Hello everyone! I finally finished the story! Yay! The story itself didn't exactly turn out the way I wanted to, but I think it came out better. Maybe... Okay, well, this chapter is a gonna be packed, so get comfy before you start reading.
I also started a Pinterest board so you guys can see what I can in this story. If your interested you can find the link on my profile : )
Songs:
Dance, Dance by Fall out Boy
Thanks for the Memories by Fall out Boy
Disclaimer: I do not own any PJO characters, European tourist attractions, or Fall out Boy.
Warning: There are a couple of lemons up ahead so be prepared. (Tun tun tun...)
Enjoy!
Chapter 20
Percy
"Well, that's not exactly the response I was looking for, but it will do." She smiles mysteriously and bends down, eye level with me. I have a perfect view of her ample breasts, pressed together in a revealing gold metal bikini top with a matching bottom, just like Princess Leia's slave costume in Return of the Jedi.
I swallowed thickly, my eyes traveling from her breasts to her slick stomach, then back up to her face, eyes dancing with pleasure and mischief. I stood up, slowly, so I won't get dizzy from so much adrenaline pumping in my veins. My hands attached themselves to her hips without me consciously knowing, feeling smooth skin on my fingers as she hums in contentment. "You are a d-dream come t-true," I whisper breathily.
"Of course, ever since that first day in art class, I knew you always fantasized about this. What guy wouldn't?"
"Well yeah, b-but this is a hundred times better with you right here in front of me. Holy shit you look … SHIT." I couldn't find the right words to describe her, they simply weren't enough, or I simply wasn't in the right mind to find them.
"Alright enough talking," she says and attacks my lips greedily. Our tongues dance, teeth clash, and lips tug but we don't lose our rhythm. She pushes me onto the bed and I fall, chuckling. My elbows hold me up as I look at her as she slowly and seductively crawls up the bed, on top of me. As she reaches my waist she runs her hands up and down my thighs, massaging and pinching. The heat from her palms blends through my slacks, making me grow within my pants.
"Oh, Jesus," I exhale, shivering in pleasure. She sends another satisfied smile my way and starts unbuckling my slacks, pulls down my briefs and takes me in her hand. "Urgh," I groan, my hips bucking.
"Shh, love. Just enjoy it," she whispers, pumping me tighter. I manage to calm down, but once her mouth envelops me, all else disappears. Her tongue and teeth torture and pleasure as I take what she gives, greedily moving inside her mouth. But, all too soon, it's too much and I explode, sky-rocketing into heaven.
As my mind reconnects to my body, I feel Annabeth crawl up my body until she reaches my stomach. Massaging my chest, she rocks her hips on top of my stomach, feeling the warmth between her thighs. I groan out again, dazed at how she feels but most of all how she looks on top of me. Lips parted, cheeks flushed, blond curls tight in a braid swinging down between her breasts, but her eyes are storming grey, sparkling with lust and other mysteries.
She pulls me out my tux jacket and starts unbuttoning my vest, then my shirt. Her hands palm my chest as she leans down to kiss my stomach then makes her way up, trailing hot kisses in her path. "Have I told you how much I love your jaw?" she comments, as her mouth meets said jaw, licking and sucking, using her fingers running through my now shaggy hair.
"Y-yes," I stutter hoarsely.
"Hmm… have I told you how sexy and nerdy you look with your glasses?"
"All the time," I exhale heavily closing my eyes, feeling every single of her movements.
"Well it's true. You are more than that. You're handsome and sweet and gentle and loving. You're beautiful," Annabeth confesses, truth in her eyes. I never thought a guy could be called 'beautiful', but with Annabeth it makes sense. She finds beauty in everything despite her tough exterior, and if she can find beauty in me, which I believe, then who am I to judge her? "Let's leave the bowtie, I love it."
I let out a full belly laugh at that, "Kinky."
Once all of my clothes is removed, except bowtie, she lays flat on top of me, were both our centers meet and mouths reconnect. It isn't gentle or sweet, we had that moment already. It's rough, and hard as both our bodies collide with each other. My left hand reaches for her right leg, hitching it at my waist as I grip her thighs tighter. My right hand curls itself around her waist, bringing her closer to me as my mouth overtakes her neck, sucking the sweet, sweet skin there. Her arms are squished between my chest as she holds on tight, feeling everything I give her. Her eyes closed, head tilted back, lips open releasing noises of pleasure every so often. Finally, I can't wait any longer. I have to be inside her.
I pin her against the bed, our hands, fingers entwined, above her head as we kiss so deep and hard, we make ourselves bleed. Damn. I move back to pull the bikini down her legs then her top off. She may be amazing in the costume, but she's stunning completely bare. I sit there for a bit, just admiring. Her curves and arches, her scars, freckles, anything really. She is perfectly imperfect.
She blushes then, realizing what I'm doing and gets impatient, pulling me on top of her so our warm bodies can merge together. Where they belong.
As soon as I sink into her, I release a hiss. I go in deep, her muscles clenching inside me, tightening their grip on me. "Oh, ugh," she moans, as I slide out, then in again. Annabeth's hands rake my back, her nails scratching my skin, and fuck… it feels good. Her hips meet mine as I grind into her, pushing and pulsing deeply.
"Shit, Annabeth!" I groan, uncontrollably, her eyes rolling to the back of her head as her body lifts off the bed. I'm not so calm either, I can feel myself getting closer and closer to the edge. Her eyes open then, big and wide as her body starts quaking. I know she's close, so I go faster, harder, and deeper. Pumping, pushing, scratching, breathing, clashing, pounding, gasping, gripping, and taking…
One last deep thrust and she gasps out a voiceless cry as I release into her, my blood pulsing all throughout my body, numbing me. I collapse on top of her, sated and content.
