Golden Boy

James Potter as Freddie Mercury 

Cooking had never been one of Severus’ favourite things. It wasn’t that he was bad at it - it was just incredibly boring to him. It was like brewing, but without the spark of magic and reactions thrumming beneath his fingers. Still, it wasn’t so dull a task in good company, and nobody in their sane mind had ever called James Potter boring.

“Shows how much you know about brewing,” Severus said, rolling his eyes. “I can’t believe you’d compare the basic task of making a meal with the exact art that is potion making.” He could wax lyrical about the beauty of potions all day if he had the chance, but this was not the time, place or correct audience for that.

He leaned across the counter and pulled the old cookbook towards himself, relaxing despite himself as he skimmed the recipe. There was a legacy of warmth and affection in the looping cursive and occasionally smudged ink. “The next step…cook the onions, celery, carrot and sweet potato in a pot with oil.” Which was a very shortened summary of the next step, but Severus didn’t have the patience to stand there explaining what he could do himself. He turned his head to scan the assorted ingredients sprawled across all the free surfaces of the kitchen, rolling up his sleeves. “I’ll get started on it. Where do you keep the oil?”

...

Cooking with his Mum was one of his favorite past times, and some of his fondest and strongest memories. James loved the way it kept his hands busy and his mind calm. Besides, he far preferred a home cooked meal anyways, and he was happy to provide for himself and his friends whenever he was able. It was rare he had proper time to cook these days, which was why he took advantage when he did. 

“Oi, we both know I’m not the potions master around here, okay,” he griped, giving him a grinned. Rolling his eyes, he teased, “We can’t all be as smart as you are, Sev.” Putting on an exhausted sigh, James gave him a look, “Okay Monet, I know potions are a sacred art and my homestyle cooking isn’t up for comparison, but come on, give it a shot,” he grinned. 

The recipes were written in by his Mum, which made it all the more cherished in James’ eyes. It had her little anecdotes written in as well, making the recipes that much better. Nodding, he gave a hum as he started setting those ingredients aside together. Smiling, James answered, “That’d be great, thank you. In that blue bottle beside the stove.” Something he picked up from his Mama, keeping his oil in a decorative bottle versus the labeled one it came in. “You know, one of these days we’re all going to have to go over there for a Sunday dinner again. Ma is getting restless about everyone being spread out.” 

What kind of world did they live in when running into one of your professors, Professor Slughorn to be exact, was a valid excuse to be late to anything? Only tonight Lily was not hurrying to class or a club or even the library (her second home), she was late for a meeting with a friend. A secret friend she was not supposed to have but what people did not know could not hurt them, right?

“Oh, Merlin…” Lily started as she raced into the room of requirement. Halting suddenly, Lily stopped to stare at her surroundings. Typically, she was always the first one to the meeting spot which meant she got to control what the room essentially was. Only this time James had arrived first which made her curious as to what shape it would take. Would it be something outdoorsy such as the quidditch pitch? Would it resemble their secret meeting spot in Hogsmeade? Would it mirror the starry heavens outside?

“Slughorn wanted to talk about his theories as to why Amorentia smells different to everyone or the best ways of brewing Veritaserum…” Lily started before dissolving into a laugh. It was not like James Potter to care about Potions theories well above their current level.

“I mean hello, James. I brought the chocolate.” Lily told her friend as she pulled out a small collection of chocolate frogs.

@staggeringlyprongs​​

...

Discovering the Room of Requirement had been an absolute blessing for James. When he and Lily had almost been caught by Filch in the middle of one of their meet ups, they had stumbled upon it, desperately in need of a place to hide. Now, they opted to hang out in there, knowing that it was better protected and harder to find. The room had taken to providing them with everything they needed while they hung out, and today that included a comfortable couch with blankets to a cupboard full of snacks, with a view of the stars outside the imaginary window.

Grinning, James shook his head, “What’s this, Lily Evans late for something?” he teased. Lily was typically punctual, so James knew that if she was late it was because she got caught up. Despite his teasings, he looked at her carefully, mild concern showing as he searched for any harm that might have come to her on her way here. James knew what some of the other students were capable of, and he sighed in audible relief when he saw she was unharmed. 

