You weren’t too sure how you’d ended up in a dingy pub on a Thursday evening, but the second Arthur Hill had figured out you had an upcoming long weekend, you were done for.
“Oh come on, Y/N! We’re going out for a few quiet pints.” He had said, sitting on your sofa a few days before.
“Who’s we, Arthur?” You had pried, eyebrow slightly quirked.
“Well me, obviously. Clarkey, TV, Chris, Becky, Chip and Sabina.” He rattled off friends, thinking out loud to see who had he forgotten. “Pretty sure that’s everyone… oh wait, Will! Will Lenney.”
Your cheeks flushed. Will didn’t often come out with the group, choosing to strategically avoid the filming of pub golf and platform roulette. Basically any event in which cameras could catch him being embarrassingly drunk. Arthur had asked him, only to be met with disappointment.
Out of all the YouTube crew, Will had always caught your eye. You both tended to sit back and enjoy the chaos of everyone hanging out together, opting for meaningful conversation where possible. You swiped up on each other’s stories, often texted songs through to each other and Will was a regular commenter on your Strava account. I heard you run faster if you listen to AC/DC.
“Oh that’s right, I forget you have a bit of a hard on for him.” Arthur teased, laughing as the red flush spread across your cheeks.
“Fuck off, Arthur!” You laughed. “You’ve come into my flat, drank all my coffee and now you’re taking the piss out of me.”
“Yeah, what are friends for?” Cheeky grin on his face, Arthur dodged the onslaught of cushions thrown at his face.
So, here you were.
Becky and Sabina had naturally gravitated towards you, occupying the end of the table. You were a few wines in when Sab had pulled out her phone, eager to share her camera roll.
“You would think that Josh and Freezy are engaged, the way they are glued to each other.” Sabina laughed, showing the two of you photos from The Fellas Podcast shoot earlier that week.
“Remember that TikTok trend? The best friend Steve one?” You asked in between giggles.
“Yes! The ‘it’s just me and you and your friend Steve’ one! These two idiots would be perfect for that!” Becky was in stitches, scrolling through Sab’s photo gallery.
“What are we laughing at, ladies?” You had heard him before you laid eyes on him. Turning your head, the tall Geordie man was stood behind you with a grin on his face.
“Will, you have to see this!” Sab turned her phone screen around for him to see.
She was met with a loud, hearty laugh. “That’s almost romantic, innit!”. Will politely made small talk with Sabina and Becky, his eyes barely leaving your face as you enthusiastically listened to your girlfriends.
“Would any of you like a top up? I’m headed up to get a drink?” He asked, met with polite declines. He placed a hand on your shoulder, meeting your gaze. “I’m glad you’re here. I was hoping you would be.” And with that, he had made his way up to the bar, hugging his friends as he went.
You lightly run your hand over your shoulder, a sudden warmth making its way up your neck and to your cheeks.
Becky caught the gesture, smirking at you. “Babe, come on. You better jump his bones soon.” You laughed her off. Don’t be silly, Becks. We’re just mates. Friends probably don’t stare at each other longingly.
—
About two hours and 3 rounds had passed when George had located the jukebox. He had excitedly run up to you, grabbing your hand and pulling you over to the machine.
“I know you love cute shit like this, Y/N. I thought I’d let you pick a song.” George passed you a coin.
The catalogue was mostly 60s and 70s singles, which made it impossible to pick just one song. Taking a quick glance through the selections, you settled for the Bee Gees ‘More Than A Woman’. A few moments after inserting the song, the sound of digital strings and synthetic bass filled the room. You stood at the jukebox with a massive grin adorning your face, swaying to the Bee Gees.
On the way back to the table, an elderly gentleman had stopped you in your tracks.
“Excuse me, miss. Is that a working jukebox?” He softly asked, his kind eyes meeting your own.
“Yes! Would you like me to show you?” You extended your arm out, helping him to his feet.
George looked to you. “Have you got this?”
“Yeah, I’ll be back to the table in a few minutes.” He nodded, returning to the group.
You reached the jukebox, looking through the selections with the man. “There are just too many good choices, aren’t there? I might have to go with Elvis or Solomon Burke next.”
He looked up from the catalogue, surprised look on his face. “I don’t meet too many young people who fancy Solomon Burke.”
“Really? I remember him from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack.” You cracked a smile.
The elderly man extended his hand for you to shake. “I better introduce myself. My name is Thomas.”
“Y/N. Glad to meet you.” You shook his hand gently.
“The pleasure is mine,” Thomas had a kind smile. “That lovely lady over there is my wife Edith. She’s been a bit nervous to be out and about as she had a fall a few months ago.”
“Oh no, is she doing okay now?” Your face had dropped, ever the look of empathy covering it.
“Yes, she’s well again. I think just a bit cautious. I’d love to get her up for a dance.” Thomas picked a song, inserting a coin.
“Well, if Edith decides to turn you down - I’d love a dance.” The two of you walked back to his table, exchanging a smile as he bid you farewell.
Returning to your group of friends, Will gestured for you to fill the empty seat next to him.
“Making friends, are we?” Will teased, lightly running his hand over the top of your own.
“Yeah, that’s my new bestie Thomas. He’s wanting to have a dance but I think Edith is a little nervous. She’s not long had a bit of a fall.” You looked back at the couple, waving back when Edith had raised her hand.
“Why don’t we give them some encouragement? Maybe she just needs to see someone else absolutely tearing it up on the dance floor.” Will laughed, a soft laugh rumbling through his chest.
As ‘More Than A Woman’ reached its final notes, it was soon replaced by Solomon Burke’s ‘Cry To Me’.
Will rose to his feet, holding his hand out for you to grab. He walked right up to the couple, flashing a cheeky smile at Edith. “I was hoping you two could teach us to dance?”
Edith just couldn’t resist. Not that you could blame her. Who could say no to Will? Extending his hand out to her, Will helped Edith to her feet and got her acquainted on the makeshift dance floor. As you watched on, you felt a tap on your shoulder.
“Shall we?” Thomas offered an arm, positioning the two of you not too far from Edith and Will. As her smile grew, so did his. Will had Edith giggling, spinning her around without a care in the world.
“He seems like a good man.” Thomas had said to you, speaking as though it were matter of fact.
You smiled straight at him. “He is.” That answer must’ve sufficed, as Thomas tried his best to spin you around.
Across the pub, Becky sat fighting back tears.
“Are you alright Becks?” George had asked, struggling to figure out why the girl was suddenly upset.
“Does that not make you want to cry? Look at how cute they are dancing with that elderly couple.” Becky gestured toward Y/N and Will, dabbing underneath her eyes.
ArthurTV piped in, his own eyes shining with unshed tears. “I heard Y/N say the lady was afraid to dance because she’s just had a fall.”
With that, Becky’s first tear dropped. “And Will got her up dancing? That is so sweet!”.
A few moments of idle chat later, the song was nearly over and Will was handing Edith back off to her husband.
“Thomas, do you mind if I steal the young lady for a dance?” Will gently placed a hand on Tom’s shoulder.
“Of course you can. You better get in before her dance card is full.” Thomas joked, squeezing your hand before turning to Edith.
Edith caught your eye, pointing to Will. “He’s gorgeous!” She mouthed.
“You’re telling me!” You whispered back, letting the Geordie man lead you to the middle of the dance floor.
The song changed to Frankie Valli’s ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’.
“I thought you liked Frankie.” Will smiled down at you, one hand planted firmly on your waist and the other intertwined with your own. You ran your free hand along his arm, settling it just below his shoulder.
“I love Frankie Valli. I didn’t realise you did too?” You couldn’t remember Will ever mentioning him.
“Oh, I don’t really. You mentioned that you had a few of his albums on vinyl so I gave him a whirl. If you weren’t the one who recommended him, it probably wouldn’t be my vibe.” Will looked around the room, avoiding eye contact in case he’d given away too much. Shit Will, that sounds a bit feral.
“And given that I was the one that recommended it, what do you think?” You squeezed his hand, urging him to meet your eyes.
“Well, Y/N. I like pretty much whatever you like. I think it’s pretty special that you feel like sharing your favourite music with me.” He swallowed hard, stretching his arm out to spin her around in a circle.
As you completed the circle and found yourself back in his grip, you let it slip nonchalantly. “So you must like yourself then?”
“Oh, I go alright.” It took a moment for Will to register what you had said. “Wait. Did you just say what I think you said?”
Deciding to be brave, you stopped in your tracks, dropping your hands to rest on his forearms. “Yeah, I did.”
Will’s hands trailed alongside your sides, leaving a wake of tingles where he had touched you. He placed his hands on either side of your face, looking directly at you. “D’ya mean it?”.
