A/N: Ok, you guys are all SO awesome! Thank you so much for all of the kind reviews. I'm so happy that it's reached over 100 reviews. I never thought that would happen when I decided to continue this. It's also reached almost 10,000 hits...which is incredible!

I'm sorry if the plot seems to be slow moving, but I'm trying! I hope the sex stuff isn't repetitive (please let me know if you guys think it is!) I really want to hear your input/ideas. I'm probably over analyzing…I tend to do that a lot.

This chapter will be fluffy, not smutty.

Thanks for sticking around and reading what my perverted mind comes up with! You guys are wonderful!

Sunburn

Chapter 9

Percy couldn't remember the last time he was this excited for something. Apollo was taking them on their first official 'date', which was actually Percy's first real date ever. He and Annabeth weren't together long enough for them to go on a date, so Percy wasn't quite sure what to expect. He thought of the possible places Apollo could take him, seeing as he was a god and could go anywhere he pleased.

"I feel like a dork," said Percy as he looked at himself in the mirror in his cabin. He was still wearing his camp shirt and torn jeans, not knowing what to do with himself.

"Well that's because you are a dork," said Rachel, who was currently sitting on Percy's bed, trying to help him find something wear. When the red head had found out about the date, she flailed excitedly, telling Percy she just had to help. "Seriously, Percy, I think you look fine. If you weren't having sex with my boss, I would have made a pass at you."

Percy laughed at Rachel's sarcasm, "Thanks, but I don't think he'd appreciate you saying that. He gets kind of possessive."

Rachel scanned Percy's face with a knowing glance, "And you love that about him."

Percy shuffled through his dresser, but was completely hopeless when it came to fashion. He was a guy, it's not like he paid attention to the latest trends. And it's not like he had anything decent to wear anyway. He had a half a dozen Camp Half-Blood shirts, a few pairs of jeans, and a random assortment of t-shirts.

"Ok, move. You're driving me nuts," said Rachel, who was now rummaging through Percy's clothing. After a few moments of searching, throwing random garments about the room, Rachel managed to find a decent outfit for Percy to wear. She handed the clothing to the demigod, looking quite pleased with herself. "Put these on."

A couple minutes later Percy emerged wearing the clothes that Rachel found for him. He wore a blue button up shirt (which he didn't even know he had in the first place) and a pair of dark denim jeans that he must have never worn due to the lack of dirt and tears. He wore his usual Converse, seeing as they were the only decent shoes he had. Rachel looked him up and down a moment and frowned slightly. She went over to him, unbuttoned the first two buttons of his shirt and smoothed a couple wrinkles. She took another step back and was seemingly happy with Percy's appearance.

"He won't be able to keep his hands off you," she said resolutely.

Percy laughed, knowing that Apollo could never keep his hands to himself. Rachel picked at Percy's hair for a moment before the demigod batted her hands away. He thanked Rachel for her help, and waved as she left his cabin. Looking out the window, he saw the sun was setting, which was his cue to head to the beach. Percy made his way to the beach, carefully avoiding the other campers. He didn't want anyone to wonder where he was going.

Once there, Percy sat down on the sandy shore, watching the slow waves as they lapped at the sand. He always felt at peace sitting by the water, getting lost in the smell of salt water and the wind hitting his face. The sun was sinking lower over the horizon, letting Percy know that Apollo would be there any moment. His heart did a little flutter in his chest, making him smile involuntarily. Percy sat there for a few moments, closing his eyes and inhaling the scent of the ocean. Unbeknownst to him, Apollo had already appeared behind him, taking in the sight of Percy sitting on the shore. Apollo loved seeing Percy in his natural element, enjoying sand and surf.

"Nice night," said Apollo, finally breaking the silence.

Percy smiled at the warm voice, not at all startled by the sound of it. He stood up and turned around, finding the sight before him very pleasing. Apollo was wearing a white button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, the first few buttons unbuttoned. He also wore a pair of tight fitting jeans and black dress shoes. It was simple, but Apollo still looked incredible. The god could be wearing a burlap sack and still look hot.

Apollo pulled Percy against him, breathing in the demigod's natural scent. The god pulled Percy's mouth toward his, letting their tongue's mingle in a deep kiss. Percy's moaned into Apollo's mouth, loving the feel of the god's body against his. The pair stayed lip locked for a few long, unhurried moments, savoring the sensations and emotions running between them. When they finally parted, they were breathless and smiling brightly at each other.

"Hey, beautiful," Apollo said again, caressing Percy's face. "You ready to go?"

"Yeah," Percy nodded. "So, are you going to tell me where we're going?"

