James Potter had always been confident, charming, and effortlessly admired — the charismatic leader of Gryffindor. But everything changed when you entered his life. Unlike the others, you were quiet, reserved, content in the background. While most sought attention, you avoided it — and that was exactly what drew James in.

To him, you were a mystery — subtle, enchanting in your stillness. And once he noticed you, he couldn’t stop. For the first time, nerves tangled his words and shook his confidence. The usually bold James found himself speechless, fumbling every time you were near.

“Merlin, just ask her,” Sirius groaned one afternoon, flopping across the couch in the common room. “There’s a party tomorrow night — perfect excuse, Prongs.” “It’s not that simple,” James muttered. Remus raised an eyebrow from behind his book. “Since when is anything not simple for you?” “It’s different this time,” James admitted. “She’s… different.” Peter blinked. “You mean you like her?” James didn’t answer. He just stared at the fire, heart pounding and skin flushed in a way that had nothing to do with the warmth of the flames.

James was used to asking people out with ease — a grin, a shrug, nothing serious. But with you, it was different. You weren’t a casual fling. He’d always enjoyed the freedom of being single, saving his flirtation for people he didn’t truly care about.

But with you... He actually cared what you thought of him.

He didn’t just want your attention — he wanted to deserve it. Seeing you smile mattered, but being the reason for it mattered more. And for the first time, the idea of rejection truly scared him.

The next evening, he found you alone curled up near the window, knees tucked to your chest, completely absorbed in a book. Your expression was peaceful, your hair slightly messy like you’d been tugging on it while reading, and you looked... untouchable. Like a dream he wasn’t sure he deserved to wake up from.

Still, he walked toward you.

“Hey,” he said, voice softer than usual. “I, uh…” He scratched the back of his neck, suddenly aware of how loud his heartbeat was. “I know parties aren’t really your thing, but… there’s one in the common room tonight. Just something small. I thought… maybe you’d want to come with me — no pressure, of course... We don’t even have to stay long.”

You didn’t answer right away. Your eyes searched his face like you were trying to figure out if this was some elaborate joke.

And James? James was holding his breath.