Annabeth
Fuck, that shit was good. Amazing. I hug Percy tighter to me, his hard breathing on my ear as I rub his naked back, feeling his sweaty skin underneath my fingertips. I run my fingers through his hair with my other hand, calming him down. He hums in contentment and nuzzles my neck, leaving sweet kisses on my heated skin.
"I love you, Percy" I whisper into his neck.
He lifts his head up, looking me in the eye, our noses touching, and our lips tasting. "I love you too… more than I thought possible." He kisses me then, slowly nipping at my lip, sucking it gently. I groan into his mouth, enjoying his sweet assault. When the kissing and sucking of our lips intensifies I decide to make it even more satisfying.
I pin his arms on each side of his head and look him in the eyes, after I have his full attention I kiss him, his jaw, his chin, his neck, anywhere I feel will give the same pleasure as him. He meets my lips once more and shows me again, and for the rest of the night, that we are meant to be together, in all ways two souls could ever be.
The next couple of days we toured Paris a little more, but honestly, we stayed indoors most of the time, sometimes just relaxing, and other times making the best out of the time we had together, touching and feeling each other in ways no one else ever would. But the days that we did go out and explore were pretty fucking amazing.
The last day we were in Paris, Percy and I decided to dress casually. Percy with a light blue polo, suspenders with bowtie, khakis and converse. While I wore a black and white plaid shirt over a grey muscle shirt, ripped shorts and my combat boots. We decided to go for a picnic at the Champ de Mars garden, with the perfect view of the Eiffel tower on one side and the rest of Paris on our other side.
"Gods, this all so fucking beautiful. What are we going to do when we go back to plain old New York?" Percy sighs, taking a bite out of our turkey and cheese sandwiches.
I shrug and give him a half-hearted smile because I feel exactly the same way. When we go back, in just a couple weeks I will move into my dorm at NYU and Percy will be starting his senior year. It's not so much the distance that will be between us because we would be just 20 minutes away from each other. But the fact remains that we won't be seeing each other every day, and I'm preparing for not every week-end too. I'll be starting the fast-paced work that is college as well as finding a job and paying my fees. Percy will be starting scholarship applications and preparing for AP exams, and of course perfecting his application for NYU. I don't have a doubt he will get in.
I take a sip of my juice pouch and nibble on a chip, thinking about what I should say. After a couple seconds, I twist his arm over my shoulder and snuggle into his side, twisting our fingers together. "I guess, we should just enjoy the intimacy we have left. After all, we still have two more countries to visit and about two months before we go back home."
"Yeah, you're right. I just get too caught up planning for the future that I forget to enjoy the present with the most important person in my life," he states kissing my forehead. I smile into his chest.
"Yup. We should just enjoy the moments we have all the way around the world, memorize, cherish them, and keep them forever," I declare, nuzzling his neck.
"Spoken like a true artist." Percy smiles at me, his boyishly sexy but dorky smile at me and I can't help but lean in and kiss him.
Percy
"Benvenuto to Venice, Italia!" the boat driver announced as we settled into the canoe. "How has your stay been here so far? I hope is doing well? Si?" the chirpy man asked, shaking our hands and placing our belongings inside the boat. "My name is Paolo, and I will drive you to your hotel and give you a magnifico tour of the Canal Grande!"
Annabeth and I smile at each other acknowledging his words and brace ourselves for the unique beauty that is Venice, Italy. I have always dreamed of visiting this place but thought it would never be possible a) because it was expensive and b) because it was something I always wanted to do with the person I love and until recently, I thought that that wouldn't happen until a couple more years.
"Wow! Oh my gods, Percy, look!" Annabeth cried out joyfully as we passed a renaissance-styled bridge were birds mingled and flew. The river water gleaming from the sunny day. It looked like a scene from a movie.
"That's so cool," I agreed in amazement. That's how most of our trip went, Annabeth pointing out something beautiful and taking a picture of it, while I acknowledged and commented, appreciating every detail.
I pulled Annabeth closer to me, needing to touch her and kissed her once we crossed another Italian bridge through the Grand Canal. I giggled into her lips and she pulled away looking at me curiously. "I have always wanted to do that," I confessed sheepishly, and dammit I had to blush.
"Oh," she states, in what I presume to be mild shock. Her eyes gleam then, her full lips stretch into a mischievous smile. "Well, then, how about we do that again then?"
And we did. fiercely and stupidly.
Annabeth
Once we arrived to our hotel, Luna Hotel Baglioni, a short hour later, we settled in, the staff overwhelmingly polite and welcoming. We decided to brainstorm first what we wanted to do during our stay while we ate lunch at a café called Caffe Florian down at the plaza. I wanted to go to see a dance performance at a theater and Percy wanted to see the art galleries so we compromised. We both wanted romantic dinners in our suite and throughout the city just to experience different ambiances and cuisine from the city. All in all, we had a great time.
We first visited the art galleries. Civico Museo Correr was a Venetian museum of art and historical artifacts dating since the Renaissance age. We sat for a video presentation then walked the general tour. It was intriguing, and it had a royalty vibe to the whole thing, and we were freely able to view the artworks and learn about their history. Percy was just as amazed as in Paris, hanging off the every word of the tour guide. Thank goodness the guide was a guy this time around, I don't think we'll be able to handle another jealous episode from yours truly.
