Aww, such a lovely moment between Izabella and Lucius And Eileen telling her how to sit properly is precious Wake at the Malfoy Manor? Interesting Abraxas is a shrewd one, I'm curious what he'll be up to next.

Glad you enjoyed Next chapter soon!

Chapter Ten - Announcements June 1978
Izabella woke late in the afternoon, exhausted from the emotional day. She lay in her bed, stretching and looking up at the ceiling. It had been a very strange day... There was a knock on the door and she turned her head, calling for them to enter with a dry, sleepy voice.

Severus calmly leant in the doorway, leaning against the wall and grinning at her.

“Finally awake then.” he said.
“Shut up,” she grumbled, sitting up and rubbing her eyes.

He chuckled and she looked up at him. His pale face was relaxed and his shoulders weren't tense. He seemed confident, like he was at school with his circle of friends, yet his eyes were soft and caring. She smiled. It was nice to see him like this at home.

“Lucius Malfoy is a pleasant man isn't he?” he said suddenly. Izabella arched her eyebrow slightly.
“I suppose.” she said cautiously. Severus grinned.

“Suppose he was very pleasant by that fountain?”
Izabella rolled her eyes and climbed out of bed.
“I'm going for a shower.” she mumbled, passing him and slamming the door to the bathroom.

She showered then returned to her room, pulling out a dark green dress from her wardrobe. She dryed her hair and applied a little make up, then dressed. She glanced at the time. It was half past five already. She sighed and grabbed her shoes and her bag and raced downstairs.

“I'll see you later Sev!” she called as she yanked open the door and made contact with someone's fist as they lifted their hand to ring the doorbell.
“Ouch!” she complained, holding her cheek which was throbbing from the impact. There was a snicker and she looked up into the faces of a group of Slytherins.

“Izabella... Looking delicious as always.”
“Avery I will curse you.” she warned darkly, glaring at Mulciber as he pulled back his fist that had just made contact with her face.

“I'd like to see you try.” he smirked. Izabella rolled her eyes and tilted her head back into the house.

“Sev! Your Death Eater friends are here.” she called. There were hisses from in front of her and Severus called her name in annoyance.

“Have a nice evening.” she said, smiling as she stepped past them then disapparated, landing in an alleyway in Godric's Hollow. She hurried forward, rushing towards the main square where the little restaurant was situated, rubbing her cheek where it stung slightly. She moved inside and approached the waitress standing at the front.

“Hi, erm table for Potter?”
“Izzy!”

She turned to see Sirius waving her over from the large table they were sat around at the back of the room. She smiled and walked over, taking a place between Lily and Sirius.

“We thought you'd never show.” Sirius said raising an eyebrow at her.
“Like you didn't show at mine last night.” Lily said accusingly.
“Oh Merlin! Sorry Lily I totally forgot.”

In fact, she had intended to leave the wake early to go to Lily's, until she met Lucius at the fountain...

"What happened to your face?" Sirius asked, frowning. "It's bruised."
Izabella groaned and grabbed a pocket mirror out of her bag. A purple tinge was glowing on her cheek.
"I'm going to kill Mulciber." she said in a low voice.

"He hit you?" Sirius demanded, rising from his chair.
"No, no! It was an accident." Izabella said quickly pulling at his arm. He narrowed his eyes slightly but sat back down reluctantly.

There was chatter around the table as they ordered their food. Lily turned to Izabella and tilted her head to one side.

“How was it?” she asked gently.
“It wasn't too bad actually.” she said smiling. Lily placed a hand on her shoulder and smiled.

“So come on then. What's this big news?” Sirius said grinning at James. Izabella glanced down under the table at Lily's stomach as she exchanged a look with James.

“We're getting married.”
The table fell silent. Then Sirius stood up and dived over to James, punching him fondly on the arm. Remus and Peter joined him in their racous celebrations. Lily turned to Izabella and took her hand.

“What do you think?” she asked, frowning slightly.
Izabella looked at her best friend for a long moment then sighed.
“Are you pregnant?” she asked quietly.
“No I am not!” Lily said defiantly.

“Does he make you happy?”
“Very.”

“Then it's fine by me.” she said with a smile. Lily squealed slightly then pulled her friend into a hug. Izabella locked her arms around Lily and smiled, then stood up to embrace James as Sirius finally stopped punching him long enough to swing Lily in a hug. Some people in the restaurant watched them with amused faces.

“Seven years of trying to get a date with her... I never thought you'd manage to get a ring on her finger.” Izabella said, grinning at James. He laughed then spoke quietly in her ear.

