Chapter 84
Friday the 2nd of Feb 1979 (Lily's POV)
When Lily had pictured her wedding when she was younger it had been before and early during her time at Hogwarts. Where everything would be Muggle and she would wear her grandmas dress but alter it to make it more modern, her bridesmaids would be in some floral dress and there would some unknown face waiting for her at the end of the alter.
She would have been a couple of years older than now, maybe graduating from college or doing some part time job. There wouldn’t have been a war going on that she was a big part of, she wouldn’t be worried about missions and everything else that she might be called to take part of. It would have been a simple day that she would remember down the line.
But simple wasn’t what she wanted, and waiting a couple of years seemed too far away. She wanted James and she was ready to start her life.
But first she had to have a Hen do.
Though she wasn’t sure she wanted the one Hermione and Marlene had planned, which involved the three of them, Edith and Alice stood outside some club which advertised drinks and male dancers that Marlene had somehow found while Hermione grinned evilly beside her.
“This is what Muggles do?” Alice asked, seeming amused and concerned about the whole thing while Lily remained slightly terrified.
“Not at all.” Lily whispered, stepping away from Marlene’s grabby hands.
“No, they do – I found it in a magazine.” Marlene said, a twinkle in her eye that Lily did not like in the slightest.
“Come on, Lil – it will be a laugh and think of it as a final hurrah before you become Mrs. Potter.” Hermione said with the same wicked grin, reaching around Marlene to grab Lily’s arm and pull her towards the door.
“Exactly! It’ll all be in good fun – no ones saying you have to do anything.” Marlene said as she nudge Lily inside, the music louder so that Marlene had to shout over it. “Just watch the men dance, I’ll even be on my best behaviour and make sure none of you have too much fun.”
“You said that last time!” Lily shouted, sending Marlene a glare as the girl held up her hands.
“I’m serious! I’ve got an upset stomach.” Marlene replied, waving her hand dismissively as if it were an afterthought. “No drinks for me, so just have fun and know I’ll get you home safe and sound.” She said with a softer smile.
Lily couldn’t help but frown and feel concerned. Marlene was never one to turn down a party or drinks, she was a bit free in that way but to see her there now, dressed a bit less extravagant than usual and more casual with an easy but nervous smile on her face, promising not to drink. Well, it get Lily’s radar pinging and worrying.
Marlene gave her a knowing smile before pushing her further into the club where people were dancing, mainly women and a few men on stage were giving a show all performance it seemed that had Lily’s cheeks burning and her eyes looking back to her friends. Marlene sent her a wink while Alice and Edith laughed and Hermione let out a loud cheer.
Soon enough there was a drink in her hand and she was dancing with her friends, singing along to songs she had no idea what the words were and feeling a lot more Muggle than she had in a long time. No wands or spells in sight, no one dressed in robes or talking about the war – just regular people enjoying their evening and having more drinks than they should have.
At some point a veil was shoved on her head, a sash thrown over her head, some Muggle girls bought them shots and the night became something of a blur. True to her word, Marlene stayed sober though not without a big smile on her face as she took the lead on getting them all to her and Hermione’s flat, not without some difficulty.
Lily felt giddy with excitement, giggling at everything as Hermione stumbled – for once seeming free of her usual stern attitude as she tried to walk down the street, claiming the floor was the reason that she couldn’t walk straight. Alice was cackling at everything, Edith was humming to herself and Marlene just rolled her eyes and smiled.
It was a normal night that she couldn’t have been more grateful for. And when she collapsed in bed beside Hermione, she couldn’t wipe the happy smile from her face.
...
(James’ POV)
James had been to a few Muggle Pubs since leaving Hogwarts, they had always been with Remus and Sirius, a couple of times with the girls, but they always ended the same way. Super fucking pissed and with a kebab in hand that half of the time ended up on the floor when Sirius and James started bickering and Remus tried to stop them.
This evening was less about getting drunk and more about celebrating James’ last night before he was married, a Stag Do which Sirius had found hilarious and had said something about strippers which James had said no to. He was more than happy with having some drinks and playing some pub games with his friends plus Frank and Benjy, who were friends but not as close.
Which is how the five of them ended up playing darts, slightly tipsy as James held the dart between his fingers, one eye closed and tongue slightly stuck out as he tried to centre himself before throwing and nearly missing the board.
“You would think someone who played chaser would have better aim.” Frank commented, blinking a bit too much and looking around the pub to make sure no one had heard his comment.
Luckily the Muggles were deep enough into their own cups and not focused on the five young men talking a bit too loudly.
“I’d like to see you do better.” James said, raising an eyebrow as he grabbed his drink from where Remus was holding it for him, throwing back a few gulps of the Muggle beer and wincing. “This shit is so bitter, how do they drink it?” He whispered, nodding to the older men who were downing it without complaint.
“I can go get you a fruity drink if you want.” Remus said a bit too loudly as James shushed him.
“No… no...this is fine.” He said as he downed the rest of his drink and slammed the glass down on a table before looking to where Frank was frowning at the board. “What’s wrong, Frankie boy?” He asked loudly, stumbling slightly.
“I don’t know if I did good or not.” Frank said back as Benjy strolled forward and frowned at the board.
“Decent.” He said, slapping Frank’s shoulder before pulling out the darts and nudging Frank out of the way so he could take his own throw. “Where’s Black?” He asked as he threw, doing much better than everyone combined.
“Miss me already, Fenwick?” Sirius asked as he appeared with a tray of shots and a large grin. “For the Groom.” He said, bowing before James and holding out the tray for James to take, which he did with a frown.
“I’m not doing all these.” James said as he shook his head, looking down at the shots with wide eyes. There were too many to count.
“Of course you’re not.” Sirius scoffed out as he began taking the shots and passing them out to everyone. “To the groom!” He shouted before throwing back his own shot, the rest copying.
