hey guys! Here's a extra long chapter for u since I haven't updated this story in a while. Most of you that follow me know I have been updating my other story.

Check out my other stories! Particularly the rewrite of A Fine Line Between Love and hate.

Disclaimer Don't own PJO and stuff

Enjoy!

Percy pondered over what had happened earlier that day with confusion. He really didn't understand what Heph was referring to when he said, 'So close'. He was the one who came in at the most inopportune time. Percy wiped some antiseptic cream on his cut located on his right cheek and stared at himself in the mirror.

His right cheek was discoloured and was forming a bruise. 'Great.' He thought, 'Aunt Sally will have a fit.' He touched it and winced. His cheek felt like he just stabbed himself with a pen.

'Ice. I need Ice.' He grabbed an ice pack from the freezer and held it to his face just in time for him to hear the keys to the front door jingle.

'Crap!' Percy peeped out the window, Aunt Sally was fumbling in her handbag. Percy knew he needed to get out of there. He grabbed the pen on the fridge and wrote a note, explaining that he went out with Apollo.

Percy's heart raced as he sprinted to the door leading to the open garage. Thank the gods his aunt forgot to close it. He climbed on his ducati and hit the ignition. Within seconds he was speeding off onto the highway. He couldn't go hide out at the diner, the town was too small, word would get out where he was and his aunt would know he lied.

Percy didn't know where he was going, he just knew he needed to leave the town if he wanted to get some alone time.

He found himself in New York City, the concrete jungle of America. The lights still left him in awe, the diversity of people and structure was remarkable. 'Annabeth would love it here' He thought with amusement.

If he was here, he might as well make the most of it. Percy hit the ignition and drove through the streets of 'The Big Apple', searching for the perfect place to settle down.

It must have been a full hour since he had arrived, one of the reasons being maybe because he got lost once or twice, but that was debatable.

'This is impossible, nothing is quiet and relaxing like at Greenburn.' He groaned internally.

Percy was just about to give up, when he spotted a small restaurant on the corner of the street. He eyed the sign, 'Billy Bob's Burgers.' He parked his bike and pressed his face onto the window.

He grinned when he saw it wasn't full but had a few customers sitting with laptops and plates filled with piles of chips as high as the empire state building and burgers the size of a football.

His stomach rumbled, Percy decided if this place didn't make the cut, no place would. He tucked his helmet under his arm and opened the door.

A bell jingled as he entered. 'How authentic, just like at home.'

'The Milkshake Place' was a 60's style diner back at Greenburn, it had everything, from the classic leather booths, classic car posters decorating the walls and the cute bell when you entered. Billy Bob's Burgers must have the same idea.

Percy POV

"Yo guys, a new customer!" A young guy behind the counter at the kitchen yelled. He had a thick New York accent.

I sat down at a table and waited for a waiter. A few seconds passed and still no sign of anybody, but I didn't mind, it was a further excuse to stay longer.

I took the time to observe the small restaurant, it was rather cosy. The stained red mosaics on the walls combined with the old style diner. Although the colour scheme reminded him of a cheap budget italian cafe'.

"Yo Silena! Customer!" The kitchen guy shouted, hitting the bell on the counter repeatedly. Obviously he had a lack of vocabulary as the word 'Yo', isn't even in the dictionary.

"Alright! Geez, don't get your panties in a twist. I had to get a new apron, Finn!" A similar head of dark hair popped out from under an apron.

My eyes widened as her face was revealed. Standing in front of me was Silena Beauregard.

She stopped dead in her tracks when she saw who I was, her skin went white.

"Uhh, Charlie can you take this one?" She yelled.

Charles Beckendorf, a Junior at Goode High emerged. He was wiping his hands with a rag, his expression fell, "Sorry Silena, Finn says I already have tables." He did seem genuinely sorry though.

He was a buff guy, rather big for a junior if I was gonna be honest and had chocolate brown skin to match his dark hair.

Silena gulped and looked at me, taking out a notepad and not meeting my eyes. I was even more confused, first there was the thing with Artemis, now I see a rich girl working as a waitress in a small restaurant.

"Your order sir?" She asked.

Though the way she spoke those words to me sounded like she'd rather be sticking needles in her eyes then be here talking to me. It was understandable, I was technically a loser. But this is outside school, she has no power here.

I frowned, "Silena? What on earth are you doing here? Aren't you-uhh well off?"

Silena glared at me, "I'm working and just because I'm rich doesn't mean I can't get experience. Not that it's any of your business."

I raised my eyebrow, "Sorry if I seem shocked. But why so far from town?"

She sighed, "Gosh just order."

I couldn't help but chuckle at her embarrassment. Clearly she thought getting a job outside of town would keep her secret.

"I'll have a coke and the special, Bacon Mountain Surprise."

She scribbled it down, "Anything else?" Her tone of voice sounded like her boredom was trying to put itself out of it's misery.

I shook my head, watching her as she walked away. She placed my order and made her way to another table.

I didn't have to wait long, but it took long enough for me to gather my thoughts. One thought being the answer as to why Silena was working in the first place and 30 minutes out of town. She either did really want some work experience, not likely, or she had some ulterior motive to being here, because dear gods did this girl not need the money.

Silena grabbed a tray of plates, the guy, Finn in the kitchen was very generous with the amount of plates on each tray. It was as if he was purposely piling them on Silena's tray.

