth, he steps in and transports himself to the office. 

 

Sirius and Remus are waiting for him when he arrives, with looks of concern donning their faces.

 

“What’s got your wands in a twist this morning?” James assumes it’s not dire, and that Remus only sent the Patronus as a stern reminder for timeliness.

 

“It’s the Zabini Jewels pitch,” Sirius responds.

 

The name raises the hairs on the back of James’s neck. 

 

“What about it?” he plays it cool.

 

The three men begin walking to James’s office, where Remus shuts the door after they all pile in. 

 

“Well, the good news is that Moody liked your pitch,” Remus states, clearly easing James in as he begins.

 

Alastor Moody is the owner of Alastor’s Ads. After a mission with the Aurors put him out of commission, Moody opened an advertising business to do something with his settlement claim. He knew how corrupt the advertising business can be, so he set out to make the industry a little more honest, consequently weeding out the shadier businesses in the process. In the ten years since the company opened, it’s risen to the top spot of marketing in Magical England.

 

James’s position typically consists of wooing clients from magical games and sports and the food and spirits industry, but he’s recently begun dabbling in businesses outside his forte. Zabini’s is an up and coming jewelry shop with a lot of money backing its name. James submitted the proposal to Moody earlier that week, hoping to hear whether he would be the one to move forward with the pitch.

 

“Why do I sense there’s a but…” James trails off.

 

“Well…” Remus grimaces.

 

“Oh, come off it! If you’re not going to tell him, then I will!” Sirius interjects. “Moody’s given the pitch to my cousins!”

 

“No!” James bangs his fist on his desk, causing some of the hot young interns who are standing by the water cooler to jump and turn around.

 

James relaxes enough to flash a charming smile their way as he turns back to his best friends. “That was my proposal! I should be the one who meets with Zabini!”

 

“We know. But Moody said something about women ‘knowing and understanding’ the business more,” Remus attempts to calm James.

 

“That’s bullshit! Maybe they’re the ones who receive the jewelry, but blokes are the ones who buy it!”

 

“I know, mate.” Sirius throws his hands in the air, indicating he’s not the one James needs to argue with.

 

James is pissed. He’s worked too hard on this proposal for Moody to give the pitch to someone else. I’m not going down without a fight.

 

“Where are they?”

 

“They already left for a meeting at Witch Weekly .”

 

“Well, when are they meeting with Moody?”

 

“At Abbott's tonight,” Sirius answers automatically. Remus shoots him a look.

 

“What are you thinking?” he asks.

 

James looks down at his desk. Memos are piling up from existing clients, but he can’t be arsed to worry about those right now. He needs to sign Zabini. It will be the breakthrough he needs to stand on his own in the business, and a way to finally prove to himself that he doesn't need to rely on his parent’s wealth.

 

A look of determination crosses his face. “I’m going to crash their meeting and sell my pitch.”

 

Sirius holds up his hand for a high five as Remus winces. “I’m not sure if that’s a good idea, James.”

 

“Yeah, well, I’m not going down without a fight.”

James sits at a small cocktail table, sipping on a firewhisky at Abbott’s, a swanky magical speakeasy tucked away in the heart of Muggle London. The walls are painted an elegant navy blue that stands in stark contrast with the white marble floor, giving off an air of class and wealth that James has always refused to engage in. Gold trim lines the backlit shelves that house bottles upon bottles of expensive alcohol for the bar’s many eager patrons. 

 

Business starts to pick up as the night drones on, and James can’t help but notice how many beautiful women are out on this fine Thursday night. If he didn’t have a pitch to snag, he might be on the prowl, looking for a good time. But he’s already limiting himself to one drink so he can keep his mind clear, but that’s not to say the alcohol isn’t tempting.

 

“Potter, what are you doing here?” Moody’s gruff voice can be heard from across the room. 

 

James immediately stands up on his boss’s arrival. Ordinarily, he’d hold out his hand in greeting, but Moody’s always been a suspicious man, so he forgoes the gesture.

 

“I heard you accepted my proposal for Zabini’s Jewels.”

 

“Yes, and it’s my intention to give the pitch to Narcissa and Andromeda.”

 

“Why, sir?” James asks. He’s about to continue when another voice juts in.

 

“Why what?” Andromeda asks.

 

As if on cue, the Black sisters appear.

 

“What’s he doing here?” Narcissa quickly follows.

 

“It’d only be fair if the person who submitted the proposal has a hand in acquiring the pitch,” James says as suavely as he can, ignoring the ladies’ interjection.

 

“Ha!” Andromeda scoffs, “James couldn’t possibly know enough about what women like to know how to sell jewels.”

 

“Yes, I don’t think he’s ever had a proper girlfriend to buy jewelry for,” Narcissa adds with a smirk.

 

“Ah, but there’s the catch. You may think it’s all about what women want. But does a man consult his girl when he’s out to buy her a ring?” James doesn’t give either woman a chance to respond before he answers for them. “Exactly. You’re not just looking at it from the angle of ‘what a woman wants.’ One has to consider the man who’s shopping for his girl, and that is where I come in.”

 

Moody is listening raptly to James’s argument, which seems like a good sign. James notices Andromeda and Narcissa share a nervous glance, and he knows his ideas are being received better than the women assumed.

 

“Potter brings up a good point,” Moody says. “Every other advertising company always focuses on the woman, but this has potential.”

 

“Can’t you see it now? We’d include the women in the slogan, of course: ‘Zabini’s Jewels, where dreams come true.’” James lifts his hands to outline an imaginary sign that bears his ideas.

 

“Please, you’ve never been in a relationship long enough to even contemplate any of that!” Narcissa smacks her hand on the table in annoyance. “How do you know what it’s like shopping as a man in love? You’d be an imposter!”

 

“Am I really an imposter if I’m simply waiting for the right woman to come along?” James raises his eyebrows to match the smooth sound of his voice.

 

“Says the guy who’s only rival for the one-night stand trophy is Sirius,” Andromeda says.

 

To be honest, that jab hurts. For years, James has had the image of ‘womanizer’ placed on his head, even since his Hogwarts days. Sure, he’s a flirt, but he’s definitely not the type of bloke to bring home a different woman every night. 

 

“That’s not entirely true and you know it. I have fun, but not that much fun.”

 

“Prove it, then,” Narcissa crosses her arms in front of her chest in indignation.

 

“How?”

 

“Prove you’re capable of a serious relationship. That you can win a witch over and make her fall in love with you. Unless you don’t think you can handle anything more than taking a woman to bed,” Andromeda goads.

 

James is never one to back down from a challenge, but he worries the girls are doing this to throw him off his agenda. “I would gladly accept if this had anything to do with the Zabini pitch, but—”

 

“That’s an interesting offer,” Moody’s gruff voice interjects. All three look at him. “If you’re this cutthroat about winning a jewelry pitch, let’s have some fun with it. We’ve been invited to attend a gala that Zabini is hosting a week from Saturday. Find a woman and bring her as your date. If you can make her fall in love with you, you get the pitch. If you fail, the ladies win.”

 

“But how will you know he’s not paying the girl to fake it?” Narcissa pouts.

 

“I always know the truth,” Moody says. His glass eye is twitching in all directions as he stares at James with his good one.

 

Now, this is an interesting turn of events. James contemplates what Moody’s said. There has to be an easier way to shed the girls off his client, but his mind is coming up empty. 

 

You did say you’d do anything earlier, didn’t you?

 

Yeah, he supposes he did.

 

“Alright, deal.”

 

“But we get to pick your lucky lady!” Andromeda interjects.

 

“What? No! I didn’t agree to that.”

 

“Oh, come on, it has to be someone completely neutral. We can’t have you calling up a friend and faking it, now can we?” Narcissa reasons.

 

Ugh, fuck them.

 

“I’ll allow it,” Moody says, as the girls begin scanning the room.

 

“Hmm, Cissy, who should we choose?”

 

“I don’t know, Andie, there are so many people here tonight. It’s bound to be tough. What about that one over there in the neon yellow dress with the black platform shoes?”

 

James groans. This is going to be a disaster.

 

“Or the overly eager woman by the bar in the too-tight green dress, downing her third martini of the night.” Andromeda smirks.

 

“Come on, ladies, let’s try and be fair here.” James makes the request, even though he’s not convinced they’ll listen.

 

“What about—” Narcissa begins to point out another woman, whom James is sure would never work, when Andromeda cuts her off.

 

“I’ve found her.”

 

Narcissa turns her head on a swivel, looking around with increased interest. “Who?” 

 

“There, on the other end of the bar. Long auburn hair in the little black dress. She’s sipping on a cosmo.”

 

No fucking way . 

 

James follows Andromeda’s eyeline until it falls on a very gorgeous, very familiar face. Lily Evans . His former Gryffindor schoolmate and long-time crush. 

 

At first, James’s mind is screaming an adamant NO . That ship sailed during seventh year when he finally gave up his pursuit of Lily and settled with sixth year Hufflepuff Bridgette Carmicheal instead. It wasn’t until the end of term that he overheard Lily insisting that whatever feelings she thought she might have for him were gone.

 

‘He chose Bridgette, Marls. I strung him along for too long, and I lost my chance. I’m over it.’

 

Those words still sting as they hover in the back of his mind. James recalls breaking up with Bridgette within the week, hopeful that it wasn’t too late. But then Bridgette had taken the break-up horribly, and he knew going for Lily the next day wasn’t a good idea. Then graduation came and went, and he hasn’t seen her since. 

 

Seeing her standing there now, his heart leaps into his throat. She’s just as beautiful as ever, and all those feelings he thinks he’s finally gotten over are back, like a tornado completely upending his life. This could be his chance—their chance—to finally make a go of things. The thoughts begin whirring in his mind of ways to win her over.

 

“Done.”

 

Before James realizes what he’s doing, he’s standing up, and his feet are carrying him over to where she’s sipping on her drink. She doesn’t see him coming.

 

“Evans,” he croons as he sidles up next to her.

 

Her body stiffens when she hears his voice. James hasn’t thought what her reaction might be upon seeing him for the first time in years. Well, it’s too late to back out now. I’ve got a pitch to win and a second shot with the girl of my dreams.

 

She turns around after a moment, her face impassive, but not unwelcoming. 

 

“Potter.” She’s eyeing him up and down. “Long time, no see.”

 

“Yeah, since when? Graduation?”

 

“Something like that,” she shrugs nonchalantly.

 

“What brings you to Abbott’s?” James would rather know how often she comes here, but he keeps that question to himself.

 

“It’s been a long week, and I needed a night out. You?”

 

“Same.” James contemplates what’s made this week long, and is about to ask when Lily continues without prompting.

 

“Though I forget how stuffy this place can be,” Lily sighs, “Marlene and Alice convinced me to come, but I can’t say I’m having much success in tonight’s pursuits. And I’m starting to think they’ve ditched me. Though, I suppose all’s fair in love and war when you enter the dating game. Don’t you agree?”

 

Her comment almost throws James off as he looks down at the hand holding her cosmopolitan. He breathes a sigh of relief and thanks Merlin that there’s no ring on her finger.  So, she’s looking for a good time tonight, is she? Well, I can certainly show her a good time—and then some—if she’ll let me.

 

“Couldn’t agree more,” he says in an attempt to continue engaging her in conversation. 

 

She makes the effort to look around the room. Now is his chance to make a move.

 

“You hungry?”

 

Lily observes him carefully. James can tell she’s closed off and knows he needs to reassure her that it’s innocent , for now …

 

“C’mon, Evans, it’s just dinner. Catching up can’t hurt, can it?” He pauses for a moment before making the split-second decision to add, “I’ve missed you.”

 

It’s true. Standing here with Lily now, James wonders how he coped over the past three years. He thought he’s been managing just fine, but her presence brings back everything he’s so desperately missed about her. James doesn’t realize he’s holding his breath until he sees her relax. Her eyebrows soften and the smallest smile plays at the corners of her lips.

 

She sets her almost empty glass down on the bar before sliding off her stool. “Well, Potter, how can I resist when you put it like that? Lead the way.”

 

James can’t help the grin that spreads on his face. He holds out his arm as Lily gingerly latches on. Her touch sends a tingle up his spine as they move toward the doors. 

 

Before he forgets, James takes a quick glance back at Moody, Andromeda and Narcissa. He flashes a smirk that he hopes says ‘you’re going down’ before turning back to the beautiful woman on his arm. After ten years of pining, he’s finally got Lily Evans right where he’s always wanted her, and he’s determined not to ruin this second chance.

Notes:

Updates will for real be every Saturday now. But I couldn't resist giving a taste of James's POV first!

Chapter 3: Thursday Pt. 3

Notes:

Thank you to everyone who has read so far! As promised, here's your Saturday update!

Thank you to my betas: accio_broom, be11atrixthestrange, cheesyficwriter, SM_JL and a special shout-out to Room of Req for her encouragement and reassurance <3

Just when she thinks her life can’t get any stranger, James Potter walks back into it. How was she just sitting at the bar, scouting out potential men to dupe, when a blast from the past shows up at her side and asks her to dinner? Of all the nights and all the bars, they run into each other tonight .

 

Lily’s completely shaken on the inside but forces herself to remain calm, cool and collected. James Potter is the one that got away. The one who fancied her at Hogwarts, had asked her on countless dates—which she turned down—and by the time Lily finally realized she had feelings for him, he’d moved on. It hurt more than she expected it to, so when he walked up to her just minutes ago, Lily wasn’t sure how to react.

 

She intends to say no when he asks her to dinner, but something stops her. It takes a lot to admit to herself that she’s missed him over the past few years. After all, they were friends before he started dating Bridgette, and they had to work together as Head Boy and Head Girl. The lack of James’s presence left a gaping hole in her post-Hogwarts life that she never expected, and it’s only now that he’s here with her that she realizes just how badly she misses him.

 

“C’mon, Evans, it’s just dinner. Catching up can’t hurt, can it? I’ve missed you.”

 

Missed me? Seriously? Does he even realize that he was the one who changed everything? Years of incessant invitations to go on dates, and he finally wears her down only to yank the rug from underneath her by choosing someone else .

 

Part of her wants to slap him for being such an arsehole, but not if he doesn’t know he played with her heart three years ago. Not to mention that a physical altercation would certainly ruin her chances of picking up another guy. The more sensible thing is to tell him it was nice seeing him, but she’s meeting someone else, but what happens if he stays and realizes that it’s a lie? No, that wouldn’t do, either. Then, an idea pops into her mind. It’s certifiably insane, but if she plays her cards right, it could be the perfect opportunity for revenge.

 

There’s something so devilishly captivating about James Potter, and Lily decides she does want to get dinner with him. In fact, her mind is set on spending the next ten days with him. This could be Lily’s chance to prove to herself—and James—that they were never meant to be.

 

She glances up at him to see that he’s waiting for an answer, although he’s not pushy. He knows better than to press for a response. It’s funny how easy a single moment can bring her right back to the Great Hall or the Gryffindor common room. Her traitorous heart begins to beat in her chest as she tries to avoid the piercing hazel eyes that are begging her to let him in.

 

Well, you know what, Potter? Maybe I will let you in. I’ll let you in long enough to play with your heart like you played with mine, and we’ll see how you like it. 

 

The plan continues to build in her mind, and then some. Luring James Potter into a relationship only to drive him away seems easy enough. After the debacle in school, Lily knows they’re better off apart, and maybe she’ll even gain the closure she didn’t think she needed. Plus, she supposed a snog or two in the process wouldn’t hurt anything if it came to that. 

 

Lily visualizes the checklist sitting on her desk at work and mentally adjusts some of her ideas to make the game she’s playing more believable. Once all is said and done, James will realize it was a mistake to ever have approached her tonight, and Lily can have a bit of fun toying with James in the process. So, the hardened look she forced herself to give earlier now softens, and Lily even chances a smile. She sets her almost empty glass on the bar and glances around to see if she can find Alice and Marlene. They’re mingling on the other side of the room.

 

Well, they know I’m out to snag a man, so if they see I’m gone, they’ll know why. Lily shrugs as she turns back to James.

 

“Well, Potter, how can I resist when you put it like that? Lead the way.”

 

He holds out his arm, and Lily takes it. A smirk plays at her lips as she looks back in the direction of her friends one more time. She catches Alice’s eye and gives her a wink before turning back toward the door.

 

Let the games begin.

“I have to say, I’m impressed,” Lily admits as she tucks into her basket of fish and chips.

 

James has taken her into muggle London to grab a bite to eat, and Lily’s quite shocked by his choice. It’s a small hole in the wall shop that serves the greasiest food, but it’s delicious. The walls are laden with modern art murals and the wooden tables are covered in carved names. It’s a place Lily is sure University students go for a late-night snack or on their way home from a pub crawl. Aside from Lily and James’s semi-formal attire, they fit in well with the crowd.

 

“Why? Am I still as irresistible as I was at Hogwarts?” James still possesses the same air of confidence as Lily rolls her eyes.

 

Still as cocky as ever, it seems.

 

“No, I meant that I’m impressed that you know your way around muggle London.”

 

“Sirius and I discovered this place on one of our nights out a while back. I come here at least once a week.”

 

Lily smiles at the mention of another old friend. “How are Sirius and Remus anyway?’

 

“Brilliant! We were all living together until recently. Finally decided it was time to get our own places.”

 

“The Marauders have finally split?” Lily feigns shock.

 

“Nah, not entirely. We still work together.”

 

“Now, why doesn’t that surprise me?” 

 

James laughs. “We work for Alastor’s Ads. I work mostly with clients from magical games and food, but I’m looking to branch out a bit more.”

 

“Fascinating. I always did think you could talk your way out of a paper bag,” Lily recalls.

 

“Come again?” James’s eyebrows crease and one side of his face scrunches in confusion. 

 

“It’s a muggle saying.”

 

“Ah. What are you up to these days?”

 

“I write for Witch Weekly ,” Lily keeps her explanation short. If he doesn’t know, then there’s no harm in keeping the How To column from him completely. 

 

“Lily Evans, Head Girl, so much promise to do some good in the world, writes for Witch Weekly? ” James says.

 

“It was a job. Now that I’ve got my foot in the door with a company and I’m gaining some credibility, I’ll be able to branch out and actually write what I want to write soon.”

 

“Soon? How long might that be?”

 

How does James always see right through her? It’s been three years, but he’s still as frustrating as ever.

 

“As long as it takes to find an opening in a position I want . I’m not looking to make a lateral move just to keep writing pieces I’m not passionate about.”

 

“And what are you passionate about?”

 

Lily fights the urge to answer him right away. She needs to keep the mystery there if she’s going to succeed in her endeavors.

 

“I could ask you the same question. Do you really want to be selling pitches to restaurateurs or quidditch teams for the rest of your career?”

 

“That’s a fair question.”

 

“And your answer is?”

 

“It depends. I’m working on branching out to different companies right now. I’ve submitted a proposal for Zabini’s Jewels and am hopeful I’ll get the pitch. Should know within the next week or so.”

 

“Interesting,” Lily responds.

 

“So, are you going to answer my question now?” 

 

Of course, James doesn’t forget that she dodged his question, but that doesn’t stop her from feigning forgetfulness.

 

“What question?”

 

“What you’re passionate about,” James smirks at her, indicating he sees right through this act.

 

Lily sighs and figures she should answer him. “I want to write articles that can truly make a difference in someone’s life. I’m over the superficial bullshit.”

 

James leans back in his chair and smiles at Lily. 

 

“What?” she asks.

 

“Nothing. It’s just been nice spending time with you again.”

 

She returns his smile. “You know, as much as I might regret saying this later, you’re right. I got so wrapped up in finding a job and navigating life in the magical world that I wasn’t very good about keeping in touch with my friends.”

 

“I suppose I can forgive you for that.”

 

“Ah, I can die happy now, knowing you’ve forgiven me,” Lily winks at him.

 

“I aim to please,” James finishes their banter as they gather their things and get up from the table to head for the door. 

 

They walk in silence for a while, and Lily basks in the enjoyment of James's company again. She wonders what he’s thinking about and whether their night should continue or if she should wait until tomorrow. Their feet lead them down a deserted alleyway in preparation to apparate out of muggle view. James pauses behind a dumpster and Lily follows suit.

 

“Do you want to come over?” James blurts, taking Lily by surprise.

 

Internally, she’s screaming yes, but it’s late on a Thursday and she still has to work tomorrow. She bites her bottom lip as James ruffles his hair with his hand.

 

“I’d like that, but I’m not sure if it's a good idea with work tomorrow.”

 

James lets out a gruff laugh. “Right, yeah, sorry—I just thought—”

 

“I had a good time tonight,” Lily reassures him. “Enough that I’d like to see you again if you’re interested?” She knows it’s ballsy to make the first move like that, but time is of the essence.

 

James’s eyes widen at her boldness. “Really?” 

 

“I know, shocking, right?” she keeps her voice light and airy, while adrenaline is shooting through her body.

 

“Well, I’ve got tickets to the quidditch playoffs tomorrow—Arrows versus Magpies at seven. Perks of signing Appleby as a client,” James shrugs, trying to play it cool. “Just as friends, you know? I don’t want you to think it’s anything—”

 

“I’d love to!” Lily cuts him off. 

 

She’s surprised that he’s backpedaling so much. He was never like that in Hogwarts. Then again, he probably figured he’d have a million more chances to wear her down. If he only knew….

 

“Really? Brilliant!” James’s tone sounds pleased, and Lily can sense a hint of relief in his voice. “There’s a Portkey leaving from the Leaky at six if you want to meet me there?”

 

“Sounds great.”

 

They both stand there awkwardly. Lily’s wondering if maybe she should have accepted his invitation to join him at his flat. She doesn’t want to kiss him on the first night, but after his invitation to the quidditch playoffs as friends , she knows she needs to do something to show him she’s interested in something more than that. 

 

“So, I guess I’ll see you to—”

 

Lily realizes she’s out of time, and needs to do something so James is aware of her intentions. This is an act, and she has to play the clingy woman that moves before the time is right. Before she can talk herself out of it, Lily’s lunging toward James, throwing her arms around his neck and pressing her lips to his with purpose. Her eyes close, so she doesn’t have to be disappointed if his reaction is anything less than eager. 

 

She always imagined that the first kiss she’d share with James Potter would be soft and slow and sweet, with him instigating, and this is anything but. Thankfully it’s not forced, but it is awkward as she feels James freeze at the contact.

 

Shit. Maybe he really is over me. I must have read the signs wrong.  

 

Lily pulls away and turns her head to the side in an attempt to avoid his gaze as mortification begins to set in. She’s about to berate herself more for making a terrible decision and losing a whole day for her article when she sees a flash of black hair out of the corner of her eye as he leans in to regain the previous closeness.

 

His lips are on hers again, and his hands are splayed against her back. Lily’s hands find their way back to their previous position as the kiss takes her breath away. 

 

James Potter is kissing her back , and it’s everything Lily’s dreamt about since her seventh year of Hogwarts. His breath is hot against her as his tongue grazes her lip before tentatively slipping into her mouth. She parts her lips enough to invite him in as her tongue meets his. Lily presses herself against his body as James groans in response.

 

Suddenly, it’s as if a switch flips in Lily’s mind, and she remembers why she kissed him in the first place. Reluctantly, she pulls away. James looks just as awestruck as Lily feels, his chest heaving up and down much like her own. Lily forces the thoughts of being back in his arms from her mind despite how much she misses the contact. Once she’s gained enough composure, she chances a glance toward James. He looks as windswept as she feels.

 

“So, I’ll, er, see you tomorrow?” James’s tone is more cautious than she remembers from their time at Hogwarts. 

 

He looks completely thrown off balance. Good , Lily thinks, knowing she needs to keep him on his toes.

 

She shoots him a coy smile. “Absolutely. As more than friends, I hope?”

 

It can’t hurt to solidify her intentions.

 

“Y-yeah,” James stutters.

 

Lily doesn’t think she’s ever seen him rendered speechless before and feels rather smug that she can accomplish the feat.

 

“Brilliant. See you tomorrow,” she winks at him before focusing on her flat and apparating away.

Chapter 4: Friday

“Does Lily even like quidditch?” Sirius sounds incredulous the following morning as they’re shooting the shit in James’s office.

 

“I still can’t believe you ran into her last night,” Remus’s disbelief is evident in his tone. “She’s been so closed off since we left Hogwarts.”

 

“Yeah, well, call it fate, I guess. But either way, I can’t imagine things working out any better.”

 

James is still reeling from last night. His impromptu date with Lily went better than expected; he’s sure he impressed her with his improved knowledge of muggle London. He managed to make her laugh multiple times, and she agreed to go to the quidditch match with him tonight. 

 

And then his mind wanders to the kiss again. That bloody kiss. He would have never guessed that suggesting they go to the match as friends would have resulted in something so spectacular, but it had, and James can’t help but wonder if that would have worked in Hogwarts. No, probably not .

 

Her kiss was everything he’s ever imagined and more, and James spent most of his night replaying the moment after they parted. Her soft, perfect lips pressed into his, shooting the most pleasurable sensations through his entire body. James barely slept last night, his mind preoccupied with ways he plans to woo her over the next week.

 

“Fate or not, you’ve got your work cut out for you. Getting Lily Evans to fall in love with a specky git like yourself? Narcissa and Andie are evil geniuses for that,” Sirius comments, drawing James out of his thoughts.

 

Remus frowns at Sirius’s statement. “You don’t think they chose her on purpose, do you?”

 

James looks up at his best friend. He hasn’t thought about that, but he’s convinced there’s no way they could know about the history there. Sirius doesn’t attend family functions, and his cousins are too old to know or care about what may have happened in Hogwarts.

 

“That’s ridiculous. Lily was one of the only women there last night that didn’t have a flock of people surrounding her. Easy and unsuspecting. Plus, since I only have ten days—well, nine now—maybe they decided to cut me a break.”

 

Even Sirius narrows his eyes as James brushes Remus’s concerns off. “Didn’t you say Lily’s working for Witch Weekly? And isn’t that where my cousins had a meeting yesterday morning?”

 

“Yeah, but it was probably with her boss. There’s no way they would have seen her before. Besides, this is Lily , guys. I finally have a chance to make a go of things.”

 

Sirius shrugs. “I would have thought you’d let her go by now. It’s been three years, James…”

 

James shoots Sirius a sincere, pained look. While they base their friendship on lighthearted fun and jokes, it’s not to say there haven’t been moments of sincerity, and this is one.

 

“I don’t think I ever fully got over her. Especially not without some closure. I still haven’t forgiven myself for giving up too soon. Regardless of whether your cousins have an ulterior motive, I have to try. There’s a reason Lily Evans walked back into my life, and I’m not missing out on this chance.”

 

Both Remus and Sirius stare at James. He knows his words are compelling, and his friends will support him no matter what. He feels better sharing that knowledge with them. It’s so easy to brush off his true feelings, but when it comes to Lily, Sirius and Remus have always been there for him.

 

“Then we’ll be here to support you,” Remus concedes. “Now, maybe we should get our work done for the day, so you’re not late for your date tonight.”

 

Remus gives Sirius a hard look, urging him to leave James alone. After they leave, James pulls out a piece of parchment and begins writing down all of his best ways to sweep Lily off her feet. He hopes he won’t need every item on the list, but at least he’ll be prepared just in case.

 

James tucks the list into his desk drawer with satisfaction as he begins clearing off the rest of his desk. If it were an ordinary day, James would have shovelled all the useless parchment into the bin on the side of his desk, but he is in a chipper mood, so he takes care to go through all the documents first. That’s when he comes across a business card for Longbottom’s Long Stems.

 

Is it too early to send flowers? 

 

The kiss returns to the forefront of James’s mind, and he decides that it isn’t. Grabbing the business card, James heads to the shop on the other end of Diagon Alley instead of sending an owl. He’s heard positive reviews about the new florist but intended to wait until after securing Zabini as a client before branching out with his clientele. Since he’s heading there anyways, James figures he can ask if the moment presents itself.

 

James exits the office and basks in the warmth of the sun on his face. It’s going to be a perfect evening for a quidditch match! He turns his attention to navigating up the cobblestone street. The alley is busy with witches and wizards travelling in and out of different stores. James has to move out of the way more than once to avoid being trampled by some middle-aged woman on a mission.

 

Before long, he finds himself standing outside the florist’s storefront. The owner has painted the sign in bright shades of green and yellow, and the windows are welcoming with various bouquet displays that are set up to entice shoppers to enter. A bell rings as James walks through the entrance, and a man appears from what James assumes is a back room.

 

“Good morning! I’m Frank,” the man says. “Welcome to Longbottom’s Long Stems!”

 

Frank holds out his hand, and James gives it a firm shake. There’s dirt underneath the florist’s fingernails, which makes sense considering the profession.

