Touch My Heart

by RoxyGirl24

Wilson AU - William Horton is a troubled teenager with nothing to look forward to in life. Trouble seems to follow him everywhere he goes. Until one day, he is forced to suffer the consequences for his actions and is assigned to a student named Jackson Kiriakis, who suffers from autism. Rated M for language, some violence and possible love scenes in later chapters.

8. Chapter 8

Touch My Heart Chapter 8

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A/N - Once again, Thank you for reading this story. Amber and I are very excited to finally bring you another chapter. We have worked very hard on this one in particular. I know it's a long one, but we decided to make this chapter from a combination of 3 different one's that we had planned out. But I'm sure you're all gonna be happy with the result. As well, we would also like to thank two special women by the name of Jen and Christina for helping out once again with this chapter. The four of us working together is making this story amazing and I'm very thankful to both of you. So without further adieu, here is chapter 8 of Touch My Heart... - Roxy and Amber

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(Will's POV)

After getting home, I felt terrible about leaving Jack without saying goodbye, "I hope he's gonna be alright when he wakes up", I said to myself as I unlocked the door and step inside my grand mother's apartment. I was feeling very hopeful after spending the entire night alone with Jack and I swear to God, for the first time, I felt like I was in a great place in my life and I knew it was time to for me to take the first step towards come out. Because I after tonight, I don't think I'll be able to keep my feelings for Jack bottle up inside any longer. So I decided that it was time to finally tell my grandma about Jack.

"Grandma? Are you home? I need to talk to..."

Then suddenly, my whole world came crashing down in a heart beat...

"Hello son."

"Dad?"

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(Alex's POV)

After Will left, I walked inside the living to check up on a sleeping Jack. I knew I had to wake him up eventually and take him upstairs because he couldn't possibly spend the night sleeping on the sofa. He would probably wake up in a panic when he see that he's alone down stairs and that Will's gone home. So, I guess it's up to me to wake him up and tell him he's gone.

I approach him slowly, "Jackson, wake up buddy?", I whisper softly trying very hard not to frighten him as I do that, "Time for bed."

To my surprise, Jackson sits up almost instantly and smiles, "Well, someone's in a good mood? Did you have a good night, buddy?", I asked him because if the smile on his face didn't give it out, then nothing ever would.

Jackson nodded a few times and stared into space looking like someone who's daydreaming about something. Or in this case, I should rather say someone...

"Guess that's a yes!", I said to Jackson and laughed as I got up and gestured him to follow me, "Come on, buddy. Lets get you to bed."

Jackson followed me without putting up a fight, smiling all the way up the stairs until he reached his room. He got in bed and picked up the hoodie that Will left here a few weeks ago and wrapped it carefully around his body and snuggled into it as he closed his eyes.

"Goodnight, buddy", I said to him as I closed the door and headed back down stairs, but stopped when something that I didn't notice at first suddenly hit me. I remembered when I woke up Jackson a few minutes ago, he didn't even look like someone who was sleeping. He looked wide awake and all..., "Holy shit! Jackson wasn't sleeping when Will said he fell in love with him!"

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(Sonny's POV)

As Will left the room I stayed in my spot reflecting on what Will just said. I couldn't believe that he loves me and that he wants to be with me. This was something that I never expected before I met him. I thought that I was going to be alone for the rest of my life and I was okay with that but ever since I met Will I have wanted him around me all the time. Noise outside of the room caught my attention, "Hi, Will. Where's Jackson?"

Alex was home already how long was that movie? I didn't expect him to be home by now. Then I heard Will's voice, "He fell asleep on the couch. I didn't wanna wake him up so I covered him up with a blanket and came out here to wait for you. You alright?"

There was a pause, "Oh, I see. Yeah, I'm fine. Did you two have fun?"

"We did...Thanks for this Alex. Thanks for letting me spend time with Jack."

I could hear in his voice that he really did have fun tonight even though he sounded upset before he left the room.

"Don't mention it."

Another really long pause, "Well, I have to go, it's getting late. So, I guess I'll see you tomorrow, then?"

I could hear Will's footstep fading away.

"Yeah, of course. See you tomorrow", Alex said and I could hear his footsteps getting louder which meant he was coming to check on me.

Now I just have to keep pretending to sleep until he 'wakes me up'. I laid there, motionless on the couch as I hear Alex entering the room. He walks up to where I am and whispers softly, "Jackson, wake up buddy? Time for bed."

I sit up pretty fast and smile at him, it might have been too fast but Alex doesn't seem to find that weird, "Well, someone's in a good mood? Have a good night, buddy?"

Nodding my head I looked over to the side and started to replay that last part of the movie, the part that Will confessed everything to me. This was such good news because now I finally had the answers to all of my questions. "Guess that's a yes!"

Alex laughed as he stood up straight and gestured for me to follow him, "Come on, buddy. Lets get you to bed."

I stood up quickly and followed him eagerly because I wanted to get to sleep so that it would be tomorrow that much sooner. There were plans I have to start to get Will to finally confess that stuff to me to my face and also to get him to kiss me also. The fluttering in my stomach kicked up a notch when I thought about how it would be. We get to my bedroom I walk to my bed, get in and pick up the hoodie Will left behind a few weeks ago. I wrapped it around me and buried my nose into the fabric so that I could smell Will's scent. It was almost all gone now but a small amount was still there. I barely heard Alex leaving, "Goodnight, buddy."

He closed the door and I quickly fell into unconsciousness with the thoughts of Will on my mind.

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(Will's POV)

"What are you doing here?", I asked and walked right pass my father and dropped my keys on the coffee table.

"Well, hello to you too", he answered sarcastically and continued, "I'm glad to see you, son. I've missed you."

I didn't know what he expected me to say to him. Because honestly, if he thought I would welcome him with open arms he was wrong. After the way he treated me and made me feel like less of a person for having feelings towards another boy, he's got something coming his way and it's not forgiveness.

"Wish the feeling was mutual", I hissed back and left to go up stairs to my room.

"Will, come one, man. Don't be like this", he begged for me to stay, but I wasn't about to give him the time of day.

"Be like what, dad? Angry? What am I suppose to do? Pretend like everything is fine and go back to the way things were before? Ain't gonna happen."

"Will, please...I just want to spend time with you. You're my son, and I love you."

"You love me? Are you fucking serious right now? After everything you've done and said to me, you seriously think that I would believe anything that comes out of your mouth?", I screamed out in anger, because I was angry at him for making me believe something was wrong with me. Your years, I've cried myself to sleep thinking of how much I've disappointed him. And now he's back in my life for what? Less than five minutes and already he's trying to convince me that he loves me? Good luck with that!

"I did what I had to do, son. Someday you will thank me."

"Thank you? For making me feel like I was sick and ashamed for being gay? You wanted to have me institutionalized for having feelings towards another man. For christ sake, dad? Who does that to his own son? You know what, never mind. Don't answer that. I doesn't even matter anymore", I said to him and picked up my keys and headed back out towards the door.

"Will, you're not gay. You're just confused, that's all. If you let me help you, you can get pass this and...", he tried saying, but I cut him off before he could say another word.

"You know what, dad? I'm done. I'm done trying to make you love me, because no matter what I do, I could never live up to you expectations, and I refuse to keep on living a lie."

"Will, where are you going?"

"As far away from you as I possibly can", I said to him and stormed out of the apartment.

When I reached my car, I started to cry. Not because of what my dad said, but because for the first time in my life, I'm finally in a good place and someone has to come and screw it all up all up for me.

I took out my cell phone and called the only person who I could think of that would help me, "Chad, I need you...My dad...He's back..."

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(Chad's POV)

I was just about ready to settle into bed when my phone went off. I turned the lamp back on and picked up the phone; I saw Will's name on the screen and I instantly answered it.

Before I could even say a word Will interrupted me, "Chad, I need you… My dad… He's back…"

I shot up to a sitting position, "What?!"

Will sniffed, "My dad was at home when I got there… He was going on about how he missed me and how he wanted to spend time with me. That is a bunch of bull because if that was the case he would have tried sooner."

I got angry because I didn't really like Will's father. He abandoned Will, even though I convinced him to have Will live with his grandma, I did that so that he could take some time to think things through. But when he didn't show up for years it became apparent that he didn't really care for Will. I stood up from my bed, "Where are you at now?"

"I am driving away from the house. I couldn't stay there for very long."

There was a pause on the phone, "He said he loved me, Chad. Like I would believe anything that he says."

"What else did he say?"

I could hear the anger in his voice, "He tried saying that what he did to me had to be done and that I would thank him later. Did he really think I would thank him for what he did, no, I resent him for it."

Another sniffle came through the phone before he really started to cry. "Will… Will can you hear me?"

He was making so much noise I wasn't sure he could hear me. But he did, "Yes I can hear you."

I sighed in relief, "How about you come over to my place and stay the night. That way you can calm down and think about what you are going to do about your dad."

A soft breath came through the phone and it sounded like Will had calmed down, "Are you sure?"

"Of course you can, you know you are always welcome to come over."

I smiled because it seemed to be working. "Okay I am on my way now. I think I am going to get off the phone now. I have almost when to into the ditch a few times already."

"Just be careful, Will. I will be waiting for you."

We both hung up and I went down stairs to wait for him. As I was waiting for him I remembered that day so clearly. To see him so happy when another boy and it confused me at first because I didn't know this part about him but I could see that this was who he was. So when his father threatened to send him to military school I intervened because I cared for Will to be happy and I knew that place was going ruin Will's life. To this day Will doesn't know that I saw the whole thing. I was happy when he told me himself even though I already knew because it meant that he trusted me with that information. I was brought out of my thoughts when I heard a soft knock on the door. I walk up to the door, open it and the sight before me breaks my heart. The Will that has been so happy since Jackson Kiriakis has come into his life is gone and in his place is a boy who lost his love. Now I have some work on my hands to bring Will back to himself again.

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(Sonny's POV)

I slowly came into consciousness with Will on my thoughts like he has been for the last couple of weeks. I rolled over on my back and stared up at the ceiling thinking about the other night. It all felt like a dream but I knew that it wasn't. Will loved me and it was my goal today to find away to get Will to show that too me. When I looked over at the clock on my night stand I saw that it was about time for me to get up and get dressed.

So I untangled myself out of Will's hoodie and headed to my bathroom thinking about different ways to get Will to say that he loved me. One thing I could do would be to try to have more moments of us looking into each other's eyes. That always seemed to make him be closer to me and when that happens I will lean forward to see if he kisses me. If I continue to do that then he might end up kissing me eventually.

Another thing I can do is to also continue to hold his hand because he seems to enjoy that as much as I do and I can also snuggle into him at every possible moment. One last thing I can do is to finally tell him how I feel with words and not with actions or motions. That last one is going to be difficult but if I finally was able to talk last night then I feel like that it can finally happen soon. I finished getting dressed and walked out of the bathroom and down the stairs to the door. I was going to get my coat on and backpack so that I can wait by the front door. This way I am ready to go right when everyone else was ready to go plus I wanted to get to school early so that my plan can come into action.