At her words, he smiled, “Of course, I should have known it was Slughorn that stopped you. Leave it to him to ramble for six years and a day,” he laughed. Slughorn had his favorites, that much was certain, and he knew that he could get caught up in his craft for ages if he had someone there to listen. “Did you tell him it’s because most people don’t love the same person and the smell is meant to be tailored to the person they love?” he teased, giving her a grin. 

“It’s fine,” Lily assured him as she dropped her bag back into the chair behind the counter. She did not have any plans after work besides maybe grabbing a quick bite to eat somewhere so she did not have to cook. Lily had a bad habit of getting involved in her studies and forgetting to eat. “You’re not holding me up.”

She raised an eyebrow in his direction. “Alright, James, but only if you call me Lily.” After all, they had been classmates and shared a few acquaintances. 

Right, there were more than a few shady dealings that went on in the shop and that was not including the ones Lily was purposely left out of. Borgin was a bit dim but he wasn’t dim enough to think that Lily would not be a source for a leak if one was to occur. She had no connection to the place and the people that dealt in it. Lily would rather most of them find else where to do their business.

“Ask away and I’ll provide whatever information I can,” Lily offered up.

...

“Well thank you,” he insisted, knowing that she was doing him kindness. James knew that his status assured him certain liberties, and he tried very hard not to take advantage of it. Nodding, he gave her a small smile, “Alright, but you just say the word and I’ll go,” he promised, not wanting her to feel obligated. 

Grinning, he nodded, “I can do that, Lily,” he agreed. Though James loved his father, he felt entirely too old when people used his proper title. Jams wasn’t quite ready to be a Mr. yet. 

Leaning against the counter, James grabbed the pen and paper he’d taken to carrying with him. Pens were a muggle device that had thankfully started carrying over, as quills were hardly useful on the go like this. “Thank you. Your cooperation is very much appreciated,” he smiled. James wasn’t sure how much she’d know, but it was worth asking at the very least. 

“Have you crossed paths with a Camden Everett, at all recently? Or have an record of his sales here?”

@littlemissmckinnon​ sent: “Don’t touch me.” don’t starters || accepting

Immediately, James lifted his hands away as if he’d been burned. He took a step back, hands coming up in an open position so that she could tell he meant her no harm. Then again, James knew that the harm had already occurred. 

Still, a lie of omission was one thing. Put in a position where he had to directly lie to his partner, he caved. Marcel was going to murder him. 

If he managed to survive Marlene. 

Judging by her reaction, he wasn’t so sure his heart was going to make it out of this. In all their years of friendship, all their spats, all their arguments, she had never stopped him from touching her. Marlene had never put up such a steadfast wall between them, and his chest ached with the knowing that he caused it. James didn’t know how to make it up to her, or even if he could. 

“Marls, please,” he whispered, anguish unmistakable. James could hardly blame her for her anger, or for not wanting him near her, despite the way it made his stomach twist with guilt and fear. 

If James lost her, he would never forgive himself. 

“Please, just give him a moment to explain. I’ll tell you everything - I wanted to tell you everything. Just, give a chance to make this right, please?” he practically begged. 

Where: Potage’s Cauldron Shop Tagging: OPEN

There was something satisfyingly about cleaning the cauldrons by hand instead of just using his wand. Sure, it was simpler, but Peter felt it just didn’t do the trick to get them quite the way his boss liked them, and the man was very picky. That, and Peter felt the hard work was better, used to that after all. It was also easier to zone out and not have to think about anything while he was cleaning.

He was focused on the detail on the front of the cauldron that his boss had told him to clean, wondering what exactly had been on the cauldron that the customer had brought in, and why his boss had been hush hush about it. Still, that wasn’t his place to worry, and he wasn’t going to get an answer anyway. Instead, he just focused on trying to get the detailing looking decent.

The bell on the door dinged and Peter couldn’t help the sigh that left his mouth, feeling frustrated when a customer came in when he was in the middle of cleaning. “Feel free to look around, I’ll be with you in just a moment,” He called out from the back, trying to sound kinder than he felt. He rolled his shoulders, trying to prepare himself to go speak to whomever it was.

