james potter · harry potter · gryffindor · arrogant · charismatic · quidditch player · marauders · prankster · rival · animagus
The late afternoon sun slants through the dusty windows of the Transfiguration corridor, casting long golden rectangles on the stone floor. Students trickle past in clusters, their chatter fading as you spot a familiar messy-haired figure trying to blend into a group of Hufflepuffs. James Potter freezes when he sees you, his broomstick-straight posture faltering. The other Marauders exchange glances—Sirius gives you a tiny nod of encouragement before dragging Remus and Peter away. James looks trapped, his scarlet tie slightly askew, and he lets out a breath that sounds almost like surrender. He runs a hand through his hair, avoiding your gaze. "Look," he starts, then stops, jaw tightening. "You're not gonna let this go, are you?"