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Leaning on the wooden railing, Lily closes her eyes and breathes deeply, the cold fills her lungs, the smell of fresh snow and pine. The sun went down hours ago, the air quiet and still, the ink-black sky now littered with stars.
Make a wish.
She loves these moments, the peaceful serenity, nothing quite compares to the crisp mountain air.
When the Fenwick’s had announced they would be selling up at the end of last season, Lily was worried her time in the Alps would come to an end, three winters of perfect powdery snow and friends she wouldn’t trade for anything.
Fate, however, intervened in her favour.
While they had yet to meet the owners of the chalet they would call home for the next few months, Lily and Marlene had been happy to oblige them in arriving a few days ahead of them to become acquainted with the house and get everything ready prior to their season start.
Nestled into the mountainside, this house is equally charming to the last.
Boasting a hot tub on the wrap-around porch, an unobstructed mountain view, and ample space for several cars in the freshly ploughed driveway, it also benefits from being within walking distance of a ski lift.
The only photographs to line the walls are artistic black and white's, mostly architecture, and landscapes, dramatic yet unoffensive.
There is a single portrait of what she believes are the children of the family —preteens, she assumes by their height— with their backs to the camera and their ski poles in the air, snow-covered peaks in the background.
With their impending arrival, Marlene had taken on the cleaning responsibilities while Lily stocked the cupboards and cellar, following the instructions in their email correspondence with the matriarch of the family. Right down to her last missive.
“Take the night off, we’ll be arriving tomorrow with the boys, and you should get some fun in before their chaos descends.”
Music cuts through the air as they push through the double doors to The Meadows, their preferred local already starting to fill up for the night. Lily makes her way to the bar, holding up two fingers in a signal to the bartender who sends a salute back to her.
Reaching the counter, she steps up on the footrest that runs a few inches above the ground, propelling herself forward so she can tuck hers and Marlene’s bundled coats on the shelves out of sight.
Accepting both bottles in one hand, she turns to the crowd, a smile stretching across her face.
“Moony!”
Her eyes follow the voice, only to find a tall figure attempting to untangle himself from his red scarf and nearly knocking over a table in the process.
“Prongs—”
Shaking her head in amusement, Lily looks around the room, Marlene is already at the DJ booth, Charlie has one ear of their headphones pulled off and is giving the blonde all their attention.
A burst of laughter behind her sounds like pure joy, like summer has joined them in the wintery Alps.
Tonight feel like it’s going to be a good night.
She’s a few feet away when she hears the call from the bar, “Evans— come meet—”
“Not tonight, Lupin, last night off before the brats arrive tomorrow,” her hand waves in the air as she continues through the crowd.
The lights are low, the bass thumps underfoot, and the floor becomes increasingly sticky as the sea of bodies on the dancefloor gets progressively messier.
Joined by other staff members from around the resort, they jump and laugh and knock back shot after shot, finally making their way back over to the bar area in search of water.
Marlene jumps up on the vacant stool, wolf-whistling at the closest server, a tall woman in braids chuckles at the sight of them.
“Did you let my girlfriend get hammered, Evans?”
“You sent the shots over Dorcas, I’m taking no blame, I will take some water though— for both of us.”
“Not hammered, pleasantly buzzed—” adding in a poorly lowered voice “—and horny as fuck.”
Lily pats Marlene’s shoulder, “On that note, I’m going to jump to the loo, back in a few.”
It’s colder on this side of the building, away from the body heat and bass. The back door window has a layer of white from the night’s snowfall, she shivers at the thought of making her way back to the residence.
In sweet juxtaposition to her thoughts, her body is suddenly cloaked with heat as she collides with a taller, broader person. Hands reach for as she ricochets towards the postered wall, one catching around her waist and the other at her head before it makes contact.
“Ooft, sorry, you ok?”
His voice, rich and smooth, pulls her attention away from his firm grip on her waist, taking pause when she reaches his face. A crease knits his brows together, genuine concern in his eyes — his eyes, chocolate, and caramel intently focused on her, mesmerising.
A breathy, “Wow” falls from her lips.
She’s sure she must imagine the shift in his body, suddenly seeming somehow closer. He’s smiling now too, a dimple cut deep in his left cheek, and she has to fight the urge to stroke it, lick it.
“Wow yourself,” those eyes sweep down her body — barely visible in the dark space — before returning to meet her gaze, then drop to her freshly reapplied blush-glossed lips.
In an impulsive act she knows Marlene will be proud of, Lily closes the distance without hesitance. He tastes of whisky, strong, smoky, intoxicating.
This beautiful stranger doesn’t miss a beat, his arms pull her closer, his tongue dances with hers, swallowing the sounds of pleasure she has no hope of holding in.
She tugs at his hair needing to catch her breath, his mouth moves down her neck leaving cool trails of moisture, his thigh wedged between her legs keeps her upright against the wall. The solid presence of his body tethering her in space and time where she might otherwise float away.
Quite possibly the best kiss of her life she feels completely lost in the moment, his fingers edge beneath her top, braced for a cold that doesn’t come his warm hands send shocks of electricity through her body.
A commotion down the hall breaks the spell, shouts of displeasure from the open door as an inebriated girl stumbles from what appears to have been a wrong turn, slurring an apology.
Lily comes to her aid, offering an arm to support her, leading them in the opposite direction.
At the door to the ladies’ restrooms —the intended destination— she looks back to see him watching, leaning against the wall, running a finger over his bottom lip, hair dishevelled, glasses crooked, looking thoroughly blissed.
Drunk on something stronger than the drinks in the bar.
The feeling of his grip is fading from her skin by the time Marlene appears in the doorway cheeks flushed, and eyes glazed. “You’ve been gone for ages; I grabbed your stuff; I’m going to stay at D—"
Lily tilts her head towards the closed stall door, at the same moment the person inside blows their nose loudly, “I’msosorry, I’ll befine jusgo—“
Lily reassures Marlene that she can handle it, sending her friend on her way.
It takes a further five minutes of cajoling before the girl emerges from the small cubicle, tears of mascara coat her cheeks, eyes red and puffy, her drunkenness given way to emotions.
Making use of the backdoor exit, she manages to get Mary — twenty-three years old from Dublin, new hire, first season, nursing a broken heart — back to her chalet. With an arm around the shorter girl, they make an amusing sight, stumbling through a foot of fresh snow, wrapped in their warmest coats, it is certainly a night she’ll remember, though Mary may not.