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(Will's POV)

I woke up this morning feeling a little more hopeful after spending the night over at Chad's. Being able to talk to someone who actually knows what I'm going through is exactly what I needed last night. Chad's always been a friend and what helps even more is that he supports my decision of wanting to pursue things with Jack. He doesn't think I'm crazy for having feelings for him, nor does he think I'm sick for loving someone of the same gender. He just thinks that it's great that I've finally found someone who make me happy and someone who's worth waiting for even if I have no idea how long that will actually be. As for my dad, well... What can I say? He's not gonna stop until he gets what he wants. However he might have forgotten one little detail about me, and that's that I'm Will Horton, and I wont stop until I get what I want and what I wanna is to be with Jack. So, game on dad! Because I'm done hiding, I'm done letting him make me feel like less of a person for loving another man, I'm done pretending to be someone who I'm not. From this day forward, I just wanna be myself. I just wanna be me...

As for my feelings for Jack, all I know is that what I'm feeling for Jack has surpassed the boundaries friendship. I found that out last night when I spend our movie night together holding Jack in my arms. All I could think about was how much I care about him and...loved him. I know, people are probably gonna think I'm crazy and judge me for feeling this way about a young man who's spent most of his life hiding away in his own little world, but honestly, I don't care anymore what other people think of me. Because Jack's a part of my life now and not matter what life's gonna throw at us in the future, I know without a doubt in my mind, that it's all gonna be worth it in the end.

I turn around after placing my books in my locker only to see Jack walking inside looking a little shy as he approached me with Alex and Joey following him from behind. I smiled at the young man who's captured my heart in more ways than one and open up my arms to him so I can feel exactly what I'm feeling when I hold him in my arms. Which is comfort, happiness and most important of all, love.

Jack never thought twice about it. He greeted me with more enthusiasm than he usually would by immediately wrapped his arms around me and laying his head flat down against my chest. I smiled and ran my fingers through his hair gently, smelling the floral aroma of his shampoo and with my right hand, I lifted up his face so I could see his beautiful smile, "Good morning my sunshine", I whispered to him softly so Alex and Joey wouldn't hear me.

Jackson smiled up at me and blinked. That was his own way of saying hello to me.

"Guess someone missed you", Joey pointed out as he watched Jack cuddling up closer to me.

"Well isn't that great", I said to Joey, while never taking my eyes away from Jack for a second, "Because I missed him too."

I could see how much that made Jack happy hearing me say those words to Joey. His smile said it all. And that's when my mind drifted off into deep thought...

Will's Thoughts...

The next thing I knew, I was taken back in my mind to the night before. Jack was laying on my lap asleep and I was pondering the moment. Did I really feel for him what I thought I felt for him? I look down and run my fingers through his new amazing hair. I smiled, he cut his own hair for me. He wanted to look great for me. A small tear ran down my cheek. If he only knew how much I loved him. I start to think what it would feel like to run my hands across his strong shoulders. For a boy who doesn't work out, he had amazing arms.

I slowly ran a finger down his arm and made little circles around the small bone of his elbow and ran my hand back up his arm. I felt a small shiver come from him, so I covered him with the light brown blanket that was thrown over the back of the couch. I looked down at him and sighed.

"Jack..." I whispered softly.

How could he do this to me? I thought.

I ran my fingers through his hair, loving the feel of being this close to him.

"Jack..." I sigh out and shift him a little on my lap. My pants were starting to get tight, just the thought of his head in my lap was doing things to my body that I hadn't felt before from another boy. I reach over and grab a hand of popcorn and eat a few kernels and sigh again. The popcorn wasn't helping my situation at all.

I lean my head to rest it on the back of the couch. I smile. I start thinking about how amazing it felt to walk through the halls with Jack, and how proud he looked when he realized that I would never let his hands go.

Then my mind flashes to the art room. It was the first time he touched me, and it was when I think I began to fall for the amazing man who is Jack.

End of Will's Thoughts...

I am jolted out of my day-dream when Joey spoke.

"So, are we still on for Tonight?", Joey asked and waited for my answer.

"Tonight? What's with tonight", I asked without any recollection of anything special going on tonight whatsoever.

"Come on, Will. Are you seriously gonna stand there and pretend you have no idea what tonight is?"

"I'm sorry...", I answered felling a little stupid because I really, truly have no idea what in the hell he's talking about.

"The dance? You're going aren't you?"

"What? I...I don't...I...", I stuttered. Why? I have no idea.

"Oh come on, Will. You gotta go. It's gonna be great!", Joey said looking very hopeful that I would agree to it and go with him, "Please?"

"Is Alex going?", I asked, hoping to move the subject over on to Alex.

"Alex doesn't have a social life", Joey said to Alex and giggled.

"I do so have a social life!", Alex hissed at Joey.

"Yeah? Like what? And if you say going to the library, I'm so gonna slap you're anti-social ass"

"Jerk!"

"Bitch!"

"You're a loser!"

"And you're a whore!"

"Am not!"

"Whore"

"Alexander Kiriakis, I'm so gonna kick your little ass..."

I couldn't help but laughed at the interaction between the two Kiriakis brothers. For one, Joey was hilarious. The way he talks back to Alex and points out the reasons why he thinks is brother is boring is the funniest thing I've ever seen. And Alex, Well. What can I say? His defense mechanisms wasn't very classy when it came to tell off his younger brother. It's rather amusing to see then acting like real brothers should for once.

I on the other hand shifted my attention over to the other Kiriakis brother. The one that was still wrapped up in my arms, "So, are they always like this?", I asked Jack and chuckled.

Jack smiled and nodded.

"Well, if you ask me, I would rather stay home tonight and forget about the dance. I would prefer spending the night with you. Well, I mean...If you want to?"

Jack face turned red and he instantly started blushing. It was probably the most adorable thing I've ever seen, "So, I take that as a yes?"

Jack nodded once and rested his head gently against my shoulder. I smiled hard and looked over at Joey who had Alex in choke hold and messing up his hair and laughed, "Guys?"

Both of them answered in unison, "What!"

"Do you realized how ridiculous you both look right now?"

Jack giggled, "See, even Jack agrees with me!", I pointed out as I slowly pulled away from Jack and reached out for his and, which he gladly accepted.

"He started it!", Alex whined pointing at Joey.

"You're such a baby!", Joey implied and stuck his tongue out at Alex.

"Bite me!"

"You wish!"

"Alright! As much as Jack and I would love to watch you two insulting each other, we have class to attend", I advised them both before heading off to our respected classrooms.

"What about that dance tonight, Will? Aren't you coming?", Joey asked again.

"Nope! I have plans with...", I tried telling Joey, but I was suddenly cut off by the sound of someone yelling out my name.

"Will..."

I looked over to see who it was and released Jack's hand in fear, "You have got to be kidding me right now...Jack, I'm sorry. I have to go...", I tried explaining to Jack so he wouldn't feel like I was abandoning him, but I didn't have much time. I had to leave before things got out of hand, because when it came to my homophobic father, you never really knew what to expect, "I'm sorry...", I said before trailing off, leaving Jack confused and scared.

"Will, would you stop? Come on, son. I just wanna talk."

I pretending like I didn't hear him and walked away, hoping that he would get the idea that I had nothing more to say to him, but he followed right behind, "I don't have time. I'm gonna be late for class", I pointed out wishing he would get the hint. I noticed Jack was following me and I didn't want him to whiteness what was about to happen, "Jack, you need to go. Now!", I said loudly, causing Jack into a panic. Alex tried to get Jack to calm down and get him away from the scene, but failed as jack refused to leave my side. There was no reasoning with him.

"Will, please...We need to talk about last night. You never came home and I was...", he said before grabbing my arm to stop me from leaving again.

"You never cared before, so why should you care now?", I asked and waited for him to answer me, "This should be good", I said sarcastically and waited to hear his explanation of caring.

"That's not what I'm doing, Will. I'm just trying to make you see thing clearly."

"Are you serious right now?", I asked as I pulled my arm out from his grip, "I can see things very clearly."

"Oh really? Then why was that sick boy all over you then? Don't you care what others might think of you if they see you with him."

When I heard those words come out of my father's mouth, my heart cringed. It made me sick to hear my father calling Jack a "sick boy".

"Jack is not sick!", I screamed in anger.

"Well, he's not normal that's for sure. Look at him."

"Alex, get Jack out of here!", I begged him to take Jack away before things got out of hand with my jackass of a father. God, only knows what's about to happen next.

"Will, I'm trying. He doesn't wanna leave you. He can see you're hurting", Alex said trying to get Jack to go with him. Jack let out a cry of dispar.

I walked over to him to try to calm him down, "Jack, you need to go with Alex. I'll be fine", I said as I brushed my thumb over his cheeks to wiped the tears away from his eyes, "Please...", I begged him and wrapped my arms around the confused boy and pulled him into a hug.

Just when I thought things could get any worst, they escalated out of control.

"Don't you touch my son you sick son of a bitch", my dad said, pulling me out of Jack's arms and shoving the scared boy away.

"Get your hands off of him", I screamed out just before my right hook met up with my dad's Jaw, "Don't you ever lay another finger on him or you're gonna live to regret it", I said, making it very clear that I would stop at nothing to protect Jack.

Jack started shaking his head frantically and ran out of the hall way running towards the art room. Alex went running after him. Joey stayed behind and watched everything unfold.

---

(Sonny's POV)

I am walking through the doors with Alex and Joey not that far behind me and I am nervously ringing my hands. I was all confident at home but now, as I set eyes on Will, I am nervous that I am going to screw everything up and I want to turn around so that I could run away but it's too late. Will turns around just then and sees me walking through the doors. I guess it's now or never for me to follow through with my plan; I approach him and wrap my arms around Will's waist and rest my head on his chest. Will ran his fingers through my hair and lifted up my chin so that I was looking into his eyes and whispered, "Good morning my sunshine."

I smile up at him, enjoying his handsome face. Joey spoke behind me, "Guess someone missed you."

Will replied while never removing his eyes from mine, "Well isn't that great. Because I missed him too."

I snuggled further into his side and just soaked up the warmth and love coming from him. He remained silent for a while but that was okay because I was just enjoying this time with him. So it seemed like my plan was working because I can feel him opening up a little more. Alex and Joey were a few feet away talking about something, I don't know what it was because I wasn't paying attention. I just felt so safe and comfortable in Will's arms but I was brought out of my snuggling when Joey asked Will a question, "So, are we still on for Tonight?"

Will looked confused, "Tonight? What's with tonight?"

"Come on, Will. Are you seriously gonna stand there and pretend you have no idea what tonight is?"

"I'm sorry..."

Will paused, probably waiting for an answer.

"The dance? You're going aren't you?"

Will's face looked like a deer caught in the headlights, "What? I...I don't...I..."

"Oh come on, Will. You gotta go. It's gonna be great!", Joey looked excited as he begged us to go, "Please?"

"Is Alex going?"

Joey giggled, "Alex doesn't have a social life."

"I do so have a social life!", Alex hissed at Joey.

"Yeah? Like what? And if you say going to the library, I'm so gonna slap your anti-social ass."

He laughed at the angry face Alex was making.

"Jerk!"

"Bitch!"

"You're a loser!"

"And you're a whore!"

"Am not!"

"Whore!"

"Alexander Kiriakis, I'm so gonna kick your prissy little ass..."

