#millieswritingchallenge

“Y/N’s helping me study tonight,” Sirius looked up at James in the Common Room. “You want to try and hang around tonight orrrr?” he smirked as the messy haired boy’s head shot up.

“You really hit a chord there,” Remus snickered, watching the scene unfold.

“Stuff it,” James spat. “I can do this. Tonight is the night I talk to her.”

“Talking is one thing. Will you get full sentences out is the real question.” Sirius pointed out.

James threw a pillow in Sirius’ direction to show the frustration he felt. The boys continued to tease him, but James stuck his nose in a book, pretending to read. In reality, he was planning what he could say to her in his head.

James was in the bathroom. He may or may not have been attempting to comb his hair before Y/N arrived. He looked into the mirror, mentally preparing himself.

“Hello, love. Good to see you. How did you do on that Charms exam? Mhmmm…maybe more aloof? Cheers! Good to see you helping Sirius, he could use all the help he can get –”

“I take personal offense to that one,” Sirius piped up, leaning against the door of the bathroom. “I think you should lead with a joke. That’s your best stuff, Prongs,” he chuckled, rubbing his neck nonchalantly.

“Snub off.” James acted coolly even though he felt wildly embarrassed to be caught in this situation. He was not supposed to be one of those guys that got nervous around a girl and practiced what to say in the mirror.

“Chill out,” Sirius shook his head. “I’m just telling you that she’s walking up here in like 5 minutes, so pull yourself together.”

James followed Sirius out of the bathroom, his hair as if he hadn’t ever combed it to begin with. He just sat on his bed when a knock sounded from the door.

“Ready there, Prongs? Can you act natural?” Lupin baited the short tempered boy.

James could only shoot him a look before Sirius opened the door for Y/N. James felt his voice caught in his throat the second she walked in. She just did everything so effortlessly. She seemed like she didn’t have a care in the world. He was usually like that, but why did she pull the cowardly lion out of him?

“Evening, lads,” she grinned that Cheshire smile. “What have we been up to in here?” she asked as she closed the door.

“James did some primping,” Peter giggled. James made a mental note to hex him later as he sent him a glare.

“For me, Jamesy?” Y/N chuckled before sitting at the foot of Sirius’ bed and opening a book.

“I- uhhh…ummmm, not necessarily…”

“So are you going to help me or not?” Sirius interjected. Despite all his teasing, he could be useful when James felt like he was drowning in front of this girl.

“Right. History of Magic. Why do you always need help for the most boring subject? Couldn’t Remus help you? He’s smart!”

“Moony has refused to help me study History of Magic. He says I make too much of a joke out of it.”

“You do!” Remus called from his four-poster.  

Once all the bantering settled down, the room did fall into a quiet, steady easiness. James pretended to be doing homework of his own while Y/N and Sirius went over Warlock Conventions and Goblin Revolutions. The dates and years too much for even James to follow. But, he wasn’t really paying attention to what they were studying. He was listening to the soft laughter that broke the silence every time Sirius made a joke. He was itching to say something, but what?

“Pads, you ever figure out the logistics of that prank?” Why had he said that? They didn’t even have a prank in the works. Sirius gave him a quizzical look that said he was thinking the same thing.

“Uhhh…” Sirius started.

“You guys are planning a prank? Can I help?” Y/N was fully interested.

This was not where he saw this going. He just wanted something to talk about, something so that she could hear that he could speak.

“Sirius, why didn’t you tell me? You said I could help with the next one!” Y/N playfully slapped Sirius’ arm as she turned back to James. “Tell me about it!”

“Uhhh…well, we were – uhhh…See, Remus concocted this charm and we were going too –” He was stumped there was no plan. He got all twisted up again. He shifted his glance from her focused face to Sirius’, only flashing a hint of ‘HELP ME!’ in his eyes.

James finally let out a sigh of relief as Sirius seamlessly took over. He was pulling bullshit out of thin air. James could usually do that. When Y/N left their room before curfew, James was breathing normally again.

“Hello, earth to James. Can you speak again?” Remus asked tentatively as James fell backwards onto his bed.

“That. Was. A. Disaster.” He spoke slowly, rubbing his hands over his eyes and under his glasses.

“You spoke a full sentence even if it wasn’t directly to her,” Peter offered.

“Shush!” James retaliated. “You literally told her I was primping earlier! I am in my right mind to hex you!” James tossed and turned as he went over the tragedy that turned into in front of Y/N. Maybe tomorrow would be better?

It was a new day and James successfully glided through his morning classes. He’d made a decision the previous night as he listened to Peter’s snores. He was going to ask her out today.

James peered around the corner to look at Y/N, trying to assess his plan of attack. She was surrounded by friends, but they all had been charmed by James before, they would be no issue. Maybe he should complement her or offer to carry her books? No, that would be weird. Or would it be sweet? Ughhh! Nothing seemed to be right!

“What are you doing, Prongs?” Sirius whispered in his ear. James jumped, not expecting anyone to talk to him. “Merlin, Padfoot! What did you do that for?”

“We’ve been standing here for 2 minutes!” James stood up to see that Peter and Remus were also standing behind him.

“You were doing that thing again where you watch Y/L/N.” Moony followed Sirius’s lead.

“Yeah, that’s getting pretty creepy, Prongs.” Sirius chuckled. James instinctively rubbed his hand across the back of his neck. He didn’t realize how embarrassing this actually was until they caught him. At least the other Marauders were the ones who caught him and not Snivellus.

“I’m trying to figure her out, okay?” James tried to defend himself. Now that he thought about it, maybe he had been staring at Y/N a little more than usual lately, but that was only because he was figuring out how to approach her on his own.

