Lily Evans and James Potter. The most perfect couple on paper.
Lily, with her fiery red hair and knowledge of a well-known philosopher, and James with his courage and brightest of smiles.
It was old news that they were good together.
If only people knew how many faults there were.
James was, well, loud. Very loud. He was the shiniest thing in the room. Everyone's eyes gravitated towards him. He was like the sun.
And Lily was just a planet, revolving around him. She was like Mercury, close enough but yet so far. That's how she felt like anyway.
But sometimes, she wanted to shine. She wanted to be under the spotlight. For everyone's eyes to be on her and only her.
But no, all of them were looking at James Potter. And Lily couldn't even be bitter about it. He was amazing. An amazing friend, lover, student, everything. He was the embodiment of sunshine.
And it was so exhausting to compete. Because she knew that, no matter how hard she tried, no one would appreciate her talent. All because of her blood.
She's accepted it by now, but it doesn't hurt to try.
James loved competing. Never exhausted him one bit. And everything he did would be under the eyes of others. Watching his every move. He was very, very popular, after all. People would've died to be Lily.
However, their healthy competition between each other was meagre. It wasn't enough. It didn't strive each other to be better.
They were constantly the same. Rarely fluctuating.
But James and Lily wanted to be better. They needed to prove themselves. And the other couldn't give them that.
Their personalities were quite alike. Both bubbly, smart and outgoing. Both brave and loyal.
It was like looking into a mirror and seeing your reflection staring back at you. You don't even need to point out your flaws because you already know them all.
Lily felt like there was an empty space inside of her, not yet filled.
Like she had the best dream in a long time, and she woke up, trying to grasp at the remnants of it.
It wasn't like James was a bad boyfriend. He was, in fact, the exact opposite. Always respecting her boundaries, buying her gifts, making her laugh. He ticked off every one of her boxes. Except for maybe one.
But whenever he got excited about something, he would burst out all his emotion at one go, explaining with his hands and his eyes and his mouth. He would yelp and squeal and screech. He would ramble and pause and talk and breathe. His pace was just too fast for Lily. Just too loud. Taking up too much space.
Back when they were friends, it didn’t seem like a problem. She never minded. She was content with listening to him, hearing him out and understanding him. But now, it just felt like she was chasing after a train that was going too fast. She knew she was never going to catch it.
She wanted to stop trying. Call it quits. But the gnawing guilt in her stomach stopped her. James was just so, so good. So wonderful. This was the least she could do. If this was what made him happy, which gave him joy, she would continue to do it.
˚✧˚
Hogwarts, 5 th January 1976, 21:06
But Lily should’ve known that was all going to end when they met Regulus Black and his small group of friends.
Since Regulus was Sirius’ brother, and they were rekindling their relationship and Marlene and Dorcas had finally gotten their shit together and were dating, it only made sense to come together as a whole group, right? And the perfect place for that was at a Gryffindor party.
That was when Lily Evans saw Pandora Rosier for the first time. Her presence made her jaw hang open slightly. It was like looking at an angel.
Her beautiful platinum locks reached to her waist, falling behind her ever so elegantly and her milky skin were so ethereal. She had the most blueish silver eyes she had ever seen, an adorable nose and the fullest baby pink lips. Her aura was strange but so, so calming. She was unreal.
Lily had already talked to Dorcas before, courtesy of Marlene, and Regulus had been whisked away by Sirius and James, asking him a billion questions. And, frankly, Evan and Barty looked slightly frightening to be around with all their piercings. So, Pandora was the one she decided to go to.
“Hi.” Lily gave a small wave. She blinked at her, almost as if she were coming out of a daze. “Oh, hello. Lily, right?” she asked, her voice pure and sweet like honey.
Was there even any flaw about her?
“Yeah. You seem a bit out of it. You okay?” Lily replied, furrowing her eyebrows in concern.
“Mhm, yeah.”
That was it. She was disappointed in her lack of reply but decided against questioning further. Pandora seemed at ease. It was going to be fine.
She tapped her fingers on her thighs, looking around the room. James seemed to be getting along with Regulus. It would be expected, honestly. But this was different. It was almost like James wanted his attention. Craved for it, even.
He kept doing stupid things, just to get a small smile out of Regulus. And whenever he made a joke, and he didn’t chuckle or even react at all, James’ face fell, just for a fraction of a second, before lighting up again. He was trying so hard to impress him.
Hm.
James was known to be a people pleaser, but this was a whole new level.
Maybe he just wants to get to know Regulus because of Sirius.
Lily shrugged it off. Her boyfriend was always off doing something foolish, anyway. She didn’t have time to supervise him while she had an absolute goddess sitting right next to her.
“What is your opinion on giants?” Pandora broke their awkward tension.
“Huh?”
“What is your opinion on giants?” she repeated.
It was an odd way to start a conversation, but this wasn’t a topic she didn’t know about.
So, Lily spoke.
She explained her views on giants in great detail, her opinion on them very clear. She talked about their struggles, but also their dangers. She was going to let her know exactly what she thought, no beating around the bush. No stammers or stutters. Just a plain explanation of a topic she was well-versed in.
And Pandora listened.
Not once did she interrupt or argue. She simply sat and nodded along, her doe eyes seemingly eager to know more. Getting to understand how she was as a human. She heard her out. She let Lily’s voice be free like a baby bird right before its first flight.
She let her be seen.
James rarely did that.
Only once she was done with her sort of obsessive and slightly obnoxious speech did Pandora speak.
“That was nice. My opinion on them was vastly different from yours when I was younger, but I see your point.”
Heat flooded through her stomach, and Lily didn’t know why.
Maybe it was pride that finally someone understood her point of view. Especially if it was the most breath-taking pureblood to exist.
Lily smiled at her.
Now she really wanted to be her friend.
˚✧˚
Hogwarts, 23 rd January 1976, 12:26
Lily managed to steal a few more long conversations with Pandora over the weeks. Sometimes they hung out under the big oak tree near the Black Lake and studied together. She liked that there was no need to compete with her. No competition of who could finish their homework faster or get more answers right. Just the warmth of the silence wrapping around them like a gentle hug.
She enjoyed the peace that Pandora brought along with her. Despite being a year younger than her, there was no denying that she was very intelligent. Her insights on the world were one of a kind.
Other times, they would bump into each other, Pandora on her walk to find Nargles and Lily on her prefect rounds with James. It was a good thing that James was such a nice boyfriend to cover for her whenever she wanted a few moments of bliss with Pandora.
She wanted to let her know how much she appreciated and cherished their time together. She deserved to know. So, Lily told her one day when they were in the library hanging out.
“I really like you, Dora.” Lily giggled.
“I really like you too, Flower.”
