Will's hand was traveling on Sonny's torso, softly like a little bird hopping on the grass. He was careful not to wake him, enjoying the feel of soft skin under his finger, listening to the even breathing next to his ears. A song played in his mind, or rather a suggestion of it. Even asleep, Sonny was very present, wrapping the world around his beaming personality. Will felt like a small moon near a bright sun. His smile widened when he felt his lover shiver slightly and turn to rest on his side.

Will didn't want to get up. It was too early and Sonny's leg was wedged between his. So he grabbed his notebook on the nightstand and started writing. He described the body next to him: the shades made by the curtains, the hair that had been flattened at places, the very small smile of contentment, the one he knew well as Sonny wore it sometimes when looking at him. He didn't write about what was hidden under the sheets but about the warmth that created a nest where thoughts quieted down and sensations exploded.

He was so immersed in it that it took him a moment to realize that Sonny's head wasn't pressed against his thigh anymore. He looked down and saw two dark pupils gazing at him. In the surreal light from the stars outside, he looked like a blue-winged bird, a peacock maybe. They stared at each other, wordlessly, immobile. There was no hurry, no pressure, they could exist, in those few hours before dawn, just for each other.

Will put down the notebook and slid back under the sheets, using the extra awake time to cuddle with his man. But Sonny got impatient after a while, whispering kisses in Will's hear and gliding his hands down his back. Will felt the twist in his stomach, the slow uprise of desire, the one only Sonny could arouse in him.

They were kissing slowly, Sonny's tongue exploring Will's with appetite, when a cell rang. Will tensed, running a mental check of his family. His father...? But Sonny was already answering which made sense as it was his ringtone.

"Yes... No... 5am, Mom... No, can you wait just a few seconds?" Will sighed of frustration when Sonny sat on the mattress, looking for his pajama bottom. He had insisted on wearing one. He didn't want the kids to see him in boxers. Will put his hand on Sonny's back until he turned to him "You can stay, I don't mind." "No, it's okay, go back to sleep." Will rolled back on the pillow, listening to the last words of conversation he could catch "... No, I'm not... Yes, he is..." He wondered who the 'he' was... Him? Sonny's father? He didn't even know their names. Sonny had said he wanted him to meet them, though. They had postponed their trip and Will had forgotten about it.

In any case, meeting them couldn't go any worse than Lucas insulting Sonny. An irrational shame crept in but Will kept it at bay. He wasn't responsible for his father. He waited, ready to ask Sonny what his mother had said.

A hand shook him gently, as lips pressed on his cheek "Will, wake up..." He opened his eyes to the warm sunlight. Sonny was clothed and combed, smelling of Will's care products "I have to go, sweetheart. My parents are landing in a few hours in Chicago." He sounded excited. Will tapped his arm lightly "Why didn't you wake me up sooner?" "You looked like you needed the rest. I don't like waking you, it feels like I'm assaulting you, but I wanted to talk to you before I leave."

Will wanted to ask if he would meet them. He wasn't sure it was the right moment so he just opened his arms wide. Sonny resisted for a few seconds, then dove in, hugging, kissing, rubbing his forehead on Will's naked chest.

Will let him go fast. He guessed there was a long drive to the airport and there might be traffic. He had never been to the international airports. He didn't have friends abroad or in other states and his family lived in the area. He wondered when he would feel, flying, above the clouds, higher than any birds. The sky was so big and empty. He imagined sliding through the clouds, watching tiny fields and roads.

He took the notebook again, but this time to write the story of a bird, on a migration route. He was interrupted after one page, but kept the idea in mind all day. Around four, Sonny texted him 'Everyone's settled.' Will frowned 'Where?' 'My place' Oh. They hadn't discussed that. Did it mean they couldn't see each other for a few days? Or at least not sleep in the same bed? As much as he valued his independence Will had become accustomed to share his nights.

Sonny texted a few loving words but didn't invite him. Will kept writing and studying. His siblings asked for a trip to the zoo, using Sonny's car. Will promised one for later. He sent 'So, I've roped you in a zoo trip with the Horton family. Is it okay?' There was no answer. Will walked to the park, wondering if he made a faux-pas or if Sonny was just too busy.

He sat on the bench and finished his bird piece. A text came in 'Sure. Is it a big zoo?' 'Big enough for the kids.' 'Okay. Come see me tonight at the coffee-house? Feeling lonely'

Will grinned and got up. He was glad they had left each other their space when needed. He pushed the door and spotted the owner at the counter, handing an espresso to Mel. She waved at Will and mouthed "Got to run..." Will nodded and turned to Sonny. He wasn't looking at Will but at a middle-aged woman sitting at a nearby table. She looked very composed and well dressed.

When he noticed Will, Sonny ran to him, gave him a peck, then gave a tug to his hand, leading him to the table in question "Mom, this is Will! Will, this is my mom Adrienne." Will took a deep breath and held a polite hand "Nice to meet you, ma'am."