Class of 78’

The halls began to flood with cheers for James, he had made the winning move tonight and because of it, he was being carried by multiple students through the halls up to the common room. Clem was exhausted and stressed out. Her first OWLS was in a few days and she was not prepared in the slightest. This is a lie of course, she is prepared, but the testing anxiety was beginning to get to her. She wanted nothing more than to sit by the fire and be cuddled up with her book, sitting in peace and quiet. This of course would not be happening today, so instead she bolted to her room immediately and grabbed what she needed for a shower.

She quickly washed her hair and scrubbed her body of any grass and dirt, changed into a comfy set of burgundy sweatpants with a small house crest near the pocket, and threw on a large gray t-shirt. She gave Mary and Marlene a quick kiss on the cheek before grabbing her books. She scanned for Lily who was chatting with other friends, a drink in hand, and said goodbye as well. “Don’t study too hard!” She smiled, taking a sip of her pumpkin juice and fire whiskey mix. Clem shot a quick smile before quickly escaping the madness of the common room. She closed her eyes and took some relaxing breaths on her way to the library, on her way she grabbed a cup of tea from the great hall. She knew she would have to sneak it in but she and the librarian were fairly close so she knew it wouldn’t be an issue. She went to her usual corner spot, in between two windows with walls of books around her, the warmest lit lamp, and far away from everyone else since it was close to the restricted section. She popped in her ‘collection of jazz’ cassette her mother made her and slipped on her headphones, setting the table with everything she needed. She had written her list of ‘to-do’s’ onto her notepad and was immediately overwhelmed. She had to write Slughorn's paper, finish McGonagall's thesis paper draft, study her dark arts flashcards, finish a French paper, and if she had time, start her book report for herbology. It was already close to 10 pm and at this point, she’d be stuck in the library till 2 am. She placed her head into her hands and began to quietly cry. Her body shaking slightly, she wiped her tears and flipped through her potions book to quickly write her report. Her report was easy for his class and took no more than 45 minutes to write a solid one-pager. She closed her textbook and placed the paper on top, crossing that off her list, a small victory. Moving to her halfway completed thesis paper. Her quill was trembling in her hand from the stress, she took a deep breath and closed her eyes for a moment before focusing on her paper. She stared at the third page and halfway down she decided it was horrible and crumpled it up, restarting. Again, awful. Again, even worse. Again, a first-year could do better. Again, nothing. She once again covered her face, resting it in her hands, and began to cry again. This time the tears were heavy and she couldn’t seem to stop. Every emotion she had been bottling had decided to come out at this very moment, while she was alone in a dark library, the only light coming from her table lamp.

“Clem?” A hand slid off one of the ears from her headphones, her crying only becoming more prominent as she leaned into the person's chest. A hand began to flatten her hair and comb their fingers through, holding her and saying nothing. She began to hiccup trying to catch her breath.
“Shh,” He whispered calmly into her ear, “I’m here, you’re safe.” He continued, holding her tightly.
This is not Lily, she thought. She turned her head to look at who was holding her.
“Remus.” She croaked, immediately pulling away and wiping her tears attempting to collect herself. “I’m sorry, I thought you were Lily.” She said, pausing her walkman and pulling her headphones off her ears. He placed a gentle hand on top of hers lowering his head and trying to look at her in the eyes.
“Are you okay?” He asked softly, She nodded and sniffled.
“Yeah, just stressed out.” His eyes darted to her notepad with ‘to-do’ written across the top. He flipped it over and smiled,
“Just do what you can tonight, I’m sure I can help tomorrow when we are all here. Plus it’s nearly midnight.” She groaned in protest before placing her things back into her bag and pushing in her chair. Remus handed her the cup of tea,
“Thanks” she said quietly, holding it close to her chest. He had his crossbody on him, his hands wrapped around the strap. “Why are you here so late? Have you been here since the game?” He asked, she nodded.
“James’ party had me… anxious, so I left to find a quiet spot to finish some assignments.” She didn’t want to admit how she had been anxious but figured if anyone would understand it would be Remus. He gave a sigh, holding the door open for her, and nodded. “I get that, they can be a lot sometimes.” He chuckled. Remus kept a small light going from his wand as they walked back.

