The Gryffindor common room was eerily quiet, the crackling of the fire the only sound to be heard. The hectic pace of life at Hogwarts had finally caught up with the boys—Quidditch practice, endless prefect duties, and the looming threat of exams had left them utterly exhausted.

Peter pushed the portrait hole open, stepping inside with Lily close behind. “Sshh,” he whispered, a grin spreading across his face. “Look.”

Lily followed his gaze and her heart melted at the sight before her.

There, sprawled out on the worn-out couch by the fireplace, were James, Sirius, and Remus—all fast asleep. Remus was leaned against the armrest, his long legs stretched out, a forgotten book dangling from his fingers. Sirius had draped himself over Remus’s lap, his head resting on the other boy’s shoulder, arms wrapped around his waist. James, ever the loyal friend, had fallen asleep against Sirius’s back, his glasses askew and hair even messier than usual.

“They’ve been running themselves ragged,” Peter whispered, a rare softness in his tone.

Lily nodded, taking in the peaceful expressions on their faces. She felt a pang of affection she wouldn’t dare admit out loud. Instead, she conjured a blanket, draping it carefully over the three boys.

As she stepped back, Sirius stirred, muttering something incoherent before nuzzling closer to Remus. Lily exchanged a glance with Peter, who was grinning from ear to ear.

“Best let them rest,” she whispered, and they slipped quietly back out of the room, leaving the trio to their well-earned peace.