Around the corner, he could hear the echo of her laugh. Oh, that laugh. The first time he heard it, it sounded like Christmas bells ringing and it just floated across the air. There was something so genuine and happy about the sound. James was hypnotized from that moment on and he knew that he had to take her out or get close to her. He wanted to be the one causing that laugh.

“Prongs? Prongs! JAMES!” Sirius finally got his attention again. “Where did you go there?”

“Did you see the look in his eyes?” Peter teased. “He was obviously thinking about Y/N!!” Peter sang her name and for some reason, that pissed James off.

“It isn’t like that, okay?” James felt his temper starting to flare. They’d all had crushes before, so why was this one the end of the world?

“Why don’t you just breath and talk to her?” Moony asked, actually trying to give some advice or provide his friend with some guidance.

“Of course I have, you prat. The moment I start speaking, my voice just doesn’t work and I forget what I was going to say.”

“You dunce!” Sirius cut James off. “Are we even sure she knows who you are? We know she knows me, but are we sure that you aren’t just the boy that hangs around with us?” Sirius knew he was poking the bear.

“Of course she knows who he is! Everyone knows who James Potter is,” Peter beamed, looking towards James for approval.

“That means nothing. She messes with him occasionally, so we know that,” Remus shook his head.

“Remus is right,” Sirius agreed. “You need to woo her. Do something romantic. That’ll definitely get her attention!”

The other two boys nodded in agreement, but James just stared at them, trying to figure out where they were headed with this.

“What if he does something big in the Great Hall during dinner. If he says her name, then that would definitely get her attention.” Sirius seemed to be calculating what would happen in this big plan.

“Uhhh, guys?” James said.

“I don’t know if big would be the way to go,” Remus replied to Sirius. “Y/N definitely doesn’t WANT everyone looking at her all the time. What if he did something in the library? He could bring her something while she studies? Say she looked like she needed it?”

Peter’s eyes grew wide at the idea as James tried to interject again. “Hello? Mates?”

“Madam Pince would not like that at all.” Peter’s eyes showed fear as he thought about the librarian. “I had a cookie in there once and I still don’t think I can ever unhear her screams…” Peter’s face glazed over as he thought back.

“Wormtail might be right, Moony. There’s no way to scare away a girl like getting her in trouble with Madam Pince. What could he do?”

“You guys do know that I am still here, right?” James was practically waving his hands over his heads to get the other marauders to look at him.

“We know that,” Sirius rolled his eyes. “But you don’t get to be a part of planning this time, Prongs. You’ve messed it up too many times. So, we have decided to take matters into our own hands.”

The boys all stood around whispering while James listened, understanding that he was getting no input. Minutes went by and the ideas seemed to be getting more and more out of hand. If it wasn’t for Remus interjecting, Sirius would have James spelling her name in the sky on his broom. Why was he ridiculously romantic? The whole bad boy thing definitely was used to cover that up. The ideas seemed to be getting better until they were interrupted.

“What are you all doing?” Y/N’s voice spoke a little louder than Peter’s, who was giving his idea. “Are you planning that prank that James mentioned last night?”

“Uhhhh…” All boys were speechless. How did they explain this? They were caught in the act.

He didn’t know what it was, but James felt a surge of confidence and not embarrassment. “My mates were actually trying to help me figure out how to talk to you.”

Peter, Remus, and Sirius’ mouths all fell open, eyes widened to double their usual sizes.

“Talk to me?” Y/N raised an eyebrow.

“Yes, you, love.”

“Love, huh? You’ve never called me that before. All my friends, maybe, but not me.” Oh, how sassy she could be. “James, are you hitting on me?” Y/N asked, head cocked, eyes focused on the boy with glasses.

“Only been trying to for the last year or so, but thanks for noticing.”

“That can be hard to do when you only have so many words to work with.” 

James glanced up to see the smile on Y/N’s face growing, bottom lip between her teeth. The rest of the boys were still in awe that this was happening right now. “So, yeah they were trying to figure out how to make talking to you easier for me. Sirius was being all romantic with these crazy ideas, but Remus wasn’t sure if that would be your style. Peter had –”

“Woah! Woah! Potter!” James quit his nervous rambling the moment her sweet laughter filled his ears. “So if I got this straight, then this is the part where you ask me out and I say yes.” That Cheshire smile was back. The same one that made his heart flutter the night before.

James coughed to clear his throat, planning the words in his head. She looked at him expectantly. She literally just said that she would say yes, so why was he freezing now? “Uhh, right, okay, so Y/N, would you like to go out with me sometime?”

“Of course, James Potter. I thought you’d never ask! Pick me up for Hogsmeade on Saturday? 10 AM before everyone else leaves? We can grab lunch. See you later, lads,” Y/N waved to the other three before kissing James on the cheek and rejoining her friends.

“Did she-” Peter started.

“Just ask-” Remus followed.

“You out and plan the date?” Sirius followed, completely baffled. “I didn’t even know she liked you, mate!” Sirius slapped James on the back. The boy was still speechless. Did that really just happen? His heart was beating hard in his chest. It must’ve been doing that the whole time and he didn’t even know it.

Who knew where he was. The only thing you were worried about was the fact of him coming back. So there you sat, staring, waiting, feeling numb. 

You didn't even hear him come in. Perhaps it would've been better that way, if you didn't see him at all. You probably would've fallen asleep and thought it was all dream. But that didn't happen.

“Why are you awake?” a voice behind you asked. 

You didn't even move. You sat there, staring at the fire, silent tears dripping down your face. You refused to wipe them away, but at the same time, too numb to do so.

