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Reyna nearly collided with someone when she swung open her front door, her heart racing in the early morning stillness. It was Annabeth, her girlfriend, who launched herself at Reyna in an exuberant hug that took the Latina by surprise. “Annie?” Reyna exclaimed, the grogginess of the hour slipping away as she wrapped her arms around the blonde.

“Gods, I have my mother's eyes, don’t I?” Annabeth murmured into Reyna’s soft sleepwear, her voice muffled but laced with a hint of humor. The late hour was hauntingly quiet, with the clock on the wall echoing the time: 2:35 a.m. Reyna’s mind raced; Annabeth was supposed to be having a sleepover at her parents' place, nestled among the mundane routines of mortal life. As she gazed into Annabeth’s tired but bright eyes, Reyna couldn’t help but surmise that a domestic spat had unfolded at the Chase residence, likely erupting over Annabeth’s divine lineage and the inevitable tensions that arose from her being a daughter of Athena.

Holding Annabeth tightly, Reyna made her way back to their shared bedroom, effortlessly lifting her girlfriend in a bridal carry. Annabeth’s laughter mingled with the excitement of being safely in Reyna's arms, the sound warming Reyna's heart. “I just wish they could understand,” Annabeth had whimpered earlier, her voice small and vulnerable.

As Reyna deposited her girlfriend gently onto the bed, the familiar weight of concern rested heavily on her chest. “Someone who loves you wouldn’t hurt their daughter, would they, baby? No.” She pressed a soft kiss to Annabeth's forehead, letting the gesture carry her unwavering support.

“Wanna talk about it?” Reyna asked, standing to grab Annabeth’s favorite hoodie and a pair of comfortable shorts. The fabric was familiar and comforting—Reyna's old Camp Jupiter hoodie, a piece that had been imbued with countless memories of warmth and camaraderie.

Annabeth began to settle into bed as Reyna helped her out of her clothes and into the soft, welcoming hoodie. Snuggling into Reyna’s side, Annabeth returned the tenderness with a fleeting, almost whispered confession, “I was a kid but I wasn't clueless.” The words hovered in the air, heavy with untold stories of her childhood.

Reyna wrapped her arms protectively around Annabeth, squeezing her gently. “Someone who loves you wouldn't do this. I love you,” she reassured softly, her voice a balm for the underlying hurt. The warmth of their closeness enveloped them, creating a sanctuary where the outside world felt distant.

As the night wore on, the two girls nestled together, their breathing eventually synchronizing as they succumbed to sleep, dreams tangled with shared hopes and fears. The delicate balance of the night was a moment of respite before the break of dawn, when Reyna would embark on meeting the Chase family—a delicate first step toward understanding the maze of Annabeth’s life, and a chance to have a candid "talk" with Annabeth’s stepmother, Helen, about what it meant to truly love someone.

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Annabeth sighed as she stared at Percy and his partner, Will. Will Solace. It was always him and never her. She planned on telling Percy about her feelings after the campfire, but stupid Will Solace got to him first. And Percy said yes! Annabeth groaned and laid her head down as Nico rubbed her back sympathetically. “Trust me, I know how you feel. Also, little note, Piper has been staring at you basically since she got here.” Nico whispered to the blonde. Annabeth raised an eyebrow and glanced at Piper, who looked away immediately.

Percy laughed a table over, “I only like him 'cause he's so much smarter than me." He snorted, which resulted in a playful shoulder punch from Will.

“Just sucks that, you know, since Luke betrayed Camp, I haven’t been the most trusting. You could say that I ‘cut people out like tags on my clothing’”. She put her head in her hands, ignoring Nico, who got up and went over to Percy and Will.

Nico said something to Percy and pulled Will away. Percy got up and walked over to Annabeth. “Hey Wise Girl, can we go to the lake for a minute? I need to tell you something.” Annabeth’s heart soared in reaction to what Percy was asking. It then plummeted when she realized some implications. Nico could’ve told Percy that she liked him. Oh gods on Olympus. What was Percy wanting to talk about?

The two reached the lake and they sat down on the pier. “So, what did you want to talk about?” Annabeth played with a stray string on her shorts. Percy took a breath. “Wise Girl, I love you. You know that right?” Annabeth nodded.

“Listen, I know it’s a terrible, jerk move, but to be honest, I only got with Will because I didn’t think you would actually want me. I’m such a klutz, always finding ways to hurt myself and all I’ve done since I got here.” He pulled his knees to his chest.

Annabeth was silent. Percy almost thought that she left, but then she wrapped her arms around him. “Seaweed Brain, why didn’t you just tell me?” She held him closer. “Cause you’re way out of my league?” He cracked a small smile.

Annabeth kissed his cheek. “Come on, let’s go to your cabin. It’s cold.” The two ran to the Poseidon cabin, laughing. Annabeth was glad Nico stepped up to be her wingman.

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“Perseus, listen, if you're gonna leave, you better leave, and better do it fast before I send you to Hades permanently,” Nico growled. Percy tried containing the sobs that were desperate to break through his throat.

“Nico, wait, I can explain-” Percy started, but then Nico grabbed Percy’s bags and threw them out of the open door. Percy gasped.

“I don’t want you or Annabeth in my house ever again, you hear me? And if you try to contact me again, I will get Reyna’s dogs on you.” Nico rubbed his temples, furious. “I just can't live another minute bleeding from my back because I don't have another one for you to stab, and I don't wanna have another heart attack, okay?” Percy nodded, walking out of Nico’s house. Guess he’ll have to call Sally and confess everything. And Sally, along with Estelle, loved Nico.

Nico closed the door with a loud slam. He turned around and immediately dialed his sisters. Ten minutes later, Hazel, Bianca, and Reyna were in his living room as Nico sobbed about him and Percy.

“I-I just didn’t want,” he hiccuped as Bianca rubbed his back, sitting in his older sister’s lap, “him to be my cut that always bled, you know?” He blew his nose.

Reyna and Bianca shared a look as Hazel got up to get Nico more comfort snacks and water. “We’re so killing Jackson later,” they agreed, but for now, their only goal was comforting their brother.

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“This town don't got much to do, and you and I haven't got much to lose, so do you wanna rot in your room like we always do?” Percy asked his best friend, Annabeth.

He swung down from the tree on which he had been swinging while Annabeth studied. They were both in college and she was majoring in architecture, while Percy was majoring in marine science.

Annabeth stood up, gathering her supplies. “Couldn’t you ask your boyfriend?” She raised an eyebrow. Percy sighed, “Apollo’s busy attending an Olympus meeting.” Annabeth patted her friend’s head sympathetically.

“So, wanna talk about how fast we grew and all the big dreams that we won't pursue, then get in your car and laugh 'til we both turn blue?” Annabeth tried cheering up. Percy smiled. “Yes!” He grabbed his best friend’s hand and dragged her to her car.
Annabeth and Percy got into the car and made their way to a nearby 7/11 close to New Rome University. Before hitting the road, Annabeth sent Reyna, her girlfriend and roommate, a quick text letting her know where she was and what was happening.

The two continued driving, chatting, and blasting music until they got to the convenience store. They go in, get their slushies, and go back to the car. Percy got a cherry slushie while Annabeth got a grape slushie since they were out of the blue.

The two enjoy their slushies on the hood of the car then go to Percy’s apartment where they spend the night having a sleepover.

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The dim light from the television in Leo’s garage created a warm feeling in the messy space. The sound from the TV was the only noise, aside from Leo's quiet muttering as he worked carefully. His hands moved skillfully among various tools, making clinking sounds against the concrete walls. Today, he was focused on fixing his friend Piper’s car, which had been sputtering and stalling more often. As he leaned over the engine, sweat trickled down his forehead. Leo felt both determined and nervous, hoping he could get the old car running again. The smell of motor oil filled the air, mixing with the faint noise of the TV, which played on as a background to his work.

‘Sure, they cheat on wives and never pay the price, but that sounds nice as I’m a low-class guy.’ Leo thought. The brunette let out a dismissive scoff as he continued to focus on his tasks, his hands working diligently. Just then, Piper burst through the door, her energy radiating like a burst of sunshine. “Leo! You won’t believe it! We have to go to this party!” she exclaimed, practically bouncing on her feet. “It’s just down the road at Grace Enterprise. They’re hosting a gala tonight, and their son, Jason, invited me personally! He said I could bring someone else along!”

Her choppy hair danced around her face as she spoke, reflecting her bubbling excitement. Piper’s eyes sparkled as she envisioned the fun they could have, surrounded by elegantly dressed guests and filled with music and laughter.

When she turned to Leo, her face fell into a pout at the sight of his unwavering resolve. “But Leo, it’ll be so much fun! We can’t just stay cooped up here while everyone else is out having a good time!” she pleaded, her voice laced with a mix of hope and frustration. However, Leo remained firm, already immersed in the workload he had yet to finish. “Don’t you want to see how the bourgeoises la-di-die on the dance floor?” She grinned, nudging his shoulder.