I hate to admit I'm one of those girls, but I love my boyfriend fiercely and no one will be able to change that.
The next few days were spent rather calmly. Since the city wasn't as big as Paris or Madrid we took everything rather slowly. We finally went to see a dance performance. Modern dancing with a cultural twist. The story plot was a romantic drama were the two protagonists danced some erotic love scenes as well as heart-warming choreography. I was crying by the ending because it was just that beautiful. Ugh I hate my girl moments.
I seriously thought I got rid of those. Like, 18 years ago.
We went to a festival in Saint Giorggio Maggioire, a small island south of the city. Teatro Verde or Green Theater, was hosting and demonstrating many culturally varied dance numbers, plays, performances and music. The food was delicious and the people where so friendly we even managed to make a few friends.
We decided to eat lunch on some benches overlooking the theater. There was a group of well-dressed Italian men singing opera (Their voices were angelic), when Percy decided to steal my camera and snap a picture of me.
"What the hell?"
"Hey, your face is too beautiful right now to not get caught on camera," he says simply, clicking another one.
"Seriously? I'm all sweaty and sunburned." I'm not degrading myself, I saw how I looked in the bathroom a couple minutes ago. Ugh.
"Your point?" he raises an eyebrow at me, smirking. And yeah, he's all sweaty and sunburned too, but he's still beautiful and hot and dorky and sexy… so I guess I see his point. I give in and smile when we both pose for the camera.
Percy
During our last couple of days in Venice, I decide to treat Annabeth to romantic dinners, and nights out having fun. I have the evening planned for dining at a fancy restaurant, then drinking and dancing at a local club. After that, the night would be ours. Just for us.
I reached for Annabeth's hand as we got off the canoe. She was wearing a simple royal blue cowl neckline body-con mini-dress and strappy black heels. At least that's what she said when my glasses fogged up and my eyes would not leave her legs and hips until she had to throw water in my face. I mean she is already fucking amazing in ripped t-shirts and sweats, but when you add in sexy revealing clothing, she's kryptonite.
I on the other hand look mediocre standing next to her. Black dress shirt, grey tie and grey slacks, but Annabeth said I looked like a sexy nerd, so I guess I can cope.
With her hand in mine, I lead her to our first destination for the evening. Ristorante la Terrazza. A four star restaurant with a garden terrace overlooking the Rio del Scoacamini. The only way I could even afford a seating in this restaurant is because the manager of our hotel is friends with the owner of the restaurant and called in a favor. Like I said, nice people. They live for romance.
"Oh wow! This is beautiful. I love this ambiance." Annabeth commented as we took our seats at the corner of the terrace. The waiter said it was the best table of the house. I could see why. The sun rays skimmed over the horizon, in its early stages of sunset, peaking over the clouds. It was breathtaking. Annabeth sighs. I look over at her and she has a gentle smile on her face. The sun is beautifully gleaming off her flawless skin, so I do the only thing I could do. I lean in to steal a kiss.
"I seem to be losing my control whenever you are involved," I breathe once we separate. She hums and wraps her arms around my neck, pecking my lips again.
"Maybe because that's the idea." She winks, smirking.
"Tease," I admonish.
Soon, the waiter appears with menus and asks us for our drinks. We wait patiently, chatting, and laughing. Once our dinner arrives, we devour it, entranced by the delicacies that were created mainly for us. Fucking delicious if I do say so myself.
"Gosh, I feel like a pregnant cow," Annabeth leans back, rubbing her stomach. I smile fondly at her.
"You make a beautiful pregnant cow."
"You are such a dork," she states just as fondly. Her face sobers, "Have you talked to your parents?"
"Oh, yeah. I called them yesterday just updates and stuff. They asked what we did for my birthday… let's just say I said it was the best birthday ever. Dad laughed, mom, scolded him," I blush just remembering how awkward that was.
"I bet. Yeah my parents weren't any different. Except dad was the one probably blushing." We laugh at that as our dessert comes to the table. A recess's peanut butter ice cream.
Can I just say… Yumm!
Annabeth
We walked along the narrow streets, hand in hand, trying to lose the pounds we just gained. I swear I felt my dress tear, but Percy said it was fine.
It was dark out already, but not overly so, as Percy led me to the Hard Rock Café and bar. Since we had dined already, we were seated at the bar. I can't believe this place exists. Rock'n'Roll, classic, hardcore, even alternative rock artists all came to play in this restaurant.
Once we ordered our drinks, I chose a Sex on the Beach, while Percy opted for the Tequila Sunrise, we sipped while waiting for tonight's show to start.
As the chords to a familiar song start ringing, the club lights start shimmering, fog releases into the room as the band of the night take the stage. No way. I turn to Percy but he seems to be just as shocked and surprised as me as we hear a voice sing familiar lyrics…
She says she's no good with words but I'm worse
Barely stuttered out "A joke of a romantic", or just stuck to my tongue
Weighed down with words too over-dramatic
Tonight it's "It can't get much worse"
Vs. "No one should ever feel like..."
"Oh my gods! Oh my gods! Percy, its Fall out Boy!" I shriek excitedly.
"Annabeth, I think you broke my eardrums," Percy complains, rubbing his ears.
"Oh stop whining. It's Fall out Boy, dammit!" I jump in my seat with excitement as the song continues, I sing along to the lyrics.
I'm two quarters and a heart down
And I don't want to forget how your voice sounds
These words are all I have so I'll write them
So you need them just to get by
Dance, dance
We're falling apart to half time
Dance, dance
And these are the lives you'd love to lead
Dance, this is the way they'd love
If they knew how misery loved me
I pull Percy up, and lead him closer to the stage as I dance and lead him, grinding my hips on him, he happily follows, attaching his hands on my hips and his lips on my neck. Woah, sensory overload. I can feel him behind me, around me, everywhere.