Even though the family have arranged their own transport to the residence, the morning passes by in a rush. Usually up and preparing to serve breakfast for eight o’clock, Lily has just finished ironing her shirt when Marlene arrives back at nine fifty-five.
“I know I know, I overslept I’m sorry— How long have I got?”
“They said to have brunch ready for eleven, so not long… I ironed your shirt.”
“You’re a doll, I’ll be fast, quickest shower ever, promise.”
Exiting their shared room, Lily blows her friend a kiss, “I’ll be in the kitchen.”
True to her word, Marlene is by her side in record time.
With the table set and a fire lit, the house is beginning to feel like a home, Lily wonders belatedly if they should have offered to put up decorations for New Years, though there hadn’t been mention of any plans.
The sound of the car arriving on the driveway coincides perfectly with the oven timer and the scent of freshly warmed pastries soon fills the air.
Making a quick dash for the entrance the girls are greeted by warm smiles as an older couple step through the front door, removing their gloves as they approach.
“Hello dears, something smells delicious.” Bright hazel eyes meet them, a friendly hand on either girl’s arm in place of a formal greeting, instantly putting them at ease.
Lily asks the glamorous woman how their journey was and offers to take their coats.
Smiling widely, a strong hand finds its way into hers, “Lovely to meet you Mr Potter.”
His bright eyes sparkly behind glasses, “Please, call me Monty, Mia and I are so pleased to have you both here, John and Theresa— and Benji of course, sing both your praises.”
“Their loss is our gain indeed,” Mia states with certainty.
Marlene bumps shoulders with Lily, preening at the compliment.
“Brunch is about ready; we can bring your bags in first while you get settled if you like?” Lily suggests.
“Oh nonsense, the boys are perfectly capable of carrying in the luggage, they’ll probably be a while though, I believe snowballs were being formed.”
Monty and Mia excuse themselves to freshen up, and the girls return to the kitchen to prepare hot drinks.
Marlene closes the heavy wooden door, popping a few blueberries in her mouth as she retrieves cups and saucers from the Welsh dresser.
“They seem nice, so long as the boys aren’t a nightmare, they mentioned that Mrs Figg was the housekeeper here forever, but they didn’t say anything about babysitting, did they?”
Lily chuckles, “Gods I hope not, I’m sure they’d have mentioned that…”
She can only imagine the change of pace this house will be to the last, where it was mostly weekend trips for extended family and friends or the occasional business acquaintances.
“So—” Her friend sidles up to her, “—you looked rather happy last night, and I may have noticed your bed hadn’t been slept in, I will be requiring details.”
Perfectly manicured eyebrows rise and fall in a little dance, clearly enjoying teasing her friend.
Lily smiles in response, remembering her brief dalliance— a flawless kiss, her thundering heart, his body pressed against her— her tongue swipes her bottom lip as if these thoughts of him have brought his taste to the surface.
“I—”
The sounds of voices manifest from behind the door, getting closer until it’s pushed wide open, a head peering around the edge of the frame.
“Oh hello.”
Seeing that the girls each have a tray in hand, he gestures with one hand while the other holds the door for them to pass through.
The girls exchange a curious expression, being unaware of any further adults joining the family for brunch.
Once everything has been placed on the table, they turn to face the room, Mia stands beside the man who had opened the door, “Where did your brother—” another body fills the space to her right.
“These are our boys, Sirius and James.”
These boys are not twelve years old, not mischievous children or pesky teenagers, these are not boys at all.
Marlene nudges Lily, startling her from her shock.
Lily’s eyes are drawn to the slightly taller of the two, hazel eyes shine behind glasses, a hat presently covering hair she knows the exact feel of, he wets his lips, and she has to bite her cheek to stop herself reacting.
He’s here. He’s actually here.
It’s almost as if he manifested from her thoughts, she wonders if he too is transported to that dark hallway, if he too wishes they hadn’t been interrupted.
Lily can feel her cheeks pink, “Hi—"
“Nice to meet you both,” James’ words cut her off, his outstretched hand reaching to meet them.
An unaffected expression, no sign of recognition, no sign of interest, no sign of anything. He offers a firm shake and then moves on to Marlene, before turning his attention to his family.
Sparks sizzle in Lily's fingertips where his skin touched seconds ago, she flexes her hand in the hope of tampering the heat spreading through her as the memory of last night threatens to consume her. He’s close enough to touch, close enough to hope he doesn’t see the effect a simple brush of hand has on her.
Mia reaches up to steal the hat from his head, chiding him for wearing it indoors. He runs his long fingers through the mess of dark curls, returning his mother's smile, bringing his dimple forth.
Seeing him in daylight, he really is strikingly attractive— bright and beautiful and full of life— she is comforted that her recall of the night before isn’t inflated, only the significance is.
It felt like something more to her, and with that admission to herself, she feels foolish.
They shared one phenomenal kiss, nothing more.
Maybe he doesn’t remember, maybe he does this all the time, maybe he’s embarrassed, maybe—
Marlene releases a nervous giggle, “We were under the impression your boys were much younger, so we prepared hot chocolates, but we can make something else if you’d prefer.”
Sirius laughs as he takes a seat next to Monty, “What do you reckon mum said to give them that idea?”
Monty merely raises an eyebrow as if to say, we all know the tales she could have told, “I’d be happy with a hot chocolate, everything looks great, thank you.”
“Young at heart my dears, I’m sure we’ll all get along swimmingly,” Mia pats James’ hand fondly as they settle at the table.
The smile he wears is one of pure contentment, the table a perfect picture of a family who enjoy each other’s company.
Taking a few slow breaths, Lily edges towards the door, “Well, let us know if there’s anything else you require.”
The sounds of laughter filter through as they enjoy their meal, Lily and Marlene remain in the kitchen where they fall into a natural rhythm of preparation for the evening meal.
She can feel her friend's gaze but refuses to meet it for fear that she’ll want to pick up on their interrupted conversation from earlier. While the facts of last night are the same, the realities have shifted significantly, and Lily hasn’t quite reconciled that yet.
“You’re quiet, you ok?” Marlene asks, washing her hands.
“Fine, tired. I’m going to grab a few bottles; can you check what time they want to eat tonight?”