Apollo snapped his fingers, and suddenly the maserati appeared before them, "If I told you that, it would ruin the surprise."

Apollo led Percy back to the car and they both climbed in. Percy's stomach always turned a little when the car first lurched and took off into the sky. But, once in the air, Percy didn't have a care in the world. Despite Zeus's warning about blasting Percy out of the sky, Apollo assured him that he was fine. Percy found it hard to worry about it when he was sitting next to Apollo anyway.

Apollo turned on the radio and began singing along to it rather loudly. Percy's smiled at the god's antics, finding Apollo's mood quite contagious. Pretty soon he found himself singing along with the radio, figuring he shouldn't be embarrassed after everything he and Apollo had done together. Percy laughed out loud when Apollo started singing off key on purpose, doing an awkward jig like dance, making Percy laugh even harder. Apollo loved making Percy laugh; seeing the demigod smile warmed his heart.

The sun god reached over and laced Percy's fingers with his. Percy placed Apollo's hand in his lap and held onto it, loving how their hands always seemed to fit perfectly together. The younger man settled against the seat, glancing over at Apollo, who was still singing quietly along with a different song on the radio. Percy closed his eyes, letting the fresh night air gust across his face. He couldn't help but think their date was already amazing, and it hadn't even started yet.

They had only been in the air twenty minutes or so when Apollo turned the steering wheel and began to descend. They lowered beneath the clouds, heading quickly toward their destination. Percy gazed at the surrounding area, trying to figure out exactly where they were (the darkened sky not helping his vision much). They were over the ocean and Percy could see city lights up ahead. Suddenly, he spotted a very familiar looking lighthouse in the distance. It immediately dawned on him where Apollo had taken them.

"We're in Montauk!" Percy said happily. "Gods, I haven't been here in years! This is my-"

"You're favorite place," Apollo finished with a smile. "Your mom has a cabin up here and you used to go every year. I remember the things you tell me, Percy."

Percy was even more excited. It has been so long since he had been back to Montauk and he had been longing to go back for awhile. Though, the last time hadn't been pleasant, seeing as he, his mom, and Grover, had been chased by an angry Minotaur. He had a feeling that this time would be much more enjoyable.

Apollo landed the car on a strip of sandy beach in front of the boardwalk, the Mist concealing them from mortal eyes. With another snap of his fingers, the maserati disappeared conveniently. Apollo then took Percy's hand again, leading them up to the boardwalk. They walked hand in hand for a little while until Apollo brought them to one of the many restaurants situated on the walkway. It was called The Seaside, a place Percy had always wanted to go to, but he and his mom could never afford to eat there. The papers gave the place positive reviews and the locals raved about it.

"I am the god of prophecy," said Apollo, who apparently knew exactly what Percy was thinking.

They walked inside, right past the hostess station, and walked up a small flight of stairs in the back. The roof of the restaurant was covered by an awning, and was strangely empty. However, the table right up front with the best view was already set for them.

Percy looked slyly over at Apollo as they sat down, "You're pretty slick."

"Being a god does have its perks," Apollo replied. "I already know all of the things you like."

They sat down together, looking out over the ocean. Apollo reached across the table, took Percy's hand in his again, kissing the top of boy's fingers lightly. After awhile, a waitress came up and took their order. And, much to Percy's delight, the food was outstanding. He could see why all the local's loved the place.

"Anywhere specific you want to go?" asked Apollo after their food was consumed in record time.

Percy smiled knowing exactly where he wanted to go.

At Percy's request, Apollo transported them to the Jackson's cabin. It was small building, almost like a shack, but Apollo loved it because he knew it made Percy happy. He could see it clearly painted on Percy's face. The demigod took his shoes off and walked toward the water. He stopped just at the edge, letting the water barely touch him. Apollo gazed at Percy then, taking in all the demigod was. His sister's moon was bright, casting Percy in an almost ethereal glow. His whole body looked as though it were made of moonlight. When Percy turned and smiled at Apollo, the god's breath was literally caught in his throat. Percy was captivating…it was the most beautiful sight Apollo had ever seen in all the years he had been alive. He stood there and gazed upon the dark haired young man, letting the image burn into his mind.

Apollo walked over and stood next to Percy, grabbing the demigod's hands in both of his. Percy turned, his smile dropping when he noticed the look on Apollo's face. The god seemed almost…nervous, which was something Percy never expected to see. Apollo was always so confident, and seeing him look so unsure made Percy feel a little nervous himself.

"What's wrong?" asked Percy, squeezing the god's hands.

Apollo knew the moment had finally come, "Percy…there's something I want to ask you."