Why don't you show me a little bit of spine
You've been saving for his mattress (mattress, mattress)
I only want sympathy in the form of you crawling into bed with me
Dance, dance
We're falling apart to half time
Dance, dance
And these are the lives you'd love to lead
Dance this is the way they'd love (way they'd love)
Dance this is the way they'd love (way they'd love)
Dance this is the way they'd love
If they knew how misery loved me
I turn into Percy's arms, holding onto the nape of his neck as our hips rock to the beat of the music. Our foreheads touch as we dance sensually within each other. Our breaths mingle as our hips sway and grind and roll into each other, heat seeps from my pours as I feel him there. Fucking intense.
You would think it wouldn't work with this music, but it so totally does. Very well, I might say, if the growing of Percy's pants has anything to say about it. "You are killing me," Percy whispers huskily after the song is over and we walk back to our seats for our drinks. I shrug, and smile at him innocently.
"There is way more where that came from."
The lyrics to Thanks for the Memories leak out and this time, Percy offers me his hand. I take it gladly. Reminiscing in the memories of the man I fell in love with.
Been looking forward to the future
But my eyesight is going bad
And this crystal ball
It's always cloudy except for (except for)
When you look into the past (look into the past)
One night stand (one night stand oh)
One night and one more time
Thanks for the memories
Even though they weren't so great
"He tastes like you only sweeter."
One night, yeah, and one more time
Thanks for the memories, thanks for the memories
"See, he tastes like you only sweeter."…
Percy
I am literally having the time of my life. I'm so glad I picked this place tonight. Annabeth is in her element. The reason I fell so hard so fast was because of her passion and taste in music, and how kindred of spirits we were in this discovery. Her style isn't just a style, it is her identity, and I love her every day because of it.
Fall out Boy sing their hit songs My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark and Centuries from their newer albums, and the crowd is just as excited to sing and dance along. We drink a couple more shots and dance a couple more songs as the night wears off, but neither Annabeth nor I falter in our bliss. We even managed to have a brief greet and meet once the show was over. Annabeth was ecstatic and I was smiling just as widely.
When we make it back to our suite, stumbling, giggling and drunk off our asses, we have an explosive passionate night. Details and movements blend as teeth and tongue meet, nails dig into hot flesh, and clothes flies out. I remember slowly peeling Annabeth out of that blue dress, her slim flushed body in a snug blue lace bra and matching boy shorts. I admire her for a bit, my hands roaming her body as her breathing picks up and her body slugs against me. When we both have enough of this sweet torture, I attack her center with my tongue as she grinds herself on my face. I also remember how she quickly overpowered me and undid my pants bringing my hard member into her mouth.
After that, things were bleary. I didn't know where my being began or where it ended. All I know is how magnetic and completed I felt once Annabeth's soul and body united with mine…
Our last day in Venice was more casual. We did some last minute touring, which mostly consisted of shopping in the Italian boutiques. We ate lunch at a small café then went back to our hotel room to pack up again. After packing, Annabeth had some fun in the wide marble bathtub/Jacuzzi then again in the shower. Then one last time in the bed, before we dozed off, completely sated.
I'd say Venice was a success.
Rome was in a word, huge. We got lost trying to find our hotel, since it was hiding behind the Trevi Fountain. Hotel Fontana, was a small three-star hotel located right in front of one of the most known fountains in the world.
"Come on Annabeth, let's go!" I quipped excitedly as we made our way to the front of the fountain. Annabeth simply rolled her eyes at me as she quickly changed into fresh clothes. Denim shorts, V-neck Fall out Boy t-shirt (that I bought her back in Venice) and black converse high tops. I was basically wearing the same, except of course a guy version.
Once there, I couldn't breathe. It was just… huge, and old, and so freaking amazing. Annabeth and I were quiet for a long time, just watching the water dance along the architectural beauty, the only thing that made us aware of each other were our interlocked hands. But after a while I looked back to Annabeth and she was looking at me. Her grey eyes reflected the green tint from the fountain, sparkling like silver diamonds. Her puckered red lips into a sweet smile as she watched me watch her. It physically hurt just watching her, my chest constricts and my heart palpitates painfully whenever I see the love I feel for her reflected back at me through her soulful silver eyes.
I quietly give her a coin and we turn the other way to toss the coin over our right shoulder. My hands surrounding her sweet face, my lips brushed gently against hers as she tugged the little hairs at the nape of my neck.
After our sweet and charming first day, Rome was full of walking, touring, sightseeing, exploring, discovering, and of course getting lost. We kind of did that a lot.
The first thing we were supposed to do was go to the Coliseum, but we ended up going to the Olympic Stadium. Of course the only reason we ended up there was because we got lost, but Annabeth wanted to stay and watch soccer. Who was I to tell her no? I am not a fan of soccer, I couldn't even name the teams playing, but I did enjoy shouting and cheering for the winning team, Annabeth seemed just as pleased as me to experience something unexpected.
"Yeah! Wooh, get the goal get the goal!" she cheered unabashedly. I followed along screaming like a banshee.
The next stop we had was to Teatro Eliseo, where we saw s ballet show of A Midsummer Summer Night's Dream. We dined out at a homey local restaurant, not too far from our hotel so we could take a small stroll afterwards. We walked the Rome streets, hand in hand, as we chatted quietly.
