Will watched Ari and her friend climb up the playground equipment. Jake, true to his word, arranged for a playdate with his niece, Gwen. The two girls giggled and screamed as they chased each other.
Will relaxed on the park bench. This was one of the first times he was truly alone for longer than a few minutes. So far, Will felt fine. No bout of anxiety, no crippling fear of some unknown monster.
It was a nice day, chilly in the shade but the sun felt good. The girls bundled up in warm coats and had a healthy glow to their cheeks.
Will's phone buzzed in his hand. It was Paul checking up on him.
-About to go to my meeting. You still alright?
-Yep. Just watching the girls play. Ari's having fun
-OK. Still on for lunch?
-Of course. Love you
-Love you too, baby
Will smiled to himself. He knew how lucky he was landing a guy like Paul.
For the first time in a long time, Will thought about the past. About how he met Paul and all the lying and scheming he did after.
Part of the year was the worst of Will's life. He had never felt more alone. Divorcing, practically driving himself mad, almost losing his life. But Will also pulled himself up, got some much needed help.
Will learned he could make it on his own. That he could take care of himself and his daughter without anyone's help. But, Will also learned he didn't have to be alone.
Will let Paul into his life and into his heart. After everything the two went through, they found a way to forgive. Instead of forgetting, the two accepted their faults and moved on together. Became friends and lovers and something more.
Now, Will couldn't imagine his life without Paul. Will didn't know what the future would bring. He believed though that he and Paul could last. If they continued the way they had, honest, they had a real chance.
'It'll take work but I know we can do it,' Will thought.
His phone interrupted his musings.
Will glanced at the screen to see he had a call.
"Hello?" Will questioned.
"Will, it's Justin," Justin Kiriakis responded. "If it's OK, I'd like to meet with you today."
"Um, sure," Will replied. "I'm with Ari on a playdate at the park. Do you think you could come here?"
"Yes," Justin agreed. "I'll be there shortly."
Will hung up and bit his lip. He had a feeling he knew what this meeting was about.
A short while later, Justin strolled into the clearing. He spotted Will on a park bench and joined him.
Justin watched Ari play for a bit with a smile on his face.
"Who is she playing with?" Justin asked curiously.
"That's Gwen," Will explained. "Her uncle works for Mad World actually."
"Really?" Justin replied. "Who?"
"Jake Porter," Will smiled. "He's been handling the Narita cologne with my grandma."
"Right," Justin nodded. "I saw your ad," Justin stated in a low voice. "Very, um, bold."
"Something like that, yeah," Will ducked his head, smiling.
"I'm sure you know what I'm here for," Justin told Will. He set his briefcase on his lap.
"Something to do with Ben?" Will asked.
"Right," Justin nodded. "It took a lot of time but I managed to reach a deal with his lawyer."
"OK," Will whispered, anxious. "What is it?"
"I thought about you and everyone else he hurt," Justin explained. "I used every bit of evidence you and the police gave me."
"So?" Will held his breath.
"Multiple first degree murder charges," Justin stated. "Life without parole."
Will slumped in relief.
"In exchange for the deal," Justin continued. "Ben and Clyde will never be in the same prison. Ben is going to a state prison while Clyde will be sentenced to a federal one."
"That's good to know," Will muttered. "What about the people associated with Clyde? His workers or whoever."
"Most of them took plea bargains for turning over evidence against Clyde," Justin escribed. "The few that the police didn't find are being monitored. As soon as they turn up, the police will catch them."
"The ones that leaked the video of the attack?" Will questioned. "What's happening to them?"
"I'm dealing with them as well," Justin revealed. "I told you before I'm taking this seriously. I know my insistence that Chad was behind everything hindered the investigation. I'm not making any mistakes now."
"Good," Will responded. "Thank you, though for this," Will turned to look at Justin. "I feel a lot better knowing I won't have to deal with either of them again."
"Your work, what almost happened to you," Justin said. "It brought both Clyde and Ben to justice. I wasn't about to let your sacrifice go to waste."
"I think you make a pretty good DA after all," Will smiled lightly.
"Thank you," Justin nodded. "Now," Justin stood up. "I need to go meet with the next of kin for the other victims."
"Right," Will stood up as well. "How are they doing? Eve and everyone else?"
"It's rough," Justin admitted. "But I think this will help them come to grips."
Will said his goodbyes and pulled out his phone. He sent Paul and his parents a message about the deal. After, Will turned his attention back on Ari.
While the girls played, Will came to a decision. It was time to write about his experience against Ben Weston.
"Hello, beautiful," Paul stated. He used his new key to open Will's apartment.
Jake followed behind him.
"Hey," Will wrinkled his nose at the greeting. "How was your meeting? Oh, hi, Jake."
"Boring," Paul kissed Will on the cheek. "More numbers and charts and blah blah blah."
"Oh really?" Jake rolled his eyes.
"Yep," Paul nodded.
"Where are the girls?" Jake questioned.
