Apparently I deleted the original Chapter 6. This chapter is longer than usual because it involves two chapters. Sorry for the inconvenience. I blame my stupidity.
School was boring the next day. Classes seemed to go by without a trace and everything seemed to go slower than it should be. As if there were forty eight hours in one day instead of twenty four.
During History, I couldn't take it anymore. Percy and I were forcefully pulled apart because of seating and every single time I try to talk to him, someone would get in the way. It was annoying, how devilishly handsome he really was that all the girls in our school can't keep their hands off him.
Someone said my name from behind and tapped me once on the back. I was confused and rather curious so I turned to see the person behind me was handing me a note. Okay, so maybe he really did want to talk to me more than I thought.
Hey Wise Girl! Rooftop garden after class?
I smiled and wrote down my reply. Which is basically, Whatever you say, Seaweed Brain, and passed it back.
It went on like that and we were getting to the good part when the teacher suddenly interrupted and asked us what we were doing. I bit my bottom lip and stuffed the letter in my pocket before looking at Percy desperately. "Um…"
"We were talking about meeting with Thalia later lunch. She said that she might be busy with Jason or Nico so we have to talk about it" Percy burst out suddenly, not really even thinking about what he says.
Mrs. Hudson told us that it would be best if we would read it out loud, just to verify if our words were as true as our actions. To my surprise, my boyfriend pulled out a note from his notebook and gestured for me to stand up with him.
He started stating what is in that piece of paper, basically saying that we should meet his cousin by the gates and then we can eat outside or something. Then saying that Thalia had something to do so she's just considering it at the moment and blah, blah, blah. Mrs. Hudson looked angry as she pulled it out of his grasp and reread what was written, soon finding that what he said was right, miraculously.
Thankfully, our classmates didn't mind us at all, finding it perfectly natural for us to talk about other things than school because I was excelling in the first place so why do I need to study?
"That was way too close" Percy said
I nodded before turning the corner, to the empty hallway leading to our garden. We made sure that no one at all was following us, no sounds of footsteps, no breathing, not even a heartbeat before pulling out the key from my pocket and opening the door, locking it once both of us has entered.
His lips were on mine again, kissing all the problems away like he always does. "I can't believe they still don't suspect anything. I never thought they were stupider than me"
"Actually, 'SB'" I used finger quotes and he laughed, "You're really smart. You just don't use it for your own good"
"Annabeth" he breathed, his lips on my shoulder. "You're talking too much again"
I managed a smirk before kissing him again, my arms around his neck and his on my waist just to pull me closer. What is it with his kisses that make me want to faint whenever it happens? But as of now, I had to stand strong. This is the only time we can do this and maybe the only time we can just talk like we're supposed to.
But maybe talking is the last thing I want right at this moment.
"You're so beautiful" he whispered to that moist spot below my ear.
I didn't answer. Instead, I gave him a moan just to let him know that I liked what he was doing "And you always will be"
"Thank you" I told him, breathing hard once he was kissing up and down my arm. "I never thought that I would ever be beautiful" He shook his head, unable to believe it. He has always found me thinking less of myself.
But his lips eventually found its way back to mine, pushing me against the wall with his arms on either side of me. He seemed insistent about showing how much he really does love me. I know we can't really do something too… serious… yeah, that's the word. We can't really do something too serious in a rooftop garden where a person can easily see us like this. I would rather take my chances in revealing this relationship than exploiting my body. "You should believe me, Cas" he teased lightly, pressing his forehead gently to mine. "You are"
"Well, if that's the case" I replied kissing him again, "Then, you are perfect"
"I have practice later" he said as we sat down on one of the many benches, watching the clouds. "You want to come?"
I shrugged and smiled, pecking him lightly on the cheek. "Sure, why not?" Not only do I want to be there for support but seeing his upper body again is too good to be true. I know I can remove his shirt right here and now but it would be better if there was a specific reason as to why I would be doing it.
But that was all interrupted when my phone vibrated inside my jeans pocket. I groaned and pulled it out, reading a text from Thalia.
WHERE ARE YOU?!
Okay, so maybe it was my fault that we're probably going to have a very meaningful argument/shouting match with her later but it does not include getting a little carried away. We're just waiting for the after effects of the make-out session to fade as much as possible.
"Thalia's looking for us" I told him. He nodded before standing up, fixing his shirt that has somehow turned a little creased with our entire stay here.
"What'd you tell her?" he asked, a little casual.
"That we should meet her by our lockers"
Percy didn't argue at all. He just gave me one last kiss before opening the door leading back to high school hell. He looked sad, as if he really wanted to spread the news to everyone that he's with me. I know how he felt and I know why he felt it but there are just some things in life that has to be kept a secret. I don't ever want to be separated from him and pose as a threat to the other girls in his fan club but I know I have to give up one to get what I really want.
"Do you want to tell them?" I asked.
He didn't answer for a while, thinking. "I know it might be hard for you to understand that maybe something else will happen if you do."
"I'm willing to risk everything for her" I winced at the last word but I have got to say that he's really good at covering something up. "I don't care what they'll think. And neither do you"
I shook my head. This was getting out of hand. There are so many things that can or can't happen. I'm sure that Thalia would get mad at me because I never told her about this the moment it even started and Silena would hate me for the exact same reason. But there was something about how everything might be a little lighter once we did. I mean sure, there will be a lot of people who would start backstabbing me because I'm dating my best friend and one of the hottest guys here but I can do so much without hiding.