 

“I’m James. You seem to be settling in well.”

 

“Oh, yes!” Frank’s voice has a slight quiver. “Business has been steady since the grand opening, but I’ve still got a ways to go.”

 

James shares a genuine smile. “Well, you’re in luck! That’s part of the reason I’m here. I work for Alastor’s Ads, and was wondering if we could help get the word out on your business.”

 

A wary look crosses Frank’s face. “I don’t know…”

 

James doesn’t respond right away, hoping that Frank might elaborate. Maybe he should have started with ordering the flowers first to build up the rapport.

 

“There were two women who came in earlier this week for the same company, promising all sorts of stuff, but I didn’t get a good vibe, so I turned them down.”

 

Of course, the Black sisters strike again. At least, that’s who James assumes has visited the shop owner. He resists the urge to roll his eyes. 

 

“Ah, well, it was good of you to turn them down. Those two only look out for themselves. I always have my client’s best interest at heart, and I only sign on the businesses that I can sense I’ll have a strong working relationship with. And unlike the girls, who will probably be back to press you some more, I’ll respect your decision. Besides, that’s not the only reason I came in here.”

 

James notices Frank relaxing as a smile returns to his face. “Thanks. I appreciate that. There’s nothing I can’t stand more than pushy salespeople. Er, sorry, I only meant—never mind. What else can I do for you?”

 

“I was hoping to send a dozen roses to a woman I’ve started seeing who works at Witch Weekly .”

 

“Sure, sure, of course! Do you have a particular color in mind?”

 

James pauses for a moment. He doesn’t think red would be a good choice yet, but pink and white don’t jump out as colors she’d appreciate, either. His eyes scan the various colors again until settling on a promising choice. 

 

“What about yellow?”

 

“Ah, the color of friendship! I’ve always believed the best relationships start on that foundation. Excellent choice!” Frank walks across the shop’s floor to begin pulling yellow roses from the bucket they are lying in.

 

“Er, friendship?” 

 

Shit. He didn’t know the colors of roses had any other meaning in addition to romance. James knows Lily is fond of yellow, but what if she knows the symbolism behind the color? That won’t do if he’s looking for more than friendship.

 

“Oh, yes, every color has significance when it comes to flowers. Especially roses. Are you hoping for something more for your lucky lady?” Frank peers at James carefully after pulling the last flower from the bucket.

 

“Yeah, I was, but I don’t think we’re ready for red yet.”

 

“Well, good thing this is a magical floral shop.”

 

James cocks his head to the side at Frank’s words. “Come again?”

 

Frank lets out a hearty laugh as he places the flowers in a glass vase. He pulls out his wand and mutters, “ Mutatio Rubrum. ”

 

The vibrant yellow of the roses begin to sparkle, and the tips of the petals transform to a subtle red color that shifts in the sunlight.

 

“That’s brilliant!” James exclaims.

 

“Thanks,” Frank beams. “The enchantment will last until the flowers begin to die—if you want to keep it, that is.”

 

“You bet I do! She’ll love that,” James shares with the shopkeeper, recalling how Lily had an affinity for charms.

 

“Great. Shall we ring you out, then?”

 

Frank hands James a card to include with the flowers, and after much hemming and hawing, he decides to write: Lily - Glad I ran into you last night. Can’t wait for tonight.

 

He hands Frank five Galleons for the transaction.

 

“You said she works at Witch Weekly ?” Frank clarifies.

 

“Er, yeah. You don’t mind delivering those?”

 

“Not at all! It’s all part of the job,” Frank pauses, and James can tell he wants to add something, so he waits. “Er, I know I said I wasn’t interested in the advertising help before, but…”

 

James grins as he pulls out a business card and hands it to him. “Feel free to send me an owl if you want more information! We can develop a logo, a slogan, all the works! And I can help you with getting your name out in all the major magazines and the Prophet! Business will be booming before you know it.”

 

“Brilliant! Thanks again for your business.”

 

“No, thank you ,” James insists as he makes his way to the exit.

 

That went well . James has a strong feeling that he’s about to cinch Longbottom Long Stems to add to his client list, which will spearhead his attempts to branch out of his comfort zone. Feeling more accomplished than ever, James heads back to the office to wait out the rest of the day until he gets to see Lily again.

James returns home briefly at the end of the work-day to get ready for the match. After a quick shower and changing of clothes, he checks the time and returns to Diagon Alley with five minutes to spare. He’s not surprised to see that Lily’s standing outside of the Leaky waiting for him. She always was one to arrive early. 

 

Her long auburn hair drapes over her shoulders, partially covering a pale blue Appleby Arrows t-shirt, matching his favorite Appleby jersey that he’s pulled on for the match. James smirks as he suspects she ran out to Quality Quidditch Supplies to purchase the shirt just for tonight. His eyes travel down her body to see that she’s dressed in a pair of form-fitting muggle jeans with a sweater draped over her arms.

 

As he approaches, she smiles and gives him a wave. This is all the confidence he needs to swoop in and kiss her cheek in greeting.

 

“You made it!” James struggles to keep his happiness in check.

 

She laughs as her emerald eyes shine up at him. “I said I’d come, didn’t I? Besides, I’m excited to spend some more time together. I didn’t realize how much I missed you until last night.”

 

Lily bats her eyes in a shy manner, and James is taken aback. He’s never been on the receiving end of ‘flirty’ Lily, not that he’s complaining.

 

“I missed you too, Evans. Let’s make sure we don’t wait three years until our next run-in, yeah?” He grins as she lets out a girlish giggle at his words.

 

James doesn’t think much of her reaction as he holds out his arm. “Shall we apparate to the field then?” 

 

A short time later, they find themselves navigating the aisles.

 

“I loved the roses, by the way. Thank you,” Lily expresses as they find their seats in the stadium. 

 

Fans pack the stands, and the teams have just flown onto the pitch for warmups. The giant projector screen across from them shows a series of stop motion pictures that highlight the Arrow’s recent season as pre-show entertainment. James hands her the purchased refreshments as they settle in their seats.

 

“Really? I hope it wasn’t too much, too soon,” James quips.

 

“Not at all! I rarely get flowers at work, so it was a nice surprise. The entire office was raving about the color charm.”

 

“Frank is certainly a genius for coming up with that. With any luck, he might be my newest client.”

 

James is excited to share the news with her, but concern rushes over him as he sees her face droop in sadness.

 

“And here I was thinking you went there just for me. I guess it wasn’t as special as I thought,” she pouts.

 

James doesn’t know how to react at first. This is not the confident, sure of herself Lily that he knows. His mind wanders to what bloke broke her heart to make her feel so insecure.

 

“No! I went there for you. We just got to talking about how his business was going after I paid for them and the advertising opportunity came up,” he reassures.

 

The look on her face shifts from a pout to contentness as she latches on to his arm and leans into his ear.

 

“Wanna know a secret?”

 

James raises his eyebrows in response as she continues, her breath hot on his ear, sending a tingle of want straight to his cock. He manages a nod as he tries not to focus on the fact that her breasts are pressed up against his arm. It takes a valiant effort to relinquish the thought that she might come home with him tonight.

 

No, she can’t. You want Lily Evans to fall in love with you. You’re not bringing her home for a shag. That’s not the way to win her heart.

 

“What’s that?” he croaks.

 

“My friend Alice is quite taken with that florist who made the delivery. Looks like you’re a matchmaker.” 

 

Lily winks at James. That was the last thing he was expecting her to say.

 

“Frank?”

 

“Yes! That’s his name. I’ve never seen Alice so smitten before. I guess she and Frank went to Hogwarts together, just like us. She said Frank’s always been a bit shy, and no matter how many times she tried to hint that she’d like him to take her out, he never acted on it...” Lily rambles on, and James stops paying attention.

 

In all honesty, he wasn’t sure how to respond to Lily’s gossip. He barely knew the bloke, and he’d never met ‘Alice’ before, yet Lily was talking about them as if James should be taking an interest in their personal lives. James doesn’t remember Lily ever being the gossip type at school, and part of him hopes Witch Weekly hasn’t made her succumb to it.

 

Luckily, the announcer enchants his voice with Sonorous, and the match is about to begin. As the commentator announces the starting lineup and the players fly a lap at top speed, James leans over to ask Lily,

 

“So, have you ever been to a professional match before?”

 

She frowns. “No, I don’t prefer quidditch much if you’re not on the pitch.”

 

Her words aren’t lost on him as James watches her roll her bottom lip between her teeth. He wishes he could kiss her right then and there as his mind wanders to all the moments he missed her watching him train or compete against another house. 

 

“So, you were watching the Gryffindor matches for me, then?” He gloats as a sly smile crosses his face.

 

She shrugs and looks away as a blush dons her cheeks. “Looks like my secret’s out.”

 

His seventeen-year-old self would have been cocky as hell to gain this bit of knowledge, but now James only kicks himself more at the missed opportunity. He knows it’s the wrong time to say anything, but her words compel him to try and explain.

 

“Lily—”

 

“Oh, look! The match is starting!” Lily cuts him off.

 

Sure enough, the referee blows the whistle, and fourteen players take their positions. James feels a rush of adrenaline as the chasers whiz back and forth, the quaffle shooting through the air at lightning speed. Often, he wonders if the Gryffindor team looked even remotely close to what he sees now, but he knows they never do. James becomes completely immersed in the game as the score ranks ever higher, and he keeps an eye out for the snitch that the seekers have yet to catch. Every now and then, he engages Lily in conversation, making sure she’s having fun.

 

He’s not sure how two hours pass, but wand light has now illuminated the stadium as the players continue the match. James feels a tug on his shirt and looks down at Lily.

 

“Everything alright?” he asks as he sees a look of distress cross her face.

 

“Yes.”

 

He can tell she’s lying. “Evans, what’s wrong?”

 

She wrinkles her eyebrows in the most adorable way before peering up at him with an apologetic look. “It’s just—never mind.”

 

James fully turns to face her now, concern rising within him. “Lily, please tell me.”

 

“I’m just—I’m getting tired. I didn’t expect the match to be this long. I know it’s rather unbecoming of me since this is a date, but I’m kind of bored, and I just thought that we’d—no, no, it’s silly.”

 

James does everything in his power to keep his jaw from dropping. She wants to leave? He glances back to the match. He has a funny feeling that the seeker will catch the snitch soon, and he opens his mouth to say something to her, but she stops him.

 

“I’m sorry. I’ll just—you stay, okay? I can walk to the apparition point, and I’ll see myself home. Maybe we can try again tomorrow? There’s a lovely muggle movie playing at the cinemas I’ve been dying to see. You always did say you wanted to experience one, but we never got the—oh, who am I kidding? You won’t want to see me after tonight!”

 

Lily stands and grabs her bag before weaving through the row of people to get to the aisle. James is flabbergasted. He looks back at the match before running a hand through his hair. He’s trying to process what in the bloody hell just happened.

 

Go after her! 

 

A flip switches in his mind, and he checks his seat before taking off in the same direction. He forgot how fast Lily can move when she wants to get away from something. James catches up to her just as she exits the stadium.

 

“Evans, wait up!” She stops walking and turns toward him. A weak smile crosses her face.

 

“It wasn’t my intention for you to leave the match. You should have stayed.”

 

“No, you’re right. I wasn’t thinking. I had the tickets and thought it might be a fun way to spend time together. I forgot how long matches can be, and it has been a long work week. I’m sorry.”

 

In what universe did he think a quidditch match—professional or not—was going to be successful in wooing Lily Evans? A selfish one, that’s what . He watches as she looks to the ground, tucking a loose strand of auburn hair behind her ear.

 

“Thanks for following me. I would have understood if you stayed.”

 

“And let you walk away? I could never.”

 

There was an astounding truth in those words as James meets Lily’s eyes. He holds out his hand, and she reaches out to entwine her fingers in his.

 

“Should we head to the tree line before apparating?” Lily asks.

 

“Sure,” James agrees as they begin walking. “Now, about that picture thing you mentioned?”

 

Lily turns her head in question before realizing what he’s referring to. “The cinemas? Are you interested?” 

 

Her smile radiates, and James can’t help but think how beautiful she is in the moonlight. “Yeah. You said it yourself, I’ve always wanted to see one.”

 

“I just thought you would have by now.”

 

“Nope. So, should I pick you up? What time?”

 

“I’ll have to check the showings and owl you in the morning if that’s okay? We can meet right at the theater. It’s not far from Diagon Alley, and since you seem to know your way around muggle London well enough.”

 

They reach the cover of the nearby forest, and James decides to take a chance for another snog as he pulls her behind one of the trees. Just as he does so, they hear a roar erupt from the stadium as the announcer shouts that Flannigan has caught the snitch and the Arrows have won. Lily gives a sheepish smile, and any anger James felt brewing dissipates. He could win Arrow’s season tickets for life, but that wouldn’t hold a candle to being here with Lily.

 

He leans in to kiss her on the mouth, but she turns her head away, so he grazes her cheek. 

 

“Sorry!” she says, “I don’t want us to move too quickly, you know? See you tomorrow? Oh, you’re going to love the movie. I can’t wait. Thanks, James!”

Lily lets go of James’s hand before backing away. She waves at him in a girlish manner before spinning on the spot as a loud crack echoes through the trees. James is left staring at the empty space where Lily just stood, trying to wrap his head around what just happened.

Chapter 5: Saturday

“So, you’re telling me that leaving the match moments before the snitch was caught had absolutely no effect on him?” Alice stares at Lily in disbelief as Marlene sniggers behind her ice cream cone.

 

“I told you that you’re going to have your work cut out for you.” Marlene shakes her head before taking another lick of her frozen treat.

 

The three girls have just finished lunch and are treating themselves to dessert at Fortescue’s—Alice’s family’s business.

 

“Yes, but you didn’t see the look on his face when we heard the end of the game. He tried to hide it, but he can’t fool me. I know James Potter and his antics too well. That man loves quidditch, and if I couldn’t bear to sit through a two-hour match, then that’s bound to be a dealbreaker on his list.”

 

“Yes, but Lily, you’re forgetting about your history . Aren’t you worried that he’s not going to give in so easily?” Marlene presses.

 

Lily shrugs, “I’m hoping that he’ll see all these drastic differences in who I am and chalk it up to me changing. Because ‘people change’ and all that nonsense, you know? Either that, or he’ll see that he doesn’t know me as well as he thinks.”

 

“Uh-huh, and you’re sure you’ll be able to walk away when all is said and done, too?”

 

“Without a doubt.”

 

Lily expects Marlene to scrutinize the plan. Marlene was always by Lily’s side through everything at Hogwarts. From the moment James first asked Lily out, to her realization that she accepted her feelings for him too late. Not to mention that she’s been on the receiving end of Lily’s post-Hogwarts dates and has to listen to why a perfectly acceptable gentleman just isn’t right for Lily. They aren’t all lame excuses. At least, that’s what Lily tries to convince herself.

 

Lily busies herself with her ice cream even though Marlene and Alice’s hard stares are bearing down on her. She doesn’t want to talk about James anymore, so she decides to change the subject.

 

“So, Alice, have you heard from Frank yet?”

 

Alice jumps at the name and almost drops her ice cream in the process.

 

“I—well, no,” her shoulders droop in defeat.

 

“I don’t understand why you’re waiting for him to make a move,” Marlene chides.

 

“You’re one to talk,” Alice snipes back.

 

Lily steps in to break up their banter. “Marly has a point, though, Alice. Maybe Frank’s shy. He seemed completely smitten yesterday, and he almost dropped the roses when he saw you. That has to mean something.”

 

“Seriously. I wish a man would get all flustered like that when he saw me, ” Marlene agrees, albeit with a hint of jealousy in her voice.

 

“I don’t know…”

 

“Let’s go to his shop! I want to pick out a new house plant anyways. It’s all in my master plan. You can ask him out! It doesn’t have to be a date. Just see if he wants to catch up and go from there. Ease him into it. You two would look so cute together!”

 

Marlene nods in agreement as Lily raises a challenging eyebrow towards Alice. It’s about time her single friend puts herself out there, especially if it’s with a man she’s been pining over for a long time. Lily stands up to urge the girls to come with her to Long Stems.  

 

A short while later, Lily and Marlene exit the shop, leaving Alice behind with Frank, who invited her to stay and see what plants he has growing in the greenhouse. They pause when a great stag Patronus gallops up to them.

 

“Hey there, beautiful. We still on for tonight? I never got your owl. Hope you didn’t forget about me.”

 

Lily smiles at the sound of James’s voice speaking through the stag. She purposely ‘forgot’ to send him the information for their date tonight. Even though she was hoping he’d flake out, and she could call the endeavor a success after three days, Lily is secretly happy he contacted her, and now she gets to ramp up her tactics as she prepares for her response. 

 

She shifts the potted umbrella flower in her arms and manages to pull out her wand. 

 

“Are you ready for this, Marly?” Lily asks as Marlene gives her an inquiring look.

 

Lily thinks of a happy memory, and the thought of that kiss behind the dumpster with James comes to mind. She fights the urge to question why that’s the memory that her brain decides to use so that she won’t lose the feeling needed to cast the spell. Clearing her throat, she casts Expecto Patronum and a small, sleek fox forms from the tip of her wand.

 

In her best flattering school girl voice, she says, “Hey Jamesy Pooh Bear, I’m so sorry I forgot to owl you this morning. Yes, of course, we’re still on for tonight! The Phoenix Cinema is showing Casablanca at 7:00. It’s a classic, and I just know you’re going to love it! It’s on 52 High Road in London. I’ll meet you there at 6:45?” 

 

A girly shriek escapes her lips before she finishes the message. 

 

“And if all goes well tonight, I hope Little Nicky can come out to play after the movie!” Lily sends the fox on its way to deliver the message with a whisk of her wand.

 

Marlene gawks at Lily as she breaks out into fits of laughter. “Since when have you started using nicknames? And that voice! Oh, that voice was perfect. No man could possibly want to listen to that all the time! Have you been talking like that around him, too?”

 

Lily smirks at Marlene as she shakes her head. “I haven’t been, no. It’s hard because there’s enough history between us and I’m sure he knows the nuances of my voice, but I am going to kick up the baby talk and see where that gets me. The nickname was new, too. Anything to chip away at his ego, you know?”

 

“Merlin, I hope he’s with Sirius and Remus when he gets that,” Marlene chortles. “And Little Nicky? Where’d that come from?”

 

Lily bursts into a fit of giggles. “I’ll be honest, I don’t know. I panicked, and the first thing I thought of was how Nearly Headless Nick always complains about not having anything named after him, so…”

 

Marlene doubles over in laughter. 

 

“Stop, Lily, I can’t!” she wheezes. “Nearly Headless—Little Nicky—” She can’t finish her sentence because she’s laughing too hard.

 

“Well, I better get going. I’ve got a hot date to get ready for.” Lily winks at Marlene before apparating back to her flat.

 

“Jamesy! Oh, Jamesy Poo over here!” Lily’s waiting for him outside the cinema and calls to him when she sees his shock of black hair in the crowd.

 

The wide grin on his face falters a bit at the nickname, and Lily takes silent notice of his reaction. When he reaches her, he pulls her into a light hug as he places a soft kiss on her cheek. She resists the urge to turn her face to brush her lips with his. Lily can’t allow herself to falter. She has a plan in place and needs to stick by it.

 

“I was so worried you didn’t get my Patronus! I never heard back from you.”

 

She hates sounding so needy but knows the clinginess is necessary when it comes to driving a man away, especially James. Back in their Hogwarts days, Lily recalls how girls would swoon over him after he became Quidditch Captain. James was always polite with them, but Lily could sense the shortness in his voice even when he was attempting to let them down gently. If she is going to meet her deadline and prove to herself and James that this will never work, it’s time to pull out the clingy girlfriend model.

 

“Oh, er, I was with the guys and didn’t know I needed to respond.”

 

It’s a weak apology, and Lily can sense his confusion, so she pouts her lip, feigning disappointment and playing into it a bit more. “It’s just that I missed you so much today, and it made me so happy to hear from you. I was starting to think you’d forgotten about our plans.”

 

A smile crosses James’s lips, but Lily can tell it’s somewhat forced. “I could never. Should we get going? You said the film starts at seven?”

 

“Oh! Yes, it does. I already purchased our tickets, but you can pay me back if you were planning to treat me.” She flashes him her cutest, most seductive smile she can muster as she takes his hand and pulls him through the glass doors.

 

“Can we get some popcorn? And how about some Maltesers? They’re just my absolute favorites! Please?” Lily bats her eyelashes at James, who nods through his baffled expression. 

 

“They’re sort of like Fizzing Whizbees, but with no fizz and all the crunch,” she explains.

 

Maybe James knows about muggle sweets, or maybe he doesn’t. She hopes her tone doesn’t sound too demeaning. 

 

“I know what Maltesers are, Evans,” James says as he pats Lily’s arms.

 

She shares her sweetest smile with him as she leans in, allowing her breasts to graze over his arm as she takes his hand in hers. Operation: Clingy Tease is underway, and Lily almost feels bad about smothering him at the concessions counter as he’s trying to pay for their snacks, but it’s necessary to degrade his manhood by trying to help him complete the smallest of tasks.

 

As they settle into their seats, Lily opens the box of raisinets and sprinkles some of them into the buttered popcorn. James gives her a funny look, but she waves him off. It’s one of her favorite flavor combinations and something she’s been doing since she was a little girl. After downing a few handfuls herself, she picks up one single piece of popcorn and a raisinet and holds them up to James’s lips against her better judgement. 

 

This isn’t something she’s ever shared with anyone before, not even Marlene, and the realization leaves her mouth feeling dry as a nervous sweat breaks out on her back. It’s too late now to back out as her hand continues travelling toward James’s mouth.

 

“Try it,” she says, coaxing him to open his mouth so she can feed him.

 

He does so reluctantly, but his eyebrows shoot up in surprise as he tastes the unusual combination. “Wow, Evans, I didn’t think this combo would work, but it does!”

 

“You should know by now to trust my instinct,” she quips, breaking character for the slightest second.

 

Their playful banter is so second nature to her that it’s easy to slip into comfortable conversation with James. Who knew how actively involved she needs to be to not be herself around him? Lily waits for James to return her sarcastic remark with a well-crafted response of his own, but it never comes.

 

Instead, the corners of his lips turn up as he turns toward her. Leaning into her ear, he whispers, “so, I didn’t know we were giving each other nicknames.”

 

His hot breath against her ear sends shivers up her spine, and once again, Lily forgets she’s supposed to be working. The attraction is undeniable as arousal pools deep within her belly, and Lily closes her eyes to imagine James’s hands over her body. For a moment, she wonders how easy it might be to fake the article instead.

 

No. Focus, Lily. You can’t let him steal your heart, not again. No, you’ve got to get him to drop you. Prove to him you’re not who he thought he fancied in Hogwarts!

 

Another uncharacteristic giggle escapes her lips. “All couples have cute names for each other, don’t they? And you really do have the cutest wittle baby face there is.”

 

Lily ruffles her non-greasy popcorn hand in his hair before pinching one of his cheeks like a grandma would when they dote on their grandchildren. Her eyes are squinted as she puckers her lips in attentiveness toward him, no doubt drawing attention from the other movie-goers around them. She’s sure they look ridiculous, but it’s necessary. After all, all’s fair in love and war.

 

Without warning, the lights dim, and the movie screen crackles to life as the trailers begin to play. Lily leans in to explain its purpose in a raised whisper.

 

“Trailers always play before the main film you’re here to see. It helps to drum up excitement for upcoming films. I hate when they advertise the scary ones, though. It almost puts me off even wanting to attend. And they always do multiple suspense and horror previews in a row, so it’s not even like they break it up with a comedy in between!”

 

“Excuse me, can you please quiet down? I’m trying to listen,” comes a voice from behind them.

 

They turn around, and Lily sees a larger, burly looking man sitting alone. She smiles unapologetically as James gives a curt nod in his direction.

 

The man scoffs as they hear him mutter under his breath, “Pfft, this can’t really be his first time coming to a cinema. You don’t need to explain what a trailer is.”

 

Lily feels her cheeks burn. While she was trying to have a go at the female version of ‘man-splaining,’ she failed to realize the implications it might have. They were on a muggle date, so perhaps detailing how a cinematic experience works isn’t the best idea. She mouths sorry to James as he leans in close once more.

 

“Let’s not make an accidental exposure of our world to everyone else, yeah? I’d rather not spend our date obliviating random muggles. You can explain the inner workings of a picture show to me later.”

 

His voice hints that he’s serious, but when Lily chances a look into his eyes, she sees the mirth that’s paired with a smirk gracing his lips. She relaxes when she realizes he’s taking the mickey. Settling back against the well-worn fabric of the seat, Lily continues to munch on her popcorn, allowing the trailers to pass with no further interruption. She decides to watch the beginning of the movie in silence, leaning the popcorn tin toward James every now and then in case he wants a handful or two. 

 

About a half-hour through, she notices a puzzled look on James’s face and decides now is a good time to pick up her talkative habits again. 

 

“So, are you understanding the plot so far? I know it’s in black and white and it’s really old, but it’s such a classic! I can’t believe you’ve never seen it before!”

 

Lily adds the last bit in for good measure. If anyone is listening to their conversation, this will throw them off the trail of peculiarity, considering James has never been to the cinemas before.

 

“It’s fine, Evans. Let’s just keep watching so I don’t miss anything. It’s kind of hard to follow,” James hushes Lily, but his voice is gentle enough that she isn’t offended by it.

 

Instead, she latches onto his comment about the film being ‘hard to follow’ and goes into great detail about the plot. As Lily drones on about all the minor insignificant details that have occurred thus far, she can’t help but hear a throat clearing every now and then behind her.

 

At one point, the same man who griped about her talking earlier speaks up again. “Can you please stop talking? Some of us are trying to watch the movie, and we don’t want your random play by plays. If you wanted to talk, you could have watched it at home.”

 

Lily feels her blood begin to boil, and before she can control her temper, she whips around in the seat and points a perfectly manicured finger—which she’d taken the time to paint a pastel pink color earlier just for their date—at the man. “You can’t tell me what to do. And if you try to stop me again, my hunk of a man right here will kick your arse!”

 

“Er, no, sir, we’re really sorry. We’ll be quiet,” James cuts in before Lily can make any more threats on his behalf.

 

Lily slinks back down in her seat, allowing another scene in the movie to pass before tugging on James’s sleeve. “Did I do something wrong? Why aren’t you talking?”

 

“W-what? I thought we’re supposed to watch. We can talk after.” His voice is short and clipped, allowing the perfect opportunity for Lily to make her ridiculous accusation.

 

“You’re thinking about another woman, aren’t you? Is there someone else?”

 

“What? Evans, why would you even—what could possibly make you think—?” James splutters as a look of confused panic settles in his frantic hazel eyes.

 

Before Lily can respond, a frustrated grunt is heard behind them yet again. “That’s it! We’re settling this. Outside! Now!”

 

The man behind them stands up, and Lily turns her head as her eyes travel upward. He’s much taller and broader than Lily anticipated, and suddenly she’s nervous about what she may have gotten James into. This isn’t exactly an argument that can be settled with magic, and while James is quite fit, she worries he’s no match for the behemoth of a man towering over them.

 

“Evans, what the hell,” she hears him hiss under his breath.

 

“It’s fine! This is all a misunderstanding,” she attempts in what she hopes is a reassuring tone, even though she’s not feeling confident about it.

 

But it’s too late. Burly is already out of the row and halfway up the aisle as he pauses to make sure they’re following him. Lily can only muster a sheepish smile as she hopes they can settle things without violence. By the time they exit the theater, James is approaching where the man has stopped outside the marquee as lit-up posters overlook the encounter.

 

“Listen, you seem like a nice person, a gentle giant, so to speak! This is all a misunderstanding, you know? I’m sure we can—” James makes an effort to talk things over, but the man interrupts him.

 

“All I wanted to do was come out tonight to experience Casablanca in the theaters, and pretend like we’re back in the forties for the original premier. What’s a bloke got to do to enjoy a good old-fashioned classic around here?” He lets out an anguished cry.

 

Lily’s head swivels from the man to James, who opens his mouth to say something, but Lily will never know what because the next second has the man’s arm winding up and fist flying through the air. Before Lily can even utter a shriek, his fist collides with James’s face, and James falls backwards into Lily, who haphazardly manages to catch him. She collapses to the ground under his weight as he lands on top of her, one hand clutching his eye as he winces in pain. For a moment, she’s worried he’s lost consciousness.

 

“What the hell, man? Was that really necessary?” James exclaims.

 

The man lets out a gruff laugh. “Your girlfriend did volunteer you for this. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go back in there, refill my popcorn, and wallow in self-pity.” 