He put the rag down, moving to put the cleaner cap back on it and sitting it back on the shelf. He adjusted his apron, before moving to head out of the back and behind the counter. “What can I help you with?” He asked then, glancing around the store and looking for the person that came in to the shop.

...

It wasn’t often these days that James found himself going out for supplies that weren’t potion ingredients. Since he’d graduated Hogwarts, he hadn’t had a reason to get new things, and instead, used his old ones until they died out. So when his cauldron had a hole burnt through the bottom, he realized it was probably time to change it out. So on his rare day off, James had taken the morning to run some errands. 

The first thing he’d done was stop on the way to grab coffee from his favorite shop - a muggle one that he heard of from a friend - before he’d actually moved onto the things he needed to get done. He’d just finished restocking his potions ingredients, preferring to have his own apothecary at his disposal. Once he’d finished, he’d moved to the cauldron shop, knowing that he needed to get that sorted sooner, rather than later. 

Stepping into the shop, his eyebrows knitted together at the familiar voice, trying to figure out why he could recall it. “Thanks, mate,” he called out, starting to peruse his options. James knew he wanted a cast iron one, but that still left a plethora of choices. Really, he was looking for one that would last him a while, even if it was an investment. 

“Oh, hello,” James greeted, giving Peter a smile when he finally recognized why the voice sounded familiar. Peter had been close to Remus at one point, back when he and his brother had different friend circles. “It’s nice to see you, Peter. How are you?” he asked, friendly and conversational. “I’m actually looking for a new cauldron. It seems mine has finally given up on me,” he grinned. 

With the loss of Andromeda and Regulus came copious amounts of people grieving. He knew that the two of them had left an impact on a lot of people around them, and their loss was felt majorly amongst those that remained. James had been sticking particularly close to Sirius these days, knowing how much he grieved his little brother. Now, he was making sure Ted was being taken care of, because he doubted the man was taking care of himself. James knew that her loss was devastating for him, and he figured Ted could use all the support he could get at the moment, even if he was hell bent on pushing them away.

James wasn’t easily deterred, especially not when he knew that the other man actually needed him. He was nothing if not persistent, and when it came to taking care of his friends, there was nothing that could stand in his way. If he believed that Ted really and truly wanted to be alone, that it would help him or bring him peace, he would back off. However, James doubted that was the case at all, and as such, he put his efforts into being there anyways. Ted could try all he liked to push him away, but James was notoriously stubborn. 

When it was suggested that James ought to tutor Sibel in Defense Against the Dark Arts, he wanted to scoff. He knows that despite his best efforts, his eyebrow had raised in confusion, and a slight frown had formed. It wasn’t that James wasn’t good at DADA, because really, it was one of the subjects he truly excelled in, he just doubted that Sibel really needed his help. She was among the smartest people in their year, so it baffled him to say the least. James had agreed on the off chance that she actually did need his help. If she did, he was happy to assist, but somehow, he thought the professor was just being a purist. It wouldn’t be the first time James had seen it amongst the faculty, not when it was both normalized and encouraged. 

In case he was right, James grabbed his other homework, figuring he’d at least try to get some work done if he wasn’t actually tutoring anyone. He’d given Sibel the time and place, and went for the table in a quiet area of the library, deep in the archives and close to a window. James pulled out his astronomy homework, scrunching his nose as he did so. Astronomy was not his cup of tea, even if he did enjoy looking at the stars. That was about all he understood of the subject if he was being frank. Still, he figured he’d try to get a crack at it so he at least had something to hand in on Monday. 

***

Sirius hadn’t had a good night sleep since the news of his brother being taken away to Azkaban. And then, after his death, the nightmares just kept getting worse. Some night he tried to avoid sleep all together. He would drink so much coffee that there was no chance he would be able to settle. But, them there were some nights where he couldn’t keep his eyes open and the nightmares took over. And it was always the same now. He was in a crowded room trying desperately to push to the front, screaming Regulus’ name at the top of his voice as he rushed to try and save his brother. But he never made it. He was always just out of reach. And then the room would reset. Over and over again he would try and save his brother. And over and over again he would watch him die.

Unable to help.

Useless.

