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CHAPTER SEVENTY FIVE - 🍂୧ the. . .
overprotective posse ও🦌

AUTUMN AND JAMES DECIDED TO KEEP THEIR PREGNANCY a secret for the time being. However, it was because James had brought up the idea of leaving the Order, but Autumn staunchly disagreed. She knew it was a risky move, but, she eventually reassured James, explaining that since being paired with Fabian and Gideon, she no longer actively participated in missions on the frontlines.

Initially, Autumn had struggled with the idea of being confined, but with their impending parenthood, she found a sense of understanding and acceptance in remaining a part of the Order.

James had to admit that her arguments made a certain amount of sense. And the thought of her being in any kind of dangerous situation, especially now that they had a child on the way, made his stomach churn with worry. So against his better judgment, he reluctantly agreed.

"Alright," he relented finally, his voice betraying a mixture of reluctance and concern. "But promise me you'll be careful love. No risky missions, no unnecessary risks."

Autumn smiled, grateful for his understanding. "I promise," she assured him, her tone firm. "I may still be part of the Order, but I won't be taking any unnecessary risks, especially now. Our child's safety comes first, and I have no intention of doing anything that would put him or her in danger."

He nodded, some of the tension in his body easing with her reassurance. "I trust you, love," he said, his eyes searching hers. "But just... be careful, alright? I can't shake off this... worry. Especially knowing you'll be around other members of the Order, some of whom are... less cautious than others."

She placed a gentle hand on his cheek, her expression filled with understanding. "I know," she said softly, "And I'll be careful, I promise. I won't let anyone persuade me to take unnecessary risks. And besides, I have Fabian and Gideon looking out for me. They're almost as protective as you are."

He chuckled at that, his worry only partially replaced with amusement. "Almost as protective, huh?" he repeated, his tone light but his eyes still laced with worry. "Not sure whether to feel relieved or offended by that. I should hope I'm more protective than those two."

She laughed softly, shaking her head. "You're number one on the overprotective leaderboard, James Potter," she assured him, her tone fond. "No competition whatsoever. Fabian and Gideon merely come in at a respectable second place."

Autumn then pursed her lips, "Actually no, take that back...Lily probably beats you, or maybe she's on the same level as you...no, wait, Raven, would as well, once we can tell her."

James feigned offence once more at her words, gasping dramatically. "Are you questioning my mastery of overprotectiveness, love?" he asked, his voice laced with mock hurt. "I, the undisputed king of being overprotective, the champion of worrying. And you'd put Lily and Raven above me in the rankings?"

She smirked, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Well, you see, James, there's 'overprotective' and then there's 'over-the-top-bordering-on-ridiculous'," she replied, her voice playful. "You, my dear husband, fall into the latter category. You're in a league of your own when it comes to worrying and being overprotective."

He chuckled, his feigned indignation replaced with a smile. "Ah, yes, the 'over-the-top-bordering-on-ridiculous' league," he echoed, his voice full of mock pride. "I am honoured, love. And I will wear my title with pride. But I must say, it's a heavy crown. Full of worry and concern for one's wife and child, you know."

Autumn rolled her eyes but couldn't hold back an affectionate smile. "Yes, I'm sure it's a terribly heavy burden, being the most overprotective man in the world," she teased, her tone gentle. "But don't worry, love. I appreciate your concern and your worry, even if it is a bit... excessive at times."

He smiled, softening his expression. "Excessive, huh? That's just a fancy word for 'loving and concerned', I believe," he said, his tone still light but genuine. "Someone has to worry about you, love, and it's my job to do it better than anyone else. Including Lily, Raven, Fabian, Gideon, and any other competition."

James chuckled, then replied, "But you're forgetting the guys. Sirius, Remus, and Peter are definitely in that mix."

Her laughter filled the room, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh, of course, how could I forget? The trifecta of overprotectiveness. Sirius, Remus, and Peter." She paused, feigning contemplation, then added, "Though I'm not sure if I should be worried or comforted that you've turned my safety into a competition."