“Oh yeah. I’ve got a big fat schoolgirl crush.” You laughed, breath hitching as Will lightly traced his thumb across your bottom lip. He moved closer.
“That is the best news I’ve heard all fucking week.” His lips ghosted yours, nervous to make the first move.
Edith yelled from across the pub, “oh just kiss her, you silly bastard!”.
That was all the encouragement Will needed, connecting your lips together. If it weren’t for the fact he were right across from you, you could’ve sworn there were actual sparks touching your lips. Your hands find themselves resting on his back, as he used one hand to gingerly hold your face and the other to takes its place in your hair. He lightly tugged on strands of hair, prompting a small gasp to leave your lips. He smiled into the kiss before pulling apart for just a moment.
“So, is it safe to say you like like me?” You winked up at him.
“Sweetheart, I fucking yearn for you,” he pulled you into his chest, arms wrapping securely around you. He placed another quick kiss to your lips. “Let’s go home.”
…..
AUTHOR’S NOTE:
And the winner of the poll is….. WillNE!
Thanks so much for voting!
Would love to dedicate this cute little one shot to @octaneink 🫶
I have a really rough idea that I think only you, my fave Will writer, will do justice and bring to life ! Inspired by Whatta Man by Salt-N-Pepa, I’m envisioning a 90s themed party! Perhaps reader and Will (intentionally or unintentionally) in matching outfits? I really love the way you write Will and the friendship dynamics, particularly w Becky my qween
Whatta Man | WillNE
Clothes were strewn across the floor and chaos had absolutely ensued in Y/N’s apartment. Up until recently, she had lived with both Arthur and Flo. Flo had found a place she’d absolutely fallen in love with, subsequently moving out and taking her incredible wardrobe with her. Fuck it, I just won’t go.
Great, she thought. Becky will be pissed if I don’t go.
Rummaging through her wardrobe, Y/N pulled together the outfit she’d worn to her friend Ada’s dirty 30’s party. Throwing on the signature Rachel Green fit of stockings, skirt, high neck tee and a handmade Central Perk apron courtesy of her Cricut machine, Y/N met Arthur, Liv and Bach in the kitchen for a fireball shot.
“Well. Hate to break it to you Isaac, but we’re gonna have to break up for the night.” Liv whistled in her direction, wrapping an arm around Y/N as she got within close proximity. Y/N pulled Liv into a sweet hug, wrapping her arms around her shoulders as Liv’s embraced her torso.
Isaac looked over, mock look of disgust on his face. “So who does that leave me with? Arthur?”
“Give me a wig and a couple of shots. I could be a solid replacement.” Arthur laughed, pouring out a shot for everyone. “Alright, give us a toast Y/N.”
Keeping an arm around Liv, the two girls raised their shot glasses and led the group in a toast. “It’s been a hectic few months, but I have a feeling 2025 is our year. Here’s to all of us - may we stay positive and test negative.” They all clinked their glasses, downing their drinks.
Isaac looked at Liv. “I’ll have to get tested if I spend the night with Arthur.”
The group erupted in laughter.
-
Walking into the party, they were met with all sorts of costumes. TLC’s ‘Waterfalls’ was blasting, Chip and Freezy were absolutely tearing it up on the makeshift dancefloor. Becky could be seen waving Y/N and Liv over.
“I’ll get us a drink and meet you in one sec.” Liv squeezed Y/N’s arm gently, making her way to the bar.
Y/N ran over to Becky, who was dressed as a spice girl. “Becks… you look stunning.”
Becky pulled her friend into a warm embrace, placing a kiss on her cheek. “I had to go with Sporty Spice.. pretty sure there’s a girl here somewhere dressed as Posh.”
The two stood gossiping before Liv joined, holding her hands together to carry over three cans of gin and soda. “I just saw the Arthur’s messing around with the DJ, I wonder what we’re in for.”
Becky had just launched into a story about the latest episode of her show when Chris walked past, doing a double take.
“That’s really clever, Y/N! I didn’t realise you and Will had coordinated costumes.” He smiled brightly before making his way through the room.
The three girls stood off to the side of the dance floor, puzzled. “Becks, have you seen Will’s costume?”.
“No, I haven’t seen him yet. He can’t be that hard to spot though.” She peered around the room.
Liv stifled a laugh. “Imagine if he’s come as Gunther”.
The girls had spent the next hour dancing, managing to drag Bach, ArthurTV, Cam Kirkham and Chloe onto the dance floor. Both Lux and Tobi had approached Y/N, hyping up her costume and letting her know she had matched Will perfectly. Yet, there was still no sight of the man. Y/N looked to Chloe, using her hands to fan her face.
“I need a minute… it’s getting bloody hot in here.” Y/N made a gesture to the bar.
“I’m right behind you, girlfriend.” Chloe gave her a salute.
Making her way to the bar, Y/N veered off to the side to pull her phone out and reply to a few messages she’d received throughout the night. She was mid text when she felt eyes on her. Looking up, she met Will’s gaze as he made his way over to her.
The lanky Geordie was decked out in a tight cropped shirt with ‘Frankie say relax’ written over it, tan pants and a pair of his signature Converse. He grinned, pulling her into a hug. “You must be the Rachel to my Ross.”
“Well, that depends.” Y/N smirked. “Were we on a break?”.
Will laughed, his smile reaching his eyes. “As if I’d ever let you go.” The blood rushed to Y/N’s cheeks as she blushed. “Pretty sure I owe you a pint from our last night out.” He grabbed her hand, pulling her toward the bar. Will ordered for the both of them, before taking both drinks and finding them an unoccupied chair to sit in.
Seating options were limited, which worked perfectly for Will. They took up real estate on the closest love seat, sitting facing each other, legs touching.
Y/N mirrored Will, pint in one hand and the other resting on top of the sofa. They shared recaps of their weeks, laughing between the two of them. To onlookers, they appeared to be totally giddy over one another.
Becky stood chatting with Cam Kirkham, the two of them analysing the couple in front of them.
“I really like them together! He seems real smitten when she’s around.” Cam said, letting out a playful gasp as Will moved a strand of hair out of her face.
Becky nodded. “You know Harry’s been keeping an eye out.”
“Oh what, Wroetoshaw?”.
“Yeah. I hear he’s in the market for a lass.”
Cam tutted. “Not this one. Lenney’s marriage material.”
Arthur Hill emerged, throwing an arm over Becky’s shoulder. “What are we gonna do about those two? The sexual tension is fucking unreal.”
Cam’s eyes lit up. “Maybe we just throw a spicy song suggestion to the DJ. Might inspire them to pash or something.”
“Ooh, I’ve got just the one.” Arthur made his way over to the DJ, throwing him a song suggestion before being met with a nod and thumbs up. Making his way back to the group, Becky called out. “What’d you suggest, Mr Hill?”
“Salt-N-Pepa. Last time we went out for karaoke, they got steamed and performed their own rendition of it.” Arthur laughed, pulling his phone out of his pocket to show Becky a video of their karaoke efforts.
Meanwhile, Will and Y/N sat on the love seat exchanging anecdotes. Pints abandoned to the table in front of them, Y/N sat with her head resting in her palm. Will mirrored her, his free hand resting on her knee.. pinky fingers just touching.
Moments later, Salt-N-Pepa’s ‘Whatta Man’ flowed through the speakers. The two looked at each other, knowing smiles stretching across their faces. Will stood up, holding his hand out for her to grab. He intertwined their fingers, bringing her to the middle of the dance floor.
They gravitated toward the middle, taking turns singing line for line.
I wanna take a minute or two and give much respect due. His hands are on her waist.
To the man that’s made a difference in my world. She’s grinning up at him, singing directly at him.
And although most men are ho’s, he flows on the down low ‘cause I never heard about him without another girl. He’s tracing circles with his thumb.
But I don’t sweat it because it’s just pathetic, to let it, get me involved in that ‘he said, she said’ crowd. She rests her hands on his forearms.
I know that ain’t nobody perfect, I give props to those who deserve it. And believe me y’all, he’s worth it. He’s searching her eyes for even a hint of reciprocity.
So here’s to the future ‘cause we got through the past. I finally found somebody that can make me laugh. She runs her hands along his arms, resting them on his chest.
“You so crazy, I think I wanna have your baby.” Y/N sings, looking straight at him. She lets her gaze flicker from his eyes down to his lips, and just like that, he’s hooked.
Will keeps one hand on her waist, pulling her in as close as he possibly can. His free hand makes a home in her hair, thumb resting on her jaw. Their lips meet. Y/N leaves one hand on his chest, the other coming up to copy his movements - fingers tugging gently on strands of hair, thumb resting on his jaw. They were pretty much parallel. Mirrored on either side. Very Ross and Rachel of them. Will let her lead, and she was going to savour the moment. Y/N laughed into the kiss, trying to keep her mouth closed and make him wait.