He would reply the scene over and over again until he woke up. Or, in this case, he was woken up by someone. For a moment after he jumped awake he forgot where he was. After blinking a few times James came into focus and his beating heart settled down a little. Not real. None of it had been real.

But…it was real. Regulus was dead. And he hadn’t been there to save him.

And the guilt was tearing him apart.

“Don’t leave.” The words came out as a whisper and yet his voice still cracked. James was one of the only people he could show just how broken he was too. His best friend. Brother. That word not felt like acid in his mouth but it was still true. He knew James would never judge him for breaking down. And he needed that right now. So he was glad when James lay down beside him. Though he never really doubted that he would. He was still relieved.

“How could they just let them take him away.” He said quietly after laying in silence for a while. So many times he has thought it over. But still it never made sense. “He…I was meant to take care of him. And he died…alone. How am I meant to pretend that never happened? Because I can’t stop seeing it James. Every time I close my eyes all I see is him dying.”

…

While James could sympathize, empathize even, with what Sirius was experiencing, he didn’t know it to the same degree. He remembered the guilt and anger he felt when Remus had been attacked - when Remus had protected him from being attacked. James still felt that guilt at times, despite the fact that he knew his brother had made the conscious decision to protect him. However, his brother was still alive, so while he could empathize, he couldn’t completely understand the devastation that Sirius was feeling. What he could do, was be there for him, and hold him through the worst of it. James, for all his lack of ability to process his own emotions, was great at comforting other people while they dealt with theirs. Still, seeing Sirius in such distress made his heart ache, and tear well behind his eyes. 

The screams were guttural, and James could only imagine what hell he was seeing. 

“Sh, Padfoot, wake up.” 

James wouldn’t tell him it was just a dream, because he was pretty sure that whatever nightmares were flashing behind Sirius’ eyes, were real, in one form or another. There was no comfort of words that James could offer this time around. Unfortunately, there was no point in telling him it wasn’t real, because while he loathed to admit it, James knew it probably was. 

“Just breathe,” he murmured, soft and steady. 

The next words died on his lips - he couldn’t tell him that it was okay, not when he knew how much it absolutely wasn’t. 

“Never,” he promised. James would never leave him, not when he knew his brother needed him. He carefully curled up under the blankets, laying close enough to Sirius so that their shoulders were pressed up against one another, a silent means of grounding him. James was accustomed to helping with nightmares, having been there for Remus throughout many of his. This was hardly any different, and James would much rather be here than anywhere else. 

“I don’t know. I don’t know what the hell possessed them, Padfoot,” he murmured, working to keep his own anger out of his voice. Reg was just a baby, he couldn’t understand how his parents could hand him over like a lamb to slaughter. “It wasn’t your fault. I know you blame yourself, I know anything I say won’t change that, but Sirius, there’s nothing you could have done. You’d have protected him if there was a way to do so,” James replied, a fierceness to his tone. Letting out a breath he answered, “You don’t. You don’t pretend it didn’t happen, because it did, and the only good denial is the river in Egypt. Padfoot, all you can do is move forward, whatever that looks like for you. If that means we find the people responsible and bring them to justice, in whatever way we can, then we do it.” Let it never be said that James didn’t see the importance of justice and even revenge.

***

“If it is something ridiculous I swear I won’t go, Prongs.” Okay, that was a straight up lie. He didn’t really care about the costume all that much. But he still wasn’t fond of the idea. And if he could talk his way out of it he would.

“True, Remus is. Even Severus is. But those are the only two exceptions.” He said and grinned at James. Though he then couldn’t help but roll his eyes. Ally’s. Right. He wasn’t even sure if he wanted those. He was part of the resistance for only one reason. And part of him still held onto a grudge that he knew wasn’t fair. But, if there had been no resistance his brother would maybe still be here. Though he knew who was to blame it was easier to put the anger elsewhere. Yet this was important to James, and therefore important to him. Even if he didn’t fully understand the need for it.

Raising an eyebrow Sirius let out a sigh. “A couple of cocktails? James, have you forgotten how to throw a party?” He asked and shook his head. “If you’re wanting me to play nice and make allys I’m gonna need more than a damn cocktail. Some of the resistance members are so boring that I’ll end up going to sleep.” He said as he crossed his arms over his chest. He wasn’t trying to be rude about the people that had signed up to fight but damn what they thought was interesting sometimes almost bored him to tears.