James chuckled at her observation. "It's not a competition, love, it's a team effort," he clarified, his tone only mock-serious. "I've merely enlisted the help of my old mates to ensure your safety, once they know at least. We're a gang of overprotective blokes, ready to pounce at a moment's notice. You should be feeling very protected, and possibly a tad smothered."

Autumn mock-sighed, shaking her head in mock resignation. "Ah yes, the Overprotective Posse. How could I forget? I should feel lucky to be under such... vigilant protection." She paused, tilting her head. "Although, being a tad smothered does sound slightly uncomfortable. I might have to start a 'Breathable Space Allowance' petition."

James laughed, unable to maintain his mock-serious demeanour. "Oh, the 'Breathable Space Allowance' petition, eh? A noble cause indeed. I'll be sure to bring it up at the next Overprotective Posse meeting," he joked, his eyes filled with mirth. "Though I can't guarantee it will be entertained without some lively debate."

Autumn smiled, enjoying their banter. "Oh, I can imagine the debate, love," she said, her voice laced with amusement. "Probably something along the lines of 'How much space does the lady in need of protecting really need? Surely not more than a few feet?'"

He nodded, his expression mock-serious. "Precisely. We'll have a spirited discussion on the appropriate distance for a wife in need of protection. 'Less than arm's length, but more than an outstretched wand' seems like a reasonable standard," he replied, his eyes glinting with mischief.

Autumn mock-gasped, placing a hand on her chest. "Ah, but what about my need for personal space? My need to breathe without a member of the Overprotective Posse lurking nearby?" she inquired, her tone playful. "I might even require, shock-horror, a moment to myself without a bodyguard at the door!"

He pretended to consider her request, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "Alone time, you say? Hmmmm..." he mused, his voice feigning contemplation. "Well, I suppose we can consider a brief respite from our watchful eyes. A few minutes to... gasp, breathe without us. Under one condition, of course."

She raised an eyebrow, playing along. "And what might that condition be, love? Another member of the Overprotective Posse stationed just outside the door?"

James shook his head, a smirk on his face. "No, no, something a bit more unconventional," he responded, enjoying the banter. "A small favour, if you will. Something relatively simple, though it might take a bit of courage on your part."

Autumn's curiosity piqued, and her eyes narrowed slightly. "A small favour, eh? And this favour might involve... courage?" she echoed. "I'm sensing a 'but' coming. What kind of favour are we talking about here, love?"

James's smirk widened, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, it's nothing too extravagant. Just a daring act of courage," he said, his tone playful. "I just need you to promise me that every month - on the first of each month, precisely - you'll stand on the highest hill near our home with a butterbeer in hand and shout, 'I, Autumn Potter, am the luckiest wife in the world, and I promise to never let my husband go more than a day without a reminder of my love and devotion!'"

Autumn's eyes widened, her surprise giving way to laughter. "Oh, is that all?" she said, her voice filled with amused disbelief. "Just a little monthly declaration of my devotion on top of the hill? Simple as that, eh?" She chuckled, shaking her head. "Any particular reason why you'd like this public display of affection, love?"

James shrugged, his smirk transitioning into a playful smile. "Call it a small price to pay for a bit of space. A 'breathable space allowance,' if you will," he quipped. "And as for the reason... well, just a small token of appreciation and a way to keep the Overprotective Posse at bay. Consider it a gesture of love, love."

Autumn laughed, shaking her head in mock resignation. "Oh, fine, fine. I shall stand on our highest hill, butterbeer in hand, and announce my undying love for you to the entire magical world," she promised, rolling her eyes with an indulging smile. "But on one condition. You must promise not to be caught lurking in the bushes, listening in."

James chuckled, raising his hand in mock surrender. "I solemnly swear to resist the overpowering urge to lurk in the bushes and eavesdrop on your declaration of love. I shall keep myself at a respectable distance, just to ensure your privacy," he assured her with a grin. "Though I must say, love, the thought of you standing on that hill with a butterbeer in hand, shouting your love for me... it's almost enough to make a man swoon."