"So are you excited for NYU?" I not so casually asked. Annabeth gave me an odd look, before shrugging her shoulders.
"I can't say that I'm not, but at the same time, It's just…it's sort of bittersweet." She pauses, a frown forming on her face. She wraps her arm around my elbow and leans on my shoulder as we find a sidewalk bench. "I am excited, don't get me wrong. It would be such a different environment, meeting new people, living on my own, making new friends. I want it, you know," she looks at me smiling. I smile in return, but it doesn't reach my eyes, and I know she knows it.
I look away, and sigh. "Yeah, it is pretty exciting."
She chuckles quietly, then pulls my face between her hands, her eyes searching into mine. "You are such a dork," she comments fondly. I frown, confused. She kisses me chastely then continues, "That doesn't mean I won't miss my old life. I'll miss everything, especially now that I have you. I'm not gonna know how to be away from you. Not seeing you every day is going to make me go crazy. I know we won't be far, but sometimes the weekend might not be enough, especially when we might not even be together every weekend. But you know what? Next year, when you get accepted to NYU, we would finally be together again, same college, same life, and same home."
I smile a watery smile at her, moved by how much she loves me. "Yeah, I can't wait for that. I'll have you forever by then."
Annabeth
Rome was classic elegance. Anywhere we went, there was a history behind every rock; magic, and beauty behind every corner.
We visited the Vatican Museum, home of the pope. The cathedral was amazing, the structure was breathtaking even the old fashioned paintings seemed inspiring. The saints, and glass paintings told a story of years and years back when gods existed. It was all complex and overwhelmingly brilliant.
Next was the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art. We opted for our own tour, wanting to take our time viewing the culture and history of each artwork. From Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci, it was all so beautiful, I swear I almost begged Percy if we could buy a painting, but sadly that was not going to be a good idea. Not if I wanted to go to college for the next four years.
After breakfast one day, we decided to relax for a bit and visited the Villa Ada. A peaceful park with a blue lagoon, roman ruins, and bicycle rentals for the day. We had a small picnic, which mostly consisted of chips and juice pouches out of my backpack, by the lagoon. Which then led to a hot steamy make out session on the grass, but that was irrelevant.
On our last day in Rome, we finally made it to the Pantheon, first dedicated to every roman god from the first century, then as a Christian Church, then eventually into a memorial chapel during the 1800s. The changes throughout history never waned its magnificent appearance, it only enhanced the wonders to it, adding beauty in every crevice or surface. We admired the internal architecture then sat outside by the fountains to people watch and view the monument in its entirety.
We saved the best, not to mention one of the Seven Wonders of the World for last. The Coliseum was nothing I could have imagined, let alone explain in words. Structure, architecture, artistry, design, it was all so incredible I almost cried. I couldn't understand how some people couldn't appreciate the beauty in a building that has existed for the past millennia, but I definitely could, and I knew Percy did too.
Since there was no program or activity planned for the day, the Coliseum was in its regular stage, pure rock and grass. Percy and I climbed through the broken down monument, each level was the same thing but differently beautiful at the same time. "Gods, this is incredible," Percy sighed as we finally decided to rest and just admire the view. His arms were wrapped around my waist, front to my back as he leaned his head on my shoulder from behind.
"Yeah it is." But I don't just mean the view… I mean everything that has happened to me since I met Percy. That day was probably the best day that could have happened because I met the guy that was going to be mine. I fell in love with his dorky ways and his clumsy shyness and his geeky appearance. I saw through that. I saw the gentleman inside, the sweet, funny, loving, protective, understanding man that he was. He understood who I am, and he loves me for it, just as I do. And if you ask me, I think that is the best kind of magnificence I have ever experienced.
Rome was beautiful, but I was glad to finally be making it to Greece. Athens, Greece to be precise. It was now early August and we would be staying in Athens for the rest of the summer. It felt pretty good, some touring and sightseeing, dinner nights and down time was in order.
We arrived at our hotel, the four star Athens Lotus Hotel with a bar and restaurant decorated with contemporary architecture. It was quite beautiful with our suite window over-looking the ancient city, and modern with its furnishing and arrangements. It was romantic really.
"I'm going to take a shower, would you like to join me?" Percy asks, wrapping his arms around my hips, kissing my neck.
"As much as I would love that, I have to unpack and get some room service," I twisted in his arms and pecked his lips. When I moved back he was pouting, his eyes sad. "Oh stop that. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow and I need my energy," I said pointedly at him.
He blushed. The guy had the nerve to blush after he just propositioned me. Unbelievable. "I- I… yeah ok. I guess that's fair," he sighed, shoulders slumped, and made his way into the bathroom.
After we had a nice simple dinner we got ready for bed and snuggled into each other. Percy's arms where wrapped around my waist, my leg over his hips, and my head tucked into his neck. This was my favorite place to be.
Percy
"Percy oh my Gods look!" Annabeth shrieked as we made our way to the National Archeological Museum. Spectacular building from the outside, and once we crossed the doors, Ancient Greece was alive at this moment. Sculptures, art pieces, vases, and who knows what else that dated back millennia. Everything was just beyond fascinating.
A bronze statue stood out in the middle of the room, called the Bronze Artemesion. Arms spread out with one positioned in the air that seemed to have carried something at some point in history. The description said it could have been Zeus or Poseidon, depending on what he carried once.
"Wow," I breathed out, mesmerized by its antiquity and still vibrant beauty.
"Yeah," Annabeth agreed. "Who do you think it is?"
"I don't know. But I'd like to think its Poseidon."