The two boys started to try to kick each other's asses which Will must have thought was hilarious. The sound of his laughter was the most amazing thing I have ever heard. I looked at Will's face and saw that his laughter had also transformed his already beautiful face into something was even more beautiful. It's so weird how you notice things when you finally admit to yourself how much you love someone. After a moment Will looked down at me, "So, are they always like this?"

I smiled as I nodded to him, this was a common occurrence at home, "Well, if you ask me, I would rather stay home tonight and forget about the dance. I would prefer spending the night with you. Well, I mean...If you want to?"

My blush came so fast that it gave me whiplash and it shocked me. It's not like we haven't done it before with the movie but I guess I was just so excited that my plan seemed to be working really well, "So, I take that as a yes?"

I nodded my head and rested it against his shoulder; when I turned my eyes to Alex and Joey I almost laughed at the sight they made. Joey had Alex in a choke hold and when Will saw them he started to laugh, "Guys?"

They answered at the same time, "What?"

Will laughed again, "Do you realized how ridiculous you both look right now?"

I couldn't help but laugh too, "See, even Jack agrees with me!"

Alex pointed at Joey and whined, "He started it!"

"You're such a baby!", Joey implied and stuck his tongue out at Alex.

"Bite me!"

"You wish!"

"Alright! As much as Jack and I would love to watch you two insulting each other, we have class to attend."

"What about that dance tonight, Will? Aren't you coming?", Joey asked again.

Will shook his head, "Nope! I have plans with..."

The rest of the sentence died on his lips at the same time someone yelled out Will's name, "Will…"

Will looked over his shoulder and suddenly released my hand, "You have got to be fucking kidding me right now...Jack, I'm sorry. I have to go..."

He looked like he was scared, "I'm sorry..."

Next thing I know Will is walking away. I see the man who said Will's name and he is walking fast too try to catch up with him, "Will, would you stop? Come on, son. I just wanna talk."

There was something about that man that I didn't like so I started to follow Will, ignoring Alex and Joey's protests. Will kept going, not looking back at the man, "I don't have time. I'm gonna be late for class."

Will briefly looked over his shoulder and saw me. He yelled at me, "Jack, you need to go. Now!"

His tone of voice frightened me and I felt the beginning of a panic attack happening. I didn't realize how long it's been since I had one. Alex was instantly next to me trying to comfort me. He also tried to get me to leave but I wasn't having any of it. I needed to be there for Will.

"Will, please...We need to talk about last night. You never came home and I was..."

The man grabbed Will's arm and turned him around.

"You never cared before, so why should you care now?"

Will looked extremely angry, "This should be good."

"That's not what I'm doing, Will. I'm just trying to make you see thing clearly."

"Are you serious right now?", He pulled his arm away from this man's grip, "I can see things very clearly."

"Oh really? Then why was that sick boy all over you then? Don't you care what others might think of you if they see you with him."

When those words came out of his mouth it hurt me, badly. I always struggled with the problems I go through and for someone to come along and make me feel like crap was new to me. Now Will looked pissed off, "Jack is not sick!"

"Well, he's not normal that's for sure. Look at him."

"Alex, get him out of here!", I was confused as to why he wanted me to leave but I wasn't going anywhere and Alex knew that.

"Will, I'm trying. He doesn't wanna leave you. He can see you're hurting", Alex said as he was trying to pull me way and I didn't like that. I cried out in frustration at being pulled away.

Will walked over to me, "Jack, you need to go with Alex. I'll be fine."

I didn't know I was crying until Will wiped away the tears, "Please..."

He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me into a hug. It felt so good to be in his arms again but that momentary feeling of being safe went out the window when the man suddenly freaked out, "Don't you touch my son you sick son of a bitch."

He pulled Will out of my arms and pushed me. Even though I had become more comfortable with touching people I still freaked out when, which I discovered was Will's father, put his hand on me shoved me. Will completely freaked out too, "Get your hands off of him."

His fist came up and connected with his dad's jaw, "Don't you ever lay another finger on him or you're gonna live to regret it."

I was shaking my head so fast and I had to get out of there fast so I took off down the hallway with Alex not that far behind me.

---

(Will's POV)

"Shit!", I hissed and looked over at my father, "What the hell is your problem?"

"I'm just doing what's best, son. People might get the wrong idea about you two", my dad said and looked

I could believe my dad just said that. Calling Jack a son of a bitch is really low, even for him to say, but saying that getting Jack away from me is the best thing to do, well, he's wrong. Jack's the best thing that's ever happened to me, "Oh? And what Idea might that be, hun dad? That I'm gay? What if I am dad? Would that bother you?", I screamed out and suddenly, everyone in the school turned their eyes over at the scene that was unfolding in the middle of the hallway.

"Will, lets not do this here. People are watching", my dad whispered looking embarrassed.

"Why not? Isn't this what you wanted, dad? For me to see things clearly?"

"What in the hell is that suppose to mean?", he asked and looked over at me with confusion in his eyes.

I took a deep breath before speaking , because what I was about to say next was not only a revelation. It was also the truth about myself. The truth that I've hidden for all these years. I'll admit that I'm scared to death now, because when I say those words to the world, there's no taking them back. I thought about what Chad said last night, how it was time for me to step up and be my own person and to prove to my dad once and for all that I'm not about to back away from his threats. Not this time. With my new found confidence, I open my mouth and tell my dad exactly what I've been wanting to tell him over and over for the last two years, "What it means is that I'm gay, dad. I'm gay and I feel in love with the most amazing person I've ever met, and there's nothing you or anyone else could ever do to change that about me."

I finally said it. I'm gay. Will Horton is gay and in love with someone. I wasn't expecting that last part to come out, but it did.

"Will, lets talk about this before you make any decisions based on your anger towards me."

"Not everything's about you, dad. You know what? Fuck you. I'm out of here", I said and left the school grounds and headed towards my car, feeling hurt, lost and heart-broken.

"Fuck!", I scream out banging my fists against the steering wheel of my car. I really messed things up this time, and it might have cost me the most importing thing that I have in my life, Jack...

I reached inside my glove compartment and found a bottle of alcohol and took it out and placed it on the seat next to me and left the school parking lot spiraling out of control. I had nothing left to lose...

---

(Alex's POV)

"Any luck?", Joey asked as he walked inside the unoccupied art room.

"I managed to calm him down, but he's just been sitting there looking out the window for the last fifteen minutes", I told Joey as we both watched Jack staring out the window looking broken.

"Will's dad is quite the douche bag. I can't believe the things he said about Jack", Joey admitted and took a seat next to Jackson.

"I know, he really scared Jack. Is Will alright? Where is he?"

"He left after the blow up with his dad", Joey informed me with a worried look on his face.

"What are you not telling me, Joey. Come on. Spill it!", I demanded to know what was going on.

"Well, things got heated between Will and his dad, then Will admitted to something in front of entire school", Joey said with a smirk.

"Joey? What did Will admit to?", I asked.

Joey hinted for me to get up and we walked away from Jack so he would hear what we were talking about, "Well, in his exact words, he said 'I'm gay and I feel in love with the most amazing person I've ever met, and there's nothing you or anyone else could ever do to change that about me', so I'm gonna take a wild guess here and say that he was talking about Jackson."

My jaw dropped, "Wow! Didn't expect that one so soon."

"I know, right! Isn't this great!", Joey said looking very excited, but I for one still had reservations about the whole idea of Will and Jackson having feelings for each other.

"Yeah, I guess...", was all I said.

"Well, don't look too happy about it, Alex", Joey pointed out.

"Joey, it's not that I'm against it or anything, it's just... It's just that I'm afraid that Will's not ready to admit his true feelings for Jack. He probably said that without thinking because he was angry."

"Yeah... Maybe you should go talk to him. I think he's gonna need a friend after this."

"I guess, but you said he left. Do you have any idea where he might have went?"

"No. Text him and find out."

I pulled out my phone and sent him a message.

- Will, it's Alex. We need to talk. Please let me know you're okay.

"So, what now? Do we stay here?", Joey asked because Jackson didn't look like he was up for class today. Not after what happened.

"I think it would be best if we took Jackson home for the rest of day so he can rest. He's had a rough morning."

"Okay, I'll call dad to come pick us up."

"Alright..."

I walked over to Jackson who looked worried, "Come on, buddy. Let's go home", I said trying to reassure my brother that everything's gonna be alright.

With that, Jackson go up from the chair and followed me out the class room and headed towards the front of the school for our father to pick us up.

---

(Will's POV)

After driving around for over an hour with no destination in mind, I ended up at the Falls. I sat in my car for a while reflecting on everything that's happened today with my dad and with Jack.

"I'm such a fucking screw up...", I said to myself as I cried silently for god knows how long, before reaching over and taking the bottle of alcohol in my hand and twisting the cap open and taking the first drink. I could feel the burn as the liquid fire slowly went down my throat, but the burn was nothing compared to the pain I felt for being such a disappointment to my father and for hurting Jack. Jack was so terrified when my dad pulled me away from him and It's all my fault. I should have made him leave before this happened, and now, I'll be lucky if Jack ever wants to see me again.

I lift up the bottle in the air and take a deep breath before saying, "Here's to you dad. Here's to screwing up my whole fucking life and the best thing that's ever happened to me. Cheers! Hope you're happy now", I say before leaning my head back and chugging down about half of the bottle in one shot. Now, I guess it's time to forget...

---

(Sonny's POV)

After Alex and Joey had calmed me down at school they ended up taking me home because they knew I just wouldn't be able to be around a bunch of people today. Once I got home I went to my room and isolated myself for awhile because I needed to calm myself down some more. It wasn't until a couple of hours later that I came out of my room and went to look for Alex. I wanted him to call Will and have him come over because I needed to see him. When I finally located him he was in the kitchen fixing himself a snack. Once I entered the kitchen Alex looked up at me and smiled, "Do you feel better?"

I nod my head as I walk around the little counter in the middle of the kitchen. I grabbed Alex's phone and looked for Will's number, "Jackson, what are you doing with my phone?"

When I finally found Will's name I turned the phone around so that Alex could read it. He looked at the screen and a smile formed on his lips, "Oh I see. You want me to call Will?"

I nod my head again and thrust the phone in his hand he chuckled as he dialed in the number. I was waiting patiently, hoping Will would answer but when Alex pulled the phone away from his ear without talking I knew that he didn't answer, "I am sorry Jackson but he didn't answer. Let me try again."

Another minute went by and Alex pulled the phone away from his ear again, "He still didn't answer."

I tried to not freak out but it wasn't working. What if Will's father did something to him or maybe Will thinks I don't want him anymore because I ran away earlier. The panicking was getting to be too much so I started to pace back and forth, "Jackson… Jackson I need you to remain calm. I am sure that he is fine and that he probably can't hear his phone. Let me call other people to see if I can find him."

We moved into the living room as Alex started to call around and I continued to pace. I wasn't really paying attention to what was going on around me, I just kept picturing horrible things in my head. It was another couple of hours later and there still wasn't any news from anyone. I know that Alex has called people multiple times but they still can't seem to find Will. Even though I was so wrapped up in my thoughts, I still noticed my dad coming in but I wasn't listening to what they were saying. I didn't thinking anything was going to get me out of this state I was in but then I heard the most wonderful news from Alex, "Dad, I think I know where Will is. Can I take the car?"

"Sure, but Alex? Where do you think he is?"