It continued until all the shots were gone and Benjy was suddenly buying another round of beer, then Remus and then Frank. James could barely see five feet in front of him and the bar was tipping dangerously and then he blinked and there was a half eaten kebab in his hand and he was talking about how much he missed Lily.
The walk back to Sirius and Remus’ flat seemed so long, and yet passed in no time, his friends stumbling beside him and his stomach turning once the food settled there as he fell onto the couch while Remus went to his own room. He remembered asking where Benjy and Frank had gone but he didn’t remember the answer, his stomach turning and his eyelids feeling so heavy.
“Prongs, mate, drink so water before you sleep.” Sirius’ voice said as he held a cup of water before James. James grabbed it, spilling half of it over himself before he gulped it down.
“This was great...tomorrow...better.” He slurred out, half aware of what he was saying as he slumped even further into the couch before groaning as his stomach turned. “I think I drank too much.”
“You going to need a bucket?” Sirius asked with a grimace.
“Why did I let you drag me out?” James groaned, clutching his stomach as he held his eyes closed and tried to fight the sick feeling in his gut. It was half nerves and excitement for the next day and half being pissed out of his mind.
Sirius chuckled, patting his back. “You’ll be fine, just get some sleep.”
...
Saturday the 3rd of February 1979/The Wedding Day (Lily's POV)
Lily let out a breath between puckered lips as she stared at herself in the mirror of Hermione’s old room, the once filled to the brim room empty except for the basics and a few things Hermione had left behind, and now everything Lily would possibly need to get ready for her big day.
Her dress hung neatly on the open wardrobe door, the bridesmaid dresses on the side, the desk was littered with hair products and more make up than she knew what to do with, plus any jewellery she wanted to wear, curtsey of Euphemia and Hermione, who had pulled out family heirlooms and their most beautiful things with waving hands and grins.
Light came from the window, showing the garden below where Mrs Potter and Hermione were directing people on where to put things for the ceremony, the halls filled with footsteps as people made their way up and down the stairs, running around for her big day.
The bathroom door opened as Marlene came out, looking slightly pale, her golden already styled and pinned out of the way as she leaned against the door frame, clutching her robe and her stomach slightly while Lily looked at her in concern.
“Are you still feeling sick?” She asked, worrying her bottom lip as Marlene gave her a tired smile.
“It will pass, don’t worry – no stomach bug is going to make me miss today.” She pushed herself off the door and moved closer to Lily, standing behind her and gripping her shoulders. “Now, how do you want your hair?”
“If you’re not feeling good you should lay down, I can ask Hermione -”
“No offence but Hermione can barely manage her own hair.” Marlene scoffed out as she picked up a brush and carefully ran it through Lily’s locks, her eyes seeming slightly far away and a bit watery as they met Lily’s in the mirror. “Just happy for you.”
It seemed like more than that but Lily didn’t push. Marlene, Hermione, Sirius – they were all people you didn’t push to tell you what they were thinking or feeling, they came to you when the time was right for them or when everything boiled over. Maybe it was a pureblood thing, conceal emotions and don’t say a thing.
“I trust you.” Lily muttered with an easy smile as Marlene gave her a grin.
That was all Marlene needed as she got to work, sweeping the auburn locks into soft curls and spelling them into places while threading delicate white flowers through them. It was simple but elegant, a bit fairytale but it was Lily. She didn’t need or want some kind of crazy style that would annoy her halfway through the night, she wanted simple beauty.
Marlene turned her around them, sitting her down in the chair and picking up make up, Lily let her, closing her eyes when asked and not focusing too much on the products that were being used or what was being done until Marlene stepped back with a grin just as Hermione entered the room.
“Merlin, Lil’, you look stunning.” She said with a grin, showing perfect white teeth as she tucked a curl behind her ear, hair perfectly styled into a messy bun on the back of her head, as Marlene grinned in satisfaction and held up the mirror for Lily to see.
Her peaches and cream skin was smooth, flawlessly so, her cheeks perfectly rosy, her eye makeup soft yet somehow making her eyes look even greener, her lips tinted with a soft rosy pink. Simple and elegant once again as Lily blinked watery eyes.
“Shit.”
“Oh don’t worry, I spelled it to last the rest of the night so cry if you need to.” Marlene explained as Lily let a few tears fall before wiping them away and checking the make up. Nothing move, remaining the same.
“Thank you.” She muttered as Marlene smiled before she turned to Hermione. “Everything going alright down there?” She asked.
“Yeah, all on schedule – we even have enough time for you to have a freak out while me and Marlene do our make up.” Hermione joked but her eyes softened as Lily sucked in a deep breath, settling down on the bed so Marlene could take the chair and get to work on her face.
“I’m not freaking out.” Lily muttered as Hermione grabbed some make up off the table and moved towards the bathroom with a grin.
“It’s going to be a good day.” She said, keeping the door open like she knew Lily was going to follow behind her and stand there with a frown as she did her make up, brown eyes flickering to Lily every so often as she worked on them.
“I know – it’s just...what if something goes wrong?” Lily asked as Hermione set down her eyeshadow brush. “What if someone comes disguised as a guest and we end up -”
“Lil’, something always goes wrong at weddings but that’s not going to happen.” Hermione said sternly, but softly as she turned back to the mirror and continued working on her makeup.
“How do you know?” Lily whispered, biting her bottom lip.
“Because my dad and Benjy are on door duty, they have the list of questions and answers for each guest memorized so they know they are who they say they are – and if they manage to get through then Remus and Sirius are on the inside with more questions and answers.” Hermione explained as though it was obvious.
“How did you -”
“Because we know you and we understand, we aren’t going to let anyone who wasn’t invited into this wedding.” Hermione told her with a frown as Lily nodded, a ball in her throat that was hard to swallow.