“Y/N?” the voice asked again. You didn't move. It was too much work. You heard footsteps moving closer to you and you felt a hand on your own. “Y/N, honey, look at me.” This time you did move. Your head moved slightly to the right to look at a tired Draco. Once you saw him, you turned back to look at the fire. 

“Y/N, what is it? Did I do something wrong? No matter, you should probably get to bed, it’s late.” You don't know what triggered it but you were suddenly mad. More than mad, angry. Furious, all of these emotions you were holding in suddenly came to the surface. 

You jumped up, “Of course you would know how late it is!” Draco looked taken aback by your sudden outburst. That just made you even more upset. “What were you doing this time? Wondering around watching innocents get killed? Or planning an attack? Draco! This isn't right and you know that!”

Draco suddenly stood up and grabbed your arms in his iron grasp. “I HAVEN'T LEFT THE SCHOOL Y/N!” His face a few inches from yours. An involuntary whimper escaped your lips. Draco released you and took a step away. 

You stood there complete broken.

“Do you honestly think I want to be on this side of the war? DO YOU HONESTLY THINK I WANT TO DO WHAT I’M DOING?” he screamed in your face. You stood there emotionless. The numbness took all the pain away. 

“Do you think it’s easy for me?” you asked, barely above a whisper. 

Draco blinked.

“Do you think, it’s easy for me?” you repeat. The pain hit you like whiplash and you barely flinched. Your voice grew stronger. You knew this was the only shot you had to speak your mind before going back into the numbness. 

“Because it’s not Draco. It’s bloody not. Do you know how much I worry about you? How I lie awake at night hoping that you'll be okay? Because one day Draco, you won't be. Do you know what that would do to me? DO YOU EVER THINK ABOUT ME?”

Draco blinked.

“You're distancing yourself from me and how am I supposed to know if it was my fault or some bloody shit you got into. Do you know what it’s doing to me? Well let me tell you. I’M SLOWLY DYING DRACO. YOU MIGHT NOT NOTICE IT BUT ITS TRUE. AND IF SOMETHING WERE TO HAPPEN TO YOU? I’D PROBABLY DIE DRACO. BECAUSE I LOVE YOU TOO DAMN MUCH,” you screamed at him. 

No, you didn't notice when some kids came down from their rooms to see what the commotion was. You didn't notice when some people ran back. You didn't notice when they hid just to hear what was going on. You didn't know that people were going to questions you about it tomorrow. And you certainly didn't know that you'd become the talk of the school. 

“THEN MAYBE WE SHOULD BREAK UP Y/N. MAYBE IT WOULD BE BETTER FOR YOU, SO THAT YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT ME ANYMORE. I LOVE YOU TOO MUCH TO LET THIS HURT YOU.” 

You blink. 

“If that’s what you want,” you whisper. 

Draco looked as if he was going to say something, but instead he stormed out of the room. You didn't watch him go. Instead you fell onto the ground and crumpled up there. The sound of your sobs carried through the room. You probably sat there and cried for who knows how long. 

You didn't see the sorrowful looks from the others as they headed back off to bed. You didn't see someone cast a spell on the room to block out the sound of your wails. You didn't know that after you feel asleep Draco came in and carried you into your room and laid you on your bed. You didn't know he kissed your forehead before walking out. You didn't know he muttered, “I love you and I’m sorry,” for the last time.

++++++

Fandoms - pick one character to write about:

Harry Potter

MCU

The Originals 

Stranger Things 

Prompts

Fluff:

“I need you. Please, stay.” - @obsessedwithrandomthings Bloodhound (Sirius Black x Reader)

“Shut up and kiss me.”

“You make a good pillow.”

“Are you jealous? That’s cute.” - @acciovisio (Remus Lupin x Reader)

“Are you hitting on me?” “Only for the last year or so but thanks for noticing.” - @kalimagik  Eyes for Her (James Potter x Reader)

“I’m so in love with you.” - @dreamer821 The right bird (Fred Weasley x Reader)

“You look beautiful.” - @imagineswiththewizards (Harry Potter x Reader)

“This is the part where you ask me out and I say yes.” - @kalimagik Eyes for Her (James Potter x Reader) // @mojofun Remus Lupin and the Half Assed Attempt at Flirting (Remus Lupin x Reader)

“How is it that you’re so stupid and so hot at the same time?” - @hufflefluff-writer  Theory of Relativity (Draco Malfoy x Reader) // @heloisedaphnebrightmore (Sirius Black x Reader)

“What are you doing in my bed?” - @hufflefluff-writer Theory of Relativity (Draco Malfoy x Reader)

“Dance with me!” “There’s no music playing.” “And?”

“I love seeing you in my clothes.”

“I’m not letting you go and we both know you don't want me to.”

“I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

“You’re a huge nerd.” “But you love me, right?” “Yes, I love you.”

“I like you, so there’s that. At least I have that.” - @companionjones (Klaus Mikaelson x Reader)

“My mother warned me about guys like you.” - @shaynawrites23 Charming Date (Bucky Barnes x Reader)

“Can we cuddle? I’ve had a long day and I just want to a hug.”

“Don’t make me laugh! I’m mad at you!”

“If you don't want me to be in love with you, you’re going to have to stop looking so lovely.” - @companionjones (Elijah Mikaelson x Reader)

Angst:

“I’ll never be yours because you’ll never be mine.”

“Please. Don't do this. Don't break my heart.” - @shaynawrites23 Modified Sentence  (Loki Laufeyson x Reader)

“Why? Why did you leave?” - @missmulti - (Draco Malfoy x Reader)

“Promise me you’ll never leave me. I don't care if you have to lie.”

“I hope it was worth it.”

“I can't do this anymore. I’m done.”

“You moved on. So did I.”

“When did things fall apart?”