“You know I’m here if you need anything, or just company, right?” He asked. He had grown very fond of Clem in such a short period, he worried that he might hurt her if he wasn’t careful.
“I can say the same thing for you. No matter what it is” She smiled softly, keeping her eyes ahead. He began to think about how she would react if she knew he was a monster. She’d probably stop talking to him and never see him in the same way, he thought. His mind began to spiral with the endless possibilities. He closed his eyes in an attempt to snap out of it. Her voice was the only thing that truly did, he opened his eyes to see her waiting for him to step into the common room. He flashed an awkward smile and went towards his seat on the couch.
“Thank you for the book.” He spoke, and Clem paused for a second.
“If you already have it or already read it I can take it back. Or if you don’t want it that's okay too, I won’t be upset.” She began to ramble, each word getting faster than the last. She handed him a mug, filled with chamomile tea mixed with milk and honey.
“Thanks” he smiled, he began to blow on the liquid and cleared his throat.
“I actually have been wanting that book for a while, I haven’t read any of Oscar Wilde's books yet. I just finished my previous book too so the timing was perfect.” He smiled. Clem was slightly shocked, she had expected the worst she supposed. That he’d hate it, or wouldn’t want it.
“Oh,” she said under her breath, which caused a slight smile on Remus’ face,
“I’m glad. You should let me know if it’s any good. I’ll get myself a copy if it is.” Remus shooed his hand, swallowing his tea.
“Nonsense, you can just read my new copy.” He smiled, she could only imagine what his copy would look like by the end. He always annotated his books, marked certain pages of importance to him, and truly made the book his own.
“I’d like that, very much actually.” Clem smiled, a blush creeping up her cheeks. Remus noticed the change in her face almost immediately, leaving him to do the same. Clem stretched out in her chair, finishing her tea before a yawn.
“I’m going to go to bed,” She said softly, flashing him a tired smile. Remus nodded watching as she began to go up the stairs. “Goodnight Remus”
“Goodnight Clem.”

“Guys! Look at this cat I found!” James shouted, running into the common room with a tortoise-haired cat, it was rather large and fluffy. Everyone was sitting on the couch trying to destress from a week of OWLS. Lily pinched between her eyes,
“James please stop shouting.” She complained, Remus and Clem sat next to each other both reading their respective books. Remus was halfway through his gifted book, while Clem was 60 pages short of the end of Crime and Punishment. Sirius came up to the cat and began to pet them carefully,
“They are cute!” Sirius beamed, Remus looked up for a moment, then again, then again. Examining the cat, James hugged the cat tightly, swinging it around.
“James.”
“I know! They’re such a sweet cat!” Clem looked up, her eyes widening in fear.
“James.” Remus said slightly louder, James held the cat in the air,
“You’re such a good kitty aren’t you? I think we should keep them!”
“James!” Remus shouted,
“That’s Minnie…” Clem arched her eyebrow in confusion.
James’ eyes went wide and carefully placed the cat on the ground. Lily busted out laughing, holding her stomach.
“So sorry Professor.” James and Sirius apologized, and the cat gave a soft meow and walked off cooly. Clem chuckled,
“Merlin’s beard, you are so screwed!” She teased looking at the two. Remus chuckled before continuing his book peacefully, James sat down on the floor near Lily would could barely contain her laughter. Sirius sitting on the arm next to Remus,
“We should go to Three Broomsticks to celebrate making it through the OWLS” James smiled, looking over to his friends. Sirius’ face immediately lit up,
“I have a better idea. We should throw a party, here!” Remus shook his head with a slight scoff, Clem bumped him slightly giving him a soft ‘quit it’ look.
“It could be fun!” Sirius smiled, Clem looked over to him,
“Yeah, like your last party?” She deadpanned, reminding him of what happened with Regulus. James and Lily snorted, and Remus choked on his drink slightly. Sirius shot an apologetic look, “Sorry about that, again. I promise it will be fun this time. No brothers allowed.”

Lily dragged Clem upstairs,
“We are getting ready and dressing cute for this party.” She smiled, Clem was going to miss her smile over the break, it brought her so much peace and happiness to see Lily smiling and enjoying herself.
Lily threw on a short dark green dress, a pair of tights, frilly black socks, and loafers, along with green ribbons in her hair to match.
“Clem!” She whined, Clem was under her covers resting her eyes.
“What” she whined back. Lily groaned, dragging her out of bed by her foot,
“Come on.” Clem continued to protest.
“Come on Clem it’ll be fun.” Mary smiled, glancing up at her through her vanity mirror touching up her lipstick. All of her friends looked amazing, Mary wore a plum-colored silk dress and her mary janes, while Marlene had on a white dress with red flowers on it and her blonde hair in two braids with her pearls around her neck. Patricia had decided to come and get ready with them as well, wearing her black slacks, a white button-up with the first three buttons undone, and penny loafers.
“Come on Clem I have the perfect dress for you!” She smiled digging through her closet. Lily tossed a dark burgundy dress with lacy edges at her that had a slightly open back. Her eyes widened,
“This is way too much for a common room party!” She complained,
“Shut up and put it on Bones!”
Clem rolled her eyes and went to change. She laced up the back allowing the dress to hug her figure, slipped on the tights Marlene lent her, and put on her silver jewlery she wore for special occasions.
“Great Merlin you are hot!” Patricia screamed, Clem quickly threw a pillow at her pointing at their door that was cracked open.
“She’s right.” Lily added, Clem rolled her eyes and slipped on basic small black boots. Mary guided her to the vanity, sat her down, and began to lightly fix her mangled shag cut.