Apollo's stomach actually turned. The god had never been this nervous…come to think of it, he had never actually been nervous before. What he was about to ask Percy was a big deal, and he wasn't exactly sure how Percy would react to it.

Apollo breathed and continued, "Do you remember what I said to you last week…about the god's gift you turned down?"

Percy nodded, "You….you said you wish I had taken it."

"I still wish you had…Percy, I love you. I love you more than I've loved anyone, you already know that. The past few months with you have been some of the happiest I've ever had. Being with you is amazing, not just physically but emotionally. From the first night with you I knew I was hooked…you've had me entirely since then. When I think to the future…I can't imagine it without you."

Percy's eyes widened, his stomach feeling jittery, "Apollo…are you asking what I think you are?"

Apollo pulled Percy close to him, so close that they were only inches apart, "I want you by my side, Percy Jackson."

"You mean…forever?" Percy asked, realizing how stupid it sounded…but he didn't know what else to say.

"Forever," Apollo said quietly, lacing their fingers together tightly.

A million thoughts and emotions were running through Percy's brain. He was incredibly happy…positively elated by what Apollo just said. He had thought about this situation before, but now that it had presented itself, Percy felt almost overwhelmed. He loved Apollo with his very soul; deeper than he thought possible. The god had ensnared his senses from the very first night, and he couldn't help but think an eternity with the god would be absolutely wonderful.

"I…Apollo-"

"I know it's a big decision," said Apollo, cutting Percy off. "I understand that you'll need time to think about it-"

It was Percy who silenced the god this time, claiming Apollo's mouth in soft, sweet kiss. After only a few short moments, the kiss grew more passionate as it always did, rendering both men completely unaware of everything else around them. As they kissed, the answer suddenly became clear to Percy, revealing itself like the sun peaking through the clouds. Subtle warmth spread through Percy's body as he pulled himself closer into Apollo's form.

"Let me finish," said Percy when they broke away, still only inches apart, "I want this. I thought I would need time to think this through…but I don't. I love you more than I thought it was possible to love someone. And when I'm with you everything feels right."

Apollo was looking at Percy seriously now, "You mean it? I want you to be absolutely sure because there's no turning back-"

Percy silenced Apollo with a kiss again, "I'm sure. I've never been so sure of anything. It just feels…like it's meant to be this way."

Apollo's eyes looked glassy as though he were about to cry, but the tears didn't fall. Instead, he pulled Percy against his body, holding onto him in a loving embrace. Percy settled against him, wrapping his arms around the gods back. One would think that it would take more than six months with someone to figure out that you want to spend an eternity with them (that is a long time after all). But Percy didn't care…he had no apprehensions because it just felt so right.

"Percy," said Apollo, cupping the boys face in his hands, "Percy…gods, you don't know how happy you've just made me."

"Yes I do because I feel the same way," Percy replied, his own eyes starting to look glossy.

The sun god raised his hand slowly, running it through Percy's dark hair, "If you are absolutely sure…I can talk with my father about the whole immortality business."

Percy paled suddenly, "Oh gods…the rest of the Olympians. Do you really think they would agree to me becoming immortal?"

Apollo held Percy by the arms only a few inches away, "Don't worry about them. I can handle my family pretty well. They're not all that nasty."

"…I wouldn't be so sure," Percy replied, remembering all the not so pleasant things the gods did when they were angry.

"Don't worry. Plus, we have Aphrodite on our side and she's the favorite. Everyone knows that," said Apollo thoughtfully.

"But, I haven't even told my dad about us yet. I think he would be upset that I didn't tell him myself…do you think I should?"

Apollo thought for a moment, "Yeah, it might be best. It's not pretty when he's angry. I wouldn't want your dad springing a hurricane on some poor seaside village or anything."

"Good point. I'll go to his kingdom tomorrow…that's going to be so awkward. But it'll be worth it," Percy added with a bright smile.

Apollo was still in shock about Percy's acceptance. Thrilled beyond words, but shocked all the same. He thought for sure Percy would need time to decide (and he figured it would be at least a few years for an answer). He would have been willing to wait, but was happy to know that he didn't have to. He pulled Percy back in for yet another kiss, proving just how much he loved the demigod with his lips.

Apollo knew it would be difficult, but he was ready to do anything to make Percy his forever.


A/N: Gah...I literally re-wrote this thing three times. I'm still really not happy with it and I'm really hoping you guys think it's cute and romantic, not boring. I tried so hard to make this interesting and not corny. And I wasn't sure if Percy went to Montauk again after the whole minotaur thing. But, for the sake of this story, lets say he didn't. And The Seaside is an actual restaurant there...I googled it lol

Please review!