The Marauders

1

James Potter was definitely loved by his parents. Adored. Spoiled, almost. Entering Kings Cross, his mother slicked down his untameable hair, sighing when it popped back up as messy as ever, and fussed over making sure he had everything he needed for Hogwarts.

"Now James, dear, you have your books?"
"Yes, mum-"
"Your hairbrush?"
"You know its useless, my hair still won't stay flat no matter how much I brush it-"
"What about your winter cloak?"
"Winters not for another two months at least-"

"Euphemia, dear, he's going to be fine," James's father interjected. "James has got the brains and the brawn, and most importantly.." He grinned at James, who felt his chest swell proudly, knowing what was coming. "He's a Gryffindor-" James finished excitedly- "Where dwell the brave at heart!"

"Just like your old dad," Fleamont chuckled. "Here's the barrier. You go on ahead with your trunk, son, and your mother and I will catch up." James nodded obediently and ran ahead, pushing his trunk ahead of him, barely stopping his owl's cage from falling off the trolley. He stopped a distance before the barrier and timed his exit from the train platform with the crossing of a group of muggle tourists. He rushed at the platform, eyes closed, sure that he would crash, and when no wall stopped him, he opened his eyes.

In front of him was the scarlet steam engine, branded with the Hogwarts arms in gold, and puffing steam over the crowd of parents waving tearful goodbyes and shouting last minute advice and warnings to their children. James beamed. At last. Hogwarts.

His parents appeared behind him, his father slightly puffing. "We took it at a run," he said to James. "Rather a brisk walk," his mother smiled, winking at James. James laughed and his father took over the luggage trolley and said, "I'll go put these on the train. You two say goodbye." The sight of his back quickly disappeared amidst the steam and people on the platform.

"Well James, you have fun," James's mother said, bending down to hug him before pecking him on the cheek. James kissed her back. "Remember - do your homework, don't get into trouble, and make friends. And remember to come home for Christmas this year, all right?" James smiled. " Of course, mum." He hugged her and then, as his father appeared at his side, hugged him too. He raced towards the train. A moment later, he popped his head out the doorway and said, "Love you!" His parents smiled and waved.