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Chapter Text

"You've chosen your way, I've chosen mine."

Those words cut Severus like a dagger. He knew it was a mistake to call Lily that word. He tried to apologize, but it was too late.

Lily was equally hurt that her former best friend would think of her in such an awful way. Their friendship had officially come to an end.

As much as it pained him, Severus respected Lily's wishes and kept his distance. 

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Lily began dating James Potter, the Qudditch hero of Hogwarts, at the beginning of 7th year. James was very persistent, and just like with Qudditch, he didn't stop until he reached his goal.

Lily decided to give James a chance after he asked her to date him for the hundredth time. James was athletic, popular, and wealthy. Everyone in Gryffindor thought that they were the perfect couple. Many students began to pair up as the class approached graduation. Some couples already knew that they would soon marry after leaving Hogwarts.

Lily thought that she would be secure with James. He had plenty to offer her, or so she thought.

James introduced Lily to his parents and they welcomed her into their home and their lives. The Potters did not hold a blood prejudice. James was an only child, and his parents were eager for their son to marry and carry on the family name.

After graduating from Hogwarts, James and Lily were wed during early September in a grand celebration. The Potters announced their son’s marriage to the lovely Lily Evans in the Daily Prophet. The announcement took up a full page of the paper, complete with the wedding guest list and a magical moving photo.

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Meanwhile…

As graduation approached for Severus, he realized that his Slytherin housemates were not really his friends. They too often used him for “homework help”, refused to sit with him during meals in the Great Hall, and did not bother to keep in touch with him during school breaks.

He was wrong to risk his friendship with Lily in order to gain the acceptance of his housemates. Up until graduation, Severus was in a difficult position within his House and he wished that Lily had understood that somewhat. He had to maintain a minimum degree of comradery with the other students to survive as a closeted half-blood in Slytherin House. Truthfully, he could never blame Lily for ending their friendship. To Severus, it was entirely his fault. He berated himself internally daily for ruining the only true friendship he ever had.

Severus had always excelled at Potions, and prior to graduation he decided to continue his training in the field by accepting an apprenticeship. He wanted to take this opportunity to start over fresh after leaving Hogwarts and focus on his passion for Potions. His goal was to become a Potions Master.

However, thoughts of Lily were with him every day. He only saw her in passing at Hogwarts. Whenever he caught a glimpse of her beautiful red hair, a moment of joy leapt in his heart. That joy was very short lived as he reminded himself that he was the cause of their friendship’s demise, and after graduation he would likely never see her again.

One fall morning, as he was readying himself to begin his apprenticeship, an owl landed on Severus’ kitchen table to deliver a new copy of the Daily Prophet. Severus sat down to eat a light breakfast of buttered toast and black coffee. He picked up the newspaper, glanced at the front page headlines, and turned to the next page. He felt his heart drop into his stomach as his face twisted into a scowl. He suddenly lost his appetite entirely. He received the worst news of his young life when he read that his beloved Lily had married his arch nemesis, James Potter. It was over. Lily would be gone from Severus forever.

After a moment of letting the news sink in, Severus admired the photo of Lily in her wedding dress. She looked as beautiful as ever. Her smile was radiant and her green eyes glowed like emeralds. He tore the photo out of the Daily Prophet, making sure to leave Potter out, and tucked Lily’s picture into his robes. He threw the rest of newspaper into the lit fireplace in his small living room. As he watched the paper dissolve into the flames, his eyes held a deep sadness. As devastating as the news was, Severus had to accept that Lily had made her choice.

Chapter Text

September 1978-Summer 1980

Severus spent the next two years continuing his apprenticeship and completing his Potions Mastery. He wanted to be the proprietor of his own apothecary, however, he recognized that he did not have the funds for such a large investment.

Severus needed to start earning an income soon, so he interviewed with Headmaster Albus Dumbledore for the Potions professor position at Hogwarts. Severus' own Potions professor, Horace Slughorn, had just retired, so the role was vacant. Even though Severus was still very young to be a professor, he was always an excellent student and knew more about Potions than most other wizards and witches older than him in age. The Headmaster finally recognized Severus' talents and hired him to begin teaching in the fall.

He had hoped to leave everything that happened at Hogwarts in the past, but he found himself returning to the place he had just left. Though this teaching position was not his ideal career, he was ready to make the best of his new role.

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Meanwhile…

The elder Potters bought their newlywed son and daughter in law a spacious home so they could begin their lives as a married couple and start a family. Lily and James were settling into married life. They were still getting to know each other more deeply after only dating for about a year before marrying. James’ friends, Sirius, Remus, and occasionally, Peter, visited the newlywed Potters at their home. James wanted to spend a lot of time with his friends, particularly Sirius. Of course, everyone knew each other from school, and Lily was part of the friend group.

James and Lily lived off the Potter family fortune and did not need to work. Still, Lily would sometimes get bored of not having anything to do. She would look out the window and think about her life before she married. Once in a while, her thoughts would drift to her old friends, including Severus. She remembered the happy moments they shared together as children, before they went their separate ways. She didn’t have that same connection with James. He was so different from Severus in so many ways. She briefly wondered what would have happened between her and Sev if they had stayed friends. She sighed and shook the thoughts from her head. Then, she rose from her seat by the window to find something else to keep her occupied.

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Someone else also had fond memories of summers spent by the river in Cokeworth. Thoughts of Lily were never far from Severus’ mind. As he brewed potions, he thought of Lily’s flame red hair and gorgeous green eyes. While chopping potions ingredients, he remembered her bright smile, sweet voice, and contagious laughter.

He wondered how Lily was doing and whether she was truly happy with Potter. He knew that his chance of seeing her again was slim to none. Though that didn’t mean that he stopped loving her. Even though his love for Lily was a closely guarded secret, he would continue to love her until the day he died and beyond that. Unfortunately for him, all that he had left of Lily was the picture of her from the newspaper and his own memories.

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Fall 1979

James Potter had lunch with his parents one afternoon. James and his parents had always been close, especially since he was an only child. His parents wanted to meet with him alone. After they finished their meal, the conversation turned to more serious matters. His parents mentioned that James had already been married for one year at this point and that it was time for him to move on to the next traditional milestone of adult life after marriage. His parents reminded him of the importance of continuing the Potter line. James’ parents were getting older, and they emphasized that they wanted to spend time with a future grandchild. James’ mother volunteered to watch the child anytime James and Lily liked. James’ father, Fleamont Potter, gave his son two bottles of firewhisky to take home with him. James left Potter manor with an idea and a mission.