"Are you sure we should?" I could already see my friends talking in our table. "This might as well be the worst thing we can do right now"
He smiled kindly, reaching out and squeezing my hand. It gave me a great boost of confidence, even if it was such a small action. "Don't worry, I got your back"
"Hey guys" I choked out.
They didn't seem to be bothered by the fact that I was MIA just minutes ago. "Where have you been?" Grover asked but he didn't seem to care since he was busy admiring his girlfriend's beauty.
"I think you should know something" Piper jerked her head up to meet my eyes and I managed to say "It's time" with them.
She looked proud of me, as if she knew I had the guts to step out of my comfort zone and say what I want to. "What is it, Annabeth?" Katie asked, looking a little curious and I could tell by the look on her face that she already knew what I was talking about.
"I was wrong to keep this from you but I was afraid that something might happen. Maybe I was wrong, thinking that I couldn't trust you with something as simple as this but it was my mistake and you should know the truth"
"What are you trying to say?"
I bit my bottom lip and looked at Percy miserably. He nodded, gesturing for to go on and practically saying that I was doing great. This was harder than I thought it would be, even through the comforting glances both my boyfriend and Piper were giving me. "It's time for you to meet SB" it was a whisper, just as soft as the final kiss he gave me.
Apparently, they didn't seem to react the way I expected them to. They were all panicking, looking around as if he was going to pop out any minute. Percy managed a smirk at this and little by little, he took steps closer to me. The moment I felt his hot breath on my ear, I knew I did the right thing. "You're doing great, Wise Girl" he said, only for me to hear. "Don't worry about anything. I'm here and whatever happens, I'll be here"
"Where is he?" Clarisse demanded, narrowing her eyes at me and Percy's proximity.
"He's right beside me" I said.
It was a straightforward confession. There's no backing out now. "SB… Seaweed Brain!" Thalia face palmed, looking at me angrily. "So you lied to me about the entire thing. I was right and you told me that it was impossible!"
I couldn't take this anymore. This was too much for me to bear. I knew I was just putting myself up to more pain and hearing my best friend scream at me was just too much. So I broke down into fits of sobs. Percy was holding on to me tightly, cooing to me, whispering words of comfort to my ear because it was the only thing he knows how to do at this situation, seeing that he never really get to have experience.
"Thalia!" Nico scolded, holding her arm. I've never seen him so annoyed, so surprised, in my entire life. "Thalia!" he repeated firmly once he realized that she wasn't listening.
"What?!" she shot at him, anger flaring her once calm blue eyes. This wasn't her, my best friend is mostly even tempered, if not she's just going to get mad for about a minute then she's going to let it go.
I could feel every eye on us, on the whole sitcom that has probably started in front of them. There was no other sound than Thalia's screaming, my quiet sobs, and Percy's words that seemed to break through the ringing in my ears just for me to absorb. I held him tight because he was probably the only one that's with me right now, excluding Piper of course.
To my surprise, he picked me up bridal style and brought me outside, never stopping his whispers. I realized that Piper was running towards us and before I even knew it, I was in her arms with her comforting me in the way she knew best. "You did great" she mumbled as she held me arm's length.
"Thank you" I told both of them. "For being there"
My boyfriend smiled and kissed the top of my head, holding me tight. "Don't worry. I will never leave you" he reassured once again. And I nodded because that was the only thing I know how to say. I've never shed so much tears, never cried that much because of something as stupid as love.
"How's your sister taking it?" Percy questioned, never taking his arms off me.
"Silena's pretty cool about it. Maybe she's a little… surprised but she's happy for you guys"
I nodded. "If you want, we can go home. I'm sure my mom can make a pretty good excuse as to how why we took a half-day" he suggested
That was a pretty good idea. I just want to be away from this place as much as possible, be in the presence of people who love me more than my mother ever has. And I silently agreed.
"I'll tell them. Maybe I could ask Thalia to stop by and apologize"
"That would be great, Pipes. Thank you"
She flashed a grin before sprinting back towards the building.
We went to Percy's car (a navy blue Honda convertible with two seats) and drove to the large house in the suburb. He was rich but his parents had to work hard to get to where they were now.
"Percy? Annabeth? What are you doing here so early?" I recognize her as one of the housekeepers, Consuela, and she looked a little confused when she saw my tear stained face. I never really got the strength to wipe them away.
He explained everything briefly and she nodded every once in a while, gesturing for me to sit down on the white leather sofa. She handed me a glass of water and I drank it gratefully, placing my head gently on Percy's shoulder after. "Thalia just thought it was unusual, that's all." He tried
"Don't worry about it, Seaweed Brain. I'm fine" it was the truth, seeing that I could never lie to him at all about anything. "Just a little shaken"
"If you're sure"
I smiled at him, telling him that I am. He still looked rather worried before bringing me to his room and pulled out a box from his pocket, handing it to me gingerly. "What's this for?"
"Well, now that you're officially my girlfriend, I decided that this might as well be my first gift to you" he replied shyly.
"Since when did you have this?"
He didn't answer this one. Instead, he opened the box for me and smiled at my reaction. It was beautiful, my eyes undeserving to see such craftsmanship. It was an owl holding a small diamond, hanging delicately on a platinum chain with a heart clasp. Engraved at the back were the words,
Love, Seaweed Brain
"Percy" I gasped as he put it on me.
"Do you like it?"
