Chapter 2
On September 2nd, they gathered for breakfast, accompanied by Remus. However, Sirius, in his typical aloof manner, declined to join them, deeming their company unworthy. Peter felt a sense of relief, but it was short-lived as James' smile dimmed upon Black's refusal. Peter couldn't help but think that perhaps James should consider giving up on trying to befriend Sirius.
As they sat and chatted over their meal, they began to get to know each other better. They learned that Remus was a half-blood, and his father had been in Ravenclaw. The conversation flowed, creating a sense of camaraderie among them. Just when they thought it was a pleasant morning, Sirius entered the hall and occupied a seat at the very edge of the table, closest to the door. It was clear that they weren't the only ones Sirius considered beneath himself.
Their time in the Great Hall took an unexpected turn as they were about to leave. A howler suddenly soared into the hall and landed squarely in front of Sirius. He paled, which was an unusual sight for someone as self-assured as him. The furious voice of Walburga Black, his mother, resonated through the Great Hall, berating him for disgracing the noble and ancient House of Black. All eyes turned to Sirius as the howler continued its tirade. Upon noticing that everyone are staring at him, Black quickly got up and left the hall.
Confused, James turned to Peter and asked, "What was that? Why is his mum so mad at him? It's not like he had any choice." Peter, unable to provide any answers, simply shrugged. James, ever the selfless one, proceeded to make sandwiches and wrapped them in napkins.
Confused by James's actions, Peter asked, "What are you doing?"
James replied, "I'm packing it for Sirius. It's not like he ate anything today, or at the feast yesterday." Peter couldn't fathom why James cared so much about someone like Sirius, who either ignored him or treated him coldly.
During their first lesson in Charms, James handed the packed meal to Sirius, who accepted it without a word of thanks. Surprisingly, James appeared content despite the lack of any gratitude.
Professor Flitwick decided to start with the theoretical aspects of Wingardium Leviosa, promising they would dive into practical exercises later in the week. Their next lessons followed a similar pattern, with professors mentioning upcoming practical work, and Professor Slughorn assigning them to gather ingredients for a Cure for Boils potion. During all those lessons a red haired girl had been able to answer every single question asked.
After dinner, they decided to explore the castle, bringing Remus along. They wandered the halls for about an hour before returning to their dormitory. Sirius was already there, engrossed in a book. However, he promptly shut it when they entered. James offered a friendly greeting, but Sirius only responded by drawing the curtains around his bed. Peter couldn't help but think what a disgusting person Sirius was.
James, on the other hand, seemed unfazed and suggested they play Exploding Snap. Laughter filled the room as they played, but it was abruptly halted when Sirius stormed out of the dorm. James wanted to follow him, but by the time he stepped outside, Sirius had already disappeared.
With their mood deflated, they decided to call it a day and went to their beds. In the middle of the night, Peter was stirred from his sleep by Sirius coming into the room. What had Sirius been doing all this time? Peter wondered if Sirius was trying to befriend Slytherins, as his mother had suggested. Peter hoped that Sirius would succeed befriending them and that James would eventually give up on trying to befriend Black.
As he lay in the dimly lit dorm room, surrounded by the quiet of the night, he couldn't help but wonder about James and his seemingly unending determination to be friends with Black. It was like a puzzle that he couldn't quite solve.
The room was shrouded in darkness, broken only by the faint glow of the moonlight seeping through the curtains. The silence was palpable, with only the occasional rustling of sheets breaking the stillness. He had been friends with James for years, and they had shared countless secrets and dreams. But there was something different about Black, something that had piqued James' curiosity and wouldn't let go.
And then he heard ruffling from James' bed, a quiet "Hi" and his hopes of Potter giving up quickly faded. Why was James so determined to be friends with Black? Why wasn't Remus enough for him? The guy was funny, smart and genuine. Sirius was just so arrogant and mean, and would probably start to bully muggle-borns soon.