Welcome back! This chapter is just straight up fluff and just me shamelessly hitting on Percy enjoy!
Chapter 9: We Both get a 'Talk'
September 15
Annabeth
Annabeth was sitting on her desk in her dorm room trying to get some of these pesky assignments done. Ever since school started, she was up to the neck with schoolwork. It didn't help that she was still interviewing for architecture internship positions and was trying to help Percy catch up with all the work that he missed during his extended absence.
Fortunately, her new roommate was quite nice, especially when compared to her roommate from last year. Her name was Victoria, she was a senior like Annabeth from what Annabeth guessed she did well academically. What really made her roommate stand out though was her artistic ability. Victoria hung paintings and drawings that she drew herself all along her wall. The drawings included landscapes, still lives, animals and people. Honestly, Victoria could give Rachel a run for her money.
There was also the fact that Victoria didn't look at her funny whenever Annabeth sang her favorite songs (off key sometimes) like her previous roommate did. In fact, karaoke night last night with Victoria, Jessica, and Rebecca from across the hall was fun. They joined in as Annabeth was belting out Wildest Dreams.
Victoria was on her bed, drawing on her iPad. From what she said earlier, she had gotten a commission from a friend to draw some fictional characters from a famous book series. Annabeth was curious and asked how much she made through commissions.
"Umm… I guess it depends. I usually charge like 50 bucks per commission, but some people want more." She said, she was tapping her pencil on the head. "But I think the highest I ever charged was like 300 bucks."
"Whoa that much?" Annabeth gasped, surprised.
Victoria nodded. "She wanted me to draw all these characters. I think it was like eight or so characters."
"Maybe I should get into the art and commission business," Annabeth pondered.
"Well girl, if you do, check my Instagram. I have a couple tutorial videos." Victoria offered.
"I'll have to get back to you on that, right now I have this stack of homework to finish. Ugh why is being a good student so hard?"
Victoria chortled, "My life motto is to try hard enough, but never kill yourself. I think there's a saying in college. 'C's get degrees' or something like that."
"I'd like to have that motto, but my pride gets the better of me sometimes." Annabeth deadpanned.
"You do you, that's all I can offer. Whatever works for you."
Annabeth stood up from her desk and stretched out. She took her phone and noticed that the time read 1:17 PM. She had been working on her homework for about 2 hours. She was planning on meeting with Percy after swim practice so they could work on their assignments. He got off practice at 1:30 and said he could pass by and come pick her up so they could go on their 'date'. Their 'date' would consist of hours upon hours of getting schoolwork done, eating lunch and maybe dinner while sneaking some kisses in from time to time.
Since his school was several blocks away from her dorm, Annabeth guessed that she had at least half an hour before she had to get ready.
"Hey, Annabeth?" Victoria asked.
Annabeth turned. She noticed that Victoria was putting her drawing stuff away and grabbing a notebook. "Yeah?" Annabeth answered.
"Can you do me a little favor? You know about my unique hobby, right?"
Annabeth gave her a blank look and then it came back to her. "Oh, you mean the one where you sell art and comics at big conventions?"
"Yep, that's the one. I was hoping you could help look over my manuscript for the book I'll be selling at the fall convention. Like let me know what you think."
"Sure, I can help you out. I always enjoy your drawings." She was about to take the book but remembered something. "You're not handing me one of your special editions, are you?" Annabeth had seen the artist's special editions before, which made her blush profusely.
Victoria shook her head. "No, I promise these are all innocent this time. Nothing for adult audiences in this manuscript."
Annabeth thought for a moment then nodded. "I guess it wouldn't hurt then."
"You will? Oh my god thank you so much. You're a life saver. I haven't been able to find anyone to proofread and quality check my work." Victoria beamed. She took a notebook out of her bag and handed it to Annabeth. "Take your time Annabeth and let me know what you think."
Annabeth sat down at the edge of her bed and started rummaging through the pages. From what Victoria had informed her, this type of media was called 'Manga' and was quite popular in Japanese and Japanese related media cultures. Victoria explained that she drew and wrote out storylines in this format and sold them at the conventions that happened across the city. Annabeth was rummaging through the pages, reading the story while admiring the drawings. It was a simple story about high school sweethearts falling in love, but the delicate nature of the drawings and the ways the characters were drawn made her heart flutter slightly.
She finished reading the manuscript and noted on the back pages there were drawings of a character that were scratched out. The proportions of the guy also seemed off, like she couldn't quite get them right.
"Hey Victoria?" Annabeth called.
"Yeah?" She responded.
"What's these crossed out drawings in the back?"
Victoria grew sheepish. "Oh, I was trying to draw this new character, but I couldn't get the proportions right. Like for some reason it just never seemed correct. That's why they're crossed out."
"I see. Well, I read over your work and it's great, the drawings are amazing, and the story is sweet. I think you'll sell many copies at the event."
