#and annabeth snorts and rolls her eyes at him

[demigods-posts]

imagine the whiplash of seeing percy and annabeth being affectionate with each other around camp after watching them beat around the bush for four years. you see annabeth working on her blueprints or some shit. and percy walks over to her from the nearby field. you're fully prepared to see them skirt around their feelings like usual. and then get taken aback when annabeth flirts with him like she enjoys watching the tide in his eyes change color. so captivated by the sea she'd willingly drown in. and percy just smiles and blushes, and stares at her with love in his eyes, not even daring to hide it. he kisses her on the mouth afterward like it's as easy as breathing and says something about meeting by the lake after the campfire. and you just have to reevaluate your outlook on life over the next few weeks.

[g1rld1ary]

you never disappointed me ; luke castellan x aphrodite!reader

part one part two part three part four

➻ synopsis: charles beckendorf wants to go out with silena beauregard more than anything. one problem: she's not allowed to date until her shrewish older sister does, so he and percy come up with a plan. (10 things I about you AU)

➻ word count: 2783

➻ warnings: swearing ooc/kind of loser!luke, ooc silena, she/her pronouns used for reader

➻ this'll be a few chapter so this is p1!!!

════ ⋆★⋆ ════

Charles Beckendorf arrived at Camp Half-Blood when he was fifteen years old. It was a wonder he’d lasted out in the mortal world so long with his significant stature, height enough to attract monsters, but Percy — his tour guide — guessed it was probably his more reserved nature which had kept him under the radar.

“Thank God it’s you showing me around,” Was one of the first things he’d said, “When you start things like this it’s usually all the kiss-asses that greet me.” With six schools under his belt, Percy knew what he meant all too well.

“Nah man, we’re chill. And if we get this done quick then you can meet my friends, we know how to have the real fun here.”

And so they embarked on their tour, Percy dutifully pointing out all the most important places around camp. First was the Dining Pavilion, where they met Grover as he chewed on some of the tin-can remains of lunch. Then came Thalia’s Tree, under which Annabeth was drawing out a map that Charles didn’t understand in the slightest but Percy explained was a strategy for capture the flag. After that they walked past the sword fighting arena, where they caught a glimpse of Luke in the middle of a fierce duel. They both passed quickly, and Charles got the distinct impression that you weren’t supposed to interrupt Luke when he was fighting.

As the two got to the lake, Percy explaining it was where most people hung out when they had the time, Charles faltered in his steps. Percy looked back to where he was frozen and followed his sightline to Silena Beauregard and rolled his eyes.

“Who is that?” He breathed.

“Don’t even bother, bro,” Percy replied. “She’s off limits. It’s a well known fact that the Beauregard sisters aren’t allowed to date — they’re only here over the summers and their dad is crazy strict about it for some reason.”

“But she’s so—”

“Self-centred? Shallow? Silena is all looks no substance, dude. You can do better.” Percy ushered him away but Charles was still daydreaming about the beautiful Aphrodite girl.

The tour was just finishing up by the Climbing Wall when they first saw you. You held the camp record for it, and so had been delegated the responsibility of teaching the younger kids. Today though you’d had to rescue a cocky bastard from getting obliterated by lava, singeing the fabric of your camp shirt all over your left shoulder, and you were not in a good mood.

Just wanting to get back to your cabin for a change of clothes and some ambrosia, you were certainly not in the state of mind to stop and chat with a new camper. So when Percy and Charles came along blocking the whole fucking path, you didn’t hesitate to yell “Move!” Pushing past them in a huff. You wouldn’t usually be so rude, but you were pretty sure your shirt was fusing into your skin which was so not what you needed. Plus, they were in the way. Beckendorf’s bicep was warm from where you’d shoulder-checked him with your injury.

“That’s your dream girl’s older sister,” Percy snorted, used to your disagreeable personality.

“That’s Silena’s sister?” Charles asked incredulously, “But she’s…”

“A shrew? Yeah. I’d watch out for her, and kiss your dreams of going out with Silena goodbye. Now c’mon, I’ll show you to your cabin.” Charles followed mindlessly, still thinking about the two Beauregard sisters.

When people thought of you, the consensus was pretty much this: Silena Beauregard’s older sister, and the most heinous bitch at Camp Half-Blood, a title you were extremely proud of. Whilst you really didn’t think you were that bad — in fact, you considered your actions quite reasonable — younger campers cowered away when you marched through camp and the older ones rolled their eyes when you spoke. Just the way you liked it. It wasn’t exactly unusual, camp had all sorts of kids living there, not everyone was going to get along, but it was pretty unexpected for you as a daughter of Aphrodite.

You didn’t get along with most of your siblings, despite all your efforts as one of the elder campers. You thought it was ridiculous that they wouldn’t participate in camp activities, regardless of the reason. What good was having all that beauty if it was wiped off the face of the earth by a monster? There were a hundred rumours flying about to explain you and your attitude, the most popular being that you were the secret lovechild of Aphrodite and Ares, which explained your affinity for fighting and permanent bitch face. You knew better. For one you shared too many of your dad’s traits not to be his child. Plus, Aphrodite had a long history of being associated with war in Ancient Greece which everyone at camp just conveniently forgot in favour of writing her children off as useless and vain. You hated it, and you refused to be who they wanted.

Even your favourite sibling was the polar opposite to you. Silena was a few years younger than you, and by all accounts was the model of a perfect Aphrodite child. Gorgeous, of course, and usually kind and patient. In your opinion, she was kind of annoying and self-absorbed, but you chose to believe she meant well so you could keep tolerating her. You didn’t know how the only two blood-related siblings in your cabin could be so different from one another, but it had been that way since you were fourteen and she was twelve.

You had made it back to your cabin, and your shoulder was all bandaged up after your shower. You were just flipping through The Bell Jar, your latest novel, when Silena came stomping into the cabin, waving a letter frantically through the air. You could assume what it was about.

“This is so unfair!” Silena whined, “Daddy doesn’t even know Ethan!” Ethan was the new boy Silena had been obsessed with recently, writing incessantly to your father in an attempt to get him to take back the no dating rule.

“What, can’t go swap spit with the vermin of the earth?” You exaggerated a pout. She sneered at you in the mirror.

“Worse. Now he’s saying I can’t date until you do, so now I’m going to die a stupid old virgin because of you!” You rolled your eyes and sighed.

“Have you ever considered there’s more to life than finding a boyfriend? Or, big shock I know, maybe I’m just not interested in the sweaty, uninspired pigs that are supplied here?”

“You suck!” She huffed, turning on a kitten heel and barging out of the cabin.

“You suck!” You mocked, turning back to your book. You knew Silena was really pissed at you for being so stubborn, but you hated the thought of changing your opinions over a man of all things.

Silena, in her frustration, was wandering around Camp Half-Blood to let off some steam. Charles, fresh from a kayaking lesson, spotted her across the beach and scrambled to catch up to her. Remembering what Percy told him about her not participating in many of the camp’s activities, he came up with the idea to offer his help to finish a project in the forges to get Chiron off her back. Silena seemed surprised but happy enough to agree, and Charles was ecstatic.

“She’s agreed to go to the forges with me!” He told Percy excitedly, and Percy raised an eyebrow.

“Do you even know how to weld?”

“Well, no, but I will!�� As much as Percy liked the new kid, he was definitely a handful.

Charles’ first session with Silena didn’t go exactly as he’d hoped. She showed up already looking bored, and not keen to start off with a simple sword as he’d proposed. Soon he gave up with any welding, choosing instead to try and get her know better.

“If you’re not really into this we could try something else? I saw someone welding some metal flowers, you know, for like a date?” That caught her attention.

“Are you asking me on a date?” At his shy nod Silena couldn’t contain her slight laugh. “That is so cute! What’s your name again?” Charles told her quietly.

“Well, my Dad’s just changed our family rule — I can date when my sister does.”

“That’s great! So all you’ve gotta do is find someone who’ll date her!”

“One problem, Cameron-”

“Charles.”

“My sister is, like, totally antisocial?”

“Yeah, but people jump out of planes and stuff all the time! It could be, like, extreme dating!”

They both looked across the forge where you were working, fixing up your favourite sword after an Ares kid had done quite a number on it. You had on both your signature outfit and expression — long, practical jorts with your camp shirt tied in a knot and a dangerous bitch face.

“The oversized look is out, Beauregard, didn’t you read last month’s Vogue?” Ethan was hovering around you, trying his hardest to get a rise out of you in front of his friends.

“Run along, dickwad.” You refused to blow up at him, knowing it would only be used to make you look hysterical and unbalanced later. Plus, Ethan would get bored sooner or later and find someone else to taunt.

As Charles recounted this story to Percy later that night at the bonfire, all Percy could do was groan.

“Charles — Charlie — I really wanna like you, man, but this is probably the most stupid thing you could have done. I know they’re hot, but it’s not even worth getting involved with one Beauregard sister, and you’ve just gotten yourself tangled with both — and not in the way that most guys dream about.” Charles flushed at the innuendo.

“I think you’re wrong about Silena, I think she’s worth it. I just have to figure out how I can set her sister up with another guy.”

“Yeah, good luck with that,” Percy laughed, hitting Charles’ knee twice before turning away to talk to Annabeth. Charles spent the rest of the night trying to hatch a plan.

Early the next morning he got Percy on board, albeit very reluctantly. Percy brought Charles over to every single guy he could think of in your age range, begging them to take you out. The responses varied from a nervous shake of the head to Travis Stoll laughing in both boys’ faces.

“Why would I go looking for a kick in the balls?” He asked, still wheezing from his initial outburst.

They found themselves once again at the bonfire, both disheartened. Percy at having wasted a day all for this new guy he barely knew, and Charles that he was no closer to getting a date with Silena. Finally, somewhat eager to get this distraction over with, Percy came up with an idea.

“What about you just pay someone to go out with her?” He asked, and Charles considered the idea for a minute, it wasn’t half bad.

“I have literally no money,” He settled on finally, and Percy rolled his eyes.

“So you get someone else to do it for you,” He suggested, and Annabeth joined the conversation with suspicious interest.

“Like a backer?” She asked, at Percy’s nod she bit her lip, “I don’t know if that’s a good idea, guys, it seems like it could really backfire on you. I mean, what if she finds out? I heard she once tied a camper to the lava wall just for looking at her wrong.”

“She won’t find out! I mean she only has to date so Silena can, it doesn’t have to be a long term thing. She goes on enough dates for it to qualify, then they break up while it’s still casual and I can go out with Silena!” Charles explained excitedly, but Annabeth still looked skeptical.

“Plus, if we have a backer, none of the blame will go to my man Charlie here,” Percy added helpfully, which swayed Annabeth a little.

“Okay, well be careful,” She said, leaving for the dining hall to be distanced from the plot.

Percy thought the answer to who the backer would be was pretty obvious. Whilst most of the boys at Camp Half-Blood wanted to sleep with Silena, Ethan White was both rich and desperate enough to agree to it. Plus when Percy Jackson was telling you you’d look great with a girl, you generally listened.

All that was left was to find someone to set you up with. The boys used the bonfire to scope out their options, but it wasn’t looking good. For one, you didn’t even show up to bonfires if you could help it, and it was anyone’s guess what you did instead. Rumours said blood sacrifices but Percy was almost completely sure that was a lie. Truthfully you were sitting up on the roof of the Aphrodite cabin, enjoying the peace and quiet of the camp when no one else was around.

They were about to give up, Percy trying to find the right words to let Beckendorf down easy, when they saw Luke. Luke, with his brooding eyes and his cigarette, sitting on his own at the bonfire with headphones connected to a mortal mp3 player. Luke, who had never quite been the same since he returned from his quest — rumours swirling about the horrors he’d faced that he refused to speak on.

“I think we’ve found our man.”

It was easy to convince Ethan to get on board, he was so overconfident in himself and his looks he would never suspect that Percy or Beckendorf had any ulterior motives. It was equally enjoyable to watch Ethan try and approach Luke to get the plan in motion. Percy and Beckendorf were sitting with Percy’s friends on the beach the very first time Ethan spoke to Luke. He was all macho confidence, still trying to play the tough guy. Luke looked up at him from his place sitting on a rock, barely moving his head to give him any attention. The moment of eye contact meant Ethan knew Luke had seen him speaking, and the abrupt walking away communicated his absolute lack of interest. It took a gargantuan effort from Percy not to burst out laughing then and there.

The second conversation went a bit smoother. Ethan had a metaphorical tail between his legs, temporarily giving up his ego to be the smaller person in the conversation. That got Luke’s attention, having known Ethan and his antics for years at that point. And then Ethan explained his plan. Luke couldn’t contain his laughter — a sound Camp Half-Blood was rarely graced with anymore.

“Yeah sure, Sparky,” He laughed, almost wheezing in an uncharacteristic show of emotion.

“Look,” Ethan stressed, “I can’t take out Silena until her sister starts dating — their Dad is super strict and has this rule—”

“Touching story, not my problem.” Luke moved to put his earbud back in when Ethan stopped him.

“Could it be your problem if I provided generous compensation?” Luke had forgotten Ethan’s mother was filthy rich. He looked him dead in the eye.

“You’re going to pay me to take out some chick? How much?” He asked, entirely disbelieving.

“Twenty bucks” They both looked down at you on the volleyball courts, spiking a ball into a girl’s stomach with so much force she keeled over on the ground. You had the decency to look mildly apologetic while the opposing team glared at you.

“Fine. Thirty.”

