Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Wilhelm steadily does the buttons on his shirt, fingers working deftly but absently in a pattern he's thoroughly used to, years of being a confirmed prince and attending events to thank for. Although gratitude might be a far-fetched descriptor for his feelings towards this, dread might be a better equivalent. 

He sighs to himself, slipping on the jacket in a familiar pattern, his feet tapping the floor in a grounding rhythm to keep his thoughts focused. After the weekend he'd spent at the palace, he wanted nothing more than to be back in his apartment, the one he'd acquired when he'd turned 20. It had not been an easy request, as the royal family was set on introducing the ten-year plan for the spare prince immediately after he graduated from high school, not even granting him the freedom to attend college. 

Thankfully, he'd fought them on that. Erik had been there, through and through to support him, reminding them that Wilhelm was too young and being the crown prince himself, he was indisposed. It would be unnecessary. Their mother was reluctant but she eventually caved. What wouldn't she do for Erik anyway?

He'd eventually done a study program in Literature and English after high school for three years before being fully incorporated into the supposed duties of the royal family. Wilhelm hates how little control he has over his life, even despite being an adult now, having turned 23 recently. It was like it completely went over the royal family's head that he was old enough to control his own decisions. It was easier now he had moved out but they still basically controlled his hands. 

Galas, state visits, meetings, speeches, ribbon cutting, it was all part of his role. It's a privilege, the queen regularly told him, not a punishment. Wilhelm could beg to differ. 

“Are you ready? The car is ready.” The voice from the door startles him from his thoughts and he turns around to find his brother leaning on the door, a soft smile in his features. 

He gives himself a once-over, slipping on his shoes before hearing the chuckle Erik lets out. “That's what you're wearing?” He asks incredulously and Wille resists the urge to recoil, knowing his brother could only offer light teasing. 

“What's wrong with what I'm wearing?” 

His brother gives him a once-over. “It's so formal, Wille. It's a concert, not a meeting with the King of Belgium. Seriously.” He states with a laugh and Wille scoffs, only now taking note of Erik's outfit. He's dressed down, as opposed to how the crown prince usually presented in front of Sweden.

He only registers Erik walking into the room when he stops in front of him to place his hands on Wilhelm's shoulders. “Come on. Cheer up, lillebror. I know this past week has been shit, but this concert is meant to help us relax. And maybe give you a social life.” He adds with a quip, chuckling at Wille's expense.

For some reason, Erik was adamant about the fact that Wille did not have a social life, which was wrong, by the way, he did have one. Just because his ideal day was staying holed up in his apartment, simply existing without the pressure of doing absolutely anything, did not mean he lacked a social life. He'd been such a social butterfly in high school, if that was overcompensation, no one had to know. 

“First of all, I do have one.” Mhmm, Erik mocks in response, and Wille lightly shoves him with a groan as he laughs. “Besides, with those seats they secured, I doubt we'd be talking to anyone.” 

As expected, they couldn't even be afforded the normalcy of enjoying a concert, having assigned spots in the VIP spot. He lightly shivered at the thought of being so thoroughly perceived. Sure, he knows to mask, he's been doing it for years in the public eye but it was no less daunting. And it could be lonely, oh so lonely, and that was why he appreciated Erik. Wille doesn't think he'd be this sane in this system without his brother. 

They may be lonely, but they were lonely together with some sort of understanding. He loved Erik and Erik loved him, that was enough to keep him afloat. His brother had also recently gotten engaged to his long-term girlfriend so he was certain Erik had a support system too. Still, he hates that they are subjected to this. The whole monarchy. 

“Lighten up, Wille. It's not like you would've talked to anyone anyway.” 

“Oh my god, you're so annoying!” Erik laughs when he gets shoved again. He eventually concedes, telling Wille to change up his outfit and heading out to wait for him. The prince sighed, alone again, looking at the full-body mirror. He could not even determine an outfit he wanted. 

The venue is already crowded and noisy upon their arrival. Bodyguards are in tow of them when they alight the car and are led to take their spot. 

As much as Wille tries not to milk the privileges of being a prince. This might be a good one, he notes as they sit because he has a very clear view of the stage already set up strategically. 

He'd been to a fair share of concerts, ones his old friends had dragged him along to. Those were extremely loud and left him overstimulated, people grazing him in every direction, lights and sounds piercing him until it felt as though he needed to live out of his skin. Safe to say, he was not a fan. Regardless of his love for music, even. 

This seemed tamer, however, not in terms of the crowd though - the number was incredibly intimidating - but it seemed more organized. Wilhelm wondered how those artists felt getting on stage, performing, and baring their hearts for these multitudes of people without feeling like they had been skinned alive. Sure, he often gave his fair share of speeches, but those were as monotone as possible. He did not give a shit about them. They seemed to genuinely love it. 

He took out his noise-canceling earbuds, as he saw the opening act about to start. The bright and intense lighting of the stage up close would've been excruciating for him so he instead focuses on the stillness in his ears and tapping his fingers rhythmically on his pants. This is why he does not miss the exact moment, a figure emerges from the cloud of smoke, back facing the crowd while the cheers intensify. 

They were in a black mesh top, riding above their waist, exposing a sliver of tan skin illuminated by the stage lighting, hues of pink and blue, and matching a pair of black skin-tight leggings. Their curly hair bounced lightly as they gyrated slowly to match the build-up beat. With a beat drop, they turn around, mic in hand as they start singing, voice resonating even despite the loud cheering and chanting of the crowd.

