To All the Sins You Couldn't Commit

"If I could pick anyone in the entire world, in the entire world, Will, I'd still choose you."

***

William Nile has always felt a lack of control in his life.

His head's clustered and the past likes to eat at his thoughts. Isolation is a synonym for safety and staying neutral is a key ingredient for survival. He's always felt more put together when he was a mess; always felt like the world was clearer in the dark.

He can't help it, this is just how it's always been.

Then comes along a new foster family who throws him for a loop. They're exactly who they say they are, exactly who they act to be.

With that comes a goofy boy named Clement and his best friends, annoying twins who laugh loudly- -good luck telling Jude and Demi apart- -and a girl named Minnie who has a god complex.

Will knew from the day he arrived that he needs to focus on acting the way his foster moms want, on getting good grades, at playing soccer well and making sure that for once, he doesn't mess up.

He knows he doesn't want to lose these friends, knows he wants to feel wanted and needed and understood. Because here, there is more focus on his mental health than there is on if he's acting the 'right' way. Here, there is room for growth and change past a foster parent's ideal child.

Here, there's no room for entertaining the idea of him with a pretty boy who has a witty smile and a loud laugh.

On that last note, he has no idea what to do (and Will is someone who likes to plan ahead).

***

A coming of age story.