Leo sighed and caved in, anything for his best friend and basically little sister. He allows her to drag him out of his garage and to his home, where he gets a shower, gets dressed, and a light meal before they leave. Leo came out wearing a nice business casual attire: a burgundy suit jacket, white button-up, black slacks, and black dress shoes. Piper was wearing a similar dress, fading from forest green at the top to black.

Piper leads Leo out of the house and, on the way there, tries to tame his wild curls to no avail. They reach the building and walk in, Piper scanning the room. She finds Jason, introduces him and Leo, and the three have a fun night dancing and partying.

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Nico let out a hearty laugh, the sound echoing warmly inside the car as Percy bellowed along to Conan Gray’s "Found Heaven," his tone blissfully off-key. With the windows down and the cool breeze rushing inside, the car felt like a sanctuary; it wrapped them in a cocoon of freedom as the open road stretched endlessly before them. They weren’t bound by a specific destination, nor did they feel the need to rush. What truly mattered was the exhilarating sense of liberation that came with being together, momentarily escaping the whirlwind of parenting and the delightful yet relentless energy of their five-year-old daughter, Mari.

Mari was a brilliant spark in their lives, her bright laughter a melody that filled their home with joy and a curious mind that constantly explored the world around her. Though she belonged to Hazel and Frank, Nico and Percy had embraced her as their own when she was just three years old. It was a decision that had transformed their lives in ways they never anticipated, filling their days with purpose and a deeper connection. As Nico stole a glance at Percy, he caught him grimacing playfully at a particularly off-pitch note, causing a surge of affection to swell within him. It was moments like these—overflowing with laughter, imperfect melodies, and a shared sense of adventure—that felt like treasures, reminding them why they sought this brief respite from their everyday lives. They cherished the beautiful chaos that came with parenting, even when it felt overwhelming.

“Seashell, I’m driving. You have to wait until we get to the restaurant,” Nico playfully chided, a grin spreading wide across his face as Percy leaned over the stick shift to plant a soft kiss on his cheek. The affectionate gesture made Nico's heart flutter. Percy groaned theatrically but settled back into his seat, surrendering to the rhythm of the song, his fingers tapping to the beat on his thigh as he rambled excitedly about everything and nothing.

After what felt like a carefree eternity of driving, laughter, and music, they finally arrived at the cozy restaurant, its warm lights inviting and the smell of delicious food wafting towards them. Nico expertly maneuvered the car into a parking spot and, with a flourish, hopped out to open the door for Percy, an act of chivalry that made Percy smile brightly, his eyes sparkling. Percy leaned in, kissing Nico's cheek again, this time with genuine gratitude.

As they stepped inside, they were greeted by the pleasant buzz of conversation and the clinking of glasses, the atmosphere making them feel welcome and relaxed. Their dinner started smoothly, with engaging conversation and shared glances that spoke volumes. However, there was a brief moment of tension when an unexpected encounter with a homophobic patron put a damper on their evening. But the couple remained united, their bond stronger than the negativity that threatened to intrude, and they left the restaurant agreeing that, despite the setback, it had been a lovely date.

Once they returned home, they made a quick detour to check on Mari, who was peacefully asleep under the watchful eye of Annabeth, the babysitter who had kept her entertained during their evening out. After settling up with her and thanking her for her care, Nico and Percy slipped into their bedroom, the familiar warmth of their sanctuary enveloping them. They climbed into bed, the sheets soft around them, and as they settled in, they curled up together, letting the events of the day wash over them. Wrapped in each other’s arms, they savoured the quiet intimacy of the evening, ready to drift into a peaceful sleep filled with dreams of laughter and love.

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Apollo let out a heavy sigh, the kind that hinted at both frustration and concern. “Perseus,” he began, his tone a mix of empathy and disbelief, “don’t you already have Annabeth?” The question hung in the air, laced with the weight of past conversations and unspoken feelings.

Percy looked at the god, momentarily stunned by the unexpected intrusion. “We broke up just a week ago, you know this,” he replied, disbelief coloring his voice. The shock in Percy's expression deepened as he tried to process Apollo's apparent oversight.

Apollo grimaced at Percy’s incredulous stare, feeling the tension between them. After enduring seven months of this exhausting cycle where Percy would attach himself to Annabeth, then confide in Apollo, only to return to Annabeth once more, Apollo recognized that the time for passive observation had come to an end. Something had to be done to break this unproductive pattern.

In a moment of resolve, the god transformed into his Lester form—taking on a more human appearance—and approached Jackson’s apartment door. He raised his hand to knock, prepared to intervene in a situation that had spiraled far beyond what he had hoped for. Apollo was determined to set things straight.

Paul, Percy’s stepfather, opened the door. He was holding Estelle while Sally was in the kitchen. “Can I see Percy for a minute?” Paul nodded and stepped aside to let him through. Apollo stormed into Percy’s room, and it now felt suffocatingly hot for everyone else who wasn’t the sun god nor the sea prince.

Percy coughed as he finished his laundry, folding his clothes. “You see me as your lifeline, don’t you? I know that other boys and girls never really made you feel right and you can't explain why I'm always running your mind. Don't you see the answer's right in front of your eyes?” Apollo grabbed Percy’s wrist, a mix of anger, fear, adoration flickering on the god’s face.

Percy stood there, frozen. “I-I’m sorry, Apollo. I was only really doing the thing with Annabeth because I couldn’t face my feelings for you until now.” Percy leaned forward until their lips were an inch apart.

“My king.” Percy whispered before kissing Apollo, Apollo’s stomach fluttering.

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“Gods, I wish I were Percy,” Piper sighed dreamily, her gaze fixed on the iconic duo sitting a few tables away. Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase, the Camp’s Golden Couple, were laughing together, their chemistry unmistakable as they exchanged playful banter. Will, sitting beside Piper, nodded in agreement, a wistful look on his face. “I feel you, Pipes. If I were Annabeth, I’d date Percy in a heartbeat.” They both rested their heads on their arms, caught up in their daydreams, longing for something they felt was just out of reach.

“Hey, Perce, Annie, do you two realise that Will and Piper can't take their eyes off you?” Thalia suddenly chimed in, her voice teasing yet pointed. Percy and Annabeth turned their heads just in time to see their friends quickly look away, both of them flushing a deep crimson as they feigned interest in their lunch. Thalia raised an eyebrow, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. “You know, you two should really consider it. Percy with Will and Annabeth with Piper sounds like a pretty fantastic match-up.”

Annabeth shot Thalia an incredulous look, placing her hands on her hips. “But we're in a perfectly happy relationship! Why would we even think about that?” She tilted her head thoughtfully, flashing a hesitant glance at Percy, who simply shrugged, unsure of how to respond.

“Oh, come on! When you two kissed at the Battle of Manhattan, you both came to me separately complaining about how you were feeling,” Grover chimed in, settling into a chair nearby with a knowing smile. His enthusiasm was contagious, and both Thalia and Grover could see the sparks of attraction in their friends' eyes.

Meanwhile, Will, visibly excited by the idea that he overheard, stood up from the table he shared with Piper and strode across the bustling pavilion, Piper following closely behind him, curiosity evident on her face. “Hey, guys,” Will said, his usual warm and disarming smile lighting up his features. “Is it okay if I steal Percy away for a minute? I have a little experiment in mind.” The playful tone in his voice hinted at mischief, and the laughter among their friends grew as Percy exchanged a bewildered look with Annabeth, whose eyes sparkled with both intrigue and amusement.

Percy shrugged, nonchalantly adjusting his shirt before rising to his feet. He followed the blond healer as they made their way through the well-trodden path leading to the Poseidon cabin, the cool sea breeze whispering through the trees surrounding Camp Half-Blood. Meanwhile, Piper seized Annabeth’s wrist with an urgency that sent a ripple of concern through the air. “Annie, I need you to come with me, please,” she implored, her voice barely above a whisper yet heavy with unspoken anxiety.

Annabeth, catching the intensity of Piper's gaze, nodded slowly, sensing the weight of the moment. She allowed herself to be guided toward the Aphrodite cabin, the familiar surroundings buzzing with the vibrant energy of its inhabitants. As they stepped inside, Piper offered quick, bright hellos to Drew and Silena, who were animatedly discussing plans for their arts and crafts project, the scent of freshly painted canvases and soft, pastel colors filling the air. Without hesitating, Piper pulled Annabeth into the sanctuary of the cabin, the door swinging shut behind them with a soft click that signaled their seclusion.

Once inside, Piper gently urged Annabeth to sit on her neatly made bed, the soft quilt adorned with intricate floral patterns welcoming her. Then, with a spark of adrenaline coursing through her, she climbed onto Annabeth’s lap, her heart racing with a mix of anticipation and excitement. “Piper, what’s—” Annabeth began to ask, but her question was silenced as Piper surged forward, capturing her lips in an impassioned kiss.