Wilhelm is instantly in awe. Not only was he easily the prettiest guy Wille had ever set eyes on - which was telling because he doesn't think he had ever referred to a guy as ‘pretty’- the artist, now dancing and singing with an irrefutable air of confidence, had the voice of an angel.

The way he moved, and how easily he owned the stage all while hitting perfect notes as he sang was quite entrancing. So, yes he was in awe of this singer. He doesn't recognize the song, nor the artist but he needs to get into them. Wilhelm can't help his smile, maybe a result of the contagious one on the singer's face as he belts out lyrics and dances, but who could say? He doesn't blink for a second, thinking if he'd chosen to skip this evening, he'd have missed this masterpiece of a performance. 

Whoever he was, he clearly loves and was made for performing. It was a sight. He was even more fascinated at the change of songs, how easily his voice flowed, filled up the room, almost silencing all background noise. 

He'd only been a little disappointed when the second song ended and the stage lighted up to reveal another artist. Almost at a neck-breaking speed, he turns to Erik to ask, “Who was that?”, raising his voice over the loud crowd and music to be heard. His brother just smiles, tethering between warm and teasing. “I see you're enjoying yourself.” Wilhelm would shove him if he were any closer and in private. 

“Simon…uh…Eriksson, I think. Upcoming artist, he was just opening the show.” He explains before Wille could complain and then waves off his further questions to direct his attention back to the artist - currently on stage - who's concert they'd actually paid for. Wilhelm couldn't be bothered, they were good really, but after that first performance, the bar is now incredibly high.

Taking out his phone, he opens Spotify immediately looking up the name Erik had given him. True to his words, Simon was an upcoming artist, a single EP and a few singles, with addition of songs from the soundtrack of a series. He also looks up his Instagram, following him with the intention of looking through at a quieter time, before putting away his phone to enjoy the rest of the concert. 

More than anything, Wilhelm would've loved a chance to talk to the singer, tell him how much his performance had blown Wilhelm away. And he was sure if he requested to go backstage, he'd easily be given a pass but he really did not want to milk his princely privileges. 

It wasn't a big deal anyway.

It was in fact a big deal.

Awe suddenly was too simple of a description to how he felt listening to Simon, his voice was ethereal and on a loop in Wilhelm's for the next few days he'd spent lazing about in his apartment the next few days after the concert. 

Music really was his favorite emotion regulator when he felt disoriented but listening to Simon seemed to elicit more emotions in him instead of quieting his mind. He sang directly from his heart in a way that stunned Wilhelm. 

He'd just finished dinner and going through the schedule that Farima had forwarded to him for his royal obligations for the next month before collapsing on his bed, rid of his clothes. His earbuds still looping Simon's songs on repeat suddenly reminding him he hadn't yet gotten around looking through his Instagram. He instantly opens the app, looking up his recent following. 

Wilhelm's official social media was managed by the royal court and a media manager so he was in no control of the official Prince Wilhelm of Sweden account and whatever was posted there. At first he hated it and always complained when they did things like delete comments he'd made, unfollow certain people, deleted posts he'd made, made posts on his behalf - ones that fell in line with the narrative they wanted the public to perceive from him. 

It irritated him to no end so he simply chose to make a private anonymous one, to do whatever the fuck he wanted, out of public eye. Hell, he hadn't even had access to his official Instagram account with thousands of followers in almost three years but his vacations, state visits, galas and speeches always ended up posted there. 

Simon's caption is a simple, ‘music makes my world go round. stream Remember, now out on all platforms.’ The first few posts are promo of the single he'd recently released and a photoshoot here and there. It was obvious he at least had a hand in managing his account, his captions having personality and some posts being non-work related. 

Most significantly, Wilhelm could observe that this man was beyond beautiful - which again was a term he would not normally attribute to a man - but that was what he was. From his birthday post, Simon was just a few months younger than him. Wilhelm was almost jealous, Simon seemed so sure and confident in the direction of his life and he seemed to genuinely love it - if his singing and laughing reels were anything to go by - but there Wilhelm was, still lost as he was at 16 being transferred to a boarding school after a club fight, just merely older. 

His sulking halts at the next posts he sees, dated June, 2023 with a picture of Simon wrapped up in a pride flag, a wide smile on his face. He swipes slowly, taking in the pictures of him with other people holding up similar flags. Halting on the last one, he feels his chest twist. It's a simple picture of Simon crouching to the height of a younger child, handing them a smaller flag, genuine smiles plastered on their faces. He zooms in on the picture, feeling his heart warm. 

‘Happy pride month!! Two years ago, I made my official coming out post on here and sincerely, i had been a bit scared despite being out to my family and loved ones since I was 12. I think i wasn't ready to be perceived differently but so much has changed since then, and now being open about my sexuality, hearing how i've been a queer icon to some of u have brought me nothing short of joy. We all have the right to be ourselves, to love whoever we want and we will continue to fight for it!

Join the cast of Never Alone on the streets of Stockholm on Friday to celebrate pride, cheering loud because we are proud of who we are💗’ 

The caption is easily the most beautiful he'd read and he feels a lingering feeling in his chest that he can't explain, an involuntary smile climbing up to his lips. It's all just heart-warming, he feels close to the singer even though he'd never really met him. 

He doesn't realize how long and how far into the night he'd been scrolling until he felt the wave of sleep hit him and that he'd almost gone as far as 2021 posts. Was that considered stalking? He was technically a celebrity and Wilhelm was like every normal fan - he internally cringed at the wording - he was just interested. 