"They both conked out as soon as they got here," Will laughed. "Go check, it's adorable."
Paul and Jake peeked their heads into Ari's room. Sure enough, Ari and her friend were fast asleep, holding hands.
"That's beyond cute," Paul declared.
"Right?" Will finished making their lunch. "They get along so well too."
Will faced Jake, "Thanks again for setting this up."
"Of course," Jake nodded. "I was happy to do it. But if you really want to say thank you, you can do it this Friday."
Jake looked at the clock on the microwave.
"Damn, I gotta get her back home," Jake muttered.
Will assisted as Jake picked up his niece from the bed. Luckily, both girls remained asleep.
Will waved from the door before locking it.
"What did he mean by that?" Will looked at Paul. "That I can thank him on Friday?"
"We're going out with him and some friends," Paul shrugged. "If we can get a sitter. Oh, and if you want to go, of course."
"I thought you didn't like Jake," a slow smile spread over Will's face.
"I don't," Paul argued. When Will continued to stare at him Paul sighed. "OK, fine, he's not so bad."
"And?" Will looked at Paul knowingly.
"And," Paul grumbled. "He's bringing a date."
"Really?" Will smirked.
"Don't even say it," Paul requested. "Although, maybe you'll find a new BFF," Paul joked.
"Oh, shut it," Will huffed. "You're a perfect example of what happens every time I try to make a friend."
Will and Paul ate their lunch in amiable silence. Their shoulders brushed together every now and again causing them to smile at the other.
Will's phone disrupted the quiet. Will glanced cursorily at his notification.
"Oh for god's sake," Will huffed. He picked up his phone, clicking on the latest email received.
"What?" Paul asked. "What is it?"
"Chad actually sent me a contract," Will rolled his eyes. "Who in their right mind would make me a model?"
"Me for starters," Paul commented. "I asked you to be in my ad."
"That's different," Will insisted. "You're my boyfriend."
"Do I have to post another shirtless picture of you online? 'Cause I'll do it," Paul threatened. "Face it, you're hot."
Will's face heated up, cheeks rosy.
"Ha," Paul laughed triumphantly. "I'm right!"
"You do know if I go through with this," Will pointed out. "We'll work for opposing companies, right?"
"Hmm," Paul put his hand around the back of Will's neck. "Rivals again."
Will read over the contract Chad sent him.
"Oh, look," Will held in a smile. "The first thing they want me to do involves me and a group of other males."
Paul ripped Will's phone out of his hand.
"Let me see," Paul ordered with narrow eyes.
"What would you do if I said yes?" Will wondered. "And I had to be all up on some other male model."
Paul's lips jutted out, shoulders tightening.
Will patted his shoulders consolingly.
"I'm not gonna do it," Will decided.
"Don't let me hold you back," Paul pleaded. "If this is something you want…"
"It's not," Will promised. "I only did your ad because you asked me to. I don't have the confidence or the desire to model on my own. That's your department."
"If you're sure," Paul said.
"I'm sure," Will divulged. "Besides, I think I'm going to be busy."
"Oh, yeah?" Paul mused.
Will nodded.
"I'm ready to start writing about what happened with Ben," Will revealed.
"Really?" Paul turned to face Will. "Are you sure?"
"Yeah," Will disclosed. "I thought about it and I want to do it. I even know what I want to do."
"What?" Paul smiled encouragingly.
"I want to make it into a series," Will explained. "Maybe one per week. I want to focus on all the victims, talk about their lives and their dreams. Talk to their families and everything."
"That's a great idea," Paul excitedly replied.
"I just want to focus on the women and less on Ben," Will continued. "Then I'll explain my own experience and how it all unraveled. Maybe talk to everyone involved in the investigation and you."
"Sounds like you've got it all figured out," Paul grinned. "This is going to be fantastic."
"Well, I hope so," Will bashfully smiled. "I mean, I don't know how it's going to work out."
"Baby," Paul gave Will a blank look. "Get real. It's going to be amazing."
"Yeah, it is," Will replied confidently.
"Exactly," Paul pulled Will into a kiss.
Paul had some news of his own he wanted to share. But it could wait.
Ari, Will, and Paul sat on the floor coloring pictures.
"Yours silly," Ari giggled at Paul's drawing.
"That's my bird," Paul defended. "Don't be mean."
"S'not a bird," Ari shook her head.
"Yes, it is," Paul pouted. He turned to Will. "She's being mean."
"Ari," Will rubbed up and down Paul's arm. "You need to be nice."
Will grabbed Paul's paper.
"OK, that is not a bird," Will decided. He tossed the paper back to Paul.
"Fine, what did you draw?" Paul demanded.
"I make puppy," Ari happily displayed her drawing.
It showed a brown oval with little stick legs and a long tail.
"That's a cute puppy," Will cooed.
"Is what want," Ari nodded enthusiastically.
"You want a puppy?" Will questioned.