In that moment, the outside world faded away, leaving only the intoxicating sensation of Piper's warmth and the sweet, lingering scent that enveloped her. Annabeth breathed in deeply, savoring the heady aroma of passionfruit blended with the salty tang of ocean air. It reminded her of endless summers spent by the water, feeling the sun's warmth on her skin and the thrill of catching waves.

Time seemed to stretch infinitely as the two girls remained entwined, lost in each other’s presence, their earlier worries momentarily forgotten. Eventually, the primal need for air began tugging at their consciousness, and slowly, they drew apart, breathing heavily as they rested their foreheads together, smiles spreading across their faces. The thrill of the moment echoed in their laughter, forming a bubble of intimacy that enveloped them like a soft, comforting embrace.

“I love you and I’m sorry,” Piper turns away, sitting on the bed, not looking at her crush. Annabeth wraps her arms around the brunette and pulls her onto her lap, Piper’s head tucking neatly into Annabeth.

“I love you too, princess. Don’t apologize.” Annabeth kisses the top of Piper’s head. Piper falls asleep 30 minutes later wrapped in Annabeth’s arms and enveloped in her scent of old books and pine trees.

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“Leo! Come on!” Nico exclaimed determination etched across his face as he pulled the covers off his best friend’s bed with a sudden yank. The soft rustle of fabric filled the dimly lit room as Leo, a handsome Latino with tousled hair, groaned in protest. “Neeks, it is like, 3:40 a.m.! What could you possibly want to do at this hour?” He sat up groggily, crossing his arms defiantly over his chest, trying to shield himself from the intrusive chill of the night air.

Nico’s unnerving smile glinted in the silvery moonlight streaming through the window, sending an involuntary shiver down Leo’s spine. “Astronomy, my dear friend,” he declared with an infectious enthusiasm that Leo couldn’t help but admire despite his fatigue.

“Ugh, I totally forgot that you’re minoring in Astronomy, starbat,” Leo muttered, rolling his eyes but secretly intrigued. The twinkle in Nico’s eyes only grew brighter, his excitement palpable.

“Wanna stargaze while having a picnic? It could help relieve some of that nasty exam stress you've been carrying,” Nico suggested, his voice rich with optimism as he enveloped his best friend and roommate in a tight hug. Leo couldn’t help but smile back, even if the thought of the night and its mysteries intrigued him more than he cared to admit.

It was a shame, though, that Leo was already dating Nico's sister, Hazel; their camaraderie was layered with unspoken boundaries that always lingered in the background.

With a knowing nod, Leo conceded, and Nico darted out of the room like a shooting star, leaving Leo to shake off the lingering remnants of sleep.

Moments later, they convened in their cluttered dorm kitchen, where Nico had outdone himself. A rustic picnic basket, thoughtfully packed with an assortment of snacks – cheese, crackers, fresh fruit, and even a couple of sandwiches – sat waiting on the countertop. Nestled beside it were two miniature telescopes, their polished lenses glinting under the flickering overhead light.

After gathering the essentials, they hopped into Nico’s old but reliable car. The engine purred to life, and the familiar feeling of adventure washed over them as they drove out to a secluded field just outside of town. As they left the urban glow behind, the stars began to pierce the dark sky, a million distant points of light beckoning them.

Once they arrived at the field, the cool night air wrapped around them as they unloaded the car, spreading out the picnic blanket on the dewy grass. The world around them felt quiet and infinite under the cosmos overhead. They settled in, the weight of exams and deadlines momentarily forgotten, swapping stories and watching as constellations twinkled into existence.

As they munched on snacks and shared laughter into the night, Leo realised that this misfit gathering had transformed into one of the best nights of their lives, each moment a shining memory against the backdrop of the stars.

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Leo opened the door to reveal a scene so unexpected and disquieting it nearly halted his breath. Standing on his doorstep was his ex-girlfriend, Calypso. She held a rusty shovel in one hand, its blade glistening ominously in the muted light of the autumn afternoon, while in the other, she clutched an unseasonable rose—the vivid crimson petals almost seemed to mock the overcast sky. Her familiar playful demeanor stood in stark contrast to the palpable tension that hung in the air, a silent storm brewing on the horizon.

“Calypso, what do you want?” Leo’s tone was steady, yet beneath the surface, an anxious knot twisted in his stomach. “You do realize I filed a restraining order against you and that I have a cop for a husband, right?” The weight of his words hung between them like an unspoken challenge, daring her to cross the invisible line she had already trampled over in the past.

Calypso’s response was a light, tinkling giggle that rang out like a chime, as if his serious tone was merely the punchline of some twisted joke. “I want you back, baby,” she purred, her voice smooth yet laced with something far from innocent. She leaned slightly forward, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint that Leo found both alluring and profoundly unsettling. It was a magnetism that had always drawn him in but now felt like a noose tightening around his neck.

“No, Calypso,” he replied, his voice steady but heavy with hidden pain. “I’ve given you chances over and over, bearing the hope that you might change, but you always choose to shatter my trust. I can’t endure that again.” Each word left his lips like a solemn chant, heavy and foreboding, echoing the heartache and disillusionment that had become so familiar to him. They were stark reminders of the sorrowful cycle they had been ensnared in for far too long, an endless reel of broken promises and fleeting joy.

Calypso had an uncanny ability to pull him into her world, a whirlwind of vibrant nights spent at lively bars where laughter spilled from every corner. Those settings had a magical allure to him; the pulsating music and mingling bodies felt intoxicating. But often, amidst the haze of fun, she would lose herself in flirtations, leading to the inevitable stolen kisses with strangers hidden in the shadows of a dimly lit back alley. The memories haunted Leo, each one a vivid echo of the love they had once shared, now forever stained by her repeated choices.

“Just leave, Calypso. And while you’re at it, why don’t you run back to your little group of friends and share what you think of me?” Leo’s voice rose, sarcasm dripping from each word as he emphasized with exaggerated air quotes, “Go ahead and tell them I’m a ‘stalker,’ a ‘watcher,’ and a ‘psychopath.’” He smirked, the theatrics of mocking the very accusations thrown at him satisfying in a twisted way.

Calypso’s smile faltered, revealing the tension behind her facade. “Come on, we both know I never meant that,” she replied, her voice forced and brittle.

Leo arched an eyebrow, skepticism written all over his face. “Did you? I still remember that time when you claimed your car broke down. You called me, and I rushed over to wipe your tears.” His grin widened, but it didn’t reach his eyes, which were darkened by the shadows of vengeance.

Out of frustration and a desperate need to reclaim his sanctuary, Leo slammed the door in Calypso’s face, the sound reverberating in the quiet of the evening. He turned the lock with a decisive click and hurried to secure the windows, ensuring no entry could be gained from unexpected intrusions. With each lock turned, a wave of relief washed over him, and he found solace in knowing the barriers stood between him and the chaos she represented. Exhausted, he retired to bed, slipping in beside Jason, grateful for the warmth and safety that filled their shared space.

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It was a cool, crisp night, the clock striking 1 AM, when Percy and Will stepped out of the dimly lit movie theatre. They had just emerged from a thrilling fantasy action film that had them both buzzing with excitement. The neon lights from nearby shops flickered against the backdrop of a starry sky, casting playful shadows on the ground as they walked down the bustling streets.

Percy was on the verge of sharing his thoughts about the movie, a witty comment about the protagonist's questionable choices, but the words caught in his throat. His mind drifted to Annabeth, and a pang of longing struck him like an unexpected punch to the gut. He could almost hear her laughter and remember the way she could always surprise him with her insights.

Will, ever perceptive, noticed the shift in Percy’s mood. After a moment, his face brightened as a new idea struck him. “Hey, I heard that there’s a bar nearby that’s hosting a concert tonight. It should be fun! What do you think?”

Percy’s expression shifted, a smile breaking through his moment of melancholy. “Sure, let’s go!” he replied, enthusiasm returning to his voice.

Before long, they found themselves in the lively, dimly lit bar, the air thick with the sound of laughter and the distant strum of a guitar. The atmosphere thrummed with energy, and as they got their drinks, Percy felt the pleasant buzz of anticipation mixed with the effects of the alcohol. He leaned back against the bar, feeling both tipsy and carefree, ready to immerse himself in the music and the vibrant crowd around him. Little did he know, this night would lead to unexpected adventures and memories that he would cherish long after the final note played.

Percy’s mood dipped as soon as the next band came in.

“Welcome everyone! We’re Mistical!” Annabeth called out, her voice ringing with enthusiasm. She stood confidently at the front of the stage, her long hair catching the light as she gestured toward her bandmates. “I’m Annabeth, and this is Hazel, Nico, and Connor!” she introduced, her eyes sparkling as she pointed to each member in turn.

Hazel waved enthusiastically, her vibrant smile infectious. Nico stood slightly to the side, his dark hair falling into his eyes, but even he managed a small nod of acknowledgement. Connor flashed a quick grin, clearly excited to be part of the performance.