I nodded viciously before hugging him the moment he finished. He kissed me just once and pressed his forehead gently on mine, giving me one of his signature lopsided smiles. I don't know why but seeing him and me together without being totally afraid of what might happen felt as if all the weight on my shoulders has been lifted. I know that Thalia and I might not be the same ever again but she's going to come to her senses sooner or later. I just hope that it's sooner than later.
"I love you" he said simply, holding me tighter.
"I love you, too" I replied, a little too innocent
A little after four, most of my friends were already in Percy's living room, talking to me about my entire decision and as to why I only said it today even though we've been seeing each other since Wednesday last week. My boyfriend, thankfully, answered every one of their questions, just to give me a break. I noticed that Thalia wasn't there and turned disappointed at her absence. She would have made me smile, even just showed her face to me, even if it was a disapproving glare. I just have to know how she's coping with this. It was tearing me to pieces knowing she was secretly loathing me for keeping something like this from her.
"So you're saying that you've been keeping this from us? That's why you were sneaking around during the camping trip?"
We both nodded, our expressions turning a little sheepish. "Actually, Piper saw us…" I added so all the attention won't be on us but on Piper. It was mean, I know but I wasn't ready for the pressure and all their stares.
"You knew and you didn't tell me!" Jason shrieked, an octave higher than usual.
"I wanted to but you know how they are when you did something that is totally against what they told you to do" he still looked pretty pissed but I could tell that he accepts her reasoning. Percy and I do get a little over the top when we're angry…
"I just realized that I missed practice" my boyfriend muttered in realization. "And I'm not supposed to since I'm the captain" he cursed inwardly but I just shook my head and smirked at him, being the totally supportive girlfriend I really am (not really but you know what I mean)
"So you're saying you would rather go to swimming practice than to be with me?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.
The look on his face was a little in the considering side. I knew he would make this hard on me and probably tease me in the way he knows best. "Probably" he answered finally.
I rolled my eyes and punched him in the gut. "You're unbelievable" he doubled over in laughter probably on how I was feeling and looking right now. It wasn't my fault that I was a little sensitive after hearing Thalia scream at me for the first time in three years.
"You do know that you're not the only one that missed practice right?" Nico said with a hint of amusement
"Well yeah but still. I'm not supposed to"
"Why do you just practice here? It's not like it would make a difference." Silena said, not really paying attention that much to the entire conversation.
He did think about this, staring out of the house and into the backyard where an Olympic sized pool lied with water waiting to be disturbed. "It has been a while since I swam there" That one didn't surprise me. The past few days, Percy has always been with me or if not, with his parents and he never at all once dipped at toe in the water. And it was killing him.
"Jason!" he said suddenly. The boy jumped in surprise at his tone but by the look on his eyes, I could practically see why he was acting like this.
"I am not racing you" he said, as if thinking that it was probably the worst idea that my boyfriend has ever suggested. "You know how I am with water. You're on your own, Perce"
"Well I have to race someone" Seaweed Brain looked desperate before his eyes fell on Nico, looking at him mischievously.
At first, he didn't notice but soon, when he saw that everyone was looking at him, he finally looked up, straight to Percy. "Sure, why not?" All of us gasped. No one dared accept Percy's challenges and the last one who did (which was Connor Stoll) was left humiliated in front of the girl he was dating at that time.
"Nico, think of this. You're going to get killed!" Katie was exaggerating. He wasn't going to get killed, of course he'll be brutally left to eat Percy's dust but he isn't going to die.
So they did end up racing, the first to finish five laps wins. Of course we were sure that Percy was going to win, except when he's going to let Nico win and maybe that happened every once in a while. He was undefeated and the school would be nothing without him. That's why we have so many first place trophies regarding that sport. It was in his blood since his father was in the varsity swim team and got a scholarship in swimming. And his mom always loved the ocean, both of his parents actually. It was his element, water, and you can never doubt that it isn't.
"You sure about this, Di Angelo?" Percy taunted as he pulled his shirt up over his head and I bite my lip as to not pounce on him right then and there. Forget the race. I was hungry and he was standing right there teasing me.
"No but I do a lot of things when I'm not sure" It was true. He practically got an A answering a test he never at all studied for. He copied my boyfriend's action and threw his shirt to the grass.
Honestly, I don't know where Nico got his swimming trunks. Maybe he's known Percy for so long that he was so predictable.
But seeing my best friend in his navy blue trunks took all those thoughts to a hold, knowing that he's been working out ever since we were thirteen just to get his position in his swim team. I've never fully appreciated him this way before, even after doing something we're not supposed to. Don't get me wrong, I've focused on pleasuring him when we did it but it was in a dark room. But here, where the light would properly hit every single little feature in his perfect body, I felt like fainting.
Apparently, much to my dismay, he noticed that I was staring. "Like the view?" he teased lightly, gesturing to his six pack. I snorted and focused on the book that I was reading.
"Don't act like that, now Wise Girl" he mused playfully, "It's not my fault I'm a chick magnet"
I couldn't hide that smile that was forming on my face. As much as I hate to admit it, he was right. It was annoying. Every single girl in school has a crush on him, even Silena. She's not willing to take him away from me but she has this feeling that she finds him hot as much as she doesn't want to. All the girls here but they all think that Percy and I are perfect together so they don't interfere.
Travis blew the whistle and both of them dove in the water. I wasn't actually paying attention to my boyfriend's opponent since he was a much more interesting sight, to me anyways. His strokes were flawless, professional, as if he competed in the Olympics himself and he won gold. I won't be surprised if he does and I'm positive in the near future, his swimming and love for the ocean may give him his big break.