...

“Sure you will,” he countered, again, too matter of fact about the whole thing. James knew that Sirius lived for the dramatics just as much as he did, and he knew that he would absolutely go along with antics. Grinning, he added, “It’ll be fun, Padfoot.” 

Rolling his eyes, James did the very mature thing, and stuck his tongue out at him in retaliation. “That’s because I don’t ever cause you any trouble,” he shot back, though even as he said it, James had to fight back the grin. That was a blatant lie, but James wasn’t going to take it back now. Sure, let that be the hill he died on today. “I’m telling Severus you think he’s trouble. I’m sure he’d be thrilled to know that,” James teased. While he knew that not everyone within the Resistance were the best of friends, or even friends at all, he also knew how important it was that they were more unified. The closer they stood together, the harder it would be for them to fall. 

Laughing, James added, “A couple of cocktails per liquor. I can’t believe you’d throw such an accusation at me, Sirius,” he answered, mock hurt lacing his words. “Do you think so little of me?” he asked, dramatic as ever. It would almost be believable, if not for the shit eating grin that graced his features. Scrunching his nose, he nodded, “Well, you’re not wrong about that. Hopefully, a party will help loosen everyone up a little bit.” Merlin knows, they could all use it. 

Evan hated to attend these meetings. So many eyes seemed to land on him questioning his loyalty to the cause. How much easier would he life had been if he had lost his heart early on? Had he never had his sister he imagined that he would be as cold and calculating as some of his peers. His life might have been easier had it ended up that way though he wouldn’t trade his sister for anything. She was everything to him. 

The meeting ended and he moved quickly to the door though he was stopped halfway there when James stopped him. He had nothing against James. He seemed to make an effort to get to know Evan but something about it bothered him. He wondered why the other man would want to interact with him so much. He always seemed to be there. Following him around making offers of friendship. Evan didn’t have friends. Well he had Dorcas but James was nothing like her. 

“Most countries are waiting for the war to progress further before declaring any kind of side. A lot don’t want anything to do with it. They see it as an us problem and not something they want to get involved in. Some will side with us when it comes down to it and some will side with them. They have more than we do at the moment but I’m working on luring them to the right side. I can go over it in more detail sometime if you have any free time.”

…

There was a lot of irony in the fact that people seemed to question the Rosier sibling’s loyalty at every given turn. As a general rule, there were more purebloods within their ranks than anyone else, and Rabstan, a Lestrange, had started the entire movement with Regulus, a Black. The Rosier’s weren’t the only big league pureblood family that was involved, and yet, they were scrutinized more than most. Then again, the Rosier family was known for posh cruelty, even more so than the other major families. He supposed that’s why suspicion seemed to follow them, even if James highly doubted that either of them would ever defect. 

As such, James tried to show both his gratitude and acceptance in every way he could. He knew that Evan wasn’t doing this for him, not by any means, but he was grateful all the same. His and Penelope’s contributions were some of the most helpful, especially when it came to knowing what the other side was up to. James knew that they weren’t friends either, but he considered the man an ally at the very least, which meant James would continue to reach out. 

Nodding, he gave a hum, “That makes sense. I’d imagine most don’t want to get involved unless they feel obligated, or see something to gain from it,” he agreed. James couldn’t really blame them, even if their support would be useful. Truthfully, James could see where they’d side with the position already in power too, especially given that most of them would stand more to gain. Still, it was good to know they had some allies. “That would be great, actually. I’ve got evenings free most of the time, though I’m in the middle of a rather active case, so my schedule has been a little chaotic,” James admitted. 

“Oh Godric, if that’s your best wooing then it’s probably best that you’re practicing. You can’t get too many girls with a cup of coffee.” At the words Marlene moved forward, sitting a little straighter in her chair so that she was leaning closer her voice lower to avoid the ones around her hearing. “What about the pretty brunette down in the Department of Mysteries, what was her name?” Brows crinkled in thought for a moment as she mused before snapping her fingers as she remembered. “Priscilla? She seemed pretty and pink.” Her disdain wasn’t in her voice but rather in the way she enunciated the word pink as though it was something to be mocked. 

