I don't own anything you recognize! This is a pretty long chapter with loads of Percabeth fluff! We've pasted 100 reviews! Thank you! You guys are the best! Last time I checked I had 104 reviews for this story. I know some writers can get over a hundred for a chapter but I'm thankful for the ten I get! Seriously you guys this is awesome. Thank you! Hopefully this story can get 200 or maybe even 300 reviews! :)
PLEASE READ BOTTOM'S AUTHOR NOTE!
Annabeth Chase:
"Okay ladies are we all set?" I asked excitedly. A.J and Natalie nodded as they gestured around the living room. Today we're going to have a girl's day, since tomorrow is Valentine's day Our Melting Pot is all going to be with other people. Even A.J found someone to hang out with.
"The boys are gone, the movie is ready and we have snacks everywhere. I'd say we have this girl's night ready." Natalie explained with a grin. A.J nodded in agreement.
I smiled and took my spot on the floor in front of the couch. I pulled my knees up to my chest as the movie started. We all get to pick one movie to watch; we're starting with A.J's first. She chose Ted.
A.J was lying on the couch; blankets huddled around her and a bowl on popcorn near her face. Natalie was cuddled up with herself on the recliner, a bowl of different candies in her lap. I grabbed a soda and wiggled in front of the couch. I pulled my blanket tighter around me as the movie started.
It wasn't even ten minutes into the movie I broke the rule of girl's night and started to text Percy. Natalie noticed right away but sent me a wink before turning back to the movie. She's the number one Percabeth shipper. I can't believe I'm in a ship name.
0~0~0~0~0
Percy Jackson:
I sat up when my phone buzzed on the coffee table. Nico glanced at me but went back to his game. Grover was somewhere in the kitchen and Marty was clicking away on his phone against the wall. He was charging his phone. I chewed on my sandwich as I read her text, a small smile already forming. Nico scoffed.
"It's from the blonde isn't it?" He asked roughly. He doesn't have a problem with Annabeth, he just doesn't deal with romance very well.
"How did you-"
"You always get the stupid smile on your face when she's involved." Nico cut me off. Marty glanced up from his phone to actually listen to our conversation. Grover walked back into the living room; a handful of food with him.
"I do not!" I protested. Grover smiled while Nico rolled his eyes. Marty gestured to my phone.
"Well what did she say?"
I looked down at my phone and unbeknownst to me I was smiling again.
From: Annabeth
I miss you :)
When I looked back up at my friends and manager they were all giving me different looks. Marty was raising his eyebrows, Grover was smiling smugly and Nico was giving me his rare cocky look. His face said it all. I rolled my eyes and looked back down at her name.
"She said she misses me." I responded as casually as I could. Grover 'awwed' he's a sucker for romance. Marty smiled and went back to his phone while Nico muttered to himself. I couldn't really hear but I think it was something like 'of course she does.'
Annabeth and I have been dating for a little over a month. And it's been a lot more fun than I would have expected. She's awesome to be around and she makes my stomach feel all fuzzy. I've been a little creepy with the cyber stalking but I've watched almost every YouTube video there is involving her. Her voice just sounds so beautiful it's easy to get lost in it.
I'm not stupid. I know what a crush feels like and it's hard to admit even to myself but I may like Annabeth…Or at least I'm starting too. And that's what makes this whole thing harder. I feel guilty and happy and sad and wonderful when she's around. I love being around her but I can't help but hear a little voice in the back of my head telling me she's a plan. She used to be.
I guess we got what we wanted out of her. In the short month we've been dating people are starting to think a little better of me and I landed the role of Ethan because of her. She did all that for me without actually doing anything.
I've considered telling her about the plan and trying to explain that things are different now that I'm starting to develop feelings for her but I know she wouldn't listen. She's get pissed and would probably punch me then send A.J to punch me then end up hating me. I've been known to be selfish but this takes the case. I can't tell Annabeth because I don't want to ruin whatever we can have. I just don't want her to hate me.
I frowned and looked around. I used to love nights like these, just me and my friends hanging out; maybe a girl or two for sexting but now it feels...duller. And a month ago I would have slapped myself for even thinking something like that but unfortunately it's true. Without Annabeth here it's just boring.
To: Annabeth
I miss you more :)
Yep this girl has sung her way into my heart.
Wait what?
Oh Gods what is she doing to me?
0~0~0~0~0
Annabeth:
"So has he given you a hint? What are you two doing for the big day?" Natalie asked happily as she popped M&Ms in her mouth. A.J opened her mouth in a silent request and without removing her eyes from me she threw a the chocolate candy towards the rocker and 'made the shot'
I watched slightly amazed but mostly amused.
"I think we spend too much time together." I commented with a smile. Natalie smiled and leaned back in her chair, her fuzzy socks sticking out from under her blanket. A.J sat up to grab a magazine; it was a new addition of Music Mania.