Her friend nods once, “Sure thing.”
The glass slips from her fingers before it contacts the slate tile. Her body is still below the hatch to the cellar, she looks up to find a handsome face grinning back at her.
Cool grey eyes scanning the label, “Nice vintage.”
“I’ll take your word for it,” she nods, disappearing from sight again and bringing another bottle to the surface.
“Mum asked for a few bottles of champagne to be chilled too, mid-range, you want me to come down?”
Lily lets free a light laugh, knowing now that the boys are older, she expects he’s helped himself to a bottle or two over the years.
“I’ll manage, thanks.”
Emptying her arms, this time it’s Marlene who inspects the bottle, giving her nod of approval, “I’ll get these in the wine fridge, we can always get more later if needed.”
“Anything stronger down there?” Lily hadn’t seen Sirius, perched on a stool at the kitchen counter picking at a random sprig of thyme.
Dusting off her black trousers Lily raises a brow at him, “You really did want down there, ‘eh?"
He meets her question with a shrug.
“What is it you’re looking for? I can get some from the shops.”
“Don’t pander to him, he’s a big boy.” The addition of James’ voice from behind her makes her jump.
“Oh, it’s no bother,” Marlene tells them, “Part of the job description I’m sure, and way easier than babysitting,” her blue eyes meet Lily, lips twitching with amusement.
“Well, that depends on what kind of a drunk he is Marly—”
Sirius looks affronted, squaring his shoulders, “I handle my liquor like a pro thank you very much, won’t puke and won’t get handsy, scouts honour.”
“You? A boy scout, right.” Lily winks at him, ensuring he catches the humour in her response.
James clears his throat, drawing the attention of the group, “Anyways— we should head out, the others will be waiting, and we can grab a flask top-up when we’re out.”
“If you’re sure—” Marlene speaks over her shoulder as she continues to load the dishwasher, “—equipment room is unlocked, let us know if there’s anything.”
Sirius stands, “You don’t want to come with us, do you?”
“You’re all right, we have some cleaning up to do.” Lily nods her head to the pile of thyme-scented green dust he’s left behind, he makes to apologise but she shoos him away.
“Oh, really girls, the place looks just fine, get your skis and make the most of the afternoon.”
Mia has changed into a glamourous slope outfit, the deep purple all-in-one ski suit, cinched at the waist with a black strap that coordinates perfectly with the black fluff lining the hood.
“We don’t actually ski—” Marlene offers with a small shrug, “—but have fun, and we’ll maybe see you out there.”
There’s no time to elaborate as Monty enters the kitchen, ushering the family towards the door which leads to the equipment room, wishing the girls a good day as he exits.
Feathery white clouds litter the bright blue sky, an evening of snowfall to be expected, Lily only hopes the conditions remain ridable for the few hours of sunlight left to their day.
The moment the chair lift drops them, her body buzzes with adrenaline.
One foot already strapped to their boards, they ride them like that to a clear spot so they can attach the other binding and run through their safety checks.
“I can feel it, can you feel it?” Marlene calls to her, setting her goggles in place. She doesn’t wait for a reply, Lily’s face, directed at the sky, her beaming smile says it all.
“Dorcas’ down the bottom, said she’d meet us at the snow park, you ready?”
They bump fists and Marlene leads the way, it’s a familiar dance they’ve manoeuvred innumerable times, they give each other space, always knowing where they’re placed.
Few things in life offer such exhilaration that everything else around you falls away.
Cold crisp air, heartbeat steady in her chest, no thoughts of boys and kisses and what could have been more.
They branch away from the easier blue line, transitioning from the main route towards the red line they favour.
Narrow passages and tight turns, going through a trail hidden by tall trees on either side and the occasional conifer in the middle of the track.
They split around one such obstruction, Lily heading left and Marlene right, seconds out of sight of each other before they’re back in tandem.
Carving parallel lines in the snow the girls make quick switches and small jumps, breathless laughter sang in chorus.
Lily tucks low, gaining speed, weaving ahead of her friend, and taking the lead as they move into the open air, where many runs meet offering one of two choices: continue a smooth descent, or filter towards the park.
Hitting the 50-50 first, Lily shuffles her board along the end, landing and switching backwards to watch Marlene follow, smooth and straight she holds her board as she lifts off, adding flare to the jump landing.
Lily lifts her arm and punches the air in cheer, and actually hears some cheering in the distance.
It’s not unusual at this section, crowds of people sit on the sidelines, catching their breath, waiting for friends, or simply to watching riders practise jumps and tricks.
The single ramp of this section comes up quickly, with the option to bail out to an easy line or make the jump.
Lily sails through the air, her board an extension of herself, she’s flying, weightless, and while it lasts only seconds, she never feels more alive than in the middle of a jump. Rotating three hundred and sixty degrees Lily crouches into an indie grab before levelling out to land.
Marlene follows landing effortlessly.
Cheering again, closer this time.
Lily catches sight of Dorcas' bright orange parka coat, a beacon she insists is a necessity when she works as a guide on off-piste routes.
Slamming on the brakes on the toe side of her board causes a spray of white snow cloud to rain over the small cluster of spectators, two who have sensibly turned from her arrival showing their backs to her.
The white just settling when Marlene follows with the same manoeuvre, much to the amusement of Dorcas and Lily who both expected as much.
“Under six minutes and you nailed those landings, that was sick.” Dorcas holds out her fist to bump Lily’s gloved hand, wrapping an arm around her girlfriend.
Once her breath has been caught and her heart and mind return to earth, Lily lifts her goggles, finding herself under the keen observation of none other than Sirius and James, evidence of their snow shower still glimmering in the sunlight.
“They don’t ski, she says,” Sirius mutters, shaking his head at Marlene, grinning.
At the same time, Remus speaks, “That was killer, Evans, good run?”
“Evans?” James questions.
Remus looks between the two and back to James, looking pleased with himself, “Oh, right, you met?”
“Yeah, we’ve met mate.” He gives nothing away in his expression, eyes hidden behind shades.
“Lupin—”
Remus attempts a coy smile, but his amusement tickles at his lips, forcing them up, a laugh spluttering out as Lily holds her stern glare.