Her heart fluttered, just a bit and her fingers tingled. She was so happy.
“Really?”
“Yes. You’re my best friend.” Pandora stared into her eyes.
Lily didn’t know why that stung. But it did.
She really adored her, though.
˚✧˚
Hogwarts, 2 nd February 1976, 09:43
Lily sighed, checking her watch. James was late again for the third time this week. Prefect rounds didn’t do by themselves, you know?
Just as she was about to stomp back into the Common Room, James rushed out of the portrait door, out of breath and dishevelled.
“What’s taken you so long?” Lily huffed.
“I’m so terribly sorry, love. I woke up a bit late.” James pressed a messy kiss to her cheek.
“It’s been the third time this week, James! You never used to wake up late! You were like the morning birds, bright and early!” Lily chastised.
“I was just hanging out with Regulus last night at the Astronomy Tower. We’ve been doing that a lot lately.” James replied, guilt written all over his face.
“Regulus again? You don’t even hang out with me that much!” Annoyance settled in her stomach. That was all he was doing these days. Regulus this, Regulus that. When was it going to be about Lily?
“I’m very sorry, Lily. I promise I’ll take you out on a date tomorrow. It’s Saturday, right? We can go to Hogsmeade!” James suggested, an apologetic grin on his face.
“No, tomorrow isn’t a Hogsmeade weekend. That was last week. You would know if you had been paying attention to anything but Regulus.” Lily said flatly.
It wasn’t that she hated Regulus. No, she would never. He was one of the only people who was mature enough in their friend group, apart from Remus and her. It was just that James had been spending so much time with him that he seemed to be forgetting about her. And they were dating!
James was about to apologise all over again when she interrupted him.
“You know what? Whatever. It’s fine. I’m fine. Let’s just get this over with.” she rubbed at her temples. Lily had a headache coming on.
James nodded, knowing better than to argue.
It was a very silent Prefect round that day. One in a really long time.
This time, they didn’t hold hands like they always did.
This time, they walked as if they were back to being the awkward friends that they were in June.
˚✧˚
Hogwarts, 17 th February 1976, 14:32
“Lily! Lily!” Sirius squealed. Lily looked up from her textbook. She was revising about giants. It reminded her so much of Pandora that it made her heart ache. She hadn’t seen her in a few days, and she was missing her miserably. But she had exams to study for and she couldn’t get distracted. Even if it was Pandora who would be distracting her.
“Yeah? What’s up?” she shut her textbook closed. “James convinced Reg to come to the Potter’s with us! We’re not going back to that wretched house for Spring break! It’s going to be so fun!” Sirius exclaimed, collapsing on the couch next to her. “Merlin, that’s awesome! I’m so happy for you.” Lily smiled.
“Uh huh. Initially, I couldn’t get through to him, but James, that amazing man, bless him, managed to talk to him and he agreed!” Sirius explained, a content smile plastered onto his face.
Lily’s smile quickly turned into a frown. What did he mean by James convinced Regulus? Why did he trust him over his own brother? Lily found it very odd.
Did Regulus like him?
To be honest, Lily couldn’t blame him. James really was a splendid person to look at, with his messy dark hair and his starry eyes, anyone would be a fool not to fold at his every smile. She was the only one who could resist them at times.
She brushed it off. Thousands of people were half in love with her boyfriend. It wasn’t like he could help it. As long as Regulus wouldn’t be acting on it, everything would be A-okay. And she knew that he wouldn’t.
However, she would be having a word with James. She was just curious, is all.
Hogwarts, 17th February 1976, 18:02
“Hey, babe.” Lily waved, kissing his cheek.
“Lilypad! Hello! It’s been so long since I saw you.” he cupped her face and kissed her lips, quickly but sweetly. They smiled at each other, looking into each other’s eyes. Brown and green, the colours of the Earth, coming together as one. People would go to war to be in their positions.
“Yeah, it has been long, hasn’t it? Anyway, Sirius told me Regulus and him were coming with us to your house for the holidays.” Lily went straight to the point. She was always like that. There was no use in being cautious about this.
“Oh, yes! Honestly, I don’t know what Sirius was rambling about, it wasn’t that hard as he made it out to be. I didn’t even have to grovel at his feet like I expected to.” James grinned, happy at the thought of them escaping from their parents for a few weeks.
“Oh?”
“Mhm, I just had to ask him nicely and he didn’t argue or decline the offer. At most, I had to add that he could invite his friends over any time.” James hummed, his eyes trailing off to the walls and everywhere else.
Strange.
This just further proved her suspicion of Regulus liking James. She knew how much Sirius had to beg to try to convince him, but to no avail. What made him change his mind?
Maybe I’m just overthinking this.
Many people had told her she tended to do that. Whatever.
It was going to be a really awesome holiday.
˚✧˚
Hogwarts Express, 22 th February 1976, 11:56
The exam season passed at the pace of a sluggish plane in the sky, all of themexcelling, of course, with Sirius at the top as always, James just below him in second, and Lily and Remus tied at third. James rubbed it in her face like he always did, but this time it irritated her. She wanted to be better. To beat him. But he was always slightly above her. Just by a bit.
It irked her to her core.
She didn’t even understand what the sudden change in character was. Back when they were close friends, she never cared for it as much. Sure, it would be nice if she was on the top every once in a while, but she was never annoyed or envious if James or Sirius came out as top instead. She still knew she was the brightest witch of her age.
Anyway, the end of examinations meant the start of Spring break. It got everyone in an excited buzz at Hogwarts.
Lily herself, was ecstatic. But nervous, too. She was meeting her boyfriend’s parents for the first time, after all. She had already heard great stories about them from James about how soft and kind they were. But that did nothing to settle the bundle of nerves in her stomach. She really wanted to make a good impression.
All this pondering about everything made her want to throw up. Before she could even think about running to the restroom for a quick check to make sure she looked neat and tidy, the Hogwarts Express came to a halt.
It’s time.
Lily took a deep breath and straightened out her skirt. She stiffly stood up and marched out of the train.
“Good luck!” Marlene and Mary called out from behind.
She hoped they wouldn’t feel too bad at her silence. She was just too worried to be turning around and thanking them. Everything felt like too much at the moment.
James and Sirius were waiting for her. They chorused out a hello and she nodded at them in acknowledgment. Lily twisted her fingers.
They still seemed to be waiting for someone.
“What are we doing standing here for? We shouldn’t keep Mr Potter waiting.” Lily asked.
James answered before Sirius could even open his mouth.
“We have to wait for Reg, remember? He’s coming with us too.” James replied.
Oh.
Lily had forgotten about the younger Black. She looked around for any signs of him. And there he was, standing a few feet away from them, being wrestled into a hug by Barty.