She struggled and the plates shook, I froze, was she gonna let them go? I wondered if having FIRED in big red letters over her resume' would affect what her next job would be.

"Oh Silena! Let me help you!" Beckendorf, as everyone called him-except Silena apparently- said, walking up to her. He grabbed a few plates and distributed them to a few tables.

Silena smiled at him, a small blush stained her cheeks, which raised a few suspicions.

"Thanks Charlie." She bit her lower lip bashfully.

Beckendorf laughed shyly and rubbed the back of his neck, "No problem-umm who does this Bacon Mountain Surprise go to?"

Silena gestured to me wistfully, clearly forgetting who she was pointing to.

Beckendorf spotted me and grinned, walking over and setting my order down, "Hey Percy, wassup man?" He gave me a high five, "Can't wait for the party on Friday."

I returned his grin with one of my own, "Can't wait to see you there. Your one of the few juniors coming. Bringing anyone?" I glanced at a silent Silena, there's something you don't see everyday.

Usually a comfortable silence wasn't something that came with the, Silena Beauregard package.

He blushed and shrugged, "Don't know. So uhh-how'd you find this place?"

He seemed to be waving my question off with a two-syllable answer, guilty as sin.

I shrugged, "Stumbled on it. I didn't know you worked." I had to use every ounce of willpower I had left not to tease him about the future angel beside him.

"Gotta pay the bills somehow." Beckendorf sighed with a small smile.

"Charlie came up with the idea for your special." Silena said suddenly, batting her eyelashes at Beckendorf. She promptly cleared her throat after realising I was watching their interaction intensely.

He blushed and smiled at her, "No biggie."

Silena giggled as if he had said something ridiculously hilarious. I smirked as I put two and two together.

Silena, the junior's It girl, was crushing on a loser, Charles Beckendorf, the lucky idiot.

That's why she works so far out of town, or as a matter of fact works period. She wants an excuse to be with Charles. Very smart, but how understandable. Charles was a great guy, even Silena wasn't immune to the geeky charm of Charles Beckendorf.

"Ey' Beckendorf! Get over here, we gots customers food to serve." Finn hit that annoying bell on the counter. I was really starting to not like this guy.

Charles sighed and gave me a fist pump before facing Silena, "Are we still up for tonight?" He whispered, but I was listening intently.

Pretending to be on my phone while they spoke about forbidden meetings was a rather dick move, but hey, my sister rubbed off on me after all these years. Sue me.

Silena touched his arm, "Can't wait, Charlie."

Once I heard him walk away I chuckled audibly, making Silena's head whip around to face me.

I smiled smugly at her as I took a bite of my burger, her face went as red as the paint that decorated the walls.

"Please don't say anything. If anyone at school ever found out I was hanging out with a-" Her expression fell, as if the next thing she was about to say hurt her to say aloud. "A loser-"

I held my hand up, "It's alright. Your secret is safe with me."

Silena grinned and sighed with relief, "Thank gods."

Hold on...I had a perfectly good reason for wrapping a popular around my finger, and I was just gonna leave it? I had a problem too, girl problems, and I wanted an outside opinion besides my sister's or Heph. What if I made a deal? She could help me with Artemis, help me see what I'm doing wrong. What I was 'So close' with.

"Actually…"

Silena froze and turned to me.

"How about we make a deal?" Wow. I guess my sister really had rubbed off on me.

She narrowed her eyes at me, "What kind of deal?"

I patted the seat next to me, she eyed it disdainfully. I rolled my eyes and continued, "I help you by not spilling about your little crush-"

"I do not have a crush-"

I waved her off as I took a giant bite of my burger, "I don't spill about your crush-" My voice was muffled. I swallowed my food and proceeded, "And instead help you, you can return the favour by let's say...training me in terms of the art of uhh-"

She sighed loudly, interrupting me.

"Let me guess, you have a crush on some unattainable girl. Probably popular?" Silena asked, sitting down next to me. She made it seem as if it was the most predictable situation in the world. I was not such a cliche'.

I blushed, but hid it by taking the last bite of my burger, "Yes." I murmured with food in my mouth so she wouldn't hear the crack in my voice.

Silena went quiet for a few seconds, a frown on her face as she thought my offer over.

"Deal." She held her hand out.

I smirked, "Pleasure doing business with you."

Silena rolled her eyes and got up, "Do you want the bill?" She asked, eyeing my almost empty plate.

I nodded, "Sure."

She nodded and walked away, returning in just a few short seconds.

I put a 10 dollar bill inside, Silena glared at me and cleared her throat.

"$1.00 tip? Pay up cheapskate, I know you're loaded." Silena crossed her arms.

I laughed, "I was just kidding." I added another 5 dollars and stood up. "Good luck on your totally platonic and not a date at all with Charlie." I mocked her voice at the use of Charles nickname.

She growled, but she wasn't as scary as she normally would look, probably due to the fact that when you're blushing you just look embarrassed more so than frightening.

However, it was most likely due to the fact that no one, I repeat, no one, is as scary as my sister when she's angry. I'd compare the look on Aphrodite's face to that of the criminally insane, sort of like when you call Annabeth dumb.

I didn't know whether Annabeth would be more angry at the fact that we insulted her intelligence or over the grounds of us not being able to come up with a better word to use for intelligence. But hey, who knew with women?

