acciofictionalmen

[acciofictionalmen]

part 4 is out ❆❆❆

fallout in the snowfall

james potter x female!reader

"a few kisses won't ruin our friendship... right?"

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

part ❆ 1

part ❆ 2

part ❆ 3

part ❆ 4

[acciofictionalmen]

fallout in the snowfall ❆ part 4

james potter x female!reader

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

warnings: strong language, sexual references

word count: 2k

series masterlist

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4

A winter chill hung in the air as you and Gideon strolled across the Hogwarts grounds. So far you'd visited the black lake, which had frozen over in the cold, and the Greenhouse: where Gideon had tried to break off a rose for you but got caught by Professor Sprout.

Despite the abundance of warm layers you were wearing, the cold caused your teeth to chatter and you buried your hands deeper into your coat pockets. Gideon was in his element: describing past antics with his brother, Fabian, funny Quidditch stories and other tales. You smiled and nodded along, letting out the occasional laugh and hum of agreement.

Gideon placed a hand on your arm, veering you to the right as you turned away from the black lake and began the slow ascension to the castle. Any trace of snow had melted- only grey slush remained. You hoped that wouldn’t be the last of the snowfall that year.

“And what about you?” He asked.

You blinked at the conversation’s abrupt redirection. “What about me?” You laughed, a mist of cold vapour mingling in the air whenever you exhaled.

Gideon’s hand hadn’t left your arm, and he took the opportunity to pull you closer, “Tell me about…”

You waited patiently for him to continue, when you noticed he was distracted. Something ahead had caught his attention and you followed his eyeline.

A bench near the castle’s entrance. With two Gryffindor boys.

Gideon’s grip on your arm tightened as you neared them. Your eyes scanned for any alternate routes, but they were quite literally sat by the castle’s entrance. James and Sirius had noticed you by now.

In a desperate attempt to get his attention off the two boys, you tried to distract him, ‘“Have you seen Hagrid’s garden yet? It’s really special he’s put a lot of effort in this year-”

“Potter.” Gideon addressed James as you passed them, his voice low, unfriendly.

James looked up and his eyes instantly fell to your interlinked arms. You silently prayed to Merlin that he wouldn’t say something provocative. After last night, when you’d both said such horrible things, you couldn’t put it past him. You wondered whether after your argument he’d dwelled on every word, picked apart every tense movement, just like you had.

Both boys disliked each other now, and after James’ DADA stunt, you didn’t think any pleasantries would be recoverable. In his defence, James had apologised to Gideon afterwards. It wasn’t anything special, but an apology nonetheless. You hoped they’d just be able to put it behind them now.

A moment passed and you gently began to pull Gideon away, relieved that he’d chosen to take the high road.

But James wasn’t about to let it go, “Enjoying your… walk?”

After Mary’s lack of discretion the previous evening, James knew full well that you were on a date. He was pulling Gideon’s strings, messing with him to get a reaction.

You glared at James. He didn’t look at you.

“We’re on a date.” Gideon responded, defensively. Sirius smirked, but he continued. “Not that it’s any of your business.”

Your cheeks warmed and you shot Sirius a warning look, his smirk softening slightly. Sirius was still a good friend of yours, and he knew he’d get an earful later if he instigated anything.

“Let’s just go.” You tugged Gideon’s arm again, frustrated that he wouldn’t just leave with you.

He seemed to relent a little, finally turning away from them.

You counted the steps as you neared the castle entrance.

You hadn’t even made it to step four when Gideon suddenly spun around, leaving your side as he stormed towards James. Your eyes widened as you rushed to him, begging him to leave it, to drop it. He ignored you.

James had already stood up, and you realised in horror that Gideon had drawn his wand. James had no choice but to do the same, maintaining that look of self-assurance that he knew would drive Gideon crazy. Sirius lazed on the bench, but his expression was alert- prepared to intervene if his best friend needed help.

Both boys assessed each other, and James smirked.

“Gideon please, leave it.” Your voice was firm, laced with anger.

Gideon’s face grew visibly red. “Rematch, Potter?”

You turned to James, who was finally looking at you.

“James...” You pleaded, your own wand drawn as you watched them warily.

James opened his mouth, about to reply.

“Flipendo.”

In a flash James slammed into the edge of the bench, groaning as his back made contact with the edge. Sirius got to his feet instantly and Gideon raised his wand, prepared to cast another spell.

“Expelliarmus.” Both boys’ wands flew into your hand.

They turned to face you, James standing up with a groan as he rubbed his back.

Your anger was blinding, humiliation and disappointment overwhelming you as your hand gripping their wands shook. “Selfish, arrogant bastards.”

James had the sense to look ashamed, eyes only on you and shining with regret.

“Now we’re even, Potter.” Gideon spat, snatching his wand from your hand and storming back to the castle.

You stood there, the silence uncomfortable. Sirius left the two of you alone.

Your face crumpled and you screwed your eyes shut, swaying slightly as you repressed tears, trying to calm the frustration that threatened to consume you.

Two arms wrapped around you and James pulled you into his chest. You allowed yourself to linger in his arms, just for a second, before gently pushing him away.

“Just go.” Your voice broke, the wind picking up as your hair whipped around your face.

James reluctantly took his wand. He watched you for a second.

“What?” You asked, sighing.

James frowned, “Why are you spending time with him?”

You turned to leave, but James caught your arm.

“No, genuinely. Tell me.” His voice was sincere enough that you faced him again.

“Just leave it, James.” Your answer was elusive and one that you knew would frustrate him.

The excessive wealth of James’ family meant his parents had given him everything growing up- without the threat of losing it. Now that he was losing you, he didn’t know how to react.

James was stubborn, but he also knew you were too. Deep in thought, he left.

Then you were alone, sighing as you tucked your wand away. Tears spilled, hot against the coolness of your cheeks. You didn’t know what you were doing anymore, caught up in a hug that you’d pulled away from and a boy who’d just disrupted your first date.

You took the long way back to the castle, waving at Hagrid as you passed, so that by the time you reached the castle it was past curfew.

It was dark, and you used the moonlight to guide you. Your steps were light and you were anxious about getting caught: Filch had been especially ruthless with his punishments since the start of term. You believed it was because the Marauders would be leaving Hogwarts in less than two years now, and he was expecting them to go out in multiple bangs.

You had almost reached the Fat Lady’s portrait when, by the lack of singing, you realised she must be in a deep slumber. You internally groaned, knowing she’d make a right fuss when you’d have to wake her up.

The entrance to the common room was a few metres away when you heard a loud meow to the right of the portrait.

Your heart sunk. There was no way you could say the password and get into the common room on time- wherever Mrs Norris was, you could trust Filch to be a few steps behind.

Looking around wildly you tried to find a place to hide, but there were only solid walls, and no corners to hide in.

“Psst.”

You jumped at the sound, spinning as you tried to find where the noise had come from whilst also painfully conscious that if Mrs Norris was here, it wouldn’t be long until Filch was, too.

Before you could shriek something was thrown over your head, and a hand clamped over your mouth. The material thrown over your head shimmered mystically, in a way you swore was familiar. You had an idea of who this was. Twisting around, you relaxed slightly. James.

Loose strands of black hair hung over his forehead, casting tall shadows across his face. James’ hand was still over your mouth as he pushed himself against the stone wall, pulling you into him so that your chest was flush against his front. He then wrapped a large hand around your waist. The proximity was killing you, your foreheads one breath away from brushing. You saw your reflection in his glasses, your wide eyes and pink cheeks. The sight was unsettling and you diverted your eyes.

James' fingers pressed a little more into your waist, causing you to look up again. He was looking at you. Your eyes widened as you stared into his, chest rising and falling from the adrenaline. You noted his expression - slightly taken aback - strange, for James Potter, who was always assured in himself and his knowledge.

You tried to speak, to question him, to ask what was going on, but his palm only tightened. He shook his head.

“Mrs Norris? That you?” Filch. You tensed.

A light appeared, and the realisation quickly dawned on you.

You angled your head, watching as Filch appeared, lamp swaying precariously in his hand as he followed Mrs Norris. Her yellow eyes luminescent, fixated on you. Instinctively you pushed yourself further into James, missing the way his breath hitched.

Filch neared until he was so close that you could see the yellow of his teeth and the menacing curl of his lips.

It hadn’t taken long to realise you were under James’ invisibility cloak, but if Filch came any closer he would surely hear you.

Filch stepped forwards, raising his light as he inspected you- or more so, the wall you were invisible in front of.

You recoiled, accidentally stepping on James’ foot.

James yelped.

Mrs Norris hissed.

And then you were legging it down the hallway, invisibility cloak bundled under James’ arm as you sprinted- the Hogwarts caretaker exclaiming loudly, his lamp violently swinging side to side and causing light to bounce all over the corridor. James was much faster so you immediately reached for his hand, allowing him to pull you. His hand clasped yours firmly as you ran down numerous corridors and various narrow flights of stairs until Mrs Norris wasn’t hot on your tail anymore. Your thighs were burning by the time you came to a halt, Filch’s yells sounding much more distant. It took a second for you to realise exactly where you were.

“Isn’t this,” you panted, out of breath, “the Hufflepuff Common Room?”

“Close,” James didn’t loosen his hold on your hand as you tried to catch your breath, he nodded to the door you were stood in front of, “This is the entrance to the kitchens.”

”Wait,” you stopped him, “what were you doing earlier outside the Gryffindor Common Room anyway?”

James examined you, before finally speaking, “I'd left to look for you. You hadn’t returned from..”

“Oh.”

Your heavy breathing calmed and an uncomfortable moment passed.

You took the time to properly take in your surroundings, realising that during your escape James really hadn’t been leading you through random corridors. You didn’t know what to make of that. The silence dragged for a moment too long, and you removed your hand from his.

But James didn’t look deterred. His expression was resolute.

You crossed your arms, peering around to double check that Mrs Norris wasn’t about to hurtle out the shadows. Once you were satisfied she wasn’t about to emerge  spontaneously, you stared at the portrait of a bowl of fruit on the kitchen door. A late-night snack did sound appealing; your date with Gideon had been interrupted before you’d been able to go for dinner together.

James easily read your expression. “Hungry?”

Your look was answer enough and James grinned, satisfied to get his way.

A/N

merry christmas! if you celebrate, i hope your christmas was wonderful :)

please comment your thoughts as usual, and if you'd like to be added to the taglist just lmk ♡

series masterlist here ❆

taglist ♡

@pandoraswan @featherlightfairysworld @mus-tbe-a-weasley @hisparentsgallerryy @stanzie @wolfstar-jpg @fangirl-swagg @moonlightremblack @simp4myself @niniantics @froggiedragon @madevour @mayadisaster @sunflowerscloudydays @iloveremmy

[acciofictionalmen]

thank you for your kind comments & support it truly means so much to me !!

you'll be pleased to know that part 4 should come out in the next 2ish days, with lots of tension to accompany it (plus dense james who's stupidly possessive- i may have to start using that phrase now as it fits perfectly) ;)♡

fallout in the snowfall ❆ part 3

james potter x female!reader

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

warnings: strong language, sexual references

word count: 3.1k

series masterlist

part 1 | part 2 | part 3

Excited chatter filled the room as people crowded around the centre, eager to hear their name called. You stood with your group of friends, chatting with Sirius and Remus whilst James talked to Lily. Mary was busy reassuring Peter, who looked disconcertingly pale.