“You fucking knew? You listened to us question what terrors were in store from mischievous children and you knew—”
Remus tosses an arm over her shoulder, “I’m sorry, it was too funny, you would have found out last night if you hadn’t run off—”
Her eyes dart to James at the mention of last night.
They had met, though not in their official capacity and had they been introduced she would have missed out on quite possibly the hottest encounter of her life.
“So, this is who you hang with when we’re not around—” James speaks to Remus, before turning his attention back towards the group with a small nod of his head, “—Nice moves, ladies.”
She wonders if the mention of last night sparks the memory for him, or if he truly thought nothing of it, her eyes sneak glances at him as he banters with his friends, with her friends. Completely at ease, this man shows no sign of conflict.
The group spend the next few hours together, sharing a gondola to higher ground and following Dorcas through some interesting runs.
Lily’s eyes steal to James as he moves with strength and agility, his skill yet another thing she finds attractive about him, making it harder to put thoughts of their encounter from her mind.
So, she keeps her distance, ensuring they’re not paired on the lifts, or left to converse just the two of them. He’s perfectly amiable, including her in small talk with Marlene and Dorcas, enquiring as to their favourite runs and general experience in the slopes.
There’s little opportunity to chat but as they make their way back to town the consensus seems to be to stop for refreshments before calling it a night.
They walk in two’s not wanting to take over the entire pedestrian area.
“Are we getting food? I’m starved.” Sirius reads the passing chalkboard signs as they meander down cobblestone streets.
“Lily—”
A bashful looking girl in a fair isle knitted jumper exits the shop they’re standing in front of, a takeaway cup in her hand, as she skirts around the queue.
“I promise to god I am not stalking you; I was just— I’m so pleased to have run into you, I wanted to thank you again for last night.”
“Unnecessary, you thanked me about ninety times already.”
“Sure well, it’s a first for me. Never expected to get hammered and need escorting home, or that a lovely stranger would insist on sleeping on my floor to make sure I didn’t die or nothing.”
“You’re fine, don’t menti—"
Marlene's voice cuts into her response, “I thought you went home with the guy?”
“Nope—” She clears her throat, “—this is Mary.”
With introductions in place of explanations Lily thinks she’s escaped the follow-ups on the events of the night before, that is, until they’re standing in wait near the window as the boys join the line of people waiting to enter the small café.
“So, who was he?” Marlene presses.
She tries once more to sound casual, “Just some guy.”
Dorcas snorts ungracefully, “Sorry, I’m sorry, it’s just you never hook up, he had to be a little special.”
“I don’t know what to tell you.” An honest response.
Lily can feel her cheek heat, despite the chill in the evening air, her traitorous eyes lift to find James in the queue, she wishes she too had mirrored sunglasses, so she might openly appraise him where he stands, but she quickly turns back to her friends.
Mary’s eyes twinkle, “You were a tad more enthused last night—”
Lily’s eyes go wide, and Mary must see it as her cue to back off, instead changing the subject “—In between talking me out of calling my ex and holding back my hair.”
The bell above the door jingles and she watches the men from their group step into the building, feeling her shoulders relax slightly.
“Fine, ok. He was ridiculously hot, and an excellent kisser, but… I didn’t even get his name, not that—”
“Dammit, even Cinderella left a slipper, maybe we’ll get lucky, and he’ll be here for a while, would you recognise him?”
She wonders what they’d do— these eager women surrounding her— if they were to find out that the man in question has spent the last few hours casually interacting with her, and them, that he’s in fact standing not three meters away, that it turns out he is her employer and has no recollection of their encounter.
Lily bites her lip to stifle the laugh.
Her eyes find him in the café, his back to the window as he places his order, she wonders if he would find it funny too. As if he senses her observation, his head turns to her, a pleased smile tugs at his cheeks as he speaks with the friends to his left, his gaze steady on her.
That dimple, he must know the power that dimple holds, it’s dangerous to go around flashing that at people, she’s thankful to have her boots weighing her to the ground, sure her balance would be altered if she was strapped to her board.
Brought back to reality with the reminder from Marlene that they need to be heading back to work, the girls exchange numbers and make plans to meet again, intentionally this time.
“For you.”
James holds a takeaway cup out to her, the sweet scent of warm apple cider lifts to her nose. Her eyes lock on his, a beat too long, Marlene and Dorcas offer thanks to the others for their drinks, and she realises it’s not special, they all got something.
“Oh, um, thanks, boss.”
He opens his mouth to speak but is cut off before he can respond, Sirius steps forward holding out a rustling bag, offering them a pastry from his selection.
“Moony’s going to come for dinner too, that ok?”
“Yeah, of course, speaking of— we need to get back and get that all organised, so eh’ see you all back there.”
“Sounds to me like she wants rid of us, what do you reckon?”
“Oh no—that’s not—”
“It’s fine Evans, he’s just messing,” Remus assures her.
Dorcas’ parents own the bar where Remus —and occasionally, she, works. Most of the staff live in the building behind the bar, a large three-story house, with rooms to rent and a lot of come and go over the seasons.
The boys agree to head there with them and wait while Remus showers before returning to the Potter chalet.
Mia and Monty are sitting on the porch when the girls arrive back, Marlene checks to see if they need anything before excusing herself to shower before their evening guests arrive.
“Did you have a good afternoon?” Lily asks the couple, organising some dry wood and kindling for the chiminea.
Sitting forward, Mia releases her husband’s hand from between her own, “Yes dear, we did a few runs, just getting into the swing of things, we don’t have the same stamina as you young ones these days. Did you enjoy yourself?”
Lily smiles to herself, she did enjoy herself, not just on the slopes, or doing tricks, or mid-air, she enjoyed the company too, “Yeah we had a good time.”
Once the fire is lit, Lily clears away the basket of wood, tucking it back in its place near the wall, away from any snow that might drift in.
Monty puts his book to the side, removing his reading glasses, “We have another for dinner, the boys are bringing a friend, should have expected that really, I hope that’s all right.”
“Yes, no that’s fine. Sirius mentioned— we, actually spent some time with the boys earlier, we’re friendly with Remus, and he lives with Marlene’s girlfriend.”
Mia beams a wide smile at her, “I had a feeling you’d all get along, that’s wonderful.”
Lily only nods, “I best get on with things, we’ll be around if you need anything, please don’t hesitate.”