He'd already learnt so much from his stalking curious exploration. Simon was from Venezuela and was fluent in both Spanish, Swedish and English - while Wilhelm still actively struggled with English - and apparently sang in all three languages which really should not have blown him away as much as it did. He also wrote his own songs, had been singing since he was as young as twelve and had acted in a show during his college years. 

As if Simon couldn't be anymore interesting, Wilhelm just seemed to find one new thing that stunned him more. 

Finally deciding it was enough, he closed off Instagram, switching back to streaming Simon's songs instead to call it a night. It didn't take long, it was easy to let his voice guide him into sleep as he drifted off. 

Wilhelm wishes he agreed to stay in the palace for the night after that stressful meeting with the court. As usual, it was like they needed him to be a figurehead to turn as they pleased, disregarded his opinion, he hated it. It was why he didn't like spending any second there after. 

Now he wishes he at least ate before making the long drive back into town where his apartment was. The distance was good, healthy even, he didn't want to be anywhere close to the palace that defined his constructive growing years and messed them up. If he wanted to find himself, he needed to feel as far as possible from his title. 

He stops to pick up food before getting home, sliding his key into the lock and sighing in relief the moment he walks in. Despite loving his alone time, some melancholy hit every time he walked in because it looked exactly like it had the first time he'd walked in to examine the place before purchasing. It didn't look lived in. 

Ignoring the feeling, he shrugged off his jacket, heading straight for his room for a shower. He digs through his food faster than usual after his relaxing bath and then chooses a book on his shelf to read over binge watching another series. 

The last he'd watched was the one he discovered Simon had a role in when he'd been stalking his page. Sadly, aside from the fact that most of his songs were used throughout the show, he'd only appeared in the third season. It was an interesting watch though. 

A ping from his phone interrupted his quiet reading and he picked up his phone to see a leui of messages from Felice. She had been the only friend from high school he'd kept in contact with even if she'd furthered her education out of the country, she had been there for him at his lowest times and they had a bond. She was his best friend, favorite person after Erik. 

Currently, she was on a trip out of the country to visit her girlfriend, who she'd gotten with during college and stayed with even after returning back to Sweden. Her texts were a bunch of excited rants and Wille couldn't help the smile on his lips knowing she was having the best time as he typed his reply. 

He'd only had one serious relationship, in his last year at Hillerska, and they'd broken up a few months after graduation. Other than that, he'd only had a few hook-ups here and there, for some reason, never really invested. Nonetheless he was ecstatic for his friend, despite his non-existent love life. 

Another ping distracts him and he promptly scrolls down. He can't help the light flip in his chest seeing the notification, ‘officialsimon has made a new post’. He finds himself instantly closing his text wall with Felice and tapping on it. 

‘thank you for coming to watch me open and for all the love you've shown me these past few months. Tag along 10th May and watch me perform with @felixx and @nevada. Order your tickets now, link in bio! Keep streaming remember, i'm even more happy to announce i will be making time after the show to hopefully see some of you. Thank you sooo much for ur support!!💜'

The caption is below a picture from the concert he'd attended, if the outfit is anything to go by. Wilhelm catches himself staring for longer than necessary, Simon just looks ethereal, like the stage existed for him and not the other way around. 

Without pausing for a moment to think, he goes straight to the singer's bio, clicking the link and purchasing first line tickets. For once he's actually happy to use his privileges. He can't even hide his excitement at the prospect of seeing the artist. He's been like a perfect idea existing within the prince's mind for the past two weeks, the thought of really meeting him makes Wilhelm breathless for some reason. 

It's one of the first things he'd discovered and explored and chose to like - Simon's music that is - that was probably why he felt dizzy with giddiness. He goes back to the texting Felice, anticipation and excitement now brewing. 

The next few weeks are a blur of following his schedule and holing up in front of his laptop in his apartment until he's staring at his closet in deep confusion. Wilhelm still has no idea what he's supposed to wear for a concert. 

Taking a page from Erik's book, he opts for casual. He really wants to blend, in fact, he hopes with everything that people would be too taken to recognize him. Of all days, today is the least he would want to be perceived in any way. He'd done a ribbon cutting for a nursery during the week and his social battery was drained. If he weren't already invested in seeing Simon and had been planning his every step for the past two weeks, he would've preferred to remain home. Wrapped in a blanket, lights out and streaming music, recharging. 

But he really did not want to miss this. Thankfully, he wasn't being accompanied by any escorts or bodyguards. Unlike Erik, he regularly wasn't toed being the spare, but they both equally hated it. 

Satisfied with his choice of clothing finally, Wilhelm makes to leave, the excitement weighing over his need to curl into a ball than exist. It had been ages since he'd had something to look forward to like this. He grabs some gum from his side table before heading out, popping one into his mouth as he locks up and heads to his car. 

Arriving there, the place is already packed. It's an open air venue as opposed to the last show and Wilhelm has never been more grateful. He needs as much oxygen as the world could offer now, grateful the chances of being unnecessarily touched in the front row was lower. 

He spends the time on his phone waiting until the show is about to start. The stage is already set up but it's being lit and he feels his anticipation grow. He's already crossing his fingers that Simon would be playing some of his personal favorites. 