Annabeth smiled and handed the sketchpad back to her roommate. "Thanks Annabeth, you're a life saver. My sister and I were supposed to work on this project, but she ditched me. Can you believe it? So now I'm working on it by myself."
Annabeth didn't comment as her phone buzzed. She took it in her hands to see that she had gotten a message.
1:26 PM-Percy
Hey, Coach let us out early
I'm on my way there
I'm stopping by the connivence store
Want anything?
1:26 PM-Annabeth
Will you be paying?
1:27 PM-Percy
Of course I will
Want something?
1:27 PM-Annabeth
Can you bring me that
Strawberry soda?
You know,
The one I like
1:28 PM-Percy
There's like 30 of them
Be more descriptive
1:28 PM-Annabeth
I think the one I like
Is descriptive enough
Figure it out
1:28 PM-Percy
How am I supposed to know
Which one you like?
I'm not your servant
1:28 PM-Annabeth
But you're my boyfriend
You should know.
If not, then you're a pretty
lousy boyfriend
1:29 PM-Percy
Oh, ha ha!
I'm trying to be nice
And this is how you treat me?
Maybe I shouldn't get you anything
Annabeth was about to type in her response, liking how she was messing with him. She got a response with a picture before she sent her message.
1:30 PM-Percy
[Image Inserted]
This one, right?
1:30 PM-Annabeth
See I knew you had it.
You're not a lousy boyfriend
1:31 PM-Percy
You hurt my feelings Wise Girl
Hope you can make it up to me
1:31 PM-Annabeth
Interesting.
And how will I make it up?
1:31 PM-Percy
You could always kiss them better
1:31 PM-Annabeth
We'll see Seaweed Brain
We'll see
1:32 PM-Percy
Great. Leaving the store right now
Be there in 10 minutes
Then we can have our 'date'
Tonight
1:33 PM – Percy
Oh, and you owe me a kiss
Don't forget
"Who are you texting?" Victoria asked from the other side of the room with a sly smile. "You ignored my last couple of comments about my art."
Annabeth put her phone down. "Sorry, didn't realize I was ignoring you. It was just my boyfriend."
"The cute one you showed me in the pictures?" Annabeth nodded. Victoria's grin grew. "You must really love him. You had this huge grin on your face when you were texting him."
Annabeth's cheeks grew a light shade of pink.
Annabeth gave her a light laugh but didn't elaborate. She looked at the clock. It was 1:34, wow time sure had passed by quickly. Percy was on his way here from practice soon. She looked at the stack of papers on her desk again, groaning at the work. She would have preferred to go see him at practice, but she had an early morning interview followed by assignments due Monday morning.
On the bright side, Percy had finally showed her those swimsuits when she went to his practice last week. She smirked and bit her lip when she remembered the way they fit him. Thinking of that made her really wish she had gone to see him at practice and apparently she wasn't the only that thought he looked hot in his swimsuit.
She was sitting in the middle of the bleachers with a group of students sitting behind her. They started making comments that were innocent at first but quickly devolved into comments that made her feel bashful and awkward. Not that she disagreed with a couple of them. Some part of her also wanted to flaunt him.
'Great to see you finally showed up to a swim practice.'
'Why wouldn't I? I heard there's cute guys without their shirts on.'
'Are you sure it's not because you heard their new captain is hot?'
'Maybe… speaking of their captain where is he?'
'He's in the water right now.'
'Wow, he's a really good swimmer.'
'Well duh, you don't become captain without being a good swimmer.'
'When will he get out of the water? I want to see what all the fuss is about.'
'Patience my dear friend. He was out of the water before you came in and I can assure you it will be worth the wait.'
'You better not be pulling my leg.'
Several minutes passed as Percy kept swimming. Eventually he got out of and started walking around the pool to start instructing the other swimmers. The crowd behind her had a lot to say.
'Did you see the way he came out of the water? That was freaking hot.'
'That hair, oh my god!'
'Did you see those arms? He could put me in a chokehold, and I would thank him.'
'You could literally do laundry on those abs.'
'Did you see the way those chest muscles flexed?'
'Those biceps and triceps got me feeling something.'
'Those muscles on that broad back. God!'
"I might need a cold shower after this.'
'He's got some nice legs too and especially that nice round…'
Annabeth loudly cleared her throat. She knew what they were about to say. Not that she could disagree.
'Do you think he has a girlfriend?'
'I don't know. If he doesn't then maybe, he has a horrid personality.'
'Yeah, haven't you heard about hot guys with horrible personalities? You're more likely to take shit if it comes from a pretty face.'
'You guys can't judge people based on what they look.'
'We've literally been doing that for the past 20 minutes. Be freaking for real.'
'Well, there's only one way to find out. Go shoot your shot.'
'Give me some back up so I can ask him out.'
'You sound like you need him biblically in a way that's concerning to feminism.'