“There! All done!” She smiled, putting the straighter onto the table, Clem fluffed her hair and began to put light makeup on.
“Thanks, Mary” she smiled. Mary, Marlene and Patricia began to head downstairs while Lily waited for Clem.
“You’re nervous.” Clem teased, “I can see your leg shaking a little.”
Lily scoffed and folded her arms.
“I am not.” Clem finished her lip tint and turned to place her hands on Lily’s knees.
“You look perfect Lils, don’t freak out.” She grinned before continuing, “Plus you don’t even like James.”
“Oh grow up!” Lily laughed, “Let’s go.” slowly standing up, and dusting her dress before going towards the door.
Whistling came from their friends, Mary and Marelene cat calling the two from the couch, laughing. Patricia teasing saying “Choose me” from the kitchen area pouring a drink. The boys eyes followed them down the stairs, James’ jaw on the ground.
“Lily please. Give me a chance!” He whined. Lily chuckled sitting on the arm of the chair right next to him. She glanced down to him,
“Close your mouth.” she teased, using her hand to close his jaw. James’ face went red instantly, “Yes ma’am!” still gobsmacked over her. Peter and Sirius chuckled at the boy. Clem came out from the kitchen with a drink in hand. Remus’ eyes followed her the entire time until she sat down next to him.
“Did something catch your attention Moony?” James grinned, he rolled his eyes and tried to play it off. Sirius’ eyes were also on Clem,
“Clem you clean up nice.” He grinned, she chuckled before taking a sip of her drink.
“In your dreams.” She teased, his jaw flung onto the ground, clenching his shirt, “Ouch.” He teased, leaning into Remus.
Lily gave a smirk to Clem before clapping her hands together,
“So! Slunghorns dinner party, who’s coming?” She asked looking at the boys. James’ hand shot into the air,
“Me me me, take me as your plus one!” James begged,
“I’ll… think about it.” Clem’s eyebrows raised while the other girls began to ‘oo and aw’.
“I am not going,” Peter said, “Old man doesn’t like me.”
Remus chuckled, “You aren’t even in his class.” He added.
Peter gave him a slight kick to his knee.
“Sirius and I may go.” Remus said responding to the initial question, Sirius shook his head downing the rest of his drink.
“No way am I going to that oaf's elitist party.” He folded his arms, Remus shrugged.
“Guess I’m going alone then.” He spoke softly.
Lily shot Clem a look almost immediately, She shook her head and said nothing adjusting herself on the arm of Remus’ chair. She crossed her legs, her foot tapped his knee.
“Sorry,” She smiled, placing a hand on the knee.
Remus slightly jumped, “Don’t apologize” He responded, trying to play it cool.
He hadn’t once actually looked at her, yes he watched her walk in but he hadn’t dared to look at her in the eyes.
“Clem you’re coming right?” Lily asked, she nodded furrowing her eyebrows together.
“If you’re there I’m there.” She smiled.
James grinned almost immediately.
“Clem just go with Remus!” Remus choked on his drink, “It’ll be like a friend's date! The four of us can go as a double date!”
Lily scoffed, “I am NOT your date Potter.” swinging her index finger at him,
“Sure, Evans.” He teased.
The bickering began to commence between the two of them, Clem leaned over and whispered to Remus.
“I’m going out for a smoke.” Her breath sent a shiver down his spine.
He could smelt a hint of alcohol in her breath. He only nodded,
“I’ll be there in a few.” He responded, wanting to finish his drink and chapter.
As she got up Peter gasped,
“Reg is with Barty in a closet somewhere near the Slythering common room?!”
He squealed, Sirius snatched the map from him, “No way!” He grinned, “I knew it! Pay up, boys!” Sirius held out his hand, Peter groaned and handed him a few coins. James threw his hand out to Peter as well, he obliged.
Remus chuckled, “This is why I don’t make bets with you three.”
Lily was shellshocked, “Wait so they’re, what, making out somewhere?”
Sirius grinned, before shrugging, “Don’t know, let's go see.” Jumping out of his seat. Peter and James followed, Remus put his book on the table and stretched before heading towards the door.
“You too?!” Lily called out, he shook his head and patted his pocket.
“I’m going out for a smoke.” He asked with a small smile.
She rolled her eyes, her face tinting with disgust.
“Oh piss off.” He teased, grabbing his coat and walking out.