“I do love her. And I will look after her.”
Izabella pulled back to smile at him.

“I know James.” she said gently. “Because I'll kill you if you don't.”
He grinned at her and she made to go back to her seat before a voice sounded from behind her.

“Izabella! What a pleasant surprise.” Abraxas said, whilst Lucius stood behind him smiling slightly. Izabella turned and tried to smile above her curious expression.

“Mr Malfoy, what are you doing here?” she asked politely.
“I thought I would treat my son,” he said. “What are you celebrating?”
He looked over the table, glancing at the faces that surrounded it.

“Lily and James are engaged.” she said with a smile.
“And Izabella is my Maid of Honour.” Lily beamed. Izabella turned and raised an eyebrow.

“I wondered how long it would take for you to ask me.” she said grinning.
“Well congratulations.” Abraxas said, incling his head towards the couple. Lucius looked to Izabella.

“How are you?” he asked quietly. She nodded and smiled.
“I'm doing alright.” she said.
He frowned slightly and nodded towards her bruised cheek. She shook her head and smiled softly.
"I'm fine." she said quietly.

“Well, we shall leave you to it.” Abraxas said. “Goodbye Izabella.”
Lucius leaned forward and kissed her cheek softly. She smiled and said a quiet “Goodbye” before returning to her seat quickly, dropping her head as her food arrived.

“What was that about?” Sirius demanded. All eyes were resting on Izabella's face.
“What?”
“Since when have you known the Malfoys?”
“My mother is friends with them. They were at the funeral.” she said with a shrug.

Sirius narrowed his eyes at her, but Izabella changed the subject, quickly engaging Lily in talk of dresses and flowers.

I like how Severus teases Izabella at the beginning But it gives me goosebumps to think that he was meeting Death Eaters at the same time his sister was seeing the Potters. Very well written! The Malfoys are always lurking around, I wonder what that's all about

Yeah I want to show their relationship as brother and sister as it's quite a complicated one. Although aren't they all? I know, slightly ironic I think. Thank you! I'm sure it will all become very clear very soon

Chapter Eleven - The Night Before 9th July 1978
June passed in a blur of wedding plans. Izabella was bombarded with seating arrangements, pieces of cake and material samples... Everything was eventually taken care of and it was suddenly the night before Izabella's best friend was to be married.

She jumped off the last step, sighing at the impatient knocker at the door. She yanked open the door only to frown at the person who stood before her.

“Lily what's the matter?” she asked, pulling her sobbing best friend into her arms and smoothing her hair gently. She felt Lily's tears seeping through her clothes and pulled her into the house, leading her into the living room and sitting down on the sofa beside her. She wrapped an arm around her, waiting for her to calm.

“What's happened?” she asked eventually.
“I'm getting married tomorrow.” Lily stated between quiet sobs. Izabella frowned and laughed slightly.
“I know you're clever Lil, but even I knew that.”

“I'm scared Iz.” she said. As Lily looked up at her, her green eyes sparkling with concern, Izabella sighed.
“Lily you are being silly. You love James!”
“I know! But I'm eighteen...”

“Lily.” Izabella said, looking into her eyes with a serious expression. “I have seen the way you look at each other. It doesn't matter how long you wait, you will end up being Lily Potter at some point in your life.”

“But am I ready for it now?” she questioned her best friend. Izabella sighed and went to the kitchen, grabbing a large bottle of firewhiskey and some glasses. She paused, then turned and picked up the telephone from the side. She dialled numbers and spoke quickly.

“Hi Mary it's Izabella. The party isn't going to be happening anymore... I know it's her hen night... I know, but... Somethings come up, there's... a problem with the cake. Just pass the message on okay? Thanks, I'll see you tomorrow.”

Izabella hung up the phone and returned to the living room to find Lily slouched on the sofa, her eyes watching the darkening summer sky outside that was tinged with orange and pink.

She placed the bottle on the side and filled the glasses, handing one to Lily. She swallowed hers quickly and refilled her glass.

“What brought all this on?” she asked gently.
“Petunia.”

Izabella screwed up her face a little at the name, hiding her face in her glass as Lily continued.

“I went to see her today at her new house in Privet Drive... It's awfully clean.” she said scrunching up her nose. Izabella chuckled.
“So your getting cold feet about marrying James because you don't want to clean your house?”

Lily scowled at her best friend.
“No. And I'm not getting cold feet!” she insisted. Izabella rolled her eyes and refilled her glass again, encouraging Lily to finish hers.
“So what is it then?”

“I don't want to be like Petunia. A housewife who stays in all day cooking and cleaning.”