“Let’s see,” Luke smiled something devious. “If I’m taking her out it means leaving camp. That’s a lot of risk I’m pursuing for you, plus the costs of taking to her somewhere — the movies maybe. And you know inflation lately, let’s say seventy-five bucks.”

“This isn’t a negotiation, burnout.”

“Fifty bucks and we’ve got a deal, Fabio,” Luke countered, knowing he had the upper hand. He had nothing to lose. Reluctantly, Ethan forked out a fifty. All that was left was for Luke to get you to go out with him, how hard could that be?

[7s3ven]

DRIVING LESSONS. luke (pjo)

Normal! Au

( master list )

IN WHICH… Luke attempts to teach Percy how to drive and, in the process, almost crashes into Luke’s long time crush. But maybe he can spin it in his favor.

—

Luke was like an older brother to many. He had warm and comforting aura that people seemed to gravitate towards.

“Don’t get hurt, seaweed brain.” Annabeth warned Percy, pointing a stern finger at him. Luke chuckled as he leaned against the hood of his shiny car. Percy needed driving lessons and Luke was more than happy to help. Though, he knew he was going to regret it. Annabeth and Sally were both too terrified to teach Percy but Luke was up for the challenge.

“Turn on your blinker, Percy.” Luke reminded the teenage boy for the fifth time.

“My what?” Percy only stared at Luke in utter confusion.

“Your turn signal. And keep your eyes in the road!” Luke exclaimed as another car whizzed past, narrowly avoiding crashing into them. Percy immediately glued his eyes back to the view in front of him, sheepishly smiling.

"Sorry." He whispered.

“Turn slowly here.” Luke instructed, nodding when Percy finally remembered to press his blinker. Percy turned painfully slow, matching the speed of a sloth, and Luke held back an annoyed groan.

“So, when did you start driving?” Percy asked. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Luke shrug.

“I’m not sure. Around your age or a little older.” Luke was in his twenties now, already having secured a well-paying job which helped pay for half of Annabeth’s tuitions. The other half was paid by a scholarship she earned.

“Have you met any cute girls?”

Luke lightly snorted, grinning in amusement. “Why are you asking me that, Percy? You know I can see how you look at Annabeth. I should be asking you how it’s going with her.”

Percy and Annabeth had always been stuck between friends and lovers and it was driving Luke insane. He wanted to shove the two of them together and demand they admit their feelings.

“Okay, but have you met any cute girls?” Percy was persistent, which suited his given name. Luke scoffed, tilting his head back. He had but he didn’t want to admit it to Percy. How was he supposed to tell Percy that he was still in love with the same girl from high school?

He thought he was over his feelings but he saw her in a coffee shop one day and everything came flooding back. Their playful flirting, their late night rants as they lay in each other’s arms while listening to Luke’s playlist, and that kiss they shared in their last year. Annabeth was already calling Luke a loser for liking her again, he didn’t need Percy doing the same.

“I guess.” Luke finally answered. “I’m not really attached to any of them, though.” Because his mind was always on Y/N, his high school sweetheart.

“Are you gay?” Percy asked out of the blue, causing Luke to choke in surprise.

“Am I- No! I’m not gay, Percy! I like girls but I wouldn’t date any of the girls I meet!”

“Is it because you’re still obsessed with her?”

Luke knew who he was talking about. He clicked his tongue, giving Percy the indirect answer that he needed. Percy wasn’t so clueless after all.

In all Luke’s years of babysitting Annabeth and Percy, he had only brought one girl over, who happened to be Y/N. They were working on a school project but Annabeth still liked to tease him about the way he gazed at Y/N.

Percy made the mistake of tearing his eyes away from the road again. “Percy!” Luke shouted as soon as he spotted someone walking across the pedestrian crossing, “Eyes on the road!” Percy, in a panic, slammed his foot against the break. The car screeched to an abrupt halt and both boys were sent flying forward. If it weren't for their seat belts, they would've crashed through the windshield.

There was a soft knock on Luke’s window and he turned his head, mortified to see the very girl he was just thinking about. The brunette slowly rolled the window down, thickly gulping.

“Hey.” Y/N greeted him, resting her arms on the sill, “You know, people usually stop at the crossing. They don’t almost run someone over.”

“Yeah, sorry about that. It’s his first time and he’s still pretty nervous.” Luke jabbed a thumb in Percy’s direction. The blond boy was sweating, gripping the steering wheel tightly. He sent Y/N an apologetic smile.

“Oh, Percy. I haven’t seen you in a while.” Y/N grinned at him, “You’ve grown up so fast. Last time I saw you, you were smashing into walls.” Percy’s cheeks heated up at the memory. “Glad to see you still have that habit. Though, instead of walls now, it seems you like to crash into people. You weren't thinking of committing a hit and run, right?"

“How have you been, Y/N?” Luke changed the subject to spare Percy from the embarrassment of Y/N’s teasing remarks. “You disappeared after high school. And the last time I saw you was in a cafe. I barely had time to ask.”

“I went to university in Europe.”

“And you got your law degree, I assume?”

“Conjoint, actually. I majored in law with a minor in psychology.”

Luke whistled, impressed. He barely passed university. “So, what are you doing now?”

“Well, I was taking a calming walk before I almost got killed.” She chuckled, an amused glimmer flashing in her eyes. Percy sank deeper into Luke’s leather car seat. “If you need help with teaching Percy to drive, I’d be happy to help. You look like you need it.” She fished out a card from her purse, handing it over to Luke. “I changed my number, by the way. That’s my personal one. Feel free to contact me, Luke.”

She bid the pair farewell and once she was out of earshot, Percy and Luke turned to face each other.

“Oh my gosh, she gave you her number!”

“Bro, I got her number!”

It was safe to say that Luke spent the rest of the terrifying car ride feeling elated despite being tossed around in the vehicle with Percy and almost throwing up once or twice.

Luke was dreading the next day with Percy because the young boy was not a good driver. At all. Not only had Percy narrowly avoided crashing into a pole and took off one of Luke’s mirrors in the process, but they also got chased by the cops for going over the speeding limit. Twice. And he couldn't forget how they almost killed Y/N.

Luke was thinking of ditching Percy but he was technically Annabeth’s boyfriend, even if she didn’t want to admit it.

His phone buzzed and his eyes darted to the screen for a split second. He looked back at the road, quickly stomping his foot onto the break. His heart sank for the second time this week. This was not how he wanted to meet Y/N again.

Y/N was teasingly grinning as she made her way over to his window. She knocked on it, bending down to match his height. “Hey, Luke.” She uttered, clicking her tongue. She playfully pursed her lips as she watched Luke sigh, his head resting against the wheel. “You and Percy seem to have one thing in common. Almost crashing into me.”

Luke’s cheeks flushed bright pink. “I didn’t mean to… I swear.” He uttered.

“It’s fine, Luke. As long as you don’t actually hit me. Because if you do, I will run you over too.” Y/N smiled, acting as if she didn’t just whisper a threat in Luke’s ear.

“I’m actually going to pick up Percy right now. Do you want to, uh, join me? I might throw up less with you around. Partly in fear of embarrassing myself.” Luke chuckled to himself while Y/N huffed in amusement.

“As long as I don’t land in hospital, I’m up for it.”

“No promises.”

Y/N climbed into the passenger seat, shutting the door behind her. She tilted her head to the side as she picked up a Lancôme lipstick. “I never took you as lipstick person, Luke.” She joked, holding up the tube.

“It’s Clarisse’s.” He said. Despite their differences, the two were quite close in high school. And they still were.

“You two dating already? Everybody shipped you two.” Y/N chuckled, turning her head to look at Luke.

“We’re just friends.” Luke said.

“Oh, come on. You must like a girl. Who’s the lucky one, huh?”

You, Luke almost said.

“I’m not interested in any girls right now.” He said instead. Y/N quirked an eyebrow.

“Are you gay? Wait, I kissed you while you were gay?!” Y/N gasped while Luke wildly shook his head.

“Why does everyone think I’m gay?!” He exclaimed.

"You've never dated anyone, Luke. It makes people think things." Y/N chuckled as leaned back in her seat. "I remember when everybody thought you and Chris were an item. Your fangirls were devastated. It was hilarious."

"What about you?" Luke asked, "How did... you feel?" Y/N faltered. She slowly turned her head to look at Luke before shyly diverting her gaze.

"I was more preoccupied with laughing over the sad girls with my friends." She uttered, "But I had a feeling you weren't gay. Your fashion sense back then was a dead give away that you were straight."

Luke clicked his tongue, "Was that meant to be an insult or a compliment?"

Y/N silently shrugged, flashing him a small grin. "A bit of both, I think."

Silence eventually settled between the pair. The car engine quietly hummed and Y/N glanced out the window as the radio played a soft melody. She thickly gulped as Luke pulled into Percy's driveway, a little disappointed they'd no longer be alone.

"Y/N." Luke quickly turned to her as soon as he pulled the keys out of his car. She met his gaze, confused as she gestured for him to continue. She watched as Luke took a deep breath. "Do you remember when I asked you if you had a partner for prom?"

"Of course. I went with Jake."

"I know that. But do you remember when you told me about Jake and I looked a little sad?" Luke was usually straight-forward with his sentences but he couldn't find the right words in this moment. Y/N slightly tilted her head.

"Yeah... you looked crushed." She said in a joking tone, causing Luke to gently chuckle.

"I looked sad because... I wanted to ask you out. Because I liked you. And I didn't ask anyone else out or accept any other offers because you were the only person I wanted to go with. And when you kissed me in our senior year, I couldn't feel happier, even if it was only because you wanted to feel a teen romance. And when you left... I didn't leave my room for ages. Annabeth had to drag me out. I was scared that you would find another person and I didn't want you to leave me behind."

Y/N gazed at him in silence. Luke cleared his throat, nodding his face. "I shouldn't have said anything... sorry. All those things were ancient history. I don't even know why I brought it up."

"What about you?" Y/N breathed, "Is there anyone else in your life?"

Luke pressed his lips into a thin line. "No... To be honest, I still haven't moved on from you." He turned his head to face Y/N, taken aback when she pressed her lips against his.

"I didn't find anyone else, Luke. I wanted to come back from university and run into your arms again, like old times." Y/N uttered as she pulled away. Luke cracked an ecstatic grin, pulling her back.

"Are you guys seriously making out in front of my house?"

Y/N and Luke jumped apart at the sound of Percy's voice. The younger boy was staring at them through the tinted window, face wrinkled up in disgust.

"I'll, um, get in the backseat." Y/N said, smiling before she switched seats, allowing Luke to sit beside Percy. The brunette gave the boy a subtle glare.

"Can I turn on some music?" Percy asked as he drove down an empty road. Luke had switched off the radio to allow the blond to concentrate.

"Only for a little while. Keep your eyes on the road so you don't almost kill anybody else." Luke snapped. From the backseat, Y/N lightly laughed.

Percy pushed a button and with a quiet click, Olivia Rodrigo started playing. "Really, Luke? Your sad playlist?"

"It's the only other tape in my car."

"I got my driver's license last week"- Percy sang along but he was cut off by Luke's stern tone.

"Percy, you won't be getting your license for ages if you don't focus on the road." The brunette warned. Percy frowned, going silent for a few moments before he parted his lips again.

"He used to listen to this playlist in his car while it rained. He was probably thinking about you." Percy said to Y/N, looking at her through the mirror, "I think he even cried at some point. Annabeth and I saw him one night, just sitting in the car and banging his head against the wheel."

"Percy!" Luke hissed, trying to shush the boy. But the damage was already done as Y/N diverted her eyes to look at Luke.

"Really?" There was an amused edge to her voice.

"Stop the car." Luke demanded, glowering at Percy. The young blond nonchalantly pulled over and stopped the engine. "You're dead, Percy. I'm going to tell Annabeth how you still drool in your sleep." Luke pulled out his phone, causing Percy to panic.

"I told her I stopped!" Percy reached for Luke's device but the brunette quickly stepped out of the car. He held the phone up high, away from Percy's grasp. Y/N watched as Percy chased after Luke, desperate to hide his drooling problem from Annabeth.

Luke turned his head to scowl at Percy. "It's your payback for telling Y/N that!"

idea from @emiliehornby !!

PJO TAG LIST : @lostinhisworld @julielightwood @outerbanks-stuff @jennapancake @csifandom @evrybodydies1 @kkrenae @s0ulsniper @annispamz @justanotherkpopstanlol @soraya-09 @simpforeveyone @papichulo120627 @corpsebridenightamare @lilacspider @prettylilsimp @urmomsbananabread @ur-lacol-dsylexic @hottiewifeyyyy @kamiliora @be-bap @finnickodaddy @th0tblckgrl @shoyofroyoyoyo @uniquely-her @imafrkinsimp @syraxesrevenge @ahh-chickens @dracoslovergirl @midnightstar-90 @8812-342 @liv1104 @krkiiz @arialikestea @ch16rles @lizziesliz @maryclx01 @lukecastellandefender @yuminako @coryoskywalker @julielightwood @crybabysbakery @jsbabyyy @liviessun @p3pperm1nttea @angie-esc @purplerose291 @prettylilsimp @10ava01 @froggiesstalks @happy-jj @czennieszn @gisellesprettylies @loveyava @csifandom @luvvfromme @mashiromochi @kamiliora @yorksyree @mqg125 @jamesmackreideswife @niktwazny303 @2hiigh2cry @user021099 @living-in-my-imagination88 @xx-all-purpose-nerd-xx @randomgurl2326 @niktwazny303

[ma1dita]

luke castellan really likes to say “where my hug at” as an inside joke between the two of you, but he also just really likes hugs

luke 'where my hug at' castellan

love this dork. with arms like that and a gorgeous smile, it’s not thaaaat cringy

at first it was a joke, because the lingo you learned from being away from camp for most of the year already confused the fuck out of him (like what are these kids talking about eating?) so you had to catch him up

it made you laugh a lot in a way that got him feeling fluttery—and he wants to chase that feeling, so he says it whenever he sees you just to see you smile

truthfully, he just wants a hug. they’re rare between you two since y’all are not super close friends, and you’re not a year-rounder like him, but hey, let the man shoot his shot (no matter how awkward he can be)

you kinda always giggle and tell him he has cooties

he needs to stop asking in public he’s starting to look stupid

it pays off when he bumps into you while you braid Annabeth’s hair and his little sister’s just as awkward sooooo…

he stands in the doorway of cabin 6 with a crooked grin, knocking Annie’s trinkets off her sidetable to mess with her before nodding at you cooly— “where my hug at?”

you snort, continuing your work and Annie’s eyeballs swing back and forth between you two like pingpong balls

“well, aren’t you going to hug him?”

cue awkward shuffling and choked-out laughter when you roll your eyes and get up from the bed to throw your arms around his neck

he doesn’t know where to put his hands, wiping sweat off onto his cargos before they settle onto your waist

your eyes meet and you pinch his cheek.