“What part of me wasn't enough?” - @summer-writes Hooligans (Remus Lupin x Reader)

“And that makes it okay?”

“Why are you crying?” - @obsessedwithrandomthings Bloodhound (Sirius Black x Reader)

“I trusted you.”

“I’m sick of having to pretend that I don’t want you.” - @imagineswiththewizards (Draco Malfoy x Reader)

“You’re still the same guy/girl I fell in love with.”

“I don't want you; I don't love you. I never did.”

“You simply aren't worth it.”

“You deserve the love you keep trying to give us all.”

“Why are you awake?” - @siriusly-addicted-to-writing Why are you awake? (Draco Malfoy x Reader)

“So you lied? About everything?”

“I don't want nor need your pity.”

Songs:

Kim Petras - Heart to Break

Delta Rae - If I Loved You

Poison - Every Rose Has Its Thorn

Paul Anka - Put Your Head on my Shoulder

The Manhattans - Kiss and Say Goodbye

Julia Michaels - Heaven

Lewis Capaldi - Hold Me While You Wait

Sleeping at Last - Turning Page - @angelinathebook (Draco Malfoy x Reader) (Regulus Black x Reader)

Etta James - A Sunday Kind of Love - @firewhisky-kisses A Sunday Kind of Love  (George Weasley x Reader) // @mojofun A Sunday Kind of Love (Pre Serum!Steve Rogers x Reader)

Troye Sivan - Strawberries and Cigarettes - @summer-writes Smoke Rings (Sirius Black x Reader)

R5 - Hurts Good

Big Mountain - Baby, I Love Your Way

One Direction - Love You Goodbye - @strawberriesonsummer Love You Goodbye  (Draco Malfoy x Reader)

Little Mix - Your Love

<<Good. Let’s make the pairs now>>

Just like that, the poor boy realised he’d missed the whole explanation of what he was supposed to do. What did they have to team up for?

<<Black, you’re with McKinnon>>

Sirius unsheathed his best playboy smile and strutted toward Marlene, who greeted him with a cackle

<<Potter, you’ll work with Evans>>

<<No!>> The redhead exclaimed, unable to stop herself.

The whole room fell silent and Lily blushed, looking away

<<I’m sorry professor>>

<<It’s alright, Miss Evans>> Slughorn reassured, then turned toward other students just when James was approaching his new potions partner

<<Oh come on Evans, we are a winning team: our potion will be perfect>> <<Yes, Potter>>

<<Really?>>

<<Just so I can slip it in your pumpkin juice at breakfast>> The redhead hissed, making the brunette balk

<<Lupin, you’re with L/N>>

Those were the last words Remus heard; after that, all his ears picked up was the thrumming of his heartbeat with every step Y/N took in his direction.

He stared at her, taking in her smile and the twinkle in her eyes.

Was he staring too much? Probably

<<Uhm, Remus?>>

<<Yes?>>

Impressive, how much effort a single word can take

<<So, we’re working together. Let’s go to that table, since it’s free>>

He nodded numbly, following her without another word.

________________________________________________________________

<<Now we need to add the powdered root of asphodel>> Y/N read, skimming the scribbles on the book while stirring the fuming contents of the cauldron. Remus instantly gathered the ingredient and selected the correct dosage, pouring it in and glancing at the manual

<<This is the part where we use the infusion of wormwood and valerian sprigs, right?>> He asked, pointing at the next paragraph.

The girl nodded, not losing her concentration.

A few moments of silence went by, during which the only disturbance were the constant lame pickup lines that James foisted on Lily, who endured in the name of her education.

Remus swore he could see her mouth an unforgivable or two, but he had his own problems to tend to and couldn’t save Prongs at the moment.

Then along came a flying Sopophorous bean.

Before he understood what was happening, the boy had reached out to catch the stray legume. Problem was, so had Y/N.

The girl’s smaller fingers grabbed it, while his bigger hand wrapped around hers, and the whole world stood still.

They stared into each other’s eyes, mouth agape and breath cut short. He could have sworn he saw her bite her lip at some point, and her cheeks were at least two shades darker than before…

Probably the potion’s fumes, he decided; after all her hair was all poofy now, but she still looked adorable…

Dammit

<<Sorry to interrupt your Yule Ball practice, but Marley and I need that bean>> Sirius’ voice jolted them both out of their reverie. He had appeared out of thin air and was looking at the couple with a shark-like grin that Remus suddenly had the urge to wipe off

<<I could just take yours and leave you two to… Whatever it is you’re doing>> The black-haired Marauder cackled.

That gave his friend the courage to finally pull away, giving back the bean with a  huff

<<We are working, Sirius. Unlike you>>

<<Oh, Remus. You wound me>>

<<Don’t tempt me>> The taller boy grunted

<<I wouldn’t dream of it>> The shorter one chirped, barely restraining his laughter <<Oh and, by the way; this is the part where you ask her out>>

The world froze again.

Remus could feel Y/N’s eyes on him, but he did not dare turn around. He simply prayed she would simply chalk it up as Sirius’ umpteenth inopportune remark

<<Sloth brain>>

<<I couldn’t agree more, Y/N>> He growled, glaring at his friend

<<I meant we need sloth brain now>>

<<Oh, right. That, and the juice of the flyi- sopophorous bean>> Moony recited in a single breath <<Am I forgetting something?>>

<<Asking her out>> Padfoot tried again. The other boy ignored him

<<Wormwood, of course; we need wormwood too>>

His partner nodded, avoiding his gaze. Sirius chuckled and walked away after retrieving his bean

<<For the last time, Potter, I will NEVER go out with you!>> Lily’s voice resounded in the classroom, leading to an embarrassing silence during which all eyes were on her and James.

