#lcvecialsfics

[lcvecials]

NEVER SAY NEVER ━━━ JAMES POTTER !

summary ━━━ chapter one: in which a lily-hazed james assumes you’re asking him out and rejects you…his new potions partner for the rest of term. pairing ━━━ james potter x reader (eventually) content ━━━ no warnings, hogwarts!era, hogwarts rivals, fem!slytherin!reader, second person pov, 1.7k words.

✴︎ masterlist | ౨ৎ this is chapter one | ౨ৎ chapter two

The minutes slowly crawl by as Slughorn’s jovial voice fills the humid classroom.

It doesn’t take a Legilimens to see that there’s only one thing on any of the students’ minds—and it’s certainly not the properties of toxin neutralizing agents found in bezoars.

The entire class is still. Everyone poised at the edge of their seats, waiting for him to finally get to the list.

The dreaded, dreaded list.

Why Slughorn decided to randomly pair Gryffindors and Slytherins together for the rest of the term—nobody knows; but it certainly adds a new layer of tension to the room.

“Black and Meadowes.” The professor finally announces the first pair.

Next to you, Dorcas rolls her eyes. “Of course I get the most dramatic one.” She mutters under her breath.

Your lips curl in amusement at her words, and Slughorn continues going down the list.

“Snape and Evans.”

Multiple people tense up at that one, and you already know the inescapable castle gossip will be whispering about those two for days.

You finally hear your own name, staring at Slughorn as he determines what the rest of your term is going to look like.

“…and Potter.”

In the corner of your eye, you see James turn to look at you from across the room.

You stay perfectly still.

You suppose you could have worse—like Black or Pettigrew. You know you could also have better—like Evans or Lupin.

But Potter?

He’s less predictable than his friends.

If it were Black, you know you’d likely wind up doing all the work yourself; with him being too put off to work with a snake.

Pettigrew would at least try, but ultimately get too scared to be alone with a Slytherin—on top of lacking enough knowledge about the actual topics to be of any real use.

Both Evans and Lupin would put aside their discomfort to do the work together; but where Evans would be cautious and reserved—Lupin would be at least somewhat open, and by far the easiest Gryffindor to work with.

But with Potter, it’s a genuine galleon toss.

As much as you loathe to admit it—for someone who likes to run around with his hooligan friends doing the stupidest things in his free time, James is a capable student.

You’re just not sure if he’s capable enough to put aside his distaste for Slytherins and actually work with you.

Alas, there’s unfortunately only one real way to find out; and as your head of house ends the class detailing the first paired assignment—you resign yourself to a due conversation with Potter.

But after packing up your things and turning your head to his seat, you find he’s already gone.

The other Gryffindors—save for Lily, are still there; reluctantly discussing with their new partners. And when you look at Snape’s usual spot, he’s missing too.

Irritation flairs in your stomach as you clench your jaw.

You know it’s no coincidence that those three specifically are already gone.

Any other day, you really wouldn’t care. What Potter does—and what anyone else does in their free time, is none of your business.

But both common sense and common courtesy says James could have at the very least, put aside his love triangle dramas for two minutes to sort out a time and day to meet up and do the assignment.

Salazar, even Black stayed back to speak with Dorcas!

Exiting the classroom—you take a chance on a random direction and start walking, scanning the corridors carefully, hoping to find James’ distinct head of curls.

“Looking for that Potter boy, darling?” One of the nearby portraits speaks up, and you turn your head.

“Hello, Lady Aveline.” You say, giving the portrait a respectful nod.

Lady Aveline had been a well respected alchemist during her time, her portrait sitting just in between Sir Reginald the Watchful and Barnaby the Bard.

You’ve become quite familiar with her over the years, and chat often in passing. After all, it doesn’t hurt to have a pair of castle eyes on your good side.

Nodding, you continue. “I am. Have you seen him come by this way?”

The woman nods. “Sure did, dear. With that red headed witch he likes to chase.”

You barely refrain from rolling your eyes. You already had your suspicions, but the confirmation only serves to fuel your irritation.

Before you can respond, Sir Reginald joins the conversation.

“Don’t forget the other one, Linny.” He speaks up, tone dripping with affection when he says her name.

The man has been crushing on his portrait neighbor for years, and it’s apparent to all the other portraits in the castle except for Aveline herself.

If you weren’t so irritated at your potions partner, you would’ve smiled. Instead, you raise a brow.

“The other one?” You assume he means Snape, but ask anyway.

You’d like to know what you might be walking into when you find James. Constant vigilance.

Reginald nods. “Yes—tall, lanky, pale, abnormally large nose-”

“Reggie!” Aveline cuts him off, stepping into his portrait to gently smack his arm.