“i can’t believe it, but i think that counts as rizz, Castellan”

“what?”

[widodiangelo]

Technically, they weren’t supposed to be in each other's cabins.

But after fighting in two wars in the last two years, Chiron had decided to let some things slide. And so the Poseidon cabin became the go-to meeting place for the older campers: mostly the seven and company.

As a result, the cabin had slowly begun accumulating various comfort items and was morphing into a strange college dorm room-thrift shop hybrid. There was an old, peeling leather couch Jason and Leo had dragged out of the big house a few weeks ago, surrounded by random folding chairs and an assortment of beanbags Nico had totally not shadow traveled in from an ikea in the city. There were two and a half mini fridges (two working, one broken), a strange assortment of video game consoles the stoll brothers had provided and quite a few puzzles.

Since he and Nico had started dating, Will found himself hanging out in Percy’s makeshift common room more and more. That evening, he had just finished a sing-along session with his siblings at the campfire and was making his way across camp to the cabins. The warm summer air was filled with the smells of campfire smoke and sea salt drifting from the shore. A calm smile on his face, Will strolled up to cabin three with an extra s’more in his hand.

The interior was lit up with fairy lights and a blue lamp in the corner: cozy and inviting. Leo and Piper sat in some beanbags, playing some sort of card game. Jason and Percy lounged on the couch, throwing blue jelly beans into each other’s mouths (or at least tried to) while they yelled at the video game on the large tv screen that sat on the floor, leaning against the far wall because someone had forgotten to steal a stand. Nico perched on the edge of a crusty armchair, a controller in his hands and gaze focused on the screen before him. 

Will stepped through the door with a soft wave, which Annabeth returned with one hand from where she was braiding back Nico’s hair as he played. Jason popped a jelly bean in his mouth as Will sat down at Nico’s side. “Holy shit. Nico, you’re sub 6 minutes and you’re already at Lernie? What even is this build?”

Nico smirked, not taking his eyes off the game, but leaning into his boyfriend as a hand carded around his waist. “I told you Grace, Beo is bugged on mirage shot. It’s totally OP.”

Percy tried to catch the blue projectile Jason tossed at him, almost falling off the couch in the process. “Yeah but even with the bug I’ve never been able to make use of hunter’s mark like this before. How are you even doing that?”

Nico shrugged, the silver chains that dangled from his ears glinted in the moonlight. “Practice.” He replied, taking down a hydra head in one blow.

Will took a bite of his s’more and squinted at the screen. “What even is this?”

“Hades.” All three boys replied, and Annabeth snorted. “It’s a Greek mythology game.” She supplied with a roll of her eyes. “Nico’s the main character.”

“I am not the main character.” Nico retorted, eyes never leaving the screen. He mumbled under his breath as the screen shifted, “fuck stupid room 34 witches. Dammit.”

Percy tilted his head in thought. “Actually Nico, you kinda are. I mean Zag is the son of Hades, his main weapon is a sword, you both look like you belong in a hot topic ad–”

“Fuck you, Jackson.” 

“I said what I said– oh shit smoldering air? No way!”

Jason almost choked on his food. “Dude you’re gonna go sub ten at this rate.”

Will glanced at Annabeth. “Do they always sound like they’re speaking ancient greek when they play this game?”

Annabeth pulled the hair tie around her wrist off with her teeth. “Yup. Hate to break it to you, your boyfriend’s a nerd.”

Nico scowled. “Am not.”

Will pressed a kiss to his forehead. “Oh you totally are.”

“Listen Solace– HA! 9:58!” Nico jumped up and tossed the controller on the floor in victory, flicking off the animated Hades he had just defeated. “Get fucked, dad.”

Will watched him fondly. “Of course you would be good at the greek mythology video game where you get to kill your father.”

Nico dropped back down on the chair and slipped into Will’s side, taking the s’more his boyfriend offered him with a grin. “I’m nothing if not on brand.”

[lafleshlumpeater]

hi i’ve been trying to find someone perfect for my request cause tbh it’s one i’ve been thinking about for a while and i think your writing and style is absolutely amazing and idk i want you for my request. i understand you usually write fem readers but if you could please make like a gn!reader i would really really really appreciate it!! i was thinking a luke castellan x reader and everyone always jokes about you guys dating but you’ve never really had a crush on him. and then he suggests you guys just start fake dating just to make it better, and then you end up falling for him and just like yeah. fake dating to lovers yall please. thank you so much for even considering!!!

OMG. ANON. you flatter me too much, ilysm for this. i hope i did this justice and i'm so sorry for the long wait <3 (there will definitely be more than one part to this!!)

warnings: gn!reader (pls lmk if i accidentally used any gendered language so i can fix it), teasing, percabeth being 'that' couple- it's not really specified whether this is book!luke or disney!luke but for any future requests if you'd like a particular one don't be afraid to ask <3

luke castellan masterlist

“So,” Annabeth begins, clearing her throat, and just from the teasing cadence lilting her voice, you already know what she’s itching to comment on. You exhale, rolling your eyes and praying internally to every god in existence that you know of to spare you from this incessant battle. “You and Luke, training together.” She makes a pretence at nonchalance- you know her better than that.

“Yes, Annabeth,” you sigh as you take a sip of water. “Just like how practically everyone else in camp has also done. You included.” Excluding Percy, it was non-negotiable; Luke was the most experienced and skilled fighter at camp. Everyone was eager to learn a thing or two from him, and understandably so.

“Yeah, but, like- the chemistry.” The blonde counters, rubs her hands together deviously. “No-one else in camp has that with him.”

“You’ve been spending too much time with your boyfriend.” Percy; the main instigator of all of your friends, and even campers who you didn’t even know too well, encouraging the idea that there was something inexplicable going on between you and Luke Castellan. You couldn’t sympathise with the notion whatsoever- apparently, two people being of the same age and occasionally passing time together who also happen to be paired up with one another in most affairs (no doubt with the meddling of Chiron, which Luke himself seemed blissfully oblivious to), meant they were suddenly applicable for a relationship which goes beyond the boundaries of platonic.

You didn’t get it whatsoever.

“Speak of the devil,” Annabeth starts, the remnants of her scheming smirk blooming into something more genuine and pure at the sight of her boyfriend walking towards the pair of you. 

“I saw Luke just now.” The playful quip forming regarding the lack of greeting from him dies on your tongue. You couldn’t be dealing with this now- all you wanted was a productive day of training followed by a bitingly cold shower. Instead, you’re being verbally taunted- by your friends, no less- about how good of a match you are for the Hermes boy. It’s a painstakingly obvious reminder about how life never goes a demigod’s way.

The tall boy jabs a thumb vaguely behind his shoulder, his free arm sneaking around his girlfriend’s waist. Absently, she leans into him, the sickeningly sweet reaction automatic. “He was like, completely red in the cheeks. Blushing. And then he tells me the two of you were sparring just now?” His lips quirk into a grin, all teeth and mischief. “Very interesting.” You open your mouth again, with no particular retort in mind. “Oh no, but it’s all coincidental,” he continues, feigning a solemn tone. “Right. That’s my bad.”

Annabeth snorts at Percy’s antics as he holds his hands up as if in mock surrender when you swat at his shoulder. “We were sparring, Percy. Obviously he was going to be red in the face. Out of breath and all.”

He nods gravely, lips set in a straight line. You narrow your eyes, distrustful towards the mirth shimmering in his irises. “Out of breath from being so close to you.” He swoons as if imitating Luke, hands clasped together and batting his eyes up at an unknown entity- you correctly assume this imaginary being is supposedly you.

Before you can tell him off like you have oh-so-many-times in the past, he sobers up of his own accord, lips twitching from the effort of suppressing a well-humoured grin. His eyes flit to somewhere behind one of your shoulders. “Hi, Luke.”

You turn on your heel instantly. He’s standing in front of you, cheeks still tinted a delicate pink, a mere ghost of what Percy had sworn to, hair ruffling slightly in the breeze, the muted colour of his eyes a stark contrast to the startling neon of his camp t-shirt. You curse your friend to the high heavens, taking a mental note to throttle him later. “Hey.” 

He nods briefly to all parties, before redirecting his attention to you. “I forgot earlier. I’d like to talk to you about something.” He shifts slightly, repositioning himself so he looks less uncertain, back straightening and arms folded across his chest. “If you don’t mind.”

You glance behind you at the indiscreetly tittering couple, obviously amused at your expense. No matter how oblivious Luke may have been towards the magnitude of your mutual friends who were certain that the two of you were destined soulmates and it was just a matter of time and waiting, he wasn’t blind to the fact that the common belief was there. Especially now, with Percy and Annabeth whistling and hooting in a manner which was meant to be encouraging behind you. As if they didn’t take years to acknowledge that they had painfully blatant feelings for one another.

“No, yeah, we can talk,” you say casually. The two of you begin to walk, side by side, facing forward. For a few beats, there’s silence.

The quiet itself isn’t uncomfortable- the anticipation and tension of waiting for what he has to say, is.

“I want to say sorry,” Luke commences, simultaneously shattering the silence, previously only permeated by distant chatter and careless laughter. Fixing him with a befuddled frown, you rotate your head to look at him- he’s facing forward, hands are stationary in his pockets, side profile the only thing in your field of view. “I don’t know when or how, but for some reason everyone has the idea that I’m…” You watch him ponder for a moment or two, wondering how to phrase the predicament in a manner which isn’t too blunt. Dread climbs up your throat. “- romantically interested in you.”

Oh. So he isn’t as oblivious as you’d hoped.

“No, it’s all good.” You muster a polite smile, though you’re internally dying. Whether it’s from the fact that it’s being mentioned aloud, or him actually acknowledging it, or the way you can see two of your siblings brazenly ogling the interaction in your peripherals as you try to ignore them in vain, you’re clueless. “It’s not your fault… or anyone’s really.”

“I know,” he says, a tad quicker than you finish. He raises his eyebrows, suppressing a self-satisfied smirk directed in the distance. “But anyways, I think I have a solution.”

Your interest is piqued. Anything to stop the rumours that the two of you had kissed behind the Apollo cabin, to silence the snorts and innuendos thrown at you whenever Luke’s name was mentioned in your vicinity. “Really?”

He swivels to face you, halting the little stroll. You mimic his movements. “A possible solution. I mean, it would definitely work, but-.”

You tilt your head at him quizzically. “Then why is it only ‘possible’?”

He inhales. “It involves you. A lot. And you might not want to do this.”

“Do what?” Your impatience amplifies with Luke’s every ambiguous phrase. What is he thinking of?

He looks around, ensuring there’s no-one in earshot. “Date me.”

He says it so coolly, so quickly, you think you’ve heard him wrong. He must be talking about the weather, or about the arrival of a new camper, or-

Your eyes are fixed on him, jaw slack. “What?”

Eyes widening in understanding, he realises his mistake, backtracking quickly. “Not, like, dating-dating. Fake dating. Pretending to be in a relationship.” He lets it sink in for a second. “Everyone would shut up about how good we are for each other, and how we should start dating, because we actually would be. Or it would look like it, anyways. But it’s your choice.” He gauges your expression as you mull it over.

He has a point. Multiple, in fact. It’s not that you’re disgusted at the prospect of being paired with Luke- you’ve just… never considered it before, the thought foreign. The relationship between the both of you has always been friendly, borderline formal, even. So it would be nice to live your life without the unrelenting teasing and mocking from half the camp…

“Sure,” you say, attempting to mirror his casual demeanour. “I don’t mind.” His surprise directed at your compliance is evident; his eyebrows arch slightly.

He smiles at you, bemused, eyes reflecting the golden rays of sun beaming down from the summer sky. “Cool.”

An uncertain, electric thrill rushes through you. Nothing like this has ever happened before, and it’s so exhilarating already, and even more exciting. The pair of you shake on it- what’s the worst that could happen?

idk how to feel about this but i hope you like it<3

taglist: @doyouknowwhoyouare13 @explosiongamora @brutal-out-here @absolutely-existing @quickslvxrr @bibliophile-dendrophile

READ: this account stands with palestine, and so— i require everyone who interacts to educate themselves, and support/donate. READ THESE; 1 and 2, HELP HERE, BOYCOTT. silence is complicity, do not scroll past this.

[queenjunothegreat]

Go For It, Jason!!

