A/N: Thanks to everyone who has already followed and favorited this story.
Special thanks to PixelUp and Doughnutswilderness for reviewing - I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Disclaimer: I do not own the Percy Jackson series.
Reyna
Sally didn't personally recognize the girl standing behind Percy and Annabeth, but from hearing detailed descriptions of the peace negotiations at camp ("Curse those toga-wearing Senators!", "Frank almost turned into a lion today, he was so mad!"), Sally had a pretty good idea of who she was.
"Mom!" Percy grinned, and she couldn't help the relief she felt every time she saw him. She had seen him many times since the Giant War, but after months missing, she worried a lot more easily.
"I got your message twenty minutes ago," she smiled. "I'm so glad you could stop by Percy. And Annabeth. And…"
"Oh!" Percy jumped, and Annabeth rolled her eyes. The other girl pursed her lips and nodded at Sally.
"Reyna. Praetor of Camp Jupiter." She reached forward, holding out her hand, and Sally shook it.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Reyna. I've heard a lot about you." The daughter of Bellona's eyebrows shot up in surprise.
"Reyna, this is my mom, Sally Jackson," Percy finally managed, and Reyna cracked a smile.
"We need to work on your introduction skills." Annabeth elbowed him, and at Sally's invitation the trio trooped into the house.
For all the scary-praetor-lady comments Sally had heard, Reyna looked unsure of herself standing in the living room.
"There's leftover Chinese in the fridge, and a pack of Cokes in the office," Sally called, heading into the kitchen.
"Thanks, Ms. Jackson. I can heat the food up," Annabeth insisted, brushing past her and opening the fridge. "What do you guys want?"
"Fried rice and dumplings," Percy kissed Annabeth's cheek as he passed through the kitchen. "I'll grab the Cokes."
Annabeth smiled. "Reyna?"
"I'm good, thanks." She leaned against the wall, arms crossed.
Noting that the other two were busy, Sally headed back into the living room.
"It's really no trouble; we ordered way too much the other day."
"I'm not that hungry, but thank you." Reyna stood up straighter, offering her a smile. Sally noticed the dark circles under her eyes, the weariness in her voice.
"You look tired," she prompted with a gentle smile. "Are they overworking you at camp?"
Reyna shook her head, sighing. "I was just up a little late reviewing some paperwork. We have another Senate meeting later today. Just normal duties." Her voice was calm, polite.
Sally frowned for a moment, making a mental note to corner Annabeth and ask her about how much Reyna had really been working.
"Make sure you're getting your rest," she replied. Reyna's eyebrows scrunched together, and Sally held up her hands. "General mom duty. I've seen enough tired teenagers, and you seem to be pushing yourself too hard."
"I'm doing my job." Now her voice had an edge to it.
"I'm not criticizing, I promise." Sally slid her hands into her pockets, keeping her voice reassuring. "But just so you know, any friend of Percy's is always welcome here. If you need to get some air anytime while you're still in New York, just hop on the railroad or a pegasus and swing by."
Now Reyna looked confused, like she was trying to process Sally's words.
"I…thanks."
Sally realized that Reyna wasn't used to having a real parent around, someone to take care of her. And although she had only just met her, Sally was determined to make sure the brave, dedicated praetor wasn't taking too much on her shoulders all the time.
Percy poked his head into the living room. "Drinks are on the table. Reyna, last chance for some Chinese?"
She blew out a long breath. "Alright, I suppose. Is there any vegetable lo mein? Just a little."
"Uh…Annabeth?"
"Yup! Got it!"
"Come on," Sally walked towards the kitchen, glancing briefly over her shoulder. Reyna followed, smiling properly for the first time since arriving at the apartment.
Aaand...friendly reminder that I am taking requests, and I'm open to covering characters more than once, so don't let that deter you!