Her friends had this covered, they were ready and prepared and were going through all the stops to make sure her day would be perfect and here she was fretting about it. Instead of enjoying her day, she was wondering what could go wrong and if she was going to have to get her wand out at some point to defend herself.
Lily sighed, leaning against the doorframe and looking to Marlene who was checking out her face, makeup done a bit less than Lily’s, but lips on more of the red side, the same look Hermione was going for.
“Thanks.” Lily muttered as Hermione turned to look at her.
“You don’t have to thank me.” She seemed confused by Lily’s appreciation, but didn’t seem to linger on it as she grinned suddenly. “Now how about we get dressed and get this party started!” She grinned, one that made her seem so much younger.
Lily narrowed her eyes. “I’m worried about you – you’ve never smiled this much in your life.”
“My brother and best friend are getting married, why wouldn’t I be smiling?” Hermione asked, rolling her eyes as she slipped past Lily into her bedroom and looked at the dresses.
…
When Lily pictured her perfect dress, there was always some delicate lace and something that made her feel beautiful and almost enchanted. She had found that in the simple white gown that flowed to the floor, loose lace sleeves stopping at her elbows and a bit tighter of the top half of her body, simple heels covered by the fabric.
Hermione crouched behind her, organising the wide train and making sure the clip was accessible for Lily to be able to tie around her waist so she could dance later before she stood up with another grin and looked over Lily.
“You look beautiful.”
“So do you.” Hermione flushed slightly as she smoothed out her red silk dress, making sure it was perfect while Marlene looked over herself in the mirror, smoothing over her own stomach and frowning. “You ok, Mar?”
“Hm – yeah – wow, look at you!” Her cheeks were slightly flushed as she grinned at Lily, carefully stepping over the fabric, red heels clicking on the floor. “James isn’t going to know what hit him.” She raised her hands to smooth out Lily’s hair and stepped back to Hermione’s side, the both of them looking over Lily with gentle smiles.
Lily let out a deep breath as someone knocked on the door and her mother’s face peeked in, her eyes finding Lily in an instant as she entered the room and shut the door behind her, tears falling down her cheeks. “Oh my...oh you’re so beautiful.”
“Mum.” Lily whined slightly, feeling tears sting her own eyes.
“Your father is going to have trouble giving you away.” Her mother cried, sending an appreciative smile to Hermione when she handed over a tissue. “You look so grown up, when did that happen?” She sobbed, half proud and half sad.
Lily tried not to wince. There was so much her parents had missed out on with Lily spending most of her teenage years in a Boarding School. They missed out on seeing the things that shaped Lily into the person she was now, on a part of her life that was magical and terrifying.
There was so much of her life that they would never experience or would never see first hand, and it hurt but it was life. And it was the life Lily had chosen.
“I’m so happy for you, darling, and I love you so much.” Her mother said, wiping her face and placing a kiss to Lily’s cheek as Lily blinked watery eyes.
“I love you too, mum.”
…
(James' POV)
He was freaking out. And he was fucking hungover.
Lily was somewhere upstairs getting ready, probably looking like some kind of goddess, and here he was in his dad’s office, dressed in his formal tux robes, trying not to puke while he managed his hair, the chaos of the house and outside background vomit inducing noise at this point.
“Fuck…”
“Are you going to throw up again?” Sirius asked as he and Remus entered Fleamont’s office, shutting the door behind him and raising an eyebrow. “Mate, you’ve already thrown up more times than I can count – at this rate, you’re going to miss your own wedding.”
James glared at him through the mirror. “Not. Helping.”
“Prongs, it’s just nerves – it’s just Lily, it’s going to be alright.” Remus said, more helpful than Sirius who was now sat on the desk chair, spinning around which was making James feel like he might be sick again.
His stomach clenched, but it wasn’t from alcohol but from the whole day, walking out and doing this – it was a lot more nerve wracking than he ever thought it would be. “But it’s not.” He mumbled out before looking back to Remus. “I mean – what if she changes her mind and decides not to marry me?”
“She won’t – but she’d be stupid to think she could manage that around Hermione.”
“I don’t want my sister to have to force her to marry me.”
“She isn’t.” “Prongs, Lily loves you and she wants to marry you.”
“James -” It was rare Sirius said his name and not his nickname and it got James’ attention in an instant. “You have been in love with this girl from the moment she stepped into our compartment and you first laid eyes on her when you were eleven.”
“He’s right.” Remus added with a soft smile as James looked between them both.
“I have never seen you look at anyone else like you look at Lily in my entire life…” Sirius said, eyes wide as he leaned on the desk before letting out a sigh and a smirk forming on his face. “Except on a few occasions, me.” Remus sighed and James frowned.
“I’ve never looked at you the same way I look at Lily.”
“There’ve been a few times.” Sirius insisted, smirk gone now as he frowned at James.
“There’s never been a time.” James responded, shaking his head.
“You’ve looked at Marly maybe once or twice like that.” James could have strangled his best friend for bringing Marlene into it but at least that made sense. “Me, several times. Moony, never.” Remus frowned, his mouth opening as James death glared. “Let’s table it.”
“You’re wrong.” James said, shaking his head and looking back into the mirror.
His stomach had eased slightly, his hands barely shaking as he adjusted his tie and tried to smooth his hair on last time.
“I think you’re ready.”
“Yeah, yeah...I’ve got this.” James muttered more to himself than his friends, giving himself one last look and deciding it was probably the best he was going to look, only hoping Lily would be charmed by the chaotic style he had going on. He took a deep breath as he turned to look at his friends. “Let’s go get me married.”
…
(Sirius' POV)
The air was crisp and fragrant from the flowers that littered the garden and the aisle. Rows of white chair, adorned with delicate red and gold ribbons lined either side of the aisle and face the stunning floral archway that was intertwined with white lilies and crimson roses. A soft golden glow came from the enchanted lanterns that floated above.