Clem had walked out into the courtyard and sat looking at the stars laying on the grass. Remus had seen her from one of the balconies and smiled, making his way down.
“Enjoying yourself?” He asked before sitting down next to her, she held her hand out for a cigarette.
“I am actually. Very peaceful.” She replied, her eyes closed. Remus chuckled, lighting his. She sat up and waited for her turn. He lit up the lighter again and held it close, she leaned in holding it so it could catch the flame. He watched her, taking her in. She looked up at him, examining his features. Taking in how his hair was curling in different directions, the way his eyes gleamed in the moonlight, his pale skin glowing with the castle lights. How his scars perfectly went around his features. She stared at him for a while, before snapping herself out of it, pulling away and blowing out her smoke. Remus cleared his throat, he had been doing the same thing. He loved the way her skin shined in any lighting, her freckles coming out when she was in the sun for long periods. He continued to admire her as she stared into the stars.
“You’re stunning Clementine.” He spoke softly, his voice slightly husky. She quickly looked at him,
“What?” She asked, her cheeks becoming warm.
She hoped he couldn’t tell, Remus himself was shocked at what he said. He took a long drag in an attempts to collect himself,
“What?” He responded.
It was the stupidest response he came up with, and was rather embarrassed by it.
“I thought you said something.” She said softly, tucking her hair behind her ear, the wind began to howl,
“It’s getting cold,” She said after a few moments of silence, Remus nodded and began to slip off his coat.
“What are you doing? Remus no. I don’t want your coat.”
He chuckled and draped it over her, his face growing so close she could feel his breath on her neck as he adjusted the jacket.
“You need it more than me.” He smiled.
Small snowflakes began to fall, Clem gasped softly holding out her hand in an attempt to catch one.
“Remus, it’s snowing!” She said softly, a smile growing on her face.
They watched as the snow began to slowly coat their surroundings, a crisp chill in the air gave both of them goosebumps.

“Let’s watch from inside,” Remus smiled, offering a hand to help her get up. Remus cleared his throat as they made their way back,
“Did you want to come with me to Slughorn’s party? You can say no.”
She gave a soft smile and shrugged, “It would be nice to go with someone, especially since the holiday is coming up. I don’t want to third wheel James and Lily.”
She chuckled, and and Remus joined in on the quiet laughter.
“Good point, we will go as friends then?” He asked carefully, she shrugged, opening the common room door.
“If that's what you want, I don’t mind either way.”
Remus tried to contain himself before continuing, “I’ll take you as my date then, no strings attached or anything. Just for that night.”
He attempted to clarify, he didn’t want to scare her off.
James squealed, “It’s happening! They’re going to Slugs party as a date!” He continued, Lily chuckled holding her arms in the air, obviously drunk,
“Yay!! James and I are going as a date too!” She gave a dazed smiled.
Clem chuckled and places a hand on his arm, “Lemme get her to bed.” She smiled, dragging Lily up to bed.
James gave a drunk grin, “You cheeky little wolf! Look at Moony scoring a date with Clementine Bones!” He teased, Remus rolled his eyes and pointed upstairs, “Go to bed Prongs, you are so drunk I can smell your breath from here.” He replied scrunching his nose. James shooed him away as he made his way upstairs.

“I am so glad that the torture of OWLS is over” Clem sighed, swinging her back onto her shoulder,
“For now.” Lily added, linking her arm with hers.
Clem nodded the two walking downstairs. James looked over his map from the couch, he was sprawled out taking over the entire loveseat, his feet on the arm of the chair.
“Oh!” He smiled, jumped out of his seat, and standing in front of the girls, pushed his glasses up his nose,
“Did you guys want to join us for lunch?” He asked sweetly, Clem shrugged.
“Sure! What time?” Lily asked, James cocked his head over to Sirius who had his back to them, his feet resting on the coffee table,
“In 20 minutes, gotta wait for Moony to get back from class.” Sirius answered.
“Where?” Clem asked,
“Three broomsticks” James responded,
“Lils I have to talk to McGonagall for a second, I’ll meet you guys in the courtyard so we can all walk together?” She asked, James nodded, Sirius throwing a thumb in the air.
“See you in a few Lils,” Clem shot her a small smile before heading out.