"I'm sorry, dad. I have to go, I'll explain things later. I have to get to Will before he does something he's gonna regret."

As Alex took the keys from our dad I ran to the door. I needed to go with him, I had to see Will right away but Alex started to protest, "Jack, I'm sorry, buddy, but you need to stay here."

All the pent up energy was too much and I started to cry. I really needed to see Will and Alex wasn't going to let me come with him.

"Ah, fuck!"

He looked guilty for telling me to stay but my dad's words made me so happy. Our dad tried pleading my case, "Alex, Jackson needs to know that Will's safe. Bring him along, he might even be able to help."

But Alex was still being stubborn, "Dad, I have no idea in what condition Will's gonna be in when we find him. I think it's better if Jackson stays here", He looked over at me, "Jack, I know how much you care about Will, but It's best if you wait here until we come back."

If he was going to be stubborn then so was I and I knew that I was going to win this because I am the master of being stubborn. So I grabbed my jacket and pulled it on, I was going with him whether he liked it or not.

"Fine, but you're staying in the car and believe me I'll put the child lock on the door if you try to get out before I say it's alright. Got it?" I nodded.

"I'll keep you posted dad. We gotta go. Come on Jackson."

We drove for about a half an hour before Alex turned on to a dirt road. I had no idea where we were going and I didn't care as long as I got to see Will again. As we were driving down the road I saw Will's car parked next to a gate. Alex pulled up and parked a few feet away from the car. He turned toward me and warned me again, "Wait here until I tell you, alright?"

I nod my head. Alex gets out of the car and walks over to Will's; he looked inside before he opened the door quickly. He was saying something but I couldn't hear him because I was in the car. Alex reached in and started to shake something, I am guessing it was Will's shoulder. So he must have fallen asleep out here, that made me feel a little better, especially after all the horrible thoughts I was thinking earlier. It took only a moment before Alex pulled a now awake Will out of his car. Will didn't really seem like himself from this distance but I guess you don't really look like yourself when you wake up. Alex pulled a bottle out of Will's hands and threw it across the road. Then Alex started to have an argument with Will. I wanted to get out but I knew that Alex would really put the child safety locks on like he said he would if I didn't listen to him. Next thing I know Alex pushes Will against his car and I really didn't like that but it seemed like Will didn't seem to mind. I almost ran out of the car when I saw Will fall to his knees but Alex was already there, pulling him into a hug and rocking him back and forth. After a few minutes of that Alex stood up bring Will with him and helped him walk to our car. I was confused as to why Will needed help walking but I just pushed that aside in favor of being excited that I get to hold Will again. They stopped at the side of the door when suddenly Will leaned over toward the ground and Alex started to rub circles on his back. So I guess Will must be sick right now and Alex ended up confirming my theory. He opened the car door and tried to explain Will's condition, "Jackson, Will's might be a little different for a few hours. Do you understand that?"

I was confused, why would he be different.

"Okay, so let me try to explain this again, buddy. Will's had a lot to drink and he's gonna be a little out of it for a short while. He's gonna need us to take care of him, okay? I don't want you to be scared. Will's gonna be just fine. He just needs to sleep it off."

Well taking care of Will is not a problem for me, I got out of the car quickly and came to the side Will was on. I reached out and grabbed Will's hand to help him in the car. When Will all safely buckled in I went to the other side and slide in the back seat next to Will. I slide over and pulled Will into my arms and held him. Alex looked at me through the rear view mirror, "You okay back there?"

I smiled and nodded because now I was feeling so much better have Will safely in my arms.

---

(Alex's POV)

I just got done calling Will's grand mothers house for the third time and no one has heard from him since this morning. I also called Chad and he hasn't spoken to Will since the drove to school together this morning. I couldn't help it, but I had a really bad feeling about all of this. Jackson kept walking around in circles and looking out the window every time he heard a car drive by. He was clearly worried about Will as much as I was.

"So, have you heard from Will yet?", my dad asked as he walking into the living room.

"No, nothing..."

"Should we notify the authorities and advise them that Will has gone missing?", my dad offered.

"No, I'll try calling his cell phone again. We'll wait a little longer and see if he shows up..."

It was starting to get dark out and I was getting worried about him. I explained everything that happened at school to my dad and he understood how Will must be feeling right now. My dad is a very supportive person, but when it came to hurting the people he cared about, his family, he would move heaven and earth to make things right for them. And with Will, my dad has already shown signs that he was ready to help him out as much as he could, so in a way I feel like Will is already part of this family and I'm more than okay with that.

I could see why Will might need sometime to himself after what happened today. To have his own father say things like that to you in front of the entire school must have been mortifying. Plus admitting to having feelings for Jack, well...Let's just say that a lot to take in all at once.

"Still nothing?"

"Dad, I'm worried. No one has heard from Will since this morning. He's been gone for over nine hours and Jackson is about ready to make me lose my fucking mind if he doesn't sit the hell down soon", I said pointing to Jackson who was pacing around in circles.

"Alex, watch your mouth!"

"I'm sorry...I'm just..."

"I know, son. Did you try calling his grand mother again?", he asked.

"Yes. I even called Chad. Dad, I'm worried about him."

"Well did Will every mention anything about a place he would go when he needed time to think?", me dad asked and something hit me. The Falls...

I remembered a conversation between me a Will a few weeks ago when I was explaining to him how Jack's Art was his safety place and I also remember that Will mentioned that when he needed time to think, he would go up to the Falls to clear his head, "Dad, I think I know where Will might be. Can I take the car?"

"Of course, but Alex? Where do you think he is?", he asked and waited for my explanation.

"I'm sorry, dad. I have to go, I'll explain things later. I have to get to Will before he does something stupid that he's gonna regret."

Just as I grabbed the keys out of my dad's hand, Jack came running towards the door, "Jack, I'm sorry, buddy, but you need to stay here", I tried explaining to him that he would be better off if he wasn't around when I find Will.

Jack started sobbing uncontrollably.

"Ah, fuck!", I said out loud before me dad interrupted.

"Alex, Jackson needs to know that Will's safe. Bring him along, he might even be able to help you."

"Dad, I have no idea in what condition Will's gonna be in when we find him. I think it's better if Jackson stays here", I said and then looked over at Jackson, "Jack, I know how much you care about Will, but It's best if you wait here until we come back."

Jackson disagreed and grabbed his Jacket off the coat rack and started putting it on. Stubborn!

"Fine, but you're staying in the car and believe me I'll put the child lock on the door if you try to get out before I say it's alright. got it?"

Jack nodded.

"I'll keep you posted dad. We gotta go. Come on Jackson."

About a half hour later, we arrived at the dirt road heading up to the Falls. I drive up the road a short distance and notice Will's car parked next the gate. I sigh in relief and turn over and warned Jackson once again about waiting in the car until I tell him that it's alright for him to come out. I just wanna make sure Will's aright before I let Jackson see him. I don't wanna scare the boy any more than he has been today, so I park the car a few feet away from Will's so Jackson can keep an eye on me while I go check out on Will, "Wait here until I tell you, alright?"

Jackson simply nodded as I got out to check up on Will. I walked over to his car and looked around and noticed he was passed out in the front seat. I opened the door in panic and saw Will laying there with his head back against the head rest with a bottle of hard liquor in his hand. The bottle was empty.

"Shit! Will, wake up, man", I asked hoping that he would open his eyes and answer me, but he didn't.

I started to panic but remembered Jack was waiting patiently in the car behind us, so I did my best to hide my worries so I wouldn't frighten Jack.

"Will, wake the fuck up", I hissed and started shaking him so he would wake up. Finally, Will moaned and started coming through.

"Alex? What are you doing here?", he asked, "How...how did you find me."

"It doesn't matter", I said as I pulled him out of the car, "What matters is that Jackson is with me and you need to pull your shit together before he sees you like this."

"Alex, wait. Why did you bring Jack with you?", Will asked as tried to stand straight, "I don't want him to see me like this."

"You and me both, buddy. Maybe you should have thought about that before getting yourself drunk. I tried to make him stay home, but for some reason, Jackson cares about your sorry ass", I admitted as I pulled to empty bottle out of Will's hand and threw it across the road, "What the fuck were you thinking getting drunk like this?", I asked hoping Will would finally open up to me.

"I'm a fucking idiot, Alex", Will started mumbling, "I let my dad hurt Jack. I'm no good for him."

"Will, your dad's an asshole and that's not your fault, but drinking yourself to a near death? That's all on you, buddy. Did you even think about Jack at all in this? What do you think would happen to him if he lost you?"

"He would get over me. I'm not good enough for him anyways. He deserves someone who doesn't let his own father treat him like some sick freak."

"Will? Are you even hearing yourself talking right now?", I asked angrily as I pushed Will against his car roughly, trying to knock some sense into him, "Jackson fucking loves you. He fucking worships the ground you walk on, you idiot! He doesn't care about what your dad says or what he thinks of him. All he cares about is you, Will. You, you stupid moron."

"I'm so sorry, Alex. I never meant to hurt Jack. He's just better off without me."

"Says who? Your dad? People like T.?"

"No, me. Just leave me alone!"

"Oh so that's it? You're just gonna go back to your old ways and run right back onto the closet and fuck every single whore at Salem High and drink yourself into a utterly mess to help you forget? Is that it?"

"Alex, it's not like that..."

"Then how is it? Tell me, Will. Tell me how it is", I asked, trying to get Will to admit to his true feelings for Jack. As much as I hate to do this, it's something that had to be done.

"I care about Jack..."

"Yeah, well you have a funny way of showing it! What we're you trying to prove? Was it your intention to make Jack fall in love with you and then leave us all to pick up the pieces?"

And that's when Will finally broke...

"I love him, Alex. I love him so much that it hurts", Will said and fell to his knees to the ground, "I love him so much..."

I lowered myself down to Will and wrapped my arms around him, "Shush...It's Okay. I know you love him, Will. I know...", I said as I rocked him back and forth in my arms.

"My dad...he...he hurt Jack...", he whispered.

"Everything's gonna be alright. Come on. Let's get you home", I said to Will as I pulled him up off the ground and walked him over to the car, "Just wait here a second, alright?"

"What about my car?"

"Don't worry about your car. I'll get my dad to drive me up here and get it later on. Right now we have to get you home."

"Alex?"

"What?"

"I think I'm gonna be sick", Will said just before he leaned over and started throwing up.

"Wonderful! Just perfect", I said as I rubbed circles around the drunken boys back, "You alright there?", I asked, hoping it wouldn't take him too long to get everything out of his stomach because we needed to head back home before my dad starts to worry about us.

"I'll need a minute", he said before he started up again.

"Okay, I'm just gonna tell Jack whats happening before we leave and text my father to let him know we're coming home. You wait out here and get some fresh air before we head back. I don't want you getting sick in my dad's the car."

I got in the car and looked at Jackson who was a little confused about what was going on, so I tried to explain it to him the best that I could, "Jackson, Will's might be a little different for a few hours. Do you understand that?"

Jackson looked confused.

"Okay, so let me try to explain this again, buddy. Will's had a lot to drink and he's gonna be a little out of it for a few hours. He's gonna need us to take care of him, okay? I don't want you to be scared. Will's gonna be just fine. He just needs to sleep it off."