Autumn pretended to look embarrassed, averting her eyes with a mock blush. "Oh, stop it, you flatterer," she said, her voice playful. "You'll have me doing it weekly if you keep that up. A monthly declaration of love is all you're getting, mister. After all, I need to save my voice for the Overprotective Posse meetings."

James chuckled, a teasing gleam in his eyes. "Ah, the weekly declaration of love... now there's an idea. I'll have to start a campaign for that." He leaned back, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "And speaking of the Overprotective Posse... I suppose I should start recruiting. Maybe we should hold tryouts. Can't have just anyone in the gang, after all. They need to be up to the challenge of protecting you, love."

Autumn rolled her eyes, a smile playing on her lips. "Oh yes, the great Overprotective Posse tryouts. I can see it now - all the men in our lives, trying to prove their worthiness in the protection department," she joked. "It's going to be quite a spectacle, that's for sure. Should I start making banners?"

James chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Banners, badges, maybe even uniforms. I'm thinking of a signature look for the Overprotective Posse. Something that exudes authority and devotion." He paused, then added, "And a secret handshake. Every good gang needs a secret handshake."

Autumn giggled, shaking her head at his enthusiasm. "Uniforms, badges, secret handshakes...you're really taking this Overprotective Posse thing seriously, aren't you?" she teased, her tone fond. "Should I be worried? Or just impressed with your level of dedication to the cause?"

James grinned, his expression mock-serious. "Dedication, love. Pure dedication. I take my role as Head of the Overprotective Posse very seriously," he declared. "We're not just a gang, we're a brotherhood. A band of brothers united by the goal of keeping you safe. And if we need uniforms, badges, and secret handshakes to achieve that, then so be it."

Autumn chuckled and laid her head on his chest, her voice softer now, "We'll cross that bridge once I can no longer hide the pregnancy. But everything will be alright, Lily will be checking on me whenever she visits the headquarters."

James's expression softened as she spoke, his hand coming up to gently stroke her hair. "You're probably right, love," he murmured, his voice laced with reluctant acceptance. "I'll try to worry less, as long as you promise to be careful. And you'll let me know if... if you need anything, right? Anything at all."

Autumn nodded, nuzzling her face against his chest. "Of course, James," she reassured him, her voice quiet. "I'll be careful, I promise. And I'll let you know if anything comes up. We're in this together, remember?" She paused, then lifted her head to look at him, her expression thoughtful. "Hey, do you think we should tell Sirius? He'd probably go absolutely bonkers, wouldn't he?"

"Oh, Sirius will want to be the godfather," James mused.

"Ah, well, he'd better get along with Lily, because I want her to be the godmother," Autumn clarified.

James raised an eyebrow, "Hm? Not Raven?"

Autumn shook her head, "No, Raven has always had her heart set on being the fun auntie. That's the title she prefers."

James chuckled, imagining the different roles their friends would relish. "Sirius as the godfather, Lily as the godmother... and Raven the fun auntie. Sounds about right, love. They'll be spoiling our child rotten. The poor thing will probably have more sweets than they can handle."

Autumn laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "It'll be a miracle if the baby's first word isn't 'chocolate frog,' or 'Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Bean,'" she quipped. "Between the three of them, our child will be living a life of excessive sugar."

James chuckled, a fond smile on his face. "And we'll be the ones dealing with the inevitable sugar crashes and tantrums," he mused. "But I suppose it's a small price to pay for the joy our child will bring."

Autumn nodded, her expression soft. "It is. And we'll have our special moments too, love. Late nights, quiet cuddles, watching our child sleep..." she trailed off, a look of wonder in her eyes. "It's going to be a wild ride, isn't it?"

James chuckled, wrapping his arms more securely around her. "Oh, it absolutely will love. The wildest ride of our lives, I'd wager," he replied, his voice filled with affection. "But we'll weather it together, just like we always have. Us against the world. And this time, we'll have a little one to focus all our love and attention on."

Autumn smiled up at him, her eyes shining with emotion. "I can't wait, James. To see our child grow, to watch them learn and laugh." She paused, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Though I'm not so sure I'm looking forward to all those late nights with a wailing infant."

