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Chapter Text

2 years...2 years That Wilhem's life no longer belongs to him, but did it ever really belong to him?

Being second in the line of succession, he has always been forced to follow rules of course, but before he was freer, a little.

When he was still in high school, he imagined himself later at university, perhaps studying art.

He likes to lose himself in paintings, pictures. His imagination makes him enter the painted scenes and he often has the habit of imagining the lives of the protagonists. He can stay hidden for hours in the museums with the complicity of the night guard.

But when he graduated, his life changed.
The day after the ceremony, his mother, the Queen, under cover of The Court, announced to him that he would not go to university.
The kingdom needs you Wilhem, everything you need to learn about life, the Court will teach you.  It is useless for you to waste several years learning futile things.
He often remembers those words when he thinks about when his life escaped him.
But did it ever belong to him?

- Wilhem...¡ Wilhem!

Wilhem is brought out of his thoughts by the sound of a voice that he finds more and more difficult to bear.
When he looks up, he sees the look of his mother or rather the queen on him, a look without love, without tenderness.

- Do you understand?
You are expected tomorrow in Oslo, then in Copenhagen to represent us.

- And what is it this time? Yet another summit meeting? You know that I hate these false pretenses, these endless representations.

- Enough! I can't stand your insolence anymore!
With each new request, you don't agree.
It's your duty Wilhem, you have no say in the matter!
Tomorrow you'll fly to Oslo for 3 days. Then Copenhagen.
You better make sure the media and the high dignitaries are full of compliments about you afterwards!

- As you wish, madam...

As he leaves the room, Wilhem feels depressingly overwhelmed . How much longer will he be able to bear this?
He sometimes manages to have the last word and find the right arguments to avoid traveling, but this is becoming increasingly rare.

The only benefits that come out of these trips are that he is far from the Court, from his mother, he often wonders if his mother is not sending him abroad so as not to see him anymore. The second is that he takes advantage of it to visit all the museums and marvel at all the treasures they are full of.

He arrives in Oslo at the end of the afternoon.
Tomorrow he will have to appear before the royal delegation of Norway for yet another trade treaty between the two countries.
He hurries to settle into his hotel room.
Normally he should be staying at the palace but he always refuses.
He prefers the freedom that hotels provides him.

After a quick dinner, he slips, cap hiding his face, into the streets of the city.
There is 1 hour left before the doors of the national museum close. This is not the first time he has visited it but he never get bored of it.
Often there are just few people just before closing time and he often manages to negotiate to stay once the doors are closed.
He normally hates using his privileges but not in this case... You don't refuse anything to the Prince of Sweden after all.

He wanders through the different rooms, stopping regularly to admire the arts. He comes across a group that is finishing the guided tour and mingles with them to listen and learn the history of the arts.

When the group heads towards the exit, he discreetly slips away to his favorite room.
On the way, he meets the last visitors and find himself alone.
All the works are his and his alone and he finally manages to relax, to appreciate.

When he enters the next room, he frowns.
There is still someone and he is sitting in front of his favorite work.

He walks forward slowly trying to calm his growing annoyance.

In impeccable English...
- The museum is closed you shouldn't be here...
His tone is quite acerbic but he just wants to be alone, quiet, peaceful.
At these words the person turns halfway on the bench to look in his direction.

Wilhem stops right away. The burning black gaze that is suddenly looking at him pierces through him entirely.
He is frozen and cannot lower his gaze from the one in front of him.

- I could tell you the same thing.
The exit is this way if you are lost...
The other person shows Wilhem a door before turning around to face the paint he was looking at before.

Even if his English is very good Wilhem detects a slight accent that he cannot figure out.

- I have... I have special authorization
He stammers as he begins to walk forward again.

- Good for you, me too...
The other one answers him without even deigning to turn around again.

- How do I know that it's true? Wilhem retorts. He doesn't have a bodyguard with him, the museum is empty, he knows that the night guard is quite far away. This had never happened to him before.

- And how do I know that it's true for you too?
He feels that the other is starting to get irritated at the sound of his voice

- I... I'll go get the guard

- Please... at least I can continue to enjoy myself in silence while you do that

- Who do you think you are?

- You, who do you think you are?
The other turns around quickly and Wilhem can see anger on his face.

But Wilhem is stopped short again because this face is one of the most beautiful things he has ever seen, even in this museum nothing surpasses this beauty.
A matte, golden skin, fine and strong features at the same time, black curls that fall like an enchantment around his bright black eyes.

- I... I just want to be able to enjoy this paint in peace and quiet.
Since when has he been stammering so much? he said to himself

- It's a shame because I too would like to be able to enjoy this paint in peace and quiet...

At the tone of their voices that begins to rise, the guard appears at the door.

- Is there a problem gentlemen?

- Yes
- Yes

The two answer at the same time, stop and look at each other again, each astonished by the behavior of the other.

- This individual claims to have authorization but I would like you to accompany him to the exit, Wilhem said in a haughty tone

- And this individual CLAIMS to have authorization and I WOULD LIKE you to accompany him to the exit.

The other insists on the words with a mocking tone.

Is he making fun of me by repeating everything I say?
Wilhem begins to feel his pressure rising, his irritation increasing even more.

- That's right, gentlemen, each of you has a special authorization.
The museum is big enough, don't you think?  You should be able to share the place, no?

The guide leaves, shaking his head with a little laugh at the childish behavior of the two young men.

Wilhem lowers his eyes, embarrassed by his behavior worthy of a small child.
The other continues to stare at him but his gaze is softer.

- Please excuse me... I... I...
Wilhem is ashamed but is also disturbed by the aura that the other gives off.

The other shakes his shoulders as if to show that he accepts the apology

- Yeah sorry too ...

He moves on the bench to leave a place next to him

- I think we can share this bench if you want ....
The other's tone is suddenly much softer

- Hummm ok yes thank you
Wilhem advances timidly and sits as far as the length of the bench allows him.
His hands under his thighs, all sheepish.
He looks at the work in front of them without saying a word.

- It's breathtaking isn't it?

Wilhem is brought out of his thoughts by the voice of his neighbor
When he turns his head to look at him surprised, he sees the other immersed in the observation of the painting

- Hummm yes he laughs softly

- Why are you laughing? Don't you agree?

Wilhem is surprised by the change in tone which becomes more familiar.

- On the contrary... it's just that it's the first time I've met someone who appreciates it.
This work has always been underrated, very few people appreciate it at its true value

- Hummm I suppose that's true...

They both continue to look in front of them for long minutes without speaking.

- What do you like about it?
Wilhem asks without taking his eyes off the painting

- I don't know... I... I would say that it soothes me I think

When Wilhem turns his head towards the other he sees his slightly rosy cheeks.

At the feeling of the gaze on him, the other turns his gaze gently with a small embarrassed smile. He sees in Wilhem's gaze that he encourages him to continue. He turns back to the painting

- Hummm I mean, the depth, the pastel colors, the peaceful faces of the characters... It relaxes me.  I imagine myself participating in their ball game with them at the edge of this pond

- Hummm
Wilhem, who has once again turned his gaze in front of him, is suddenly overwhelmed by a strong emotion.
It is the first time he has met someone who likes this work but above all who feels exactly the same thing as him when looking at it.

- Gentlemen I am sorry but it will be time to leave

Wilhem and the other jump at the guard's interruption and return to the present moment.

Wilhem gets up and rubs his hands on his jeans, his head down.
His emotions so strong that he has started to sweat.
- Umm thanks for....

- Yeah you're welcome murmurs the other as he begins to head towards the door while staring intensely at Wilhem

- Wait ...

At these words he stops and turns towards Wilhem and questions him with his eyes

- We didn't introduce ourselves...

- Hmm that's true .. answers the other with a little sly smile just before turning around and leaving
- Good night stranger he says with a smile in his voice.

Wilhem remains stunned in the middle of the room.

What just happened? He's not really sure.

Wilhem returns to his hotel and while he walks in the night, he can't stop thinking about this stranger, about this supernatural moment he just spent.

He liked being someone almost like everyone else. Maybe the other recognized him or not, he doesn't know in any case the other didn't care if that's the case, on the contrary he was even quite cheeky.

He shows up at the palace early the next morning, bags under his eyes. He slept extremely poorly. He couldn't stop dreaming of a stranger with shiny curls, fiery eyes, and an angelic smile.

The other two nights he spent in Oslo, he returned to the museum hoping to run into this stranger again. He wanted to know more about him.
Unfortunately, he didn't meet him again and the guard who was there the first night was no longer there.
He couldn't ask him his name.
This would remain an enchanted interlude that he would remember for a very long time.

He arrived in Copenhagen. He had to spend 3 days there with countless meetings. He hoped perhaps to be able to dodge some of them to wander around the city.
The meetings followed one after the other. Bows, protocols, an endless lunch having to make conversation with the country's nobles. Everything Wilhem hated.
He longed for this day to end.
When he is brought the invitation for dinner, he pretends not to feel well so as not to go.
He just wants to escape and go to the museum, where he is free and peaceful.

Still hidden under his cap, he repeats his escapade in a small museum in the city center.
He is a little more famous in Copenhagen, it is too risky to go to the national museum.
This one is more discreet and the works are just as magnificent and emotional.

He wanders from room to room. He stops in front of a small painting in which his eyes get lost.
He remains for long minutes to observe it, to understand it, to try to know what the painter had wanted to express.

- Sometimes you shouldn't try to understand, you just have to feel.

Wilhem jumps at the voice with the slight accent.
He turns around quickly, mouth agape.

- Are you following me? Said the other with a sly little smile

In front of Wilhem's silence, who stands stiffly, now mouth open, the other continues with a certain joy in his voice

- Have you lost your tongue, beautiful stranger?

Wilhem swallows slowly and tries to recover his senses ... The compliment does not help at all.

- I think I was there first ...
Why is he behaving like a child in the presence of the other? It's not like him at all.

- Do you want to go get the guard to ask him?

- Ah ah very funny ... I remember apologizing for that

- Exactly but I feel a certain pleasure in making your cheeks blush ...

Wilhem is horrified, the other stands in front of him even more handsome than the first time and even more cheeky.

- It's rude to refuse to introduce yourself you know when someone asks you

- Oh yes? And where is it written?  In the good manners guide?

- What are you doing here?
How is that possible?

- I don't know, beautiful, but apparently we're doomed to share our supposedly peaceful evening at the museum again.

- Hmmm, I think you're being very mysterious, it's getting suspicious

- I could just as well ask you what you're doing here too, how come I'm running into you again when you're supposed to be in Oslo... and if I'm not mistaken, you haven't introduced yourself either

At these words, Wilhem scrutinizes the other's gaze. He tries to understand. How is that possible? It can't be a coincidence? How can they be in another country, in the same museum, at the same time?
Does the other really not know who he is?

- Hmmm Wille...

- Excuse me?

- My name is Wille...

- Ahhh

Wilhem sees the other's cheeks turn pink. Apparently he didn't expect that and doesn't know what to say anymore.
He holds out his hand to him to make him understand to do the same and introduce himself

- Simme

- Nice to meet you Simme
What are you doing here then?

Wilhem emphasized the here as if to say here in this museum and here in this country, in this city

- Hum let's say that I travel a lot for my work and that I need to escape to peace and quiet from time to time
...
And you?

- Strangely enough all the same....

They both understand that neither will say more for the moment about who they are and they both find it rather exciting at the idea.
Wilhem tells himself that finally he can be himself, that Simme not knowing who he is, will also be able to remain natural.  That's what he hates the most, perhaps, the change in behavior when people understand who he is.
The pretenses, the hypocrisy... People are no longer themselves and frank when they talk to the Prince of Sweden and no one wants to talk to Wille anymore. Wille no longer exists in these moments.

- Enjoy your evening then? Simme said softly before turning around to leave the room

- Uh yes
Wilhem reacts. Don't let him go a second time! He said to himself

But Simme suddenly turns around

- Unless you want to visit a few rooms with me?

- I... yes ... why not OK

They start walking in silence between the statues, Simme twisting his fingers in front of him and Wille with his hands tied behind his back.

- You look familiar but I can't remember where I saw you said Simme without looking at him and Wilhem trembles.
Here it is, the moment he was dreading is coming... but it's too soon.
He wants to still enjoy this anonymity, he wants to get to know Simme without his identity ruining everything.

- Hmmmm I'm often told that... I must have a face that goes through everything I suppose.
I'm just an ordinary person.

- An ordinary person who has the right to stay in museums after they close and this in two different countries

Wilhem remains silent. He prefers to keep quiet rather than fall into a huge lie. He doesn't know how to lie, never knew how... he had always been caught after a few minutes since he was little.

He almost got caught this afternoon when he pretended to be sick... but who would dare contradict a prince on an official visit....

- And you? Who do you know to have this privilege?

- Hmmm you know someone who knows someone....

They continue to walk in silence, stopping from time to time at one work or another, each trying to explain to the other what he feels.

It turns out that they almost always agree on the interpretations they make.

They find themselves at their starting point. They have walked around the museum and without realizing it more than 3 hours have passed.

Wilhem has to get up early tomorrow but has no desire to leave Simme.

He feels so comfortable with him, so free, so himself.

- Would you like to go for a drink? There is a café that must still be open down the street.

- I think I'm gonna have to go...my curfew is about to ring.
You wouldn't want me to turn into a pumpkin, would you?

Wilhem laughs a little at the joke but is quickly caught up by melancholy. He doesn't want this evening to end, he doesn't want to leave Simme, not right away it's too soon. He wants to know him better

- Are you staying long? Can we meet again?

He sees Simme staring at him and weighing his answer.

- Hum I'm still here a day or two but I don't know if I'll have time for myself...

Wilhem senses him embarrassed. Simme's impertinence from the beginning is far away.

- Oohh OK....

Simme, sensing the disappointment in Wille's voice, bites his lower lip. He doesn't know what to do.

He suddenly takes out his phone, starts typing and hands it to Wilhem who realizes that it's a contact page with his name on its top.

He enters his phone number without either of them speaking.
This is the first time he gives his number to a stranger or almost stranger.
He is not supposed to do this normally.
If the Court security found out about this he would hear about it for months.
At the same time, if they found out that he wanders around in the streets of foreign countries without his bodyguards, he would surely be confined to his room at the palace for life.

Simme picks up his phone and puts it back in his pocket.

- I'll let you know if I can get free OK?

- Hmmm OK
Wilhem wants to ask him for his number too but he is suddenly stopped surprised by Simme who gives him a brief kiss on the cheek before turning around and starting to leave.

- See you soon maybe beautiful....

Wilhem finds himself again in the middle of a room, alone, still trying to understand everything that happened.

He raises his hand to touch the spot where Simme's lips touched him and a strong warmth floods through him.

Chapter Text

Wille must pretend to be happy to have to shake hands, pose for photos, smile at whoever wants it but deep down, he is boiling.

He is boiling because he was woken up by his phone this morning after another very short and eventful night of dreams.
He would have liked to stay in these dreams and when his phone rang, he jumped on it hoping it was Simme.

But it was not Simme but his mother... his mother who having learned that he had not attend to the official dinner the day before, yells at him as soon as the call is connected.
As a wake-up call, there is nothing more radical than being called incompetent, a disappointment and other such nice nicknames.

So no, Wille is not in the mood this morning.
He looks at his phone every 10 minutes but his screen remains desperately empty of notifications.
He is fuming at not having had the guts to ask Simme for his number.  Now he has to wait to see if he really wants to contact him or if it was just to get rid of him last night.

He parades among the officials, his head elsewhere. He goes with the flow. He still has 2 meetings this morning, an official lunch, then an inauguration. How he hates his life so futile and how he loved what he felt last night.
Sharing his passion for art, being understood, not judged for his tastes and free, free to be himself. He wants to feel that again, all the time in fact.
He feels inside him like a beginning of a click but he is not sure what that means.

The minutes have never been so long.
He feels sorry for himself. He begins to hate himself for being such a coward, for not being able to defend himself, for letting everyone dictate his life.
He didn't choose this life, he doesn't want it but he can't do anything about it, he doesn't have the power to change things.

Since he was little he has been kept in this superficial life, he has never been allowed to use social networks for example, supposedly to protect him, the same for magazines, newspapers, nothing other than political or business articles when he was old enough to understand them.

His only approach to culture is piano lessons, classical music, and books on paintings that he ended up having by dint of begging.
They homeschooled him until high school time came.
There he was sent to a boarding school only attended by children of the high nobility to be able to graduate.
Soon he will have to marry and procreate in order to ensure the family line.
Who would want to have a child in this life?
He realizes that he has never even thought of going against all his rules but he wants that to change. This feeling of freedom that he felt with Simme in museums, he wants to feel it every day, all the time.
He wants to know what's going on behind the palace walls, outside of this high society that is so fake, so far removed from the reality of everyday life.

He's been feeling sorry for himself for a good 2 hours when he jumps at the sensation of his phone vibrating.
He's in the middle of an inauguration speech, speaking in front of a hundred people, which is what he hates the most.
He stops in the middle of his sentence. Everyone looks at him wondering what's going on. All he wants is to take out his phone and leave.
It must be Simme, it can only be Simme, he wants it to be Simme.

He comes to his senses and starts talking again.
He skips 2 paragraphs of his speech to finish as quickly as possible.
He hurries to cut the ribbon, shake hands and finally he can move aside.

Finally out of sight, he hurries to look at his phone

Unknown number
**photo of a painting**

Wille wonders what that means.

There is no text except the photo.

His heart races... It can only be Simme he says to himself

Wille
- Simme?

Wille sees that the message is read but no response comes.
He waits, waits and after 15 minutes still nothing.

He studies the photo. He recognizes the painting, he saw it in one of his books.

Wille
- Love and Psyche?