For the first time in years, Remus was grateful for the Gryffindor’s tactlessness.

________________________________________________________________

Despite any awkwardness, their potion turned out to be the best. Slughorn complimented both of them and awarded fifty points to their houses.

All in all, it wasn’t a complete disaster.

What worried Remus was that Y/N had disappeared as soon as the class was dismissed.

He was currently sitting in the common room with his friends -luckily they were the only ones there- while James complained of his love life to Peter and Sirius pointed out where he had gone wrong with his flirting during potions. As if there was a need to explain that

<<I don’t get it, Padfoot! I tried everything!>>

<<Well, pal, I can tell you not to be like Moony>>

<<What did I do now?>> Remus groaned

<<It was more what you didn’t do>> His companion corrected <<I offered you the occasion of a lifetime on a silver platter and you threw it away!>>

<<It would have been useless, Pads; she doesn’t like me that way>>

<<She does, pal. You just don’t see it>>

<<How can you be so sure?>> The poor boy exploded, vexed beyond belief.

As an answer, he received another Joker-like smirk

<<Well, let’s ask her, shall we?>>

<<Oh no, no way; you’re not going to look for Y/N now>>

<<I don’t need to; she’s right behind you>>

Remus froze in place.

He sent prayers to whatever deity was listening to him that Padfoot was only kidding but, for some reason, it didn’t sound like a prank.

It took him a lot of willpower to simply move his legs and turn around; when he did, just as his friend had said, his eyes met his crush’s E/C irises, and he jumped back when he realised how close she was

<<Y- Y/N>> He stammered <<What- What are you doing here?>>

The way her expression changed to a sad frown worried him

<<I… I came to ask you something… But I see I’m unwanted here… I’ll just go>>

And she did, while he was still stuck there. Luckily, his friends were there for him -in their peculiar way, of course.

A swat to the head broke him out of his trance

<<Ouch! What the hell, Prongs?>>

<<You’ll thank me later; go after her!>>

<<What?>>

<<Don’t make me kick your arse, Moony>> Joined Sirius <<Go after her, you fool>>

<<Oh. Right>>

That was the fastest he’d ever run

<<Y/N!>>

Winded and slightly dizzy, he managed to stop her in the corridors before she returned to the H/N common room. Her expression was less than forthcoming, but he’d work around that

<<How much of that did you hear?>>

<<Just you telling Sirius that he shouldn’t go look for me>>

<<That’s… Better>>

<<It’s ok, Remus, I get it. You don’t want to see m->>

<<No no no no, Y/N, you absolutely don’t get it. We were talking about me asking you out>>

<<Oh. Really?>>

<<Yes, really; serio->> He abruptly stopped talking, trying to find a synonym while the girl laughed

<<The thing is, Y/N, I… I don’t know how to do this>>

She giggled

<<Not to be rude, but following James and Sirius’s advice isn’t very wise>>

They laughed some more, together

<<I know that: Lily’s reaction taught me enough. What should I do, then?>>

<<Mind if I give you an input?>>

<<Go on>>

<<This is the part where you ask me out>>

<<Just like that?>>

Y/N rolled her eyes

<<You don’t need a fancy getup or a knight-in-shining-armour gesture to do this>>

<<I just thought that maybe, I don’t know… Flowers would be a good idea… Or chocolate>>

<<There, you see? You do know what to do. Anyway, we’ll work with what we have here.

Go on>>

<<Y/N L/N, will you go out with me?>>

The female squealed, making him blush and chortle

<<This is the part where I say yes>>

Remus’s grin stretched impossibly wide; so did hers.

Then, something unexpected happened: he pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her waist

<<Ah! Remus, what are you doing?>>

<<This is a new part I just came up with>> He murmured, his lips mere inches from hers <<Any objection?>>

<<Yes>>

Hurt flashed in his eyes, and he relented his grip a little

<<Which one?>>

<<That you haven’t done it already>> She teased, wiping away all his worries.

With a laugh, Remus’s lips met hers and they kissed, holding onto each other for dear life.

It was a wonderful kiss, even if it was the first for both of them.

When they pulled away, they both tried to catch their breaths

<<Wow. Remus Lupin, you definitely know more than it seems>>

________________ Extra_______________

<<How did it go?>>

Of course, Moony knew they would give him the third degree when he went back to his room, but he did not care. He simply leaned against the door, smiling dumbly

<<Did you ask her?>>

He nodded

<<And she said yes?>>

Another nod

<<Wait a second>> Sirius jumped in <<Something’s off…>>

The black-haired Marauder walked toward his companion, examining his lovestruck expression with narrow eyes.

Then, he gasped

<<You kissed her!>>

James and Peter gasped too. The taller boy only nodded

<<Unbelievable. Who knew you had it in you?>>

<<What can I say… Except this: James, be like Moony>> Remus teased.

Sirius face-palmed

<<I created a monster>>

——————————————

The next morning, y/n woke up early to get to breakfast before the swarm of people came in as she usually did. Fine, maybe the real reason was that she could spend a bit of time alone with Remus before the rest of the students arrived, but nobody had to know that. She made her way around the corridors of the majestic castle all the way to the Great Hall. Her conversation with James from the prior evening had almost slipped her mind, that is until she saw him sitting down at the Gryffindor table, waving her over with a bright smile.

Remus had gotten up early as he usually did. At first, it was just because he was an early riser, but now it was a way to have a bit if free time with y/n before everyone else got there. Or at least it usually was, because for some reason James had gotten up even earlier then Remus. At first, Remus was thankful for the company, but as time went on, Remus was starting to think James would still be here when y/n got there, which Remus did not want. Remus’s fears were confirmed when y/n entered the Great Hall and James was still there.