James chuckled, grinning at her teasing tone. "Ah, the joys of parenthood," he replied dryly. "Just think, love, endless nights of sleeplessness, endless diapers. And as soon as they're old enough to walk, they'll be finding new and innovative ways to endanger themselves."

Autumn groaned exaggeratedly, burying her face in his chest. "Oh, Merlin, you're right. First, it's crawling into every dangerous corner, then it's sticking everything in their mouths, and then it's climbing everything in sight. It's going to be a constant battle against chaos."

...

Hiding the pregnancy proved challenging for Autumn, as she experienced mood swings and extreme sensitivity to smells. Strangely, however, whenever she sat down to draw, all those symptoms would mysteriously dissipate, providing her with a momentary respite.

Autumn noticed this unusual phenomenon, how her artistic pursuits seemed to have the ability to alleviate her pregnancy-related discomfort. Whenever she sat down with a quill and parchment, or any form of art supplies, her nausea and other symptoms seemed to lessen, as though channelling her creativity acted as a soothing balm.

Intrigued, she started paying closer attention to this peculiar correlation. Drawing, painting, or even crafting with clay seemed to have a comforting effect on her, reducing her nausea and other symptoms of pregnancy, like a magical antidote. As time went on, drawing became not just a creative outlet but a source of relief.

She couldn't understand the scientific or magical reasons behind it, but the fact remained that whenever she immersed herself in her art, her body's negative reactions to the changes within her womb appeared to diminish. As the weeks passed, Autumn began relying on her artistic escape more and more, finding it a safe haven from the relentless discomfort of early pregnancy.

The New Year had arrived, and it was the beginning of 1980. Although Autumn was still not visibly showing, the secret was no longer a secret.

Autumn and James discussed who to share the news with and decided to let Raven, Remus, Peter, Sirius, Fabian and Gideon know. They also decided to inform the Weasleys, as Molly had been supportive of Autumn.

They had carefully planned the conversations, each person they decided to tell was someone they trusted and knew would keep the secret. Raven, Remus, and Peter were all close friends, Sirius was practically a brother to James, and Fabian and Gideon had been like elder brothers to her for months.

As for the Weasleys, Molly's support and kindness had meant a great deal to Autumn, so adding them to their inner circle only made sense.

With each decision, they took great care and deliberation. Autumn knew her parents would not approve of her continued involvement in the Order now that she was pregnant. They would worry and try to convince her to quit, which was not an option, and she couldn't handle the stress at the moment. So, they had agreed to keep the news from her parents for now.

The first person from their inner circle to find out was Raven, who they had told separately from everyone else. They invited their friend over for tea and broke the news, and Raven's reaction was a mix of surprise, joy, and concern. She had immediately pulled them both into a tight hug, her eyes watering with elation.

After the initial shock and happiness subsided, Raven's practical side took over. She had asked, "Are you alright? Are you feeling well? You need something?"

Autumn had laughed, reassuring her that she was well taken care of. James had chimed in, claiming that he was pampering her thoroughly, earning himself an amused eye-roll from Autumn.

Once Raven was assured that Autumn and the baby were healthy, her focus shifted to the baby itself. She'd looked at Autumn's belly with a mix of wonder and curiosity. "Have you felt anything yet?" Raven inquired. "Any little kicks?"

Autumn said, "Rave, we are only a few months into this pregnancy, and my belly isn't even showing yet."

Raven giggled, realizing the question was a bit premature. "Right, right, of course," she said, her eyes still twinkling with excitement. "Forget I asked that! Just got a bit carried away, I guess. So, when are you telling the others?"

James responded, "We're waiting a bit more and then telling Sirius, Remus, Peter, and the Prewett brothers are later this week, because James and I are going to the Weasley's for dinner. And as for my parents... well, we're still discussing that."

Raven pressed her lips together and asked, "Wait, did Lily already know?"

Autumn and James exchanged a glance and nodded, and Autumn confirmed, "Yes, she was the one who confirmed my pregnancy."

