The Bank of Second Chances | Zarry

Chapter 6: Sunflower

Harry had been anticipating this day all week, excitement and nervousness swirling within him. Today was his first date with Zayn, and he was bringing along his most precious companion. The fact that Zayn was completely fine with him bringing his son made him feel comfortable but he was a little nervous of how Arlo was going to behave. Ensuring he had everything in the diaper bag – from diapers to Arlo's favorite snacks – Harry buckled the baby into his stroller, and they set off for the park.

The park was alive with activity, filled with families, joggers, and people enjoying the beautiful weather. As Harry pushed the stroller along the path, he spotted Zayn under a large oak tree, standing tall with a relaxed demeanor. Zayn's face broke into a warm smile as he saw them approaching, and Harry felt a flutter of happiness in his chest.

"Hey," Zayn greeted, his eyes twinkling. He leaned in for a quick hug, careful not to disturb Arlo. "This is for you," he said, handing Harry a single sunflower.

Harry felt a rush of warmth. "Thank you, Zayn. It's lovely." He took the flower, its cheerful yellow petals brightening his mood even more.

Zayn crouched down to Arlo's level, producing a mini Harry Potter plushie from his backpack. "And this is for the little guy," he said with a grin.

Arlo's eyes lit up as he reached for the toy, immediately putting it into his mouth. Harry laughed. "Looks like he approves."

They found a nice spot under the shade of a tree and spread out a blanket for Arlo. Harry set him down with his toys, and the baby busied himself, squealing with delight at the new environment. The two men sat close by, enjoying the sunshine and the gentle breeze.

Harry felt an immediate sense of comfort and ease with Zayn. Their conversation flowed naturally as they watched Arlo play. Zayn asked about Arlo's other parent, his voice gentle and curious, and Harry found himself opening up.

"I decided to have Arlo through IVF," Harry began. "I've always wanted to be a dad. It wasn't an easy decision, but it felt right. I wanted to bring a child into the world, to give them love and stability. It's been the best decision I've ever made."

Zayn listened intently, his eyes never leaving Harry's. "That's incredible, Harry. It takes a lot of courage to do what you did."

Harry smiled, feeling a connection deepening between them. They continued talking, sharing laughs, stories, and experiences, gradually moving closer to each other. At one point, Zayn reached out and gently caressed Harry's face, pushing a stray lock of hair away from his eyes. Harry felt a shiver run down his spine at the touch.

Their conversation slowed, and the air between them thickened with an unspoken tension. Harry's heart was pounding, and he could see the same emotion mirrored in Zayn's eyes. He felt himself leaning in, his eyes half-closed, lips almost touching Zayn's.

But just as their lips were about to meet, Arlo let out a loud squeal. They both turned to see the baby with a fistful of dirt, poised to put it into his mouth. Zayn reacted instantly, jumping up to stop him.

"Whoa there, little guy," he said, gently taking the dirt from Arlo's hand. He looked back at Harry with a sheepish smile. "Got any wipes?"

Harry chuckled, handing over a packet of baby wipes. "Here you go. Sorry about that."

Zayn cleaned Arlo's hands with a tenderness that made Harry's heart swell. Arlo seemed to have taken an instant liking to Zayn, not wanting to let go of him. Zayn's effortless shift into caretaker mode left Harry feeling more smitten than ever.

As the afternoon wore on, Arlo began to get sleepy. Zayn cradled him gently, rocking him until he drifted off. Harry watched, amazed at how natural Zayn seemed with his son.

Eventually, it was time to go. Zayn walked a sleeping Arlo over to Harry's car, carefully placing him in the car seat. Harry buckled him in, then turned to find Zayn holding the door for him.

"Thank you, Zayn. For everything," Harry said, feeling a mix of gratitude and something deeper he couldn't quite name.

Zayn smiled, stepping closer. "I had a great time today, Harry. I'd love to do this again."

Before Harry could respond, Zayn reached out, caressing the back of his neck. He leaned in, and this time, there were no interruptions. They locked eyes for what seemed like a century and finally, their lips met in a sweet, lingering kiss that sent sparks flying through Harry's entire body. It was everything he had hoped for and more.

When they finally pulled apart, both men were breathless and smiling. "I'll be seeing you again soon, yeah?" Zayn said softly.

"Of course," Harry replied in a faint whisper, captured by Zayn's subtle charm, feeling like he was floating on air.

He got into the car and took a deep breath, looking over at Arlo, who was sound asleep, clutching his new Harry Potter plushie. Harry felt a surge of joy and satisfaction. The date had been a success beyond his wildest dreams.

As he reached for the ignition, his phone buzzed with a new message. It was from Zayn: "Get home safe, beautiful."

Harry's heart skipped a beat. He glanced back at his sleeping son, then at the message, and couldn't help but smile. The future suddenly seemed full of bright possibilities, and he couldn't wait to see where this would lead between him and Zayn.