Becky, Cam, Chloe and Arthur Hill stood off to the side, clapping and cheering as their friends kissed for the first time.
Freezy walked past, sussing out the commotion. “Why are we cheering?”. He spoke loudly over the chorus.
“They’ve just kissed for the first time!” Becky shouted.
“That’s not the first time!” Freezy spoke directly in her ear.
Becky furrowed her brow. “What do you mean?”.
Freezy pulled up his WhatsApp chat with his editors and Chip, showing Becky the screen.
Chip: Just a heads up boys, should maybe cut this out.
*1 video attachment*
The video showed Will and Y/N on a night out filming pub golf, heavily intoxicated. The two were sitting in a booth together, her head resting on his shoulder. She lifted her head to look up at him, gingerly taking his head between her hands and placing a sweet kiss on his lips.
“What was that for?” Video Will had asked.
“Just felt like kissing a handsome man.” Video Y/N replied, resting her head back on his shoulder. Moments later, George had approached to let them know it was time to move on.
Freezy: Yeah, cut it out. Might be a fun story for their wedding someday though.
Becky stood with her jaw dropped, before a grin slowly took over her features. “Let’s just let them believe this is the first time.”
Freezy nodded. “Yeah, I’ll save that footage for a rainy day.”
——
Author’s note:
Thank you for your request! I LOVED the idea and I hope this is kind of what you envisioned 🤭 I love the idea of a somewhat niche costume so this is probs a bit specific. And thank you, my fave anon!! You are very sweet and I’m glad you enjoy these fics 🥹 I was feelin a little discouraged and you have absolutely made my week 💕
Here’s the playlist I listened to while writing and proofreading this one if you’d really like to immerse yourself in the 90s vibes 🤍⭐️
In which Will and Y/N are friends, but should be more.
Part two
——
New messages on WhatsApp
Ugly Stepsisters
George: @Y/N I’d finish up early if I were you… Will’s shouting the next round
Y/N: Aren’t you guys filming? He’s probably getting his shout in while it’s tax deductible 🤭
Becky: The cameras have been off for a while. He must be feeling charitable
George: Funny that. He was about to throw a tantrum before I told him wifey was tagging along 🧐
Becky: I thought wifey was working late tonight
George: Yeah she can’t say no to a free drink though
Y/N: Tell Will to get my pint ready. ETA 10 mins 🫡
There were perks to having a full time job. Financial stability, career development, a valid reason to say no to going on your mate’s podcasts. However, there were also disadvantages - one being having to sit in an office all day while said mates drink their way through London.
Y/N had been working with a corporate insurance company for a few years now, having moved to London for a secondment that developed into a full time role. She had been introduced to the wider UK YouTuber group through George, who was a prospective client when The Useless Hotline began to take on employees. They had clicked instantly, and she had found herself spending most of her free time with Clarkey and Becky. While the two friends brought a sense of adventure and excitement to her life, Y/N was a breath of fresh air - a reminder that there’s more to life than an upload schedule.
“Y/N!” Arthur Hill had spotted her as soon as she walked through the door, pulling her into a tight embrace. “I’m so happy you’re here, Will thought you may’ve been working late”.
“I was planning on it, but I heard Will was shouting. I had to see it for myself.” She grinned as Arthur laughed, directing her to the table occupied by the group.
Y/N was met with a loud cheer, each of her friends taking turns to greet her.
“I was starting to think you’d never return from war,” Becky wrapped her arms around her friend. “I’ve been waiting for you to help me drink these fellas under the table.”
The two girls shared a giggle before being enveloped in a hug by their tall, brunette male counterpart.
“This is my second favourite kind of threesome” George sighed.
“I’m assuming the first involves Chris and Hill.” Y/N laughed lightheartedly.
“You know me so well.” George had grinned in response.
Y/N could feel a pair of eyes on her, cheeks heating up as she looked up to see Will making strides across the pub, glass of red in hand.
“We better let mummy go now Becky, can’t have daddy getting jealous.” George smirked at Y/N, both himself and Becky stifling a laugh as Y/N jabbed him in the side.
Her two friends disappeared behind her as Will approached, knowing looks on their faces.
“Hi gorgeous,” Will wrapped his free arm around her, placing a kiss on her cheek. “I know we typically do pints but they finally restocked your favourite red.”
Y/N resisted the urge to coo at the grown man in front of her.
“Come tell me about your day.” He grabbed her hand, leading her through the crowd of friends.
Y/N had spent plenty of time with the extended group - even once had a bit of a secret summer romance with Lux.
They were sat in the car in his driveway when he had ended things.
“I think Will knows we’re seeing each other, Y/N. I can’t bear to see that look on his face anymore.”
“What look?” she had asked.
“The you’re-my-mate-and-dating-the-woman-I-like look.” Cal had sighed, the frustration spreading over his face.
“I don’t care what anyone thinks, Cal. Pretty sure he’s dating people too.”
“If you really didn’t care, our friends would know we’re dating,” he said, head resting against the window. “I would love for this to work out, but I just don’t see it happening.”
Cal had conceded, no longer wanting to fight for her attention. There was just something about Will.
Unlike George and Becky, it had taken some time for his friendship with Y/N to blossom. It had taken many Thursday trivia nights at their local, but they eventually became inseparable. The two had slowly pulled away from big nights out, preferring to spend their Saturday evenings watching films and playing board games. Having escaped a hangover, they would often stretch their hangouts into Sunday morning for a quiet coffee run and visit to the local market. But lately, tension had begun to build - and it seemed like everyone had noticed. Except for Y/N.
Though she would never really admit it, Y/N had felt the shift in their dynamic. She was hyper aware of the way Will kept his hand on her back as they walked through the crowded markets. She would try desperately to suppress the dull ache in her chest when he would suggest heading home after a film night. It’s too late to drive home, Will. She’d be scarily still when he’d sleepily throw his arm across her torso, terrified to wake him as he lie next to her. Okay Y/N, I’ll stay.
Will had noticed the tension. He was just waiting around for Y/N to catch up. She was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. She stopped women on the street to compliment a smile, a hairdo, or the coat they were wearing. On the occasions she hung out with his production team, she had made a point to take an interest in their life outside of work. She would text Mikey various tiktoks, look through Ieuan’s film and help him choose the right stills. She was the missing piece of the puzzle… yet had no clue.
Y/N slid into the booth next to Will, the other half occupied by Chip and Sabina.
“I’ve been hanging out for a wine night,” Sabina reached across the table, gently squeezing her friend’s hand. “We’ve got so much shit to talk. I’ve been keeping notes for you.”
“Sab, give me a time and I’m there!” Y/N had opened her calendar, rattling off free days to the brunette across the table. Before long, the couple were off to the bar, leaving Y/N and Will sitting by themselves.
They settled into routine. She shared her day - her boss had copied her in on a million different emails, she spent the whole day in meetings and plastering on a smile - while Will listened attentively. That sounds shite. You should eat, you’ll feel better.
“I think my social battery is starting to go.” The thought of staying out late made her grimace.
“Let’s go home. Get a shitty takeaway and watch an even shittier film.” Will was stood, extending his hand for her to grab. They walk through the pub, embracing their friends goodbye and promising a late night over the weekend.
“She’s just tired, mate. Thought it’s time to head home.” Will stood talking to George, sympathetic smile spread across his features.
“And she needs you to tuck her in? Good friend you are, Lenney.” George smirked, watching a red flush make its way up to Will’s ears.
———
15 minutes later, they were stood outside her apartment fumbling with the keys.
She had entrusted Will to organise dinner, throwing herself onto the couch with no plans to leave it anytime soon. Will sat on her right, allowing her to rest her head against his shoulder.
“You know Y/N, this is my favourite part of these group events.” He looked down at her, tucking a stray stand of hair behind her ear.
She met his gaze. “I love catching up with everyone, but I feel like I wait around the whole day to come home to you.”
“You make it sound romantic.” She laughed, but with no real humour behind it. Just trying to cut the growing tension in the room.
“It could be. If you want that.” Will’s eyes searched her face for any sort of requited feeling.
She swallowed hard, adjusting her position on the couch to face him.
Her phone fell into Will’s lap as she gently brushed her hand over the top of his. “I do. Want that, I mean.”
Will moved to intertwine their hands, a loud chime coming from Y/N’s phone. He looked down, seeing a familiar name adorn the screen.
Cal: Can we talk? I miss you.
—-
A/N: Thanks for reading guys!