Raven leaned back, her expression contemplative. "Ah, so Lily knew before me," she mused, a hint of feigned indignation in her tone. "I'm hurt, truly. I thought I was your closest friend, the one you'd tell first."

Autumn chuckled and rolled her eyes playfully. "Oh, Raven, don't be dramatic," she teased. "It's not about who we tell first. It just happened that Lily was the one who confirmed everything. Besides, you're practically family anyway."

Raven feigned indignation a moment longer before relenting and grinning. "Oh fine, I suppose I can forgive you two... this time," she said with a dramatic sigh. "But I get babysitting privileges, right?"

James laughed and nodded. "Of course, you'll be first in line for babysitting duties," he promised. "But only if you promise not to teach my child any crazy pranks or hexes before they can even say their first word."

"Huh? Are you talking to me, James?" Raven raised an eyebrow. "I know you're going to be a father, but..." She then turned to Autumn. "Who is this man? And what happened to your husband?"

Autumn giggled, shaking her head at Raven's playful comment. "James has a point, Rave. Any mischief you teach our child must wait until they're old enough to appreciate it."

James rolled his eyes, chuckling. "Yeah, I don't need our kid starting their magical journey by charming my hair to change colour every hour."

"The one you should worry about teaching your child bad habits is Sirius, not me," Raven explained. "Autumn might have mentioned that I wanted to be the fun aunt, but I meant spoiling them rotten, not teaching them spells or hexes." Raven crossed her arms in a somewhat defensive gesture.

James laughed, a knowing smile on his face. "Ah, Sirius... of course, he'll want to be the fun uncle, or well godfather. He'll be the one sneaking our kid chocolate frogs and teaching them inappropriate songs."

Sirius, the next person Autumn and James had decided to inform, had been told when he was asleep in his room. The couple, in a lighthearted manner, decided to wake him from his rest to share the news.

The following day, James and Autumn made their way to Sirius's room, each holding in their excitement. Slowly and quietly, they pushed the door open, revealing Sirius, fast asleep, his dark hair splayed across his pillow.

James glanced at Autumn, a mischievous glimmer in his eyes. "Ready for this, love?" he whispered, trying to hide his grin.

Autumn nodded, struggling to suppress a giggle. "Oh, I'm ready," she replied, unable to hide the mirth in her voice.

Together, they approached the bed, each silently taking a position on either side of Sirius. They stood still a moment, watching his peaceful slumber and sharing a smirk.

With a nod, James started, a low whisper breaking the silence. "Oi, Sirius."

There was no response.

James tried again, this time a bit louder. "Oi, Sirius," he repeated, jabbing his best friend's side.

Sirius stirred slightly but didn't wake.

James rolled his eyes and tried a different tactic. "Hey, Padfoot," he whispered, using Sirius's old nickname.

This time, Sirius's eyelids fluttered, and he mumbled something unintelligible into his pillow. He was close to waking, but not quite there yet.

James glanced at Autumn, silently debating what to do next. Then, with a smirk, he began poking at Sirius's sides, trying to find his ticklish spots.

"Sirius, you lazy mutt, wake up," James teased, his pokes becoming more pronounced.

Sirius muttered something sleepily, swatting at James's hand with a weak motion.

Autumn, trying to contain her laughter, joined in, tickling the soles of Sirius's feet.

Slowly but surely, Sirius's eyes began to flutter open, his face a mixture of confusion and irritation. He attempted to swat away the hands tormenting him, grumbling, "What the hell, you pillocks? Let a bloke sleep, will you?"

James and Autumn exchanged an amused look, their grins widening. "Rise and shine, Sleeping Beauty," James teased, still poking at Sirius's sides.

Autumn added, "We have something important to share with you, and it can't wait until you've had your beauty sleep."

"Ugh, fine," Sirius grumbled, reluctantly sitting up in bed and rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He gave them both a half-hearted glare, "This better be good," he muttered. "I was having a lovely dream about a certain beautiful Veela, you know."