Guests sat in their seats, waiting and chatting among themselves, excited whispers as they waited for the bride to come out. There weren’t many Muggles, just Lily’s parents, sister and her husband, and the last two seemed unimpressed by the magic that surrounded them and the questions they had had to answer to get in. Hermione had made sure they were embarrassing.
James stood at the end of the aisle, breathing slowly with his hands clasped in front of him as he shuffled from side to side, ignoring the remarks Sirius kept making and the sighs Remus was throwing out, both of them dressed in their own robe tuxs with red ties.
“Prongsie – just stand still.” Sirius muttered to him as Euphemia came out from the back door, signalling to him that they had about two minutes, he sent her a nod back and a smile as she rushed to her seat beside Fleamont.
“I can’t – I can’t breathe...what if she changes her mind?” James asked frantically, looking to Sirius and Remus with wide eyes.
“Didn’t we have this discussion ten minutes ago?” Sirius groaned out, head tilting back and hair with it, some girl giggled in their seat. “She’s not going to – she loves you, you prat.”
“Well Sirius lacks tact, he is right.” Remus reassured in a way that Sirius never could, all soft and gentle words, plus a pat on the shoulder that had James nodding his head and straightening his back as the music started.
Everyone stood and turned to watch as Marlene and Hermione made their way out first, stunning in red and making Sirius have to take in a deep breath as Remus raised an amused eye at him. He couldn’t help it, there would always be this reaction to Hermione, especially when she looked so happy – bright chocolate coloured eyes on her brother who grinned back, curls tied back but some managing to escape – the red contrasting her skin nicely.
She was beautiful and he was a dick. He had done things that he regretted and he missed how things were, but he was happy she looked so happy. Happy to watch as she placed a kiss on James’ cheek and squeezed his hand before she was stood opposite him.
He barely had time to focus on her before Lily was strolling forward, arm linked with her fathers and looking so damn beautiful it nearly broke his heart. James’ jaw dropped open and his breath stuttered enough that Sirius had to elbow him in the back to make sure he breathed.
It was like pure magic watching the pair of them, their eyes only for each other as Lily was brought before James, only breaking eye contact to place a kiss on her fathers cheek as they whispered something to each other, he gripped her hand and placed it into James’, giving him a stern look.
“Look after her.” Mr Evans muttered as James gulped and nodded, watching at the man made his way to sit beside his wife before he was looking at Lily as officiant made his way to the alter.
“You look...incredible.” James whispered, ignoring the man standing behind them now and his voice cracking slightly as Lily’s cheeks flushed and she grinned at him.
“You don’t look too bad yourself.”
The officiant coughed, though he seemed amused at the two blushing young adults with their hands clasped tightly before him. “Dear friends, we gather here to celebrate the love and union between James Fleamont Potter and Lily Marie Evans, who remind us that love transcends all boundaries, be they Muggle or magical.”
Sirius blinked teary eyes as Remus shifted beside him, the girls giving soft smiles from where they stood opposite, clutching their flowers tightly.
“Today’s wedding will be a mix of both, as was the wish of the couple, a way to unify the two worlds together.” The officiant spoke. “First, the exchanging of rings and vows – which I believe both partners have written, if the two with the rings will be so kind as to hand them over.”
Sirius stepped forward as did Hermione, their eyes meeting over the couple as they placed the rings into the respect hands. Hermione offered him a rare soft smile that had Sirius smiling back, as he took a step back to stand beside Remus and she did the same with Marlene.
James’ hands trembled as he began to place the ring on Lily’s finger, his voice cracking as he spoke. “Lily, you had my heart the moment I met you, and I promise to love you, to stand by you through the good and the bad. To fight beside you and for you, to make you laugh when times are hard and to hold you when everything feels heavy. I love you, and I will for as long as we both shall live.”
Tears dripped down Lily’s cheek as James let go of her hand, the band shining where it rested while she moved to grip his hand, speaking with a surprisingly steady voice. “James, it took me a while but I think you have always had my heart, that you have always been the ending I wanted. I promise to love you fiercely, to stay by you side no matter what the world brings. To laugh with you, to cry with you and to grow old with you. To love you for as long as we both shall live.”
Sirius let out a breath as James grinned, his eyes moving to Hermione who was a little more pale and crying silently. Her eyes were focused on something in the distance and he could only wonder why she looked so sad by the vows.
“And now, the handfasting.” The officiant spoke as he pulled out his wand and cast a spell, a golden thread like ribbon twinging around their joined hands. A permanent joining that would be hard to break and almost made Sirius gulp.
But James and Lily didn’t seem put off by it, they had asked for it. To be joined magically for the rest of their lives.
The officiant muttered the vows and the spell, and Sirius could only watch as the ribbon faded into the couples skin, tying their magic together and making them both grin as the officiant put away his wand and grinned.
“It gives me great pleasure to say that by the power vested in me and magic, that I can now pronounce you husband and wife.” He grinned before gesturing to James who looked at Lily in awe. “You may now kiss your bride.”
James wasted no second, not seeming concerned that his father-in-law was seat not ten feet away as he gripped Lily and laid a kiss on her that had Sirius’ eye widened and Remus laughing into his hand while the guests broke out into applause.
“Maybe take it down a notch, Prongs, before her dad murders you.” Sirius muttered, leaning just close enough and keeping the smile on his face as James pulled away with a grin and Lily laughed.
…
(Hermione's POV)
The reception began as twilight settled over Potter Manor, a grand white marquee set above the guests with twinkling fairy lights dangling from above and around the trees, the winter sky a beautiful backdrop and more warming spells set. Music played in the background as guests made their way to their seats, whispering in awe at the whole thing.
Their seats were easy to find, place cards left and written in Lily’s cursive handwriting. Hermione took her seat, beside Marlene at the head table, Lily’s parents on the other side of Marlene – as Lily had been too concerned to make them sit next to Sirius and Remus on her side, so she had placed Euphemia and Fleamont there.