Excerpt from an abandoned HS AU

“Percy,” Jason hissed, clutching Percy’s hand tight in his own. “I do not got this!”

“Yes, you do!” Percy hissed back. “All you have to do is tell Piper and Leo that we’re having a little party at our place this weekend, and Annabeth suggested inviting them. It’s super easy, you just have to be normal.”

“‘Be normal!’ What kind of advice is that!?”

“It’s advice you obviously need on a daily basis!”

Jason groaned and slid down one of the sets of lockers. “This was such a bad idea,” he whined. “I can just go back to being obsessed with him from afar, right? I don’t actually have to talk to him.”

“So you admit it? You’re obsessed with him?”

“Obviously I’m obsessed with him, Percy! I drew our joint tombstone!”

Percy heaved a deep sigh and slid down the lockers to sit while Jason pulled his knees up to his chest and hid his face in them. He was suddenly reminded of when he and Percy were in elementary school and Percy had gotten in trouble for punching another kid who wouldn’t leave Jason alone during “egg time.” He pressed his face harder into his knees and tried to ignore the way he wanted to cry a little bit. He wasn’t a baby.

“Look, man,” Percy said gently after a few moments of silence, “I’m not going to sit here and tell you you’ve got to talk to him. Because you don’t. If you wanna just have a crush on this guy for the rest of the year without telling him then move on to college and find someone else to dump all your weird obsessive tendencies on, you totally can. People ignore high school crushes literally every day. It’s probably the most normal thing about you.” Jason snorted and he could hear the smirk Percy gave in reply. “If you really don’t wanna do this, I’m not gonna make you. It’s your call, Jace.”

“Thanks,” Jason mumbled into his knees.

“Buuuuuuut…” Jason groaned loudly, and Percy snickered. “I do think it’s a good idea. I mean, what have you got to lose? Either they say yes, you convince Leo to fall in love with you and you live happily ever after; they say yes, it turns out Leo isn’t your type at all once you get to know him, and you just move on; or they say no and you have a perfectly valid excuse to go back to your stalker status.”

“I’m pretty sure there’s more than just three outcomes,” Jason pointed out. “What if they just laugh at me?”

“Then I’ll kick their asses,” Percy scowled. “They can fuck right off if they’re going to act like that.”

“Thanks, man,” Jason smiled softly, leaning forward to headbutt Percy on the shoulder.

“So, what’s the plan?” Percy asked casually. “You want me to stick around here while you talk to them, or you wanna head to the cafeteria? I think I overheard one of the Stolls say that they had churros today.”

Jason considered that. He did really like churros. He shook his head. “Let’s get this done and we’ll get churros after.”

“You got it, bro.”

Jason stood, and led the way into the library over to where Piper and Leo had commandeered a pair of bean bag chairs and were building a very impressive house of cards out of an Uno deck. Apparently, Jason’s arrival shifted the airflow just slightly, and the house came tumbling down while Piper and Leo both swore at it in a fun mix of English, Spanish, and French. Jason winced. “Uh, sorry. My bad. I think.” Piper and Leo both looked up at him, wide-eyed and blinked. Obviously, they hadn’t noticed Jason’s approach. He smiled awkwardly and lifted a hand to wave. “Uh, hi.”

Leo scoffed and rolled his eyes and exchanged a look with Piper. “I got this, Beauty Queen.”

“Of course you do,” she hummed, rolling her eyes.

Before Jason could ask what they meant, Leo was on his feet, arms folded across his chest and giving Jason a very unimpressed once-over. “Look. Blondie. No, not Blondie. Superman? Yeah, I like Superman.”

“My name’s Jason.”

“Uh, sure. Okay. Anyway. Superman. She’s not interested.”

Jason felt his eyebrows knit together. “She’s not interested in what?”

“In you. Duh,” Leo scoffed. “I know someone who looks like you probably doesn’t hear that often.”

“I’m… confused.”

“Of course you are.” For some reason, Leo looked incredibly irritated, but Jason still wasn’t sure what he did wrong. “Look, I don’t know how much more plainly I can put it. She. Doesn’t. Want. To. Date. You.”

“Oh.” Jason blinked and cocked his head to the side. “That’s fine.”

At once, all the wind fell out of Leo’s sails, and now he was the one who looked confused. “That’s… fine?”

“Yeah, I don’t wanna date her either.” His eyes widened and he looked at Piper apologetically. “No offense. You seem nice, and you’re very pretty. Whoever you do want to date is probably very lucky.”

Piper snorted, but she was smiling, so it didn’t seem mean. “Thanks, Jason.”

Jason smiled widely at her, but Leo just looked even more baffled. “Then… what are you doing over here?”

“I did actually come to invite her to a party,” he admitted. “Both of you, actually.”

“A… party?”

“Well, kind of,” Jason said hesitantly. “The apartment complex Percy and I live in opened up the pool for summer last weekend, so we were inviting our friends over. Annabeth suggested that the two of you might want to come.”

Leo’s eyes widened, and he turned furiously on Piper. “You know Annabeth?” he hissed. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because it’s none of your business,” Piper told him, sticking out her tongue. 

“If I had known he had a mutual friend with you, maybe I wouldn’t have been a dick to him.” As if his own words just registered, Leo winced and ducked his head, looking up at Jason through his lashes. “Uh, sorry about that. By the way.”

Jason took a moment to reset his brain after it got fried, then smiled at Leo. “It’s cool, man. You were just looking out for your friend. I get that. I think it’s sweet.”

“You think it’s sweet. Cool. Coolcoolcool. I’m gonna go play in traffic now.”

Jason tipped his head back and laughed, probably louder than he should, but he couldn’t help it. He grinned so wide his eyes were squinting up, which made looking at Leo harder than it needed to be, which wasn’t ideal, but, once again, he couldn’t help it. “Please don’t. You’re probably going to traumatize the poor cars.”

“Nah, don’t worry, I’m too small to get hit by cars. I just lay down, and they pass right over me.”

Jason folded his hand over his mouth to at least somewhat muffle his giggles. “A very impressive skill.”

“Yeah, yeah. I’m a special boy and all that.”

“I can imagine.”

Leo immediately turned bright red, and Piper tagged in, letting him hide his entire torso under a bean bag chair instead of talking more. She grinned at Jason. “So. You said there was a party? Where at?”

“Mine and Percy’s place,” Jason said distractedly, still observing Leo’s attempts to become one with the rug. “We’re over at Sunset on the Waves. There’s a subway station right across the street from us.”

“I think I know it. It’s over kinda close to Central Park, right?”

“Yeah, that’s it,” Jason said. “We’re all getting together Saturday around two, if you think you can make it.”

“We’ll definitely be there,” Piper agreed. “Do we need to bring anything?”

Jason shook his head. “Nah, we’ve got it. Just show up whenever.”

“Cool.” Piper turned and kicked Leo in the ankle. “Tell Jason thanks for inviting us out. Now we have an excuse to not watch those dumb soap operas with my mom.”

“Thanks, Superman,” Leo said, though his voice was muffled, almost indistinguishable, by the bean bag chair.

“Thanks for agreeing,” Jason replied earnestly. “Uh, I’ve got to go, though. The librarian kind of hates me.”

“You are a lot louder than you probably realize,” Piper agreed, then winced. “Sorry, that came out way meaner than I meant it to. You’re just a loud guy. It’s cool. I like it. Leo’s also super loud. You match.”

“Cool,” Jason agreed, consciously trying to lower his volume, which made Piper snicker at him. He grinned at them and waved. “See you this weekend.”

“See you!” Piper and Leo chimed in perfect unison at his retreating  back.

When he finally made it back to Percy’s side, he groaned and yanked his shirt up over his head. “Okay, I did it.”

“How did it go? They don’t look like they’re laughing. Well, actually, I think Piper is laughing, maybe.”

“Pretty sure she’s laughing at Leo,” Jason told him. “And it could have definitely gone… worse? They agreed to come.”

“Nice! That’s great, dude!”

“Leo did try to intimidate me out of asking Piper on a date, though.”

Percy snorted so hard it sounded like it hurt. “Well, he definitely doesn’t have to worry about that.”

Jason finally decided to emerge from his shirt so that he could grin at Percy. “Yeah. Tell me about it.”

Percy clapped a hand down on his shoulder. “I’m really proud of you, dude.”

“Thanks.” Jason took a moment to just bask in the praise before he frowned and tilted his head to the side. “Percy, am I loud?” Percy barked out a bright, friendly laugh. “Dude, you are so loud. Come on. Let’s go get some churros.”

[thebigqueer]

"Permanence" - Percabeth - One-Shot

Summary: Percabeth's first "I love you." Word Count: 1755 Read on AO3

“Annabeth?” a voice calls, and she turns in her seat, her attention abruptly snatched from her laptop. “What are you doing up here so early?”

When she sees Percy leaning against the doorway to the mess hall, his lips quirked in amusement, Annabeth smiles. “Early?” she asks. “I’m pretty sure it’s noon.”  

Percy snorts and walks over to the supply of breakfast items on the table, which is endless, thanks to Leo’s genius. He picks up an apple, throws it in the air, and catches it again, all the while saying, “I mean you rarely come up here at this time. Feels like you barely come out of your little cocoon now.” 

His tone is still light, but there’s a slight jaggedness to it. She stares at the shape of Percy’s back for a moment as he keeps plucking away for things to eat, then stands and joins him. 

“Is there anything, like, unhealthy?” Percy asks when she sidles up to him. She looks up and fixes him with an exasperated smile, and he laughs. “What? Leo had eight months to prepare this ship, and for all the fancy shit he installed, he couldn’t even think of adding, like, a pizza dispenser?”

Annabeth rolls her eyes and hands him a candy bar sitting in the corner of the table. When his eyes catch sight of it, he grins and nudges her with his shoulder. “You’re the best.” 

“Yeah?” she asks, and now she faces him, raising her eyebrows. “Let’s go back to what you just said.” 

As he works on opening the wrapper, he glances at her. “What did I say?”

“Something about me being in a cocoon.” 

“Oh.” His eyes darken, but then immediately brighten up again as he takes a bite off the candy. “Oh, wow, this is so good.” Percy holds it out to her. “You should try it. Wow. Thank you, Leo.”

“You’re welcome,” warbles a voice from the speakers, and Percy flinches.

“Jeez,” he mutters, lowering his voice. “He’s like Big Brother or something.” 

Annabeth takes the bar from him but doesn’t taste it. She just keeps looking at him. “Percy, come on. What did you mean?”

Percy heaves a large, heavy sigh, then takes the candy bar back from her. When he doesn’t immediately go back to eating it — instead opting to play with the wrapper — her heart slows in dread. 

“Okay, I know you’ve been busy, so I didn’t really wanna say anything,” he says. “But it just feels like since we’ve found each other and been on this ship, we’ve just been so busy in all different directions. And when we’re not busy, you’re in your room, fiddling on your computer or something.” He stops playing with the wrapper and puts the half-eaten bar on the table, and now she knows he’s being serious. He doesn’t put his food down for anything.

“Percy…,” Annabeth says. 

Percy sighs again, and now he puts his full plate — filled to the brim with whatever he could find — on the table. Annabeth has to resist the urge to raise her eyebrows. “Eight months, Wise Girl. We haven’t been together in eight months, and the only moment we’ve had to ourselves was in the stables.” He tilts his head. “I just missed you. Miss you.” Then he huffs a humorless laugh and looks up at the ceiling, as if embarrassed. “I don’t really know why I’m getting so emotional about this. It’s just been a weird year.” 

“Yeah, I know,” she murmurs. She considers telling him about her year, too — how she’d tossed and turned in bed, waiting for some sign that he was even just okay. How she’d go to his apartment every week just to meet his mother and convince the two of them he was still fighting somewhere. How she had to convince Mr. D with everything she had to keep sending scouts for him, all the while losing hope herself that he even was out there. But she figures he wouldn’t want to know that, not now, at least. So instead, she just leans her head against his shoulder. “I’ve missed you, too, Seaweed Brain. I’m sorry.” 

A beat of silence passes, and then he brushes his hand against hers, pulls her fingers into his. She lifts her head to look up at him. “I’m sorry, too,” he murmurs. “I know you have a lot going on. And if anything, I’m just glad you’re okay. That’s all that matters.” He squeezes her hand. “But can you promise me something?”

“What?”

“Don’t push me out, Wise Girl. You don’t need to handle this whole… daughter of Athena mission thing on your own. I know that’s kinda ironic, coming from me, who went missing for eight months and basically left you alone��� — he smiles nervously — “but I’m serious. I wasn’t there for you then, but I’m here for you now. And if I had any say in the past eight months, I would’ve been with you every moment.”

Annabeth wants to say something, but all her thoughts tangle up in her brain and her words form a knot at the back of her throat, too large to tumble out. And a part of her feels guilty, but in all honesty, all she can feel is a subtle warmth at the core of her heart. The way he’s talking to her, his voice oozing with genuine eagerness to spend time with her… it makes a warm flame burst to life in her chest, thawing the ice that had grown inside of her the past year.

She spent so long waiting for someone permanent, and each time she thought she found someone, they inevitably left her. Luke, Dad, Thalia, and even Percy for a while. But now, staring at him, letting his existence embrace her skin, she realizes something. Maybe she and Percy won’t be together every moment. Maybe she’ll be the one to go away next, whisked away on some petty quest for the gods where she may not even be able to see him for months. Maybe their futures hold completely different fates for them. But she knows now — completely, utterly, truthfully knows — that it doesn’t matter if they get whisked away to different ends of the world again. Because right here, in this moment, she knows he’s really with her every step of the way. He’s subtly eroded his way into her heart, has permanently carved his smile into her mind. He’s left something eternal, even if he isn't. And that’s good enough for her. 