You can find the series masterlist using the above link 🥰
I always think of ‘Thank You For The Music’ as a farewell song. A few of my fave YouTubers (like Natacha Oceane) have slowly been phasing their way out of the internet and I thought this may be a good prompt! I also had an ask relating to a pregnant reader and threw that in here - let me know your thoughts!
It was a decision Y/N had wrestled over.
She had been a part of the content creating world since 2013, sharing a large majority of her life with her viewers. They had seen her finish up at university, develop a business from the ground up, make friends with other content creators, and they’d been keen onlookers as she fell in love with Will.
But now she was ready to close the chapter.
Y/N sat in front of the camera, Will setting up the perfect shot.
He pressed record, stepping forward to press a kiss to her forehead. “You got this?”.
She nodded. “I got this.”
“Alright. I’ll be in the living room if you need me.” He left the room, closing the door behind him.
-
@/YNsCorner uploaded a new video to her channel!
Farewell, My Friends
[Will can be seen leaving the frame]
Hello, my friends! Welcome back to our little corner of the internet.
As you can probably tell by the rather ominous title, I’ve got some news to share with you all. I’ve made the difficult decision to leave YouTube for an extended period of time.
Before I say anything else, I want to say thank you. Whether you’ve been here since the very beginning or just joined us last week, if you’ve been commenting forever or have been a silent watcher, thank you.
I’ve been on YouTube since 2013.
Over the years, I’ve shared every part of my life with you guys. You’ve watched me grow up, settle into the home that I’m in now with the person that I love, you’ve helped me start my business and opened so many doors for opportunities that I didn’t know existed. This community, in many ways, has been my safe haven. A soft place to land. A best friend to talk to when things feel a little lonely.
It’s because of this that I feel as though I owe you guys some honesty and clarity….
As most of you would know, Will and I recently got married. We’re heading into the next chapter of our life together and we are starting a family.
Which, by the way, what a head fuck. Imagine telling 2013 me she marries a YouTuber. Unreal.
This next chapter is one I’ve had my eye on for a while. It’s probably the most terrifying thing I’ve ever done, but I have a feeling it will be the most rewarding and I’m so looking forward to soaking it all up. I’ve put all of my time and effort into my first baby, aka you guys, for the last few years and I’m hoping to do the same for my next one.
I know that a large majority of my audience is a similar demographic to myself - so if you find yourself in a similar spot while I’m gone, whether that is starting a family or travelling or a new exciting opportunity - just know that I’m so thankful you were here. We got to be girls together. That goes for all of you, really. While I may not be on here for a while, I will forever be cheering all of you on.
Thank you for laughing with me, crying with me, supporting me through the dark and twisty bits as well as all of the fun shit this platform has manifested for me. It wouldn’t have been possible without you.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
It’s not goodbye forever, just a see you later.
Thanks guys. I love you.
[Will enters the room, Y/N stands up to reveal a bump]
Screen goes black.
—
@/ynscorner:
♡ liked by willne, sabinablair, theburntchip & miniminter
As ABBA would say, thank you for the music 🤍✨
willne: Proud of you ❤️ might have to up my content game while you’re on break
glambyflo: So happy for you guys! You have always been my favourite content creator (best believe I’ll be coming over for in person reviews and tutorials). Can’t wait to see what the next chapter looks like 🫶
taliamar: Don’t mind me SOBBING. I’m so happy for you both 😭
user876917: oh this has brought so many tears to my eyes 🥹 we are the same age and i’ve been with you since 2015. in many ways, it has felt like you’ve been my best friend throughout that time. thank you for being a safe space. love you! i’ve never been so bashfully cheerful for a person on the internet
tanyaburr: Oh I am so happy for you!! Wishing you all the best ❤️
user6123: tanyaburr where’s Martha??
callux: What a lucky kid to have parents as cool as the both of you. Congratulations 💙
lazarbeam: Fuck off!! Unreal!! Congrats guys!
tannar: A MILF is about to enter the chat… so happy for you both 🤍
Mate!! I’ve just realised you’re an Aussie??!!!!
Please throw the Australians a bone and do some sort of WillNE x Aussie reader moment 🙏🏼🙏🏼
I’m afraid I may turn this into a series… it is largely based in Perth/Melbs/Tas since these are the areas I know well. My apologies for the rest of Aus erasure xx
I Was Neon | WillNE
Y/N wasn’t sure how she had ended up here. The Sidemen had finally organised a trip to Australia, reaching out to a few different content creators for some help in creating the ultimate down under experience. To make up for JJ’s absence and complete the crew, they’d invited along Freezy, Lux and Will.
She had received a message from Lachlan, a friend of the Sidemen and a Red Bull athlete. Y/N had been working in the sport space for a while, eventually settling working in the Australian Football League. She and Lachlan had met a few years back, when she had helped him grab tickets to an AFL game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Y/N had since moved across the country, finding a home in Perth.
The text came in late.
Lachlan: SOS. Sidemen are coming to Australia. I’m bringing them to Perth.
Y/N: And you’re telling me, why?
Lachlan: I need some help entertaining them
Lachlan: …maybe even some free tickets. I saw that the Eagles are playing Collingwood 😮💨
Y/N: Alright. Call me tomorrow and we’ll figure something out 😴
Not even four weeks later, Y/N found herself somehow swinging some annual leave and promising to work remotely. Lachie had organised the trip to start in her home state of Western Australia, before trekking across the country to Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania. Overall, they were squeezing a plethora of activities into just two weeks of travel and Y/N could only be present for about 9 days of the 15 days of travel.
Now here she was. Standing in the arrivals gate of Perth Airport at 11pm on a Wednesday, decked out in an oversized hoodie, leggings and birks. Pimple cream and glasses included. She’d sent a very threatening “don’t you dare film me” text to Lachlan and hoped for the best.
She was standing by baggage claim when a voice boomed, “there’s our girl!”. Lachie came running up to her, wrapping her up in a hug. The group looked exhausted, which mirrored her own face. One by one, the boys all embraced her and introduced themselves. They had strategically chosen a hotel across the road from her apartment, making it easy for them all to meet up. Only problem - the hotel was booked out, meaning two of the boys had to bunk at Y/N’s. The obvious first choice being Lachie.
Upon deciding who would be driving the rental cars, Lachie and Y/N stood around speaking quietly. “I think we should take either Will or Lux with us. They’re both super chill, you’d feel safe with them in your apartment and they’re both gonna be doing work in their downtime like you.”
Y/N quirked her eyebrow. “Which one do you think is the biggest coffee drinker?”.
Lachie laughed. “Will. Guess he’s coming home with us.”
30 minutes later, they were all situated in their respective hotel rooms and spare rooms.
Y/N had given Will a tour of the apartment, showing him his living quarters for the next three nights and most importantly, where to find the coffee machine. The three of them had settled on the couch, cup of tea in hand, debriefing about their day.
“I really appreciate you adopting me for the weekend, Y/N. Gets me away from their antics anyway.” Will laughed softly.
She smiled. “You don’t get FOMO?”.
“Not on a trip like this. 15 days is a long time. I think the place that actually feels homey is a better shout.” She noticed the way his lip upturned as he spoke.
The room fell into a comfortable silence. “Alright my friends, I think I’ll be heading to bed. Some of us have to work tomorrow.” Y/N got up to turn the majority of the lights off, leaving just the ambience lights on. “Goodnight.”
—
For Y/N, Thursday was controlled chaos. Game day.
The morning was a little more peaceful than it usually was. Lachie had a sinking feeling the day was going to be feral, and managed to beat her to the coffee machine. She’d left the apartment with a keep cup full of coffee, a stale protein bar the boys had found buried in the pantry and a newfound sense of “thank fuck I’m on annual leave tomorrow”.
She was working the footy game scheduled later that night, and with a packed schedule, she had organised for the boys to do a tour of Optus Stadium. Not having the time or energy to plan their entire Western Australia leg, she just let them run loose around her work. Her calendar affectionately titled “Bring The Sidemen To Work Day”. I’ll stop in and say hello on my lunch break. Check in on the kids.
It was about 1pm when she found them all sitting in the grandstands. With a meal prep container in hand and ID badge pinned to her trousers, she made her way over to sit with them. The guide, Angus, immediately took the piss out of her.
“You here for an audit?” He teased.
“If I was, you’d be out of a job.” She winked, taking a seat next to Freezy on the end of the row. Will sat on his other side, meeting her eyes. “Hey roomie.” She grinned.
“Hey Y/N. Brilliant coffee this morning. Kinda like I’ve ingested rocket fuel though.” He smiled.
“I told you Australian roasters are incredible. You won’t be able to go back now.” Her face lit up.
Freezy looked between the two of them. “I think I’m gonna need to move in with you. All I got this morning was the leftover filter that Ethan didn’t want.”
