The Stag and The Harpy | James Potter

Birthday

{{I was gonna wait until tomorrow to post this but I've hit you all with a couple of sad chapters. This one makes me smile. Enjoy!!!}}

James stands awkwardly in the corner, appraising the decor of the house.

Molly Weasley had kindly volunteered her and Arthur's home for James' birthday party. Everyone was eager to go somewhere new, James especially grateful to be somewhere other than Grimmauld Place or his parents house.

The Burrow was a rather interesting house. It was as if someone had taken a stone hut and built story upon story until each level was balanced precariously on top of the other. James was certain magic had to be involved in keeping it upright, otherwise it would have toppled over the first time a stiff breeze blew.

Peter sits dejectedly in the corner, still sulking from his breakup with Mary McDonald. James and Sirius had tried to pull him out of the slump, but he was still in the self pity stage of the breakup. Not that James could really blame him. He wasn't exactly keen on celebrating his birthday this year. He'd had big plans for after turning 18. Phoebe had been one of them.

He's startled from his day dreaming when two red headed lads appear on either side of him.

"Happy Birthday, Potter," Gideon says cheekily, shoving a small package in James empty hands. He smirks and mutters lowly, eyes flickering to where Remus stands chatting with Molly,

"It's a book. Rubbish gift if you ask me, but Rem insisted."

James chuckles, "Thanks, Mate."

Fabian sets another small package in his hands and says sympathetically,

"Sorry. Lily picked out a book as well. We'll treat you to a special smoke in the garden later if you like though."

James quirks a brow, eyeing the tiny cigarette that Fabian brandishes in front of his face.

"Some muggle herb. Rather fun, if you ask me," Gideon says happily. James hesitates, nearly tempted. Sirius and him had gotten a hold of some back in fifth year. It was great fun, but he wasn't exactly in the mood.

"Next time, lads," He says firmly, wincing when they both clap him on the back rather hard before returning to their significant others.

Marlene is the next to appear, her hands reaching up and fixing his collar before he has time to speak. He eyes her like she's crazy, mainly because she is. Marlene McKinnon was nothing if not unpredictable. She must see the look on his face because she explains quietly,

"Pheebs will be here any minute. Cant have you looking a mess for her now can we?"

An uncomfortable lump settles in his throat. He wets his suddenly dry lips, asking lowly,

"Has she..."

"Talked to us? A little. She's not one for sharing feelings. I think she's just mad at herself. And you of course."

James smiles faintly and mumbles,

"And you? Are you mad at me?"

Marlene just laughs and shakes her head, insisting, "Merlin, James. You and Phoebe were made for each other. I'm partial to a bit of drama. Makes the story more interesting, doesn't it?"

She pauses, waggling her brows before saying cheekily, "And break up sex is fantastic."

James scoffs and swats her hands away from where they're dusting off his shirt. Marlene peers over his shoulder and says excitedly,

"Oh good! She's here. Now, stay calm. Don't stare. And don't worry! She loves when you wear a button down."

Marlene winks and scurries off, leaving James to chuckle quietly and turn to the front door.