She was quickly greeted by the hustle of the in-between of class periods. Hundreds of students running through the halls and up the staircases’ trying to get from one side of the castle to the other. She plastered herself up on the door, waiting for a good window to slip into the mobs. Slipping through multiple large groups she finally made it to McGongall's hallway, she took a deep breath, all of the students made it hard for her to breathe. She gave a slight knock on the Professor's door, and a small “Come in” answered.
She slipped in, softly closing the door behind her.
“Professor,” McGongall looked up above her glasses, flipping the paper she had down onto her desk,
“Oh! Ms. Bones, what can I help you with dear?” She asked kindly, giving her a caring smile. Clem pulled up a chair in front of her desk, fiddling with her hands under the table.
“I saw that you posted about our papers, and I was wondering if I could see the notes you had given me?” She asked politely, McGonagall gave a slight chuckle before fishing her paper out.
“I suppose, was a 94 not good enough for you?” She teased with a slight grin.
Clem shook her head and examined the notes,
“Honestly, I was more wondering how I did so well,” She mumbled, flipping through the pages. McGonagall lowered her paper and locked eyes with her. McGonagall had always had kind eyes for Clem, no matter the situation, she truly did care for the girl.
“Clem, I’m not surprised you were able to supply these results given you wrote it two days before it was due.”
Clem gave a nervous chuckle, she had rewrote the entire thing two days prior to its due date with Remus’ help.
“You’re a very bright witch. Instead of critiquing yourself, you should be focusing on having fun with your newfound friends.” McGonagall smiled, “Plus I heard you and Lily were invited to Professor Slughorn's club, his dinner party is coming up soon. You worry too much for someone so bright.” She continued, Clem began to get emotional, she had been struggling this year with the thoughts of if she was good enough to become an Auror, and if she deserved her spot here. “I know you’ve been struggling since last year darling, just enjoy the little things while you can.” McGonagall slowly took the paper from her and slipped it back into the desk. Clem nodded, standing up slowly,
“Thank you professor” She smiled, sniffling.
“Of course Clem, I see you. And know how hard you’re working.” She smiled, she extended her arms out allowing Clem to give her a small and gentle hug. McGonagall rubbed her back softly before releasing her,
“Now, go back to your friends. I’m sure they’re waiting for you out there in the snow.” Clem nodded, honestly forgetting that the snow had been picking up and hoping they hadn’t been waiting too long.
“I’ll see you tomorrow professor.”
She nodded with a small smile and walked her out the door.

As she walked to the courtyard, she admired how the castle was decorated for Christmas. Wreaths and garlands were strung everywhere, the great hall had its new lights for the year and red bows were everywhere.
“Clem!” Lily called, walking down the steps, everyone behind her.
She was bundled up, her Gryffindor scarf, which honestly looked like James’ since he wasn’t wearing one.
“Are you okay?” She asked getting closer, her eyes were slightly red and puffy, her question caught everyone’s attention.
All of them began to huddle around her, examining her. Remus especially, her eyes flicked to his and shot him a small smile.
“Yeah, I’m okay. I just talked with McGonagall for a while.”
James painted his face in a slight frustration,
“What did she say to you??” He asked accusingly, Remus pushed his shoulder and shook his head.
“Nothing bad!” Clem replied in defense, “It was a really nice chat honestly,”
Peter groaned exaggeratingly, “Can we go, I’m hungry.” He whined.
James and Lily chuckled, “Let’s go before it gets even more cold.”
Sirius chuckled, zipping up his jacket, and hiding his mouth in the neck.

“The snow is so pretty” Lily admired, watching a few first-years playing and building snowmen. Clem nodded, shoving her hands further into her coat. Sirius had snuck off and built a couple of snowballs. He chucked one at James and hit him right in the shoulder,
“Padfoot you are so dead!” He grinned, chasing him up closer to town.
Perched behind a tree, Sirius and James cranked their arms back waiting for the perfect shot. “Sirius don’t you dare.” Remus deadpanned, shooting a harsh look, Sirius rolled his eyes and went for Peter instead.
Who got it straight to his face earning laughter from everyone, Clem looked at Remus as they laughed together.
“What did you guys talk about?” He asked after a few moments, walking far behind the group.
“I asked to see my paper,” she replied, his eyebrows raised.
“How did you do?” He asked, she tried to contain her smile.
“I got a 96,”
Remus gave a large smile, “I told you!” He replied, pushing her shoulder slightly.
Clem chuckled and shrugged trying to play it cool as they all walked inside. Large sighs came from everyone as they took off their coats,
“So much better inside.” Peter said relaxing his body.

