Authors note: lol sorry I forgot to write an author's note for my last chapter, sorry if there were any spelling mistakes. Also, I'm really trying to write Ethan as a normal character, I want to show his character development... so keep an eye out for that. Don't take everything he says or does at face value because there is going to be a deeper meaning behind. Remember to read in between the lines.
Also, I'm not exactly sure what bobby chase and Matthews ages are but I'm guessing they're 4 years younger than Annabeth.
Finnwhitehead07- after the lightning thief Annabeth decided to go live with her father, I'm pretty sure her father lived in New York at the time being but I'm not sure. I wanted to know where Annabeth went to school between the lightning thief and sea of monsters.
Thatgirlwithacat- thanks for the advice, I was actually planning on a demigod, in later chapters I might just introduce a new mortal character who likes Annabeth as well.
JoeBob- lol. I wish I had sibling. Thank you for the motivation! I'll try to. XD
Chapter 4
October
Ethans pov:
It was one week away from Halloween; I had put in a lot of effort in to my friendship with Annabeth. I was probably her closest friend... maybe even her best friend. I'd heavily misinterpreted Annabeth when I first met her. I'd seen her as intelligent but shy; she was much more than that. She wasn't shy at all; she was outgoing and determined; dedicated to her work. She was clever and spent most of her time reading. This didn't change the way I felt toward her, it just made me like her even more.
She didn't trust many people and I considered myself lucky that she trusted me, she told me things about herself that she didn't tell harper or celeste: like how her parent used to treat her before she ran away, how she was scared of spiders, and she wanted to become an architect. Other things I'd learned by spending a large amount of time with her; like she loved Greek mythology and didn't like her pride being insulted. I'd only known her for, what was it? two months.
I didn't know how she ran away or where she went during that time but I figured that once we grow closer, she'll eventually tell me, all we need is a bit more time. All I knew is that Annabeth was closest to me out of all of us. She didn't have any other friends and I'm pretty sure that if she had a best friend, she would mention her. So, I am definitely her best friend.
My friends, being the awesome people, they are, were amazing wingmen. Every now and then they would conveniently leave so it was just me and Annabeth together. I started to realize that when me and Annabeth had first met, she wasn't really comfortable with me, she was sorta stiff. We've come far though. She has never been the kind of person who like close contact; hugs, holding hands, sitting too close to other people, that kind of stuff. But that's just who she is. I'm pretty sure, that deep down, she has feelings for me.
Before I made a move, I wanted to grow closer to her; I wouldn't run the risk of scaring her away. I didn't mind waiting if it was for her.
Monday- 5 days away from halloween
Ethan pov:
I walked into school. As I had expected, the hallway was filled with excited murmurs. All the students were talking about Halloween, which was this Thursday. I walked over to Joshua, he was leaning against the lockers and was fiddling with... a necklace... I think. He had a frown etched into his face. He saw me from the corner of his eyes and stuffed the necklace into his pocket and put a smile onto his face. His lips were dry and cracked, he had bags under his eyes; his eyes were bloodshot as if he'd been crying.
"hey", Joshua said dejectedly.
I scrutinized his behavior, "you okay man?"
We'd been friend for a long time, he'd surely tell me.
"i'll-", he had a pained expression on his face, as if he were holding back tears, "I'll tell you later"
I was a bit hurt, but I didn't want him to actually star crying, besides... the rest of our group was approaching... I couldn't just demand answers out of him. Liam was walking with harper and celeste, he had a slight smile on his face. I nodded at him; I didn't exactly pity him... but I could see why he had issues with me. He wasn't even that bad, I decided to give him a chance.
"hey Liam" I said
He nodded at me politely.
Celeste was looking particularly excited today, half of her pale hair was tied up and the rest was flowing over her shoulders. She was wearing a simple black hoodie and a jean skirt with doc martins. Her blue eyes seemed more vibrant than usual- I realized it was because of her black eyeshadow. Halloween was probably her favorite day of the year; she always overdid the costumes.i rolled my eyes.