“We wanted to share a new original piece of ours called ‘Lookalike’! Who’s ready to hear it?” Annabeth beamed. The crowd in front of them erupted into cheers and applause, their excitement palpable.

On the edge of the gathering, Percy fidgeted anxiously, muttering to himself, “I think I need to go outside.” He slipped away from the vibrant energy of the crowd, wanting to escape for a moment. Meanwhile, Will focused intently on the band, drawn in by their energy and the music that promised to fill the night.

Percy, feeling a swirl of emotions bubble within him, took a deep breath as he perched himself on the curb of the sidewalk just outside the venue. The sounds of the cheering crowd drifted in, but he needed a moment of solitude to process everything. After a minute of trying to wrestle his tangled feelings into some semblance of order, he finally stood up, resolved. With a determined stride, Percy made his way back inside, ready to face the music and whatever awaited him.

“I know in your head
You see me instead
'Cause he looks a lot like I did back then
Baby don't lie
He's just a lookalike”

Annabeth’s piercing gaze locked onto Percy as he made his way back up to the front of the stage, positioning himself next to Will. The energy in the venue pulsed with anticipation, and as Percy shifted his weight, Annabeth’s confidence shone through. She kept singing, her voice strong and mesmerizing, with Nico and Hazel occasionally chiming in to support her. Nico provided a steady rhythm on the drums that echoed throughout the room, Connor’s gentle melody wafted from the piano, and Hazel strummed her guitar, creating a harmonious blend that filled the air.

As the final notes of the song floated away and the audience erupted into applause, a whirlwind of emotions surged through Percy. Grabbing Will’s hand, he urged him to leave the crowded venue. “We need to go, now,” Percy insisted, his heart racing with a mix of urgency and dread, hoping to lose Annabeth amidst the throng of fans dispersing into the night.

“Percy!” Will exclaimed in surprise, his expression shifting from confusion to concern. But Percy was determined. “Nope, we have to leave,” he reiterated, his voice firm. The last thing he wanted was to face Annabeth again.

Just then, Will yanked his arm away, breaking free from Percy’s grip. “I’ll be right back!” he shouted before darting back inside, apologizing to whoever he bumped into.

Left standing in the dimly lit lobby, Percy felt his heart drop when Annabeth’s voice sliced through the chatter. “So he’s just a lookalike, isn’t he?” Her words pierced through him like ice, and Percy winced at the bitterness lacing her tone. He opened his mouth to respond, stammering, “I’m sorry, I just—” but he was abruptly cut off as Annabeth’s hand connected sharply with his cheek, the sting igniting a wave of regret within him.

The words tumbled from her mouth, laced with hurt and anger. “I guess I’ll just go date Bianca, how about that? You have your lookalike, I have mine. Deal?” Her gaze narrowed, fierce and hurt, and in that moment, Percy felt an overwhelming urge to break down. The pain in her eyes mirrored his own, creating a tension in the air that felt almost suffocating.

Annabeth walked away, back into the venue, leaving Percy alone, crying and apologizing to everyone and no one.

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Will leaned against the rough, wooden corner of the bar, a half-full cup of rum cradled in his hand. The dark liquid swirled slightly with each shift of his weight, reflecting the vibrant neon lights that flickered above. He had come to this lively venue at the insistence of his friend Bianca, who had playfully chided him for spending too much time cooped up in his apartment. “You need to get out and meet someone new!” she had urged, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Despite her good intentions, Will felt more out of place than ever. The pulsing bass of the music thumped relentlessly, echoing in his skull and intensifying the clenching tension in his stomach. He took a deep breath, hoping the rum would dull his anxious nerves. The crowd danced energetically around him, laughter and conversation blending into a chaotic symphony that he struggled to navigate. With his blond hair slightly tousled and his expression a mix of discomfort and uncertainty, he couldn’t help but groan inwardly, wishing he were anywhere but here.

A raven-haired boy approached Will, his steps fluid and playful as he swayed to the rhythmic beats pulsing from the nearby speakers. A bright smile danced across his face, illuminating his striking features. “Hey there! I’m Percy!” he called out, his voice cheerful and inviting. “You look a bit lonely! Want to dance?”

Will hesitated, shaking his head slowly. “Who are you with?” he shouted back, his voice barely rising above the music.

Percy’s expression shifted, a hint of disappointment flickering across his face. “I was with my girlfriend, but I just caught her making out with someone else!” he replied, the frown tugging at his lips only making Will's stomach flutter with an unexpected curiosity. He felt an urge to restore the boy's bright demeanour, wishing nothing more than to see that smile return.

Summoning a rare moment of courage, Will leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss against Percy’s cheek. The softness of the act lingered in the night air, and both boys exchanged beaming smiles, their eyes sparkling with a mix of surprise and affection. Percy's face lit up as he quickly returned the gesture, planting a warm kiss on Will’s cheek, causing a delightful flutter to race through Will’s heart, making it feel like a fireworks display had ignited within him.

“Come on, sunshine,” Percy said playfully, his voice laced with excitement. “Let’s go dance so we don’t end up crying.” Will couldn’t help but giggle at the lighthearted suggestion, his apprehensions fading away. He took Percy’s hand, feeling the warmth of their connection as they made their way to the dance floor.

As they twirled under the soft glow of string lights, the night unfolded in a vibrant tapestry of chatter, laughter, soft kisses, and drinks that sparkled like stars in the dim light. Each moment felt electric, weaving a spell that made the world around them fade away. They moved together, lost in their own bubble, a sanctuary crafted from shared dreams and budding romance.

Eventually, Percy, mustering up a mixture of nerves and anticipation, asked Will out, his voice barely above a whisper but filled with earnestness. Will's face broke into an ecstatic grin as he eagerly accepted, their hearts racing in unison as they ventured into this new chapter together.

When Bianca caught wind of Will’s newfound romance, her reaction was pure joy. She squealed with glee, her excitement bubbling over as she congratulated Will, thrilled to see him find someone special. However, when Annabeth learned about the relationship, her initial response was one of fiery indignation. She couldn’t quite understand how this had unfolded without her knowing. After some time for reflection and a heartfelt conversation, her anger softened and she eventually accepted the budding connection between Will and Percy, realizing that love often blooms in unexpected ways.

Chapter Text

Jason let out a low groan as he pushed open the heavy double doors of the school, the familiar sound of laughter and chatter surrounding him. Today, of all days, it was Valentine’s Day, a day that was supposed to be filled with love and joy, yet he felt a heavy weight in his chest. Just days ago, he had been blissfully unaware of how poignant this day would feel after his recent breakup.

His mind drifted back to his ex-girlfriend, Piper. The memory of their last conversation replayed in his thoughts, a painful reminder of how she had confessed her realization that she was drawn to women. With surprising honesty, she had told him that her heart belonged to someone else—Reyna, a close friend of his. The sting of rejection had cut deep, leaving him grappling with feelings of sadness and confusion.

With a reluctant sigh, Jason dragged his feet down the hallway, its walls adorned with cheerful decorations celebrating love in all forms. Heart-shaped balloons and hand-made cards lined the lockers, intensifying his sense of isolation in a sea of couples. He made his way to his first class, Woodworks, desperately trying to shake off the gloomy thoughts crowding his mind. The sound of saws and hammers echoed from the workshop, renewed enthusiasm sharply contrasting with his lack of motivation. He hoped that losing himself in the familiar rhythm of woodworking would help ease the ache in his heart, even if just for a little while.

Jason entered the class and sat in his seat. The teacher cleared her throat. “Alright, you can come in now.” A scruffy-looking boy stepped into the room, his tan skin catching the light in a warm glow. His wild brown curls framed his face in a lively manner, bouncing slightly as he moved. Jason couldn't help but be drawn to the boy's expressive brown eyes, which sparkled with a hint of mischief and curiosity.

He wore a pair of slightly worn brown slacks that hung loosely around his slender frame, giving him a somewhat carefree appearance. Beneath a red flannel shirt, which was unbuttoned and draped casually over his white t-shirt, the double-layered outfit conveyed an effortless sense of style. The sleeves of the flannel seemed to have been rolled up haphazardly, adding to his laid-back demeanour. Overall, there was a charming disarray about him that immediately piqued Jason's interest.

“Hello, I’m Leo Valdez. I just moved here, and before that, I lived in Texas for most of my childhood. Unfortunately, when I was eight years old, our house caught fire and was destroyed. Since then, I’ve been living with my mom. My dad is not part of my life, but my mom has always been my rock through everything.” Leo completed his introduction with an exuberant flourish, his arms outstretched in a flashy display of jazz hands. “I also want to be either a mechanic or an engineer when I’m older,” he declared, his bright smile revealing a charming tooth gap. At that moment, Jason felt a sensation in his chest – it was as if his heart was trying to break free, clawing its way out of the prison called his ribcage, captivated by Leo's infectious energy.