Lily returned home after a long day of shopping in Diagon Alley. She entered her new home with several shopping bags in tow. Having access to the Potter family funds had its perks. James arrived at home shortly after. They talked about their day and then James brought up their next conversation topic as he poured glasses of firewhisky for each of them. “What do you say, Lil? I bet the little tyke will love Quidditch just as much as I do.” Lily always wanted to have children of her own. She was excited to become a mother. She was also ready to fill her time at home and have someone to keep her company, besides James. After a few glasses of firewhisky, they moved from the living room to the bedroom. By the time the leaves fell and autumn changed to winter, Lily was expecting her first child.
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August 1, 1980

Professor Snape was not particularly looking forward to teaching a bunch of dunderhead students. He found most students to be lazy, inattentive, and uninterested in learning the art of potion-making during his own school days.
However, his role as a professor would allow him to earn a decent wage and live a life of dignity in comparison to the years of crushing poverty he experienced as a child.

He was going to live at Hogwarts most of the year and would return to his home in Cokeworth during summer breaks after the school year had ended. His father had already passed away and his mother moved out of Spinner’s End to forget about all of the negativity she experienced there. She left the family home to Severus.

Snape had another month of peace before returning to the same four walls of his old Potions classroom. For now, he could relax a bit and enjoy the company of a good book in the stillness of his own home.

Severus finished eating breakfast when a tawny owl flew through an open window to deliver that morning’s edition of the Daily Prophet. Severus fed the owl a piece of leftover bacon from his breakfast plate. As the owl flew away, Severus casually flipped through the pages until something caught his eye. He stared at a birth announcement. Lily Potter had delivered a son. The announcement did not include a photo this time. Severus was once again in shock. He reminded himself that in many cases this was the natural progression for a married couple. Deep down, he was hurt again by this news concerning Lily. He thought to himself, maybe she is happy with Potter after all.

Chapter Text

Professor Snape moved into Hogwarts castle at the end of August, about a week before the start of the new term. He settled into his quarters and prepared to teach his first lessons. He tried to keep his mind off of Lily and the news he received via the Daily Prophet, but that proved to be impossible. How he wished that he and Lily were the ones announcing the birth of their child to the world.

He knew that he had to get over losing her to Potter, but that was easier said than done. He was hopeful that he would be able to keep his mind occupied with other matters once the new school year had started.

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Lily named her newborn son, Harry, which was her father’s middle name. James’ parents were ecstatic to have a grandson. Harry was loved and adored by all of his family. James was good about playing with the baby, but that was about all he did for Harry. Most of the caregiving fell to Lily.

James made his parents very happy by giving them a grandchild. He felt that his work was done. Lily kept herself busy with taking care of the baby. There were many times when she wished she had James’ support and assistance. He spent a lot of time away from home with his best mate, Sirius. Lily felt lonely at times with James being gone so often. She tried to ask James to help her more with the baby, but that didn’t work. He would always say that he had to go or that Sirius was waiting on him.

She still had a close relationship with her parents and they were willing to babysit little Harry any time, but that didn’t make up for James’ lack of parental involvement. She was beginning to wonder if James was actually ready to be a parent. She expected that the tasks required to raise a child would be shared equally between her and James. Lily spent most of her days at home alone with her son. She was starting to feel isolated. She wished she had someone to talk to that would really listen to how she felt.
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Severus learned more about Hogwarts castle in his short time as a professor than he did during all the years he spent there as a student. He learned about secret passageways, little know storage rooms, the location of staff break rooms, shortcuts around the castle, and more.

He was also responsible for patrolling the corridors at night after curfew to make sure there weren’t any students wandering about. During one of these nights, he stumbled upon a spacious, mostly empty storage room. He had a habit of turning storage closet door handles to see if they were locked. He was curious to see if there were any items inside them that could be used for his classes. A few times he found some useful objects in various closets. Other times, he just encountered brooms and Filtch’s cleaning supplies.

Tonight, he discovered a very rare and special object. The only item in the room was a massive gold-framed mirror in the shape of an arch. He was wondering what this mirror was doing here. He had never seen it before.

Curious as ever, Severus slowly walked up to the mirror, expecting to only see his own reflection. When an image of Lily appeared, he quietly gasped out loud. Lily was so close that he could almost touch her. Except, when he did reach out his hand to the mirror, she wasn’t within his grasp. He then looked up at the letters above the mirror. Once he realized how to decipher the phrase, he understood the mirror’s purpose.

He stared at Lily’s image for what seemed like an eternity. She was just as lovely as he remembered. He had a deep longing for her in his heart. He missed her every day that they were apart. After a long time, he turned to leave the room even though he didn’t want to be away from Lily’s memory. He told himself that he would return tomorrow night to see Lily in the mirror again.

As Severus left the room and walked down a corridor to return to his own quarters, Professor Dumbledore was standing hidden around a corner behind Snape and watched him as he walked away.
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“Back again, Severus?”

Snape was wiping his eyes with the cuff of his sleeve when he heard the headmaster’s voice from behind him.

“Headmaster, I…”

“I’ll ask you not to go looking for this mirror again, Severus. It will be moved tomorrow to a more secure location.”

“But, Headmaster...”

“It’s time to move on, Severus. Lily has a husband and child now.”

Severus couldn’t meet the headmaster’s eyes. He felt so embarrassed that someone would catch him in what was supposed to be a moment of private vulnerability.

Professor Dumbledore placed a comforting hand on Snape’s shoulder. “As time passes, you will learn to let go of her.”

Snape quickly turned his shoulder to brush off Dumbledore’s hand and briskly walked out of the room.

How could the headmaster be so foolish?! Severus would never be able to forget Lily. She was the love of his life, even if she didn’t know it. The friendship that they used to have would always be cherished and the kindness that she showed Severus as child would never be forgotten.

Severus knew that Dumbledore was pleased that his two star Gryffindor pupils had married and started a family together. Everyone thought that Severus wasn’t good enough for Lily. Even Severus thought that he didn’t deserve her, but that never stopped him from loving her with all of his being.

Chapter Text

Severus’ first school year as a professor was over in a flash. He indeed stayed busy preparing lesson plans, grading essays, and teaching his classes. He was looking forward to summer break just as much as his students were. He apparated to his small home in Spinner’s End after the students left on the Hogwarts Express. He relaxed at home for the next few days and then decided to visit Diagon Alley to stock up on potions ingredients.

He had no idea who he would encounter during what he thought was a routine day of errands.

He left his home one afternoon and walked to a secluded apparition point away from town. After landing in Diagon Alley, he walked to the local apothecary to purchase some commonly used potions ingredients for his own personal use. He selected his ingredients and paid the shopkeeper. He still needed to visit Madam Malkin’s for another set of his usual black robes.

He walked out the door of the apothecary, ready to turn and walk down the alley to his next destination, when he saw something reddish-orange out of the corner of his eye. He just ignored the urge to look. It was probably nothing. Besides, he had to purchase his robes before the shop closed for the day. He usually kept his eyes fixed to the pavement, an old habit from his school days. Then, he heard a sweet voice call out his name.

“Severus?”

He knew that voice anywhere. But, could it really be her?

It all happened so fast. He looked in the direction that the voice came from and locked eyes with hers, those beautiful green eyes that he loved so much. She was standing outside one of the shops opposite of the apothecary. She gave him a soft smile and walked across the alley towards him.