Harpers sunset orange sweat pants complimented her rusty eyes. She was wearing a plain black top and had tied her hair into a messy bun. Despite not putting too much effort into her appearance she looked bright as ever. Annabeth was nowhere to be seen, late as usual.
"woah", harper raised her eyebrows, "you look terrib...uhh are you okay?"
A bit insensitive but I decided not to comment.
"yea, just fine" Joshua muttered.
I realized that the conversation would soon become awkward if I didn't step in, " sooo, did ya plan your Halloween costumes yet", I directed my question to Celeste because I knew I could depend on her for an answer.
Her eyes lit up and she started droning on and on about her plans for her costume, I wasn't really paying much attention to her. I gave an odd comment here and there so she thought I was paying attention. I then heard her say Annabeth and I was immediately interested.
"could you repeat that"
She scowled lightly, "me, Annabeth and harper are planning on dressing up in matching costumes, all Greek themed, it's a surprise... I won't tell you"
"wait, you already invited Annabeth to go trick or treating with us?! Celeste! I wanted to invite her"
Celeste winced, "well me and celeste accidently talked about it in front of her and then we had to tell her... besides don't get too excited-"
I didn't get to hear the rest of her sentence since Annabeth had reached. Her face was flushed and she was panting; she looked like she'd ran all the way here. I wonder what that was about... we lived quite close to the school
out of breath, and the way her hair stuck to her sweaty forehead. Disgusting on any other girl but endearing on Annabeth. Woah, this crush is really weird.
line break:
Ethans pov
As usual, I walked to my chemistry class with Liam and celeste, I had realized that Liams company wasn't all that bad, he had a good sense of humor albeit slightly dark. I still didn't get his whole "edgy, lone wolf kid" character, but whatever, it's probably just an annoying phase. I was going quite used to chemistry with Liam and celeste, they helped me with my work but it was more than that... I was growing close to them. Celeste wasn't as overbearing as before, at least not to me. I guess everything works out in the end, huh?
Chemistry was a bit weird today. There was something off about Celestes behavior, she seemed nervous about something. She was distracted the whole lesson and whenever I looked at her, she averted her gaze, in a guilty sort of way. Maybe she...liked me... no, that couldn't be it. She was perfectly fine this morning. I wanted to know but I refrained from asking her; I didn't want to seem desperate. It's cool... it was none of my business... if I needed to know she would tell me, right? I wasn't so sure. My gut said to just get it over with and ask her, my brain was telling me to act rational. I went with my brain.
Definitely the wrong choice.
My heart was practically jumping out of my chest by the time I reached the math class, not because of climbing the stairs- although that was part of the reason- but that's just what Annabeth did to me. I reached the class early; Annabeth was the only one there and didn't seem to notice me enter the room. She was enraptured by some book. She was always reading a book. Now that I think of it, a different one every time I saw her, huh, typical Annabeth. I snuck up behind her; I was trying to scare her. I was almost behind her when she, without even turning around, asked me, "are you, seriously, trying to sneak up on me". She laughed. I stared at her, if my mouth didn't close soon, flies would enter, "how did you- I didn't even make any noise- ok you are NOT a human", I was stunned.
Annabeth had an amused look on her face, "close enough", she murmured
I inspected the book she was reading... it wasn't a book; it was a planner. She wasn't reading, she was staring at the picture of a boy. I couldn't make out much of his features, just that he had raven black hair. Annabeth realized what I was staring at and shut her book.
"who's that?"
I knew I was being nosy but the words just tumbled out of my mouth. "your celebrity crush", I continued jokingly, in an attempt to smooth things over.
She laughed but there was a slight blush on her cheek and a strained sort of look, "Quit being silly, that's just Percy, a friend of mine"
I was still slightly suspicious I mean how could she have any friends; she has been missing for the past 5 years. I probably would have asked her more, out of curiosity, but Halloween was a more important matter to discuss.
