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Chapter Text

Lily Potter stirred awake slowly, blinking against the soft morning light spilling in through the curtains. Her eyes still felt heavy, but the faint birdsong outside tugged her fully into consciousness. She rolled over slightly and smiled at the sight next to her.

James was still out cold, sprawled diagonally across the bed, his messy black hair sticking out in every possible direction. The blanket was pulled up over his face, hiding everything but the chaotic tuft of hair peeking out at the top.

Lily bit back a chuckle, shaking her head. Merlin, he always slept like this when he was exhausted, tangled, buried, and impossible to wake unless you threatened his broom collection.

Careful not to disturb him, she slipped out of bed, tugged on her dressing gown, and padded quietly toward the hallway. She stopped at the door right next to their bedroom and slowly eased it open, careful not to make a sound.

The little nursery greeted her with its soft, cozy blue walls. James had insisted on painting Quidditch hoops on one side, and though Lily had drawn the line at his idea of broom patterns covering everything, she’d compromised, the rest of the walls had small hand-painted animals that flew: a snowy owl perched on a branch, a phoenix mid-flight, and even a few delicate butterflies. James had called them “subtle symbols of the importance of flight.” Lily had called them “less tacky than broomsticks.”

She stepped inside on silent feet, heading toward the crib — and froze, biting back a laugh.

There he was.

Harry, her sweet little boy, sat up in his crib with his wild mop of untamable black hair sticking up in every direction, looking around like sleepily and was still waking up. The second his bright green eyes landed on her, his whole face lit up.

He squealed with his toothy grin on full display, and reached out to her with his tiny arms.

Lily’s heart melted instantly. “Hi, baby,” she whispered, scooping him up and settling him against her chest. She kissed his soft cheek. “Did you sleep well, love?”

Harry made a loud babbling noise in response, grabbing a fistful of her dressing gown and buried his face in it giggling the entire time while rubbing his face against her gown.

She smiled against his hair, swaying him gently. The poor thing had kept both her and James up half the night his teething had left him fussing and miserable until he finally cried himself to sleep. But now, awake and alert, he seemed perfectly content.

Harry leaned forward suddenly and planted a big, open-mouthed “kiss” on her cheek — really more of a wet, uncoordinated face-smash — and then laughed proudly like he’d just invented affection.

“Oh, thank you, sweetheart,” Lily whispered with a soft giggle, brushing his messy hair back. “Such a proper gentleman, aren’t you?”

That was when she caught the faintest hint of something unpleasant. She paused, narrowed her eyes, and brought her nose a little closer to his tiny bum.

“Oh, brilliant,” she sighed, adjusting him on her hip. “Guess who needs a new nappy?”

Harry blinked up at her innocently.

She carried him to the changing station and laid him down, making exaggerated silly faces the whole time as she worked. “Alright, Mr. Potter,” she said in her mock-serious tone, “this is your fault, so don’t you give me that look.”

Harry, of course, stared at her like she was the most fascinating thing in the world, breaking into fits of soft giggles every time she scrunched her nose or puffed her cheeks at him.

By the time she finished, he was freshly cleaned, redressed, and even happier than before. She scooped him back into her arms, kissing his cheek again. “All done! Now,” she whispered softly, holding him close, “Mummy needs some cuddles from her baby boy.”

She sat down in the rocking chair, tucking Harry against her chest as she swayed gently. He relaxed instantly, tiny hands exploring her face until he managed to grab her chin with both hands. Lily laughed, letting him guide her close as he babbled softly, pressing his forehead against hers in an uncoordinated attempt at affection.

James always teased them about this — about how Harry could stare at her for ages without blinking, completely captivated — but Lily knew he was secretly jealous. She’d told him so, sticking her tongue out at him when he protested.

Not that she minded. It was true, after all. Harry was absolutely, completely a mama’s boy. He’d cling to her jumper, bury his face in her neck, and fuss if anyone else tried to take him when he wasn’t ready to let go.

And Lily loved it.

Her son loved her. And she loved him more than anything in the entire world.

After a while, Lily carried Harry down to the kitchen, settling him into his little baby chair. She cracked a couple of eggs into a bowl, whisking them quickly before pouring them into the pan. Within minutes, the soft, buttery smell of scrambled eggs filled the cottage.

Once they were done, she scooped a small portion onto Harry’s tiny plate and set it down in front of him. “Alright, love,” she said softly, tucking a messy strand of his black hair behind his ear, “breakfast time.”

Harry squealed, immediately grabbing a fistful of egg with his tiny hand and shoving it into his mouth. Half of it landed on his chin.

Lily shook her head, hiding her laugh as she settled into the chair next to him with her own plate. “You’re hopeless,” she teased gently, watching him kick his little feet as he chewed noisily.

When he started mashing the eggs against the tray instead of eating them, she leaned forward and scooped up a spoonful. “Oi, no playing with your food, mister,” she scolded lightly, slipping the bite into his mouth.

Harry blinked up at her, cheeks puffed out, and then gave her a mischievous grin, the one James always swore he inherited from her, though she denied it every time.

By the time they’d both finished, Harry had eggs on his cheeks, a few streaks in his messy hair.

Lily sighed, wiping him clean with a warm cloth.

“We’re going to leave the dishes for Daddy, alright?” she said softly, brushing her thumb against his cheek.

Harry grinned at her, clearly having no idea what she meant, and babbled something incoherent in response.

She lifted him into her arms and pressed a quick kiss to his forehead. “Come on, Harry. Let’s go wake Daddy up.”

Harry kicked his tiny feet excitedly, giggling as she carried him back upstairs.

Lily carefully pushed open the door to their bedroom. James was still sprawled across the bed, blanket pulled halfway over his face, one arm dangling off the side. His messy black hair was sticking up in wild tufts.

She set Harry gently on the bed and whispered conspiratorially, “Go wake Daddy up, love.”