Izabella stared at her for a moment then a laugh escaped her lips and she roared in amusement.
“You have to be joking! You will never be like Petunia, for starters you are an awful cook!”

Lily glared at her.
“Izabella! I'm not that bad!”
Izabella continued to roll about on the sofa, clutching her stomach as her muscles ached.

“Shut up!” Lily demanded, punching Izabella's arm lightly. Izabella grinned and grabbed the pillow behind her, whacking Lily on the head with it.

“Ouch!” Lily protested, picking up her own pillow to fight back.

“For someone that is to be wed tomorrow, I can't help but picture two five year olds.” Severus said from the doorway, arching an eyebrow. Izabella looked up from the floor where she had fallen as Lily attacked her and grinned at her brother. Behind him, leaning casually against the doorframe with an amused expression was Lucius Malfoy.

“And for the record, you're not that bad a cook.” Severus said with a chuckle.
Lily giggled and pulled Izabella to her feet, both swaying slightly at the haze of alcohol.

“I thought you were going out tonight?” Severus asked. Lily looked at Izabella who grinned.
“I planned a hen party for you. But I've cancelled it... I didn't think you'd want to.”

Lily grabbed the bottle and poured another drink.
“This suits me fine.” she said collapsing onto the sofa and smiling.
“Are we in your way?” Izabella asked.
“Of course not. We can retire to the Manor to leave you two in peace.” Lucius said graciously. Lily waved the bottle at them.

“Stay for a drink.” she suggested. Izabella chuckled.
“I'll get more glasses.” she said, leaving for the kitchen. Lucius followed her, leaning against the kitchen work top whilst she rummaged in the cupboards.
“She is rather charming that friend of yours.” Lucius said, a slight chuckle beneath his voice. Izabella smiled.

“She is.” she said a small sigh escaping her lips.
“You two are very close. I doubt that her marriage will stop you two seeing each other.”

Izabella turned, watching him curiously.
“You are very perceptive.”
“You are very easy to read.” he said with a smirk. She rolled her eyes and pushed two glasses into his hands. She picked up the bowls filled with food and carried them back to the living room. She stopped just before the door and leant close to Lucius.

“Oh, and I won't mention to your father that you just called a Muggleborn charming.” she said, grinning.
He chuckled as he followed her back into the room, placing the glasses down as she put the food onto the table. Lily dived at the bowl, grabbing a handful of crisps.

“I'm going to miss Muggle food.”
“Lily you are getting married, not being sent to Azkaban.” Izabella said with a roll of her eyes.
“What's the difference?” Severus mumbled as he watched Lily carefully. Lily apparently found this rather amusing, bursting into a fit of giggles. Izabella shook her head and laughed.

“I'll miss the television as well.” Lily said as her laughs subsided.
“Lily. You'll be living in Godric's Hollow, just ask James for one.”

The night continued with Lily's random desires about Muggle objects leading to pleasant conversation as they all watched her amused. Lucius often caught Izabella's eye and smirked. Severus noticed these exchanges, dragging his eyes away from Lily occasionally to watch his little sister.

The night became early morning and Lily began to droop, her eyelids closing and her head dropping every so often. Izabella sighed and eventually pulled her arm around her neck and carried her upstairs. Severus took her other arm and gently lowered her onto Izabella's bed whilst she snored delicately.

Izabella watched her peaceful face and smiled. Severus sighed and Izabella smiled up at him.
“I'm proud of you. Letting her be happy like this.”

“There's always divorce.” Severus replied coldly. Izabella smacked his arm and glared at him. She knew he was joking, but she felt a pang of pain through her stomach as she watched him look down at the sleeping Lily with such care in his eyes. He sighed and stroked her face gently before leaving the room. Izabella changed Lily into a pair of her pyjamas then tucked her up in the covers.

“Night Lily.” she whispered as she left the room, closing the door gently. There was a loud banging on the door and Izabella frowned, opening it slowly.

“Where is my beautiful flower?” James asked loudly, staggering drunkedly on the front step. Izabella rolled her eyes.
“She's asleep, now go away.” Izabella said, putting a hand on his chest and pushing him backwards. He swatted her hand away.

“I want to see her.” he whined.
“Sirius. Take him home please.” she said as he approached her grinning.
“Good evening.” Sirius said, wrapping an arm around her waist. Izabella rolled her eyes and scrunched her nose slightly at the smell of alcohol on his breath.

“I'm warning you. If he doesn't make it to the church in one piece, I will kill you with my bare hands.”
“You speak like a Slytherin.” he mumbled, kissing her neck.
“I am a Slytherin.” she sighed, rolling her eyes.