Christmas break was quickly approaching and, much to the students’ chagrin, teachers began to set end-of-term tests. As it was your penultimate year at Hogwarts all tests were treated seriously. However, there was a different atmosphere surrounding the DADA test: a duel utilising the most advanced spells you’d been taught so far. It was assessed based on who disarmed their opponent first, the length of the duel and the range of spells used; everyone was anticipating it. Some were excited and had disarmed multiple first years that morning for practice, others (namely Peter), had vomited during breakfast.

You weren’t sure into which category you fell. Sure, you were confident in your knowledge, but duelling was different to scribbling information down on a piece of parchment: it was impulsive.

Not only that, your DADA teacher – Professor Halloway – had a reputation for being as harsh as she was skilled. Approaching her one hundredth birthday, she was wise, experienced and beautiful in a sharp manner, with thick black hair she kept stuffed beneath a black, pointed hat. Her face was drawn, tight, her brown eyes always critical. It wasn’t easy to score high grades in Halloway’s classes.

“You’ll do fine.” Remus smiled by your side, noticing your growing discomfort, “I’ve seen you practice. You’ve got this.”

“Yeah (Y/n),” Sirius squeezed your arm, “Just pretend they’re Snape.” Sirius’ eyes darkened as he spied the Slytherin on the opposite end of the room, speaking with the Professor, “I know I will be.”

“Thanks guys.” Your head tilted teasingly, “Try not to accidentally murder Snape then.”

Sirius gave you a concerningly non-committal look.

Whilst waiting, you noticed Remus clenching his fists- anxious to do well. An idea sprang to your mind.

“Wanna be my duelling partner?” You abruptly asked Remus, “Sirius will be desperate to duel Snape, unless James beats him to it.”

Remus gave you a thankful smile, “Yeah, thanks (Y/n). We’ll do that.”

“Of cour-“

“Potter. James Potter.”

The room went silent as all eyes flew to James.

In a manner that oozed confidence, he rolled his shoulders back and stepped into the centre of the room.

Professor Halloway looked disinterested, “Partner?”

On instinct, you turned to Snape. His sneer was more pronounced than usual, and you knew he was also waiting for his name to be called.

“Prewett.”

Your heart dropped. The impact of his name seemed to surge through the room as people turned around in surprise. In a few seconds, Gideon had pushed through the crowd until he stood directly in front of James. Both boys silently assessed each other, both the picture of self-assurance. There was one stark difference between them- James appeared unbothered, his posture relaxed. Gideon, on the other hand, was visibly tense; lacked the ease that had always come naturally to James.

Your heartbeat sped up as you held your breath, trying to ignore the pounding in your chest as the tension in the room mounted.

“Take your positions.” Professor Halloway dictated. The class fell silent once more to witness the interaction. Even Snape was unable to hide the shock from his face.

James stood on the left, closest to you, whilst Gideon stood opposite on the right.

Professor Halloway spoke cautiously, “Remember- this is solely to disarm. No other spells are to be used.” Both boys nodded. “Now, draw your wands and bow… Bow, Potter…”

The irritation on James’ face was almost comical as he sunk into a deeper bow, but you couldn’t laugh. You held your breath as both boys stepped away from each other.

“One… Two…”

You stared, unable to look away.

“Three.”

Lights flashed across the room as both cast spells at an alarmingly fast rate.

It quickly became clear who was faster.

Gideon’s casting visibly began to slow as his spells started to miss their target, his wand movements becoming sloppier against the onslaught of James’.

It wasn’t long before Gideon was on the floor, panting for air. But James wasn’t finished.

“FLIPENDO.” The word rung throughout the room and Gideon was flung backwards. He slammed into the wall with a sickening thud, dropping to the floor.

A hand flew to your mouth. The room erupted into shouts.

People were running over to Gideon, checking he was okay and attempting to lift him off the ground. Professor Halloway was viciously scolding James, his loyal best friends immediately supporting him and by his side. You stood there in the centre of it all, horrified, as people bustled around.

You couldn’t process what had just happened as you watched a Hufflepuff girl shaking Gideon frantically. There were too many people surrounding him to see if he had opened his eyes.

Your shock and confusion at James for taking it too far was quickly replaced by anger. He had recently seemed a little hostile towards Gideon, but you chalked it down to James’ anxiety for the Gryffindor team to do well. This- this was something else.

“He’s okay!” Someone declared. Gideon had stood up, somewhat off-balance, but seemed to be fine. You exhaled in relief, mentally noting to check on him later.

After giving Gideon a quick once-over and deeming him fit to stay in class, Professor Halloway continued her berating. “You got lucky, Potter. If this happens again you will not be welcome in this class. From today, you have a fortnight of detention and will automatically fail this test.”

There were some shouts of indignation from Sirius and some opposing yells that James’ punishment wasn’t enough, but Professor Halloway silenced them with a lethal look as she turned to face the rest of the class.

“Any more of this behaviour in my lessons, and you’ll find that you have no free time for a month.”

That shut everyone up.

She picked up her list and proceeded to call people up. Snape, much to James and Sirius’ horror, called Remus up. But they needn’t have feared: Remus won a decisive victory with a spurt of well-rehearsed spell combinations. You were slightly disappointed Remus wouldn’t be able to duel again now, but you knew Mary would be more than happy to partner up.

Following James’ scolding no more dangerous incidents occurred, and the duels blended seamlessly together. Before you knew it, Professor Halloway had called your name and you were stood by her side.

“Partner?” She asked curtly.

“Mary.” You said, grinning as your best friend made eye contact with you, already making her way up to the front.

“You must think me blind, Miss (L/n), if you think I haven’t noticed how close the two of you are. Duelling is about spontaneity, and I have no doubt you’ve practiced with Miss MacDonald many times.”

Mary froze, and you knew your face mirrored the disappointment on her own.

Professor Halloway continued, “Mulciber, please come up.”

Sirius swore loudly as you froze, feet glued to the floor. Your eyes went to your friends, who all looked worried. But it was James who made his indignation known.

“You can’t have him duel-”

“Silence!” Professor Halloway hissed, “Another disruption from you, Potter, and I’ll see your expulsion through personally.”

You shook your head at James as he fell silent, a frown etched into his face as he watched Mulciber approach you.

Your duelling partner took his place opposite, a sickening grin on his face as his lips curled wickedly.

Mulciber was a Slytherin notorious for his cruel, unforgiving nature, and a friend of Snape’s. He’d once had a brawl in the courtyard with Sirius, and both had left with considerable injuries that even Madam Pomfrey couldn’t heal overnight. He hated the Marauders, and their friends.

All eyes were on you as you bowed, your eyes narrowing at Mulciber as you assessed him. The look in his eyes was wild, one of unmistakeable hostility.

For a moment everyone seemed to hold their breath. You knew your duelling was strong enough to best Mulciber- you just had to stay collected.

“One.”

Your fingers tightened around your wand as you got into a duelling stance. Mulciber did the same.

“Two.”

Your arms went rigid to stop them shaking from the anticipation, the first spell already dancing on the tip of your tongue.

“Th-”

Mulciber blasted a spell your way.

People were already shouting, but you couldn’t listen.

Though he’d taken you by surprise, your blocks were precise. Mulciber’s voice rose in anger, but his spells still were unable to scrape past your unyielding shield.

You smirked as he snarled, spells bouncing off your shield and rebounding across the room as people ducked to avoid his wrath. He neared you, his movements vaguely reminding you of a lion stalking its prey. Your determination intensified; between the two of you there was only one Gryffindor.

But the impact of his spells slamming relentlessly into your shield was beginning to drain your energy, and you knew that in order to win you had to go onto the offensive.

Within a second you dropped your shield and flung a spell at your opponent. He staggered back, surprised, his look of shock morphing into anger. You readied your wand but he was already hurling spells your way. You deflected them too late, stumbling slightly as you struggled to regain your balance.

Panic began to overwhelm your thoughts as your wand slipped in your hand. Your palms were slick with sweat; every time you had an opening to fire a spell Mulciber would easily deflect it, then hurl ten back. You were struggling to find an opening and feeling wearier by the second.

Mulciber’s face was red as you dodged spell after spell, and you faintly registered the loud yells around you. Whatever was said had him gritting his teeth, when he suddenly slammed you with a spell so vicious that you almost fell backwards.

A spell as violent as that can’t have been for disarming. The shouting in the room got louder.

You heard Professor Halloway reprimanding Mulciber, but you barely processed it as he continued to attack you with an onslaught of magic. By now you were clenching your wand tightly, your hands shaking from the strain.

Within seconds his spells seemed to gain a new intensity. You had to cast one final spell and end this. There was a moment, a millisecond, where Mulciber was preparing to attack again, and you momentarily let down your shield to hit him with the disarming charm.

He beat you to it.

The spell slammed into your chest as you choked on air, the impact making your lungs constrict painfully. Before you could properly register it, you were flying backwards. A blinding pain shot up your arm as you slammed onto the ground, a strangled sound escaping your throat.

There were screams, people rushing around you as you sat up quickly, vision slightly hazy. Cradling your arm, the tears in your eyes were a mixture of pain and sheer embarrassment. You felt so humiliated, hating the attention as people repeatedly asked if you were okay. Suddenly Professor Halloway’s pointed face appeared into view as she hauled you up and towards the exit of the room.

Within an instant a familiar voice was speaking up, rough and panicked, “Professor, let me take her to Madam Pomfrey, please.”

You realised with a start that it was James as he shoved people aside to get to you, his eyes wild.

Anger flooded your senses and, combined with not only the pain in your wrist but the humiliation of your defeat, it became rage, “Not him.” You spat, “Anyone but him.” You turned to Professor Halloway, ignoring James as she stared at you thoughtfully.

“Lupin!” She called, and Remus was instantly by your side.

Before you knew it you’d left the classroom. The door slammed shut on James, and the chaos inside.

──── ୨୧ ────

After a gruelling day, lessons were finally over. Curled up by the fire, you basked in the warmth and soft crackles that filled the common room. It was late, so most people had vacated the space to get ready for bed.

You chose to stay behind, in deep thought as you moved your now fully healed wrist.

The quiet didn’t last long as the Fat Lady portrait abruptly swung open. In came James, accompanied by Remus. You screwed your eyes shut, in disbelief that this was happening now of all times.

James hesitated at the sight of you, alone, and nodded to Remus, “I’ll be just a minute mate, go up without me.”