Harry grinned like he understood the mission and immediately crawled over to James, tiny hands patting at his dad’s face.

James groaned softly but didn’t stir.

Harry paused. Considered. Then grabbed a fistful of his father’s hair and gave a determined tug.

“OW—bloody—Harry!” James shot up instantly, wincing as he pried the tiny hand free. “Oi, mate, no pulling Daddy’s hair! I’m too young for bald spots!”

Lily stood by the doorway, arms crossed, trying — and failing — to hide her laughter. “That’s what you get for sleeping half the day away,” she teased. “Now get up. Your breakfast is waiting. And so are the dishes.”

James gave her a mock-offended look, rubbing his scalp dramatically. “Dishes? I nearly lost my hair and my reward is dishes?”

“Yes,” Lily replied sweetly, scooping Harry into her arms before kissing his cheek. “And I’m going to give him a bath.”

James pouted like a sulking schoolboy. “Unfair. You always get to do the fun stuff.”

Lily raised an eyebrow, a knowing little smile tugging at her lips. “Mm. You just like bath time because Harry splashes water all over my clothes, and you get an excuse to ogle me.”

James froze mid-protest, his ears tinting faintly pink. “I… I just get to admire a great view.”

Lily chuckled softly, shaking her head as she walked toward the bathroom with Harry nestled against her shoulder. “That’s what I thought, Mr. Potter.”

Harry babbled happily, clearly approving of his mum’s victory.

James sighed dramatically, flopping back against the pillows. “…Traitors. The both of you.”

From down the hallway, Lily’s melodic laughter drifted back toward him, and James couldn’t stop the small smile tugging at his lips despite himself. He ran a hand through his messy hair, shaking his head with a soft huff of amusement.

“Alright, James,” he muttered under his breath, swinging his legs off the bed. “Time to do the dishes.”

He sighed dramatically for no one in particular, but the faint smile lingered on his face as he dragged himself toward the kitchen.

Chapter Text

The small cottage at Godric’s Hollow was filled with the faint scent of cinnamon, the soft crackle of the fireplace, and the bubbling sounds of a baby’s laughter.

Harry’s laughter.

“Look at you, Harry!” James Potter announced proudly, holding his messy-haired son high in the air. “Future Quidditch legend right here! Fastest Chaser in the world!” He kept Harry aloft, bouncing him gently in the air before pulling him back into his arms. “See, Lils? We have got to get him used to heights early,” James explained with a grin. “By the time he’s old enough for a broom, he’ll feel right at home in the air.”

Harry squealed, kicking his tiny legs, green eyes shining as he reached up with chubby hands.

From the kitchen doorway, Lily leaned against the frame, arms crossed, an amused but warning look on her face. “James, if you drop him, you’re sleeping outside.”

“I’m not going to drop him,” James said, flashing her his most charming grin — the one she swore he practiced in the mirror. He adjusted his hold and tickled Harry’s tummy until another giggle burst out. “See?” James said triumphantly, lowering Harry to rest against his shoulder for a moment. “He loves it. He’s a natural!”

Harry squealed again and smacked James’s cheek with a tiny hand as if to second the claim.

Lily shook her head, laughing under her breath. “Merlin help me. You’re raising a daredevil.”

“Correction,” James said proudly, kissing Harry’s head. “I’m raising a champion.”

“You are supposed to be a good example for him, James.”

James gasped in mock offense, placing his free hand over his chest. “I’ll have you know, Mrs. Potter, I am an excellent role model.”

Right on cue, Harry spotted Lily. His face lit up instantly, and he stretched his tiny arms toward her, squealing.

James froze, his grin slipping into an exaggerated pout. “Oi, what’s this? Betrayal? After all that flying practice?”

Harry babbled insistently, little fists opening and closing as he reached harder for Lily.

Lily laughed, coming over and taking him into her arms. Harry immediately nestled against her shoulder, content.

“Excellent role model, huh?” she teased, kissing the top of Harry’s head. “You’ve clearly taught him where his loyalties lie.”

James rubbed the spot where Harry had yanked his hair earlier and muttered, though the grin was back on his face, “Unbelievable. I get ditched for you every time.”

Settled in Lily’s arms, Harry squirmed happily, chubby legs kicking as he made soft, cheerful babbles. His little fingers immediately found Lily’s long red hair, tangling into it until he had a fistful. He held it tight, staring at the bright strands with wide fascination before looking up at Lily and giving her a big, toothy grin.

He squealed proudly, waving the fistful of her hair as though he’d discovered treasure.

Lily laughed softly, brushing her thumb over his cheek. “You like that, huh?” she whispered, leaning down to nuzzle his nose with hers. “Every time, it’s the hair, isn’t it? You love it more than your toys.”

Harry babbled again, holding up her hair, as though proving her point.

“Careful, love, or you’ll pull it right out of Mummy’s head,” she said with mock sternness, though her eyes shone with affection. She kissed the crown of his messy black hair before adding in a softer voice, “It’s alright. You can have it, darling. Mummy’s not going anywhere.”

From beside them, James chuckled, leaning an elbow against the arm of the sofa. “Again? Merlin, Lils, he’s obsessed with your hair. That’s unhealthy.”

Lily arched an eyebrow at him without looking up, still gently untangling Harry’s grip on the strands. “Jealous?”

James scoffed dramatically. “Of hair? Please.”

Lily smirked, sticking her tongue out at him before turning her attention back to Harry. “You keep ignoring Daddy and keep choosing me, don’t you?” she cooed. “You’re mummy’s boy.”

Harry squealed again, as if he understood every word, then released Lily’s hair and placed both his tiny hands on her face, holding her still and staring at her as he flashed one of his wide, toothy grins — the kind that always melted her no matter what he did.

Then, with great effort, he turned his little head toward James and gave him a look that could only be described as triumphant. A grin that said, Mine.

James blinked at him, scandalized. “Did he just—? Lils, he’s gloating at me!”