"Yeah, it's more artistic that way," Annabeth agreed. I looked at her gleaming, then we both chuckled. I wouldn't know about artistic, but in my opinion Poseidon seems more bad-ass than Zeus. But maybe I'm just biased since I love the sea so much.
We kept looking and found the Jockey of Artemesion. An almost life-like bronze horse and his jockey in full sprint. Annabeth really liked this one, as did I, for its simplistic design and how many centuries it has endured, it was still amazing. We saw other artifacts as well, the Varvakeios Athena, known to be the best preserved replica of the Athena Parthenos. Annabeth choked up when she saw it, realizing that it was the most important artifact of Athens, and how beautifully cherished it seemed to be. In the Egyptian collection we found a mummy from Akhmim, several jars and vases made of granite, stone, and clay, gold sculptures of long lost pharaohs and art paintings and carvings on tablets and other artifacts. It felt real, like I could imagine myself living in this era, among the gods and pharaohs of ancient Egypt and ancient Greece. I felt unstoppable, I felt immortal.
By the time we left the museum, it was late afternoon, so we decided to walk back to our hotel while shopping on the way there. We found a homey café and ate a late lunch while chatting about the museum.
"Can it be possible I haven't stopped smiling since we came to Athens?" Annabeth asked, and yeah, she was smiling widely, with teeth and everything.
"Yeah, it can be. You're happy, why wouldn't you be smiling?" I wondered, smiling back at her.
"You are happy too right?" she asked, eyebrow raised.
"I have never been happier than just being here with you, wherever we may be." She sighed, and kissed me sweetly.
"You are such a corny dork," she whispered, stroking my cheek with her hand, lovingly. "But I still love you." I grinned boyishly at her and brought her back in for a sloppy kiss.
The next couple of days were surprisingly mellow. We toured the city in general, just admiring and taking pictures of what caught our eye, we dined at a few cafes and shopped at a few stores. We visited the Olympic Athletic Center of Athens most known for hosting the 2004 Summer Olympics. We saw the modernized buildings in the home of were the first Olympic Games started in ancient Athens. Afterwards, we decided to go to the Mall of Athens, it was the first modern of its kind to be constructed in Greece and is one of the largest in Europe. We managed to spend a whole day strolling through the mall. We even bought a few mementos, clothes, shoes; Annabeth bought a few bags while I bought a few wallets. All in all, it was the best mall we have visited in Europe, we loved it.
Annabeth
After the tiresome first days, Percy and I decided to have a day in, relaxing and releasing the stress from the weeks of traveling. I made an appointment at the hotel spa and enjoyed a good rub, while Percy most likely played video games and ordered room service. He was a geek at heart, what else could I expect?
Feeling, refreshed, and rejuvenated I made my way into our suite, and as I predicted Percy was playing some Star Wars fighting game. I sighed internally and proceeded to take out a book I had bought on Greek photography and art pieces.
"Hey, love, how was the spa?" Percy asked after his character died and he noticed me for the first time, sending me a toothy grin.
"Yup, sure did. The masseur rubbed in all the right places, my arms my legs, my shoulders, my back. It was so relaxing," I taunted showing him some skin in the process as I lifted my leg and placed it on his lap.
"What?" he growled out, eyes fiery with lust and maybe anger? His hand grabbed onto my leg tightly, protectively.
"Yup. You heard me." Percy pinned me in an instant, my arms over my head as he glared into my eyes, it was fucking hot if you asked me.
"Please tell me you're kidding and that no fucking asshole touched you?" he urged, pleadingly desperate. I blinked surprised by his intense questioning.
"Um, no. I just wanted to see your reaction. They were all girls, I refused to have a man touch me." His body relaxed, breathing out a sigh of relief.
"Sorry. I-I just lost it. Just the thought of some other guy t-touching you makes my skin crawl," he shivered and released me, apologizing.
"It's okay." I reassured him crawling into his lap, kissing his jaw and chin. "I can't even think of some girl looking in your direction, I'll go crazy bitch on her ass. No one will ever touch me. Only you." I whispered. "And for the record, you looked hot all crazy jealous right now. Don't apologize for that."
A smile reached his lips as it turned into a full on smirk. He pinned me against the couch again, less forcefully but a lot more intimate as his body aligned itself with mine. "Really?" I nodded. He skimmed his nose along my cheek. "You're mine," he whispered.
"Only if you are mine," I agreed. He nodded and kissed me once again.
After our day off lazing around in bed, we decided to visit the Acropolis of Athens. As soon as we saw the ancient citadel up close, I squeezed Percy's hand in excitement. I was enthralled by how far I've come, how we have come. To finally get to see with my own eyes the history behind a culture I have admired for so long… its sublime.
The Propylaea, known as the monumental gateway to the Acropolis, was simply stunning. If I looked close enough I could actually see the royal deities once living in this monument that suffered so much destruction throughout the centuries. I snapped some photos of Percy climbing up the stairs because I wanted to have this memory forever. Once we made it up the stairs we started off with the temple of Athena Nike. It was probably the smallest monument, but that didn't take away from its beauty. The temple represented Athena as the goddess of victory, wisdom and war. She was their patron and their leader. Percy hugged me tightly, understanding just how high I was feeling right now.
We next saw the Erectheion, a Greek temple on the north side of the Acropolis. It was said to be dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. From anyone's perspective, it just looked like any other ruin, but from an artistic point of view, the beauty was just beneath the surface, hiding behind the ancient stones. It was too much and made me smile like the Cheshire cat. I was in my element at this moment, enjoying the ancient beauty of this city. Afterwards we finally decided to check out the Parthenon.