His heart does something unrecognizable when Simon does finally get on the stage, crowd cheering beside him but it all seems like background noise as Wilhelm takes him in. For a change, he's in baggy pants but in a skin tight top that highlights the curve of his waist - that for some reason, just sticks out to him - and a cropped jacket. His curly hair is slicked back slightly and Wilhelm nearly chokes when his eyes zero in on the makeup on the artists face. 

It wasn't like he didn't notice it in some posts in his stalking exploring but it was always light. Even from the distance, Wille is so gutted by how beautiful Simon looks. Standing any less than five feet close to him might not be as easy as Wilhelm thought. 

The show is as amazing as he anticipated and hearing Simon sing and play live was everything he'd imagined. It was not a solo show, he was joined by two others but it still really fascinating to hear the songs he'd been obsessing over up close. Enough to forget his irritation with the lighting and sound and people cheering around him. 

It lasts no more than an hour and Wille is on his toes about finally seeing Simon. He knew that the (estimate) thousand people here would not all get to see the singer and for once, he actually did want to milk his privileges. Wille almost chuckles self deprecatingly to himself, he was so gone for Simon. 

There's security when he arrives backstage and all he has to do is ask to be let in. He's being led to meet the stage manager and the place is bustling with different individuals doing one thing or the other. He knew many people were involved in the background of making music/performing, just not this much. Many stop when they notice him, staring subtly or waving directly. He tries for a small smile, waving back as much as he can. 

His final stop is behind a curtain where a blonde is fixing his hair in front of the mirror. The security guard that led him in walks forward to whisper something in his ear and suddenly he springs up to greet Wilhelm too formally than he was comfortable with. "Evening, Your highness, pleasure to have you here with us." had never sounded more artificial. 

Against all etiquette he's been taught, Wilhelm almost leaves him hanging when he offers his hand for a handshake. He does not want to touch or be touched this particular evening. He sucks it up and shakes him briefly anyway, forcing a smile. 

The manager introduces himself as Sigge while leading him out and explaining that Simon was currently changing in his trailer and would be meeting fans in the backroom. 

"I can assure you to be the first to meet him, if that's more comfortable for his highness." Wille prays his cringing isn't visible after hearing that. "More presentable conditions would've made if we'd know the Prince of Sweden was interested in one of our youngest artist." He chuckles to himself and continues, "He's incredibly talented and a gem to us here." 

Wilhelm can't help but agree with a smile. Yes, in his mind, that was exactly what Simon was and he was glad to know it wasn't just idealistic. 

There's already a line forming when he's led to the backroom and he conversationally replies, "I just started listening to him recently, his music is impressive." 

Sigge offers to bring Wilhelm to the front of the line but the last thing he needs is to present himself as a privileged ass in front of Simon. He doesn't mind waiting in line. It's less noisy, he has gum to keep his mind sane and he wants more than anything to feel normal, if just this. He declines politely, thanks him and joins the line. 

He pops another gum in his mouth, ignoring the glances and whispering around him, no doubt clocking him being the prince. Pulling out his phone and putting in his earbuds, he chooses to ignore them. 

The exact moment Simon walks in is easy to pinpoint, the cheering and screaming increases by a double fold. Wilhelm feels his heart beating faster when the singer sits, now bodied by two guards. True to Sigge's words, he's sporting a different outfit. How he manages to look breathtaking in whatever he wears, Wille can't explain nor comprehend. In just a few minutes, considering the few number of people in front of him, he'd be seeing Simon and saying words to him. 

Wilhelm felt like a child. He was being so ridiculous about this, at least he had the presence of mind to realize. 

It gets worse as the line progressively moves forward until there's two people left before him and he has to count to regulate his heart rate. It helps or it doesn't until the person before him is walking away squeeing excitedly, after their conversation with their supposed idol. 

"Hi." Simon's voice is smooth, smile in his eyes as he looks up at Wilhelm. 

Oh, Wilhelm wants to die, maybe he already has. Blue eyeliner beneath his lower lash drawn sharply, darkened lashes and his lips practically glistening. He's even more beautiful up close that Wille loses his words, mouth falling open but words struggling to form. Was this a normal reaction to seeing an artist one enjoyed or was it just Wilhelm? 

God, he knew he could be awkward but he's somehow been rendered speechless making it ten times worse. 

Simon looks thoroughly amused however, his smile climbing to his eyes as he brings his hand up to shake Wilhelm. "Simon." He introduced himself like he doesn't know every single person in that room already knew. 

Thankful for remembering body function, he raises his hand to shake Simon's. His palm was so soft in contrast to Wille's, why he was noticing that, he couldn't even explain. 

"Hi, I'm Wilhelm." He finally voices, taking the clue. He feels stupid right after, of course Simon recognized the fucking Prince of Sweden. He searches his throat for the words he's supposed to be saying, coming up dry. 

"Did you enjoy the show?" 

"I really love your music." The words he finally blurts out overlap with Simon's question and he feels himself flush when Simon chuckles. How on earth was everything he did so...elegant. Wilhelm found it hard to even move himself right. "It was amazing. You were amazing." He thanks every power for restoring his ability to speak. 

"Thanks." Simon's smile almost seems sheepish as he looks at Wille below his lashes, hands stretching out on the table to pick a poster from the stack there. He hadn't even noticed those. 

Wilhelm watches, maybe a little too focused, on how elegantly Simon's fingers pick up his pen and sign on the poster.

"What did you think about during the performance?" His conversational question calms Wilhelm's heart as much as it speeds it up. 

