Rodolphus jolted awake, a sharp cry escaping his lips as an excruciating wave of pain seized him. He clutched his belly, his breath coming in ragged gasps.
"Sirius!" he choked out, his voice strained with desperation.
Sirius sprang from the bed, eyes wide with alarm. "Rodolphus, what's happening?"
Rodolphus writhed, his grip on the sheets tightening. "I think... the baby's coming."
Sirius's face went pale but resolute. "Stay calm. I'm going to get the others." He bolted from the room, his voice echoing through the house as he called for Regulus and Lucius.
Within moments, Regulus and Lucius burst into the room. Lucius immediately grasped Rodolphus's hand, his face a mask of concern.
"How far apart are the contractions?" Lucius asked, his voice steadier than he felt.
Rodolphus winced, his breath ragged. "They're close... I don't know how much longer I can hold on."
Lucius nodded sharply, trying to keep his own fear in check. "We need to get you as comfortable as possible." He helped Rodolphus shift into a more supportive position on the bed.
Regulus returned with towels and water, his hands visibly shaking. "What can I do?" he asked, his voice trembling with anxiety.
"Just be here," Rodolphus gasped, his face contorted with pain. "I need you all here."
Sirius reappeared, accompanied by Orion and Abraxas, their faces etched with worry.
"Rodolphus, you're doing great," Orion said, his voice steady but filled with concern. "We need to monitor you closely now."
Abraxas quickly began preparing the necessary equipment, his movements brisk. "Stay calm, Rodolphus. We're here to help."
The contractions grew more intense, each wave wracking Rodolphus's body with forceful tremors. Lucius wiped sweat from Rodolphus's brow, whispering encouragements. "You're doing amazing. Just a little longer."
Rodolphus cried out, his grip on Lucius's hand tightening painfully. "I can't... I can't do this..."
"You can," Sirius insisted, his voice firm yet soothing. "We're right here with you."
Tom entered the room, his usual calm demeanor replaced with genuine worry. "Rodolphus, how are you holding up?"
Rodolphus managed a strained smile. "Just in time for the show, Tom."
As the night dragged on, Rodolphus's cries of pain filled the room. Lucius, Sirius, Regulus, Orion, Abraxas, and Tom stayed by his side, offering unwavering support.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Rodolphus felt an unbearable pressure and an overwhelming urge to push. He bore down with every ounce of strength he had, tears streaming down his face.
"That's it," Lucius urged, his voice thick with emotion. "You're almost there."
With a final, gut-wrenching push, Rodolphus felt an intense relief as the baby was delivered. He slumped back against the pillows, utterly spent, his body trembling.
Orion quickly attended to the newborn, clearing his airways and ensuring he was breathing. "It's a boy," Orion said, tears glistening in his eyes. "Rodolphus, you did it."
Lucius leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to Rodolphus's forehead, his own eyes shimmering with pride. "I'm so proud of you," he whispered.
Rodolphus looked up at his family, a weary but contented smile gracing his lips. "Thank you," he said softly. "I couldn't have done it without you."
As the baby's first cries filled the room, a wave of joy and relief washed over everyone. Rodolphus held the tiny bundle close, his heart swelling with an overwhelming surge of love.
"Welcome to the world," he whispered, tears of happiness mingling with his sweat. "You're so loved."
Tom placed a reassuring hand on Rodolphus's shoulder. "You've done something truly incredible, Rodolphus. We're all here for you."
The room was alive with sighs of relief and murmurs of congratulations. Rodolphus's family surrounded him, their love and support a palpable, comforting presence in the room.