 

Lily watches him walk back into the lobby of the cinema before turning to James. “Well, that was a bit overdramatic, don’t you think?”

 

He looks up at her in disbelief. “I just took a punch for you because you couldn’t stop talking in a cinema, and that’s all you have to say?”

 

Lily breaks out into nervous laughter. “Well, how was I supposed to know a little whispered conversation was out of line? Honestly, of all the people we could have sat by, we pick the one who isn’t afraid to fight.”

 

James groans and Lily feels bad about the situation they’ve found themselves in. “I am sorry, by the way.”

 

“Yeah, yeah. I suppose it could have been worse.” 

 

Lily looks down at the top of James’s head as she props herself up on her elbows. The concrete is cold, and she’s sure she’s probably laying on old, dried-up gum, but she couldn’t care less. She relishes in the feel of James, who is still on top of her, as he sinks down so that his face is pressed against her chest.

 

“Ah, this was your plan all along, wasn’t it?” Lily accuses, but she doesn’t make any move to push him away.

 

If she’s being honest, she quite likes his face there, even as he playfully nuzzles a little deeper in response to her statement. 

 

“Hey, if it brings us closer together, I’d gladly take the punch over and over,” James admits as he lifts his head up.

 

She can’t help but smile as he leans in to place a chaste kiss against her lips. James pushes himself off of her and stands. As they walk away from the marquee, he reaches out his hand to help her up, a silent agreement to give up on the movie.  

 

Lily is reminded of how much she’s missed James’s company over the past few years, and a niggling feeling in her gut causes her to worry about what will happen after all is said and done. She hasn’t thought about the repercussions this whole ordeal might have on potentially losing him as a friend, especially now that she’s just gotten him back.

 

We’ll cross that bridge when the time comes.

 

For now, she decides to continue enjoying his company for however long that may be.

Chapter 6: Sunday

“So, did you let Lily see ‘Little Nicky’ last night?” Sirius sniggers as James collapses onto the chair at the kitchen table in Remus’s flat.

 

“If she did, do you think I’d be sitting here with you lot right now?” James rests his head in his hand as he gives his friends a look to let it go.

 

“Hey, Rem, he’s not denying that she calls his wang Little Nicky,” Sirius dissolves in another fit of laughter as Remus loses his diplomatic stature for a brief moment, chuckling along.

 

“As interested as I am in that story, I’m more curious about that shiner that you’re trying to cover up.” 

 

Remus gestures to the hand that’s conveniently masking the prevalent bruise on James’s face that shifted overnight from an angry red to a dull purple. James reluctantly drops his hand to the table as his attempt to cover up last night's events has been foiled. 

 

Should have used a glamour charm.

 

Sirius lets out a huge snort. “Prongs, don’t tell me you took her seriously enough to seal the deal last night, and she gave you that as a result!”

 

“I wish,” James admits to his best friends. “That would have been loads better than what actually happened.”

 

“Well, now you have to tell us,” Remus insists.

 

James considers how much he wants to tell them. Both Padfoot and Moony think this whole attempt to get Lily to fall for him is barmy, and if he gives them a play-by-play, he’s certain his best friends will tell him to abort the mission. He doesn’t realize how long he’s been quiet until Sirius’s voice interjects his thoughts.

 

“C’mon, Prongs, it can’t be that bad,” Sirius presses.

 

“Lily was just trying to explain what was happening during the show, and some bloke behind us got annoyed. So, she told him to stuff it, or he’d have to answer to me .” James shakes his head at the recollection.

 

“Do we want to know how he fared?” Remus’s eyebrow twitches in curiosity.

 

“He didn’t,” James mumbles.

 

“What?! You didn’t even fight him?” Sirius’s jaw drops in shock.

 

“The bloke was twice my size! And I wasn’t about to get in a fight while out with Evans! I’m trying to prove to her that I’ve matured , Pads.”

 

“Well, I, for one, am impressed that you didn’t engage, James,” Remus commends.

 

“Yeah, she may or may not have caught my fall after the dude knocked me out,” James grins as he remembers how her breasts felt against his face, wishing there’d been an opportunity for more.

 

“So, you let your injury allow you to take advantage of her? Classy,” Sirius holds up his hand for a high five as Remus tuts in mock disgust.

 

“I’m surprised she didn’t shove you off,” Remus adds.

 

“Me too,” James agrees. 

 

He remembers how she smiled down at him, a hint of something more in her eyes that gives James hope that things are going well despite the ironic hiccups that keep occurring when they go out. It’s odd, for sure, but certainly not enough of an omen to make him rethink things.

 

“Think she’ll accept if I invite her over for dinner tonight?” James ponders out loud.

 

“Really? You’re seeing her four nights in a row?” Sirius counters.

 

“The Zabini gala is next weekend. Did you forget that I’m on a time crunch?” James stands to grab a sheet of parchment and a quill from Remus’s desk and sits back down to draft the letter.

 

“Wouldn’t it be easier just to take her out to dinner? Or did that punch cause a lapse in judgement where you forget you can’t cook?” Remus reminds him.

 

James waves him off. “I’ve been doing alright since I moved out! Those appetizers don’t make themselves on game night.”

 

“Wait, you make those? I thought you always ordered them and just put them on your own platters to make us think you made them!” Sirius’s eyes bulge out of his head as if he couldn’t possibly imagine James creating anything edible in the kitchen.

 

“Yes, I make them, you tosser! And you’re not dead yet, so clearly, I’m doing something right!”

 

He’s thankful that the conversation has shifted to their skepticism of James’s skills in the kitchen. This allows him to avoid Remus’s question about simply taking her out instead.

 

“Well, color me impressed,” Sirius holds his hands up in defeat.

 

“But James, an entire meal is completely different than preparing a few snacks. How do you know what she likes? I still think a quiet night out would suit you better,” Remus chastises.

 

James rolls his eyes. “One: you talk like we didn’t spend seven years at the same table eating meals in the Great Hall. I’m sure her palette hasn’t gone through a drastic change since seventh year. And two: regardless of what she and I end up doing, I still have to invite her to do something. How about I let her decide? Will that make you happy?”

 

Sirius laughs at the interaction, and Remus snides, “I don’t think I’m the one you should be trying to sweep off their feet.”

 

James catches the hint of a smirk on Remus’s lips as he flips him off. Sometimes it’s easy to forget how witty Remus can be despite his quiet nature.

 

“Wasn’t I invited over here for breakfast? Where’s the food?” James asks to deflect the conversation away from him.

 

“Yeah, you were invited once —three months ago—and you’ve been back every Sunday morning since of your own accord,” Remus chides.

 

“Wow, James, sounds like Remus doesn’t want us here. Maybe we should go,” Sirius acts affronted but makes no effort to leave as he becomes more comfortable on the couch in the sitting room.

 

James lets out a chuckle, turning to the empty parchment to begin drafting the letter as Remus busies himself in the kitchen.

 

Hey Evans,

 

Had a great time last night, knock out not included. How about dinner tonight at my place? I’ll send you my address through Patronus if you’re interested. 

 

Potter

 

He decides to keep it light and breezy, sticking to last names to indicate their friendship is still important no matter what happens. It’s a short message, but it gets the point across , James decides as he rolls the letter up and ties it to Remus’s owl, Apollo. As he watches the tawny owl fly away, James can’t help but hope that tonight will finally be a quiet date night where he and Lily can really reconnect.

There’s a knock on the door as James panics in the kitchen. He’s not quite ready yet and doesn’t want her to see what’s conspiring. 

 

“It’s open!” he calls, hoping she’ll let herself in.

 

The door clicks before she greets him. “Wow, Potter, can’t even greet me yourself?”

 

He flinches and hopes she’s not too upset. He peeks his head around the corner of the kitchen to greet her.

 

“Hey, I’m just finishing up here! Dinner will be ready soon. You’re more than welcome to have a look around if you’d like.”

 

Her back is to him as she has already started observing the photographs on the mantle before turning slightly and flashing him a wide smile. As her auburn hair swishes across her shoulders, he notices that she’s wearing a dressy navy blue blouse that scoops down low on her back, revealing a delectable amount of creamy skin.

 

Merlin, she’s gorgeous.

 

James could stare at her all day, but there is a more pressing matter that he needs to attend to in the kitchen. He turns his attention back to all the fancy takeaway boxes that are now empty on the kitchen counter and takes inventory of all the food that has been laid out on serving dishes. After double-checking that all the food looks like it was prepared by him and ready for consumption, James pulls his wand out of his back pocket and banishes the rubbish. He sets their individual desserts aside as he carries out the family-style roasted chicken, mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables to the table. 

 

James nods in satisfaction, approving the spread that he’s laid out, trying not to think about his failed attempt at cooking the same meal just hours earlier. He could have sworn he’d turned the oven on, but when he went to check the meat and flip it halfway through, he realized the bird was still completely raw. So, he’d made a call to one of his clients, the ones who owned the Elvish Eatery, and they’d delivered a three-course meal for two within the hour.

 

James placed heating charms on the food as he went to retrieve the bowls of soup before opening the bottle of wine he’d picked up after breakfast at Remus’s. The rest of the day was spent cleaning and cooking—well, attempting to cook, which at least made the flat smell heavenly for a short period of time. 

 

“Hey, Evans, I hope you’re ready for this feast.” James looks around the sitting area to see that Lily isn’t there.

 

She must be exploring the flat, not that James cares in the slightest, considering he’d invited her to do so. In all honesty, he’s proud of his flat and living on his own. He hopes she’ll see this as another way James has grown up and matured. While he waits for Lily to venture back to the sitting room, he notices a foreign plant sitting on the windowsill on the far side of the room. That definitely wasn’t there before…

 

He hears some shuffling coming from the hallway as Lily appears. “Sorry! I got distracted by how comfy your bed is.”

 

She flashes him a wicked grin as James feels his insides burn with desire. He forces himself to focus on asking where the plant came from to keep himself from getting too excited. James pulls out a chair as Lily kisses his cheek before sliding into the seat.

 

“So, what do you think?”

 

“Looks delicious!”

 

“Oh, er, thanks, but I actually meant what you think about the flat?”

 

He tries to deflect the conversation away from the meal since he doesn’t want to slip up and give away that it’s not homemade by accident. As James waits for her response, he pours the Elf-made wine into the empty glasses at their seats.

 

“It’s wonderful!” Lily admits, “but I do think it could use a bit more of a feminine touch.”

 

James snorts. The pride he was feeling was premature, what with Lily’s suggestion and all. He bites back a retort about her moving in to help fill that void but decides it’s still too soon for any of that talk. The last thing he wants to do is scare her away, so instead, he decides to delve into a safer topic of conversation as he tucks into his soup.

 

“So, is that why you brought that plant? As a housewarming gift?”

 

The affronted look on Lily’s face throws James off, and now he’s wondering if he’s said something wrong. The fact that he’s never had to question what he does and doesn’t say around a woman like this is not lost on him.

 

“That’s not a housewarming gift!” she pouts in a way that is most unlike the Lily that James knew at Hogwarts. “It’s an umbrella flower.”

 

“An umbrella flower?” 

 

James peers over Lily’s shoulder to get another look at the plant. It looks vaguely familiar to him, though he can’t quite make out why.

 

“ Yes , an umbrella flower!” Lily clucks, “They’re meant to promote and protect a blossoming relationship. It’s a symbol of our love!”

 

James chokes on his wine at Lily’s casual use of the ‘L’ word.

 

“So, you better not forget to water it. Otherwise, you’ll be the one responsible for killing this relationship.” Lily turns her attention to her soup and takes a few spoonfuls. 

 

“This is delicious! I didn’t know you were so talented in the kitchen!”

 

Once again, James feels as though he’s been yanked through a surprise side-along apparition, and is trying to recover from the whiplash. He offers a meager ‘thanks,’ as he finishes his first course and takes care of the bowls before dishing out the main entree. The rest of the meal is uneventful as Lily continues to rave about James’s ‘cooking’, sharing that it rivals the feasts they used to consume at Hogwarts. She offers to help as James moves to clear the table, stuffed from the large, satisfying meal.

 

As they finish cleaning up in amicable silence, James mentions pudding. “I’ve got triple chocolate mousse cake for dessert if you’re interested.”

 

He turns towards Lily in the small galley kitchen to gauge her reaction and is surprised when she snakes her arms around his neck.

 

“How about we go sit down and digest for a bit before? I’m so full I can’t even think about eating another bite.”

 

James observes Lily’s features as he tries to figure out what’s going on inside her mind. Her forwardness reminds him of their run-in last Thursday, which he hasn’t seen since. At the quidditch match and cinema, she’d been clingy, and her emotions were rash, which was a stark contrast to her cool, easy-going nature as a teen.

 

Has that magazine company got her on some mood-changing potion?

 

James isn’t ignorant of the fact that people change as they grow up and move on to different parts of their life, but Lily’s mood swings have him wondering what could be going on with her. He’s certain that something isn’t right, but he doesn’t want to ruin things by asking. So, he obliges Lily’s request as her hands slide down his arms until they reach his own.

 

He expects her to lead him to the sofa in the sitting room and is surprised when she turns and wanders into his bedroom. Lily lets go of his hand and flops on his bed, patting the open spot next to her, no doubt in request for him to join her. As he walks to the bed, James pauses when he notices a fluffy, sea green blanket folded over the end. It doesn’t look completely out of place with his bedroom decor, but it also doesn’t give off the masculine feel he’d been going for when he chose the furnishings. He wonders for a moment whether Lily charmed the color on it to match his room and make it less conspicuous, considering her favorite color had always been a deep magenta while in school. 

 

“Plan on spending the night, Evans?” He asks through a cheeky grin.

 

“Is that an invitation, Potter?” she counters.

 

James plops down on the bed next to her, his body facing hers in a position that would make it easy for him to hover over her if the opportunity allowed. Peering at her through his glasses, he inches closer to her face.

 

“I’m sure an invitation can be arranged if that’s what you want,” he murmurs.

 

A breath hitches in Lily’s throat before she matches the distance that’s closing between them. Fire rips through his body as their lips connect. A whimper escapes her mouth, causing a wave of desire to rush through James’s body. His leg lifts up and swings over her hips of its own accord. One hand gets lost in her sleek auburn hair as the other arm props him up. Her hands ball the fabric of his shirt into fists as she pulls him closer and kisses him harder.

 

“Fuck, Evans...” 

 

The words escape James’s lips through a groan as she smiles against his mouth. If only his teenage self could see him now with Lily Evans writhing underneath him on his bed. The thought causes a strain in his trousers, and he has to shift so it’s not blatantly obvious as he’s pressed up against her body. In the midst of trying to adjust and control his erection, Lily manages to slide out from under him to flip him over and gain control. James misses the taste and feel of her lips as she pulls the slightest bit away, sending a tantalizing grin in his direction.

 

“Does that mean the blanket can stay?” Lily whispers in his ear.

 

A groan escapes James’s lips as she presses her hips into his. She’s going to be the death of me , but what a way to go.

 

“Anything you want, Evans,” he croaks.

 

Yeah, we’ll do anything if it means this can progress . James is barely aware that he’s no longer thinking with his big brain.

 

Her breath traces his cheek as a triumphant chuckle bursts through her parted lips. No longer willing to wait for another round, James takes control despite being underneath her. He lifts his head up and captures her lips with his as his hands explore her back. As he strokes the graceful curve of her spine, he feels Lily shiver on top of him. Her mouth parts enough for him to tease her tongue with his own. James feels Lily’s hips roll into his as her breasts press into his chest, and soon he finds his hands reaching for the hem of her shirt, ready to pull it up over her head as things continue to heat up between them.

 

His fingertips lightly graze her belly as his hands slide underneath when Lily bounces off him like a jackrabbit, standing in front of him in a dishevelled state. James props himself up on his elbows to see what’s wrong. Maybe they were moving too fast, but they are twenty-two for Merlin’s sake, and given that she’d been the one to instigate everything, he assumed they were fully consenting adults.

 

“Alright, Evans?” James watches Lily as she runs a hand through her hair, attempting to smooth it out before straightening her clothes.

 

“Yes, yes, of course! How about some dessert now?” 

 

“Uh, yeah, sure,” James agrees, although he’s a bit miffed that he’s not sweet enough for her.

 

“You stay right here. I’ll go grab us a slice and will be right back.” A sweet smile crosses Lily’s lips again, and James knows she’s recovered from the snogging session they’d both gotten lost in moments ago.

 

James is about to lie back and let daydreams of Lily flitting around the apartment as if it’s theirs fill his mind, until he remembers he never took the cake out of the packaging. He flies up to a seated position on the bed in an effort to call out and stop Lily.

 

“Evans, no, wait! You’re my guest. Let me wait on you—” He can sound as suave as he wants, but Lily’s already left the bedroom.

 

“Fuck,” he groans as his hands cover his face. 

 

He sits there a moment longer, trying to decide if he should wait it out where he is or approach her. Before he can make the decision, a high pitched shriek fills his apartment.

 

“James Potter, I can’t even believe you!”

 

“Here goes nothing,” James mutters as he hoists himself off the bed and makes his way to the living area.

 

He makes it halfway into the sitting room when Lily comes barreling around the corner. 

 

“What is this? I should have known something was up when the food tasted as good as Hogwarts. I’m sorry—no, I’m not sorry!—but nobody’s home cooking is that good! Nobody’s! Why would you lie?”

 

James is stunned. This is so not like Lily to flip out over the origin of a meal. Sure, he’d told a little white lie, but—

 

“Do you really want our relationship to be founded on lies? And the Elvish Eatery of all places? How can you be assured that their staff are treated well? Sure, the Hogwarts elves are happy and respected, but that’s different! Professor Dumbledore would never—”

 

“Lily, relax, they’re one of my clients. I would never do business if I knew—”

 

“That’s not the point!” she cries.

 

There’s a crazed look in her eye, and James is taken aback. For once, he’s speechless. This is not the Lily he knows. If she were any other girl, he’d already be telling her they should go their separate ways. He doesn’t need this kind of drama in his life. 

 

But this is Lily Evans , he reminds himself.

 

A vague thought processes in the back of his mind. Could she be on her monthly? That might explain the erratic behavior, but—

 

“James, are you even listening to me?” Lily’s weepy now, and James is only just realizing she’s been talking this entire time.

 

“Er, yeah, of course. Look, Evans, if I’d have known you’d be this upset, I would have told you. Hell, I should have been up front in the first place, but then I would have had to admit that I completely failed at my attempt at the same meal, and I didn’t want you thinking I’m inept in the kitchen.”

 

He offers a sheepish smile at his consolation, hoping it’s enough to soften her up. Lily lets out an audible sigh, and James is about to relax when he notices Lily shake her head.

 

“I’m sorry, James. I need to go.”

 

“Evans, come on, you can’t possibly think this is a dealbreaker? Couples get takeaway all the time.”

 

“Yes, but they don’t lie to their partner about it.” She’s grabbing her jacket and purse now.

 

No, this can’t be the end. Not over something so trivial .  He steps between Lily and the fireplace. 

 

”Lily, please,” his voice softens as he makes his plea. “I’m sorry, I just wanted tonight to go well. Let me make it up to you.”

 

“I don’t know, James,” Lily bites her lip and avoids his gaze.

 

“Please?” 

 

The bet is still in the back of his mind, but that’s not the entire reason why he’s pushing so hard for her. He wants to give this a real go, even after the ten days are up. There’s something special between them; he can feel it every time they’re together, and it’s made more concrete with each kiss they share. He relaxes as Lily’s face softens.

 

She lets out a loud sigh. “Fine, but my chances are running thin. Since you clearly can’t cook, I’ll expect pizza and butterbeers tomorrow evening.”

 

James is unable to stop the grin that spreads across his face. “Deal.”

 

He leans in to kiss her on the cheek and pauses. “I couldn’t persuade you to stay a little longer and continue—”

 

Lily clucks her tongue in admonishment. “It’s far too early in this relationship for that, Potter. Honestly…”

 

“It was worth a shot.”

 

Lily rolls her eyes as she reaches around him to reach for the door handle. She smirks as she steps around him, opening and closing the door behind her, disappearing from view.  

 

“Bye, James.”

 

“See you tomorrow, Lily.”

Chapter 7: Monday

Summary:

Lily's about to bring her A-game, but something's starting to get in her way.

“...So then, I put on this whole show about how he’s promoting the abuse of house-elves by ordering from Elvish Eatery, and if he had to order takeaway, then why did it have to be from there ?!” 

 

Lily recounts the tale of last night’s debacle to Alice and Marlene. She takes a bite of her chicken BLT sandwich that she’s ordered from none other than the very restaurant in question.

 

“And he believed that?” Marlene sounds dumbfounded.

 

“Oh, yeah, he backpedalled faster than a snitch evading capture, assuring me that they’re one of his clients and he wouldn’t work with them if they treated the elves poorly.” Lily rolls her eyes at the recollection of James’s statement, even though her heart swells as she recalls his words.

 

“Okay, but between all that and the fact that you brought stuff to leave at his flat, James still didn’t call things off? Doesn’t that seem strange to you?” Alice rolls her eyes. 

 

What does she mean? Alice’s harsh tone ignites uncertainty deep in Lily’s belly, but the redhead pushes the thought away—she doesn’t have the brain power to explore it right now, not when she has bigger fish to fry.

 

“No!” Lily slams her sandwich down in frustration. “I’m doing everything blokes can’t stand. I even dropped the ‘L’ word! What’s a girl gotta do?”

 

She picks at the rest of her chips as if each one isn’t the right size or texture for consumption. There’s no doubt that James’s persistence to keep her around is frustrating her to no end. How hard is it to say, ‘Hey Lily, maybe we’re better off as friends? No hard feelings, yeah?’ But no, he continues to tell her that everything she’s feeling is valid and not crazy. She doesn’t want to ramp up her strategy because she’d like to come away from this with their friendship still intact, but desperate times call for desperate measures. Hopefully, tonight’s surprise will leave him at a loss to find anything positive in whatever this relationship is. 

 

“All good things it sounds like,” Amelia Bones’s head appears over the cubicle wall as all three girls snap their attention to her presence. “Does that mean he’s dumped you yet?”

 

Amelia’s eyes shine with a devious mirth, the kind that mirrored Lily’s original excitement when she thought about how easy it would be to turn Potter off and get him to walk away. She hasn’t succeeded yet, but there’s still plenty of time.

 

“Er, no. I’m trying to spread things out a bit. You know, let things come to a gradual head instead of an abrupt escalation. The article is How to Lose a Wizard in Ten Days and not five, after all.” 

 

Lily's response is quick, and she’s impressed with the answer she manages to give. Amelia taps her temple with her index finger and gives Lily a satisfied smile.

 

“See, Lily? This is why you’re the perfect person for the job. You’re always thinking two steps ahead of me. Are you seeing him tonight?”

 

Lily’s heart fills with excitement and pride at her boss’s words. “Yes, we’ve got another lowkey date at his place, and I’ve got a plan that will both mortify him and push him over the edge.”

 

Marlene and Alice giggle since they’re already privy to Lily’s next course of action as Amelia gives another approving nod. Lily turns her attention back to her takeaway container, assuming their conversation is over.

 

“Brilliant. I expect to be kept in the loop.” Amelia begins to walk away as Lily pushes her chips around again before finally settling on one to consume when Amelia returns. “Oh, and Lily, don’t play with your food on your date. There are certain standards we must uphold.”

 

Lily fumbles with the chip in surprise as her friends burst into laughter. Once they’re sure Amelia has left them alone for good, Lily gapes at the other two.

 

“How does she do that?”

 

Marlene shrugs as Alice says, “No idea. We should get back to work and let you tend to all those letters you have to organize.”

 

Alice winks as Marlene grins like the Cheshire Cat. “This is your best plan yet, Lil. We know James loves attention, but I think this will throw him right over the edge.”

 

“And if it doesn’t, Operation: Puff Baby and Make Friends with Mum are sure to drive him spare,” Marlene adds as she claps her hand in excitement.

 

Lily shakes her head in amusement as the girls return to their own cubicles. She tosses the remains of her lunch in the bin and eyes the stack of parchment she’s been working on all morning. There are three plans that Lily’s developed for tonight, all designed to make James surrender and call it quits.

 

She’s been writing ridiculous memos all morning with the intention of sending one every half hour to James. It’s clear that simply expecting the two of them to spend every night together isn’t fazing James in the slightest, so Lily’s constructed messages of varying lengths to distract James from his obligations at work this afternoon. Things like, Hey handsome, how’s your day going? And we’re still on for tonight, right? 

 

Lily’s not sure whether James will respond or ignore them, considering he never replied to her confirmation Patronus yesterday. It could go either way. If he’s serious, then she’ll expect at least one response, but every half hour is going to drive him up the wall, so she’s prepared two or three notes that question where he is and what he’s doing to add in the dramatic flair when no more letters come back. Thank goodness she has access to a fleet of owls, so poor Pegasus, Lily’s own owl, doesn’t have to tire himself out flying back and forth between their offices. 

 

Then, she’ll make a quick floo call to his flat and leave any remaining letters she’s concocted on his kitchen counter for when he gets home. She’ll add a brief note explaining that she dropped by to see if he was home, which will fuel the suspected jealousy she’s fabricated in the letters, making James think Lily’s accusing him of cheating on her without saying so. The whole scheme is maniacal, but she has to do whatever it takes to get him to dump her, and sooner rather than later.

 

As Lily begins the menial task of folding and stuffing envelopes, she loses herself in thoughts of the night before. Part of her feels bad that James’s plans to cook for her failed miserably, and deep down, she is impressed that he was able to pull through at the last minute. The meal was delicious, and it’s not lost on her that James still remembers one of her favorite comfort foods from Hogwarts.

 

She really had been too full for pudding right away and wanted to lure him into the bedroom to see if he noticed or mentioned any of the other items she’s placed around his flat. Of course, the only thing he brought up was the blanket, and even that conversation was short-lived. Lily’s aware she was playing the part of a tease when she invited him onto the bed next to her, and thought another innocent snog wouldn’t hurt anything. But one thing led to another, and suddenly, she was straddling him. Much to Lily’s dismay, she almost let herself get carried away.

 

There was no denying it; the more time she spent with James Potter, the more she wanted him, and that wasn’t going to help her write a successful article. Why couldn’t her heart stay out of this? This whole ‘relationship’ is supposed to be work-related. She’s not supposed to develop actual feelings for him—or in this case, allow her harbored feelings from years ago to creep back into her life. No, she needs to keep her eye on the prize.

 

Focus on the article, Evans, focus on the article. Finish the letters, send them off, make the deliveries, and ask Marly to borrow the Puffskein. It’s time to get Potter to dump you. 

A few hours later, Lily finds herself at her flat, double-checking that she has everything she needs for tonight in her large tote bag. Thus far, her plan is going off without a hitch. She received one letter from him in response to sending four within the first two hours of the afternoon. 

 

When the owl dropped off a small envelope with ‘Lily’ written on the front, Lily squealed in delight. She didn’t even care that some of her co-workers were shooting condescending stares in her direction. The familiarity of James’s handwriting on the front of the envelope made her heart surge in excitement, and the message inside solidified that her plan was going off without a hitch.

 

Evans,

 

Yes, we’re on for tonight. I’ll see you at 6. It’s really busy at the office today, and you may find this surprising, but I do need to get work done. As much as I enjoy hearing from you, people are staring at the constant owls. We’ll talk later.

 

Potter

 

Lily tucks the letter in her pocket, reflecting on how James has reverted back to a last name exchange. She’s confident that the letters were the perfect level of annoyance given James’s reaction. Of course, Lily has his first-ever girlfriend to thank for the idea. Lily laughs to herself as she recalls the too-forward Ravenclaw who would send James charmed notes across the Great Hall during meals if he wasn’t making eyes with her enough. Not to mention the owls that would tap on the Gryffindor common room’s window in the evenings when James would be enjoying a game of Exploding Snap with his friends or attempting to finish an essay. Needless to say, that relationship fell apart within a few weeks.

 

So, as soon as Lily had received James’s response, she grabbed the remaining handful of pre-written letters, along with the ‘sorry I missed you’ note, and flooed to James’s place to drop them off. She wonders how peeved he’s going to be when she arrives at his flat. 

 

Well, it’s now or never. 

 

Lily steels herself for whatever the night is about to bring as she hoists the tote over her shoulder and picks up the small pet carrier before heading out the door. She’s borrowed Marlene’s Puffskein to pretend that she’s gotten them a pet. Her original plan was to pick up a cat at the Magical Menagerie, but it wouldn’t be fair to bring a creature’s life into her scheme if she wasn’t serious about giving it a home after all is said and done. Thankfully, Marlene is gracious enough to go along with the plan for tonight. 