She turned to look at James to gesture that he was there, but he was already looking at them with a frown.
Was he feeling as impatient as she was?
(No, the reason was entirely different.)
Finally, when Regulus was done saying goodbyes to his beloved friends, he timidly walked towards them.
She was just about to move forward, when she saw a tiny glimpse of Pandora. Just a few locks of her hair, but she knew it was her.
Oh, Pandora. Sweet, sweet Pandora.
She looked just like a dream.
Lily really wanted to say hi, or do anything to let her know that yes, I saw you, you’re my friend but she couldn’t as James was already ushering them out like a mother would.
They wandered around for about a minute until they saw a man who looked like the carbon copy of James, but older.
James gave her shoulder a short reassuring squeeze, and normally it would make butterflies dance around her stomach, but this time it didn’t.
Because he did the same to Regulus. In fact, he held on a little longer before letting go.
Lily was not special.
The four approached the elder Potter.
“Dad!” James yelled.
“James, my boy! Oh, and are these your friends? Very good, very good. Effie will be elated. Come on now, let’s get home fast, your mother is going to throw some hands if we’re late.” Fleamont joked.
His face was all smiles and soft wrinkles. It was sweet knowing that maybe James would look like that one day.
“You all are fine with Side-Along Apparation, right?”
They nodded.
“Good, good! Everyone hold on tight.”
There was a hard breeze of wind and a spin, leaving Lily to feel woozy.
In the matter of seconds, they reached the Potter household. Lily needed a few moments to let out a loud cough.
“Ah, yes, that happens a lot when you first Apparate.” Fleamont chuckled.
Lily looked up at them after her small coughing fit. None of them were looking dizzy or coughing like her. A rush of blood went straight to her cheeks. Of course. They were purebloods. This was normal for them. Another thing that showed how different she was from them.
She got up and brushed off the invisible dirt from her skirt. “I’m fine.” she cleared her throat.
“It’s quite alright. That’s very normal for first timers.” Fleamont gave her a reassuring smile.
Upon hearing their voices, Euphemia rushed into the room.
“James!”
“Mum! I missed you so much!”
They embraced and the sight was really heartwarming. Lily realised who James had gotten his smile from. “Oh, and are these your friends? Welcome, welcome!” she said.
“Yeah, this is Sirius, my best friend.” James put an arm around his shoulder. Sirius beamed.
“Hi, Mrs Potter! I hope you don’t mind me and Reggie staying here.” he spoke politely.
“No, no, don’t call me that! I’m not that old. Call me Effie.” Euphemia smiled at him gently.
Sirius gave a quick nod, unsure whether he should or not.
“This is Regulus, his little brother and I’m his only friend!” James introduced, ruffling Regulus’ hair.
“You’re not my only friend, Potter. Stop that!” he scowled.
“Ah, yes. I do see the resemblance between them. Hello! I do hope you feel at home here!” Euphemia gave him a tight hug. Regulus seemed a bit uptight, probably never have been hugged by a parental figure, but he relaxed into it and gave her a tiny smile when they broke apart.
“And finally, this is Lily, my girlfriend.” James grinned, although there was a small pause before he said girlfriend. She didn’t know why.
“Hi! It’s so nice to finally meet you guys! I’ve heard great things about you.” Lily gushed.
“So, I’ve finally gotten to meet my son’s girlfriend! Tell me, does he treat you right?” she queried, a twinkle in her eyes.
“Of course, you’ve raised him very well.”
James preened under the compliment.
Lily turned her head to look at him and smile when she saw Regulus glowering at their interaction.
Does he hate me?
She couldn’t look into it as he noticed her watching and his face immediately went blank.
Oh well.
“Where are my manners? Come on, let’s get you all fed. You guys must be starving after that long ride.” she hurried them to the kitchen.
Sandwiches had already been prepared just for them and there was toffee pudding still being made in the pot. The smell was amazing.
All four of them stuffed their faces. They hadn’t realised how hungry they actually were until they took the first bite of their food.
“Mum, this is so good.”
It really was. The domesticity of all this made her heart warm and her eyes sparkle. Would it be like this 10 years from now?
Potter Manor, 22 th February 1976, 15:10
The Black siblings and Lily adjusted quickly to the liveliness of the house. There was no corner of sadness anywhere, which was foreign to them as the Blacks were a cruel family and ever since Lily had been enrolled in Hogwarts, her sister had despised her with every last cell in her body. It was always a very upsetting Christmas for all three of them.
After lunch, Fleamont discovered Regulus’ passion for Potions and invited him to his study where they could further talk about the various ingredients used for each of them and what their replacements could be. Regulus seemed to be momentarily stunned every time Fleamont spoke to him. Like he was in a trance. It was funny to see.
Sirius had gone with Euphemia who had offered to teach him how to braid his hair. He had said he really wanted to try for a long time, but he was afraid to ask because of his parents. They disapproved of his long hair. Sirius was really happy to be receiving motherly attention from another woman. It was something he had never experienced before.
Lily wasn’t upset about it. She understood them. At least she had nice enough parents who wouldn’t scream at her for every little thing. They didn’t. They deserved this. This small thing that would seem abnormally large to them.
James retreated to his room for the afternoon to take a nap, leaving Lily alone. She decided to continue reading the book she had started a while ago but had to stop because of examinations. It was Little Women, a classic.
As the afternoon wore on, Lily got lost in the world of feminism and sisterhood.
Potter Manor, 22 th February 1976, 18:36
“Laurie was a young lover, but he was in earnest, and meant to ‘have it out’, if he died in the attempt, so he plunged into the subject with characteristic impetuosity, saying in a voice that would get choky now and then, in spite of manful efforts to keep it steady. ‘I’ve loved you ever since I’ve known you, Jo, couldn’t help it, you’ve been so good to me. I’ve tried to show it, but you wouldn’t let me. Now I’m going to make you hear, and give me an answer, for I can’t go on so any longer.’”
Mary had spoiled some of the book for her already. She had told her that Amy and Laurie ended up getting married instead of him and Jo.
Lily didn’t like it. It made no sense to her. She wanted him to be with Jo, his first love. They would’ve been so adorable together. Being with your first love and making it to your old age is so inspiring and sweet. Not that she didn’t understand why Jo did what she did, she simply felt that they would’ve been good for each other. They would’ve helped each other be better. Jo and Laurie were already so alike, they shared so many interests. Laurie and Amy had different views on the world. Lily didn’t understand how they worked out. Doesn’t being opposite make things worse?
She felt someone sit next to her. Assuming it was James, she ignored him and continued to read. He knew how she got during her reading time.