Y/n made her way to the Gryffindor table where she had spotted James waving her over and Remus looking at her with the same smile he had every morning when they would have breakfast together. Y/n looked confusedly at James, but sat next to him none the less.

“What are you doing up so early?” y/n asked him skeptically as she served herself breakfast.

“Couldn’t pass out on an opportunity to hang out with you love,” James answered with a wink making y/n blush.

Remus looked between the two skeptically, sure, James was usually quite flirty, but never with y/n. Remus thought the boys had caught on to his feelings for the y/h/c haired girl by now despite never having explicitly talked about it, but maybe he had been wrong because here James was, obviously flirting with her, and it made Remus’s blood boil. First, James came in and stole Remus’s time with y/n, and then he spent the whole breakfast flirting with her.

As more people started filing in, Remus kept glaring daggers at the close proximity between y/n and James, but didn’t comment on it. Lily, who had come in around 10 minutes prior, was in a situation similar to Remus’s.

“What’s happening?” She hissed under her breath, more to herself then anything but Remus heard her anyways.

“Beats me,” mumbled Remus as an answer.

Y/n was actually surprised at the results of James’s little plan. Lily was good at hiding her anger, but y/n could tell ticking her off. And, to y/n’s surprise, Remus also seemed quite tense, and it made a tiny bit of hope bubble the pit of y/n’s stomach. Maybe Remus actually did like her back. She was thrown out of her thoughts when James kissed her on the cheek making her go beet red.

“I thought we said no kissing,” y/n hissed so only James would hear.

“Oh come on it was just a kiss on the cheek, besides, it worked didn’t it,” he said while gesturing towards Remus who was gripping his fork so hard that it had started to curve in a way it wasn’t supposed to.

Warmth spread in y/n’s heart at this, but it was quickly replaced by a cold, guilty feeling when Remus abruptly got up and left the Great Hall, mumbling an excuse about a forgotten essay.

“Hey guys, I forgot my potions text book in my room, i’ll meet you in class,” said y/n quickly making up an excuse to head out of the Great Hall and go after Remus.

She picked up her bad and hastily walked out of the Great Hall. Once she passed the doors, she saw Remus rounding up the corridor towards the courtyard and ran after him.

“Remus!” she exclaimed to catch his attention. The boy in question didn’t stop, in fact, he only started walking faster.

Once y/n had caught up with him, she opened her mouth to talk to him but he beat her to it, stopping abruptly.

“What? You want advice on how to ask out James or something,” he spat, poison lacing his tone.

“Are you jealous?” asked y/n teasingly. Remus’s eyes went wide.

“What?! N-no why would-“ started Remus, but y/n cut him off.

“That’s cute,” she said with a shy smile.

“Wait, what?” asked Remus, confused.

“James and I aren’t a thing, we were just trying to make Lily jealous, and, you as it turns out,” explained y/n as if it were the most obvious thing in the world, and Remus suddenly felt relieved, but really stupid.

“Oh,” he simply breathed out. “So you don’t like James?” He added.

“No! I like you, you idiot, I thought it was obvious!” She said laughing.

“Really, you like me?!” Asked Remus dumbfounded. He never thought y/n, beautiful, smart, kind, perfect y/n would ever like someone like him, but here she was, telling him that she did.

Y/n stepped forward and grasped Remus’s hand in hers, making the boy’s heart flutter.

“I was wondering if maybe you would like to go to Hogsmead with me this weekend?” She asked, suddenly nervous that Remus hadn’t actually explicitly said he liked her back.

Your heels clicked against the pavement and you found your thoughts wandering in the peace and quiet of this Saturday morning. You were telling the truth when you said you didn't have a boyfriend, but that didn't mean there were no boys occupying your mind.

You rapped on the front door of the first address, pursing your lips as you waited. There was a boy, the only one capable of making you swoon with nothing more than a smile, but you had never told your parents about him.

The door creaked open, the elderly woman greeting you. You handed over the first loaf, exchanging pleasant small talk with her as you always did. Her bright blue eyes twinkled cheerfully as she gushed over your appearance. It reminded you of your grandmother, who did the exact same thing whenever you visited.

You politely declined when she invited you in, informing her of the deliveries you still needed to make. She let you go, but not before she got you to promise to visit some other time, muttering something about how, after her son moved away with his children, she had no company.

You readily gave your word, trotting back down the street as she closed the door.

Your second delivery went without a hitch, and as you made your way home, you found your thoughts wandering again. Your mind had seen him often enough to be able to conjure up a perfect image of him. His sharp jawline, brown hair that looked so soft, and a pair of the most beautiful blue eyes you had ever seen, eyes that could knock the breath out of you with one glance...

A whistled tune brought you out of your thoughts, and as you glanced around in surprise, you found the source of the sound.

Speak of the devil...

A man fell into step beside you, tossing you a glance out of the corner of his eye.

"Hey doll," he drawled. "Didn't expect to see you out this early."

"Hi Bucky. I could say the same for you, got something special planned today?"

He gave a quick shrug. "Maybe, maybe not. I'm still trying to decide whether I should go through with it. How about you?"

It was your turn to shrug now. "Just handling deliveries for my parents."

"Really? 'Cause I thought you might have a date today, what with looking so especially gorgeous today."

Your cheeks flushed at his compliment, opening your mouth to reply, but he continued.

"But then I was wondering what young man wouldn't pick you up for a date, and I thought I might have to give him a lecture on how to be a gentleman."

Bucky's voice sounded jesting enough, and it might've been your imagination, but you detected some sadness in it as well.

