Disclaimer: I do not own Percy Jackson

Chapter 14

"Good bye and take care!"

Percy and Annabeth stood at the beach, waving as the Mystical Sea Chariot began the slow descent back into Atlantis.

Percy took Annabeth by the shoulders and spun her around to face him. He stared into her beautiful gray eyes and tilted his head. Dusk was approaching, and the setting sun lit up her honey-blonde hair.

Words failed them. They just stood there, smiling at each other. By now, both of them knew that they were in love with each other, but both lacked the conviction to voice their feelings.

The surf suddenly erupted, and out of the waves appeared a beautiful Nereid, Andromeda, now clad in an elegant Silver dress with a single silver needle restraining her dark luxurious curls.

"Percy! I was so worried about you! And you saved Annabeth, too! I'm so proud of you!"

She ran toward him and flung her arms around his neck, and pressed her cool lips against his. Percy tried desperately to break away, but he just couldn't push her away. Annabeth stared, wide-eyed at the duo.

They broke apart after what felt like an eternity to Annabeth, Percy staggering backwards and leaning on a tree for support.

"Andromeda, I…" Percy stammered.

"Don't say a thing Percy. Just say you love me."

"I can't…Annabeth, she…"

Andromeda gave Percy an understanding smile. "You're embarrassed to say that in front of your best friend, right? It's ok. I'll see you back at Atlantis!"

At that, she blew him a kiss flirtatiously and jumped back into the surf, her body arching gracefully as she dove back into the depths.

Percy turned around to face Annabeth, who had a hurt expression on her face.

"Please understand Annabeth…I need time to break this up with her…"

"It's ok Percy. I understand. Andromeda's really hot. You can't resist her. I get it. Anyway, thanks for saving me again. I really appreciate it. We're still best friends, aren't we?"

Annabeth leaned forward and coolly kissed Percy on the cheek. When she leant back, Percy's face was damp. Annabeth rubbed the traitor tears away, which had dripped on his skin when she leaned forward.

"I'll see you around, Percy."

With that, she turned around and walked back towards her cabin.