Severus felt frozen. He wasn’t sure if he should just keep walking or break eye contact and look down at the ground. Before he could make a decision, he was face to face with Lily. She didn’t look mad at all to see him, much to his surprise.

Lily couldn’t believe that this was Severus, the small, skinny boy who told her all about magic. He had grown so much since 5th year. He looked so mysterious in his pitch black, billowing robes. His jaw was more angular and he was much taller than she remembered. He had become a man.

Lily looked up into his face and said, “It’s been so long since we last saw each other, Severus.”

Severus felt his heart pounding in his chest. Why did she want to speak to him, especially after what happened at the Great Lake? He tried to steady himself in order to say something.

“Yes, it has, Lily.”

A moment of silence passed between them. Lily realized she would have to do most of the talking, just like when they were children.

“So, what brings you here?”

“I came here to purchase some potions ingredients.”

“Oh, you were always so brilliant at that subject.”

“Thank you, Lily. And, yourself?”

“I’m shopping for some gifts and decorations for my son’s first birthday party coming up.”

Severus barely nodded and another silent moment passed.

Severus cleared his throat and stated very seriously, “I don’t think your husband would like me speaking to you.”

“I’m here alone, Sev.”

She realized that he must have heard about her marriage to James from the Daily Prophet.

How long has it been since Severus heard her call him that name? So many years had gone by without Lily.

“Would you like to join me for a late lunch, Severus?”

Severus looked to his left and right, up and down the alley, just waiting for James Potter to appear out of thin air.

“Are you sure that’s a good idea, Lily?”

Lily chuckled. “Yes, Sev. You don’t need to worry about James. He is spending the day with Sirius.”

After hearing that, Severus gave Lily a slight nod and walked with her to The Leaky Cauldron. Purchasing his new robes could wait until another day.

Once they arrived, they sat down at a small table in a dim corner of the restaurant and ordered their meals. Feeling a bit more at ease, Severus began the conversation.

“It was quite the surprise to see you here today, Lily.”

Lily smiled at him and said, “I was surprised to see you too, Severus.”

One corner of his lips turned slightly upward as he listened to her speak. He loved hearing her say his name.

“I thought that you wouldn’t want to speak to me after happened at school,” Severus admitted.

Lily’s smile faded. “I’ve been thinking a lot about that day. I was very upset that you would call me such an awful name after everything that we’ve been through together. I hope you don’t really think of me that way. However, I also shouldn’t have cared so much about what my housemates thought of my best friend. None of my other friendships were as close as ours was. I just hope you’ve moved on from your Slytherin friends too. I should have understood your perspective more and considered your apology.”

Lily placed her hand on top of Severus’ on the table. He couldn’t believe she was touching him, even slightly. “Can you forgive me, Sev?”

His eyes grew wide at this question. He didn’t expect her to ask him this. “Of course, Lily. I should be the one apologizing to you. I am truly sorry for what I said that day. I don’t think of you that way. I never did.”

As their meals arrived at the table and Lily removed her hand from Sev’s. Severus already missed that brief bit of contact.

Lily ordered the shepherd’s pie and Severus had the beef stew.

As they began to eat, Lily changed the subject. “So, what have you been up to since leaving Hogwarts?”

“Well, I’m back at Hogwarts now as the new Potions professor. Slughorn retired.”

“Wow, Sev! That’s an impressive accomplishment at such a young age.”

“Thank you, Lily.”

Severus didn’t want to seem rude, but he also didn’t want to ask about what was going on in Lily’s life. He already knew the main events from the Daily Prophet.

“How do you like being a professor?”

He shrugged and said, “It’s alright. I’m off now for the summer. I check on my home during school breaks.”

“Home?” Lily asked.

Severus cleared his throat. “My mother moved out of town and she is now living in a small village near other witches. She left the house to me. My father passed away years ago.”

“I’m so sorry about your father, Sev.”

“Don’t be.” Severus continued to eat his food.

Lily didn’t know how to respond to that and more silence passed.

“How are your parents?” Severus asked, sensing her discomfort.

“Oh, they’re well. They still live back home in Cokeworth.”

That last sentence caught Severus’ attention. “Do you visit them often?”

“I see them when I can. I’ve been busy with my son, and James, well…”

Severus could care less about James, but maybe there was something to this.

“James spends more time with Sirius than I would like,” Lily finished.

“Potter and Black were always two of a kind,” Severus quipped.

“Perhaps, I should visit my mum and dad more. They love seeing my little boy.”

Severus nodded at this. Maybe they could accidentally run into each other in Cokeworth. Another moment passed before Severus spoke up.

“Lily, I want to apologize again for what happened in 5th year. I never should have used that word. I no longer speak to my old housemates. I realized later on that they were not worth being close to. They were not worth losing my friendship with you.”

“I’m pleased to hear you say that, Sev.”

“It’s the truth, Lily.” Severus looked very serious as he said this.

“Are you still interested in the Dark Arts?” Lily asked.

“I believe in knowledge for knowledge’s sake. It is essential to learn about all types of magic. If you are asking whether I practice dark magic, the answer is no.”

Lily seemed satisfied with this response.

They both finished their meals, and then Lily surprised Severus once again.

“Hey, Sev, I’ve had such a lovely time with you today, and I was wondering, do you think we could keep in contact?”

Severus’s eyes widened and he was quiet for a long moment.

“That is, if you want to, of course.” Lily added.

“I don’t think Potter would want me sending owls to his wife,” Severus presumed.

“I have my own owl and she never lets James take my mail.” Lily paused for a minute. “To be completely honest, Sev, I’ve missed you.”

These words stunned Severus.

“You missed me?” Severus repeated softly.

“Many of my friendships from school have faded away. James is gone all of the time. I don’t really have many people that I can talk to.”

Severus’ face softened as she confessed this.

“I’ll be very careful, Sev. We don’t have to sign our names on our letters either. James won’t find out.”

“Alright, Lily.” Severus wasn’t sure if she would actually send him an owl after meeting today, but the fact that Lily still wanted to speak to him gave him hope.

Lily and Severus each paid for their own meals, and then they both walked out of the restaurant and into the sunlight.

“It was nice seeing you, Sev. I’ll write to you when I get home.” Lily flashed him one last smile before walking away to resume her shopping.

Severus returned to his usually glum home with a slight smile on his face and a lightened heart.

Chapter Text

After having a meal with her old friend, Lily had a smile on her face for the rest of the day. She couldn’t believe her luck. She just happened to be shopping in Diagon Alley at the same time as Sev. She was looking forward to sending him an owl later on that evening. It would really lift her spirits to have a pen pal.

Suddenly while she was walking, Lily thought about just how handsome Severus had looked. He had really grown to be a fine young wizard. Perhaps it wasn’t right to be thinking of another man in this way when she was already married, but Lily’s thoughts were safe inside her own mind. James Potter was not skilled at Legilimency. For a brief moment, she imagined herself running her fingers through his hair. It didn’t look greasy at all like the way she remembered it during their school years. In fact, it looked very soft and silky.