"Uh huh, so cute," Ari explained. "Need puppy!"
"Oh, sweetie," Will frowned. "Our apartment doesn't have enough room for a puppy."
"Our Paul house have puppy," Ari pressed.
"Uh," Paul's eyes widened and he looked to Will for help.
"I don't think Paul wants a puppy," Will told Ari.
"He does," Ari said, serious. "Name him Puppy!"
Ari turned her big, doe eyes on Paul.
Paul shifted, staring at the ceiling.
"How about I check out some shelters and see if we find the right puppy?" Will suggested.
"Yay," Ari cheered. "Get Puppy!"
"We can start looking," Will reminded her. "That doesn't mean we'll get one right away."
"Puppy," Ari jumped from the floor to run to her room. She rummaged for all the puppy toys she owned.
"You sure about this?" Paul asked Will.
"Most rescue dogs need to be placed in homes with older kids," Will shrugged. "It'll take a while to find the right one."
"Clever," Paul quipped.
A few hours later, Ari attempted to pull open the door to the Brady Pub.
"Ugh," Ari complained. "It's so heavy."
Will easily opened the door.
"Daddy," Ari gasped. "You're so strong."
"That he is," Paul agreed with a smile.
Paul squeezed Will's bicep.
"So big and strong," Paul praised, caressing Will's arm.
"Uh huh, thank you," Will smiled with a shake of his head.
"There Paul daddy," Ari pointed towards a table before jogging off.
"Ari," Will scolded. He easily caught up to her.
Ari ran to the table she saw John and Marlena sitting.
"Hi," Ari greeted. "I see you."
"Ari, don't run off like that," Will scolded. He kneeled in front of her, ensuring her attention. "Daddy doesn't like it when you do that, OK?"
"OK," Ari nodded. "No run way."
"Exactly," Will agreed. He held out his hand for Ari to shake. "Deal?"
"Yes, Daddy," Ari shook Will's hand enthusiastically.
Paul watched Will talk with Ari before looking at his dad.
"Hey," Paul waved. "Did you guys just sit down?"
"We did," John admitted. "You guys want to join us?"
"Sure," Paul said.
Paul spotted an empty table. He pulled it against John's table and found a booster seat for Ari.
"Hi," Will announced. "Sorry, parenting moment."
"I love seeing you with Arianna," Marlena assured Will. "It's sweet."
"Well," Will lifted Ari into her seat. "I want my child to grow up into a normal person."
"You're normal," Paul interjected.
"If you say so," Will sing-songed in reply.
"Daddy, I so hungry," Ari sighed dramatically. "I need foods."
"Oh, yeah?" Will asked. "What kind of food do you need?"
"I need a," Ari looked around the room. "Cupcake!"
"Maybe later," Will responded. "How about some chicken strips?"
"Mmm," Ari tapped her chin.
"It's like a chicken nugget," Paul pointed out.
"Okie," Ari agreed. "I eat chknen strips."
"Chicken," Paul stated.
"Chiknen," Ari repeated.
"Chick," Will said. "En."
"Chick," Ari copied. "En."
"Chicken," Will said quickly.
"Chicken," Ari grinned when everyone cheered for her.
"I say it," Ari slapped her hands on the table.
As everyone dug into their dinner, Paul revealed some exciting news.
"So," Paul tapped his foot against Will's under the table. "I got a call before my meeting today."
"What kind of call?" John questioned.
Will caught Paul's gaze.
"Actually," Paul described. "It was from some MLB executives."
Will's eyebrows rose.
"What'd they say?" Will queried, animated.
"We chatted for a while," Paul pushed his food around his plate. He wanted to draw the moment out.
With a sly smile, Paul explained. "They invited me to be a guest on MLB Tonight. Maybe commentate on some nationally televised games."
"That's awesome," Will gasped. "Oh my god!"
"It's not that awesome," Paul attempted. He gave up quickly. "No, you're right. It is!"
"Congratulations," Marlena smiled. "That's going to be a great opportunity for you."
"This is huge," Paul nodded. "I mean, not just for me, but to want an openly gay analyst?"
"Why didn't you tell me this earlier?" Will laughed happily. "You jerk!"
"I wanted a big moment," Paul defended.
"Paul play games?" Ari wondered.
"I get to talk about baseball games," Paul answered. "On TV!"
Ari's mouth rounded, "Wow."
John reached out and clapped Paul on the back proudly.
Will watched on with a small smile on his face. He observed as Paul basked in his father's loving attention and pride.
"We have to tell everyone," Will squeezed Paul's hand.
They finished dinner and were walking around town. Ari skipped a few steps ahead of them.
"Like who?" Paul mused.
"My mom, your mom," Will listed. "The kids, your brother and sister."
"Oh, right," Paul pressed his lips together holding in a smile. "Sometimes I forget I have those now."
"You've inherited a big, complicated family," Will teased.
"Either way I'd be stuck with them," Paul bumped his shoulder with Will's. "Since I've got you."