What could I say other than the obvious? The most known temple of Greece, the symbol of Athens itself, dedicated to Athena. The Parthenon was ethereal. Tall and proud it stood, although with some missing artifacts, it was still exquisite. I turned to Percy and smiled widely at him, he reflected my smile, his cheeks bright from the exertion of walking and excitement. I wrapped my arms around him and squeezed with all that I could.
"Thank you," I stated, smiling.
"For what?"
"For making this possible. For being here with me. I don't know… for everything I guess." He smiled again, then pecked my cheek.
"Come on, let's go look inside." He pulled me with him, laughing joyfully. We managed to see the whole monument, taking pictures long the way. Some of me, some of him and some with both of us, grinning at the camera with the Parthenon gleaming behind us. This I know I will never forget, but it's always nice to have something that would refresh my memory with these photos. We managed to take a look at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a widely known theater built around the first century AD. It has been hosts to famous Greek musicians, to Frank Sinatra, as well as the Miss Universe pageant of 1973. Today it hosts festivals, plays, and famous performers.
We also managed to get a glimpse of the remains of the theater of Dionysus. It wasn't as well preserved as the Odeon, but it is known to be more important, build for festivals and celebrations dedicated to Dionysus himself. After the long tiring yet memorable day Percy and I just decided to head to our hotel for dinner and a comfy bed to sleep the rest of the night.
It was a beautiful day indeed, and I fell asleep dreaming of celebrations in majestic buildings with Percy by my side.
Percy
Today was the day. I had a good feeling about today, but I was nervous. I knew Annabeth loved me, but maybe she would think I'm getting too ahead of myself. I took the liberty of planning a simple day, not wanting to overwhelm her, then a dinner night. If all went well there would be something to celebrate and it will be in the perfect place.
"Percy you need to give me something. I don't know what to wear!" Annabeth pleaded, rummaging through her suitcase after I told her I had something special planned.
"Um, I guess something comfortable but dressy," I finally conceded.
"What about shoes? Where are we going?" she asked, pouting up at me. Do not give in.
"Nice try, but I'm not telling. Heels is fine." Annabeth waited a bit, but once she realized I wasn't budging, she sighed, glaring at me on her way to the bathroom.
A couple hours later we were both well dressed. Annabeth in a stunning black flower lace off the shoulder skater dress with red cross-strap platform heels and me in all black slacks, red dress shirt with black suspenders and bowtie. Once I had everything I needed, we made our way out the door and into the city.
Our first destination was the Ethnikos Kipos, or National Gardens of Athens. It was really green with flowers, plants and trees of all kinds of colors. It felt like a forest in paradise. Annabeth and I walked along the garden trails, amazed by the beautiful ducks, squirrels, rabbits, and even swans we saw pass us by enjoying the sunny day. It was late afternoon so we managed to see the garden in the best light of day then later, darken into early sunset. Annabeth simply smiled at me, her red plump lips begging for a kiss. I couldn't deny myself.
"So I realized we have never been on a movie date and I wanted to change that," I commented casually after a few hours of admiring the gardens.
"We have seen dozens of plays and performances. I'm sure that counts," Annabeth replied off-handedly bending down to smell the fresh jasmine.
"No I don't think it does. So… ughm… would you like to? See a movie that is?" Fucking nerves, they are starting to get to me.
"Yeah, sure," Annabeth grins narrowing her eyes playfully. Gosh, why does she have to be so cute when she does that, it's making me more nervous. After I lamely try to calm my nerve with a tug to my shirt, I escort Annabeth to the Cine Aegli. An out-door movie theater with canvas chairs and a star-lit sky. "Wow, this is incredible," Annabeth praises looking at the beautiful movie screen. There are a few couples already sitting so Annabeth and I situate ourselves in what we presume to be the middle of the theater. Always the best seats in the house, in my opinion.
"What movie are we watching?" Annabeth questioned, turning to me with a gleam in her eyes.
"Um, I'm not sure. It's some romance and action movie… at least that is what I remember reading." I reply sheepishly. How could I forget the movie title? Annabeth just shakes her head with a smirk in her face.
The movie turns out to be okay, at least what I saw from it. Most of the time I was trying to find out a way to tell Annabeth about my surprise. After the movie is over, we walk out and make our way to the Aegli Restaurant.
The modern architecture reflected the beauty of all the greenery of the restaurant. Our table was in the outside terrace, with the perfect view of the Acropolis, its lights turned on, gleaming in the dusk sky. I thought this was the perfect place with its romantic lighting in the trees, plants surrounding the railing with different types of flowers, and a fountain in the middle with colorful lighting. Our table was cushioned with bamboo chairs and green cushions and small fern centerpieces. It was all magically beautiful.
Annabeth grinned, with a questioning look on her face, and I knew she was on to me. Once the waiter came and took our order, we stared awkwardly at each. I started fidgeting, fixing my glasses every couple seconds and pulling on my bowtie.
Annabeth leaned her elbows on the table, staring me down. "Alright, what is it?"
"W-what do you mean?" Shit.
"You keep fidgeting. Whatever it is, spit it out!"
"I- I well…" I sigh, dejectedly this is not how I wanted to say this.
"Well what?" she asks impatiently.
"Can I tell you once we get our food? I want to wait a bit." She glares at me, then finally nods silently, sitting back with her arms crossed. We stay in silence for a whole 15 minutes until our food and drinks get here. We eat with a tense silence and I know Annabeth is waiting for me to say something. Finally, I clear my throat.