'Was that a TikTok reference?'
'Maybe, but he looks way out of your league. Besides there's no way a guy like that isn't taken.'
He was indeed taken, but Annabeth liked hearing the group's bickering behind her.
Percy was walking by the edge of the pool close to bleachers where Annabeth was. He spotted her. He gave her his sarcastic troublemaker smile, waved, and yelled out, "hey, Wise Girl!"
Annabeth grinned then waved back. "Hey, Seaweed Brain!"
That silenced the group of students behind her except for one last comment. 'Told you. They've got pet names and everything.'
Getting back on topic. She started rummaging through her drawers looking for something to wear. Since she was just going to his apartment, she picked out something casual, just some jeans and a t-shirt. She had showered earlier so she would just change. After changing, she gathered her things in her backpack and started running through her mental checklist. Laptop check, notebooks check, workbooks check and textbooks check. All of the stuff in her bag made it feel like she was carrying around bowling balls.
As she was brushing her hair when her phone buzzed again. She had gotten another text.
1:45 PM-Percy
Hey, I'm at the dorm
Which room number is yours?
1:45 PM-Annabeth
Room 215,
On the second floor
1:45 PM-Percy
Great
There was a knock on the door several moments later. "I'll get it!" Victoria announced. "Brendon is supposed to bring lunch today and said he would be here soon. I hope that's him. I'm hungry." She walked to the door and opened it.
There was a familiar voice that came from the doorway. "Oh, hi you must be Annabeth's roommate. I'm Percy. Is Annabeth here?"
"…" Complete silence. Annabeth got a sneaking suspicion why.
"Um, you ok?" He asked. There was some concern in his voice.
"…"
"I could have sworn I got the right room. Maybe I'll have to call her. Thanks for the help by the way and I'll keep looking around."
Victoria decided to speak up at this moment with great excitement. "Oh my god! You're just what I needed. You're perfect!"
"Uh, excuse me?" He sounded uneasy.
"Yes! You're just what I needed for my character. Tall, broad shouldered, lean and muscular, handsome and that brooding look from earlier. Yes, you are perfect! Would you be willing to model for me?"
Now it was Percy's turn to be at a loss for words. "I… uh… I don't think I'm following. What do you mean perfect for a character and modeling?"
"Oh, silly me, I haven't introduced myself. Victoria Martinez. Nice to meet you." Annabeth noticed that Victoria's voice was higher than usual.
"Ah, Percy Jackson, nice to meet you too."
"You're the Percy? Huh. Annabeth's always talking about you."
"All good things I hope."
"Yeah, mostly good things. Although she sometimes she talks about some of your 'Seaweed Brain' moments. That's what she calls them," Victoria giggled.
"Oh…those are all lies, just so you know," he said bashfully. Victoria laughed. "Speaking of Annabeth, is she here? She told me to meet her here today. This is room 215 right?"
"Forget Annabeth, she's not here right now. But I really do need a model for my character. Will you please consider it? I'll compensate you." Annabeth was starting to get slightly irritated but wanted to see how the situation unfolded.
"Uhhhh, I'm still not following, sorry," was all Percy could manage to say.
"It will be easy, I promise. You strike some poses, I take some pictures, I use them to draw and then BOOM I make some big bucks. Well small bucks is more like it but we can start right now!" She said with increasing volume.
Annabeth was laughing on the inside at the interaction. She knew that her roommate could get intense when it came to drawing. Heck, Victoria had even asked Annabeth to model for her as well. Judging by Percy's confused tone he had no idea what was going on.
There was a shuffling of steps down their short hallway as Victoria came in dragging a very confused Percy by the wrist. The sight was comical. He was almost a foot taller than Victoria and must have weighed 50 pounds more, but she was dragging him in like no one's business. His eyes brightened when he saw her, but he was also pleading for help. His dark hair was mess like always. He was wearing a plain white t-shirt, jeans and the shoes Annabeth gave him. His swim duffel bag slung across his shoulder with his skateboard on his other side. The hand that Victoria was dragging him by held a plastic bag with snacks and drinks. His swim jacket was slung carelessly over his bag.
The way that Victoria was looking at him and batting her eyelashes told her it was time to break it up. Annabeth stood up and placed her hand on Victoria's shoulder. "Alright, I think you can let go of him now. He has no clue what's going on half the time. And I would appreciate if you could let go of his wrist." She squeezed Victoria's shoulder which caused her to cry in pain and release his wrist.
"I'm sorry, I just got so excited, and I got carried away." Victoria apologized.
"I have no idea what's going on, but I guess you're fine. No harm done." Percy rubbed the back of his neck.
"I'll explain it later Percy," Annabeth said. She stepped closer to him, leaned up and give him quick kiss on the cheek. She put her head against his shoulder taking in his ocean scent which was being overshadowed by the smell of chlorine.