 

His flat is only a few blocks away from hers, since he lives in the outlying neighborhood surrounding Diagon Alley. She finds it ironic that they haven’t run into each other sooner given their proximity, but perhaps it’s for the better. Lily reflects on how easy it’s been to fall back in step with James. With anyone else, Lily is sure she’d dread spending every evening with them in an effort to be dumped, but with James, she looks forward to a few hours with him every day. And what’s worse is that she finds herself wanting more. If she hadn’t set the strict rule of ‘no sleeping together’, there was a good chance she may not have come home last night. Especially after the way James’s sincere apology punctured the thick skin surrounding her heart.

 

What is happening to me? 

 

Lily forces herself to stop thinking about last night, and the night before that, and really any encounter she and James have had over the last five days. If she continues to let the happy, heart-warming moments permeate her brain, then her desire for payback may never come to fruition. A low hum comes from the pet carrier in her left hand as she rounds the corner to James’s street.

 

“I’ll take that as an agreement, but try and keep it down when we get there, okay? We don’t want to alert James to your presence too soon.”

 

His building looks like any ordinary muggle complex, and entry is similar to gaining access to the Ministry of Magic through the visitor’s entrance. Instead of a telephone booth, there’s a system that looks like a buzzer from the outside but requires the guest to state their name and who they are there to visit. 

 

So, Lily repeats the same routine as the night before, and the door clicks open once her name and destination are verified. She trudges up the stairs, her heavy tote bag weighing her down, and she’s glad James lives on the second floor. She reaches his flat and knocks a few times on the door before letting herself in.

 

The flat is quiet, and Lily double-checks that James is nowhere to be found. He really should have some wards in place . The thought crosses her mind as she remembers how easy it was to pop by when he wasn’t home earlier as well. A faint sound of running water catches her attention, indicating that James is in the shower, which would make sense since Lily arrived a half-hour early on purpose.

 

She sets down the carrier on the floor before unloading some of the contents of her tote. Lily scurries around the flat, placing framed photographs on the mantle first. There’s one of her and her friends that she puts next to a smiling James, Sirius and Remus, and one of her and James at Hogwarts that now sits next to a family photo of James and his parents. 

 

Lily pauses for a moment to reminisce about the only photo she has of the two of them. It was taken at the beginning of their seventh year, and they’re both donning their Head Girl and Boy badges. The younger version of themselves smile up at Lily before photo James gives a playful tug on photo-Lily’s hair, and more flirting ensues. Of course, this was before everything went south.

 

She sighs and turns away from the photograph that she duplicated from her original earlier. There are plenty more objects to place around the flat, and Lily needs to make quick work of everything before James emerges from the loo. She puts a set of bright yellow seat cushions on each of the chairs at the dining set before adorning the table with a floral tablecloth. Magenta dishcloths are added to the kitchen before Lily returns to the sitting area to place more fluffy blankets and vibrant throw pillows on the sofa. 

 

Checking her bag for any remaining objects, Lily lets out an unbecoming snort as she pulls out the romance novels and places them on the shelves against the wall. After that, she sneaks into James’s bedroom and hides a journal in the drawer of his nightstand. She’s charmed the cover to read, The Story of James and Lily: From James’s Perspective. ’ It’s ridiculous, and she’s sure James will never write in it, but the point is to drive him away, so there it is.

 

Lily sneaks out of the bedroom just as the faucet creaks off. She plops down on the sofa and opens Dissecting Your Future: Using Divination to Determine Your Life’s Path to the chapter on ‘starting a family’ where she leaves it on display on the walnut coffee table. The bathroom door opens, and Lily busies herself with a crossword as she peers over the book to catch James’s exit and look of shock when he realizes she’s already made herself at home.

 

It takes a few minutes, but when James does emerge, Lily doesn’t have a chance to hide the audible gasp that escapes her lips. He steps out of the bathroom with nothing but a towel draped loosely over his hips. His chest and arms have filled out since their Hogwarts days, and she can’t stop herself from staring. She remembers how his jersey would hug his muscles during quidditch matches, and her heart skips a beat to know that he is just as toned now, if not more. There is no way she can deny how sexy James Potter is, and it’s a lost cause to fight the attraction and desire that’s swirling deep within.

 

Stop it, Lily! She feels something wet on her chin and— Merlin, tell me I’m not drooling! Her hand flies to her face to wipe the drool off her mouth, and the abrupt movement catches James’s eye.

 

“Bloody hell, Evans! What are you doing here?”

 

Somehow, she manages to recover swiftly as she retorts with, “b-but, I thought you invited me over?” She quivers her lip for good measure.

 

James lifts a hand to rub his temple and Lily catches the towel slip an inch lower. “I—Did I lose track of time? I mean—yeah, I did invite you over, I just thought—”

 

“I thought I’d surprise you and show up early!” Lily decides to put James out of his spluttering misery. “By the way, you should really think about adding safety wards. The door was unlocked, you know…”

 

“Well, I—er—” James stutters.

 

Lily jumps to her feet. “Is there someone else in there? Are you cheating on me?” She marches to the bathroom and puts on her most dramatic flair. “I knew it! I knew by your response today that you were cheating on me! How could I be so stupid!”

 

She throws her hands up in the air as she brushes by James to check the inside of the loo for another woman. The heat of his bare chest against her arm almost stops her in her tracks, and it takes everything in her power to not give in to temptation as she catches a waft of his ‘fresh from the shower’ musk. 

 

“What? Lily, no! Of course no one else is here! I thought you knew me well enough to know that I’d never—” James’s attempt to defend himself turns him into a blubbering mess. Lily feels his eyes bearing down on her as she throws back the shower curtain in suspicion.

 

He’s right. Lily does know him well enough to know he’d never cheat on her. Hell, he broke it off with Bridgette with plenty of time left in the school year and still never made a move. He’s faithful, kind, thoughtful, and caring, and oh, Merlin, she has it bad. Collapsing on the toilet, she buries her hands in her face. This is all too much. What the hell is she doing? James probably thinks she’s taken Essence of Insanity or something of equal measure.

 

No, Lily, you’re letting your emotions get the best of you. You can’t let that happen. You’re doing so well. Don’t give in. Just...just change tactics! Make up some bogus story about an ex taking advantage of you and—yes! That’s it! And don’t forget that you’ve still got two backup plans.

 

Her anguish is real, but not for the reasons she hopes James suspects. At this point, she’s kissing any hope of maintaining a friendship with him goodbye. She knows she’s acting like a nutcase, but she’s in too deep now.

 

So, she forces some fake tears to fall as she half sobs into her hands. “Oh, James, I’m sorry! It’s just that—that—I haven’t had much luck in the past. I caught my ex having sh-sh-shower s-sex with another woman and—I thought he was the one!”

 

Lily wails as she wipes the fake tears from her eyes. When she looks back at James, he’s in front of her now, and only a towel separates her from his— Stop it. 

 

He reaches a hand out to help her stand and wraps his arms around her. “I’m sorry, Lily. I didn’t realize...but I guess we haven’t had a chance to talk much about that. Do I need to go kick some sorry bloke’s arse?”

 

Lily can’t help the snort of laughter that escapes her mouth against his chest as she remembers the last ‘fight’ he got into.

 

“Hey, I’m trying to be noble here. I’m perfectly capable of fighting some sod who broke your heart, even if I’m secretly happy you did walk in on him.”

 

Lily looks up to see James grinning down at her. She acts affronted by his statement. 

 

“You’re happy I was cheated on?!”

 

He rolls his eyes. “No, never! But if you hadn’t, you might still be with him, and we might not be here right now.”

 

Another layer melts around her heart, and Lily smiles up at him before placing a tender kiss on his lips. She’s well aware of the risk she’s taking, but for that response, he deserves it. Lily knows deep down that even though the story is a farce, James would do anything to defend her honor. James pulls away from her in a painfully slow manner, and all Lily wants to do is return to his embrace even after he lets her go. 

 

“What do you say I get dressed, and then we can enjoy our evening? I’ve got some ice-cold Butterbeer in the fridge, and the pizza should be here soon.”

 

Lily nods as the moment fades away. As if on cue, the buzzer rings and Lily assumes that’s the pizza delivery. 

 

“I can grab it,” she offers as James looks relieved.

 

“Thanks. There’s muggle money on the counter.”

 

“No problem. I’ll be right back.”

 

Lily walks off to take care of the pizza, and by the time she returns, James has already cracked open a few bottles of Butterbeer and set the table. As Lily dishes out slices, he brings up their previous conversation. 

 

“So, is that what all those letters were about today?”

 

“Hmm?” Lily tries to act nonchalant about it.

 

“You know, the four owls you sent me this afternoon?” James raises an eyebrow in question.

 

Lily shrugs. “I guess. My articles are done for the upcoming issue,” she lies, “and I was thinking about you. I just couldn’t wait to spend more time together tonight.”

 

She takes a huge bite of her pizza in order to avoid laughing at how crazy she sounds. Miss independent Lily Evans saying how she misses a man so much that she has to write him more letters than the whole of Hogwarts receives on any given day. If James doesn’t see through that, then he must have taken one too many bludgers to the head.

 

Lily holds her breath as James  watches her through narrowed eyes. She can tell there’s a question brewing in his mind, but he refrains from asking.

 

“Did you bring those other letters here after you sent the first four to my office?” 

 

His question is spoken with care and an air of tentativeness. She knows he’s being cautious and is trying to tiptoe over the inquiry so he doesn’t upset her. Lily gives off her best sheepish look and gives a guilty nod. 

 

“I may or may not have flooed over here to check on things.”

 

James chuckles at Lily’s admission. “Maybe you’re right about those safety wards. Though, in my defense, the door is always locked unless I know I’m having company over,” James grumbles, more to himself than to Lily.

 

The conversation veers into more of what they’ve missed in each other’s lives over the last three years as Lily becomes more annoyed that James hasn’t mentioned any of the additions she’s left in his kitchen and dining room. When there’s a lull in the conversation, she wiggles her bottom against the cushion, making a show of it.

 

“Mmm, these chairs are so comfy now, don’t you think?”

 

James grins as if he’s just one the Quidditch Cup again. “I win.”

 

Lily parts her lips in confusion as her eyebrows scrunch together. “Excuse me?”

 

“I win.”

 

“Were we competing or something?” She’s not following him at all and wonders if he’s the one who’s gone crazy this time.

 

“Come on, Evans, you didn’t honestly think I was that thick, did you?”

 

“So, you did notice the things I brought?”

 

“How could I not? Last time I checked, I’m not colorblind, and even if I was, I do know my flat well enough to notice when someone’s added things to it.”

 

“But what did you win?”

 

“By not saying anything, I was driving you crazy. Was I not?”

 

Lily bites her lip. She doesn’t want to admit that he’s right.

 

“I pretended not to notice so you’d say something first.” The victorious smile returns to his lips as he leans back in his chair and places his hands behind his head.

 

Lily glares at him, even though she’s not entirely mad. It’s pretty clever and reminds her of the time when… Realization dawns on her.

 

“Don’t tell me you used to do the same thing with your assignments!”

 

“What?” 

 

There’s a fake innocence about him that makes Lily’s blood boil in disbelief. How did she never realize he was doing that on purpose?

 

“You pretended to procrastinate on everything, so I would pester you to get your work done! Don’t you dare tell me it was—”

 

“Done all along? You tell me.” There’s a knowing smirk plastered on James’s face now.

 

Every single time he always handed his work in on time now that Lily thought about it. Sometimes he even pulled out proof that his assignments were indeed complete as he laughed at Lily’s nagging. She smacks him on the arm.

 

“It was all a ploy to get me to talk to you!”

 

“And it worked like a charm!”

 

“I can’t believe you.” 

 

Lily shakes her head, and a rejuvenated urge to win this secret war reignites within her soul. You have no idea what’s about to come your way, Potter .

 

“So, you don’t mind all the stuff? I can’t help myself when I’m out shopping, and I just thought all of this would be perfect! It suits your decor so well.” Her voice is sweet as she bats her eyes at the dark-haired man before her.

 

“Mi casa y su casa, Lily. What’s mine is yours,” James clears their plates as Lily folds the lid over the pizza box.

 

“I’m so glad you think that. I almost forgot I have one more gift for you!”

 

“Yeah?”

 

Lily runs over to the small pet carrier and opens the door. She reaches in and pulls out the small, furry puffskein and cradles it in her arms. Turning around, she holds the creature up for James to see. His arms are folded in amusement, but his face turns to shock as he looks on in horror.

 

“Evans, what is that?”

 

Lily feigns a pout and her face falls. “It’s a Puffskein! I thought it was too quiet here, and you could use a little buddy. So, I went over to the Menagerie and rescued this little guy. I named him Pookie. He reminds me of you because he’s just so handsome, aren’t you, little guy?” She ramps up the baby talk to full force. “Yes, you are. Who’s my wittle Pookie Puff?”

 

“You got me a Puffskein?”

 

Lily can tell James is trying to hide his disgust, and it’s all she can do to not laugh at his discomfort.

 

“No, I got us a Puffskein. Pets are such a good first step before babies.”

 

“Babies?” James’s eyes grow wide as he sputters the word out of his mouth like it’s a vomit flavored Bertie Botts bean. 

 

Lily nods as if she’s just mentioned something as casual as suggesting hanging out with each other’s friends. She’s well aware that mentioning babies implies a slew of other things that should come first in an ideal world, like having sex, meeting each other’s parents, moving in together, and/or getting married, but she’s pulling out all the stops tonight.

 

“Yes, silly. Babies! I’m going to be twenty-three soon, and I really ought to settle down and start a family, you know? And it’s just—no, never mind.”

 

She hands James the Puffskein and returns to the sitting room to settle on the couch.

 

“What?”

 

“It’s nothing.”

 

“Well, alright the—”

 

“It’s just that—when I bumped into you last week, I felt something. Like the stars were bringing us together! Didn’t you feel it, too?”

 

“Um…”

 

“I think we have something special, James, and I take Divination very seriously.”

 

James scoffs. “Since when?”

 

Lily lets out a discontented grunt of her own. “Since I work for the best witch’s magazine in all of England! Look!” She points to the book on the coffee table, “there’s a spell to find out how many kids we’ll have together. I’m so impressed by these Seers. They’re pioneers in the field for coming up with this stuff!”

 

She takes out her wand and is about to cast the spell, which she’s pretty sure is complete bogus anyways, when James holds out his hand and pushes her wand down.

 

“Come on, Lily, you don’t really want to know that ahead of time, do you?”

 

She looks up, expecting to see the terror that any twenty-something man would emit at such a serious talk only five days into a relationship, but it’s absent. Instead, there’s a look of something else that Lily can’t quite place. So, she resigns to follow his lead on this one.

 

“Fine, but I think we should revisit this soon. Alice wrote an intriguing article about it a few months back, and I’ve been dying to try it out, especially because you were just the cutest baby, and I’d love to see what our genetics will give us.”

 

Reaching down into her bag, she pulls out two small baby books and replaces them with the Divination book that she closes and places in the bag.

 

“How did you…?” James is at a loss for words as he sees his baby album staring up at him.

 

“Oh, your mum and I have been corresponding over the past few days. She’s just the sweetest! I was actually writing to her about the Divination spells and the ones that can take our baby photos and fuse them into one, so we can see what our future children might look like, too! Can’t you just imagine a little one with your unruly black hair and my green eyes? Oh, I hope he doesn’t inherit your eyesight, though…”

 

Lily trails off as she flips through both books. She doesn’t perform any spells, mainly because she doesn’t even know if they’ll work, but James’s hesitancy over the ‘number of children’ charm is also not lost on her. The only thing she knows is that he’s an only child, but he’s never spoken much about it. Maybe with time they’d—

 

No. Not with time. This is only temporary, remember?

 

She looks over at James, and he’s still uncomfortable. “Are you alright?”

 

James doesn’t answer right away.

 

“James?”

 

“W-what? Oh, yeah, I‘m fine. Just tired.”

 

Lily frowns. “Do you want me to go?”

 

James stares ahead for a moment, and Lily decides to use his lack of a response to take her leave.

 

“It’s been a long day. I don’t mind.” She closes the baby books and stuffs them back into her bag before placing a soft kiss on his cheek. “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

 

James nods, and Lily can tell he’s somewhere else. 

 

“I’ll check in tomorrow.” She squeezes his hand before seeing herself out.

 

It’s not a blatant dumping, but she can’t help but feel like she’s close, especially given his lack of response. She should feel giddy at the prospect, but instead, all she can feel is concern and a hollowness where there’s usually contentment. Hopefully, she’s made the right move, but only time will tell.

Chapter 8: Tuesday

Notes:

Were almost out of the cringy clear..but it has to get worse before it gets better, right?

Saying that James woke up the next morning was a stretch, considering he spent the majority of the night staring at the ceiling. For the life of him, he could not get his mind off of Lily. The wide range of emotions that accompanies his thoughts continues to keep his mind racing. There’s so much he wants to ask, but she always leaves before the conversation can get too serious.

 

His anger toward her ex is palpable. What arse would cheat on Lily Evans?  It’s preposterous, but what’s more surprising to James is how shaken Lily is from the experience. He has always envied and respected her no-nonsense attitude, along with her ability to hold her own. The bloke who broke her heart must have done some serious damage to instill that sort of insecurity and paranoia.

 

But then his thoughts drift to her other actions. What was up with her adding all those girly things to his flat? They’d only just reconnected and had only been together for five days. Even the barmiest of clingy women James has encountered—whether on his own or through Sirius—have never gone that far. There is only one logical solution: Evans is spending far too much time with image-obsessed witches, and he needs to fix that. 

 

Wait, no, isn’t that the last thing I should do? If this is truly who Lily is now, and if I care for her as much as I did in school, then I shouldn’t want to change her. Right? Maybe we just need to spend more time together . Maybe I’m missing something...  

 

But this thought also makes James feel uncomfortable. He’s not proud of the way he froze when Lily mentioned starting a family, or how she’d contacted his mum for baby pictures. That had taken it a step too far. There were things Lily didn’t know, nor was James ready to bring them up with her yet.

 

Sure, it was easy to talk about starting a family and having kids someday, but things were different for James. He recalls the conversation he had with his parents a few years back, about a month after graduation. He was moving into a flat with his best mates, and up until that point, he’d never received ‘the talk.’ When they sat him down on the sofa, James had been naive to think he’d skirted around the situation, but after it was over, he knew that it was always going to happen when the time was right.

 

It was that particular conversation when James found out he was, for all intents and purposes, a miracle baby. Sure, there were times he thought it was odd that his parents were so much older than his classmates’, but it never bothered him. He recalls them telling him that they struggled for decades to have a baby, only to find out they were pregnant with him five years after giving up hope. 

 

James is still shocked when he thinks back on it, and loves and appreciates his parents even more now that he knows what they went through. He’s thankful he’s their son, but it didn’t make the conversation easier. Mum and Dad told him the story because they wanted him to know that he might run into the same issues, and when he found ‘the one,’ he should be open and honest about the potential problems they could face.

 

Lily had been so excited at the prospect of starting a family last night that he felt his heart shatter around him, and he couldn’t bring himself to tell her. There was no way he was going to let her find out they’d be barren from a blasted spell.

 

He will have that conversation with her when the time is right, and his stomach twists with guilt, knowing that she left without an explanation, but something stopped him from telling her. Maybe this is all a mistake. It’s not fair that he’s attempting to dupe her into falling in love with him, only to pull the rug out from under her if they do become serious and he can’t provide her with a family.

 

A vague whoosh   comes from his sitting room, and James checks the clock. He’s not late... yet . For a moment, he wonders who has just come through the floo and panics, thinking Lily could be back to check on him until he sees Remus standing in his doorway.

 

“Please tell me you don’t cut it this close for work every morning,” Remus greets with weak admonishment.

 

James musters a chuckle, but it’s not as hearty as he’d like. “Er, no. Just didn’t get any sleep last night.”

 

Remus’s look turns to one of concern. “Everything alright with Lily?”

 

James wants to give Remus all the details, but there are too many time constraints, and he has to get ready for work. “It’s a long story...I’ll just tell you at—wait, why aren’t you at the office?”

 

“I’m taking the day,” Remus gives James a quizzical look, and it takes a moment to comprehend the meaning.

 

“Oh! Was last night…” James trails off.

 

“My ‘furry period’, as Sirius likes to call it? Yes.”

 

“Shit, I’m sorry, mate. I forgot.”

 

“It’s fine, Prongs, you have more important matters. Sirius was around to help. I’m going to go home and have a kip, but I wanted to check if we were still on for tonight?”

 

“Er, yeah. Yeah!” 

 

James almost forgot it was Tuesday, but this could work in his favor and give him and Lily a break tonight. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right?

 

“I invited Frank from the flower shop to join us, too. He’s a good guy, and it’s easier with four anyways. You sure you’ll be up for it?”

 

They try not to bring up their former friend, but sometimes there is no way to skirt around Peter’s absence. He was the only one who chose a Ministry career, and it didn’t take him long to weasel his way into the inner echelons there. Soon after, Peter began acting shadier and shadier, and hung out with the other three less until they stopped hearing from him altogether. The last thing James knows is that Peter got into some trouble and fled the country to avoid a short stint in Azkaban.

 

“Yes, I’ll be fine. Now, stop skirting around the real issue here. What happened last night?”

 

James sits up and swings his legs over the side of the bed. He needs to get ready, or he will be late. 

 

“She brought up a future and,” he pauses as he pulls clothes out of his dresser, “and kids.”

 

Remus’s expression is passive, but James knows he understands. James brushes by him and shuts the door to the loo so he can change and attempt to fix his hair. He’ll shower later since there’s no time for it now.

 

“James,” Remus says from the other side of the door, “It’s still early. It hasn’t even been a week. You don’t have to tell her anything yet; besides, she was probably trying to gauge your reaction. Witches can be mental about that sort of thing, you know?”

 

Remus has a point, and as much as James loves Sirius, he’s thankful Sirius isn’t there for this particular conversation. James draws in a deep sigh of relief as he allows Remus’s words to permeate. 

 

“Yeah, you’re right. Thanks, Moony. It just threw me off-guard, and I didn’t know how to respond, so she left. Which I guess was nice since other girls may have pressed the issue.”

 

James waits for a response but doesn’t hear anything. He opens the door to head to the kitchen, where he finds Remus staring at Lily’s additions to James’s interior design.

 

“What is all this?”

 

“Lily wanted to add some color, I guess,” James offers, even though he’s not entirely sure why she continues to bring stuff over.

 

Remus shoots James a wary look. “Is it just me, or does something seem off about her to you? This doesn’t seem like the Lily we know.”

 

James throws his hands up in relief. “Yes! I thought I was reading into things, but she’s been so hot and cold lately that—”

 

Another whoosh sounds from the fireplace, and James gapes as the woman in question stands in front of them.

 

“Who’s been hot and cold lately? Oh my goodness! Remus! How are you?!” Lily rushes over and wraps her arms around Remus in a tight hug, who winces from the pain of whatever he got up to during his transformation the night before.

 

“It’s good to see you, too, Lily.”

 

“W-what are you doing here?” James asks.

 

“I came by to check on you. You didn’t look so hot last night, and I wanted to make sure things were okay.”

 

She frowns in concern, and James shoots Remus a look so he doesn’t say anything, not that he thinks Moony would anyway.

 

“I’m fine. Just needed some processing time, that’s all.” He leans in to kiss her forehead, and she smiles at the action.

 

“I’m so relieved. What are you doing tonight? Do you want to come over?”

 

James grimaces. He hates the thought of letting Lily down, but he needs a night with the guys.

 

“Er, sorry, Evans, but the guys are coming over. We have a weekly, er, game night.”

 

She furrows her brows in confusion. “Game night?”

 

“Uh, yeah. You know, drink beer, shoot the shit, sometimes we play Exploding Snap or do other ridiculous challenges like chocolate frog races.”

 

“Oh.” Her voice is small and filled with disappointment. “I just thought—never mind.”

 

“What?”

 

“Weren’t we all friends at Hogwarts? I haven’t seen everyone in forever. It’d be nice to catch up.” She slumps her shoulders, and James has a hard time ignoring the guilt that fills his gut.

 

“Well, if you wanted to stop by and say hi, I’m sure they’d love that, right, Rem?”

 

He feels bad passing the blame onto Remus, but he just can’t say no to her. There’s no reason she can’t stop by for a bit to see them, right?

 

“Uh, yeah, that’d be great!” Remus shoots him a look over Lily’s head, but James ignores it.

 

“Brilliant!” Lily exclaims, a smile returning to her face. “I’ll see you tonight, then.”

 

She gives James a chaste kiss before returning to the fireplace and making a swift departure.

 

When James looks back at Remus, he shakes his head, looking more exhausted than ever. “You’re in way too deep already, Prongs,” laughing at his inability to tell her no.

 

“Tell me about it.”

The rest of the day passes by in a blur, and James soon finds himself back at the flat. The kitchen table is covered in snacks. A heaping plate of nachos, scotch eggs, and mini sausage rolls lay picked over on the table as James levitates the brownies Frank brought to the sitting area. He’s transfigured his coffee table into a larger card table, and the four men are lounging around it in squashy armchairs. 

 

They each take a sizable square and begin munching as James fills Frank in on the whirlwind of the past week with Lily. Remus and Sirius interject at times, relating the current experiences to a story they remember from Hogwarts in an effort to give Frank the clearest picture. It’s not until well after they’ve finished their dessert that Frank gasps, and his eyes grow wide.

 

“Shit! Oh no, I brought the wrong batch.”

 

James scrunches his eyebrows as a wave of hysteria fills him, and he feels the urge to give in to uncontrollable laughter at Frank’s horror.

 

“What do you mean by ‘wrong batch’?” Remus asks.

 

It’s when James observes Remus staring deep into Frank’s soul that the fit of giggles bubbles up again, and he lets loose.

 

Sirius catches on faster than Remus and can verbalize what James cannot. “Oi! Longbottom brought us some pot brownies, didn't he?!” Sirius goes in for another but stops when Remus smacks his hand.

 

“We still have to work tomorrow,” Remus manages to remind as he gets up to hide the evidence.

 

James looks at his watch, hoping that Lily has forgotten to make an appearance. It’s not that he cares about being high around her, but he doesn’t want his loose tongue to give away anything about the bet. That would be disastrous. 

 

The group’s attention turns to a riveting game of Exploding Snap as James hyper-fixates on the time. With every passing minute, he thinks he’s in the clear until there’s a knock on his door, and Lily walks in carrying a tray of something. He hopes his inward curse remains in his mind as another figure walks in behind her.

 

“James, I made it! I hope you don’t mind that I brought a friend along. I figured it’s hard to play games with an odd number—”

 

She stops dead in her tracks as she notices the spread of greasy snacks on the table. 

 

“Well, I’m so glad I brought this veggie tray because you boys need to consume something that’s good for your bodies tonight! Honestly, who can survive on this junk?”

 

James quirks an eyebrow in her direction, at least, he thinks that’s what he does. His mind is foggy, but the irony of her statement is not lost on him, considering the pizza they consumed the night before. He watches as Lily sets the tray down in the middle of the table and plops into his lap. She looks around the table, and James waits for her to ask where Peter is, but the question never comes.

 

“Hey, Evans, long time no see!” Sirius beams at Lily, who is now trying to force-feed James a carrot.

 

“Lily, stop. I don’t want it. I’m full,” James protests.

 

“Hey, Sirius. Good to see things haven’t changed much! You all remember Marlene, right? It’s almost like a reunion, except—James, you didn’t tell me you were friends with Frank! He’s the one who sold me our Umbrella Flower. Speaking of, where is it?”

 

Lily stands up and begins searching the apartment. James makes a desperate attempt to grab his wand to put a concealment charm on it but fails. Remus and Marlene’s side conversation is interrupted by Lily’s shriek of despair.

 

“James! You’re supposed to water this! How could you let our love flower die ?”

 

An uncomfortable silence fills the room. If James wasn’t under the influence, he’s sure he’d know exactly what to say with a clear mind, but the weed lets his filter down, and he’s busy trying to sift through the words he wants to say versus the words he should say.

 

“Oh, there’s an easy way to fix that—” Frank’s voice cuts through the tension that weighs down the room like the onset of Dementor fog.

 

“ No , Frank! If James wants to let our love die, then that’s his decision!”

 

“Lily, come on, you’re acting crazy!” James hears the words come out of his mouth, but his reaction time is too slow to realize he shouldn’t have said that.

 

Sirius bites his knuckle to prevent laughter from escaping as Remus grimaces. Marlene seems amused by the entire debacle, while Frank shrinks back in his chair, discomfort etched on his face.