Remus lingered at the foot of the stairs, appearing uncertain, but headed up at the sound of the resolution in James’ voice. You didn’t speak, didn’t bother to face him as you continued to stare into the fire, orange floating in front of your eyes whenever you blinked.

James stood behind you.

“How are you feeling?” He asked, the words sliding out casually.

“Fine.” You didn’t bother to look up at him; your cold tone making it clear that you wanted to be left alone.

James shook his head in frustration. Turning to the staircase, his hand settled on the railing as the first step creaked. But then he stepped back down, turning around suddenly, “What’s the problem? Between us?” His words had a confrontational edge, prompting you to turn and face him as your brows furrowed.

“What?”

James took a step towards you, that stubbornness burning in his eyes as he stared you down, “What’s wrong with you? Why have you been acting like this?”

You stood up, unable to bear the way he was talking down to you and how vulnerable it made you feel. “How I’ve been acting? Did you not almost kill Gideon Prewett earlier after slamming him into a wall for no reason?”

“He would’ve survived worse. He’s annoyingly persistent like that.” His eyes were dark.

“He didn’t deserve it.”

His irritated expression suggested otherwise. James clenched his jaw, crossing his arms. His biceps bulged, briefly pulling your eyes away from his face.

“You’re unreasonable.” You spat; tone accusatory as you moved towards him.

James scoffed, the fire reflecting in his glasses, “And you aren’t? Are you going to tell me what’s wrong or am I expected to grovel at your feet and beg for an answer?”

You rolled your eyes, refusing to take the bait. This had to stop. “Don’t turn this on me, James.” You shook your head, laughing in disbelief, “You don’t get to do that.”

James stared you down, unspeaking. You hated the way he just stood there. You needed a reaction from him, needed to know your words hurt him as much as he had you.

You didn’t know when the conversation had turned away from Gideon, but it just did.

You maintained his gaze, refusing to look away. “Our friendship is ruined because you used me to satiate your- whatever- and then didn’t know what to do with me afterwards.” You swallowed harshly, stifling any emotion as you struggled to conceal how deeply affected you were by him.

His jaw clenched, “That’s what you think of me, is it?” His laugh was joyless as he took one final step, asserting himself over you. The height difference was pronounced as he looked down to speak, “You’re the one who made it awkward. You’re the one who made things different when they were just fine.”

“Maybe I didn’t want ‘just fine’.”

He hesitated.

“Merlin, James, do you ever think about what others want for a change?” You struck where you knew it would hurt.

James stopped you before you could get another hurtful word in. “Don’t act as though you didn’t pull away first, (Y/n). Don’t pretend this is all on me. It’s not my fault that my friendship wasn’t enough for you, that you weren’t satisfied. You don’t get to blame that on me.” His voice got louder as he rubbed his temples, “And what are you mad at me for, exactly? Kissing you?” He paused, waiting for you to respond. You didn’t. “Because if you didn’t like that, you’d be the first.” His voice was harsh, that familiar cockiness slipping out.

You froze, his words smacking you in the face.

Anger shone in the tears that pooled in your eyes. You shoved a hand against his chest, “Fuck you-”

James opened his mouth to speak. You didn’t let him. “-and your fucked up idea of friendship.”

You tried to turn away but his hand flew to your wrist, keeping your palm splayed against him.

You were close now, so close. The red glow of the flames danced on the rim of James’ glasses as you stood your ground, refusing to look away.

His eyes dropped to your lips, and your eyes begged to do the same. You couldn't do it. Wouldn't allow yourself to.

“Don’t you dare.” Your voice cracked, finally yielding under the tension. James’ eyes flicked up to yours again, his breathing heavy. The look he gave you was one of hurt and anger, and something else. “Don’t you dare look at me like that.”

Your words came out harsher than intended and James instantly dropped your wrist, stepping away. Your hand dropped to your side, fingers tingling.

The gap between you seemed to roar with everything unspoken.

“We’ve ruined this.”

James’ response was low, spiteful. “Then stop chasing it.”

“Stop, both of you!” A voice sliced through the tension, causing you to whip around. Mary stood at the foot of the stairs in pink pyjamas, arms crossed as she glared at James.

“We’re going to bed.” She went up to you and took your arm, dragging you away.

“You’ve got a date tomorrow (Y/n), focus on that.” Mary soothed as you disappeared up the stairs, her words intentionally loud so that James would hear.

Mary was James’ friend, sure- and maybe what she’d said was petty, but she could live with that. In Mary’s eyes you came first, and James had hurt you. Badly. He deserved to know that he was no longer a priority in your life.

James stood there; hands clenching and unclenching as his anger began to ebb away. Eventually, the lack of your presence caused the buzzing in his mind to settle.

He cursed, sinking into the armchair closest to the fire. So close, that he had to move his legs away from the flames- the heat bordering on painful. His head fell back, cushioned by the plush material. He hadn’t known why he’d done it, had lost control with his classmate. His teammate. Why he had seen him as a threat.

James watched the logs burn, until they were swallowed by the flames and the fire died out. He sat there, contemplating in the darkness, until the cinders were cool to the touch.

A/N

i really enjoyed writing this part! let me know what you thought i love to read your comments :)

if you'd like to be added to the taglist, do lmk

thank you for reading, lots of love ♡

series masterlist here ❆

taglist ♡♡♡

@pandoraswan @featherlightfairysworld @mus-tbe-a-weasley @hisparentsgallerryy @stanzie @wolfstar-jpg @fangirl-swagg @moonlightremblack @simp4myself @niniantics @froggiedragon @madevour

[acciofictionalmen]

tbh why am i rooting for gideon more than james in the falling snow series😭

i dont blame you haha!!

gideon is refreshingly straightforward with his feelings & puts in the effort james currently lacks

don't worry though, in parts to come you'll see why james & the reader are much better suited for eachother🫶

(but james will, of course, have to work for it, and both him and the reader really really need to improve their communication skills because they're in shambles;))

[acciofictionalmen]

james potter

fallout in the snowfall series

mattheo riddle

christmas shenanigans

dean winchester

cold

sam winchester

chick flicks & plump lips

angelus btvs

bait

wanda maximoff

she's my alibi

disclaimer!!

↳ these works are the property of acciofictionalmen

↳ all written content is mine, do not steal, plagiarise or publish any of my works without my permission

[acciofictionalmen]

fallout in the snowfall ❆ part 3

james potter x female!reader

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

warnings: strong language, sexual references

word count: 3.1k

series masterlist

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4

Excited chatter filled the room as people crowded around the centre, eager to hear their name called. You stood with your group of friends, chatting with Sirius and Remus whilst James talked to Lily. Mary was busy reassuring Peter, who looked disconcertingly pale.

Christmas break was quickly approaching and, much to the students’ chagrin, teachers began to set end-of-term tests. As it was your penultimate year at Hogwarts all tests were treated seriously. However, there was a different atmosphere surrounding the DADA test: a duel utilising the most advanced spells you’d been taught so far. It was assessed based on who disarmed their opponent first, the length of the duel and the range of spells used; everyone was anticipating it. Some were excited and had disarmed multiple first years that morning for practice, others (namely Peter), had vomited during breakfast.

You weren’t sure into which category you fell. Sure, you were confident in your knowledge, but duelling was different to scribbling information down on a piece of parchment: it was impulsive.

Not only that, your DADA teacher – Professor Halloway – had a reputation for being as harsh as she was skilled. Approaching her one hundredth birthday, she was wise, experienced and beautiful in a sharp manner, with thick black hair she kept stuffed beneath a black, pointed hat. Her face was drawn, tight, her brown eyes always critical. It wasn’t easy to score high grades in Halloway’s classes.

“You’ll do fine.” Remus smiled by your side, noticing your growing discomfort, “I’ve seen you practice. You’ve got this.”

“Yeah (Y/n),” Sirius squeezed your arm, “Just pretend they’re Snape.” Sirius’ eyes darkened as he spied the Slytherin on the opposite end of the room, speaking with the Professor, “I know I will be.”

“Thanks guys.” Your head tilted teasingly, “Try not to accidentally murder Snape then.”

Sirius gave you a concerningly non-committal look.

Whilst waiting, you noticed Remus clenching his fists- anxious to do well. An idea sprang to your mind.

“Wanna be my duelling partner?” You abruptly asked Remus, “Sirius will be desperate to duel Snape, unless James beats him to it.”

Remus gave you a thankful smile, “Yeah, thanks (Y/n). We’ll do that.”

“Of cour-“

“Potter. James Potter.”

The room went silent as all eyes flew to James.

In a manner that oozed confidence, he rolled his shoulders back and stepped into the centre of the room.

Professor Halloway looked disinterested, “Partner?”

On instinct, you turned to Snape. His sneer was more pronounced than usual, and you knew he was also waiting for his name to be called.

“Prewett.”

Your heart dropped. The impact of his name seemed to surge through the room as people turned around in surprise. In a few seconds, Gideon had pushed through the crowd until he stood directly in front of James. Both boys silently assessed each other, both the picture of self-assurance. There was one stark difference between them- James appeared unbothered, his posture relaxed. Gideon, on the other hand, was visibly tense; lacked the ease that had always come naturally to James.

Your heartbeat sped up as you held your breath, trying to ignore the pounding in your chest as the tension in the room mounted.

“Take your positions.” Professor Halloway dictated. The class fell silent once more to witness the interaction. Even Snape was unable to hide the shock from his face.

James stood on the left, closest to you, whilst Gideon stood opposite on the right.

Professor Halloway spoke cautiously, “Remember- this is solely to disarm. No other spells are to be used.” Both boys nodded. “Now, draw your wands and bow… Bow, Potter…”

The irritation on James’ face was almost comical as he sunk into a deeper bow, but you couldn’t laugh. You held your breath as both boys stepped away from each other.

“One… Two…”

You stared, unable to look away.

“Three.”

Lights flashed across the room as both cast spells at an alarmingly fast rate.

It quickly became clear who was faster.

Gideon’s casting visibly began to slow as his spells started to miss their target, his wand movements becoming sloppier against the onslaught of James’.

It wasn’t long before Gideon was on the floor, panting for air. But James wasn’t finished.

“FLIPENDO.” The word rung throughout the room and Gideon was flung backwards. He slammed into the wall with a sickening thud, dropping to the floor.

A hand flew to your mouth. The room erupted into shouts.

People were running over to Gideon, checking he was okay and attempting to lift him off the ground. Professor Halloway was viciously scolding James, his loyal best friends immediately supporting him and by his side. You stood there in the centre of it all, horrified, as people bustled around.

You couldn’t process what had just happened as you watched a Hufflepuff girl shaking Gideon frantically. There were too many people surrounding him to see if he had opened his eyes.

Your shock and confusion at James for taking it too far was quickly replaced by anger. He had recently seemed a little hostile towards Gideon, but you chalked it down to James’ anxiety for the Gryffindor team to do well. This- this was something else.

