"Dad! Dad can I have a rat? No! an owl I can write home more with an owl of my own…oh wow Dad the lightening bolt is out! Can we get one? Wow it looks amazing. Can I ride your fire bolt when we get home Dad?"

Following the small, highly excited boy along Diagon Alley Harry stayed silent smiling softly. Ron had accompanied them on a shopping trip once. He'd brought his young son Hugo who compared to James was practically mute. Ron often commented on how Harry could cope so easily with James' near constant talking and the speed at which he moved. Harry had laughed it off with various excuses never telling the true reason. During James' chattering all Harry heard was Dad. It was such a simple word, said millions of times a day by children all over the world but even now hearing it made Harry's heart swell with love and pride.

"Can we get ice cream Dad? Mum always lets me " Pausing outside Florean Fortiscue's James peered in through the window sighing in happiness seeing the piles of ice cream scoops and toppings.

Standing beside him Harry did wonder how wise it would be to add sugar to his already hyper son. Looking down he smiled seeing James now looking up at him finally expecting him to actually answer the questions.

"An owl is a better choice, you're not allowed a broom yet, We're going to Grandma Molly's next but Uncle George will take you flying and yes you can have one scoop of ice cream." Reaching out he ruffled his son's auburn hair laughing as he cheered and flung his arms around Harry's waist.

"I love you Dad!"