Nico had never been one for relationships. He kept to himself and avoided getting too attached to people. But everything changed when he met Will Solace, the cheerful son of Apollo.
At first, Nico found Will's constant smile and optimism annoying. But soon he began to appreciate how Will could find joy even in the smallest things. Will's kindness and hope were like a beacon that drew Nico in.
Will saw something special in Nico, something worth cherishing. He slowly chipped away at Nico's walls with patience and gentle words. Whenever Nico pulled away, Will gave him space but made it clear he was there whenever Nico was ready.
Eventually, Nico began to open up to Will. He found himself seeking out Will's company and warmth. Their friendship gradually turned into something more, though neither said the words aloud just yet.
One day, Nico worked up the courage to hold Will's hand as they walked along the beach. Will smiled brightly and laced their fingers together, giving Nico's hand a gentle squeeze. From then on, they began spending more and more time together.
They sat close during campfire sing-alongs, stole lingering glances across the dining pavilion, and shared secret smiles meant for just the two of them. Their touches became more intimate, and each kiss goodbye lasted a few seconds longer than the last.
Nico found himself telling Will things he had never told anyone before. Will listened patiently, offering comfort but never judgments. The faith Will had in Nico gave him the courage to begin healing old wounds.
One night, under the starry sky, Will finally said the three words Nico had been longing to hear. Nico replied in kind, and they shared their first kiss as boyfriends.
Their relationship progressed slowly, filled with tender moments of affection. Just holding hands or cuddling on the grass made Nico feel happier than he ever thought possible. Will filled his heart with warmth and light, chasing away the darkness that had clung to Nico for so long.
On their six month anniversary, Nico told Will he loved him for the first time. Will beamed brighter than the sun at Nico's shy admission, overcome with joy at how far Nico had come. He held Nico close and told him how proud he was of him.
Every day, Will made Nico feel cherished. It didn't matter what they were doing - lounging in the grass, watching a sunset, bickering playfully - as long as they were together. Will's steadfast affection and patience slowly became the foundation on which Nico began to build his confidence and self-worth.
As their first year of dating drew to a close, Nico finally realized that the light he had been searching for his whole life had been Will all along. Will, who accepted every part of him - the dark and the light, the broken and the beautiful. Will, who lit up his world with one smile and chased away his demons with one kiss. Will, who loved him unconditionally, just as he was.
On their one year anniversary, Nico told Will that for the first time in his life, he was truly happy. Will replied by kissing him sweetly and saying those three words that never failed to make Nico's heart soar.
Their story was far from over, but Nico knew that as long as Will was by his side, he could face anything the world threw at him. For Will Solace had given him the greatest gift of all - the ability to love and be loved in return.