Silena continued to sneer at me despite my obvious amusement. This caused another chuckle to emerge from my mouth before I stood up and started to leave.

"See ya, Percy!" Charles yelled from the other side of the restaurant.

I waved and eyed Silena, sending him a wink, making Beckendorf stutter as he mouthed for me to shut up.

As I sat on my bike and put on my helmet. I saw a group of girls-no older than maybe 20-watching me, they giggled when they saw that I had seen them.

They waved and winked at me flirtatiously, I frowned, luckily they couldn't see through my helmet. I looked behind me, wondering if it was really me they were flirting with, when I realised I was, my cheeks set on fire. I waved sheepishly and hit the ignition on my bike, making them smile brightly and blow me a few kisses as I rode away.

I will admit, I had no idea how to flirt with someone. So if what those girls were doing really was them flirting, I had no idea how to respond. I sighed, maybe Silena could tackle that obstacle first.

The ride home was quiet, well as quiet as a highway can be. I could feel the difference between New York City's atmosphere and Greenburn's. While New York City's was wild and vibrant, Greenburn's was comforting and peaceful, much like any small town's if you ignore the gossiping no one seems to think is a bad habit.

I pulled into the drive way as quietly as possible, it was already 8 pm and I was not looking forward to having to explain myself to both my sister and aunt of the my reasons for not coming home earlier.

I paused as I got to the door connecting the garage to the rest of the house. 'Okay, you got this. It's not like they will kill you...or at least I hope not.' My attempt to pump myself up failed miserably and I decided my mindset couldn't get much worse than it already was.

I turned the knob slowly and entered my house.

I looked left and right each time I entered a room. No one was here? That was odd, I thought.

Unfortunately, the split second I let my guard down was when I strolled into the T.V room without a care in the world.

"How was your day today?" My aunt's voice stated from the couch and I don't mean in her usual happy voice.

I froze mid step and turned towards her slowly, I smiled nervously at my sister and aunt.

"H-hi."

My sister crossed her arms, "Let me see your cheek."

I groaned, "It's not a big deal guys!"

"Not a big deal?" My aunt raised her voice slightly, this didn't happen often. "You got beaten up by a fellow pupil, I'd say that was a very big deal."

I flinched, she was right in lecturing at me. Instead of coming straight home I-in a sense-ran away. Coward! I scolded myself.

My sister marched up to me, "I am gonna kill that little shit!" She growled as she held my face, observing my cheek.

My aunt gasped, "Language! But yes-" Her face darkened, "I say we should teach him a lesson. No one touches a Jackson and gets away with it, that's one thing your father taught me."

"He wasn't a father." I muttered before actually replying, "If it's any consolation you should see the other guy." I joked, they did not find me funny. I cleared my throat, "Jeesh. Tough crowd."

Aphrodite poked my chest, "I will ruin him-"

"If it makes you feel better, I really did beat his ass. I broke his nose and left with the love of his life holding me." I shrugged.

My aunt's ears perked up at this. Now she chooses to listen to me, when I mention a girl in my non-existent love life.

My sister's eyes widened, "Artemis didn't tell me that part-" She then smirked, "That saucy minx…" She whispered, but I heard.

"Wait? Artemis?" My aunt Sally looked even more surprised than my sister. Wow, they have such faith in me. "Now, Percy I know you like her and she's a lovely girl, I love her too bits, but she and you aren't even friends…"

I scoffed, "Excuse me!" I crossed my arms, "We just so happen to-"

"They've gotten a bit chummy, aunt Sally." Aphrodite smirked mischievously.

I sent her a 'Fuck you' look. She giggled.

Sally grinned, "Oh is it? Now that she see's how handsome you are?"

Aphrodite shook her head, "Aunty, even better. They've been chummy since last year, before all this-" She gestured to my body.

Aunt Sally squealed, "Oh my! What a predicament you are in." She turned to my sister, "Are you alright with-"

My sister held up her hand with a sly smile, "Let's get back to business-Orion."

My aunt's smile vanished, "That's who punched you? That stupid little boy who's been bullying you since last year?"

I couldn't bear to tell her he'd been bullying me all through high school. It would break her heart knowing she was clueless as to who the culprits were and for how long they had been present. So instead I nodded, telling her she was right.

"I shall have a word with his mother-" Sally began, as she turned away to get the phone.

My eyes widened and I panicked.

"No aunty!" I held her shoulder, "Umm, we have it handled. Please don't do anything." I pleaded.

"Trust me aunty, I have it handled." My sister's expression scared me. I was glad I was on the right side of her at this moment.

I guessed that meant Orion was on her left side. Wait...that didn't make sense.

I woke up the next morning not feeling up for school today. I tried my best to convince my aunt I didn't have to go and that I was sick-meaning my now black cheek. She had none of it and basically almost dressed me like I was a child.

"Okay aunty!" I yelled to the top of the staircase-respectfully mind you- where my aunt was lecturing me about the importance of school.

"Have a good day!" She blew me a kiss.

I gathered my books in my bag and grabbed my keys to my Ferrari. I might as well own it if I had a car like that. I mean, what use is it cooped up in a garage?

My sister poked my ribs from behind me. I yelped and glared at her.

"What?"

"Well good morning to you too grumpy." She giggled, taking a bite of her apple.