Unknown number
- 6 p.m.

Wille still doesn't understand.
He looks at his watch and sees that it is 5 p.m.

What is going to happen at 6 p.m.?

He is normally supposed to meet the dignitaries at a gala and a dinner.
They can wait 5 minutes, he says to himself.

He looks at the picture again and tries to understand the hidden message. He knows there is a hidden message, he feels it.

He tries to remember the interpretations he could read on it but nothing....he can't find anything that could link it to Simme.
He is about to send a message to the number to get more details when a piece of information resurfaces in his mind....Thorvaldsens Museum....
The painting is exhibited here in Copenhagen in a small museum.
6pm?

His heart starts beating fast...Is that right? Did he understand?

He opens the conversation

Wille
- Thorvaldsens Museum?

Once again he waits. He sees the message read but no answer comes.

He looks at how long it takes him to get there.
If he leaves now he will be there just in time.
He is not sure if that is what the message means but he can't risk not going just in case...

He turns back to the dignitaries.  He has to decide now... his mother's wrath but the hope of seeing Simme again and getting to know him better or go do his duty and attend the gala.

He suddenly starts running without looking back and finds himself in the street.

He hails a taxi and jumps in.
His breathing is choppy, fast.
The excitement of the forbidden, of what awaits him if he is not mistaken, almost makes his head spin.

He feels alive, a flood of freedom runs through him. He takes off his tie, his jacket, tries to calm down but the tension is too strong.

He arrives in front of the museum. It is 5:45 p.m.
He rushes to the entrance and has to negotiate to be let in. The museum closes at 6 p.m.
He uses his Prince privilege and is given access.
The guard, while opening the door for him, looks at him as one would look at a madman, but Wille doesn't give a damn.

He rushes inside... 5:50 p.m....
He picks up a map and looks for which room the painting is in.
And of course... he has to cross the entire museum.
He starts running as fast as he can like a madman.
He passes visitors heading towards the exit. He apologizes to each person he bumps into but doesn't slow down.

He arrives in the room... no one... there's no one. Was he mistaken? No, he was so sure of himself.

He pants, tries to catch his breath, leaning over, his hands on his thighs.

He suddenly hears slow applause behind him.

He quickly turns around and finds himself facing Simme leaning against the door with a mischievous smile.

- Simme... he says in a long breath.  His breathing is still erratic

- Hey ... answers Simme while approaching slowly

- Hey ...

- I see that you understood my riddle bravo

- Apparently ....

- Did I make you run?

Wille feels that Simme is teasing him, titillating him but it does not bother him, he is too cute with his smirk

- I was on the other side of town and I am not used to being late for a rendez-vous

- Hmmm a rendez-vous? And did you take the time to put on a suit for our rendez-vous?

Simme approaches more and more and while talking and staring at him, brushes past Wille, goes around him and goes to sit on the bench in front of the painting of which he sent the photo.
His penetrating gaze sends lightning bolts throughout Wille's body.

- I... I was at a um... I had a business meeting
Wille turns around slowly and joins Simme on the bench.

- What if I hadn't found the riddle?

- We weren't supposed to see each other again then...

- Why this painting?

- I don't know... it made me think of you strangely.
I only have an hour... I'm expected later but I wanted to see you again, to uncover this mystery that surrounds you

- I'm glad you contacted me... I admit that you intrigue me too

The tension between them is more than palpable, but a good tension.
They are suddenly interrupted by Wille's phone vibrating. He hurries to pick it up and rejects the call without even looking.
The device starts vibrating again immediately.
After the 3rd time, he decides to simply turn it off.
He will face the consequences later.
He suspects that his unplanned absence has been noticed by now and that everyone must be panicking at the prince's disappearance. But he has less than an hour to enjoy Simme and he is not going to waste this time.

- Excuse me... where were we? Oh yes you only have 1 hour...
Something important?

- Hmmm let's say that I could annoy and disappoint a lot of people if I'm late

- Simme? Is that your real name?

- My nickname... but why are you trying to find out? Can't we just enjoy this moment like last time?

- Hmmm OK... Wille decides to leave him to his secrets for the moment too and if he pushes Simme too much he could also ask him some questions that he doesn't want to answer for now
- So you like this painting?

- It represents love Wille, who doesn't love love?

At these words Wille's body is covered in shivers.
Has Simme been flirting with him since he arrived?

They continue to discuss the painting then Wille sees Simme checking his watch.  He knows that the hour is almost up but once again he doesn't want to leave Simme, he wants to continue to chat, to be himself, to be free

- I would really like to keep in touch Simme
Do you agree that I send you messages now that I have your number?

- Hummm yes ok ... I also want to know more about you

Both have their cheeks rosy.
Simme gets up and again without warning, he leans down to kiss Wille's cheek.
- Thank you for coming Wille

Wille nods with a smile.
The smile is honest but also expresses his disappointment at seeing Simme leave.

- Will we see each other again?  He asks him timidly

- I don't know I'm leaving Denmark tomorrow Simme answers with a sad tone

- Hummm OK ... me too
And you're not going to want to tell me where you're going I suppose? Wille tries

Simme is disturbed by the look filled with sadness, desire, questioning and so many other emotions that Wille extends towards him.
He feels the barriers he built to protect himself starting to crack slowly.

Simme reaches out and caresses Wille's cheek tenderly.
Wille can't help but lean his head to rest it in Simme's palm.
At the sensation, Simme cracks and can't help but say

- I'm going to Germany ...
See you soon Wille maybe....take care of yourself

- You too Simme

And once again Simme leaves and Wille finds himself alone in the museum room with a whirlwind of emotions inside him.

He ends up going out, taking a taxi and returning to the gala.

When he arrives, dinner has started. Everyone is relieved to see him again.
He pretends to have had an emergency and apologizes for his absence.
Once again...privilege of being a prince, no one dares to ask for more details.

On the other hand, when he turns his phone back on, he sees about ten calls from The Court.
He's going to have to find a damn good excuse.
During the evening, exceptionally it's him who asks to have his picture taken with as many people as possible. That should calm his mother down a lot.  And then he feels lighter tonight, happier and he has a plan and for that he has to be in the queen's good books.

Once in his hotel room, he thinks again about that hour spent with Simme, how he was so comfortable by her side, how Simme didn't stop teasing him or flirting with him?
At this thought he feels butterflies in his stomach.
He knows deep down that they're going to see each other again, it's bound to happen, it can't be otherwise

Suddenly his phone vibrates.
It's after 1am. Who could it be?

Simme (Wille saved the contact)
- Thanks for tonight.. It did me good

Wille
- Same Thanks to you...
Did your evening go well?

Simme
- Yes the atmosphere was just... magical, explosive
I had a hard time leaving...

Wille
- Hummm maybe I should have accompanied you... mine was soporific

Wille sees the message read, then the 3 little dots flash, disappear, flash several times.
He starts to stress. Did he say something wrong?

Simme
- Maybe one day... It would make me happy...
Good night Wille, I'm sorry I'm exhausted.

Wille
- Good night Simme sweet dreams....

Wille returns to Stockholm with his head full of dreams, images of Simme.
These three meetings have changed something in him.
He doesn't know what but he feels it.

Simme told him that he would be in Germany for the next few days. He absolutely has to find a way to get there.
He felt a warmth in him when Simme told him.
He opened up to him a little and he wants more of that. He wants to know everything about him, even if it means that he has to reveal himself too.
He doesn't know who he is but he feels deep down that he can trust Simme.
He feels that if he can get closer to him he could well change his life.

He goes to the Court offices and to their great surprise there he is asking to go to a conference in Munich and another in Berlin

- What do we owe this rather surprising request, your highness?
Asks the Queen's secretary.
We are always obliging you for every trip and now you have barely returned and you want to leave again?

- Let's say that the age of maturity must have finally reached me, Wille replies, trying to hide his disdain.

- We need the Queen's agreement for you to accompany her.

- Tell her that I'm replacing her. She'll be able to rest... and she won't have to see me like this.

Wille surprises himself with this confidence that he feels and that is reflected in his behavior.

At the end of the morning, he receives the green light and his schedule for the next 6 days.
He wonders what argument weighed in the decision? His new maturity, the Queen's rest, or not having him around for six more days?
He doesn't stop at these thoughts and hurries to repack his travel bag.

In the car that takes him to the airport, he sends a message to Simme, hoping that his reaction will be the one he expects.
He did all this without even being sure if Simme will be free and especially agree to see him again but he has to try.

- I'm on my way to Munich then Berlin afterwards...
Last minute meetings

He sees that Simme reads his message almost immediately, sees the 3 little dots appear and disappear, then nothing.
He feels his shoulders tense.
Has he gone too far, too fast? Didn't Simme feel the same things as him?

It's too late anyway, he can't go back and he has 6 days to convince Simme to see him again hoping that he stays all this time too.

Wille can't stop wondering what Simme does for a living to travel so much.
He doesn't look like a businessman, he must be the same age, maybe an art student... That would explain why he has the right to come to museums when they are closed... but in different countries?
He hopes to be able to ask him when he sees him again, if he sees him again.

Arriving in Munich, he settles into his hotel.
Tomorrow he has a busy day.
He has to attend the meetings.
If Simme continues to tell him where he is, he must be able to convince the Court to trust him and send him where he wants, where Simme will be.

He has never felt this, this need to see someone again, to be by their side, the shivers he feels all over him, all this is new to him and he has trouble knowing what it means.

He still has no answer and begins to despair that his plan will be a failure.
He slips away discreetly as usual now and wanders the streets of Munich.
Sitting on a bench in the middle of a park, he takes out one of his books on works of art in Germany, one of those he brought with him, to be ready just in case.
Maybe it's time he bought a phone with an internet connection, he laughs at himself, the Court won't need to know.

He chooses one of his favorite paintings in a small museum in Munich and texts it to Simme without any text.
He hopes he won't mind stealing his idea.

He waits for over an hour near the museum and then gives up. The message isn't even delivered.

Did Simme block him? He shouldn't have come without asking him first
He should have let him come to him.
He hates himself, why can't he ever do the right thing?
Maybe his mother is right, maybe he's just an incompetent that no one can love for who he is.

He walks back, his back bent, to his hotel.
He goes to bed but his night is long, very long, Alternating between restless sleep and wide-open eyes staring at the ceiling.

He goes through the morning like a ghost. He has put himself on autopilot as he was taught.

During lunch, he looks at his phone for the umpteenth time and a wave of hope suddenly invades him. The message he sent to Simme appears as received and read... he hasn't blocked him, he hasn't blocked him!

He stops himself from writing to him, he has to be patient, if it's meant to be it will be.

At that moment Wille decides that he will never again feel sorry for himself, never again imagine the worst scenarios. He has to be stronger.

It is with new vigor that he spends the afternoon.
The meetings weigh less on him. A new confidence is born in him and once again he feels that this is only the beginning.

He has the evening free.  At the table in the hotel restaurant, he learns to use his new phone that he bought on the way back.
A small rebellion that for him is a huge step.
His other phone vibrates all of a sudden.

Simme
9pm

The joy that Wille feels when reading the message is surely the strongest he has ever felt.
He hurries to finish his meal, changes clothes and heads to the museum where the painting he sent to Simme is.
When he arrives Simme is there sitting in front of the painting.

- Good evening... whispers Wille

Simme turns around, looks at him but doesn't say a word.
He stares at Wille then suddenly sighs while shaking his head and turns back to the painting.

Chapter Text

Wille stands in the doorway not knowing what to do. There is a certain tension. Wille did not expect to be greeted coldly like this.

- I'm sorry Simme if I crossed the line but ... but I needed to see you again. Don't ask me to explain I don't know why myself but I needed to see you again.

Wille had never expressed his feelings so frankly before. Well at the same time he had never felt such feelings before.
He approaches Simme slowly and sits down next to him on the bench.

They remain several minutes in silence.
Wille feels that Simme is less sure of himself than the other times.
He sees him twisting his fingers between them.
He will end up hurting himself if he continues Wille thinks and without thinking he puts his hand on Simme's.

When Simme's gaze falls on him, Wille sees tenderness but also... Is it fear?

- Talk to me Simme please

Simme's gaze intensifies and suddenly he stands up, his body tense and begins to pace around the room.

- Why are you here? He ends up saying in a very defensive tone

- You... you gave me a rendez-vous

- No Wille why are you in Germany? How come you're in Germany?

At these words Wille freezes. He is sure now that it is fear that he sees in Simme.

- I could not accept not seeing you again and then you told me that you were coming here
I told myself that you wanted me to join you but maybe I was wrong

- No you were not wrong but I do not know if I should have. I do not even know who you are damn it. I did not think that you would be able to travel like that.
I broke all the rules that I set for myself .

- What rules Simme? I do not understand.
I thought that there was... that something was happening between us.

- Something happened yes...
You really do not know who I am?

- You are Simme who loves art as much as I do, who feels it exactly as I do.
You are Simme who in a few days turned my life upside down, made me stronger, gave me the courage to finally assert myself, to be myself, who makes me feel things that I didn't think possible.

Simme stares at him with wide eyes.

- Simon Erickson, does that ring a bell? He says while checking for any reaction to his name.

Simon sees in Wille's eyes that he has no idea who he really is.

He suddenly relaxes and slowly approaches him.

- You really have no idea who I am, don't you? he says while laughing softly

Wille lowers his head with red cheeks.

- I'm sorry, no, don't blame me

- Blame you???? Wille, I've been dreaming for months or more about meeting someone who is interested in me for me and not for who I am.  And it feels good too, it brings me back down to earth Simme chuckles.

At these words Wille is lost. These are his words. How can Simme, Simon, feel the same way?

After sitting down next to him again, Simon takes a deep breath

- I am the leader of a music group.
It is very difficult for me to trust people because it is fame and money that attract them the vast majority of the time and then A little over a year ago I let myself be seduced, I let my guard down.
Everything was going well, we saw each other at the restaurant, he came to the concerts, he was sweet, attentive.
Then it changed. He became extremely possessive and when I wanted to move away he became hysterical, harassed me, threatened me, my friends, my group, my family.
We learned after his arrest that he was a fanatic who had his walls filled with my photos, who followed my every move.

Haven't you really heard about all this? It was front page news for days.

The more Simon explained the more he saw Wille's startled look on him, his mouth even wide open in astonishment.

He then took out his phone and showed Wille the articles.

- I... I... am not a fan... well I mean maybe I would be if I listened to your music I'm sure but not now no.

This innocent confession finally relaxed Simon.

- I'm not aware of what's going on, Wille continues
My family has always done everything to keep me away from the media, from everyday life.
He takes out his two phones and continues
- I only bought this phone with internet access today.
Otherwise I only had this antique that's really only used for calling and sending messages.
I've been kept away from real life my whole life. I've only been allowed to hang out with those in my circle... but you, in a few days, gave me the courage to tell myself that this is not a life and that it's time for me to free myself from it.

At Simon's questioning look, he turns on his new phone and types his own name in the search bar then shows the screen to Simon.

Simon starts to burst out laughing heartily

- A prince? You're a prince?
It can't be true, what a mess I've gotten myself into again?  He said calming down and shaking his head

- I'm sorry... Wille said with his eyes lowered.
He felt it, now that Simon knew who he was, it would change everything.

At the sight of Wille's body collapsing and the great sadness on his face, Simon regretted his reaction right away.

- I'm the one who's sorry Wille. Sorry for reacting like that but damn a prince... I understand why you were so discreet and... and I'm sorry that your life has been so... I don't know what to say.
I knew you were kind of familiar... I must have seen you in magazines I suppose

Simon put his hands on Wille's and they stared at each other without moving for long minutes.

- You... do you want to get out of here? Can you?

- Yes as long as we don't go somewhere too public. I snuck out if I may say so.

At Wille's nervous chuckle, Simon relaxes a little more but also feels a little tender pity.
He takes Wille's hand firmly, stands up and drags him towards the exit.
They both laugh as they run through the rooms and end up in the street without knowing where to go.

- Wait! Simon says trying to catch his breath at the same time
He takes out his phone and Wille hears him ask for someone to come and pick them up.

Several minutes pass when Wille sees a large bus approach and stop in front of them.

- Come on Wille

The bus is furnished with benches, several tables, bunks, a small kitchenette and at the back a small room with a bed and a bathroom.

Wille has his eyes everywhere, the instruments, the stage costumes, the concert posters.
Then his eyes fall on Simon who is in the kitchenette.
He brings him something to drink.

- Are you hungry?

- Umm yes what do you suggest?

- Let me see....

Wille can't take his eyes off Simon who is busy in front of the stove but suddenly he feels the bus starting up again.

- Where are we going?

- I don't know Wille, we're just going to drive around the city I think.
Ohhh is that against protocol?

- It could be close of kidnapping a member of a royal family indeed
But don't worry I will testify in your favor at your trial and I will come see you in the dungeon

- A few days that we have known each other and you already make me a gangster.

They both start laughing heartily.

They both find themselves at the table around a plate of pasta.
The atmosphere is so fluid, so natural.

- So the person who brought the bus is also the one who helps you sneak into museums?

- Yes, my manager...she's the best
Without her, I wouldn't have managed to resume a public life after this sordid story.

- And why museums?

- As I told you, it relaxes me, it allows me to escape.
Don't get me wrong, I love my life.
The stage, my band, the fervor and love of the fans, the tours, but I need moments of silence and peace.
I find that in museums and thanks to my name I can go after closing time.
And you?

- Strangely the same, it allows me to escape.

- I never thought that a prince's life would be so gloomy, no offense

- No offense, don't worry
I myself realized these last few days in which circus I evolve, only appearances, false pretenses

- You want to give that up?

Wille looks up at Simon who is already staring at him intensely.