"Like you were the only one in the room." He answers honestly, watching as an expression of surprise flashes across Simon's face before he replaces it with a small smile. "Okay." He says simply, about to hand Wille the now signed poster but then hesitates before picking up the pen to add a pair of digits beneath the signature. 

The prince feels a gasp get stuck in his throat. Those were unmistakably digits that made up a phone number. Fuck, fuck, fuck, were his only comprehensible thoughts for the next seconds. Was Simon about to freely just give him his phone number? Did he just do that with other fans? 

Except Wilhelm isn't just someone, everyone knew him, regarded him at some level that he completely hated. Simon didn't seem like he really cared about Wilhelm's title though, waiting for him to introduce himself - despite already knowing - he didn't sound artificial and hadn't uttered as much as one pretentious 'your highness'. 

"Would like to see you at the after party tonight, Wilhelm." He does not phrase it as a question. 

Wille can only nod as he accepts the signed poster, which by the way, now contained Simon's fucking phone number. He did not want to go to a party. He's not sure he can handle a party but the prospect to seeing Simon somewhere else without the context of fan and idol or prince and subject was too enthralling, too tempting. "Yes. How do I-" 

Simon's smile widens at his acceptance, gesturing to the poster and explains, "It's an automated contact. It should airdrop the location and send an invite." 

The ease with which Simon offered him the number made more sense. It wasn't his personal contact, he couldn't help but feel the slightest bit disappointed. "Okay, thanks." It does not last however, not with the delighted expression on Simon's face. He could easily talk to Simon at the party, he'd practically given him a yard stick. 

"Nice to meet, Wilhelm. See you later, hopefully?" 

"Looking forward." He doesn't step away despite knowing that was his cue because Simon is looking at him and he's looking back. And by god does Wilhelm hate eye contact, but this...was so different. Simon's gaze on him made him nauseous but weirdly not in a bad way. 

It might've been as less as two seconds but it feels like minutes as he stares, takes in Simon's face before feeling blood rush to his face and instantly turning to leave. 

His heart did not seem to drop, anticipation crawling his skin. It just did not feel irritating for once. 

Wilhelm almost instantly regrets coming to the after party. It's a restricted access club and phones weren't allowed. It wasn't new to the prince, having found himself in situations where phones were confiscated to avoid anyone filming him, and seeing the A list celebrities in the venue made sense. 

It isn't as packed as a regular club to which he is incredibly thankful for but he doesn't spot Simon for a long while. That was the only reason he'd agreed. 

Maybe it would sound like an exaggeration but he felt like he wanted to die every more second he was perceived and many did recognize him. The difference with being in a regular public setting was that they actually approached, tried to talk and rub shoulders with him. On a better day, he would've masked properly to listen to people try to convince him to fund their projects, invest in their charities but now he felt like throwing up, excusing him from every conversation. 

How did one thing he chose for himself start feeling one of the activities on his royal schedule? The music was too loud and the lights were so off-putting, the sounds of his own footsteps echoing in his ears making him dizzy. 

He only started feeling slightly sane after his first drink, when he was sitting at the bar, turned away from the people dancing. He had another right after. 

Alcohol made Wilhelm feel better especially whenever he felt too overwhelmed in public spaces. Discovering it in high school had been really bad for him because he kept drinking more and more, not really measuring when to stop, until he was drunk and so wasted. He had to take counselling sessions for dealing with addiction on his last year. He doesn't think it got that bad, but it could've. 

It really did give him control of his body better and social skills, apparently. However, right now, he didn't really care to measure how much he was drinking, just eager to feel his nerves relax. 

A stool pulls closer to his side and someone drops on it in the corner of his eye but he doesn't bother looking to the side. He still feels like shit and doesn't want to talk to anybody. 

"I thought I saw you." 

His head snaps instantly to the side after registering the voice that spoke, light amusement laced between the words. Maybe a sigh of relief was about to escape his lips at finally seeing Simon but it duly gets stuck in his throat taking in the appearance of the other man. His skin is flushed, hair slightly tousled, small beads of sweat trickling down his face like he'd been dancing til he was out of breath. 

Wilhelm only regrets that he'd missed the chance to watch. 

"Hi, Wilhelm. When I didn't see you, i thought-"

"Wille." He interrupts, nose scrunching at how stupidly formal his name sounded on Simon's lips. Lips that were reflecting the lighting in the club. A slight tingle runs down his spine and Wille is so sure the alcohol has started kicking in, and not just the social skill restoration level. 

Simon looks confused for a moment so he clears his throat, sitting up and turning to face him properly. "Call me Wille. The other... Wilhelm sounds...uh...weird and formal. It's stupid." Sober Wilhelm would not blurt that out easily. 

It does not matter because he's gifted with that wonderful smile that graces Simon's lips. "Okay, Wille." The name rolls off his tongue perfectly that the prince has to resist the urge to visibly shiver. 

"You don't look like you're enjoying yourself."

"I'm not." comes out too quickly and he shakes his head instantly, "No, I meant...it doesn't have anything to do with you. Sitting here with you is the most bearable part of tonight. I just..." He feels so incoherent despite voicing things he wouldn't if his tongue wasn't so loosened. Simon doesn't look repulsed however, which was good. 

"Not a fan of clubs?" He looked genuinely curious, which wasn't bad. 

"Public spaces." 

Simon scoffs in disbelief, staring at him incredulously, "Says a prince." Wilhelm clears his throat awkwardly and turns to down the half empty glass before him. He's run out of words to explain himself. "I...can I buy you a drink?" He asks instead. 