I sighed, "Sorry, good morning." I kissed her cheek.

She smiled, "That's better. Now, take me to school."

I rolled my eyes, "I should have known there was a reason you didn't twist my ear when I was rude."

If my sister wanted something, she was sickly sweet, I thought it was so obvious. But to others, it always came as a surprise when they realised my sister used them. Are they idiots? I mean come on, it was obvious!

She winked, "I wanna make an entrance with my rising star brother-" She pinched my cheek.

I slapped her hand away, "Ugh, rising star?"

My sister grinned, "Yeah. Now hurry up, we're gonna be late."

She snatched my keys from my hand and ran into the garage, her bag on her back like she knew I was gonna give in.

I shook my head silently before following her.

I drove into thee filled parking lot of our school. My sister had been chatting away about all the artists whose songs came on over the radio, I stopped paying attention when she started talking about Justin Bieber's latest girlfriend. I honestly didn't care anymore than Mr. Este-My Spanish teacher whose surname I can't pronounce-than he did about being a teacher. Which was very little by the way.

"Hey, park in the senior's lot." My sister pointed to the turn that separated our parking spots to the juniors.

"There won't be any left-"

"We can use mine."

"Remind me again why you couldn't just drive yourself?" I asked her as we pulled into her spot.

People stared at us in awe, I kinda liked it. It was a better change to them feeling sorry for me.

"Because you're my brother and you love me."

I raised my eyebrow. She sighed.

"It's to boost your reputation while I can, it's buzzing all over school that you kicked Orion's butt." My sister stated nonchalantly while getting out the car.

I stuck my head out the window, "What? You can't just drop a bomb like that and expect me to forget about it!"

"If the Japanese can do it, so can I." My sister yelled back, still looking at her phone.

I frowned, I didn't know if that was racist or not. I'm gonna go with no for now, since it was probably a joke.

"You know they didn't get away with it!" I shouted, "Fat man and Little boy were-"

My sister ignored me, "Whatever nerd."

I saw other seniors looking at me and whispering. I heard a few "Orion got beat." Sentences flying around. Maybe my sister was telling the truth.

I got out the car and locked it, I adjusted the straps of my bag on my shoulder. I took a deep breath, "Okay!" I said to myself as I entered the gates of hell.

People opened a path for me as I walked, I felt like a an angel. Somehow it was like I felt superior to them even though I knew I wasn't. I couldn't explain how I felt about this, on the one hand, it was great not being pushed around into lockers as I strolled down the hall, on the other hand I didn't want people to be scared of me.

I had 3 minutes till class, I needed to hurry. I broke into a sprint toward my locker.

"Sorry!" I pushed past someone and carried on, "Excuse me!" I barely dodged a science project that was having a hard time sticking together as is.

I ran into my locker on my own accord for once and briefly switched my books for all the classes before break.

"Where is my biology book, dammit!" I slammed my hand on the locker next to mine.

I felt something with a hard corner poke my arm, I face the person.

It was Luke, looking rather amused.

"Here, it was on the floor." He handed me my text book.

I blushed, "Oh. Thanks man."

Luke shook his head, "No problem, what's your first class?"

I checked my schedule, "Uhh-Spanish. You?"

Luke seemed to look a little embarrassed, "Same here, but it's ordinary spanish, I can't do AP."

My grin must have been so wide I suspected it was gonna tear my cheeks. I finally knew someone I could actually talk to in that class, someone who understood Spanish was frigging hard. Well, at least until he realised he was higher than me on the social hierarchy.

"Well in that case, come along young padawan." I gestured for him to follow me.

Luke rolled his eyes, "Seriously?"

I realised I looked like such a dork. I mean, a Star Wars reference? Seriously?

"If you quote the great and mighty Yoda, you do it right-" He clasped his hands together and bowed, his voice gruff as he spoke, "Young padawan."

I laughed, thoroughly surprised. I didn't believe this guy, why was he hanging out with me when he should be with the angels.

"Apologies." I bowed.

Luke was about to respond when the first bell rang. We broke into a run towards teacher's class. He did not like tardiness.

Luke and I exited that class with questions, but laughing to say the least. Why? Because I have never had that much fun in that class ever.

Luke laughed as he pushed me, "You kill me. He's busy lecturing us, you can see I'm blocking him out cause I don't understand a word he's saying, then you go and say, 'Luke, I am your father.' I mean, what was that?" He wiped the tear on his cheek away, "I had to pinch myself to stop myself from laughing you asshole."

I smirked smugly, "Not my problem, that's what."

Luke clicked his tongue and finally caught his breath, "Yo, I'll see you in business?"

He held out his fist for a fistbump, I hestitated, so used to guys like him pushing me around like I was like some sort of doll. But I went against my instincts and did it.

"Alright." Luke winked and turned away, going to his next class.

I stood there in wonder watching him walk away. I really could not get that guy. I doubt he was a simple jock with the brain capacity of a peanut, but he didn't seem like a Steven Hawking guy either. What was he?

"What are you doing?" Silena's voice, filled with irritation was heard in my ears.

I faced her, "Well hello to you too. Aren't you just a ray of sunshine today?"

She glared at me, "Well you don't have to have Mr. Moniker for biology first period."

"No, but I have him third and fourth period." I smirked, her eyes widened.

"Why don't you hate him?"

"Because when you're a senior he's the best."