Music grew louder as James and Lily entered the marquee hand in hand and with face alight with joy as they made their way to the table while the guests stood and applauded, Sirius whistling loudly and laughing as Euphemia reached around Remus to smack his arm gently. Hermione clapped as she watched them whisper to each other, soft smiles as they sat in their respected seats between Sirius and Hermione.
Her chest felt tight with emotions as she watched them speak like there was no one else in the room as they nibbled at their food and sipped their wine.
Hermione did the same, speaking to Marlene and the Evans’, smirking as Petunia sent a pursed look from where she sat at a table near the middle, refusing to eat the food that seemingly came out of nowhere while her husband seemed to have no problem shoving in as much as he could.
Marlene chuckled beside her at something Mr Evans said, picking at her food and sipping on her water, wine remaining untouched before her.
“Still feeling sick?” Hermione whispered from beside her as she rested down her own knife and fork and frowned at her friend.
Marlene looked over at her a bit shocked before she forced a smile onto her face. “A bit, don’t want to make it worse.” She said and looked down at her food before looking away.
“Have some bread at least, might help calm it down.” Hermione suggested as Marlene gave her a grateful smile and picked at the piece of bread, rolling her eyes as Hermione kept watching her until she put some in her mouth and chewed loudly.
The rest of the meal passed without event, the food magically cleared away as James stood with a cough, tapping his glass to get attention and the music lowering, his cheeks slightly flushed.
“I’d like to thank everyone for coming today, it means a lot to both Lily and I to be surrounded by the people we love the most in the world, and we’re so lucky to have so many.” His eyes drifted down the table, onto their parents, to Remus, Sirius, to Lily’s parents, then Marlene and finally onto Hermione were they settled for a bit before he faced the crowd. “You’ve stood by us and helped us, and we’re so thankful.”
He smiled before looking down at Lily. “And to my beautiful wife – I can’t believe I get to say that now.” A few people laughed as Lily chuckled watery. “This is all I’ve dreamed about, and I guess dreams do come true – I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you, can’t wait to love you forever.”
His hazel eyes were teary behind his glasses as Lily mouthed ‘I love you’ to him.
“So let’s raise our glasses to my beautiful wife and spend the next however long listening to what I’m sure are going to be some amazing speeches from my new father-in-law, my sister and my closet friends.” He added, raising his glass as everyone copied before taking a sip and then gesturing to Mr Evans.
Mr Evans stood up, gripping his glass and clearing his throat as the room quietened and looked to him, but he moved his eyes to his daughter.
“It’s a hard thing being a dad to an extraordinary daughter, no one ever prepares you for just how challenging it can be.” He took a deep breath. “No one ever prepares you for what it’s like to see your little girl grown up and married when you feel like it was just yesterday she was running around the garden with her two front teeth missing.”
Lily blushed, placing her head in her hands.
“She was always special, my Lily, before we even knew what that meant.” Mr Evans sighed as he smiled at Lily. “I remember once, Petunia came charging to house, furious because Lily had somehow managed to came her doll’s hair bright green. Now Lily swore she didn’t do...it just happened after she thought about.” He gave a grin as Lily blushed slightly. “Then Professor McGonagall came with that letter, and I thought – this makes sense – a special school for my special girl.”
“Then she was gone, nine months a year, sending letters about her classes, friends, teachers – and coming back every summer with stories – and most, if not all of them, contained some detail about this annoying boy who wouldn’t leave her alone.” Mr Evans grinned as James stuttered. “The cocky sports star who got himself into trouble, and had his eyes set on my daughter.”
“But here’s the thing, no matter how much Lily complained...she never stopped talking about you either. And my wife saw right through, made sure to tell me once after Lily had spent an hour moaning about this James Potter, ‘You watch...the boys going to be the one.” Mr Evans said with an even bigger grin as Lily groaned into her hands.
“Thank you, Mrs Evans.” James said with a cheeky grin as the woman waved him off and laughed.
“Guess she knew before any of us.” Mr Evans said before he turned serious. “James, you’ve proven yourself time and time again that you love my daughter, that you’ll take care of her, protect her and do anything you can for her – and that is all a father can ever ask for.” Mr Evans gulped. “And my Lily, you are so strong and beautiful, you deserve everything in life and I only wish that you can have a lifetime of happiness.” He raised his glass and smiled. “So to these two, years in the making – to Lily and and James!”
The rest of the guests cheered as Lily blew a kiss to her father and James gave him a nod as he sat back down, before hazel eyes turned to Hermione.
“Okay.” She muttered before she stood up, all eyes on her. “James is many things, loyal, stubborn, and one of the most infuriating people I have ever met.” The crowd chuckled. “But he is also someone who a heart just as big as his ego, who loves fiercely and completely, and he would do anything for the people he cares about...especially the woman who somehow saw through his arrogance and fell in love with the hopeless fool.”
Lily chuckled, reaching forward to kiss James’ cheek as he blushed.
“Lily, you are just as loyal and stubborn as James and you love just as fiercely, and there is no one I would trust more to be with my brother than you. You are so many things in your own right, but you make him better...happier...and he does the same for you.” Hermione stuttered out. “You two are perfect together and I love you both so much – so, to Lily and James, may your life be full of laughter, love and just enough mischief to keep things interesting.”
Hermione added a wink as everyone cheered, sitting back down and leaning into James as he pulled her into his side and placed a kiss on the side of her head. “Thank you and I love you.”
“Right back at you.” Hermione whispered back as Sirius got to his feet, mischievous grin on his face. “Here we go.”
“You all know me, and if you don’t, I’m Sirius Black, James’ best man which means I get to embarrass him.” He turned the grin to James who groaned. “Now many of you might not know that James and I met long before Hogwarts, due to his sister, and even then he was, as Lil’ would say, an arrogant little toerag.” The crowd chuckled as did Lily.