Lily laughed, kissing Harry’s cheek. “Well, can you blame him?”

James pointed an accusing finger at his son. “You might be cute, but this is war, Prongslet.”

Harry babbled happily in response, as if declaring victory.

James narrowed his eyes. “Is he...? Lily, he’s mocking me!”

James groaned, dragging a pillow over his face. “Betrayed. By my own flesh and blood.”

Lily chuckled, kissing Harry’s temple. “Face it, James. He just has good taste.”

“This isn’t over yet,” James muttered, sitting up again with narrowed eyes. He grabbed Harry’s favorite toy Snitch from the table and waggled it enticingly. “Look, Harry! Shiny!”

Harry glanced at it… and then turned his head deliberately back into Lily’s shoulder, ignoring it completely.

James gasped. “You saw that, right? He snubbed me!”

“Smart boy,” Lily teased, tickling Harry’s side until he giggled.

Desperate, James pulled off his glasses and dangled them in front of Harry. “Alright then, Plan B. You love these. You’re always smudging them—come on, don’t pretend you’re not tempted.”

Harry peeked, gave James a long, considering look… and then, with all the seriousness of a toddler, pressed his cheek tighter against Lily’s collarbone and let out a satisfied little babble.

James dropped his glasses back onto his face, defeated. “Unbelievable. Rejected by my own flesh and blood.”

Harry let out a squeal of laughter, as if celebrating his victory, while Lily beamed down at him. “That’s my boy.”

Lily brushed a kiss across Harry’s cheek, smiling softly as he buried his face into her shoulder. “He likes pretty things,” she said simply. “You can’t blame him.”

James huffed but leaned closer anyway, brushing one finger across Harry’s soft little fist. “Yeah, well, let’s hope he outgrows it before he tries to bring a girl home with red hair.”

Lily arched an eyebrow. “Like his father did?”

James blinked, paused… then beamed at her so brightly she rolled her eyes and turned away to hide her own beaming smile.

At that moment, Harry felt James’s finger against his fist. He grabbed it tight and gave his dad one of his wide, toothy grins.

James’s heart melted on the spot. “Alright, everything’s forgiven,” he proclaimed, pretending it was magnanimous but clearly undone.

An hour later, they were on the rug in the sitting room. Lily sat cross-legged with Harry nestled in her lap, his head resting against her chest as she read softly from a worn old book. She often read him fairytales — Snow White, Cinderella, even The Hunchback of Notre Dame — but today she had chosen The Tales of Beedle the Bard. Her voice was calm and lilting as she told the story of the three brothers, her fingers absently brushing through Harry’s messy hair between pages.

James lay stretched out on his side nearby, watching them with a fond grin, pretending to be absorbed in a Quidditch magazine but sneaking glances every other minute.

Harry, meanwhile, had his attention fixed on the colorful stack of wooden blocks beside the rug. His chubby hand reached out, little fingers stretching — but the nearest block was just beyond his grasp. He let out a frustrated squeak, brows knitting in fierce baby concentration.

Lily paused mid-sentence, glancing down as she felt him shift. “What is it, love?” she murmured.

And then — before either parent could blink — the block wobbled, lifted, and floated a few inches off the floor.

James froze mid-stack, blinking. “…Did you just—”

Before he could finish, the block shot straight up at James and bounced off his forehead, and clattered onto the rug.

Lily gasped softly, looking between James and Harry.

James stared at his son in awe, rubbing his head where the block hit him. “He tried to summon it,” he whispered, sounding almost proud despite the tiny welt forming.

Harry clapped his little hands, giggling wildly.

“You…” Lily began, biting back a laugh as she brushed her thumb across Harry’s cheek. “You just used accidental magic.”

“His first bit of magic in the Potter house,” James said with a grin, leaning closer until he was nose-to-nose with Harry. “And you used it to attack me. Brilliant. I’m proud of you, kiddo. Wait till uncle Padfoot and Uncle Moony hear about this”

Harry shrieked with laughter, clearly pleased with himself.

By the time the sun dipped low outside, Lily carried a freshly bathed Harry into his room, wrapping him in a soft blue blanket. James followed close behind, holding a small toy broomstick Sirius had sent last week.

“Not yet,” Lily warned immediately, seeing the broom in his hands.

“But—”

“James.”

James sighed dramatically, placing the broom carefully on the dresser. “Fine. But he’s taking his first ride before his first birthday. Mark my words.”

Lily shook her head fondly, lowering Harry into his crib. “Let’s just focus on getting him to sleep first.”

They both leaned against the crib rail, watching Harry curl his little fists into the blanket. Lily reached down, stroking his messy hair as she softly hummed the lullaby she always sang to him, the same one her mother used to hum when she was small.

Harry’s bright green eyes blinked slowly, growing heavier, until finally, he sighed and drifted into soft, even breathing.

James rested his chin on Lily’s shoulder, his arm curling around her waist as they stood in silence for a long moment.

Lily smiled softly, whispering, “He’s perfect.”

James kissed her temple gently. “…He’s ours.”

When they returned to their room, James and Lily lay on their sides facing each other. James had his head propped up on one hand, the other resting on Lily’s hip as his thumb traced lazy circles against the fabric of her nightdress. His lips curved in a quiet smile.

Lily squinted at him, suspicious but amused. “What are you smiling about?”

James shook his head softly, eyes never leaving hers. “You’re such a great mum.”

Her lips tugged into a smile, but then she pouted, voice dropping into something smaller. “I hate that he’s growing up so fast. He has to sleep in his own room now. I miss when he’d sleep here with us… when I could hold him all night and snuggle him close.” She said while squeezing her pillow in her arms.

James chuckled under his breath, brushing his thumb a little higher against her side. “How’s it been for you? Being a mum, I mean.”

Lily tilted her head slightly, surprised. “Why are you asking?”

He shrugged, eyes soft. “I just want to know if you’re happy. And if there’s anything more I can do to help.”