Silena sighed, "Well that's not gonna happen for a while for me."

I shoulder bumped her, "It'll get better."

If she needed cheering up, I might as well do it. I remember being a junior, where all the teachers are sort of nicer but you're still not in their good books. In other words they hate you like freshmans.

She looked at me, "I actually wanted to talk to you."

I frowned, "About?"

She raised her eyebrow.

It clicked. She wanted to talk about our little arrangement. It completely slipped my mind that she couldn't look into her magic ball and guess what I wanted her help with. We needed to hold a meeting first.

"Oh. Uhh-when do you wanna meet up?" I asked, scratching my head.

She took out her phone and scrolled on it a bit, "I can do 15 minutes after school."

I nodded, "Great. Meet me by the grandstands?"

"See you after school!" She yelled over shoulder as she walked away. I noticed after a few steps she turned to her right and waved to someone.

My first guess was Beckendorf, then I actually looked after thinking that she wouldn't acknowledge Charles at school where she can be spotted. I blushed as I saw who Silena was greeting. It was Artemis.

Who was changing her attention between Silena and I.

I smiled at her, she hadn't seen that I was looking at her. Her facial expression was that of confusion and suspicion.

"Hey." I waved at her.

Her suspicion dissipated as she smiled, "Hey, Percy." She glanced at the back of Silena. "I didn't know you two knew each other…"

I noticed an odd emotion in her eyes as she looked at Silena, but I couldn't pinpoint what.

"Uhh yeah I guess we are." I chuckled nervously.

I did not need Artemis to know about our deal, I'd die of embarrassment and she'd probably think I was an idiot. I mean who doesn't know how to flirt?

Artemis looked a little shy as she asked the next question, "So uhh-why are you meeting after school? Unless it's none of my business…"

"No it's okay." I accidently touched her shoulder, I removed it immediately after I realised. "Just to hang out, I guess."

I stopped myself from checking to see if my sweat had seeped through my shirt yet. Gods, why was I always so damn nervous around her? She wasn't nervous around me. Was this a sign?

Artemis's eyes widened, "Oh."

"What?" I asked with a furrowed brow.

Why would it make her react that way? Was she jealous? Not likely, don't be an idiot, Percy.

Artemis shook her head, "Nothing, I'll see you biology." She smiled, though I knew it was forced. I just didn't know why.

I scratched my head, wondering what the hell just happened, but I couldn't think of any believable explanation.

Class before Lunch-Double Biology

Double Spanish, check! Just six more classes to go and I can go home. Double biology, great. I thought with a sigh.

I eyed my reflection in the window of Mr. Moniker's biology class. Even with the feint view, my black cheek was as clear as day. I touched it gently, I winced again. Why do I keep on touching it so godsdammed hard?

It wasn't going away for a while. At least my bruises on my torso weren't so bad, maybe a little discoloured but at least they were covered by my shirt.

Mr. Moniker stood at the front of the class, writing assignments on the board.

"Tell me Mr. Jackson, who comes 5 minutes early for double biology?" He asked me

Out of the blue.

I was the only one in the class and it was a little weird, "Honestly sir, I think my teacher let us out early. So I thought I might as well come here."

He chuckled and said nothing after. The bell rang within a few moments, I waited patiently to see the girl I'd been waiting to sit with all day.

As the class piled in, I searched the small group for a head of dark auburn hair.

Artemis and Athena came in chatting away, it must have been amusing as both were giggling.

They sat down, I didn't know what to say to start conversation. I said hey to her already, and even that took me a few minutes to build my confidence up and I was still sweating like a pig.

Mr. Moniker started the lesson already and I still didn't say hello to Artemis. Ugh, why was this so hard?

I buried my face in my hands, listening to Mr. Moniker drone on about cells which I knew already. I went through our textbook during the summer in between workouts, that way I wouldn't have to try this year. I was so determined to have fun this year, instead I'm chasing a girl who would never give me a second glance.

"Hey, Percy!" Someone whispered to me. I stole a glimpse at them though gaps in my fingers.

Artemis was holding up a note between her two fingers, I was surprised to say the least, I even just stared at her hand for a couple of seconds.

"Take it! Mr. M will see." She threw it at me.

I caught it clumsily, Artemis smirked slightly, I laughed shyly.

It read, 'Are you free Friday?"

I wrote back with a creased brow, 'No, I have apparently agreed to play co-host with Annie for a party. Why?'

Artemis bit her lip as she frowned, writing me another message.

'Annie? You mean Annabeth…? Oh nothing it's not important now.'

'Yeah, Annabeth... Oh okay :)'

I face palmed as soon as I gave her the note, that was such a stupid response. How can someone even reply to that? I even used punctuation, what the hell was wrong with my damned common sense?

To my surprise, she wrote back, making conversation apparently.

'Well here's my number in case plans change…' I gasped in shock as I eyed her digits. Artemis Olympia, the most beautiful girl within a 1000 mile radius, just gave me her number. Me? Percy Jackson?

I grinned from ear to ear, and replied with my own digits.

Artemis read it and flashed me that illegal smile. My world swayed as my focus was narrowed to only her face. Everything was a blurred background, every word a muffled sound. Such beauty, the only thing in existence even better than her smile, was when she was smiling at me.

"Keep me in the loop." She winked.

I blushed and nodded dumbly. Gods was she gorgeous.