Jackson got out of the car and walked over to where Will was standing. I watched him as I reached out and took Will's hand and help him get into the car. My little brother amazes me sometimes. Even without words, he always knows what to do to make things better. He waited for Will to be safely buckled up before closing the car door and making his way around to the other side where he got in and sat next to Will and pulled him into his arms and held him closely.

I smiled at the sight and started the engine, "You okay back there?", I asked and waited to get the okay from Jackson before leaving. Jackson smiled and gave me a nod.

---

(Will's POV)

I don't remember much of anything before Alex found me in my car at The Falls, but the taste of sick and alcohol that's in my mouth quickly reminded me that I must have done something stupid and careless yet again.

"Alright, we're home", I heard Alex saying to someone before the car stopped.

Suddenly, I felt someone shift me over to the side and tried helping me out of the car, "Jack...", I tried saying, but I went in and out of consciousness before I was able to finish what I wanted to say.

"Alright, buddy. Time for bed", I remember Alex saying as he tried to help me stand up, "Jack, could you get the door? And get Joey. I'm gonna need some help getting him up the stairs."

From there on out, I only remember little bits and pieces of what happened. I don't recalled how I got upstairs or how I got into Jack's bedroom for that matter, but what I do recall is a warm pair of arms holding on to me and making me feel like everything is gonna be okay. I felt safe. There's only on person who can make me feel this way...

I open my eyes only to find Jack looking down at me with caring eyes, "Jack...", I whisper as I try to lift myself up off the bed, but fail miserably as my intoxicated state is getting the best of me, "I'm sorry...", was all I managed to say before I heard the bedroom door open.

"How's he holding up?", I heard Alex asking as he came into the room.

I felt Jack move over to the side showing Alex that I was awake.

I could barely able to keep my eyes open, but I tried my hardest to stay awake and to offer my thanks to Alex and his family for everything they've done for me, "Alex...", I tried saying, but the words never left my mouth. Alex knew what I was trying to say.

"Don't mention it buddy, now try to get some sleep. We can talk about this some other time. Jackson here is gonna take care of you tonight. If you need anything, I'm just across the hall", Alex mentioned and left the room closing the door behind him.

I pull myself away from Jack so I could look up at his face. My beautiful angel was once again looking at me with so much love in his eyes that I could feel it regardless of him never saying those words to me directly, "Jack...I...I love..." was the last thing I remember saying before everything when blank again.

I slowly tried to open my eyes, but the glaring light beaming from the bedroom window forced me to close them again. So I waited.

Still unable to focus on my surroundings, I laid there silently. Then suddenly, I felt soft breeze whispers over my skin, and the memories of last night came rushing back to me, "Jack..."

I opened my eyes and murmured out his name adoringly. The sound of my beautiful angel breathing and the sight of him sleeping comfortably in my arms stirred my soul. Holding him, being this close to him ignited feelings in me I've never felt before. I felt joy, contentedness and longing. I felt fiercely protective; I wanted to just stay here and forget the cruelness of the real world. Because we will be judged harshly, that I know for sure. For the first time in my life I felt aware of who I wanted to be; I felt strong and proud of who I was becoming, and yet not many people outside of this household would see it that way.

Jack's eyes fluttered open and met my gaze. He smiled, snuggled in close and laid his head against my chest for warmth. I felt him shivering; my beautiful Jack was cold. I searched the room for a blanket. There was not one to be found, it was just me left to keep him warm. Not that I minded that at all; I just wasn't sure how effective I would be at providing enough heat to stop him from trembling. Taking his hand slowly, I placed it around my waist and pulled him in closer, embracing him properly, fully, completely. He let me take him in; he felt safe in my arms. And thanks to Jack, I finally knew what it was like to feel safe in someone's arms. I will never forget the first time I felt that last night, "Good Morning sunshine", I whispered softly before placing a few soft kisses on his forehead.

He pushed himself back slightly, looked up at me with those gorgeous brown eyes and smiled. I couldn't help but smile back. We were happy even if we were still a little chilly. We had shared so much last night. I had never before felt the intense magnetism that I felt whenever I was around Jack. I could never be kept away. Even without words, Jack's shown me things that cannot be seen with your eyes. We communicated so clearly now without one word having been spoken. It was about touch and connection and sensation. And with Jack, I felt those things so strongly. And I know that he felt them too. This was something that we now shared together. It was ours and ours alone and nothing or no one could ever take that away from us. If you asked me what it was, and if I was being completely honest, than I would tell you that it was love. That was the only possible way I could explain the magnitude of my feelings.

He pulled his arms out from underneath mine and reached out for my hand, lacing our fingers together perfectly. Despite this new-found assurance I felt about what he meant to me, I still was unable to summon enough courage to say what I've wanted to for the last few days.

"I'm sorry...", was all I could manage to say before Jack laid his finger over my lips to stop me. He gave me a sympathetic look and shook his head in disagreement. He was telling me to stop talking. So, I did; I said nothing, and then suddenly Jack left me, "Don't go..."

I missed him already. Then I saw him walk to his closet and pull out a blanket. Bringing it over, he grinned, handing it proudly to me.

"I'm fine Jack, really. I don't need a blanket to keep warm...all I need is you", I claimed stubbornly, reaching out and grabbing his hand, pulling him back towards me, "Please...lay with me my sunshine...", I pleaded with him, craving his nearness once again. Without hesitation, Jack crawled back in bed next to me. Before he completely laid himself down though, he took the blanket that he had found in his closet, covered us both and then cuddled up close.

"Okay, you're right, that does feel better."

I didn't have to see him to know that he was smiling; I felt it against my chest, "Thank you, Jack. Thank you so very much", I said softly, and then I closed my eyes and effortlessly fell back asleep and dream about Jack...

Will's dream...

I was sitting on Jack's couch in his living room. The movie had long went off. I wanted to tell him things I wasn't able to tell him the night before. I wanted to tell him how I felt about him, but I can't do that in real life. He doesn't feel the same way I feel. I play in his hair. I sigh and smile, "You're amazing" I whisper.

"Jack", I say as I continue running my hands through his hair, "What I wouldn't give to kiss your precious lips", I said.

I run my hand slowly down his neck and rest it on his shoulder.
"I can't believe that in such a small amount of time you have made me feel something that I didn't think I could feel."

I'm startled out of that when he shifts and turns his head further into my stomach. I hold my breath, him being this close to me is tearing me apart inside. I take a slow, ragged breath and release it.

"I think I could be falling in love with you Jack."

I run my hand over his shoulder and back down his arm. I close my eyes and relish in the fact that I'm this close to him. Even if it's in a dream, we're here, together. I smile.

"I don't think Jack," I whisper, "I know that I'm in love with you."

Jack turns over and I see his eyes are opened. I freeze.

"Jack? You're awake buddy?" I ask, hoping he didn't hear what I just said, "Are you ok?", I ask.

He nods his head slowly, eyes still wide open, "You just heard what I said didn't you buddy?" Jack nods his head again and my heart sinks, "I'm sorry buddy, I thought you were asleep", I whispered out, scared Jack is about to bolt off of my lap and head for his bedroom, his safety place.

Jack sits up and turns to face me. His hands cup my face and I close my eyes, relishing in the feel of his hands on me.
"Will", I hear.

I snap my eyes open quickly, it sounded like he said my name.

"Will" I hear it again. It's not my imagination, he's saying my name. I laugh, "Yes, yes, Jack. It's Will. You said my name?!"

I half shout and half cry. He nods his head and I am crying so hard right now. He wipes a tear away with his thumb.

"Will...", he said again. It's all he can get out, but it's enough for me. I lean in and we tenderly kiss. The feel of his lips on mine sends shivers down my spine. I slowly back away when the kiss ends and whisper, "I love you Jack, I just love you so much..."

He smiles and says, "Will..." It's all he can say, but I know the emotions behind it.

End of Will's dream...

"Will, wake up man", I hear someone calling out my name repeatedly. Only, it's not the voice of my dream, it isn't Jack. It's...

"Joey? What the hell, man? Can't you see that I'm trying to sleep?", I say angrily for interrupting my dream about Jack.

"Alex is making us breakfast. I just thought you might like some. Sorry...", he apologizes and starts to leave.

I can smell the aroma of burnt toast and bacon. I open my eyes and look over notice that Jack's gone. I look over at the clock to check the time and I see that's it's a quarter pass noon so I realize that he must already be down stairs eating.

"Shit! Joey, wait! I'm sorry...I...I've had a rough night", I try explaining, feel bad for the way I just talked to him. They have done so much for me and what do I do? I treat him like crap. Idiot!

"I know...Alex told me about it. Look, I'm not one talk, but I...I just want you to know that I'm here for you if you ever want to talk about it", he offers, "We're all here."

"Thank you...I'll be down in a few minutes", I advise him and he leaves the room.

I lay still for a few minutes before getting up because my head feels like it's about to explode. One of the many side effects of my careless drinking from last night. I head over to the bathroom to splash some cold water on my face to help me wake up, before heading down stairs to face the rest of the Kiriakis clan in shame.

"Good morning sleepy head", Alex says as I walk inside the kitchen with my head leaning down shamefully, "Hungry?"

"Yeah, a little", I admit and grab a seat next to Jack who was enjoying his breakfast. Jack looked over at me and we both smile at each other briefly before I notice Mr. Kiriakis was sitting there smiling.

"Good morning, Will. Did you sleep well?", he asked as he took a drink of his coffee.

"Yes, thank you", I answered without being able to look him in the eyes.

"So, how are things this morning?"

I smile inwardly at the question and look over at Jack who's finishing up his last mouthful of eggs. I lay my hand on the table with my palm upwards and slowly wiggled my fingers hoping that Jack would notice my gesture. And he does...

Jack drops his fork and laces his fingers together with mine, "Things are wonderful now", I answer, never once taking my eyes away from Jack.

I can see Mr. Kiriakis staring at our fingers that are perfectly tangled together. He smiled and nodded in approval, "Well, I'm glad to hear that", Mr. Kiriakis say before Alex interrupts.

"Coffee?", Alex offered while placing a plate full of food and black cup of Joe in front of me before he leaned in closer and whispered something in my ear, "You look like you're gonna need it!"

"Tell me about it!", I agreed with a half-smile, "Thanks..."

"Do you need some aspirin?", he asked, but I assume he already knew that answer to that question as he walked over to the cupboard and took out a bottle and handed it over to me.

"Thank you", I said and grabbed the bottle out of Alex's hand and took two pills out and chugged them down both at once with a drink of coffee, "Look, about last night...", I started explaining as the guilt of my previous behavior started settling in, "I didn't mean to cause any of you...", but I was suddenly cut off my Mr. Kiriakis.

"Will, you don't have to apologize", Mr. Kiriakis said and continued, "Anytime you need someone to talk to or a place to clear your head, you're more than welcome in our home."

"Mr. Kiriakis, I don't know what to say...", I said feeling overwhelmingly grateful for everything that this family has done for me, "If there's ever anything I can do...", I offered, but the older Kiriakis stopped me before I could say another word.

"Just keep doing what you're doing, son. You've done so much for our family, for Jack... I've never seen Jack looking so happy. I honestly don't know what we would have done if you hadn't come into our lives", he said and I could see the tears forming in the corner of his eyes.

"I don't know what I would have done with out him either...", I admitted and looked over at Jack.