“Hello.” the person spoke. Lily furrowed her eyebrows. That wasn’t James’ voice. She raised her head slightly to look.
It was Regulus.
“Oh, hi! Uhm, what’s up?”
“Is that Little Women?”
“Yeah! How did you know?”
“I saw the cover,” he replied flatly.
“Oh.” Lily felt so stupid. She couldn’t believe she was behaving so dumb, especially in front of someone younger than her.
“I’ve read it too, though. It’s a lovely book.” Regulus added, realising he might have come off as rude.
“Oh, I didn’t know you read Muggle literature.”
“Just because my parents are blood supremacists doesn’t mean I’m one too.” he said bluntly.
Lily widened her eyes.
“I-I,”
“I think it’s nice that Muggles find meaning in life even without magic. I used to pity them.” he ignored her expression.
“Hm, yeah, they’re great. I think you would be interested in other things they’ve made too.” Lily agreed.
“Like what?”
“Uh, like… telephones. They’re like Floo calls, but the Muggle version.”
“Oh, wow. How do they work?” Regulus leaned forward, eagerness present in his eyes. She didn’t expect him to be genuinely interested in telephones.
Lily ended up explaining about how electricity worked and who discovered it and how it was related to the invention of telephones. Regulus listened keenly.
“That’s very impressive. Do they have anything else similar to our items?”
“Yes, lots. Like a pen, Muggle version for a quill and they have football and basketball, which is similar to Quidditch.”
“I didn’t know they had sports.”
“They do. More than us, in fact.”
Regulus raised his eyebrows, clearly amazed by Muggles. Lily felt a rush of pride swarm within her. Yes, Muggles were great too. In fact, better than Wizards in some ways.
“If they’ve done all that, why are they looked down on by us? They’ve managed to curate a whole world without magic, without a complaint, yet we look down on them. All because we have magic, and they don’t? Pathetic.” Regulus scoffed.
She shrugged because that was just the way it was. She was surprised that such words were coming out of his mouth, but maybe she just had assumed the worst in him because of his parents.
“You know, you’re not as bad as I thought.” Lily said.
“Same goes for you.”
Lily didn’t know what he meant by that. She hadn’t done anything to him or others. Before she could ask, Sirius called him to see his hair.
He left.
Lily was alone with her book, and she didn’t mind at all. Reading was a billion times better than worrying about everything else in this world.
˚✧˚
Potter Manor, 25 th February 1976, 20:19
“What’s gotten all of you so excited?” Lily came down the stairs to two teenage boys prancing around the living room.
“Moony! My Moony is coming over for a night! Moonyyy!” Sirius sang out in a horrible pitch.
“Oi! You’re going to burst our eardrums with your singing!” James smacked him with a pillow on the head.
“HEY!”
Regulus sighed at their antics.
“Pandora’s coming too,” he said.
Lily’s eyes lightened at that.
“Really? What about Evan though? He’s her brother, right?”
“Mhm. Evan’s staying at Barty’s for now, so it’s just her. I was making sure Potter held true to his word.” he explained.
Oh , she could finally see her after so long. She would be right at the door waiting for hours if she had to.
“I’m a man of my words, Reggie.” James winked. Lily might’ve been hallucinating or something because she saw a faint flush on the Regulus Black’s cheeks. It went away in a second, so she wasn’t really sure.
“Oh! I’m so excited! I’ve missed her, them , so much.” she corrected herself. She wasn’t lying, she did miss Remus too. But she might’ve missed Pandora a little bit more.
“Me too! I missed Moony so much! I can’t wait to see his handsome, pretty face.” Sirius sighed dreamily, thinking about his boyfriend.
“I thought you found me pretty, mate.” James joked.
“Yes, yes, sure, but Moony is just better,” he replied.
James gasped in mock offence, a dramatic hand to his chest.
“How dare thou!”
Sirius stuck out his tongue.
Regulus rolled his eyes and sat there grumpily on the couch.
Lily couldn’t bother to care about any of them.
Pandora is coming.
˚✧˚
Potter Manor, 27 th February 1976, 16:23
The day arrived soon, and Lily was walking on the balls of her feet. Sirius too, was non-stop singing Queen songs and bouncing off the walls like a kid who had too much candy. Well, he was meeting his boyfriend and Lily was just seeing a friend, but it was different. Pandora was different. No one could possibly understand how she felt when it came to her.
She provided so much comfort and warmth. No judgement, ever. No arguing. Nothing. She was like, the most perfect friend. Like she was made just for Lily to have.
Not that she didn’t love Mary and Marlene. They were her best friends. The top friends on her friends list. But Pandora was just… different. She couldn’t explain it if she tried. She just was.
Regulus and Pandora must have been close, because he also seemed in a cheerier mood than his usual impatience for everything. That was the kind of effect she brought.
James was just James. He was happy to see anyone. (Except Snape.)
The doorbell rang. They all held their breaths. Euphemia and Fleamont opened the door. They greeted someone. A mess of sandy blonde hair and white hair stumbled through it. Then, everything happened all at once.
James screeched. Sirius yelped as he jumped into Remus’ arms, pressing wet kisses everywhere on his face. Regulus rushed to Pandora for a hug. And Lily grinned the biggest grin once she saw her face.
She was here!
Regulus and Pandora let go, and she immediately went to her for a hug too. Pandora gave her a squeeze, and it made her feel all fuzzy inside.
“I missed you.” Lily whispered in her ear.
“Me too.” she whispered back.
They held on for a few more seconds than most friends would. It felt right.
“Not happy to see me eh, Lily?” Remus chuckled, opening his arms once they broke apart.
“I’m always happy to see you, Remus.” she giggled, going in for the hug.
“Clearly, not as much as her.” he winked when she unwrapped herself from him.
It made her cheeks go red, not sure why.
They all flooded into the living room. Everyone talking over everyone. She felt at home, yet something felt like it needed to be fixed. Just a small tweak.
When they all got bored of poking and prodding and laughing, they got up to go to their rooms.
“Remus, I’m sure you would want to room with Sirius. And Pandora, are you alright with sharing with Lily?” Euphemia asked.
Remus blushed a bright red, but Sirius simply smirked. That shameless fool.
“Yes, Mrs Potter. Lily’s fine.” Pandora replied.
“If one more of you calls me Mrs Potter again, I will be having words with you.” Euphemia said sternly, before letting out a laugh.
“Okay, Mrs Potter.” James gave her a cheeky grin before dashing up the stairs.
She gasped and shook her head fondly. Everyone laughed. Except Regulus, obviously, but even he had a soft smile on his face.
They went upstairs.
“Come on, you can set your bag right here. Are you fine sleeping with me on the bed? I can sleep on the floor if you want?” Lily suggested, sitting on the bed.