"Yes, you two, stay right where you are. This is perfect!" Victoria exclaimed. She had taken her phone out and was taking pictures of the couple.
"What the Hades is going on?" Percy whispered.
Annabeth stayed where she was at. "She draws and sells books. She sometimes need models so she can get the proportions, positions, and shading right."
"I don't understand but ok."
"Alright you two, you can separate. But Percy could I get a couple solo pictures?" She pleaded.
Percy looked at Annabeth. She shrugged. "It wouldn't hurt, and it's mostly harmless. I help her from time to time. I still need to pack some stuff."
Percy reluctantly agreed. He handed Annabeth her soda and set his stuff down. He then spent the next couple minutes striking poses for the young artist. She had him cross his arms, put his hands behind his head, sit down, lay down, talk on the phone, lean against the wall and a couple more.
Annabeth was pulled into the modeling when Victoria wanted some couple's photos. Victoria had Annabeth and Percy strike all sorts of poses such as Annabeth leaning on Percy's shoulder and chest, Annabeth sitting on Percy's lap, Percy grabbing her waist, holding hands, his arm around her and sleeping in the same bed. There was curious one where Percy gently pushed her against the wall, his face close to hers with an extended arm touching the wall. Victoria called this position 'Kabedon' and squealed when she was taking pictures. Annabeth wondered what kind of mess she had gotten herself into. Percy just looked flustered and confused.
"You're doing great Percy. Now for these last ones, I need you take off your shirt and maybe the rest of your clothes. I could always use reference material for my special edition drawings." Victoria said, raising her eyebrows expectantly with her camera ready.
Now normally, Annabeth was all for her boyfriend removing his shirt, but judging by the way Victoria was looking at him with expectant eyes, she decided to step in between the two. There was also the fact that Annabeth had seen the artist's special edition drawings and there was no way in Hades she was going to let Percy get involved in those. "Absolutely not!"
She stepped closer to Percy, back to his chest as if to protect him from removing his clothes. He had a blush on his face. He leaned down to whisper in her ear. "Umm… that was weird. Thanks."
Victoria looked slightly disappointed. "It was worth a shot," she grumbled. She was scrolling on her phone, probably looking at the pictures she had taken. "Thanks, you two, I'll buy you guys pizza or take you guys out for coffee whenever you want."
Percy gathered his things, walked towards Annabeth and gave her a quick kiss on the forehead. "I'm just going to wait outside," he said uneasily. The blush on his face was still present from earlier.
"I'll meet you there in a minute."
He walked down the hallway and back downstairs. Annabeth grabbed her bag and noticed Victoria scrolling through the pictures and beginning to draw her characters on paper.
Annabeth crossed her arms. "I would appreciate it if you didn't make my boyfriend strip."
Victoria looked up. There was a confused expression on her face. Annabeth added to her previous statement. "He felt uncomfortable when you told him to take his clothes off."
Her roommate's expression changed into one of guilt. "Oh my god! I'm so sorry. It was a joke. I didn't mean to make him feel uncomfortable."
Annabeth exhaled, uncrossing her arms. "It's not me you should be apologizing to."
Victoria stood up, leaving her drawing material on her bed. "Oh god you're right!" She looked at Annabeth. "Is he out by the entrance? I have to go apologize."
At Annabeth's nod Victoria ran out of the door. Annabeth gathered the last of her things and was about to head out the door when Victoria ran back in.
"Oh, how did it go?" Annabeth inquired.
"Victoria blushed. "I explained that it was a joke and didn't mean to make him feel like that. That I get carried away sometimes when thinking about art." She took a breath. "He took it well."
Annabeth nodded. "That's just like him." She put her bag on her shoulders and gave her roommate one last warning. "You're only allowed to use those pictures as reference. Nothing more." Annabeth crossed her arms.
Victoria held out one of her hands with her pinky sticking out. "I pinky promise to only use these pictures as reference for my work and nothing more."
Annabeth stepped forward then hooked her pinky with her roommate. It was childish gesture, but it was something that they did. "Good, cause if I find them online, I won't hesitate to kick your ass."
"Yeah, yeah" Victoria mumbled. A grin grew on her face. "Bring that Greek God of a boyfriend with you more often. I could use more reference material." Her expression changed from joking to shy. "With clothes on of course and only if he's comfortable."
Annabeth raised an eyebrow. "Don't you have a boyfriend already?"
"I do, but Brandon's not the best model. I use him a lot for modeling as well, but his proportions wouldn't match this character I'm working on."
"How would he feel if I told him that you fell head over heels for another guy? More specifically a guy that was taken and you wanted him to strip." Annabeth tried to keep her tone light, but a soft edge may have come out instead.
"Oh god, please don't. It was a moment of weakness." Victoria pleaded.
Annabeth laughed lightly and then made the motion to seal her lips. She let her roommate know that she would be back later tonight.