"True," Will acknowledged.
Will checked his watch, noting the time.
"Hey, kiddo," Will gained Ari's attention. "Do you want to go into TBD real fast?"
"Why?" Ari asked.
"Well," Will explained. "Sonny is leaving tonight and he wanted to say goodbye. Is it OK if we go in?"
"I guess," Ari decided.
Paul opened the door to TBD and Ari ran inside to the same booth she would always sit in.
Will sighed when he sat down. "What did I say about running off?"
"I forget," Ari smiled at him.
"You need to remember," Will warned. "Next time you're going to get in trouble."
"I sorry," Ari flashed Will sad puppy eyes. "Daddy mad?"
"No, I'm not mad," Will insisted. "But you need to be careful and listen to me."
"I listen," Ari bent her knees to sit on them. "I be good and listen."
"You're always good," Paul assured her. "But we have to listen to Daddy."
"You too," Ari nodded several times. "Gotta listen."
"I always listen," Paul insisted.
As they were talking, Sonny headed over to their table.
Sonny nervously shifted from foot to foot.
"Hey," Sonny greeted. "Um, can I get you guys something?"
"I was thinking," Will said. "That Paul and I can sit at the bar and you can talk with Ari."
"Oh," Sonny nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "That, um, yeah, that's great."
Will pushed Paul out of their booth. He leaned close to Ari.
"Daddy and Paul are going to go sit over there," Will pointed to the bar. "If you need me, you come get me."
"Okie," Ari agreed.
Paul led Will to the bar. They found seats with a clear view of Ari and Sonny.
Sonny sat across from Ari. He folded his hands on the table.
Ari copied Sonny, leaning on the table.
"Um," Sonny didn't know why he was so nervous. He's known Arianna since she was in the womb. He was the first person to hold Ari. The first person Ari ever saw.
'I don't need to be nervous,' Sonny thought.
"I'm going to leave tonight," Sonny explained. "In a few hours, back to Paris."
"What's Paris?" Ari wondered.
"Oh," Sonny blinked. He didn't realize he had never explained Paris to her before. "Well, it's a big city far away."
"You go away and not come back 'gain?" Ari frowned.
"No, no I'll come back," Sonny promised. "I don't know when but I will."
"No, you not talk to me in Paris," Ari argued. "You not talk and not call. You go away and be mean."
"That's not going to happen this time," Sonny guaranteed. "I'll do a better job. I won't be mean. I'll call you and we can skype. You can email me pictures. I can send you packages. It won't be like last time."
"Be mean Daddy?" Ari questioned with narrowed eyes.
"No," Sonny licked his lips. "I-I won't be mean to Daddy. I love Daddy."
"I love Daddy," Ari beamed. "Paul love Daddy too! Everyone love Daddy!"
"Yeah," Sonny looked down at the table. "Everyone should love Daddy."
Will looked over at Ari repeatedly. He had to make sure she was alright.
"Hey," Paul put his hand on top of Will's. "She'll be alright. Sonny isn't going to hurt her."
"I know," Will nodded. "I trust him it's just…different. They haven't been alone together in months."
"Things are different," Paul agreed. "But you want them to be better with Sonny, don't you?"
"Yeah," Will responded. "I do. I'm just worried the same thing is going to happen. He'll leave and she'll feel disappointed."
"Talk to him and make sure he understands," Paul suggested. "I'm not exactly thrilled with him at the moment. But Ari's more important than that."
Will smiled at Paul, staring.
"What?" Paul asked.
"Nothing," Will replied. "Just looking at you."
"Well," Paul nudged Will's drink towards him. "You can look at me all you want."
Sonny held Ari's hand as they walked towards the bar.
"Hey," Will smiled. "How's my girl?"
"Good," Ari retorted. She waited a second before fidgeting. "Uh, I need go potty."
"I've got it," Paul took Ari's other hand. "You two," Paul gestured to Will and Sonny. "Can talk."
"So," Sonny gingerly sat on the barstool Paul vacated.
"How did it go?" Will questioned.
"I think it's going to be OK," Sonny admitted. "I told her things would be different this time."
"Is it?" Will held Sonny's eyes. "Is it going to be different?"
"I want it to be," Sonny confessed. "I'm going to do better about talking to her."
"You can call my number, you know?" Will pointed out. "You don't have to wait until your mom is around."
"Yeah, that would be easier," Sonny fiddled with the napkin under Paul's empty glass.
"This time you won't need to ignore me," Will said pointedly.
"Right," Sonny nodded. "That was stupid of me."
"Yes," Will agreed. "It was. I deserved better than that. I know I hurt you but I thought I meant more than that."
"You did," Sonny insisted. "You do. I know that it was wrong of me to just leave you. To leave and never talk to you again. You're right; you didn't deserve that."
Will pressed his lips together.
"You didn't deserve what I did either," Will confessed.