“I’m sorry,” she finally manages to push out. “I’m sorry I made you feel that way, Percy. I’m so sorry for shutting you out. I didn’t even know I was doing it.” 

“It’s okay,” he promises, and he tugs on one of her curls. “I believe you. Just keep me in the loop as much as you’re comfortable with. And promise me we’ll tell each other when things are getting weird.” He squeezes her hand again. “If these eight months have taught me anything, it’s that it’s important to keep the people you care about the closest.”

Something burns around the edges of Annabeth’s eyes, and she realizes with a start it’s tears. Of all the things she'd been through the past few months, just a few pretty words from Percy are enough to make her want to cry. “I promise,” she breathes. 

Percy smiles. “Good. Now I can enjoy my food in peace.” He picks up his plate again, and then his candy bar. “By the way, the invitation to enjoy this is expired. Only for me now.” 

Annabeth laughs, and she expects Percy to move to take a seat at the table, but he doesn’t. He just keeps standing in front of her, smiling elatedly, and she realizes with a start that he’s waiting for her. 

And she’s not sure she can remember the last time someone did that for her. Which is maybe why she blurts the next words: “I love you.” 

For a second, Percy doesn’t react. Then his eyebrows rise, and his mouth slowly opens, and his eyes shimmer with surprise, but Annnabeth is pretty sure no one is more shocked than her. 

“What?” Percy asks, slowly setting his food down again. 

“Nothing.” But Annabeth is trying to hide her face.

He laughs and punches her arm playfully. “You got something to say to me, Wise Girl?” But if the sparkle in his eyes or the grin on his face have to say anything, he’s bullshitting her. 

“Say what?”

“Nooo,” he groans. “Come on, Annabeth.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“Please. I’ll let you have my candy bar if you say it.” And she still doesn’t relent, but when he wraps his arms around her shoulders and leans in, his eyes close enough to shatter her resolve, his irises blades of green piercing through her shields, he says, “I love the way you say it.”

So she relents. And she says it again. 

And again. 

It’s only three words, but they ring in her head a million times, and the taste of them — like candy, like sugar, like clouds — bounces over her tongue a billion more. 

Percy keeps smiling, but it’s not a joking grin anymore — there’s something deeper, more soulful in it, his skin glowing with a warm undertone. “I love you, too, Wise Girl,” he whispers. 

And with those words ringing in her ears, echoing all the way down to her heart, making her blood glow, she doesn’t know if she has the ability to say anything else. She doesn’t even know what she’s supposed to say next. 

The silence begins to stretch on, cools the room around them. Suddenly the air around them feels too gooey, too heavy, too sweet, as if someone had spilled a whole bottle of rose perfume in the room, and Annabeth aches for their familiar banter, if only to calm the growing uneasiness in her. 

She runs her fingers up his hand.“You know what else I love?” she murmurs, trying to rein control of the moment.

“Me again?”

“Wrong.” She rubs Percy’s knuckles, then snatches the candy bar from his hand. “It’s making things hard for you.” 

“Hey! Give it back!” Percy cries, snapping his arm out to catch her, but she’s already out the entrance, onto the mast, waiting for Percy to come after her.

And he does. He follows her every step. 

It isn’t until later that evening that she realizes she left her laptop in the mess hall.

[flower1622]

ANTI PERCABETH CONTENT!

Annabeth stares at the boy sleeping in the dark.

Annabeth: You drool when you sleep.

Annabeth: So, Percy may be the son of Poseidon? Interesting...

Annabeth takes the cap off her head and pushes Percy into the water.

Annabeth: I hate that new guy, Percy Jackson.

Hours later:

Annabeth stalks Percy.

Clarisse bullies Percy.

Annabeth keeps watching hidden.

Percy: Can i make a stupid question?

Annabeth: You already made one.

Percy: I really don't like when other people make fun of me. I feel very insecure and depressed. All my life i was abused by my ex-stepfather.

Annabeth laughs.

Percy fighting for his life against a god.

Annabeth hits her foot on the ground, pointing her fingers to her watch impatient.

Annabeth: What is happening to Percy down there? He is being so seaweed brain today.

Percy is hurt from another fight against their enemies and falls with his face to the ground.

Annabeth laughs.

Annabeth: He's such a seaweed brain.

Percy gets better grades than Annabeth at College.

Annabeth gets desperate.

Annabeth: I don't want to become a seaweed brain!

Percy runs to hug Annabeth because he missed her and she judo flips him.

Annabeth: If you ever leave me again, i'll fucking hurt you, seaweed brain.

Annabeth meets Rachel, who smiles at her and tries to shake her hand. Annabeth only looks at Percy.

Annabeth: Who is this stupid girl?

Percy says something good about Rachel.

Annabeth snorts.

Annabeth: She's just a useless human.

Reyna says something good about Percy.

Annabeth only laughs.

Annabeth: Seaweed Brain only followed my orders.

Jason and Percy fight for a chair.

Annabeth rolls her eyes.

Annabeth: Two idiots. I'll be the leader.

Percy complains about his problems and Tartarus.

Annabeth laughs and crosses her arms.

Annabeth: Who cares?

Percy wants to work and study near his mother's house.

Annabeth crosses her arms.

Annabeth: No. You'll go with me to New Rome College.

Percy cries over Annabeth's wounded body.

Percy: You saved me!

Annabeth: Of course! I needed to get your trust completely. I couldn't lose a powerful ally like you.

Percy only cries more and hides his face on her chest.

Annabeth rolls her eyes.

Annabeth: Idiot.

Annabeth and Percy are trying to decide with other campers what to do.

Annabeth: We'll go with my plan.

Percy: What about democracy? Shouldn't we vote?

Annabeth: I am the one who is daughter of the goddess of wisdom. So, shut up and follow what i say, alright seaweed brain?

Percy: I don't like this nickname.

Annabeth: I don't care.

Annabeth and Aphrodite watch Percy and Rachel having fun in the beach.

Aphrodite: If you convince Ares to be more romantic to me, i can take away Percy's memories and feelings for that girl.

Annabeth: Deal.

Percy and Annabeth are in Olympus. Zeus gets angry at Percy and sends a thunder in his direction, making Percy fly to the ground. Percy falls and winces from pain on the floor.

Poseidon: Zeus!

Annabeth: Does this mean you don't need my services anymore?

[reddamselette]

“So what would you do if I were to ask you how does one go about, uh, possibly wooing a best friend of yours? It’s for…” Piper trailed off to think of something, any sort of excuse but as her eyes dart around the pavilion, obviously ignoring the looks of an Aphrodite daughter sitting at the table of Zeus, she scratched her head to look back at Jason. “Science?”

Next to him, Percy snorted and quickly covered it up with a cough. He doubled over dramatically, drawing more attention to them than ever as Nico covered his face with his hand and a quiet murmur of “Smooth.”

Jason chewed thoughtfully as he carefully regarded her question. The only other best friend he had was Reyna and although he and Reyna haven’t spoken in quite a while, he was still able to recall some things about her like what she liked and what she wanted to do but couldn’t because of her Praetorship. “Your best bet, Pipes, is to just be yourself, you know. Leo didn’t try any grand schemes or what— Actually I’m lying to you, that’s a lie. He did.”

“Will didn’t have to woo me,” Nico chimed in as he switched trays with Percy to take his apple and the second slice of pizza.

“That’s because you two were making googly eyes for, like, ever. We were just waiting for one of you to man up,” Percy spoke through a mouthful of pizza. He hovered over his seat to take Jason’s napkin and sat back down, wiping his mouth from any sauce or grease in the corner of his lips. “I just so happened to charm Annabeth with my good looks.”

“No you didn’t. You were as oblivious as Jason,” Piper interrupted with an eyebrow raised which effectively made Percy narrow his eyes at her before waving his hand with a roll of his eyes.

“Anyway…just be yourself.” Jason patted her shoulder and she smiled at him.

But Piper wasn’t worried about that specific detail. She was worried about fucking it all up, ruining her chances. In that moment, she wondered if asking her mother for help would be worth it but something told her deep down, she was already walking the path Aphrodite set her on where Reyna was concerned.

part two

[ghostlyloversworld]

＊*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚ 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚＊

𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙤 𝙙𝙞 𝘼𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡𝙤 𝙭 𝙙𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝘿𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙧! 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧

✒- 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙜𝙤 𝙛𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙤 ' 𝘽𝙪𝙨𝙮' 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙧

𝙎𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚> 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙪𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜

𝘼/𝙣↪️ 𝙄'𝙢 𝙨𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙮, 𝙢𝙮 𝙎𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙄'𝙢 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣. 𝙎𝙤 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝.

𝙎𝙤𝙣𝙜- 𝙀𝙡 𝙟𝙚𝙁𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙎𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙩 𝙁𝙪𝙚𝙧𝙯𝙖 𝙍𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙙𝙖!

7:30, ha sonado la alarma Yo con ganas de estar en la cama Pero no se puede Llevo a los niño' a las nueve El mismo café, la misma cocina Lo mismo de siempre, la misma rutina Otro día de mierda Otro día en la oficina.

(7:30 the alarm has sounded I want to be in the bed but you can't I take the kids at 9 the same coffee, the same kitchen the same always, the same routine another shitty day, another day at the office)

She sighs as she was ready to give up she had asked Annabeth for help but she had let her down gently by saying ' Sorry.. I promised Mr d I'd help him today'. So she asked Grover and he had told her ' Sorry.. I told Juniper I would hang out with her today.. I haven't been able to hang out with my girlfriend since I was trying to find Pan to prove I was right..'

She drags her feet she stopped to ask Percy " hey can you help me.. Uh build um.. A Lego flower set?... " Percy who was helping a little kid practice with a sword " oh! Hi!.. Um.. After I'm done helping this kid " he smiles sheepish. Which would take up to hours before he finished she sighs and nodded "alright "

She kept walking looking down. It was like no one had time to do something so small with her. Until she heard behind her " what's got you so down? " she turned around to be face to face with the boy who's barely there at camp who people know him as the loner boy with only a few friends she sighs " it's nothing " he rolls his eyes " It's Something if it's bothering you that bad" Nico shoved his hands into his pockets

Tengo un jefe de mierda que no me paga bien Yo llego caminando y él en Mercedes-Benz Me tiene de recluta El muy hijo de puta, yeah.

( I have a shitty boss who doesn't pay me well, I arrive walking and he Mercedes Benz, he has me. As a recruit, The son of a bitch, yeah)

Estás soñando con irte del barrio Tienes todo pa' ser millonario Gustos caros, la mentalidad Solo te falta el salario.

( You are dreaming of leaving the neighborhood, you have to be a millionaire, expensive tastes, mentality, you only need the salary)

Nico grabbed the little clear shell like Lego snapping it on the other Lego he was careful as he does so ".. " a for minutes go by ".. So uh.. How is.. Yours and uh.. What's his name?.. " "who? " she asked

" the boy who.. Controls water.. Uh.. The son of p-" " Percy? " she cuts Nico off and he nodded causing his Raven hair covers his eyes " yes "

"Ohh.. We aren't dating" she laughs Nico looks shocked at this news " oh?.. But every Aphrodite kid thinks you two are perfect for each other "

She snorted " a boy who controls water and a girl who can manipulate and create flowers " she laughs ".. I don't see it to be honest" Nico said She shrugged " eh I don't either "

Se acumulan las facturas, ser pobre es una basura Mamá siempre me decía que estudiar todo asegura Estudié y nada pasó, maldita vida tan dura Trabajo más que un cabrón, pero follo menos que un cura Qué ironía, qué locura, esto sí, es una tortura Te matas de sol a sol y no tienes ni una escritura Dicen por ahí que no hay mal que más de cien años dura Pero ahí sigue mi ex-suegro que no pisa sepultura.

Tengo un jefe de mierda que no me paga bien Yo llego caminando y él en Mercedes-Benz Me tiene de recluta (te tienen de recluta) El muy hijo de puta (el muy hijo de puta)

( Bills accumulate being poor is rubbish mom always told me that studying everything ensures I studied and nothing happened damm hard life, I work harder than a bastard but I fuck less than a priest, how ironic, how crazy this is torture you kill yourself from dawn to dusk and no you don't even have a writing they say there is no evil that last more than a hundred years but my ex-father-in-law is still there that does not step on a grave)

She sighs after two hours they finally finished the cute Lego flowers sat on the coffee table in the cabin her hands hurting so is his " this is worth the pain " she said with a stupid grin being held proudly on her face making the Raven hair boy laugh his first actual laugh

Tengo un jefe de mierda que no me paga bien Yo llego caminando y él en Mercedes-Benz Me tiene de recluta (te tienen de recluta) El muy hijo de puta (el muy hijo de puta).

( I have a shitty boss who doesn't it pay me well, I arrive walking and he in Mercedes-Benz he has me as a recruit (he has me as a recruit ) the very son of a bitch (the very son of a bitch) )

Estás soñando con irte del barrio Tienes todo pa' ser millonario Gustos caros, la mentalidad Solo te falta el salario.