“Dinner for eight after a day on the slopes, you have plenty to keep you busy, you let us know if you need anything.” Monty sends a wink her way, she knows he isn’t questioning their ability, simply trying to make things easier on them.
Pleased to have been given advance notice of the evening’s dinner plans, Lily and Marlene completed much of the preparations this morning, so everything is ready to begin cooking as soon as she organises herself.
They hadn’t discussed a uniform with Mr and Mrs Potter, sticking with their usual white shirt and black bottoms, hair pulled up in a high ponytail to keep it out of her way.
Lily picks up a matching black apron, settling it against her hips and pulling the tie around behind her.
“Allow me.”
She releases a small yelp in surprise at the appearance of strong warm hands taking both sides of the ties and pulling the fabric tight against the small of her back.
Twisting her neck to see over her shoulder, she finds his eyes focused on the knot he’s tying, close enough to distinguish the faint scattering of freckles across the bridge of his nose, Lily can feel the release of air as he finishes his task, “All set.”
James lifts his eyes to meet her, his gaze drops to her parted lips, suddenly dry under his scrutiny, unable to voice her thanks, she simply stares back at him.
He doesn’t retreat, much too close to feel casual, she feels her body rock slightly towards him, pulled to his energy, missing connection.
What would he do if she were to touch him now?
Throw her arm around his neck and crash their mouths together, he wouldn’t believe half the things she sees inside her head, things that haven’t happened yet.
“—have to wait until the guests arrive, you are so impatient.”
Marlene appears with Sirius at her heel, breaking the couple from their trance.
James leans past her, opening the drawer to her side, he pulls out a stainless-steel bottle opener and waves it in the air as if it’s a prize.
“You were supposed to get the beers, there’s an opener upstairs, Prongs.”
James returns the tool to the drawer, with a shrug that says no big deal.
He offers Marlene a dazzling smile, as he skirts around her to the pantry, retrieving two bottles from the fridge, “Just a refresher while we get ready, see you ladies in a little while.”
Lily watches them leave, heart still skittering in her chest, his closeness, his touch, making her nerves dance under her skin.
“Wish I was having a beer—” Marlene mutters under her breath, “—I’m knackered, do you want a coffee while we finish dinner?”
Lily nods, feeling the need to sharpen her senses, shake off residual lust building within her.
With dinner running to schedule, Marlene passes through the room on a mission, setting the table for eight requires many backs and fourths to the crockery cupboard.
Lily hears the scuff of feet on the slate floor and assumes it’s her friend, when she turns from the stove to check on the dining room's progress, she’s met with a different sight. James Potter, freshly showered, leaning against the door frame, fitted black trousers, crisp white shirt, openly appraising her.
“You get what you needed Prongs?” Sirius calls from the other room, making his way towards them.
Turning back to the stove Lily can still feel his eyes on her, scorching a path down her back to the knot he tied earlier. It leaves her unsettled, this change in his behaviour, his attentiveness distracting her.
Moving around the kitchen, she hopes she sounds calm when addressing them, “Guests should be here any minute, do you guys need something?”
“Got my flask filled, thanks Red.” Sirius pats his pocket, turning his attention to the man at his side, “Where are your cufflinks, you know they’re expected—”
“Mum doesn’t care,” James rebuts, slowly rolling the white cotton of his sleeve to a halt just before his elbow.
He has nice arms too, Lily thinks to herself, feeling like a foolish schoolgirl with a crush, tallying all his favourable attributes.
A snort of laughter proceeds Marlene, “You know this is back office, right? You can’t just hide out in here… guests are just getting out of their taxi; Mia wants you ready to greet them.”
Sirius lets out a whine that sounds like a dog forced to live inside a cage.
“Stop being dramatic Pads, they’re not so bad.”
When James takes the lead, Lily wraps a hand around Sirius’ arm, “You can hide here anytime you like, I’ve got some tequila stashed.”
A lightness takes over his face, his grey eyes shining silver, “I have a feeling we’re going to be best friends.”
Marlene walks him out, taking coats and making sure everyone has a drink before returning to the kitchen, the next twenty minutes spent adding finishing touches to the meal.
As the head chef for tonight’s meal, Lily stays tucked away out of sight while Marlene delivers the first course, venturing out of the comforts of the kitchen only once the plates are ready to be cleared. Offering refills to everyone’s wine glasses.
“The food was great Evans.” James offers her a wide smile, extending his glass to her.
The sentiment is shared by the others around the table, she waves off the compliments, continuing her task as the group's chatter continues.
Mr Vance lifts his empty glass in her direction but doesn’t acknowledge her, his attention set to the top of the table, “It’s nice to get a hearty meal after a day on the slopes, the catering tomorrow is more refined, but I wouldn’t come hungry if I were you.”
She returns halfway through the main course, while Marlene readies the desserts. Starting at the far end of the room with Monty and sharing a brief exchange with Remus and Sirius, as she progresses up the table.
“Quite the change from Mrs Figg, don’t get too attached, we get through a handful of chalet girls every season, they don’t seem to have much commitment.” Arabella Vance speaks to Mia, with no regard for the girl serving her at present.
“That might say more about the house vibes.” Sirius volleys from his end of the table, earning a barely hidden laugh from Remus and James.
“Vibes?” She rolls her eyes.
Her husband pats her hand conciliatory, “I’m sure Monty and Mia will have better luck than us.”
Mia meets Lily’s eyes, with no hint of concern, “I’m sure we’ll do just fine.”
James doesn’t offer an opinion, perhaps hoping the topic will pass, or maybe too engrossed in conversation with his tablemate.
His hazel eyes lift to Lily when she reaches for his glass, candlelight reflecting in the lens of his spectacles mimicking the heat his attention causes, his thumb lifts, skimming her fingers where she holds the stem of the glass steady.
She doesn’t know what he’s doing, or whether he in fact knows that he’s doing it.
The slightest touch, the look in his eyes, are all contradicted by the words he speaks and the arm he has resting over the chair to his left.
Finished with her task, Lily is almost clear of the table when a fork swoops backwards discarding food and colliding with her chest, the beautiful blonde at James’ side seemingly not noticing her proximity.
Gravy drips down her neck and soaks through her white shirt, she stands frozen for a beat, gritting her teeth to stave off a reaction, “Sorry, I’ll get this cleaned up.”
She excuses herself and flees to the kitchen, hearing a giggle follow her and a flippant, “Oops.”