Lily walked to a children’s toy store in Diagon Alley. She purchased a few birthday presents for little Harry. She would have to return again another day to finish the rest of her shopping. She found an adorable blue stuffed dragon, a soft gray stuffed hippogriff, and a cute snowy owl plush for Harry. She knew that her son would love these gifts. She quickly made her purchases before the shop closed for the day and apparated to her mother in law’s home with her items in tow.

James’ mother, Euphemia, had been kind enough to watch Harry while Lily spent the afternoon shopping.

“Lily, good to see you. Harry just woke up from his nap. Is that all you bought? Surely, you know that money is no object in this family. I want Harry to have the best first birthday party ever.”

“The shop didn’t have much that I liked. I’ll go back another day and finish buying birthday presents for Harry,” Lily responded.

A little white lie wouldn’t hurt anyone. Lily certainly couldn’t tell her mother in law that she had spent most of the day out having lunch with a male friend.

“Thank you so much for babysitting Harry, Euphemia.”

“Anytime, my dear. I had a lovely afternoon with him. He’s so precious. You make sure to get him lots of gifts. His birthday will be here before we know it.”

Lily hugged her mother in law goodbye, picked up her son, and traveled back to her own home. James would be none the wiser that she had spent time alone with Severus.

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When Lily arrived back home, James was still gone. Lily had expected that, to be honest. James was still living his life as a bachelor even though he had a wife and small child at home. Lily didn’t mention her marital troubles to her parents or her in-laws. She wanted to talk with James first about the state of their marriage, but James avoided the conversation every time it came up.

Lily placed the gifts for Harry in a hallway closet. She would wrap them up later. She went to the library room in her home and set up a magical playpen for Harry. She placed her son in the playpen with some of his favorite toys and then sat down in front of her small wooden writing desk. She began writing her first letter to Severus. She wanted to send it before James returned home. She knew James wouldn’t want her sending owls to her ex best friend. Sev was right about that. She was going to have to be very discreet. Good thing that her own snowy owl, Athena, was very well trained and only listened to Lily.

Lily kept her first letter to Sev short and sweet.

I really enjoyed seeing you today. It was such a happy surprise. Please write to me soon and send your reply back with my snowy owl, Athena. She will wait for you until you are ready to send your letter. Please only use her to send your response. It will be less suspicious that way.

Athena, the owl, was perched on the windowsill of the library room ready to take off with Lily’s letter. “To Cokeworth,” Lily told the owl as Athena opened her beak to take the letter. Athena glided out of the already opened window and flew north to Severus. Thankfully, James didn’t know much about Lily’s hometown or who still lived there.

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Severus sat down in his armchair next to the fireplace in his living room just thinking of the day he spent with Lily. He couldn’t wipe the small smile off of his face. He was relieved that Lily was no longer angry with him and he felt so thankful that she wanted to stay in touch.

He suddenly heard a faint tapping on a closed window in his living room. He saw an owl as white as snow with a letter in its beak. This wasn’t the owl that usually delivered his copies of the Daily Prophet and Evening Prophet. He quickly rose from his seat and opened the window to let the bird in. He took the letter from its beak and opened it at once. He still recognized Lily’s handwriting from when they were students together at Hogwarts. It had not changed much at all. The words “happy surprise” from her note stood out to him. Lily was glad to have seen him, and that meant so much to Severus. Severus took out a sheet of parchment, a bottle of ink, and his quill to pen his reply right away.

I was pleased to see you as well. I agree to your terms regarding our correspondence. Thank you again for your forgiveness after what I said all those years ago. It means everything to me.

It was easier for Severus to write down his true thoughts and feelings rather than say them out loud. He gave Athena his sealed response and she flew away to return to Lily’s home. He was looking forward to reading Lily’s reply.

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Lily had Sev’s response in her hands as the sun was beginning to set. Athena was a skilled flier, but it was still going to be a lot for her to keep going back and forth between the Potter home and Cokeworth if these letters were going to continue.

Lily recognized Sev’s distinguished cursive. Severus still had the same elegant handwriting as he did in school. She wrote her next message to her old friend.

Of course. I’m glad that we can be friends again. Tell me what else is going on in your life. Are you seeing anyone? What do you like to do during your time off?

Lily sent Athena off to Sev’s house again. He replied to Lily’s questions immediately.

I’m pleased to be friends again too. I am not seeing anyone. My work as a professor fills my schedule. When I’m not working, I spend my time reading and brewing potions mostly. What do you enjoy during your spare time?

It was already dark outside when Sev’s letter arrived on Lily’s desk. Apparently, James was going to spend the night with Sirius and didn’t tell her. He never did on other nights either. Lily had unfortunately grown accustomed to this since it happened so often. At least by writing to Severus she had someone to keep her company.

I spend most of my time at home caring for my son. I can’t believe he’s going to be a year old already. I also like to read while he is napping. I love playing with my son, but I’m also responsible for most of the caregiving too. Like I said at lunch, my husband is gone most of the time.

Sometimes I miss muggle entertainment. I get bored at home occasionally. We don’t have a television. I think I’ll have to buy a small radio next time I’m in town visiting my parents. That should work fine where I live.

Have you dated anyone since leaving Hogwarts? Sorry if I’m being too forward.

It’s getting late. You can send your response with Athena and I’ll reply tomorrow. I enjoyed our conversation. Goodnight.

Severus received and read Lily’s message. This one was longer than her previous notes and more telling. She was feeling lonely at times from what he gathered from her message, and that made Severus frown. He dipped his quill into the bottle of ink and began writing his last owl for the night.

He didn’t have much to say about Lily’s son. He didn’t have any experience caring for small children. He wanted this conversation to only be about Lily. Since Lily started asking him more personal questions, Severus thought that he could do the same.

Children grow up fast. It seems as though it were yesterday that we were students ourselves. What books do you like? You should purchase the muggle radio. I know it will make you happy. Do you remember how much we enjoyed listening to records at your house when we were young?

You are not being too forward. I do not have anything to hide from you. I have not been in a relationship with anyone. I have not had the time nor the interest.

Forgive me for intruding in your marital affairs, but I feel compelled to ask. Are you truly happy with your husband? I have difficulty believing that you are from your previous message.

Goodnight. I will be looking forward to your owl tomorrow.

Severus closed the letter with his signature black wax seal. The letter “S” was in the very center. He sent the note off with Athena and closed his living room window for the night.

Perhaps he was pressing Lily too much by asking about her marriage, he thought. It was too late now. The owl was already miles away from his home. He couldn’t help but be curious about this. He wondered whether Potter could really offer Lily true love and happiness, or was she simply a prize to be won and hoarded.

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Lily received Sev’s letter and opened it right away. She liked the ebony wax seal. That was so like him. As she read his owl, she fondly remembered the days of their youth when they were still close friends. Where did the years go? Would Severus remember her favorite records and bands if she asked him? These questions and more started swirling in her mind. She was a bit surprised that he asked about her marriage to James. She knew that James and Severus deeply disliked each other at Hogwarts, but this question was rather heavy. Could she trust Severus enough to tell him about her suspicions regarding James?