Once the introductions wrapped up, Leo settled into the seat beside Jason. With a quick and casual introduction from the blond, the pair quickly immersed themselves in their task at hand. Leo’s hands moved with nimble precision, deftly manipulating the materials around him. Jason sat, utterly mesmerized, struggling to concentrate as he watched Leo’s fingers dance busily, his admiration growing by the second.

Before they knew it, the class came to a close, and unexpectedly, Leo grabbed Jason's hand and pulled him into an empty classroom nearby. “What?” Jason managed to stammer, his heart racing, barely able to comprehend the sudden turn of events, when Leo surprised him with a kiss. It was intense and fiery as if Leo were pouring all the pent-up emotion of the world into that single moment—a desperate, stunning kiss that felt like a final chance to express everything that had been left unsaid.

When they finally pulled apart, breathless and stunned, Leo flashed a cheeky wink, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “See you later, Sparky,” he sang out, his tone light and playful as he sauntered out of the classroom. Jason stared after him, feeling like a captivated wolf watching a deer slip away into the woods.

Still reeling from the kiss, Jason gently touched his lips, as if to preserve the essence of Leo’s warmth, desperate to keep the taste lingering there. “Maybe crush culture isn’t so bad…” he whispered to himself, a grin spreading across his face, his steps light as he made his way to his next class, feeling like a lovestruck schoolgirl caught in a whirlwind of hope and excitement.

Chapter Text

“Hey, sunshine! You ready to go?” Percy’s grin faltered as he saw his beloved on their bed holding a photograph and crying. Will’s blue eyes spilt tears as the blond gripped the photo tighter.

Percy walked forward and noticed the photo: a girl no older than 6 with tan skin, forget-me-not blue eyes, blonde hair that ran down to her waist and a dark green dress with mini suns dotting the hems.

“Baby? What’s wrong?” Percy sat on his knees in front of Will and rested his head on his boyfriend’s thighs. Percy reached a hand up and gently stroked Will’s cheek. “Is it cause we’re visiting your mother?” Will nodded, too choked up to speak.

Percy leaned up and kissed the son of Apollo’s cheek. “You’re too pretty to be crying like this, baby boy.” Will leaned into Percy, breathing heavily.

“Oh, honey, is that you?” Will nodded. “Sunshine, listen. You’re my boyfriend. Not my girlfriend. Boyfriend. You’re so handsome and masculine. I love you so much. Besides, I didn’t fall in love with girl you, I fell in love with my boyfriend, William Solace.” Percy finished his rant. Will cracked a small smile.

“We can skip the dinner with Naomi if you want.” Will shook his head. “I want to see her, I want her to see me as Will, not as Kyra.” He cringed at his use of his deadname. Percy kissed his forehead. “Okay then, but you have to get dressed, sunbeam.”

The son of Apollo groaned lightly as he grabbed one of Percy’s hoodies and his pants. Percy sat on the bed and waited for Will to finish his shower. While Will was still in there, Percy grabbed a sticky note and marker. He wrote something on it then snuck into the couple’s bathroom and stuck it to the mirror snuck back out and went to the living room, where he waited for his darling.

Will stepped out of the shower and as he was grabbing his clothes, he noticed the sticky note. Will changed into his new clothes and grabbed the old ones to be put in the hamper for later. The blond re-entered the bathroom and while brushing his teeth, grabbed the sticky note. It read “To my handsome darling boy William Andrew Solace: I love you so so much. Nothing will change that. [P.S.: Mr. D would be so proud of your progress] From: Percy Achilles Jackson” with a little sun and heart in the corner.

Will finished up in the bathroom and went into the living room where he tackled Percy in a hug. “Hey, baby. You alright?” Will nodded, feeling tears strike up again, but this time they were happy tears.

“Come on, we have a Valentine's Day dinner to go to.” Percy hooked his arms under Will’s thighs and carried him to the car, where Percy sat Will in the passenger seat and buckled him in before getting in the driver’s seat.

Percy started the car and began the drive to the restaurant. Even though Will tried to focus on the music playing from the car’s speaker, his mind couldn’t stop racing with thoughts of how this could all go wrong. Very very wrong.

“Sunlight, we’re here.” Percy opened Will’s door and unbuckled his seatbelt for him. “Here’s your headphones, love. I know restaurants are overstimulating for you.” Will accepted his headphones and got out of the car.

Will let himself be led by Percy into the restaurant. “We have a reservation under ‘Percy Jackson’?” The waitress nodded and led the couple to their table, where Naomi was waiting. Will instinctively walked behind Percy and turned up his headphones.

Percy held Will’s hand as he led them to sit down, Will and Percy on the opposite side of Naomi. Naomi looked around. “Where’s my daughter? She said she’d be here with her boyfriend right now.” Percy smiled, but Will could tell it was forced. “Miss Solace, we can assure you that we are the right people, right Will?”

Will nodded meekly. “Hey Ma,” The blond trailed off, fiddling with Percy’s hoodie’s strings. “You must have the wrong person. I only have one amazing daughter, Kyra.” Naomi continued looking around for her “daughter”.

“Naomi! This is your son Will! ‘Kyra’” Percy put air quotes around the name, “is Will.” Percy smiled as Naomi looked between the two men, confused. “I did not raise a son, I raised a daughter.” Will tried to ignore the feeling of both his throat closing up because of tears and his heart shattering like a glass vase that was tipped over.

After 3 minutes of Percy and Naomi arguing and eating, Will tugged on Percy’s hand. “Yes, William?” Percy’s voice and gaze softened as he turned his focus to Will, who had his hood pulled up and his music drowning out his mother.

“Can we go? I don’t want to be here anymore.” Will’s voice was barely audible but Percy nodded anyway. Percy stood up and gently pulled Will to his feet as well. “I think we’re done here. Goodbye Naomii.” Percy’s voice was like steel, no room for argument. Naomi scoffed over her food. “Serves you right for leaving. How dare you suggest I have a son.”

While Percy and Naomi “talked”, Will pulled over a waitress and paid for the three’s food before leading Percy out of the restaurant before he made the pipes burst and drown his mother-in-law.

Percy and Will made it to their car and slumped in their seats. Will dug his palms into his eyes as he tried to calm down. Percy rubbed his sunshine’s thigh and began the drive home, the car radio playing rock songs.

The two made it home and Percy helped Will undress and get in a bath. Percy joined his lover and began to gently scrub the blond clean, whispering soft reassurances about Will’s masculinity. Soon enough, Will became Percy’s desired effect: a pile of goo.

Percy picked him up and out of the bath once they were done, willing the water to vanish. Percy helped Will into his pajamas and the two spent the rest of the night cuddling and watching Star Wars.

Chapter Text

Percy sighed. Of course. Nico’s drunk and trying to kiss him. All Percy wants is this experience but with both of them sober. The 26-year-old rubbed his temples, noticing an oncoming headache. ‘Probably from the bone-shaking music and overly bright neon lights.’ Percy thought.

Nico leaned forward again and attempted to kiss Percy again but he leaned back. Nico pouted. “Why can’t I kiss you?” He pouted. Percy just turned and walked away, sneaking out of the party through one of the windows. Nico groaned inwardly as he stumbled after Percy, following his long-time crush.

In Nico’s defence, being drunk helps his confidence skyrocket and tears his walls down, while being sober does the opposite. All Nico wants is to have Drunk Nico’s confidence while being sober. Gods, he has it bad.

Nico staggered onto the grass of the Grace family’s yard and ran to Percy as fast as he could. “Percy! Wait! Please!” He hiccuped. Percy turned around and Nico swayed, his vision blurring at the edges from running.

Percy sighed. “We’re going home. I’ll text Bianca where we went and call an Uber.” Percy held Nico to his chest and dialled an Uber. The Uber came and drove to their shared apartment after Percy got Nico and himself in.

Once the two boys were inside, Percy laid Nico on his bed and began changing the latter since he noticed Nico yawning more frequently. Percy stood in front of Nico and moved a strand of hair out of his face. ‘Gods he looks so peaceful. I love him.’ Percy sighed, knowing that his wishes might never be fulfilled.

Percy turned to leave when he felt a hand hold his wrist gently to not send him into a PTSD attack. “Stay...” Nico’s sleep-filled voice whined. “You sure? You might hate me in the morning.” Percy chuckled wryly. Nico whined louder in response.

“Alright, alright, just let me change, little bat.” Percy patted his friend’s head gently. Nico let go of the other boy’s wrist and yawned again, snuggling into his sheets.

Percy went into his bedroom, quickly changed into a loose KISS t-shirt and took off his pants, planning on just sleeping in his boxers and the aforementioned t-shirt. He re-entered Nico’s room and climbed onto the other side of the bed, being quick to wrap his arm around his crush’s waist. ‘So glad Annabeth broke up with me so I could realise I had Nico.’ was the son of Poseidon’s last thought as he drifted off to sleep.