Her expression softened, and she leaned in to press a lingering kiss to his lips before pulling back with a smile. “I like being a mum. Harry’s wonderful, he adores me, and I adore him. I thought as he grew up, he’d want to cuddle less, but he still loves it. And I can’t tell you how happy that makes me.”

Her smile faltered for a moment. “Of course, the teething, the fussiness, the nights he’s sick… it’s exhausting. I get frustrated sometimes. Anyone would, especially when you’re running on no sleep. But then you come in and help whenever you can, and Merlin, James, it makes all the difference. I really love you for that.” She leaned over and kissed him again, softer this time. When she pulled back, she studied his face and asked, “And you? How’s being a dad been for you?”

James grinned immediately, eyes crinkling. “Absolutely bloody brilliant. I get to see his smile every day. I get to watch you shower him with affection. And yeah, he crawls away from me the second he hears your voice, but honestly? I don’t even mind. I loved being married to you, Lils, but now having Harry with us, I didn’t even know it was possible to love you more. Yet somehow, every time I see you with him, I fall for you all over again.”

Lily swatted his shoulder, trying and failing to hide the pleased flush on her cheeks. “Stop being so charming,” she teased, though her grin betrayed her. “I’m not ready to make baby number two yet.”

James smirked, leaning in closer. “Yet.”

Lily laughed, shoving him lightly back onto his pillow.

She hesitated, chewing her lip before asking carefully, “Does it bother you… that he likes me more?”

James’s eyes widened. “Of course not! Lils, you’re amazing with him. We’re both lucky to have you. And honestly…” He grinned, lowering his voice playfully. “Harry and I agree on one thing, his mum’s brilliant. Even if the reasons we think you’re brilliant differs a bit.” He wagged his eyebrows suggestively.

Lily rolled her eyes, laughing despite herself, and reached out to swat his shoulder. “You’re incorrigible.”

James grinned wider, leaning closer. “And you love it.”

He kissed her, and she responded eagerly, both of them melting into the quiet comfort of being together. When he finally pulled back, he studied her face with a softer expression. “Are you okay, Lils? I mean… are you happy?”

She blinked, surprised. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

James hesitated, his thumb brushing her hip. “I know how much you wanted to do with the Order. We… we didn’t exactly plan on having a baby this soon.”

Lily went quiet, thoughtful. She sighed, eyes drifting towards the corner of the room. “Sometimes I feel guilty,” she admitted. “Like I should be out there helping more, fighting more, instead of just… being here. Voldemort’s getting stronger, and meanwhile I’m in this cottage, with a happy family. And that makes me feel selfish.”

James opened his mouth to argue, but she went on, her voice steadier now. “But then Harry laughs. Or I hold him and hear him babble. And in those moments, I know I’m exactly where I want to be. Where I need to be.” She met James’s eyes, determination shining through the guilt. “Having Harry made me realize I’ll do everything in my power to keep him safe and happy. Even if that means stepping back from the war.”

Her hand brushed James’s cheek as her voice softened. “If we had more family… maybe I’d feel less worried. If something happened to us, Harry would have someone to raise him. “But we don’t. And I won’t let him grow up alone,” Lily said firmly, her voice low but steady. “I’m his mother, James. I won’t leave him to fight a war unless I truly have no choice.”

James leaned in, pressing his forehead gently to hers. “He won’t be alone. Not while we’re here. And not while I’ve got anything to say about it.”

Lily bit her lip, her voice softer when she finally spoke. “I just… I hope Dumbledore defeats Voldemort soon. I’d like us to have more children one day. I don’t want Harry to grow up alone. And I just like the idea of having more children and them growing up safe.” She looked down, fiddling with the blanket between them. “I want him to have at least one sibling he can be close to. I don’t want him ending up like us.”

James reached out immediately, cupping her cheek and tilting her gaze back to him. “Lils, hey… it’s okay.” His thumb brushed gently along her skin. “I was lucky. I got to meet my friends, and they became my brothers. And you—” he gave her a wry, fond smile—“well, sure, your sister can be… difficult. But we’re going to do better. We’ll give Harry what we didn’t have. We are going to built a great life for us.”

Lily blinked up at him, her eyes soft but searching.

“And soon,” James added, his voice steady with quiet certainty, “we’ll add more to our family. Harry won’t have to be alone.”

He hesitated then, voice dipping lower. “I just… I don’t want him to grow up like me.”

Lily frowned, confused. “What do you mean?”

James gave a sheepish little huff, though the guilt in his eyes was real. “An arrogant toe rag. Like I was. To everyone. Including your friends.”

Lily laughed softly, but the sound faded when she caught the seriousness in his expression. She reached up, cupping his cheek, her thumb brushing along his jaw. “James… you have to forgive yourself. What happened with Severus wasn’t only your fault. Yes, you were a prat, and you should have known better. But so should he. He was the one choosing to surround himself with blood purists and wannabe Death Eaters. That wasn’t on you.”

James swallowed, his gaze dropping. “I know he liked you.”

“I can’t change that,” Lily said gently. “But I never thought of him as more than a friend. Not once.” She offered him a small, steady smile. “You were never cruel, James. You weren’t a bad person. You were childish and insufferably annoying sometimes, yes—but you grew up. You got your act together. You became someone I could admire.”

Her hand slipped to the back of his neck, pulling him closer until their foreheads touched. “I chose you, James. Always you.”

For a moment, James just closed his eyes, breathing her in. But the crease between his brows didn’t ease. “I just… I don’t want Harry to grow up to be like I was,” he admitted quietly. “Arrogant. Careless. Picking fights to show off. I don’t want him to be that boy.”

Lily tilted her head, searching his face. “James… Harry already isn’t that boy. Do you know what I see? I see a child who lights up when he hears his mum’s voice. Who looks at us like we are his whole world. Who giggles when you make a fool of yourself just to get a smile out of him.”