She placed Sev’s message in between some pages of a nearby Jane Austen book. James hardly ever went into the library. He was rarely seen reading any wizarding texts, so Lily trusted that Sev’s note would be safe inside a muggle book. Lily noticed that Harry had already fallen asleep in his playpen. She picked him up and took him to his room. She was ready for sleep too. She had quite an eventful day. After putting Harry to bed, she walked to her room and started thinking about how she would respond to Severus’ loaded question.

Chapter Text

Lily woke up the following morning alone in her bed. She lifted Harry from his crib and went downstairs. James never returned home. He’ll be moving in with Sirius at this rate, she thought. She placed Harry in his high chair, gave him his bottle, and started cooking her own breakfast. Sev’s letter from last night was still on her mind. She put her scrambled eggs, bacon, and buttered toast on a plate. Sev would have loved this delicious breakfast, she thought to herself. She really hoped to see him again soon. It was nice to have an old friend back in her life.

After finishing her breakfast, she put Harry in the playpen in the library room and she sat at her desk to start writing to Severus. She reread the letter from the previous night. It was quite bold of him to pry into her state of her marriage. Maybe he just really cares, Lily thought, and she did just ask him if he was in a relationship with anyone. Maybe they shouldn’t have started discussing personal relationships until later. They did just suddenly reconnect after several years apart. It was too late to go back now. Lily decided that she could go ahead and tell Severus her concerns.

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Good morning. I hope you slept well. I had a scrumptious breakfast and I thought of you. I know you would have loved my meal.

I enjoy reading Jane Austen. Emma, Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and the like. I read wizarding books too. I just picked up Gilderoy Lockhart’s newest book a few weeks ago. His book signings are always so popular.

Yes, I do remember listening to records with you! I can’t believe you remember that! Do you still remember my favorite groups? I think I know yours.

To be honest, I was a bit surprised by your last question. However, I realize that I was the one to ask about your personal life first. Truthfully, I’m in a rough spot in my marriage. James is mostly absent from our home life. I didn’t expect this from him. He was the one that suggested we should have a child. Of course, I love my son and I’m happy to have him, but I thought James would be a more involved father. I’m honestly starting to wonder what he spends his time doing while he’s out. I hope he isn’t cheating on me. He avoids me at home. Every time I try to have a conversation about how things need to improve in our marriage, he just walks away. He spends more time with Sirius than with me, and you know what a positive influence he is on James.

I haven’t told my in-laws because I was hoping to fix this with James directly. I really want to make this marriage work for our son.

Lily sealed her letter with red wax and gave it to Athena the owl as she was ready to take off from the windowsill. The hours started to tick by and Lily tended to her son and made lunch while she waited for Severus’ reply.

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About an hour after lunchtime, Lily heard the front door open and saw James stumble into the house, reeking of alcohol. Lily simply stared at him for a long moment before she spoke, watching as James attempted to keep himself upright. She was shocked that her husband had obviously spent the previous night, and possibly this morning, drinking heavily.

Lily exclaimed, “Where have you been, James?!”

James Potter was in no state to have this discussion right now, as he was very hungover. James didn’t say anything coherent. He just mumbled something under his breath.

Lily raised her voice, “James, I’m talking to you!” He didn’t make any eye contact and walked past her. All he could manage to say was, “I can’t do this right now. I’m going to bed.” James made it to the master bedroom and shut the door. Lily was stunned that her husband was in such a state.

She knew he liked to drink fire whiskey, but this was the worst that she had seen him in a long time. Thankfully, she had already put Harry in his crib for a nap, so he fortunately didn’t have to witness his father come home after a drunken night out. Lily let out a heavy sigh and walked back to the library. Athena would be home at any moment.

Chapter Text

Lily sat down at her desk in the library just as Athena was arriving. At least writing letters could take her mind off of her drunken husband.  She opened her dear friend’s letter and read it. 

Good morning. I slept alright. Hopefully you had a restful night. What did you have for breakfast?

I wouldn’t believe everything that you read about Lockhart. I suspect that the vast majority of his tales of heroism and bravery are extremely exaggerated if not outright false.

I couldn’t forget the summers that we spent together. I remember that you liked ABBA, David Bowie, Queen, and Fleetwood Mac. What bands do you think I like?

I honestly can’t say that I’m surprised by your husband’s lack of commitment as a spouse and father. I still remember his behavior from school. You deserve better than this treatment from him. 

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Other women may not have felt comfortable confiding in a male friend, but Lily didn’t have anyone else. She couldn’t talk to her parents about her marital problems and have them worry endlessly. Her relationship with her sister was still strained. Most of her housemates failed to stay in touch after graduating from Hogwarts.

Lily appreciated that someone was there for her and took interest in what she had to say. Perhaps this time, her connection with her childhood friend could be different. 

She began to write her response, but declined to mention the way James stumbled into their home upon his return. 

I slept fine. I had eggs, bacon, and buttered toast for breakfast. 

Even if he stretches the truth a bit, his adventures are so exciting! You never know what his next book will be about. 

You have a great memory! I like all of those artists! Let’s see now, I bet you still like Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, and Led Zeppelin. 

You’re so understanding. If only my husband thought the same way you do. 

I’m going to go shopping with my mother in law tomorrow for most of the day. I still need to pick up some more gifts for my son’s first birthday party. I’ll respond to your next owl when I return home. 

Lily sealed her letter with a red wax seal like always and gave it to Athena to deliver. 

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Severus was reading a book about rare herbs when Lily’s letter arrived at his home. He rolled his eyes a bit once he read that she wished Potter thought the same way that he does. That would never happen. Potter was nothing like him. If only she had realized that many years ago, he thought. He opened a new bottle of ink, gathered a quill and parchment, and began writing.

Your breakfast sounds excellent. That’s exactly what I would have chosen for myself.

His adventures are not exciting if they are all false. It’ll come out eventually that he’s a fraud. 

You’re spot on. I’m surprised that you remembered the bands that I like.  

Potter and I couldn’t be any more different. I hope you would know that by now.

Enjoy your day of shopping. I look forward to your owl.

—--------------------------------------------

Lily read Severus’ owl right away when she received it. She wanted to respond that same day, but she still had to prepare dinner and get everything ready for the next day’s outing. Severus’ letters were starting to pile up and she realized that she needed a better solution to store them all. She didn’t want to burn them after reading. She enjoyed rereading them sometimes and took the time to appreciate Sev’s distinctive handwriting. She charmed an old cardboard shoe box so that it would only open for her after putting her hand on top of the lid of the box. The box would recognize her magical signature and then she would be able to remove the lid. She placed Sev’s letters in the box, closed the lid, and tucked the shoe box behind several books on a shelf in the library.

