𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐲 / James Potter x Reader

Ch21 ★ Ginger and Vanilla

chapter song:
Fade Into You - Mazzy Star

Euphemia and Fleamont Potter returned to the mansion just as the sky began to darken, the soft glow of Christmas lights illuminating the pathway. The scent of freshly baked cookies and pine from the decorated Christmas tree filled the air, adding to the festive atmosphere.

"Kids, we're back!" Euphemia called out, carrying several shopping bags filled with last-minute gifts.

The Marauders rushed downstairs, their excitement palpable. They gathered around the Christmas tree, eyes twinkling with anticipation.

"Did you find everything you needed?" James asked, helping his mother with the bags.

"We did," Fleamont replied, giving James a playful wink. "Now, how about we continue with our Christmas Eve tradition?"

Euphemia nodded, a warm smile on her face. "It's time to open one gift each. Everyone, take a seat!"

The group settled around the tree, the fire crackling in the background. Euphemia and Fleamont handed out the gifts, each wrapped in festive paper.

"James, this one is for you," Euphemia said, passing a neatly wrapped box to her son.

James took the gift eagerly, glancing at y/n with a grin. "Let's see what we've got here."

One by one, they tore into their presents, revealing matching pajamas, each set unique in its own way. James held up his red pajamas adorned with quaffles. "Check it out, y/n. We're matching!" he exclaimed, noticing her green pajamas also decorated with quaffles.

Y/n laughed, her eyes sparkling. "Well, aren't we a pair? They look perfect."

Remus chuckled as he inspected his blue pajamas with books printed on them. "These are great. Thanks, Mrs. Potter."

"You're welcome, dear," Euphemia replied, beaming.

Sirius, holding up his blue pajamas with bludgers and beaters' bats, nudged Remus playfully. "Look, Moony, we're matching too. I'll be the best-dressed Beater."

Peter grinned as he revealed his yellow pajamas covered in chocolate frogs. "These are amazing. Thanks so much!"

With everyone in their new pajamas, they gathered around the living room, sipping hot cocoa and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Euphemia and Fleamont joined in, sharing stories of their own Christmas traditions and childhood memories.

"One thing we always did on Christmas Eve was make gingerbread houses," Euphemia said, her eyes twinkling. "Would you all like to give it a try?"

The Marauders eagerly agreed, and soon the kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of gingerbread and the sound of laughter. They decorated their houses with colorful icing and candies, creating a delightful mess in the process.

"James, you missed a spot," y/n teased, pointing to an undecorated section of his gingerbread house.

James leaned closer, his eyes mischievous. "How about you help me fix it?"

Y/n smiled, reaching for the icing bag. As she did, James gently took her hand, guiding it to the gingerbread house. Their fingers brushed, sending a shiver of excitement through her.

"I think it looks better now," James murmured, his gaze lingering on her.

As the night went on, the group moved back to the living room, where they played games, exchanged stories, and enjoyed the warmth of each other's company. The Christmas tree lights cast a soft glow, adding to the cozy ambiance.

At one point, y/n noticed a sprig of mistletoe hanging in the doorway. Before she could react, James appeared beside her, a playful smile on his lips. "Looks like we're under the mistletoe," he said, his voice low.

Y/n felt her cheeks flush, her heart racing. "I guess we are."

James leaned in, his eyes locked on hers. Their lips met in a tender kiss, the world around them fading away. It was a moment of pure magic, filled with the promise of something more.

Unbeknownst to them, Peter watched from a distance, a satisfied smile on his face. He had planned the whole thing.

The night continued with more games, laughter, and the joy of being together. As the clock neared midnight, they settled in front of the fire, sharing their hopes and dreams for the future.

"Do you think we'll always be this close?" y/n asked, her head resting on James's shoulder.

James wrapped his arm around her, his voice filled with certainty. "I know we will. We're a family."

One by one, they drifted off to sleep, the warmth of the fire and the comfort of their friendship enveloping them. The room was filled with a sense of peace and contentment, the perfect end to a magical Christmas Eve.

As the last embers of the fire died down, Euphemia and Fleamont peeked into the living room, their hearts swelling with pride at the sight of their son and his friends. "Merry Christmas, everyone," Euphemia whispered, her voice filled with love.

Fleamont nodded, his expression softening. "Merry Christmas."

And with that, the Potter mansion fell into a peaceful silence, the spirit of Christmas filling every corner of their home.