CHAPTER 78: PREGNANCY LESSONS
The next morning, a peaceful quiet settled over the Alfreds' room after a breakfast shared with comfortable ease. They were nestled together, murmuring about inconsequential things.
The little talk and quiet was shattered by Harry's abrupt entrance. "Since when did you start skipping the knock, Harry?" James asked, a playful jab disguised as a question.
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Sorry, mate, but this is a hospital, not Buckingham Palace or Holland Gardens." He countered, a smirk tugging at his lips.
Diana chuckled at their familiar banter, the sound like a melody in the sterile room. She pinched James' arm playfully as she sat up. "Well, brother-in-law," she greeted Harry, "how are you spoiling us rotten today?"
Harry returned her smile, a hint of concern in his eyes. "Good morning, Diana. Feeling any better?"
"I'm very fine, Harry," Diana responded sweetly.
"Really?" Harry pressed, his gaze lingering on James for a beat too long. "Hope this ruffian hasn't been giving you any trouble." He said, pointing at James.
James scoffed playfully, while Diana laughed. "Actually, I feel great, Harry. Last night cleared up a lot."
James shot her a mock glare. "You didn't have to tell him everything, Di."
"He's my doctor, James," Diana countered gently. "He needs to know the whole picture."
"Well, maybe it's time for a new picture," James muttered, though a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes. Harry chuckled.
"Thank you, Diana," Harry said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "At least we agree on something."
James rolled his eyes. "Maybe we should just find a new doctor then," he grumbled, though the lack of heat in his voice betrayed his teasing tone while still giving Harry a murderous gaze.
Diana squeezed his hand, a silent message of affection. Turning to Harry she smiled sweetly. "There's no better doctor than my brother-in-law, as a matter of fact." she said, a playful smile on her face.
"How you love him," James commented resentfully and scoffed.
Harry laughed at his jealousy. He was really enjoying seeing him like this. Alright, alright, lovebirds. Well, Your scans look good, Diana. Just a few more days of rest and you'll be back on your feet. And James," he added, turning to him with a knowing look, "Avoid stressing her too much. Let her not worry unnecessarily especially not with the little one on the way. A happy wife makes a happy pregnancy, and all that."
Diana smiled, appreciating Harry's veiled warning for her benefit. He wasn't as subtle as he thought. He continued, his voice turning more serious.
"This period of her pregnancy will be a trying time and a big challenge for both of you. Especially seeing as you are just becoming new parents."
'Parent!' Both James and Diana echoed the same thing in their minds respectively, still finding it a bit unreal.
Harry pulled up a chair closer to them and sat down. "This first trimester can be tricky for both of you, James. Pregnancy hormones can be a wild ride. You see, women when they are pregnant develop a lot of mood swings, heightened emotions… all perfectly normal. But remember, communication is key. Talk things through, be patient with each other, and this will be a breeze".
"Always remember that everything they do is on an extra level, especially when the baby is nearing term. Tears flow like a waterfall, anger can flare up in an instant, and irritation becomes a constant companion; and their hormonal levels are also high. That means the urge for intimacy with their husband is also heightened, let's call it a flip side to all their other bad characters". Harry said the last bit grinning widely. James smirked while Diana blushed alongside them.
"It doesn't also mean you should always indulge her especially in this first stage. Moderation should always be the key"