Chocolate

The moment seemed surreal. They sat on the Argo II couch, after nearly ransacking the kitchen for to most unhealthy food they could find, and were smiling and laughing. The others had decided to clean their battle wounds after Percy and Annabeth. They all had injuries from the battle that only took place an hour ago. Percy and Annabeth had been saved from Tartarus. Annabeth was laughing, with a chocolate bar inches from her lips. He couldn't even remember what he had said, but as long as she was laughing- as long as she was there- Percy could breath.

"How long, Mr. Jackson," Her nose crinkled as she tried not to laugh at the new nickname, "Has it been since we have had greasy pizza, soda, and," With sparkling eyes, she said "Chocolate?"

Percy felt himself smile as Annabeth leaned against him, her eyes alight. She broke a bite-size chocolate piece off the bar and popped it in her mouth. Despite having starved for nearly a week, he looked at his food, losing his appetite. She looked at him, and concern replacing the smile.

"Percy, what's wrong?" She grabbed his hand. He looked at her, wondering how she knew him so well. Or maybe his watering eyes were more noticeable then he thought.

"Annabeth." His throat constricted and he stopped, only to whisper, "We made it Annabeth. We are alive."

She did not tease him, because she knew how close to death they were. She looked up at his face, catching his cheek with her hand as he tried to look away.

"We are alive." She confirmed, placing her other hand on his neck. And she leaned in, so their noses were nearly touching. "And together." Her eyes danced across his face, and landed on his lips. "Forever."

Percy could not help it. He kissed her. The two quickly forgot about the food and in seconds, they laid on the couch together, laughing, facing each other. Annabeth pressed against the couch to make more room, but Percy knew they both didn't mind the proximity of it all. With legs tangled together, Percy played with Annabeth's blond curls, as she dozed off.

After some time, the blond looked up. "I'm sorry."

Percy's eyes opened to the pitch darkness of his room onboard the Argo II, and his uneven breathing filled the air. He grasped at the sheets next to him, realizing it was just him.

He rolled over and sobbed into the darkness.

Because no matter how bad the other five's nightmares were, he could guarantee his were worst.