"I think I understand you better now though," Sonny told Will. "I didn't get it before. How you could go so far. Why you did so many things that weren't you."
Will tilted his head, listening.
"When I came back," Sonny winced. "I lost it. Seeing you with Paul, realizing I let you both go. I felt crazy. I have no idea how you dealt with that for so long."
"I didn't handle it well," Will retorted. "Obviously."
"Either did I," Sonny smiled. "At least you never physically fought Paul."
"He hit me once, remember?" Will recalled. "I figured pretending he knocked me out would work to my advantage instead of hitting back."
Sonny's eyes widened.
"Wait," Sonny moved in closer. "So, when I came home and you were lying on the floor that was-?"
Will nodded sheepishly.
"Oh my god," Sonny laughed. "I thought he hurt you!"
"Oh please," Will chuckled. "He barely hit me."
Sonny snorted.
"It worked though," Will continued. "You paid attention to me and Paul felt bad."
Sonny laughed again.
"He still feels bad actually," Will added. "I want to tell him the truth but it might hurt his ego."
Sonny covered his mouth, trying to contain his laughter.
"I mean," Will shrugged exaggeratingly. "He freaked out the other day that he couldn't rip the plastic off a toy."
"Oh, poor guy," Sonny rolled his eyes. "I think his ego is big enough."
"Yeah, he's not short on confidence," Will agreed.
Sonny gave Will a small smile.
"You seem to be confident now too," Sonny said.
"I'm OK," Will acknowledged. "I feel better about myself now. Better than I did before at least."
"Good," Sonny decided.
Sonny took a moment, gathering his thoughts.
"I'm glad that you're getting better," Sonny admitted. "I know that I probably didn't help the past year."
"I didn't help myself either," Will replied. "But thanks."
Will lifted his glass and finished the last of his beer. Sonny watched Will's throat as he swallowed.
Sonny turned away biting his lip. Sitting in the club and laughing with Will brought back too many memories. Memories of a time he wished he could get back.
Ari hurtled into Will's leg. Paul was a half-step behind her.
"Daddy, Daddy," Ari hopped up and down. "I go potty and wash my hands all by myself."
Will lifted Ari onto his lap, praising her. Paul casually rested his arm around Will's shoulder.
Sonny observed them. The easy way all three interacted. How Will and Paul leaned towards each other unconsciously. The bright, carefree grin on Arianna's face.
Sonny loved Will and Ari. At one time he loved Paul too.
Will made fishy faces at Ari before moving in to kiss all over her face.
Seeing it reminded Sonny of years before. The days Sonny would help Will babysit his siblings. Even before they dated, Sonny loved watching Will interact with children. That's how Sonny knew Will would make such a great dad.
'Back then I had to deal with loving Will from afar,' Sonny recalled. 'I suppose now I'll have to do the same thing.'
Ari yawned widely and rested her head against Will's chest.
"Looks like someone's ready for bed," Will stated. He rubbed her back soothingly.
"Nu uh," Ari shook her head.
"How about we head home?" Paul suggested.
"That sounds good," Will replied. "Come on," Will stood up with Ari. "It's time to tell Sonny goodbye."
Sonny stood up as well. He cautiously reached out to hold Ari.
"I'll miss you," Sonny promised.
"Sonny call?" Ari questioned.
"Every day," Sonny guaranteed.
"No be mean?" Ari said through a large yawn.
"Never ever," Sonny pledged.
"M'Kay," Ari nodded. "Miss Sonny."
Sonny handed Ari back to Will.
Will, Sonny, and Paul stood in a circle glancing at each other.
"I guess this is it," Sonny finally said.
"For a while," Will responded. "Not forever. You promised someone a phone call tomorrow."
"Right," Sonny smiled slightly.
The three awkwardly stood around before Paul rolled his eyes.
"Good luck in Paris," Paul held his hand out.
"Thanks," Sonny shook his hand. "I guess this time I don't need to worry about leaving you on your own."
"No," Paul chuckled. "Definitely don't have that problem."
Without being asked, Paul took Ari from Will's arms. She automatically nuzzled against Paul's neck.
Will took a few steps forward and hugged Sonny.
"I won't make the same mistakes this time," Sonny closed his eyes tightly.
"I know," Will replied. "I believe you."
Will squeezed Sonny once before stepping away.
"Bye, Sonny," Will whispered.
Sonny inhaled sharply, watching Will, Ari, and Paul walk away. He didn't know what the future held. He could go to Paris and meet someone new, fall in love. Or in a few years maybe he would earn Will and Ari back.
Sonny didn't know. But for the first time in a long time Sonny felt like that was OK.
Will fluffed up Ari's pillow and arranged her stuffed animals just so.
"Better?" Will asked.
"Uh huh," Ari nodded. "S'good."
"We read our story and you're all tucked in," Will smiled at Ari. "Now it's time to go to sleep."
Ari blinked slowly, eyes droopy.
"If Super Paul on TV," Ari wondered. "He not here?"