"Just wait until we're all stuck together on a tour bus." She supplied as she thumbed through the pages. Natalie and I both nodded.
"Do you really think we could go on a worldwide tour someday?" I asked thoughtfully. We all fell into a silence for a few minutes thinking of the idea.
"Maybe." A.J said lightly. Natalie sighed.
"I'd like to think so. We've worked too hard for too long not too."
I nodded and sighed, letting the daydreams overcome me. Natalie rolled her eyes before snapping her fingers to get my attention. My eyes cleared up from their daze and I stared at her.
"You never answered! What are you and your movie hunk doing tomorrow?"
I shrugged and wrapped the blanket tighter around me, its warmth making me smile. I hesitated to answer. Natalie would surely freak out.
"He uh-He never really asked me if I was free or anything…So I guess we don't have plans."
I winced as Natalie let out an irritated scream. A.J groaned and stuffed her face into her pillow. I looked up at my longtime friend a little worriedly.
"Nat it's not like we can't make any! I know he's been busy with his movie so I have no idea if he can even get tomorrow off."
Natalie was still clearly upset. Why I wasn't completely sure, maybe this is her fangirl side taking over. She didn't care this much with Luke but I guess he was different. I smiled slightly.
"If he does do something special I'll be sure to tell you every detail the next day." I promised. "Besides you should be excited for your date with Matt! Not worrying about me!"
She sighed and shrugged one shoulder. She slumped down on the floor and crawled over next to me. I wrapped a playful arm around her as she leaned back on the couch. A.J patted both our heads; we both had our backs leaning against the couch front.
"I know I'm sorry. I just love you two together and it's about time that you're happy again." She explained quietly. I gave her a weird look.
"What are you talking about? I've been happy, I was happy before Percy came along."
"But not nearly this much." A.J added in. "You're been walking on air Blondie."
I blushed, only slightly embarrassed. I nodded slowly then smiled.
"Yeah I guess, but I was happy before too."
Natalie shoved me playfully and sat up to rest on her knees. She gave an excited eep and looked at me expectantly.
"So what are you going to do if he tries you know…"
A.J rolled her eyes.
"Are you thirteen?" She asked our red headed friend before looking down at me. "What if he wants to get down and dirty?"
I blushed a deeper red this time and scoffed lightly. I honestly wasn't expecting that question mostly because I haven't talked to them about that; I probably wasn't going to for a while!
Percy and I haven't had sex. I can tell he wants too; it sometimes isn't hard to tell. But I just can't yet. I get that I'm a grown adult and it shouldn't matter like it does in high school but this is kind of a big deal for me. No I'm not a virgin and clearly he isn't either. Which is part of the problem.
"I'll tell him I'm not ready." I answered honestly. I sighed and took a sip of my soda, my friends still waiting for me to better explain myself. I sighed again, this one deeper and looked over at them somewhat sadly.
"Percy's been with plenty of women. We all know that."
A.J gave me a look that quickly turned into a glare.
"Are you worried about not being good enough or som-"
"No!" I cried out. I can't believe she just said that.
"Okay well are you worried about him having a STD?"
I don't think my blush will ever die down. I shook my head and looked over at A.J with an impatient look.
"No! If you would just listen I'll tell you why I'm not ready."
Natalie was still waiting. AJ held up her hands in a defense pose before gesturing for me to continue. I sigh and ran a nervous hand through my hair.
"Okay so Percy's been with a lot of women; a lot. And it's not that that particular fact bothers me it's just what the sex meant to him; nothing it all meant nothing. So I guess I'm not ready because well…I'm scared."
Both friends were quiet. I didn't like the silence and since I was nervous I rambled.
"I don't want to have sex with him if it means he'll just pack up and leave the next day. Like he's done so many times before. How do I even know this is real? Oh Gods…"
Natalie sensing I was freaking out pulled me to her and started to stroke my hair, like a Mother would do for her child. She smiled at me comfortingly.
"Annabeth he isn't using you. Why would he?" I didn't return her smile. "You need to talk to him about this; this is what relationships are. You need to tell him what you're scared of and see what he has to say. I'm sure he'll understand."
"What if he doesn't?" I asked quietly. Natalie didn't waste time to answer; I guess she didn't even need to think about it.
"Then he isn't worth your time." She told me sincerely. "You're the best there is Annabeth. And if he doesn't respect you enough to wait…Well then he doesn't deserve you."
0~0~0~0~0
Terry had promised us we would get most of Valentine's Day off. With our CD finally going on sale and all the great work we've been doing we deserve that but I guess I can understand why we had to play a small concert. Couples love music, and bands play music. It's a pretty awesome date to see a concert together.
So I don't like it but I get it.
After the somewhat serious conversation with the girls yesterday I hadn't been able to talk to Percy. Childish maybe but I needed what little time I had to myself to think. I didn't really get too. I stopped texting Percy after that conversation but I was so busy hanging out with my two best friends I hardly noticed.