It was morning when Nico woke up, head pounding like someone took a jackhammer to the inside of his skull and was trying to drill their way out. Nico shifted onto his other side and almost fell out of bed when he somewhat remembered what happened. “Percy!” Nico hissed and shook his roommate.

Percy looked up and blinked away the last bits of sleep. “Hey Neeks. Sorry ‘bout this, uh, you kinda wouldn’t let me leave.” He chuckled, making Nico’s cheeks darken with blush. ‘Get a hold of yourself, di Angelo! You know he doesn’t like you like that so don’t get your hopes up!’ the Italian scolded himself.

Nico stared as Percy got out of bed, detangling himself from Nico and stretched, Nico’s eyes trailing down the older’s stomach.

Nico shook himself out of his stupor as Percy waved a hand in his face. “What do you want for breakfast? I’m also going to run to the store to get you medicine. Oh yeah, remember to take your meds.” Nico got his head patted as Percy walked out of the room to do what he mentioned.

The Italian shot up and ran to the bathroom where he leaned into the toilet and vomited. Just as Nico was going to flush the toilet, he puked again. He shuddered, grabbed some toilet paper, wiped his mouth and the toilet, and flushed it. Nico stumbled to the kitchen where he got a cup of tap water and put some baking soda in it and swished it around his mouth before spitting it out in the sink.

Exhausted despite just waking up, Nico trudged to his room and fell back asleep. Or he thought it was his room.

Percy opened the door and entered the kitchen. Quiet. Dead silence. Not unusual, but still strange that absolutely no audio is playing. Actually, scratch that, it makes sense since Nico’s possibly hungover or experiencing morning after effects.
Percy went to each room except the bedrooms and checked: no Nico in any. Huh. Normally if he went to either Bianca, Hazel, or Reyna, they would tell him but no messages. That leaves two spots: Percy’s or Nico’s rooms.

He goes to check Nico’s with the same result as before: empty. He walked in and made Nico’s bed because a) he’s in pain and b) he tends to forget. Percy sighed fondly as he left and checked the last room: his own. Lo and behold, there was Nico, curled up under Percy’s blankets, snoring softly.

Percy goes back into the kitchen and makes Nico some food and prepares his medicine along with a cup of water for the pills.

Nico gets woken up again by Percy gently shaking his shoulder. The son of Hades groans holding his head as he sits up. Percy gives him his medicine and just spends the rest of the day taking care of Nico, which may or may not have ended in them becoming boyfriends and kissing and cuddling in Nico’s bed later that night.

Chapter Text

Leo felt tears roll down his cheeks but no sound came out as Nico continued talking about his boyfriend, Will Solace, a med student. Actually, what is Leo thinking? He and Nico aren’t dating.

Nico and Leo are roommates at New Rome and for their majors, Nico’s is history and Leo's mechanics. Ever since Leo first saw Nico three years ago when they first became roommates, he was instantly smitten. Nico? Way out of Leo’s league and now has a boyfriend.

Leo snapped back to reality as Nico flicked his shoulder. “Hey doofus, I asked a question.” Leo hummed in acknowledgement, lost in Nico’s eyes. They were pure bliss to look at. To Leo, looking at Nico’s eyes (and just being around him) felt like that first sip of hot chocolate on a freezing winter night. “Would you be alright with me inviting Will over?” Leo nodded again, zoning out.

Fast forward to a few months later. Will and Nico are still dating with Leo left behind on the sidelines. Leo entered their shared apartment and was met with an almost unexpected sight: Will and Nico making out, getting handsy.

Leo stormed past, anger, fear, regret, and loneliness bubbling up. He didn’t want to take it out on either of them but gods, couldn’t they go somewhere else?!

Once in his room, Leo took out his latest project: a miniature flying bat. He programmed it to say “I love you” in his voice when Nico touched its nose and started flying. Leo shook his head and put it back, opting to start a new mini project, this one for Piper.

As he began tinkering, he failed to notice someone sneaking in and wrapping their arms around his waist. The brunette heard sniffling and turned around, holding Nico close.

“What’s wrong, Nick?” Leo started carding his fingers through his crush’s hair, detangling it. “He-he broke up with me!” Nico wailed, burying his face in Leo’s shoulder.

Leo hooked his arms underneath Nico and carried him to his room. He noticed the balcony which had most of Will’s stuff on it. “Whatcha doing with the balcony, buddy?” Leo spoke softly, rubbing his friend’s back. Nico sniffed and clung to Leo tighter, breathing in his scent of smoke and oil.

“Gonna throw it off. No use keeping it if it's his.” Nico’s grip tightened around Leo as he spoke. Nico released Leo a little, relaxing in Leo’s arms. “I could fix and change them for you, the electronics?” Leo smiled. The son of Hephaestus felt the Nico nod. Leo detached Nico from him and sat him down on Nico’s bed.

“Might have to change the sheets, huh?” He tried joking. His mind was filled with ideas and future tasks, so much so that he almost didn’t catch what Nico said.

“What was that, Starbat?” Nico’s heart swelled hearing Leo’s nickname for him. “You could fix it by laying with me?” He said, cheeks going red. Leo smiled.

“Sure. Oh, wait! I have something for you.” He ran to his room and grabbed the mechanical bat. “I made it I think a month ago but you were already dating Will and I didn’t want things to get awkward between us-” Nico kissed Leo, cutting off his crush’s rant.

To be honest, Nico only got with Will to distract himself from his crush on Leo which he got within 4 months of living with the Latino. He just couldn’t handle having another crush on a guy that was probably out of his league.

Nico laid down and made grabbing motions to Leo and the latter smiled, going over and laying on Nico. Nico purred in contentment, appreciating the warmth and weight. Leo kissed his cheek and showed Nico how the bat worked, which, to Leo’s joy, Nico enjoyed.

Chapter Text

“Leo, we’re-” Calypso was cut off by her boyfriend Leo. He raised a hand, his other one setting down the drill he was using. “Don’t even finish that sentence 'cause you say we’re breaking up and yet you keep running back. Why?”

Calypso faltered. “I-”

“Let me guess, you keep running back because you realise that I’m the only one who’ll put up with your constant cheating? No. Not anymore. I am done with you, once and for all. Now, you get 10 minutes to pack up your things and get out of my house.” Leo was now in Calypso’s face and his hair was on fire in anger.

“Oh please! When have I EVER cheated on you?!” Calypso screamed back. Leo grinned crazily, lighting his right arm on fire, letting the flames engulf his skin and warm his bones. Leo threw his head back in laughter.

Calypso backed up slightly in fear. “Leo? What are you doing?” She tried unlocking the door behind her but couldn’t.

“I have fire powers and there is a ton of metal in this room!” He yelled as he inched closer to Calypso, holding a metal sphere in his left hand. “Leo, please, stop!” The Titaness sobbed.

Leo shook his head. “Not unless someone else stops me!” He laughed, about to toss the metal sphere onto his arm.

Then Nico barged in, shoving Calypso to the floor, allowing her to crawl out of Leo’s workshop. “Leonidas Valdez! What are you thinking?!” Nico exclaimed, moving the sphere out of Leo’s reach and extinguishing his flames.

Leo broke out of his trance staring at his crush. “I-I’m sorry. I was only trying to scare Calypso into not cheating on me or any other partner she might have.” Leo almost broke down crying, realising he was about to do what Gaia/Tia Callida did to his mom.

Nico cradled Leo’s face in his hands gently, checking him over, then kissed his forehead. “Is she moving out? She sounds like she’s packing her stuff.” Leo nodded, not trusting his words.

“Come on, I’ll help you move her out, and get a restraining order.” He elbowed Leo’s side gently as the two boys left the workshop and went to officially throw Calypso out of Leo’s home.

Chapter Text

Percy lay comfortably with his head resting in Annabeth’s lap, the soft fabric of her jeans a familiar comfort beneath him. Annabeth absentmindedly threaded her fingers through his tousled hair, her focus split between him and the well-worn pages of her book about ancient architecture sprawled open in front of her. The sunlight filtering through the window of her dorm room at NRU cast a warm glow, creating a cosy atmosphere that made it easy to forget the outside world.

“I think we’re doing okay, what do you think?” Percy asked, tilting his head just enough to peek up at her, his green eyes bright with a mix of hope and uncertainty.

Annabeth paused, her thumb brushing over the spine of her book as she contemplated his question. “I think that maybe we’re getting there,” she replied thoughtfully, a hint of wistfulness in her voice. “It’s hard, but we’ll get there eventually.” She sighed, her mind drifting to a time before their lives were filled with quests, gods, and monsters—a simpler era when they were just twelve years old, giggling and carefree.

“Because Tartarus?” he prompted, raising an eyebrow as he propped himself up on his elbows. She nodded in response, understanding the weight of their shared experiences all too well.

With a soft smile, Percy sat up fully and enveloped her in a warm hug. He gently pressed a kiss on the top of her head, his grin radiating affection. In that moment, they both found solace in each other’s presence.