In a blink, Percy was already heading his way back and Nico was tailing him. I have to admit, he was fast, both of them actually, but Percy has that effect on water that whenever he steps foot in it, it seems to cradle him and give him the advantage. I'm not saying they're super powers or something but it was unusual, godly even.
Of course, he won. Already sitting on the edge o f the pool when Nico finished. He was drying his hair like a dog, flicking droplets on my feet and arms but I smiled, knowing that he always did that. He let the sun finish the job, lying down on the neatly trimmed grass with his breathing even.
"Well that was faster than I expected" Clarisse muttered as she looked at Nico, shaking her head.
"I was feeling nice so I slowed down a bit just for him to catch up" Percy mumbled sleepily, gesturing for me to sit next to him.
I could never refuse that offer. Ever since I was a child I've wanted to be held by the man I love with him never wanting to let me go. And now, he was here, he's always been here. I never thought I would ever experience such a thing like this, never thought I deserved it. I love him. That's one of the many things I am sure of, imprinted on my head like a permanent tattoo.
Once I reached his side, he pulled me down so I was resting my head on his moist but drying chest. His breathing on my head quickened as I started tracing patterns over his muscled chest. "I still can't believe that you could turn into something like that"
"Something like what?" he asked, confused.
I smiled and pecked him lightly on the lips "Something like an angel, I don't know. You looked so perfect when you're swimming, before, after, and during."
He held me tight against him. "You don't know how much you mean to me." He confessed. "I've always loved you but not like this, not like how I feel now. I mean yeah, before I could already practically read your thoughts but now it feels like I feel what you feel, even see what you see… I now know that I will never be alone in my life"
Ever since we started dating, he turned to this poetic guy that I seemed to get used to. It was different from the Percy I lived with since I was twelve and now I realized that I liked that side of him, that side that I thought never existed. He was always filled with surprises, never really settling with what he already has but searches even more.
"Percy!" a voice came from the inside of the house. It sounded like Sally. How is she home? I thought she was taking overtime or something.
"At the back mom!" Percy screamed back, almost breaking my eardrum.
Sally Jackson is a beautiful woman. She's the kindest mother, caring in every way but not one of those parents who hover. Her eyes as blue as the sea always was, her smile was warmer than a quilt, always saying that "Are you alright?" or "I love you". Percy was lucky to have to be born after such great parents. "Consuela said you came home early" she said, her voice a little considerate.
"Yeah, Annabeth had… an accident… and I had to bring her here" Sally nodded in understanding, smiling at me.
"I'm glad you're okay now, Annabeth dear" she said kindly.
"Thank you, Mrs. Jackson" I answered, copying her smile.
She noticed that the rest of the gang was here too and she greeted them enthusiastically, already bursting with the idea of making cookies for all of us. They all knew what color those cookies would come in and all of us never really minded… "Hey mom, where's dad?"
"Your father's coming here before dinner, sweetie. He just has a lot of work to do" Percy nodded sadly before lying down beside me once again, our position never changing.
"Thalia should be here by now" Jason said with a sigh, pulling out his phone and trying to call his older sister.
I snorted. I never really meant for it to come out like that but after everything that happened, I can't really hold it in anymore. "She won't come" I muttered bitterly. "She'll hate me forever"
"Don't say that" Seaweed Brain scolded, holding my hand. "She's going to come to her senses and when she does, she'll act like this always happened. It just takes a long time to cope with the entire situation, especially when you found out that your cousin and your best friend are now happily together."
I sighed and looked at him sadly, praying to whoever god that he's right. He's know Thalia longer than I have and maybe he's seen this happen before and everything just repeated itself all over again. "Are you sure?" I asked, like a little girl that was promised to be given a pony for her sixth birthday.
A nod got a few tears out of my eyes. I never thought that his choice of words were so good that it would make me cry. It was unthinkable, seeing that there may be a day when Percy would know what I would say and when I would say it every time and his replies will always be the same reassuring ones.
"Guys, you've been real quiet there. What's going on?" I asked, looking at them. I noticed that all of them, and I mean all of them were watching us as if we were a huge sitcom they were all addicted at.
Silena looked like she was going to cry. I don't know what her reason probably would be but it may have been from the drama this situation was giving her. She loved it, watching all those chick flicks. She's already writing her very own romance novels and I wouldn't be surprised if it hits the market once she's twenty.
"Oooohhhh" she cooed, looking at us dreamily. "You guys are so cute together!"
I rolled my eyes before standing up, pulling Percy with me. Just in time, Sally called from the kitchen to announce that the cookies were done. All the guys were racing to the door like the little kids they are.
"Stop pushing Connor!" Leo yelled as he ran to the sweet smelling baked goods.
"Travis! You stepped on my foot!" it was Chris who said this.
But before any one of them could touch a single crumb, Percy's mom stopped them. "Boys!" she screamed over all the muttering the guys were giving her. I swear they were practically drooling over the plate of blue chocolate chip cookies on the table. "Don't worry, I made enough for all of you."
"Mom" Percy smiled, "You are the best!"
And all of them were fighting over every last chocolate chip cookie there is. Sally, seeing our annoyance, handed us another plate, knowing that there wasn't going to be anything on that platter once their finished. I know why they were acting this way to her baking. They were amazing, probably fancy restaurant amazing. That's why they never really needed a cook in their house, because all of them practically can cook for their own.