James rolled his eyes and chuckled as Autumn shook her head in mock disgust. "Sorry to ruin your Veela dreams, mate, but trust me, this is even better," James promised.

Sirius's expression shifted from grumpy to curious as he took note of Autumn's sparkling eyes and James's smirk. He swung his feet over the edge of the bed and looked at them expectantly.

"Alright, you two have my attention," he said, rubbing his tousled hair. "What's so important that you had to wake me up before noon?"

James and Autumn glanced at each other, sharing a small smile. They moved closer to Sirius, their expressions serious but also bubbling with suppressed excitement.

James took a step forward and placed a hand on Sirius's shoulder. "Well, Sirius, there's something we need to tell you," he said, his voice dropping a decibel.

"Yeah," Autumn joined in, biting her lower lip to keep from grinning too widely. "Something life-changing."

Sirius's curiosity was piqued now. He leaned in slightly, his eyes darting between them, trying to guess what the big news was.

"Alright, alright," he prompted, the sleepiness vanishing from his voice. "Stop with the suspense, you're killing me here. Just spit it out, what is it?"

James and Autumn exchanged another glance, their grins growing wider and wider. They were obviously loving every moment of this.

James chuckled, shaking his head. "It's something that's going to completely change the game, mate. You're never gonna guess."

Sirius's annoyance changed to mild frustration. He huffed impatiently. "Merlin's beard, James, just tell me. You're driving me mad here. And why do I feel like you're enjoying this a bit too much?"

Autumn giggled, finally unable to contain her amusement. She could barely keep a straight face at this point.

James, his grin growing wider, patted Sirius on the back. "Okay, okay, fine. We'll stop messing with you. But you might want to sit even more comfortably for this, mate. I feel it'll shock you a bit."

Sirius looked at them in bewilderment, his impatience reaching its peak. "Bloody hell, James, stop stalling! Spit it out already, will you?"

Autumn chuckled at Sirius's mounting frustration. "Give the man a break, James," she teased. "He already looks like he wants to hex us."

James held up his hands, feigning innocence. "Hey, I'm just making sure the moment is perfect, all right?" he said, shooting a mischievous look at his best friend.

Autumn couldn't help but laugh. "Come on, James, the suspense is killing him. He looks like he's about to explode any second now."

"I am," Sirius chimed in, groaning. "Just spill the beans already, or I swear I'll-"

"All right, all right," James interrupted, raising his hands in surrender. "We'll stop tormenting you, I promise."

He took a deep breath, and when he spoke again, his voice held a hint of genuine seriousness mixed with excitement. "Sirius, listen..."

Sirius, who had been about to say something, paused abruptly, his annoyance giving way to curiosity. He looked at James, his eyes narrowing, his focus now completely on his best friend.

"I'm listening," he said, his voice calm yet expectant.

James glanced at Autumn briefly, as if seeking her approval. She gave him a barely perceptible nod, her smile full of anticipation.

James turned back to Sirius, a mixture of excitement and pride in his voice. "Mate... Autumn's pregnant."

Sirius's expression froze in shock.

He opened his mouth, but no words came out. He blinked a few times, his brain slowly processing the news. Silence hung in the air for a few tense moments.

Then, as realization dawned on him, a broad grin spread across his face. He jumped to his feet, his previously grumpy demeanour replaced with joyous excitement. "You're kidding," he blurted out.

James let out a sigh of relief, his own grin widening. He gave Sirius a playful punch on the shoulder. "Nope, dead serious," he said, chuckling at Sirius's dumbfounded expression.

Autumn couldn't hold back her laughter any longer. She gave Sirius a fond smile. "Surprise."

Sirius stood there, his mouth agape, a mixture of disbelief and happiness on his face. He looked between James and Autumn, his eyes wide. "Bloody hell, you're not pulling my leg, are you?" he asked, his voice filled with amazement.

Autumn shook her head, her smile growing wider. "No, it's true. We're going to have a baby," she confirmed, her voice filled with excitement and wonder.

James stepped forward, putting an arm around Sirius's shoulder. "Yeah, mate, you're going to be our child's godfather," he said, his own excitement palpable.