( You are dreaming of leaving neighborhood, you have everything to be a millionaire Expensive tastes, mentality you only need the salary)

She held her hand up for a high five and he laughs before giving her a week high five " you could do better then that " she teased he rolls his eyes and gave her another high five this time a little more stronger she grins " yeah "

Tienes un jefe de mierda que no te paga bien Tú llegas caminando y él en Mercedes-Benz Te tiene de recluta el muy hijo de p- 'Toy soñando con irme del barrio Tengo todo pa' ser millonario Gustos caros, la mentalidad Solo me falta el salario Lili Melgar Para ti esta canción, que no te pagaron la indemnización Otro pedo, como siempre, a la ve-

( you have a shitty boss who doesn't pay you well, you arrive walking and he in Mercedes-Benz, he has me as a recruit the very son of a p-)

As they laugh the door to the Demeter's cabin open and Percy looks at the two " oh??. " he ran his hand through his Raven hair that was wet both Nico and her look at each other before laughing she asked Percy " did you fall into the pond or something " he grins " no.. I slipped and fall in the water " they all laugh together

Estás soñando con irte del barrio Tienes todo pa' ser millonario Gustos caros, la mentalidad Solo me falta el salario.

( toy dreaming of leaving neighborhood, I have everything to be a millionaire Expensive tastes, Mentality I only need the salary)

[a-french-coconut]

Drew Tanaka (Part 9)

"Peace at last ?"

"I wouldn't say peace," Drew says as she struggles to put reins on Porky, "it's more like a truce."

"Why's that ?" Connor asks her, leaning on Porky's stable.

"Well," she grunts as the pegasus moves his head again, "I talked to her about Silena and she understood, but she seemed kinda nervous about the whole thing."

"You think she's hiding something ?"

"I don't know-stop moving your damn head- no, not you Connor, the horse."

"It's unlikely, though." Connor says as he hands her the saddle pad, "she's too new to this world to be involved in something."

"Thanks, I wouldn't so sure about that. Remember her quest, a giant kidnapped her father ? It's the first time monsters use our mortal links to threaten us."

"Maybe she's got a really good relationship with her dad," Connor shrugs, "and we, a whole generation with parental issues, don't get how someone could use our mortal parents to blackmail us." He snorts, "If someone told me they had my mother, I would offer them a gift."

"Give me the saddle. Piper didn't seem on good terms with her dad. Famous actor, Tristan Mclean ?"

"I've been at camp since I was a child Drew, I have no idea who that is."

"Anyway, she told me they didn't speak a lot." She adjusts the saddle, give Porky an apple to distract him while she mounts him. "I think the whole story is fishy."

"Are you sure you like Piper ? Because you sure seems to try to find her problems."

"I'm not trying" she rolls her eyes, "but one disaster was enough, I don't need another Silena."

"Drew," Connor says softly, "Silena is dead, the war is over. Don't you think you're searching with something that isn't there ?"

"What ?" She snaps, "you think I'm crazy ?"

"I'm not saying that, but you've been so obsessed with "Piper being a new Silena" thing-"

"I wasn't obsessed, Stoll," she grits, "Piper thinks like Silena, she has charmspeak just like Silena, what else does she have in common with her too ?"

"What ? You think she's traitor ?" Connor cackles, "please, Drew, it's ridiculous."

"Listen, Stoll," she hisses, gripping Porky's mane tightly, "if all you are going to do is laugh at me, you can go. There is something weird with the whole quest. Piper insisted on going despite having no training whatsoever, and oh ! Her dad is kidnapped !"

"Coincidence !" Connor says with an infuriating flippancy, "they wanted leverage, and Jason's mom and Leo's weren't exactly available were they ?"

"Why ?" Drew frowns.

"They're dead."

"How the fuck do you know that ?"

"Annabeth told me about it after Thalia told her last summer and Leo talks a lot."

"Fine, but it doesn't change the fact that it's weird."

"Drew," Connor sighs tiredly, his smile a bit more strained, "I thought you wanted people to like you. You are not going to achieve that by accusing your new sister with no proof at all."

"Oh please, they'll get over it !"

"Accusing someone is big deal," Connor says bitterly, "trust me, it's no fun."

"Connor, it's not the same situation-"

"Except your own suspicions, do you have any concrete proof ?"

"No, but I can find-"

"Did she told you anything that might make her a traitor ?"

"I told you, she looked nervous-"

"Drew !" Connor snaps, "you can't go around telling people Piper is a traitor just because you think she is one !"

"Why not ?" She refutes hotly, "you turned out fine in the end !"

It's not right and she knows it.

She knows the nights Connor spent awake, cursing the campers who accused him, cursing Luke for being his brother.

She knows he doesn't trust people like he used to, not after the Titan war.

"I didn't mean it. Connor, I'm sorry."

But he's leaving.

"Connor !" She yells as he leaves the stables, "I'm sorry !"

Cursing, she dismounts Porky, and runs after the son of Hermes.

"Connor, don't you dare run !"

He runs, fast as a dryad.

"Oh for the love of gods." She groans, picking up speed, "Stoll !".

"Catch me and we'll talk !" He screams, going even faster.

"And no charmspeak !" He adds.

As if she could speak after chasing him for a good solid hour.

She's panting, her legs are aching and burning and they are probably the main show of the afternoon but she keeps running.

She has to apologise because she can't lose her best friend.

"Still there ?" He taunts her, the bastard still breathing perfectly, "Because I can keep going for a long- SOLACE PUT ME DOWN !"

As they pass in front of the infirmary, Will catches Connor and picks him up, bridal style.

"Will, you're the best !" She says when she arrives at their level.

"Don't listen to her, you're the worst." Connor pouts in Will's arms.

"What's been going on between you two ?" The son of Apollo asks sternly.

Drew's sure he would cross his arms if it wasn't for Connor.

"I messed up." She admits.

"She thinks Piper is a traitor." Connor says.

"That's not where I messed up." Drew clarifies.

"Oh yeah, she basically said that you can go around calling people traitors."

"And I'm wrong, I know."

Will sighs, obliged to free Connor to pinch his nose.

"First of all, apologise to Connor."

"Already did."

Will looks at Connor for confirmation and the son of Hermes nods.

"Great, second of all, what the fuck Drew ?"

"See ? It's ridiculous !" Connor exclaims.

"It's not !" She argues, "I have reasons !"

"What are they ?" Will sighs.

She tells me the same thing she told Connor, Piper's weird attitude and the mystery of her dad being kidnapped.

"Nonsense." Connor rolls his eyes.

She's ready to throttle him when Will talks.

"No, there's something weird about Piper's dad."

While Connor's jaw drops to the floor, Drew whoops.

"See, Stoll ? I'm not crazy."

"Wait, I'm not saying she's a traitor." Will warns, "but if her dad was kidnapped, then the giants knew about her."

"But she's new to this world !" Connor protests, "they certainly didn't get the information from here."

"Then it was from before."

"I don't know, Drew, even if the giants knew about her dad, what does it change ? They still saved Hera in the end and nobody died." Will points out.

"Yeah," Connor presses on, "if she was a traitor, she would have sabotaged the quest."

"That ends your theory, Drew." Will smiles, "congrats, your sister is not a traitor !"

"Yeah," she sighs, "I guess so..."

"The normal reaction would to be happy." Connor states.

"I know but you guys didn't see her when we talked about Silena, she looked uncomfortable when I told her she reminded me of her."

"As would anybody when you tell them you remind me of my dead sister." Connor mimics her voice.

"Shut up," Will hits Connor, "you almost had a panic attack when you saw Jason."

"Really ?"

"It wasn't a panic attack," Connor rolls his eyes, "I just freaked out a little when I saw blonde hair and glacial blue eyes."

"He stayed in the infirmary for two hours." Will adds.

"What happened to doctor-patient privacy ?" Connor complains.

"You didn't told me that." Drew frowns.

"Sorry," the son of Hermes says, "I just thought you had enough with your plate with Piper."

"Now that all the skeletons are out of the closet, come in." Will cheerfully push them in the infirmary.

"Why ?" They both ask.

"I need help classing the files."

They both groan.

----------------------------------

Turns out the three of them have very diverse manners to sort things. While Will does it by alphabetical order, Drew tries to create the best colour pattern and Connor ranks it from younger to older.

Will kicks them out rather quickly, as they messed up more his files than actually help him, and Drew wanders back to the archery range, for once empty from any Apollo's children.

She grabs a bow and a quiver, sets the moving targets and begins her training.

Look. String. Shoot.

Black circle.

Both her friends agree, Piper is not a threat.

Patience, follow the target's path.

Shoot, blue circle.

She's a new demigod, a new sister with who Drew got off on the wrong foot.

Two arrows at once, two different targets.

String the bow, bowstring cutting her fingers because she forget her gloves.

Black circle, miss the other.

Too long since she practiced, too long since anyone bothered teaching her.

They relaxed and Percy disappeared.

They thought the war was over and a new one fell upon them, catching them by surprise.

Last arrow, make it count.

Farthest target, moving between trees.

She can't have another Silena, and maybe Connor is right, maybe she's just a lunatic broken by war, a paranoid girl seeing Silena where she isn't.

Breathe, in and out.

Bowstring next to the ear, arrow ready to fly.

Wait for the target.

But Piper was nervous, and she needs to be sure, otherwise the worm of doubt will rot her from inside until it consumed her entirely.

Breathe, steady the arms, don't let them shake.

One last despicable act, one last sister under charmspeak.

Are you a traitor ?

Piper will say no, as Connor and Will say, and Drew will be free from Silena.

No more nightmares.

No more seeing her where she doesn't belong.

Target in front of her, shoot.

Red circle, not yellow.

Drew sighs as she lets down the weapon.

She really needs to practice more.

[superhero--imagines]

Part 1 Here! / Part 2 Here! /Part 3 Here! / Part 4 Here! / Part 5 Here! / Part 6 Here! / Part 7 Here! / Part 8 Here! / Part 9 Here! / Part 10 Here! / Part 11 Here! / Part 12 Here! /Part 13 Here! / Part 14 Here! / Part 15 Here! / Part 16 Here ! / Part 17 Here! / Part 18 Here! / Part 19 Here! / Part 20 here! <This is Part 21!>

A/N: Next part is up, as a small reminder if you are interested in a physical edition of the waking up in pjo series (like an actual book written in short story format just like the waking up in twilight book) our soft interest check is located here, and I'll be launching the hard interest check officially in the new year.

* Your finger taps against the cheap linoleum table.

* ‘I’m in a lot of shit.’

* The problems just keep stacking up, one after the other.

* The lost dog got you out to Colorado, but there are no more open tickets on trains or busses from here—it’s peak season and everyone seems to be moving in or out of the city.

* You’re not sixteen yet so you can’t rent a car, and the solstice is growing closer with every minute.

* So now you’re sitting in a shitty diner, in a shitty town, trying to find some way to shitty California so Percy can meet his degenerate Dad.

Not to mention that this asshole has to be here—you wrinkle your nose as another wave of violent emotion wafts over you

* ‘Can’t he keep it in his pants for ten minutes?’

* Ares grins back at you.

* He looks a lot like his mother, and a little like Maki. You catch pieces of Clarisse in him too. The shape of his nose, the curve of his lip.

* A yellow aura radiates off of him, perfect blond curls pressed against his head, and a bright red flush over the bridge of his nose.

* If he wasn’t being such an asshole tormenting Percy you’d say he was handsome.

* He gives you a wolfish grin, eyes hidden behind a pair of dark sunglasses, his leather jacket wrinkling as he leans forward.

* “I’ve been dying to meet you.”

* Annabeth flinches, Percy glowers, Grover looks like he wants to disappear, you only raise an eyebrow.

* “And why would that be?”

* Ares snorts, leaning back in his chair. “Humble like your old Underworld Daddy, huh?”

* You’d laugh if you weren’t so annoyed with him right now. The children look beside themselves with horror. Ares doesn’t seem to care, using a steak knife to clean his fingers. “You’re all anyone can talk about these days.” He whistles.

* “What about him?” You nod to Percy, who seems about a second from punching him in the face.

* Ares rolls his eyes.

*“Poseidon having a kid? That’s old news, old seaweeds notorious for getting caught up in the moment—everyone knows about his and Amphitrite's agreement.”

*‘Oh my god, Percy’s dad is a swinger.’

*“But Hades having a kid?” You catch a glimmer of Ares' eyes widening from behind his glasses. “That’s interesting.”

*‘Well, he’s not really my Dad.’

*But his fascination with you is starting to make sense. Hades is hopelessly devoted to Persephone, you’re fairly certain he’s never even glanced at someone in a romantic light after devoting himself to her.

*“What’s even more interesting is how they’ve all curled around you, protecting you from the others.” For the first time, you feel a shiver trail down your spine, teeth clenched hard to suppress the natural movement. Even though you can’t see them, you can feel Ares's eyes trained on you, studying every action you make.

*‘He’s suspicious.’

*Persephone did say he’s surprisingly astute for someone who acts like a moron.

*“Not to mention half of the Olympians have given you blessings.”

*That catches you off guard.

*“What?”

*You can feel him keen at your surprise.

*“It’s right there,” he nods towards your jacket-covered sleeve. As if they can only be ignited by a divine voice, the symbols glow.

*“There’s Makaira,” he says pointing to a pale yellow mark of a bird. “Melinoe,” a somber grey mark of a stone. “Hades,” Black with three skulls. “Persephone,” a bright pink peony. “Zagreus,” this one is said with a raised eyebrow at the red sword burned into your skin. “Circe,” an orange bay leaf. “Hecate—nice.” He remarks at the green crescent moon in your skin. “Dionysus,” This is punctuated by a soft smile, the purple strawberries glow under his gaze. “Hera.” The bright yellow dove on the back of your hand.

*Ares eyes squint like he sees something else, something he can’t quite make out. But he says nothing. Only mutters a soft: “That’s weird.”

*Noticing the weakness he’s shown, he grins again.

*‘So that’s the face he uses to hide his real feelings.’

