INSTEAD, james potter [1]

Chapter Fifty-Three

It was September 1st and Lyra was trying to come up with some excuse for why her, James and Sirius shouldn't go to school and stay home for the rest of the year. But she knew it was dumb, they had to go back for their last year. 

Especially as James was Head Boy and Quidditch Captain. He was going to be the talk of the whole school for the year, she knew it. If it was anybody else, she might have been jealous. But Lyra loved him and she was proud of him. 

That didn't mean the return to school wouldn't be bittersweet. She was excited to go back for the final time, to see her friends and hopefully get good marks on the N.E.W.T.s, leading her into a future of great success.

But it also meant that this summer wouldn't last forever, that it was ending. Because the minute she had arrived at James's house and felt his embrace, it had become the best time of her life. She would hold onto it for the whole year, if not her whole life.

Lyra breathed it all in as she embraced Euphemia, who also didn't really want the three to leave. But the Potter woman released her and smiled sadly, having really enjoyed having her around. "I know this was just for the summer, but you're welcome back any time." 

"Thank you so much, Euphemia. For your hospiality and the way you've taken care of me these past few months," Lyra responded, beaming at her before speaking softer, so none of the others would hear her. "And for taking care for Sirius all this time."

Euphemia let her love for the younger woman shine through her eyes, tearing up at how sweet and kind she was. She grabbed her head and kissed both of her cheeks warmly. "I am so happy that James has found a girl who makes him as happy as you do."

The blonde blushed and looked away when Fleamont approached them, done with his scolding of the boys, meaning giving them ideas for some pranks for the year. None of them told Euphemia, of course. "It's my turn now, Euphemia. Go talk to the boys."

Euphemia rushed off to say her goodbyes to her son and his best friend, who she loved dearly. Fleamont grinned at Lyra next, hugging her tightly. "Wish you didn't have to go. You have been such a joy to have around the house, Lyra."

"It's been such a joy to be here, Fleamont. Thank you so much," the Black girl smiled at him, holding back tears. She couldn't help but think about how much love they had shown her throughout the last two months, how she had felt more warmth in this home than she had in her own house for seventeen and a half years. 

"Right, you best be off," said Euphemia, drying tears from her eyes as she finally released her son from a bone-crushing hug. "James, Sirius. How about you two go first? Lyra shouldn't be appearing with you when her family could be there."'

"Right," said James, his face falling as he quickly was reminded that in just a few minutes, his and Lyra's relationship would become a well-hidden secret once again. He walked her way and kissed briefly. "See you soon, love."

Lyra sent him a quick smile before him and Sirius exchanged nods, apparating to King's Cross Station. The official line between summer and the school year had been crossed and Lyra wished they could all just take a step back. 

She waited for a few seconds, counting to ten before she prepared to leave herself. But before she did, Fleamont spoke up. "Lyra. If you have any problems with your family then you'll be welcome into our home without second thoughts. Always."

"Thank you again. For everything," Lyra smiled sincerely in apprectation, having experienced who she thought were the best parents in the world. She was lucky to have had them for even a few months. "You've raised such a wonderful son."

Euphemia caressed her cheek kindly, imagining them all a few years later, where summers like the one they had just had would be the norm. "And I believe that one day we'll have a wonderful daughter-in-law as well."