Annabeth exited the room and went to the front entrance where Percy was waiting on the steps. He was leaning against the wall, looking at something on his phone.
"Hey Percy," she called.
Percy's face left his phone. He quickly put it in his pocket and smiled at her. "Hey Annabeth."
She got closer and embraced him in a hug. He followed suit. She looked up, took her hands off his back and put them behind his neck. She pulled him down so his lips met hers and they kissed for several moments. It felt as if the world crumbled around them, and they were all that was left. They only stopped when she heard wolf whistling coming from behind them. She turned around to see a couple of girls looking at them through the windows of their dorm rooms. Annabeth waved them off then took Percy's hand as they made their way down the stairs and onto the street.
"How was practice today?" She asked. They were eating the snacks Percy bought as they walked.
Percy shrugged. "Coach is making me do all these regimens and I'm exhausted by the time I leave. But other than that, it's going well. How about you? How did the interview go?"
Annabeth took a deep breath. "I think this one went better than the last one. But I'll keep looking."
Percy kissed her forehead. "I know you'll get it," he reassured.
"Aren't we nice today?"
"Maybe, but I kinda owe you after what happened last week." He said sheepishly. "Sorry about that."
"Honestly, I was as mad as you were."
"Yeah, but still, I let my anger get the best of me. Sorry again," he apologized, he kissed her forehead again.
Annabeth sighed. "It's ok Percy, we'll figure something out like we always have."
"That's why I'm lucky to have you Wise Girl."
Her face heated up. Gods her heart rate always increased whenever he said stuff like that.
Now that she thought about it, it was extremely unfair that they had to do quests to receive recommendation letters to be able to attend New Rome. She doubted that any other students had to do quests. It just wasn't possible that there would be that many quests for the number of students that attended the university. They were probably singled out by the admissions board since they were Greek and not Roman. Even after the Giant war, the prejudice against the Greeks was still there.
It happened last week. Annabeth and Percy were leaving his school after swim practice. Sally texted Percy that he received mail from New Rome and to hurry home to see what it was. They both rushed to the apartment where Sally was sitting on the dining table pouring out some blue tea. A purple envelope sat on middle of table. After greeting Sally, they both took a seat and Percy opened the envelope and began reading what the letter said out loud.
Dear Perseus Jackson (Former Praetor)
On behalf of New Rome University, we are glad that you have showed interest in attending after graduation. New Rome would be happy to have you as a student in the coming future.
So far so good. Everything was going well. It was when the second paragraph began that things went to Tartarus.
Unfortunately, we require all that all students be part of the legion for at least three years before they are accepted to New Rome University (no exceptions). However, there is a way to waive this requirement. Students can complete quests for gods where upon completion, the god will grant a student with a recommendation letter to the university. If you choose to take this option, we will require that you please submit three recommendation letters to the university as soon as possible. The option will be up to you. You can choose to submit the letters or spend two more years as part of the legion.
You can visit .edu/quests to see all available quests that will grant you a recommendation letter. Only these quests and letters will be accepted by the university. Any letter that has been granted that is not part of the pre-approved quest list will be rejected. You may also call 628-NEW-ROME, if you have any questions.
We hope to hear from you soon Mr. Jackson
Caesar Augustus
Admissions Director
New Rome University
She saw as Percy read the letter again to make sure that he wasn't imagining the words that were there. Like the sea, she saw how his mood shifted from calm to anger. He slammed the letter on the table and cursed under his breath. He got off the table and went into the living room where he was pacing around, waving his hands around frantically, muttering curses under his breath. She followed him, letting him blow off some steam before approaching.
She managed to catch some of the things that he was saying. "Stupid New Rome… recommendation letters my ass…what kind of bullshit? Saved their sorry butts… take legion eagle and shove it up…" She didn't want to repeat where Percy said he would shove that eagle in the admission's director, just know that it would be painful. He continued grumbling and pacing around, "call dad… earthquake New Rome… they don't respect him… he probably would."
Outside, the sunny weather had become cloudy with some thunder being heard in the distance. Some meteorologists and picnickers were not going to be happy today by the sudden change in weather.
Annabeth watched as Percy kept grumbling and pacing around. She understood where the anger came from. They hoped that after Percy saved New Rome and they helped defeat Gaia, the admission would be guaranteed, but that didn't seem like the case. Outside there was a large crack of thunder followed by a downpour of rain.
Annabeth stepped closer to Percy; he was still grumbling and pacing around angrily. She stopped him and hugged him tightly. She could feel his thundering heartbeat and his breaths. She looked into his eyes and saw the stormy and chaotic sea. She shivered when she saw that look. The last she saw it was when they were in Tartarus, and she didn't want to think about that moment again. She placed her hands on his cheeks while continuing to look into his eyes. The stormy sea was slowly being replaced by the calm open sea. He put one hand on her waist and the other behind her head.