Athena stuck her hand up to answer a question, which means I couldn't speak to Artemis as Mr. Moniker would see. Thanks world.

It's not like I was gonna talk to her any longer without making a fool of myself anyway. Gosh, it was a double lesson today, just what I needed. 90 minutes of awkward silence because I can't even talk to a girl to save my life. Annabeth and the gals in our squad were different, I didn't like them as any more than a friend. Hell! Even Silena was easier to talk to than Artemis.

Mr. Moniker turned back to the board, this was the perfect opportunity. Come on, Percy! Think!

"So uhh?" I whispered. Crap, now I had to say something, she was looking at me.

"Yeah?" She asked in a low tone.

I stuttered, 'Smooth, Percy.'

"Do you uhm-" I paused, I needed to ask something, even if it was stupid. She raised her eyebrow, the suspense was killing even me. "Like comic books?" I internally slapped myself.

Holy-! I just asked an angel, an ANGEL! If she liked comic books! Tell me I wasn't that stupid? And when I say tell me, I mean lie.

Artemis tilted her head on confusion at the question, but seemed to find my obvious embarrassment amusing.

"When I was younger perhaps." She smiled softly.

I rubbed the back of my neck bashfully, "That's cool." She looked away afterwards.

'That's cool? THAT'S COOL? What was wrong with me?'

I groaned and banged my head on my desk. I sat there and sulked for the rest of the 45 minutes, pretending like I was paying attention. Artemis and Athena definitely were, I could tell, except for the few giggles which I thought were adorable.

I heard the bell ring in the background as I scolded myself for the entire lesson. My head was buried in my arms, ignoring the people around me.

I felt a small hand grasp my shoulder and slide over to my other shoulder.

I glanced at the person, Artemis was looking down at me with a bright smile. I swear I had to look away, her teeth could blind me and it didn't help that her smile accentuated her eyes perfectly.

"You okay?"

I nodded profusely, lying so she wouldn't realise I was beating myself up over her.

"Yup!"

She frowned slightly, as if she knew I was fibbing but she let it go and carried on talking about something different.

"Hmm alright." She touched my face and made me turn it so she was looking at my black cheek, "That looks painful."

I shrugged, "I've dropped a 5Kg weight on my foot before, this isn't that bad."

Artemis bit her lip and the tips of her lips upturned, "You have a gym in your house right?"

I nodded, "Yeah, I didn't get biceps from eating salads all day." I flexed subconsciously.

Then I realised I must have looked like some dumb jock flexing his abs to impress the cheerleaders. I say that in plural because now Athena was paying special attention to me with a smirk from behind, Artemis.

Artemis giggled, "I guess not-" She raised her arm and touched it, I gulped. She licked her lips as she met my eyes, "I'm hanging out with the Angels this afternoon at your house after practice. You gonna be there?"

I blushed, not knowing exactly what she was implying, "Uhh I think so?"

Artemis winked, "Great, see you in science and maybe after school." She stated before walking away.

Athena followed shortly, but not before she smirked at me and leaving as well.

"Huh?" I frowned. What the hell are these girls getting at with those looks?, "Girls are so complicated." I groaned.

"Tell me about it." Mr. Moniker murmured.

I nodded in agreement, "Why can't they just stop being vague?"

Mr. Moniker shrugged, "Because they're emotionally more developed than us, therefore more prone to playing mind games."

My eyes widened, "That has got to be one of the wisest things I've ever heard. Mr. Moniker, you're my hero."

Mr. M winked at me, everyone seemed to be doing that to me today, "I see your little crush on Ms. Olympia. I understand what it's like to like an angel."

My brow furrowed, "What?"

Mr. Moniker started sorting his papers, he looked at me above the top of the papers, "I'm aware of the tradition, my father's generation started it."

I gasped, "For real? You went to this school?"

He didn't seem like the type. He looked like he was born and raised in New York City, Mr. M seemed like he could hold his own in the concrete jungle. He didn't mention ever attending Goode High.

"I know, I've never mentioned it." He turned away on his swinging chair and stapled the stack of papers and turned back to me, "I did attend college in an IVY league school, got a scholarship, so I do kinda act a bit like a city slicker."

The fact that he just used the term, 'City Slicker' said a lot.

"Sir, were you a nerd?" I grinned slyly.

Mr. M narrowed his eyes, "I wasn't a nerd! I was just smarter than the dimwits my grade."

I laughed, "Oh my gods, sir! That's one way of looking at it."

He chuckled, "Anyway, falling for an angel is a challenge alright. Especially if you wanna pursue them. It's the one thing that's never changed through the generations, the cheerleaders just never go for us nerds until high school ends. They go for the jocks, so if you wanna get one, you need to be 'cool'." He rolled his eyes and stuffed the papers into the draw.

I sighed, "Very true sir. Who were the angels back in your day? You know, the stone age?"

Mr. Moniker clicked his tongue, "Screw you, Jackson."

We laughed, I knew he meant no harm in the comment, it was mere witty banter.

I calmed myself and asked again, "So?"

Mr. Moniker's smile vanished, he opened his draw and stared at something inside it. With my height I could stand on my tip toes and catch a glimpse, I saw the bottom of a worn-out photo.

He sighed, "I understand your predicament more than anyone else ever will, Percy."