“Lily!” called James as he stood on the front lawn and looked up at the window, almost toppling backwards.
“James Potter will you shut up?” Izabella said, biting her lip to hold back a laugh as she stormed over to him and pushed him away from the house.

“James! Sirius!” Izabella turned as she heard Remus' voice, running along the path towards them, Peter behind him. He stumbled a little but his eyes were clearer and he grabbed James' arm firmly.

“Come on, we have to go home.” he said.
“But Lily-”
“It's bad luck remember? Do you want bad luck?” Remus said, raising an eyebrow. Izabella watched, her expression amused and her arms folded infront of her. Suddenly Sirius was behind her, his arms holding her tightly and his breath tickling her neck.

“Sirius, you need to get home. James is getting married in-” she glanced at her watch “less than eight hours!”
“I'm not getting married though.” he said.
“I doubt you will ever get married Sirius Black.” Izabella said, rolling her eyes.

“Is there a problem?” Severus said as he stepped out of the door, Lucius following curiously.
“Malfoy? What are you doing here?” Sirius said, turning sharply and almost toppling over. Izabella grabbed his arm and pulled him back upright.

“Snivellus. Why are you... What... Lily!” he called helplessly. “Why are you here?” he demanded. Severus rolled his eyes.
“I live here Potter.”

James frowned and stepped towards Severus, Sirius released his grasp on Izabella and joined his best friend.
“Remus please get them out of here.” she said as she yanked at Sirius' arm. Remus and Peter containing James barely. Izabella pushed against Sirius' chest.

“Please go.” she said, looking into his eyes. He grabbed her face and kissed her roughly, his hands sliding down her hips possesively. He pulled back, glared at Lucius over her shoulder for a moment then turned.

“Come on James.”
James followed his voice obediantly, Remus supporting him and slowly the Mauraders made their way down the road. Izabella groaned and ran her hands through her hair, following the others back into the house and collapsing onto the sofa.

“I swear, if they ruin this wedding tomorrow-”
“Have a drink.” Lucius said, handing her a glass and taking a seat beside her. Severus stood in the door, his jaw clenched. Izabella swallowed her drink gladly then turned as Severus let out a frustrated growl.

“I'm going to bed.” he grumbled, storming up the stairs and slamming his door. Izabella rolled her eyes and sank back into the cushions.

“What's Potter's problem?” Lucius asked curiously.
“With Severus?” Izabella sighed. “Sev loves Lily, but Lily can't see it, in fact denies it. James sees it clearly and hates how close they are... were.”

“I thought as much...”
“He's not too obvious then?” Izabella said with a laugh.
“It's the way he looks at her...” Lucius said. “Rather like the way Black looks at you.”

He looked down at her and Izabella blushed slightly, gazing into her glass.
“You are a couple?” he asked. Izabella snorted.
“No, I wouldn't call us that.”

He nodded slightly and they fell into a comfortable silence. Izabella felt sleep take hold of her and her head fell against Lucius' shoulder as she drifted off. He smiled as he watched her then gently laid her down and covered her with a nearby blanket as she fell into a deep sleep.

I really like how you picture the friendship between Lily and Izabella, and I know Lily got cold feet just because she loves Severus too

Hey Jazz. I thought I commented on this the other night. Oh well, sorry 'bout that. I'd like to congratulate you on your writing ability. You present your story very well, and it is always a good read. I commend you on your ability to keep the story moving and not letting it get bogged down. Sometimes that is not an easy accomplishment. I'm not a fan of drinking, but I understand it being there.
I'm sooooooooooooooo glad I read your ff before this one; otherwise I'd be very upset with Lucius right about now.
Great chapters Jazz. Keep up the great work.

Thankyou I didn't want their relationship to be typical and 'girly' if you know what I mean. Haha, I think she might love Sev deep down... Poor Severus!

It's fine Thank you very much Connie!
Hahaha, don't worry you know how it finishes so don't get angry at me

Chapter Twelve - The Morning After 10th July 1978
Izabella groaned and stretched, her back aching from the lumpy sofa. She sat up slowly, sighing at the mess in the room. The empty bottles and half-full glasses were scattered about the table and floor, amongst the various empty packets of food.

She stood up and caught sight of a figure asleep on the other sofa. The blonde hair was falling about his peaceful face, his long frame hanging over the edge of the arm rests. She smiled slightly as she watched Lucius' chest rise and fall gently then caught sight of the clock on the wall. Swearing under her breath she raced up the stairs and burst into her bedroom where Lily was sprawled on her bed.

“Lily wake up.” she said as she shook her gently. Lily groaned and rolled over. “Evans. I'm warning you. Get up.”