"Well, I'm glad you feel that way, Will. Jackson's an amazing young man if I do say so myself."

Alright, this might not be the best time to bring this up, but I couldn't put it off any longer. If I wanted to be with Jack, I knew that I would have to eventually ask for Mr. Kiriakis's approval. Now was as perfect time as ever to do just that, "He sure is, which reminds me...Mr. Kiriakis? There is something that I've been meaning to ask you."

The older man cleared his throat before speaking, "Sure, Will. Go ahead."

"Would it be alright if I took Jack out later? Like a date?", I asked and swallowed hard, feeling the nerves setting in as I patiently waited for his answer.

Alex spit out his mouth full of coffee when he heard me asking Mr. Kiriakis if I could date Jack, "Sorry, I wasn't prepared to hear that, Will", Alex admited as he wipeed up the mess he made on table with a dish cloth.

"Well, if you ask me, It's about time you...", Joey tried saying but was quickly cut off by everyone in the room.

"We didn't ask!", we all said in unison and started laughing out loud.

"What? I was just saying", he pointed out as left the table looking annoyed.

After a few seconds, I turned my attention back over to Mr. Kiriakis who was looking over at Jack and smiling, "Well, I don't see any problem with you dating my son as long as Jack agrees to it."

"Yes!", Joey said pumping his fists up in the air and looked over at Alex to see what his reaction was, "What? Can't a bother be excited?"

"You're such a dork, Joey", Alex said to him and the two started teasing each other like they always do.

"Thank you so much, Mr. Kiriakis."

"Oh, please. Call me Justin", he insisted.

"Okay, I will", I said to the older Kiriakis and turned my undivided attention over to Jack who was smiling hard and nodding his head in agreement, "Aren't you even gonna wait and see where I wanna take you before answering?", I asked Jack and smiled at his eagerness to accept the invitation regardless of what I have planned.

"Alright, Boys. Let's give these two some privacy. I think they have a lot to talk about", Mr. Kiriakis spoke up and got up from his chair and cleared his plate from the table and headed towards the sink. Joey was the first on to leave the room followed by Alex who winked at he as he passed by.

Mr. Kiriakis finished off the few remaining dishes and wiped off his hands before asking, "Should I expect you boys back for dinner tonight?"

"Yes, if that's alright. I would like that very much. I promise that I wont keep Jack out to late."

"That's sounds like a good deal. So, I guess I'll see you boys later. Have fun", he said before left the room and headed towards the living room.

I waited for a few minutes and made sure that no one was around before properly asking Jack out. It's something that I've been wanting to do for so long and afraid to screw this up. I wanna make this perfect for him, for his first date that is, "Oh God!", I think to myself as I get ready to ask him on our first date, "So, Jack...", I start off with before turning myself towards him, "Would you, I don't know maybe wanna go out with me? You know, like a date or something? Maybe we could take a walk through Horton Town Square?", I ask and let out a deep sigh, feeling anxious and nervous to say the least.

Jack nods his head once and smiles.

"Yes!", I scream out in excitement causing Jack to giggle loudly, "What? I'm excited. Can't you see?"

He blushes hard and shyly hides his face away from me, "Don't you dare hide those beautiful eyes away from me", I say as I reach over and lift up his chin connecting our eyes together once again, "You ready?"

Jack smiles before shaking his head in agreement.

---

(Jack's POV)

Joey told me that he was going upstairs to wake Will up because it was time for breakfast. I wasn't very happy about that because I knew Will was tired and he needed his rest but I also couldn't wait to see Will again so I started eating my breakfast and waited for Will to come down.

"Good morning sleepy head. Hungry?"

I looked over and saw Will walking into the kitchen. I smile inwardly and tried very hard to hide the fact that I was so happy that he spent the night here with me.

"Yeah, a little."

Will came and took a seat next to me. I looked over at him and noticed he was also looking at me. I smiled at him and continued on with my meal. I didn't really pay attention to what my dad and Will were talking about and to honest it really didn't matter because the only thing I could think about was now was how happy I am. I took my last bit of eggs when I saw that Will had his hand place face upwards on the table and he was wiggling his fingers. I almost laughed because it was usually me asking for Will to hold my hand and this time it was him. So, I dropped my fork on my plate and laced my fingers with Will.

"Things are wonderful now."

I could stop looking at Will when he said those words. It made me feel like I was the reason he was feeling better and I'm very happy about that. Then everyone started getting serious around the table and my dad was staring at mine and Will's hands. That was really making me uncomfortable because I liked holding Will's hand and I was almost afraid that my dad would tell me that I wouldn't be able to anymore but then I listened in on the conversation and found that my dad was just telling Will that I was really happy now that I have Will in my life.

"Just keep doing what you're doing, son. You've done so much for our family, for Jack... I've never seen Jack looking so happy. I honestly don't know what we would have done if you hadn't come into our lives."

Then Will smiled, "I don't know what I would have done with out him either."

My heart swelled when I heard him say that. It made me even happier to know he felt the same way that I did but then Will asked something to my dad and I almost passed out. I could even believe it.

"Would it be alright if I took Jack out later? Like on a date?"

Will looked so nervous. I almost laughed when I looked over and saw that Alex had spit up his coffee all over the table. Will then looked over at my dad to see what he was going to say.

"Well, I don't see any problem with you dating my son as long as Jack agrees to it."

Will looked over at me with loving eyes and then turned over to my dad, "Thank you so much, Mr. Kiriakis."

I was so happy that Will wanted to take me out on a date and that my dad agreed that I could go, that I started shaking my head nodding yes and that made Will chuckle.

"Aren't you even gonna wait and see where I wanna take you before answering?"

I didn't know what else to do but nod my head. I was so excited to go out on my first date that it didn't really matter what we would do as long as I was with Will and for me that was all that mattered.

"Alright, Boys. Let's give these two some privacy. I think they have a lot to talk about"

Suddenly, everyone left the kitchen when my dad asked them to leave Will and me alone so we could talk. My dad asked Will if we would be back for dinner and Will said yes and told my dad that we would be out to late. When everyone was out of sight I notice Will was almost freaking out. "Oh God!", Will said and looked nervous when he turn over towards me, "So, Jack...Would you, I don't know maybe wanna go out with me? You know, like a date or something? Maybe we could take a walk through Horton Town Square?"

I nodded my head and smiled because that was all I could do right now.

"Yes!"

Will made me laugh when I saw how excited he was when I agreed to go on a date with him, "What? I'm excited. Can't you see?"

That made me blush so hard that I could feel my face getting warmer so I tried hiding my face so that Will wouldn't think that I was dumb for feeling this way.

"Don't you dare hide those beautiful eyes away from me."

Will lifted up my chin so he could see my eyes.

"You ready?"

I smiled again and nodded once to let him know I was ready to go.

---

(Will's POV)

It didn't really matter what we decided to do just as long as we were doing it together. So, I opted for something simple and took Jack out for a walk through Horton Town Square. We walked together through the square with fingers laced perfectly together. Jack never stopped smiling once since we left his house and I could see he was enjoying our little outing. I knew that Jack never went on a date before, and that he didn't really have no expectations about the date itself, but I for one did. I wanted Jack's first date to be special and something that he would never forget. We came to a stop in the middle of the square when I saw a little ice cream shop on the corner when I had an idea. I knew how much Jack loved ice cream and what better way to start our date by treating my Jack to a sweet frozen delight.

"You see that shop over there?", I asked Jack and pointed to the giant ice cream come sign above the doorway.

Jack smiled.

"Would you like go inside and have an ice cream?", I asked. Jack nodded saying yes. We walked across the square over to the shop where I held the door open for Jack, cause it's the proper thing to do when you're on a date.

He stopped for a moment, not knowing what to do. I motioned for him to enter the store and with a confused look on his face, he passed in front of me and into the small shop. He looked around and slowly took a few cautious steps and then reached for me. I smiled and took his right hand in mine and lead him to the counter. There were so many different flavors and I wasn't sure what Jack would want, so I busied myself with the many enticing brown buckets full of the frozen ice cream.

"Jack, do you know what flavor you want?", I ask as I look into his beautiful chocolate eyes. He nodded and pointed through the glass.

"Cotton candy?", I ask, he shakes his head "no", and points again.

I look at what he's pointing at and I can't help but to chuckle.

"You want chocolate don't you?"

Jack smiled from ear to ear and nodded his "Yes."

"Do you want a cone or a cup?", I asked and Jack pointed over to the cone.

I turn to the cashier and say, "May I have one chocolate and one rocky road cone please?"

Jack reached into his pocket to grab his wallet. I shook my head, "This is a date Jack. I'm paying for us."

He looked at me with confusion and furrowed his brows.

"Jack, on a date, the guy usually pays for the girl. But, since there's not a girl on this date, I'm paying because I asked you out. It's all on me Jack, don't worry about money."

Jack takes his cone from the older man at the register and turns to me. He licks a little bit from the top of the cone and I swallow slowly. His tongue rolling around that little ball of frozen milk sends shivers down my spine. I shake my head, "You ready to go to the park? There's an hour between now and the movie, so I had a friend set up a picnic there for us."

He nods "yes", and we head for the door. He stops and grabs my hand and smiled up at me one more time. If he only knew what those smiles did to me. We were walking towards the park entrance when I hear Chad calling my name. He jogged slowly over to us and slapped Jack on the back as he shook my hand and chest bumped me. Jack didn't look amused at the contact, "Jack, it's okay. Chad's just my friend."

Chad smiled a knowing smile and took a step back to ease Jack's worry.

"The blanket and food's set up. Also, that little present is in the basket", he said with a sly wink, "Have fun you two, don't do anything I wouldn't do!"

I snicker, "There's NOTHING you wouldn't do", I retort.

He winks at Jack and replies with, "I know" and jogs off.

I lead Jack slowly to the blanket and we sit down. When I look at him to ask what drink he would like, I noticed he had ice cream all over his mouth. I smile and slowly bring my hand up to his mouth. He jerks back, startled at my intimate touch, "It's okay Jack, you have some ice cream on your face. I am just going to wipe it off. Is that ok, Jack?", I ask, trying not to sound too seducing.

He, with wide unsure eyes, nods "Yes."

"Thank you", I say and raise a slow finger to his lips.

I rub my finger along the length of his pink lips and linger there a bit longer than what was necessary. Then, I wipe the ice cream off. I smile and bring the ice cream covered finger to my lips and lick it off, "You have good taste in ice cream Jack", I say with his wonder filled eyes never leaving my face.

My body is reacting to the closeness and I have to adjust my sitting arrangement. I open up the picnic basket and grab out a bottle of water and a Coke, "Which would you like?", I ask.

Jack grabs the Coke and smiles like a child in a candy store, "It's your favorite, I know. Alex told me."

I smile in delight.

He opens the bottle and takes a long drink and puts the lid back on. "Do you want PB&J or ham and cheese?", I ask, also holding up the two sandwiches.

He laughs and grabs the PB&J.

"Also, found that out from Alex. You must have a great brother huh?", I ask.

Jack feverishly nods his head in acknowledgement.

"Okay, so I brought you a gift. Well technically, Chad bought the gift, but it's from me. Wanna see it?", I ask dangling a medium-sized red bag in front of his face.