James huffed a laugh, though guilt lingered in his eyes. “Maybe now. But what if—”

“No,” Lily cut in gently but firmly, brushing her fingers through his hair. “Arrogance comes from insecurity, from needing to prove yourself. Harry won’t grow up needing to prove himself, not with us raising him. He’ll grow up knowing he’s loved and enough. And makes the right decisions.”

The tension in his shoulders eased, and when she leaned in to kiss him softly, he let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding.

She smirked against his lips, tugging him closer. “And right now, what I choose is my husband.”

James grinned, the playfulness slipping back into his eyes as his hand slid to her waist and then lower to squeeze her bum. His lips trailed down her neck as he murmured, “We don’t have to make baby number two yet, but we can still enjoy ourselves. It’s been far too long since I’ve had the chance to please my wife, Mrs. Potter.”

Lily’s fingers curled into his shirt, tugging him closer still. “Well then,” she teased, voice low, “what exactly are you waiting for, Mr. Potter? An invitation?”

Thank you PotterSloth

Chapter Text

The Potter cottage was quiet when the pop! of Apparition echoed outside the gate.

“Prongs!” Sirius Black’s voice boomed through the hallway before the door even opened. “Prepare yourselves! Harry is about to love me forever.”

In the sitting room, lily was pacing with Harry on her hip while she was reading him a story. “Merlin, save my son from that mutt,” she muttered under her breath.

Remus Lupin trailed behind Sirius into the living room, hands tucked into his pockets, wearing his usual faint, polite smile. “Before anyone asks, yes I did try to stop him,” he said mildly.

James poked his head out from the kitchen, eyebrows raised. “That’s never a good sign.”

Sirius barged in proudly, wand already out. “Relax, Prongs. I’m about to secure my rightful place as the favourite godfather. You can thank me later.”

“You’re his only godfather,” James pointed out with a smirk.

Sirius blinked, then straightened up proudly. “Fine. His favourite uncle, then.” He shot Remus a smug look.

Remus didn’t even look up from the book in his lap, just raised an eyebrow. “Keep dreaming, Padfoot. I’m going to be his favourite uncle.”

Sirius scoffed. “You? Please. You’ll bore him to death with books before he can even walk. Meanwhile, I’ll be sneaking him Chocolate Frogs, teach him about girls and all the good swear words.”

Remus finally glanced over, deadpan. “Yes. Exactly what Lily’s looking for in a role model.”

Sirius ignored him, already marching toward Lily, who was holding baby Harry on her hip.

Harry spotted him instantly, letting out a curious babble, one tiny hand reaching out — but not for Sirius. For Lily’s hair, which he immediately grabbed and clung to with both fists, burying his face into it like it was a safety blanket.

“Yeah, yeah, I know, pup” Sirius said, grinning wickedly. “You love your mum’s hair.”

Before Lily could react, Sirius flicked his wand.

With a soft whoosh, Lily’s vibrant red locks turned jet black, perfectly matching James’s and Harry’s hair color. Sirius twirled his wand dramatically and announced, “Ta-da! Matching hair, the Potter family edition! He’s going to love this.”

For exactly one second, Sirius looked very pleased with himself.

Then Harry blinked. Stared at his mum’s hair. Looked at Sirius. Back at Lily.

And his little lip trembled.

“Oh no,” James muttered.

A second later, Harry’s face crumpled and he let out a loud, heartbroken wail.

James urgently looked at Sirius. “Change it back! Sirius change it back!”

Sirius fumbled with his wand. And pointed his wand at lily’s hair but instead of it turning red like it was it turned blond. “Oh no.”

Harry stopped crying for a minute and looked at his mum and started wailing even louder.

Remus from his spot grimaced looking at Lily. “I take it he isn’t into blonds.”

Sirius chuckled but Lily was giving him her famous death glare and he paled but immediately tried again this time finally changing lily’s hair back to her trademark red.

Sirius reached his hands out for Harry to calm him down but he tried to get as far away from Sirius as a toddler could, by trying to burry his little face into his mum’s shoulder.

Sirius blinked, lowering his wand slowly. “Wait. No. No, no, no, no. Harry, pup, look! It’s all better now! Your mum’s hair is red again!”

Harry turned his head away from Sirius and pressed his tiny fists against Lily’s chest, burying his face in her shoulder. When Sirius moved closer, Harry peeked over Lily’s shoulder just long enough to give him the most judgmental baby glare imaginable, a perfect miniature of Lily’s infamous death stare.

James wheezed, bracing himself against the couch to stop from doubling over. “Pads… Pads, he’s giving you Lily’s glare. You’re so doomed.”

Sirius, looking personally betrayed, pointed an accusing finger at Harry. “You’re nine months old! You can’t glare like that!”

Harry glared harder.

Remus chuckled softly from the armchair, entirely unbothered. “Can I tell you I told you so now?” he murmured, flipping open the book he’d brought.

The rest of the afternoon turned into an escalating battle between the pride of an adult and a child’s ability to ignore said adult.

Sirius tried everything to win Harry back. He conjured little glowing stars, animated James’s mug into a hopping puppy, even summoned tiny sparks of harmless firecrackers that floated above his head like glittering fireworks.

Harry did not care for any of it.

Every time Sirius held out his arms, Harry would turn his face, clutch Lily’s jumper, and cling harder.

“Fine,” Sirius muttered darkly, “play hard to get.”

After a while, Sirius decided it was time for his ultimate move: A grand apology combined with some well placed bribery.

He crouched down in front of Harry, who sat on Lily’s lap playing with a wooden block, and said very seriously:

“Alright, Prongslet. I admit I messed up. I should not have messed with your mum’s hair. I thought you’d like us matching. I was wrong. I was a fool.”

Harry blinked at him, unimpressed.

Sirius continued, placing a hand solemnly on his chest. “I vow, on my honour as your godfather, that I will never charm your mum’s hair ever again.”

Lily raised an eyebrow but said nothing, sipping her tea quietly.