- I... I've never allowed myself to think that far ahead... my biggest rebellion is to slip away to go to deserted museums and ahh yes today I bought a phone.

Wille's sincere laughter echoes throughout the bus and fills Simon's heart with a strong warmth.
I know I'm pitiful... I don't even know what you're doing here with me

- Wille breathes Simon you're not pitiful!
From our first meeting I felt in you a strength but also a gentleness, kindness, great intelligence, such innocence. And you proved it to me each time we met.
You just weren't born into the right family.
Some days we take giant steps, other days we take little steps, both are good and necessary

- Wow I understand why you're famous if the lyrics of your songs are so deep

- And you see you have a great sense of humor too

- Tell me, how famous are you by the way? No offense

- When I told you I had to leave because I couldn't be late...

- Yes?

- There were 69,000 people waiting for me at the Allianz Arena

- Ohhh OK.... magical and explosive...yes I understand now why you were exhausted Wille laughs

- And when I didn't answer your last message right away I was at the Olympiastadion in Berlin

- Simon .... I ... wow how did I not know who you were....
And I guess it was the same in Oslo and Copenhagen ....

Simon's little smirk answers the question by itself.

- I'm very lucky to live from my passion but it's not real life you know... of course you know....we are very similar you and me.
Our two worlds are opposed but we are both the same

- You are much braver than me Simon

- I don't think I would have lasted as long as you in your golden cage.
You are strong and brave Wille never doubts it.

- Would you like to tell me where you come from? What is your life like?

- Hmmm I think I'll go make some coffee chuckles Simon

He then explains to her that he comes from South America, that he moved to Spain 10 years ago. He tells him about all the singing competitions he participated in, then the casting that allowed him to join a boy band that was successful, that after 18 he wanted to make the music he loved, that he wrote. He then made the decision to start his solo career and here he is 3 years later....

Wille knows that Simon was not put in his path by chance.
The courage he has shown throughout his life equals his lack of courage, but that will change.
He feels it, today is the first day of his new life.

As if Simon could read his thoughts...

- Come with me! Simon surprises himself with his own words but he is sure of himself, as he has rarely been

- What?

- Wille... I... I know this is going to sound crazy to you but would you like to stay with me?
Would you like to come with me on my tour?

- Simon... I... I

- Sorry yes it's completely stupid. You don't know me after all

- Yes we don't know each other very well indeed...

- Yes forget it I don't know what I was thinking

Wille reaches out to Simon and takes his hand across the table.
- I know it's going to sound crazy to you but I think I'd follow you to the ends of the earth...
As soon as my eyes fell on you that first day, you could have asked me anything I would have done it

- And yet you tried to get me kicked out of the museum

- And I feel like I'm going to hear about it all my life...

- Oh yes Wille...oh yes Simon chuckles

- I have a duty to my country, to the Court, to my mother.

- Yes of course I understand
Simon withdraws into himself, feeling a great sadness invade him.
How can he feel so much when he hardly knows Wille?
It's inconceivable.

- I made a promise when I agreed to come here to Germany. I promised the Court that I would not fail in my duty this time during this week.
They absolutely had to allow me to come so I could see you again.
What would be the value of my word if I leave now?

How could I ask you to trust me if I am not able to keep this simple promise?

Simon looks up, a wave of hope runs through him but he knows that their lives are too different.

- We can remain friends at least...
Now that you have a nice new phone, we will be able to talk to each other, do video calls even if we are each on the other side of the world from each other.

- Simon I don't want us to be friends...

- Ohhhhh

- Let me finish... I don't want us to be just friends, I want you.
I have never been so sure of myself.
I know that we have only known each other for a few days but I know it

- Ohhhhhhhhh

- Ohhhhh?

Simon leans down and stares at Wille intensely.
Wille nods and suddenly feels Simon's lips on his.
Shocks run through them both, shocks of pleasure but also they both know that their lips belong to each other, that they were made for this.
The kiss is tender.
They have never felt the need for another so much.
They have found each other like two soul mates, they both know it.

They stay in each other's arms for a long time.

- I'm leaving for Paris tomorrow Wille, then the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Spain... I'm only at the beginning of my tour.
I'm leaving for the United States at the end of the month
I won't have much time to travel between each country.
How are we going to do it?

- I still have to stay here for 4 days and then this mission will be over
We'll find a way I swear to you...

Simon drops Wille off in front of his hotel.
Dawn is breaking. They spent the night getting to know each other, talking, laughing together.
Everything is so obvious, so natural between them...

Both of them don't know what to say... they look at each other standing in front of each other without knowing what to do.

- We'll see each other again, right?

- We'll do everything for that Wille... maybe I can check about booking all the concert halls in Sweden Simon chuckles

They kiss again, putting all their hopes in this short but intense and shy kiss.

Wille finds himself alone in his room.
His whole life is turned upside down. How can a simple meeting in a museum transform you so much and especially in such a short time?
He has read many stories about soul mates, how incongruous it seemed to him, love at first sight.
It had always made him laugh a lot but today he thinks back on all these stories and tells himself that they were far from the mark in fact.

He takes his new phone and searches for Simon on the internet.
He wonders how he did all these years without it. All the knowledge is there at his fingertips in this tiny device.

He sees the articles that relate his tour.
He realizes the extent of his celebrity, the love that comes out of all the comments.
He opens videos and there his world turns upside down again... Simon's voice is just angelic, each word of his songs resonates in him with an unknown intensity. Tears flow down his face.
In several of his songs Simon has transcribed into words what Wille has always felt but on which he had never managed to put words.
It's as if his soul was here, divulged in front of him.
He spends hours listening, listening

Wille
- It's me Wille and my new number...
I think I'm a fan that's it...
Simon your songs, they are so beautiful, your voice I have no words, your words... it's like I wrote a diary that you stole from me

Simon
- Thank you Wille... I don't know what to say
I hope you're not going to become a fanatic 😉

Wille
- Ohhh how do you do these little drawings?

Simon
- Ohhh Wille... I have so much to teach you you are so adorable 🫠

Wille
- Is that a promise?

Simon
- ❓️

Wille
- Do you promise me that we'll see each other again so that you can teach me?

Simon
- I promise 🥰

Wille ends up falling asleep to the sound of Simon's voice on the videos he found.

For the first time, he starts his day with energy and positivity. He actively participates in meetings, makes his voice heard, people listen to him, they agree with what he says.
This new confidence he has inside him pierces through all his pores.
He feels strong but he realizes more and more how much he hates this life.
These discussions are futile, only serve to satisfy the thirst for power and wealth of these nobles, royal families but not at all those of real people, those who live in the real world, those without whom this world would not even exist.

During breaks, he spends his time on the internet learning, learning

Wille
10:46am
- Ikea consumes 1% of the world's wood reserves, did you know that?  While we advocate ecology at all costs, we destroy the forests.

11:50am
- A cat has 32 muscles in each ear.

1:33pm
- There are pink lakes in Australia... I would love to see them! Have you ever been there?

Wille's phone suddenly starts ringing. He knows it's Simon since he's the only one that has his number.
He hurries to answer

- Damn Wille what's all this gibberish?

- Simon! There's so much to learn
Google is my new best friend!

- My god Wille laughs Simon
I have to confiscate your phone
You're becoming addicted
Simon can't stop laughing

- But there's so much I have to learn!

- And knowing that cat ears have 32 muscles... Will that help you?
Wille I have to go back, I'm expected for the sound tests
Please promise me to go easy on the unusual facts of life and please don't believe everything you read.
You can find anything and everything on the internet

- Yes ok but I have so much to learn

- Yes Wille, Simon is still laughing
Take it easy ok
I'll call you before going on stage ok?

-OK good luck

Wille still can't believe the familiarity that has settled between them so quickly.
He feels like he's talking to a childhood friend, as if they've known each other forever.

He doesn't use the internet just to find useless information.
He does a lot of research which leads him to think even more about his life.

The 4 days go by very quickly after all.
With Simon they call each other as soon as their schedule allows them to do so.   They get to know each other even better.
Wille now knows that Simon is a bit grumpy when he wakes up for example but it makes him melt.
He also left him on loudspeakers several times during rehearsals and Wille got lost in his voice.
Yesterday he sent him a link so he could follow the concert live.
Simon was in Rotterdam yesterday, Hamburg tonight and back in Amsterdam tomorrow.
Wille has to take the plane back to Sweden tomorrow morning.

After a quick dinner, he decides to take a walk in the streets of Berlin.
He saw on the internet that there was an open-air festival not far from his hotel.
Simon has to call him after his concert, depending on the number of encores he has it could last longer than expected, he knows that now and Simon loves being on stage so much, he never needs to be asked to stay and share with his audience.

It's 2am. The festival has been over for a while but Wille has been walking around the streets for a while, free, and has soon arrived closed to his hotel when his phone finally rings.

- Simon how did it go? It lasted a long time tonight...

- Yes it was intense! There was a crazy atmosphere

- I would have loved to be there to see that.
I hope I can come see you on stage one day

- And why not tomorrow?

- You know that's not possible

- Oh yeah? You've finished your official visit right?

- It's not that simple and you know it...

- What I know is that you should be careful when crossing the street...

- How... how do you know?

- Wille looks up on the other side of the street

Wille looks up in a quick movement.

- Simon?

Simon leans against his bus in front of the hotel.

- But ... but what are you doing here?

- I think I've acquired a taste for kidnapping princes

Wille starts running and throws himself into Simon's arms. They stay like that for long minutes in each other's arms.

The sensation is aphrodisiac.

When they manage to separate, Wille can't believe it.

- But you ... you're supposed to be in Hamburg
I don't understand

- Let's say I owe one or two encores to the Hamburgers next time I come.

We left as soon as I got off stage.
I had to come, I couldn't hold it in any longer. I wanted to see you before you went home.

- But you're crazy, so crazy to have traveled so far

- Yes I think you're making me lose my mind...
Wille... uh You want to come to Amsterdam with me?

- Seriously?

- Yes Wile Seriously laughs Simon. Do I have to tell you that you'll have backstage access to convince you?

- The Court....

- Wille... your mission is over you told me.
You kept your promise. You're free now.
Since when have you not taken a vacation?

- Uh.... never

- Ohh Wille says sadly Simon shaking his head

But no Wille is not free. If he doesn't take the plane tomorrow, the Court, his mother everyone will fall on him.
He has to go back he has no choice...

Really? He has no choice?
And why wouldn't he have a choice after all?
Is there a law that requires him to return to Sweden tomorrow? No
He is 21 years old, so more than an adult
He has never signed a contract, that is what is expected of him but he has never agreed to it.
So in fact he has the choice....and what has Simon shown him these last few days?...to be brave, odious!

- Wille? Are you still with me?

- Um, yes, yes, sorry, wait...

Simon sees Wille typing something on his old phone and then heading towards the small canal that runs alongside the hotel. He follows him a few steps behind.

- Wille? What are you doing?
Simon has barely finished his question when he sees Wille throw his old phone into the water and then grab the barriers with both hands so hard that they turn white.
Wille exhales several times deeply and Simon sees tears running down his cheeks

- Wille! Wille!  What's going on? What did you do? Why are you crying? A feeling of panic begins to rise in Simon. Did he go too far, too fast, barging in like that without warning?

- I freed myself Simon and this feeling that is invading me right now by your side is just too much to bear.
It's like I had a weight on my shoulders that I wasn't even aware of, that has just flown away.
I told the Court that I was taking a vacation, that I wouldn't be reachable and that I don't know when I'll be back...

- Ohhh does that mean....

- Yes I'm coming with you to Amsterdam!

- You can be proud of yourself Wille

- You are my knight on his steel steed

They both start laughing again with happiness.

- And what do we do now?

- We're getting on the bus Wille... we have to be in Amsterdam tomorrow at noon and we have to pick up the group in Hamburg before...

- My luggage...

- There's something to wear on the bus and we're going to redo your wardrobe to celebrate your new you.

They start running towards the bus hand in hand, the future straight ahead of them. There will be time to worry about the Crown later...

Chapter Text

After an hour of driving, with the adrenaline going down, they both start to feel very heavy-eyed but they can't help but keep talking about everything and nothing.

They are both surprised to be so on the same wavelength.
Their lives couldn't be more different but yet they find themselves on almost everything.

The only thing they diverge on is their vision of public life.
Where Simon draws strength and love from it, Wile feels only anxiety and judgment.
Simon has always more or less managed to ignore the bad comments focusing only on those of his fans.
He knows that the internet is full of hateful people who hide behind their screens but he makes sure that it doesn't reach him.

Wille, not having access to the networks (at least before his new phone) received reports from the Court on what he had done wrong, what people had not liked.  Rare were the times when the Court gave compliments because after all why give a compliment when he was just doing his job.

Simon warns him now that he has access to the internet not to type his name in the search bar.
However, he helps Wille to install Instagram with a private account and laughs a lot while trying to explain to him how everything works.
The only account that Wille follows is Simon's. They chose a nickname that cannot be recognized but says a lot...
WillFree.

But they are interrupted by the driver who ends up dimming the lights.

- He's right Wille we have to get some sleep if I want to be able to hold on stage tonight.

Simon gets up and turns his head between Wille and the small bedroom at the back of the bus, not looking very reassured.
Wille nods shyly too but no need for words...

Simon gives sweatpants and a t-shirt to Wille who goes to change in the bathroom.
There is a certain tension, both of them not knowing what to do, then they end up lying down.

They are lying on their backs with their hands crossed on their chests, side by side in the small bed.
Neither of them knows what to do, what to say...it's almost a first for them since they've known each other.

- We have to sleep Wille but with the tension between us I think it's going to be difficult, Simon chuckles while turning on his side to face Wille who imitates him.

- I'm sorry I think I'm going to have a lot of trouble sleeping.

- Really?  I don't see any reason though. .. you just stood up to the Swedish royal family and ran off with a near stranger to another country... I really don't see what's stopping you from sleeping, Simon laughs

- You're not a stranger to me anymore... and uh, it's just the first time I've shared a bed, but I can go to one of the bunks if you want

- Is that what you want?

- No ....but you have to sleep

They look at each other intensely, everything is intense between them, it has been since the first time they met .

Simon is exhausted after tonight's concert. He managed to sleep a little when he was on his way to Berlin but not much, he was too worried about Wille's reaction. He couldn't figure out if he would follow him or not.

Wille sees that Simon is struggling not to fall asleep, and reaches out to brush away some curls that fall on his face.
At the sensation, Simon closes his eyes and while Wille tenderly caresses his cheek with his thumb, he finally falls asleep.

Wille feels Simon falling asleep in less than 5 minutes but he keeps his eyes wide open.

The decision he actually made tonight and feeling Simon's body next to him... there's very little chance he'll fall asleep.

He fears the repercussions of the Court, of his mother.
Now that he's thrown away his phone, they have no way of reaching him... he just hopes they won't send Interpol after him to bring him back.
He shakes his head to get those thoughts out of his mind.
He has to learn to enjoy the moment.
For now he's on a bus to the Netherlands with an angel by his side, that's all that matters.
He'll have plenty of time to worry about the rest later.

After a while, he feels the bus stop and hears voices behind the door... The group... a stress begins to rise in him... how will they react? Will he be accepted?
Simon is sleeping peacefully. He hasn't woken up once and Wille is happy that he can rest.  He would have blamed himself if he wasn't rested enough for his concert tonight.

He suddenly hears voices that rise a little and talk over each other. The tone is rather irritated.

- Can we know what's going on?
- Where is Simon?
- Where did he go after the concert and why did we have to be dragged out of our beds in the middle of the night?

A woman's voice is then heard, firm but tender at the same time. It must be Simon's manager, thinks Wile, who has frozen in bed. He is very uncomfortable having caused so much trouble for the group and would especially not want to be the cause of quarrels between them.

- Simon is in the bedroom and will explain to you when he wakes up, for now let him rest and you should also take advantage of the 5 hours drive that we have left to sleep.

Wille feels Simon move next to him and growls softly.  Ohh how much he loves this sound ... he says to himself
He hopes that the noise in the bus does not wake him up.

Suddenly he feels a hand on his chest and especially a warmth on his side.
In his sleep, Simon approached him before sticking to him and putting his arm on him.
Wille's breath stops for a few seconds. He does not dare to move, not to breathe.
Feeling that Simon is still asleep he relaxes a little and gently tries to put his arm around him.
The feeling he feels is totally unknown to him but so good.

Silence is heard after about 30 minutes. Wille manages to relax a little. He matches his breathing to Simon's still snuggled against him, his head in the crook of his arm, then ends up falling asleep.

When Simon wakes up he sees that it is daylight through the blinds of the bus.
It takes him a few seconds to realize that he is in Wille's arms... How did he end up in his arms? In any case, he likes the feeling, the warmth, the security he feels. Wille is there with him... so it wasn't a dream.

He feels that he hasn't slept so deeply for a very long time.
He slowly raises his head and sees Wille sleeping peacefully too.
He gets out of bed very carefully so as not to wake him up.
After everything that happened last night, he must be exhausted and Simon is happy to see that he finally managed to fall asleep.

They are still driving.
He looks at his phone, 9am.... they have about 2 hours of driving left.

- Simon?

Simon turns around as he was about to open the door and sees Wille half-opening his eyes still full of sleep.

- Shhtttt go back to sleep, I'll be right behind the door.

Wille shakes his head while rubbing his eyes.

He's so cute thinks Simon, especially with his messy hair.

- I can't sleep if you are not next to me anymore, Wille says timidly.

They both look at each other intensely with red cheeks for a few seconds.

When they leave the room, Wille sees a young woman sitting at a table working on a computer.
All the bunks are closed, and you can hear little snores through the walls.

- Hello you two, she says in a whisper.
Prince Wilhelm, pleased to meet you, I'm Alex.