“We do not insult students.” She scolds, crossing her arms.

Reginald blushes—can portraits even blush?—as he looks at the blonde woman sheepishly. “Sorry, Linny.”

You shake your head in amusement, continuing your search. “Thank you, Lady Aveline, Sir Reginald.”

Taking a chance on another turn, you finally see the boy you’re looking for.

James’ back is facing you, the tail end of his sentence echoing through the empty corridor as a flash of red hair disappears around the corner in front of him.

“I’ll be waiting for you in the common room, Lily-pad!”

Snape is nowhere in sight.

Good. You can make this quick.

Walking up to James, you tap his shoulder.

The brunette startles, turning around instantly, eyes wide. “Merlin- why are you so quiet!?” He exclaims.

You ignore his question, getting right to the point. “Are you free this Saturday, two o’clock?”

Typically, you like to get your assignments done earlier—preferably on school days.

Unfortunately, Slughorn just so happened to spring these partners onto the class during the one week you have two papers and an exam due before Friday.

You’re not touching that assignment until Saturday.

When all James does is stare at you silently, you cross your arms. “Did you hear me?”

You’ve never seen Potter at a loss for words before—and there’s something to be said about the fact that the one time you want him to speak, he’s speechless.

“Saturday, two o’clock.” You repeat yourself, trying not to let the irritation you feel bubble over. “Are you free?”

James blinks, slowly stuttering back to life as he adjusts his glasses.

You’d be willing to bet it’s a nervous habit he doesn’t even realize he has.

“Listen…” he trails off for a moment, voice oddly gentle. “I’m flattered, really—but my heart already belongs to Lily.”

You blink up at him. “…What?”

He smiles sympathetically—apologetically, and shrugs. “I can’t go on a date with you when I have feelings for someone else. Wouldn’t be right.”

A moment of silence.

And then another.

The lid you’d so carefully kept over your boiling irritation goes flying off once you finally process.

James Potter thinks you’re asking him out.

James Potter thinks you’re asking him out.

Of all the things you can and want to do in that moment, you surprise even yourself when you laugh.

He blinks at you in confusion, frowning softly as he shifts from foot to foot. “Um…”

“You seriously think I would want to go on a date with you, Potter?” You cut him off, looking at him incredulously.

“I was asking if you were free to meet up so we could do our potions assignment.” You make your intentions crystal clear.

“Perhaps you would’ve cared to think about that if you’d stayed for a minute longer to speak to your potions partner.” You go on.

“Instead, you were—unsurprisingly, chasing after Evans’ coattails. I didn’t need you to tell me you have feelings for her, Potter. Salazar knows you announce it to the entire castle often enough.”

James is stunned, miraculously still silent as you step closer.

“I would never go on a date with you, Potter.” You say simply. “And while we’re at it, forget about Saturday. I’ll do the assignment myself.”

You walk away before he can respond, internally cursing Slughorn for his stupid inter-house unity attempts.

But James chooses that moment to finally spark back into action, and he falls into step beside you within seconds.

“Why?” He asks, staring at your face like he could will the answer out of you with a look alone.

“Because this partner thing clearly isn’t-” You start, only to be cut off by him almost immediately.

“Not that. Why wouldn’t you go on a date with me?” He asks, both his gaze and his step never wavering.

You look up at him like he’s insane—because truthfully, you’re starting to think he is. “Why would I go on a date with you?”

He frowns at that, brows drawing together—confusion first, then something else. Something quieter.

“I’m a good boyfriend.” He defends himself. “I know how to treat a girl right.”

You stop walking at that, turning to face him head on again.

“You’re arrogant, loud, and inconsiderate. How can you claim to be a good boyfriend when you’re still stuck trying to get a girl to be your girlfriend? You’ve been chasing the same witch that’s consistently told you ‘no’ for almost your entire school life and yet you expect me to think you know how to treat a girl right?” You don’t mince your words.

If he wants to know, then you’re not inclined to keep it from him.

You resume your walk, even as James remains rooted in his spot.

“You’re wrong, you know!?” He calls out to your back, just as you reach the corner. “I may not be perfect, but I can be a good boyfriend!”

“Whatever helps you sleep at night, Potter.” You say, just loud enough for him to hear before you disappear around the corner.

You’re out of earshot by the time James speaks again—still staring in the direction you’d walked, murmuring more to himself than anything.

“Oh, I’ll prove it to you. Just you wait, love.”

You have no idea what you’ve just started.

©lcvecials ━━━ all rights reserved. do not copy, translate or share my work on other media platforms.

note ━━━ this idea has been sitting in my head and i finally got the time to do it, yay! hope you angels enjoy!

— H.R.