*“Want to add another? I wouldn’t mind giving you a bit of wrath.” His hand glows with an ombré of yellow to red. Your hand instinctively goes to hold Percy back when he rises to smack some sense into the incorrigible god.

*“How about you stop tormenting my friend and tell me what the fuck it is you want.”

*The use of the swear has Grover’s fork clattering to the floor.

*‘It’s rude but at least one of these crappy blessings should protect me right?’

*Ares doesn’t seem to mind, his grin only widening, hands held up in truce, Percy relaxes next to you.

*“I need a simple favor from you.”

*You very much doubt anything that comes from this man’s mouth is going to be simple in the least.

*“I was on a date and—”

*“Oh my god you were harassing Aphrodite again weren’t you?”

*He grows flustered.

*“W-what no—”

*“Yes, you were.” You respond. “Makaria and Melinoe told me all about it, how last month she was having a quiet dinner with her family and you showed up drunk on her lawn slurring love ballads.” Percy actually muffled a snort at that, and Annabeth has to feign excessive interest in the window.

*Ares flushes red in embarrassment.

*“L-look do you want a ride to the west or not?!”

*You do need a ride out of town.

*‘But I’m starting to think it’s not a coincidence all modes of transportation for us are blocked.’

*“So what is it you need?” You ask leaning back in your chair.

*“I left my shield at the old abandoned water park, if you get it for me I’ll get you a ride to the west.”

*You lean back in your chair, he wants something from this—more than just getting a glance at a few demi-gods or his shield.

*‘Which means I can get a little more out of this.’

*“You get us a ride out west and you give Clarisse and her mom a call.”

*He’s baffled by the request, as are the other three children.

*Despite his confusion, he nods.

*“I can do that.”

*“Then we have a deal.”

*There’s a moment of awkward silence, the only sound of Grover half-slurping, half-chewing his plastic straw.

*“A-alright, I have an appointment, it was nice meeting you.” He gives you a slight bow before getting on his motorcycle and ripping his engine into the highway.

*“He’s nicer than I thought he would be.” You say biting one if Percy’s fries.

***

*People should really be more wary of a gaggle of children walking around a city unaccompanied

*Especially when they’re peeking over a wooden fence, eyes swinging right to left as they survey an old water park

*“I think the coast is clear,” Annabeth says.

*“I don’t hear anything.” Grover adds, his ears twitching.

*Your mouth opens, the words: “Let’s wait a few minutes to be sure.” Dancing on the tip of your tongue when Percy jumps the fence.

*The three of you look at him with dumbstruck expression, Annabeth smacks her forehead.

*“What? We were going to do it sooner or later anyway.”

*There’s something haunting about an abandoned water park, rides teaming with algae, inner tubes half inflated still rotating on a lazy River—it’s unsettling.

*What’s even more unsettling are Annabeth’s twinkling eyes when she spots an unlocked gift shop.

*“We can’t just take this stuff Annabeth!” Percy, ever the morally upright young man, says.

*“Watch me.” She hisses back, grabbing a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.

*“Hell yeah! We’re finally doing something fun, hey Annie let’s insight a riot on Main Street so we can loot there too!”

*“Oh man, not you too!” Percy groans. He looks hurt when Grover moved to join you both in your ransacking.

*“If you can’t beat em,” Grover shrugs.

*And that’s how the four of you ended up walking around an abandoned water park looking like ghosts of their catalog models.

*“It’s probably in there.” Grover nods to the Tunnel of Love, it’s one of the few rides they bothered to drain and turn off.

*‘That or Ares drained it himself.’

*Your staff glows in your hand.

*‘What kind of trick is this.’

*Annabeth and Percy race in front of you.

*“Not you too Annie!”

*“I just want to get out of this place! It gives me the creeps!” She calls back.

*That’s not exactly what you want to hear from a twelve-year-old child of Athena

*“Kids, am I right?” Grover says with a sheepish grin from beside you.

*You sigh.

*‘At least one of them has got more than one brain cell.’

*“Tell me about it.”

*You walk to the end of the tunnel, studying the walls and miscellaneous graffiti.

*“So what’s the deal with Aphrodite and Ares?”

*You scoff.

*“It’s just the usual thing, a woman finally figured out they deserve better and the degenerate they left behind thinks otherwise.” Grover looks at you with a puzzled expression,

*“I…I always heard the affair was reciprocated.”

*You scoff again.

*‘Ares would like people to think that.’

*“She woke up one day, all of her kids grown and independent, and realized the only child she was taking care of was her partner and that she’d spent most of her life taking care of other people—”

*Melinoe had a very inquisitive expression when she told you this, like it pained her too, like she was the one who lived through it.

*“—so she left him and married someone who would take care of her. And Ares is still pissed about it I guess because he keeps doing crap like this to win her back.”

*It’s almost abusive when you think about it.

*Grover is silent for a long while.

*“Why don’t people ever talk about this?”

*Your mouth stretches into a fine line.

*“Because maybe it’s easier to avert your eyes sometimes.”

*You don’t hold it against them, Ares is a powerful god, and while Aphrodite is coveted—she doesn’t hold much power on her own.

*‘It’s not easy to call out Zeus’ son for his poor behavior.’

*You both stop when you reach the end of the ride, a dome shaped enclave, gilded with mirrors.

*You and Percy share identical sneers

*‘That jerk really thought Aphrodite would want to meet up somewhere she could stare at herself…did he ever love her?’

*“Let’s go and get it, come on Annabeth—”

*“I’m not going in the Tunnel of Love with you.” She looks completely embarrassed at the notion.

*‘She is only 12 years old after all, it’s natural for her to be embarrassed.’

*“Let’s wait a minute.”

*You can’t just charge into a situation, you have to think things through.

*“So here’s the plan—” you’re positive old shitty blush has an ulterior motive it can’t be this easy to grab a shield. You look to the children, seeing a dash outline where Percy should be. “Where’s P—”

*A click echoed through the chamber.

*Percy’s standing in the middle of the empty pool, a massive silver shield in his hand.

*When he catches your gaze he gives a sheepish shrug.

*“I figured if we were going to die, we might as well die soon.”

*‘Hades, what are these kids watching to get such a negative outlook on life?’

*You’re about to open your mouth to tell him as much when you hear a rumble.

*“Shit.”

*It’s Annabeth’s idea to get on the shield, Grover’s legs that kick away water from you, and Percy’s total concentration on his blooming powers and Annabeth’s tact that keeps you from smashing into rock and riding the tide out the entrance.

*And even though the Cupid statues record you, completely drenched and a little humiliated, next to a sputtering Annabeth, a hyperventilating Grover, and a adrenaline overload Percy breathing fast—you grin.

*‘At least it’s never boring.’

*You point into the camera, still grinning.

*“You owe us.”

*Percy pops out from behind you, waving.

*“Yeah, shows over!”

*You grin.

*‘It’s good to have friends.’

A/N: As a small reminder if you are interested in a physical edition of the waking up in pjo series (like an actual book written in short story format just like the waking up in twilight book) our soft interest check is located here, and I'll be launching the hard interest check officially in the new year.

*Tag List closed, looks like I’ve reached the max!*

Tag List: @holybatflapexpert @atomicsoph @fadingunknowncoffee @hopeworldsupremacy @padsfirewhisky @magical-dreamland @kookiedesi @kiritokunuwu @bleepmorp @flickeringlizard @luckyzipperscissorsbat @jessiegerl @undecided-as-always @officiallydarkgeek

@marsbars09 @yizhoutv @alicesolengg @luxaryllis-primaryacc @time-shardz @cryinghotmess @crow-with-a-hoodie @the-nerdy-fangirl @crackedpumpkin @geekyandgay98

@lazydreamers @agentsofblinks @justsomestuffiguessman @elodietea @mxacegrey @angelic-simp @astrial @babypink224221 @weaponb33 @redactedhimbo @heart-charming  @psychomanias @aliinunderland

@karnellius @lunavixia @cerberus-the-cutie @bes2005 @girlcrafter408 @loser-keiji

[zeezed01]

Chapter Six - First Impressions

The morning was cold, the kind of chill that seeped into your bones and refused to leave. Percy tightened the straps of his pack, his fingers brushing against the worn leather grip of his pistol at his hip. Beside him, Leo adjusted his jacket, which had more patches than original fabric. The two stood just outside the hospital, their breaths misting in the early light. Behind them, Annabeth and the others lingered, their faces a mix of caution and hope.

“Stick to the route we planned,” Annabeth said, her tone sharp, but her eyes softened as they flicked to Percy. She stepped closer, handing him a folded map with marked routes and landmarks. “Avoid the main roads, stay quiet, and don’t do anything stupid.”

Percy smirked. “You make it sound like I’m prone to reckless heroics.”

Annabeth didn’t smile. “You are. Just… don’t this time, okay?”

Percy nodded, his usual humor fading. “I’ll be careful.”

Leo, standing off to the side, looked between the two and rolled his eyes. “Okay, mom and dad, we get it. Be safe, don’t die. Let’s hit the road before someone decides to start with the long goodbyes.”

Annabeth shot him a glare, but Leo’s quip had broken some of the tension. Piper handed Percy a spare knife, its blade gleaming dully in the light. “Just in case,” she said. “And if you run into trouble…”

“We run,” Percy finished. “I know.”

With that, the two set off, leaving the hospital and its familiar ruins behind.

The streets were a graveyard of civilization. Broken storefronts lined their path, their shattered windows gaping like empty mouths. Cars were abandoned in the middle of the road, their frames rusted and interiors stripped. Overhead, the skeletal remains of skyscrapers loomed, their jagged edges piercing the overcast sky.

Percy’s boots crunched over the uneven asphalt, the sound unnervingly loud in the stillness. His boots were sturdy but not comfortable—the soles thin from wear, letting him feel every sharp edge beneath his feet. Leo didn’t fare much better, his sneakers duct-taped at the seams, their worn treads offering little grip.

“What do you think this place used to be like?” Leo asked, breaking the silence as they passed a toppled traffic light.

Percy glanced at him, scanning the empty street ahead. “I don’t know. Busy, probably. People rushing to work, grabbing coffee, honking at each other in traffic. Normal stuff.”

Leo snorted. “Bet it didn’t smell this bad, though.”

Percy smirked, but his focus stayed on the road. He was keenly aware of the weight of his pistol against his side, the way his hand hovered near it with every step. The air felt heavier the closer they got to their destination, and the stillness carried a tension that set his nerves on edge.

“What do you think this camp is like?” Leo asked after a moment.

Percy shrugged. “No idea. Could be a group of friendly survivors. Could be another pack of psychos.” He shot Leo a sidelong glance. “You still good with this?”

Leo’s grin didn’t quite reach his eyes. “You kidding? I love walking into potentially deadly situations.”

After hours of walking, the first signs of the camp came into view. Smoke curled lazily into the sky, the faint scent of burning wood carrying on the breeze. Percy motioned for Leo to crouch behind a row of rusted-out cars, and the two of them peered over the hoods.

The camp was enclosed by a chain-link fence topped with barbed wire. The fence itself was reinforced with wooden panels and sheets of corrugated metal, a makeshift fortification that looked sturdy enough to keep out the dead—or anyone unwelcome. At the gate, two men stood guard, rifles slung casually over their shoulders. They looked relaxed but alert, their eyes sweeping the road ahead.

Inside, white canvas tents were arranged in neat rows, their pristine appearance starkly contrasting with the filth of the outside world. Men—most of them white and dressed in military-style clothing—moved with purpose. They carried rifles, pistols, and the occasional machete, their weapons a natural extension of themselves. Women were present too, though fewer in number, tending to communal fires or moving supplies. They seemed quieter, their interactions subdued.

“Damn,” Leo muttered. “These guys look… well-fed. And armed. A little too armed.”

Percy nodded slowly, his eyes scanning the camp. “They’re organized. Military maybe. Or something like it.”

“Yeah, but they don’t look like they’re starving.” Leo gestured toward a man unloading crates of canned goods from a truck near one of the larger tents. “You think they’d be willing to share?”

Percy didn’t answer right away. Something about the place felt off, though he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. The people inside the camp moved with a kind of discipline that suggested they weren’t just surviving—they were thriving. And yet, the sight of so many weapons made his stomach churn.

“We’re going in,” he said finally.

Leo looked at him, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. “You sure about this?”

“No,” Percy admitted. “But we need to know what we’re dealing with.”

The guards stopped them at the gate, their rifles raised but not aimed. Percy raised his hands slowly, his tone calm. “We’re not looking for trouble. Just passing through and heard there was a camp.”

The guards exchanged a look before one of them disappeared inside. Moments later, a tall, broad-shouldered man emerged. He wore a black vest over a gray shirt, a handgun holstered at his side. His sharp blue eyes studied them like they were specimens under a microscope.

“I’m Davis,” he said. “You’re lucky we’re feeling generous today. Come on in.”

Percy and Leo exchanged a glance but followed him inside.

Up close, the camp was even more impressive. The paths were swept clean, the tents pristine. There was no trash, no sign of decay. Men worked methodically, reinforcing parts of the fence or patrolling the perimeter. A group practiced at a makeshift firing range, their shots cracking sharply in the air.

The women were quieter, tending to a communal kitchen or sitting in small clusters. Their interactions were subdued, their laughter rare. Percy noticed one of them flinch when a man barked an order nearby.

“What’s the deal with this place?” Leo whispered.

“I don’t know,” Percy said, his voice low. “But keep your eyes open.”

Davis led them to a large tent near the back of the camp. Inside, a folding table was set up with clipboards, pens, and stacks of papers.