As if sensing Cal was talking shit, Ethan lifted his head up. “Shut up, you prat.”
The three of them stifled a laugh.
Although Y/N was joking around with them all and appeared to be rather casual, the boys couldn’t help but sense that she commanded the room. She walked with purpose, Gus treated her as though he admired her. She appeared to be trustworthy, well respected and invested in her colleagues - but didn’t seem to let others invest in her.
As Gus took them through the tour, he would stop and ask for Y/N’s input. “Would you be a West Coast supporter if you didn’t work for them?”.
She would flush red. “I think I may have ended up a Collingwood girl. My family are all North Melbourne supporters but I can’t stomach the heartache.”
After a brief discussion about team rivalry, Y/N shifted in her seat, checking the time.
Will reached behind Freezy’s back, squeezing her shoulder. “Time to head back?“.
“Yeah. The team’s getting ready to debrief before the game later.” She rose from her seat.
“See you later, roomie.” He winked as she made her way out of the row.
Gus smirked. “Back to slacking off?”.
“About to go finalise your termination.” She stuck her tongue out at him, making her way down the stairs and disappearing into the offices below.
“At least give me a payout!” Gus yelled out.
“Keep dreaming!” The stairwell echoed behind her.
Cal didn’t miss the way Will’s eyes lingered.
Josh turned to Gus. “Can you please tell us what she does for a living? Lachie won’t tell us.”
Lachie laughed. “It’s not that I won’t tell you… she just wears a lot of hats.”
“Look, I’d probably just say she works in media. She’s super important to the club.” Gus said offhandedly.
Harry quirked an eyebrow, laughing. “Important enough to get you fired?”.
It was about 11pm when she finally let loose.
West Coast had won the game, Lachie had convinced her she desperately needed a McFlurry and she’d finally let her hair out of the bun she’d haphazardly scrunched together during a precarious third quarter.
The Sidemen had succumbed to their jet lag, taking the train back home. The other two had gotten word of a sneaky trip to Maccas and stayed back to help clean up the stadium.
Lachie was in the front seat, Y/N at the wheel with Will, Freezy and Lux occupying the backseat. The speakers loudly played “You Get What You Give”, with all of the car windows wound right down. Lachie and Lux held their hands out the window, running their fingers through the breeze.
“You’ve got the music in you.. don’t let go” the group sang in unison.
Lachie looked to Y/N, a glint in his eye. “You’re much happier now.”
She didn’t say anything, but her subtle nod said it all.
10 minutes later, they found themselves in the entryway of her apartment complex.
“Are you guys okay to get home?” Y/N looked to both Cals.
Lux nodded softly. “Of course.” He hesitated. “Hey, thanks. I think we all had a lot of fun today. It was really cool of you to organise it for us.”
A grin tugged at her lip. “Anytime. I’m just glad we won. It doesn’t happen often.” She was met with a resounding laugh from Lachie.
Hugs are exchanged before the two boys make their way across the road to their apartment. As Y/N and her two newfound roommates made their way into her apartment and locked the door, she bid her farewells. “Some of us had to be up early and at work today, so I’m gonna head to bed.”
“Sleep well.” Lachie reached out and pulled her into a hug, placing a kiss on her temple.
“Night Will.” She squeezed his shoulder as she walked past.
“Goodnight roomie.”
Her bedroom door closed shut.
As though it were his own home, Will moved to the tea cupboard she’d shown him the previous night. Lachie opened a drawer and found her secret biscuit stash, leading the two of them out to balcony with steaming cups of tea in hand.
Looking out over the city landscape, Will hesitated to speak.
Lachie sensed it. “Spit it out.”
“I don’t want to overstep, but what did you mean in the car? When you said she’s happier now?”. Will tried to appear casual, pushing the sleeves of his jumper back.
“She’s had a shit time of it the last few months. Shitty boyfriend doing shit things. She still protects him, I think.” Lachie didn’t try to hide the displeasure etching across his features.
“To herself or everybody else?” Will asked timidly.
“I think both. She says it kinda feels like they’re in a weird gray zone - like neither person is right or wrong, but if you ask me - he’s a wanker.” Lachlan frustratedly brought his bottom lip between his teeth, chewing on it.
Will let out a breath. “I don’t know much, but I think you’d have to be a wanker to let her go.”
“Seems like she’s made an impression.”
“A good one.”
An hour later, when Will finally said goodnight, he couldn’t help but linger in the doorway.
There she was, in the rattiest old shirt and knocked about by uneven sleep, trying not to nod off as she refilled her water bottle.
Making his way to the kitchen, he gently rest one hand on her back to softly grab her attention before taking the bottle out of her hands. Their hands lightly brushed as he took the ice out of the freezer.
She stood puzzled, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes. “How… how do you know I put ice in that thing?”.
He chuckled. “I saw you doing the same thing this morning.”
Will had gotten the impression he saw only what she wanted him to see. Y/N would crack jokes and laugh at his own, she was ever the gracious host, but she wasn’t letting her guard down anytime soon. Granted, she had been booked and busy in their brief 24 hour friendship. Acquaintance-ship if that were ever a thing.
She paused. “Sweet of you to notice.”
“Go back to bed, sleeping beauty. Want me to tuck you back in and give you a big kiss goodnight?” He teased.
Laughing softly, she jabbed him in the arm. “Geez, take a girl to dinner first.” Smirk on her face, she gestured to her cheek. “Lay one on me.”
Will leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. “Looks like you’re still a frog.”
She pushed him teasingly. “Guess I better call Lux and tell him my spare room is back up for sale.”
They both laughed to themselves as they shut their respective bedroom doors.
—
Will woke to the sound of Y/N rushing around the kitchen.
Cracking the door open, he stuck his head out.
She spotted him. “Good morning, princess.”
He groaned. “This is what I get for calling you a frog. Where are you off to in a hurry?”.
“Coffee. Would you like anything?”. She stood in front of him, keys and phone in hand.
“Yeah. Can I come with?” He pulled the drawstrings of his hoodie.
She smiled. “Of course. Can you be super quick getting ready though? We’ve gotta get prime real estate on the water.”
Within 5 minutes, Will had changed, thrown a hat on, sunscreened it up and brushed his teeth. Now here he was, walking along the water at 7:30AM with a pretty girl.
After collecting their respective beverages at the coffee kiosk, Y/N led Will to a park bench.
For the next hour, they couldn’t stop yapping.
I’m not an avocado fan.
Do you think the Royal Family were responsible for Diana’s death?
What was YouTube like before AdSense?
I don’t understand how the AFL works. Do you do football fantasy?
The McLaren looks fucking competitive this year.
I like a chilled red wine but nothing warm. Gross.
There was a lull in the conversation. A comfortable silence.
Will looked to her. “You know… Lachlan warned us about you.”
She smirked. “Yeah? What did he say?”.
“He’s under the impression that at least one of the boys will end up falling in love with you.” He laughed.
“I think you might be at an unfair advantage there.” She took a sip of her drink.
“How so?” He quirked an eyebrow. “Because I’m staying with you?”.
“Exactly.”
“Does that not make it harder? I caught you absolutely shoveling overnight oats before you went to work yesterday.” Genuinely curious, he turned to face her.
She was quick to speak. “No. I think it’s intimate in a way. You’re seeing the unfiltered version of me.”
He nodded. “I get the feeling you’re a little guarded.”
“Oh, for sure. Especially with all of you guys around Lachlan. I feel kinda protective over him at the moment.” She turned to face him too.
“Why do you feel protective over him?” Will questioned.
“The tricky part about living in Australia is that you’re removed from the rest of the world. I think he feels like he’s left out when he’s home. Like there’s almost no solidarity.” She spoke clearly.
“It’s not the same but I know the feeling. Sometimes it feels like everyone gets swept up in their own excitement and you get left behind easily.” He spoke quietly, Y/N murmuring in response. “What would you have me do?”.
She hesitated. “I think you guys need to lean on each other a little more. Like it is so important that you have a support system outside of your YouTube friends. But the reality is, there are so few people in the world who can relate to the pressure that you’re under.”
“I know.” He mumbled. “I know that feeling all too well.”
“I just worry that Lachlan’s not got anyone in his corner. Perks of being internationally challenged.” She stared at the morning sky ahead.
He nodded.
He understood.
—
A/N: Here we go! This seems to have the potential for a few more parts, but it might be a bit niche for those from other parts of the world. Would you still be interested in reading more? Feel free to share your thoughts!
As I mentioned, I’ve been off for a little while but I am back baby! Let me know what you’d like to read.
Lots o love,
Roc xx ✨
Also ngl this is heavily inspired by my friend @octaneink who mentioned the idea of the Sidemen coming to Aus in passing. Have turned it into a whole fic oops.