"Well, lucky for you, I don't have a date today, or anytime soon, in fact. I'd hate to see you getting into another fight."

He didn’t reply for several moments, the both of you revisiting the last fight he had. It was to save Steve from a guy he provoked, a guy who looked almost twice his weight. Bucky jumped in, throwing a couple of punches but, being equally matched, they both took hits. You found him together with Steve, a large bruise forming on his cheek and a split lip, blood coating his teeth. You’d be lying if you said your heart didn’t break at the sight.

“Aw, doll, no need to worry ‘bout me. I’m a strong man.” He jokingly flexed his biceps. “I’m touched, though. What did I do to get such a beautiful dame’s attention?”

“I don’t think I’m gonna tell you, Buck. For all I know you’re planning to woo another woman with that information.”

“Darlin’, you wound me!” He pressed a hand over his heart, pouting. “I promise you, I’m only after one dame.”

“Uh-huh.” You rolled your eyes, but you were unable to wipe the grin off your face. “A guy like you? Likely story.”

“It’s true.” His hand slipped into his coat, and your eyes couldn’t help but follow his movements curiously. “I already suspected you might need convincing.”

You? Need- what?

He drew a single red rose out of his pocket, offering it to you with one of his million-dollar smiles. How could you do anything but accept, when it came to him?

The stem, fresh and green, was smooth, as if someone had painstakingly removed the thorns by hand.

As if guessing your thoughts, Bucky remarked, “I removed the thorns for you. Can’t have you nicking your lovely fingers.”

“Oh, wow,” you breathed. “Thanks, Bucky.”

“You’re welcome. So, do you believe me now?”

You were nearing home, and you didn’t want the conversation to end. Especially not with your brother sick and your extra workload, leaving you with little time for your social life.

“Of course I do.” You smiled, meeting his gaze.

Bucky had a stunning smile. “Good. So, doll, does that mean you’ll go on a date with me?”

“Hmm. What would you plan for this date?”

“Well,” he shrugged, “I’d pick you up Friday night at six, take you out to dinner, and then we’d go dancing, and I could show off the dazzling beauty on my arm.”

You huffed out a laugh. “James Barnes, my mother warned me about guys like you. Charming their way into your heart.”

You paused, just as the two of you stopped in front of your parents’ bakery. His tongue darted out to nervously lick his lips as he waited for your answer.

“Yes, of course I’ll go on a date with you.”

Bucky’s smile could light up the world as he laughed in relief and happiness, scooping you up into a warm hug.

“You really know how to make a guy sweat, don’t you?”

“Maybe.” A burst of confidence hit you and you leaned up, standing on the tips of your toes to press a kiss to his cheek. “See you Friday!”

You waved to him as you entered the bakery, giggling at his stunned expression, fingers brushing over the lipstick mark you left.

“(Y/N)! Who was that boy?”

“Mom!”

He did so in silence, watching her as Y/N ran around the apartment to fix this or that. There wasn’t much to fix, to be honest, but she found something.

It made him smile.

Just for a moment though, until he was brought back to reality by the pain in his injuries

Oh, I’m hoping to discover

A certain kind of lover

Who will show me the way

———————————————————————

When he was done, he jumped off the chair and brought his plate to the sink. The H/C-haired girl moved toward it, but he stopped her

<<Don’t. It’s the least I could do>>

<<But->>

<<Y/N, stop. I said I’ll do it>>

<<Ste->>

<<I don’t want your pity!>> He shouted. The young woman froze, mouth agape << I don’t want your pity, Y/N. I don’t need you to take care of me>>

And my arms need someone

Someone to enfold

The world came to a screeching halt. 

Steve simply opened the tap and rinsed his plate and his glass, not daring to turn to look back at her.

The room suddenly felt colder

To keep me warm when Mondays

And Tuesdays grow cold

<<I… I just wanted to do something nice for you…>>

Shit.

Her voice was cracking.

He abruptly dropped everything he was holding, and it smashed to the floor, breaking into millions of pieces.

Just like you broke her, his subconscious reprimanded. Look at her: you made her cry

It was true: he could see tears pooling in her E/C eyes. It made him feel worse than the lowliest worm in the deepest pit of the Earth.

He was frozen in place, staring at her but unable to say anything

Love for all my life

<<Do you want some help to clean that?>>

Steve still didn’t reply. His heartbeat was drumming, making his ears ring with a dull noise. 

He was scared and ashamed. Ashamed of himself, because he hurt her

To have and to hold

<<Wait, no, you said you don’t want me here>> Y/N snivelled, wiping away a tear that trickled down her cheek <<You know what? I might as well go, so->> She trailed off abruptly, spinning on her heels and making a beeline for the door, leaving him standing there like a fool.

Oh and I want a

Sunday kind of love

What the hell am I doing? Why am I letting her go?

He knew he couldn’t do that: he couldn’t let her go, not like that; not without making things right.

Not while tears poured down her cheeks because of him

Oh yeah

He broke into a run, ignoring everything else. He did not care about the rattling in his lungs, the shaking sensation in his legs or the pain in his wounds.

He had to reach her

Yeah, yeah

<<Y/N!>> He shouted, barely avoiding a disastrous fall down the few steps that lead to his apartment <<Y/N! For crying out loud, stop!>>

The girl heard him and stood still, but she did not turn around. He jogged up to her, out of breath but filled with determination

<<Y/N>> He wheezed <<I’m sorry>>

She winced, but still did not turn around

<<You have been so nice to me ever since we met in that diner, a few months ago, and I never even gave you the time of day… I’m so damn sorry.

I’ve been horrible to you>>

Silence met his words.

Steve bent his head low and sighed, ready to turn around and leave: he didn’t want to surrender, but he would not bother her if she didn’t want to talk to him.