“Bed’s fine. I’m surprised you’re not in James’ room.” she said.
“Yeah, I told him I wanted my own space, and he was okay with it.”
“But you’re letting me stay here.”
“Uh, yea, because, erm, its only for one night.” Lily stammered, coming up with an excuse.
Pandora hummed.
“Do you want to go to the garden? It’s really pretty.”
“Alright. Can I braid your hair with flowers in it?”
“Sure, of course.”
They went to the garden. The girls sat under a nice shady tree. Pandora began her work. She twisted Lily’s hair with her fingers into shape, placing flowers in them every now and then.
Time passed, and Lily fell asleep in her lap.
Potter Manor, 27 th February 1976, 18:58
By the time Lily woke up, it was already dinner time.
“Why didn’t you wake me up earlier?” she yawned.
“You looked very peaceful; I didn’t want to bother.” Pandora replied, her eyes looking distant.
“What did you do while I was asleep?”
“I was talking with the squirrels and trying to catch Nargles.” she got up.
Lily stood up too, grabbed her hand just because she felt like it, and made their way to the dining room.
“Hi, Effie. Sorry we’re late. I fell asleep in the garden while Pandora was doing my hair.” she apologised.
“Oh! Your hair looks so pretty!” Euphemia let out a small squeal and rushed to her side to feel it.
“Wow, babe, it really does.” James raised his eyebrows in astonishment.
Lily mumbled out a shy thank you and sat next to Pandora. James could go one meal without her by his side.
Dinner was finished with small chatter and laughs like usual. Lily noticed James and Regulus sitting awfully close to one another, but then again, her thigh was touching Pandora’s, so it couldn’t mean anything. She was just overthinking again.
All of them, including Euphemia and Fleamont, decided to play Exploding Snap.
“Argh, curse you Potter, you keep making me lose!” Lily huffed. James had won all three rounds.
“You’re just mad I’m better at playing than you!” James teased.
There was a slight burn in her stomach, and she got annoyed.
“Whatever.” she rolled her eyes.
“I’m going to my room. Pandora, you coming?”
“Alright.” Pandora replied airily.
James looked at her in confusion. Had he done something wrong?
They went upstairs.
“Why are you so upset?” Pandora sat on the bed.
“It's nothing. Can you just talk? Something, anything.” Lily asked, lying down on the bed.
Pandora laid down too.
“Okay.”
Pandora talked. She talked about how she wanted a new necklace, how the Giant Squid came in the Black Lake, being excited for school to start, why Christmas is the best holiday.
Lily listened. She listened until her eyes started to feel heavy and the only thing she could hear was Pandora’s voice and the soft breeze of the wind.
She stopped talking for a while and Lily assumed she felt tired. Then, she felt a sudden movement beside her and a head over her face. She didn’t move.
“I really like you, Flower. So much.” Pandora whispered into the silence of the room.
Lily froze and held her breath, careful to not let her know that she was still awake.
Pandora caressed her cheek. Just for a few seconds. She stopped and laid back down.
Only when Lily heard her breathing become slow but deep, was when she let herself exhale.
What was that? Pandora liked her? As a friend? More than a friend? What is going on?
So much was happening right now that she couldn’t comprehend. Her head was telling her to just sleep, and her eyes were shutting by themselves.
The only thing Lily could do now was pray that this was all a dream as she drifted off. She dreamt about falling into familiar grey eyes instead of brown ones, but it didn’t feel wrong at all.
˚✧˚
Potter Manor, 28 th February, 08:17
Lily’s eyes fluttered open. Her bed was warm, and she just wanted to go back to sleep. She turned to her side, realising that Pandora had gotten up long ago as her spot on the bed had grown cold.
Deciding it was probably a good time to wake up, she sat up and stretched her sore limbs. Lily licked her lips. That’s when she remembered what had happened last night.
Oh.
It hadn’t been her imagination. Pandora had really said that. Did she mean it? What way was she supposed to take it? Platonically? Romantically?
It was too early for this. And Pandora was still here. Lily didn’t want to panic with her in the house. No, she would wait until after she left. She just had to pull through breakfast for now.
It’s going to be fine.
Lily brushed her teeth and stared at herself hard in the mirror, mentally preparing herself.
She went downstairs.
Lily couldn’t bring herself to look at her face. She would throw up. From nerves. And from the fact that she didn’t understand why such a beautiful person like Pandora would ever like her.
She could tell the others noticed the tension--- not between her and Pandora, just the tension within herself. They didn’t mention it. Lily was so grateful for that.
Throughout the whole morning, she didn’t talk to anyone much. She couldn’t. Not when something possibly life changing had just happened a few hours ago.
The only time Lily looked up from the floor, was when Pandora and Remus were just setting a foot out the door. She just wanted a glance of her face. A glimpse of it. Pandora saw it and she averted her eyes and looked back down to the ground again.
They left, and she never said goodbye.
That was okay though, she would meet them in about two days. For now, she needed to set her head straight.
Lily ran up to her room as soon as she could.
She shut the door and locked it. Lily slumped her body against it and curled up into a ball.
Why was this happening now? Did Pandora really like her? Maybe she meant it in a friend way? But that wouldn’t make sense, why would she caress her cheek like that? With so much intimacy? Whywhywhywhywhywhywhywhywhy?
Did she like her back? Pandora was really pretty, she wouldn’t mind. But what about James? She was happy with him. Well, not really, but it wasn’t his fault. Or hers. Or anybody’s, really. But they were perfect for each other. Everyone told them that. They were like Romeo and Juliet. It was just meant to be.
But what if they weren’t? What if there was somebody else waiting for them? Someone like Pandora? How would she know if she never tried? Lily really did like her, very much. Did she even like girls? She didn’t think she has ever looked at girls like that. Not like she did at Pandora. She used to look at James like that.
What happened? Was she bored of him? How could she be bored of James Potter. He was the epitome of fun. What was wrong with her? Dumping James Potter? What a freak she was. Her sister was right. That was all she ever would be. If she liked girls, how did she like James? Huh?
Lily started to bawl. She didn’t understand.
She wasn’t homophobic, that would be vile. In fact, James himself had told her that when it came to dating people, it was like he was gender blind. He didn’t care whether you were a girl, boy, non-binary, genderfluid, or anything in between. It was called pansexuality or something like that. She knew he wouldn’t mind if she came out. But how could she come out, when she didn’t even know herself?
And what would happen between them? Would he hate her? Loathe her for breaking his heart and leading him on? But she didn’t. She genuinely liked him. A lot. It was getting pathetic. She didn’t even know when it started to fade. She just suddenly got irked by everything he did or said, even if many would find them cute. She started viewing Pandora like that without even realising.