Chapter Text

The Following Day…

Lily woke up early in the morning the next day, dressed herself in simple burgundy robes, and ate breakfast. Once Harry was awake, she got him dressed and gave him his morning bottle. She wrote a short note for James and left it on the kitchen counter, letting him know that she would be going out shopping for most of the day. However, he never offered her the same courtesy to let her know where he was going before leaving home. She doubted that he would even bother to read her message.

After placing the note on the counter, she picked up baby Harry, her purse, and the baby bag, walked out the front door of her home, and apparated to Cokeworth.

She landed at a secluded apparition point on the outskirts of town and started walking to her parents’ house. Harry handled apparition surprisingly well for being so young. He seemed to have already had enough practice by going back and forth to see both sets of grandparents.

Her first thought when she landed was of none other than her beloved friend, Severus. She didn’t visit his house when they were kids, so she wouldn’t be able to tell which house was his. She just knew that he lived at Spinner’s End. Her parents didn’t allow her to go to that part of town when she was younger. It was always Severus that came to her house during the summers.

Lily relied on Athena’s keen sense of direction to be able to deliver her letters directly to Severus. If only Lily knew which of the long row of brick houses was his, she might have been tempted to visit him privately.

She thought about him everyday since they rekindled their friendship in Diagon Alley. And Merlin, how he had grown. She didn’t see him as her scrawny, twitchy childhood friend anymore. Everything from his shoulder length, silky, raven black hair to his broad shoulders, ebony eyes, and pale face seemed mysteriously attractive to Lily. Even his nose which he was teased about so often during school seemed to complement the rest of his facial features as an adult. He surpassed her in height years ago back when they were still friends at Hogwarts, but he was even taller now. His lips looked so kissable. She blushed a little while she thought about him.

In all honesty, her attraction to James started to fade a long time ago, and even more so recently since his drunken night out. James didn’t make any attempts to reignite their intimate relationship after Harry was born. Lily felt that perhaps he was no longer physically attracted to her after having a child. James much rather preferred to hang out with his mates instead of being at home with his young family.

Lily wanted to get to know Sev more on a deeper level and talk through some of the factors that drove them apart when they were at school. Perhaps she would find out that she was wrong about him and where his loyalty really lied. Hopefully she would have the chance to discuss all of these topics in depth with him one day in person.

Lily finally arrived at her parents’ house and knocked a few times on the crimson door. Her thoughts were pulled away from Severus as her mother opened the front door.

“Lily, darling! So good to see you!”

Lily’s mother, Rose, pulled Lily and Harry into her warm embrace.

“Thank you so much for watching him, Mum. I’ve got a busy day ahead of me,” Lily said as she handed the baby bag and Harry over to her mother.

“Won’t you come in for tea, dear?” Rose asked.

“I have to get going. Maybe this afternoon when I come back to pick him up. Bye Mum. Love you!”

Lily hugged her mother and Harry before walking back to the apparition point. Hopefully her mother didn’t notice the pink tinge in her cheeks.

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Lily apparated to her mother in law’s house. They were going shopping in Diagon Alley together for the rest of Harry’s birthday presents.

“Hello Euphemia”, Lily said as her mother in law opened the front door of her palatial home.

“Ready to go, my dear?” Euphemia asked.

“Yes, of course,” Lily responded.

They left the grounds of the Potter family home and held on to each other to apparate directly to Diagon Alley. After landing, they decided to enter a nearby children’s clothing store.

Lily spent the next several minutes browsing the store’s selections for young children. She found several outfits that she liked for Harry.

However, instead of being in the present moment, her mind kept drifting back to Sev and the time they spent together in Diagon Alley. If only he were here with her now. She had so much that she wanted to say to him. She enjoyed writing letters to him, but they couldn’t replace in-person conversations. She remembered how they spent hours discussing magic and everything else by the river when they were children. Lily was mesmerized by the way Sev described Hogwarts and his near infinite knowledge of spells, even at his tender age. She revered him for his skills and wisdom back then. Now she was starting to feel a different kind of attraction towards him. She wondered what it would be like to hug him again after so many years. Maybe she could try that whenever they see each other next time in person.

He was like a breath of fresh air in her otherwise monotonous life. She knew she could have intellectually stimulating conversations with him just like they used to. That was something that James Potter couldn’t offer her. Sev cared about how she felt, and that was something her husband obviously wasn’t concerned with.

Lily was pulled out of her thoughts when Euphemia called out from across the store, “Lily, look at these adorable hippogriff pajamas! Harry will look darling in this!”

“Looks great! Let’s get it,” Lily responded.

Lily probably shouldn’t be thinking about another man while out with her mother in law, but she couldn’t help herself. There was something magnetic about Severus, something that just wasn’t there with James. Their shared history as children was one factor, but there was something more this time than in the past. She looked at Severus in an entirely different way compared to when they were at Hogwarts. Now, they were away from house rivalries, petty classmates, and pure blood mania. Perhaps, this time they could just be Lily and Severus.

“Lily, you seem a bit distant today. Is something bothering you?” Euphemia asked.

“I’m fine. Just thinking about all the preparations for the party,” Lily replied.

“Don’t worry, dear. I’ll be there to help you get everything ready. It’s going to be a great party. Oh, look at this! A mini set of Gryffindor House robes! We have to get this for Harry. I bet James will get a kick out of this. I know Harry will be sorted into Gryffindor one day, just like the rest of the family!”

“The robes are so adorable,” Lily added.

Lily honestly couldn’t focus much on shopping when all she wanted to do was to be near Severus. She would rather be having another meal with him at The Leaky Cauldron than be shopping with her mother in law. If she could see him privately at his house away from prying eyes that would be even better.

“Alright, our hands are full. Let’s pay for these clothes and move on to the next store,” Euphemia said.

Lily was going through the motions as she followed Euphemia to the shopkeeper’s counter. Euphemia paid the clerk and both witches left the clothing store with several bags on each arm.

They walked to the store next door, Little Wizards Toys and More, and began browsing the shop’s merchandise.

Maybe Lily should have been more excited for her son’s upcoming birthday party, but she also wasn’t looking forward to some of the guests that her husband would likely invite. She was dreading to see Sirius Black. Sure, she planned on keeping up appearances and pretending like everything was fine in front of her parents and in-laws at the party. In reality, she didn’t trust Sirius anymore, especially in light of her husband’s recent behavior. She wasn’t sure exactly what these two were up to when they would go out, but it couldn’t be anything positive if it was causing James to neglect his responsibilities as a father and husband.

Euphemia purchased a huge Hogwarts castle play set for Harry. Lily bought several coloring books and a crayon set for her son. Lily also purchased seven children’s books to read to Harry before bedtime. They kept browsing the long rows of toys and bought many more gifts for the birthday boy. Euphemia requested that the shopkeeper wrap all the gifts and deliver them on the morning of the birthday party.

Both ladies entered Witch Wendy’s Sweet Treats to confirm the delivery of Harry’s marble swirl birthday cake for this Friday. They also picked up various candies and chocolates for guests to eat during the party before having a slice of cake. By this time, they were running out of room on their arms to carry more bags.