[lcvecials]

NEVER SAY NEVER ━━━ JAMES POTTER !

summary ━━━ chapter three: in which james makes you regret your words almost instantly. pairing ━━━ james potter x reader (eventually) content ━━━ no warnings, hogwarts!era, hogwarts rivals, fem!slytherin!reader, second person pov, 2.0k words.

✴︎ masterlist | ౨ৎ chapter two | ౨ৎ this is chapter three

It takes all of ten minutes in Potions for you to realize that it in fact, had been the sleep deprivation.

You’re taking notes as Slughorn lectures, steadfastly ignoring James—who’s seated beside you.

His eyes haven’t left Evans once since Snape took up a seat next to her at the beginning of class, and every few minutes—he mutters something under his breath that unfortunately, your proximity gives you no choice but to hear.

“Letting Snivellus a bit close, no?” He grumbles for the fourth time, glaring at the pair sitting in front of you.

You clench your jaw as you finish writing another bullet point, ink bleeding into the page at your hand’s pressure.

Today’s class requires each pair to make an antidote to common poisons.

Fairly mild in terms of difficulty—but just as any other potion, it still requires a level of attention and detail.

Neither of which your partner has demonstrated so far, and when Slughorn sends the class off to begin the potion making—you’re already irritated.

Just as you’re rising from your seat to go and retrieve the ingredients from the supply closet, James beats you to it.

“I’ll get the stuff.” He says, walking off before you even have the chance to respond, trailing behind Evans into the closet.

Of course.

Potter’s jealous ego is back and insistent as ever, it seems—and it even comes with tunnel vision as a bonus today.

You follow after your partner with an annoyed roll of your eyes.

How he planned on retrieving the proper ingredients is beyond you, considering that he hadn’t bothered to take a single note of instruction during the lecture.

And as expected, James is instantly lost when he steps into the closet—scanning the shelves with a confused tilt of his head.

You shake your own, side stepping him and beginning to sift through the shelves.

Evans stands on the opposite side of the room, your backs facing each other as she too, gathers ingredients.

The atmosphere is thick with silent tension, and even though you can’t see him at the moment—you know your partner is struggling to decide who to join.

He’s standing in the middle of the closet, and you can hear the swish of his robes every time he turns to look at either one of you.

And just like every other little thing Potter does, it only serves to fuel your irritation.

You understand that he’s in love with Evans and that Snape re-entering her life in this way is…worrying; but you also understand time and place.

And of course, because Potter doesn’t; he opens his loud mouth.

“What kind of wizard makes a witch grab the ingredients on her own?” He asks rhetorically, the sound of his footsteps distancing from you.

Addressing Evans, of course.

“Thought Snivellus had a knack for these things.” He goes on sarcastically, as if he’s not currently being ignored—or in turn, ignoring his own partner.

You roll your eyes again as you swipe a jar of powdered bezoar off the shelf—the last of the ingredients on the list, before exiting the closet without a word.

Impeccable timing on your part, truly. The hypocrisy permeating the room had been starting to get to your head.

Dorcas raises a brow as you pass her and Black’s station, and you give her a look. After a moment, she nods.

You two will definitely be debriefing later.

After setting down all the ingredients and looking over your notes once more, you carefully begin chopping the bellflower roots—jumping right into it.

With a partner now reaching Pettigrew levels of ignorance regarding today’s lesson, you really have no class time to spare. Every second counts.

Snape stands in front of you as you work, already having his and Evans’ station cleaned and prepared properly. A moment later, she joins him, and he helps her begin prepping ingredients.

You can’t help but quietly watch for a moment.

The way they move so seamlessly and easily—as a team, fills you with a jealousy entirely different from your partner’s.

It’s almost reminiscent of the way you and James had worked together in the library last week; a vision that feels unobtainable now that Evans is directly in his line of sight.

Or because he no longer has a misplaced point to prove in order to soothe his ego—and therefore no motivation to actually just be a good potions partner.

Truthfully, you’re still deciding.

As if on cue, James appears at your side just as you finish chopping, looking frustrated as his gaze remains fixed on the two in front of you.

Wordlessly, you move on from the bellflower and begin crushing some of the collected mistletoe berries; grinding them into a fine powder as you let him stew in his self-pity.

As far as you’re concerned—you’re here to do potions, not play mind healer.

Although, it’s rather clear that words had been exchanged between him and Evans following your exit. It certainly doesn’t take a mind healer to deduce that one.

You can see it in the way he’s standing, his shoulders stiff and fingers curled into fists.

And when you look at Evans again, you see it in her too, now.

The way she moves so deliberately—ensuring that her back remains pointed to Potter at all times.

It certainly hadn’t been a nice conversation.

