CLOSE TO YOU • jp + sb [1]

02.05 | HARRY JAMES POTTER

CHAPTER FIVE

THE clock on the wall ticked softly in the quiet hospital room, its hands indicating 3:14 AM on July 31, 1980. The gentle hum of the dimmed lights and the occasional shuffle of footsteps in the hallway marked the stillness that followed the profound event of the night. Harry James Potter had just been born, and the room was filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and relief.

Selyna lay in bed, her exhaustion melting into elation as she cradled her newborn son against her chest. Tears of happiness streamed down her face, mingling with the tender smile that graced her lips. The baby, wrapped snugly in a soft blanket, blinked up at her with curious, bright blue eyes that he inherited from his father. Selyna's heart swelled with an indescribable love as she gazed at the tiny life she had brought into the world.

James, standing beside the bed, was equally moved. His face was wet with tears of joy and disbelief as he watched his wife and son. His emotions were a whirlwind of awe and love, and he found it difficult to contain his happiness.

"Hi Harry," James said, his voice choked with emotion as he leaned closer to the bed. "I'm your dad. I'm probably going to encourage lots of trouble that your mom here will surely tell us off for."

Selyna, though overwhelmed with love, couldn't help but roll her eyes at James's light-hearted attempt at humour. "James," she scoffed gently, her voice still trembling with emotion. "Don't listen to him, darling. You'll be mommy's good boy, won't you?"

The tender moment between the new family was interrupted by the soft creak of the door. In walked James's parents, Fleamont and Euphemia Potter, and Selyna's parents, Eckbert and Darla Diggory. The grandparents had been waiting anxiously outside, their excitement palpable as they finally entered the room to meet their first grandchild.

Fleamont's eyes sparkled with pride as he took in the sight of his son and daughter-in-law with their newborn. Euphemia's face was flushed with joy, tears of happiness glistening in her eyes. Selyna's parents, too, wore expressions of immense pride and joy. Eckbert's normally stern demeanour softened into a broad smile, while Darla's eyes were misty with emotion.

"Look at him," Euphemia said softly, her voice filled with wonder as she approached the bed. "He's perfect."

Darla, her eyes fixed on the baby, gently reached out to touch Harry's tiny fingers. "He's beautiful," she said, her voice choked with emotion. "Congratulations, you two."

Eckbert nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting the profound sense of pride he felt. "Well done," he said, his voice firm but tender.

James, still overcome with joy, turned to his parents and in-laws with a beaming smile. "Meet Harry James Potter. Our little miracle."

Selyna, still holding Harry close, looked around at the gathered family. The room was filled with a sense of unity and celebration, the presence of their loved ones making this moment even more special. The new parents exchanged a glance, their hearts full of gratitude and happiness.

As the family gathered around, their conversations and laughter blending with the quiet hum of the hospital room, James and Selyna knew that their lives had changed forever. The arrival of their son was a moment of profound joy, and with the support of their loved ones, they were ready to embrace the new chapter of their lives with hope and excitement.

THE nursery was softly illuminated by the golden afternoon sun filtering through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow over the delicate pastel décor. Selyna sat in a plush armchair, her hair cascading down her shoulders as she cradled their newborn son, Harry, in her arms. He suckled contentedly, blissfully oblivious to the world around him.