A look of surprise and then genuine joy washed over Sirius's face. He looked at James and Autumn, his eyes glimmering with happiness. "Seriously? You want me to be the godparent?" he asked a hint of disbelief in his voice.

James nodded a smile on his lips. "Of course, mate. There's no one better suited for the job than you," he said, giving Sirius a small shake.

Sirius finally found his voice, a huge grin spreading across his face. "I..." he started, his voice faltering for a moment, overcome with emotion. "I don't know what to say... except hell yes, of course, I accept!"

He pulled James and Autumn into a sudden, tight bear hug, his laughter booming throughout the room.

Autumn and James returned Sirius's hug, their laughter joining his. The room was filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and excitement.

James let out a hearty laugh once they pulled apart. "Well, you're taking it a lot better than we expected," he teased, glancing at Autumn.

Sirius chuckled, running a hand through his messy hair. "What, you thought I'd be upset?" he asked a hint of mock offence in his voice.

He grinned, his eyes sparkling. "This is amazing news! I'll be the best damn godfather I can be, don't you two worry about that."

Autumn smiled warmly, her eyes glowing. "We know you will, Sirius," she said, her voice soft and filled with affection.

James slung an arm around Sirius's shoulder. "Oh, and just so you know, you're unofficially on babysitting duty, too," he mentioned with a smirk.

Sirius let out a mock groan, feigning resignation. "Oh, come on, James," he protested, but the grin on his face betrayed his contentment. "Am I going to be on beck and call for the entirety of your child's life?"

James patted Sirius on the back, his smirk widening. "Pretty much, mate," he replied, his tone lighthearted. "Just be prepared for some late-night diaper changes and endless crying."

Sirius faked a grimace, but his eyes were full of mock horror. "Late-night diaper changes? Crying? Merlin, you make parenthood sound less exciting by the second."

He glanced at Autumn, a sly grin forming on his face. "You really have no idea what you're in for, do you?" he teased, laughing.

Autumn feigned a dramatic eye roll, her lips curving into a smile. "Oh, I'm sure it will be a piece of cake," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

James laughed at their exchange before adding, "Oh, and prepare to have your sleep schedule utterly destroyed. Babies don't much care for your need to rest, Sirius."

Sirius pretended to shudder. "No more sleep, no more peace and quiet," he lamented with a theatrical sigh. "I already regret agreeing to be a godfather."

Autumn chimed in, her voice filled with mock concern, "Oh dear, we might have to revoke your godfatherhood privileges if you're already giving up so early."

Sirius raised his hands in mock surrender, chuckling. "Alright, alright, I'll take it back," he conceded, grinning. "I'll be as dedicated a godfather as I can be. I'll even teach your child some harmless pranks and how to break the rules."

Autumn and James were left with the task of informing Peter and Remus next. However, instead of disclosing the news separately, they chose to share it over dinner during a rare opportunity when the group had a chance to have a meal together, despite their individual commitments to the Order.

The dining table was filled with laughter, chatter, and the aroma of a hearty meal. Each member of the group enjoyed their moments of respite from the stressful work they were involved in.

James, glancing around the table, decided it was the perfect opportunity to share the news. He cleared his throat, getting everyone's attention.

The chatter at the table died down as all eyes turned to James. Sirius, noticing the change in James's demeanour, perked up, his curiosity piqued.

"Everyone, listen up," James began, a smile on his face. "Autumn and I have something important to share with you all."

Autumn chuckled and added, "Well, we do still need to tell Remus and Peter since the rest of you are already in the loop."

Peter, who had been busy scarfing down his dinner, looked up at the mention of his name, his eyebrows raised in curiosity. Remus, on the other hand, looked between James and Autumn, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

James chuckled at Autumn's comment. He put down his cutlery and looked around the table, meeting everyone's eyes.

"Yes, we still haven't mentioned it to you two," James said, glancing at Remus and Peter. "But we thought it would be nice to tell you both at the same time tonight."

Remus leaned back in his chair, a curious smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "I'm all ears," he said, his voice filled with intrigue.