- Hello Alex, Wille replies in an embarrassed voice.
Just Wille please

Simon turns around and smiles at Wille tenderly.
He motions for him to follow him to the table.

- Coffee or tea asks Simon still whispering

- Uh, coffee please.

While Simon is busy in the kitchenette, Wille finds himself alone with Alex around the table.
She looks up at him and smiles

- Is everything okay Wille?

- Uh, yes... it's just that I heard you last night...
I don't want Simon to have problems with the group because of me

- It's okay Wille, don't worry about it.
They were grumpy because we woke them up in the middle of the night, but they'll be in a better mood later when they wake up again.

- What are you two talking about? Simon still whispers as he puts the coffee maker, rusks with butter and jam on the table.

- Ohh, I was just telling Wille that we are a big family filled with love.

Simon laughs at these words but yes she is right he says to himself. He is extremely lucky to have found them all.
He certainly will be teased a lot when they find out why he escaped last night without telling them anything but he knows that they will accept Wille without problem.

All of a sudden he feels Wille tense up next to him. He is looking at his phone.

- What's wrong Wille?

- It's ... I opened my emails ....

At the same time he hands his phone to Simon who sees about ten unread messages with the header "Royal Court".

Wille holds the phone between them and begins to open the emails one by one in chronological order.
The last one is from less than 20 minutes ago.
The first one is just the secretary of the Court who asks why his phone is cut off and what did his message mean?
The next three start to be more aggressive, reminding him of his duties and that it is unacceptable that he is not reachable, that he has no choice but to return as planned.

Emails from the queen herself follow.
The words used freeze Simon's blood as he reads them.
"Irresponsible" "capricious brat" "incompetent" "Consequences"

No words of tenderness or concern.

The last email is threatening.
They understood that Wille had not taken his flight as planned and that therefore his message was true.
His fear from last night is revealed when the words "Interpol" "shameful escape" "kidnapping" appear between various threats and insults.

- Wille I .... I am so sorry
Simon puts his hand on Wille's and when their eyes meet, he can see tears forming.

Wille shakes his head after taking it in his hands.

- What's going on boys?
Alex suddenly asks at the sight of their distress.

- Let's say that Wille's mother reacts very badly to his little escapade said Simon trying to relax the atmosphere a little but Alex detects fear in his voice.

- Can I see?

Wille looks at Simon questioningly.
He doesn't even ask himself the question, he trusts Simon but he doesn't know Alex at all.

Simon understands right away

- Alex studied law and she has all my trust. Given the content of the messages it would be good if she took a look at them if you agree.

Wille then gives his phone to Alex while getting up from the table with a sudden movement, angry at what he has just read and he drops the cups of coffee on the floor.

- I'm sorry,  I'm really sorry said Wille. He stops whispering and hurry to grab a dishcloth before kneeling down to mop up the coffee on the floor.
He rubs frantically, his body shaken by increasingly loud sobs.
- I'm sorry, I'm sorry

Simon gets up and approaches Wille gently so as not to scare him.
While putting his hands on his shoulders,
- Wille... Wille it's nothing... leave it... come! Wille!

At the pressure of Simon's fingers on his shoulders, Wille comes out of his stupor and lets Simon pick him up and lead him to the bedroom for more privacy.

At the noise, they hear the sliding doors of the bunks open one by one.
The members of the group get out of their bunks and their eyes widen more and more when they see Simon and Wille crying pass in front of them towards the bedroom.
Simon waves them with his hand not to say anything.
They all look at each other, stunned by the scene unfolding in the bus.

Simon makes Wille lie down on the bed and sits on the edge next to him with his hands on his.

- I'm sorry Simon

- Stop it! There's nothing you have to apologize for.
I'm the one who apologizes for what you're going through, I'm sorry Wille that you have to go through all this.
How can a mother talk to her son like that?

- Simon... don't get upset please

- I'm not upset I'm angry Wille, so angry at them.

At these words Wille's tears start to flow again

- Sorry, sorry!  Wille come here
Simon lies down next to Wille and takes him in his arms
Sorry he whispers, shhhttt it's going to be okay, you're not alone anymore. We'll find a solution... together.... Shhtttt it's going to be okay.

They stay like this for a long time until Simon feels Wille start to calm down.
He hugs him tightly, strokes his hair until he feels that he has fallen asleep again, exhausted by all the emotions and the beginning of a panic attack he just had.

He gets out of bed as delicately as possible so as not to wake him up and leaves the room.

He finds himself facing his group, his friends who are looking at him with bewildered eyes.
They follow him with their eyes in silence until he sits down with a deep exhale.

After a while Oscar, the bassist of the group, can't hold back anymore
- Are you going to tell us what the fucking prince of Sweden is doing on our bus crying Simon?

- Shhhttt please, quieter. I don't want to wake him up.
Did you recognize him?

- Of course, we all recognized him right away, come on.
They talked about his visit to Germany on the news and broadcast interviews he gave.

- Please don't tell anyone he's here

- Simon what have you gotten yourself into this time? Asks Felle the percussionist

Simon then tells them the whole story from his first meeting with Wille to the emails this morning.
The more he tells the more he sees his friends' eyes widen.

- Simon damn it's only you who can flirt with a prince without knowing who he is ends up laughing Olle the last member of the group and at that everyone laughs trying not to make too much noise.

Simon feels all their love, he is so grateful to them. He is sure now that they will be by his side to help Wille.

- Alex what do you think about the emails then? Do we have something to worry about? Simon finally asks.

- It's... it's a bit out of my range you know.
This is the royal family of a foreign country.
I don't know the laws of Sweden or the rules for royalty.
Would you be OK if I asked our lawyers for advice?

At Simon's uncertain look, Alex continues
- You can trust them Simon. They are bound by professional secrecy and you know how much they care about you and the band.

- Yes but we don't know how far the royal family will be willing to go. The more people know about it the riskier it will be.
I want Wille to decide for himself what he wants to do.
Do you think you could try to talk to him about it while we're in rehearsal?

- Yes of course Simon

The bus stops at that moment and they realize that they have arrived in Amsterdam and are now in front of the Johan Cruijff ArenA..
The band collects their things to get out of the bus.

- I'll join you in a few minutes ok?

The whole group nods silently and gets off the bus.

- We'll find a solution Simon don't worry Alex says while taking him in his arms.

- Thank you I'm sorry to drag you into all this but...

- But he's important?

- Yes I think so... Simon says with red cheeks

- I'm happy for you Simon, you deserve to be happy... and we all know that you never take the easiest paths in everything you do, we're used to it Alex laughs softly before releasing him from his hold and getting off the bus.

Simon slowly enters the bedroom and stays at the door to admire his handsome stranger who is no longer a stranger.
He looks peaceful and it hurts his heart to have to wake him up.

He gently places himself behind him again and takes him in his arms.
He places a kiss on his temple and begins to stroke his hair like a little earlier.
At the sensation, he feels Wille waking up slowly.

- Hey he whispers I'm sorry to wake you up but we arrived he says tenderly

While grabbing Simon's hand that is on him to squeeze it against his chest, Wille in a whisper apologizes again.

- Shhhttt none of that please Wille

- Your group? They... they don't blame me?

- Of course not! Once the surprise has passed and the fact that they made fun of me when I told them that I didn't recognize you, they completely understand and will support us 100%.

- OK....

- Wille I have to go rehearse.
Alex thinks it's better if you don't get off the bus for now to avoid anyone recognizing you.
With social media it could go very quickly if someone took a picture of you and I want you to have time to think about what you want to do

- But ....

- Alex will stay with you the whole time I'm away and I'll come see you as often as possible.
We should be done with rehearsals in 3 hours max.
Are you going to be okay?

- Yes don't worry ... thank you Simon!

The sadness in Wille's voice pierces Simon's heart which tightens him even more.
Reluctantly, he kisses him again on the temple and gets up to go out.

- I'll fix this Simon I swear

- I know Wille, you're strong and brave and you're not alone anymore.  We're all here to help you now.

Simon can't help but get closer to Wille. He crouches down in front of him and while running his hand through his hair, he kisses him tenderly with a peck on the mouth.

After taking a shower, Wille leaves the room.
Simon left him other clothes on a chair, jeans and a t-shirt from the band.
Wille laughed to himself at the sight of the t-shirt but Simon will never see it again, he's going to keep this one, as much of a fan as he has become.

He finds himself again in front of Alex who is still working on her computer.

- Hello again Alex he says shyly

- Hello again Wille, the coffee is hot if you want.

- I'm really sorry about earlier.

- No, no apologies are necessary
Come sit down

Wille grabs himself a mug of coffee and sits down in front of Alex again.
The kindness and tenderness that emanates from her immediately relaxes him and he feels that he is beginning to trust her.

- Do you want to talk about the emails?
I suggested to Simon to send them to our team of lawyers so that they can give us our options.

At the word "our" Wille's heart fills with a strong warmth.
Alex, who did not know him yet 2 hours ago, shows him more affection than his mother ever did. Simon was right, he is no longer alone now.

- I do not know ... the Court has the means to override certain laws. I would not want to cause more problems.

- Wille you do not cause any problems.
I will let you think about it but if you decide to fight, we will have to make them intervene for your safety.
The law is the law and this for everyone even the royal family of Sweden.
We need their expertise on international laws however.  Simon is Spanish, you are Swedish and we are in the Netherlands... if we can avoid a diplomatic incident that would be better.

When Wille threw his phone away last night, he didn't think about all this.
He just followed an impulse.
His breathing starts to quicken again and he feels his chest tighten.
Alex immediately stands next to him and asks him to take deep breaths.
She puts her arm around his shoulders.
"It's going to be okay Wille, it's going to be okay, you're not alone. We'll find a solution."

Wille still can't believe what he's hearing... the same words Simon told him several times this morning.

"Thank you..."

Once Wille has calmed down, Alex moves a little and picks up her computer again and waves to say it's nothing.

"Shouldn't I call them to calm this down?
If I talk to them they'll know I'm safe and that should buy me more time, right?

- I don't know Wille, you know them best, it's up to you to decide.

He finishes his coffee in silence, weighing the pros and cons.
He doesn't want Simon and his friends to have problems and it's time for him to assert himself more.
Yesterday Simon set his new phone so that his number remains unknown when calling.
He takes it in hand and looks at Alex while taking a deep breath.

- Do you want me to leave you?

- No, I preferred that you stay if that doesn't bother you.

Alex nods but goes to sit on the second table to give him more privacy.
She can always intervene if necessary.

Wille dials the number of the Court because he knows that his mother will not answer an unknown number.
After the third ring, the line connects.

- Jan Olof on the line

- Jan Olof, it's Wilhem. Is mother with you?

- Your Highness, where are you? Are you okay?

Wille is taken aback. Is it worry he hears in the voice of his mother's secretary? It would be the first time.

- I'm fine... I ...

Wille doesn't have time to finish his sentence before he hears muffled words and rubbing noises on the line.

- Wilhem, where are you? I order you to come back immediately!

His mother's screams echo through the phone as Alex, more than two meters away, turns around and frowns.
She senses that this conversation is not going to be fun and moves closer to Wille.

Looking up at her to find courage, he puts the call on speakerphone so she can hear everything.

After a deep breath, he begins

- Mother if you continue to shout I will cut this conversation off right now

- Wilhem!....

Wille hears a muffled conversation again on the other side of the line and his mother continues in a calmer but still cold tone.

- Wilhem you have to come back now and we will discuss all this together.
You can't act like this, come on.
You scared everyone by being so irresponsible.
You have duties towards the Court and your country!

- And if I don't want these duties?

- What are you talking about? Where do you get this nonsense from? Who puts this in your head?

- Mother I never liked this role. I'm suffocating, I hate my life.

- Nonsense! You're just tired.
Come back immediately ! your country needs you !

Alex senses that Wille is losing courage and puts his hand on his arm, squeezing it a little.

- As you say mother I'm tired, so I'm taking a vacation.
I think that after all I deserve it after all these years.

- You can't Wilhem!  That's not how it works and you know it very well!

- And where is it written? Is there a law that forbids the Prince of Sweden from taking a vacation?

Wille doesn't know where all this audacity suddenly comes from but he likes this feeling, he finally likes to assert himself.

- I'm the queen who forbids you.

- It won't be enough mother, not this time.
I'm tired of being manipulated.
I'm 21 so legally you can't force me to do anything.

- Wilhem! I forbid you....

Wille senses that his mother is starting to run out of arguments. He feels that he is starting to gain a little of the upper hand.
In his momentum, he continues

- I don't want to hear about Interpol or receive other emails.
I will contact you when I am ready to discuss this further.

- Wilhem turn your phone back on at least so we can reach you

- So you can track me and send the guards to get me sooner you mean

- Wilhem that's enough, I won't put up with this nonsense any longer.
You say you're 21 so stop behaving like a 10 year old!

- Mother I'm going to hang up now.
If you don't respect my wishes, my lawyers will contact you next time!

Wille looked at Alex while talking and she nodded to make him understand yes Simon's lawyers will be there to support him.

- Your what ? Wilhem !....

Wille didn't let her finish and hung up the conversation.

- Did you just hang up on the Queen of Sweden? Alex chuckled

- I think so yes Wille replied with a little laugh.

- Well I say you have some balls with all my respect!
It's a shame Simon wasn't there, he would have loved that...

- Ohhh but I'm here....

At these words Alex and Wille turn around surprised by the voice coming from the front of the bus.

Simon approaches and mechanically Alex gives him his seat next to Wille.

- Did you hear?

- I arrived when you said you were taking a vacation...
Wille that was... you were so hot!
This strength that emanated from you... wow hot.

At these words Wille hears Alex clear her throat and get off the bus. He doesn't think his cheeks could be redder than they must be now.

- I'm glad you accepted the help of Alex and our lawyers.
All this is well above my skills, I admit that I was not leading too far on this one, Simon chuckles.

- I don't know how to thank you all.

- Wait before thanking us, nothing is done yet.

- Thank you for being here and helping me at least

- The pleasure is all mine my prince

At these words Simon sees Wille grimace

- Sorry, not a fan of the nickname?

- No not really... Wille laughs

- OK I have to find you another one then says Simon with a wink.

A silence settles between them before Simon continues.

- I'm going to have to go back it was just a little break.
Wille? When you said you were taking a vacation ...Simon's tone is less playful all of a sudden.

- Yes?

- Does that mean you're accompanying me on my tour?

- In Europe yes for now if you want me and if your group agrees for me to share the bus smiles Wille.

- We agree...

This time it's Wille and Simon who turn towards the front of the bus to see Oscar and Felle.

- You can brighten up our evenings off with your secret stories about royalty.
You must have secrets about the Spanish royal family? Laughs Felle

- Um ... I ... I don't ....

- They're joking Wille ... aren't you guys?

- Yeah yeah .... although it would have been cool anyway

- Simon we have to go back if we want to be able to rest properly before the concert interrupts Oscar

- Yes I'm coming

He turns towards Wille

- Will it be okay? I'll be back in about 1h30.

- Yes no worries I think I'll start looking at my options with Alex if she agrees.

- Ohh ok ....
Simon gets up and quickly kisses Wille on the lips with a peck.

Wille smiles. This habit that Simon seems to take without apparently really realizing it is starting to really please him a lot.

- Nice t-shirt by the way You wouldn't be a fan by any chance teases Simon at the bus door?

- You know you won't see it again?

- Ohhh I know yes laughs Simon before getting off the bus.

Chapter Text

When Alex joins Wille on the bus, she finds him sitting on one of the benches, his legs bent in front of him, his chin on his knees, his arms around them.
She thinks to herself that he looks more like a little child than a prince in his twenties.
When Wille realizes that she is with him again, he straightens up and there we recognize the prince.

- How are you Wille?

- I'm fine thank you.... even he, is not convinced by his answer.

- And for real? I know that the conversation with the queen took a lot of courage and energy from you.
I know that you didn't want to worry Simon but now it's just the two of us....

- He needs to focus on his concert. It's not like 56,000 people are here for him... I can't be a burden

- Wille... You're not a burden to anyone.
You will quickly understand that we are really all a family.
We are all here for each other.
Simon cares about you so we all care about you.

At these words Wille's cheeks turn very red and he coughs a little to hide his embarrassment.

- How can I help you? Continue Alex as if  she did not notice it.

- hummm I don't really know where to start actually ....

- I know I'm going to ask a lot but do you know what you want to do?
I mean is this just a little escapade to have fun or is there something deeper?
Don't get me wrong there is no judgment in my words but whatever it is I will only ask you one thing in return, that is to always be honest with Simon.
He has suffered a lot and this is the first time in a long time that I have seen him trust a new person.

- Yes yes of course it's just that ... I ..

- Take your time Wille

Wille has never had to make a decision about his future by himself.
When he tried he was always told that everything was already planned and that he didn't have to worry about it.
He has never actually had any control over his life.

These last few days since he met Simon, everything has happened so fast.
He didn't really think, he let himself be carried away by his instinct and he admits it to himself through his heart.

The whirlwinds of emotions he feels are all new to him. He doesn't really know how to handle them but he just feels that something big is happening.

When he threw his phone and followed Simon on the bus, he didn't think about tomorrow at all, but Alex is right, he has to decide quickly what he wants to do...
Is it just a vacation like he told his mother or is it much more than that?
Does Simon just want to have fun on his tour and then everyone can go back to their lives or does he just pity him or does he ...
What if there is something else? Will the Court, his mother accept? And does he really want to go back to his life in Sweden? But if he doesn't go back what will he do? Will he still be a prince?

- Wille! Wille! Breathe damn it!

With all these thoughts mixing in his head, his breathing started to speed up and become almost impossible.

