A messenger ran through the narrow streets of Mecca. His voice rang out: 'A baby boy!' The sound bounced off the warm stone walls.
He ran toward Abdul Muttalib's home. 'A baby boy is born!' he called again, breathing hard as he reached the courtyard door.
Grandmother Aminah dropped her woven basket. 'My grandson!' she whispered. She hurried down the cool corridor, her feet quick on the stone floor.
She found the tiny bundle and lifted him into her arms. The baby's fingers curled around her thumb. Aminah's eyes filled with happy tears.
Neighbors gathered at the doorway, sharing dates and soft voices. Abdullah held his son close. The room smelled of warm bread.
Muhammad let out a loud, surprising gurgle. Everyone looked down and laughed.
A stray desert cat slipped through the open door and padded right up to the cradle.
It rubbed its head against the baby's foot. The baby grabbed the cat's ear and let out a wide, toothless grin.
The cat purred like a tiny engine. Muhammad's eyelids grew heavy. The desert night settled over Mecca.
Aminah sat beside the cradle, humming a quiet song. The house was still, full of hope.