"Somedays," Will moved her hair out of her eyes. "But he'll be back."
"What if you need him?" Ari continued. "He not there. Who save you?"
Paul, sitting on the end of the bed, moved closer to Will and Ari.
"Daddy is going to save himself," Paul promised Ari. "He's strong. He'll take care of both of you when I'm gone."
"OK," Ari's eyes fluttered. "Daddy superhero too."
"Love you, baby girl," Will kissed her forehead.
"Love too, both," Ari closed her eyes and fell asleep almost instantly.
After closing Ari's bedroom door, Will wrapped his arms around Paul and held on tightly.
"You're amazing," Will announced with his eyes closed.
"Yes," Paul agreed. "But why?"
"You just are," Will said. He refused to let Paul go.
Paul brushed his fingertips through the hair at the base of Will's skull.
"Off and on," Will whispered. "I thought no one would ever love me. But you do."
"Yes, baby," Paul's fingers held onto Will firmly. "I do love you."
"You love me," Will repeated. He sounded awestruck.
"And you love me," Paul adjusted until they were cheek to cheek. "Even the annoying parts," Paul teased.
"I don't want to lose this feeling," Will confessed.
"What feeling is that?" Paul wondered.
"Everything seems right," Will explained. "That's usually when things go wrong with me."
"Not this time," Paul promised. "We're different, remember?"
"What if I can't write anymore?" Will asked, afraid.
"You'll figure it out," Paul assured him.
"What if I'm in an accident and I get horrifically disfigured and you don't want me anymore?" Will frowned just thinking about it.
"Scarred or unscarred I'm still going to love you," Paul guaranteed.
"What if you meet someone else?" Will quietly questioned. "Someone better?"
"I'm going to meet guys," Paul stated blandly. "Maybe I'll even be attracted to some of them."
Will's eye shut tight, eyebrows furrowing.
"But you know what's not going to happen?" Paul pressed. "They aren't going to be you. They aren't going to be related to half this town. They aren't going to tell me some outlandish story from their childhood. They aren't going to have the sweetest daughter in the world. They aren't going to be ridiculously sexy and insecure all at the same time."
Will smiled against Paul's neck. His grip on Paul loosened.
"They aren't going to buy me smutty board games," Paul continued. "They aren't going to accept my faults and flaws. They aren't going to be the best writer I know. They aren't going to make me laugh or get themselves into some stupid situation."
Paul pushed Will away until they were face-to-face. Paul cupped Will's cheeks, thumbs brushing up and down.
"They aren't going to be you, Will," Paul finished. "So it won't matter."
Will smiled and nodded, eyes misty.
"How is it I'm the writer?" Will asked. "But you're the one who always knows what to say."
Paul shrugged before walking them towards the bedroom.
"What's going to happen if you meet someone better, hmm?" Paul wondered. He started unbuttoning Will's shirt.
"I don't think that's possible," Will whispered.
"No?" Paul pushed the shirt off Will's firm shoulders.
"No," Will shook his head. "I know you're not really perfect. But I don't think I could ever meet someone that's like you. It's not even the way you look or how successful you are."
"What is it?" Paul paused from disrobing Will.
"It's just you, all of you," Will smiled. He placed his hand on Paul's neck. "From how annoyingly persistent you are to the way you listen to me. I don't know," Will looked away sheepishly. "You might not be perfect but you're everything to me."
"Who says you don't know just what to say?" Paul mused before drawing Will into a kiss.
Will cleaved to Paul. He wrapped both arms around his neck. Their mouths brushed together softly, tongues dragging along their lips.
"I love you," Will stated once they broke for air. He pulled Paul's shirt out from where it was tucked into his pants.
"I love you too," Paul fired back.
"I love everything about you," Will continued. He helped pull the shirt over Paul's head. "I love your mind," Will stood on his tiptoes to kiss Paul's forehead.
Paul let Will back him into the mattress. Paul sat down and kept his eyes on Will.
"I love your eyes," Will kissed Paul's brow. "I love the way you look at me. That you see all of me."
Will took a step back to pull off his clothes. Keenly aware of Paul's stare, Will's movements were as sensual as possible. He wanted to give Paul as much of a show as he could.
Once Will was completely naked he continued.
"I love your lips when they kiss me," Will said, knees brushing against Paul's. "I love your mouth when it's all over my body," Will traced his finger against Paul's lips. "I love your tongue when it's sliding inside of me," Will held Paul's jaw and kissed him deeply.
Paul's hands slid against Will's bare hips. He squeezed the flesh, kneading it between his fingers.
"I love your neck," Will's hands swept down Paul's body. "I love your shoulders, so thick and sexy."
"Love your arms," Will rubbed against Paul's large biceps. "Love when they hold me so close. Love your hands," Will linked their fingers. "Love when you touch me, when it's so soft and warm. Or when it's hard and leaves bruises."
Will lifted Paul's hand and kissed the top of it.