“Still is.”
“He met Lily when he was eleven, who honestly was far too good for him then, and swore that one day she would realise how devilishly handsome and charming he was and give in.” The crowd laughed again but Sirius’ face turned serious. “It took a while but you got there, Prongs, and I’m so glad I got to watch the pair of you fall in love and play a part in your important day – there’s not much more I can say except you both mean everything to me and I wish you all the happiness in the world.” He smiled that rare smile that made Hermione’s heart tighten. “To James and Lily.”
The crowd cheered as Remus and Marlene stood up. “Well, that’s going to be hard to follow, huh Mar?” He asked as Marlene tilted her head and raised her eyebrows. “We thought we would do this together, save some time so we can all get onto the fun part of the evening – drinking and dancing!” Sirius cheered and the crowd joined in as Remus chuckled.
“Both Remus and I have been good friends with the couple throughout our whole Hogwarts and after experience, and we can honestly say there is no couple quite like James and Lily.” Marlene continued, clasping her hands before her and taking a deep breath. “Both of them mean so much to us, have been capable of seeing past our flaws and faults to who we really are.”
Remus smiled softly. “James opened his home to his friends, protected them and Lily always offered a shoulder, or an ear.” He gave them both a smile. “They’re loyal and some of the best friends we’ve ever had.” James grinned as he wrapped an arm around Lily.
“They work together because they love each other for who they are, and they make each other better in every way possible.” Marlene added.
“James saw past the rule loving swot.” Lily glared at Remus who just grinned back. “And Lily eventually saw past the arrogance and saw someone worth her time – and that’s how we knew it was real.” He took a deep breath before continuing. “You showed him love is more than obsession and bold declarations – that’s patience, kindness and forgiveness.”
Hermione eyes pricked with tears as James’ arm tightened around Lily and he pulled her even closer as tears streamed down both their faces.
“So with that we raise our glasses and say to James and Lily, to showing unconditional love and that family doesn’t always end or start with blood.” Marlene said as the rest of the crowd copied.
…
The first dance was beautiful, the sky darkened behind the couple, the music crooned softly and the lanterns softened. There was not a dry eye on sight as they watched James twirl Lily around, only to pull her close and whisper in her ear in a way that had her eyes turn bright and starry.
Hermione watched them with a drink in her hand and a soft smile on her face. Her baby brother, eighteen and married, a large smile on his face that made it seem like all his dreams had come true. And maybe they had for him, because all he had ever really wanted was a chance to love Lily, to be with Lily and now he had her.
James deserved it. He deserved every blessing that would come his way and Hermione was going to do her best to make sure he kept smiling like that. That he and Lily lived long, happy lives and grew older together.
Hermione smiled as the music faded into another song, James pulling Lily close so he could kiss her lips while other couples joined them on the dance floor with a more lively tune.
Her parents eagerly rushed, despite their old age, never missing an opportunity to dance, the Evanses joining them. Remus kissed Edith’s cheek as she pushed him towards Marlene, a dimpled smile on her face as he spun Marlene around, her icy eyes wide and her face turning a bit pale.
“Want to dance?” Hermione turned to see Sirius beside her, tie long gone and robes taken off to just show his shirt and trousers.
He looked just as uncomfortable as she felt, shifting from foot to foot as he watched everyone on the dancefloor, silver eyes flickering over everyone with some kind of longing before they looked to her, so unsure. She thought about saying no, about leaving and talking to someone else.
But she was trying to be his friend and he was trying harder, and this was an important day for two people they both loved. So instead she nodded, taking his hand as he held it out to her and letting him gently lead her to the dancefloor.
People watched, because they always did. Hermione ignored them, focusing on the atmosphere and the music, though it was difficult with Sirius’ hand on her waist and his other one clutching her hand gently as he led them in a simple dance.
“Haven’t seen you around much.”
“Work is busy.”
“Or you’ve been avoiding me.”
“Can we not do this here?” Hermione asked as she looked around at all the people dancing around them, the eager eyes that seemed to follow them as she sighed.
“I’m not – look, I know things are awkward and I know you’ve been avoiding me wanting to talk because you think it’s going to be about something you’d rather ignore – but it’s not.” Sirius whispered lowly, head dipping slightly. “I’m not trying to start anything, or get you back romantically…”
“Then what do you want?” She asked, slightly harsh, raising an eyebrow.
He stared at her for a few seconds, seeming to contemplate what to say before he was spinning her out and pulling her back, making her stand closer than before and lowering his head so his mouth was next to her ear.
Anyone else would have thought they were lovers getting back together, having a moment, but then he spoke and it shook any idea of that out of her head. “I might have figured out a way into Gringotts.”
Hermione pulled back to look at him, mouth open as her eyes flickered over his face. There was no proud smirk on his face like one might have expected but instead a warmth to him, he was proud, not because he had stunned her but because he was helping – or he thought he was helping.
“Sirius…” Hermione whispered, shaking her head and taking a step back, though still allowing him to continue leading her. “It’s not as easy as you think it is.” He raised an eyebrow and gave her a half hearted smirk.
“I know.” His eyes glinted. “I’ve spent the last few months walking around the place without seeming suspicious or getting caught – it’s a fucking nightmare to get in and out of.” Yet, he seemed amused.
Hermione gaped. After their first adventure where they had spoke and things had been awkward, and she had all but avoided him afterwards, told him not to worry about it at Halloween, he was continuing on with it. Had gone down multiple times it seemed, just because there was a Horcrux down there that she needed and that she had been putting off.
In her room there was a box, a diadem and a diary sitting proudly and magically locked away, there was space for three other things. Ones she had yet to get her hands on.
The ring sat in Little Hangleton, a mess of wards and no doubt dangerous things that Hermione had done her best how to figure out but she hadn’t even taken a step past the gate of fear of being cursed. The image from her dream of her hand deteriorating was enough to make her do this cautiously.