 

“Crazy? Crazy?! You think I’m crazy?” Lily rounds on James, who is now standing to meet her accusations, but he doesn’t remember getting to his feet.

 

“Yeah, as a matter of fact, I do! Where’s the girl I knew at Hogwarts? The cool, serious, driven Lily Evans who takes no shit from anyone? What happened to you? You’re so different !”

 

Lily’s jaw drops as she scoffs at him. “I had my heart broken, that’s what! And now I don’t know who to trust. I thought I could trust you since we have history , but it appears that I’ve been sorely mistaken! You know what, Potter? I was stupid to even think I should give you a chance. Every time I put my faith in you, you let me down! Come on, Marlene, let’s go!”

 

James is stunned by her reaction. He should feel more than the relief that’s settling into his veins, but he doesn’t. Right now, it feels as though he’s dodging the killing curse. He’s given her enough chances, and at this point, the bet is worthless. This is what happens when he tries to push things ahead without thinking it through. It’s what led to his rash decision to date Bridgette, and once again, it leads to his demise now.

 

“Fine! I should've known this wasn’t going to work anyways. We’ll never be anything more than enemies, will we, Evans? The friendship was great while it lasted. You know where the door is.”

 

James feels lighter now as Lily grabs Marlene by the arm and drags her out of the flat, the door slamming behind her.

 

“What are you doing?” Sirius shakes James by the shoulders.

 

When the hell did he even get up?

 

“Letting her go. This isn’t worth it!”

 

“Yes, it is, mate! You’re letting Lily Evans go! Screw the Zabini pitch; she’s clearly into you. Don’t be a sodding prat. Go after her!”

 

“Sirius is right, James. I don’t know why she’s acting so unlike the Lily we know, but there’s definitely a spark between you two. I saw it this morning, and she wouldn’t be this upset if it meant nothing.”

 

James gapes as his eyes travel between Sirius and Remus, trying to digest their words.

 

Lily cares. Don’t let her go.

 

“Don’t let her go,” he whispers.

 

“Exactly! Don’t let her go!” Remus urges.

 

“Go stop her!” Sirius shoves James forward, and he almost runs into the door.

 

He has no idea how much time has passed since she stormed out, but he hopes enough hasn’t elapsed so she can get to an apparition point. James has no clue where she lives, and he can’t let this go until tomorrow. He’s thankful that luck is on his side; he can hear Lily talking in hushed whispers at the bottom of the stairs to Marlene, so he yells out her name as he bounds down the stairs.

 

“Lily! Wait!” James reaches out to grab her arm as she’s about to cross the threshold of the exit. “I didn’t mean it. I’m high because Frank brought pot brownies, and I’m not thinking straight. I’m sorry. Please give me another chance?”

 

Lily yanks her arm out of his grip and gives him a hard stare. “Haven’t you had enough?”

 

James reaches out to take her hands, but misses as she pulls away. “I could never have enough of you, Lily pad.”

 

He’s not sure where the nickname comes from. Probably the drugs . James waits for her reaction, which only results in a fiercer death glare.

 

“If you’re high, then how can I take what you’re saying seriously now?”

 

“Because the slamming of the door and watching you walk out sobered me up. C’mon, Lily, you said it yourself. There’s something special between us. I want to see where this goes, don’t you?”

 

He waits, hoping she’ll relent. Things aren’t looking promising as she maintains her piercing glare. It feels like hours pass before she finally speaks.

 

“On one condition.”

 

“Anything,” James agrees.

 

“We go to couple’s therapy. Tomorrow.”

 

“Therapy?” It sounds like something James remembers hearing about in Muggle Studies but can’t place.

 

“Yeah, where you go and talk to someone about your problems, and they help you work through it.”

 

James rubs his hand over his face before tugging at his messy hair in frustration. He did say he’d do anything, didn’t he?

 

“Fine.”

 

James can sense Lily’s resolve breaking, as her features soften and a sweet smile returns to her lips. “Great! I’ll owl you the address. I hope you can take a working lunch since our appointment is at 12:30.”

 

Lily turns on her heel and walks out the door as James catches Marlene giving him a wary, sympathetic look before following her friend. They take off down the street, and James leans up against the wall of the stairwell. High or not, James can no longer deny how fucked up this all seems as he wonders whether Sirius and Remus have convinced him to make the right move.

Chapter 9: Wednesday

“Lily, I don’t think I can do this,” Alice taps her pen against a notebook and chews on her lip.

 

They are sitting in Alice’s flat, waiting for James to arrive for their ‘therapy session.’ After last night, Lily thought she’d been victorious in her pursuit of getting James to dump her, but then he just had to come running after her, insisting it was the weed talking, and he didn’t mean it. She wasn’t sure where the couple’s therapy idea came from, but Marlene assured her it was ingenious. 

 

Of course, then they’d both freaked out, wondering what therapist was going to see them on such short notice and at the specific time Lily gave. As they put their heads together on the walk home from James’s flat, Marlene suggested Alice. James has never met her, and Lily has only ever mentioned her. If she uses a fake name, no one will ever know the difference.

 

That morning, Lily made a beeline to Alice’s cubicle and begged her friend to stand in as her therapist. It was the only way she’d be able to pull the scheme off, especially since Alice was the only other one who was privy to all the details. 

 

“You can, Alice! You’re the best interviewing columnist Witch Weekly has. I’m certain you’ll know all the right questions to ask as soon as the ‘session’ starts.”

 

Lily’s trying to keep a cool facade when in reality she’s freaking out beneath the surface. James’s words still ring in her head from the night before: Where’s the girl I knew in Hogwarts?  

 

As soon as she returned home, panic induced as she fixated on his words. There is only one explanation for why he’d say that. He’s onto her. Last night was spent tossing and turning as she overanalyzed everything, trying to figure out what could have given her away. Maybe it could have been an empty accusation, but what if he’s not buying this whole song and dance? What if he can see through it all and that’s why he’s not giving up? Is it that obvious that this whole thing is a ploy to protect her heart? Does he still have feelings for her and that’s why he’s fighting so hard? To use this whole opportunity to show her that he cares?

 

Her heart somersaults at the thought while her brain goes back on the defensive. No, no, no. This is not the plan! I have to push him away, not let him in. But the reality is that Lily’s becoming tired of fighting. Her arms are ready to give out as they shake from being outstretched and can no longer withstand the weight of pushing James away. He’s being so vulnerable and she’s just being, well, a bitch.

 

There’s a sinking feeling as she realizes that she’s towing the line and she needs to make a decision. Should she choose James or the article? Lily’s drawn out of her inner turmoil at the faint sound of Alice’s voice, reminding her that there’s a more pressing matter to attend to.

 

“But won’t it be weird that we’re here? I know James is a Pureblood and knows next to nothing about Muggle medicine, but there’s no way he’s going to fall for this. I’m not even falling for this, and I’m a Pureblood, too! Not that it matters or anything.”

 

“Well, he won’t buy it if you keep up that attitude!” Lily admonishes.

 

She’s running out of time and becoming desperate for him to ditch her. All of her best plans are failing and if Alice can’t pull this off, she’s doomed. Forget the promotion, she’ll get fired instead. Before they can continue arguing, there’s a knock on the door.

 

“I’ll be right back. Just sit there and look professional,” Lily hisses as she makes her way to the door.

 

She opens it to see James standing there, his hand rubbing the back of his neck as he greets her. He looks uncomfortable, and she swears the last time she saw him like this was after she’d reamed him out for playing that prank on Severus in fifth year.

 

“Hey,” he says, a nervous lilt in his voice.

 

“You came,” she replies with a mixture of surprise and relief in her tone.

 

“Yeah. Listen, Lily, I’m sorry about last night. I don’t think straight after a hit. I don’t know how much Frank put in those brownies, but it was potent.”

 

Lily hears a squeak from behind her and closes the door a bit more, waving off Alice in the process. She may or may not have forgotten to tell Alice that Frank was at James’s last night. It was a minor detail, and an innocent slip. Lily couldn’t allow Alice to lose focus on their mission, and she knows that would have happened if she mentioned Frank’s name.

 

She lets out a dramatic sigh. “It’s in the past, but listen, James. I need you to be serious about this if there’s any chance that we’re going to make what’s going on between us work. You’ve got to be open with the therapist. Honesty is key. Don’t hold anything back.”

 

James gives her a wary look but ultimately nods before she ushers him into her flat.

 

“So, Muggle doctors see patients out of their homes?” James whispers the question in her ear as his hand slips into hers.

 

Lily tries to focus on the question, even though the contact sends tingles throughout her body. Damn his ability to distract her with the lightest touch. She resists the urge to lean into his body and focuses on the day’s mission. 

 

“Therapists are different from doctors. Even though both have a doctorate, which is an advanced degree from university, they practice a different sort of medicine. It’s not like they're performing surgeries or anything. So, they’re more flexible with where they can see their clients. Just remember that Dr. Farrington is a muggle, so she doesn’t know about the magical world,” Lily reminds him.

 

“Good afternoon, you must be James. I’m Dr. Farrington,” Alice extends her hand in greeting before James can respond to Lily’s quick lesson.

 

James shakes it and nods before following Lily’s lead and taking a seat on the sofa.

 

“Thank you again for seeing us on such short notice, Dr. Farrington. Things have been rather...trying for us over the past few days.”

 

“It’s completely understandable, Lily. Now, just so you know, my fees are a bit steeper for emergency sessions. I’ll be billing you for 250 pounds at the end of our time today.”

 

So far, so good . Lily knows Alice can pull this off once she’s in her element, and she’s certainly delivering already. She looks at James to gauge his reaction, and suppresses a smile when she sees his eyes bugging out of his head, presumably over the fee.

 

“It’s no problem at all, Dr. Farrington. We’ll take care of it, won’t we, James?”

 

James opens his mouth, then closes it, before shrugging and sitting back on the couch in defeat. 

 

“Thank you, Lily. Now, let’s get started, shall we? How long have you two been seeing each other?” Alices poses the first question.

 

Lily locks eyes with James for a split second before turning back to Alice. She loops her arm through his as she responds with, “Seven days.”

 

“Ah, so not very long at all.” 

 

Alice jots something down on her notepad, which gets James’s attention.

 

“But we’ve known each other for ten years!”

 

Alice perks up as Lily looks between the two. “You have?”

 

“Yes, we went to school together, but after graduation, we went our separate ways,” Lily’s response is curt as she tries to indicate that she doesn’t want to discuss this, which is ironic, considering she just told him to be open and honest.

 

James still doesn’t know that Lily developed feelings for him during seventh year, and she doesn’t want this revelation to unravel in a fake therapy session. This wasn’t exactly on the list of things Alice should bring up during the meeting, and she doesn’t appreciate her friend’s rogue efforts.

 

“Do you care to elaborate on this, James?”

 

“Sure. We were in the same—” Lily elbows him in the ribs to remind him not to mention Gryffindor, and luckily he takes the hint. “Er, we shared a lot of the same classes at our, uh—”

 

“Boarding school!” Lily interjects.

 

“Yeah, right, boarding school. Lily never liked me at first. Thought I was too full of myself or something. It didn’t help that I was enemies with one of her close friends, so that made us the same as well, I guess.”

 

“I never hated you, James, don’t be silly. We just had some disagreements, that’s all. Besides, we ended up friends in the long run, didn’t we?” 

 

Lily tries to brush the memories aside. She’s speaking the truth about never hating him and wonders if he ever realized that. The surprised reaction on his face looks genuine, and Lily offers a sincere smile. She can see how he may have thought she hated him, but if she was being honest, she found most boys annoying between the ages of eleven and fourteen, and was never afraid to show it.

 

“Er, yeah, friends…” James trails off, and Lily notices Alice give an inquisitive glance his way.

 

“Care to elaborate on that, Mr. Potter?” Alice asks as Lily turns her body to James once more.

 

“I— well, it’s no secret to anyone who went to school with us that I fancied Lily. Asked her on a few dates as well, until I decided I probably shouldn’t keep pestering her. She’d come around if she wanted to. So, I saw other people, and it didn’t seem to bother her until seventh year.”

 

James meets Lily’s eyes as her cheeks heat up. There was no way he was going to pin this on her.

 

“Yes, because I thought we were getting on well! You never stopped flirting, you know, but of course, once I started flirting back, you began dating Bridgette Marls instead! I gave you all the signs, and you threw it back in my face!”

 

Lily crosses her arms in front of her body and turns away from him as she lets out a strangled ‘humph’.

 

“You called that flirting? Come on, Evans, that banter was no different than any other time! The only difference was us spending more time together because we were Head Boy and Girl! How was I supposed to know your feelings had changed?”

 

She can see his reflection in a mirror hanging on Alice’s wall. He’s pulling at his hair in frustration and biting his cheek. Alice’s eyebrows are raised at the argument that Lily never intended to have.

 

“So, you did fancy me in seventh year?” James throws the question out there.

 

The silence between them is palpable, but Lily can’t bring herself to answer him. She’s kept her feelings to herself for this long, so why should she let him in now? To break her heart even more as she pushes him away?

 

“Lily, I believe James asked you a question. You owe it to him to answer, and please be honest.” Alice’s voice is soft and gentle.

 

If Lily could shoot daggers at her friend without fear of James catching her, she would. This isn’t going to help him break it off with her. Alice is supposed to help her push James away, not bring them closer together. She’s already having a hard enough time committing to the act. Lily catches Alice nudging her chin, urging her to answer, and she resigns herself to the fact that she probably does owe James an explanation for the cold shoulder she gave him for the better part of a year when they were at Hogwarts.

 

“Yes, I did. But I was too late, and you moved on before I got the chance to be upfront with you.”

 

She doesn’t want to look at him, but her body is traitorous and turns back toward him, and her eyes follow. His face is conflicted, a mixture of astonishment and disappointment at the missed opportunity.

 

“It was never too late.” 

 

His voice is no louder than a whisper, barely audible. Blood rushes to Lily’s ears, and she fights the feeling of lightheadedness at his admission. His words are enough to change everything if she allows herself to give in, but she won’t. She can’t . There has to be a way to swing the pendulum back to her side. Get angry, Lily .

 

She shakes her head. “It was, or maybe it is. You chose Bridgette, James. Maybe you never really fancied me at all since you were so quick to give up.”

 

“Lily—”

 

Lily gives Alice a desperate look to change the subject, and she finally obliges.

 

“Alright, alright, why don’t we table that for now. Clearly, there’s history, but let’s focus on the present. You’ve managed to find your way back to each other, and given that you’re adults now, how are things sexually?”

 

Lily suppresses her glee. Now, this is something she can work with, and she’s happy James isn’t aware of how this works. Otherwise, he’d know Alice is a fake because therapy always wants to focus on the past and how it affects the present. She dodged an Unforgivable there.

 

“Er, well, we haven’t…” James stutters as Lily chimes in with,

 

“It’s, um…” She holds up her fingers and references a fake short length with her index finger and thumb before scratching her neck.

 

Alice’s eyebrows widen in shock as she raises the notepad up to cover her mouth.

 

“ What? ” James has a wild look in his eyes as his head shakes violently back and forth. “Lily, you’ve never even seen my penis,” James says through gritted teeth.

 

“Well, no, but I’ve felt it,” she turns to look at him with innocent puppy dog eyes.

 

James gapes at her, and she can tell her comments are getting to him. There’s no way he isn’t considering folding, not after this. It’s a pity, really, considering that she has felt him, and his bulge is anything but the size she implied.

 

“Are you serious? I am not small! I will prove it to you right here, right now!”

 

James reaches for his belt as Lily feels her eyes bug out of her head. In a quick motion, she reaches for his hand to prevent him from pulling his pants down. Maybe she didn’t think this through; as much as she’d like to think James would never do that, she also knows he’s never been one to shy away from proving a point.

 

“James, not here ! When I see Little Nicky for the first time, I want it to be special!”

 

“Again with the bloody nickname! Come on, Evans, that’s just insulting!” he turns to Alice before adding, “and she wonders why I might have a problem delivering when she’s given him a name like that !”

 

“I’m sensing a lot of anger here, James. You might want to work through that. I’d be more than happy to set up a separate appointment if—”

 

“No! No bloody way. You’d be angry, too if you had to deal with this, this—”

 

“What?” 

 

Lily can feel her pulse in her ears as she pretends to be seething now. They’re so close she can taste victory. Dumped by early afternoon, and she can get the article done and maybe even take Friday off in celebration of her hardest feat yet. Fury sets into her eyes as she dares him to finish his sentence. The air around her is crackling with static energy that indicates she’s ready for this fight. Let’s finish this once and for all .

 

“Call me crazy again, I dare you.”

 

James’s nostrils flare, and Lily is preparing for the final showdown until she notices him slump back in against the cushions in surrender.

 

“ You’re not crazy, but everything you’re doing is crazy. It’s been a week, Evans! You can’t just half move into a bloke’s apartment and write to his mum to ask for baby pictures!”

 

“Oh, so you’re ashamed of me now? You don’t want your mum knowing I exist?”

 

“What? No! Will you stop twisting my words? She bloody well knows you exist!”

 

“Then why won’t you let me meet her?”

 

“You want to meet her? And Dad? Fine! Let’s go! We’ll go visit them tomorrow after work. You can spend the night and share all the gossip you want about me with my mum. She’ll love that! Take Friday off, and I’ll show you all the places I loved going where I grew up. You want to get to know my life before Hog—school? Fine! Whatever you want!”

 

At some point during his tirade, James stood up, and now Lily is staring up at him, completely stunned. The last thing she expects is for James to invite her home. She was sure he would reiterate the fact that it’s too soon, and yet, here she is, now sitting on an invitation to visit James’s childhood home. Her resolve is already breaking, and if she goes home with him, she doesn’t know if she’ll have the strength to finish this. Afraid to respond, Lily opts to remain silent. 

 

“You know, James, that’s not a bad idea. Lily, you said in your last session you’re caught up on work. Maybe taking a day off to spend time with James and his family will be beneficial for your relationship.”

 

Lily has never felt the urge to use an Unforgivable curse in her life, but right now, she’s imagining herself using Avada Kedavra on one of her best friends. And then, she’ll do the same to her other best friend for suggesting Alice play ‘therapist’ for the afternoon in the first place. She’d gladly do the time in Azkaban to avoid meeting his parents like this . 

 

How am I supposed to make a good impression when I have to keep up the song and dance to push James away? Wait, why do I want to impress them?

 

Lily is reeling from her inner turmoil as the words she spoke to James come back to bite her, and she realizes she has to go along with it. She asked him to be open and honest, and now she has to do the same by accepting Alice’s suggestion.

 

There’s a sheepish smile creeping on Alice’s face as Lily lets out a clipped, “Fine.”

 

Lily doesn’t want to look at James, but she forces her head to tilt up anyway. His breathing is heavy, and she can tell the adrenaline is still coursing through his body. Part of her loves how she can get under his skin without really trying, but the other part worries about his passion and determination. There’s this nagging feeling that tells her there’s more to James’s story. Why else would he be fighting so hard to make things work?

 

What a mess .

 

“Well, I think that’s all we have time for today,” Alice interrupts the charged silence that ripples between the pair. “Lily, you have my number if you need to schedule something sooner than our next appointment in a few weeks.”

 

Alice stands, gesturing to James and Lily to make their way toward the door. Lily gathers her bag and follows as her mind races. Somehow, they’re in the hallway now, and Alice is shutting the door behind them. James leads the way as they head down the stairs.

 

“So, I’ll write to Mum and Dad to let them know we’re coming?”

 

“Yes, that’s fine,” Lily agrees. 

 

Her head is spinning as she tries to focus on a spot on the wall to keep from falling over, and she’s trying to make sense of everything as the previous conversation plays on repeat in her mind.

 

“If you meet me at my place after work tomorrow, I can apparate us home. I’ll see if Sirius or Remus can watch...Pookie,” James winces at the mention of the Puffskein, which comforts Lily to know her attempts to drive him insane are working to some degree.

 

Lily almost forgot that she left Marlene’s puffskein at James’s apartment the other night. She doesn’t even remember seeing it last night. At least it sounds like he’s kept the creature alive.

 

“Oh, Marlene can watch him. He already knows her, so it won’t be a problem. She owes me a favor. Thank you for coming with me today,” she manages, “I’ve got to get back to the office, but I’ll see you tomorrow?”

 

James nods and leans in to kiss her cheek before they part ways. After what just happened in Alice’s flat, Lily is thankful for the break tonight.

 

Lily waits for James to round a corner before she makes her way back to Alice’s flat. It’ll be faster to take the floo back to the office than to Apparate. Plus, she’s sure Alice is waiting for her, eager to debrief on the whole debacle.

 

As much as she wants to strangle her friends for aiding in this disastrous effort to shake James off, Lily’s going to need them to help her come up with a game plan for this impromptu ‘meet the parents’ trip. Amelia won’t be an issue, since Lily will technically be on assignment and won’t be asking for time off. But this means that now she needs to get the majority of the article written before she leaves on Thursday, on top of trying to stay ahead of what the next few days may bring.

Chapter 10: Thursday (Day 8)

Notes:

Mainly because I don't want to hold out anymore, I'll be posting one chapter a day from now until the end of the fic!

James checks his bag for the tenth time to make sure he has everything. It gives him something to do other than bouncing his knee up and down while waiting for Lily to show up. Remus and Sirius are staring at his nervous behavior with their arms crossed.

 

“You two can go ahead, you know. I don’t need a babysitter.”

 

James has invited his friends to join them for dinner tonight. Despite Lily’s recent correspondence with his mum, he thinks having the Marauders there will help ease any tension and make Lily feel more comfortable, given how apprehensive she was about the idea to begin with. Plus, this is his last chance to win the bet and clinch the Zabini case, so he needs to pull out all the stops.

 

His resolve had strengthened upon leaving the therapy session the previous day, and he spent the rest of the afternoon creating a plan that would make any woman weak at the knees. Step one is already complete, considering his friends agreed to join them for the evening, and step two is in progress. When he wrote to his parents, he made sure to tell them she ‘could be the one,’ knowing full well his mum would play it up and drop hints left and right while Lily is there. If all goes well, his parents will be endearing enough without being too smothering. The goal is to get Lily to become smitten with his family, and to see that James isn’t the pompous, cocky arsehole she believed him to be in their early years at Hogwarts. 

 

They’ll sleep in separate rooms, of course, and then on Friday, he’s got a romantic day planned for them. Shopping in the square, a mid-morning pastry treat from his favorite bakery, and then a fly over Ipswich to get to the English coast, where he’ll have a picnic lunch planned. What woman wouldn’t swoon over such a romantic day? He’ll be the perfect gentleman, not making any moves. Then, he’ll fly her back home and get cleaned up before going out to dinner with his parents and returning to London. He’ll mention the gala as he drops her off at her flat, and with any luck that will seal the deal by the end of the short getaway. 

 

If it doesn’t, well, he can kiss his newest and biggest potential client goodbye.

 

Still, James holds out hope. He can’t help but think he’s winning her over slowly but surely. He’s breaking down her icy layers, and though he’s still not sure about that whole ‘therapy’ session, it brought so much to light, including her feelings for him, and he wants nothing more than to continue that conversation about their seventh year. Why the therapist had moved them on to another subject before they had a chance to lay it all out in the open was beyond him, especially when it felt like they were finally making progress. He wants to be honest with her, to clear the air of every misunderstanding and unspoken word between them, and he hopes to do that before the gala. 

 

His mind wanders back to that conversation for the hundredth time. How could Lily ever think it was too late? Had he not done enough to mend their broken relationship? Obviously not, you idiot, otherwise she wouldn’t have disappeared from your life for three years, and you wouldn’t be in this ridiculous predicament right now!

 

Every day, a new revelation seems to come to light about Lily. From an awful ex to the magazine company brainwashing her (which was really just his insinuation), there are so many layers hiding the Lily he knows. James wishes she’d give him more of a chance to get to know who she’s become now, and he can’t help the flutter of hope he feels in his chest that the next two days may finally give him the clarity he’s searching for. 

 

“Are you sure?” Remus looks concerned, and James thinks it’s because of the fidgeting, or maybe the fact that he’s zoned out again.

 

“Yes, I’m fine . Mum and Dad know you two are coming, and if you show up ahead of us, it will give Mum a chance to dote on you before I walk in the door with Lily,” James insists.

 

“I’m still having a hard time believing Lily agreed to this,” Sirius shakes his head.

 

“Well, she is a Gryffindor,” Remus reasons, “and she was never known for backing down from a challenge.”

 

James rolls his eyes as he stands. “Sure, don’t make me feel better or anything. You could have said that it’s because she fancies me and wants to spend time with me,” James mutters melodramatically.

 

“We’re sure she does, James,” Remus appeases him by saying what he wants to hear, earning a crude gesture as a result.

 

“All I'm saying is that meeting the parents is a big step, and you even admitted that it’s only been a week,” Sirius defends himself.

 

“Except she’s already gotten Mum to send her baby pictures, and this is my last chance to make her fall in love with me or I can kiss the Zabini pitch goodbye.” James is talking more to himself but figures Sirius can do with the reminder.

 

“Okay, well, we’ll meet you there. Just stop brooding, alright?” Sirius calls to James before he steps into the fireplace and disappears out of sight.

 

“He’s right, you know. Your plan is fool-proof, and while I don’t condone leading someone astray like this, I know how important gaining Zabini as a client will be for your career. Everything’s in place, so try and look forward to all the time you get to spend together.”

 

Remus flashes a wicked grin and disappears a moment later, leaving James alone with his thoughts. He checks the time again; only five minutes until she’s late, and he can justify his nerves. James will never admit it to Sirius and Remus, but he’s glad they’re coming along tonight. Their presence will make things less awkward, and the conversation will be easier to bridge in case there’s a lull with his parents, even if some topics will be at James’s expense. He just hopes his best friends will keep their mouths shut and not give away that this whole thing started as a way for him to advance his career. 

 

Bollocks, he even has to remind himself of that. There have been moments between them over the past week where it all seems too real, and he hasn’t thought about the repercussions of what would happen if they do make a go of things. He’ll have to tell her eventually, but he fears her reaction and decides to push the thoughts away. 

 

In an effort to distract himself, James thinks back to the end of sixth year, when he and Lily were getting on well, their blossoming friendship stronger than ever. He joked about inviting her over during the summer holidays, and he remembers her response as if it was yesterday: That sounds fun, Potter. I’ll be waiting for your owl to take you up on that.

 

And then, he choked, as Sirius put it. What really happened was that James left the letter with the invitation on his desk, sitting untouched until August. By the time he had the nerve to send it, Lily was already taking a holiday with her parents and had to decline. It was his own damn fault, but that didn’t stop James from spending the second half of the holidays moping around. The only consolation was that she continued to write to him, so at least he hadn’t ruined his chances altogether. No, that came a few months later, but he wasn’t going to think about that now. There were far too many sleepless nights spent rehashing those memories, and they shouldn’t matter anymore because now he has his second chance.

 

A knock at the door brings James out of his reverie and he bolts up in anticipation. When he opens the door, Lily’s standing there in a modest, vintage summer dress with an overnight bag draped over her shoulder. James reaches out to take the bag from her and sets it down as he invites her inside. Shutting the door behind him, he locks it and then places a protective enchantment as an added layer of security. There’s a hint of a smile on Lily’s face in response to his movements.

 

“Finally starting to put some security measures in place, I see,” she comments as she tucks a strand of hair behind her ear.

 

James sets a locking charm on the Floo as well before responding. “Well, someone mentioned it to me recently, and I figured they might be onto something,” he grins as his hazel eyes meet her green ones.

 

“They sound pretty smart,” Lily agrees. “Are we apparating, then?”

 

“Yeah. There’s an apparition spot at the end of my parent’s street, and since you’ve never been there before, I figured you’d like to enter through the house the muggle way for your first time.”

 

“Are you implying there will be a second?” her reply is cheeky, and a rush of familiarity falls over the room.

 

This is the Lily that James knows.

 

“Assuming my parents don’t scare you away.” Warmth spreads through James as Lily smiles.

 

“Well, we don’t want to keep them waiting, do we? I believe I’m four years overdue for a visit.”

 

It’s ironic that she mentions their failed plans from the summer before seventh year, considering James was just thinking the same.

 

James picks up both their bags and holds out his arm. “Ready?”

 

“You bet,” Lily grins as she reaches out and grips his forearm.

 

Concentrating on the apparition spot, James turns and feels the recurring sensation of being squeezed through a tube from the inside out as they travel through space, appearing in his family’s neighborhood seconds later. He steadies himself and makes sure Lily’s okay before leading her down the lane to his childhood home. The setting sun still beats down on the street, and James is grateful for the maple trees that line the road to offer shade. 