“You’ll need to fill these out,” Davis said, gesturing to the forms. “Basic information. Name, age, skills. Standard stuff.”

Percy picked up a clipboard, scanning the questions. Most were simple—name, age, useful skills—but as he read further, his stomach tightened. Some of the questions were strange: Do you have military experience? Do you have children? What are your views on community loyalty?

Leo raised an eyebrow but didn’t comment, his pen scratching against the paper as he filled out his form. Percy followed suit, though he hesitated over some of the stranger questions.

When they were done, Davis collected the forms without reading them. “You’ll stay the night. We’ll talk more tomorrow.”

As they were led to a small tent near the edge of the camp, Percy couldn’t shake the feeling that they were being watched. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting the camp in shadows. Despite the glow of the fire pit and the distant hum of conversation, the unease in his chest only grew.

[cherrywrites626]

HFOBG Chapter 18 Sneak Peek

By the time they made it back outside, the sky was already streaked with hues of orange and pinks, the sudden lateness of the hour surprising to him if only because it meant they’d have to postpone much of the plan until the following morning when visibility and overall alertness would be key to their impending success.

Not that he wanted to wait another twelve-or-so hours to get the show on the road.  If left up to him, he would have marched right out those gates and set everything into immediate action—but something told him the greater majority of those who stood up and backed him only minutes prior would turn on him the moment he suggested engaging a horde of zombies in less-than-ideal conditions.  Especially if it meant forgoing dinner.

As if it heard his blasphemous thoughts and disapproved of their conjecture, Nico’s stomach let out an angry growl of protest loud enough he felt his face burn with embarrassment when several pairs of eyes turned his way, the people attached to them sporting varying expressions of outward amusement.

“I guess that answers the ‘what’s next’ question,” Percy quipped, sidling up to him from behind and clapping a hand down onto his shoulder with enough force he nearly winced.  “I’m sure everyone here can agree with that sentiment.”

“Not all of us were stupid enough to skip lunch,” Piper countered, appearing on his left and linking their arms together—effectively swapping who was encroaching far too close when it dragged him out from underneath the other’s grip in a move that was easily disguised as nonchalant.

Likely so that he wouldn’t have to glare daggers up at the guy until Annabeth stepped in and physically extracted her touchy boyfriend from his personal space—although it hadn’t even crossed his mind to care about the point of contact the way he might once have.

“I could go for a quick meal,” Frank agreed from where he and a handful of others were already standing at the bottom of the short staircase, rubbing his stomach for added emphasis as a sheepish smile tugged the ends of his mouth.  “But I’m always starving.”

“Let’s go get you some food,” Hazel murmured as she took his free hand and entwined their fingers, golden eyes flicking his direction in the next beat with a look that said she was still contemplating locking him outside their home that evening as punishment for their earlier tiff.  “We can all discuss the specifics of what to do after everyone’s blood sugar is back to normal levels.”

“Shall we,” Piper said as she tugged him along in the same general direction without waiting for a response, allowing the remainder of people filing out of the building the freedom of unobstructed movement.

Sparing a glance over his shoulder, his gaze locked onto the person he was most certain would help with his current plight.  “Actually,” he mumbled, letting the word hang out in the open for the other to finish his train of thought.

Will only smiled and gave a noncommittal shrug.  “They won’t mind having to wait for us a little while longer,” he reminded him, having correctly distinguished the cause for his initial hesitation.  “We haven’t exactly eaten anything ourselves since early this morning.”

“Who,” Percy asked, frowning at the two of them curiously.

Nico heaved a tired sigh, returning his neck back to a less awkward position and addressing the obvious with a small pout.  “Our friends,” he replied, gesturing off toward the northern end of town.  “We promised them we’d be back ‘soon’ several hours ago.”

“You left your friends outside of town with a pack of zombies on the loose?”

“Seriously,” Annabeth groaned in unison with several other audible sounds of pained disbelief, expression caught somewhere between incredulity and fond exasperation at the stupidity of the question.  The guy only seemed to grow even more perplexed at the collective response to his inquiry the longer it remained unanswered, grey eyes rolling with a derisive snort before she acquiesced with a small smile.  “The zombies are the ‘friends’.”

“Oh,” Percy agreed, nodding along as if he finally understood his initial faux pas.  A beat passed, and his frown returned once more.  “Wait.  We can make friends with the zombies?”

------------------------------

Go read the last update here and don't forget to check back next Friday for this one to drop!

[lovelyladyabsinthewrites]

hey 😘 do you think you could write a percy jackson x sister reader. it's totally up to you and i'm good with anything but angst/annabeth involved with percy. thank you!!

The Curse of Aphrodite

Pairing: Percy Jackson x Jackson!Reader

Warnings: implied in*est, sibling in*est, Aphrodite being petty

Words: 1866

Summary: You should have feared Aphrodite just as much as you feared Ares. She was terrifying, and her revenge might as well have just ruined your life.

(This is an older fic from my A03 but figure it was perfect for this request :>)

Another hectic day of being a demigod. Trying to keep a low profile from monsters and worst of all. . . getting through Valentine’s Day at school. All the pink hearts and cupids that littered the school’s halls was enough to make anyone grow nauseous. You and your brother Percy could only grin and bear it, for any grumpy comments might carry over to the Goddess of Love herself. She already wasn’t too pleased with Poseidon’s twins. Sure she was willing to give you and Percy advice last summer in that hellish junkyard, but it was for her own agenda and you didn’t like that one bit. And of course as all your friends were well aware of, you wore all your emotions on your sleeve. Including your distaste for the love goddess. Aphrodite saw it bright as day. Used to being adored by millions, she didn’t take too well to your disdain. For even though she let you and Percy out of her limo, you caught her once fluttery eyes ice over when she looked at you. You really should have listened to Annabeth and keep a mask on when you interacted with the gods.

Now you were going through one of the worst days of your life, and that's saying a lot. Everything that could go bad, did. And poor Percy was stuck with you for the entire ride.

“Here.” Percy handed you a slightly dampened paper towel.

Grumbling a ‘thank you’, you take it and dab the front of your shirt that was stained with spaghetti sauce. Your face was still red from the humiliation. Everyone had seen in the cafeteria how your tray of spaghetti seemed to explode onto you.

Percy had helped you clear a few noodles that had landed in your hair.

Gritting your teeth, you begin to rub furiously. “It HAS to be her. Of all freaking days!”

“You should have just been nice to her.”

“Not my fault that you were the googly-eyed one in front of her. That’s how her power works because guys don’t think with their brains!”

“Suiting since Ares doesn’t have any brains.” Snidely remarked Percy with a coy smile. Putting himself at risk just to make you smile was enough to make you dryly chuckle. Percy didn’t have it easy either. Him and Ares had been butting heads ever since your first summer at Camp Half-Blood. He should have feared the animosity that Ares possessed toward him. That was certainly one god you didn’t want to mess with.

Finally admitting defeat, you throw away your paper towel and simply sigh. “Can’t we just ditch for the rest of the day?”

As if he had been debating the same thing seconds ago, Percy easily replied “Mom would kill us. We already have a truancy record here anyway. We just have to push through it.”

That was the last thing you wanted to hear. Hearing it out loud made you want to cry out in frustration. Sitting on the dirty hallway floor next to you, Percy throws an arm over your shoulder. “We’ve been through worse days. In comparison, today is just an annoying hiccup.”

“Even fighting monsters I never had to deal with smelling like cafeteria spaghetti.”

You feel Percy begin to sniff you like a dog, prying a giggle out of you. “I don’t know. It’s not such a bad smell. I happen to like cafeteria spaghetti.”

Rolling your eyes, you offer “Want to switch shirts then?”

“No way!” Percy laughs. “I wouldn’t even be able to squeeze into it.”

Simply imagining Percy stretching out your shirt was enough to make you snort. You had always been the one with a temper and prone to dark moods. Percy, without fail, could find a way to make you laugh. He was your twin after all. No one knew you better than Percy did. He knew the inner workings of your mind and the remedies to whatever ailed you. Claiming it was his duty as the older twin to take care of his younger sibling. There was pride in his voice when he told you that.

“Thanks Perc.” you quietly whisper.

“No problem (nickname).”

That made you groan again. “I told you not to call me that in public.”

You help eachother up once the bell rings and sling your backpack over your shoulder. Of course as students swarmed the halls to get to their next class, many stared your way.

Percy squeezes your hand before leaving you for his own class. “Remember, we’ve been through worse than this.”

Nodding, you squeeze back in return. You were a daughter of Poseidon for crying out loud! Aphrodite didn’t scare you one bit. She can go ahead and make your clothes a mess as much as she wanted. You had fought deadlier monsters than the Lady of the Doves.

Glaring at a sparkly cut out of cupide, you internally challenge her.

Children of Poseidon truly did have seaweed for brains. When you thought you had made it through the school day, there was a storm waiting for you on the walk home. Not an actual storm thankfully, but one that would ruin your life regardless.

Outside of school there was hardly any reminder of the hallmark holiday except for a few flower vendors at each busy corner. Bouquets of red, white, and yellow roses were being sold by the dozen. Store window displays were decorated with multiple shades of pink. At least you were almost home where you could safely hide in your room, put the entire day behind you.

At one corner, Percy presses the crosswalk button while bouncing on his heels impatiently. You look across the street, past the zooming cars to see more street vendors selling Valentine’s Day treats and other cheap trinkets for desperate partners.

Crosswalk light alerting you that it was safe, you and Percy make your way to the other side.

Even though you hated the holiday, you enviously eyed the tasty looking treats for sale. Cookies shaped like conversation hearts caught your attention. They were well made and utterly cute.

Percy stops and looks over your shoulder. “You want one?” He picks up a cellophane package that had two of the cookies comfortably inside, tied off with a red ribbon. There’s even a blue one in here!”

Shocking, Percy liked the blue one. It made you smile how he would never change at least in that manner.

You scooch closer to your brother to read the icing on them. The blue cookie was on top, reading: Be Mine. The other one you couldn’t see as it was hiding behind the top.

“You two make such a cute couple.” An older lady with a knitted lilac beanie atop her crazy curls smiles at you and Percy.

Inwardly you vomit. “Actually-”

“We’re not-” Percy’s voice reacted at the same time with your own protest but the older lady just laughs.

“Aw to be young and shy. Because you two are so cute, I’ll give you them for free!”

Both you and Percy are quick to protest but they fall on deaf ears as she pushes the cookies further into Percy’s hands.

“I insist!”

Glancing at Percy you know he was just as exhausted with arguing with her as you were.

“Um, okay. Thank you so much.” Awkwardly, Percy unzips his backpack and places the cookies safely inside.

Grabbing his arm, you start hurrying the both of you away. “Thank you! You’re very generous!”Once you’re out of her hearing range you shudder. “Couldn’t she tell we’re related?”

“Probably not with those big, pink tinted, sunglasses.” Shrugs Percy. “At least we got free cookies out of it!”

“I’m kinda skeptical about them now.” Warily you shift your attention to his backpack. “It doesn’t make sense that she just let us have them for free.”

“Don’t knock on the first good thing that’s happened to you today!”

Exactly. It was too good to be true. If Annabeth were there, she would agree with you.

When you got home however, the smell of the cookies was simply too good for you to ignore.

Percy handed you the one that had been underneath the blue cookie. The icing was yellow, written on it simply: Love.

You inhale the sweet scent before biting into a corner. Percy hadn’t waited around to eat his cookie like you had.

“That has got to be the best cookie ever.” He comments through a semi-full mouth with cookie crumbs dusting the front of his shirt.

They were amazing. So delicious, you wished you had more to munch on.

“We should have gotten one for mom.” You mention while collapsing on the couch, remote in hand. Homework could wait. You needed to de-stress after the day you had. Your brother didn’t answer you as he had ventured to your shared bedroom. Not paying much attention, you flip through the channels. Down the hall you were able to hear Percy shuffling around the room.

And then a gagging noise.

You sit up. “You okay Perc?”

More gagging had you bolting from the couch and into your room where Percy was on his hands and knees. Back arched, his dry heaving continued.

“Per-” Oh no. A nauseous squirming sensation bubbling in your stomach. Incredibly uncomfortable, you brace yourself against the door frame. Your vision was spinning. For some reason, a memory popped into your head. You, sitting in the back of a limo, arms crossed while your brother did everything in his power to resist Aphrodite’s charm.

”Twins are so special.” She had said. “Have you heard the legend behind twins? They say lovers who commit suicide are reincarnated as twins. Isn’t that romantic?”

Just thinking of her voice made a shiver run through you.

Then it just stopped. Nausea gone and head back to normal, you open your eyes to find Percy recovering too. “Those stupid cookies. . .”

“I told you.” You remark with a small smile. Watching as your brother rolled himself into a sitting position, you run your hand over your forehead. Maybe you should call your mom so she could take you to the hospital. There was clearly something in those cookies. Perhaps you would even get sick again later. If you induced vomiting that should be enough to get it out of your system right?

“(y/n). . .” You heard Percy breathe out and you fear he’s about to feel sick again. When you look at him though, he’s staring right back at you with those gentle sea foam eyes of his. They were sparkling, a misty awe to them as your own heart fluttered in your chest. That’s when you felt like you were floating.

Percy blinked, unable to lift whatever spell the both of you were under.

You think back to your own cookie.

Love.

How stupid you had been. Aphrodite. Of course it was Aphrodite, and this was her curse. She must have been in disguise as the vendor. What a naive child you still were; you should have feared her just as you did Ares. Her vengeance was much more evil. For she could warp the sibling love you had for your twin. Warp it into another Greek Tragedy.