I have noticed you have a theme with the song titled for chapters… any chance you listen to Lizzy Mcalpine or Phoebe Bridgers? They would be perfect for something angsty
Also pls write for Harry!!
Girl…. I got you.
—
Pushing It Down and Praying | WillNE
Bit angsty. Mentions of reader in an unhappy relationship.
—-
It was just one of those weeks.
Work was shit. Coworkers snapping at each other as the end of financial year rolled around and chaos ensued. Stepping on eggshells around friends as they wrap themselves up in their children, husbands and incredible careers. Your relationship on the brink of ending.
Now here you were, sitting in the shared flat of Arthur Hill, Chris and George. Arthur had decided to throw a small party at their place to celebrate an entirely sold out tour. He’d somehow assembled a motley crew of friends last minute.
George, ever the host, had enlisted you as his guinea pig while he made his way through a “how to: cocktail” book. So far, you’d consumed several attempts at a cosmo and even more so at an espresso martini. George had been keeping a watchful eye after catching you trying to secretly pour a martini into the closest house plant. In doing so, he’d caught the longing glances exchanged between yourself and Will. For the majority of the night, he’d been stood on the opposite side of the room chatting with Simon and Josh.
“Not to sound like a prick Y/N, but where’s Alex?” George pressed. “You guys have been together for what feels like years and he barely makes an appearance. Do you just not invite him?”.
You spun your straw around the mojito George had just slid across the table. “I do invite him. He just prefers to stay at home and relax after work.”
Unbeknownst to you, Talia and Freya had slowly made their way across the room, sensing a sudden shift in the atmosphere between yourself and George.
George pursed his lips. “Do you love him?”.
A sudden warmth spread over your shoulder as Talia squeezed it reassuringly. “Give it a rest, George.. she’s come straight from work. Let her chill before you interrogate her.”
You looked up at Talia. “Thank you.”
“Why don’t we all go sit somewhere and have a gossip?” She suggested, gently pulling you off of the bar stool you had been occupying all night. Talia’s solution was the couch area - which was otherwise empty apart from Bach and Chris taking up residence in the recliners across from you. You sat on the end of the couch, Talia in the middle seat and Freya on the opposite end.
Freya hesitated to voice her thoughts, as though she were trying to tread lightly. “I worry about you, Y/N. I know how tough work is at the moment and I hate thinking that you’re going home feeling unloved.”
You took a breath before responding. “I’ve thought about leaving but it’s not like he’s doing anything to me. He doesn’t yell… or try to scare me. It’s like we just live separate lives comfortably. If I leave, I have to start all over again.”
Talia took your hand in her own. “Just because he keeps you safe doesn’t mean he keeps you happy. You can be comfortable and have someone you’re excited to share it with.”
The girls rationalised for the next 30 minutes, offering their support and solutions. We’ll be there with the moving truck. You don’t have to do it alone.
By this time, Bach and Chris had weighed in, concerned about their friend.
Excusing yourself to the ensuite bathroom in George’s room, Chris followed. As you knelt up against the vanity, he stood in the doorway. “Listen, Y/N. I don’t normally weigh in on your life. I can understand that you keep things under wraps because you don’t want it out there for the world to see. I get that.” He took a breath. “I just think that, when it’s just us, you deserve to have a partner you can brag about. Someone who loves you the way you deserve. There’s a whole group of men in there who’d happily take Alex’s place.”
You laughed in an attempt to dissolve the tension. “You’re full of shit, Chris.”
“Yeah? I’ll send both of the Arthur’s in here to change your mind.” A grin spread across his face, before pulling you into a tight embrace. One of those truly tear inducing hugs. An ‘I’ve got you’ hug. “I’m gonna give you a minute. Seems like you might need a break from all the emotions.”
“Thanks, Chris. Love ya.” You blew a kiss at him as he left the room, making a catching motion on the way out.
You’d been alone in the ensuite for all of 5 seconds when Will’s head poked around the corner.
“Hello, my friend.” He grinned cheekily, standing against the door.
“You look like you’re up to no good.” You had laughed, the grin painting his face looking a little too mischievous.
He pulled a bottle of red wine out from behind his back, presenting it to you. “Might be a silly idea, but why don’t we just sit in the bath, chat shit and drink this expensive wine I copped from Mr Calfreezy?”.
In response, you took your shoes off and jumped into the empty bath, extending a hand to Will.
Once you were safely in your respective ends of the bath, knees touching, he unscrewed the cap and extended the wine bottle to you. “You’ve had a tough week. You go first.”
Taking a sip (or a gulp for that matter), you passed the bottle back. “What’s happening in your world this week, Mr Lenney?”.
“Both of my editors are sick so I’ve gone back to the good old days of editing my own videos. Went on a shit date. Buuuutttt… I set a new PB for a half marathon. And now I’m hanging out with you, so it’s not all bad.” He winked, taking a sip too and passing the bottle back. “What’s happening with you?”.
“The usual. End of financial year causing chaos. Working too much. Going home to what feels like a loveless marriage… and we’re not even married.” You laughed, the weight of your friends’ words heavy on your shoulders.
The room grew quiet. “My intention was to come in here and try to take your mind off of it, but can I just say one thing?”.
You met his eyes. “Yeah. I value your opinion.”
“I’m not going to tell you to leave. If I do, it’s just going to push you away. I’ve done the whole starting over thing and it is fucking scary, but I’m much happier now that I’ve moved forward. So, I just want you to know that I care about you. And when things feel much less intimidating, you just call and I’ll answer.” Will leaned forward, laying a hand gently on her knee.
You hesitated. “This probably sounds like it makes no sense… but I feel guilty for not feeling guilty. Like my motivation for staying with Alex is because it’s familiar and I just don’t feel like uprooting my life right now. Not because I have this desire to be with him forever and wanna work on our relationship. It’s literally just convenient for me to stay in the same flat and not have to do the getting to know you phase all over again.”
Will laughed. “Gonna be honest. I know the whole getting to you know you part is the best bit, but I think I will start throwing tables on dates if people keep asking what my favourite colour is.”
The two of you shared a giggle, before you reached a sudden realisation. “I haven’t been with anyone except Alex in years. I’m gonna be like a virgin again.”
“I don’t think that’s how it works.” Will took a swig in between thoughts. “At least you might get some decent break up sex when you leave.”
You sighed. “I doubt it. It’s pretty underwhelming as is. I think that’s what happens when you transition from partners to roommates.”
“You poor thing… well, do me a favour. Feel free to charm up Freezy so we can have more bath chats on his dime. The man knows his way around a bottle of red.” Will joked.
“I think he’d smell the ulterior motive from a mile away… Freezy and I have had many a night on the red.”
Will’s eyes lit up, holding in his laughter. “I still remember when he stacked it at the tube station and you bandaged him back up with the Peppa Pig plasters.”
Time seemed to pass too quickly. Throughout the night, George’s ensuite attracted a few visitors keen for a gossip - Harry and Lux shared a few sips of wine in exchange for not tattling on them to Freezy. Arthur Hill drunkenly told Y/N how incredibly gorgeous she is, to which she replied with “better write a song about me then darling”. Becky had planned on an Irish goodbye, but stopped in to kiss both of their foreheads before slipping out the front door.
They covered several different topics - flat earthers, Premier League, how to: YouTube Adsense, Will’s weird beef with Chappell Roan, the newest Netflix crime series, The 1975’s best tracks, ultimate routes for marathons. Their friendship had always been that way - easy, kind, forthcoming.
It was about 12am when George came into the bathroom, kicking the two of them out. Though the party was continuing on, the two decided their social battery had hit its limit for the night. Giggling and unable to walk in a straight line, they naturally decided to link arms and walk back to their respective flats.
They were stood in front of Y/N’s apartment complex, hugging goodbye, when Will stepped forward. His eyes flickered to her lips momentarily, before he stepped back and assessed the situation. “Oh fuck. Y/N, I’m so sorry. I’ve made it weird now.”
“No, you haven’t. I just need some time to figure out my shit first. It’s not fair to Alex.” You smiled up at him.
“I know. I meant what I said.” His gaze hardened, looking straight at Y/N, as if to say ‘I really did mean it’.
“Okay. If I call…” she trailed off.
“I’ll answer.” He dug his hands in his jacket pockets, nodding firmly. As she dug her keys out of her bag, he turned back to the path, ready to continue his walk back home.
“Hey, Will?”
“Yeah?”
“Text me when you’re home safe.”
“I will. Don’t forget to call.” He grinned.
“Don’t forget to answer.” And with that, she walked inside.
A week later, she called.