Whatever was said, it’s enough to keep Potter silent for the remainder of class; and unfortunately for you—equally as unhelpful, too.

In the entire hour and a half that it takes to brew the antidote, Potter does exactly one thing.

You’re about to add the powdered berries into the cauldron when James gently catches your wrist mid-movement.

“Wait—five more seconds.” He murmurs, the heat of his fingers seeping into your skin slowly.

When you look down at the potion again, you realize it’s still cloudy—less visible now, actively waning—but enough that your mistake could have caused a terrible accident.

A myriad of emotions flits through you during those five seconds; embarrassment at your slip-up and thankfulness that he caught it in time being some of them.

But largely, you’re just frustrated.

Because he did one thing.

Because the fact that he’d managed to prevent an accident from occurring means that—to some degree—he had been listening during lecture.

That he in fact did know the lesson and was simply choosing not to do his part properly.

Choosing not to take your partnership seriously.

Merlin, it’s simply childish and insulting at this point.

And after it’s all said and done and you’ve finally presented your antidote to Slughorn; you don’t linger for a second.

You’re out of the door before James has even finished packing, heading back to your common room without breaking stride.

The universe must be attempting to apologize for its egregious error in allowing Potter to be your partner—because as soon as you step inside, you’re blessedly greeted with the very people you’d been looking for.

Dorcas is lounging on one of the loveseats with Pandora, her long legs splayed out over the blonde’s.

You don’t linger on them for too long, trying not to think about how Dorcas beating you back to the common room means even Black had done more in class today than Potter.

Perpendicular to them; Regulus sits by himself in an armchair, flipping through a book while he goes about his daily routine of peacocking—perfectly crossed ankles, a straight but never stiff posture, one arm resting on the chair just so, and his book perfectly angled to show off his sharp jawline.

The brat.

Barty and Evan occupy the loveseat across from Dorcas and Pandora, laughing at something someone had said before you’d walked in.

Regulus is the first to address you as you settle in the armchair across from him, tilting his head ever so slightly as he looks up at you.

“Talking to the portraits again?” His voice smoothly cuts through your friends’ laughter, attracting the rest of the group’s attention now, too.

You let out a breath through your nose, leaning back into your seat. “Oh, I certainly wish.”

Dorcas looks at you incredulously now, sitting up straight. “Wait, no way you’re only getting back from Slughorn’s now.” She says, brows raised in disbelief.

“That’s what tends to happen when Potter is too busy staring at the back of Evans’ head instead of helping me do the potion.” You mutter, annoyance dripping from every word.

Regulus closes his book now, slightly more intrigued by your words—and Pandora tilts her head in concern.

“Since when are you and Potter potions partners?” Barty scrunches his nose in distaste as he says his name, and Evan gives him a look.

“Since Slughorn made their class pair up with Gryffindor. We talked about it at dinner last week, Crouch!” He shakes his head incredulously, and Barty turns his head, offended.

“She never said she got paired with him!” He points at you as he tries to defend himself.

And with that, all eyes are back on you once more.

You sigh. “He mistakenly thought I was asking him out and I snapped at him. He then later tried to course correct by acting overly chivalrous and completely out of character. I snapped at him again and then told him to just be himself instead—and then he spent our entire class today sulking like a jealous child because of Snape and Evans instead of helping me do anything—oh, except for the part where he stopped me from adding an ingredient too early and then went right back to catatonic but standing.” You do your best to summarize, ranting, really.

“And the worst part is that part of me feels like I don’t even have the right to be upset because I quite literally asked for this.”

The breath you let out after speaking is heavy, but you instantly feel lighter after letting it out—and it makes you wonder why you hadn’t talked to them about this sooner.

Dorcas and Barty are rolling their eyes, but Pandora is smiling at you in understanding.

“You definitely do. Partnerships are meant to distribute work equally.” She says, her voice a gentle lilt.

Her reassurance makes you feel validated instantly, and you let yourself relax a little.

“Indeed. You asked for him to be himself, not a slacker.” Regulus says, before re-opening his book like that’s the end of the conversation.

You roll your eyes at him, the corner of your lip curling up ever so slightly.

A brat indeed, but a lovable one.

“I wish I’d thought that sooner.” You admit. “I was so upset—with both him and myself, that I just left without a word.”

“Pity.” Barty smirks, earning another smack from Evan.

“So no portrait detours today, then?” Regulus inquires again sarcastically, still reading his book.

You huff out a soft laugh. “No, you little twat. No portraits today.”

The rest of the group joins in on the laughter as the Black boy’s head snaps up at your insult.

“You witch.”

“You wizard.” You smirk.

Barty is cackling now, and Regulus turns to glare at him.