“Don’t let Apollo see; you know he has jealousy issues,” Annabeth teased, laughter bubbling up as she pulled back slightly to meet his eyes. Percy giggled in reply, a playful twinkle in his eyes. “Yeah, but he’s so hot when he’s jealous," he said with mock seriousness, earning an exaggerated gag from Annabeth.

Suddenly, Percy sprang to his feet, the energy of a child propelling him. “Wanna go swimming then get ice cream?” he exclaimed, bouncing on the balls of his feet with enthusiasm. Annabeth chuckled, shaking her head at his boundless excitement before standing up, the prospect of a fun outing lifting her spirits.

As they gathered their things, Annabeth slipped into her bathing suit—a sleek, navy blue one that complemented her figure—while Percy donned his classic green trunks. They quickly made their way to the university’s public pool, laughter and small talk filling the air between them.

The moment they arrived, they both dove into the refreshing water, the coolness enveloping them like an embrace. They splashed and played, relishing the carefree moments in the pool. Their laughter echoed off the tiled walls as they raced each other from one end to the other, pausing occasionally for breath, their faces bright with joy.

After they had thoroughly enjoyed the pool, they decided to indulge in their favourite treat. They strolled over to the nearby ice cream shop, debating over flavours and sharing stories from their days. Annabeth opted for mint chocolate chip, while Percy went for rocky road, his favourite chaotic blend of flavours.

The sun began to set as they made their way back to the Jackson-Blofis apartment, a golden hue painting the sky. Once inside, they transformed the living room into their little fortress, complete with blankets and pillows for their sleepover. Estelle, Percy’s younger sister, was thrilled to have her big brother and Annabeth around, joining in on their antics with wide-eyed enthusiasm.

As the night wore on, filled with snacks, laughter, and whispered secrets, both Percy and Annabeth felt the weight of their past adventures lift slightly, replaced by the comfort of friendship that would always be there as they continued to grow together.

Chapter Text

When Annabeth stormed into the house, the sound of the door slamming shut echoed through the quiet hallway, startling Percy, who had been lounging on the couch with a book in hand.

She marched straight into the kitchen, her footsteps heavy with frustration, and rummaged through the cabinets until she found a quick snack—a granola bar that she unwrapped with a little more aggression than necessary. After taking a few bites, she retreated to her room, where stacks of books and papers awaited her attention.

Percy hesitated for a moment outside her door before gently knocking, fully aware of the fierce glare she shot him when he stepped inside. “Hey, what’s wrong?” he asked, trying to sound casual as he sat on the edge of her bed. Annabeth sat stiffly at her desk, her body tense, as if she were preparing for battle.

Percy stretched out his hand to her, but she flinched instinctively, prompting him to immediately raise his hands in a placating gesture. “I’m not going to hurt you,” he said softly, his voice low and steady, attempting to defuse the situation. He watched as her shoulders relaxed ever so slightly, though the daughter of Athena remained on edge.

“What do you want to do right now?” Percy asked, striving to keep the tone of his voice soothing. He could almost feel the electric tension in the air, like a wire ready to snap.

“Work…” Annabeth mumbled, casting a longing gaze at her laptop that lay innocuously on Percy’s side of the bed. Her frustration was palpable as she reached for it, but Percy instinctively pulled it away, deflecting her pleas to “Just give it back, Percy!”

“Annabeth, no,” he said firmly yet gently, placing a reassuring hand on her chest, feeling the rapid thump of her heart under his palm. He sensed her anxiety radiating off her in waves. With a reluctant sigh, he set the laptop down on her desk, having made his decision. He returned to the bed, a mix of determination and concern etched on his face. “Listen, I get that you need to work, but how long has it really been since you took some time for yourself? How long since you went for a walk, or hung out with a friend, or did anything that doesn’t involve staring at a screen?”

As she looked away, avoiding his gaze, he took both of her hands in his, warmth flooding his fingers at the contact. Gently, he coaxed her gaze back to him, his eyes searching hers for a glimmer of understanding. “Come on, you need a nap, and I definitely need some girlfriend time.”

After a moment of indecision, Annabeth finally relented, and Percy encouraged her to lay down beside him on the bed. As she settled her head against his chest, a wave of exhaustion crashed over her, gently pulling her toward sleep. The familiar rhythm of Percy’s breathing combined with the soothing beat of his heart became a lullaby, and she could feel the tension in her body start to dissipate.

Percy ran his fingers through her hair, carefully working out the knots and tangles with a tenderness that made her heart swell. With each stroke, he could see the weight of her worries gradually lifting away, replaced by a fragile serenity.

As her eyelids fluttered and finally closed, drifting into a peaceful slumber, Percy leaned down, whispering, “I hope we make it to the other side and eventually be okay. I love you, Wise Girl. Sleep well.” He pressed a gentle kiss to the top of her head, holding her close, feeling content that he had managed to pull her away, if only for a moment, from the relentless pressures of her work and studies.

In that quiet room, Percy felt a wave of warmth rush through him as he watched Annabeth soften in sleep, the furrow in her brow easing, her lips curling up into the faintest smile. It was a huge victory, he thought, feeling a swell of pride and relief; Annabeth definitely seemed happier and far less stressed, and he was grateful to be the one to help her find that reprieve.

Chapter Text

Leo stepped out of his dimly lit workshop, the faint scent of metal and oil clinging to his clothes. The sound of his boyfriend Jason's voice broke through the creative haze, calling out his name from the living room. “Someone’s here for you!” The excitement in Jason's tone piqued Leo's curiosity, and he wondered who could be visiting at this hour.

As Leo entered the living room, Jason trailed closely behind him, a playful glint in his eye. “Everything’s fine,” Leo assured him, sensing Jason’s protective instincts kicking in. With a gentle kiss on Leo's cheek, Jason disappeared back to his world, engrossed in his intricate dioramas depicting the gods of old.

When Leo opened the door, the sight that greeted him was startling. Standing there—drenched from head to toe, her clothes clinging unflatteringly to her frame—was Calypso, his ex-girlfriend. The rain poured heavily behind her, creating a curtain of water that blurred the lines of reality for a moment.

“Please, Leo,” she pleaded, her voice raw and desperate as if each word was strained from a deep well of vulnerability. “Just let me stay for a night. I only need to wait until the rain lets up. I’m not here to get back with you.” Her eyes glistened, reflecting the streetlight’s glow, but beneath the surface, Leo could see the remnants of the tumultuous past they shared.

Leo stood in stunned silence, his expression set in an unwavering deadpan. The tension in the room intensified as Jason stepped up behind him, instinctively wrapping his strong arms around Leo’s waist, providing a shield of comfort and support.

“Ah, Jason,” Calypso greeted with a forced smile that didn’t reach her eyes, trying to project an air of lightness that felt painfully out of place. Jason, however, was not swayed; he bared his teeth in a wolf-like snarl, a protective instinct radiating off him like a heat wave. “Calypso,” he said slowly, his voice low and edged, “why should I consider letting you stay? If memory serves me right, you were often intoxicated, screaming at Leo, mocking him when he was already at his lowest. Why should we open our door to you?”

Jason’s grip on Leo tightened, a gesture of solidarity that Leo deeply appreciated as he felt the thunderstorm brewing within him match the tempest outside. He conjured the force of thunder and lightning, letting it roll through the air and shake the ground ever so slightly, a visceral reflection of the intensity of their confrontation.

At that moment, Calypso looked even more dishevelled than before: her hair hung in wet strands, and makeup ran down her cheeks like dark rivers. She appeared to be a shadow of her former self, vulnerable and lost. Yet, despite that pitiful visage, Leo's resolve remained firm.

“What do you think, darling?” Leo asked Jason, scratching playfully at his boyfriend's head, eliciting a soft rumble of pleasure from Jason. “Should we let Calypso stay the night or send her out into the storm?”

Jason pondered the question for a brief moment—his brow furrowed thoughtfully—before shaking his head and providing a resounding “no.”

Leo could barely suppress a grin as he turned back to Calypso, his expression triumphant. “I’m sorry, Calypso. You’re not welcome here.” Calypso's face fell, confusion and desperation flashing across her features. “Please! I have nowhere else to go! I promise I’ll be good! I won’t even disturb you!” She implored, but her pleas echoed off the walls, falling on deaf ears.

Sharing a knowing look with Jason, Leo felt their bond solidify in that decisive instant. They nodded in unison, a silent agreement reached. Then, without hesitation, Leo closed the door firmly, the sound resonating in the stillness of their home, leaving Calypso stranded in the rain.

Outside, Calypso huddled beneath the eaves, soaked to the bone and trembling from the chill. As the night wore on, she replayed her desperate plea in her mind, caught between the rain and her swirling thoughts. Eventually, a nameless stranger approached her, oblivious to the manipulative web she was woven into, and unwittingly stepped into her world of lies, deceit, and toxicity.