It almost feels like thorough rejection when Simon nods in negation. Maybe he finally decided the prince wasn't worth his time. His head felt like it was spinning, fuck, he really should not have drank that much. 

"I don't drink." Simon's words filters through his spiral and he blinks in understanding. It doesn't help his irritation, pushing the now empty glass aside as he turns to Simon again. "I'm sorry." 

A scoff. "Don't apologize. It doesn't make me uncomfortable when people do." 

He nods, even though it doesn't feel better. He really wanted to get the chance to talk the person he'd practically been infatuating over the past month and he wanted it sober, not in this sorry state. He feels the need to apologize again but refrains from it, sighing into his hands. Realization of what that might imply hit him suddenly and he rushes to explain, "Shit! That wasn't because of you, I like that you're next to me. I'm just... disoriented and everything is loud here and-" 

"Hey, I know. You're good." A hint of amusement is laced in his tone, the only indicator that the singer isn't hating every bit of this unfortunate conversation. The fact that he hadn't also stood to leave was another telling. "I mean I don't really understand but sort of..." He trails off, eyes raking over Wilhelm's face with an unnamed emotion. 

The prince feels that now familiar tingle and ducks away from his stare. 

"You look miserable. Wanna get out of here?" 

He perks up to see that smile that reached his eyes on Simon's face, his hand outstretched between them. A moment passes by where Wille simply just stares at his hand, eyes tracing the veins popping out in his exposed forearm, sleeves rolled up. He catches himself staring and flushes. Fuck, what the hell was wrong with him tonight? 

Simon didn't seem deterred though, staring expectantly at him when their eyes meet, Wille catching light amusement dancing in them. 

He doesn't know a lifetime he can say no to the expression on his face. Has Simon considered modelling or something because the lighting falling on his facial features almost make Wilhelm dizzy. Taking his hand makes him dizzier but he does not want to be anywhere Simon isn't right now. Maybe tomorrow he'd regret muttering, "Anywhere with you." But in the moment, the responding smile he gets as he is tugged up to his feet is definitely worth it. 

The night air is cold and Wille wishes he had an extra jacket especially because Simon's top seemed so light and he was shivering at the corner of his eyes. The weather in Sweden could be a bitch, he did not anticipate this sort of chill at this time of the year. 

They'd left the club a few minutes ago, with their phones and walking in the path in some sort of comfortable silence. He's pretty sure Simon has a ride, the man had not even bothered to say goodbye to the people he'd come with and Wille left his car behind but this felt good. Walking in the night air needed to be enlisted amongst the things offering him stability. 

"Feeling better? Walking at night helps me clear my head." 

Wille feels his chest warm at the thought of sharing his thing with this stranger prince in hopes that it would also help him feel better. He nods, meeting Simon's soft stare and feeling himself melt. 

"Why don't you drink?" He fills the silence after a while. 

Simon clears his throat, staring at him weirdly before shrugging nonchalantly, asking him a question instead, "Why do you hate public spaces? I mean, you almost have to be in one, being a prince." 

Wille shakes his head, stuffing his freezing hands in his pocket to avoid the urge to fidget. "I can still hate it. It's just a role." He doesn't know if that explains it all so he shakes his head, trying to collect his words properly. "I hate being perceived, touched unprompted or being forced to have uninteresting conversations. That only happens in public spaces. I need to prepare myself to handle that and I didn't tonight so it felt like I couldn't control anything around me. Does that make sense?" 

Sober Wilhelm would not blurt out that out, he embarrassingly noted again. But as opposed to the look of confusion or repulsion he'd expected to see on Simon's face, instead he looks curious, nodding as he stares ahead. 

He was listening to Wilhelm. God, that should not feel as good as it does being the absolute bare fucking minimum but it did. It felt so good. Listening to him without the context of his title. 

"It does. If it's happening to you, it makes sense, I don't have to understand it fully." Is Simon's response.

Wilhelm wants to die. He needs to say words to fill up the air because he is all of sudden now feeling the good kind of overwhelmed and nauseous. 

"Even when you're not singing or performing, you fill up the space." It doesn't even make sense when he says it but Simon smiles wide, his eyes crinkling like they do and Wilhelm feels rewarded. The night light shines perfectly on Simon's skin, his alcohol addled brain duly notes. "I think I've been in awe from the first time I saw you perform in that show you opened for. And today I had my breath taken away again, you know. Your voice dulled the irritating noise around me." God, Wilhelm needs to stop talking. 

"That's the most beautiful compliment I've ever received." Simon's voice shakes lightly when he responds and his stare is intense when Wille meets it. Suddenly the cold is non-existent because everything feels warm from his head to sole. "Okay." Is all he can say back, ducking his head. 

They walk in another comfortable silence. Wille has no idea where they are going, in fact, he's sure he's never been on foot in this direction before but Simon seemed to know. And in the moment, he really was ready to follow him wherever. 

Simon was even more perfect than he idealized. No, actually, he wasn't, but he was better. Wille feels giddy thinking about as the chance glances at each other, turning away when caught. 

"You know you're nothing like I thought you would be." Simon breaks the silence. 

"What did you think I'd be like?" 

Simon shrugs, "I don't know, a little of a bitch maybe." He responds bluntly drawing a laugh from Wille, Simon joining promptly after. "No, really. Entitled, privileged and rich snub, i imagined. But you're really just a dork." They share a look after that, Wille feeling his chest fluttering when Simon doesn't look away this time. 