The locket sat in a cave somewhere, and she waited and hoped that Regulus would come to her when the time came, that she hadn’t changed too much. But it was a waiting game that made her more and more nervous ever passing down.
And the cup sat locked up in the Lestrange Vault in one of the most protected places on Earth, it wasn’t like she could walk in and demand it. It had to be done carefully without slapping the label of thieves over their head.
“Why?” She question before she could stop herself as the song came to an end.
“Because…I made some mistakes, shitty ones, but I’m trying to make up for that and I’m not going to let you go through this alone.” Sirius spoke softly, eyes wide and earnest as he took a step back and let go of her, smiling slightly before he sighed. “Guess that means that if you want to know the plan you’ll have to stop avoiding me.”
And with that he threw a smirk over his shoulder and sauntered off, leaving her staring after him in wonder and annoyance.
…
Sirius had thrown her through a loop.
He always did, it was what he was good at. Pulling away and then pulling her back. Only this time he hadn’t done it to be cruel or unkind, he was doing it because he wanted to help, and he had taken the only opportunity she had given him.
Now he was dancing on the floor, a few drinks in and looking like he wasn’t bothered by what he had said while Hermione glared at him, throwing back her flute of champagne.
“That’s supposed to be for sipping.” A voice said as Hermione jumped and turned to glare at her brother.
“Why do people keep sneaking up on me?” Hermione asked with a groan, looking away from him and picking up another flute as it passed on a floating tray.
James just smirked as he grabbed one too before she rolled her eyes and smiled. She had seen him a bit throughout the night, they had even danced, but he had spent most of the night attached to Lily – which she didn’t blame him for.
It was his wedding, his special day and she was so glad to see him enjoying it.
A grin made it’s way to her face as she looped an arm through his and snuggled into his side. “My Jamie, all grown up and married.” She said, pushing away the thoughts of Sirius and Gringotts to focus on her brother and his day. “I’m so happy for you.”
“Thank you.” James muttered back as he rested his head on top of hers, somewhere there was a flash and her mother’s familiar happy sobbing but both of them ignored it. The picture would be showed to them in a couple of weeks and they would be smile at it, but for now they would enjoy the moment they had together.
“So, what comes next?” Hermione sighed out, still clinging onto him as he looked down at his hand where the ring lay.
“The Honeymoon, going back to normal life as a married man in a war and maybe one day in the future – kids.” James explained as though it was easy, shrugging his shoulders and offering her a small smile.
“And how far away is one day?” Hermione asked with a smug smirk as James frowned down at her.
“Hopefully not too soon, one thing to get married young, another to have kids.” He sighed and let out a laugh as he rolled his eyes and leaned away slightly with a small smirk. “Not sure why you’re asking when you clearly know the answer anyway.” He snorted out, looking a bit nervous.
Hermione smirked, she didn’t have an exact timeline – had no exact idea when Harry would pop into the world but she knew it wouldn’t be long, but she played along. “No idea what you’re talking about.”
“Just please tell me it’s not like now...Lily swore to her parents this wasn’t some shotgun wedding.” James pleaded as Hermione laughed and shook her head. “Thank Merlin.” He muttered.
They stayed like that, half hugging in each other as they watched the guests mingle and dance, sipping champagne and keeping the conversation light, only interrupted by a loud voice singing.
Somewhere, somehow – Sirius had managed to get a microphone and was now stood on a dais singing at the top of his lungs, some sappy song that the girls at school had cooed over and the now grown women were cooing over too. Or that could have been Sirius and his slowly unbuttoning shirt and messy hair that made him look like some half drunk rockstar.
Hermione chuckled behind her hand as James grinned and clapped his hands while Lily rushed forward, every bit the beautiful bride made of fire as Sirius darted away from her, still singing.
“She’s going to kill him.” James muttered in awe.
Lily was half laughing as she tried to wrestle the microphone from Sirius who was bent over in laughter, letting go before Lily could punch him in the arm while she blushed.
“Sorry everyone...we will now go back to the previously scheduled music.” She muttered, beet red before she vanished the microphone and scrambled down the stairs with Sirius following and still laughing, ignoring the girls that watched him with heart eyes.
The music started again, no singing, just soft songs that fit the vibe of the evening and made people continue dancing with their partners or friends.
Hermione let her eyes drift over the crowd, from where Sirius was still following Lily, saying something that had her rolling her eyes even as her lips turned upwards just a bit – enough for Sirius to grin and continue following her around.
To where Marlene sat with Petunia and Vernon – wait?
“Oh no.” Hermione muttered as James followed her line of view, his eyes widening and his mouth opening before his lips curved into an evil smile.
Marlene was speaking, throwing her hands around and seeming unbothered by the purple shade of Vernon’s face and the way Petunia was clutching her chest. She didn’t seem upset by their reactions but instead amused as her smile grew larger and larger.
Then she pulled out her wand and both Dursley’s flinched away like she was going to use it on them, which seemed to be the reaction Marlene was going for as she smirked and waved her wand at her glass, topping it up with what looked like pumpkin juice and taking a sip with the same smirk on her face.
“Poor Dursley’s going to explode.”
“I hope he does – tosser.” James scoffed as he sipped his drink. “You know he actually had the nerve to say this wedding was small compared to his and Petunia’s. Even commented on having to rent out a house for the day, should’ve seen his face when I told him it was our family home.”
Hermione rolled her eyes and smirked as Marlene said something else with a larger smile that had Petunia recoiling and Vernon turning blue. “One would think the invitation to Potter Manor would be enough to know that.”
“I think he thought we were lying.” James commented with a small laugh.
“He’s an idiot.”
“Speaking of idiots – do you think he’ll ever pop the question?” James asked as he nodded towards where Remus and Edith were dancing together with content smiles on their faces, looking beautiful in love.