He grabs the bag before I could move it out of his reach and tears the tissue paper, rushing to see what could be in the bag. He looks at the bag, then back up at me and slowly brings out his present. It's like he's afraid he'd hurt it. His eyes went from the item to me, then back to the item, then back to me, "Remember that day in art, where you helped me draw?",I started to say.

Jack nodded his head "Yes."

I took a deep breath, "Well, I have worked with Mr. Mayes, and he has shown me some cool techniques with charcoal. It's taken me a few days to get this right, but I hope you like it."

Tears started to fall from his face, he pulled the framed picture to his chest and hugged it tight. His eyes closed and then he opened his mouth as if to say something, but as always, nothing came out. Frustrated at the lack of sound coming out of his mouth, he stood up and ran towards Horton Town Square.

"Jack!", I yelled as I ran after him, "Jack buddy, wait, I didn't mean to upset you!"

After a few tense moments of worry, I finally found Jack. He was standing in Horton Town Square, with the framed picture of himself I drew of him. I saw that he was angry that he was unable to tell me what was wrong. I slowly walked up to Jack and laid my hand on Jack's shoulder, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you", I said.

Jack turned around and buried his head into my chest, bringing his arms tight around my chest. He shook his head over and over but I have no idea why. Finally, his tears subsided and he relaxed into my's hold.

---

(Sonny's POV)

I had never been on a date before and I was so excited about finally doing this with Will. It seemed like my plan was working really well and I knew that in no time Will was going to finally confess his love for me. The thought was making me smile the entire time that we were walking through Horton Town Square holding hands. The walking was really nice but I wasn't sure if I should be doing something right now. I was really thinking this over when Will suddenly stopped walking.

He pointed somewhere and I followed it until my eyes landed on an ice cream shop, "You see that shop over there?"

I smiled, I could see where this was going.

"Would you like to go inside and have an ice cream?"

I nodded my head vigorously, I could never turn down ice cream. We started to walk toward the shop and once we arrived Will opened the door for me. I was confused, it's not like I don't know how to open the door because I know how too and Will knew this. I stopped not know what to do but Will waved his hand, indicating that I walk through the door. Confusion was still on my face as I walked into the shop.

I hesitantly stepped into the shop before I reached for Will, I needed to feel his hand on mine. We went over to the counter and looked at all of the different flavors, there were so many of them that it was harder to choose but after a few seconds of looking at them I knew what I wanted. Will looked to me, "Jack, do you know what flavor you want?"

I nodded my head and pointed to the chocolate ice cream, yeah I know it's lame just getting chocolate when there are so many different flavors here. Will looked to where I was pointing, "Cotton candy?"

I shake my head and point again. He looks again and chuckles, "You want chocolate don't you?"

Smiling as I nodded my head, "Do you want a cone or a cup?"

When I pointed to the cone Will turns to the cashier, "May I have one chocolate and one rocky road cone please?"

I reached into my pocket to pull out my wallet, I knew I had enough money to pay for my cone but Will stopped me by shaking his head, "This is a date Jack. I'm paying for us."

I hated when I felt confused but it was inevitable. Will tried to explain, "Jack, on a date, the guy usually pays for the girl. But, since there's not a girl on this date, I'm paying because I asked you out. It's all on me Jack, don't worry about money."

Oh okay, that's fine with me. So I grab my cone from the cashier and I turn towards Will. I lick a little off the top of the cone and along the sides because it's starting to drip a little. Suddenly Will shakes his head before looking at me, "You ready to go to the park? There's an hour between now and the movie, so I had a friend set up a picnic there for us."

I love picnics so I nodded my head yes and we head for the park. Before we got to far I stopped and grabbed Will's hand because I really loved holding his hand.

As we approached the park I heard someone call Will's name, when I saw who it was I realized it was Will's friend Chad. He was jogging up to us, he patted me on the back as he greeted Will with a hand shake and a chest bump.

Suddenly I felt something unpleasant spring up inside me with is saw that. I didn't exactly knew what it was but I had my suspicions. Will must have seen my reaction because he tried to calm me down, "Jack, it's okay. Chad's just my friend."

Chad smiled, like he knew what I was feeling, and stepped back, "The blanket and food's set up. Also, that little present is in the basket."

He winked at us, "Have fun you two, don't do anything I wouldn't do!"

Will smiles, "There's NOTHING you wouldn't do."

Chad then turns to me and winks, "I know."

Before he jogs off.

We walk slowly to the blanket that Chad had set up and we sat down. Will looks at me and smiles before he brings his hand up to my mouth. I flinch back, not expecting him to do that, "It's okay Jack, you have some ice cream on your face. I am just going to wipe it off. Is that okay, Jack?"

I nodded my head, unsure that he is telling the truth.

"Thank you."

He lifts his finger slowly to my lips, he runs a finger along me lips for a long period of time before he pulls his finger back. He smiles as he brings his finger up to his mouth and licks off the remaining ice cream that had previously been on my lips, "You have good taste in ice cream, Jack."

We were looking into each other's eyes for a while before he shifted a little and then opens the picnic basket. He pulls out a bottle of water and a Coke, "Which would you like?"

Since I absolutely love Coke I grabbed it and smile, "It's your favorite, I know. Alex told me."

I take a quick drink before I put the lid back on and focus back on Will and the picnic.

"Do you want PB&J or ham and cheese?"

Will holds up two sandwiches and I grab the PB&J and laugh.

"Also found that out from Alex. You must have a great brother huh?"

I nod my head in agreement.

Will pulls out one more thing and waves it in front of my face, "Okay, so I brought you a gift. Wanna see it?"

I have played this game many times with my brothers so I was really fast when I snatched the gift from Will's hand before he had a chance to pull it way from me. I tear out the tissue fast and when it's all out I stare into the bag with shock it was a drawing of me. I look up at Will as I brought the gift out. My eyes went from the picture to Will and then back.

"Remember that day in art, where you helped me draw?"

I nodded my head.

He took a deep breath, "Well, I have worked with Mr. Mayes, and he has shown me some cool techniques with charcoal. It's taken me a few days to get this right, but I hope you like it."

I pulled to my chest as tears started to fall from the corners of my eyes. Will took time to learn how to draw so that he could make a picture of me. That makes me feel so loved and like he really cares for me. I closed my eyes and open my mouth hoping words would come to me but they weren't coming. Why was it when I didn't want them to come they did but when I do they go into hiding. This was so frustrating, I stood up and ran toward Horton Town Square.
I could hear Will yelling my name behind me, "Jack! Jack buddy, wait, I didn't mean to upset you?"

I ran a little fast until Will couldn't see me and when I had reached the middle of the Horton Town Square and stopped. Hugging the picture Will gave me I let the tear flow freely. I was feeling a mixture of emotions, I was frustrated because it couldn't express with words to Will just how much his gift meant to me. But I was so touched that Will took the time to learn how to draw so he could make me a picture.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you."

He didn't upset me but of course I can't seem to tell him that. I turned around and buried my head into Will's chest. Hoping he would understand that I wasn't upset with him. I shook my head back and forth continuously. I cried for a few more seconds because the tears stopped and I relaxed into Will's hold.

---

(Will's POV)

Jack tightened his grip around me and melted into my arms. He nestled his head into the warmth of my neck and pressed his chest and hips against mine, molding our bodies perfectly together as one. The intensity of Jack's touch overwhelmed me, and I shuddered in response. What surprised me most, but really shouldn't, is how safe I felt in his arms. This sweet, misunderstood person who was fearful of so much in this world, made me feel safe. Safer than I've felt in a long time. Safe from the hurt and pain I endured to get to this point in my life. Suddenly with astonishing clarity, I recognized that I was ready to admit my feelings for him...for Jack, that is...

My hands gently moved up his body starting from the small of his back and inching their way up until I found the tender skin of neck. I couldn't help myself from stretching my fingers up just slightly to comb through his thick, dark hair. Was this too much? I held my breath waiting for his reaction. Then slowly, but without hesitation, Jack lifted his gaze to mine, connecting his perfect chocolate-brown eyes to my ocean blue ones. We stared at each other intently and sighed at the comfort we felt in each other s arms.

"You're so beautiful, Jack", I whispered softly as I brought one hand forward to cup his face. My thumb brushed over his cheek, and I was astounded by the delicateness and smoothness of his skin, "So beautiful", I murmured to him again, causing the perfect blush of his cheeks to deepen to a darker crimson. He wasn t used to hearing compliments like that, which actually made me very sad. Because he was one of the most incredibly gorgeous people - both inside and out that I had ever met.

Jack closed his eyes momentarily before placing his hand over mine, pressing his cheek further into the palm of my hand as if he couldn't get close enough. He softly moaned as I traced the edge of his lips with my fingers, leaving Jack s mouth slightly open and both of us gasping for air.

The sight of the young man standing before me with his perfect lips begging to be kissed was enough to cause my body to react in a way I wasn't sure Jack would understand. Heck, I wasn't even sure I understood completely the gravity of my desires. The last thing I wanted to do was frighten him, so I tried my best to hide those feelings, to push them aside for the time being. But despite my attempts to mask them, my attraction to this young man, who's captured my heart completely, was far too strong to resist. I was powerless and utterly at his mercy.

"Jack...", was all I could choke out shakily. I was so nervous that I was going to scare him away, and my fear was quickly making it harder and harder for me to breathe. I couldn't stop imagining how his lips would feel against mine. And then just when I had made the impossible decision to tear myself away, Jack reached down, placed both of his hands firmly around my waist and pulled me in flush to his body. I whimpered in surrender and let myself fully experience what it felt like to be that close to Jack. My beautiful Jack.

I could feel the warmth of his breath crashing softly against my skin with each breath that he took. It was warm, tender, and inviting as I reached over and placed my left hand on the side of his face and I leaned in a few inches closer. My heart started racing, beating twice as fast as it did the first time I saw him as the thought of what I was about to do came flooding through my mind. But first I had to know. I couldn't just assume from our closeness that I meant as much to him as he did to me.

"Jack?", I questioned backing away from him with regret, "Jack, please, I need you to look up at me."

He raised those incredibly piercing brown eyes and met mine with astonishing confidence, "Will", he whispered, and this time I heard it; there was no question that I had heard him say my name.

Tears sprung to my eyes; I never realized that hearing Jack say my name would have that kind of effect on me.

"Did you just...oh my gosh...", I couldn't even put together a coherent sentence. Jack just smiled at me never breaking eye contact, "Jack, I need to ask you something, and I need you to be completely honest with me, do you understand?"

He nodded.

I took a deep breath and gathered my thoughts as quickly and as neatly as possibly, "Do you remember the girl and the boy you were watching out the window the other day after class? The two were kissing and holding each other?"

Once again he nodded.

"They did that because they like each other...they have feelings for the other that are stronger than friendship, do you understand what that means?"

"Yes", he murmured in response, and I was again taken aback by how intoxicating it felt to hear Jack actually talk to me.

"Wow, I love hearing you talk...to say my name."

Jack just kept his gaze focused intensely on me, "Well, Jack what I want to say...what I need to say is...what I've been wanting to tell you is that I care about you, uhm...the same way that girl and boy care about each other."