- Take this bag and breathe into it.
One exhale two inhale Again, One exhale two inhale

Alex is crouching in front of him and holding the bag in front of his mouth.
Wille starts to calm down gradually.
After 10 minutes he is able to breathe normally again but he starts to cry.
There is no sob just tears falling from his eyes silently.
He can't stop them.

- I...I'm sorry

- Wille, I'm the one who's sorry, I didn't want to put any extra pressure on your shoulders.
OK, you know what, we have time...the European tour lasts more than a month.
We have time to think about all this together quietly.

Wille is still as touched by the use of "we" "together".
Since he joined them yesterday, they have integrated him into their group without question and without hesitation as if he had always been there.

- What if we start with something more fun? Alex says happily while handing her a tissue.

When Wille looks up at her, she sits down next to him and opens her computer.

- How about online shopping?
We can't go shopping in stores, but I have several designer accounts we work with that you might like.

Wille feels lighter. Yes, choosing new clothes seems like an easy step to overcome for now.

They spend 2 hours looking at different sites and placing orders.
Alex makes him choose clothes that he would never have allowed himself before but he is happy and thinks that his new look will please him a lot and surely Simon too, he hopes.

Suddenly, a multitude of screams are heard outside the bus. Wille freezes and does not understand why Alex instead of reacting starts to smile then a few minutes later the door opens on Simon and the group.
The crowd waiting to enter the Arena saw them and started to be hysterical.
Wille is stunned to be witness to all this.
How can Simon handle this so lightly?

- How was it for you two? Not too long waiting on the bus?

- We went shopping! Wille is radiant as he answers.
The panic attack is forgotten thanks to Alex.  They laughed so much when they saw some of the clothes on offer.

- Ohhh and can I see?

- No Simon says Alex, slapping his hand to stop him from touching the computer.
You'll get the surprised like everyone else.

- Hmmm I can't wait.

Wille blushes at the little smirk Simon gives him when he says that.
We ordered from the caterer before leaving the stage. It should arrive in 10 minutes.
I'm going to take a shower.

Simon slowly approaches Wille and puts his hand on his shoulder. He leans over, brushes a strand of his hair that falls on his face behind his ear and whispers in his ear "are you okay?"

Wille nods vigorously. Yes he is fine, Alex is right he has to enjoy himself for now.

The big questions can wait a few days.
He doesn't notice this new little, innocuous and not so innocuous gesture that Simon has just made without once again noticing it.

- OK I'll be back in 10 minutes.

This is the first time Wille is alone with the rest of the group without Simon.
He tries to gauge them to see if his presence bothers them but they go about their business as if he wasn't there.
Olle is in the 2nd bathroom and felle and Oski are on their phones.
Alex on his computer as always.

- I wanted to thank you for welcoming me like that without preamble he manages to say intimidated.
We didn't give you much choice and I'm sorry.

- No worries begins Felle.
I think I speak for everyone ...
At these words he looks at Oski and Alex who nod ...
Firstly Simon looks more serene and happy and secondly this whole story is exciting.
We feel like we are outlaws.

They all start laughing and Wille relaxes but the remark about Simon didn't go unnoticed.
Oski asks him to tell them his side of the story about how they met with Simon, who chooses the moment to come back when they are all still laughing at Wille's story.

- I still can't believe you didn't recognize him Simon.! Continues laughing Felle.
He made the front page of all the tabloids in the cities we were in.

- You know I'm not interested in these rags says Simon shrugging his shoulders.
I see that's going to be it now?
You're all going to join forces against me to make fun of me?

While talking he sits down next to Wille.
Their shoulder and knee touch.
He feels Wille freeze a little but when he looks at him, he smiles at him.

Yes Wille smiles to put on a good face but he has trouble swallowing.
Simon is close, very close and he smells good, ohhh he smells good ....
And his wet curls from which a few drops still drip, wetting the front of his t-shirt .....

He is saved by Simon's phone ringing and making him get up.

- It's the caterer I'll be right back

Once Simon is gone Wille exhales heavily without realizing it until he catches the mocking smiles of all the others who didn't miss anything of the scene ....

Ohhh this month is going to get more interesting they say to themselves ....

They all eat together and Wille learns lots of anecdotes from the tour.  How once, a fan managed to get on the bus and wait for Simon naked in the room... the time they were chased by about fifty fans outside a restaurant... but also the encounters with fans who tell them that they saved their lives with their songs... the few fans they meet at absolutely every concert....
Simon has even added 5 to the VIP list for each concert.
We can't say that they are friends but it's not far off.
They have Insta pages and are always super respectful especially about his private life.
Sometimes they send them exclusive information, photos, videos for them to share.

Wille discovers a whole other world and he likes what he hears.
With his bodyguards always around him, he has never been able to stop and really talk to people, to have real interactions.  It's all parade and pretense, a real circus.

After 30 minutes the guys start to go back to their bunks.
They have 4 hours left before the concert. They have to rest.
Simon looks at Wille questioningly and when he smiles at him, they both get up and head to the bedroom.
Alex hasn't even looked up from her screen but they can see the little smile she's wearing.

Once in the room, the same scenario as the day before happens again.
They are both lying on the bed, stockings crossed over their chest and don't really know what to do.

It's Wille who breaks the silence this time...

- You have an incredible life... I didn't think it could be so intense

- Yes we are very lucky but sometimes I admit that it is a lot.
I still have a lot of trouble accepting the love that the fans send me. I don't understand why I have this effect on them. It's really surreal sometimes.

- You bring them a lot of love too and I don't think you measure the impact of music on people.
The emotions that your songs convey. People recognize themselves in your lyrics and discover that they are not alone in feeling what they have deep inside them.

You know... uh... I cried myself at one or two of your songs (or was it at 5 or 6 he won't say that... not yet).

Simon turns to the side, his two hands folded under his face and stares at Wille intensely.
- Why did you cry? What was the trigger?

-  Hummmm ...Some were the emotion I heard in your voice that translated your vulnerability,
Others were as if you were reading me, others you managed to put words to emotions that I had never managed to verbalize.

- Uh I think it's more than 1 or 2 Simon laughs gently, but his red cheeks show that he is touched by what he has just heard.

- Uh yes maybe Wille chuckles with red cheeks too.
Well you're supposed to be sleeping Simon... I don't want to be the cause of the anger of 56,000 people because you'll be asleep on stage.

Wille always uses irony when he's embarrassed and there he would like to hide under the covers and never come out.

- I'm not sleepy...

- Do you want help?

- Hmmm why not?

- Come here...
At these words Wille holds out his arms to welcome Simon who doesn't need asking twice.
He remembers the feeling he felt this morning when he woke up in these same arms and he won't admit it to Wille but he thought about it all day hoping to be able to do it again soon.

Wille puts his arms around him and Simon rests his head on his chest.
When Wille's fingers start to gently play with his curls it's like he's been injected with a dose of endorphins. He, who normally hates having his hair touched, He relaxes.
He relaxes so much that a small involuntary moan comes out of his mouth.
He hopes Wille didn't hear him but when he feels a small kiss on the top of his head, he tells himself that it doesn't bother him that much in fact if he heard him.
He closes his eyes and finally falls asleep very quickly.

Wille stays awake longer to enjoy the proximity and intimacy that they naturally share.
He gave Simon this kiss on the head without really realizing it. He stopped breathing for 2 seconds but since Simon didn't move, he relaxed again.
He realizes that it's not weird at all to find himself there, Simon in his arms...he strangely feels like he's in his place...finally.

During the concert Alex stayed with him again.
Despite the tinted windows, they lowered all the blinds to prevent anyone from seeing them.

- We have to find a way to get you off this bus...you're not going to stay locked up in it for a month, she said.

- Depending on the country I am less recognized, with a cap and glasses I can go unnoticed especially if I change my wardrobe.
I noticed in museums that I go unnoticed because people don't expect to meet a prince there so they don't pay attention.

- And what would you say to a slightly more modern haircut? I can do that for you tonight if you want

- ohhh heuuu

- In a month it will have time to grow back...
I'm the one who cuts Simon's hair you know if that reassures you.
No one is allowed to touch his hair and even less to cut it except his mother and me, even just running a hand through it he can't stand it.
He has already almost massacred a few hairdressers when we tried.
So I took lessons to learn how to take care of his hair.
I'm still alive and Simon is handsome so I must not be doing too badly I think.

Alex's wink finally convinces him

- OK then
Wille holds back from telling her that she can add his name to the list because from the little moan he heard, he knows that he too is now allowed to touch Simon's hair.

Alex sets Wille down with the computer open on the table in front of them.
While she cuts his hair they watch the concert live.
Wille is captivated by what he sees.
The delirious crowd that sings all the lyrics in unison, he can even hear them in real life through the walls of the bus.
When the camera is on Simon, Wille's mouth is wide open.
It's almost like another person.
He was born to be on stage.
He takes up all the space, dances, plays with the band with the fans and his voice is so beautiful.
He understands now why they need to rest so much. They all give 200% on stage, no breaks.
Wille hears the encores, once, twice.

- Once we stayed 1 hour longer on stage because the atmosphere was so magical, Alex told him.

- It's incredible.... uh Do you think I could watch the next one from backstage or...

- We'll try to find a way yeah... How are you known in Poland?

- Is that where we're going after?

- Yes, we'll hit the road as soon as they get back.
We drive a lot at night so they can rest during the trip and we save time.
The next concert in Warsaw is in 2 days. It's going to take us more than 11 hours of driving to get there, not counting the breaks.
We'll have the evening off tomorrow night when we get there.

- I've never been there and I don't think we're very well known there.

- OK, so cap, glasses and a new cool look, that'll be it.
You'll see it live in real life, it's nothing like that.
You will feel the vibrations in your whole body from the music but also from the tremors of the crowd.
I think I could never do without it and you can't even imagine the effect it has on the boys. When they come off stage it's like they're high on heroin.
It takes them a while to come down.
Expect to spend at least 2 crazy hours when they come back.

Wille likes listening to Alex and he likes that she doesn't hold back on explanations and anecdotes.
He feels that she really wants to make him understand what their life is like.

When she's finished she tells Wille to go look at himself in the bathroom.
She cut his hair shorter than his mother ever allowed and gave it a modern shape that finally makes him look like a real young man his age.
He also realizes that he didn't shave today and a small beard is starting to appear.
He likes what he sees and if he lets this grows a little more, he will almost no longer need to disguise himself, it changes him so much.

Suddenly he feels the bus starting up and hears Alex telling him to get ready

- Watch out, tornadoes are coming! She laughs
In addition to the excitement of the concert, the boys have to hurry to get out to get to the bus before there are too many fans outside.
Once we were stuck for over 2 hours in the parking lot surrounded by hundreds of fans.
Simon had to go out to the door and explain to them that we were going to be late if they didn't let us through.
He then started singing and everyone in the parking lot joined in with him.
Pleased with this special moment, they then let us through.
Since then they hurry back to the bus and we leave as quickly as possible.
Even though this moment was one of the most wonderful for all of us, it was very limited in terms of security.
We were reprimanded by the security of the stadium where we were plus by the local police.
A crazy memory...

She had barely finished when they heard screaming and the front door of the bus opened.
Indeed, 4 tornadoes entered the bus.

They laughed, hugged each other, congratulated each other, and they didn't stop talking while the bus was already leaving the parking lot.

Simon suddenly froze at the sight of Wille who saw, on his face, for a split second a frown and another emotion that he couldn't determine.

Everyone suddenly fell silent.

- You...you cut your hair?

- Ummmm yes It's part of my new incognito look...
Ummmm you don't like it?

- Hummmm yeah yes yes... That uh it suits you very well.

Wille saw Simon's cheeks turn a little pink.  Apparently his new haircut has some unexpected effects on Simon.

Once everyone has taken a shower, they all meet up around the table again to have dinner with the leftovers from the afternoon caterer.
They are still quite euphoric even if Wille is starting to see they feel tired.
Alex was right, it's as if they were coming down after a dose of drugs.
Despite the laughters, he sees Simon who often looks at him seriously out of the corner of his eye without ever managing to translate what he feels.
Is he angry with him because he cut his hair? Doesn't he like his new haircut?

After a while, Olle says goodbye and goes to his bunk, Felle follows a few minutes later, Oski then.

Simon signals to Wille to go to the room and that he'll be there in 2 minutes. He has to see something with Alex.

When Simon comes back in turn, he comes to lie down next to Wille who is on his back with his arms crossed on his chest. Simon imitates him.
Has this already become a routine of theirs?
Wille senses a little tension. It's been a while since Simon really spoke to him.

- You were magnificent on stage Wille finally says

- Thanks... did you like the concert?

- Yes but it was frustrating to stay on the bus.
Alex told me that she's going to try to get me backstage for the next one and the new haircut should help camouflage it.

- Is that why you cut it?

Wille really senses something different in Simon's voice.
They both look at the ceiling. The atmosphere is strange.

- Yes and no ... I also wanted to try something new ...

- Hummm OK ...

- I have the impression that you don't like it, Simon ....

- Ummm yes yes hummmm

- What then? I hope you didn't just scold Alex for doing that?

After a deep breath Simon finally confesses
- No .... uh ... Of course not (maybe a little yes but he won't admit it) ... just I liked your locks falling on your face, I always wanted to put them back in place

- Ohhhh is that it?
But it will grow back quickly

- hummm but I don't know if I want it to grow back .. you are .... you are pretty sexy like that

Wille's eyes are wide open as he quickly turns his head towards Simon.
He sees him still staring at the ceiling with very red cheeks. He sees his fingers twisting between them.
That's why Wille couldn't figure out what he was seeing on Simon's face because they were two contradictory emotions that were there.

- Simon.... I think I'm going to kiss you now.... if you agree?

This time it's Simon who turns his head towards Wille with his eyes wide open.
But he nods quietly in silence.

They both stay looking at each other, both lower their gaze to the other's lips at the same time.
Wille comes closer and takes Simon's hand to place it on his own hair. With his fingers above Simon's he starts to play with a few strands as if to show him that he can still do it.
Without taking his eyes off him Simon starts to imitate the gestures and smiles.
Wille then reaches out and does the same to Simon's hair. He wraps the curls around his fingers and Simon closes his eyes for a short moment at the sensation.
He barely opens them when he finally feels Wille's lips press against his in a soft kiss. They both close their eyes and when Simon begins to return the kiss, two moans are heard from each of them.

When Wille pulls back a few centimeters, Simon moans as not happy with the loss.

- Thank you for letting me caress your hair, Wille murmurs while accentuating his caresses on Simon's scalp who can't help but close his eyes again.

- Alex talks too much, Simon murmurs

Wille smiles and places his lips on Simon's again.
Mechanically their two bodies come closer and their kiss becomes more languid.

Simon's tongue tries to approach the opening between Wille's lips who doesn't need to be asked twice to open his mouth.
When their two tongues meet it's like a shot of ecstasy again.
They stay several minutes kissing each other softly while caressing each other's hair.

- We should sleep you must be exhausted with everything you've given tonight says Wille his lips still on Simon's.

At these words Simon glues his to Wille's and they go for another long kiss.
When their breath starts to run out each one moves his head back a little and they look at each other intensely.

Neither of them wants to break this moment, neither of them needs to speak.
Wille wraps his arms around Simon and makes him lie down next to him, his head against his chest... yet another of their routine already.
And again Simon falls asleep in a few minutes under Wille's fingers in his hair.
When Wille is sure that Simon is sleeping deeply he also allows himself to fall asleep rocked by the movements of the bus.

Chapter Text

Everyone is awake and scattered in the bus that is still moving. They must have 2 or 3 hours of driving left.
They all had a well-deserved lie-in and are having breakfast.

Simon is sitting across from Alex, who is... still on her computer.
He stirs his coffee in the void at the same time as he stares at Wille who is fleecing the guys at poker on a table a little further away. A new side of him that he did not expect but a nice surprise.
He likes to see how Wille has integrated into the group, how he can't stop laughing with the guys. It's like he's been there with them forever, he thinks, and he wouldn't mind it lasting, he admits.

His thoughts go back to an hour ago, when he woke up to the feeling of Wille's fingers in his hair and a little kiss on his temple.
Since when does he like having his hair stroked? He thinks to himself

He is surprised to see that Wille does not hold back his tender gestures when it is just the two of them. He seems so shy and even sometimes introverted when there are people around them.

He thinks back to their kisses afterwards, again... they picked up exactly where they had left off last night. The heat was starting to rise in the small room, their bodies that were starting to quiver with desire more and more strongly.
Only the noise that was starting to be heard inside the bus stopped them.

They have not spoken at all about what they were to each other since Wille got on the bus.
Is it really necessary? It will surely become so... sooner than Simon would like but for now he just wants to enjoy this new feeling that he feels in his stomach, like butterflies.

He doesn't want to think about the reality outside the bus... the royal family that at any moment could make Wille disappear from his life as quickly as he entered it.

A part of him is also afraid that Wille will get tired of it and go back to his life after a few days of vacation, like he heard him say to the queen.

Maybe they should talk about it after all before they go crazy with all these thoughts.

When Simon stayed with Alex for a few minutes last night and after gently reprimanding her for cutting Wille's hair (when he thinks about it he really doesn't know what went through his head), she ended up telling him about the panic attack Wille had when she talked to him about the future.
He didn't mention it to Wille. If he wants to talk to him about it, he will.

- He's not going to run away from the bus if you stop looking at him you know
Alex laughs quietly.

Simon is then taken out of his thoughts and he feels his cheeks heating up.

- Ah ah very funny he tries to say to regain some composure.

- I'm happy to see you like this you know continue slowly Alex.

With everything that happened, I was afraid that you wouldn't allow yourself to be happy anymore.

- Hummm ... Simon doesn't really know what to say to that and Alex knowing him so well, understands him and goes back to working on her computer with a little smile.

