Written for THC, Challenge Round 2, Slytherin, Divination, Micro drabble.
Prompt: [Pairing - platonic] James Potter and Ron Weasley.
Betas: Aya, CoppersMama
Word count: 399
Notes: AU (James lived)
James Potter smiled through the kitchen window at his son, Harry, playing with one of his school friends, Ron. They had just finished their first year and had become instant friends. James knew the Weasleys and had worked alongside them during the war, but they weren't close.
James and Lily had gone into hiding straight after Harry was born. After the war ended, James spent a lot of time with the Longbottoms. It was difficult raising Harry by himself after Voldemort ended Lily's life, and he wasn't very sociable.
For years, he only really saw the Longbottoms, Sirius, and Remus.
He felt guilty for not exposing Harry to more children when growing up. Would Harry have been happier…?
"Mr Potter," Ron's voice appeared, instantly interrupting his thoughts.
James smiled immediately at the ginger boy. "Hello, Ron. How's it going?"
Ron looked over at Harry, who was still on his broom. "Is there any food?"
A laugh escaped his lips. "You've just had lunch, my boy."
With a big grin, Ron looked at him unbothered. "I'm still hungry, though."
James shook his head in amusement and opened the top cupboard. "Let's see what we have in here. Biscuits… no, they wouldn't want that. Chocolate bars… nah. Ah! What's that at the back… yes, that'll do!"
He turned around and held out Berty Botts, which he had been saving for a special occasion. What better occasion than Harry having a friend over?
"You're awesome!" Ron exclaimed, instantly popping one into his mouth. "Eww! Grass flavour!"
James grabbed one and popped it into his mouth. His eyes began to water. "Oh, Merlin! That's spicy!"
Ron picked up another one but then paused. "Mr Potter?"
"Yes, Ron?"
"Thank you for letting me come over. It's nice to hang out with just Harry without interruptions."
"Of course. It's great to see Harry playing with others." James smiled.
"Yeah! Dad's always saying how incredible you are. You're one of the best Aurors!"
James chuckled. "Thanks! Now, go. Have some fun."
As he watched Ron run back out to Harry, he was thankful that he was here to witness this. Perhaps it wasn't too late for him to make new friends and get out more. He did like Arthur, and now their children were friends, it was the perfect time to reach out.
Who knew that a twelve-year-old would make him want to get out more?