"Momma!" a little girl's scream came from the hallway. She was three, with tangled jet black hair to her shoulders and her mother's eyes, holding a stuffed octopus. She was rubbing her eye, like Percy does when he just woke up and I could tell that it was probably in his blood whenever he decided to do that.
I smiled at her and picked her up, with her squealing in my arms. "Hi Bella" I said in that teasing voice I always give her. "How was your sleep?"
"Fine" she answered in her cute baby accent, placing her head on my chest. "Where's Percy?"
She looked over my shoulder to see her brother handing her a blue cookie that he probably snatched from the plate. She smiled and Percy kissed her gently on the forehead. He's always been that big brother every little sister wanted. "You hungry, kiddo?"
Bella shook her head, biting her cookie. She's already used to blue food so she finds regular cookies weird whenever she sees them. "Where's papa?" she asked as I handed her to Percy, who carried her carefully in his arms.
"Well, papa's still at work but he'll be here before you know it, okay?"
That was when I noticed that he still wasn't wearing a shirt.
I blushed as my eyes travelled down to his trunks. I've never wanted him this bad before but I know that I can't really do this without waking Poseidon, Sally, and/or Bella up. But they jolted back to his sister's little face, pressed against the skin on his shoulder as she held both her toy and her brother tight.
"Where's Thalia?" she asked. I bit my lip, not willing to answer that question. I don't want to talk about her right now, knowing that she probably hates me for lying to her.
"She's here" a voice behind me said. I closed my eyes, unmoving. I didn't want to see her. I don't know how she would react so I didn't want to see her. But she placed a hand on my shoulder, squeezing it lightly.
"I know how you feel, Annabeth" she said softly, "I should accept the fact that you and kelp for brains there are perfect for each other. I shouldn't have reacted that way or pushed you into saying something you weren't ready for. I shouldn't have yelled."
I let out a sigh of relief as I turned to hug her tightly. "I'm sorry for keeping this from you. You had the right to know but I was afraid that something might happen if I did. I should have let it go. I should have trusted you"
Percy smiled as she shook Thalia's free hand. It was all he could do for now but later, he would probably thank her endlessly for forgiving me. "So Sally, still have those delicious blue cookies of yours?" Mrs. Jackson smiled and handed her the plate that still has about five in them. She took one before pulling Nico outside, probably to make out.
Soon after Thalia's arrival, Poseidon came. He was dressed in typical work attire but the only thing unusual was the paper bag that he was holding in his hand. He greeted me with a fatherly hug, kissed Bella on her forehead, and hugged Percy as well. Once he reached Sally, though, he quickly pulled her to one of those kisses that someone like Percy's little sister should never witness. I gagged at the sight before turning away and my boyfriend wasn't that comfortable either.
"Mom" he whined. "Not in front of Bella!"
They pulled away just to look at him and shrugged. "I had a call from the office that you, Percy, went home early"
He explained everything that happened, eventually smiling at the look on his parent's faces. But they were happy, saying that it was finally happening. After all those years, we are finally together. Sally already expects me to become her future daughter-in-law but I didn't really object.
"You're not really thinking about getting married this soon in your relationship, are you?" Juniper said, looking a little amused by the look on our faces
I smiled widely and nudged the man beside me. "What do you think, Seaweed Brain?"
Percy thought about it. I liked seeing him with his thinking face, looking so cute. "Not now but someday, maybe when we graduate college or something"
"Sounds nice" I said with another smile. Okay, I've been smiling a lot lately.
All of them stayed for dinner, thinking that maybe we can share some more since they all live really close from here. I, on the other hand, have been damned to stay in an apartment with my incredibly annoying family. Anyways, we all were laughing hysterically because of a joke that the Stolls said. It was nice, to just laugh with your friends, having nothing to worry about other than breaking a rib or puncturing your laugh box. I curse my brothers for making me watch Spongebob in the first place.
Even Bella was giggling when her brother told a story about Rachel while they were dating. It was a pretty embarrassing tale, involving a broken nose and a permanent scar on the chin that still seemed to be present on my boyfriend's perfect face.
Since there was no school tomorrow, we decided that it would be best to just relax for a while. They decided to stay longer than they were supposed to, maybe even overnight when they have the chance. They do that often, seeing that there was no reason to go home in the first place.
We were watching How I Met Your Mother when I received a very angry call from my mother. "Annabeth Cassandra Chase!" she screamed to my ear. I winced at her tone and looked at Percy in that I-need-your-help-because-my-mom-is-going-to-kill-m e kind of way.
"Yes mom?" I asked, relaxing a little because he started massaging my shoulders. "What seems to be the problem?"
"I received a call from your school that you skipped your afternoon classes. What was your reason?" she asked, just like my mother would.
Hiding the groan was probably the hardest thing I have ever done. It was just so frustrating how she only cared about my grades and academics and she never really cared about me in general. I mean, what kind of mother would be that way to a child who has tried to love her? "I felt sick"
"Then why didn't you go to our house then? I could have accepted that if you did so"
Percy, hearing my mother's reason for getting angry, moved his hands to my sides, his lips on my neck as he breathed loving words to my ear. I could tell by now that everyone was paying more attention to me than they are to the TV. "Mom" I started, "Percy brought me to his house."
"Why do you put your friends over your family? Bobby and Matthew almost went out the streets looking for you!"
"I'm sorry" was all I said. It was as good an apology as any but I could tell that she would never accept it.