Lily responded with a gentle snore. With a sigh, Izabella grabbed her wand.
“Aguamenti.” she mumbled. A cold stream of water hit Lily in the face and she screamed, spluttering as she sat up. Then she clasped a hand to her head and sank back into the pillows groaning.

“Why does my head hurt?” she moaned.
“It probably has something to do with the empty firewhiskey bottles.” Izabella said grinning. “I'm going for a shower. You had better be out of bed by the time I get back.”

She hurried to the bathroom and washed quickly, in her mind making a mental list of everything that needed to be done. She returned to her bedroom to find Lily sitting up at the edge, her face pale.

“Please do not be sick.” Izabella sighed as she wrapped one arm around her and lead her to the bathroom. Izabella returned to the bedroom, pulled out her bridemaid dress and put it on, pinning part of her hair up and applying a little make up before she rushed downstairs and into the kitchen.

Lucius and Severus were leaning against the kitchen counters, a mug of coffee in their hands. They turned when she entered.

“You look lovely.” Lucius said. Izabella smiled as she caught sight of her reflection in the window. It was a beautiful dress. It had thin straps and a tight bodice, the skirt flowing out around her until it reached her knees. Gryffindor red in colour, it complimented Izabella's pale skin and dark hair as well as her trim figure.

She passed Severus and snatched his mug, taking a large gulp of coffee and sighing. He rolled his eyes as she passed it back to him then began rumaging in the cupboards.

“Sev do you know any potions for hangovers?”
Lucius chuckled.
“Regretting that firewhiskey?” he grinned.

“It's for Lily actually.” she said rolling her eyes as she grabbed a frying pan and threw in some bacon. “I don't want the bride throwing up at the alter.”
Severus rolled his eyes and made his way upstairs leaving Izabella alone with Lucius.

“So is everything ready for the big day?” he asked.
“No.” Izabella snapped. He chuckled.
“Izabella calm down. I'm sure it will all be perfect.” she turned and leant against the counter, smiling at him gratefully. Severus re-entered and threw a small vile at Izabella.

“If she drinks all of that she'll be fine.”
Izabella narrowed her eyes. Why on earth did he have a potion for hangovers? Her thoughts were broken by the sizzling of the bacon behind her and a groaning from the doorway.

Lily walked in and sat down at the table, dropping her head into her hands. Severus grinned as he sat beside her and Izabella rolled her eyes. She turned to the mugs of coffee she had just made and emptied out the vile into it, turning and passing it to Lily who drank it rapidly.

As she served up the bacon, passing a plate to everyone around the table, she watched as Lily's face flush slightly and she sat up straight, her eyes sparkling.

“That was good coffee.” she said beaming. Izabella laughed and the four of them devoured their breakfast hungrily.
“How do you make bacon?” Lily asked making Izabella chuckle.
“It's easy Lily.”
Lily frowned and Izabella sighed.
“I'll teach you.”
“Or just come live with us and be the cook?” she suggested with a smile.
“James would love that.” Izabella replied sarcastically. Lily giggled.

There was a noise by the door and Eileen entered the kitchen, beaming at Lucius.
“Good morning Lucius. What are you doing here?”
“Mother where have you been?” Izabella said, glaring at her.
“I am an adult Izabella. I can go where I like.” she replied icily.

“Izabella permitted me to stay on the sofa after we joined them for a few drinks. I shall leave soon, I wouldn't want to be in the way of the wedding.” he said politely. Lily suddenly dropped her fork and gasped.
“I'm getting married today.” she said as face went blank.

Izabella sighed and Lucius looked at her apologetically.
“Sev take Lily to the living room.” she said as she waved her wand at the empty plates, dumping them in the sink. Lucius stood up and made his way to the door, Izabella following him.

“I'm sorry, I hope she's okay.”
Izabella waved her hand dismissively.
“Don't worry about it. She'll be fine once she gets there.” she smiled up at him. He bent and kissed her hand gently.

“Thank you for a wonderful evening.”
“My pleasure.” Izabella replied. Eileen appeared over her shoulder.
“Do come over at any time Lucius, it would be lovely to see you more often.”
Izabella rolled her eyes and Lucius bit his lip to hide his grin.
“Thank you Ms Snape, you are too kind.” he said, inclining his head politely. Izabella pushed her mother away from the door and turned back to Lucius.

“I'll see you soon.” she smiled. He nodded and stepped forward to place a kiss on her cheek.
“You do look lovely. But I have to say, I prefer you in green.” he said, before smiling widely and turning away from the doorway, just as a flustered group of people approached the house.