We talked and laughed and joked around. When we started talking about cute movie stars (a certain one excluded) I felt like we were in high school all over again. I miss that feeling. We all passed out around three in the morning and had to get up at eight to be able to be at this performance on time.
Owen is going to hang out with some guy friends tonight in a popular bar. AJ is meeting up with an old friend and her boyfriend, they promised to bring someone for her. Obviously Natalie and Matt are going to do something, probably dinner and a movie. Then that just leaves me.
Percy called this morning but I hadn't heard my phone ringing. He texted telling me he was going to be shooting a certain scene today but after that he was free. I didn't know if that was his way of telling me we can do something together tonight. Thankfully I didn't have time to think about it because I've been going and going all morning, I don't even have time to blink.
I adjusted the microphone and glanced around with a sigh. Owen waved at me making me smile as I waved back. Things have been slowly getting better between him and I. I can tell he still likes me but he's not as bad as he used to be. He's really trying to move on because he knows it's what's best. I couldn't be happier that we still have the best of friendships.
Natalie walked up to tell me we'd be on in five. I nodded and smiled to myself when I saw her outfit. She was wearing red skinny jeans and a black shirt that said in red writing 'I love drummers!' I know some of the paparazzi already got a few pictures of her in it. It's too cute to miss. I know Matthew loved it.
I glanced down at my own outfit secretly wondering what Percy would think if he saw me. I'm not one for skirts but Natalie convinced me and since it's basically the only red bottoms I own I decided why not? I had on a lace red skirt that when to my knees, a white tank top with little red hearts all over it and a tan denim jacket on. Since Natalie okayed it and since she knows too much about fashion I figured it'd be okay for today.
As I peeked down at the crowd below I started to frown. I wasn't really in the mood to sing a love song but Terry told us we needed to sing two songs from the album and I can't sing the song Owen and I wrote. Today's about love and even though I don't feel it right now I have to suck it up.
When I gave the signal the stage would slowly lower and we would be brought to the crowd. AJ would sing her song first then I'd sing one of our newer ones. We'll wish everyone a good day and tell them about our CD then be on our way.
I sighed and rubbed my temple, a headache already forming. It's unsettling how one person can make me feel this way. I've never been upset on the stage and yet here I am! Wanting nothing more to be at home. AJ smiled at me somewhat sadly before I nodded. Better get it over with.
I grabbed my guitar and moved to the side so AJ could have center stage. I gave them the signal and the lights flashed below to let the crowd know. We all shared a look before starting to play.
AJ, Annabeth, Both
"La la la la la la
I like your smile
I like your vibe
I like your style
But that's not why I love you."
By now we could see the crowd and I smiled slightly when I saw all the happy couples. They were cheering but not clapping. Most of them were holding hands so they couldn't.
"And I, I like the way
You're such a star
But that's not why I love you
Hey! Do you feel,
Do you feel me?
Do you feel what I feel too?
Do you need,
Do you need me?"
I mentally cursed when my mind wandered to Percy. Was he still shooting? Did he want to spend the day with me? Is he thinking about me too? I almost missed my cue so I quickly snapped out of it.
"You're so beautiful
But that's not why I love you
I'm not sure you know
That the reason I love you
Is you being you
Just you
Yeah the reason I love you
Is all that we've been through
And that's why I love you."
The crowd cheered again and I smiled slightly. The warm feeling I get from performing is still there and I can feel it, it just doesn't make me as happy as the warm feeling I get from Percy does. Maybe that's my problem. I might care about him more then he cares about me.
"La la la la la
La la la la la
I like the way
You misbehave
When we get wasted
But that's not why I love you
And how you keep your cool
When I'm complicated
But that's not why I love you
Heyyy
Do you feel?
Do you feel me?
Do you feel what I feel too?
Do you need?
Do you need me?
You're so beautiful
But that's not why I love you
And I'm not sure you know
The reason I love you
Is you being you
Just you
Yeah the reason I love you
Is all that we've been through
And that's why I love you."
As AJ let out some wicked "Ohhs." I played the small guitar solo just like she showed me. Now normally I'd let her do the punk rock stuff but she seemed to want to give me something to show off so I agreed.
"Even though we didn't make it through
I am always here for you, y-y-you
You're so beautiful!
But that's not why I love you
I'm not sure you know
(That the reason!)
The reason I love you
Is you being you
Just you
(Yeah!)
Yeah the reason I love you
(All that we've been through!)
Is all that we've been through
And that's why I love you
La la la la la
(Ohh ohh)
(That's why I love you.)
The crowd let out a roar of applause when I strummed the last note. Owen fist pumped and I laughed into the mic, making people laugh too. AJ looked incredibly happy and I made a mental note to write more songs for her to sing. She's good.
Our little moment didn't last long. She eagerly handed me my old acoustic and waited for me to play again. I took it with a sigh and sat down on the edge of the stage and crossed my ankles so people couldn't see up my skirt. Natalie and AJ following. I lowered the microphone to my mouth and smiled slightly.