He used my first name, he must be reminiscing, and not about happy memories, more like heartbreak. A sudden melancholic aura filled the room. I think the only missing features was the violins and dimmed lights.

"What do you mean sir?" I queried. I was determined to know who he was so head over heels for in high school.

"Nothing, Jackson. Forget it." His walls went up again, great. Now I had to work at them with my pickaxe again, but another time it seems, as he didn't look like he wanted to talk. "My advice to you is-" He pointed at me, "Do not let opportunities pass you by. Snatch every one, because it could be your last. I know from experience, you regret embarrassing yourself to woo an Angel less than not doing anything about it. Just forget about everyone else, focus on her! Because if you don't protect your territory and stop being a pussy, I'm telling you now some asshole jock with blonde hair and electric blue eyes will!" He slammed his fist on the table and grasped his chin slightly, like he was speaking from experience.

My eyes widened, "Uhh, okay." He just used some terms I never thought I'd hear coming out of his mouth.

"Not 'okay sir'." He tried to mimic my voice, key word: Tried. "Yes sir!" He demanded.

I guess he really was serious about what he just said. If I was honest, it sounded like he knew what I was going through, and not in the I was a teenager once too, I'm talking about how he really gets my pain.

"Now skedaddle and go get her. Because if I know anything about women after my many years on this earth, she likes you."

Okay, this statement I was gonna question, Artemis did not like me. We were just friends, sure she was a little flirty, but I am assuming she's a flirtatious person.

I waved, "Bye sir, I uhh-hope you get the one that got away someday."

"What is this? A cheesy movie? Go away." He muttered.

I laughed, I knew he was smiling when I left, I could sense it.

I made my way through the now empty hallways to my locker. I switched my books around, I had one science lesson, math, business and life orientation. Then hell would be over for a few hours. I grinned as I zipped up my bag. That talk with Mr. Molina really cheered me up. Even if it didn't have a happy ending…I'm guessing.

I dropped my bag outside Ms. Zeigler's class on the way to the cafeteria. I had a skip in my step, I half expected Orion and his cronies to jump out and ruin it, but I remembered I fucked up his face and Artemis broke his heart, so he wasn't gonna be at school today. One word, lol! Okay technically that's an acronym for three words, but oh well.

I know it sounded cruel, but now that I've gotten over the shock of my actions and the pain in my cheek and stomach became easier to ignore, I was rather satisfied.

I opened the door to the Cafeteria and strolled towards my table. The entire left side of the room went deadly silent, causing the right side to as well. Everyone's eyes were on me.

I suddenly felt very uncomfortable.

"Uhh, hi?"

The entire left side of the cafeteria, losers, nerds and burnouts alike all slammed their fists on the table in a drum roll motion.

"Percy! Percy! Percy!" They cheered over and over as I walked through the crowds to my table.

I couldn't stop the smile on my face, they really did hear about me kicking Orion's ass.

I couldn't help myself, I raised my arms and my hands interlocked into a fist, I shook it up and down in small motions in a victory gesture.

The cheering only increased.

"You're my hero!" Was shouted a few times.

"That's our king! He kicked their king's ass!" A nerd pointed to the jocks, one or two glared at me with dark eyes, thirsty for revenge. But honestly, I didn't care. I stood up for not just me, but all losers everywhere.

I eventually got to my table, my friends had to force me to sit down. I was loving the looks on the populars faces as my humble peers praised me for ridiculing one of their own (The populars).

"Look's like someone is a celebrity." Apollo fist bumped me.

"I can't believe it's true." Rachel gasped, eyeing my cheek.

"Damn straight! He kicked Orion's sorry ass all the way back to greece!" Hermes laughed.

"Padawan learned has all that we can teach." Luke added. Mixing up the words just like earlier, FYI it was still funny.

I laughed...wait, Luke?

"Luke?" I was so confused.

Annabeth rolled her eyes, she sat next to him, awfully close. More than I'd ever see her do to no one but me.

Luke grinned, "I was serious when I said I was hanging out with you guys!"

The guys fist bumped him, I guess it was our thing now. How original. Note the sarcasm.

I did however spot that someone was missing. "Where is Heph-"

The guys made a shut up gesture.

I saw Apollo's ears let out steams of his his rage at the mention of Heph's name.

"He's sitting with the populars." Apollo mocked, "You see, he's too good for us now that Aphrodite has a secret thing for him. Ares invited him to football try-outs. Ugh just because he has muscles. I hope Ares kicks his butt when he finds out his girlfriend is screwing him and kissing Heph behind his back. "

I grabbed his shoulder, angrily, "Just remember who his girlfriend is to me." I hissed.

I didn't care if he was my best friend, no one spoke about my sister that way. I counted to ten, calming myself before I responded. Apollo looked nervous, he should be.

"Come on man, he's our friend." I sighed, my calm facade making, Apollo less nervous towards my actions.

"Some friend he is." Apollo muttered.

My friends and I shared looks, even Luke understood what was happening and he'd been here a few minutes.

I cleared my throat, "Hey Annie!"

"Yeah?"

"So how'd you meet Luke again?" I tried my best to change the subject. I knew exactly how she knew him, Luke discussed how they seemed compatible while we were in Spanish.

She grinned, "Oh! That's a funny story, see I was in biology and he-"

I can't say I particularly enjoy math, I mean who truly loves it all the time? Ms. Zeigler kept my attention at least, but it's not like I didn't know what was going on.