After they all got their food they sat in the same booth by the window. Peter immediately began scarfing down his food.
“So, Slugs’ party. What time do we want to go down there?” James asked, before dipping a chip into his sauce.
“8?” Clem asked, looking over to Lily who agreed.
“Still need to find a dress,” Clem added.
Lily chuckled, “Good luck with that Clem… I am not lending you a dress this time.”
“I’ll find something,” She smiled.
“You don’t have a dress?” Remus asked with slight disbelief.
“No, the dress I wore for the party wasn’t mine either.”
“Huh,” He replied.
Sirius gave a grin before leaning over the table, “I can come with you Clem, if you’d liked.” with a flirty tone, she rolled her eyes pushing his head back.
“Absolutely not.” She replied.
“Your loss, I have great taste.” He teased.
Lily took a fry from James’ plate casually and dipped it in the sauce before taking a bite. Peter and Sirius’ jaws hung open, “How did you do that?” They whined Lily’s eyes widened swallowing her bite.
“Do what?”
“Eat his food without losing a finger?” Peter continued, Lily shrugged doing it again with a slight tease.
James continued as if it was a normal thing that didn’t bother him.
“Unbelievable,” Sirius mumbled.
Lily chuckled before going back to her own food.
“He’s in love, that's how,” Remus teased, giving James a cheeky smile.
James kicked his shin before taking another bite as if nothing happened. Remus hissed, rubbing his shin.
“Here’s your drink,” A witch smiled, handing off the glass to Remus.
“Thank you,” He said kindly. He took a sip and gave a slight satisfied moan.
“That is so good,” He said softly to Clem, she gave a light motion to hand it off. He pushed the drink to her, and she took a small sip, her eyes widening.
“That is really good,” She smiled. James looked at Remus with begging eyes,
“No. You have germs.” Remus spat jokingly, he threw his hands up.
“How come she gets to then!” He whined, Clem chuckled taking another sip.
“Because I don’t have germs like you.” She taunted.
“What is that? I’m about to get my own.” Clem asked, grabbing her bag.
“A blackberry lemonade,” Remus answered pushing her hand down along with her bag.
“We can just share, I won’t drink that much anyway.” He smiled shyly.
“I’m going to throw up, there’s too much love in this room,” Sirius mumbled under his hands.

Peter chuckled and nodded, skimming the daily prophet. Clem read the title of the paper and dropped her smile.
“This war is sounding more and more real,” She said in a mellow voice, Lily nodded along with James. The mood turned over almost instantly,
“I agree,” Remus sighed, “It worries me, especially with Mum.” He said.
James gave a short smile, “We have my house if anything gets insane. My parents talked about it becoming a safe house.”
Sirius nodded with a slight relief, he knew what his house would become and was glad that he had an escape. Peter folded over the paper and placed it on the table.
“Are we ready to go?”
They all nodded and began to get up, grabbing their things.
A strong chilled wind greeted them as they opened the door, all of them immediately burrowing themselves further into their clothes.
“It’s too cold this year,” Lily whined.
Clem chuckled, slowly veering off from the group. “I’m going to find a dress, I’ll see you guys later tonight!” She smiled, waving goodbye before turning into the dress shop nearby.

“How come we aren’t aloud to see the dress!” Patricia whined, sitting on the edge of Lily’s bed. Clem poked her head out of the bathroom,
“Because, it only looks good with the full effect.” She said nervously, She touched up her lipstick in the mirror, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear before slipping on her shoes.
Lily was sat at her vanity putting her necklace on, she adjusted the length to her liking before getting up and banging on the bathroom door.
“Hurry up, we need to leave soon and I want to see you!” She whined, Clem laughed quietly before opening the door for the reveal. All of the girls jaws dropped, and Patricia immediately got up and tackled her.
“You are so hot, please let me date you, please. I swear I’m better than Remus!”
Clem yelped and smacked her arm.
“Me and Remus are just friends!” She corrected, straightening out her dress.
She was in a long satin gown, fitted until her hips with a slight flair out in an A-line cut, a cap-sleeve with lace on the edges, a slit that went to her mid-thigh that continued the lace trend, and a square neckline that showed her collarbone in a deep burgundy color that accented her eyes and hair.
“You are glowing Clem, seriously. Remus will be all over you.” Mary smiled, and Clem gave a sincere smile.
Lily nodded, still eyeing her from head to toe. She intertwined her fingers into Clems,
“Let’s go,” She smiled,
They waved goodbye to their friends and head down to the common room to meet the boys. Both were dressed in well fitted black tuxes and dress shoes. James had slightly tamed his hair, pulling it back slightly. Remus had kept his hair long but scrunched his hair to let the waves look more prominent. Both boys waiting anxiously by the fire, standing on either end. James was the first to see them, his reaction being dramatic and flamboyant.
“Merlin’s beard you two look amazing!”
“James close your mouth.” Sirius said from the couch, James immediately met Lily’s side and gave a small hug.
Clem gave a small smile to Remus making her way to him, he hadn’t moved, his face was more red the closer she got.
“You look… so perfect.” Remus said quietly, taking a moment to take her in.
Clem chuckled softly, straightening his jacket.
“You too.” She answered, looking up at him.
James took Lily’s hand and walked towards the door, “Okay let’s go!” He grinned, he hadn’t stopped smiling since Lily came downstairs.