The night air couldn't have suddenly become hot, not with how Simon was still lightly shivering but it did feel like that. 

Suddenly, Simon perks up like he remembered something, pulling out his phone from his pocket and typing quickly. Wille doesn't ask, just watches him and the way his fingers moved. 

He guessed he was recording a voice note because when he speaks next, his words don't seem directed at Wille. "Write this down, I think I just had something. You know that part before the bridge, the tap- tap- tap-" he gestures by tapping his hips lightly with his free hand, "that line when the flow changes, I think it should be like..." 

And then Simon sings, in the quiet of the night, voice echoing even though he is purposely not being loud. Wille feels it, not just hears it, he feels it everywhere. 

'And out here in the night air, skin tingling

It feels like I've discovered something new beginning'

"And then..tap- tap-" 

Say something baby, my heart can't take anymore

"And right there into the bridge. I'll be at the studio early tomorrow to record this, I don't want to forget. And uhm...I left the club so don't wait around for me. Later." The recording ends and he puts his phone back in his pocket. 

Wille just stares at him entranced, feeling so light for other reasons than alcohol. All he voices out is a very audible 'wow'. Simon chuckles, waving him off to be humble or something. The prince shakes his head vehemently, "No! You just made those words from nowhere. And your voice...you're just..." He trails off because he's not sure he even knows what to say. Even despite his blatant honesty tonight. 

Simon looks so shy under the attention, shrugging with his bright smile. "Well, not entirely from 'nowhere'." He quotes Wille. 

It takes a moment for the words to sink in, remembering the lyrics Simon has sung lightly. He stutters lightly, "Is that...are those... because of tonight?" 

"I guess you're one of my muses now. Unintentionally so." 

Wilhelm blushes, feeling his insides melt hearing that. "That's the best compliment I've ever received." He quotes Simon's earlier words, brushing the hair falling on his face behind his hair. 

Simon snorts in response, cocking his brow, "Really? And not that you're objectively hot or anything like that." He said as a matter of fact. 

Wilhelm sputters, his heart doing flips, once again rendered speechless and looking for words. The other boy laughs at his expense and flustered expression and Wille grumbles, mumbling "Says you." Simon doesn't fluster, shrugging with a smirk. "Oh, I know." For some reason, that makes his eyes drop down hus body, taking in Simon's outfit again, unnecessary tight in areas he doesn't think it's normal to notice so easily, flickering over to that goddamn makeup that nearly stopped his pulse. 

He quickly looks away, when he realizes he's been staring for too long, forcing his gaze to stay on the road ahead as they keep walking. He still has no idea where they were going. 

The silence envelopes them once more and thankfully it's incredibly comforting and peaceful and his mind at a complete standstill for once. 

"My place is close by." The other boy voices after a while of walking in silence and then suddenly recoils, stopping in his steps making Wille stop. "Shit! I've been walking us to my place without thinking about you. I'm so sorry. Do you have a ride home?" His voice is thick with worry and guilt like he'd been unconsciously leading them all the while. 

Wille doesn't really care. If Simon led him further away, he'd go with him. Everything about him was so calming and admirable, Wille would not be able to resist. 

He then remembers to answer the question and not just stare, "Uhm...my car is still there, at the club." 

Simon frowns, pinching his brows, "I'm so sorry, this was stupid of me. I-" 

"It's okay, really. I can call a ride and pick up my car tomorrow." 

He shakes his head, worried eyes still trained on the prince, "Its too late for a ride, Wille." How his name sounded so beautiful from his mouth needed to be studied. He shakes himself out of it, "I can call my security detail, she'll pick me up whenever and wherever." He explains and then winces at how entitled that sounded. 

Simon looks at him warily, obviously not convinced. "I can't leave you out here drunk though." 

Wille smiles at the concern, he was drunk but he was not incoherent, he still had a high tolerance. He pulls out his phone to text Malin, praying he wasn't pulling her out at an uncomfortable time. Her response comes in only a few seconds later, confirming her arrival. He puts his phone away again. "She's on her way." 

That seems to do it, relaxing Simon enough for him to laugh and say "Rich people shit." 

Wilhelm chuckles back, "Aren't you rich too?" The other boy rolls his eyes, "I'm working class and even if i was, i earned it from acting and then singing. You and the entire monarchy are basically welfare receivers." The taunt would've been injurious if Simon wasn't smiling playfully. 

"I can not disagree. But just privately, I'm not allowed to speak on politics as a prince." 

A snort. "You're joking." Wille shakes his head, nope. It had always been a thing, part of his whole training. The monarchy being a diplomatic body, a neutral side no matter the conflict. The older he got the more stupid it sounded. Simon definitely thought the same because he says, "That's shit." 

"It is what it is." Another silence follows after that. This time Wille itches to break it, not that he didn't love the quiet moments but the night was coming to an end and talking to Simon had been the most interesting thing that had happened to him in a long while. He didn't want the warm feeling to go away. 

He wonders if Simon shared the sentiment. He was social or at least could very well pretend to be because he seemed that way. Maybe this was a casual and base level conversation with any stranger for him. The thought made him want to spiral. 

"Do you ever think of acting again? I watched that show you played in." He breaches the topic and then sees the way Simon visibly cringes, proceeding to hide his face in his hands. 

A long groan follows right after and Wille can't help his chuckle. "Please never remind me of that. I can not rewatch that show without wanting to live in a trashcan for the rest of my life." He groans again for emphasis, throwing his head back. 