" I heard that you and the rest of the girls are dressing up in matching outfits, Greek themed", I nodded to myself thoughtfully, " this is probably your first time trick or treating in years, every year we meet at my house and from there we go trick or treating. My house is closest to all of our houses though... I suppose this year we can meet at yours, I don't mind", I was blabbering at this point.
Annabeth had a dumbfounded expression on her face, "Ethan, what are you talking about? Didn't celeste tell you? I won't be going trick or treating with you guys".
My face fell, "what, why?"
"a friend of mine is coming over, to stay, we want to spend time together... but you can come over later, when harper and celeste are coming, just ask them about it. You, Joshua and Liam are welcome to stay over as well, "she looked across the room as if just realizing our surroundings", class is going to start soon, we can chat later".
Line break
Our math lesson was nearly over and I was, internally, a mess. I packed my books early, so instead of waiting for Annabeth while she packed hers, I could stand outside the classroom and wait for her. Kinda cold. I know but... I didn't want to have talk to her. Despite having a whole hour to come up with things to say to her I just couldn't. I felt so betrayed, it wasn't really her fault but I needed a bit of time away from her (even if it was only a few second) As soon as our bell rang, I jumped out of my seat and made a bee line toward the door. Great! At least now I have some time to recollect my thoughts.
I stood by the door as I wondered what I'd say to her when she came out of the class room. I wish she would have considered this decision with me in mind. She'd clearly forgotten. So much for best friends.
"Ethan? Why'd you leave?", she looked at me with a confused look on her face.
My heart twisted. I'd been too harsh; I couldn't dump all the blame on Annabeth. What if she doesn't like me? Ugh I should make myself clearer.
" uhhh... I... um", I struggled to find an excuse.
"is this about the whole Halloween situation?", she sighed, "look, I need to spend some time with my friend as well... besides, I didn't say you couldn't come"
"I know"
"don't worry, we can discuss once we reach our table"
I nodded my head in agreement, feeling a bit demotivated by the whole situation really. I had even imagined the scenarios in my head for what seemed like million times. I had imagined... me and Annabeth, the perfect pair, dressing in matching costumes... having a great time trick or treating... me dropping her home... having a romantic moment... I felt giddy headed. Guess that wouldn't be happening anymore so no point thinking about it.
Whatever, Annabeth has been hanging out with me for nearly two months nonstop, she probably just needs some girl time.
I took my place in between harper and Annabeth, Annabeth seemed relaxed enough, slightly stiff but that's just Annabeth for you. Harper on the other hand was usually quite relaxed, quite the opposite of Annabeth, they were similar in the sense that both of them were stubborn; both strong personalities. Today was different, as soon as I sat next to Harper her body language switched. She stiffened up, she didn't say anything weird but she was taut. That makes two people being weird today first Celeste and now Harper.
Speaking of Celeste... ugh, Girls are a different species. I'd have to speak to her later.
Harper was making her usual conversation with Annabeth; she was speaking to her as if I wasn't in between them which was exasperating... I mean I liked Annabeth; she knew that. I was finding it hard to nudge my way into their conversation, they were having a heated discussion about racism and I didn't really have anything to say. I tried shooting harper a serious look but she ignored it.
I sighed in defeat, guess today wasn't my lucky day.
I turned over to Joshua who was having a conversation with Liam and celeste, I simply joined it. I found it a bit difficult since at times they spoke over me, but I just dealt with it. They were still my friends no matter what and so far, this year was going well for me. I wasn't going to be the one to ruin that.
Finally, Annabeth and harper butted into our conversation. So apparently one of Annabeths friend would be coming over on Halloween and staying over at her house, she said that her friend was gonna be coming after school. She said that we could come over to her house at 7:30, after we finished trick or treating. We could stay over if we wanted or just eat dinner and leave.
"wait a second", I interrupted her, "your parents... are ok with that?"
she looked a little miffed at being interrupted but she continued, "my parents are going to a hotel, I'm looking after Bobby and Matthew"
We looked at her, "I'm a responsible kid, ok"
"wait, why are you dressing up if you're gonna be home anyways?", I asked her.
