Chapter 60

Han walked down the dreary halls of the hospital with an exuberance that did not seem to fit his surroundings. His step had gained a bounce that only an extraordinary event could be responsible for. He headed for the waiting room, overwhelmed with excitement and nervousness, and prepared to tell everyone the fantastic news.

He walked into an eerily quiet room. He saw the eager face of his brother-in-law, evidently knowledgeable of his reason for coming, and all of his friends who were so anxious to hear what he had to say. He tried to hold on to his secret information, savor the moment and increase the anticipation, but his will to tell the world about his son overcame any desire he had for teasing.

"We have a boy," he wheezed, immediately engulfed with hugs and exclamations of congratulations.

Luke was the first one to reach him, and once he did he almost knocked Han over with the degree of exuberance he displayed. His sister and best friend had brought a new life into the world, and he could not have been happier. Chewie was next, along with his family, and they were in danger of crushing the new father with their excited hugs before Ty came to Han's rescue and took their place. Once everyone had hugged and congratulated him the questions began.

"What did you name him?" Luke asked.

"We haven't picked out a name yet. Maybe you guys can help us with that."

"I thought you two had already had names picked out," Luke observed.

"Yeah, but none of them seem right. You have to see him, he's so unique, so little …" Han said, emotional in a way that would have been unheard of in his days as a smuggler.

I would like to see your new cub, little one, Chewie barked.

"Yeah," Han replied in a daze. As soon as Chewie's statement was comprehended, however, the vibrancy returned in full force, and he enthusiastically led the large group to the delivery room. Normally only a few guests were allowed in the room, but the medics wisely decided to give Leia the "princess treatment" and let the whole group inside.

Han immediately went to Leia's side and brought all his attention back to his newborn son, none of the wonder gone from his gaze. He doubted that he would ever get used to the sight of his son. Everyone else in the room drew their gazes to the bundle that Leia was holding, eager for their turn to hold him.

Leia handed the baby to Han, who hesitantly gave him over to Luke. The new uncle was entranced by the sight of his nephew, and could not believe how detailed his features were, nor how such a small creature managed to look exactly like both of his parents. His entire concept of what a baby was rapidly changed. He understood the wonder and excitement that had filled the new parents, and how they had trouble giving him up to the arms of others. He had a difficult time handing the boy to Chewie, even though he knew that his time holding the baby was over.

Chewie cradled the boy with surprising gentleness, and voiced his thoughts with a quiet awe.

Your cub is so beautiful. I cannot believe that my cub has a cub of his own. I know now that you have finally grown up, little one. I never thought the day would come. he chuckled, patting Han on the back.

"Thanks, buddy. I think," Han returned.

Malla, Lumpy, Ty, Lando, and the rest of the group took their turns holding the newborn. They all voiced their declarations of how beautiful he was without having to enhance their claims. He really was a beautiful baby. They then returned the baby back to his parents.

The room became comfortably quiet. Nobody spoke as they thought about the situation. Several people were startled when Leia suddenly broke the silence.

"Alden," she blurted. "His name is Alden."

"Alden?" Han asked. "I like it. But how did you come up with that name?"

"On Alderaan it was a name given to boys who were especially blessed by the gods. It means 'defender of peace and democracy.' It's the most honorable name an Alderaanian can have."

"It's perfect," Han gasped, looking at his son with a new perspective. Thinking about what she said, he grinned. "Or maybe you shouldn't give him the most honorable Alderaanian name. I think the Solo in his name might counteract that."

Leia laughed. "True, or maybe it will do just the opposite."

"What? I've never heard of an honorable Corellian."

"I have to say that his father is pretty honorable."

"Sure," Han said with a wave of his hand, trying to ignore the compliment. "Anyway, I like the name. Alden Solo. It has a nice ring to it."

"I'm glad you like it," Leia said, kissing him.

"I like it too," Luke agreed.

Chewie and the rest roared, nodded or spoke their affirmation.

"Well it's settled," Han stated, taking the baby into his arms. "Alden Solo, welcome to the galaxy."