"Love your fingers," Will caught Paul's eye. "Love when they're inside me, stretching me open."
Will moved to his knees. Paul swallowed heavily.
"I love your collarbone," Will brushed his tongue along the bone. "I love your chest and your heart," Will spoke against Paul's skin.
"I love your nipples and the sounds you make when I do this," Will laved one with his tongue.
"Baby," Paul moaned.
"I love your stomach and your abs," Will moved down Paul's body. "Love all your muscles," Will praised. His hands worshipfully spread along Paul's skin.
Will popped the button on Paul's jeans, unzipping him.
Without being told, Paul lifted his hips. Will quickly pulled the fabric off and tossed it over his head.
"I love your thighs," Will put his head on Paul's lap. "So strong. Love watching them when you fuck me."
Paul whimpered. Will's breath teased against Paul's cock.
"Love your legs and your feet," Will ran a single finger up and down Paul's leg.
"Please," Paul begged. He wanted Will so bad.
"Love your back and your ass," Will continued as if he didn't know what Paul wanted, needed. "Love all of you."
"Will," Paul whined.
"You know what I loved first?" Will asked. He finally put his hand around the base of Paul's hard cock.
"Yes," Paul praised. His eyes closed, head tilting back when Will's fist moved up and down.
"Loved your cock before I loved you," Will teased. "Filled me up so good, couldn't get enough."
"Baby," Paul chanted over and over.
"I know you don't like the word," Will added. "But I wouldn't mind being your slut."
Paul grunted. Even he didn't know if it was in disapproval or not.
"Such a slut for your cock," Will said. His tongue flicked out to lap at the head of Paul's cock.
"Nrgh," Paul groaned unintelligibly.
Will's lips quirked before he sucked the tip of Paul inside his mouth.
Paul's hands grabbed Will's head. He fisted Will's blonde locks tightly.
"Always want you," Will extoled. "Love your cock."
"Will, fuck," Paul pushed against Will's head.
"So impatient," Will tittered.
Will swallowed Paul's cock. He teased him slightly. Going down just enough to make Paul want more.
Paul's hips bucked, wanting everything.
Will relented. It took a bit of effort and heaving breathing but eventually Will's nose brushed against Paul's pubic hair.
"Fuck, fuck, fuck," Paul sighed. "Love your throat."
Will's eyes watered and his throat convulsed. When he couldn't stand it anymore, Will pulled up for air.
After a few moments respite, Will went down again.
Over and over Will took Paul into his throat until Paul could no longer handle it.
"Baby," Paul warned. "I'm gonna come."
Will eased up a bit. He fisted Paul. Will jerked with one hand while he held his mouth open, tongue on display.
Paul bit his lip to stifle his noises as he came all over Will's tongue.
Will made a show of swallowing. He even licked his lips, making an "Mmmm" sound.
"Fuck," Paul put his arm over his eyes. He couldn't look at Will right now. Not so soon after. "You're going to kill me one of these days."
"That's the idea, puddin' pop," Will smacked his lips on the p-sound. "I want to drive you crazy."
Will nuzzled against Paul's side. Their naked skin pressed together.
After a few moments to collect himself, Paul felt Will's erection digging into his side.
"You know what I love?" Paul rolled onto his side.
"Being deep-throated?" Will asked innocently.
"Obviously," Paul pinched Will's side. He used his hands to flip Will over onto his stomach.
"What I love," Paul spread Will's legs open and pushed his hips up. "Are the sounds you make when I eat you out."
"I love that too," Will nodded enthusiastically. He backed his hips up, eager for Paul's mouth.
Paul tapped against one of Will's cheeks, enjoying the way it bounced. He bent forward and traced his tongue along Will's crack.
Will vibrated with arousal. He wanted it so badly.
Paul took his time. He waited until Will was soaked with spit before nudging his tongue inside.
"Yes, yes, yes," Will recited.
Paul smacked Will's butt in warning. Will was getting too loud.
Will bit the blanket underneath him instead.
Paul swirled his tongue inside of Will as best he could. Without any warning, Paul shoved one finger into Will.
Paul smirked when he heard Will's muffled screams.
"Good?" Paul teased, coming up for air.
"Mmm hmm," Will nodded several times. He pushed his hips back, chasing Paul's tongue.
"My poor baby," Paul grinned. He pushed another finger inside. "You want it so bad, don't you?"
"Need it," Will spat out the blanket. "Ready, don't need any more fingers. Just want your cock."
Paul continued stretching Will open. He wanted to make sure Will didn't get hurt.
"Want it," Will sighed, petulant. "Please, please, please."
"Shh," Paul hushed. "Almost."
"Please," Will whimpered. "I need to feel you inside me. Need you on top of me and all over me. Need it."
"Alright," Paul smacked Will's inner thigh and pulled out his fingers. "Lie flat on your stomach."
While Will followed instructions, Paul got out the lube.