——
A/N:
A nice little slightly angsty one shot for this adorable anon request and one of my fave moots, @octaneink ⭐️ she and @bethorwhateverr are very much keeping my Will fic writing inspo alive at the moment.
As per, feel free to pop any suggestions in my ask box.
Vibe of the fic very loosely based on this track! Hope it was what you envisioned ❤️ https://open.spotify.com/track/0Exki6SgSuYfWQDP0npFlF?si=eZCA2st4Qme-XVFqbTIPpw
“I didn’t realise that you and Cal were still talking.” Will’s brow furrowed in confusion.
“We’re not, really. Why? Has something happened?” Y/N looked to his phone. “Is he texting you?”.
“Darling, this is your phone.” Will handed it to her, the screen illuminating.
She looked at the message, confused but deciding to lay the phone face down.
“Are you gonna get back to him?” Will asked.
“Not right now. It’s probably a drunk text,” she rested her hand over the top of his. “Anyway… back to what I was saying.”
“Are you ever going to tell me what really happened between you two?” Will chose his tone carefully, not wanting to sound too accusatory.
The group were largely unaware of the small romance between Cal and Y/N. Bach had spotted them walking hand in hand through the tube station on a Wednesday evening, but put it down to nothing after finding Cal swiping through Tinder the following weekend. Will, however, had an inside source. Harry Lewis.
They had been filming a pub golf video for Chris’s channel when Harry had brought it up.
“Mate.. can you believe Y/N and Lux?” Harry lowered his voice.
“What do you mean?” Will hadn’t heard anything from Y/N.
“She hasn’t said anything?”. Harry cocked an eyebrow. “I’m pretty sure they’re together. Like in a serious way. He was asking if he should introduce her to his family.”
“If it’s legit, she’ll tell me when she’s ready.” Will took a sip of his drink, avoiding meeting Harry’s eyes.
“Do you think she’s embarrassed of him? It seems like he wants everyone to know… but she hasn’t even told you? You basically live in her pocket.” Harry questioned Will, somewhat disbelieving his longtime friend.
“Nah, I don’t think she’d be embarrassed of ‘im. He’s a good lad. It’s probably just a lot to figure your shit out with a group as big as this.” Will had always known Y/N to be calm. Level headed. Always with a plan. She’s just probably not ready to tell people yet. She wouldn’t until she was sure he was the one.
Harry placed a hand on his shoulder. “Not gonna lie mate, I thought it would be you.”
Less than 3 weeks later, Y/N had thrown herself into work. Cal had stopped posting stories of two wine glasses and snippets of songs Y/N had just happened to like. But to their friends, nothing had ever happened. They had always interacted politely, and they moved forward normally. Hey Y/N, you look well. A quick hug and a kiss on the cheek. You too! Did you go to the football this weekend?
When Will had asked her about it, Y/N had just said, “nothing really happened between us… we’re just better off as mates.” He had his suspicions that there was something a little more sinister going on. Maybe one of them had been a little controlling. Or there was a third person in the picture. Cal immediately reinstating his Tinder profile reeked of unfaithful. “That’s a shame. You deserve someone good.” Like me, he felt like saying.
“If I’m being perfectly honest… Cal was starting to feel like he was the placeholder for you.” Y/N hesitated telling him the full truth. “I feel like such a dick. He figured out my feelings about you long before I did. I just kinda feel like I’ve dropped him in shit and then left.”
Will’s face softened. “Fuck. I always kinda assumed the worst.” He shifted in his seat, hand covering his mouth. “No wonder he hasn’t called me recently.”
“Oh come on, Will. It’s a two way street. You haven’t reached out to him either.” Y/N pursed her lips.
“I know… we have that dinner for Freezy’s birthday coming up. I’ll try and talk to him then,” Will reached out for her hand, intertwining their fingers. “Okay.. let’s make sure he’s okay and finish this conversation. We were starting to get somewhere.”
“Can’t we do that first? I have a lot I wanna say to you.” Y/N stared at him, trailing her eyes from his eyes to his lips.
“Don’t look at me like that… you’re making me feel bad. Just send a welfare text or something. I’m not gonna get pissy at him for messaging me girlfriend if the intention is just to be nice.” Will spoke quickly.
Y/N looked straight at him, a smirk beginning to grow. “Girlfriend?”
She typed a message back to Cal, Will’s hand taking up residence on her knee.
Y/N: Yeah, we can. Is everything okay?
Cal: Not really. I feel like our dynamic is kind of fucked at the moment. What do you think?
Cal: (I also have an insurance question but this is probably an inappropriate time to ask 🫣)
Y/N: I think it’s definitely a little stiff. But I expected that. How would you like to move forward? (Send me a meeting invite for tomorrow and we’ll chat through. I’m free after 2pm)
Cal: I miss my mate. I’d love for us to get a point again where we can have a pint and chat shit
Cal: Also schweeet. That time works perfectly
Y/N: Okay. Are you up for a liquid lunch tomorrow? Half productive business insurance, half gossip? 🤭
Cal: Count me in. Meet you at the usual?
Y/N: Sounds good. See you at 2!
Cal: Great 👍 good to have you back mate
Y/N: You too chief 🫡
“Are you happy with that, William? Do you feel better now?” She placed her phone on the table in front of her, giving her full attention to the man in front of her.
He laughed, taking her hands in his. “That was very nicely done. It just didn’t feel right moving forward until you and Lux were in a good spot.”
“Well. Now I’m gonna talk. You’re not going to interrupt me.” She spoke sternly, before flashing him a Cheshire Cat smile.
Will raised his hand to his mouth, making a zipping motion.
“You and me are meant to be. I am into you in the grossest way. Like I’d happily fold your socks. Pop your zits. Whatever you want. I’m all in, Will. If you don’t feel the same, that’s okay but I’m going to have to leave London out of embarrassment.” She sat vulnerably, searching the man’s eyes for any emotion. Suddenly, the room felt heavy and the exit was looking a little more appealing.
Will sat in silence, blank stare on his face. A few moments passed.
“Are you going to say anything?” Y/N exclaimed in frustration, her voice beginning to crack.
“Am I allowed to speak now? I didn’t want to interrupt.” He grinned at her, reaching out to squeeze her shoulder in reassurance. “I thought I made it pretty obvious with the whole girlfriend comment, but if you’d like to hear me say it…”.
She nodded, finally sinking back into her seat.
“I won’t pop your zits because you’d just about batter me for not having a pimple patch. But I will carry you home after nights out. Take you on hot dates to the Tesco reduced section. Brag about you to people on the street if you’ll let me.” He stopped to take a breath, captivating her gaze. “I’m all in. Even when you start to think I’m wrinkly and pruny.”
“I thought you were just good looking, but turns out you can sometimes string a romantic sentence together.” She looked at Will sincerely, placing her hands on each side of his face.
“I just speak in syllables. Makes me seem all wise.” He laughed, resting his hands on either side of her waist. He pulled her closer, his breath fanning on her face before their lips met.
The kiss was gentle at first. New. The two of them had known each other so well, but this was uncharted territory.
They pulled away, Y/N resting her hands on his chest. “Why didn’t we do this earlier?”
“Don’t ask me. I’ve been waiting around for you.” Will smiled at her, pulling her into his lap. He joined their lips together again, his hands subtly creeping underneath her knitted jumper.
Y/N ran her hands along his forearms, tracing all the way up to the back of his head and tangling her fingers through his hair. His breath hitched as she lightly pulled on a few strands. Will pulled her impossibly close, attempting to shuffle them into a horizontal position.
As Y/N went to adjust her knees on either side of his, almost in a straddle position, her knee couldn’t get a grip on the leather like material and she started to slide off the couch.
Will, unable to get a grip on her quick enough, decided to go down with the ship. They lay on the soft carpet, side by side.
“Are you alright, pet?” Will tried to hide his laughter as Y/N lay rubbing circles over her elbow.
“Fuck, I think I have carpet burn.” She whined, laughing out of embarrassment.
“D’ya want me to kiss it better?” Will turned to face Y/N, seeing her nod. He sat up, placing a kiss on her cheek. Watching the smile spread across her face, he moved to her forehead, other cheek, jaw, chin and eventually her lips.
She laughed as he pulled away. “Wow, I miraculously feel so much better.”
Before the moment could continue, there was a buzz on the intercom.
“That’d be dinner.” Will sat up, making his way to the door. While he greeted the delivery driver, Y/N made her way to the kitchen to collect the essentials - a bottle of red, two glasses, plates and two sets of chopsticks.
Will met her in the kitchen. “I forgot to tell you.. we’re having sushi”.
“I know. We always get sushi after you film.” She led him back toward the living room, setting up the coffee table to accommodate all of their food.