"for fun, I've got a bunch of free time on my hands"
Sounded like Annabeth to me.
Line break
School was over, Annabeth had invited me over to her house for a study session. I realized with a jolt that this was the first time she had actually asked me to come over to her house... up till then I thought maybe she doesn't like me as much as I thought she did. I had always wondered whether all the effort to maintain our friendship was one-sided. I was relieved to find out that was not the case.
I would have accepted but I couldn't miss swim practice. Ugh, out of all the days. I was working myself to the bone and started waking up every morning to practice swimming. I would become the captain. By hook or by crook.
Line break
Annabeth pov
Time seemed to pass slowly. I'd been on edge this whole week in anticipation for today. Halloween was finally here. That meant Percy. I could barely contain my excitement; it's been nearly two months since I've seen him and I missed him. I did iris message him a lot but that can't be compared to seeing him face to face.
I encountered a hell hound on the way to school but I only sustained a scratch on my arm. Nothing ambrosia wouldn't fix right up.
I ran to school, I didn't want to be late, I'd worked hard to create a good impression of myself and I wouldn't let that go to waste just because of some stupid hell hound.
"hey Annabeth!", Harper called brightly.
Her wide beam changed into a look of concern.
"what happened to your arm"
I cussed in Greek. The ambrosia was doing a decent job healing it, but the scratch was still looking pretty bad.
"oh, I, er, I got attacked by a stray dog".
"you look terrible"
It was true. There was dried blood on my arm and my hair was plastered onto my forehead. I was sweating and the monster dust was stuck to me. I probably smelled bad.
Thankfully she bought it. She seemed to trust me. I smiled to myself, "gee, thanks"
She had a worried look on her face.
"do you need to go to the nurse?... I wouldn't mind taking you"
I shook my head quickly. She looked somewhat hurt. I couldn't figure out why.
"are you fine?" I asked her
She nodded her head. I didn't press her on the matter.
When me and her met up with the rest of our group at homeroom they asked what happened as well, Harper answered for me, "stray dog".
Ethan gently lifted my arm up and inspected my arms up and frowned, "I'll take you to the nurse if you want?"
I smiled at him, "no need"
Harper threw Ethan an envious look. I wasn't sure what that was all about.
"Ok so are we on for today?", Joshua said.
"you bet; my costume is already planned" I said competitively
Liam laughed nervously.
Celeste laughed, "is that a challenge?", her eyes glittered.
I smirked, "bring it"
Celeste raised her eyebrows, "it. Is. On."
Harper jumped in, "I finished planning my costume as well"
"cool",I said
" wanna walk with me to class?"
I smiled.
"sure"
Line break
Ethans pov
My mom picked me up from school, as usual, but today was different. It was Halloween so Joshua would be riding with me. It was kind of a tradition. Long story short, Joshua always comes over to my place after school on Halloween. We stay there until the rest join and then we go trick or treating.
I glanced at Joshua, who didn't look much better compared to today morning, his blond hair hung limply in front of his eyes, his skin was drained of color and his characteristically warm, brown eyes were dull. The life was completely sucked out of him. He didn't seem as jovial as he usually did. I had known him for a long time and I was worried about him; I'd never seen him like this and I'd known him for 4 years.
He was putting on a smile though.
As soon as I reached home, I dragged him upstairs and closed the door.
"OK, Joshua, what's wrong?"
"it's-it's my granny"
I was slow, I didn't understand what he was saying.
"Yeah, what about her", I winced.
It hit me moments too late, "Joshua, shit, I'm sorry"
"yeah she's in a bad place... we don't know whether..."
He didn't finish the sentence, a lone tear rolled down his cheeks as he sighed, "I don't want to talk about it, just distract me"
And I complied. We spent the whole afternoon goofing around and just being kids.
The doorbell rang at 5 and me in Joshua looked at each other in horror. We had forgotten to wear our costumes. I asked my mom to let my friends in while me and Joshua got into our costumes. I was dressing up as Zeus. I had planned it keeping Annabeth in mind, I knew she loved Greek mythology, her favorite god was probably Zeus, since he was the most powerful. I was wearing a tunic with a golden crown thing. I'd even carved a lightning bolt out of cardboard and spray painted it blue. It was perfect. Annabeth would be blown away when she saw it.