The best part about having a partner that knew your weakness came in situations like this, where Marlene didn’t people well and James turned on his school boy charm to make up for her crass Scottish behavior. Thus as she was handed the file in question she was careful to not roll her eyes until it was only him that could see the expression. However, an idiot was something that Marlene wasn’t thus she was down the corridor, knowing full well that he was hot on her tail, when she finally spoke. “You know the more you tell her it’s okay that we don’t have the case the more she’ll hold onto it until we come fetch it.” But they’d likely continue this game no matter how much she managed to complain about it as the two knew there was a certain balancing act to the Ministry, they weren’t about to tip things one way or another.  

 As they made it back to the Hit Department rather than circling back to her desk they were at his desk as it was closer to the entrance. Marlene now taking a spot on the desk as she opened the folder, tipping so that James could see the contents. “Oh.” All jokes suddenly removed from her voice and facial expression, now tight lipped and in Hit Witch mode. “I remember this case being in The Prophet. This is big league things. I’m surprised the Head didn’t want it for himself.” She murmured studying each page, the only sign of weakness as she did so was her nose scrunching as she read more of the darker aspects of the case.

…

“Shut up, McKinnon, I’m a goddamn catch,” he shot back, giving her a beaming grin. James gave her a smug smile, “I can absolutely get a girl with coffee and a charming smile. It works for you every day,” he grinned. Scrunching his nose, James sent her a wounded scowl, “Merlin, it’s like you don’t even know me. Why do you wound me, Marlene. What did I do to deserve such a cruel suggestion?” James asked, rolling his eyes he continued, “it’s not the pink I have a problem with. I mean, it’s a nice color and all, it’s her troll personality and high pitched whiny tone that makes me want to stick out my own eyes every time I see her.” To finish off his point, James stuck his tongue at her, like the mature adult he clearly was. 

When it came to people, James was remarkably good at conversing with them. As outgoing and charming as he could be, he was great at winning people over, and persuading them to help when he required it. Rolling his eyes at her, James gave her a pointed look, “true as that may be, the next time we need something from her, or need her to turn the other cheek, she’ll be much more inclined to do so if she feels like we appreciate her.” These days, James tried to make allies out of people wherever he went, knowing just how vital they were to what they were trying to accomplish, not that Marlene was aware of that. James hated that he couldn’t read her in on his other missions, knowing that her help would be invaluable to their cause. 

Sitting at his own desk, James contemplated bitching at her to not sit on his desk, the way she did to him daily, but decided not to start that spat this early on in their day. Besides, he hardly minded, he just enjoyed getting a rise out of her when he could. Seeing her expression though, all thoughts of teasing were put on hold as he took a look at his own case file. Eyes widening, he let out a low whistle, “Shit. This is definitely the big league. I’m surprised the Head hasn’t assembled his own task force for it,” he murmured, eyebrows knitting together. Though he loathed to admit it, James couldn’t help but voice, “You think it’s a test? I mean, obvious this person needs to be brought in, but do you think they’re sending just the two of us out as some bastardized version of a test?” he asked. 

sibel pressed a small smile to her lips as she nodded her head in acknowledgement. “it’s the least we can do,” she told him. the royal we, when really, it was sibel’s sentiment and it would just come off well on rodolphus also. she sipped at her own, large, muggle coffee shop coffee ( not that anyone would know, seeing as the disposible cup was unmarked ) as they waited for their coffee. she didn’t love cutting in front of people, but she also didn’t love being late, or disappointing her boss, or being inefficient. she was good at this job, and it meant she walked a path which didn’t turn too many heads. just the right amount. her dad’s voice echoed in her head.