 

James grew up in a small wizarding community outside the city of Ipswich, on England’s east coast. The home where he was raised is large, with more than enough bedrooms, and several acres of land in the family’s possession, yet modest given his family’s ancestry. Most Purebloods touted their wealth, but the Potters chose not to live that way. James appreciates his upbringing more and more, as he witnesses the entitled ways of the Black sisters.

 

“James, these houses are massive,” Lily comments.

 

Her eyes are wide in awe as she takes in the sights of the historic homes with their wrought-iron gates lining the cobblestone sidewalks adjacent to perfectly manicured lawns and flower beds.

 

“Would you believe me if I told you this is nothing compared to some other Pureblood estates? You should see Malfoy Manor. The pompous arse has albino peacocks. What’s the point?”

 

Lily stares at James in disbelief. She must think he’s joking, and he wishes he was. 

 

“Well, this one’s mine. I promise we’re a down to earth family, and the inside isn’t as extravagant as you might be expecting.”

 

James stops to open the front gate and waits for Lily to walk through first. He closes it behind him and reaches out to give her hand a squeeze as they approach the front door. As they enter, laughter ricochets throughout the main floor, and James recognizes that it’s coming through the open windows from the back patio. 

 

Everything is as James remembers—his parents have never been ones to update their style with the times. The foyer is open and expansive, with a coat rack to their right. A bench stands next to it as a mat for shoes lays against the perpendicular wall next to the door. 

 

James closes the front door to reveal a large closet to their left, and he places their bags in front of it as Lily kicks off her sandals and places them neatly on the lonely mat. Though the house is spotless, the Potters have never been one to make their guests take their shoes off at the door, but it’s too late to tell Lily that now. He wonders if he should show Lily around first and bring their bags to their rooms when he hears his mum call from the kitchen.

 

“James, is that you?”

 

“Yeah, Mum. We’re here!”

 

“Wonderful!” 

 

James hears his mum shuffling along, no doubt coming to greet them, and before he can give Lily a proper heads up, the matriarch appears on the other side of the hall. She envelopes James in a tight hug as she kisses his cheek.

 

“It’s about time you showed up!”

 

James chuckles. “Come on, Mum, you make it sound like I never come around.”

 

“Not enough, you don’t! And this must be Lily! Hello, dear, it’s so lovely to have you here at last. We were so disappointed when things didn’t work out for you to visit before your last year at Hogwarts.”

 

Mum pulls Lily in for a tight hug as well, taking her by surprise. Lily never talks about it much, but something tells James that the Evans family is not an affectionate bunch, especially if her sister is any indication.

 

“It’s nice to meet you, too, Mrs. Potter. Thank you so much for having me.”

 

“Bless your heart, you’re just as sweet as you sound in your letters. James, she’s a keeper. Don’t you let her go.” James offers a weak smile and he catches a blush creeping up Lily’s cheeks as his mother continues on, “Lily, please call me Mia. Euphemia’s too formal, and Mrs. Potter is my mother-in-law, bless her soul. I hope the pictures I sent you were what you needed.”

 

“Oh, yes, Mrs.—I mean, Mia—they were perfect. I have them in my bag to return—” Lily reaches into her purse to pull them out, but his mum waves her off.

 

“Not to worry, not to worry. Shall we head out back? Dinner will be ready in a bit, and your father and the boys are playing your favorite game.”

 

“Boys?” Lily asks as her head tilts in inquiry. 

 

“Er, yeah, Remus and Sirius are joining us for dinner. I thought it might make you feel more comfortable. Plus, you didn’t get to see them much the other night.”

 

“That’s so sweet, James,” Lily seems smitten at James’s thoughtfulness.

 

“Always the tone of surprise,” James laughs.

 

No sooner do they follow his mum towards the kitchen than they hear Sirius announce he has ‘four Dumbledores,’ to which his mother shouts a resounding,

 

“Tosh!”

 

Lily pauses and wrinkles her nose as she stares up at James with a confused expression on her face.

 

“Ah, right, they’re playing a card game we invented years ago.” James puffs out his chest with pride.

 

“Sounds interesting,” Lily says as they cross the kitchen to the back patio.

 

James is hit with the smell of a roast that he’s sure his mother has been tending to all day. The aroma wafts through the homey kitchen, and memories flood his mind from childhood and the summers between his Hogwarts years. 

 

It’s here that Sirius showed up at fifteen years old with a rucksack and his trunk when he moved out of his parents’ house. James’s parents had welcomed him in with open arms after he’d been disowned as the black sheep of his family, and Sirius still has an extra room in the house to this day for whenever he drops by. 

 

James also remembers sitting at the island, eating a traditional English breakfast on the first day of summer hols when he asked his parents if Lily could come visit at some point. The relentless teasing had all been for naught when those plans were foiled, giving his mother’s previous greeting so much more meaning.

 

“Hey, Lily!” Sirius greets as Remus gives a friendly wave in their direction. 

 

“James! Lily, welcome!” His father gives a hearty hello as he hoists himself out of the chair for a more formal greeting.

 

They repeat the same motions they had just done with his mum, and James helps his dad back into his seat. He pulls out a chair for Lily before taking a seat next to hers. He catches Lily eyeing the chocolate frog cards at the table before inquiring about Tosh.

 

“So, what exactly is Tosh, and how do you play?”

 

James can’t help the smile that settles on his face. She already sounds so at home here, and he loves seeing how well she fits in.

 

“You went to school with us for seven years and never once joined us for a game of Tosh?” Sirius clucks his tongue in mock dismay.

 

“I’m sure I would have played if I’d been invited, but you four never seemed interested in expanding your circle,” Lily fires back, a mischievous grin on her face.

 

Remus holds up his hands in surrender as James leans back to enjoy the banter without directly involving himself. “Let’s not dwell on the past. I believe James and Sirius made up the game while here one summer.”

 

“That’s correct, Remus,” Mr. Potter cuts in, “It was one of those days when Mia was in a tizzy and wanted to clean out and organize every corner of the house. She came across a drawer full of chocolate frog cards, and James had a right fit when she was about to banish them as rubbish.”

 

“Oi! I spent my whole life collecting those cards!” James defends as he leans forward in his seat, gathering the deck that was splayed out in front of him to shuffle with the intention of starting a new game.

 

“Yes, dear, but it wasn’t like you simply collected one of each card for a set. You kept every single one ,” Mum teases.

 

James rolls his eyes and continues the origin story. “Well, anyways, Sirius and I were sorting the cards to tidy up the drawer at the very least, and that’s when I thought it could be fun to make a deck of cards with the duplicates. It’s not like we can play actual muggle card games with them or anything.”

 

“But one night, we did come up with a game!” Sirius interjects. James begins dealing the cards as Sirius continues, “there are four of every person, just like you have four of every number in a muggle set—learned that in Muggle Studies!—and the entire deck is dealt out to the players. We each take turns laying down cards in a specific order.”

 

Lily scrunches her face in an attempt to follow Sirius’s instructions, but it looks as though they’ve lost her. James’s mum must sense the same predicament as she waves her wand and a piece of parchment and quill appears. She begins scribbling the order of the names on it as a reference guide for Lily.

 

“But how do you determine the order if they aren’t numerical like a muggle set?” Lily asks.

 

“Easy! We go by the year each person is born—starting with the oldest,” James clarifies.

 

“Here you go, dear. This will help,” Mrs. Potter slides the parchment over to Lily after finishing the final name.

 

“There are four of each person in the deck, so you place down a number between one and four for whichever person you’re on,” Remus explains. “So, if I start, I’ll say I’m going to put down three Wafflings.”

 

“And if I don’t think he actually has three Wafflings to put down, I can call Tosh, which makes him have to pick up the cards and prove it. If he’s lying, he picks up the whole discard pile,” Sirius finishes.

 

Realization lights up Lily’s face, and she gives them an excited look. “Like Cheat!”

 

“Cheat?” James shoots Sirius and Remus a puzzled look.

 

“Yes! It’s basically the same thing, but a muggle card game! I believe the Americans have a similar version, but they call it ‘Bullshit.’ Excuse my language,” a light blush appears on her cheeks at her use of the cuss word.

 

“Bullshit’s a much better name!” Sirius laughs.

 

“We always say cheat at home, but at school that’s what the girls used when we’d play in the dorms.”

 

James gapes at Lily, completely shell-shocked. Here he was, thinking they’d invented an original game using Wizard trading cards, and Lily Evans bursts that bubble faster than a Grindylow can strike an unsuspecting victim.

 

“Well, that’s it. Everything I thought I knew was a lie. I’ll never be able to play this again,” James adds a dramatic flair to his voice as he tosses the cards down on the table and everyone laughs.

James is used to getting laughs from people. It’s something that he loves and takes pride in being able to achieve. But something strikes him about the way Lily responds to his joke. There’s an ingenuity that reminds him of their teenage years at Hogwarts. When they’d meet before Prefect meetings to discuss the rounds schedule before everything went to shit. Her reaction now reminds him of those moments, and his heart stops. 

 

The comprehension hits him like the Hogwarts Express. It’s subtle, but it’s how Lily flirts. Where he always thought she reacted that way to appease his ridiculous jokes, he sees now that it was genuine, after all, and he should take a bludger to the head for not realizing it sooner.

 

“Come off it, James, and get the game started, will you?” Sirius draws him out of his thoughts as he makes the first move.

 

A few rounds go by, and Lily’s hand is dwindling. When she puts down two Botts, James doesn’t hesitate to call her bluff.

 

“Bullshit.”

 

“James!” his mum admonishes.

 

“Sorry, Mum. Tosh.”

 

“Excuse me?” Lily raises a careful eyebrow in his direction. Her poker face is strong.

 

“There’s no leaderboard to announce it, but everyone around this table can vouch for my status as reigning champion of this game. Let’s just say I have a knack for reading people,” James challenges.

 

“Go ahead and check my cards, then.” Lily’s tone is casual and cool.

 

James searches her eyes for any indication that she may falter as he reaches for her cards. Much to his dismay, he finds two Bertie Bott cards when he flips them over.

 

Fuck .

 

There’s an eruption of ‘ooh’s’ and laughter around the table. 

 

“Looks like the reigning champion is about to be dethroned,” Sirius goads.

 

His father adds, “Perhaps James has finally met his match.” There’s a twinkle in his eye as his mum caresses his dad’s arm.

 

“It’s about time, Monty,” she says with a loving touch to her voice.

 

James does his best to brush off Lily’s lucky streak and takes a look at his own cards. He tosses three Shingleton cards onto the growing pile as he announces his play to the group. Lily’s peering at him with intent as James matches her gaze. He’s determined to prove to her that he’s the one to beat in this game.

 

“Tosh.” Lily’s voice is confident and sure.

 

Merlin’s pants.

 

James has no choice but to lift his cards and show the table he’s lying. He’ll never hear the end of it from his friends, but he has no choice. Opting to forgo the humiliation, he picks up the discard pile and adds it to his hand. The roar of laughter is even heartier than before, and James simply shakes his head at Lily.

 

“Now I know why we never invited you to play with us,” he says as Padfoot and Moony smother Lily with words of encouragement to take James down.

 

He can tell Lily’s relishing in the glee, and though he may act put out on the outside, he’s thrilled. Things are finally going well. Maybe bringing her home wasn’t a bad idea, after all.

Chapter 11: Friday (Day 9)

This was a bad idea. A bad, bad, bad idea. What was Alice thinking? No, what was she thinking? 

 

Lily is lying in the guest bedroom with a pillow smothering her face. She thought she could continue to pull off her antics while meeting his parents, but that plan had backfired. Monty and Mia were the sweetest. Despite coming from a wealthy Pureblood family, they are the most down to earth, kind couple she’s ever met. They’ve welcomed her into their family with open arms, and it scares Lily how much she cares for them already.

 

Then, there’s the blatant realization of how much she’s truly missed spending time with James, Sirius and Remus when they were playing that ridiculous yet innovative card game. The entire night is the best Lily’s had in a while, and her mind continues to reel as she recalls Mia hugging her goodnight.

 

“You have no idea how much you mean to him, Lily. Monty and I have been waiting for him to bring someone home, and we couldn’t be happier that it’s you.”

 

Tears prickle in Lily’s eyes as she hears Mrs. Potter’s words in the back of her mind. She can’t remember the last time she’s been hugged like that. Her own family isn’t the most affectionate. 

 

Guilt pours through her at the brevity of Mia’s words, and Lily wonders if James ever stopped fancying her, even during the time following graduation. All of these thoughts have Lily second-guessing the article altogether. Her resolve to prove that they aren’t meant to be is taking a nosedive, and she’s not sure where to go from here.

 

You’ve got to stick with the plan, Lily. We’re so close. You know James has got something planned for the day, so it’s time to pull out all the stops. 

 

Lily takes a deep breath as she tosses the pillow to the side. She has to see this through, so she pushes her feelings aside and puts on her game face to start the day. After showering and choosing a more casual outfit—jeans and an off the shoulder, printed mauve top, Lily greets the rest of the family for coffee and a quiet breakfast.

 

“So, what do you two have planned for the day?” The genuine curiosity in Mia’s voice causes Lily to look up from her plate.

 

She has no idea what James has in store for them and is interested in his answer.

 

“Was thinking of showing Lily around the area,” James answers, throwing a casual glance in her direction. “We’ll be back in plenty of time before dinner, though.”

 

Mia’s sweet smile indicates that she’s impressed by her son’s ability to anticipate her next question. “Very good. Our reservations in town are at six. We know you have to get back this evening, and we don’t want to keep you too late, so be sure you’re back with plenty of time to get ready.”

 

“Will do, Mum,” James says as he takes Lily’s empty plate on his way to the kitchen sink.

 

James’s parents retire to the patio to sit and sip their remaining coffee as Lily gets up to help James finish the dishes.

 

“So, you’re going to show me around?”

 

“Yeah, and I’ve got a picnic planned as well if that’s alright with you. Lolly helped prepare it, so I hope that doesn’t cause any issues…” James trails off as Lily eyes him with interest.

 

“Lolly?”

 

“Er, yeah, my parents’ elf.” James looks uncomfortable, and it takes Lily a moment to realize why.

 

Oh, right, because I made a big stink about the Elvish Eatery.

 

“That’s fine. I didn’t realize your family had an elf,” Lily’s remark is flippant as she gauges James’s reaction.

 

“She helped a lot with me, and all my energy growing up, and does the cooking and cleaning when Mum is too tired. Mum’ll never let Lolly do all the work herself, though.”

 

Lily’s heart warms at James’s description of their family dynamic with Lolly. It makes her feel bad about all those accusations she made earlier in the week, considering all the love and respect he has for the elf she’s yet to meet.

 

“That’s very sweet,” she replies as she finishes drying the final dish and uses magic to put it away on the shelf. 

 

She leans against the counter and changes the subject. “Have I dressed appropriately for today, then?”

 

James turns to eye her up and down, a lopsided smile plastering his face. “You’re perfect. I just need to grab a few things, and then we can head out.”

 

He kisses her on the cheek, lingering for a moment before disappearing down the hall. The empty pit in her stomach grows deeper at the distance between them, even though it’s a brief separation, which sends a shock of worry through Lily’s system. She’s been good about keeping him at arm’s length this whole time, but being here with his family is sending her on a roller coaster ride she wasn’t expecting. When James returns and leads her outside, Lily forces the strength in her resolve to return. 

 

The first part of their adventure involves James showing Lily around the small wizarding town as they roam the cobblestone streets and slip in and out of the many shops. Lily’s only ever experienced Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, and she’s struck with how different Mandrake’s Landing seems to be. 

 

They pick out pastries from the bakery before exploring the various storefronts. Lily can’t help the flobberworms that wriggle in her stomach at James’s excitement when he leads her into the apothecary and stationery shops. She’s smitten as he remembers her affinity for potions, and appreciative when he reasons that she might like a new quill or parchment set for her office. Despite her resistance, James purchases a parchment pad for her to brainstorm and write stories on that she’s passionate about, with a fancy phoenix feather quill and magenta ink well to help her ‘creative juices’ flow.

 

After dropping their packages off at the house, James takes her for a fly on his broomstick, where she holds on tight as she marvels at the vibrant shades of green juxtaposed to the old-fashioned stone houses and bright, colorful siding of the newer homes they fly by. There are a few cities below, and Lily holds on tighter to James as he expertly navigates the skies.

 

It’s clear that he’s flown this route before, which adds to the heightened sense of anticipation she feels for the mysterious destination. Her eyes continue drinking in the sights as she forces her mind away from fixating on how high up they are. She knows James would never let her fall, but that doesn’t settle her nerves. 

 

So, Lily settles her thoughts on how meticulous and planned out the day has been so far, and she smiles into James’s back. The activities are simple, but the specific touches James has added proves how well he knows her. A pang of loss ripples through her as she wonders if this is something they would have done if she’d visited all those summers ago.

 

For the first time, Lily allows herself to long for the ‘what could have been,’ if she and James were able to sort things out sooner. How different would her life be now? Would they still be together and happy? Taking the next steps in their life? It is a dangerous line that Lily is toeing as she shifts gears to find a way to put off his advances instead. 

 

Pushing him away is the last thing she wants to do, but Lily feels cornered, as if she has no choice. She racks her brain for ideas before giving up and deciding to wing it, hoping she’ll think of something in the moment. 

 

Finally, James angles the broom down as they descend, and Lily hears the sound of waves crashing against the sand.  The sky is overcast on the coast but doesn’t look threatening. As Lily disembarks from the broom once they land, she takes a deep breath as the ocean breeze flows through her hair and fills her nose with the scent of saltwater. James conjures the picnic basket and pulls out a blanket that he arranges on the ground.

 

“It’s beautiful here,” Lily comments as she takes his lead and sits beside him.

 

“Yeah. We’re in Thorpeness. Dad used to take me here when I was growing up to help me get a better handle on flying. Mum always packed a picnic and read while we flew around.”

 

Lily smiles as she imagines a younger version of James and his parents enjoying time as a family out here, and her heart swells. “That sounds wonderful,” she agrees as James pulls food out for them to share.

 

It’s far too easy for Lily to get lost in the moment out here with James, and she forgets about the article as the conversation flows between them. James details stories of day trips to the beach, and Lily tells him about the muggle holidays she used to take with her parents. A lull in conversation causes Lily to shift dangerously close to the forbidden topic of her work.

 

“You know, the transition into life as a magical adult wasn’t as easy as the Hogwarts professors make it seem,” she comments as she picks at the cheese and crackers that are left on the plate.

 

“What do you mean?” James’s eyebrows furrow as he tries to decode the meaning in her words.

 

“Well, finding a job wasn’t hard—I certainly had the knowledge, but it was everything else. Finding a place to live, where to shop; you know, things they don’t teach Muggleborns about.” Lily shrugs at her admission.

 

“Lil, I could have helped—” James tries to say before Lily stops him. The pain is clear on his face, knowing she may have struggled and he wasn’t there to make things easier.

 

“I know, but I wanted to prove to myself that I could figure things out on my own. I’m sure I took the easy way out by choosing to live in a muggle neighborhood, but it was a compromise with my parents, who would have preferred that I attend university before deciding which world I wanted to settle down in.”

 

She decides not to tell him about her ambitions to write a guide for Muggleborns navigating the Magical world. It’s not that she doesn’t want to, but it feels like the last string of separation that keeps her from completely giving in to whatever this is. Lily’s been careful to keep the contents of her job separate from their relationship, skirting over what she writes so that she doesn’t slip up. Discussing what she wants to write could lead to what she currently writes, and if that comes out, it’s all over.

 

James’s hand covers hers as she looks up. “I’m glad you chose the magical world.”

 

She offers a smile back. “Me too.”

 

James becomes pensive, and Lily wonders what he’s thinking. She doesn’t have to wonder for long when she catches him looking up, no doubt steeling himself to let her in.

 

“Listen, Lily,” he starts, and her stomach churns with unease. “About the other night when you brought up those spells about—about babies and stuff…”

 

Lily’s not sure what she was expecting, but it wasn’t an explanation for that. Her initial response is to stop him. She doesn’t want to hear what he has to say because it was all meant as a joke to push him away. When he became quiet that night, she thought she’d succeeded. But the way he said ‘babies’ just then intrigues her. It’s like the word leaves a bad taste in his mouth, like he’s just eaten a sour jelly slug or something, and she knows nothing good can come of this.

 

Maybe this will finally be the out that she needs if he’s going to admit what she’s thinking.

 

“You don’t have to,” her attempt to brush it off is weak as she waits for his response.

 

“No, I need to,” he pauses to take a breath, presumably collecting his thoughts before he speaks again. “It’s not that I don’t want to have the conversation about having a family, but I wasn’t expecting it so soon.”

 

No, no, no. This is not what she’d been expecting! If he wants to have the conversation, that must mean he wants to have kids, and that’s not what she’s banking on. She can’t have this conversation with him right now, but she can’t say that without the entire scheme coming to light. So, she has no choice but to wait for him to continue.

 

“I just—you should know—I didn’t want you finding out with a spell if—if...”

 

The unease shifts, and Lily can feel her lunch threatening to come back up. She’d be lying if she said she’s never imagined a life with James, but it’d be preposterous to even think it would work. Yet, this conversation has turned dreadfully serious, and Lily has a bad feeling about where it’s headed.

 

“Tell me, James,” she finds herself saying even though she’s not sure she wants to hear it.

 

“I was a surprise. My parents had accepted the fact that they’d never have a child, and by some miracle, they were blessed with me.” He offers a cheeky smile, but it doesn’t reach his eyes.

 

“If it’s hereditary, then I might pose the same problem, and I didn’t want you finding that out with a bloody spell.”

 

Lily stares ahead, unsure of what to say. She was expecting him to admit to not wanting a family or kids, to which it would have been easy to make him choose: Lily and a family or no Lily. But this—this isn’t his fault, and the fact that he’s so open with her simultaneously warms and breaks her heart. She’s not ready for any of this.

 

The skies grow darker as she formulates her response. Forcing her voice to stay even, she says, “Well, we’ll cross that bridge if we get to it. It was just a new invention from another writer, and I wanted to see if it’d actually work. I wasn’t thinking about it being too soon.”

 

She feels like utter shit. None of this is what she expected, and she’s worried she’s become tangled in a web that she won’t be able to escape. Avoiding his gaze, Lily busies herself by placing the remaining contents of their lunch back in the basket.

 

“We should get back,” she scrambles to her feet.

 

“Lily,” James grabs her by the arm before she can put more space between them, pulling her close. “I really like you. You’ve been so hot and cold this week, and I don’t know what to do, but I don’t want to ruin this. Not if you feel the same way.”

 

Lily hesitates. It’s the second chance in five minutes that would allow her to end it right then and there, yet she doesn’t. She opens her mouth to tell him this isn’t working, but then she thinks of how much fun they’ve had over the past week, despite putting him through hell. Then, her mind wanders to his parents and how sweet and kind they are to her, and Lily’s mouth snaps shut. 

 

She can’t do it. Is it can’t? Or is it that she doesn’t want to?

 

They’re standing there, nose to nose, as James waits for her answer. He never gets one, though, because as soon as Lily opens her mouth, the heavens open up, and they’re caught in a downpour.

“Fuck!” James shouts as he pulls away.

 

They both hop off the blanket as James wraps it up and shoves it in the basket. He banishes it to his house, along with his broom and holds out his hand.

 

“It’ll be faster if we apparate.”

 

Lily reaches out to take his hand and moments later finds herself in the Potters’ garden. It’s still raining at their house, but not like the torrential downpour that opened up just moments ago by the ocean. She’s completely soaked through to the bone, and she’s certain no drying charm will suffice in making her more comfortable.

 

Not that she cares. When she looks at James, she can’t help but think she’s had the best day she can remember having in years, even despite the heavy topic of conversation they’d left behind at the beach. For a moment, she allows herself to forget about the article, and forces herself to live in the moment. She’s immediately swept away in the sense of comfort and feeling at home. The fact that James could be open and honest with her causes her heart to soar, and she mourns the potential relationship that forms in her mind.

 

She feels James take her hand as he gives a gentle tug, pulling her toward the house. They enter through the back door, and the house is quiet. Lily does her best to slip off her trainers, ignoring the squish of excess water. Her socks are plastered to her skin, and she decides to peel them off as well. James follows suit before venturing into the kitchen. 

 

She trails behind to see he’s picked a note up off the counter. A quick glance tells her that his parents have gone to the neighbors for a few hours and will be back around five. Lily checks her watch to see that it’s barely three, giving them two more hours of alone time. Panic sets in as she realizes she’ll have no choice but to answer him now.

 

James sets the note back down and turns to Lily. She can sense the growing want and desperation in his hazel eyes, despite the fact that he’s been a perfect gentleman all week. At this point, Lily’s not sure what else she can do to force him to ditch her before the ten days are up, until an idea forms in her mind. 

 

Maybe I can use the other night as the breaking point. We technically ended things after I crashed his boy’s night.

 

Yes, that was exactly the angle she could take. She can keep the events the same but muddle the details. She’ll write that James had already invited her to meet his parents before their explosive fight at his flat, and after an awkward overnight stay at his parents, he lets her down easy, saying things aren’t going to work out as he drops her off at home.

 

“Evans, you alright?” James’s smooth voice cuts through her thoughts.

 

“Hmm?” 

 

“I asked if you wanted to have a shower. You know, warm up from the cold rain and get out of those wet clothes?” He’s back to being the perfect gentleman again, and she’s surprised he hasn’t brought the conversation back around yet.

 

“Oh, um, yeah, sure,” Lily responds.

 

She can’t help but notice how James’s still soaked t-shirt clings to the muscles on his chest and stomach, and a mixture of thrill and trepidation courses through her body. Lily has tried her best to quell the growing want and need for James over the last week, continually finding diversions that completely ruin the mood and activities that keep them in a group of people so that she can avoid accidentally jumping into bed with him. But now, there are no distractions, what with an empty house, and Lily knows her willpower is waning.

 

What is happening? 

 

Lily grapples with a rush of feelings she hasn’t felt in years as they head upstairs to the guest bedroom where she slept last night. This is all because she allowed herself to take the article out of the equation. It has to be. Well, that and how open and honest he’d been with her today. Now, she’s fighting to keep the last string of self-restraint from snapping in her face.

 

She can vaguely hear James drone on about temperamental water pressure, and how she has to position the handle just right to achieve the perfect mixture of hot and cold water.

 

When they reach the room, Lily walks over to the window seat where her duffel bag is and sits down. She feels light-headed. The realization hits her all at once, just like the rainstorm they were caught in moments ago. His words echo in her mind.

 

James Potter cares about her. He really, truly cares. Enough to make her think he never stopped caring at all. Any other guy would have packed his bags to head for the hills after her stunt at the quidditch match, or after the dinner debacle, and if not then, surely when she embarrassed him in front of his friends. And yet, James has stayed. That has to mean something .  

 

“Lily, are you sure you’re okay?”

 

Lily . James rarely calls her Lily. She looks up to see that he’s squatting down in front of her, a look of concern on his face as he searches her eyes.

 

“Fuck, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said anything. If you’re having second thoughts, I can take you home. My parents will understand.” His hand reaches up as the pad of his thumb grazes her cheek.

 

Despite his regret, Lily sees the James she fell for during their sixth year. She recalls the best friend who picked up Remus’s prefect duties when he was ill. The older student who had no qualms about walking the younger students to their classes or helping them with their homework. The quidditch captain who cared more about his team than just winning. 

 

Lily doesn’t want to play this game anymore. He walked back into her life for a reason, and even though it was fun to mess with him at first, she’s tired of it all. She finally admits to herself that she wants him—desperately—and is no longer concerned with the article.

 

His face is close to hers, and that’s all Lily needs. She leans in and captures his lips in a searing kiss. Lily feels him start to pull back, his eyes wide as she knows he’s attempting to determine whether this is what she wants. She gives the slightest of nods and waits for him to make the next move. It can’t always be her. Yet, even as she resolves to let him take the lead, she finds herself whispering,

 

“I really like you, too.”

 

Before she knows it, his mouth is back on hers as his fingers become tangled in her damp hair. Years of pent up lust and longing flow out of her and into their passionate embrace that has her kissing him with everything she has. In one swift moment, James pulls away to stand up, bringing Lily to her feet along with him. Raising her arms above her head, she dares him to strip the wet shirt from her body. The feeling of his fingers is tantalizing as he plays with the hem of it for a moment before forcing the clingy fabric away from her skin and up over her head. 

 

His hands are warm as they trail behind the fabric, and Lily misses the sensation of his touch as he discards her shirt to the floor. Reaching for his shirt now, Lily takes her time to feel the ripple of his muscles as she lifts it up. She shivers, but not from being cold. As James’s shirt joins hers on the ground, Lily makes quick work of shedding her jeans as he undoes his belt. 