Just when he was about to go, a broken whisper left her lips

<<Why?>>

He bit his lip and cursed when he was painfully reminded that it was wounded, but brushed it off for the moment

<<What was that?>>

<<Why are you mad at me, Steve? What did I do wrong?>>

<<It wasn’t you, I swear. It’s me>>

<<That’s what people say when they’re trying to let someone down gently>> She muttered

<<No, I swear. I… I’m scared, Y/N>>

That seemed to get to her. She finally turned around and Steve jolted again when he saw the faint traces of teardrops on her cheeks

<<Scared? Of me?>>

He gulped.

The E/C-eyed woman a few feet from him flinched, furrowing her brow

<<I hate pity, Y/N. I hate it>>

<<But I’m not->>

<<I know you’re not, but sometimes… It just gets to me.

I even tell Bucky off now and then, because of this>> The boy sighed, clenching his fists and ignoring the pain that shot through him again

<<I’m not used to people just being nice to me for no reason; they ignore me, bully me, or they feel sorry for me.

I’m just the silly, lanky kid with asthma>>

<<I’m so->>

<<That’s not all>>

<<It isn’t?>>

<<I…

Y/N, girls have never looked at me like that. They only speak to me in hopes of getting me to put in a good word for them with Bucky. You don’t know how many times they strung me along just for that.

There were even times when I let myself be fooled, when I chose to believe that->> He stopped for a moment, choking on his words <<You can imagine how that turned out>>

Y/N nodded, frowning still

<<That’s horrible Steve, but I promise you I’m not like that>> She approached him <<I like you, for who you are>>

<<I don’t want you to like me, Y/N>>

Those words made her flinch, but he rushed to explain himself before she could misunderstand

<<You deserve so much better than me doll>>

Did she just blush?

<<You deserve a man that you won’t get picked on for going out with, a man who can whisk you off your feet and who can actually withstand chasing you without feeling like he’s about to faint…>> He paused, took a deep breath and went on with his speech of self-loathing <<You are a fantastic woman, and you deserve someone in your league; someone like Bucky, someone like the guy who was trying his luck with you the day we met>>

When he was done with his tirade he finally looked at her, and he turned frantic when he noticed there were tears in her eyes again

For goodness’ sake, what did I do now?

<<Y/N? Why are you crying?>>

<<I don’t want Bucky, Steve>> She eluded his question and stepped even closer to him until their faces were inches apart

<<You don’t?>>

<<No, you fool, I don’t. I don’t want that guy either. Besides, he was an absolute jerk>>

<<Yeah, he was; a huge jerk>>

They chuckled together

<<And you stepped in to defend me without thinking twice>> She giggled.

He floundered

<<I didn’t mean to make it look like you can’t handle yourself, I swear! I just got so mad because he->>

<<I know you didn’t, Steve. Don’t you see? This is exactly why I want you>>

I don’t want a Monday

Tuesday or Wednesday

Or Thursday, Friday

Or Saturday

The blond was certain he’d gone mad

<<You- You want me?>>

She giggled

<<Yes. Does that surprise you so much?>>

<<Yes. I’m short, lanky, ugly and I->>

His flattering description of himself was interrupted when she pressed her lips against his. His eyes widened, and he froze.

When she pulled away Y/N giggled; her cheeks were cherry red

<<You are not ugly, you doofus. You are the most wonderful man I ever met, and I want you; no one else>>

Oh, nothing

But Sunday

Oh yeah

<<Mh…>>

<<Oh gosh, your lip! I’m sorry, I forgot about it… Did I hurt you?>>

<<No, doll, don’t worry>> Her cheeks grew even redder, and he loved it <<I was just thinking that I may need another one of those, to be sure that you’re telling the truth>>

The young woman gasped

<<You cheeky fiend! I didn’t know you had it in you!>>

He cackled, giving her a loving smile

<<Come on, doll. Give me another one>>

<<Spending so much time with Bucky is getting to you>>

<<I’m hurt, Y/N; I thought you liked me>> He joked.

Her expression grew softer and she took his hands in hers

<<I do, Stevie. A lot at that>>

I want a Sunday

Steve barely restrained himself from whooping with joy, giving her a smirk instead

<<Well then, won’t you give me one more kiss?>>

Sunday

He didn’t expect her to play along

I want a Sunday kind of love

<<I kissed you first; I think it’s only fair that you kiss me this time, lover boy>>

Oh yeah

Her grin cut his breath short, but he shook himself out of it pretty quickly, going on with his suave act

<<As you wish, princess>>

That said, he pulled her closer and kissed her, busted lip be damned.

They stayed like that for a while, until he pulled away

Damn, that was some kiss

Y/N was beaming at him, and his heart beat a mile per minute. It was everything he’d hoped for and more

<<Doll…>>

<<Yes?>>

<<I’m so sorry for what I said before>>

<<It’s ok, darling, I understand>>

<<Thank you. You make every moment of pain worthwhile>>

<<Steve…>>

Sunday, Sunday

Words were only a nuisance then, so they kissed again; it was even more spectacular than the first two, and they could only hope that every kiss they would share from then on would be as fantastic, if not more

Sunday kind of love

——————————Extra——————————

Steve pulled away from the kiss, leaning on his elbow as he looked into Y/N’s eyes. He was about to say something sickeningly sweet, but she beat him to it

<<Oh, what’s the matter, Stevie? Are you tired of kissing me?>>

Well, that was not sweet.

No, it was more of a taunt. The teasing grin on her face only further confirmed his assumption.

But Steve was not someone to back down from a challenge.

Smirking smugly, he cradled her face in his hands before whispering

<<I can do this all day>>