"I know you're mad Percy, I'm furious as well, but please, there's always another to solve this problem." She said soothingly. She traced her hands across his jawline.
"Yeah, yeah. It's just that after everything we've done, you'd think we would get instant admission no questions asked." He put his head on her shoulder and hugged her.
"We'll figure it out. We always do."
"I'm sorry about that episode by the way. I just so angry that it all came out," he apologized.
Annabeth shook her head. "It's not good to keep your emotions bottled up. We talked about this."
He sighed. "I guess, you're right like always."
She lifted his head off her shoulder. She looked up into his eyes which had almost calmed down. The storm outside was calming down as well. She looked at him and then kissed him deeply and passionately. He pulled her tighter against him as her hands reached for his hair. They only stopped when Sally cleared her throat. They both turned to look at her arms crossed but her expression understanding.
"Hey Mom, sorry about the cursing it just came out." Percy apologized.
Sally took a deep breath. "Paul wasn't kidding when he said you could curse like a sailor. I got to witness it firsthand, but please there's no need for such language. You're not too old enough for me to wash your mouth out with soap."
"Has she ever washed your mouth out?" Annabeth asked.
Percy rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "When I was in 6th grade, I cussed this teacher out pretty bad. Mom didn't wash my mouth out with soap, but she threatened to."
"Alright you two, why don't we have lunch, and you can figure out the whole letter debacle." Sally offered. "Afterwards I can write New Rome a very colorful letter about all this."
"Thanks, you're the best mom," Percy said. Sally nodded and went into the kitchen. She would call them when lunch was ready.
"Were you really going to have your dad an earthquake to New Rome?" Annabeth asked. She raised her eyebrows in disapproval.
Percy shrugged. "Maybe, if you saw the state the Neptune temple is in and the state of the Roman navy (nonexistent) you would want to send an earthquake."
They were walking down the street holding hands while taking in the sights of the city. They agreed to catch a bus to arrive at his apartment so now they just waiting at the bus stop. They both sat at the bench. Percy took his arm and wrapped it around her shoulders, she nestled comfortably onto his side. She took a deep breath and sat there in silence, well as silent as being in the middle Manhattan could get.
When the bus finally arrived, they managed to find two empty seats near the back. Annabeth took the window seat while Percy took the aisle seat. They set their bags on their laps while Percy set his board on the floor with the wheels facing up so it wouldn't roll away. The bus took off and they would arrive near Percy's apartment in about 20 minutes.
"How's studying for the SAT going?" Annabeth asked.
Percy rubbed the back of his head. "I think it's going well. Paul has been helping me in the reading and writing section and you've helped me lots in the math section."
"I hope you don't have to retake it Seaweed Brain," she offered.
"Yeah, let's hope not."
There was a moment of silence between them. "How about everything else? Like your weight and health and just stuff?" They hadn't talked about their health in about two or so weeks.
Percy shrugged. "I think I've put on a couple pounds since coming back." He started leaning his head on her shoulder. He sounded tired. "My coaches are really putting me through it but it's nice. Gives something to work for. How about you? How's the therapist going?"
Annabeth took a deep breath. "I think it's going great. We are making great progress. I don't get as many nightmares as before. Same with the panic attacks and flashbacks." She paused to take another breath. "School's being going great so far although I haven't had much luck with the interviews. I interviewed this morning and they said they'd get back to me soon."
Percy moved slightly, probably to get in a more comfortable position. She ran a hand through his hair and then asked, "were you even listening Seaweed Brain?"
"Huh… oh yeah," he said quietly. "That's great Annabeth. Any place that accepts you as an intern will be glad they picked you. I know you'll do great."
Annabeth smiled as she continued to rub her hand over his hair. "How about that friend of yours who's name you couldn't say?"
"Oh, you mean C-" he cut himself off. "Yeah, haven't seen magic boy since we last met. He said we would meet when the time was right." He sounded like he was dozing off. He yawned, "I'm tired Annabeth, wake me up when we get there." He held out his hand on his lap near her.
"Always, Percy." She responded and with that she knew he fell asleep. She looked at his hand sitting on his lap. Annabeth thought she had big hands but seeing her hand next to Percy's made hers look small by comparison. She treaded her hand on top of his feeling the calluses from sword fighting and cannoning. She laced her fingers between his and closed them. Percy instinctively closed his fingers around her hand despite being sound asleep.
She smiled then looked out the window. Life was going on in the big city like it always did. Cars honking, people heading home or going to work, kid's playing in the playgrounds, street benders ripping people off, rats stealing pizza, and cows in the middle of the road. Annabeth took in the strange sight. She looked out her side of the window seeing a couple cows sitting in the middle of the crosswalk ahead of where the bus was. Drivers were honking and cursing at the cows to get out the way. Meanwhile the cows looked like they didn't have a care in the world. She also saw a couple of cops and animal control agents trying to push the cows off the road but having no success. Guess they would be in the bus for longer than they thought which she didn't mind with Percy by her side.