“I don’t know what you’re laughing at, Crouch. If I’m a twat, then you’re the arse attached to it.”

Barty’s jaw drops, and your eyes widen in shock.

Did that really just come out of Regulus Black’s mouth?

“Reggie!” Pandora lets out a scandalized gasp—which sends Dorcas tumbling into another bout of laughter.

It isn’t long before the whole group is in titters again—this time at Barty’s expense instead.

Regulus leans back in his seat, the faintest hint of a smirk on his lips as he turns another page. Silently reveling in the chaos he’d created, the brat.

You’re laughing too—genuinely, and it takes you a few moments to finally settle again.

Barty is taking his time glaring at each person respectively as they come down. “I hate you. I literally hate all of you.”

As you look at your friends, your smile slowly softening into something more neutral again; you realize you no longer feel so irritated.

Your Potter problem has yet to be solved by any means, but you certainly feel more confident about getting there—and that’s thanks to them.

Tomorrow, you’ll talk to Potter.

Tomorrow, you’ll figure it out.

But today? Potter has taken up enough of your time.

tag list 🏷️ ━━━ @novausstuff @sweetstrawberrianne @pottermagiczz @xalemiyum @devilsnightz @lonaah @bmyva1entine @eliiiiiiieeee @tiaajosephin @bbning @fayezasstuff @watersquirtpewpewboomm @evil-genius-wannabe @hopefulmiffy @hoshi-is-ult-bbg @death-be4-decaf @readingnerd9999 @strawrrbies @bridkesby @seleneblack16 @theadharablack @uwantagoodbhloe @siriusblackcantbite @ennycutie @turquoisenintendo64 @whichwitchisthebitch @eneywey @ladyhesperus @rishtish @cultish-corner @ladycaramelswirl @minkyungseokie @mythology-dragon @theravenphoenix26 @fluorjscent

©lcvecials ━━━ all rights reserved. do not copy, translate or share my work on other media platforms.

note ━━━ some unresolved conflict w a side of apologies for taking so long to post 😭 hope you angels enjoy!

— H.R.

[lcvecials]

NEVER SAY NEVER ━━━ JAMES POTTER !

summary ━━━ chapter two: in which james takes your conversation in the corridor seriously. pairing ━━━ james potter x reader (eventually) content ━━━ no warnings, hogwarts!era, hogwarts rivals, fem!slytherin!reader, second person pov, 2.9k words.

✴︎ masterlist | ౨ৎ this is chapter two | ౨ৎ chapter three

Saturday arrives in a blur of long afternoons and even longer nights pouring over notes and previous lessons.

With your papers now complete and exam done, this potions assignment is the last thing standing in the way of you, and an entire weekend spent blissfully sleeping.

You’re pulling out your textbook when James comes strolling into the library.

Two o’clock on the dot.

The chair next to you scrapes against the floor as he pulls it out and you narrow your eyes as you look up at him.

“What do you think you’re doing?”

James smiles, completely unperturbed by your glare—a gesture you find quite insulting—and plops himself down into the chair.

“Working on an assignment with my potions partner.” He answers. “On the time and day we agreed.”

Your glare intensifies. “We didn’t-”

“Should’ve agreed.” He corrects himself while simultaneously speaking over you.

The nerve.

You have never met a person who makes you tick like James Potter.

Internally? It drives you mad.

Externally?

You let out a slow breath through your nose, forcing yourself into a calm you don’t feel—and retrieve your quill and inkwell from your bag.

“I compiled a list of books we can borrow from the library for references.” It’s your way of letting him stay without actually saying it.

James looks pleasantly surprised at your words, raising his brows and tilting his head.

He looks like a puppy.

The thought floats into your brain before you can stop it, and your quill almost snaps at the sudden strength of your grip.

It’s the sleep deprivation.

“That’s very…proactive. You sure you belong with the snakes? Think ol’ Sorty should’ve put you in Ravenclaw instead.”

It’s a casual response, almost conversational—but you’re too busy staring at the red headed witch that just walked in.

Ah.

So there’s the real reason he came to the library today.

Looking back at your potions partner, you gesture to your notebook. “You go look for the first five, I’ll go look for the second five.”

That way, when he inevitably gets distracted by Evans, you can at least occupy your time completing half of the assignment.

You duplicate the page, standing up and handing it to James, only to realize that he still hasn’t moved.

“Are you glued to your seat, Potter?” You raise a brow, barely able to contain the sarcasm in your voice.

“Please.” He says, smiling lightly, and you pause.

“…What?”

“You forgot to say ‘please.’” He clarifies.

You feel your eye twitch, and you take a step closer. “I’m sorry, am I understanding correctly—that you, James Potter, are trying to remind me of my manners?”

