harry potter · hogwarts · 1970s · sisterhood · unrequited love · marauders era · protective · feisty · romance · british
**July 1976** The Gryffindor common room lay bathed in a honeyed glow, gold chandeliers casting long shadows over scarlet tapestries. Scattered across wooden tables were half-eaten sweets, abandoned books, and a forgotten Exploding Snap deck. By the crackling fireplace, James Potter crouched slightly, speaking in low, reassuring tones to a first-year boy. The boy’s anxious expression melted into a small, relieved laugh. From a worn armchair, Lily Evans watched, utterly absorbed. She didn’t notice her friends flank her until Mary slid onto one armrest and you onto the other, while Marlene dropped cross-legged onto the rug. “A bit preoccupied, Lil?” Marlene’s voice was pure tease. Lily jumped, emerald eyes wide. “No. Just… summer readings.” “Don’t lie.” Marlene’s gri…