She took in a deep breath, pondering about their life. Annabeth had visited the New Rome University website and see what quests were available. On the top of the list was Ganymede who lost his chalice and was looking for heroes to retrieve it for him. They didn't have any previous experience with Ganymede before, but they hoped that he was one of the more tolerable gods. He used to be mortal after all, so maybe he would be more understanding of their situation.
She bought this idea to Percy earlier in the week and said he would be interested in taking the quest. Surprisingly, Grover was at the apartment that day and he wanted help the pair retrieve the lost chalice.
How long had it been since the three of them quested together. She guessed the last proper quest was when they retrieved Zeus' master bolt, although the quest for the golden fleece probably counted as well. That would be what? Four or so years since the last time they officially quested together. Wow it had really been that long. Questing together would feel like the old days when they were more innocent and naïve.
If the quest for Ganymede didn't work out, Percy offered her a plan B. A reckless and dangerous plan B.
Plan B would be to march onto Olympus and make the recommendation letters everyone's problem. In other words, he would march onto Olympus and demand recommendation letters from the gods and force the university to accept them. Percy even said that maybe Ares would give him a letter if they went for round two and Percy kicked his ass. Judging by his tone and facial expression he was completely serious. Percy also said he would have Poseidon go to New Rome and threaten the school so they accepted the letters.
"There's always plan C. Bessie (the Ophiotaurus) is right there you know," he said in the most casual voice as if he wasn't threatening to raze Olympus to the ground.
"Let's go with Ganymede first before going to Plan B or Plan C. You don't need any more enemies Seaweed Brain."
"Whatever you say Wise Girl, but I'm all for Plan B or Plan C if things go wrong. I can get Travis and Connor to work on plan D," he suggested.
She raised an eyebrow. "Why would they get involved?"
There was a smirk on his face. "They owe me a favor and they're really good at forgery."
"Percy you wouldn't," she warned.
He laughed then kissed her on the cheek.
For once it looked like Hera's plan had backfired since they got to spend more time huddled together in the bus. The cops and the animal control agents had managed to get the cows out of the crosswalk. Soon enough, the bus began moving again after spending about 20 minutes stuck behind the cows. Perhaps walking would have been faster than taking the bus she thought as the bus spend along the stops… but she wouldn't deny the extra time they spent cuddled together.
She looked to her side to see Percy still sleeping on her shoulder. He looked so peaceful despite drooling slightly onto her shirt. She ran her free hand through his hair while her other hand continued holding his in a grip.
She shook him awake, despite his protests, a stop before they were to get off. He rubbed the sleep out his eyes and wiped his mouth with his shirtsleeve which she thought was better than with the back of his hand. They gathered their things and stood up to exit the bus once their stop was reached.
They held hands again as they made their way to his apartment.
"I'm home," Percy called when he opened the door to the apartment. They left their shoes in the entrance and went inside to see Sally in the kitchen working on what Annabeth thought was probably lunch. The last time she checked her phone it read 2:17 PM and she hadn't realized how hungry she was.
Percy went into the kitchen to give his mom a quick kiss on the forehead. Sally then turned to Annabeth and greeted her.
"Have you two eaten?" Sally asked.
"I haven't eaten since before practice. I feel like I could a horse," Percy groaned.
"I'm feeling a bit hungry as well Sally." Annabeth said.
Sally smiled. "Alright you two. I'm almost done here. Feel free to get set up to do whatever it is you were going to do."
"Sweet, thanks mom." Percy gave her another kiss on the forehead. He looked at Annabeth for a second and then pointed to the bathroom. "I'm just going to take a quick shower to get the chlorine off. Don't miss me too much."
Annabeth rolled her eyes. "Don't drown."
"You're as funny as ever." With that he went into the bathroom. She heard the water start running a couple seconds later.
Her attention was bought back to the coffee table where she began laying out her things. She bought out her laptop, notebooks and textbooks. She wanted to get an early start to her work to finish early, but she doubted it would be so quick in the Jackson apartment. She began rummaging around her architecture journal where she kept the designs for the temples for the gods on Olympus. Aphrodite was being a real pain the ass in what she wanted. The goddess of love wanted the inside of her temple to look like the famous painting 'The Birth of Venus.'
Narcissistic? Perhaps. But the goddess of love was all about being narcissistic.
She continued her design for the renewed temple of Aphrodite that she didn't notice Sally setting plates on the coffee table. A second later she was startled when she felt a familiar chest press against her back and arms wrap around her.
"Hope you didn't miss me too much," Percy whispered against her ear.
"Beat it Seaweed Brain, let's have lunch."
"I like your plan." He released her and sat next to her on the table as Sally was bringing the rest of the food. The three sat on the table. Paul was missing since he was at school getting some work done. The work of a teacher was never done.