Oh, how you loathe the way he looks at you utterly unfazed.

“Forgot a ‘thank you’ as well.” He nods.

“You forgot to mention you were even going to be here today.” You shoot back, glaring.

“You asked me to be here, though.” He retorts, pausing to lift a finger. “Without a ‘please’ or a ‘thank you’ that time either, might I add.”

Yes, you have never met a person who makes you tick like James Potter, indeed.

“Go and get the first five books.” You say, smiling sarcastically. “Please and thank you.”

Instead of moving, he tilts his head—an amused smile playing on his lips. “Not quite what I was going for, but that’s a good start.”

Finally, he stands up—his surprisingly warm fingers brushing against your own as he grabs the duplicated list out of your hands.

Gripping your notebook, you nod and disappear into the stacks without another word; ignoring the way your heartbeat is just a little too fast for normal.

It’s the sleep deprivation.

It doesn’t take you long to gather the books, and when you return to the table—you’re surprised to find James right behind you.

Your eyes cut to Evans, who’s sitting across the room; and you swear you catch a flash of her green gaze darting away from your direction.

You have no doubt it’s because the boy next to you has yet to acknowledge her even once since she’s walked in—and it’s been over five minutes.

And when the boy next to you is James Potter and she’s Lily Evans?

Simply unheard of.

You’re confused too; but you’re also too tired to really care. Whatever gets you to your bed fastest.

James puts down his pile of books first as you near the table, before grabbing your own and doing the same.

You furrow your brows in confusion at the helpful action.

He says nothing, wordlessly pulling out your chair before taking his own seat.

You stare at him, expression blank as you slowly follow suit. “What are you doing?”

Much to your annoyance, he just tilts his head and smiles lazily. “We goin’ over this again, love?”

Your eyes narrow. “Don’t play daft, Potter. You know what I’m talking about.”

He holds his hands up surrenderingly, still smiling. “Alright, don’t hex me.” He laughs.

You don’t laugh with him.

Letting out a soft sigh, James leans back in his chair and shrugs, stretching out his long legs beneath the table. “S’just basic manners, innit?”

You’re not falling for his sudden air of nonchalance by any means—but you also don’t quite care enough to press it right now.

Not when your bed is calling to you like a siren, and you can practically taste your next sleep.

Looking down at the worksheet from Slughorn and then your list, you grab the first book in your pile and begin flipping through the pages.

“I already noted which title answers which question on the worksheet. Now all we need to do is find the correct pages.” You explain.

James blinks at you in bewilderment. “How did you already know that?”

In truth, you’d simply gone up to Slughorn and asked him which titles he recommended using to complete the worksheet.

He’d laughed, enjoying the duality of both the simplicity and creativity it took to simply approach the professor and ask for the answers.

And then he’d proceeded to give you exactly that—under the one condition that you told no one.

So you just shrug at James’ question. “Read all these books before and the question topics were familiar.” You dismiss.

Is it a form of favoritism? Perhaps.

Do you care? Not when it benefits you.

James might think that you belong in Ravenclaw, but you know you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

You can feel that he doesn’t quite believe your excuse, but he also doesn’t push it.

And as you two begin to complete the worksheet—you find yourselves working surprisingly well together.

The assignment is done far sooner than you’d expected, and before you can even put your quill down; James is clearing the table and placing all the books on the re-shelving cart.

He takes it a step further by rolling up the parchment, capping your inkwell, and then grabbing your book bag and holding it open for you to put everything inside the way you prefer.

Wordlessly, you do it, not interested in dissecting why you’re letting this happen at the moment.

It’s the sleep deprivation.

He looks like he’s about to say something, but then his eyes dart behind you and fix there.

“Managed to lose Snivellus in the stacks, did you, Lily-pad?” He smirks.

And there it is. He finally acknowledges her.

The universe is restored. The wizarding world is saved. Hooray.

You can see other students peeking up from their books now, staring at the scene before them—and internally, you sigh, because truthfully?

You’re not the least bit surprised.

Leave it to James Potter’s jealous ego to start up a confrontation in the library.

But when his question is only met with silence for a moment, you turn around to see Evans glaring.

After a moment of hesitation, she lets out a breath and straightens her shoulders. “Snape may have his faults, but there’s no need to resort to petty name calling.”

You feel James stiffen from behind you, and even you are surprised at the witch’s words.

Everyone knows of the infamous day Severus Snape and Lily Evans stopped being friends. The red head had—notably—become more open to James’ advances after that incident as well.

Although, you suppose a few days of forced partnership between former best friends would be a way to mend a broken friendship.

Or at least start to, anyway.

“Are you defending him right now?” James asks, and there’s something in his voice that wasn’t there before.