Meanwhile, Leo and Jason nestled comfortably on the couch, surrounded by blankets and snacks, as the glow of the television illuminated their faces. They lost themselves in Disney movies, laughing at the delightfully animated antics while taking turns sharing their progress on their creative projects. The warmth and love between them shielded them from the storm outside, solidifying an unspoken promise to protect their sanctuary from the chaos of the past.

Chapter Text

The pulsating rhythm of music blared from inside the house, drowning out the chill of the autumn air that cut sharply across Nico’s face. He stood outside, shifting his weight from one foot to the other, feeling slightly out of place at Will Solace’s graduation party. Will had just completed medical school, and the gathering was a lively celebration of his hard work and accomplishments. As for Nico, he was in the midst of pursuing his dreams of becoming a writer, a path that felt both familiar and far away on nights like this.

Taking a sip of his drink, Nico felt the fiery burn of alcohol slide down his throat, a sensation he had grown accustomed to over the years. Unlike Piper, their mutual friend who could barely handle a couple of drinks, Nico had developed a considerable tolerance. The music thudded on inside, a series of muffled beats competing with the whispers of the cold wind.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and a figure emerged into the night, lighting a cigarette. The person took a deep drag, the smoke curling into the dark sky, and Nico felt grateful that the smoker was considerate enough to avoid blowing the smoke directly into his face. Yet, he still instinctively took a step back, his discomfort mingling with the crisp air.

“Hey Neeks, noticed you left and decided to follow.” The familiar voice jolted him, pulling him from his thoughts. It was Percy, his roommate and an undeniable source of affection. Nico’s heart raced momentarily, a jolt of energy that he struggled to rationalize. “Hey, yeah, it’s just a bit overstimulating,” Nico replied, attempting to feign nonchalance.

Percy nodded, his expression warm and understanding as he extinguished the half-lit cigarette under the heel of his shoe. The moonlight caught the contours of his face, highlighting the boyish charm that made him impossible to ignore. Nico couldn’t help but notice that Percy appeared completely sober, leading Nico to wonder about his roommate’s well-being. “Either trauma or just didn’t want to be in there,” he mused internally.

“Want me to take us home? I can,” Percy offered, a broad grin spreading across his face. The sight sent an involuntary shiver down Nico’s spine, the electrifying effect almost overwhelming. He quickly dismissed his thoughts. “Maybe later. I can, like, let you know, right?” Nico responded, swirling the almost-empty glass in his hand, a feeble attempt to break the tension.

In a moment of spontaneity, Percy ruffled Nico’s hair, causing a deep flush to creep up Nico's cheeks. He chastised himself for the reaction. “That’s just the alcohol talking. He doesn’t see you like that, Nico,” he thought, pulling at the hem of his jacket to cover his embarrassment.

As the door to the party swung shut behind them, Nico felt a wave of anxiety wash over him. He quietly excused himself back inside the noisy crowd—screams, laughter, cheering, and the sharp scent of alcohol overwhelmed his senses. He manoeuvred through the throng of people before reaching the front door again, gratefully slipping out into the cool night.

After making his way just two blocks towards their apartment, a sudden grip on his shoulder startled him. Whirling around, adrenaline surged through him, and without thinking, he threw a punch that connected solidly with the person's jaw. The figure stumbled back, cursing under their breath.

Recognition struck him like a lightning bolt. “Percy? Oh my gods! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to! I thought you were a kidnapper—” Nico’s frantic apology spilt out before he could catch himself, but he was interrupted when Percy gently pressed a finger to his lips, silencing his frantic rambling.

“Nick, it’s alright. I don’t care,” Percy reassured him, the concern in his eyes cutting through Nico’s embarrassment. “I just saw that you left without telling me, and that worried me.” The moment hung in the air, charged with unspoken feelings.

Percy took his finger away with a slight smile. “I’m gonna grab my car! Stay right here!” he called, before turning to dash down the street. Nico stood frozen for a moment, swaying slightly and giggling softly as his fingertips brushed over his lips, where Percy had touched him.

Before long, the sound of honking filled the air, and Nico turned just in time to see Percy pulling up in his car. His expression was a mix of determination and relief, his dark hair tousled and gleaming under the streetlights. Like a curious cat, Nico tilted his head, feeling both amused and anxious.

Percy quickly hopped out of the car, rushing to open the passenger door for Nico with a sense of urgency that made his heart flutter again. Once inside, he settled into the seat as Percy ensured he was buckled in, a protective gesture that made Nico feel safe and cared for as the drive home commenced.

The ride seemed to pass in a blur of laughter and shared glances, eventually coming to a gentle stop in front of their apartment complex. They both exited the car, and Percy led Nico to their rooms, but when he attempted to usher Nico towards his own bed, Nico shook his head vehemently.

“Absolutely not! Not happening,” Nico protested, feeling a sudden surge of determination stir within him. Percy let out a playful sigh, an understanding smile creeping across his face as he helped Nico change into his pyjamas. To Nico’s surprise, he found himself nestled in the warmth of Percy’s bed, comforted by the simple presence of his roommate.

As morning light began to filter through the curtains, Nico awoke to the sweet sensation of Percy’s arms wrapped around him, a gentle kiss placed on the top of his head making his heart soar. “Wanna be my boyfriend?” Percy whispered, the question hanging in the air like a soft promise.

Nico, filled with tenderness and hope, nodded eagerly, instinctively snuggling closer into the warmth of Percy’s embrace, feeling a sense of safety and belonging envelop him.

Chapter Text

Percy stared at the girl Annabeth had draped across her arm. She was currently talking to the barista on shift, Ethan if Percy remembered correctly. Percy wasn’t jealous, no. Their break up was mutual, both he and Annabeth had decided to end it because they both went through so much trauma that they didn’t really have the mental ability to date.

That was what she said a week ago when they explained it to their friends. Now look at Annabeth! Percy took a sip of his coffee. It wasn’t that Percy couldn’t move on, he’s just surprised that Annabeth managed to move on that fast.

“Of course, I’m still standing at the exit while she’s on the next train.” Percy’s thoughts joked. The son of Poseideon snickered quietly.

“Hey Percy! Meet my new girlfriend, Kylie!” Annabeth and Kylie sat across from Percy. Percy choked down the urge to scowl. “Great. Hi, I’m Percy, Annabeth’s ex boyfriend. By the way, Annabeth, how’s the scars? You know, cause yours are fully healed while I’m still black and blue?”

Annabeth and Kylie gasped. “Percy!” The blonde stood up to berate him, but Percy was already storming out, leaving Ethan a tip.

The daughter of Athena left Kylie at the table with a quick “Be back soon.”

“Perseus Achilles Jackson! You get your seaweed brain back here!” Annabeth screamed, making Percy halt in his tracks. Percy tried to hide the tears that seemed to come out of nowhere.

Annabeth spun the boy so he was facing her and, out of anger, slapped him across the face. Great. The tears started falling.

Her lecture fell on deaf ears as Percy’s sobs became more violent, which in turn, made the rain that produced fall harder. All Percy could think of was Smelly Gabe. “Get away from me, Gabe, please.” Percy pleaded, making Annabeth go quiet.

“Percy?” He didn’t hear Annabeth, all he heard was Gabe screaming at him cause he was a “mistake” and “Sally should’ve left him on the street” and other nasty, horrible things that honestly should never be recorded.

Percy flinched so violently away from Annabeth that he fell and his butt and he tried to get away. “Hey, no no. Come here, Percy. It’s okay, I won’t hurt you. You’re at New Rome, outside of a cafe with me and my girlfriend.” Annabeth soothed.

She gently lowered herself to the ground and held out her arms, making sure that Percy was watching. His eyes kept darting around, mind racing even faster. “Listen to my voice. Do you know who I am?” Annabeth asked in a soft yet firm manner. Percy managed a small nod. “Do you remember where I said we were?” A head shake.

“Well, we’re in New Rome in California, not in Sally’s apartment in Manhattan.” Percy sat up in a sitting position, slowly shuffling away. “Hey, no no, I’m not going to hurt you. Sally’s fine. Estelle’s fine. Gabe’s in Tartarus. You’re safe, Percy.” Annabeth made a small “come here” motion with her hand, making sure Percy was watching.

Percy complied, sensing that his friend was safe. Annabeth gently manuevered Percy to her lap, slowly rocking in where she sat, softly shushing the boy as he cried.

After about maybe twenty minutes of this, Annabeth picked Percy up and walked back into the cafe. She found Kylie, told her what happened.

She left the cafe, still holding Percy who was clinging to her upper body tightly. He wasn’t full on sobbing anymore, but he was still clearly distressed. Annabeth managed to get to her house and unlock the door.

Percy felt Annabeth tap his upper back gently, making him look up at her. He got off of her and shuffled his feet awkwardly. “Sorry...” he mumbled, fear and guilt building up in his stomach. Annabeth smiled warmly at him and led him to the couch, where she apologized for her actions and the two friends spent the rest of the day hanging out like they were twelve again, this time with no monsters or quests to bother them.