Peter gulped down a mouthful of food before adding, "Me too. What's this big news all about?"

James and Autumn exchanged a glance, their excitement barely contained. James took a deep breath, a grin spreading across his face.

"Well, Remus... Peter..." he began, his voice tinged with excitement. "Autumn and I are expecting a baby."

There was a beat of silence as both Remus and Peter took in the news. Remus's eyes widened, a look of surprise and happiness crossing his face.

Peter, who had just taken a sip of water, choked and sputtered, the liquid spraying out of his mouth onto his plate.

"Seriously?" Peter coughed, patting his chest. "You're not pulling my leg, are you?"

Remus, meanwhile, had composed himself and looked at James and Autumn, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "That's wonderful news, both of you. Congratulations!" he said, genuine happiness in his voice.

James chuckled at Peter's reaction and gave him a firm pat on the back. "No, mate, quite literal," he said, his eyes sparkling.

Autumn beamed at both men. "Thank you," she said. "We're both so excited, but we want you all to be a part of this journey too."

Peter finally regained his composure, his eyes still wide, but now filled with excitement instead of shock. "Wow," he breathed, shaking his head in disbelief. "I can't believe it."

Remus smiled, his eyes softening. "You're going to make wonderful parents," he said quietly, his voice full of conviction.

Sirius, who had been observing the exchange silently, chimed in, a wide grin on his face. "And I'm going to be the kid's godfather," he proudly announced, puffing out his chest.

The room was filled with laughter and good-natured teasing.

Autumn then smiled, hearing Sirius' words, and quickly turned to an unsuspecting Lily, declaring, "And Lily, we want you to be our child's godmother." This took Lily by surprise

Lily, who was midway through lifting a forkful of food to her mouth, froze in surprise. Her eyes widened in disbelief, almost dropped her fork.

"Me?" she asked, her voice filled with astonishment.

Autumn nodded, her eyes sparkling. She spoke with sincerity, "Yes, Lily. We'd be honoured if you would take on that role."

Remus and Peter shared a smile, understanding the importance of Autumn's request.

James looked at Lily, waiting for her response, his eyes hopeful.

Lily was a little overwhelmed with the suddenness of the request and took a moment to collect her thoughts, "I... I don't even know what to say," she mumbled, her hand still shaking slightly.

Then, like a switch being flipped, a glowing smile spread across her face. "Of course, I'll be the godmother. I'd be thrilled."

The table erupted in joyous applause. Sirius let out an overly dramatic cheer, while Peter couldn't help but give a small cheer of his own. Even Remus chuckled, his eyes reflecting his happiness.

James, who looked like all his Christmases had come at once, looked at Autumn and grasped her hand under the table, giving it a loving squeeze.

Raven then chimed in with a grin, saying, "And I'll be the best Auntie," emphasizing her enthusiasm for the role.

Everyone at the table chuckled, amused by Raven's eagerness to claim the title of 'best aunt.'

Peter, in particular, couldn't help but grin at her enthusiasm. "Alright, that's a big claim to make," he joked, nudging her playfully.

Raven shot Peter a mock-offended look, pretending to be insulted. "I think we all know I would be the best aunt," she said with a hint of feigned arrogance before adding, "I'm great at spoiling."

Remus chuckled, shaking his head. "Spoken like a true aunt-in-waiting."

Lily, too, smiled at Raven's enthusiasm. "I have no doubt you'll be the most enthusiastic auntie," she said, her voice warm and sincere.

Sirius, always eager to join in the banter, raised an eyebrow at Raven. "Yeah, Raven, but can you top me as a godfather?" he asked, a challenging grin on his face.

Raven put a finger to her chin, pretending to think for a moment. "Hmm, I suppose there is some fierce competition there," she said, a sly smile playing on her lips. "But watch out, Sirius, I might just out-godfather you."

Sirius feigned offence, dramatically clutching his chest. "Out-godfather me? Bold words, Raven, bold words."

The room was filled with laughter and friendly banter, everyone enjoying the lighthearted mood.