 

James’s hands return to her body as they’re both left only in their undergarments. Lily can feel the return of the sun in the sky as it shines through the window. He lifts her up, his hands supporting her under her bum, and Lily wraps her legs around his torso, allowing him to carry her over to the bed. 

 

Lily allows herself to give in to the lustful fog that is clouding her mind as James grabs his wand and casts a silencing spell on the door. He tosses his wand to the side before leaning over her.

 

“You’re sure?” His voice sounds tentative.

 

Lily manages a firm nod. “Yes. God, yes, please, James.”

 

His name feels so right on her lips, much like how his body feels against hers.

 

“Merlin, Lily, you have no idea how long I’ve wanted this; wanted you .”

 

“Me too.”

 

She doesn’t mean to let that slip and isn’t sure it’s the right thing to say, given how he’s staring at her. But it’s not a lie, not like most everything else she’s managed this past week. This moment is as real as it gets, and Lily’s not about to waste it.

 

“Lily...” James’s voice trails off, and it sounds as if he’s about to say something loaded.

 

“James, please,” she moans desperately.

 

Reaching up, she pulls him down by his neck, crashing his lips onto hers. They can talk later. Right now, she needs to feel him. To know this is real for him, too. Her hands drift across his back before hooking into his pants, pulling them down. He matches her motions, making quick work of stripping her undergarments away. 

 

There’s nothing left separating them now, as Lily's bright green eyes meet his. 

 

This is it. She knows he can feel how poignant this is for them, too. The silence hangs between them before James leans in and presses a soft kiss to her lips. His gaze remains trained on hers as she feels his hips move forward. Lily’s eyes flutter shut at the moment they become one. There’s no doubt in her mind that this is what she’s been waiting far too long for. No one else could ever have the same effect on her, and it’s blatantly clear to her now. 

 

She forces all thoughts from her mind as she relishes in the moment, in the feeling of being connected with James Potter, of feeling like she’s home.

Chapter 12: Saturday Pt. 1 (Day 10)

Later that evening, Lily’s standing in front of her flat after apparating to the nearby alley around the corner. James insists on escorting her home, but doesn’t follow her up the steps. She looks up at him through her lashes.

 

“You didn’t have to apparate with me, you know.”

 

“I don’t mind. Plus, it’s an opportunity to spend a few extra minutes with you.”

 

Their banter has returned, and Lily feels her cheeks flush in response to the his endearing words.

 

“Well, thank you. This comes as a shock to me, but I had fun,” she chuckles as she shoots James a playful smile.

 

“As did I, Evans, as did I.” He shoves his hands in his pockets, and his feet fidget as they kick at an imaginary stone on the pavement.

 

“But in all seriousness, it was lovely meeting your parents and spending time with them. They’re wonderful,” Lily’s voice is soft and sincere as she reaches out and places a hand on his forearm.

 

He turns to her and meets her gaze, lacking the confidence she’s so used to seeing as he asks, “So, Lily, there’s this work event tomorrow. I know I should have asked you sooner, but I didn’t want to scare you off. Zabini’s Jewelers is hosting a gala, and I’m supposed to find out if I’ll secure the pitch. I’d love it if you were my date.”

 

Something deep within her is screaming ‘no,’ but she’s not sure why. Technically, it’s the tenth day, so Lily has one more shot at pushing James away for the article. Yet, after everything that’s transpired this afternoon, she no longer wants to. 

 

There’s a niggling sensation that wants to tell him about the article now. It would be so easy to lay it all on the table, to tell him the real reason why she’s been acting crazy and how she no longer wants to fulfill the premise of the article. He’s more important to her, and their complicated history no longer matters. They can have a fresh start now and make a go of things—for real. Maybe he’ll even offer to help her come up with some elaborate plan to make people think he’s dumped her so that the article will be a success, and she can keep seeing him once it’s all over. James was always good at scheming in school, so he’d surely have an idea or two.

 

But what if he doesn’t take the news well? She doesn’t want to ruin the day they’ve just shared, nor does she want to risk losing him. Not when she has no idea where their relationship stands. Lily decides that it will be best to wait until after the gala. She’ll be open and honest with him about everything, even about wanting to date him back in their seventh year. 

 

“I’d love to go. You’re lucky I happen to have a fancy evening gown tucked away in my closet for a rainy day. Otherwise, I’d be peeved to find out you’ve waited until the night before to ask me.”

 

A wide grin appears on James face as he gives a whole-hearted laugh. He draws his hands out of his pockets and wraps them around Lily’s waist. She sighs, feeling content in his arms as he presses a feather-light kiss to her lips.

 

“I knew I could count on you. I’ll pick you up at seven?”

 

Lily nods, and James kisses her forehead before pulling away. “Sweet dreams, Evans. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

 

She smiles before turning and walking up the steps of her building with plans to owl Marlene and Alice about tomorrow. Lily trusts her best friends to the core and knows they’ll keep her secret and help her pull out all the stops to wow James. 

 

 

The next morning, Lily rises early in anticipation of the day ahead. Throwing her hair up in a messy bun, she decides to grab breakfast at a nearby bakery before heading into the office to put the finishing touches on her article. If Amelia is there—which she usually is the day before a deadline—Lily plans to ask her about the shift she’s developed for the article. She’ll feel more comfortable knowing she has her boss’s stamp of approval before polishing up her story. 

 

Lily doesn’t make it a habit of cutting it so close to a deadline, but this time it was necessary. The office is quiet, but there are a handful of columnists and editors typing away in their cubicles, no doubt intending to submit their articles this morning so they can enjoy the rest of their weekend. After dropping her things off at her desk, Lily walks down the hall to Amelia’s office and sees her boss reviewing this month’s cover page on a large easel. 

 

Her heart sinks as she sees the title of her article in large bold letters on the bottom left-hand corner. An enchanted heart draws itself around the title. A zig-zag is added to the middle once the full heart is drawn, and then the heart breaks in half and disappears before the image starts over again on a loop.

 

Lily knocks on the door to get Amelia’s attention. Her boss’s face lights up when she looks to see her standing there.

 

“Lily! Come in. How’s the article?”

 

“I—well, actually Amelia, it’s about the article. I can’t write it. Not for what it’s—”

 

Amelia shakes her head and cuts Lily off. So much for rehearsing her explanation over and over on the way here.

 

“That’s not an option, Lily. You’re the How To girl, and this is your assignment. Do you see this cover? It’s going to print in twenty-four hours with your article as one of the headlines.”

 

“But—”

 

“There are no buts about this. I pay you to write How To articles, and that’s what you’re going to do. I don’t care how it gets done, but you need to figure it out. Your tactics have been brilliant. No wizard could possibly put up with all that you’ve planned. Your creativity is like no other. Are you worried because he dumped you before the ten days were up?”

 

“No, that’s not it,” Lily’s shoulders slump as she realizes Amelia won’t even bother to hear her explanation.

 

So much for an accommodating boss.

 

“I’m sorry, Lily, but I’m counting on this article, and if anyone can do it, it’s you. Now, go on and get working.”

 

Lily takes the cue and exits the office. Amelia’s words run through her head a few times as she formulates a plan B.

 

I don’t care how it gets done…No wizard could possibly put up with all that you’ve planned . 

 

The words stick out like a sore thumb, and Lily facepalms at the ‘A ha!’ moment. She sits down at her desk and begins typing. Her confidence returns as she knows exactly what direction this How To article is going to take.

That evening, Lily bids goodbye to Alice and Marlene before taking one last look in the mirror. Her auburn hair is pulled back in a delicate chignon, with a simple braid that wraps around the side of her head from a deep part as an added layer of sophistication for the evening. Marlene took care to give Lily’s makeup a natural look, highlighting her green eyes with a bronze eyeliner and a silvery sage shadow.

 

Alice insisted that Lily choose the emerald green evening gown—the one she’d purchased for an event last autumn, but couldn’t attend after she’d fallen ill. The satin dress boasts a romantic deep-V neckline with a simple bodice that transitions into a trumpet skirt, hugging her curves in all the right ways. Her neck feels bare with it being so exposed, but James owled her this morning to tell her not to wear any jewelry.

 

Lily checks the clock on the wall just as the hands click into place at the seven o’clock hour. Picking up her clutch and tucking her wand into the special pocket that’s been sewn into the dress, Lily exits her flat and heads down to meet James. She steps out of the main door onto the stoop and looks ahead to see James standing at the bottom of the steps. 

 

His hands are in the pockets of his sleek black dress robes, and his hair is less messy than usual, though it still has its signature flair of unruly behavior. It even looks as though he’s upgraded—or perhaps cleaned—his glasses for the occasion. But what strikes Lily the most is the way he’s looking at her, as if she’s the only one in the world, despite the bustling street behind him and the cat-calls she can hear at the end of the block. Her insides tingle with glee, and any apprehension she’s developed throughout the day has melted away.

 

Lifting the hem of her skirt so that she doesn’t trip, Lily walks down the steps and stops at the bottom.

 

“You look beautiful,” he says when she reaches him.

 

James holds out his hand, and she allows him to help her off the final stair. When her fingers slide into his, Lily imagines a future with James Potter as her forever date. Her first instinct is to panic at the thought because it’s way too soon for that, but a small voice in the back of her mind poses a question that calms her racing mind.

 

Is it really?

 

She’s known him for ten years. Watched him grow up and become less of a cocky prat. James is still very much the same person she remembers falling for as their sixth year progressed, if not a more mature version now. The way he’s looking at her tells Lily everything she needs to know.

 

James has always worn his emotions on his sleeve, and this moment is no different. There’s a tenderness in his eyes that indicates so much more than simple attraction. When he looks at her, it’s as if he sees her for who she is and accepts her for it. 

 

Lily’s heart is full at the thought, and as James leans in to place a gentle kiss on her cheek, she feels complete.

 

You love him .

 

The revelation causes her to want to run straight back up the steps to her flat and lock the door behind her, but they don’t. Instead, she tilts her head and captures his lips in an effort to show him how she feels without saying a word. 

 

He smiles against her mouth. “We should get going before I say sod it and skive off the whole thing.” His voice is husky and tempting, and Lily allows herself to think of what they could get up to instead of the event they must dutifully attend.

 

As they walk to the apparition spot, Lily resolves to tell him about the article first thing in the morning. She’ll admit to everything, including how she feels, before showing him an extra copy of the story she’s already submitted for publishing. 

 

Once they’ve apparated to the venue, Lily opens her eyes to see an expansive foyer in front of her. It reminds her of Abbott’s. She’s sure the white marble floors are top of the line, as are the chandeliers above. Floor to ceiling windows make up the exterior wall of the building where muggle traffic moves about outside, unaware of the magical event happening on the other side of the glass panes. Stately columns stand in particular spots throughout the room to help separate the space for specific purposes.

 

To Lily’s left, there are tables set up with sleek black tablecloths covering them, the Zabini Jewels logo glittering proudly on the overhang. Witches and wizards alike are browsing the selection of diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, among other prominent jewels that are on display.

 

James nudges Lily as he notices her eyeing the table. “Go on over and choose what you’d like to wear.”

 

“W-what?” Did Lily just hear him right? 

 

“Yeah, attendees can pick out a statement piece to wear for the evening. That’s why I told you not to wear anything to go with that beautiful dress.” 

 

James is mere centimeters away from her ear, whispering the words as if it’s a well-kept secret between them. Gooseflesh appears on her arms as a shiver runs down her spine. His words aren’t sexual in the slightest, but that doesn’t stop the heat from pooling in her belly. She’s never wanted an evening to end so soon, but Lily’s more interested in what the after-party will entail.

 

“I’ll get us some drinks at the bar and meet you at the table. I believe we’re sitting at number fifteen.”

 

Lily’s eyes flutter shut as James kisses her cheek, and opens them again as soon as the contact is broken. His hand pulls away from its home on the small of her back as he steps off toward the bar. Lily forces her feet to carry her to the tables so she can pick some jewelry and make it back to James’s side soon.

 

A deep voice interrupts her browsing just moments after she’s arrived at the display. A dark-skinned man with blue-grey eyes greets her. “Your gown complements your eyes.” 

 

“Thank you.” Lily feels her face flush at the man’s compliment.

 

“I know just the piece that will complete your look,” his eyes twinkle with the light of the crystals from the chandelier as he turns to his assistant. “Maurice, bring me the Isobel.”

 

Lily observes the interaction as the second man nods and scurries off to another table before returning with the most beautiful necklace Lily’s ever laid eyes on. Impressive diamonds are chained together before meeting a vibrant tear-drop emerald in the center.

 

“I couldn’t possibly…” Lily trails off.

 

“Nonsense! It looks as if it was made for you, and since I’m the owner of these precious jewels, you have to do what I say,” the man gives a wicked grin. He holds up his hand as he introduces himself, “Theodore Zabini.”

 

Lily shakes Zabini’s hand as his assistant holds out the box holding the necklace. Zabini is careful as he takes the necklace out of the case and motions for Lily to turn around. She obliges so that he can clasp the chain around her neck.

 

“Thank you,” Lily isn’t sure what else to say.

 

“It is no problem. These jewels are meant to be worn. Now, go on and show that beauty off, will you? It’s not every day you can wear eighty-four carat diamonds and one of the five Emeralds in all of Europe.”

 

If Lily’s eyes could pop out of her head, they would. She mutters another thank you as she tries not to focus on the necklace’s worth. She shares her information with Maurice, who writes it down, reminding her to return the necklace before she leaves. 

 

Her eyes wander around the room as she makes her way to the table. James is still otherwise occupied at the bar, talking to a woman who seems to be in her late fifties and wearing an absolutely atrocious bright blue wig that matches the turqoise swirls in her black gown.

 

A smile graces her face as she takes note of how his attention remains on the woman, entertaining her wild hand gestures and over-dramatic storytelling effects as if she’s the most interesting person in the world. Lily almost misses his glance in her direction, a twinkle in his eye as he checks on her across the ballroom.

 

“He’s a handsome one, isn’t he?” a gruff voice interrupts her path. “One of my best salesmen, too, but don’t tell him I said that.”

 

Lily is taken aback by the man standing in front of her. He’s dressed the part for the evening, but he hardly looks like a man who works in advertising. His face is scarred, and the bright blue eyeball that zips around in every direction suggests he’s lost his own at some point in his life. In an attempt to be aware of her facial expression, Lily softens her gaze and responds with a confused, “Who?”

 

“Potter, of course. I saw you arrive with him, so I assume you’re his date?”

 

“Oh, yes. Yes, I am!” Lily recovers and realizes this must be James’s boss, the ex-Auror. “You must be Mr. Moody.”

 

“Call me Alastor, lass. What do you think of Potter? Is he as charming as he makes himself out to be?”

 

Lily feels her cheeks heat up again as she flashes a warm smile. “He can be full of himself sometimes, can’t he?” she jokes.

 

“A beauty with a sense of humor? He’s lucky to have snagged you.”

 

“Well, it’s still early. We’ve only been seeing each other for ten days…” Lily stops herself from adding more. She doesn’t need to divulge any specifics of their relationship to his boss.

 

“Surely, that’s enough time for you to determine whether he could be the one or not. You know, all that ‘love at first sight’ rubbish witches put so much stock in.”

 

Lily inhales a sharp intake of breath. “I—how did you—I didn’t say anything out loud, did I?”

 

A throaty laugh escapes the man’s mouth. “You didn’t have to. Anyone can see it on your face. You love him, don’t you?”

 

It’s one thing to admit it to herself, in her own private thoughts. But why does this man, who is practically a stranger to her, want to know?

 

“I—no…I don’t know,” Lily tries to sound convincing, but her voice betrays her. 

 

She’s fallen for James Potter, and now that she’s accepted it, it’s ten times harder to hide. Something tells her it would be easier to conceal a dragon than to keep her feelings for James from the world now.

 

Alastor doesn’t respond but simply passes her a knowing smile—if you can call it that, as it looks more like a grimace. “Congratulations. I expect to be invited to the wedding.”

 

If Lily doesn’t see his swift exit, she’d believe he disappeared right in front of her face. She feels dizzy from the conversation and moves to find her seat. Letting the world fade away, she focuses on her breathing and takes a few sips of water.

 

James is nowhere to be found as Lily scans the room for any other familiar faces. She thinks she sees those two witches who stopped by the office a couple of weeks ago but doesn’t linger on the thought for too long. People are beginning to fill the seats at the empty tables around her, and Lily feels less guilty about sitting instead of mingling. If only James would join her soon.

 

As if sensing her loneliness, Remus and Sirius sidle in on either side of her, appearing out of nowhere to occupy the previously vacant chairs.

 

“I didn’t realize you two were going to be here tonight!” 

 

Lily’s surprise is met with a grin from Sirius. Remus, on the other hand, looks as if he can relax for the first time in months, which strikes Lily as odd.

 

“And we’re just as happy to see you, too!” Sirius places an arm around Lily’s shoulder and pulls her in for a side hug.

 

“What, you think I’d leave James hanging on his big night? I want him to win the pitch as much as you do.”

 

Remus and Sirius exchange a look, and Lily scrunches her brows in confusion. It’s not that she’s surprised by their silent communication—that’s always been a common occurrence with the marauders, but there is something triumphant radiating between them as they share a high five over her head.

 

“I always knew I liked you, Evans. You could be a marauder yet!” Sirius boasts.

 

There’s something in Sirius’s tone that causes Lily to look between the two. What does her accompanying James to the gala and his pitch have to do with being a marauder? Maybe their relationship is finally cementing her place in the group? She chooses to turn to Remus for clarification.

 

“I don’t understand. What’s he on about?”

 

“The bet, of course,” Remus says as if it’s the most natural explanation in the world. “I have to admit I wasn’t expecting James to let you in on it, but you’re playing the part exceptionally well.”

 

Remus’s tongue is loose, and there’s no doubt he’s had a few glasses of champagne. His explanation isn’t as straightforward as Lily would like, and now she’s curious about this so-called bet. But how does she ask without admitting that she has no idea what they’re talking about?

 

“Well, it’s nice to see him care about something other than quidditch.” 

 

It’s less risky to go this route since Lily can play off the things that drove her crazy about James at Hogwarts, and it seems to pay off as Sirius chimes in with a hearty laugh and nod of his head.

 

“Well, this pitch could make his career, and the last thing any of us wanted was for Narcissa and Andromeda to steal it away from him. Their fatal flaw was choosing you,” Remus holds his glass up in cheers as Lily lets out a hollow laugh.

 

She’d been chosen for a bet? But what were they betting on? It doesn’t take long to find out as Sirius’s loose tongue puts the final puzzle piece in place.

 

“I don’t know how you’ve done it, but it’s completely believable—pretending to be in love with Prongs. You’re quite the actress, Evans. Well done!”

 

“Yes, just keep on with the act until the night is through. We don’t need them catching on.” Remus waves down a server for another round of champagne as Sirius moves to the seat next to him.

 

It takes several playbacks of their words for Lily to comprehend what they mean. When the realization hits, Lily feels as though a knife is carving her heart out in slow, careful movements. Her entire body feels limp as she does everything in her power to keep her face passive. 

 

It was all a lie. He’d been using her after all. The cocky son of a bitch had bet the Zabini pitch on the premise that he’d get her to fall in love with him. 

 

And much to Lily’s dismay, he’d won on all accounts.

Chapter 13: Saturday Pt. 2 (Day 10)

Notes:

Let's twist the knife a little further, but this time from James's POV

James finds himself becoming distracted as he makes his way to the bar. It takes a monumental effort to pry him away from Lily in the first place, but he figures if they divide and conquer, then they’ll be back together sooner. Finding an opening in the crowd, James slips in and leans an arm over the ebony bar as he keeps his body turned out in an effort to make sure Lily’s all right. He catches the bartender’s eye.

 

“Two champagnes, please.” His request receives a nod from the bartender as he turns back to see what Lily is gravitating toward at the tables.

 

James’s horrendous eyesight prevents him from seeing much, and he curses his shit genetics in that respect. He knows he’ll get a better sense of her jewelry style up close when they meet at the table, but that will make his secret mission less inconspicuous. Everything stopped being a game for him yesterday while they were on the coast at Thorpeness. The entire plan he’d concocted went off without a hitch until she opened up about her life post graduation. 

 

It broke James’s heart to think she’d struggled and hadn’t reached out to any of the Marauders. Not even Remus, who she was closest with. The vulnerability in her voice told James that this meant more to her, too. He hadn’t meant to tell her about his fear about infertility, either, and yet he’d forgotten the entire plan to woo her without making things too real as his secret spilled out of his mouth. Not only that, but he’d shown his hand, telling her how much he cares, and hoping after the fact that it isn’t a premature admission.

 

The wounded look on her face before the rainstorm broke out is forever etched in his mind, and he was worried he ruined it, especially given how spacy she’d been upon arriving back at the house. That was all he needed to throw himself back into game mode, apologizing for admitting too much, and showing her that he was still the perfect gentleman who wasn’t expecting more than her company, making sure she was alright. 

 

But then, she’d taken him by surprise with that kiss. As if that wasn’t enough to do him in, then she told him how he felt and all bets were off. Nothing else mattered in that moment except for him and Lily. He is pretty sure he won right then and there as he carried her to the bed, and he can’t wait to gloat about it to the Black sisters.

 

James is riding high on the clouds, and never wants to come down off his broom. By the end of the night, not only will he be crowned the winner, with Zabini as his new client, but he’s confident that he’ll be able to continue a real relationship with Lily Evans.

 

As if having the best of both worlds in his mind isn’t enough, James notices that Lily’s interacting with Zabini. His eyebrows shoot up into his fringe, trying to determine what they’re discussing, but before he can monitor what’s happening, Theodore Zabini’s eccentric other half advances on him.

 

Making a show of grasping James’s attention, Aurora Zabini places a turquoise-gloved hand on his arm. “I’ve been trying to get to the bar all evening. Could I persuade you to order me a whiskey sour?”

 

“Of course, anything for you Mrs. Zabini,” James smiles and lays out all the extra charm he can muster. This could be his chance to further cement his pitch to the source.

 

“And a whiskey sour for the beautiful lady,” James calls to the bartender, who places his first order in front of him.

 

“You are too kind,” Aurora flashes him a seductive smile, and James plays along.

 

There’s nothing wrong with a little flirting to soften the woman up and make her feel good. He’s confident enough with Lily to know she’d never accuse him of something as preposterous as cheating.

 

“I must say, your jewels are exquisite,” he tips his champagne glass in a silent toast to the impressive pieces that are on display throughout the ballroom.

 

“Why, thank you. We hope to ‘make dreams come true’ for some of our guests tonight after they’ve seen the pieces we offer.”

 

James’s chest swells with pride as he hears the slogan he created flow from her mouth.

 

“I’m certainly hoping I can make some of my own dreams come true tonight, that’s for sure.”

 

“Dear boy, don’t make me blush.” Mrs. Zabini’s hand clutches her chest as she inches closer.

 

James hopes it’s all an act, since his dream comment was meant for Lily. He deflects her advances just to be on the safe side.

 

“It would be an honor to work with you to help your business thrive. If you liked my slogan, I’m sure there’s more we’ll agree on.” 

 

His words give off a double-entendre, but it’s clear that’s what he must do to keep the attention of the dame standing before him. Her eyes sparkle like the diamonds around her neck as her hand plays with the lapel of his robes.

 

“I am sure a business agreement can be arranged. My husband has already mentioned a significant uptick in sales from this event alone. You have a strong knack for this, Mr. Potter.”

 

James is startled that she knows his name.

 

“Yes, Mr. Potter, I am familiar with you and your family. And in all seriousness, the business is eager to partner with Alastor’s Ads as long as you manage our account. I have nothing against the Black sisters, per se, but Narcissa’s husband rubs me the wrong way, and I don’t need him getting involved.”

 

Shockwaves flow through James’s system. The Zabinis wanted him at the helm! This night couldn’t get any better.

 

“Now, I believe you have a beautiful young woman that needs tending to,” Aurora nods to Lily as she’s crossing the room. 

 

James catches her eye, and they share a brief smile before he turns his attention back to the Zabini Jewels matriarch.

 

“Thank you, Mrs. Zabini,” James takes her drink off the bar and hands it to her.

 

“We’ll be in touch soon, I’m sure. And please, call me Aurora.” She winks at him as he takes the two glasses of champagne and sets out to return to his date.

 

James weaves through the mingling crowd, his eyes scanning the room for any sight of his gorgeous muse. He catches a glimpse of Sirius and Remus chatting up Narcissa and Andromeda for some unknown reason, but he doesn’t give it much thought. They’re probably just upset that he’s going to win, and there’s nothing they can do about it except taunt his friends.

 

He turns to check the seating area and almost bumps into a woman in a yellow dress, avoiding a near-miss of champagne ruining her expensive attire. The cause of the potential collision can be blamed on finding Lily. He finally spots her, seated at their table, lost in her own thoughts, and the way the light hits her face makes it look as though there’s a reflection of a halo around her head. ‘Angel’ isn’t a word he’s ever used to describe her, but he’s sure that the falling from heaven pick-up line may have been used in a desperate attempt to grasp her attention during fifth year.

 

She’s so fucking beautiful . And James can’t deny how head over heels in love he is. 

 

“Who?” A woman in black with a tiara adorning her dark bob follows James’s eye line to Lily.

 

He’d never seen the woman before in his life and wasn’t even aware he’d been talking. Wait, did I say that out loud?

 

The woman chuckles. “Yes, you did. Are you speaking of the woman in the emerald dress across the room?”

 

James doesn’t embarrass easily, but there’s something about the woman that has him feeling a tad sheepish at his accidental verbal admission. He’d rather Lily be the one to hear those words and not some random woman.

 

“Er, yeah, I am.”

 

Much to his chagrin, the woman loops her arm through his and turns him back toward the way he came. What will it take to shake all these middle-aged women off so he can get to his girl?

 

“Ah, that’s Lily Evans,” the witch flashes a bright smile and James is taken aback by the fact that this woman seems to know her. “She’s my How To girl.”

 

“Your what?” James wrinkles his nose in confusion as he searches her face for some sort of explanation.

 

“My How To girl. I’m Amelia Bones, editor in chief of Witch Weekly . Lily covers our How To articles each month.” The woman lets out a mirthful laugh.

 

James knows Lily writes for Witch Weekly , but he struggles to wrap his head around the fact that she’s being assigned such trivial articles. No wonder she doesn’t seem happy with her position. With a mind like hers, she’s meant to do so much more in the world.

 

“She’s truly brilliant. Get this, for our upcoming issue, she’s been tasked with losing a wizard in ten days.”

 

James makes an abrupt stop and pulls back at the sound of Amelia’s words. His insides are screaming WHAT?! But he forces himself to play it cool. The way he tears his arm away from the witch with the information is questionable enough.

 

“Oh? What does that involve?”

 

Amelia’s face lights up with glee as she delves into her explanation. “Well, you see, she’s found this guy and has been pretending to date him—well, no, she actually is dating him!—and she’s been pulling off all these maniacal schemes to get him to dump her. All to help women know what turns a man off. She’s made him walk out of a playoff match, moved boxes of belongings into his flat, stormed out on him in defence of Elf rights, and get this, she’s even named his—his—” 

 

It’s all James can do to keep a firm grasp on the champagne flutes in his hands to keep them from slipping out and crashing to the floor. With every detail the woman describes, he feels embarrassment and dread roll over him in waves. He’s sure if anyone could see him right now, they’d think his puppy was just snatched away by a hippogriff. 

 

Amelia’s fit of giggles dies away as she looks up at James. “Oh, no...you’re Pookie…” She covers her face in an effort to shy away as she turns and disappears from view.

 

Well, at least she hasn’t used my real name around the office.

 

The shock of the blindsided news gradually turns into irrational anger. One that he hasn’t felt since Snape called Lily the M-word at school. 

 

She fucking played me. This is all a game to her.

 

And to think he actually believed she might be falling for him. The room is spinning as every memory of the past ten days crashes into him at full force. Planting random items around his flat, feigning exhaustion to leave the match, making a scene over James’s takeaway.

 

And then the biggest waves of all sweep the imaginary sand right out from underneath him. He’s pounded back to back with no relief, and he can’t make the thoughts stop. That first kiss behind the dumpster in the alley was only meant to lure him in. The charms and insinuations about starting a family was all a lie. 

 

All a lie .

 

He’s never felt more sick to his stomach. So much for taking Lily home tonight and asking for something more. James rubs his temple as he thinks of the champagne that’s chilling in the charmed ice bucket, the rose petals that are sprinkled on his bed, and the candles just waiting to be lit. What the hell is he going to do now?