Marlene is at her side in an instant checking if she’s ok, asking what happened. Lily is quick to brush it off and asks her friend to take her place at the table, with fresh cutlery for Emmeline and to make sure the drinks are all in place.
Lily rushes to the room she shares with Marlene, stripping out of the messy uniform, she finds a fitted black t-shirt to wear in its place and is quick to return to the kitchen, shirt in hand to tackle the stain.
“I think she did that on purpose, that bitch looks far too smug.” Marlene’s words are spoken through gritted teeth as she joins her friend at the sink.
“It’s fine, shirt is fucked but it’s not that big a deal.”
“Mum will buy you a new one, don’t worry about it.”
James’ voice does little to soothe her current state of mind, a muddle of adrenaline, embarrassment, and irritation.
“I didn’t say I was worried.”
He places a dirty dish on the counter, the sign of which spurs Marlene into motion to clear the dining table next door.
James hovers, but doesn’t speak, the same electricity courses under her skin from his presence, less welcomed while she feels on edge.
Retreating to the doorway, as if he needs a safe distance between them, he breaks his silence, “You sure you’re ok?”
Just as she turns to offer a reply, a slender arm loops around his waist, the blonde headed owner appearing a second later, “Come on Jamie, it’s time for dessert, I know how much you love sweet things.”
His eyes are still pinned to Lily, she offers him a final glance before turning away, “Fine boss, thanks for checking.”
Marlene takes care of the rest of the meal, Lily begging off with an embarrassed wave at her appearance, and an offer to make a start on washing the dishes that need to be done by hand.
After they’ve eaten the group settle in the lounge, “champagne and charades,” Remus tells her with a look of regret when he stops in to say hi, seemingly in agreement with Sirius about the character of their guests.
“Should you be doing that in the dark?” Monty asks when he finds her outside chopping wood a while later.
“There’s a light.” She shrugs, setting the axe aside, satisfied that she’s worked through her mood productively.
“The Vance’s are ready to head back, we’re hoping you know which taxi company is the best option?”
Lily locks the shed behind her, picking up the basket at her feet and leading the way back to the porch, “I can drive them.”
“Oh, that’s all right dear, you’ve done plenty tonight, we wouldn’t ask—”
“You didn’t ask, and it’s really no problem, I quite like night drives, it’s quiet.”
“Well, ok then.”
The whole group are gathered around the chimenea, steaming goblets of Marlene’s spiced vin chaud, as they enjoy the spectacular view of snow and stars scattered over mountains.
When she’s attended to the fire, Lily goes inside to tell Marlene the plan, finding her friend perched on the kitchen counter eating a slice of blueberry pie.
“Saved you some, you look like you need it.”
“I’ll get it later, I’m going to play chauffeur, save waiting for a taxi to free up.”
“Drive safe, I’ll probably be in bed when you get back.”
Car keys in hand, Lily returns to the porch, every head turning to her, though it appears the group is half missing, “Just give me five minutes to clear the car and pre-heat it.”
“It’s snowing, are you sure it’s safe,” James asks.
“Seasoned pro Prongs—” Remus answers, before turning to her, “—can I get dropped too Evans? I’ll help you clear the snow.”
“Course.”
“Lindy, Marlene said there weren’t any marshmallows, you wouldn’t mind picking some up on your way back, would you?”
“It’s Lily.” Sirius scowls.
Emmeline smiles sweetly at her, apparently making a point of the fact she isn’t leaving any time soon, and that Lily’s job is to serve.
Remus is quick to jump on that one too, “There aren’t many places open at this time, it’ll be a town over—”
“We can wait, thank you.” Emmeline beams.
James makes to wave off the idea, “You don’t need to do that, we’ll live without.”
Lily can feel him watching her, but she can’t bring herself to meet his gaze, “It’s fine.”
“Evans, I’ll come with to Intermarché, you can just drop me on the way back.”
She moves down one step, turning back to speak only to him, “It’s the job Lupin, I’m not driving past your place to take you on an hour detour, five minutes, I’ll be in the car.”
Mr and Mrs Vance, are fairly pleasant after an evening of drinking, making small talk about the snow and which runs they think are best. Giggling in the back seat, stealing kisses like a couple of teenagers, it lightens the mood for the first half of the drive, at least.
Thankfully there’s only ten minutes between Remus offering his farewell —after a last effort to convince her to let him tag along— and the Vance’s chalet, where before they exit, they make a thinly veiled bid to poach her from their friends.
She smiles politely and wishes them a good night.
Thanks to a closed road, it’s past midnight when Lily returns.
The house is silent as she makes her way through the back door, part of her hopes that everyone has gone to bed even if that means a wasted trip on her part.
That hope it quashed at the sound of giggling, coming from the porch, it seems they could wait.
Lily roots around for skewers, bringing the packet outside along with one of the bags she picked up from the shop.
The sound of splashing stops her in her tracks, the sight in front of her lands like a punch, Emmeline’s head covered in a turquoise beanie hat, the only piece of clothing visible as she soaks in the hot tub, with James.
They don’t seem to notice her. She settles the treats on the table near the chimenea, before adding some wood to the fire, a menial task to level her out.
Extinguishing the voice inside saying that wishes it was her, sharing a hot tub, sharing his midnights.
With her chin lifted, Lily makes her presence known, “I’ll leave these here for you, I’m calling it a night so lock up after yourselves please.”
She doesn’t wait for a response before making her way inside, all the sparks, all the fire inside her have turned to ice, numbness overtaking her as she removes her boots and hangs her coat.
Just breathe, just relax, it’ll be okay.
“Evans—” he sounds slightly out of breath.
Water drips from his hair, down his smooth torso to the towel haphazardly thrown around his waist, a sight that last night was all she could imagine, that several hours ago would have brought her to her knees.
Nothing, she feels nothing.
“Did you need something?”
“What? No— I just—”
“It’s late, so if you don’t need anything else—” Lily steps away from him.
“It’s not what you think.”
“I don’t think anything, I just work here.”
“Lily—"
A flash of something like regret passes across his eyes, but she doesn’t want to listen to what he says, she doesn’t know this person, he’s just some guy and they don’t owe each other anything.
When she reaches the door to the kitchen, she turns back.
She can see him waiting down the hall, his back to her as he leans his head against the wall, one hand fisted in his hair, his back turned to her.