Izabella watched Lucius as he reached the end of the driveway and looked back at her over his shoulder, smirking. She grinned and he disapparated.

“Was that Lucius Malfoy? No wonder you and Lily didn't come out last night!” Mary squealed, raising an eyebrow at Izabella.
She laughed and stepped back to let the bridemaids in.

“Lily is in the living room. Just don't say the word 'wedding' or I think she'll have a heart attack.”

The girls nodded and carried their large boxes of make up and hair utensils into the crowded living room. Izabella shut the door and leant against it for a moment, taking a deep breath.

It was going to be a long day.

Hey Jazz. It's hard to write amusing situations in a serious setting, but you have done it very well. Poor poor Lily, I hope she gets herself squared away before the wedding.

I wonder if James is doing any better.
Very nice work Jazz. I'll be watching for your next chapter.

Heheh, you describe the panic before the wedding perfectly, I loved this chapter! But it's really sad how Severus would do virtually anything for Lily and she never notices...I'm curious about the wedding though And where has Eileen been?

Thank you! Next chapter soon

Thank you, I'm glad you liked it Aww I know, poor Sev. Wedding chapters next

Chapter Thirteen - Overheard 10th July 1978
The doorbell rang continuously throughout the morning as flowers and dresses and cakes were delivered. Lily's parents arrived and the house was soon about to burst. Lily was kept calm as she was dressed and pampered and sat in the living room, nervously waiting for the car whilst her mother shed a tear and her father sat by her proudly.

“Izabella where are you going?” Lily asked sharply as she walked towards the door.
“I'm going to the church to check everythings alright.”

And to check James is alive, she added in her head.

Lily frowned slightly and Izabella sighed.
“Will you stop worrying? It's supposed to be the best day of your life.” she said gently. Lily nodded then brought Izabella into a tight hug.

“I have to go Lily.” Izabella said, prising her fingers from around her neck and kissing her cheek softly.

She hurried from the house and disapparated, landing un-noticed in the back of the small church. She stepped out and saw the rows of people who were already waiting for the ceremony to begin and spotted the Vicar.

“Is Miss Evans here already?” he asked, glancing at his watch. Izabella shook her head.
“No just me. Do you know where the groom is?”
“In the back room, just through that door.” he said gesturing. She smiled.
“Thank you Vicar.”

She walked down a drafty corridor until she heard voices coming from the side room. She slowed to listen as she heard her name.

“Your girlfriend said she would tell us.” came James' relaxed voice. He was alive then.
“Izabella isn't my girlfriend.” Sirius growled.
“Oh come on Padfoot. You two have had a thing since third year.”
“Exactly! It's just a thing.” he protested. Izabella heard Remus sigh.

“You're going to break her heart one day.”
“She's tough. I don't think she's capable of having a broken heart.” Sirius said, and Izabella could imagine him rolling his eyes.

“So you'll never marry her?” James questioned.
“No. I'm not as stupid as you.” he said and Izabella heard the muffled sound of him punching his arm lightly. James chuckled.

“Besides, I'm the best man. I can have my pick of the bridemaids.” the grin on his face was clear in his voice.

Izabella had heard enough. She stepped backwards slightly then walked towards the door, stepping heavily to announce her entrance. She knocked sharply on the door, then walked in, her hands placed firmly on her hips.

“So you made it.” she said, arching an eyebrow.
“We weren't even that drunk.” James said, grinning. Izabella rolled her eyes.
“Lily will be here soon. Are you ready?”
He nodded and Izabella turned to leave.

“Wait. What does she look like?” he asked. Izabella laughed.
“You'll have to wait and see.” she said smirking. She left the room and heard the four of them following her. Suddenly a hand grabbed her wrist and spun her round.

“You're looking nice.” Sirius said, placing his hands on her waist. Izabella rolled her eyes.
“Nice? You'll have to work harder than that.” she said, raising her eyebrow as she pushed his chest and moved out of his grasp.

She walked down the aisle to the entrance just as Lily stepped out of the car. She stopped and smiled as a photographer clicked away. The bridemaids lined up and Izabella took her place infront of Lily and her father. The music started and one by one the girls walked down the aisle. Lily grabbed Izabella's hand.

“Thank you. For everything.” she said, beaming at her best friend as she looked inside the church. “It's perfect.”
Izabella smiled and squeezed Lily's hand.
“You're welcome. You look beautiful.”

Lily smiled excitedly and Izabella turned to make her way towards the alter. She felt Sirius' eyes on her but she kept her gaze at the front.

