Chapter 10
in a quaint community wrapped in the embrace of spring, lived a bright-green eyed young woman named Lily Evans. At seventeen, Lily had a spark of curiosity that set her apart from her friends. Her bubbly friendly personality often drew people towards her, but it was her fierce loyalty and determination that stoked the fire of her spirit.
As the Easter holidays approached, Lily was brimming with excitement. This year, she wanted to introduce her parents to someone special—a fellow student from her school, James Potter. James, with his unruly black hair and warm hazel eyes, had a charm that could light up even the gloomiest of days. He was not just a troublemaker; underneath his antics, he was a kind-hearted and intelligent young man who cared deeply for his friends and family.
Lily had felt a strange inclination towards him. In their last year of schooling at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, facing challenges that tested their magical skills, and experiencing bonding moments in the Great Hall over butterbeer and pumpkin pasties and head meetings.But now, she wanted her parents to see what she saw in James—the laughter in his voice, the twinkle of mischief in his eyes, and the unwavering support he offered her.
On a crisp Easter Sunday, tousled clouds painted in shades of lavender fluttered above as Lily invited James to her family home for a Sunday dinner. She felt a flutter of nerves, but excitement danced in her heart. In preparation, she allowed herself the artistic delight of setting the table with colourful flowers and delicate porcelain—creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
As James arrived, clad in a casual shirt and trousers , Lily's heart raced. He brought with him a basket filled with sweets and pumpkin juice and a gift for her family, and as he entered their home, the sunlight bounced off his cheerful demeanor.
Dinner commenced with laughter swirling around the room. Lily’s mother, a warm woman with a nurturing smile, struck up a conversation with James, intrigued by his tales of Hogwarts and his family. Her father a enjoyable witty man who soon found himself enthralled by James's funny stories of Quidditch matches and escapades with Lily by his side or with other students.
As the evening unfolded, it became evident that James was not just an enchanting young wizard with charm; he was respectful and considerate, earning the admiration of Lily’s parents. Over plates of roast lamb and delicate peas, they found a genuine connection, heartedly discussing magic, music, and life beyond school.
But, as the sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, an unexpected moment arose. James reached out and asked Lily's father for permission to speak with him in private. Lily's mother looked on with curiosity as they retreated to the garage , the air thick with anticipation. The women cleared the dinner dishes, their eyes frequently darting towards the closed door, their whispers hushed.
When the men returned, Lily felt a knot tighten in her stomach. She had no idea what James had discussed with her father, but she could see a newfound seriousness in his gaze. Her mother called everyone to the living room, where a chocolate gateau and steaming cups of tea awaited them. As they took their seats, she discreetly pulled out an old family photograph from a drawer, dusting it off with a tender smile.
The photograph was of Lily as a toddler, giggling as she played. The colors were slightly faded, but the joy in her eyes was as vivid as ever. She handed it to James, her voice a gentle melody. "This is Lily when she first started playing in my flower bed . She was always so curious, even back then." James took the photograph, his thumb tracing the outline of the little girl. His eyes met Lily’s, and she blushed at the warmth in his gaze.
"It's incredible to think she's the same person," James said, smiling. A half hour after looking at many pictures of
Lily and some others that included the hole family on holiday in South Africa. "Thank you for tonight,” James said, his voice softening as he leaned against the doorframe, his hazel eyes sparkling with sincerity. “Your parents are amazing. You must be proud of them.”
“I am," Lily replied, blushing slightly. “You made them laugh, James. Not everyone can do that so easily.”
James chuckled, running a hand through his messy hair—a habit Lily had come to find endearing. “It was just some stories. But honestly, it felt nice. Like a glimpse into a family I’d love to be a part of.”
Lily’s breath caught in her throat. His words wrapped around her heart like a warm embrace.
“James,” she said carefully, “are you—”
Before she could complete her sentence, a loud crash echoed from behind them. A moment later, the sleek silver form of a bicycle whizzed past, followed by a burst of light that illuminated the night. The commotion was the kind that belonged to her sister , Petunia. She had an uncanny knack for interrupting , and tonight was no different.
"Oops! Sorry!” Petunia called out as she skidded to a stop. She brushed herself off, and grinned at the two of them. “Didn’t see you there!”
Lily burst out laughing, her earlier seriousness dissolving into mirth. James joined in, clearly amused by Petunia antics.
“I better get going, then,” James said, finally stepping away from the door. “I’ll see you at the platform in two weeks time .”
“Yeah, see you,” Lily replied . She watched him walk away, the moonlight dancing off his figure as he made his way down the path. A part of her wished to call him back, to voice the feelings bubbling inside her, but she decided to let the night unfold naturally.
When James was finally out of sight, Lily turned back to Petunia .