After several hours of shopping, both ladies were ready to return home with their many purchases in tow. Together, they apparated back to the Potter mansion.

“Leave the bags here, Lily. I’ll wrap Harry’s clothes and bring everything to the party on Friday. Just take a few bags with you to prepare for the party. Harry will look so cute in the Gryffindor robes on his special day!” Euphemia exclaimed.

“It was so nice spending the day with you, dear,” Euphemia said as she embraced Lily in a tight hug.

“It was wonderful seeing you too! Thanks for all of your help today,” Lily replied.

“It was my pleasure, Lily. That’s what family is for. I’ll see you early on Friday morning to start decorating for the party. Bye, dear.” Euphemia hugged Lily one last time before Lily left her mother in law’s home to pick up baby Harry.

---------------------------------------------------

Lily apparated back to her hometown of Cokeworth and briskly walked to her mother’s house. Lily knocked on the door and her mother warmly greeted her with a sweet smile.

“Hi Mum!” Lily exclaimed.

“Hello, darling! Come in and we’ll have that cup of tea,” Rose said as she gestured for Lily to enter the home.

Rose set the table and served Lily some shortbread cookies, later setting the kettle to boil.
“Harry is growing up so fast! He’s already starting to walk. Soon he’ll be running and jumping all over the place,” Rose gushed.

“He’s an active boy, just like his father. I hope he wasn’t too much trouble,” Lily responded.

“Oh, not at all, darling. I read a story to him and we just enjoyed spending the day together. I put him down for a nap about an hour ago.” Rose placed two teacups, a tin of earl grey tea bags, a bowl of sugar, and the creamer on the table. Lily assisted by bringing the kettle to the table and pouring the hot water into the teacups.

Rose and Lily prepared their cups of tea to their liking and chatted some more. Lily told her mum about her day out shopping and Rose couldn’t stop talking about little Harry. She was a very proud grandmother.

Then, the conversation turned a bit somber.

“Your father and I went to Dudley’s birthday party last month. I’m very sorry that Petunia didn’t invite you. I really wish that you girls were close again, “ Rose lamented.

“You know how Tuney is. She’s not one to let go of a grudge,” Lily replied.

“What ever happened between the two of you?” Rose asked.

“I suppose we just grew apart and life took us in different directions. Once I was accepted into Hogwarts, I felt a shift in our relationship as sisters.”

“Do you think she was jealous of your abilities?”

“I can’t say for sure, but possibly,” Lily answered, recalling Severus’ words to her when they were young children.

“I hope your father and I didn’t make her feel left out. We were so excited for you when you received your Hogwarts letter.”

A moment of silence passed after Rose’s statement and both ladies decided it was time for a sip of tea.

Lily decided to break the silence after having one of Rose’s home-baked cookies.
“How was Dudley’s birthday party? I sent him a card and a gift through the post.”

“It was nice. Dudley smashed his cake before there was a chance to cut it. Luckily, Petunia had a second birthday cake in the refrigerator. She said she knew this would happen. Your father and I also saw Vernon’s sister, Marge, at the party. Truth be told, she looks a lot like Vernon,” Rose admitted. Both women chuckled at that honest statement.

“Unfortunately, Petunia didn’t mention your gift,” Rose added. “What did you get little Dudley?”

“A toy truck set. Hopefully he liked it, but I guess I’ll never really know,” Lily mourned.

Rose attempted to console her daughter. “I’m sure he enjoyed it, dear.”

Another moment passed, another biscuit gone.

“You’ll be at the party this Friday, right?” Lily asked.

“Of course, darling! I wouldn’t miss little Harry’s first birthday for the world!” Rose confirmed. “”I’ll even arrive early to help you set up.”

“Thanks, Mum. I really appreciate it.”

James certainly won’t help me, Lily thought to herself as she stared off into the distance.

“Is everything alright, Lily? You don’t seem as excited for the party as I thought you would be. I know it can be a lot of work to put together a birthday party by yourself, but I’ll be there to help you.”

“Yeah, Mum. I’m alright,” Lily replied.

“Is everything alright at home, darling?” Rose questioned again. A mother’s intuition was never wrong.

“Everything’s fine, Mum,” Lily fibbed. A little white lie wouldn’t hurt. Lily wasn’t ready to explain what was happening at home with James to her mum quite yet. Perhaps Lily was still holding out hope that things would change.

“Well, alright, dear. Just know that you can tell me anything,” Rose affirmed.

Lily nodded in understanding and smiled slightly.

“My mother in law, Euphemia, also plans to help set up for the party,” Lily stated, hoping to change the subject.

“See, darling. Nothing to stress about. You’ll have plenty of helping hands on the morning of the party,” Rose reassured. “I have Harry’s gift wrapped up. Your father and I picked it up yesterday.”

“Thanks, Mum. I’m sure Harry will be happy with any gift you give him. How’s Dad doing?” Lily asked.

“He’s well. His knee is still bothering him, but he’ll get on. He’s looking forward to seeing Harry this week. Children and grandchildren are life’s greatest treasures, as my grandmother used to say,” Rose smiled.

Lily considered her mother’s statement and thought about how much her life had changed in a few short years since leaving Hogwarts and the path her life had taken. Had she dated Severus instead of James, she may not be in the predicament that she found herself in now. Since reconnecting with her childhood best friend, she thought about him at almost every spare moment, especially now that she was back in her parents’ house where she spent so many summers with Severus. Had she chosen Severus instead of James, her whole life wouldn’t be the same. Had she picked Severus, she would have had an entirely different child. Perhaps a child of Severus’ would have the same black hair and black eyes as his father and the same thoughtful nature.

The two ladies finished up their cups of tea as they heard small shifts of the mattress coming from the bedroom. “That must be Harry waking up,” Rose said as she left the table and walked out of the kitchen.

Rose reentered the kitchen with little Harry in tow. “Look who’s awake,” Rose smiled as she passed her young grandson to his mother. “Did you have a nice nap, darling?” Lily asked her sweet son as he wiped the sleep from his eyes. Harry didn’t respond, as he was still in the process of waking up. Lily and Rose chatted a bit more before it was time to head for home.

“I’ll see you at the party, darling! Don’t worry, everything will turn out fine”, Rose called out as Lily and Harry walked out the front garden gate.

“You’re right, Mum. I’ll see you and Dad on Friday. Bye!” Lily waved goodbye at her mother and walked with Harry to a hidden apparition point with the birthday gifts in tow.

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Rose incorrectly thought that Lily was distant and distracted due to stress related to the upcoming birthday party. Little did her mother know, Lily was thinking about a dear friend that she recently reconnected with.

Lily held on to her son tightly as they swirled and twisted in the air. As they dropped out of the air and onto the front lawn of their home, Lily was thinking of writing a short letter to one person in particular.