“You had better look after her.” she growled in James' ear as she reached the front, seeing his grin as she took her place.
Then all eyes in the church turned as Lily made her entrance. She glided up the aisle and Izabella smiled at her radiant beauty.

The dress fitted her like a glove, the delicate lace covering her chest and arms and the full skirt dragging behind her in a modest train. The ivory silk was as flawless as her glowing skin and her fiery hair was piled up on her head, a few curls falling around her face.

The veil covered her, but her eyes were shining and were fixed on the man waiting for her. He reached out a hand, encasing hers in his as Mr Evans patted him on the back fondly.

A tear dripped down Izabella's face as she felt their love smother each other. They stared into each other's eyes, repeating the vows without dropping each other's gaze. The rings were shared, the promises made and then the groom kissed his wife.

Hey Jazz. I think Sirius is going to regret spouting off to James like he was, for a long time. Jt's a shame Sirius refused to grow up. But then, would he be so lovable I wonder. I'm anxious to read more. I'll be watching.

Aww, I love weddings, so this was a great chapter for me Sirius was annoying, but I know he gets a lot better when he grows up

I'm sure he will Possibly not, next chapter soon

Glad you liked it. Yes he does improve somewhat hahaha.

Chapter Fourteen - A Summer Evening 10th July 1978
The wedding ran smoothly and afterwards people were directed in the direction of James and Lily's new house across the road. Izabella passed through the guests, offering drinks and directions to the bathroom. Unlike the cold, socially proper event of Tobias' funeral, there was an undeniable air of happiness and celebration in the large garden.

Izabella had decorated subtly, fine pieces of white material dangling from the trees, archways of lilies where the couple and the wedding party had posed for pictures.

The round tables had been evenly spaced across the lawn, all facing the rectangular top table, which stood beneath two entwined trees at the top. Then the tables had been cleared, without magic because of Lily's Muggle relatives, and a large dancefloor had been created beneath the dimming sky.

It had been a perfect day.

Izabella grabbed a glass of champagne and took a seat as she watched James and Lily dance, yet again, twirling around the floor oblivious to the people watching them.

“You did well.” Severus said smiling as he took a seat beside her. Earlier that morning Lily had demanded, even to the point where she had stamped her foot, that Severus would attend her wedding. James hadn't noticed, his eyes had not left Lily's glowing face once, but of course Sirius had.

Izabella turned and smiled at her brother briefly before taking a swig of her drink.

“Thanks. I tried my hardest, she deserves it.”
“Indeed she does.”

She turned to catch the look her brother gave Lily, one of caring yet with a sense of loss. He snapped his eyes towards Izabella and stood up.

“I'd better get home. Say goodbye to Lily for me.”
She nodded and he left, his words ringing in Izabella's ears. They had sounded so final.

Izabella sighed and turned back, her gaze being blocked by the figure of Sirius.

“Evening.” he said casually, grabbing a chair and slouching in it. His collar stood open slightly, his tie loosened. Izabella nodded in response and took another drink.
“What did Snivellus want?”

“To say I'd done a good job with today, which is more than you have done, considering you were supposed to help me with all of this.” she ranted, standing up and walking away quickly before his hand grabbed her wrist and stopped her.

“I did help!”
Izabella snorted but he grabbed her arms firmly.
“What's the matter?” he demanded.
“Nothing.”

“Well then. Cheer up. It's our best friends wedding. And beside it's tradition that the Best Man and the Maid of Honour-”

“Give it a rest Sirius. It's been a long day.” she sighed.
“Come on Izzy-”

“Just don't. There's plenty of bridemaids. Take your pick.” she said harshly, storming through the kitchen and grabbing her purse where it lay on the worktop. Sirius followed her, shouting her name.

“Izabella stop.” he said firmly grabbing her arm.
“Just leave me alone Sirius.”
“No. What's happened?” he asked
“Why would you care?”
“Because I'm... Well, we're friends.”

Tears prickled in her eyes and she tensed her jaw tightly as she fixed him with a hard glare.
“Goodbye Sirius.” she said quietly, yanking her arm out of his grip.
She left the house and without looking back, turned and disapparated.

Izabella landed in Spinner's End and for a long time, she stood still, her chest rising and falling rapidly from the pace of her breathing. She sighed and hurried into the house and up the stairs, slamming her bedroom door as she yanked the clips from her head.

Throwing herself onto the bed, she curled up and closed her eyes. Tears spilled down her face from beneath her lashes and grew cold on her cheek as she fell asleep.