"Ok, well there is two things," I start, motioning with two fingers. I search my jacket pocket for the papers I need and quietly hand them to Annabeth. She looks at the papers, her eyebrows crinkled. She reads the pamphlet, then glances at the two boat tickets and her face lights up instantly.
"We're going to Santorini?" she looks up eyes wide. I can only nod, exhaling loudly. "Seriously? I thought it was just going to be Athens?"
"I thought it would be nice to go to the beach there."
"Hell yes! Oh my gods when did you think of this?" she asks enthusiastically.
"I saw it online, the hotel is called Atlantis Beach Villa."
"Wow. Why did you think of this? What's the occasion?" she asks, reverently looking at the pamphlet.
I sigh again. Here goes nothing. "Well, that leads me to my next reason…" I take out the object from my pants pocket and slide it across the table to her. Her foe eyes big and grey shimmer up at me, shocked.
"Percy, wha-?" She starts, but I shush her, shaking my head.
"It's not what you think." She gently opens the small velvet box. And she gasps her eyes watering at the edges.
Annabeth
When Percy handed me the small box, I didn't know what to think. Then when he says 'It's not what you think' what else was I supposed to think? Surely we were too young for this? Right? But once I open the box, it doesn't even matter anymore. Inside lie to silver matching rings. The thinner, more feminine one, is a rose with the band acting as a stem and small leaves protruding from the side. The other ring is thicker with the same exact design engraved on it.
I glance at Percy as he blushes a deep red and gives a small smile. My eyes start watering, and dammit, I think I am going to cry. "This is a promise ring. I know we are too young to be even thinking about the future, let alone anything more serious. But since being with you, that's all I really think about and I wanted to buy you this to show you that. This ring is my way of telling you that I will always be here for you, loving you, and loyal to you. And who know? Maybe someday… it could be an engagement ring."
I don't care how sweet and gushy that sounded, I loved it. I love him. And by the way my eyes are tearing and my nose gushing, so did my heart. "I- What?-" I stutter incoherently, completely speechless for the first time.
Percy reaches for the box and grabs the small ring and places it on my left ring finger. I admire it a bit, thinking that someday, I will marry this gorgeous dorky man. When I look up he's smiling at me more confidently. "I can't believe you. How is it possible you always manage to make me love you so much my heart hurts?" I say quietly.
He shrugs, kissing my tear-stained cheeks. "I don't know." I smile widely this time, overwhelmed. I reach for the box taking out the other ring and place it around his ring finger. We smile dopily at each other, our hands clasped. I don't know who leans in first, but we both do as our lips meet together, gently at first, then more forceful, deeper. Our tongues dance together, and I taste him, like honey and nectar. His teeth tug my bottom lip and I moan lightly into his mouth as I drag my fingers through his hair.
"When?" I ask, feeling my cheeks heat up. Yup, that's a blush alright.
"Since Prom," he breathes out hoarsely.
"You are amazing."
"I could say the same for you," he retorts, blushing as well. After the whole shock and excitement wore off, we eat more comfortably while I bombard him with questions about Santorini. We will be leaving tomorrow morning for three days and three nights before coming back for one more day in Athens before flying back home. It all sounds wonderful, I couldn't have asked for a better ending to our summer than this.
Later, when we finally arrive back at the hotel, there is a silent buzz of electricity looming over us. As we cross the threshold of the room, Percy slams me against the door, his lips on my own as I wrap my legs around his waist, and my arms around his neck. He leads us to the bed and gently lowers me down as he crawls over me, kissing anywhere his lips could. He unstraps my heels one by one, kissing up my leg along the way. I start unbuttoning his shirt and unbuckling his pants, kissing his now exposed chest.
He brings me up with him, as he wraps his arms around me, kissing me deeply. His fingers start playing with the zipper, as it slowly lowers, leaving Goosebumps on my naked back. He moves my hair to the side as he kisses and sucks on my neck, making me moan and squirm with his touch. Once everything is removed, he looks at me, reverently roaming my body with his eyes and hands. I copy his movements as I glance at his bare body, touching with sweet caresses. He was made for me.
No words are needed as we connect our bodies for the millionth time. He slides into me so slowly I gasp. My hands squeeze his back as he rocks forward and back, reaching a rhythm that I soon follow. We never stop kissing as we make love to each other, deeply, lovingly, and passionately. Soon, my body starts to heat. My emotions building up inside me make my eyes water and my body shake. It's too much. The feeling is too much. I can feel Percy's deep breathing, as his hot sweat covered body tenses. We both explode into heavenly bliss and I tear up because of how vulnerable and beautiful that felt.
"Gods," he exhales deeply, catching his breath as he collapses next to me. When he looks at me with dazed eyes and smiling lips he frowns. "Are you okay? Why are you crying?" His hands come up to my face, brushing the tears away.
Gosh, why the fuck am I crying? This isn't normal. "I think it was just too much you know?" I finally answer, sending him a smile to let him know I'm alright.
"Too much?" he asks, eyebrows furrowed.
"It was intense, and with my emotions right now… yeah," I reply lamely, blushing. His green eyes shimmer happily at me, crinkling at the edges.
"Yeah. It was pretty intense, but it was a good intense." He agrees and envelopes me in his arms, kissing my forehead. "Good night, Annabeth."
"Good night, Percy," I sigh dreamily. Content and at peace.
Well? Did you guys like it? I hope you guys liked Percy's surprise... I sure would.
If you dear readers would like to leave some love (or not) PLEASE do! : D
Anyways, the epilogue will be posting in about a weeks time... so see you fellas then : ) *Waves excitedly*