Harry tilted his head.

Sirius leaned closer. “I brought biscuits. Chocolate ones. The good kind.” He added in a hopeful whisper.

Harry slowly reached out, little fingers grabbing the offered biscuit. And took a small bite out of it, chewing happily — and then, finally, for the first time that day, gave Sirius the tiniest, toothy grin.

Sirius gasped, clutching his heart. “Yes! Victory! You forgive me!”

James scowled at Sirius from the sofa. “You bribed him.”

He carefully held his hands out wanting to pick Harry up, but the second Sirius’s hand came too close, Harry turned his head away and looked straight back at Lily instead. With a determined little grunt, he held the biscuit out to her.

Lily’s lips curved into a smug grin. “My boy can’t be bribed that easily, you mutt.”

She leaned forward, meeting Harry’s eyes with a bright smile as she accepted the soggy biscuit. “Mmm, yum! Thank you, baby. Good boy. Always share.” She kissed his cheek, earning a delighted giggle. Then, as she chewed, she shot Sirius a wicked look. “Oh, my — you were right. These are the good kind of biscuits.”

Sirius let out a strangled sound and collapsed onto his hands and knees with a groan. “Merlin’s beard, I’m a horrible godfather. He’s going to hate me forever.”

James leaned back against the cushions, grinning. “Don’t worry, Pads. He’ll tolerate you. Eventually.”

Harry, still perched happily in Lily’s lap, shoved the rest of the biscuit into his mouth without looking at Sirius even once.

Later, while Lily started on dinner, Sirius swooped in like a hawk, plucking Harry right out of her arms.

“Got him!” Sirius announced proudly, bouncing the toddler.

But the triumph didn’t last long. The moment Harry was in Sirius’s arms, he leaned away, stretching both hands toward Remus and calling out a babble that sounded suspiciously like “Oooey”

Remus raised an eyebrow, smirk tugging at his mouth as he reached over to take Harry. The little boy settled happily against his shoulder, clutching at his robes.

“Come on, Harry,” Remus said loudly, making sure Sirius could hear every word. “Let’s go read a story with your favourite uncle.” He shot Sirius a smirk as he sat down with Harry and opened up a book he had bought for him.

Harry babbled his agreement, patting Remus’s chest.

Sirius stared after them with his jaw dropped while Remus was reading to Harry from ‘Hansel and Gretel’. “Smug git,” he muttered under his breath. He turned to James for backup, but James was already laughing.

“Don’t look at me,” James grinned. “You’ve been outplayed.”

Sirius groaned and dropped into the nearest chair, dramatically defeated. “One day, Prongs. One day, he’ll realize I’m the fun one.”

From the kitchen, Lily called sweetly, “Not if you teach him swear words, he won’t!”

Eventually, James did decide to intervene, scooping Harry up and bouncing him lightly on his hip. “See, Harry? Unca’ Pads isn’t that bad,” he said, giving Sirius a pointed look.

Harry, who had been resting his cheek against James’s shoulder, was calm — until the sound of Lily's voice drifted in from the kitchen.

“Dinner’s ready, boys!” Lily called out, her voice warm and cheerful.

The instant he heard his mother’s voice, Harry’s little head shot up like someone had cast a charm on him. He twisted in James’s arms, chubby hands reaching toward the doorway, making urgent little noises.

“Mamma!”

James froze. “…What?”

“Mamma!” Harry squealed louder this time, squirming violently.

“Oi—Harry—hey!” James protested, tightening his grip. “Don’t you dare—Harry, stay with me— stay with dada!”

But Harry was on a mission.

With surprising strength for someone so small, he wriggled free, slipping right out of James’s arms and landing on the rug with a soft little thump. Before James could react, Harry was crawling as fast as his tiny legs could take him toward Lily’s voice.

James just stood there, slack-jawed, watching his son vanish around the corner. “He just ditched me!”

From the couch, Remus didn’t even look up from his book as he murmured, “Cub has his priorities straight, Prongs.”

There was a beat of silence. Then Remus slowly lowered the book, his eyes widening slightly. “Wait… James, did he just… say ‘mamma’?”

Behind them from the kitchen they heard it again. Harry happily calling out.

“Mamma!”

Lily’s delighted squeal followed at once. “My baby knows how to say mamma!”

James blinked at Remus, still frozen, before whipping his head toward the kitchen — just in time to see Lily walking back in beaming, proudly carrying a very happy, very smug-looking Harry on her hip.

“Hear that? He said his first word! And it was me! I’m officially first place.” Lily announced, her entire face glowing with pride.

James walked over quickly, kissing Harry on the top of his messy little head. “Oi, Prongslet, brilliant job,” he said warmly, trying to keep his voice casual as he leaned back to meet Harry’s eyes. “Alright, mate, your turn — can you say ‘dada’?”

Harry blinked at him. Then turned back to Lily.

“Mamma!” he announced proudly.

Lily’s face lit up, her smile stretching ear to ear. “Yes, love! That’s right, mamma!” She kissed his cheek, and Harry squealed with delight, clapping his tiny hands.

James groaned loudly, rubbing a hand down his face. “Traitor.”

From across the room, Sirius leaned against the wall, smirking. “Oof. That’s rough, Prongs.”

James shot him a look, narrowing his eyes. “…Do you think it’d help if I, er… charmed my hair red?”

Sirius raised both hands instantly. “Mate, don’t even think about it.”

Remus, finally lowering his book, smirked faintly. “Congratulations, James. You’re officially second place.”

James pointed at him in mock warning. “Don’t start with me, Moony.”

Harry babbled happily from Lily’s arms, then leaned forward and planted a big, sloppy open-mouthed kiss on her cheek.

Lily laughed in surprise, brushing her thumb gently over his chubby cheek. “Oh, thank you, darling,” she cooed, pretending to swoon. “Best kiss I’ve ever had.”

Harry squealed proudly at her reaction, little legs kicking in delight, when she brushed a kiss to his forehead.