Then she started ranting on how she worried so much about me. I almost puked at the idea. She wouldn't care if I die, as long as I gave her what she wanted. I swear I could have thrown my phone to the other side of the room if it wasn't my boyfriend's hands restricting me from doing so, telling me that I should be a little more patient. I would have exploded right then and there. "Mother, I promise I'd be there tomorrow morning. I just need to be here right now"
"Why?" she asked, sounding angry. "Why are you in Jackson's house and not here?"
I didn't answer for a while, thinking of what might be the best reply at the moment. It would be nice if I would just hang up on her right then and there but she knows where I am so she can easily pay a much unappreciated visit and pull me out of Percy's grasp. And that isn't even the worst of it. "Mom…" I trailed off, looking at the man beside me.
Thankfully, before she finally made me break down into fits of uncontrollable sobs, Percy got the phone from my hand. "Look, Athena, as much as I respect the fact that you're Annabeth's mother, you still have to give her the freedom to choose where she wants to be. And for now, she wants to be here with her friends" it was firm and I was afraid that he might lose his temper. I would never forget the flames in his eyes, fueled with anger and hate.
"Perseus Jackson, I swear to all things holy that you bring my child here back to my house or else I will accuse you of kidnapping" his eyes flashed dangerously and all of us winced at the sight. We're not prepared for this moment. No one will ever be prepared of this moment. To those people out there who want to see Percy mad, you're lucky that you still haven't so it is best if you don't push it.
"She is sixteen years old. She is free to do whatever she wants, whenever she wants" he growled.
I could already hear my mother's screams from the other line but I carefully laced my fingers to his, hoping that he would find that this wasn't the best time to get mad, especially with Bella sitting right there. She would be forever scarred if ever she sees him burst like a volcano. "You do not decide for her. You may be her best friend but I am her mother!"
"You don't know that you've been one of the worst mothers there is. Annabeth wants more from you than force."
"That was how I learn!"
He seemed frustrated now and I ordered Jason to put the frightened little girl of three in her bedroom and close the door. "Then the way you learned was stupid!" he spat at her. "You know what, Annabeth's a great girl. She deserves more than what she's given."
"How dare you speak to me like tha-?!"
He didn't even let her finish the statement before he hung up, pacing around the room. It got me agitated and Silena had the decency to turn off the TV. "Percy" I said, hoping that my words were comforting.
"I'm fine" was his only reply.
"Percy" I said again, but with much more conviction.
He stopped moving and looked at me, straight in the eye. "She doesn't deserve to talk to you like that, to boss you around"
"I know she doesn't but she's my mother. I have to follow her"
I can't pinpoint what exact emotions were crossing his mind right now but I could tell that it was more of anger, hatred, and pity. Not for me but for mother who never really found out what I really wanted. It was sad how she completely ignores my needs and all I ever wanted was for her to accept me as her child and not just a student. "She's my mother" I repeated, placing a hand on his neck, gently stroking his cheek with my thumb. He leaned to my touch and kissed my fingertips, just because he can. "She's my mother and I can't do anything about it."
"You'll go home?" I shook my head, smiling kindly.
"This is my home, Seaweed Brain" he let out a sigh of relief before pulling me into his arms and kissing me gently on the lips, just enough for me to taste his bittersweet thoughts.
His voice came soft to my ear, the exact opposite of his tone to my mother. "I love you, Wise Girl"
"Love you, too, Perce" I replied with absolutely no hesitation.
We sat back down and answered every one of our friends' questions, with them accepting our answers. "Does your mother know?" Leo asked, looking a little nervous as if he was afraid that I would pounce on him for asking such a question.
I shook my head and stared at the ceiling, resting my head on Percy's chest. "I don't plan to tell her just yet. She deserves to wait a little longer"
They all nodded in agreement, seeing that they all experienced how mom really is. She's terrible, almost a monster to everyone she sees. She only cares about my little brothers, Bobby and Matthew.
Soon after, there was silence. It wasn't awkward since they were family but more of comfortable. There were no other sounds than Silena's usual giggles or Piper's usual whines.
"What's wrong?" Jason teased lightly, "Can't stand not kissing me, can you?"
I let out a smile. It was just so Jason for him to say something like that and I was glad that Piper wasn't as short tempered as Percy is. "Shut up" she muttered, blushing like a tomato. He let out a good natured laugh and kissed her just as softly as my boyfriend did to me.
That lasted until they were in one of the hottest make-out sessions I have ever seen. I won't be surprised if they would just start screwing each other right in front of us. I shifted uncomfortably and I swear I heard Percy smirk. "You're jealous" he whispered to my ear.
I snorted and he just started laughing at me. It was annoying, having to deal with this every single day of my life but I could tell he was just reading what my heart and mind was screaming for me to do.
Whatever just happened the next few seconds made me regret ever over thinking the fact that I missed his lips on mine. The kiss was feverish, hungry, yet passionate all the same. I swear that we would be ripping each other's clothes off if it wasn't for the fact that everyone else was staring at us with raised eyebrows. Whatever this is about, I accept whatever consequence that would be pressed upon my now very breathless figure.
Even if my lungs couldn't get sufficient air, I couldn't find the strength to pull away. I wasn't specific when I told him that this was my home. I actually meant that Percy is that physical manifestation of that home because with him, I always felt like I belonged. He was open to my ideas even though he teases me every once in a while. He was just... perfect.
"Percy!" someone screamed from upstairs. I almost prayed that he ignored it but the way the voice was portrayed was of a kindergartener.