“I ordered some of the teriyaki chicken salad you like. That way you won’t have to worry about buying any lunch tomorrow at work.” Will grabbed the cushions off of the couch, setting them down so they could sit comfortably on the floor.
“You know me too well, Lenney.” She grinned at him, taking a seat and beginning to search through the Netflix suggestions.
He reached over, placing a gentle kiss on her temple. “Always have, sweetheart. You were only just an arms length away.”
Y/N to Ugly Stepsisters chat: I did it. I got the guy.
———
Author’s note:
All finished! Hopefully not too bad for my first fic out of retirement. If you can’t tell by the title, I have been very much listening to Sam Fender’s new album 🤭
I’m desperate for something angsty like Fleetwood Mac vjbes
Ask and you shall receive!
This one is for my discord girlies 🫶
Silver Springs | WillNE
Y/N hadn’t planned on being part of Will’s production team. In fact, she hadn’t planned on being anyone’s content creating employee.
She’d had her own career path. She worked a job in business, but created art in her spare time. As a good friend of Freezy’s, she’d been around a few different sets and had given her input (which largely went unnoticed by most people except Freezy and Lux until Will came along).
It started with a text. Y/N had followed Will’s content for a while. She had strayed away from consuming any content from anyone she knew personally, but after a few good impressions, she often found herself trawling both of Will’s channels (as well as Quadrant’s) in search of entertainment. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it, but was something refreshing about Will. He was real under all the jokes and pranks. He was relatable, despite being immersed in the now rather unreachable world of content creating.
Y/N: Just saw your latest video. The production value with this one was increddddible.
Will: I thought you might like it! I took your advice about the lighting and updated the camera settings
Y/N: I can tell - such a small change but it translates so well!
Will: I might have to bring you on board for the next shoot
Will: If you’re up for it?
Y/N: Always
And from there, it was like they fell into an effortless rhythm. Y/N was drawn to his creative chaos, and he was amazed by her ability to rein in his wild ideas and turn them into something coherent and, dare he say it, aesthetically pleasing. She was immediately made to feel like she was part of the team, getting along incredibly well with his current production crew. She was a fresh pair of eyes.
Over time, their relationship began to change. It started out as completely professional, the two of them able to separate their work lives with their budding friendship. When he offered to take her on as a full time employee, things began to shift. There was no longer a buffer. No other job for her to go to. Will would send Y/N bullet point ideas for videos and she’d respond with an itinerary, potential locations, places to source materials from. She would take his ideas straight off the page and design the hell out of it. Everything she touched became magic. Including Will. Their mutual friends didn’t miss the way his eyes lit up when she walked into a room, or the cheeky grin that occupied his features when she’d text back. Somewhere between the very beginning of their friendship and today, they’d fallen in a habit of long working hours followed by after work festivities. A drink here, a “come over and I’ll cook” there.
They had found themselves on her couch on a Friday evening, two bottles of red deep and several plates of sushi full. Fleetwood Mac’s “Silver Spring” playing on vinyl.
“Imagine being someone’s silver spring.” Y/N had stated, half lidded gaze on the abandoned Netflix show paused on the screen.
Will turned to face her. “How do you mean?”.
“Like loving someone so much that it haunts them.” She said offhandedly.
“I think you’d be more of a gold dust woman. I think you’re too kind to haunt someone forever. Maybe just for a little while.” He laughed.
A heavy silence fell over the room.
“You know that Lux asked me what’s going on between us.” She met his eyes.
He swallowed hard. “And what did you tell him?”.
“That I was waiting for you to figure it out. You have a drawer in my apartment, Will. I can’t say the same for Orla or Ieuan.” She looked straight through him.
Y/N had always been intimidating in a I-know-myself-and-I’m-unfuckwithable kind of way, but she made Will feel like he’d been stripped naked and vulnerable. “What if I did have a drawer at Orla’s?” he asked cautiously.
“Then you wouldn’t have one here.” She spoke assertively.
Wordlessly, he sank to his knees in front of her seat on the couch. Will, reluctant to meet her gaze, ran his hands along the tops of her thighs. Y/N gently took his face between her hands, gingerly tracing along the right side of his jaw. “Have you figured it out yet?”.
He didn’t answer, instead standing up and pulling her up with him, capturing her lips in an absolutely burning, searing kiss. Little words were exchanged as he backed her into the wall, tugging on the hem of her shirt.
——
A few months had passed. “Content planning meetings” rolled into evenings and ultimately all ended the same: open mouthed kisses between the sheets, the same vinyl playing, phones on do not disturb. On nights where the boys would occupy Will’s time or weekends where Y/N would go day drinking with her girlfriends, their reluctant goodbyes would leave behind evidence in the form of fogged windows and flushed cheeks.
But no one knew. Not Freezy, who cracked jokes constantly and would have a field day. Not Lux, who would see right through them if they slipped even once. Not even Stephen, who missed nothing and said even less.
They were careful. Until they weren’t. In a Wednesday night trip to the pub, they were stood at the jukebox. Y/N’s hand on the back of his neck. Her breath at his ear. Her voice sent vibrations running through his chest.
“Alright, close your eyes. I might surprise you here.” Y/N rest her head on his shoulder, Will covering her eyes with his hand.
A few moments later, Fleetwood Mac’s “Everywhere” reverberated through the speaker. He felt her smile beneath his hand, removing it to see her completely. He grabbed her hand, pulling her into a makeshift waltz position and dancing her around the open floor of the pub.
Becky quirked an eyebrow, looking toward Lux. “I wish they’d hurry up and shag already.”
Lux took a sip of his drink. “Something tells me they already have.”
——
What was once fun and exciting began to feel like the situationship from hell. Working with your boss, sleeping with him and driving separate cars into work in the hopes no one would notice. Will would do his washing at Y/N’s and she would fold his towels. He’d watch her in the bathroom mirror and hand her the moisturiser they shared as he brushed his teeth. He knew where her cutlery lived, where to find her favourite mug and how to locate the spare lightbulbs. Even still, he had no clue how to let her in. She’d ask him the dreaded “what are we” question and he’d roll over, mumbling an “I’m tired” before subsequently burying his head in his pillow on his side of the bed in her apartment.
So, she created distance. Left early for ‘appointments’, spent more time with Becky and Sabina, left the contents of his drawer on his desk.
They were in the kitchenette of the office one Friday, both reaching for the same mug - hers, but Will picked it up first. Their fingers brushed. Nothing obvious. But Y/N’s gaze flicked up to his, tension boiling between them.
“That’s mine,” she said softly. “I’m making coffee.”
“Sorry. You can have it,” he replied, just as low.
But she didn’t take the mug. Instead, she stepped closer, hitting his chest. Heat radiated off of her. He swallowed.
“Don’t do that,” she said.
“Do what?”
“Make this just...this.” She gestured to the mug he held and then between the two of them. “You can’t fuck me and match my fucking socks and then pretend I’m nothing to you.”
He stepped back.
Y/N didn’t.
“You can’t pretend I’m some dirty mistress forever, Will. Eventually, you’ll have to feel something.” She stared him down, her gaze unwavering.
“I do feel something.” He felt like she could see straight through him.
“Then say it. Act like it. Do something other than refuse to let me in.”
But he didn’t. He never did. The thought of letting her in terrified the shit out of him. Letting their relationship develop beyond the gentle touches, the same Fleetwood Mac record and the lipstick stains left on the corner of his mouth felt too vulnerable.
Finally, she stepped back.
“You know,” she said, “I could really love you. You won’t let me.”
On Monday, she quit hovering. She wouldn’t reply to his messages outside of their regular working hours. She let men in bars buy her drinks. She developed the hell out of his video concepts and she took the credit she deserved, even consulting on a few videos for Freezy. To their friends, she was as loveable as ever. She indulged in gossip with the girls, let Arthur talk her ear off about his latest hyperfixation and she workshopped stand up routines with Stephen.
But with Will, she had immediately put boundaries back into place. She’d drawn a line in the sand.
At a table occupied by all of their friends, she stood up and started gathering her belongings. Will caught her eye. “Y/N.” He spoke loud enough for the majority of the table to hear.
George, Lux, Freezy and Chris’s eyes snapped forward.
“What, Will?” She spoke, short and impatient.
He went to speak, but words failed him. He opened his mouth before hesitating and closing it again. “Nevermind.”
And with that, she turned and left.
Later that night, he sat in his own apartment with the lights dimmed low and YouTube music playing. Her favourite Fleetwood Mac album playing.
"I know I could have loved you, but you would not let me..."
She was his silver spring.
She loved him so much it haunted him.
….
A/N: Here we go friends!
Let me know your thoughts 🩵 and pls comment if you’d like to be put onto a tag list!