The long slope of his neck and the night light on his tan skin registers in Wilhelm's brain before his words do. 

"Why? You were perfect in your role." 

"I was nineteen and in college and kissing ass so bad when I agreed to take that role. I can't act for shit." He laughs but Wille does not really find it funny. He genuinely adored Simon and could not for the life of him understand why the other boy felt that way. "Besides nobody like watching them self act." He continues before Wille can protest. That made more sense. 

"So to answer the question, no, I will not be taking acting jobs. I'm singing solely and professionally now, in a record label and all. It wasn't a bad experience though, the film, and my songs in the soundtrack really kick-started the career but it was a bad time in my life. I mean, playing a trans character, I had people sending me death threats and I wasn't even publicly out yet. It sucked." 

Wille takes a moment to let the other's words sink in. He'd never thought of it that way, he'd never really imagined the cruelty could be that horrible over just being queer. But then again, aside Erik's girlfriend - actually, fiancee, he corrects himself - Felice and now, Simon, he'd never met any other queer person personally. His understanding was the polished version of homophobia they retold. 

Despite having growing up in a slightly conservative system, he knew the world was progressing, Sweden was progressing and so was his family. Even if he can see the disapproval in his mother's eye on sight of a same-sex couple or how she still wished Erik would choose another girl. Still, he knew they were all slowly accepting. He never imagined the hate could be so violent in another's life. 

And to Simon? He was one of the most wonderful people Wille had meant and he loved that they instantly connected. 

"I'm so sorry." Is all he can eventually say, voice crackling in the thick air between them. "I didn't... I mean I wouldn't understand, being prejudiced for being the way you are, for loving whoever you want. It must be hard." He tries to choose his word right, he doesn't want to sound inconsiderate or selfish by praising himself for being an ally - which was in fact the bare minimum. 

Simon stares at him oddly for a good while, confusion crossing his features before he shakes himself out of it, like he'd just made a realization. "Yeah..." Is all he responds. 

Wille fears he has said something wrong because he can feel the way Simon's mood has dampened. Maybe he shouldn't have breached this topic. God, the last thing he needed to do was unintentionally ruin this. Before he can inquire, Simon points up front, "That's my stop." He says, stopping and then turning to face Wilhelm fully. "Is your detail close?" 

It's been a while since he texted her so he just nods, "She's close." He guesses, not wanting to pull out his phone to know, because it would mean breaking this eye contact between them. It made him floaty. 

"I had a great time talking to you, Wille." Simon smiles softly, and he feels so stupid for missing the smiles that reached the eyes. The night was over. The thought made him feel nauseous, the bad kind, the horrible kind. 

"Me too." He mumbles back, the air suddenly tight, he couldn't even explain why. A tense silence passes by until Simon awkwardly clears his throat. "You can walk me to my front porch to kill time?" He nods overenthusiastic and Simon chuckles. 

The sound relaxes Wille as they keep walking, silent again until they reach the porch. 

"Thank you for tonight." Wille starts, "Its so easy to talk to you and I really thought I'd ruined it being drunk but you're so understanding, it was just...good. So thank you. I already said that." He rambles, laughing at his own expense. It's worth it, seeing that smile return to the other boys face. 

"Okay." He simply says then adds, "You're welcome." 

The next few seconds, they spend awkwardly looking and looking away. Wille doesn't want to go home tonight and never be able to contact Simon again because the moment he goes in, that would be it. But he also could not find the words to say. He really wanted them to be friends. 

Simon seemed to give up, groaning lightly and pinching the bridge of his nose. "Oh, for fuck's sake! Give me your phone, Wille. You look like a kicked puppy." He quips, voice filled with amusement. 

Wille flushes, realizing he'd been so obvious but wastes no second to unlock his phone and hand it to Simon. 

He types in the number, saves it then calls it - at least Wille thinks because the next moment, his own phone buzzes in his pocket and the contact is saved when Simon hands him back the phone. Simon pulls out his own phone, saving Wilhelm's own contact. "There. Text me when you get home, yeah?" 

Wille nods, feeling the giddiness rise up in his chest. That's it. It was literally that easy. 

The sound of a car screeching to a half pulls him out from his shortlived excitement. Looking ahead, he can already see the black SUV knowing it was Malin. His phone pings with a text confirming it. He doesn't bother checking, keeping his gaze on Simon. 

The night was in fact over now. This was the time for goodbye. 

"We'll talk." Simon says softly, smiling and Wille nods, not knowing what to do with his hands. Shaking felt too formal, hugging would be too much so he chooses to smile back. 

"Looking forward to it." He really really is. 

"Okay." He says, making no moves to go inside. "Goodnight, Wille." 

"Goodnight, Simon." He whispers back feeling that familiar heat and tingle spread through his body. He hates how his chest falls when Simon finally walks away, climbing up the steps, turning back to wave and then disappearing through the door. 

He waves until the door shuts with a finality. He felt light despite hating every second of saying goodbye. 

He shuts the door of the car after sinking into the backseat. "Sorry to bother you all of a sudden." Wilhelm feels guilty seeing Malin's face from the mirror. She only scoffs lightly in response, voice amused. "This is my job, Your Highness." 

Right. Of course it was. He relaxes when she starts driving, almost lulling himself to sleep with thoughts of Simon running through his mind but he does not want to be more of a burden. 

Once he does get home though, stripping and diving into his bed, the last thought on his mind is the voice of a beautiful singer.