“what’s the usual?” she asked after the silence had grown uncomfortable for her. “coffee,” she added for clarification. that was obvious, sib. she thought to herself. a small sheepish laugh pushed past her lips.

when the minister’s coffee was placed infront of her, she grabbed it. she checked her watch. she had time. “i’ll walk your way,” she said, looking to james. “if that’s okay with you?” she added quickly.

smiling softly, james knew that despite her use of the word we, it was sibel’s doing. it would be just like sibel to do something thoughtful, when really, she wasn’t required to. everyone knew that the minister took priority, but sibel was good at not burning bridges, and frankly, rodolphus was lucky to have her. the ministry was not at all his place of choice to get coffee, but was the most convenient and out of all the stands, this one was by far the best. he and marlene didn’t work long, arduous hours, just to drink awful coffee. james certainly didn’t envy sibel’s position though, he hoped that rodolphus bought her coffee and lunch too, in efforts to thank her for all the efforts she made at keeping his appearance up. 

grinning, he answered easily, “for marlene, americano, three sugars, and one cream. for me, red eye, black. if you can’t tell, we don’t sleep much,” he grinned. tilting his head, he asked, “what about you? what’s your go to drink?”

grabbing both coffees, he took a quick sip of his own, making sure to doctor marlene’s up appropriately before stepping away. smiling, he nodded, “of course. I always enjoy your company,” james offered honestly. “busy day ahead?” he asked. 

Fairy: Are they are nurturing sort of person? Are they the sort of person who becomes ‘Team Mom/Dad’?

Without a doubt, James is a massive Mama's Boy, and that extends to all three of his Mums. James has always been close to his Mum, and he's always felt comfortable going to do her, no matter the circumstances. Even as he got older, James never found himself too cool to show his Mum affection, and he often made time just for her. His relationship with his Mama grew as she started living with them full time. When James officially accepted her as another parental figure, he became quite protective of her, especially knowing that most people wouldn't give her the parental respect he knew she deserved. As for his other Mum, James has always loved her, as much as he's loved Remus (which is an unbelievable amount). While she was technically his step Mum, James had never viewed her as anything less than he had his own Mother. As far as James was concerned, she was his Mum in every way that mattered.

Ground: When something bad happens, what are their usual go-to defense mechanisms?

Unsurprisingly, James struggles with his emotions, and as such, he always goes for humor in difficult situations. It isn't that James thinks he can't cry, or that he's filled with toxic masculine stereotypes ( he grew up with three Mums he absolutely knows that it's okay to cry ) it's just not in his nature. James has always been the bubbling light in their family, and he's never been good at dealing with the negative things in his life - at least when they happen to him.

When something bad happens to the people around him, James is wonderful at providing comfort. He's the first to give words of comfort, to offer hugs, to provide a quiet space for them to talk if they'd like, or give a distraction if that's what they prefer. He's good at listening, and he's good at being a strong and steady presence when people need him to be.

Electric: What kinds of quirks/eccentricities do they have or indulge in?

James has quite a few quirks (that are really just symptoms of undiagnosed/untreated adhd).

He's almost always using his hands in some way, shape, or form. Whether he's gesturing while he talks, playing with rings on his fingers, rubbing his finger and thumb together, tugging at his closing, twiddling with a snitch or a pen, or anything else he can get his hands on.

When he's thinking, especially when he's trying to work out a particularly difficult problem, he's almost always pacing. James does better when he's moving, and as such, he's someone that can be found walking around while he talks a problem through out loud.

@hierblxck​ sent: "Don't leave." don’t starters || accepting

The moment he had heard distress coming from Padfoot, he had been up and out of his own bed without a second thought. Though he wouldn’t admit it, one the things he missed most about Hogwarts was sharing a room. He assumed that most people were grateful for the space outside of their dormitories, but then, most people didn’t get as lucky with their roommates. There were days that James missed the constant company. Despite the fact that they were only a room apart, there was an emptiness to his space some days that he couldn’t fill. 

So when he heard Sirius’ distress, James had bolted from his own room and tumbled into his brother’s. Without hesitation, he perched himself on the side of Sirius’ bed and carefully extended out a hand to place on his shoulder. James could see the distress clear as day, and he didn’t doubt that nightmares were plaguing his sleep. The loss of his brother, and cousin, was still new and therefore the grief was still raw. As gently as he could, James shook him, offering a constant stream of comforting words as he did so. 

Not wanting to overcrowd him, James leaned back when he finally woke up, trying to give him some semblance of space. Really, he should have known better. At Sirius’ quiet request, James gave him a small smile, before nudging him gently. 

“Move over,” he suggested, already moving so that he could lay down next to him. “I’m not going anywhere,” James promised.