A mixture of anger, disbelief…and hurt.

Lily’s expression falters, and she looks like she’s about to say something, lips parting.

You don’t stick around to hear it though, simply turning around and retrieving your book bag as you slip past James’ still frozen form—missing the way his eyes follow you, even if his body doesn't.

You hate the way you feel bad for him in this moment—especially because he’d just finished insulting a fellow Slytherin.

It’s the sleep deprivation.

Personal preference aside, it’s in poor taste to sympathize with a person who openly dislikes your house.

And you have both no desire to be a part of that drama, and finally—the time to catch up on all your lost sleep.

With that in mind, you’re out of the library in two blinks.

Priorities.

You let out a yawn just as you’re nearing the dungeons.

“Oh, look at you, dear! You appear in dire need of a nap, darling.” Lady Aveline’s voice rings out, and you turn your head to see the worried portrait frowning.

“Indeed, Lady Aveline.” You murmur, pausing to make conversation.

You are oddly endeared to the portraits.

“Sorted it out with that Potter boy, then?” Sir Reginald walks into Aveline’s frame, peering at you curiously from over her shoulder.

Before you can respond, Lady Aveline tuts in amusement. “So nosy.” She teases.

“Sir Reginald the Watchful for a reason, Linny.” He sing-songs, and she rolls her eyes.

“What’s that saying about curiosity killing the cat?” She raises a brow, letting the question hang in the air for a beat before looking at you again.

“Did you though?” She asks, now both her and Reginald awaiting your answer.

You barely refrain from rolling your own eyes. “If you must know-”

Before you can continue, Barnaby the Bard stutters to life from his painted sleep; looking around wildly.

“Speak of the devil,

and he shall appear!

He is on this level,

he is here!”

True to his name; Barnaby speaks (sings) only in rhyme—and promptly returns to sleep after relaying his message.

You watch as Reginald and Aveline furrow their brows in confusion, the knight scratching his head.

“Speak of the devil-”

In typical James Potter fashion—your potions partner suddenly comes sprinting through the corridor.

“There you are!” He says, voice echoing off the walls as he slows to a halt in front of you.

Speak of the devil.

Of course.

Furrowing his brows, James tilts his head. “Who were you talking to?”

You mirror his confused expression, turning to look at the portraits—only to see Aveline frozen over one of her vials, totally not staring, and Reginald standing perfectly still behind her.

As if his entire frame isn’t very noticeably missing its portrait.

As if the alchemical study in hers is a perfectly normal place for a medieval knight to be.

This time, you do roll your eyes at the little traitors, and turn to James.

“Nothing. Why are you here?” You ask rather bluntly, the exhaustion you’d previously managed to push away flooding back into your body like it’d never left.

He adjusts his glasses, blinking at you. “…I was gonna walk you back to your common room. Why’d you leave so fast?”

You raise a brow. “Didn’t feel like watching your lover’s spat with Evans.”

“It wasn’t-” James stops short, clenching his jaw for a moment before letting out a breath through his nose.

“We were just having a conversation.” He corrects himself, all traces of defensiveness gone now.

You continue to stare at him. “Sure. A conversation I didn’t want to be a part of.”

“It’s impolite to leave without saying goodbye, you know.” He says, ignoring you.

“Sticking with the manners bit, then, Potter?” You ask sarcastically, letting out a long, drawn-out sigh as you resume walking.

James keeps pace beside you easily, face fully angled toward your own as he replies. “As long as you need ‘em, love.”

You hate the way you fall silent at his words, caught off guard by his response.

It’s the sleep deprivation.

Regardless, you don’t sit in shock for long, changing the subject swiftly.

“Why are you walking me back to the dungeons, Potter? The assignment is done.”

Annoyingly, he goes back to feigning an air of nonchalance as he shrugs. “It’s just the mannerly thing to do, innit? Walking a witch back to her common room.”

Finally, you’ve had enough—stopping entirely and turning to face him head on as you glare.

It’s so reminiscent of the last time you two spoke, and you almost have to wonder if there’s something about this area of the castle.

“What is it with you and manners today, Potter?” You question him.

He gives you a lopsided smile, shrugging again. “Maybe I’m just a gentleman, and you’re only realizing that now. I told you I know how to treat a girl right.”

His confidence—or rather, what you like to consider cockiness with a side of character flaw—is truly astounding.

You can’t help but snort, the notion so absurd it’s laughable.

“You are the least gentlemanly wizard I know, Potter. Second only to Sirius Black—your best friend, so not really saying much there, is it?” You say dryly.

James furrows his brows, frustration evident in his eyes.

“I showed up on time, pulled out your chair, put away the books, packed up your supplies, and walked you back to your common room.” He lists.