Clem was walking down to the dinning hall Slughorn had b ooked for this special Christmas event with Remus in a comfortable silence, she looked out the windows as the snow fell. Remus took a large sigh,
“It started snowing early this year.”
Clem smiled and nodded, breaking her focus from the windows and to her friends in front of her. “I think they’re going to get married one day,” Clem teased, motioning to Lily and James who were walking and chatting quietly in front of them.
Remus chuckled, “You think so?” She nodded, before refocusing on the outside views.
Before going down the stair well Remus turned to face Clem, causing a slight startled reaction. He put a finger to his mouth and motioned to the courtyard doors that were still open, she smiled and nodded. The two quietly snuck outside finding a bench to sit at,
“You know if we are late Slughorn will kill me…” She said quietly, looking up to the stars.
Remus scoffed handing her a cigarette,
“He won’t care he is obsessed with you and Lily, if anything he’d wait until you showed up.”
She took the cigarette between her fingers, fiddling with it. Remus’ focus shifted to her fidgeting, Clems eyes were closed with her head to the sky. She was nervous for a multitude of reasons but couldn’t fully pinpoint the main reason.
“Clem,” She hummed a response not moving, Remus carefully took the cigaretter from her fingers and placed it back in the box.
“You don’t have to accept every cigarette I give you if you’re worried about Lily.” He said quietly, getting up and walking towards the inside of the castle.
She followed not responding.
“I know it’s hard on you, and if you want to quit again we can try together.” He continues, she swats her hand in a ‘it’s fine’ matter.
“I just don’t feel like it tonight,” She said softly before opening the door to the hall.
Remus extended his hand above her head to hold the door for her as she walked in under his arm with a slight smile. Remus followed quietly behind almost immediately feeling out of place, everyone seemed to belong there and he didn’t feel that he belonged in the setting. The hall was decorated lavishly with waiters and expensive foods, even alcohol was being served. A waiter came by offering the two drinks, Clem took one while Remus politely declined. Her face became concerned and placed a hand on his arm,
“Are you okay? You look so nervous” She said quietly, Remus nodded assuringly avoiding eye contact. His eyes locked on Regulus’, he choked on his drink quickly turning his back.
“I didn’t know Regulus was invited to this,” Remus said softly still staring at the back of his head. Clem shrugged, taking a sip of the champaign,
“Slughorn has an interesting taste in students. Malfoy is here too, same with Bella and Narcissa.” She said quietly trying to not draw attention.
Her eyes panning around almost anxiously, her back was to the majority of the party.
“They are on the opposite side of the hall Clem don’t stress.” He smiled, grabbing her glass and taking a small sip.
His nose crinkled in distaste, “I hate champaign,” He whinced, Clem chuckled before taking back the glass and putting in on one of the waiters plates.
She turned back to face Remus, “Warning, James is running full speed to you.” She smiled, Remus braced himself for impact as James lunged onto his back.
“Moony! Have you tried the drinks, they’re great!” He slurred, Lily pinched the bridge of her nose before walking to stand with Clem. “
You’re breath reeks Prongs.” He complained.
“He has been shoving the drinks down his throat, I can’t get him to stop.” Lily complained, Remus rolled his eyes shoving James into one of the chairs.
“Lily won’t let me ask her out, thats why I keep drinking.” James corrects, placing his index finger in the air.
“Well, this isn’t exactly the most attractive state,” Remus chuckled, James rolls his eyes and picks up a treat from the table.
“This party kinda sucks,” Lily whispered, flattening her dress.
Clem nodded reaching for a treat as well but Remus beat her to it handing the dessert she had been eyeing since they got there. She shot him a small smile and popped it into her mouth. Lily noticed this immediate and tried to hide the grin on her face. She was not letting that gesture go anytime soon.
“We should go sneak out and do something else,” James grinned, darting his eyes to Lily. Immediately earning a smack on his head from both Remus and Clem.
“You need to go to bed Prongs.” Remus shot him a cautious warning. He shooed his words away looking over at Lily, she folded her arms,
“No I agree. You reek, and will be so hungover tomorrow.”
James had a large groan and clung on to her.
“I want to hang out with you though.”
Clem chuckled slowly walking away from them and to her way to Severus who was in the corner with his friends. Severus shot her a mean stare, Clem tried to ignore it still making her way to him.
“Don’t get near me, you have that thing’s smell all over you.” He spat his nose turning up in disgust, she scoffed and crossed her arms.
“Who pissed in your drink.” She shot back, he shook his head.
“I’m sick of you, I thought you were only hanging out with those…” He paused, “Animals, to help me woo over Lily, but I was wrong. You’re one of them now.”
He downed his drink placing it on the table. He looked her up and down, scrunching his nose.
“I don’t know why I ever kept you around. Mudblood.” He spewed out, his voice full of anger and hatred.
“What happened to you,” Clem replied, angry but also trying not to lash out. She was hurt, she had always stood up for him, being there for him, but something had changed over this year. “You used to be so kind to me, even though I’m not a pureblood or whatever you want to call it.” She argued, folding her arms.
Severus scoffed grabbing another drink from one of the waiters,
“Well let’s just say I had a clouded judgement, you aren’t who I thought you were.”
He took a sip, making sure to look at Remus before continuing what he wanted to say. He knew Remus was listening and could hear every word. Even if he was halfway across the dining hall. Severus shot him a sneaky grin before locking eyes with Clem.
“Regulus was right about you. You’re disgusting, just as Lily is. Sometimes I wish you would’ve pitched yourself off the tower that night, would’ve saved some time and effort.” He spat, Clem immediately turned her back to him in attempts to hide her painful reaction.
“You are worse than James and Sirius.” She replied softly before running out of the hall.

