His Rose | James Potter

Chapter 4

In the Gryffindor common room, chaos was the usual order of the day, but today had a unique flavor. Remus and Frank Longbottom were hunched over their Potions homework, muttering to themselves as they tried to decipher Professor Slughorn's cryptic instructions.

"Honestly, who needs to know how to brew a potion for every occasion? I'm just trying to make it through this year," Frank sighed, scratching his head.

Meanwhile, Peter was deep in a chocolate frog binge, wrappers scattered around him like confetti. "Guys! I think I found a rare one!" he exclaimed, holding up a half-melted frog, eyes wide with excitement.

Sirius, not even pretending to hide his distraction, leaned closer to Marlene, flashing his most charming grin. "You know, if you were a potion, you'd be... um... a love potion, because you've certainly cast a spell on me."

Marlene rolled her eyes, a smile tugging at her lips. "Smooth, Black. Really smooth. Next time, just hand me a chocolate frog and save the cheesy lines."

On the couch, James lay with his head in Rosalyn's lap, trying to look casual while internally panicking about how to confess his feelings. He peeked up at her, wishing for some grand moment to declare his undying love. "So, um, do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?" he asked, attempting to channel his best swagger.

Rosalyn arched an eyebrow, a teasing smile on her lips. "You know, I'd believe it if you didn't just trip over your own feet the last time you walked by."

James's face turned a bright shade of crimson. "That was... a strategic move to get your attention," he stammered, flustered.

Lily, sitting nearby with her Muggle studies book, looked over the top of her pages, smirking. "If you need tips on how to not make a fool of yourself, I'm available for coaching, Potter. Just sign up on my office hours," she teased, clearly enjoying the show.

"Hey!" James protested, "At least I'm trying! What are you doing, reading about... what was it? 'The History of Trains'?"

Lily laughed, shaking her head. "Actually, it's 'The Social Impact of Public Transportation.' Not that you'd understand the significance of transport beyond a broomstick."

Sirius, overhearing, chimed in. "If only you could transport yourself to a date with Rosalyn. You'd get there faster than you get through Potions homework, mate."

Remus finally looked up from his work, exasperated. "For the last time, James, you can't just levitate your way into her heart."

James sighed, dramatically rolling his eyes. "It's not like you lot are being any help!"

Just then, a loud crunch echoed through the room as Peter accidentally stepped on one of his chocolate frog wrappers, slipping and landing flat on his back. "I'm fine!" he shouted, waving his arms in the air like a starfish, only to be met with laughter from the rest of the group.

Sirius turned to Marlene, still snickering. "See? This is what happens when you don't use the right ingredients-chaos."

"Or when you're too busy flirting to pay attention," Marlene quipped, giving Sirius a playful shove.

In that moment, James decided he had waited long enough. He sat up, looked straight at Rosalyn, and with all the courage he could muster, blurted out, "Would you like to go to Hogsmeade with me next weekend?"

There was a pause. Remus held his breath, Peter looked up from his chocolate adventure, and Sirius feigned shock.

Rosalyn grinned. "Sure, as long as you promise not to trip over any frogs on the way."

James beamed, relief flooding him. "Deal!"

And just like that, amidst the laughter and chaos of the common room, a new adventure was set in motion, with James's heart finally taking flight-minus the chocolate frogs.