"Hey guys how is everyone doing today?" My response was another loud cheer. I giggled. "Good! I'm glad to hear it! First I'd like to say; Wow what a performance! AJ you're the best! You're singing more for sure!"
The crowd applauded in agreement while AJ waved in thanks. I smiled over at her and turned back to our audience.
"So happy Valentine's day!" I shouted making another excited cheer happen. "This next song is special because not only is it new but it's from our newest album Count On Me! It just released today and we'd be happy to sign any copies you may already have. But it's Valentine's day and we all have special plans with special people so let's get this show finished up!"
I started to strum, the soft melody making people sway. I could hear more music behind me.
"When I was younger
I saw my daddy cry
And curse at the wind
He broke his own heart
And I watched as he tried
To re-assemble it
And my momma swore
That she would never let herself forget
And that was the day I swore
I'd never sing of love
If it does not exist
But darling you are
The only exception
Well you are
The only exception
Well you are
The only exception
Well you are
The only exception."
During the short pause I let myself close my eyes. I could play the notes without looking but I just needed to shut my eyes. I let out a breath before singing again.
"Maybe I know somewhere
Deep in my soul
That love never lasts
And we've got to find other ways
To make it alone
Or keep a straight face
And I've always lived like this
Keeping a comfortable distance…
Up until now I had sworn to myself
That I'm content with loneness."
I had started to slowly realize that this song may not be the best to choose for today but the crowd seemed to like it. Some people were slow dancing. I need to sing an upbeat love song in a few days to make up for this.
"Because none of it was worth the risk
Well you are
The only exception
Well you are
The only exception
Well you are
The only exception!"
I let my head bob as the instrumental break went on.
"I've got a tight grip on reality
But I can't let go of what's in front of me
Here, I know your leaving
In the morning
When you wake up
Leave me some kind of proof
That it wasn't a dream
Ohh ohh ohh
You are, the only exception (X8)
And I'm on my way
To believing
Oh, and I'm on my way
To believing…"
I waved one last time as the crowd cheered.
0~0~0~0~0
I hummed to myself as I walked around the empty apartment. Everyone and already left for their fun nights out. Natalie was a little hesitant to leave me alone here but eventually was able to leave with the promise that I'd be alright.
The show went great and we weren't held up for too long. People mostly told us they were fans then left, hopefully to buy our CD. Terry's going to call at the end of the month to see how our album sales did. But she was happy with the turnout at the signing.
I realized I was being a little silly before. Although I'm still a little worried about the whole thing I didn't want to miss out on my first Valentine's Day with Percy because I was afraid to have an adult conversation with him.
I was wearing my favorite jeans, light blue and only slightly ripped and Percy's high school swimming sweater. He never really asked for it back so I kept it. I had it tied in the back so it wasn't as big on me. I was going to call Percy then change. I have no idea what to wear for a date that isn't planned yet.
I just picked up my phone when the doorbell rang. I checked the time a little confused. Did someone forget something?
When I opened the door I smiled at who was on the other side. My cheeks reddened when he glanced down my body shamelessly. There really wasn't much to see in this attire. My eyes roamed down his black slacks and white dress shirt. He had on a red tie. He silently offered me the tulips he was holding. I smiled wider as I smelt them.
"The lady at the flower shop said these are perfect for new relationships. They symbolize fresh beginnings…or something like that."
I gestured for him to follow me in. As I walked into the small kitchen to try and find a vase I heard him shut the door.
"What are you doing here?" I asked loud enough for him to hear me. When he walked into the kitchen I ducked back down looking for a vase. "I thought you'd be filming today."
I grinned in victory when I found a perfect vase for the flowers. Percy held them for me as I filled it with water.
"Well you weren't answer my calls or texts so I thought you were upset with me. I was already planning to get the day off so we could spend it together."
I sighed and walked over so I could put the flowers in their vase. Percy walked up behind me as I set them in the middle of our table. I turned around so my back was pressed against the counter. I gently tugged on his tie to bring him over to me.
He walked over carefully but with one final tug I had him close enough. I pulled him into a slow kiss. Before he could really get into it I pulled away. His hands went to either side of my hips for a minute but then glided down to rest on the counter. He leaned closer to me, basically blocking me in.
"I'm sorry I didn't answer your calls or messages. I honestly didn't even notice you called today because of our show-"
"I saw it."
I looked up at him and blinked. He grinned, amusement shining in his eyes for a second.
"What?"
"I saw your show. I knew something was going on. I wanted to surprise you but you guys kind of took off right after."
I sighed again, already starting to feel terrible. Percy must have noticed because he leaned over and kissed my forehead tenderly. He seemed a little surprised with himself when he pulled away but masked it with a quick smile.
"So…Wanna tell me what's up?" He asked quietly. I blew out a nervous breath and reached over to grab his hand.