He shot Remus one more look before turning back to his friends laughing, pushing up his sleeve ever so slightly to reveal the mark Remus suspected. Lily watched as her friend darted out, trying not to make a scene but everyone had heard. The room going quiet for a moment, some whispers and murmuring. Slughorn cleared his throat,
“Come along now, don’t stop enjoying the festivities!” He smiled in attempts to lighten the mood, he turned up the gramophone to help.
Most of the students went back to their cheerful conversations but Lily and the other sat in silence. She stood up and grabbed her coat,
“I’m going to find her.” Remus grabbed her wrist lightly in attempts to stop her.
“I wouldn’t Lils. Give her a second.” She scoffed, throwing her hair over her shoulder.
“Oh so you spend a few hours with her and you know her better?” She spat, Remus recoiled slightly. James shot him a cautious look,
“Lils come on… maybe he’s right.” James said softly, placing a hand on her shoulder.
She brushed him off, “No, Remus you don’t know her. I see how you look at her, just because you have chemistry means nothing.”
She begins to rush after her friend, Remus obviously upset by the outburst he also grabs his coat to chase after his friends, James not far behind.
“You like her don’t you?” James teases, lightly jogging next to him as they follow the redhead. He rolls his eyes,
“Not right now.” He replies slightly out a breath.
Lily stops abruptly looking out into the courtyard. The snow covering the grounds, the boys meet next to her admirring the view. Lily started to walk outside but was stopped by Remus.
“Let her be alone for a while…” He said quietly, Clem was sitting with her knees pressed to her chest, her head resting on her knees.
Allowing the snow fall to land on her jacket and dress. Lily takes a deep sigh, crossing her arms keeping watch of her friend.
“What exactly did he say to her Remus.” She asked, concern written on her face.
“You don’t want to know. If I had been any closer I would’ve socked him in the face.” James replied, rolling his sleeves. Remus was silent, his fists curled in a tight ball as he stared at the back of Clem’s hair that was now painted with flecks of snow.
“You’d think with us becoming adults the banter would’ve grown out of us.” Lily added, Remus shook his head, his eyes never leaving her.
“This wasn’t banter Lils, this was made to hurt her.” He replied.

“She’s going to freeze if she stays out there any longer.” Lily whined, she had been pacing the common room since Remus dragged her away an hour or two ago. All of them had changed, Lily now in her flowy grey pajama pants and sweater, a robe on top that was wrapped around her as her arms crossed in front of her. Remus’ leg was bouncing as he hugged his mug, he hadn’t changed, just took off the tie and jacket. James’ nose stuck in the map,
“She hasn’t moved, she’s still there. Severus is still at Slugs too. We should go get her, what if she fell asleep?” He said with worry in his voice.
James began to slip on his quidditch hoodie making his way to the door. Lily took a deep sigh before turning to face Remus,
“Can you go get her, she’ll only listen to you.” She spoke quietly, each word getting softer. Remus smiled slightly, trying not to make it obvious, he placed his mug down and grabbed his jacket that was draped on the back of the red couch.
He patted James on the back,
“I’ll be back.”
James shot him a cheeky grin holding the door for him. Lily sat on the edge of the couch, laying her head in her hands.
“I hope she’s okay.” She mumbled, James carefully sat next to her and began to rub her back softly.
“I’m sure she’s okay Lils, don’t worry too much. Plus Remus knows what he’s doing.” He added in attempts to lighten the anxious mood.
Lily sighed, leaning back onto the couch and closed her eyes. “Still.”
James sat back as well and chuckled softly, Lily leaned her head on his shoulder cautiously. “She acts so tough but I know whatever he said to her hurt.”
James reflected on his words, he didn’t know what Severus had meant, fully at least. When she told them about last term was it that bad truly? Lily had said even she didn’t fully get insight to Clem’s struggles, she often closed herself off. He leaned his head on hers,
“I’m sure she’s okay.” He repeated calmly, both of their eyes growing more heavy.