Joshua didn't care too much about what he was dressing up as, he just threw on a tattered shirt and squirted some fake blood on his face.
Together both of us walked down stairs. Harper, celeste and Liam were waiting for us.
Harper turned around, "OHHH! So the princesses are finally done?"
I sucked in a breath. She was stunning.
Her short, choppy hair was tucked behind a silver crown, she had dusted silver powder all over her body, she was wearing silver lenses which brought out the olive complexion of her skin. She was wearing a simple tunic with sandals; her outfit was paired with silver accessories. Even her bow and arrow were silver.
My costume felt stupid compared to her, I couldn't help but feel childish.
"your costumes great", I said grudgingly.
An awkward smile appeared on her cheeks, "thanks"
"hey! Don't I get any attention", Celeste pouted.
I looked over at her. She wasn't wearing a tunic; she was wearing a longer more complicated dress. It was an off-white dress cinched at her waist with a golden belt. She had golden accessories and golden sandals. Her pale blonde hair was curled around her shoulders.
"who are you supposed to be", I asked incredulously.
She glared at me, "I'm the goddess of love, Aphrodite"
She broke into a beam.
Liam didn't put too much effort into his costume either. He was wearing the same mask he'd worn last year, and the year before, and the year before.
He was wearing regular clothes.
"nice costume" I told him.
"same to you", he replied dryly.
Line break
Ethans pov
I was having a great time, it was already 6, yet there was a lingering feeling at the back of my mind. For some inexplicable reason I couldn't help feeling slightly paranoid. I found myself zoning out of reality and day dreaming about Annabeth. I couldn't stand the thought of her having fun with someone else. I felt left out.
Just another hour and a half, I told myself... then I'd be with her again. I'd be with her till tomorrow.
"you seem out of it", Liam pointed out.
I shook my head with a queasy feeling in my stomach, "it's just... Annabeth"
He nodded his head in understanding.
I continued.
"I'm just missing her... a lot... I need to see her, I don't know, I can't wait!"
He looked over at me.
"if you need to go then go, none of us will judge"
"ok", I inhaled, "guys, I think I'll head over to Annabeth's house early... like right now"
The looked at each other and finally Joshua cheered, " woohooo! Go for it"
I smiled, "ok, meet me there later"
I waved at them and jogged all the way to Annabeth's house.
I stood outside her door while I gathered the courage to knock.
I wondered what she would look like; her friend I mean.
I knocked.
I waited.
I heard the muffled sound of footsteps and the door unlocking.
A boy my age opened the door, he looked vaguely familiar but I couldn't place it.
I looked at him. Who was this strange person and what has he done with Annabeth?
Wait, why didn't Annabeth open the door?
My mind jumped to the worst conclusion and I flew into action.
I grabbed the guy by his wrist and pinned him against the wall. He didn't struggle, he just stared at me in confusion.
I was centimeters from his face and could make out every feature. The boy had vaguely Greek like features and sea green eyes.
He was your basic delinquent. God I could already see him smoking in the corner of the school bathroom.
"what have you done with Annabeth?!", I growled.
He tilted his head, "what are you talking about?"
He didn't seem scared at all. My grip loosened and the queasy feeling in my stomach returned. He pushed me off with barely any strength... at least that's what it looked like, but I stumbled back.
Realization dawned on his face, "you're one of Annabeths friend", he laughed, "nice to meet you... thanks for attacking me"
He held out his hand. I took it.
I finally realized where I saw him.
Annabeths friend.
Percy.
Ok, that's all for today, sorry it took me a while but I had to write a
Also, I may start a new percabeth story which focuses on percabeth in 2020 soooo yeah
Carrot lord- don't blame himXD
Whipplewhapple- thank you
Thatgirlwithacat-thank youuu
Someone- don't worry I will.