Hey Jazz. Great chapter. I love the contrast you have in this chapter and how well you wrote it. Pure bliss for James and Lily ... Only the appearance of happiness for Izabella. I wonder if this is when he went completely to the dark side. If only he would have said what he started to say. It might not have made a difference to Izabella at first, because she wouldn't believe him right away; not with what she heard him say that morning anyway. But I think she would have at least had hope.

Great work Jazz. I'll be watching for your next.

I know, poor Izabella. Ahhh, you're very good Severus will get increasingly darker from now on... Silly Sirius. Silly men!

It's such a nice detail that they had lilies at the wedding Aww, poor Severus, I can imagine his tone when saying goodbye, but I'm still glad Lily invited him. And Izabella's harshness towards Sirius is perfectly justified

I know, poor Sev I thought so, I'm glad you agree

I will be going on holiday for a week with my friends on Saturday but I will be back on the 6th of August. In the mean time, I'll try and get as many chapters up as I can before I go

Chapter Fifteen - Something New, Something Green 14th July 1978
The next few days passed painfully slowly, Izabella's mood sinking low as she sulked around the house, barely responding when people spoke to her.

Sirius' words kept ringing in her ears, the rejection buried deep within her. He had sent her a few owls since the wedding, all of them laid un-answered on her desk. He didn't want to see her, he was just bored without James.

“Izabella!”
Severus' voice pulled her gaze away from the book she had been staring at blankly.

“What?” she asked in a low voice. He sighed and sat next to her on the sofa where she was curled up under a blanket.
“What's the matter?” he asked gently.
“Nothing.” Izabella demanded sharply, standing up and slamming her book closed. Severus sighed.

“We're going to Diagon Alley tomorrow.” Eileen announced as she entered the living room.
“Why?” Izabella groaned.

“Because we have been invited to a party and need to get some new robes.”
Eileen left the living room and started bustling around in the kitchen.

Izabella raised her eyebrow at Severus then they both followed her, Izabella leaning on the worktop whilst Severus hovered in the doorway.

“Who's party?”
“It's the Malfoy's annual Summer Ball.”
“Annual? We've never been invited before.”
“Yes well, circumstances change.” Eileen snapped. Izabella rolled her eyes.

“I'm not going. I don't-”
“Oh yes you are.”

Eileen turned to face her, her hands placed firmly on her hips and her eyes blazing.
“Mother, I don't-”

“Izabella you are going.” Severus said quietly from the doorway. “Lucius is looking forward to seeing you.”

She glared at her brother for a moment then sighed.
“Fine.” she snapped, storming out of the kitchen and up the stairs, missing the smug smirk that Severus exchanged with his mother.

The next day, Izabella folded her arms moodily as they disapparated to the Leaky Cauldron and made their way through the passageway to Diagon Alley.

Dragging her feet, she walked behind Severus and her mother, rolling her eyes as they conversed with various witches and wizards.

Finally they made it to Madam Malkin's shop and whilst Severus was being measured, Izabella wandered throughout the rows of dresses, her fingertips lightly trailing across the different materials.

The summer was passing quickly and so much had happened already. Izabella felt lost, like she was floating without Lily around to anchor her. She had known that everything would change, but she never thought it would be so drastically.

The only person that made her feel some sense of normality was Lucius. He had come into her life so quickly, and though he seemed so different from his obnoxious father, Izabella was wary. She knew the Malfoys had a reputation, but he seemed so sweet and he listened to her...

“Miss Prince? Have you found something you like?” Madam Malkin asked, appearing at the end of the row. Izabella blinked, shaking her head slightly to clear her mind.

She hesitated, then smiled as she turned to face her.

“I'd like something in green please.”

Very cute and amusing chapter, I loved this part especially :

And have a great holiday!

Hey Jazz. Another great chapter. Poor Izabella. So lonely, and poor Sirius, so lonely. Wish they could be able to get together and talk things out. But I think maybe this is best that she ignores him for a bit. In my opinion anyway. If she tried to talk to him now, he might just make up excuses, and not take it seriously, because he'd just be so excited that he wasn't lonely anymore. He's such a child. (and adorable child though)

I totally can see her dragging her feet, and rolling her eyes behind Severus and her mothers' back. So funny.
This sentence was written so well! You know that her mind isn't on the dresses at all. This quite possibly is my favorite sentence in the chapter. It is so simple, but the the statement she is really making is a big deal. Is she just being sarcastic, and says this because she knows her mom wants to make a big impression on the Malfoys?(one in particular) Or is she thinking of Sirius and decides to wear green to spite him for what he said? Or is she thinking of Lucius, and wants to acknowledge his stature by wearing green for Slytherin? At any rate you gave me something to wonder about until you post again. Great work Jazz.