“Oh, and James—”
His head snaps up at her voice, his expression hidden in the shadows, “Yeah?”
“There’s a bucket of sand behind the wood basket, pour a cup over the embers when you’re finished with the fire.”
The only sound that follows is that of the door between them closing.
Overlooking the pie set aside for her indulgence, Lily reaches into her hiding spot in the pantry and pulls a bottle of tequila from its hiding place.
She wonders, not for the first time if it’s actually all been a lie.
Wonders if he remembers their bodies pressed together against the wall, if he remembers the feel of her skin, the taste of her lips.
Wonders now, if his apparent amnesia is in fact the desperate act of a man with a girlfriend who got carried away with a stranger only to be confronted by his mistake.
Sleep doesn’t come easily, and Lily finds herself staring at the ceiling at five am, hours before her alarm is due to go off and no hope of returning to slumber. She gets out of bed with determination, knowing of one tried and tested way to clear her mind and press the reset button.
The snow must have stopped at some point through the night, a cool blue hue settled over the scene from the porch, Lily smiles to herself as she sips on her coffee, a blanket wrapped around her shoulders.
“Is there more coffee?” She turns to find Sirius shuffling his socked feet on the wooden deck.
When she nods her head in the affirmative, he holds his left hand out to stop her from moving, “I can get it.”
“Couldn’t sleep?” He asks when he settles next to her, leaning on the railing, not prying when she offers nothing more than a shrug.
“If you want your peace, I can leave—”
“I was actually going to head up there, fancy it?”
It takes them an hour and a half to trek through the several feet of fresh untouched snow, they make easy conversation as they go until it becomes a more arduous climb.
It’s exactly what she needs.
There is no awkward tension, no hidden truths, or agendas. With Sirius, what you see is what you get, like it or not.
They reach the top of the valley with time to spare, Lily wedges her board into the snow and takes a seat, they sit in silent companionship while they both catch their breath.
“This is one of my favourite spots in the entire world.”
He bumps her shoulder, “I’m honoured.”
Everything is clearer up here, when you tell the mountains your problems, they give you what you need, a moment of clarity, a peaceful release, nature offering the simplest of beauties.
The sun rises.
And with it, Lily feels herself thaw, the warm glow of pinks and orange kiss the surface of the snow, gold trickling down the mountaintops as if touched by the gods.
No matter the troubles, no matter her state of mind, the sun will always rise and start the day fresh.
The perfect start to the last day of this year.
They cut an easy path through the thick powder snow, two sets of tracks down an untouched landscape.
Lily can’t stop the smile on her face as she listens to his whoops of joy, and wild laughter, an elation unable to be stoppered, a freedom felt deeper by those who’ve ever felt trapped.
Sirius still wears a giddy smile when they arrive back at the chalet, passing through the equipment room to the kitchen.
Marlene greets them with a smile, “Looks like you two had fun?”
Sirius swoops past her, following his nose, “It was fucking incredible, but I am starving.”
Lily hugs her best friend, sharing some of her happiness, “Where do you need me?”
They’re late for breakfast but Marlene has it under control, true to the note that Lily left for her they’ve made it before it’s over.
“It’s cool, they’ve had tea and toast and I made scrambled eggs and bacon, no extra requests so should be fine to get something for yourself.”
Pulling out a stool at the counter, Lily leans her head in her hand, “I could use another coffee, and I might have my pie from last night—”
“What time did you get back? Did madam get her stupid marshmallows?”
“Half twelve or so, she did, and I got you a bag too, so don’t be mean.”
“Cool, maybe we can—”
“Morning—” James holds out the coffee pot, “—Sirius finished the coffee, can we get another if it’s not too much bother.”
Lily takes it from his hands, placing it on the counter between herself and Marlene, “Sure, we’ll bring it out in a few.”
If Marlene notices the briskness of their interaction she doesn’t comment, placing the blueberry pie in front of her friend, adding thoughts on how to improve the crust.
Lily brings the fork to her mouth, listening to his feet retrace their steps out, not wanting to think of him at all, not ready to surrender her buzz from her morning ride.
When the coffee has been made, Marlene pours her a cup before taking the pot through to the dining room guests.
“Right, the grown-ups are finished, and Mia just reminded me they’re out for dinner, so we are free the whole night, what say we hit the bar and look for the hottie?”
Inwardly groaning Lily sets her plate in the dishwasher, busing herself with putting things away in the fridge as she answers so she doesn’t have to lie to her friend’s face.
“Yes, to the bar, but I’m not looking for him. It was nothing, just some guy and I think it would be best to just forget about it.”
Marlene is relentless, determined to see Lily set up, “Fine, well if not him, we’ll find someone else for you to kiss at midnight.”
“Can we find me someone to kiss at midnight too?” Sirius’ voice carries into the pantry, Lily laughs to herself, of course, Marlene wouldn’t alert her to his presence.
“What? You don’t have big New Year plans? I thought you two would be heading to the party with your parents?”
‘You two’ Lily waits for a beat, rearranging a shelf that doesn’t need to be touched, her fears are confirmed when James speaks, “No, that’s why mum and dad had the Vance’s over last night because we bailed on their party. The plan was to spend it with Moony and as he’s working that would be The Meadows.”
“Just you two or is Emmeline joining you?”
“Why the hell would she do that?”
Lily can’t stay in here; the jams and preserves don’t need any more shuffling.
James’ eyes are on her the second she re-enters the room, she feels it without the need to check, still aware of his attention, however much she wishes she weren’t.
“Marly, you can head out if you want, I can deal with clean up and everything.”
James clears his throat, drawing their attention, “I spoke to Moony earlier, we arranged to hire Dorcas for a few hours guide off-piste, you’re both welcome to join if you want.”
Lily smiles encouragingly at Marlene, knowing her friend enjoys getting away from the crowds and snow park, and is already privy to the quality powder that awaits them.
No mind to the boys, the blonde rounds the counter and pulls the notepad they use to stay organised from its drawer, nudging her hip against her auburn-haired friend.
“Afternoon tea?”
“I’ll manage, did you have a time in mind?”
“Five?”
“Super.”
From somewhere out of sight Monty bellows a warning, “Twenty minutes.”
Realising they never responded to the invitation, Marlene bounces over to James —a comical height difference between them— “I’ll tag along, thanks.”