“Lilypad? Are you okay, in there?” James knocked gently, concern evident in her voice.
“Go away, James. I don’t want to talk right now.” she sniffled.
Lily could tell he hesitated before muttering out an ‘Okay’. She waited until the sound of his footsteps faded into nothing, before fresh tears began rolling down her cheeks.
Oh god. She really didn’t want to break the poor boy’s heart.
She didn’t step out of her room for the rest of the day. No one came to her door.
˚✧˚
Potter Manor, 27 th February 1976, 23:52
Lily came out when she was sure everyone was tucked into their beds fast asleep. She didn’t want to be questioned, and frankly, she didn’t want to see anyone at all. She needed water. All that crying and laying in bed staring at the ceiling made her throat feel raw and scratchy. Her eyes burned but it was okay. She just needed water.
She paused when she heard soft mumblings. Maybe it was James. He had a habit of mumbling while reading. Maybe he couldn’t sleep. That’s why he was reading. Getting past him would be easy. She crept past the corridor and into the kitchen. Before she could get a glass, she saw two figures curled up on the window seat in the living room.
If she squinted hard enough, she could make out that it was Regulus and James. And it wasn’t James’ muttering. It was Regulus’. He was twiddling with his fingers and his face looked as though he were in another universe. Far, far away. She didn’t know whether it was because of the quiet of the night or because of something entirely different, but Lily saw James do something he had never done before. Not to her, not to Sirius, or even his own mum.
He was quiet , a few hums to let Regulus know he was listening. In their 3 months of dating, he had never done that. He would interrupt or get distracted or just not pay attention at all. But here, right now, with Regulus, he was silent, attentive. He had this look of awe on his face. An expression full of longing and admiration. Lily wondered if he had ever looked at her this way.
James moved slightly forward, and Lily held her breath. Was he going to interrupt? Change the topic? No. He simply stared into his eyes for a second before pushing Regulus’ hair behind his ear. He sat back with the same look. Just from that moment alone, she could tell that the feelings he had for her had been lost. He just hadn’t realised it yet. James would never cheat; he was the last person who would ever do that. But, maybe somewhere in between his and Regulus’ late-night talks and cute library study sessions, he began to fall. Gently and slowly, like a baby being cradled.
If she thought about it, they would make quite a pair. They sort of reminded her of her and Pandora. Clearly, James and she had fallen in the wrong footsteps. They were at a pace the other would never meet. They were like puzzle pieces, fit tightly but in the wrong places.
That was okay, though. They had found homes in someone else’s arms. They just needed a bit more time to see that. And that was okay. She would let James know. Tomorrow. For now, Lily tip-toed back to her room, careful to not let them know that she had been there, watching.
She never got her glass of water.
˚✧˚
Potter Manor, 28 th February 1976, 18:24
“James.” Lily jerked her head towards his room door. She opened it and walked in, James trailing behind. She sat down on his bed.
“Woah, Evans, is this going to be a hot make-out session? You know I aim to please.” James smirked. “No, sit down.” she ordered. “That sounds serious.” James furrowed his eyebrows.
“Hey, is something wrong?”
“We need to break up.”
They both said at the same time.
“W-what?” James faltered. “I thought we were doing well? Were we not?” he asked, desperation evident in his eyes.
“Sorry, I worded that badly. But we do need to break up. We were doing well, James. Are doing well. But don’t you think we were doing a little too well? Like, there was no spark? Don’t deny it, James. I know you felt it too. I liked you; I really did. But I think its faded now.”
“Oh. Yeah… I know. I was scared to tell you, I guess. You’re a really good friend and a great girlfriend, but not for me. I think all the years of pining finally came to my head and just perished. But I don’t want to be like those awkward exes.” James admitted.
“Me too. Friends?”
“Friends. But this didn’t happen because of me, did it? Did I do anything to upset you? I noticed you were crying yesterday, but I didn’t want to disturb.”
“No, no. It’s completely different. Nothing you did.” Lily reassured him with a quick smile.
“Oh, okay. Good.” James looked away.
“Besides, I’ve noticed you getting quite cozy with Regulus.” she elbowed him in the side with a small laugh.
James flushed, swatting her away.
“Mhm.”
“Come on , I know there’s something more than that.”
“What? No. No. We’re just friends.”
“Uh huh, sure. There’s definitely something going on.”
“No, there isn’t. I promise. I would never do that to you Lily. You know that.”
“Yes, I do, James. But don’t you think that maybe you do stuff to him that you don’t normally to others?”
If James realised his feelings faster, maybe it would help her to talk to Pandora. Then she wouldn’t feel so bad about leaving him by himself while she was away confronting another person and possibly kissing them.
“I’m not sure what you mean. I just think he’s really… cool. He’s, like, unexplainably cool .”
“And I’m not?” she joked.
“No! I didn’t mean it like that! You’re cool too! Super cool. I just… I don’t know.” It was so fun seeing James get riled up.
“ Uh huh. If you didn’t like him, as you just said, would you care if I told you that he looks at you like you made the universe?”
“What? Does he really? Why would he? I’m just me. I’m just James and he’s Regulus . Why would he?” James replied, shock written all over his face.
“There’s your answer.” Lily said with a satisfied nod.
James stared at her, aghast. Did she really just figure his own feelings out for him?
“You always did know me better than I ever knew myself.” he chuckled slowly. She smirked.
“Maybe you guys need to sort things out.” she patted his back.
“What? Would that not be too soon? We’re just friends right now.”
“James, you’ve been friends for almost a year now. And none of that would matter next to the eternity you would be spending time with each other if you said something. Don’t you think it would be worth risking all that for the chance of being able to hold him in your arms and kiss and do all that disgusting stuff until you’re both decayed and dying?”
James looked at his broomstick laid in the corner of his room and hummed thoughtfully.
“I always knew there was something wrong about us. Not in a bad way, of course. But it was supposed to be like this. I know it. You were supposed to fall in love, with someone completely different, and I was supposed to watch.” she said firmly, an unspoken promise.
James didn’t reply, and he didn’t need to, because Lily knew that he understood.
“That’s a good lad.”
She stood up and closed the door with a soft click behind her.
˚✧˚
1st March 1976, Potter Manor, 08:45
Lily heard someone tumbling down the stairs and a sudden crash.
“SORRY!” Sirius yelled, rushing into the room, cheeks red. Euphemia tutted but a smile was present on her face. Oh, how she loved that woman. She scurried to the other room to fix whatever mess Sirius had made again. James stood awkwardly at the side, like a frail kitten, unsure what to do.
Him and Lily were more at ease now but it was also as if someone had pointed a gun at their heads whenever they were near the other. Hardened, cautious, calculative steps. As if someone would pull the trigger if they moved an inch too close.