“He’s okay!” Someone declared. Gideon had stood up, somewhat off-balance, but seemed to be fine. You exhaled in relief, mentally noting to check on him later.

After giving Gideon a quick once-over and deeming him fit to stay in class, Professor Halloway continued her berating. “You got lucky, Potter. If this happens again you will not be welcome in this class. From today, you have a fortnight of detention and will automatically fail this test.”

There were some shouts of indignation from Sirius and some opposing yells that James’ punishment wasn’t enough, but Professor Halloway silenced them with a lethal look as she turned to face the rest of the class.

“Any more of this behaviour in my lessons, and you’ll find that you have no free time for a month.”

That shut everyone up.

She picked up her list and proceeded to call people up. Snape, much to James and Sirius’ horror, called Remus up. But they needn’t have feared: Remus won a decisive victory with a spurt of well-rehearsed spell combinations. You were slightly disappointed Remus wouldn’t be able to duel again now, but you knew Mary would be more than happy to partner up.

Following James’ scolding no more dangerous incidents occurred, and the duels blended seamlessly together. Before you knew it, Professor Halloway had called your name and you were stood by her side.

“Partner?” She asked curtly.

“Mary.” You said, grinning as your best friend made eye contact with you, already making her way up to the front.

“You must think me blind, Miss (L/n), if you think I haven’t noticed how close the two of you are. Duelling is about spontaneity, and I have no doubt you’ve practiced with Miss MacDonald many times.”

Mary froze, and you knew your face mirrored the disappointment on her own.

Professor Halloway continued, “Mulciber, please come up.”

Sirius swore loudly as you froze, feet glued to the floor. Your eyes went to your friends, who all looked worried. But it was James who made his indignation known.

“You can’t have him duel-”

“Silence!” Professor Halloway hissed, “Another disruption from you, Potter, and I’ll see your expulsion through personally.”

You shook your head at James as he fell silent, a frown etched into his face as he watched Mulciber approach you.

Your duelling partner took his place opposite, a sickening grin on his face as his lips curled wickedly.

Mulciber was a Slytherin notorious for his cruel, unforgiving nature, and a friend of Snape’s. He’d once had a brawl in the courtyard with Sirius, and both had left with considerable injuries that even Madam Pomfrey couldn’t heal overnight. He hated the Marauders, and their friends.

All eyes were on you as you bowed, your eyes narrowing at Mulciber as you assessed him. The look in his eyes was wild, one of unmistakeable hostility.

For a moment everyone seemed to hold their breath. You knew your duelling was strong enough to best Mulciber- you just had to stay collected.

“One.”

Your fingers tightened around your wand as you got into a duelling stance. Mulciber did the same.

“Two.”

Your arms went rigid to stop them shaking from the anticipation, the first spell already dancing on the tip of your tongue.

“Th-”

Mulciber blasted a spell your way.

People were already shouting, but you couldn’t listen.

Though he’d taken you by surprise, your blocks were precise. Mulciber’s voice rose in anger, but his spells still were unable to scrape past your unyielding shield.

You smirked as he snarled, spells bouncing off your shield and rebounding across the room as people ducked to avoid his wrath. He neared you, his movements vaguely reminding you of a lion stalking its prey. Your determination intensified; between the two of you there was only one Gryffindor.

But the impact of his spells slamming relentlessly into your shield was beginning to drain your energy, and you knew that in order to win you had to go onto the offensive.

Within a second you dropped your shield and flung a spell at your opponent. He staggered back, surprised, his look of shock morphing into anger. You readied your wand but he was already hurling spells your way. You deflected them too late, stumbling slightly as you struggled to regain your balance.

Panic began to overwhelm your thoughts as your wand slipped in your hand. Your palms were slick with sweat; every time you had an opening to fire a spell Mulciber would easily deflect it, then hurl ten back. You were struggling to find an opening and feeling wearier by the second.

Mulciber’s face was red as you dodged spell after spell, and you faintly registered the loud yells around you. Whatever was said had him gritting his teeth, when he suddenly slammed you with a spell so vicious that you almost fell backwards.

A spell as violent as that can’t have been for disarming. The shouting in the room got louder.

You heard Professor Halloway reprimanding Mulciber, but you barely processed it as he continued to attack you with an onslaught of magic. By now you were clenching your wand tightly, your hands shaking from the strain.

Within seconds his spells seemed to gain a new intensity. You had to cast one final spell and end this. There was a moment, a millisecond, where Mulciber was preparing to attack again, and you momentarily let down your shield to hit him with the disarming charm.

He beat you to it.

The spell slammed into your chest as you choked on air, the impact making your lungs constrict painfully. Before you could properly register it, you were flying backwards. A blinding pain shot up your arm as you slammed onto the ground, a strangled sound escaping your throat.

There were screams, people rushing around you as you sat up quickly, vision slightly hazy. Cradling your arm, the tears in your eyes were a mixture of pain and sheer embarrassment. You felt so humiliated, hating the attention as people repeatedly asked if you were okay. Suddenly Professor Halloway’s pointed face appeared into view as she hauled you up and towards the exit of the room.

Within an instant a familiar voice was speaking up, rough and panicked, “Professor, let me take her to Madam Pomfrey, please.”

You realised with a start that it was James as he shoved people aside to get to you, his eyes wild.

Anger flooded your senses and, combined with not only the pain in your wrist but the humiliation of your defeat, it became rage, “Not him.” You spat, “Anyone but him.” You turned to Professor Halloway, ignoring James as she stared at you thoughtfully.

“Lupin!” She called, and Remus was instantly by your side.

Before you knew it you’d left the classroom. The door slammed shut on James, and the chaos inside.

──── ୨୧ ────

After a gruelling day, lessons were finally over. Curled up by the fire, you basked in the warmth and soft crackles that filled the common room. It was late, so most people had vacated the space to get ready for bed.

You chose to stay behind, in deep thought as you moved your now fully healed wrist.

The quiet didn’t last long as the Fat Lady portrait abruptly swung open. In came James, accompanied by Remus. You screwed your eyes shut, in disbelief that this was happening now of all times.

James hesitated at the sight of you, alone, and nodded to Remus, “I’ll be just a minute mate, go up without me.”

Remus lingered at the foot of the stairs, appearing uncertain, but headed up at the sound of the resolution in James’ voice. You didn’t speak, didn’t bother to face him as you continued to stare into the fire, orange floating in front of your eyes whenever you blinked.

James stood behind you.

“How are you feeling?” He asked, the words sliding out casually.

“Fine.” You didn’t bother to look up at him; your cold tone making it clear that you wanted to be left alone.

James shook his head in frustration. Turning to the staircase, his hand settled on the railing as the first step creaked. But then he stepped back down, turning around suddenly, “What’s the problem? Between us?” His words had a confrontational edge, prompting you to turn and face him as your brows furrowed.

“What?”

James took a step towards you, that stubbornness burning in his eyes as he stared you down, “What’s wrong with you? Why have you been acting like this?”

You stood up, unable to bear the way he was talking down to you and how vulnerable it made you feel. “How I’ve been acting? Did you not almost kill Gideon Prewett earlier after slamming him into a wall for no reason?”

“He would’ve survived worse. He’s annoyingly persistent like that.” His eyes were dark.

“He didn’t deserve it.”

His irritated expression suggested otherwise. James clenched his jaw, crossing his arms. His biceps bulged, briefly pulling your eyes away from his face.

“You’re unreasonable.” You spat; tone accusatory as you moved towards him.

James scoffed, the fire reflecting in his glasses, “And you aren’t? Are you going to tell me what’s wrong or am I expected to grovel at your feet and beg for an answer?”

You rolled your eyes, refusing to take the bait. This had to stop. “Don’t turn this on me, James.” You shook your head, laughing in disbelief, “You don’t get to do that.”

James stared you down, unspeaking. You hated the way he just stood there. You needed a reaction from him, needed to know your words hurt him as much as he had you.

You didn’t know when the conversation had turned away from Gideon, but it just did.

You maintained his gaze, refusing to look away. “Our friendship is ruined because you used me to satiate your- whatever- and then didn’t know what to do with me afterwards.” You swallowed harshly, stifling any emotion as you struggled to conceal how deeply affected you were by him.

His jaw clenched, “That’s what you think of me, is it?” His laugh was joyless as he took one final step, asserting himself over you. The height difference was pronounced as he looked down to speak, “You’re the one who made it awkward. You’re the one who made things different when they were just fine.”

“Maybe I didn’t want ‘just fine’.”

He hesitated.

“Merlin, James, do you ever think about what others want for a change?” You struck where you knew it would hurt.

James stopped you before you could get another hurtful word in. “Don’t act as though you didn’t pull away first, (Y/n). Don’t pretend this is all on me. It’s not my fault that my friendship wasn’t enough for you, that you weren’t satisfied. You don’t get to blame that on me.” His voice got louder as he rubbed his temples, “And what are you mad at me for, exactly? Kissing you?” He paused, waiting for you to respond. You didn’t. “Because if you didn’t like that, you’d be the first.” His voice was harsh, that familiar cockiness slipping out.

You froze, his words smacking you in the face.

Anger shone in the tears that pooled in your eyes. You shoved a hand against his chest, “Fuck you-”

James opened his mouth to speak. You didn’t let him. “-and your fucked up idea of friendship.”

You tried to turn away but his hand flew to your wrist, keeping your palm splayed against him.

You were close now, so close. The red glow of the flames danced on the rim of James’ glasses as you stood your ground, refusing to look away.

His eyes dropped to your lips, and your eyes begged to do the same. You couldn't do it. Wouldn't allow yourself to.

“Don’t you dare.” Your voice cracked, finally yielding under the tension. James’ eyes flicked up to yours again, his breathing heavy. The look he gave you was one of hurt and anger, and something else. “Don’t you dare look at me like that.”

Your words came out harsher than intended and James instantly dropped your wrist, stepping away. Your hand dropped to your side, fingers tingling.

The gap between you seemed to roar with everything unspoken.

“We’ve ruined this.”

James’ response was low, spiteful. “Then stop chasing it.”

“Stop, both of you!” A voice sliced through the tension, causing you to whip around. Mary stood at the foot of the stairs in pink pyjamas, arms crossed as she glared at James.

“We’re going to bed.” She went up to you and took your arm, dragging you away.

“You’ve got a date tomorrow (Y/n), focus on that.” Mary soothed as you disappeared up the stairs, her words intentionally loud so that James would hear.

Mary was James’ friend, sure- and maybe what she’d said was petty, but she could live with that. In Mary’s eyes you came first, and James had hurt you. Badly. He deserved to know that he was no longer a priority in your life.

James stood there; hands clenching and unclenching as his anger began to ebb away. Eventually, the lack of your presence caused the buzzing in his mind to settle.