Lily aims her response at Sirius, but spares a glance to a brooding James, “Think I’ve already peaked today, but you guys have fun.”
Time passes in a pleasant blur of classic rock and cleaning, before she knows it, a timer is going off and she’s lifting a tray of scones from the oven ready for everyone’s arrival.
The hardest task is choosing from the enviable selection of homemade jams in the pantry, colourful handwritten labels with small illustrations sketched around the edges, strawberry and verbena, Mirabelle plum and linden blossom, peach, and jasmine flower.
Lily arranges a table in the lounge so the group can enjoy their treats in the comfort of the soft furnishings, the fire warming the space and creating a cosy homely feel.
With a five-minute warning from Marlene, she has hot drinks ready as soon as they unbundle from their outside clothes, she shouldn’t be surprised to find that Sirius is the first to the table, stacking his plate eagerly.
“Please join us Lily, we’ve so enjoyed getting to know Marlene today.”
It’s hard to say no to Mia’s request, especially when Marlene has already agreed, so once everyone has been served their drinks and has helped themselves to their snack of choice, Lily prepares one for herself.
Barely finishing her first bite, Marlene turns to her friend, “I see you made rocky road; I hope you didn’t use all the marshmallows.”
“’Eh there should be another full bag, Emmeline never got to opening them,” James tells them, not looking up from his plate.
“You’re joking, after all that and the detour—” Sirius seems more put out than Lily.
“Well, I wouldn’t have been making these if I hadn’t stopped in for them so, it’s not a waste.”
Her back still to the group as she spreads some of each of the jams on her scone, she can feel James watching her, though his words when he speaks are directed to Sirius, “She left not long after Lily returned, got a taxi back.”
“Lovely scones dear, they have the perfect crumb.”
Whether by design or not, Monty’s compliment moves them away from the subject of Emmeline, and for that Lily is thankful.
She’s not sure what to do with the information, she has no reason to feel relief, it shouldn’t matter, it doesn’t matter, it doesn’t really change anything at all.
But as she continues to chat with the older couple, learning that Mia makes the jams from their garden produce during summer, discussing some of her rarer compilations and some failures along the way, Lily’s mind keeps returning to one thought.
Emmeline didn’t stay over.
At half past six, Mia tells the girls they are officially off the clock, encouraging them to enjoy their night and wishing them a happy new year.
As the party the older couple are attending is being held in a five-star luxury hotel, Monty, they’re told, has surprised his wife with a night away, arranging for Mia to have her hair done and planning to lounge in the spa in the morning.
What is a night off, suddenly becomes a morning after off too.
“Now, the boys can cook for themselves if they aren’t eating out, so you aren’t obliged to feed them, but they’ve been told you’re both in charge of the kitchen and they aren’t to get in your way.”
Parting words spoken to all four.
With Marlene’s help, Lily and she pack away all the treats and tidy the kitchen, again. While she’s filling the dishwasher, she senses James come in, soundless she notes his socked feet from her crouched position.
He helps himself to two bottles of beer, making small talk with Marlene as he closes the distance with Lily, he reaches into the drawer and removes a bottle opener, making use of it and then setting it on the counter.
As he makes for the door, she turns to watch him leave, he smiles in her direction, sparks in his eyes as he looks behind her and then back to her pointedly, “Maybe see you later ladies.”
“He’s into you.” Marlene singsongs, her left eyebrow raised.
Hiding the rising heat in her cheeks Lily turns back to the counter, her hand stilling when she pulls a piece of folded paper from beneath the bottle opener, her mind echoes with Sirius’ voice from yesterday ‘There’s an opener upstairs, Prongs.’.
Ignoring her friend's teasing, and slipping the paper into the waistband of her leggings Lily turns, “So, what are you wearing tonight?”
Lily checks her reflection one last time, trying hard to look like she’s not trying.
Black thermal leggings, a red lace bralette, a black sheer shirt over the top, smoky eye make-up and a swipe of blush gloss and she’s ready for the night to unfold.
The family have all left for the night, so they run through the house checking everything is locked up, take a shot of tequila each to prepare them for the cold outside, and then they’re ready to leave.
The whole evening and the walk to the bar, Lily can’t stop seeing the look on his face, the spark in his eyes, the words on the note he left for her, ‘meet me tonight’.
She doesn’t know what it means, or what she wants it to mean.
The Meadows is packed, New Year's Eve and it seems nobody stayed home.
They pass their jackets and bags to Dorcas who in turn lines them up with shots and two bottles of beer for chasers.
Wasting no time, they’re quick to move to the dancefloor where they find friends, including Mary and her cabinmate Georgie.
The music flows through her, she can feel his eyes on her as she dances, sparks skittering under her skin. He finds her amidst the crowd, two strong hands on her hips, pulling her body against his, without turning she recognises his touch.
His breath tickles her ear, “You’re avoiding me.”
“Am I?”
“All day, you’ve been—”
“Did you need something?”
“No—Yes, fuck. Lily, we need to— can we talk?”
She sees Mary watching her a coy smile pulling at her lips, she tugs on Marlene's wrist drawing her attention to the scene unfolding.
Very aware of his hands on her hips, very aware of his chest at her back, of his rapid breathing. She turns in his arms and looks up to find the golden flecks in his eyes melted in the darkness, she licks her lips and blows out a slow breath to steady herself.
“Talk?”
He nods, guiding her backwards out of the crowd, determined strides that meet no resistance.
“Nothing is going on with me and Emmeline—” he says when they reach a quieter spot, “—nothing has even been going on been me and Emmeline.”
“O—Kay.”
Her back hits a wall, she hadn’t taken in her surroundings until this moment and her eyes go wide when she realises.
His fingers clench against her, something spoken in the silence between them, an understanding.
“You do remember.”
He sucks in a breath, “I heard Marlene… when she said your bed hadn’t been slept in, I—”
“I crashed on Mary’s floor.”
“I know that… I know that now.”
Her breath hitches, they are impossibly closer, hearts thumping against each other, calling to each other.
They collide like two stars, sparks at every point of connection, their lips, his hands on her waist, her hands in his hair, consumed by the heat of the moment they don’t even feel time moving.
“I can’t stop thinking about you, I don’t want to be just some guy.”
“What do you want to be James?”
“Yours.”