She didn't know if the others had noticed the way they would stiffen up around each other now, or if they were too stuck in their own worlds to care.
She didn't mind. It’s not like she needed that kind of attention right now, anyway.
“All packed up, mate? Your trunk doesn't look that heavy.” Sirius asked, prodding at James’ things.
“Er, yeah. I didn't bring that much back. Most of my clothes are here anyway. Or did you forget that this is my house, Pads?” James sniggered. Sirius rolled his eyes.
“Blah blah whatever, you twat.”
“Uh huh. Where's Reg?”
“You seem to be caring about that little devil a lot now, huh?” Sirius eyed him.
“Awww, I know you're jealous. Don't worry though, you'll always be my favourite.” he cooed. The black haired boy pretended to be annoyed but anyone would have to be blind if they couldn't see the way his face brightened.
As if on cue, Regulus walked down the stairs, his luggage trudging behind. Lily shot James a knowing look, but he was too busy staring at him like a fool.
The thought of him ever looking at her like that played in the back of her mind.
She wasn’t jealous, that would be stupid. She was the one to dump him. But it would be nice if he had ever done such a thing to her. Lily wished them the best, though. They would make an adorable pair, even if it would be odd to see at first.
She didn't know why, but it was as if she had always known something like this would happen. Maybe she had been a seer in a past life.
Hah, that would be funny. Lily the Seer.
“Oh, look at that, Prince Regulus has finally decided to see the peasants of his god awful kingdom. Let us all cheer.” Sirius took an exaggerated bow.
“The only peasant here is you Sirius.” he snarked. His brother pouted as everyone snickered.
“You think you’re so funny, don’t you? I hope you get locked inside the train.” Sirius huffed. “I think I happen to be quite humorous, and the only person stupid enough to get locked in a train is you.” Regulus scrunched up his nose.
“Are all of you ready to go? We’re going to be late.” Lily interrupted the conversation.
A murmur of agreement broke out as they shuffled by her side. It takes a strong one to handle them all at once.
“Dad! We’re ready, let’s go!”
If Lily saw Regulus notice how her and James were not standing next to each other, or holding hands, or pressing kisses on their faces, it was none of his business and none of her’s.
˚✧˚
1st March 1976, Hogwarts Express, 09:03
When she entered the carriage she knew her friends usually sat in, she was met by puzzled looks.
“Aren’t you supposed to be sitting with Mr Golden Boy?” Mary asked, stopping her crocheting.
“Merlin, I thought you would be a bit more excited to see me, Mary, but I guess not.” Lily replied sarcastically, procrastinating an answer.
Mary waved her off and demanded an explanation.
“We broke up.”
“WHAT?!” Mary and Marlene yelled out.
“Did he break your heart? How dare he?! I’m going to go out there and bash his tiny skull into the door until he learns that’s not the way to treat a woman, especially a woman like you.” Marlene threatened, halfway through stomping out. Lily had to rein her back in by the collar.
“Marls, that’s not what happened. I was the one to break up. I just didn’t feel anything anymore.” she shrugged.
“Huh? But weren’t you, like, in love with him?” Marlene’s eyes got big and wide.
“I don’t know. I don’t think I ever was. Or maybe I did. Whatever. It’s gone now and I’m quite happy. We’re still friends, though.” Lily replied.
“Oh, well, that’s good then. You sure nothing’s wrong?”
“Mhm.”
They talked and they listened. And once everything had been done and told, they retreated back to their own things. Taking up space in their own separate corners. Mary went back to crocheting, Marlene back to strumming on her guitar, and Lily back to reading.
Just like they always did.
Lily was nervous to go to Hogwarts. She wasn’t ready to see Pandora. Not yet. She was sure if she did, she would immediately sob on the spot. Because of how beautiful she was and how confusing she made her feel and how much she just wanted to pour out her heart to her and how she just wanted to cry all over again in general.
She steered Mary and Marlene away anytime she saw a head of blonde hair. They shot her confused glances but whatever. She could tell them later. Maybe a few days later. Or a few weeks. As long as she told them that was okay right? But not right now. If she had to tell them anything, it would be good news.She didn’t dare assume the worst because then she would get antsy all over again and she would be back to square one.
Lily was successful in shying away from the blue eyes she was beginning to fall in love with. She let her back face the Ravenclaw table and patiently waited for the Sorting to start.
She might have snuck a few glances behind but there was no one to know but her.
˚✧˚
15th March 1976, Great Hall, Hogwarts, 13:24
Avoiding Pandora was easier than expected. She tried seeking out Lily the first few days, but she might have gotten the hint and backed away. She felt so bad but she wasn’t done sulking and thinking. She needed to curate the perfect plan on how to confront her without fucking it all up. She didn’t even know whether she wanted to be together with her, or just remain friends, or completely ignore whatever had happened and act normal.
It might have been too late to act normal now.
Lily sat next to James in the Great Hall for lunch. They were better now. Less awkward, more platonic. By now, all their friends knew they had broken up.
Sirius was devastated, of course. She might have even heard him cry a bit after he heard about it from James. He then proceeded to snog Remus and boast about his own love life of how flourishing it is. Such a drama queen.
“What type of heathen are you? Bacon and chicken in one meal? How much of a pig can you be?” Lily criticised. “You can’t get these biceps for nothing, Evans.” James pretended to kiss his arms and smirked.
“Muscles, my arse. You’re like a scrawny twig.”
“I know you’re just saying all that ‘cause you want to feel them. Go on, I don’t mind.” he leaned over to her. She shoved him away.
“Get off me, you big oaf!”
They both snorted and James started to cackle like those Muggle witches who had green skin in stories. When he suddenly stopped, Lily recovered from her laughing fit and looked up, wondering why he got quiet.
She realised why. He had caught Regulus' eye and they were staring at each other, like the other was a shiny doll in a room full of rags and soot.
They were staring at each other, with eyes full of awe.
When James winked at him and his cheeks flushed a dark red, she knew.
He had finally found the one, and she was witnessing it. Just like she had said she would. That small gesture was like noticing two magnets coming together as a child, so special and so rare. Something you would've never expected to happen. Lily was honoured to have seen it first.
He had finally found the one, and it was her turn to find hers.
˚✧˚
17th March 1976, Hogwarts, 16:08
Lily Evans was nervous. She was always nervous. It was never a big deal. Whether it was about exams, or about friends, she always had it under control.
This time she didn’t. This time, everything could go wrong. Or everything could go right. She hoped the strings of fate would be gentle and choose the latter.