"It's kind of awkward." I warned as I pulled him towards the couch. He raised an eyebrow.
"It's also awkward when I'm stuck staring at my phone wondering why my girlfriend seemed almost scared to talk to me."
I winced as we sat down. His tone wasn't accusing but his words were true. I really shouldn't avoid these kinds of things. Adult conversations. That's what relationships are.
"I'm sorry; really. I just…" I sighed and smiled awkwardly. "This is going to sound super childish but uh…"
0~0~0~0~0
Percy Jackson:
"I'm sorry; really. I just." She sighed and smiled at me somewhat awkwardly. I waited patiently for her to find the right words. "This is going to sound super childish but uh…"
Whatever it was couldn't be as bad as what Nico suggested. When I told the guys Annabeth wasn't taking my calls or responding to my texts they thought she found out about the plan. I had a good ten minute panic attack at the thought but I calmed down when I realized that couldn't be it. Annabeth would have either come over to yell at me or AJ would have busted down my door and beat me to death. But she was obviously upset and that kind of bothered me.
I squeezed her hand comfortingly. She smiled at the gesture a little sadly before shaking her head.
"Percy I'm not ready to have sex with you." She admitted softly making my eyes widen. "I know you've been with a lot of girls and I know you've been waiting for a month but I just…I don't think we should just yet."
Had I really gone without sex for a month? Was my first thought. I mentally gasped when I realized it was about a month and half. Why haven't I noticed that? I've never had to go that long since I made it big!
Annabeth was still staring at me worriedly. She squeezed my hands and looked at me pleading.
"Please don't be mad!" She pleaded. She bit her lip quickly making me snap out my thoughts.
Maybe I haven't thought about it because I don't want to pressure her into that. I guess I sorta knew she wasn't ready. Why doesn't that bother me? Annabeth Chase is confusing me beyond belief. I didn't think being with her like this would make my feelings go haywire.
I put on my actor's smile.
"Annabeth." I cooed gently. "That's fine. I didn't expect you to just instantly do it with me. And I honestly haven't thought about it. Well okay I've thought about it obviously but I don't want to pressure you into something you don't want to do."
My own smile somehow melted through the actor's smile. She just looked to cute in my sweater staring up at me with her big grey eyes.
"I know my past probably scared you but you're not like those other girls. Quoting someone I know 'you're a girlfriend not a butt buddy' Trust me there's a difference between the two."
She smiled at me, her cheeks a cute pink. She rolled her lips before looking at me again.
"So you're not mad?"
I shook my head and leaned over to kiss her nose.
"No I'm not mad. I don't have a reason to be. We can take this at your pace."
I couldn't believe I was actually saying all of this. The words seemed to tumble out of my mouth before my brain could fully process them. I was about to start mentally freaking out again when Annabeth flung herself at me, making us fall off her couch and tumble to the floor with her on top of me. She started peppering my face with kisses making me chuckle.
I slowly sat up, my butt only stinging slightly. She was on my lap and wrapped her arms around my neck hugging me. I wrapped my own arms around her waist and smiled when I heard her whisper softly in my ear.
"Thank you…"
When she pulled away she gave me that special smile again. One I've only seen her give me. I smiled back, the smile I've slowly developed just for her. So yeah Annabeth Chase messes with my feelings constantly when she doesn't even realize it. She didn't even do anything and I developed a small crush on her. I should be freaking out; this isn't supposed to be the plan.
But I can't. Annabeth is kissing me and I'm pulling her closer. My mind is becoming fuzzy and my heart skips a few beats. Yeah definitely making my mind go haywire but as she pulls me even closer I don't really care
0~0~0~0~0
"Babe!" I groaned. "You never take this long. C'mon I'm actually really excited to take you out tonight."
Annabeth made out with me on her living room floor before suddenly just sprinting to her room saying she needed to get changed. It took me a few minutes to…erg calm down but after that I waited. It's been almost thirty minutes and all I've heard is the occasional shifting. I tried walking in once to maybe help her pick but she used man strength I didn't know she had and shoved me out, locking the door right after.
I checked my watch again and started to freak out a little. I wasn't taking her to a movie so we weren't on an exact schedule but I didn't want to waste anymore of the holiday. I promised I'd wait-and I will!-but I wouldn't mind so more making out time. We can't have any if she doesn't hur-
"Woah…" I breathed out as she came into view. She blushed lightly and gestured to her outfit, doing a little twirl.
"Does that mean you approve?" She asked teasingly. I laughed a little breathlessly as I stood up. I walked over to her slowly so I could appreciate the outfit longer.
She was wearing a long-sleeved dress that was red lace, skin tight and a scoop neck. Her blond curls were pinned up in a messy, but elegant bun on the side of her head. A small braid made of her bangs was pulled back into the bun. She looked sexy and beautiful and I was having a hard time with my promise already.