Much to my disappointment, he pulled away, looking at the staircase to his little sister. "Yes, Bella?"
"I can't sleep" she muttered, hugging her stuffed octopus. My boyfriend smiled kindly at her before standing up, heading to where she was and carrying her to us.
"Where are mommy and daddy?" Little Bella asked, yawning.
"Mommy and daddy went away for a while. They'd be back before you know it!" he exclaimed silently, stroking the little girl's black hair.
He was great with kids. I've always known that. He seems to know just what to do during every single situation given to him so I wasn't surprised that he was the first person her school calls when something happens. It rarely does but it did once. He's going to be a great father someday, either to my children or to some other lucky girl who deserves him more than I ever will. "G'night, Percy"
"G'night Bells" he muttered, kissing her forehead lightly.
He placed her gently on the sofa and sat back, looking at us with a small smile plastered on his face. "Why are you all looking at me like that?"
I surprised him with a bone crushing hug and he kissed the side of my face out of instinct. Seaweed Brain can be sensitive when he wants to be… "I don't deserve you" I told him honestly.
"I think it's the other way around"
My teeth involuntarily bit my lower lip the moment he ended his statement. He plenty deserves me, deserves better than me. How could he think that he doesn't? I don't know what has gotten over me the past few days but maybe the sudden rush of emotions got the best of me and it made me into someone who I'm trying so hard to hide.
It was eleven and we were watching a movie since we got bored. Percy had to carry Bella back to her room because it was getting a little loud and the last thing we want to do is wake up a sound sleeper from a sound sleep. I have learned not to do that on Percy and maybe his little sister isn't that different.
Twilight is one of my favorite films. Not because I was absolutely compelled by Silena to watch all the movies and read all the books but because in some way, I could relate to Bella Swan. Well maybe not that much since no one is fighting over me and I am totally loyal to my boyfriend, her problems and the strength of her love just feels like it reminded me of myself. The girls and I were gushing about Taylor Lautner shirtless and all of the guys seemed offended by it.
"Do we not exist anymore?" Nico said exasperatedly, gesturing to all of them.
Thalia scrunched up her nose in disgust but I could tell that she was teasing. "Do you hear that? Annabeth?" I shook my head and all of them groaned. I know I shouldn't be doing this, especially when Percy wasn't in the best mood for me to act like he was never born but seeing his face when he's annoyed was just as good as seeing his face when he's pleased.
"I'm going to bed" he said suddenly. My eyes widened in surprise but before I could even think of doing what I thought I should be, he was already heading up the stairs.
I knew I shouldn't be overreacting but I could feel that the moment Percy left, there was this emptiness that seemed to form in my heart. It was hard to describe but it is pretty close to a jigsaw puzzle with one missing piece. I managed a whimper as I stood up and ran after him, ignoring the knowing smirks that my friends seemed to make.
But as I was about to open his door, I heard his voice, talking to someone on the phone. "She won't get hurt when I break it… She doesn't have to know… I know you need to but we just have to wait until she's busy… just whatever you do, don't say anything to anyone… you're the best… I wish you could come here now… I know you can't because she's here but you know how she is… fine, fine, bye."
I gasped and moved backwards, hitting the wall. Tears were streaming down my eyes as I slid to the floor. What did he mean? Who was she? Are they talking about me and how he may break-up with me? Is he cheating on me with that girl? No! I refuse to believe that. Percy, he has absolute personal loyalty. He can't even think of the idea of leaving me to fulfill his duty. I may have misunderstood.
"Wise Girl?" I heard him ask. Percy held me by the arms and pulled me to a tight hug. "Why are you crying?"
"Who were you talking to just a minute ago?" I accused. It just sorta came out my mouth for no apparent reason. "I swear, Percy, if you don't tell me the truth, we are over"
"It was a friend of mine, a guy I know from Baltimore. We made an agreement that he comes to visit but he can't because Francesca, our gardener, is here for the month."
I shook my head, unbelieving. "What about 'She won't get hurt when I break 'it''?" I choked, looking angrily at him.
"Gary suggested that I break Francesca favorite vase and I was having second thoughts. Annabeth, you couldn't possibly think it was something else?"
Sometimes, I could be so stupid that I would forget reality. Percy loves me. We've said it to each other so many times before and we agreed that we would never be with anyone else unless something happens. He would never do that because I always give him what he wants so what's the point of getting another girl? "I love you, Wise Girl" he reassured, pulling me taut against him. "I love you and don't you ever forget that" he was sincere, I could hear that in his voice and I felt so guilty for accusing his dishonesty.
"I love you, too" I replied, "But next time, no secrets, okay?"
He nodded and kissed the top of my head, carrying me to his bed and placing my very exhausted figure under the sea green comforter. "You should sleep" he assured, holding my hand close to his mouth. "Don't worry. I would never do anything to hurt you"
I trust him to keep that secret. "Good night, Seaweed Brain"
He smiled and wiped away the leftover tears in my eyes. "Good night, Wise Girl"
A smile escaped my lips when I felt him move beside me, his arms around me as tight as he could with him muttering reassurances to my ear. It was nice to hear, having him confess his love for me over and over again. "I love you" he muttered for the final time and sleep overcame him.
Not even thirty seconds passed until I finally let myself fall into the void of unconsciousness.