It was rare to see Remus look so happy and sure. He had always been the one to push people away, to never think he deserved love, even more after the false pregnancy a few years ago but somehow Edith had sneaked into his life and made him smile. She knew what he was and loved him regardless of that.
Hermione sighed, resting her head on James’ shoulder again. “Probably not anytime soon – not everyone moves as fast as you, Jamie.”
“Is she who he ends up with in the future?” James whispered to her as she frowned.
“I don’t – I don’t think, but I can’t be sure – all I remember is pink hair.” And a kind smile and something so familiar but it was so hard to place. “But things change, I’ve changed things and the future is no longer 100% certain.” Which was a good thing, some voice whispered in her head.
A good thing if Remus didn’t freak out at the thought of having children, or think about leaving his wife. It was a good thing if it meant keeping James and Lily alive past whenever they died.
“If things change, will you miss it?” James whispered and she could feel his eyes on her as he waited for her to answer.
“It’s hard to miss something you don’t truly remember.” It was a lie. She missed so many things she couldn’t put a label on, felt so many things that made little to no sense.
Her life was twisted, memories she wanted forced behind a door and slowly leaking through, but they weren’t always clear and Hermione wasn’t always sure what they were supposed to mean. She was forced to remember in other ways, a twitch of a hand, tears springing to her eyes, a faint voice in her head – made her feel like she was going mad half of the time.
…
(Remus' POV)
The wedding was a success. And Remus felt so...happy.
It was strange, this kind of happiness, his life had always told him it wouldn’t last. That these moments would be far and few between, that eventually he would end up alone and sad. That he would the werewolf he sometimes tried to pretend he wasn’t.
Today he had barely even thought about the moon, being a wolf or the war. He had focused on his friends, he had danced with his girlfriend and exchanged loving words. Being at a wedding was like a god damn aphrodisiac, and while that was all good when he was with Edith, when it came from other girls eyeing him up – he wasn’t quite sure what to make it of.
So, he ignored them, stuck with his people, made sure Mr and Mrs Evans were ok, danced with his friends and ate too much. Maybe drank a bit too much too.
Now he was watching as James led Lily and a chair into the middle of the room, a wide mischievous grin on his face. “Alright everyone!” He shouted, clapping his hands as he gently sat Lily down. “It’s time for what might possibly be my favourite Muggle wedding tradition…”
“He’s not going to dance, is he?” Marlene asked from Remus’ side.
He chuckled and cast her a quick glance before frowning. Her cheeks were pink, but not from alcohol, she was still a little pale which according to Hermione she had been since the hen do, but she was smiling and she seemed overall good.
He shifted his nose, rubbing it at the strange smell that flooded his nostrils, looking to Marlene again. Maybe she had a new perfume, it wasn’t bad – just different.
“Removing the Garter!” James shouted and Remus turned to look at his best friend as Sirius laughed from his other side and Mr Evans turned his head away from the other side.
“James…” Lily warned, her cheeks bright red as James got down onto his knees and sent her a wink. “Oh my god.” She muttered as he pulled out her leg, gripping her ankle and pushing her dress up a bit, just enough to see her calf.
James muttered something to her that had her rolling her eyes but nodding her head as he grinned at her, moving his legs up her leg and frowning as he clearly fumbled for the fabric while Lily hid her head in her hands.
“Merlin, you would think he had never touched a woman before.” Sirius groaned, closing his eyes and shaking his head. “My poor innocent eyes are scarred for life.” He added dramatically as James chuckled nervously and blushed.
Remus huffed out a life. “You? Innocent?”
His remark would have landed better if James hadn’t chosen that moment to reveal the garter, holding it up between his fingers and grinning. He chuckled in a way that could only be evil as his eyes scanned the crowd, and then with a flick of his wrist sent the garter flying.
Most would think it was an accident. But James was a chaser and had great aim.
Which is way Remus could only blush as the piece of fabric hit him smack in the face, and then landed in his hands. His eyes went wide as he looked back up while people cheered, Sirius loudly yelling beside him and James grinning from where he was still knelt on the floor.
His eyes found Edith’s as she appeared on the other side of Marlene, slight blush on her cheeks but a wide grin. “Nice catch, Remus.”
Lily, who was a good friend, seemed to understand the nerves as she rushed up from the chair and grabbed her flowers from the table before moving back into the middle of the room. “Alright ladies, line up!” She shouted.
Hermione shook her head and Edith tried to step back but Marlene grabbed them both and pushed them forward into the crowd of over eager and pushing women. Remus frowned, wanting to pull the blond out of there before she was knocked around.
Lily turned around, clutching the flowers and closing her eyes as James counted down before she was tossing it backward.
Right into Edith’s hands.
Now Remus could blame it on the fact that Edith, much like James, was a chaser and used to catching things sent her way. But so was Marlene, and it wasn’t like she had caught it. He could blame it on Lily learning some tricks from a still grinning James. They had to have planned this.
Sure, it was an old folktale but he couldn’t stop the blush that made it’s way to his cheeks or the spluttering he did as Sirius laughed beside him, clutching his stomach.
“Looks like you’re next, Moony.”
Edith flushed, hands shaking and eyes wide as she looked from the flowers and then to Remus and back to the flowers before she was turning and shoving them into some other girls hands. “I think...I think these are yours.”
She scrambled away, surprisingly not away from Remus but to stand by his side as he tried not to gulp, just reaching for her hand as she squeezed his back.
It wasn’t that he didn’t love her, he did, and he knew she loved him. He was grateful to have her in his life and he wanted her around as much as possible but they had spoke about marriage and kids, and right now it wasn’t on the cards – kids especially.
Remus needed a secure job, needed to settle down and start accepting his life and Edith had plans, she wanted to work overseas. They weren’t sure where that would leave them but until then they were together as they were now and that was enough.