He cursed, sinking into the armchair closest to the fire. So close, that he had to move his legs away from the flames- the heat bordering on painful. His head fell back, cushioned by the plush material. He hadn’t known why he’d done it, had lost control with his classmate. His teammate. Why he had seen him as a threat.

James watched the logs burn, until they were swallowed by the flames and the fire died out. He sat there, contemplating in the darkness, until the cinders were cool to the touch.

A/N

i really enjoyed writing this part! let me know what you thought i love to read your comments :)

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[acciofictionalmen]

Hello 👋,

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posting in the hopes of raising awareness/ reaching someone who is able to help ♡

[acciofictionalmen]

fallout in the snowfall ❆ part 2

james potter x female!reader

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

warnings: strong language, sexual references

word count: 3.6k

series masterlist

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4

That night you found yourself stood outside James’ dormitory.

With a sharp knock on the door, you waited for someone to respond. It was beyond curfew, the common room silent as you shuffled uncomfortably in the darkness. Eventually you heard movement on the other side of the door and it cracked open.

“Pete?” You exclaimed in surprise; he was usually asleep by now.

“Oh, hi (Y/n).” He twittered, turning to look behind him. You heard the chatter in the room pause at the mention of your name.

“I’ve got James’ charms essay here.” You said softly, conscious of waking the other dormitories up.

“One sec.” Pete turned to shut the door, and his mouse-brown hair bobbed out of sight. The door re-opened to jet black hair.

James quietly shut the door behind him, leaving you both alone in the corridor. You swallowed nervously, he looked good; wearing only a pair of crimson, low-hanging, plaid pyjama bottoms. He noticed your eyes on his bare chest, and smirked.

Rolling your eyes, you handed him his essay, “Here.”

James took the paper as you calmly continued, “Your main points are good, but you don’t spend enough time articulating them, y’know? Like in your first paragraph you state the importance of the Fidelius Charm but then don’t elaborate. And if you want to get full marks you need to-”

“(Y/n).”

You paused at the firmness of his voice.

“What?” You crossed your arms as your confidence began to ebb away the closer he got.

“I could care less about Charms.”

He caressed the side of your face with his thumb as you froze, your breath hitching as he looked down at you. Tall shadows stretched across his face, slithers of moonlight the only thing defining his features, “I wanted to see you.” He breathed, his lips lowering to your neck, “Can’t I see my best girl?”

Your eyes fluttered shut as you sunk into his embrace, his hands tightening around your waist to keep you steady.

James’ essay drifted to the floor, forgotten.

His lips travelled up your chin, nearing the corners of your lips when you stopped him, channelling your resolve.

“Not like this.”

James instantly stopped and pulled away, his hands still loosely on your waist, “What?” He murmured, still entranced by you.

You pointedly removed his hands from your waist, and stooped to pick up his essay.

“I came because I thought you wanted to improve your Charms grade, because I’m a good friend,” you pushed the paper into his chest, finality in your voice, “I’m going to bed.”

James’ brows lowered in confusion as he stepped away, “Have I-” he stopped himself, “Right. Goodnight then.”

──── ୨୧ ────

Since that encounter by his dorm, you kept your distance. Had skilfully evaded moments alone with James like the slyness of a golden snitch eluding its seeker. Partially to make a point, but also because you didn’t trust your self-control anymore.

The initial few days of your withdrawal had been spent waiting. Waiting for any effort, for him to try or even just ask why you’d suddenly pulled away. Or for him to find you and express some sort of dissatisfaction with the way your ‘friendship’ had been left, that dissatisfaction you felt, and tell you he wanted more.

When it became clear that wouldn’t happen, you continued to joke with each other in the group. However, the underlying tension was so prominent that your conversations began to lessen- your mind constantly elsewhere and his, a mess.

It didn’t take you long to realise the growing feelings you had weren’t reciprocated, and to shove them deep, deep down.

You wondered whether you’d made the right decision- you’d stopped kissing James with the hope that he’d realise he wanted you as more than just a friend. At the least, that your friendship would return to the way it had been. You hadn’t expected- hadn’t even considered that it may be irreparable: that that friendship was long gone.

Embarrassment frequently bullied your thoughts as you wondered whether your friendship had any worth to James when he wasn’t tasting you.

The others had noticed the change too, but no one dared comment yet.

To your dismay, the rest of the year had also noticed. People would look at you uncertainly whenever they mentioned James in front of you, as though you’d broken up. As the days trickled past and your conversations dwindled, it began to feel that way.

One of the first people to observe this had been Gideon Prewett. He approached you one afternoon as you trailed out of DADA, his easy pace matching your own.

You felt his eyes on you before he spoke, a teasing lilt to his voice, “Rough breakup?”

You weren’t amused, blinking as you registered him properly. He was bluntly attractive- high cheekbones dotted with freckles and full, pink lips. You could count on one hand the number of times you and Gideon Prewett had interacted since the start of Hogwarts- despite being in the same house. This only increased your irritation.

Your response was bland, “We weren’t dating.”

His voice was deep as he chuckled, “I gave Potter too much credit, then. I thought he was good at knowing when something precious was in front him.”

You caught the clear Quidditch reference, and the even more obvious flattery. You definitely didn’t mind it.

“Careful,” your lips quirked to the side in amusement, “or I’ll tell your Captain you’re slagging him off.”

He smirked. “(Y/n), right? I’m Gideon.”

You laughed softly. “I know who you are, Prewett.”

He grinned, responding with equal wit, and you allowed yourself to settle into the fun exchange. He walked you to your next lesson, despite his being on the opposite end of the castle.

James had been leaving Potions when he spied you with Gideon. His satchel slung across his shoulder, hand failing to smooth his unkempt hair. Your laughter had reached him before you had. He almost smiled at the warm sound and the fond memories that accompanied it.

Until his eyes caught up.

His gaze collided with yours, the impact rendering him speechless. The world seemed to slow as you crossed paths, his eyes catching on your face and relaxed mannerisms, snagging on the laughter still etched into your expression. He noticed the faint blush that kissed your cheeks, the brightness of your eyes. It can’t have been longer than a second, but it was enough time for James’ gaze to flicker between you and Gideon. Enough time to recall a time when it had been him effortlessly bantering with you, making you laugh at his well-timed jokes.

You realised it at the same time, but too late, your back already to him as the space between you grew.

You turned back to Gideon, your mind in disarray. Seeing James walk past had forced the realisation that it wasn’t him beside you, making you laugh until tears danced in your eyes.

Suddenly feeling light-headed, you tugged at the red and gold scarf wound tightly around your neck. It loosened, but you still struggled to breathe.

──── ୨୧ ────

Honey-soaked waffles were stacked on your plate, glistening with sugar as you dug in eagerly and took occasional sips of coffee to counter the sweetness. The hall was filled with lively chatter as people anticipated the nearing holiday- whether it would snow, if Peeves was particularly active and planning gift-exchanges between friend groups for those leaving over Christmas break.

You sat with your usual group as James harassed Lily for the answers to the Charms homework- a common exchange. Flitwick was expecting it that evening despite James protesting that he had Quidditch practice in the afternoon; he had already been granted two extended deadlines. You wondered if James had even done any more work on his essay since you’d returned it to him that one night.

Remus paused, his eyes meeting yours with a familiar look, the same one he had when he was about to answer a question correctly in class, “James, why don’t you do the homework with (Y/n) in the library today? She’s really good at Charms.”

James’ eyes flickered to yours as he hesitated. You knew what he was thinking, because you were thinking it too- the two of you hadn’t been alone together for almost a week. There had always been someone present to change the conversation if things became strained, to act as a buffer to the overwhelming tension.

His hesitation stabbed you in the gut, but then he abruptly looked up, confidence restored in his eyes, “After lunch?” He suggested.

A faint smile settled on your lips, but before you had the chance to respond, a warm hand rested on your shoulder. You looked up, offering Gideon a smile as he nodded to the rest of your friend group.

“Hey.” He grinned as he removed his hand from your shoulder to push back his red hair.

“Hi.”

The whole of your group had stopped talking to observe the interaction, and there was an awkward pause. Mary quickly resumed talking and you made sure to remember to thank her later.

“I was wondering if you wanted to stop by and watch my Quidditch practice later?” He gestured towards the tall windows, “Weather looks promising.”

You paused, hyper aware that James was listening intently, but also that you needed to respond, “Sure. As long as it’s not an excuse to show off.” You gave him a look of feigned suspicion.

Gideon raised his hands in mock defence, “You’ve caught me.”

James’ eyes narrowed as he registered the easiness of the exchange.

“I’ll be there.”

And you had meant it. Gideon was funny, kind… undeniably good-looking. You’d been talking for a few days now and you enjoyed his company- he was easy-going and straightforward. A welcome contrast to your recent friendship dynamics.

He nodded, satisfied, eyes skimming over James before he turned away and joined his brother further down the table.

You turned back to your friends, feeling uneasy that they’d overheard everything. One person specifically.

James’ face was imperceptible as he turned to Sirius, punching his friend on the shoulder when he said something stupid. James’ face had always been easy to read- his passion making it hard for him to conceal his feelings.

You had always loved that about him- the genuineness of his emotions that you could almost always tell what he was feeling in the moment by looking at him. The look he was giving you. Of exasperation, of longing, of want… James grunted with the force of his lips colliding with yours. His hands flew to your waist as you met in a flurry of passion and l-st and want as one of his hands snaked up your side and- you blinked hard, shoving away the memory that burned before your eyes.

This was unfamiliar ground, and you didn’t like it. You noted his reaction, turning instead to your girls who were eager to know since when you and Gideon Prewett were friends.

James’ odd behaviour still hadn’t changed as you both sat down hours later on plush armchairs in the library. Multiple scrolls were piled on the rickety table before you.

The armchairs were placed opposite each other, a healthy distance between them, yet you still felt stifled by the proximity. Mostly by the emotions that accompanied it.

Setting your bag down on the table, you pulled out your work, James mirroring your actions.

Once you’d both settled, you reached over to read his essay, which you were pretty sure was unchanged since you’d seen it last.

Your fingers brushed his own as he released the parchment. A few weeks ago, his hand would’ve lingered on yours, his thumb tracing circles into your palm. This time you retracted your hand quickly, as though his touch was searing.

If James noticed this, he didn’t react, opting instead to lean back casually as you read over his homework.

To your surprise, James’ essay had changed. He’d implemented all of the improvements you’d suggested last time, and you read through the work quickly, conscious of his unwavering stare.

“This is really good.” You murmured, unable to conceal the surprise in your voice.

James looked as though he was going to say something, probably why you sounded so surprised and that of course it was good, but just said, “Yeah, thanks.”

But then his eyes met yours, studying you carefully as he leant back in his armchair, the picture of nonchalance. He ran a hand through his hair.

“So you’re going to the Quidditch match then?”

Your cheeks warmed as you slowly sat up, “Yes.”

James looked at you, warily, as he spoke, “Practices have been boring lately, probably isn’t worth coming.”

“I want to.”