And there goes that defensiveness again.

“You showed up to a work session I very clearly uninvited you from last time we spoke—and now you basically admit that you only showed up to try and prove a point from said last time.” You quickly retort. “My apologies if I struggle to see anything gentlemanly in that.”

You pivot on your heel and resume walking, sure you’ve finally gotten him to back off.

But that lasts all of ten seconds before James is right back at your side.

You can’t even say you’re that surprised, and that’s the most maddening part.

You remain silent, no words left to give.

But he follows.

“I’m sorry.”

The simple statement almost makes you stop, but you ignore it.

Looking at him through the corner of your eye as you continue walking, he lets out a long sigh.

You intend to keep ignoring him, you do—but then his expression opens, his eyes soften—and the way he starts carrying himself actually makes you take a pause.

If only for a moment.

“I shouldn’t have assumed you were asking me on a date. My brain was all scrambled and I panicked-” he cuts himself off, shaking his head as his shoulders deflate.

“And it doesn’t really matter, because they’re just excuses.” He grimaces, like the admission is painful.

“Point is, I was an arse and I’m sorry. And if you’re willing, I’d really like the chance to start over again.” He looks you in the eyes the entire time—which you can admit, earns him a bit more respect from you.

After a moment of processing—to which James stares at you the entire time with pleading, borderline puppy eyes; you let out a quiet breath.

You like to think you’re a relatively logical person, and your logic tells you now, that whether you choose to forgive James or not—you’re stuck with him.

The only thing you get to decide—is whether you hate this partnership, or hate it a little less.

“…Apology accepted.” You finally say, and he perks up instantly, smiling.

You quickly hold up a hand, not done. “But,” he tenses, “only because it’s less about our previous miscommunication—now, anyway, and more about how you handled today.”

He furrows his brows, and you continue.

“Yes, you showed up on time. And pulled out my chair, put away the books, packed up my supplies and walked me to the dungeons.” You repeat his list of ‘gentlemanly’ actions. “You did everything right, and yet nothing James Potter would do.”

Letting out a long sigh, you shake your head. “And I can’t believe I’m saying this—but I’d rather you just be you, Potter, and not the gentleman you think you need to be in order to prove your point to me.”

He blinks, tilting his head. “You…want me to be myself?”

Salazar, help your soul.

You nod, brows furrowing. “Yes.”

It’s the sleep deprivation.

He continues to stare at you.

“Really?”

Your eyes narrow. “Don’t make me take it back already, Potter.”

James quickly goes mute after that, but as you near the entrance—you don’t miss the small smile playing on his lips.

“So I’ll see you in class, then?” He tilts his head as you both come to a stop in front of the wall.

You nod again. “You’ll see me in class.”

He laughs at the way you choose to repeat him, eyes crinkling as he shakes his head in amusement.

Letting out a yawn, you turn around to at long last—catch up on some much needed sleep.

“Enjoy the rest of your weekend, yeah? And give that brain of yours a rest.” He calls out.

You wave your hand lazily as you continue walking. “You too, Potter.”

And for the first time this week—as you step into the Slytherin common room, faint glow of the Black Lake glittering on your skin; you’re not entirely filled with irritation when you think about James Potter.

Yeah, definitely the sleep deprivation.

tag list 🏷️ ━━━ @novausstuff @sweetstrawberrianne @pottermagiczz @xalemiyum @devilsnightz @lonaah @bmyva1entine @eliiiiiiieeee @tiaajosephin @bbning @fayezasstuff @watersquirtpewpewboomm @evil-genius-wannabe @hopefulmiffy @hoshi-is-ult-bbg @death-be4-decaf @readingnerd9999 @strawrrbies @bridkesby @seleneblack16 @theadharablack @uwantagoodbhloe @siriusblackcantbite @ennycutie @turquoisenintendo64

©lcvecials ━━━ all rights reserved. do not copy, translate or share my work on other media platforms.

note ━━━ this chapter may have just been me projecting my sleep deprivation problems lol 🌚 hope you angels enjoy!

— H.R.

[lcvecials]

NEVER SAY NEVER MASTERLIST !

✴︎ chapter one

chapter one: in which a lily-hazed james assumes you’re asking him out and rejects you…his new potions partner for the rest of term. | completed 20.11.2025 !

༄˖°

✴︎ chapter two

chapter two: in which james takes your conversation in the corridor seriously. | completed 25.11.2025 !

༄˖°

✴︎ chapter three

chapter three: in which james makes you regret your words almost instantly. | completed 28.12.2025 !

note ━━━ thought it would be nice to create a separate masterlist dedicated solely to my never say never series!

— H.R.