Lily had everything planned out. She had sent a letter to Pandora, in the shape of an origami flower, because she had always loved flowers, requesting her to come to the abandoned classroom on the second floor. She had a foolproof plan on how to talk to her and how to fix the situation and she knew her desires. She needed her back. She wanted her Pandora back.
She smoothed her hands out on her skirt and made her way into the classroom. It was dusty and old and sort of smelled, but this was as good as it gets. Lily rehearsed her speech in her mind. She wanted to convey the right message in the most genuine way.
The red-head heard footsteps nearing. She inhaled. The misty eyed girl stepped in, looking as beautiful as ever. She exhaled.
And all her thoughts flew right out of her brain. Fuck it. Nothing had ever been expectant when it came to Pandora anyway.
“Hello.” Pandora sat in a chair.
“Hi.” Lily breathed out. She had forgotten how much she missed her. Lily cleared her throat.
“I was still awake when you said it.”
She was being very vague, she wasn’t even sure if Pandora would understand. If she would even remember. But by the way she reacted, Lily knew she knew.
Pandora froze, for a few seconds, and then relaxed.
“I know.”
“W-what? Why didn’t you tell me? I wouldn’t have needed to go through such an emotional turmoil if you did.” the other sputtered.
“I dunno. I didn’t know if you liked girls.” she shrugged slightly, a small, hopeful smile tugging at her lips.
“I’m still not sure if I do, or if I ever did.” Lily licked her lips.
Pandora’s face went blank, she turned her body away, almost as if she were ready for something.
“But, I am sure that I like you, Dora.”
Lily took her hands in hers and stared into her eyes, feeling herself getting lost in them.
“I like you too, Flower.” she angled her body towards her again, the softest look on her face.
“I’m sorry for avoiding you, but I needed to, even if that was immature of me. I’ve always been in control of things, always sure of my place in life, but ever since you came along, I feel like I’ve lost it. I used to know everything about myself. Every minor detail, every major detail. And when I saw your face, suddenly, I wasn’t so sure anymore. What happened to liking boys? Did I ever like another girl? I didn’t know. I still don’t. You made me feel hazy and like I didn’t understand anything, even the simple things, but you also made me see clear. You made me realise that it was okay to be unhappy, to be unsettled. That I didn’t need to have everything planned out. And that’s why I like you, Pandora.” Lily let out. There were no tears, no strange ache in her chest.
“I’ve never been certain of where this would lead us, but I’m sure now.”
Most people would’ve sealed it with a kiss, but they were not most people.
Pandora gave her the tightest hug instead, because she was being so, so brave. She melted into it, and they both held on. They weren’t dying, no, it didn’t feel like it. It was like they were reborn instead. Like that was a reminder that they were both alive, that they were there. And sometimes, that was all you needed.
When they let go, Lily didn’t regret it. She didn’t regret that they didn’t kiss. She didn’t regret that they didn’t trace out their features and memorize the planes of their faces. This was enough and that was all it ever was supposed to be.
Neither of them felt the need to scream it out, or jump around, or just let everyone know about their little love. They weren’t obligated to.
They would keep it under a loose cover until as long as they wanted to. Not because of peering eyes or because of expectations. It was not because of anything. They just wanted to be hidden away. Private, but not really a secret.
Because it never mattered if others cared or not. It never mattered if they would now be considered weird or strange.
As long as Pandora was happy. As long as Lily was happy, nothing mattered.
Nothing was supposed to matter.
Because when the sun sets and the day ends, they're still picture perfect. Whether or not some of them had to let go and drive down different roads, the photograph that they keep in their wallets still reminds them of the dreams they have and the memories they share.
Maybe in an alternate universe, James and Lily were meant to share the same roof above their heads and have matching rings and have a child that looked just like them. But in this one, they lived down the street from one another and still had the same laughs as they did back when they were 15.
They just shared it with different people now.
And that was okay.
Because love was never about fitting into the stories others wrote for them. Love was about choice. About late-night conversations that stretched into dawn, about knowing someone’s smile like the back of your hand, about being able to sit in silence and still feel heard.
It was about Pandora’s hand slipping into Lily’s beneath the table, unnoticed, yet grounding. It was about James catching Lily’s eye across the room and knowing, in some quiet way, that they would always be a part of each other’s story, even if their pages no longer aligned the way they once thought they would.
Because in the end, love did not need to be grand, or loud, or written in ways that the world understood. Sometimes, it was just a whispered promise, a glance in a crowd, a book waiting to be written, to be finished, but deciding to leave it there in order to start another.
And that was okay.
˚✧˚
Lily Evans and Pandora Rosier. Honestly, they were sort of an odd couple. You wouldn’t expect it, really.
Lily, who was always a down to earth person, and was always laughing, and Pandora, who was mostly in a daze and the person who made Lily laugh.
What a strange pair.
People were astounded by them when they came into the Quidditch stands holding hands and cheering for Gryffindor. The brightest witch of her age and Peculiar Pandora, together, in love?
How unbelievable.
Most of the Hogwarts student body assumed they were together because they were jealous of James and Regulus and were secretly in love with them, so they were in a fake relationship to get revenge.
But the wise ones, the ones who dared to look a little closer, were able to see how smitten they were with each other.
They would see the way Pandora would take Lily’s hands in hers, because she always felt cold, and bring them to her lips to keep her warm.
They would watch the way Lily would help Pandora search for Nargles, or whatever nonsense creature she believed in, without a second thought.
They would stare at the way the blonde would gently rub her back whenever Lily had achieved something, whether it was the highest grade in a class, or had just won a game of Wizard’s Chess against Remus, with an expression of fondness on her face.
They just had to look.
Lily and Pandora strived to be the best. They always tried to be better. For themselves, for each other.
They were different in a lot of ways, but that made it easier in a way. Pandora would try to read the books that Lily liked, and Lily would try to understand the weird superstitions that Pandora followed.
They made each other feel whole.
Opposites attract, as they say.
Lily never used to believe in it. It never made sense. Why would you like someone who is a foil to you? Wouldn’t that make you like them less?
But she had been wrong, now she finally understood. It reminded her of the time when she had finally finished a book and realised why the characters loved each other, when they were almost completely different.
She can’t remember the name of the book now.
Pandora loved Lily and Lily loved Pandora because they were like the flowers and the bees, needing the other for survival.
Many people compare themselves to the universe, to the cosmos, and to the galaxies. Maybe they were like them, maybe they felt like they were the sun and the stars.
But Lily and Pandora were like the sky and the earth, perfectly aligned every single day. They kept each other on their feet, because what is the earth if the sky fell, and the sky if the earth never existed?
They were nature reflecting on a water body.
Lily Evans and Pandora Rosier. A couple that might not have been meant to be on paper, but was still written anyway.