"You look stunning." I blurted out before I could stop myself. I blushed lightly and she smiled. She walked over to me and grabbed my arms, putting them around her waist. She smiled from the embrace and placed her hands on my shoulders so she could have a support when she kissed me.
"Natalie had this waiting on the bed for me." She said as she pulled away, not at all as dazed as I was. "Can you believe it? She went out and bought this dress for me!"
"Remind me to thank her later."
I told her as I tugged her back to me. She let out a little sigh as I placed my lips on hers. Yeah so we had to wait a little longer to leave but I wasn't complaining this time.
0~0~0~0~0
Annabeth looked around the car, a small smile on her face. I carefully made a left and took a sideways glance at her. She was still studying the car, not really caring where it was taking her.
"Love of cars?" I asked somewhat teasingly. She smiled and shook her head.
"Not really but I can appreciate a good one when I see it." She patted the dashboard. "A 1969 mustang I can appreciate. When did you get her?"
"I borrowed her from a buddy. I promised him we'd have it back in tip top condition so unfortunately we can't make out on the hood."
She laughed, a beautiful sound and shook her head.
"Oh darn!" She said sarcastically, even snapping her fingers in 'disappointment' I rolled my eyes but a smile crept its way through. She settled back into her seat and smiled over at me.
"No but I like it. Not only is it a sweet car but this makes me feel special. You're classy."
I grinned and pulled into the restaurant parking lot.
"Well you are special so you deserve the best." I told her honestly. She smiled at me gratefully and looked around. Once the car was parked she frowned nervously and looked over at me.
"Percy this is one of the fanciest restaurants in LA. Why…? You didn't have to take me here."
I smiled to myself and got out of the car. I could see how nervous she was through the windshield as I walked around to her door. I opened it for her and helped her out. She gripped my hand tightly and tugged me back when I tried to lead her towards the restaurant. I laughed and pulled her into an embrace.
"Annabeth really, I wanted to take you here. I've been planning tonight for the past week. I promise it'll be great."
She looked weary but nodded slowly. I kissed her nose to make her smile and grinned myself when it worked. She sighed and pointed a finger at me.
"You better not go crazy tonight Mr. Jackson. My present isn't all that wonderful."
I scoffed and threw my arm around her shoulder, pulling her tighter against me as we walked towards the entrance. I placed my nose in her hair, enjoying her lemony scent.
"Nonsense Miss. Chase! I'm sure it'll be as perfect as you are."
She rolled her eyes and smacked my chest. I smiled. Compliments (whether they're true or not) are easy for me to just say. I found it pretty easy to get girls just from compliments and maybe a smile or two. But every time I compliment Annabeth I feel…warm when she smiles because of it. I may be lying to her about how we got together but I don't want to lie about how amazing she is.
Luckily our waiter wasn't too star struck when she saw me. Judging from her widened eyes I knew she was a fan of either one or both of us but she tried to keep it together as she led us to our table. As I requested we were seated near the back but near a window. Marty made it clear he wanted to see pictures of the two of us in a magazine within the next few days.
I pulled out Annabeth's chair for her, making her chuckle.
"Such a gentleman." She praised.
I gave her a look but sat down across from her. She picked up her menu and silently scanned the options. I was worried she'd order a salad and make me feel like a fatty when I order the steak but she smiled and shut her menu, placing it on the table quietly. I raised an eyebrow.
"You already know what you're getting?"
She nodded and pointed to it. The rib eye steak, one of their best and decently priced dishes. My Gods could this girl get any more perfect?
"Good choice." I commented as I scanned my own menu. After deciding I placed my menu down and sipped my water. I watched Annabeth curiously as she looked around the restaurant with a peaceful expression. She seemed almost dazed to be here.
"Never been here?" I guessed lightly. She smiled at me and shook her head.
"No, dreamed about it though. It's hard to find enough money or time to bring me and the rest of the band here."
I took another sip of my water before setting it back on the table. I leaned forward, my elbows supporting me.
"Why not just come here by yourself? Or only bring one member?"
She smiled but it was a confused smile. She glanced around.
"Why would I do that? That means the other three wouldn't get to go; that wouldn't be fair. And it'd be playing favorites to whoever I did bring. My band's a family, we go places together. It's more enjoyable that way."
I stared at her for a good minute. Her curls were still pinned up but the two framing her face seemed to shine brighter in the dimmer light. Her eyes were soft and seemed to stare straight through me. Her lips, her oh so soft lips were pressed against the glass of her cup as she drank and I had the urge to kiss her again. Even her hands, while calloused from the guitar playing were small and delicate. She could easily be a lot of men's dream girl…And she's here with me. Before I could censor myself I blurted out,
"You're the most amazing person I've ever met."
Her eyes widened in surprise but I could see the happiness in them. She smiled softly from the compliment and I figured since I already said it…
"You're beautiful and just so sweet. I'm lucky to be here with you."