A muscle feathered in his jaw, your answer not the one he’d wanted. Thankfully, he didn’t pursue it further. He nodded, the movement stiff, as he pulled out some overdue homework to complete.

Realising the brief conversation was over, you pulled a book from your bag and tucked your feet under your thighs, reading intently. A few times the sound of James’ quill scratching on parchment would stop and he’d look over to you, as though he wanted to speak. He didn’t.

A little while later James packed up his work and explained that he needed to get ready for practice.

You couldn’t quell your disappointment. Was this going to be the next few weeks? Strained meet-ups as you chased the memory of a friendship that had once thrived so beautifully on its own? It already felt pointless.

You nodded in understanding. Just as he turned to leave, you added, “No broken bones.”

He turned to face you, the ghost of a smirk gracing his lips as he echoed, “No broken bones.”

He left you perched on the chair, unable to turn the next page of your book as you bunched your hair in your right hand in exasperation. You slowly packed away too, realising you should dress warmly for the match.

Gideon had been right, the weather was beautiful- rays of sunlight illuminated the library as you prepared to leave, beams of light dancing across your face and momentarily blinding you. But the unmistakeable chill that always accompanied the winter months was ever-present, and your hour-long study session with James had left you cold enough.

──── ୨୧ ────

Chatting loudly, you, Mary and Lily left the castle bundled in colourful scarfs, woolly hats tugged over your ears and plush coats. All three of you set off for the Quidditch pitch, laughing as the wind whipped your hair and the frost crunched beneath your shoes. By the time you’d reached your seats at the top of the stadium, your teeth chattered so violently that your friends began to look worried.

“Here, (Y/n).” Lily leant over Mary and tapped her wand against your gloved hands, a blast of warmth surging out and enveloping them. You smiled gratefully and turned to face the pitch.

Small figures in red and gold stood far below. You were able to distinguish James, the team’s captain, stood further away from the others as he split them into two groups. A little to his right: Sirius and Marlene. You leant a little further forward, spying Gideon stood with the rest as he slipped a helmet on and mounted his broom.

Before you could point Marlene out to your friends and wave, the players abruptly entered the skies, the Quaffle, two Bludgers, and finally the Snitch released by James shortly afterwards, who then shot up to join the rest.

Ever since you were little, you’d been a massive Quidditch fan- had spent hours reading about the sport and attending live matches. You had a professional’s knowledge, just not their skill. You recalled the last time you’d played Quidditch in James’ massive garden and had flown into a tree, knocking him off his broom when he’d tried to retrieve you.

You huddled with the girls as you whooped and cheered for your friends, the practice a flash of scored goals and quick dives, near-misses and relentless Bludgers.

You caught Gideon’s eyes a few times during the match, and each time he’d flash you a lazy smile before James would snap at him to focus.

Soon there were only ten minutes left, and the match reached a new level of intensity as the Gryffindors used their final spurt of energy to score a few more goals. Suddenly, Mary nudged you in the shoulder as you noticed one of the players zooming towards you. More specifically, Gideon. He landed smoothly, his skill evident by the way he dismounted his broom. You stood up, unsure what was going on as you neared him, wanting to ask why he’d stopped and if he was okay.

Gideon’s chest heaved from the physical exertion as he slowly took off his helmet, streaks of red flopping over his eyes.

“Are you alright?” You asked, concern lacing your voice as you wondered whether he’d pulled a muscle.

“Fine.” Gideon smiled down at you.

You returned the smile. “You sure? Just fine?” You asked, unable to help the blush that formed on your cheeks.

He didn’t immediately respond, lifting your chin with his left hand before pressing a firm kiss to your cheek. Taken by surprise you simply stood there; eyes wide as he pulled away.

“Just fine.’ He murmured, his hot breath fanning over your face.

“I-“ you began, unsure what to say.

“Practice is basically over. I’ll walk you back to the castle.” He grinned, offering you his arm.

You nodded, though it wasn’t quite a question, and slowly took his arm. You threw a look over your shoulder, your friends looking as surprised as you felt. You turned back to Gideon and headed down the stands as he explained the basics of the match to you.

You hadn’t noticed James’ scrutiny of your interaction, his hard stare; nor the way he’d been so distracted that he’d flown right into a Bludger and fallen to the ground. The fall hadn’t been lethal- only a few metres or so. But as James sat there, his friends rushing to make sure he was okay, he ignored the searing pain in his arm and the way his muscles felt as though they were on fire. The flames were concentrated in his eyes instead.

By the time he was back in his dorm, his anger had dulled. James sat on his bed, deep in thought as his friends bustled around him, all except Peter awake.

“Oi Remus,” Sirius poked his head out of the connecting bathroom, “Chuck the hairbrush over, will you?”

Remus, who had been sat cross-legged on his bed immersed in a book, groaned, reaching for Sirius’ bedside table. He attempted to throw it to Sirius who had his hands open and ready, but the hairbrush fell short, landing instead at the foot of James’ bed.

They turned to look at him expectantly. James quickly snapped out of his thoughts and threw the brush to Sirius, who caught it smoothly. But Sirius didn’t vanish back into the bathroom, lingering by the doorway as he exchanged a brief look with Remus.

“What was that today? With (Y/n) and Prewett?” Sirius asked, casually tossing the brush up and down in his hand.

James traced the movement with his eyes, his jaw tensing, “He’s arrogant. Lacked focus on the match. I can’t have him like that during games.”

“What are you going to do? Ban (Y/n) from coming to matches? Gideon wasn’t the only one distracted by her.” Sirius remarked slyly, ignoring the glare James gave him.

Remus sighed, shutting his book once he realised he wasn’t going to finish it, “Why don’t you just talk to her?”

James leant against his headboard, massaging his temples, “I tried, mate. At the library. Things aren’t the same anymore.” He rubbed his face in frustration.

Remus sighed, “Do you want things to be how they were before? With her?”

“Before what?”

“Before you started snogging.” Sirius interjected, unhelpfully.

James cringed, “Shut up.”

Sirius snorted, “We all had to witness it, mate. Don’t know how you messed that one up.”

Remus shot Sirius a silencing look, before facing James once more, “What I’m asking is, do you miss your old friendship dynamic? Back when you two were inseparable?”

“I miss being with her.”

“Then talk to her. Properly.”

“Yeah.” James slid from his bed, signalling the conversation was over, and sat by the adjacent window.

He took off his glasses, folded them up and chucked them onto the bed. The cold of the windowsill seeped into his skin, but he didn’t care, continuing to stare at the green and grey blurs beyond. He wondered what was going on between you and his teammate, the fresh memory of Gideon kissing your cheek still haunting his mind. He pressed his forehead against the freezing glass, hoping the cold would douse the fire that lapped at his thoughts.

He thought deeply about your friendship. What it had entailed. The way the two of you had been inseparable for so many years, constantly joking and laughing together. The party had changed that, but he wondered whether things had started to change before. Not solely your friendship, but how he saw you.

James cursed himself for that kiss- when he had been drunk on success and behaving impulsively. Yet at the same time, he couldn’t condemn the action itself. Nor the weeks that had followed. Kissing you felt…

James narrowed his eyes in concentration, backing away from the window as white blobs settled on the thick glass. He held his breath as dozens more appeared, quickly snatching his glasses of the bed and shoving them back on.

Snow.

A/N

thank you for reading lovelies! as always, i love reading your thoughts/reactions/emotions, so feel free to comment :)) also, thank you so so much for the love on the first part, i appreciate you all

if you'd like to be added to the taglist, lmk ♡

series masterlist here ❆

taglist ♡♡♡

@pandoraswan @featherlightfairysworld @mus-tbe-a-weasley @hisparentsgallerryy @stanzie @wolfstar-jpg @fangirl-swagg @moonlightremblack @simp4myself @niniantics

[acciofictionalmen]

fallout in the snowfall ❆ part 1

james potter x female!reader

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

warnings: strong language, sexual references

word count: 2.9k

series masterlist

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4

Music drowned out your senses, the beat thrumming through your body as intensely as the pounding of your heart. Hoarse from screaming, your throat tickled as you laughed with your friends, revelling in Gryffindor's success from the day's Quidditch match against Slytherin.

Lights flashed across the Gryffindor Common Room as the Fat Lady's portrait swung open, people whooping as James was carried inside, basking in the attention like a cat- like a lion in the sunlight. Everyone began chanting his name, you joining in with a laugh as he was hauled even higher on Sirius' shoulders, people reaching over to smack him on the back as he swayed precariously. His tousled hair was stuck to his forehead with sweat, cheeks flaming red from the thrill, glasses cracked in one lens and his eyes... they burnt with the aftermath of success, glowing with that glimmer only a decisive victory could bring. His eyes scanned the room as he craned his neck, looking, searching; until his gaze landed on yours.

Something seemed to crackle in the air between you, the intensity of his fiery eyes pulling your body forwards, as though you needed to be near him. The chatter of your friends slowly faded into the background as you paused, biting your lip uncertainly.

James, on the other hand, wasn't one to hesitate. Not when he had been younger - when if he had wanted something he took it without a second thought - and certainly not now. James had enjoyed the perks of a privileged upbringing, and there were certain aspects he wasn't ready to relinquish yet.

Tapping Sirius firmly on the shoulder, his best friend loosened his hold and James jumped down. His eyes never left yours. He strode forwards, pushing past people as they cheered and tried to clap him on the back, his expression glazed with determination. No-one was going to get in the way of what he wanted.

Everything seemed to slow as James reached you. The music died in your ears, the loud cheering gradually fading. Your mind was a whirlpool of emotions, unsure where this was going, but also ready. James' chest heaved with adrenaline as he neared, closing the already small distance between you. His eyes flashed dangerously as his tongue darted out to wet his pink lips. You looked up at him, doe eyes wide, yet simmering with longing that had been repressed for far too long.

James considered your uncertain expression as his hand dragged up and down your shoulder in what was supposed to be a reassuring manner. As your best friend, James had always been touchy, but this was different.

It drove you crazy.

"A few kisses won't ruin our friendship, love."

Looking up at him through your lashes, you smiled slyly; his need for you in that moment so palpable that your skin flushed beneath his gaze.

The look he was giving you. Of exasperation, of longing, of want. You knew your face mirrored his.

James grunted with the force of his lips colliding with yours. His hands flew to your waist as you met in a flurry of passion and lust and want as one of his hands snaked up your side and tugged at your hair, eliciting a gasp- he stole it away with another kiss, then another, and another. The music flooding your ears once more combined with the vibrant lights hot on your skin and James' lips on yours surged the intensity of the moment to new heights. Heights that you teetered precariously on, feeling free and unreachable but capable of crashing at any moment.

He broke away for a split second as you both gasped for air, eyes frantically searching the others, as though you needed confirmation that this was happening, before pulling you back into him as though your lips on his could offer more relief than oxygen ever could. You were his lifeline and right now, James felt more alive than he could ever recall.