I woke up the next morning with him nestled behind me, his lips on my shoulder drooling. I would usually be disgusted but this was an exception to everything. He looked so cute when he slept and this was the first time I fully appreciated him to be finally mine. Honestly, I was wearing nothing more than what I wore during the camping. Since it was technically mine now (not really so don't tell him), I can wear it any time I want.
I decided to quote something from what I read, smiling softly as I stroked his hair. "You are the answer to every prayer I've offered." I started, feeling extremely emotional. "You are a song, a dream, a whisper, and I don't know how I could have lived without you for as long as I have." I paused, seeing him smile and mouth my name in his sleep. In all honesty, I couldn't stand the fact that I've kept this from him for so long.
"How come you can memorize something like that?" he mumbled sleepily, giving me one of his signature smirks even if he just woke up two seconds ago.
I shook my head and pulled him to a tight hug "I meant what I said"
"I know you did." He seemed to consider what he's going to say for a while. "I feel the same way"
My lips found him first, our tongues doing a give and take that we have practiced so much over the days that we have started secretly dating. As I moved on top of him, our mouths still pretty much super glued together, I noticed how he really did seem sincere about not loving anyone other than me. Maybe his parents and Bella but in that intimate boyfriend-girlfriend relationship, I was the only one he loved. "How could someone like me deserve someone like you?" I asked, holding his hand in mine.
He didn't answer. Instead, he pressed my palm gently to his face, kissing it lightly.
There was comfortable silence for an entire minute and I was glad that there wasn't any awkwardness between us at all anymore.
"Percy, honey, could you come down here for a second?" It sounded like his mother and he yelled a reply before standing up, he pulled me with him and we walked downstairs where there was a big surprise waiting for us.
Standing there in a tank top and really short shorts was Rachel Elizabeth Dare. Her red hair was tied to a low side ponytail and her face was caked with boatloads of make-up. You could tell from afar that all of the pieces of clothing she was wearing were designer and I almost puked at the idea of her and my Percy dating when we were in freshman year. "Hi, Perce" she said seductively. "We haven't really talked much ever since you came back from the camping trip…"
I guess it was the first time she actually noticed our proximity and how we were holding hands as if the other was the only thing we had from falling in a pit of hungry wolves. "Oh" she said in disgust, turning towards me. "You're with her" she said her as if it was the worst insult she could have thought of and I almost slapped her right then and there.
"Yes, I am with her." He answered confidently, looking at me. "Why are you here, Rachel?"
The rich girl smirked and pulled out a piece of paper from her purse, giving us what seemed to be a letter from Rachel's father, Mr. Dare. "What's this for?" I asked, a little bitterly if you ask me.
"That is the deed to the house in the beach that your father asked my dad to build." She said sweetly, almost gushing with another emotion akin to lust. "If you want, we can look at it together…"
He smirked and handed it to me. I am his personal secretary. "No thanks. I'll give this to my dad" he then turned to Silena who smiled rather mischievously, something I have never at all seen from her. "Thank you, Rachel"
"No problem, Percy" she mumbled dreamily, holding out her hand. But instead of him giving his, Silena moved in front of Rachel and shook her hand for him. "Pleasure doing business with you, bitch"
And with that, Rachel Dare was pushed out of the house with a surprised expression on her face.
We started our search for Mr. Jackson and, thank God, found him leaning on the porch railing. "Hey dad, RED said that her father said that you asked him to build you a house near the beach. What is it for?" Seaweed Brain questioned, looking rather suspicious, as he handed the envelope to his father.
"Thank you, Percy." Poseidon said, smiling lightly.
"What's it for?" he repeated again, pushing further.
My boyfriend's dad smiled and handed him what seemed to be a blueprint. It was a huge beach house, almost as big as the house they have here. And I gasped when I saw some of my designs there. "Percy, for your sixteenth birthday, I give you this as a gift"
"You're kidding, right?" he looked surprised. First of all, he already did have a present for this year. Why does he need another one? And that gift just happens to be a red convertible Maserati Spyder. That was his dream car and that wasn't everything yet. How rich are they that they can afford these kinds of presents?
"No, I'm not kidding" Mr. Jackson mused, his smile growing a little bigger.
That was when he tackled his father to one of the biggest hugs I have ever seen given. "Oh my god! Thank you so much dad! You don't know how much this means to me!"
"I know you've always wanted a house near the beach…"
"This is mine. As in all mine?"
I didn't even realize that Sally was standing behind us, holding a very sleepy Bella. "Yes, it's all yours"
Honestly, he did his best to keep everything calm. I could tell that he was practically doing back flips and somersaults in the inside. He's always wanted to live near the shore, where the ocean can lap at your feet whenever you stand close. That was one of his dreams and now it is finally coming true.
Once we reached our room again, he was jumping for joy, already letting himself go. He pulled me into his arms and twirled me around, making me laugh at how childish it really was. And the moment he placed me back on my feet, he was kissing me, just enough for me to feel absolute happiness inside. "You're really excited, aren't you?" I whispered to him, kissing his cheek lightly.
"Why wouldn't I be?" he asked simply, looking at me with that incredibly handsome face of his. "I have a house for my own. Near the beach. That's probably a dream come true!"
I made a face at him, something between amusement and taunt. "You like your house better than me?"
"Well, at one point, my house doesn't complain when I do something bad"
Sometimes, he can be so thickheaded it would mentally scar him forever. But sometimes, he could be so smart that it would mentally scar me forever. "I'll just go and take a bath and forget you ever said that…" He laughed and chased me to the bathroom.
Tell me what you think!