She placed a hand over her heart and leaned across the table to kiss me quickly. I grasped one of her hands in mine when she sat back down. She squeezed my fingers and grinned.
"Being with you makes me feel…normal." She said with a smile. My heart seemed to deflate a little and I frowned.
"What? I'm sorry…I want you to feel special, because you are. You're anything but normal."
She shook her head and squeezed my hand again.
"No you misunderstood." She smiled again and I couldn't help but feel a little better. "People have been starting to recognize me more and more and while I love that we're finally getting more popular I can't help but feel sad. I mean it's weird having people following me around trying to take pictures of me or walking through a store and seeing a CD with my face on it or hearing my voice through someone's car speakers."
She shrugged and looked down at her plate bashfully. After a couple seconds she summoned enough courage to look at me again.
"You make me feel like a normal girl. Sometimes when I'm with you I feel like I'm in high school again. You know walking through the halls with my boyfriend's letterman's jacket on? I like that feeling." She paused to blush again. "I like the way you make me feel."
My heart felt like it could fly out of my chest. I wasn't sure how I felt about that feeling but I knew the butterflies in my stomach were going crazy when Annabeth smiled at me again. I lifted her hand up to my mouth to kiss the back of it.
"And I like knowing you feel that way." I commented.
She was still smiling but it didn't seem as bright. She probably wanted me to give her a speech about how she makes me feel. Honestly I'm not sure how I feel for her at the moment but I decided to speak the truth. Maybe I can learn what I feel as I'm talking.
"You make me feel real." I started. "A lot of famous people can become fake so easily, just putting up appearances for the people around them. And I guess I was like that too…Before you came." She blushed. "Everything got better when you came. Yeah my foot hurt like a bitch for a while but I'm happy you hit me with your car. You made me real instead of another plastic doll actors can so easily become."
We paused our romantic speeches to give the waitress our order. She promised it'd be out quickly and I figured that had something to do with who we were. Annabeth looked over at me and took a sip of her water.
"Can I tell you something? Something kind of personal?" She asked quietly. I nodded.
"Sure, we're practically spilling our guts out to each other anyway."
She laughed and I couldn't help but laugh too. She glanced around as she chuckled hoping we weren't causing a scene. We were but people were staring at us before that anyway.
"I feel like I'm in over my head sometimes." She confessed. "I mean I wasn't too big when we met. You were way out of my league and yet you asked me out. I guess I didn't get it. How someone like you could like someone like me."
"I can't believe someone like you would want to be with someone like me!" I cried.
Annabeth looked up at me confused. I sighed and tried to filter what I was saying but my emotions seemed to be spilling over my thoughts and I couldn't help the words that just seemed to flow out of my mouth. I was a little scared by how true they are.
"Annabeth! You're basically America's sweetheart, so many people think of you as perfect. And I'm the bad boy, you know the guy father's hide their daughter's from. I'm lucky that you even gave me a chance at this. I've been really happy this past month and it's solely because of you."
I gasped a little at the end, mentally freaking out. I can't deny it anymore; I like this girl. She makes it hard not to like her. A month in and I already like her, what's wrong with me? Dread started to seep in, what if she finds out about the plan? She'll hate me.
I glanced up to see Annabeth staring at me teary eyed. My own eyes widened and before I could start apologizing she pulled me in for another kiss. She pressed her lips against mine so passionately I thought I'd catch on fire. When she pulled away my eyes fluttered open as my insides churned in happiness.
"Thank you. You make me happy too."
I smiled, my shoulders relaxing in relief. It wasn't long after that that our food arrived. Though we were occupied with the delicious food I still found it fascinating that Annabeth and I could hold a conversation so easily.
0~0~0~0~0
It was around ten when I brought Annabeth back home. She gestured for me to follow her into the apartment. I did, trying and failing to get my tie off as I did so.
After dinner Annabeth and I were swarmed when we were walking back to the car. I remember gripping her hand so tightly I thought it would just mold into my skin. I told her to duck her head down and walk quickly. Just so Marty wouldn't be pissed I kissed her head for the camera's before getting in the car.
I offered to take her for a drive but Annabeth just wanted to cuddle on her bed and watch movies. The idea really did sound awesome so I was quick to get us here.
When we got inside Annabeth quickly took off her shoes and started to take her hair out of its bun. She smiled at me as I finally got the tie off. She showed me which bed was hers and I got comfortable while she changed in the bathroom.
I didn't really want to cuddle in my dress pants and shirt so I striped down to my boxers and thanked the Gods I had an extra undershirt in my car. Annabeth didn't take too long to change. She came out of the bathroom in black music note pajama pants and a white tank top. Her golden hair was in a messy side braid. She grinned childishly and dove for the bed. I laughed as it bounced from her added weight.
She lifted the covers and I slid in. She turned on the TV in the room and snuggled up against me. My head was propped up slightly by some pillows and her head rested on my chest, her hair reaching my neck. She was basically tucked into my collarbone.