The night blended together in a haze of drinks, lights, laughter and more stolen kisses, the memory simultaneously so clear yet vague that you could only be left to ponder (and regret) everything that had occurred the following morning, as you trailed down to the common room from the girl's dormitories, massaging your forehead in a futile attempt to relieve your hangover. You hadn't expected to find James, who apparently hadn't even managed to make it to bed, asleep on the crimson sofa.

The creaking of the stairs as you crept forwards caused him to stir in his sleep, sitting up groggily once he noticed you.

He blinked a few times, forcing the sleep away, and stood up suddenly.

Groaning, he sat back down.

"Hungover hit yet?" You smirked, sitting down next to him.

James' black hair was the messiest you'd seen in a while and his glasses still flaunted a thin crack.

Leaning over him you raised your wand, muttering 'Oculus Reparo' as the crack sealed itself.

His eyes stayed shamelessly on your lips the entire time. You hesitated, not instantly moving away.

It was the signal James had been waiting for. Before you could speak his hands snaked around your waist.

His fingers lifted your chin, his eyes half-lidded as he murmured, "One more won’t hurt." His lips brushed against your lips as he murmured against you, “Right?”

You nodded, breathless as he swept hair away from your face.             

So, he had remembered last night.

He leaned in, grazing his lips against yours again as though he was testing his own self-restraint, playing a dangerous game as he tested both of your boundaries. They didn't hold.

Within moments, James had lifted you onto his lap, kissing you with as much urgency as he had only a few hours ago. You returned the action, your hands tangling into his hair, determined to make the most of this kiss if it would be your last. James' hands brushed up and down your sides, sending sparks surging through your body.

You pulled away, eyes still closed as his forehead pressed against yours, "What is this, James, what was last night?" You breathed, scared to shatter the moment you hadn’t realised you’d wanted so desperately.

He groaned at the absence of your lips as his hands circled your lower back, "Friends kiss, love."

His eyes glinted with that familiar confidence beneath his glasses and you were unable to look away, that brief glimmer only enticing you more. His voice was rough as he spoke slowly, "Would you like me to stop, my best friend? My bestest girl?"

Your hands tightened in his hair at the pet name. His words should have thrown you off. They should have. But you had unknowingly craved this for so long, and this... maybe it worked. You could satisfy the part of you that craved him without the threat of losing your friendship.

"Don't stop."

The words triggered something in him, and James leant in.

──── ୨୧ ────

The kisses didn't stop.

Whenever you sat down with him at breakfast James greeted you with a kiss on the cheek, his hand lingering on your thigh throughout the meal.

He'd steal kisses from you after class, people conveniently crowded outside as he’d pull away, a smirk gracing those intoxicating lips.

Every time he kissed you sent shivers through your body- the feeling addictive. But soon, you began waiting for something. Waiting for the moment he'd pull away, his eyes searching yours, and ask for something more.

It hadn't taken long for the others to notice, but any ideas of the two of you together were quickly quenched by James' assertions that the two of you were the closest of friends- and nothing more.

He'd kiss you after quidditch practice when Gideon Prewett was getting on his nerves. Because he needed it, he always claimed. Because a kiss from his best friend was what he needed after he'd worked so hard and had to deal with irritating team mates. You were more than happy to oblige.

He'd kiss you when you'd hang out with the group, pulling you onto his lap when you all sat together by the black lake, laughing at the group’s jokes. This carried on for so long that it became integrated into your normal routine, the others long beyond questioning anymore.

But after the initial two weeks, it didn't feel right. It felt stagnant, and you began wondering if you’d be forever trapped between friendship and something more. By the third week, you felt empty.

You recounted this to Mary MacDonald, one of your closest friends. She listened patiently as you spilled every detail on the floor of the girl's dormitory, your legs crossed as the words tumbled out of your mouth.

She placed a hand on your wrist, causing your rambling to skid to a halt.

"How do you actually feel about all this, (Y/n)?" She questioned, waving her freshly painted pink nails through the air, trying to dry them before she did yours.

"I-" you frowned, absentmindedly brushing your fingertips over your lips. The ghost of James' lips temporarily invaded your thoughts, "I love it when he kisses me."

Mary's eyes glimmered with something you couldn't recognise, but she kept quiet, prompting you to continue.

"But it's not enough. It's not enough," the words began to pour out, and you couldn't stop them, "I almost feel greedy- I want more. When he kissed me for the first time something changed and I- I don’t know. I guess I thought things would be different. That they would’ve developed by now.”

Mary sat patiently, admiring her freshly painted nails as she gave you space to sort through your thoughts.

“I love his kisses, but all they do is remind me that they're not enough." You paused, Mary's brows furrowed as she watched you, "I want more." You whispered, your voice quiet, barely audible. The words merged with the comfortable silence between the two of you as she mulled over your confession.

Mary wasn't one to offer a meaningless response, and that was something you adored her for- she genuinely cared. Still pondering, she gently placed your left hand on her knee as she began to paint your nails in the pretty wine-red colour you'd selected earlier.

It was once she reached your ring finger that she finally spoke, "You deserve more, (Y/n), and I'll be damned if that makes you greedy."

She paused again, eyes crinkling as she focused on wiping some stray polish from your finger.

"It’s human to crave a proper relationship- not whatever James is doing. I don't think he's quite realised it, but he's taking advantage of you, (Y/n). He's giving you the bare minimum."

Her blunt words snapped your eyes up from your nails, your left hand done as you replaced it with your right.

"I don't want to stop being friends with him." You said, hesitantly.

"And you won't," Mary's eyes lit up, "All I'm saying is if that jerk wants to kiss you, he has to work for it." She insulted James with that level of affection shared by old friends, but there was an edge to her voice.

You laughed, but her words resonated within you, particularly with your level of self-respect. Entirely consumed by this change in dynamic with James, you’d unintentionally disregarded your dignity in the process. Allowed him to assume you'd always be there, lips puckered and eyes closed.

You shivered at the thought. The revelation sent a wave of bitterness through your body. You weren't angry at James, no, more so at yourself for putting up with this for so long.

Mary smirked, recognising the resolution in your eyes as she finally set down the nail varnish, screwing the lid on, "It’s about time James Potter had to actually work for something."

You held back a snort, eyes crinkled with amusement.

"Thank you, Mare." You gestured to your nails, but she caught the double meaning.

"Anything for my best friend." She stood quickly, cursing as she almost smudged one of her nails, "Dinner?"

Within minutes you’d entered the hall, arms linked with Mary’s as you marvelled at the newly put up Christmas decorations. Just over a month away from Christmas, they glowed brightly; snowflakes swirled down from the enchanted ceiling, fading into nothing before they could touch the people sat beneath. Wreaths hung above every fireplace, which crackled comfortingly... and the tree. At the opposite end of the hall stood the massive fir tree, one you could've sworn got bigger each year. Baubles shimmered against the glow of the candles, the tinsel and angel hair that had been carefully draped over the branches made it look as though the tree had been dunked in pure starlight. Magic never ceased to amaze you; there really was a charm for everything.

As you scoured the Gryffindor table in search of your friends, Lily happened to look up at the same time and waved you over. Your breath hitched, noticing there was a seat either next to her or next to James. Mary gave you a pointed look as she slid down into the seat next to the latter, leaving you to join Lily- opposite him instead. James immediately looked up as Mary sat down, his brow crinkling slightly as he turned to you. It was no secret he’d saved that seat for you, and an uncomfortable moment passed before the others resumed their conversation.

Having just returned from practice, James was dressed in mud-splattered quidditch gear, the word gryffindor stretched across his broad chest. His hair was that familiar mess, and you mused whether you could run your fingers through it without them getting stuck. He downed his full glass of pumpkin juice in one, his eyes never leaving yours.

Your fingers drummed steadily on your thigh as you slipped in and out of Sirius’ story, laughing occasionally, but unable to dedicate your focus when James was sat directly opposite.

Only your eyes were on Sirius as he wildly gestured with his hands, recounting the tale; your mind wasn’t on his words. James’ leg brushed yours under the table, a bid for your attention. You didn’t react, dragging your attention back to Sirius instead and joining in to laugh at something else he’d said. What exact you were laughing about, you weren’t sure.

It felt wrong, almost unnatural, not to be touching James in some way. In just three weeks your body had gotten so accustomed to his lingering touches, his sly brushes against your thighs, that you felt unsettled by the lack of them. You noticed James flexing his large hands, as though he too didn’t know what to do with them if they weren’t on you.

You exhaled with relief when the food came, snapping you out of your thoughts yet again- a welcome distraction. As you began to fill your plate with steaming piles of food, your eyes fell on Mary’s. She had been engaging with the rest of the group’s antics, but the knowing look in her eyes told you she’d been observing the both of you the whole time.

She gave you a smirk, flexing her right hand dramatically, just as James had done. You snorted, your hand instantly flying up to your mouth to stifle your laughter. The tension momentarily evaporated as you realised that nothing escaped your best friend’s notice. The others paused, looking confused, but Mary quickly waved them off after muttering something about an inside joke. You only giggled in response.

After a collection of mouth-watering meals you stood, exhausted and ready to sleep. Mary and Lily also got up, both ready to leave. You didn't kiss James on the cheek as you usually did, instead linking arms with your friends as you left the sparkling hall.

You weren't ignoring James. No- from now on you’d simply treat him as a friend, because in the past few weeks the meaning of the word had gotten so twisted between the two of you. You were determined to restore it, unwilling to settle for kisses that amounted to nothing.

You had had an hour to mull over Mary's words. James' behaviour was intentional- it wasn't as though he hadn't had every opportunity to turn your situation into something more. It was James who had constantly enforced the 'friend' idea the hmost, leading you to assume he wasn't interested in you the way you were him. And that was fine- but you'd show him what a true friend was. Challenge his claim that friendship involved his lips on yours.

James silently stared after you, Sirius snorting, "How've you fucked that one up, man?"

"There's nothing to fuck up." James rolled his shoulders nonchalantly, ignoring how they suddenly felt heavy.

"Sure." Sirius' eyes flashed knowingly, "And Pete didn't fuck up his charms test."

Peter had gotten a T (Troll) on his most recent charms test.

Remus rolled his eyes, shooting Peter an apologetic look as he stood from the table, "Well, I'll leave you all to it."

And so he did, leaving James entangled in thoughts almost as messy as his hair and filled with a desperation to know why you’d seemed so distant. He chalked it down to your having a bad day, certain that tomorrow you wouldn't be able to stay away from him again.

Oh, how wrong he was.

A/N

EEK!!!! i can't believe im about to press post.. i've been working on this series idea for a long while... truthfully most of my ideas get scrapped after a few weeks but this one really really stuck with me so i'm glad I didn't press delete on the word doc... i'm thinking this'll be about six-ish parts, so bear with me :,) this series will be christmas themed, so expect loads of snow and presents to come!