He sees Oski who gets up followed by Felle. They sit on the table next to Simon's.

- We give up! We haven't won a single game Felle says dejected.

Wille who also stood up and is now sitting next to Simon laughs at their scowling faces.

- That must be the only positive thing about being a prince he says... you learn early on to hide your true emotions, to pretend....always pretend.

It was supposed to be a joke but everyone stares at him sadly instead.

- Ohhh no, no pity please, it's not worth it.

Wille stretches a little more against the back of the bench and mechanically puts his arm behind Simon on the edge.

- I'm not to be pitied and I especially don't want you to think that I'm spitting in the soup. I know that I'm privileged....

While talking a little in his thoughts, Wille without realizing it begins to play with Simon's curls.
Everyone notices it with wide eyes and especially realizes that Simon instead of getting angry, closes his eyes and looks....peaceful...
When Wille realizes the looks that the others are exchanging between them, he realizes what he is doing and folds his arm while coughing to hide his embarrassment.

He continues as if nothing had happened

- I know that many would dream of being in my place but I just think that I was not born in the right family. This is not for me, I hate this life.

Simon noticed that Wille used his argument from one of their first meetings "not being born in the right family".
He wonders if Wille already thought that before or if it was him who put it in his head.

- We understand you Wille, don't worry, says Olle.
Appearances are also a big part of our lives, but unlike you, we chose our life and we passionately love what we do.

- What would you like to do if you weren't a prince, asks Oski and at these words Alex and Simon are tense.

All eyes are on Wille, whose breathing becomes a little faster.
Simon quickly puts his hand on his thigh and presses his fingers on it as if to bring Wille back among them.
It seems to work because Wille starts breathing normally again.
Apparently only Alex and Simon noticed these few seconds of panic.

- I... I don't know... I never allowed myself to think about it to be honest.
It was just after high school that I wanted to go to college to study anything related to the arts but I wasn't allowed to go.

- All that bullshit, Felle suddenly exclaims! I'm glad you ran away with us! You'll see, we'll show you real life! He says with a big smile that makes everyone laugh and suddenly relaxes the atmosphere.

Wille feels better than he's ever felt.

- Besides, why are you traveling by bus and not by plane? It would be much faster, right? Wille asks sincerely.

Simon answers this

- We did that at the beginning but we didn't like it.
We were never just among ourselves. There wasn't a flight where someone didn't recognize us and started a little tantrum in mid-flight.
Then everyone went to their hotel room and we didn't share much.
The bus allows us to be among ourselves, to be as a family, to take the time to settle down and forget all this tumult for a bit.

- Hmmmm yes It seems sensible to me indeed.
You're lucky to have all found each other.

They arrive in Warsaw and to Wille's surprise, they go to a hotel.

- When we stay in the same place for several days we allow ourself a little of that luxury Alex explains to him discreetly.

It's been almost two days since Wille did not left the bus at all and he's strangely apprehensive about returning to the real world.

Cap on his head and surrounded by the group, he stays back while Simon and Alex take care of getting their keys.
He hears Simon explain that his cousin has joined them and that he will share his room.
A very distant cousin, he says to himself, laughing to himself.

He also hears him remind the receptionist to be very discreet about their presence here.
He wouldn't want the hotel to be assaulted by paparazzi, he tells him with a wink.

No, that wouldn't be good if he got his picture taken, Wille knows it would reach his mother and his escapade would quickly be over.

When they find themselves in the room, they suddenly become a little shy again.
It's the first time they're alone, really alone with no one behind very thin walls.

Wille sees boxes in a corner and questions Simon with his eyes.

- Ahhh yes, those are your clothes. Alex had them delivered here.

Am I going to be allowed to see them now?

Wille rushes to open them, too impatient to see them for real.

It's the first time he's bought his own clothes... the first time... it's crazy he thinks.

He starts to take out a few pieces and hears Simon whistling behind him

- Wow you're going to look amazing in those clothes! And for sure no one will recognize you.

- Thanks Simon answers Wille embarrassed.

He's not used to compliments, not this sincere anyway.

- I should go buy a razor too.

- Hmmmm that can wait... Simon has come closer and strokes Wille's cheek with his beard that has grown a little more.

I really like this new look, you look like a rebel.  .. It suits you well

- Simon .... Wille exhales and suddenly their lips are connected again but this time the kiss is more fiery, passionate, ardent.
They allow their hands to explore the upper body of the other and moans of pleasure are heard throughout the room.

When they stop to catch their breath, Wille wraps his arms around Simon's waist.

- Your cousin then? He chuckles

- Oh come on... I was taken aback, I didn't think about it before I got there.
At least it raises fewer questions about why only one room.
But by the way, sorry, I didn't even ask you, maybe you would have wanted your own room?

- There's nowhere else I'd like to be now, Wille replies in a breath.

And they resume their kisses frantically.

They are suddenly stopped by knocks on the door.

They both sigh in exasperation at the same time.

When Simon opens the door, he faces Alex who opens her eyes wide at the sight of him before giving a little smirk.

- Um, sorry to disturb, we were thinking of going out to dinner if you'd like.

We found a small, discreet restaurant 5 minutes away on foot.

Simon turns around to ask Wille who nods.

Even if he's dying to continue what they were doing, he also needs to get back into the fresh air and civilization.

- OK, we'll be there in 10 minutes, confirms Simon

- OK and... you'd better put your curls back in place... I've never seen them so messy, laughs Alex before heading towards the elevator, leaving a scarlet Simon on the foot of the door.

- I'm sorry, Wille snickers once the door closes.

- Well, they would have found out pretty quickly anyway, chuckles Simon.
At least we don't have to hide from them now.

- I think they already guessed when they saw me stroking your hair when we were talking earlier.
By the way, what's all that stuff about your hair?

- Nothing, it's just that normally I can't stand people touching them.
I think it comes from my childhood. Everyone thought they were allowed to run their hand through them with "oh he's cute" "oh he has such beautiful hair" "oh the beautiful curls".
When I was old enough to assert myself, I forbade everyone from touching them except Mama, then later Alex because I had to cut them from time to time.

Wille who has put his arms around Simon's waist murmurs

- Thank you then ... I feel privileged ...

- You can yes Simon chuckles

- But it's true that you are beautiful ...

Simon kisses Wille's tender lips again to remove his little smirk.

The evening is spent between laughter and discovery of a whole new cuisine.
They decided to take all the local dishes to share to taste everything.
Wille is alive again or rather he simply lives.
He feels light, free.

When they all return to the hotel Wille discreetly takes Simon's hand and they walk together in silence a little behind the group.

Once back in the room, they don't waste a second and resume where they were before being interrupted.

- You really look super sexy with your new clothes Simon whispers in a breath

- I'm glad you like it. I feel very comfortable in it.

- Hummm are you going to want to keep them to sleep?

- Actually at home I usually only sleep in my underwear

- Hummm and we want you to feel at home, don't we?

How can a simple conversation about clothes suddenly become so hot?

Before even thinking about it Wille finds himself just in his underwear, Simon having helped him take off his hoodie and his t-shirt while he took off his jeans.
In the excitement they almost lost their balance several times.

Simon inhales the scent that emanates from Wille's skin while placing both palms flat on his chest.
His gaze examines every inch of Wille's skin.

- Tu eres Papisito he breathes

When he hears Simon speak his native language, it's as if the ground is giving way under Wille's feet.

How come it has such an effect on him? He didn't even understand what he was saying.

Simon could insult him in Spanish, he would still like that he says to himself.

- Papasito?

Simon didn't even realize that he had switched languages ​​because he was so excited by the sight in front of him.

- Hummm you're so handsome ...

- Ohhhh... Tu papasito tambien

Wille took Spanish classes in high school but let's just say that he didn't retain much to his great despair today.

Simon chuckles at this attempt but a warmth suddenly fills him.

Their lips meet again and at the same time Wille in turn helps him take off his clothes.

They find themselves lying on the bed both in their underwear but this time neither of them is on their backs with their arms crossed on their chests.
This time their hands run over their torsos, their arms, their hair.
Both want to feel as much of the other's skin as possible.

When Simon's hand gets dangerously close to the edge of Wile's underwear, he feels him stiffen slightly.

- Is everything okay? he asks tenderly while stopping his movement.

- Yes yes it's just that .... well I've never uh

- Ohhhh OK do you want to stop?

- NO! ... well I mean no it's okay Wille continues more gently.  Just gently and I don't think I'm ready to do more than caresses.

- Me neither Wille don't worry it's too early yet.
We have time for that.

At these words Wille lets go of the breath he hadn't realized he was holding. He was afraid of scaring Simon away but on the contrary Simon snuggles up against him with his head on his bare chest.
The feeling of their skin against each other is just divine.
They stay like that for long minutes to savor.

- Simon ....?

- Hummm

- I didn't say we had to stop everything either....

Their mutual laughter is lost in a new languorous kiss.
The hands start to explore again.
Simon feels Wille relax.
He places himself above him holding himself back with his hands, arms stretched out on Wille's side, their bodies a few inches apart.
Everything goes at once he feels Wille's hands on his hips and their two bodies are against each other.

There is not an inch of skin that does not touch the other.
They look at each other intensely until Simon moves a little to be more comfortable.

They both stop at the same time because the movement has made their two sexes rub against each other through their underwear and they both feel how hard they are.

This only increases their exaltation but they look straight at each other unsure of what to do with this new sensation.

Wille then begins very slowly, almost imperceptibly, to move his hips a little and it is as if a lightning bolt runs through them both.
He repeats once again but a little harder.
They both moan at the same time and lose themselves in a new kiss.
Simon tries in turn to move his hips at the same time and he feels Wille's sex react.
While continuing to absorb their moans louder and louder in the other's mouth, they both begin to move together.
Their two sexes rub against each other, and flashes of ecstasy run through them sending shivers on their skin.

Their movements become erratic, each wanting to make the other moan even more.

- Simon.... I'm going to...

- Me too...

They intensify their movements and both come at the same time in their underwear, just by their friction.

Wille had never felt this, he would never have thought he would have so much pleasure just with rubbing, just by seeing the pleasure he gave Simon.
He allows himself to think what it could be like if Simon's hands were on him, if his lips were on him....

A big change he had felt the other day... a revelation rather!

He will never be able to do without this feeling now he knows it and he wants more, more exploration, more Simon especially.

- Simon... humm it was....

- Yes Wille it was hummmm

Both remain glued to each other, Simon lying full length on Wille's body until the sensation of their wet underwear begins to become unpleasant.
Simon straightens up, kisses Wille tenderly and begins to want to get up.

- No stay with me ....

- we have to change and take a shower ...

- Hummmm not yet ...

- Yes otherwise we risk falling asleep like that and believe me you will regret it tomorrow Simon chuckles.

- Hummn OK ... together?

- Are you sure?

- Yes I don't want to be separated from you ....

Simon's stomach turns on itself.
Is it just Wille's post-orgasm talking or is it deeper than that?  Is it right now or later in the future that he doesn't want them to be separated?
Are they ready to see each other completely naked?

Simon shakes his head and tries not to think too much. He lets himself be guided by what he feels since apparently that's what Wille is doing.

- Okay ... he says in a slightly shaky voice.

In silence, they find themselves in the bathroom,
in silence they both take off their underwear,
in silence they look at each other,
in silence they smile at each other,
in silence they find themselves under the shower Simon leaning his back against Wille's chest, his arms around him on his stomach and Simon's arms on Wille's.
In silence they let the water run over their two bodies before soaping each other.

They both fall asleep with just a towel around their waists in each other's arms, peaceful and happy.

k

Chapter Text

- Alex speaking, Hello! What can I do for you?
Alex picked up before the call woke up the whole bus.

*********

They are in Milan. Last night's concert in Rome was wild.
Wille couldn't believe his eyes. It's the third concert he's been to from backstage and each time he's more and more amazed.
The energy on stage, in the audience... Alex was right, the vibrations of the music, the fans' screams, the applause resonated throughout his body.

Tonight was a little more complicated than the other nights though because Simon has caught the flu.
They've stuffed him with medication and Wille wonders how he managed to still have so much energy.
Once they got on the bus Simon quickly took a shower and went to bed immediately.

Since Warsaw, Wille has been living in a dream with the intimacy that has grown between them, even if it's still very shy.
They steal a few quick kisses secretly, their hands touch discreetly, they sleep in each other's arms in the secrecy of their bedroom and then Wille envies the freedom that Simon and the band have.
Of course they have a lot of responsibilities with the concerts but being on the road, being together and especially living their passion, that must be true freedom, living your life doing what you love, with those you love.

With his new haircut and his growing beard that he kept, Wille is totally transformed. After reviewing the band's schedule with Alex and Simon, it was decided that it was time for him to get off the bus. They pass him off as Alex's assistant and no one pays any attention.
As he had explained, no one expects to see a prince in a pop band's technical team.

The three nights were just magical.
The excitement backstage, in the room, on stage.

Wille now understands why the guys are like stoned when they come back to the bus.

He also didn't expect all the logistics behind the concert itself, the number of people involved. It's like a small anthill where everyone knows what to do, where to stand... everyone except him.
The first night he was jostled quite a few times by the technicians who grumbled every time he was in their way.
He was so amazed by everything that was happening and especially to finally see Simon in his element.
Seeing him on stage rehearsing, giving instructions, coordinating the last aspects of the concert.
Each scene is different and Wille learns that the show must be modified accordingly each time to avoid accidents like falling off the stage because it is smaller than the previous one for example.

He doesn't want to miss anything. Seeing the empty venue under the neon lights suddenly transformed with the sets and the band's instruments, the spotlights turned on bringing the room to life as if by magic.
His eyes are not big enough to see everything.
And Simon and his voice... when he attends the first sound tests, it's the first time he hears Simon lLive.
He saw him live on the computer but it is not at all comparable to seeing and hearing him live a few meters away from him.

Since their night in Warsaw, it is undeniable that their relationship has changed, evolved.
They have not really talked about it in fact because it just seems normal to them, natural as if they had known each other for years, but the tender gestures multiply, the discreet smiles too when they are surrounded by other people.
The group does not say anything but they can also see their little smiles on the side.
Wille had never felt so good.

*********

Wille is awake but doesn't dare to move so as not to wake Simon.
Last night he wanted to sleep in one of the bunks to let him sleep and rest but after an hour a feverish and grumpy Simon stood in front of him because he couldn't fall asleep.
He was so adorable that Wille cracked and joined him.

He listens carefully when he hears a phone ring and Alex answers.

-  Who did you say you were, sorry?

- ....

- I don't understand your question... the prince, what prince?

At these words Wille tenses up and a cold shiver runs through him.

- I don't see what you mean and how did you get this number?

- ....

- No sir we don't have any prince with us and I don't appreciate your threatening tone that early in the morning.
With all due respect I'm going to hang up now.
Good day sir!

On these last words Wille finally comes out of the bedroom, after sneaking out of bed as discreetly as possible and sees Alex hang up with a big frown when he opens the door.
He is like paralyzed. He approaches slowly and sits in front of her in silence, trembling.

- Someone posted a photo of the group leaving the stadium in Bern two days ago.
Apparently we see you in the background a little blurry, but Someone tagged your official account for fun saying that the person vaguely resembled you and of course The Court was immediately notified and went back to us.

Wille collapses on the bench, taking his head in his hands.

- I denied that it was you and said that I didn't see what they were talking about but I'm afraid they won't let it go.
Maybe it's time to talk to them.
Legally I just lied to the Swedish Royal Court and I'm not sure what that implies.

- yeah of course there's no way I'm putting you in any kind of danger.
It's my fault, I should have been more careful. I'm sorry I dragged you into all this.

- Wille you don't have to apologize. When we took you in we were all aware that this could happen.
I just hoped you'd have more time to think about all this.

- I can't hide forever anyway...

- Have you managed to get your thoughts in order? Have you talked about it with Simon?
I've seen that you've gotten very close since Warsaw.

- Ohhhh

- Wille, laughs Alex, do you really think that by living on a bus with us, we wouldn't notice anything?
We're happy for you.
I'll call our lawyers and you should go talk to Simon.

- Yes OK

Wille delicately enters the room.
Simon is still sleeping.
It hurts his heart to have to wake him up but he has no choice if they want to have time to discuss the situation together before tonight's concert.
He lies down on his side delicately next to Simon who is lying on his stomach. Only his head and curls are sticking out of the duvet.

He reaches out his hand delicately to stroke his curls.

He observes Simon. He looks so peaceful ands so beautiful. He has never seen such beauty before.
And what he feels when he looks at him is only warmth and... love? Are the butterflies in the stomach, lightning when they touch each other what means love? Is this what makes there not a minute go by without him thinking about him?
Wille has never been in love but he knows, he feels it deep inside him.

While his fingers play with Simon's hair, he begins to caress his cheek with his thumb.
He feels Simon move slowly and groan a little.

- Shhhhh It's me...Wille whispers
I'm sorry to wake you.

At these words Simon also rolls over and smiles tenderly at Wille while keeping his eyes closed.

- Mmmn Wille...
To the satisfaction of the touch on his cheek and hair, He tilts his head to increase the sensation of the touch.

- How do you feel? Wille asks while putting his hand on Simon's forehead.
It seems like the fever has gone down

- It's better yes, I still feel some aches but after a good hot shower it will be better.

Simon while talking snuggled up against Wille's chest who wraps his arms around him.
They stay like that for a few seconds but Simon feels that Wille is a little tense.

- Is everything okay? He asks him still with his eyes closed.

- Hummm yes Wille hesitates

Simon straightens up a little and looks at Wille who stares at the door in front of him, his eyes in the vague.

- Wille what's wrong?

- They found me Simon .... Wille sighs sadly

Simon straightens up and they both sit facing each other

- What do you mean they found you?