As she flipped through the channels trying to find something to watch I studied her. Everything I said in the restaurant was true. And that scares me a little. Yes I've come to term with my feelings but that doesn't mean I like it. In a month or so when I'm supposed to break up with her I'm worried I won't be able to do it, the idea makes me sick just thinking about it.
I glanced back down at Annabeth and smiled to myself when I saw her Percy necklace resting against her soft skin. For Valentine's day I had gotten her a necklace with my name on it. It's a simple gold chain and the letters are in cursive for appearances. I told her it was so she could have me wherever she went- and that's true- but Marty said it'd be a good thing for my image. Now anyone who had doubts would know she was mine.
Annabeth was a nervous wreck when she gave me my gift. It was in a small blue bag, little fishes all over the place. The first thing I pulled out was a frame picture of her. It was one Steven had taken, she looks beautiful. She wanted me to put it near my bed so I could see it every day and I intended too. Next was a small copy of the pictures of the two of us Steven took. They're currently in my wallet.
When I pulled out two of her CDs I got confused. She hurriedly explained that it was so I could hear her voice whenever I wanted. I did tell her I liked her singing, mostly because she's the best I've ever heard. Though I might be a little biased… She gave me a copy of Count On Me and one of their earlier albums.
She was worried I hated the gifts when I didn't say anything right away. But of course I just kissed her and that turned into a ten minute thing. As much as I love kissing her just being around her makes me happy too. She really lives up to the whole 'America's Sweetheart' thing. And that's what makes me feel worse about this whole thing. Since I really do have a crush on her I'm worried about what's gonna happen if she ever discovers the truth. I need to make sure that never happens.
But my Mom always tells me to live in the moment and enjoy what I have. So in this single moment I'm going to enjoy the fact that Annabeth likes Family Guy too and that she's already asleep, safe and warm against me.
Songs used: I love you Arvil Lavigne and The Only Exception Paramore
(This author's note is important so it's on every one of my updated chapters!)
1)So I was going to update all three of my stories yesterday, they were all done but my Mom brought home BoO for me and I fricken lost it. Since she got it at Walmart I got a little poster with a the seven demi gods aboard the ship. Its fricken awesome. But anyway I read the story in four hours and guys...I won't give away any spoliers but my Gods that book...Its amazing and the 'conclusion' is great. A little part of me has sorta died though now that the series is technically over. I mean Uncle Rick said he isn't sure if anymore Percy Jackson stuff will be printed which mostly means it won't :( Hopefully he can live on in fanfictions!
Ingore this weird double line thing!
DON'T READ THIS NEXT SENTENCE IF YOU HAVENT READ THE BOOK!
I really want someone to do a story or at least a one shot series of Annabeth and Percy's time together in New Rome. Seriously the author could call it 'Something Permanente' and it would make all us fangirls go wild. (If you use that name you will have to say I suggested it and PM me that that type of story exists'
2) So as a lot of you know I'm homeschooled and have a lot of time on my hands. I mentioned working on another story and have narrowed down the many ideas I have to two that I would be most excited about. (Both are AUs)
-Say You Like Me
Annabeth Chase knows the meaning of working hard. She's been busting her butt trying to make a life for herself. With senior year closing in quickly she needs to raise enough money for college and actually find a school that will accept her! When Percy Jackson comes into her life will she be able to let him in?
(It features our seven favorite heros since I just finished the book and I have them all on my mind.)
I'm excited about this story!
-(I haven't fully decided on the title so you can PM or review any ideas you might have!) It might be called Splattered Blood...
This story also features the famous seven, again because I just finished the book and I have them on my mind.
Since I fricken adore Criminal Minds and everything about it I decided to make a PJO universe around it. Basically certain characters of the Percy Jackson series are FBI agents trying to fight for the greater good. Each of them have their own dark pasts that will come back to haunt them while they fight the dirty serial killers around.
I have the best idea for Annabeth's.
The first summary was a little better but yeah. Eventually both of these stories will be written it just depends on YOU GUYS on which one is first. You CAN vote in reviews but I'd rather have you use the poll I'm putting up. Please use that instead.
3) For my Controlling What's Inside and The Next Generation fans I posted a one shot a while ago focused on Nico and Echo and how growing up was for them. It's called Through the Years! Go check it out! Also I've been working on another one shot based after the ending for BoO though it's more of a Percy\OC thing, the OC being his daughter of course since Percy belongs with Annabeth.
4) Our last note: This is good for my WTLI fans! Okay so since that story is technically based off of what happened to me over the past two years I realized it wont be a thirty chapter story. Maybe fifty or sixty. That being said I won't try and rush to end it. Still count on fast updates but the story won't be ending anytime soon. The first story that will end will most likely be Just Another Hollywood Romance but don't worry that still has a few chapters to go, maybe ten or fifteen.
Okay so that's it for this HUGE author's note! Please vote in the POLL and review review review! I love you guys!
-Katie