Paul lubricated his cock and wiped the excess against Will's opening.
"Ready, baby?" Paul asked rhetorically.
Will glared at Paul over his shoulder.
Paul laughed in delight. He held his cock in hand, hitting it against Will's bottom. Paul jerked himself, ensuring he was completely hard again.
Paul gingerly eased inch by inch into Will.
Will bit the blanket again. He wanted to shout and scream but knew he couldn't.
Once Paul was all the way inside, he pressed his chest against Will's back. Paul's legs extended behind him, using his toes to stay up. With one palm on each side of Will's head, Paul lifted up then slid back down.
"Fuck," Will mumbled through the blanket.
They had never tried this position before. Will could feel every inch of Paul inside of him. He felt completely surrounded by Paul. Will loved it.
"God," Paul grunted into Will's ear. "So good."
Will nodded pathetically. Each downward thrust rubbed right against his walls in a delicious mix of pain and pleasure.
Paul worked up a pace until he was slamming into Will.
"Fuck, fuck, fuck," Will panted. He reached out to hold onto the edge of the mattress. He needed something to ground him.
"Yes," Paul praised. "You like that, baby?"
"Uh huh," Will cried weakly. "God, Paul. Feel everything, feel all of you."
Paul, muscles straining, collapsed on top of Will.
Will gasped, breath leaving him.
Paul ground his hips into Will. He moved one arm so it wrapped around Will's collarbone.
Will held onto Paul's arm as tight as he could. Will's cock rubbed against the bed just right. Soon enough the only sounds he could make were garbled grunts.
"Love you," Paul hissed into Will's ear. He bit the tender area behind Will's ear and sucked.
Will's body stilled. His teeth clamped down on Paul's arm silencing his squeals as he came against the bed.
Paul fucked Will through his orgasm. He enjoyed Will's spasming walls and the shudders he felt running down Will's spine.
"Paul," Will sobbed wetly.
That's all Will could think to say. He whispered Paul's name over and over. His tongue curled around the word, caressing it.
"Oh god," Paul's breath hitched. He spurted inside of Will. Their sweaty skin slid together.
Paul pushed in and out carefully until he was too sensitive.
Paul rested on top of Will. Their breathing evened out, hearts beating together.
Delicately, Paul pulled out of Will. Despite his aching muscles, Paul moved down to admire Will's puffed out entrance.
"So pretty," Paul said voice full of awe.
Will contracted his muscle, pushing out as best he could.
"Oh sweet fuck," Paul groaned.
Paul's come began leaking out of Will.
Paul leaned forward unable to resist. He lapped up the small stream of come dripping from Will's entrance.
Will emitted happy little mewling sounds. He rested his head on top of his arms.
Paul licked his lips when he finished. He cuddled next to Will.
Will blinked lazily at Paul. He felt sated and satisfied.
"Mmm," Will sighed. "I love you."
"I love you too," Paul smiled. He kissed Will sweetly on the lips, lingering.
"Want this forever," Will mumbled.
Will and Paul moved under the covers. Will rested his head on Paul's chest. He knew they needed to get dressed. That Ari shouldn't find them like this but Will didn't care. He just wanted Paul close.
Paul smiled and rubbed his hand up and down Will's arm.
"I want this forever too," Paul admitted.
Paul could picture it too. He could see waking up with Will every day. Taking Ari to school, teaching her to read and write. Going on vacations together. Exploring Japan with Will and Ari, smelling the cherry blossoms.
Will linked his hand left hand with Paul's, eye closing.
Paul licked his lips.
'Getting married,' Paul thought. 'Giving Ari a brother or sister to play with. A dog and cat, filling up the condo with love and laughter.'
'That's what I want,' Paul realized. He also knew he was moving too fast. 'We should probably move in together first.'
Will's breath puffed against Paul's chest, fast asleep.
Paul thought of the second time he slept with Will. When Paul followed after Will late at night, taunting him. Something about Will drew him in, enticed him.
Paul had no way of knowing what would manifest from that night together. He had no idea he'd fall so hard not only for Will but for Ari too. Paul didn't know what he was getting into that night. But it was the best decision he had ever made.
Paul kissed the top of Will's head and closed his eyes.
"One day," Paul whispered, honest. "I'm gonna marry you."
Will shifted in his sleep, content.
The End
Author's note:
When I started this story it was only supposed to be a bit of fun. Just an exploration of what could have been. I never imagined it would be this long or this serious. But I have to say I'm pretty proud of it.
Thank you to everyone that has read this story. Thank you to everyone that's reviewed, given me ideas, or inspiration. This certainly wouldn't have turned into what it is without everyone's support.
I have a few new projects in the works. I hope to post my next big fic within the week. I can tell you that it's going to be a rewrite of the show from when Will comes back from LA. Basically, writing the Will/Paul/Sonny triangle the way I would have preferred seeing it. I think anyone that knows my writing and who my favorite character is knows what that means.
Once again, thank you for reading!