- Someone posted a picture of you on social media and I can be seen in the background.
I'm blurry and there's really reason to doubt it but the person for fun tagged my official account saying that there was a false air... and ... and this morning Alex received a call from the Court.
They're not sure. For now they're fishing for information but I know they're not going to give up like that.

The more Wille explains, the more Simon's eyes widen in stupor.

- But .... but what does that mean? Are they going to come get you or what?

- I don't know but there's a risk yes that they'll send someone to check.
I think we have a few days but no more.

- Wille .... Simon breathes, his voice exuding fear .... and .... and what does that mean, what do you want to do?

- I don't know .... but I think I need to be more mature and stop running away.
This week with you is the best week of my life but we still have this sword of Damocles hanging over us and above all .... above all I refuse that you have to pay for my cowardice.

- Wille we've already had this conversation! I forbid you to say that! You're far from being a coward!
We're going to find a solution! Together, do you remember?

Simon takes Wille in his arms
- It's .... it's really the best week of your life? He hesitates, his head buried in Wille's neck.

- I told you I didn't want to be separated from you...

Simon feels Wille's tears running down his neck.

- Wille it'll be okay, it'll be okay...together we said! I don't want us to be separated either
I've never felt this before Wille

Simon takes Wille's face in his hands and kisses him tenderly. Their lips are pressed tightly together as if they literally didn't want to be separated for a single second.

Obliged to stop anyway to catch their breath, Simon pulls back a little.

- Wille... I have to ask you... uh

- Yes what is it?

- You... what do you want to do? Because I'm on tour and then I'm going back to Spain... and you... well you're in Sweden.
I mean... uh how are we going to do it?

- I... I thought about it... a lot... and I talked about it with Alex and uh we looked at it with the lawyers....

- Ohhhh What did you look at?

- Uh my options?....Wille hesitates

Simon's eyes keep getting bigger. He hopes, yes he hopes that Wille is thinking the same thing as him.

- Your options? What do you mean?

Wille suddenly gets up and starts pacing around the small room, biting the tip of his thumb while Simon follows him with his eyes without adding anything.

- I already told you that I hated my life and... and since I've known you I can't see myself going back there.

- I'm not sure I understand.... Simon answers with a trembling voice trying to keep up with Wille who is walking faster and faster.
A hope is starting to grow in his chest but he doesn't want to get carried away too quickly.

- I .... I haven't had time to really think about it yet but ... if ... I ...

Wille stops and stares at Simon

- No it's completely crazy forget it he says shaking his head and starting to go around in circles again.

- Wille .... talk to me! If you what?

- What if ... if ... I gave up the Crown?

- Wille ....?!?
Simon feels like an explosion in his heart while Wille sits back down on the bed in front of him and takes his hands.

- If I abdicate ... would .... would you agree for me to stay with you?

- Wille .... I ... I .... OF COURSE! YES! but are you sure? You would want to give up your life like that?

- My life that I hate....for someone I love....

Their eyes lock and you can feel the tension in the room, the tension of an extremely important moment, a turning point in a life.

- I know it's only been a week but I have no doubt Simon... I love you!

Simon brings his trembling hand to his mouth as if to contain his emotion with tears in his eyes.

- Me too Wille...God I love you too!

Wille throws himself on Simon and pins him on the bed.
Their making out is torrid, erratic, frantic. The tension of a few seconds ago is released in all their movements.
None of their caresses seem enough to express what they both feel.

After several minutes Wille stops dead because he feels Simon trembling under him.
He lifts his torso with the strength of his arms to look at him and to check what's wrong.

He is surprised to see Simon laughing harder and harder.
At Wille's questioning look, Simon calms down a little

- We're crazy...completely crazy he manages to say between two chuckles.

- Are you up to do this with me?

- Yes Wille totally up to!  Together!

They end up leaving the bedroom, holding hands, after having kissed each other for a very long time.
Everyone is awake and is having breakfast.
Simon expected to see surprise on everyone's faces but it's only tenderness in his friends' eyes.

- Hi everyone We have something to tell you Simon begins

They sit down at the table and explain to the group everything that has happened since this morning and the decision they have made.

- Wow OK so we're going to participate in a kind of revolution?...Olle ends up saying... Coooollll

- Felle?  Asks Simon

- We knew it was a possibility when we agreed for you to come with us Wille... so welcome to the family

- Oski?

- Delirious yes of course!

Wille is very moved
- Thank you everyone... I don't know how to thank you

- Thank you yes guys and Alex Thank you for all your help continue Simon
Do you think we can call our lawyers?

- No need... I contacted them as soon as Wille went to wake you up.
They are already looking for all the Swedish and international legal texts to see what Wille can do.

- And why wouldn't he do a Live on Insta to say that he is giving up his role? That way they won't be able to do anything, everyone would know

Everyone turns to Ollé totally surprised

- Well what?

- Let's say we'll keep this option as a last resort.
We'll try the diplomatic way first. Alex explains.
We mustn't forget that behind the Crown, it's also Wille's family that we're talking about.

- Ok, let's do it then, Simon says as he gets up.
It's going to be time for us to go do the rehearsals.
Alex can you stay with Wille to establish a plan?

Turning to Wille,
- I think it's better that you stay on the bus for now. Is that okay with you?

- Yes, don't worry, we have work with Alex anyway

- Ok guys, we'll go in 10 minutes
Wille, are you coming?

Simon shows him the bedroom with his head.
After getting up, Wille turns to the group

- Umm thanks again to everyone ... No one has ever supported me like you do when you don't even know me
I don't know how to thank you.

- Keep making sure Simon is in a good mood and happy and we're fine with that, chuckles Ollé

At these words and the laughter of everyone else, Simon shakes his head but the smile on his face expresses all his gratitude and the love he feels for his friends, his family of heart.

- Umm thanks I'll do my best yes, Wille answers with red cheeks

Alex and Wille spend the afternoon on the computer and in phone conference again with the lawyers.
The latters explain to them that it is not easy for them to find information without arousing suspicions from the Court.
Without a trusted person inside, they have no way of knowing what the Queen's reaction will be.

- Maybe I can talk to my brother about it, Wille hesitates
I mean... he's part of the system but he's my brother first and foremost and he's always supported and helped me. And I've never hidden my aversion to this life and the Crown from him.

- You know best Wille, replies Alex.
Whatever you do, we'll follow you.

He then takes a deep breath and presses the contact of his brother, the crown prince.
He's on speakerphone so that Alex and the lawyers, who have stayed online on her phone, can hear everything. They're on mute, if necessary they'll comment live on a chat with Alex.

- Wille, where the hell are you? Are you okay?? You've done some stupid things in the past but then disappear for over a week without giving any news!!! You know we're on the verge of a diplomatic crisis here.

- Hello Eric, I'm fine, even very fine.
Diplomatic crisis?  I warned that I was taking a vacation and that I was safe.

Wille tries to play innocent as if to show that there is no problem in taking a vacation. Everyone takes a vacation after all....but they are not everyone.

- Wille you know that this word is not part of our vocabulary... Well what if you really tell me what is going on?

His brother's tender voice reassures him. After checking with Alex, he begins to explain.

- Eric you know that I have never liked this life, you know that I am unhappy

- Wille ... it is a privilege not...

- Yeah yeah I know not a punishment Wille interrupts him irritated.

Alex puts her hand on Wille's and signals him to stay calm. If he wants to be heard he must remain as calm and confident as possible.

- Eric I'm unhappy, well I was unhappy until a week ago... You saw it, you had a front row seat to see it every day.

Wille leaves a little silence but Eric says nothing, he gives him time to find his words, He knows his brother

- I... I met someone and I'm really happy Eric like never before.

- Wille I'm very happy for you but imagine if everyone disappeared every time they met someone... that's not a valid reason to forget your responsibilities.
And you know that anyone we meet and with whom uh we are intimate, must be approved by the Court.

Alex shakes her head at this last sentence.

- This is my private life. There is no way I'm letting the Court interfere.

- Wille ... help me understand please
What do you want?

- I want .... I want to leave my role Eric ... become an ordinary person, free to make my choices and live the life I want.

A long silence is heard ... that's it, there's no going back now that he's said it out loud.
He feels the weight on his shoulders finally reduce and knows that it's the right decision for him.

- Eric? Are you still here?

- Yes yes ... excuse me it's just that I didn't expect this at all.
Do you want to abandon us?

- Not you Eric but the Crown

- We are the Crown Wille!

- That's the problem... I don't feel like I have a family but a boss and colleagues.
You know it yourself, it's not a healthy relationship.

- And this person for whom you want to give up everything in a week, are you sure they're worth it?
Isn't it a bit hasty?

- Yes Eric he's worth it! I'm sorry to say this but he brings me the family I never had and I love him and he loves me.
I know it may seem crazy but we found each other and we both know that we are made for each other.
I am myself with him Eric and he loves me for me and me alone.

At these words he sees a smile on Alex's face and her eyes shine. He returns her smile with red cheeks.

- Ok ok ... and what do you want from me? Because I guess if you call me and not mom or the Court it's because you want something.

Eric's sad voice pierces Wille's heart but he has to continue.

- Eric I love you and you will always be my brother, Ok? But yes I need your help to convince mom and the Court to let me go. I need your support and that of the crown prince.

- I will try Wille but I promise you nothing. You know how they are.
How can I reach you? I always get your voicemail.

- Yes I got rid of my old phone

- Wille ... you never do anything halfway you laugh Eric and it lightens the atmosphere.

- You can send me emails and I will call back you if necessary

- Ok can I ask you where you are anyway?
Was that you in the Insta photo?  Are you safe?

- I'm in Europe and I'm enjoying life for the first time, that's the best I can say.
And yes I've never been safer than now I swear.
We'll stay in touch OK? I'll call you back as soon as possible.
And Eric ... thank you ... thank you for remaining my big brother

- Always Wille always ... and I hope I'll have the pleasure of soon meeting the one who managed to turn the entire Crown of Sweden upside down in one week.
The little mocking laugh in Eric's voice warms Wille's heart.
It'll be okay, he knows now it can only be okay.

- I promise Eric I love you and thank you again.

Chapter Text

The rehearsals are going well but Simon keeps making mistakes in the dance steps and even manages to forget the lyrics of the songs he has sung hundreds of times.
His mind is somewhere else, totally somewhere else.

Since he woke up this morning he has not had time to sit down and take the time to realize what had happened.
The call from the Court and ... and Wille!

They confessed their love for each other!

After less than 10 days how could his life have changed so much?
How in 10 days did he manage to question everything?

After his last disastrous affair, he had promised himself that he would never commit again .... much less fall in love.
These last 10 days have been nothing but whirlwinds After whirlwinds.

The day he met Wille for the first time, it was as if he had been struck by lightning, literally.
When he turned around that night and his gaze met Wille's, he knew without knowing.
He knew that the beat that his heart missed meant something.
He knew that his teasing behavior towards this stranger meant something.
However, he had tried hard after that first night to stop thinking about him because they would never see each other again anyway and no, he would not let himself get drawn into a relationship with a stranger.

During their second meeting, his heart raced again when he saw Wille contemplating the painting.
He was even cuter than he remembered.
He knew at that moment that he had to see him again.
The mystery that surrounded Wille, his shyness, but also his strength of character that was hidden behind it, the way their conversation was so fluid, so simple, all of this attracted him like a magnet.
Wille gave off such an aura like he had never seen before.

Of course he got scared when Wille told him he was in Germany. He didn't want to answer his message. It was too scary, this stranger who, what, was following him?

But what he had felt in Wille's presence, that didn't scare him at all.
He never explained it to himself but he couldn't deny the instant attraction he felt for him.

His sad look but at the same time full of tenderness, hope, laughter, yes he fell for it right away.

Of course he got scared again when he finally knew what Wille was hiding. Who wouldn't have been scared in front of a real prince after all?
But once again his attraction was too strong for him to stop at that and above all he understood now why Wille understood him so well.

Despite their different situations, they were experiencing more or less the same thing, having to manage their lives in the public eye, seeing their lives slip away from them sometimes.

When he went to pick up Wille right after the concert, he didn't even think for a second when Alex suggested the idea to him as a joke.
He remembers his conversation with her that night.

She had seen that something was bothering him, she knew him so well.
He ended up telling her about the secret meetings, the similarities in their tastes and especially what he had felt and that he couldn't forget.

It all started with a joke "we should have kidnapped him before we left" she had told him laughing.
But Simon took it literally.
He remembers saying to her "what if I went to get him?" He had heard himself say without thinking.  He saw Alex burst out laughing and stop dead after a few seconds when she saw that he looked serious.
Everything got out of control and 10 minutes after the concert he was on the bus on his way to Munich.

A totally crazy impulse but one that he couldn't stop.
He didn't even know if Wille would follow him. It was completely crazy.

It was then when Wille took his hand and agreed to follow him on the bus that he knew, he knew that he was in love.
That he would give anything to protect him, to give him the life he deserves.

But he didn't know what Wille felt.
Maybe it was just an escape for him, just a vacation as he said, a little temporary rebellion.
It doesn't matter, he'll take what Wille can give him even if it's just a long-distance friendship.
At that moment he knew he would do anything to stay in his life.

The more days passed, the more his hope grew. Wille's behavior with him gave him hope.

In Warsaw he finally allowed himself to imagine what his life with Wille could be like and not just as a friend... but there was always this doubt.
He fell in love almost immediately but he knows very well that it is not normal, that no one falls in love so quickly.

So hearing Wille confess his love to him this morning, his whole world started to spin.
He couldn't believe it and the joy he felt at that moment is incomparable to all those he had experienced before.

The cherry on the cake.... Wille is ready to give up the Crown for him, for him!!!
He certainly didn't expect that, it hadn't even crossed his mind.
How could it have?  Even in his wildest dreams he wouldn't have dared to think about it.

And here they are now. Him living his dream on stage and Wille changing his life 360° for him.

When he thinks about it, his head spins.
Wille is going to give up everything for him!

No, it's not right, he can't let him do this just for him.

- Guys, I have to... I have to... I'm coming back!
He doesn't even give the band time to react before he storms off stage.
He ignores the technicians who watch him go by like a madman, the fans who shout his name when they see him cross the parking lot.

He knocks like a madman on the bus door.
The driver had fallen asleep since he wasn't supposed to be back for another 2 hours.

- Simon, what's going on? Wille immediately asks.

- Alex can you give us a few minutes please? He manages to articulate while trying to catch his breath.

Once alone, Simon approaches Wille and kisses him tenderly, passionately.
He stops when he feels Wille's lips trembling against his, he is laughing.

- Did you just leave rehearsals to come kiss me?

- Originally no, but I couldn't resist, sorry

- Oh Simon never again will you have to apologize for wanting to kiss me, never.

Simon snuggles into Wille's arms. He needs to feel this security for what he is about to say.

- What's going on Simon says tenderly Wille while stroking his hair.
Simon remains silent, his breathing is returning to normal and Wille says nothing even if a fear begins to rise in him.
He knows that Simon will talk to him when he is ready. He continues to stroke his hair and hold him as close as possible to him.

- Wille ... Simon begins while remaining huddled against his chest.
He doesn't know what will come of this conversation and he wants to take everything he can while he still can.

- Are you ... are you doing all this for my sake?

Simon feels Wille tense at these words and when he feels his hands on his shoulders that push him away from him, his eyes start to shine.
He ruined everything that's it ... why couldn't he keep his fears to himself? Couldn't he just enjoy what he had?

He feels Wille's thumb wiping his cheek under his eye.
A tear fell without him realizing it.

It took Wille a few seconds to understand what Simon meant.
He forces him to raise his face towards him by lifting his chin with his hand delicately.

- Simon I want to be with you ... but no ... no I'm doing it for my sake.
I don't want to be a prince, I don't want to be the backup and I talked about it with my brother and he's fine with that. He supports me.

A small smirk appears on his face as he continues...
- The question is rather will you still want me when I have become someone like everyone else and unemployed too?

Simon looks at him and returns the same smirk

- What the hell do you think?

They both hug each other and Wille spins Simon in the air.

They both laugh heartily.
Once they stop, Simon puts his hands on Wille's cheeks and a wild kiss follows. They stumble backwards so strong is their fervor and fall on one of the benches.

They kiss for a long time, both happy when they are interrupted by knocks on the bus door.

- Oh damn the rehearsals! I left them in the middle of a song. I couldn't concentrate.

They both start laughing again while getting up.

Wille runs his hand through Simon's hair and whispers to him

- I'm not moving from here, I'm waiting for you, you have nothing to fear.

After a last kiss, Simon finally gets out of the bus.

It is with a heart full of love and confidence in the future that he goes back on stage.

He was totally unleashed that evening on stage, he had never had such energy.

The stadium was crazy.
The group didn't understand anything except that something important must have happened during the break this afternoon.

The next 5 days are the same, completely crazy.
Wille and Simon are like in a dream, in their own bubble.
They experience their new love like two teenagers, much to the dismay of the rest of the group who are fed up with seeing them making out at every turn.

With Eric's help, they have less need to hide. He managed to convince the Court to let Wille live this adventure with the promise that he would return to the castle at the end of the European tour.
The Court is not really aware of this, for them Wille travels to Europe to discover the world and recharge his batteries.
They intentionally hid Simon and the band.
Wille suspects that they are still looking for him and the more the days go by, the more he knows that they are getting closer.

They no longer hide from the band but nevertheless remain very discreet outside the bus.
Wille always waits until the concerts have started to sneak backstage and returns to the bus during the encores.

The lawyers have made all the technicians sign NDA allowing Wille and Simon to behave normally during rehearsals and breaks during the concerts.
Alex had to put this in place when she realized she couldn't stop them from making out at every opportunity.
Real horny teenagers.

