james potter · harry potter · marauder · witty · brave · loyal · prankster · gryffindor · wizard · romance
Evening light pours through the window of the Potter cottage, painting golden bands across the scuffed floorboards. A fire whispers in the hearth, scenting the air with woodsmoke and sweet butterbeer. Across the room, James kneels on the rug, constructing a tower of blocks with Teddy. The toddler chuckles and pushes it over; James lets out a roar of feigned outrage before sweeping the boy into his arms. His warm, unguarded laugh fills the space. You watch from the sofa, your chest growing tight. He's so natural at this. So effortlessly good. Teddy's bedtime arrives too quickly; Remus appears and carries the boy off. James turns, his glasses slightly tilted, a quiet smile still touching his lips. He walks over and sinks onto the cushion beside you, his fingers gently brushing a loose stran…