Lily just smiled, rocking him gently. “Face it, boys,” she teased softly, “I’m the favorite.”

James groaned again, collapsing onto the sofa in defeat. “This isn’t over.”

Sirius clapped him on the shoulder, laughing. “Mate, it was over the second he said it.”

Harry giggled again from Lily’s arms, as if agreeing. “Mamma!”

James, watching from the armchair, put a hand to his chest in mock outrage. “Oi! What about my kisses then?”

Lily smirked at him over Harry’s head. “Sorry, James. Looks like you’ve been outdone.”

Harry, oblivious, giggled and snuggled even closer into Lily’s shoulder.

James groaned and flopped back in his chair. “Brilliant. Already replaced in my own house.”

Dinner that evening was noisy in the Potter cottage.

James and Sirius kept leaning across the table, pulling ridiculous faces, trying to coax even the smallest reaction out of the baby in his high chair. James puffed out his cheeks until they looked ready to burst, while Sirius crossed his eyes and stuck his tongue out dramatically.

Harry blinked at them. Once. Twice. Then turned right back to Lily, toothy grin spreading wide as she scooped up another spoonful of mashed carrots.

“Here comes the train to Hogwarts—choo-choo!” Lily sing-songed, steering the spoon toward his mouth.

Harry giggled happily, mouth wide open for the spoon.

James deflated like a punctured broom. “Oi, he didn’t even look at me.”

Sirius tried again, flapping his arms like a deranged chicken. “Harry! Over here! Look at your favourite godfather!”

Harry gave him a brief glance, unimpressed, before leaning toward Lily again, babbling softly.

James slumped back in his chair, groaning. “Not even a pity laugh.”

Across the table, Remus watched the entire spectacle with a faint, amused smile as he quietly buttered his bread. He hadn’t made a single attempt to compete.

Lily caught his eye and raised an eyebrow. “You’re not even going to try?” she teased, bouncing Harry lightly on her knee after slipping him another bite.

Remus chuckled, shaking his head. “No need. I know better than those two idiots. Harry won’t look away from you when you’re around.”

Sirius jabbed his fork in his direction. “Traitor. You’re supposed to back us up, Moony.”

Remus smirked into his plate. “Why bother? You’d lose anyway.”

Harry giggled again as Lily wiped his chin clean, staring up at her like she was the only person in the room.

James threw his napkin onto the table dramatically. “Unbelievable. Outshone in my own house.”

“Get used to it, Potter,” Lily said sweetly, leaning down to kiss Harry’s hair. “You’ve both have been beaten.”

Sirius collapsed back in his chair with a groan. “By a redhead. Figures.”

Harry squealed, banging his little hand on the tray, as if agreeing.

Thank you PotterSloth

Chapter Text

It was the day before Harry’s first birthday. He sat on the floor, his toys forgotten in a small pile in front of him. Instead, his wide green eyes were fixed on his parents.

James and Lily were spinning slowly around the sitting room, James’s grin broad and unrestrained while Lily laughed, her hair catching the light as it fanned out with their turns.

Harry didn’t understand what they were doing, only that they were standing, moving in circles, and smiling. If his parents thought it was fun, it must be fun. He let out a squeal of laughter and rocked from side to side, trying to copy them, his little hands flapping for balance.

James’s grin widened as he caught sight of Harry rocking side to side on the rug, copying their movements. “Lils—look at him. He’s trying to dance.”

Lily turned, her heart nearly bursting at the sight. “Oh, sweetheart…”

James stopped mid-turn and crouched down, scooping Harry up with ease. “Come here, partner.”

Harry squealed in delight as James lifted him high into the air, tiny legs kicking, before settling him between himself and Lily.

“There we go,” James said proudly, adjusting Harry so one little hand rested on his shoulder. “Now it’s a proper family dance.”

Lily leaned in, brushing a kiss against Harry’s cheek before resting her head against James’s shoulder. The three of them swayed together, the cottage filled with the music from the record player and Harry’s bubbly giggles.

When the next song came on, it was a little faster, and James immediately shifted gears. He held Harry out, swinging him carefully in time with the beat. Harry’s laughter rang out louder than the music, shrill and delighted, as his tiny arms waved in the air.

Lily, now perched on the sofa with a slice of treacle tart and a cup of tea, laughed at the sight. She shook her head fondly as James exaggerated his steps, spinning in little circles and bouncing Harry to the rhythm, both of them grinning like fools.

“Honestly,” Lily teased between sips of tea, “I don’t know who’s enjoying this more — Harry or you.”

James shot her a cheeky grin. “Both of us. Equal partnership.” He gave Harry another swing, earning another squeal. “See? He’s got rhythm already.”

Later that evening, James and Lily sat at the table, sharing the rest of the treacle tart. Harry, who had been playing with a stuffed dragon on the rug, wasn’t paying attention to his toy anymore. His eyes were fixed firmly on the dessert.

“Dada,” he called suddenly, pointing with a chubby finger.

James nearly choked on his bite, staring wide-eyed at his son. “Is he staring at my piece?” He turned toward Harry, who was still pointing, this time more insistently.

Lily’s smile widened. “I think he wants your treacle tart.”

James laughed, bending down to scoop Harry into his arms. “Alright come here. This is your mum’s favourite desert.”

Harry reached toward the plate, babbling happily. Lily broke off a tiny piece and held it out to him. Harry took it eagerly, chewing clumsily, then froze. His eyes went wide, and then his legs started kicking like mad against James’s arm, a squeal of delight bursting out of him.

James burst out laughing. “Merlin’s sake, look at him! He’s inherited your treacle tart obsession!”

Lily sniffed and wiped imaginary dust off her shoulder, pretending to inspect her nails. “Naturally. He is my baby, after all.”

Harry let out another happy squeal, reaching for more, and James groaned. “Brilliant. We’ve created a another treacle tart monster.”