 

There’s a tap of a wand as sonorous is used to get everyone’s attention. Moody is standing on the small stage in front of Celestina Warbeck’s band, addressing the guests who have now settled in their seats. He looks back to the table where Lily was sitting, but she’s no longer there. Remus and Sirius are, though, and both are wearing looks of confusion. 

 

James’s head swivels around the room as he’s searching for where she could have gone when he hears his name. Applause breaks out, and the entire crowd is looking in his direction. He stands there for an awkward moment, attempting to smile at the crowd as he tries to slink to his seat without any further attention, and that’s when he hears her voice.

 

“Yes, let’s all celebrate James Potter. The man who can surely win any bet that’s thrown his way. Let’s make this night all about him and his achievements.” 

 

No sooner does she appear on stage, raising a glass in his honor, she turns and stalks off. 

 

Like hell she’s going anywhere . James makes a swift cross of the room and cuts her off.

 

“Oh, no, no, no, where do you think you’re going? You wouldn’t want to drive me crazy with some barmy excuse about needing to leave or not being able to eat the food here, would you?” 

 

His breathing is heavy as his words cut through the uncomfortable silence as if someone has cast Diffindo . Lily’s eyes widen in shock as his subtle remark registers with her.

 

Then, in an instant, he watches as her eyes darken and her nostrils flare as she gives his retort right back to him. “This time, I don’t need an excuse to leave.”

 

She turns and storms off as James follows. There is no way he’s letting her just walk away. He deserves an explanation. Even with her clutch in her hand, she reaches up to unclasp the necklace that he never got to look at and half throws it at the man standing behind the booth.

 

James veers right, expecting Lily to head to the apparition spot they arrived from and is caught off-guard when she heads in the opposite direction instead. The security guards are crying out in vague warnings about exiting the muggle way and being unable to gain re-entry, but James could give two fucks about that right now. He is not letting Evans get away, not without an explanation.

 

“What are you doing?” James shouts at her amidst the traffic and street vendors beyond.

 

“What does it look like I’m doing? Getting the hell away from you! I don’t need to be paraded around like the prize that helped you seal the deal in your work endeavors, Potter,” Lily snaps.

 

“Oh, and you think I’ve enjoyed being your little dating experiment for the past week and a half? ‘James won’t mind if I drive him out of his mind for the sake of my superficial magazine article,’” he mocks her voice as if she’s talking to her friends at the office.

 

“Don’t you dare! Don’t you even dare—”

 

James doesn’t bother waiting for her to say whatever she’s about to. “So what, this was all an act? You weren’t planning on telling me at all? Merlin, that’s what you were doing in Abbott’s that night, weren’t you? You were scouting for a bloke to make miserable! Is that the only reason you agreed to get dinner with me? You wanted to mess me around?”

 

The questions are flowing out of him uncontrollably. He’s not even sure he wants answers to anything.

 

“Yes, and I was just ‘some girl’ you picked up in a bar,” she shoots back, completely ignoring every single accusation that’s rolled off his tongue. “No, wait, I wasn’t just ‘some girl’ because you already knew me. So, you thought if you put on the same charm you did in Hogwarts that I’d fall madly in love with you and realize I couldn’t live without you. Is that it? You didn’t think to tell your colleagues we had a history?”

 

“What history, Lily? We were never together at Hogwarts! You turned me down every single time. The Black sisters clearly chose you to sabotage me from the beginning! Of course, I jumped at the chance to ask you out! Bet or not, I never stopped fancying you.” 

 

James lets out an exasperated sigh. All the work he’d put into trying to tame his hair is for naught now as his hands are pulling at the black strands. He knows he should try harder to make her see it wasn’t all about the bet for him, but he’s more concerned with getting answers from her. 

 

“Ah, so congratulations are in order since you’ve accomplished an impossible task.” Lily turns to the passersby around them and shouts, “Look, everyone! James Potter has succeeded in getting Lily Evans to fall for him! All for his job!”

 

James is so angry that he only vaguely registers her admission to falling for him. Not that he’s convinced she’s even sincere about it. Instead, he lets his irrational thoughts win the war raging in his head.

 

“Yeah? Well, maybe you can include that as a fun twist in your story!”

 

“Maybe I will!” James half expects Lily to stick out her tongue along with her retort, which fuels him even more.

 

He’s giving her all of the chances to explain, yet with every volley of the conversation, she diverts and keeps her reasoning close to her chest. It’s all James needs to see there’s no hope for them, and he’s done fighting. Ten years he’s waited, only to see that the chance with Lily Evans wasn’t worth it after all. 

 

“What’s got your knickers in such a twist, Evans? Because I’ve won and you haven’t? Well, here, let’s level the playing field. You wanted to lose a wizard in ten days? Guess what, you did it. You just lost him.”

 

He turns and walks back toward the building, forgetting that he can’t get back in, but he’s too proud to turn around and face her again. He barely hears Lily call after him, the change in her voice softer and more dejected now.

 

“Well, James, you can’t lose something you never had.”

 

Her words send a chill up his spine. The statement cuts even deeper than the recollection of all her calculated actions combined. For being such a strong player at Tosh, he’s never been so wrong when it comes to reading Lily Evans.

 

James assumes there’s a crowd watching him on the other side of the glass, but it’s enchanted to have a mirror finish, so he can’t see for sure anyways. There’s no way he wants to get back in, so he turns around and kicks at the curb before walking aimlessly to the nearest alley to apparate back home.

 

A small part of him hopes that Lily will still be there. That maybe the initial anger will subside so they can talk and sort things out. But when he looks to the spot where she’d been standing, disappointment seeps into his veins. She’s gone.

Chapter 14: One Month Later

Notes:

Another huge shout out goes out to accio_broom, be11atrixthestrange, cheesyficwriter and smjl for their beta prowess (and maybe I've managed to convert some of you to the Jily ship? ha)

Lily is woken by a violent wave of nausea. She lies as still as possible, hoping that the feeling will pass, but it’s no good. She throws herself out of bed and runs to the bathroom, making it just in time to throw up the meager contents of whatever is left in her stomach from the night before. It’s the same routine that’s been plaguing her for a week now. 

 

Not today. Please not today.

 

She rests her head against the cool porcelain as she wills the sickness to go away. Her meeting with Professor McGonagall is scheduled for this morning, and there is no way Lily will consider canceling. Things are finally starting to make sense in her life, and she’s taking the steps to achieve her goals and dreams.

 

Despite the huge success of the article, which Amelia attests is the reason why the most copies of a single issue of Witch Weekly have ever sold, Lily hasn’t been happy. She blames the huge falling out she and James had the night of the Zabini gala.  She’d allowed herself to take a chance on him only to have her heart broken by his betrayal.

 

It has taken several girl’s nights with Marlene and Alice and far too much wine to give Lily the clarity she needs. She was out to prove that she and James Potter were never meant to be, and that’s exactly what she achieved. 

 

How was she supposed to know he’d been doing the same thing, but only for the opposite reasons? When Sirius and Remus approached her, saying how impressed they were that she’d played along so well, Lily fixated on the irony of the situation. For most of their Hogwarts years, James had been chasing Lily, only for her to push him away again and again. Now here they were, playing the same game, but this time with professional gains at stake. 

 

She’d never seen James so angry in his life, which was rich considering she wasn’t the only one in the wrong here. No matter how hard she tried to get him to see reason, he wouldn’t. 

 

You wanted to lose a wizard in ten days? Guess what, you did it. You just lost him.  

 

He never gave her the chance to explain, so the article was her last chance to show him, not that it made a difference. A month has passed, and James still hasn’t reached out. 

 

Lily shouldn’t have been surprised when she couldn’t stay angry at James for long, even though she wanted to. Anger was easier to cope with than heartbreak. Heartbreak meant that James had won.

 

So, Lily gave in to moping around for two weeks until she’d been called in for a meeting with Amelia. 

 

“You can write anything you want,” Amelia tells her.

 

That was a lie. When Lily asks about a column that would target younger witches who are trying to navigate their newfound freedom after schooling, she’s shut down.

 

“But you said anything,” Lily counters.

 

“Yes, anything that has to do with beauty or fashion or love. You can even write about incorporating muggle trends into the magical lifestyle! I don’t care what it is, as long as it maintains Witch Weekly’s brand.” 

 

Lily recalls walking out of Amelia’s office knowing that something needed to change. She’d taken the rest of the day off to sit and stew over the suppression of her creativity, and that’s when she noticed the stationery materials James bought for her on their date.

 

Use this to write what you want to write.  

 

Her heart breaks even more as she remembers how much they’d both ruined by using each other. Despite it all, he still supported her and wanted her to fuel her passion, which makes her wonder if it was really about the bet for him in the end, either.

 

In an effort to take her mind off of James, she started writing, and before long, it was apparent that there was enough material in her brainstorms for Lily to write an entire book to help Muggleborns acclimatise to magical society following their Hogwarts career. This is what her meeting with McGonagall is about this morning. She’s seeking the support of Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore before researching her next steps. If Lily can prove there’s a market for her book, then she hopes she’ll have more success in obtaining a publisher.

 

A knock on the door sounds as her stomach lurches again. She barely manages a ‘come in’ before wrapping her arms around the toilet and heaving up another haul. Lily’s nausea eases as she leans against the bathtub, closing her eyes as relief washes over her. 

 

“Oh, honey, again?” Marlene pops into the doorway.

 

Lily offers a weak nod. “I think it’s over.”

 

“For today or for good?”

 

Lily cracks an eyelid. “For good, obviously. This is unlike any stomach flu I’ve ever come down with. I don’t get it.”

 

She thinks she hears the door to her flat open again as Marlene shoots her a questioning look.

 

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

 

“Lily, do you honestly think this is a stomach flu?”

 

“Well, what else could it be? Food poisoning wouldn’t last this long.”

 

“Neither does a stomach flu. Lily, stop acting so stupid,” Alice’s exasperated tone confirms what she thought she heard moments ago. “Here, I picked one of these up in case you wanted to do it the muggle way.”

 

Alice tosses a small bag on the ground, and Lily reaches in to see what’s inside. The contents make her queasy all over again.

 

“A pregnancy test? NO. There’s no way. There’s—”

 

“You haven’t asked her yet?” Alice smacks Marlene on the arm.

 

“I was getting to it! You didn’t give me enough time!” Marlene defends herself as she swats back at Alice.

 

Lily looks between the two in shock. “This isn’t some sort of intervention, is it?”

 

“What? No! Of course not!” Marlene shakes her head as she tries to reassure Lily.

 

“I mean, I wouldn’t call it an intervention, Lil, but all the signs are pointing to pregnancy, and we’re just trying to help you connect the dots,” Alice chooses to give her tough love instead.

 

“Or rule out pregnancy,” Marlene interjects. “We don’t know for sure…”

 

Lily regrets telling them the details about her date with James. She doesn’t want to think about their reasoning, but her brain does of its own accord. Suddenly, she feels lightheaded. It’s as if every single realization dumps on her like a bucket of ice water at the same time. Her period is two weeks late, which she initially chalked up to stress, but when she thinks back to that afternoon with James, her mind sifts through the memories with a fine-tooth comb. She must have told him to use the charms. What would have possessed her to not use them?

 

Because he told you he couldn’t have kids.

 

“But James said he couldn’t—” Lily can’t finish the sentence. 

 

James never said couldn’t . He said there was a chance , and he didn’t want her to find out through a spell. She’d been too caught up in her hazy desire that her brain just assumed they were safe, which is so unlike her. But then again, she always had trouble thinking straight when it came to James Potter. That’s what got them into this whole mess to begin with.

 

“Oh, no…” is all she can manage.

 

“Lily, this could be a good thing! You could make up, and get together for real and get married and have his babies...” Marlene’s optimistic attitude is not something Lily wants to deal with right now, even though she drones on and on about a future that is bleak.

 

“Just do the charm. Rip the bandage off,” Lily resigns.

 

She’s not in the mood to explain why making up with James is easier said than done. When Alice holds up her wand, Lily closes her eyes, not wanting to look. Alice crouches closer, casting the charm over Lily’s belly. Marlene gasps, causing Lily’s eyes to fly open.

 

There, in front of her, is a bright yellow circle floating above her torso. Even though Lily isn’t sure what the yellow means—she’s expecting pink or blue—her gut tells her that it is the equivalent to a muggle plus sign.

 

“Congratulations?” Alice says the word slow and with hesitation, and Lily presumes this is because she doesn’t know which way Lily is going to respond.

 

Lily shakes her head in disbelief. She can’t worry about this right now. Hoisting herself up, she brushes past them to gather her outfit for the day.

 

“You girls get to work. I’ll see you at the office after my meeting with McGonagall.” She still feels woozy, but she needs to push it aside for now.

 

“But Lily—”

 

“I’ll deal with it later. Just—don’t say anything.”

 

The girls nod as they make their way to the door. Lily catches their wary glances as she locks the door behind them and steps into the shower. Under the warmth of the spray, Lily allows herself to react to the news as the tears spill, joining the cascade from the faucet. One thought plays on repeat in her mind.

 

I’m pregnant with James Potter’s baby.

James sits in his office. The partnership with Zabini Jewelers is now set, and the first drafts of ads have come through, needing his approval for the short-list before sending them on their way to Aurora and Theodore. He thumbs through the posters and places them in two piles.

 

A month ago, James would have been ecstatic. He’s signed his biggest client yet; The Zabinis loved his pitch, including the ‘making dreams come true’ slogan, and they were easy to work with. He’s also managed to sign Longbottom’s Long Stems, and the new accounts are keeping him busier than ever. 

 

But being busy hasn’t made him happier, much to his chagrin. He’s still as miserable as ever since he watched Lily walk out of his life. Just when he thought he was getting over the entire mess of it all, he’d remember some random thing that Lily had done. It was his brain’s way of messing him around.

 

You’re such a sucker. How could you fall for that? Did you really not know?

 

No, he hadn’t. In hindsight, it was all clear as day. James was focusing on reconnecting with Lily and getting to know who she was post-Hogwarts in an attempt to play his own game. He’d been gutted upon finding out it was all an act to get him to dump her for a stupid article.

 

Since then, James’s mind has been trying to convince him that everything was a lie, but there’s a part that refuses to believe it. He is confident that their time spent in Mandrake’s Landing was real. 

 

Then why didn’t she say anything? She had every opportunity to tell you that you meant more to her, and she didn’t.

 

James shakes the thoughts from his mind. He won’t let himself go there again. Forcing himself to focus on the task in front of him, he chooses the short-list of ads and wraps them up to send via owl post. With nothing else to do, James collapses in his desk chair and rests his head on his desk.

 

Moments later, a loud slap echoes in his ear as a pile of papers is thrown on his desk. At least that’s what it sounds like. He sits up with reluctance to see what task is being thrown his way now. What he’s not expecting is a recent issue of Witch Weekly lying there with Celestina Warbeck flashing a coy smile at him. He barely notices Sirius and Remus standing next to it, arms crossed, and stern looks on their faces.

 

“What the fuck is this?” James brushes the magazine off the desk.

 

“Enough is enough,” Sirius chides as he picks the magazine up off the floor. “We tried to boycott the article to stand in solidarity with you, and that was a mistake.”

 

“And how would you know that?” James hopes his tone is as irritable as he feels.

 

“Because Alice forced Frank to read it, and then Frank brought it to us. James, please. You need to read it,” Remus pleads.

 

“I don’t want to. It’s bad enough that Lily’s the one who got away twice . Please don’t rub my nose in her success—or the fact that she never wanted to be with me anyway.”

 

Sirius grunts out a series of expletives as he opens the magazine to the article and shoves it in James’s face. “Don’t make Remus hold your head and pry your eyes open, Prongs. Just read the bloody article.”

 

James considers trying to escape, but Remus shifts his body to block the door as if he’s read James’s mind. He supposes there’s always apparition if he’s truly desperate. But then James catches the looks on his best friends’ faces. They’re just as hurt as he is, but there’s something more there. Hope?

 

His traitorous eyes glance down at the article, and the first thing he sees is Lily’s bright smile flashing up at him. Her picture shifts around as she flips her hair behind her shoulder before it resets. How to Lose a Wizard in Ten Days.

 

The article is spread over two pages, each with a bolded subheading detailing each day. There are larger quote bubbles across the glossy paper that highlight and summarize, and one catches James’s eye.

 

I’ve lost the only wizard I’ve ever fallen for.

 

His eyes snap up to his friends, who urge him on.

 

“You lived most of it, so just read the last section,” Sirius drops the magazine on the desk, confident that it’s caught James’s attention and he won’t throw it in the bin out of spite.

 

He turns to Day 10 and begins reading.

 

I thought this would be easy. Find a guy, do the most ridiculous things I can think of to scare him off, write this article. It never crossed my mind that I’d fall for the wizard in question. But the more time I spent with him, the more I realized he wasn’t just any guy. 

 

The bottom line is, if you’ve found the person you’re meant to spend your life with, they’ll accept you unconditionally. Every strange quirk, habit and all. And it’s with the most regret that I tell you I’ve realized this a little too late. 

 

So, my dear readers, learn from my mistakes. If a wizard doesn’t accept you for who you are, let them go, and if he does, then hold onto him with all your might. Be honest about your intentions. Don’t make the same mistakes I have. Your one true love is out there, and these methods are a sure-fire way to help you find him.

 

James has to remind himself to keep breathing. It feels as though his heart has stopped as he reads her words over and over. That little voice in the back of his mind was right. The whole charade had stopped being a game to her when he’d taken her home. She was telling the truth, and he’d mucked it all up.

 

“I have to go talk to her,” he says in a daze.

 

“Maybe he’s not so thick after all, Moony,” Sirius smirks.

 

James doesn’t wait to hear the rest of their sarcastic remarks as he bolts out of the chair and out the door faster than the latest Nimbus model. He hurls himself into the floo, only to step back out and try again, this time with floo powder. 

 

Losing his balance at his destination, James falls out of the floo, causing various Witch Weekly employees to stop what they’re doing and stare at him instead. He pays them no mind, his eyes scanning the cubicles for any sign of Lily. He doesn’t see her anywhere, but recognizes someone else who he knows can help him.

 

“Marlene!” he cries as he half runs to her. 

 

“James? What are you doing here?” She asks, her face spreading from confusion to excitement in quick succession.

 

“Looking for Lily. Where is she?” He hopes they’ll have time to catch up later, but right now, he only has one person on his mind.

 

“Finally read the article, have you?” another voice juts in, a voice James swears he’s heard before but can’t place.

 

Marlene is standing in the opening to another person’s cubicle, and James tilts his head to look around her to see who it is.

 

“You! But—of course, you’re not a therapist,” he says, rolling his eyes in dismay.

 

She snorts. “Nope, I’m Alice, and Lily is at Hogwarts meeting with McGonagall and Dumbledore. We’re supposed to meet her at the Three Broomsticks for lunch.”

 

Hogwarts? What the hell is she doing at— 

 

Their conversation about her transition into magical life flits into his mind, and he’s able to string the rest together. James checks his watch though he’s not sure why. He has no idea what time her meeting is, but he needs to get to Hogsmeade as soon as he can.

 

“I’m so glad I never paid you,” James doesn’t wait for Alice’s response as he turns to leave.

 

“I’ll only bill you if you don’t make this work, Potter!” Alice calls after him.

 

“Don’t screw this up, James!” Marlene adds.

 

He waves them both off as he moves toward the exit to get to the Apparition spot. 

 

Focus on Hogsmeade, Potter. 

 

James envisions the apparition point nearest the Hog’s Head and turns on the spot. His body twists as it’s sucked into space before reappearing in the village he knows too well. The trip is longer than normal, but then again, Scotland is a long way from London. He’s lucky he hasn’t splinched himself.

 

Walking out onto the main road, James looks around to ensure he doesn’t see Lily anywhere. The village is quiet, and the alluring smell of Honeydukes tempts James, but he resists. Instead, he makes his way toward the castle.

 

As he walks along the path that follows the edge of the lake, something possesses him to take a detour to one of his favorite spots on the grounds. There’s a small alcove along the edge of the Forbidden Forest that’s hidden from the view of the castle. The marauders used to congregate there on nice days throughout the years, and during sixth year, Lily began joining them for afternoons on the weekend. 

 

It’s only half blocked from the path, so James figures he can work out what he’s going to say while he waits for her to appear on her way into Hogsmeade. James only realizes now that he left the office without even thinking about how this could go. The only thing he has going for him is the hope that she wants to see him again, considering the ending to her article.

 

As he moves around the branches of the large willow tree, he stops and his breath hitches in his throat. Looks like he wasn’t the only one who had this idea.

 

“Evans.”

 

The grounds are quiet, save for the rustle of the leaves in the light summer breeze, making James’s voice loud and out of place. Lily is leaning against the oak tree she always gravitated toward when they were students, and her head snaps up at the sound of his voice.

 

At first glance, she looks put together and professional, but her face is pale, and her eyes look tired despite the thin veil of makeup she’s no doubt using to hide behind.

 

“What are you doing here, James?” 

 

Her voice matches her body language, and he can tell she’s not in the mood to fight. Well, it’s a good thing that’s not what I came here for. He takes a few steps closer.

 

“I read the article.”

 

She stares at him, but no words leave her mouth. 

 

“Is it true? You think I’m your one true love ?”

 

He can’t help adding that bit in as a smile threatens at the corners of his mouth. This is meant to be a serious conversation, but he still can’t help taking the mickey out of her. She quirks her eyebrow up at him in that questioning way that James loves about her.

 

“That’s funny, I don’t remember wording it quite that way.”

 

Their playful banter eases James’s mind. He knows Lily well enough to know this means she’s not angry. Usually, he’d respond with another quip, but he doesn’t want to waste any more time playing around.

 

“I don’t care how you worded it, I just need to know if you meant it.”

 

Lily takes a deep breath, and James is surprised to see tears in her eyes. Real tears , which makes him realize—again—that the other times were all for show.

 

“I meant every word.”

 

Those four words are enough to take the weight of the heavy black cloud off of his shoulders. If James could become drunk off of four simple words, he’d probably be sent to St. Mungo’s for alcohol poisoning.

 

He closes the gap between them as his lips seek hers. Lily responds hungrily to his kiss, as if she hasn’t eaten in weeks. It takes a monumental effort for James to pull away for the quickest of moments. There’s a lot he’d like to do right now, but there’s one question that needs answering first.

 

“Can we try this again? With no bets or articles in the way this time?”

 

“Yes.” 

 

James barely finishes the last word of his question as Lily gasps out the three-letter word. She fists his shirt, pulling him closer. His arms wrap even tighter around her body, feeling the most at ease than he has since that afternoon back in Ipswich. Their lips find each other as the kiss deepens once more. Her hands travel down to his waist as she pulls on his belt. James groans against her mouth as his lower half thrusts into her, yearning for the contact. He forces himself to break apart before he succumbs to her touch.

 

He wants nothing more than to take her right here as he basks in the glee of their reconciliation. They’re in the place he’d always dreamed of getting to know her in a more intimate setting, but they’re adults now. They’ve been through a lot lately, and despite the fantasies that are playing out in his mind, James knows that maybe this isn’t the best decision. It takes all of his restraint to stop.

 

“Lily, don’t get me wrong. I want this—I want you —but I want to do this the right way.” James’s thumb reaches up to trace her cheek, pushing a strand of auburn hair out of her face.

 

Lily bites her lip in mild embarrassment. “Sorry. It must be the hormones.”

 

James squints his eyes in confusion as Lily covers her mouth as though she’s let a secret slip out.

 

“Er, is that supposed to mean something?”

 

Lily doesn’t respond to his question, but instead places a finger to his lips. “James, I—” she bites her lip, and James grows worried.

 

“Lily, please don’t lie to me, or feel like you have to keep anything from me. We can take it slower if we’re moving too fast. Just tell me, please...” 

 

Lily bursts into unbridled laughter. “If you think this is too fast, then what I’m about to tell you means we’re moving at warp speed.”

 

James is used to Lily’s use of muggle expressions, and while he’s never heard the word before, he can decipher that ‘warp’ probably means the fastest there is, but he doesn’t understand why.

 

“Lily, what’s going on?”

 

The suspense is grating, and he can feel his patience  growing thin. She closes her eyes, and when she opens them, James’s stomach gives an uneasy flip. He can tell she’s forcing herself to look him in the eye.

 

“Remember when you said you weren’t sure if you’d be able to...provide me with a family?” Her words are thought out in careful measure.

 

“Yes,” his response is slow and drawn out, almost taking the form of a question.

 

“Well…” Lily pauses to take a deep breath. The anticipation has James’s mind racing. “You don’t have to worry about that being an issue anymore.”

 

James feels as though the wind has been knocked out of him. He can’t breathe, can’t speak, and can barely think. The only thing he manages is staring at Lily through unblinking eyes.

 

“I—I’m sorry. I didn’t want to spring this on you. I only found out this morning after Marly and Alice made me do the charm. And I took the muggle test for good measure...I’ve just been so sick every morning, and I didn’t think—it was just the one time. If you don’t want—you don’t have to—I’ll understand—forgot the charms…” Lily’s babbling is on the verge of not making any sense at all, but the last part snaps James out of his stupor.

 

“Stop.”

 

She’s—they’re—there’s no way she could be lying, right? One look at her expression and he knows she’s telling the truth. Lip quivering, tears pooling in her eyes as the fear of rejection stares past his shoulder. A blanket of shock still hovers on her features, and it’s clear she’s still trying to process everything. 

 

It’s funny how every single aspect of his life has been unplanned from the moment Lily walked back into it, and this is the cherry on top. But it’s a cherry he’ll gladly accept. After all, it’s the life he’s always imagined wanting with her, even if it is out of order. 

 

He looks down as his hand travels to her stomach, resting over her belly where the tiny life is growing inside her.

 

“We’re having a baby,” he whispers.

 

“We’re having a baby,” Lily confirms, her voice still sounding surprised at the revelation.

 

“Marry me.” The words are out of James’s mouth before he even has time to think about them.

 

“What? No, James. We can’t—We’ve only just—how do you even know you want a life with me? The real me?”

 

Lily’s shaking her head in violent back and forth motions, and if it wasn’t for the tree she’s already pinned against, James is sure she’d be backing away if she could.

 

“Haven’t I already proven my unconditional love for you?” The words feel natural as they slip out of his mouth.

 

“But that wasn’t the real me!”

 

“Are you trying to tell me you’re barmier than that?”

 

“Well, no, but—”

 

“Okay, okay, you don’t have to answer that right away, but Evans, I mean it when I say you’re it for me, and I’ll do anything for you and the little guy in there.”

 

Her face softens, sending a rush of relief over his body. “Okay,” she relents as she leans in for another kiss.

 

This time it’s slow and romantic, and James decides that it doesn’t matter what way Lily kisses him, they all make him feel as though he’s the luckiest man in the world.

 

James isn’t sure how much time passes, nor does he care as he drinks in every part of this moment. The way her body feels pressed against his, the taste of mint lingering on her tongue as it dances with his, and the familiar smell of her shampoo as it invades his nostrils with every inhale. Eventually, they break apart and begin their walk back toward Hogsmeade, and James only mourns the loss for a moment, knowing they now have an infinite number ahead of them.

 

“So, little guy , huh?” she quips. “Six weeks in, and you’re already placing bets that it’s a boy?”

 

James grins. “It’s not a bet, Evans, it’s just a hunch.”

 

She chuckles as they continue walking in amicable silence. “Will you still call me ‘Evans’ if and when we do get married?”

 

His heart is about to burst with her mention of that possibility. “That depends. Will you still call me ‘Potter’?”

 

“Only when you're incorrigible.”

 

“Glad that’s agreed upon, then,” James says through a hearty laugh. 

 

When the sound dies away, he changes his tone to a more serious note. “I’m sorry it took me so long to come to my senses. I should have read the article sooner.”

 

“It’s not your fault. I wanted to be open with you that night, but I never had the chance.”

 

James wraps his arm around her shoulder as he kisses her forehead. “At least we’re sorted now. What do you say we skive off the rest of the day and get reacquainted?”

 

A sly smile crosses her face. “You know, Potter, for once, I’m liking the way you think.”

Taking her answer for a yes, James wastes no more time taking her hand and apparating them away. As far as he’s concerned, work owes them for all the havoc it has wreaked on their lives lately. Now, all James wants is to spend time with Lily Evans— the real Lily —his girlfriend and love of his life. And that’s exactly what he intends to do.

Notes:

Thank you to all of you who have stuck with the story and taken a chance on this. It's my first Jily multichap and I've loved writing and getting to know these characters a bit more! Your comments have given me so much encouragement along the way, so thank you from the bottom of my heart! Until the next one! (and believe me, I've got some more in the works for this pair)