They manage to sneak off alone to go for a walk in town.
Both with caps and sunglasses, they manage to go unnoticed.
They also have a few evenings in museums after they close.
If this is how their life will be, they want to sign right away.
They have never been happier.

Unfortunately the shadow of the end of the European tour is fast approaching.
The bus is on its way to Spain where the last two concerts will take place before they fly to the United States.
With all this new excitement, Simon had forgotten that Wille had told him that he could follow him to "Europe".
In fact, he hadn't really taken the measure of these words.

Arriving in Barcelona, ​​they have the evening off.  They all talk about New York, Simon tells Wille that he wants to go up to the Empire State Building with him.
He feels that Wille is much less enthusiastic than him but does not want to make the remark in front of everyone.

He waits until they are in the room and sees that Wille is stressed.
Something he had not done for the last 5 days, he is biting the skin of his thumb when Simon comes out of the bathroom.

- Simon... I... I will not be able to come with you to the United States.
I will never be allowed to leave the European continent, the Court will stop me.

- But ... but ....
Simon can't speak.
Everything is turning upside down in his head, his heart is pinching.
He doesn't want to be separated from Wille, it's too soon.

- You told me you wouldn't want to be separated from me anymore...
The sobs can be heard in his voice.

- I don't want to but I'm still the Prince of Sweden, I have no choice.

- But what's the difference??? You've traveled all over Europe with us!!!!

The anger in Simon's voice pinches Wille's heart

- Yes Europe... without borders...
If I show up at a border and also go to another continent, the Court will be alerted immediately. They will know where I am and will make sure I can't board.

Wille slowly approaches Simon to take him in his arms but for the first time he pushes him away.

- I need to be alone for a moment, excuse me...
And with these words Simon leaves the bedroom and Wille sees tears running down his cheeks.
He runs after him in the bus

- Simon wait!....

But Simon has already gone down and the door closes behind him.

Alex, having witnessed the scene, explains to him that it is better to leave him alone for now and that he will come back later on his own.

She knows how Simon reacts when he is overwhelmed by his emotions.
To lighten the mood she explains to him that it is thanks to these moments that they met.
When Simon has trouble managing his overflowing emotions he takes refuge in museums.

Wille decides to wait for him in the bedroom, to give him space but when after 2 hours he has no news, no response to his messages, he can't hold on any longer.
He searches on his phone and quickly finds what he wants.
He rushes out of the bedroom and when he meets Alex, tells her he's coming back.

- You don't know where he is, you won't find him she tells him before he leaves the bus but too late, Wille is already running through the deserted streets.

After 15 minutes he stops in front of a building where only the front is lit.
He is completely out of breath.
He rings the intercom and when the guard answers he tries to explain himself without seeming crazy.
He suddenly hears the beep of the door opening and finds himself facing a guard who frowns.

- Your friend is in the room at the back... you have an hour, no more.

After thanking him at least 10 times, Wille starts running through the museum.
He looked on his phone for the one closest to the bus and had been certain that Simon would be there, he had felt it.

When he arrives out of breath in the last room, he sees Simon sitting on the other side of the room facing a magnificent painting. He turns his back to him.

He knows from the way Simon's body tenses that he has understood that he is there but he does not move, does not turn around.

Wille moves forward very slowly and when he arrives right behind Simon he just hears in a whisper

- I'm sorry

At these words Wille leans against the back of Simon still seated and wraps his arms around him.
Simon puts his hands on his forearms and leans his head back to nestle in Wille's neck.

- It's me who is sorry, Wille whispers in turn.

I should have been clearer with you, forgive me.
It will only be temporary. I thought I would use the time of your concerts in the United States to speak to the Court and make sure I would be free when you return.
That's what Eric and I planned.

Simon suddenly turns around, forcing Wille to straighten up.
Seeing his big eyes open in surprise, Wille continues
- I'm sorry I didn't tell you about it. Everything happened so quickly and we're so happy, I think part of me didn't want to tell you right away so as not to ruin everything
I'm really sorry Simon.

- I... I... I still have a hard time believing that you love me and that you're going to turn your whole life upside down for me.
It scares me as much as it makes me want it and when you told me you weren't coming with us I thought it meant your vacation was over and you were going back to Sweden for good.

- You won't get rid of me like that... you kidnapped me remember?
I'm yours now.... it's not called Stockholm syndrome for nothing he finally says with a smile that makes Simon crack.

- I love you Wille
- I love you my love

It's the first time Wille uses a sweet little name and it finishes off Simon.

He throws himself on him and again their kiss is so intense that they have a hard time not losing their minds.

They leave the museum together and on the way back to the bus Simon suddenly stops.
He signals to Wille to look across the street and Wille nods eagerly.
Simon takes his phone and sends a message to Alex to let her know that they are together and that they will not be back until the next morning.
Her answer arrives almost instantly.

"💜 I can't believe it! He really found you! 🥰
Good night lovers! "

It was difficult for them to separate from the hotel receptionist because she recognized Simon right away.

They had to come across a fan....
It is true that he is even more famous in Spain, his country.

Simon loves meeting his fans but now he would really love to do something else that includes Wille naked, he hopes.
Also He just wants to spend a night without hearing Olle's snoring, or having to be careful not to make too much noise.

To ensure her discretion, Simon offers the receptionist 2 VIP tickets for the next day's concert and an autograph.
After crying and promising to keep their secret, she finally gives them their key.
Despite Simon's opposition, she insisted on upgrading them to the most beautiful suite in the hotel.

Arriving in the room, they discover a huge room with an oversized bed and a bathroom that is just as good as the one in the palace where Wille lives.

There is a huge whirlpool bathtub right in the middle.

- Fame really does have its good sides, laughs Simon, joined by Wille right away.

- Ohhhhhhhh I would kill for a bath, moans Wille

- Ahhh? Well, listen, go ahead.... uh, I'm going to watch TV in the meantime.

A hint of disappointment can be heard in Simon's voice and Wille doesn't miss it.

- Or not, he answers with a little smile

- Wille if you want to take a bath go ahead don't worry about me

Wille comes closer to Simon putting his arms around his waist.

- Or not ... you don't watch TV ....

- ohhhhhh

- I like it when the water is very hot and you?

Wille's sweet voice against his ear almost overcomes Simon's legs, fortunately Wille holds him by the waist.

After undressing in silence, Wille enters the hot water with a moan of pleasure that brings a shy smile to Simon's lips.

After he motions for him to join him, Simon delicately enters and lies down with his back against Wille's chest, his head in the hollow of his shoulder.

They stay like that for several minutes, Wille caressing Simon's arms up and down, up and down, with his fingertips, who closes his eyes and savors the sensation.
Wille's hands then rest on the top of his shoulders and his fingers begin to massage them tenderly.

- You're so tense, my love... aren't you comfortable?

- Hummmm... It's... it's just the aches and pains from the shows.
Wille's touch, his concern for his well-being, the little nickname filled with love, Simon is on cloud nine.

- Stand up a little straighter, Wille tells him tenderly and begins to massage his shoulders.

- Hummmmm ohhh humm yes there yes that's it

Wille chuckles at each little moan he provokes in Simon each time he comes across a tension and lingers on it to make it disappear.
Simon didn't think he was so tense and Wille's magic hands he didn't expect that either...

- Hummm you should never have shown me hummm this talent....
I want hummmm that every night now

Wille laughs and kisses Simon's shoulder

- Anything you want Love

Once Simon is completely relaxed, they stay in the water, Simon against Wille again.  Wille continues to touch Simon's skin, his arms, his chest while Simon does the same on Wille's arms that surround him.
It's the first time they take time for themselves, alone without rushing, without a voice behind the door.
They know that their time together is limited, either by the Court or by the departure of the group to the United States.
Wille has never felt this before.
All he wants is to be with Simon, to cherish him, to protect him.
He knows the Simon of the shadows, not the one who is full of confidence on stage, but the one who doubts, who has been hurt.
He is always generous, but even more so with those close to him.
He refuses to be the one who will hurt him.

- I ... Wille stammers, breaking the silence
I will do everything I can to come back to you quickly, you know that, right?

- Yes, but I'm afraid, and if they stop you?

- You'll come kidnap me for real then and I'll run away with you

- Wille... be serious!

- I am....

With these words, Simon turns around and sees in Wille's eyes that yes he is very serious.
They kiss as if to seal a promise that no matter what happens, they will be together.

After a while, the water having cooled down and their bodies warmed by the excitement rising between them, they end up separating and getting out of the bathtub.
They order room service and eat quickly before snuggling up against each other in bed.

Both feel a tension, both want more but neither dares to make the first step thinking that the other is not ready.

- Simon.... whispers Wille

- Yes?  Simon whispers

My god, they're both so stupid. It could be hilarious if it wasn't so cute, so tender in fact.

- Can I... can I touch you?

- God Please, yes!

Relief, anticipation, can be heard in Simon's voice as he turns onto his back and lets Wille's hand run first down his cheek, then down his neck, exploring his chest, brushing his nipples.

At that, a shiver runs through Simon's entire body who moans softly.
It doesn't take anything more for Wille to intensify the pressure of his fingers on his skin and for him to start venturing towards the elastic of Simon's boxer shorts.
One finger below, he stops as Simon's body writhes under his hands.
He looks at him as if to ask if he can continue.

- Wille please moans even more Simon while pushing Wille's hand with his own to make it pass entirely inside his boxer shorts.

He then feels Wille's fingers brush his sex for the first time. A wave of pleasure overwhelms him and he moans even more.

He loses all control when he feels his hand grab him entirely and start to go from bottom to top.
Wille's breath and moans in his ear are added and Simon wants more.  He wants everything from Wille and he wants to give him everything.
He turns his head and kisses Wille passionately while letting his hand frantically run through his hair, his arm, his torso.
He then puts his hand on Wille's buttocks and makes him get even closer to him.
He feels his hard cock against his hip and can't take it anymore. He straightens up and positions himself above Wille, their two bodies against each other.
His two hands on each side of Wille's face help him keep his upper body above him in order to continue kissing him.
He ends up sitting astride him to admire him with his fingers tracing the outline of his face.

- You're so handsome Wille, he breathes

Wille blushes at these words and moves his hips a little making his cock rub between Simon's buttocks.
The two moan at the same time.

- Wille...I want to love you, feel you
Wrap myself around you
I want to hold you, please you

- Hummmm Simon I want to feel you around me too

Simon suddenly gets up, gets dressed, quickly kisses Wille at the same time and as he leaves the room just says "I'll be right back" before the door closes on him.

Wille didn't have time to understand what was happening at all, didn't have time to react, to say anything.
He is still open-mouthed in surprise and sits up slowly in bed trying to understand what just happened.
How did they go from "I want you" to Simon who rushes out of the room?
The cold he feels at the sensation of Simon's body being lost on him so suddenly, gives him a shiver.
Yet Simon told him that he wanted him too ... he doesn't understand

- ohhhhh ....
He had barely finally realized what Simon was doing when his phone rang...Alex ...he hesitated to answer but quickly told himself that it wasn't normal.
Why is she calling him and not Simon and why so late when she knows they're together and suspects what they're doing?

- Alex?

- Wille I don't have much time. Is Simon with you?

- Uh he went to do a little shopping.

Luckily Alex can't see his embarrassment on the phone
What's going on?

- Wille...they're here! I just had a visit from a certain Jan Olof at the bus door.
Luckily you weren't there, I was able to get rid of them but I think they must be waiting somewhere for you to come back.

- Shit! That can't be true! Thanks Alex, I'm sorry

- At least it gives you time to think tonight about what you want to do but tomorrow you'll have to decide

He barely has time to hang up when the door opens and a breathless Simon reappears with two small boxes in his hands.
He manages to ignore what he just learned because he doesn't want to ruin this moment. No, the Court won't ruin this moment.

- Simon! You could have told me where you were going he manages to laugh

. Sorry I was caught up in the moment I didn't think too much Simon laughs in turn.
Is everything okay?
Simon feels that Wille is a little weird

- Yes everything is perfect
He signals to Simon to join him

Simon hurries to take off his clothes and his body takes back the place above Wille, which he should never have left.
He puts down next to them the box of condoms and lubricant that he went to buy at the pharmacy dispenser across the street, which he had spotted when they arrived.

They both look at each other with red cheeks, Wille with his hands on Simon's hips.

- Are you sure?

- Yes Simon I want you here right now
I just don't know uh

- We're going to do this together don't worry

Simon then leans towards Wille to kiss him.
Their kiss increases in intensity, their two bodies start to rub against each other like in Warsaw.
The excitement takes hold of them and in a quick movement Wille lifts Simon as if he weighed nothing and turns him over on the bed and ends up on top of him.
The little gasp of surprise that Simon let out is quickly replaced by a laugh and then by his moans as Wille covers his neck, his chest, his stomach with tender kisses.
Everything is so natural between them and the intensity is at its maximum as if their bodies belong to each other.

They are in each other's arms slowly coming down from their orgasm.
Their symbiosis was just magical, they have never experienced this before.
They both know that they will never be able to do without each other again, that never with anyone else will they be able to reach this level of love and pleasure. The evidence is there.
The intensity between them and their looks do not lie.
Sometimes it transcends consciousness and in their eyes is reflected the flame of the soul that they recognize, their soul mate.

Lovingly snuggled together, Wille doesn't want to break this moment but Alex's call comes back to him and he can't hide it from Simon.

As he strokes his hair, he takes a long breath.

- I have to tell you something...

- Yes? You seem serious to me Simon laughs

- Simon....

At the tone of Wille's voice, Simon raises his head from his chest and looks at him.
He sees the annoyance on his face

- What's wrong?

- They.... they're here....

- What? What do you mean? Who?

- The Court, Jan Olof my mother's secretary.... Alex called earlier when you went out.

- They found me and were at the bus.
Alex is sure they're waiting for me nearby.

- Ohhhhhh Que Mierda!

They remain silent for a few minutes as if the problem would disappear.
Wille suspects that if Jan Olof came himself it is not just to see if he is okay.
Anger rises in him. They can't even leave him for 2 weeks, no they have to control everything he does.

- I have an idea! Simon suddenly exclaims as he sits up quickly on the bed.
I wanted to talk to you about it after the last concert but I think that could be a solution

At Wille's questioning look, he continues

- My mom... she... she lives in the countryside near here.
We just have to go there tomorrow morning and you could stay there while I finish the concerts

- Your mom? Wille's eyes widen
Wille knew that Simon lived in Spain but he hadn't thought about the fact that his family did too.

- Yes actually I had thought...well I had hoped to be able to introduce her to you after the concerts so it's only a few days earlier

- Do you want me to stay with your mom alone for several days?

- Umm yes seen like that, it can be scary indeed chuckles Simon embarrassed.
It's too early is it? Well yes of course it's too early, it's stupid forget it we'll find another solution.

- Simon it doesn't scare me. I would be honored to meet her. I just don't want to involve her in all this and I'm not sure she'll appreciate finding herself with a stranger who also brings so much trouble to her son.

- Are you kidding? She's going to feel like she's living one of her telenovellas for real! She's going to love it! Simon laughs

- But how can you be sure that she'll accept the situation, that she'll accept me?

- Because I love you and she can only love you too.
That can give you a few more days of respite I think

Simon approaches Wille and kisses him tenderly.

- Ok then .... Wille answers while returning a kiss.

- We'll find a solution Wille I promise you.

At dawn, Simon informs Alex of their plan and promises to be back early in the afternoon for the rehearsals.

He and Wille haven't slept much because they're too consumed by stress.
Wille because he is going to meet Simon's mama and he would have preferred it to be in another situation than him running away from his duty... what will she think of me? She will think that I am a coward who does not assume his responsibilities.
he had asked Simon during the night.

Simon spent the next 10 minutes lecturing him, forbidding him to say such things again.
It makes him sad to see how the Court and his mother have put so many bad images of himself in his head.
He promises himself that he will spend the rest of his life changing that if Wille gives him the chance.

Alex sent them a car with the bus driver and before the sun is fully up, they are heading to Simon's childhood home.

Unable to sleep Wille asked him lots of questions about this period and he already loves Linda. From what Simon told him about her, she is the opposite of his mother and even if he is stressed, he is impatient to meet her.
Simon had wanted to buy her a bigger house but she always refused to leave the place where her children grew up.

Simon was stressing out because it was the first time he was going to introduce someone to her so officially and also leave him alone with her.
He hoped that Wille would not run away because he would be too overwhelmed by emotions.

After an hour's drive, they were in the countryside, surrounded by forests and fields.
The landscape was beautiful, relaxing.

When the car entered a small dirt road between the trees, there was a certain tension in the car.
Simon squeezed Wille's hand in his as if to give both of them courage.

The car parked in front of a beautiful house surrounded by flowers.
Wille was dazzled by the beauty of the place and especially the calm that emanated from it.

At the sound of the car Linda came out onto the landing and looked intrigued towards the car.
Simon realized that in all this he had just forgotten to warn her.....
He kissed Wille, asked him to wait a little in the car.
He took a deep breath and got out of the car.

Wille saw the gaping smile appear on Linda's face when she realized that it was her son.
His mother had never welcomed him like that, never.
Even less when she hugged him as if her life depended on it.
Wille felt a touch of jealousy when he saw Simon and his mother.

He then saw them talking and saw Linda's gaze go from the car to Simon, from Simon to the car with eyes that grew bigger as they went along.
When he saw a huge smile form on her face, Wille let out the breath he hadn't even realized he was holding.

Simon approaches his door and when he opens the door for him and sees his smile, almost all the stress goes away.

- Are you ready? Simon says tenderly as he holds out his hand to help him get out of the car.
He in turn takes a deep breath and with Simon's help gets out of the car....