Jack looked a little surprised and confused. Okay, I wasn't being clear enough. I guessed I was going to have to be as blunt about this as possible, without scaring him or making him feel badly about his feelings one way or the other. I took a deep breath and just said it, "Jack, what that means is that I want to kiss you the way that couple kissed each other", and now for the hardest part, "Is that something you might want to do with me too? Jack, do you have those same feelings for me?"

This time I saw no uncertainty, no confusion in his expression. All I saw was calmness, maybe it was relief? And I wasn't sure what would happen next.

I watched as Jack closed his eyes for a moment. Then at the same time he opened them back up, the most wonderful, beautiful smile spread across his face. He reached to take one of my hands, which were now resting at his sides, and lifted it and placed it over the middle of his chest. I immediately felt how quickly his heart was beating; mine was going at the same breakneck speed. Did this mean what I thought it meant?

"Yes", he repeated and then lifted his fingers to my mouth. Slowly he started tracing the curves and corners of my lips, "Yes, Will. Kiss me."

I took a stuttered breath in and my whole body started tingling as if my every nerve was exposed.

"Now Will", I cheered myself on silently and started to dip my head down towards his. At the same time, he moved his face closer and our lips met hard and quick. The kiss wasn't bad, but it wasn't all that great either. It's not what I wanted for our first kiss. So, I brought my hands up to his face, softly ran my fingertips across his cheeks and then gently pressed his eyelids over his eyes. That scared him and his eyes flew back open.

"It's okay, Jack, do you trust me?"

He nodded once...

"Then when I do this again, keep your eyes shut...just listen to my voice and concentrate on my touch, okay?"

Another nod...

I repeated my actions one more time, caressing the soft skin of his cheeks and moving upwards until my fingertips were resting on his eyebrows, "Okay, Jack", I whispered, my lips mere millimeters away from his ear, "I am going to close your eyes now. Just keep them closed and know that I would never do anything to hurt you."

Once again I grazed his eyelids with my fingers and he allowed them to flutter shut. Looking at him now, hair mussed, eyes closed in surrender, lips parted releasing quick, shallow breaths, I was blown away by his beauty and his trust in me.

I inched my face closer to his and brought my hands down to frame each side of his face, "Jack, you are so incredible. You take my breath away", I murmured right before I touched my lips ever so slightly against his.

I pulled away for a mere moment and then went back to kiss him again. This time I brushed my lips against his and the way we felt together was unlike anything I'd ever felt before. This kiss was tender, sweet and caring, like I thought it would be. It was also amazing and intoxicating and perfect...Jack's lips were so smooth and supple, so plump and when he started to move his mouth against mine, I could no longer hold in the eager moan I was trying to suppress, "Oh god, Jack..."

I pulled my lips away and rested my forehead on his while I tried to collect myself. My whole body was reacting to this man, and I started to feel a little out of control. I never wanted to leave this spot.

When I finally calmed a little, I opened my eyes to look at him. His eyes were already open, and they had brightened to a fiery shade of amber.

"Again", he breathed out and this time he moved towards me, first brushing his lips against my jawbone before resting them on my lips.

We moved together in perfect rhythm. When he turned slightly to the right, I did too, and he brought his hands to my face. His thumbs feathered against my skin, and I didn't realize until I felt a slight dampness on my upper lip that he was wiping away my tears. God this man moved me in baffling, inexplicable ways.

His eyebrows knit together into a frown, "No Jack", I smiled and smoothed the creases from his forehead with my lips, "These are happy tears; tears of joy because that kiss with you was the best I've ever felt in my whole life."

I finally felt safe...like I was home. The corners of his lips suddenly turned up, and he buried his face into my chest. We breathed together for a long time until I started to lose my balance and sway a little. Jack took my hand, lacing his fingers in mine, fitting them together like perfectly matching puzzle pieces, and led us back over to his house.

---

(Sonny's POV)

I tightened my grip around Will's waist and snuggled into him further. I buried my head into Will's neck, bringing our chest and hips together. We stayed like that for a while when I felt Will's hand move up my back lowly until he reached the back of my neck. Then he spread his fingers through my hair but then he stopped, like he was nervous. So I slowly lifted up my gaze until we were looking into each other's eyes and the comfort I felt in those eyes was amazing. He brought one hand up until it cupped my face, "You're so beautiful, Jack."

As he continued to stare into my eyes he brushed his thumb over my cheek, "So beautiful."

I blushed at his admiration of me because I wasn't use to compliments like that. His hand on my cheek was like heaven and I closed my eyes, placed my hand over his hand and leaned into his touch. Will brushed his thumb over my lips like he did in that class room a few days ago, it made me moan a little and my lips parted at the sensation.

"Jack…"

The way he said my name reminded me of that day in my classroom and I had a feeling that this might finally be the moment I was waiting for. From the tension in his body I could tell that I was extremely nervous but that he also wanted to do this so I grabbed his hips and pulled him flush against me; he whimpering in surrender. Will reached up his other hand and placed it on my cheek and leaned into me but then he hesitated, "Jack?" He backed away from me, much to my disappointment, "Jack, please, I need you to look up at me."

It seemed since I was feeling calm and I was able to finally speak to him, "Will..."

That was all I could say but it was enough because it made him tear up, I knew that some tears were happy tears, "Did you just...oh my gosh..."

I smiled at him, so happy that I was finally able to do it with him actually knowing, "Jack, I need to ask you something, and I need you to be completely honest with me, do you understand?"

I nodded.

Will took a deep breath, "Do you remember the girl and the boy you were watching out the window the other day after class? The two were kissing and holding each other?"

I nodded again.

"They did that because they like each other...they have feelings for the other that are stronger than friendship, do you understand what that means?"

I was surprised and confused at his question, did he want to kiss me? He tried explaining again, "Jack, what that means is that I want to kiss you the way that couple kissed each other", There was a small pause, "Is that something you might want to do with me too? Jack, do you have those same feelings for me?"

Yes! It really worked, my plan really worked. My eyes closed for a moment before I opened them back up and smiled at Will. I grabbed Will's hand and held it to my chest, letting him feel my heart race in excitement. I was still struggling with words but I had to answer him, "Yes."

I answered him. I lifted up my fingers and traced it over Will's lips, "Yes, Will. Kiss me."

When I saw him leaning further toward me I also leaned toward him and out lips met in the middle. The kiss was hard and quick, I didn't know what I was doing. Will brought his hand up to my face, trailing his fingertips on my cheek until they reached my eyelids. He subtly tried to close them but I panicked and I opened my eyes back up.

"It's okay, Jack, do you trust me?"

I nodded to him, letting him know that I do trust him.

"Then when I do this again, keep your eyes shut...just listen to my voice and concentrate on my touch, okay?"

Will repeated what he did before and brushed my cheeks before reaching up to my eyebrows, "Okay, Jack", he whispered in my ear, his breath making me shiver, "I am going to close your eyes now. Just keep them closed and know that I would never do anything to hurt you."

He brushed my eyelids and I closed them like he was asking. I was breathing in quick gasp because I was so nervous and also so extremely happy. I felt Will lean in towards me and cup my face again, "Jack, you are so incredible. You take my breath away."

He closed in the last few inches and place his lips on mine again. The flavor of Will exploded on my tongue and my head got all cloudy. Will pulled back a little before coming back in and brushed his lips against mine. This kiss felt so amazing and I couldn't even imagine anything getting better than this. I was still new to kissing but on instinct I started to move my lips against Will's like he was doing to me. When Will moaned, "Oh god, Jack..." and pulled away I was shocked and a little happy that I was able to make Will react like that.

He pressed his forehead to mine and took some deep breaths. I could see that he really enjoyed that kiss and he was just trying to calm himself down. I wasn't done kissing him, I loved all the emotions I was feeling so when Will finally looked up into my eyes I smiled and said, "Again."

Before I leaned forward and kiss his jaw and then moved to his lips. We kissed together in unison and it was absolutely perfect. I could feel tears coming down from Will's face so I turned a little more toward Will and reached up my hands so I could wipe the tears off. I pulled back and looked at him with concern but before I could say anything Will interrupted me, "No Jack", Will smiled and kissed my forehead, "These are happy tears; tears of joy because that kiss with you was the best I've ever felt in my whole life."

I smiled at him and then buried my head into his chest again. I loved the feeling of having Will this close to me. We stayed like that for a while but when Will started to lose his balance it made me realize we were out in public and I would really like to take Will home. So I grabbed his hand and laced our fingers together so that we could walk back to my house holding hands.

---

(Will's POV)

Once we reached the estate, we walked inside only to find a note informing us that everyone was out for the evening and that dinner was on the counter for us to enjoy. I smiled over at Jack who was still blushing fiercely ever since we shared our first kiss, and our second I might add, "I guess we have the entire house to ourselves for the evening. Wonder what we could possibly do to keep ourselves occupied"

"I...I think I...I would like to kiss you again", Jack shyly admitted.

"I think I would live to kiss you again as well. Come, on", I said as I walked over to Jack and reached out for his hand and lead him up the stairs to his room.

Once inside the room, I walked us both over to his bed where Jack had me lay down first and then he positioned himself right next to me, curling his fingers over the material of my shirt before leaning in towards me, pressing our lips together effortlessly.

We continued kissing each other for what seemed hours when I heard a noise coming from down stairs and realized that Mr. Kiriakis was back, so I pulled away from Jack and I decided to address something with him, "As much as I would love to kiss you like this all evening, I think we should maybe go down stairs and tell your dad about what happened tonight?", I asked him and waited for his answer.

Jack took a few seconds to answer, "Tomorrow, Will. I...I wanna this to be our secret for tonight', he answered, resting his head comfortably on my chest.

"Okay, tonight is ours. We can tell them tomorrow...", I said as I looked down at my beautiful Jack and wrapped my arm across his shoulders, pulling him as close to me as I possibly could. And that's how we fell asleep, cradled safely and lovingly in each other's arms.

---

(Sonny's POV)

When we get to the house we there was a note saying that everyone was gone for the evening so we had the house to ourselves. Will looked over at me and smiled, "I guess we have the entire house to ourselves for the evening. Wonder what we could possibly do to keep ourselves occupied."

Since we were home alone I really wanted to kiss Will so I shyly asked him, "I...I think I...I would like to kiss you again."

I hated that I was stuttering but that can be expected since today was the first that I have really talked. Will walked over and reached out for my hand, "I think I would like to kiss you again as well. Come, on."

He led me upstairs to my room and my excitement lifted with each step I took. We get to my room and we walk over to my bed. I wanted Will to lay down first because I wanted to curl into his he was lying down I got on the bed and positioned myself along his side. I gripped his shirt as I leaned forward and pressed out lips together again. After we had been kissing for a long time now I came to the realization that this must be what people call making out. I rather enjoyed making out and I planned to be doing this a lot more often. We didn't stop kissing until we heard some noise coming from down stairs, "As much as I would love to kiss you like this all evening, I think we should maybe go down stairs and tell your dad about what happened tonight?"

I thought about it for a little bit and I didn't want to tell anyone just yet. I didn't want them to freak out and get mad at Will, this was new territory for them so it's going to take some time before they are ready to hear it, "Tomorrow, Will. I...I wanna this to be our secret for tonight."

I laid my head down on Will's chest and got comfortable.

"Okay, tonight is ours. We can tell them tomorrow..."

He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me closer to him. I sighed deeply before I fell asleep, nestled in Will's loving arms.

To Be Continued...OXO