I got a few notes from my classmates, all praise for the Orion incident.

I felt really unworthy for this worship, I barely did anything. I thought people were gonna feel like I was some sort of monster, but it seemed that I was the only one who thought that.

RING!

"Class, you are dismissed!" Ma'am clapped her hands together.

Shuffling was heard in the corridors, people were beginning to leave classes.

"Bye, Ms. Zeigler." I smiled, I was just thankful it was one lesson less which means the day is almost over. Although, now that I'm being worshipped, it was kinda fun.

Science was next, this I had been looking forward to all day. It was the one subject besides homeroom that I could sit next to Artemis and be close to her.

I practically ran to the class, a few students were already there, including Artemis.

I grinned, she smiled at me in return. I slid onto my chair with a nervous, "Hi."

She balanced her chin on her hand as she leaned toward me.

"You look happy."

"I do? Probably because I'm with you." I said without thinking.

Artemis's eyes widened a little before she smirked, "I didn't know you were the flirty type."

I blushed, I didn't even realise I was flirting.

"I like it." Artemis bit her lower lip and dragged her finger across my jaw.

I followed her movements subconsciously, like she'd put some kind of spell on me. My eyelids became droopy. All I wanted...no, craved was her lips on mine.

Saliva flooded my mouth at the mere memory of our kiss back in Junior year. Her cotton candy flavoured lips were even better than I imagined.

I licked my lips and turned my attention to hers, she tilted her head. Was this an invite? In here? A chemistry class? That's kinda ironic. I began to lean forward, just a little closer and her lips were all mine.

"Alright class!" Mr. Moniker yelled as he stepped out his store room.

I accidently groaned loudly as I faced him. Causing everyone to look at me, including Mr. M. The fact the he prevented my apparently potential kiss with Artemis after giving me advice earlier today was irritatingly ironic. In fact, it was furiously ironic.

"Problem? Mr. Jackson." He raised his eyebrow.

I gulped, thinking of what excuse to make. Unfortunately my brain chose to stop functioning now.

"No, sir." Was the best I could come up with.

The class laughed, Artemis not being excluded. I rubbed the back of my neck sheepishly, as I did when I got anxious. Artemis said nothing, but the twinkle in her eyes more than told me she was entertained by my actions.

Her attention then turned to Mr. Moniker, who had apparently been talking. I had no idea obviously, being so focused on the beauty queen next to me.

I should probably listen to what he was saying, but it was so hard.

My gaze caught Annabeth's as my eyes cast a glance at the front row, she was glaring at me...well Artemis and me. I gave her a questioning look, she shook her head, looking hurt.

I received a text two seconds later, I opened it subtly, looking up at Mr. M to see if he was watching, he wasn't.

'U don't even know I'm in this class with u.'

I felt really bad after reading this. I really did forget about everyone else when I was in this class. But cut me some slack, I'm sitting with Artemis Olympia for godsakes!

'I'm sorry, i really am. How can i make this up to u?'

I saw her head turn down, she was reading it. Her fingers hesitated as she replied, causing my curiosity to spike.

'Be that party on friday and have fun with me. I mean it.'

I smiled at my phone, 'Of course! ;)'

':)' Was her lone reply.

Well at least that was settled. For now it seemed.

It must have been all of 10 minutes after that predicament before I started staring at Artemis again. No one who has never been in love will understand that desperate need to just be near the person you love, touching them because you crave them. Crave all of them, body, soul and mind.

I noticed her left hand resting on the desk, all alone, with nothing to hold on to.

I glanced at Mr. Moniker, maybe this was an opportunity. I set my hand of the desk, very close to hers. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, gathering up the confidence to do what I was about to do. Preparing myself for the scenario where she either rejects me coldly or rejects me nicely. Either way, I was still gonna try. I'd regret not doing it more so than I would after doing it...hopefully.

Slowly, but surely my hand slithered towards hers. I could feel it's warmth, making the hairs on my hand stand on end. Her left brow raised, as if she saw what I was doing.

Oh no, what was she gonna do? Yell, 'What are you doing?'

Instead, she did...nothing? I took this as a good sign, I think it was at least. She coukd be gathering up a nice way to deliver that heart crushing 'It's never gonna happen' talk.

My pinky finger touched hers, she was leaning on her right hand, her chin balancing on it, but I could see a small smile through her fingers that covered her mouth.

She stroked my hand with her pinky finger, I almost fell off my chair. My heart fluttered. The satisfaction I felt having her do just that simple action made my day. It felt so good, her hands were so smooth and cool. But all I could feel was heat when her skin touched mine.

Leisurely, the tips of her fingers slid under my hand. I licked my lips and haltingly moved my hand over hers and grasped it. I looked at her bashfully as she interlaced our fingers and smiled at me.

I grinned. Why did this feel so right?

Artemis squeezed my hand slightly, I stole a glimpse of her expression, she was smiling softly, her eyes still on Mr. Moniker, but I knew where her attention really was.

Maybe Mr. M was right, maybe she did sort of like me back. If she did, it was probably only a small infatuation. That's why it was up to me to ignite her burning passion and turn it from a spark into a fire.

After all, don't the greatest flames start out small?

Hope u liked! Pls review ideas and thoughts :))

Lots of love!

-Princess