& if you'd like to be added to the taglist do lmk! i'd be honoured to add you ♡

and please feel free to share your thoughts, opinions, reactions, what you think will happen next... i love reading them allll

series masterlist here ❆

[acciofictionalmen]

fallout in the snowfall

james potter x female!reader

"a few kisses won't ruin our friendship... right?"

summary: when james kisses you on an adrenaline high, your friendship is in shambles as the true meaning of "just friends" becomes irreparably warped. you both desperately try to restore the platonic bond that you once shared, but at what cost...

part ❆ 1

part ❆ 2

part ❆ 3

part ❆ 4

[acciofictionalmen]

i think oz had the funniest character arc on buffy the vampire slayer. he was just a chill stoner who got turned into a werewolf and didn't let it bother him for as long as possible until he had to go to tibet and calm down even more so he didn't uncontrollably turn into a werewolf every full moon. then he got back to town like 6 months later and found out his girlfriend realized she was a lesbian while he was gone. he responded to this news by immediately turning into a werewolf again even though it was the middle of the day and nowhere near the full moon so he got arrested by the army and had to get rescued and then leave town forever. i have no idea where he went after that he was just gone.

[acciofictionalmen]

cold

(dean winchester x female!reader)

summary: dean sacrificed everything for the happiness of his younger brother, including you.

warnings: ANGST. alcohol consumption

Hadn't he given enough?

Dean watched you and Sam closely: the way his brother's hand clasped your thigh beneath the table, where they thought he couldn't see. He spited the way you laughed at everything Sam said, wishing he could bottle your laughter and keep it close so only he could hear it- a selfish thought, but the truth. He missed the days when his jokes were the ones that made you laugh the most.

Dean would do anything for Sam, it was true. But this? He shook his head, downing the shot in one. It burned his throat, sparking tears in his eyes. Perhaps the latter part hadn't been from the drink.

He had watched as Sam left for college, leaving Dean behind with John. Sam's absence had condemned him to an eternity of hunting, because Dean couldn't just leave their father alone. He had taken care of Sam when no one else had, his brother, his best friend. Even now, the intensity of their bond crackled as Dean couldn't look at his brother with anything but affection. Only now, that affection was bullied by hot embers of jealousy, igniting anger deep within him. Dean hated himself for it, but sometimes, when he lay down in bed, alone, and could hear the soft giggles leaking from the slight crack in Sam's door, he wondered when he would have sacrificed enough for the semblance of family. For his brother.

Sacrificing you had almost destroyed him.

Dean couldn't stand himself. He revulsed at the way he couldn't sleep- tossing and turning each night, waking up drenched in not only sweat; sweat that reeked with regret and loathing. It was pathetic, he told himself, that he couldn't sleep anymore without you by his side. Some serious chick-flick material, he had muttered. It didn't make a difference.

He had lost the one thing that had made him happier than ever. That had made his job worth it, given him purpose, given him something to look forward to. He had lost that now. Each day blurred together as he struggled to find anything to feel excited for, to care about; it was all the same to him.

Sam was the only person he would ever consider losing you for. And he had.

Dean was reminded of your loss every day. Every day when he passed you by, and didn't lean in to press a kiss to your flushed cheek. When he handed you the salt at the table without that familiar, lingering touch. When he sat next to you and couldn't pull you into his side, breathing in the sweet, seductive scent of your shampoo. When you came into his room not to see him, but to collect Dad's journal for Sam. Arguably the worst, though, was how much Sam had taken your eyes for granted.

The pain throbbed as he recalled the way that now, you refused to meet his eyes. They were always downcast when he chanced a look at you, a simple rejection, painful dismissal. God how he missed your eyes. When they crinkled at his antics- shared moments of laughter after you reprimanded him for messing around with a stake. When they wept and Dean would brush away your tears, pressing you into him as he stroked your hair soothingly. When those long lashes would flutter, his heart alongside them. When every moment of staring into your eyes was underlined by the dread of having to look away.

Had he not given enough?

Even hunting couldn't satiate the loss of you, the hole you'd left in his heart worse because you were in fact there in every respect, just not for him. He slaughtered demon after demon after demon, and perhaps it would offer temporary respite. But once the adrenaline died down, he would crash back to reality. Blood-coated, dirty, cold. He'd turn around to find you anxiously checking Sam for injuries, your soft hands cupping his face the way you once had Dean's.

It hurt. It hurt. It consumed him, the longing for you. The combination of yearning for you fused with his self hatred, because how could he have allowed you to get away? Sam had always been the smarter one, that much had always been clear. Sam had gotten to experience a semblance of a normal childhood, unlike Dean, whose had consisted of fear and death. Sam had gotten to go to college, Sam had gotten to establish a relationship with a beautiful woman, Sam had gotten to have a healthy circle of friends. Things had looked up for Dean when you entered his life- you'd been an anchor to his heart, one that had made him feel secure enough to begin to open up. Suddenly it was okay that Sam had gotten to go to college and had a purpose, because you were Dean's. Dean would have died for you. Dean would die for you.

You hadn't wanted to leave, that was true. The memory lapped at his soul, he would never ever forget it. It was ingrained into his lungs, clamped tightly over every strained breath he took, that look in your eyes. The last time they had met his. That pain. The pain that would forever haunt him, the confusion, as you couldn't understand why Dean would suddenly let you go when only the night before he had held you as though he was scared to. In an attempt to secure his little brother's happiness, he had condemned his own.

For how long Sam had loved you, Dean had never been able tell. But it was clear, clear to everyone but you. His brother, who he had always protected. Sammy, the little boy who had been his responsibility growing up. He fondly recalled the time Sam had taken the last portion of lucky charms when they were both little boys, but had given Dean the surprise gift inside. Now Dean had pushed you away, so that his brother could be with the woman he loved. The surprise gift was supposed to be Sam's joy, Sam's happiness. But Dean could only look upon that joy sourly, because it had once been his.

It was the unfailing effect you had to make everything else seem insignificant- something that was welcome in such a consuming job. But above all, it was the way you saw Dean. Saw him for who he really was, saw what he had sacrificed, saw how hard he loved, how hard he grieved. You had seen him, seen him until he had tugged the blindfold woven with his self-deprecation back down over your eyes, and forced you to look away. Until your view of him returned to the one that everyone else saw: womaniser, rude, uncaring, brutal, and, worst of all, unloving.

"Dean?" Sam called his name gently, snapping him back into the present.

"Yeah." Dean responded gruffly, shifting on the stool as he stared at the pretty bartender, seeing nothing.

Sam frowned, "(Y/n) and I are going to head back to the hotel room."

Dean chuckled, the sound so forced it came out choked, "Yeah, see you. I'll stay here, see if any pretty ladies are served up along with the drinks." He winked in the bartender's direction.

The words stuck to his throat like tar, void of emotion as he flashed one of his familiar smirks.

Sam nodded, his hand settling around your waist as you left.

Dean couldn't help it. He stared at you as you walked away, emotion overwhelming him as he thumbed his refilled shot glass, unsure how many he had even downed. It was in that moment that you turned back to face him, eyes wide with concern when they collided with his.

Dean froze, the rim of the shot glass digging into his fingers as he was rendered unable to move, to breathe, to blink.

It had been so long since you had been able to look at him, and he savoured the moment. A thousand memories flashed before his eyes, and he wondered whether they appeared before yours, too. The eye contact sent something surging through him, he had to get up, had to say something, his legs itched to stand, to chase after you, he had to-

Harshly, Dean's eyes were torn away from yours as you turned to step out the door Sam held open for you. He flinched, the lack of eye contact slamming him back to reality as that one piece of hope deep within him thrashed for survival, then died.

Dean watched as you turned the corner and vanished. Tears danced upon his dark lashes as he downed the shot, that welcome burning sensation warming his stomach. It would take a hundred more to warm him the way your body had.

So he continued into the night, chasing any semblance of that feeling when you had once been close to him.

[acciofictionalmen]

[acciofictionalmen]

◦˚~ BUNCH OF LIGHT GREY/WHITE DIVIDERS by enchanthings ~˚◦

white dividers:

Requested by: anonymous Info: these were all made & edited by me. please reblog/like if using!

[acciofictionalmen]

christmas & chill season!!🌲

[acciofictionalmen]

Sirius who "playfully" flirts with Remus all the time and says, "Try not to fall in love with me" but then he's the one who falls in love first.

[acciofictionalmen]

she's my alibi

(aou wanda maximoff x female!reader one-shot)

"i just killed a man she's my alibi"

summary: utterly smitten with wanda, you'd do anything for her. including covering up murder.

(inspired by the song 'alibi')

word count: 403

warnings: gory-ish description of a man dying, reference to blood, a little dark, completely whipped reader

"It all happened so quickly." You exclaimed, emphasising your doe eyes as your bottom lip trembled.

Wanda's fingers dragged down his scalp slowly, savouring the feeling of his life ebbing away. She flashed him a sultry smile, the kind that had lured him there in the first place.

Steve and Tony nodded sympathetically, their eyes fixed upon your concerned expression. They'd cornered you on the sofa in the compound living room whilst you'd been watching a horror movie. Without much explanation, they began questioning you on Wanda's mission the previous day. The mission you'd joined her on.

"I didn't see much," you began, looking down with a feigned, thoughtful expression- to conceal the glimmer of smugness that shone in your eyes.

You watched as Wanda twisted her hand, forcing the man to his knees. He looked up, pleading with her through bloodshot eyes as she laughed dryly.

"But I do know that Wanda was with me the whole time and never left my side." The first and only truth you'd told.

You stood by her side as she delivered the killing blow, his body crumpling like a discarded piece of paper. He stilled; lifeless, yet splattered with a vibrant crimson as though his body was a canvas and Wanda, the artist.

Wanda turned to you, eyes shimmering with that testing look as she slyly gauged your reaction. She revelled in the way your eyes widened slightly, devoutly never leaving hers despite the dead body before you. Caressing your face, you didn't flinch as Wanda brushed her fingers down your cheek. The same hand that with a flick of her fingers could easily render you dead. She leant in close, strands of rich, brown hair framing her jaw as she pressed a chaste kiss upon your lips. You could feel her smirking against you as her hands circled your neck; a shark circling its prey.

The two men nodded, Steve's lips drawn in a thin line of disappointment as he surveyed you closely. Your expression was blank, unreadable. Just as she'd taught you. He sighed, placing his hands on his knees as he stood, Tony following with a grunt. "Thank you for your insight."

Wanda pulled away slightly, her intense eyes fixed on yours, remnants of that red glow outlining her irises, "Now don't go telling on me, pretty girl." She cooed, the accent that you loved so much lapping at each word.

"Never."

happy halloween ! 🦇˚｡･ﾟ✧:･.:

a smaller one today, but in honour of halloween i wanted to post our favourite witch ♡ as always, please share your thoughts as id love love to hear them

take care lovelies, thank you for reading :')

yours, 𝒜