After Lily had spent time thinking of Severus throughout the entire day, she was prepared to ask him a bold question. Lily enjoyed writing to him almost daily, but wanted something more. She would be busy with preparations for the birthday party for the next few days, but afterwards, she would have time. She knew Severus would be free for another month before the next school term started.

Lily opened the massive oak wood door of her home with a bit of magic and placed the many gift bags from the day’s shopping spree into a nearby closet to wrap later. James was nowhere to be found, as expected, and Lily’s note from earlier this morning lay untouched on the counter in the same exact place where she left it.

Lily and Harry entered the stately library together. Harry toddled over to his toy chest and rummaged through it, looking for one of his favorite toys. Lily hurried over to her writing desk. She still had time to send a quick letter before the sun started to set. Lily searched for her quill, ink bottle, and a fresh sheet of parchment in the top left drawer of the desk. Lily only had one simple question to ask Severus: Do you want to meet me in Cokeworth on August 1?

Chapter Text

Lily waited in excited anticipation for Severus’ reply. She desperately hoped that he would say yes. Hopefully he wouldn’t think she was being too forward. Seeing him would be a pleasant treat after spending the day at her son’s birthday party putting up appearances in front of her parents, in-laws, and family friends.

Back in Cokeworth, Severus’ heart sped up as he read Lily’s cursive. She didn’t need to sign her name on the letter. He knew it was from his beloved.

He didn’t need to think twice. His answer was very simple. After scribbling his brief reply on the parchment with a black feather quill, he sent the white owl off with his note.

After dodging rainstorms and lightning, the snowy owl, Athena, finally landed on Lily’s dark windowsill and pecked at the window.

Now it was Lily’s heart’s turn to race as she opened the letter.

All that was written was one line, one simple reply.

Yes, of course

Lily felt like an excited young schoolgirl in love after reading her friend’s owl. In the back of her mind, she knew she should have felt guilty for feeling the way she did, but she couldn’t possibly feel guilty after James already broke her heart. She strongly suspected, that after all these months away from home, James had to be cheating on her. He avoided every single one of Lily’s attempts to discuss their marital concerns, and he seemed content to live a separate life from his wife. Lily just needed the undeniable proof to confirm her suspicions of James’ adultery.

Lily quickly penned her next letter to discuss the logistics of their planned secret rendezvous. Her mind stirred with all the possibilities of how this meeting could go and what conversations they could have.

My son’s birthday is this Friday, so I’ll be busy for the next few days with preparations for the party. I was thinking we could meet at the chippie for lunch. You know the one we used to go to during summer holidays. How about noon on Saturday?

Lily sent her letter with Athena. She wasn’t planning on mentioning her plans to meet Severus in Cokeworth over the weekend to her parents at the birthday party. She felt confident that she could avoid running into them by accident.

She started to wonder what Severus would wear to lunch. She hadn’t seen him wear muggle clothes in many years. Did he even have any?

Severus quickly returned Lily’s owl with his response.

I’ll be there

Lily’s heart jumped after reading Sev’s note. She was very much looking forward to the weekend.

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In London, two best mates lounged about in solid dark green and burgundy velvet armchairs at Number 12 Grimmauld Place. The room was dim, and the sun had just set over the city.

“She’s not like how she used to be in school. All she does is nag me. She’s not fun anymore,” James complained to Sirius.

“She’s a mum now, mate. She has responsibilities,” Sirius reminded his friend.

“I didn’t think she was going to change this much. She’s boring now.” James still wasn’t getting the point.

“You’re going to be at the birthday party on Friday, right, Pads? I can’t stand being alone with her and her parents.”

“I’ll be there. Wait til you see what I got for Harry. I think I’ve won godfather of the year with this gift,” Sirius said self-confidently. James smiled slightly.

“Just forget about her tonight. I have some friends coming over later,” Sirius said with a smug smile.

Sirius walked over to the ebony liquor cabinet across the room, opened the door, and lifted two large bottles of firewhiskey from their place. He opened one of the new bottles and filled two glasses almost to the top.

“This will take your mind off things,” Sirius assured as he slowly handed one of the full glasses to James, careful not to spill the precious liquid.

“Thanks, mate.” James asked, “Who are your friends?”

“Just some muggle girls that I met at a pub.”

“Since when do you spend time at muggle pubs?” James questioned.

“Since my parents died and left me the house,” Sirius replied smartly.

“They don’t know you’re a wizard?” James asked.

“These girls aren’t too bright. They’d never figure it out,” Sirius stated very matter of factly.

The doorbell rang suddenly and echoed throughout the whole house.

“That should be them right now,” Sirius stated as he exited the room and quickly walked down the stairs.

Sirius reached the front entrance and opened the door.

“Hey, Siri!” The two girls in very short mini skirts and heeled boots said in unison.

“Come in, girls!” Sirius wrapped both arms around the girls’ waists.

The two girls laughed as they went up the stairs. Sirius was trying to tickle both of them. Or was it a grope?

The blonde girl was the first to enter the room where James was waiting. “Who’s your friend?”

“Jess, meet James. James, this is Jess and Darla.” Sirius pointed out each girl.

Both girls said hello to James. James greeted them in return.

“Make yourselves comfortable, girls. Can I get you anything to drink?”

“Yes, please!” Jess exclaimed.

Sirius poured them each a substantial measure from the bottle of firewhiskey.

The girls started sipping from their hefty glasses.

“The rest of our friends will be here soon,” Darla said as she winked at Sirius.

Jess already drank half of her glass before setting the whiskey down on a round side table.

“You know, a friend of Siri’s is a friend of mine,” Jess said, slurring her words slightly as she slowly walked towards James. Jess sat on James’ lap and put her arms around his neck and shoulders, before straddling his lap minutes later.

Sirius looked on at the scene. “Looks like you’ve got company tonight, James.”

Jess boldly kissed James on the lips and James wrapped his arms around her, still holding his glass and trying not to spill it. Darla, the brunette, followed Jess’ lead and kissed Sirius as if they had done this together before. The doorbell rang again loudly.

Sirius broke his kiss with Darla and left to answer the door.

“Welcome, ladies!” A group of 5 more girls squealed and shouted hi as they brushed past Sirius and entered into the foyer. They all rushed up the dark wooden staircase and walked into the lounge room, as if they knew where to go. Perhaps these girls had been to some of Sirius’ parties before.

By the time Sirius had returned to the room, Jess had her tongue deeply wrapped around James’. James had already abandoned his whiskey on the solid oak coffee table. Several minutes and several swipes of the tongue later, Jess lifted herself off of James, took him by the hand, led him to one of the many empty guest rooms with a large, plush bed, and closed the door.

Some of the girls that just arrived helped themselves to the liquor in the cabinet, before helping themselves to Sirius and James.

Sirius wrapped his arms around two of the other girls’ waists and motioned them to a large green velvet sofa. All three of them sat down on the plush couch and took turns kissing Sirius as they rubbed their hands all over him.

Sirius was known for his attractive looks at Hogwarts. He was now just as popular with the ladies in the muggle world.

The night was still young and the party was just getting started.