The rest of the night was spent letting Harry crawl around, handing him the tiniest bites here and there. He’d happily chew, giggle, and then crawl back for more. By the time Lily told him, “Sorry, baby, that was the last bit,” Harry gave an exaggerated little pout before eventually going back to his toys.

Meanwhile, James and Lily exchanged a conspiratorial grin, high-fived each other, and quietly shared the bigger piece of tart between themselves.

“Parenthood,” James whispered, taking a forkful. “All about sacrifices.”

Lily smirked, stealing the next bite. “And strategy. He’s too young for that much sugar anyway.”

Harry babbled from the rug, none the wiser, while his parents enjoyed their stolen spoils.

The next morning, Lily pushed open the nursery door and found Harry standing in his crib, gripping the bars with his chubby hands, messy hair sticking up in every direction.

She walked over with a wide smile and scooped him into her arms. “Happy birthday, baby. It’s your first birthday!” she cooed, peppering his face with kisses until he squealed with laughter.

Carrying him downstairs, she followed the smell of breakfast to the kitchen. James was already there, sleeves rolled up, humming to himself as he fussed over the stove. He glanced back at them, grinning. “Oi—what did I say? Today you don’t lift a finger. It’s Harry’s birthday, and that means you’re not working either.”

Lily rolled her eyes but smiled as she settled Harry into his high chair. “I’m allowed to carry my son, James. Don’t try to be sneaky. I know you wanted to get to him before I did.”

James put a hand to his chest, giving her an affronted look. “Sneaky? Me? I just don’t want you doing too much work today. You already did plenty last year when you had to push him out.”

Lily shot him a playful glare. “James Potter, speak more nicely about your son.”

James held up both hands in mock defense, grinning. “Didn’t mean anything bad. Just saying—fact’s a fact. You did have to push him out to get him here.”

Lily let out another eye roll, muttering under her breath, “Trust you to phrase it like that.”

Harry banged his little fists on the tray, babbling as though joining the argument, and Lily leaned down to kiss the top of his messy hair. “See, even he thinks you’re ridiculous.”

James grinned wider. “Good thing he takes after you then.”

Harry banged his hands on the tray happily, only to stop when James leaned down and blew a loud raspberry against his cheek. Harry let out a high-pitched squeal, kicking his legs. “Dada!”

James smirked. “See? Best start to a birthday ever.”

He plated breakfast, setting it down in front of Lily before sliding a small bowl in front of Harry. “And for the birthday boy.”

Harry babbled excitedly, reaching for the spoon. Lily caught his hand gently. “Nice try, but you’re not feeding yourself just yet.”

James pulled up a chair beside them, picking up the spoon and making a dramatic “choo-choo” noise as he guided it toward Harry’s mouth. Harry laughed so hard he nearly missed the bite, then clapped his hands as if James had performed magic.

Lily shook her head, smiling into her tea. “You’re enjoying this almost as much as he is.”

James wiggled his eyebrows. “Almost? Lils, I’m an artist at this.” He made another round of choo-choos, earning more giggles from Harry and a fond eye roll from Lily. She started on her breakfast.

Later that day, Lily sat at her vanity, humming softly as she brushed out her damp hair. From the bathroom down the hall came the sound of splashing, James’s laughter mixing with Harry’s squeals.

“Harry, stay still—no, don’t—Merlin’s sake, Stop summoning the soap. That’s soap, not a toy—” James’s voice carried through the door, exasperated but warm, followed by more splashing and both of them laughing.

Lily shook her head, smiling to herself. James had insisted last week that she wasn’t to lift a finger on Harry’s birthday or even the day before. She’d thought he was joking at first, but when she demanded to know why, he’d told her plainly: “You did enough during the nine months and delivery. Harry’s birthday should be about appreciating you too.”

They’d argued about it until she managed to negotiate making the birthday cake, but James had stood firm about the rest. Dinner, treacle tarts, and cookies — all on him. They’d even shaken on it, James as insistent as if they were striking a formal contract.

Lily had had to suppress a snort at his theatrics, but her heart melted every time she thought of how determined he’d been to take care of her.

She set down the brush, her gaze softening as the laughter echoed down the hall again. She really hoped the war would end soon… because more than anything, she wanted baby number two sooner rather than later.

When James came into their room carrying a freshly washed and dressed Harry, Lily burst out laughing. James’s shirt was plastered to him, his hair dripping.

“Looks like bath time got out of hand,” she teased.

James looked down at himself with mock despair. “Apparently our son thought I needed one too.”

Lily wagged her eyebrows. “Fine by me. Now I get to ogle you.”

James grinned and leaned in for a kiss, but Lily put a hand on his chest, smirking. “Shower first. Then you can snog me.”

James groaned theatrically, but kissed her forehead anyway before heading off.

Left with Harry, Lily perched on the edge of the bed, still humming softly as she kept an eye on him. He sat upright on the blankets, staring at her with wide green eyes.

She smiled, scooping him into her arms. “You know, you danced with Daddy last night, but not with me.”

Harry babbled as if in agreement, and Lily chuckled. She stood, holding him close, and began swaying in slow circles, humming the same tune she’d brushed her hair to earlier. Harry’s tiny fingers clung to her shoulder as he nestled in, eyes half-closing.

When she glanced up, she startled slightly to see James leaning against the doorway, towel slung around his shoulders, smiling at them.

“What are you staring at?” she asked, half-playful, half-flustered.

“You,” James said simply. “You always look beautiful. But like this, with your hair damp…” His grin softened into something more earnest. “You’re breathtaking. If Harry was still asleep, I’d say we forget the war and spend the morning making baby number two.”

Lily’s heart gave a little squeeze. She crossed the room, kissed him soundly, and when they pulled apart, Harry babbled happily between them.

“Funny,” Lily murmured against his lips, “I was thinking about baby number two myself.”

James laughed low, pressing his forehead to hers. “Then we’d better win this war quick.”