"How's the book coming along Sally?" Annabeth asks.
"It's going great actually. I finished my manuscript, and my editor is looking it over. I finally nailed that ending."
"How does the book end?"
Sally winked. "You can always buy the book and find out when it comes out."
"They don't give you free copies?" Percy asked.
"They do dear. I was only teasing."
"So, when does it come out?" Annabeth inquired.
"November 17th, so keep your schedule open for that day."
"Congrats by the way Mom, for the book." Percy grinned.
"Oh, thank you Percy. It really means a lot." She paused as she took a sip of her drink. "Oh, Percy and how is your-"
"It's been going great actually," he nearly yelled. He made eye contact with Sally. Annabeth saw a quiet message being sent between the two. Perhaps she would have to grill Percy about what his mom was talking about earlier.
"I see, well that's great dear. Hope you get it done."
Annabeth gave Percy a quizzical look and he just shrugged. Yep, he was hiding something.
Sally moved to take the dishes back to the kitchen and left the pair to their devices on the coffee table. Percy had bought out his laptop, his notebooks and the SAT prep workbook that his parents had gotten him in preparation for the SAT. Then he got to work or tried to at least. He got distracted every five minutes. Eventually he found a good rhythm that allowed him to work for short periods of time while taking a break in between.
Several hours later, Annabeth was done with her work. She took out her sketchpad for the temples and continued drawing the designs for the Aphrodite temple. The goddess wanted a large pink seashell in the middle of her temple with an indoor waterfall that carried all types of flowers. Annabeth was drawing and erasing, redrawing, and erasing again. She finally got the point where she thought the design looked the best and started drawing all the small details. She was in the zone that she didn't notice her surroundings.
Percy groaned. "Ugh when will all this studying end."
"Yeah, sounds good," Annabeth mumbled.
She continued drawing all the small details such as the creases in the shell, and the way that the light would reflect on the waterfall.
"Do you want to stay for dinner?"
"In a minute."
Now she was really into her work. She saw the vision of the temple clearly in her head as she continued adding more details.
"My mom's pregnant and is expecting a baby."
"That's great- what? Wait what?" she exclaimed. Her mouth was agape. She looked up to see Percy grinning at her.
Percy whistled. "Not the way I was hoping to tell you, but you kept ignoring me."
Annabeth's mouth was still agape. "What? When did she tell you?"
Percy shrugged. "She just told me two days ago."
"When's the baby coming?"
"I think she said sometime in March or April."
"Wow! I can't believe it."
"I know right! I'm going to be a big brother… we'll I'm already a big brother to Tyson but I mean a big brother to a human baby." He moved closer to her. "What were you working on that had you ignoring me?"
"Sorry I didn't mean too. I was just so caught up in the work." She showed him the design she was working on.
His eyes widened. "Whoa, who's temple is that? If it's Poseidon's, I'll forgive you for ignoring me."
Annabeth bit the bottom of her lip in amusement. "It's Aphrodite's and she's a pain in the ass to work with."
"I can only imagine." He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek.
She looked around and saw that many of the books had been put away. She looked at her phone to see that it was nearly 7 PM. Time had really passed them by.
She leaned forward, nestling onto his chest. She looked up and gave him proper kiss on the lips. Slow and heartfelt. His hands went to her waist to pull her closer, her hands went behind his head to play with his hair. They broke apart several moments later, their foreheads leaning against each other's. "So, am I forgiven for ignoring you?"
"Yeah, I can never stay mad at you." He moved his face to kiss her again but was interrupted by Sally coming into the room.
"Percy, I need your help me with dinner."
Percy's head slumped on Annabeth's shoulder. "She has impeccable timing. Why does she always disturb our make out sessions?" He muttered.
Annabeth patted him on the head. "We can continue later," she suggested. He perked up at this then looked her in the eye, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He moved down and gave her a quick kiss on the neck then stood up.
"Coming mom," he called.
During dinner, Annabeth offered her congratulations to Sally. She asked if they had any names planned to which Sally said she did. A couple of family names for a boy and a girl. She also gave the demigod pair a very stern talking to.
"This was a surprise baby you two," she began. She placed her glass down at the table and looked at them with a stern look. "I hope the two of you are being careful in your… activities."
Percy coughed into his fist, a blush growing on his face. Annabeth tried not to look at Sally in the face as heat rushed to her face. She wasn't pregnant, it was just awkward and embarrassing to talk about the subject. To be honest, they didn't do it that often. Some people thought they did it every day when in reality it was more like two or three times a month if they got lucky (they were so busy, and it was hard to find some time when they were completely alone). They also used protection every time they did it.
Annabeth cleared her throat. "Don't worry Sally. We're being careful. I'm on the pill and we use a condom as well."
Sally's shoulders relaxed. "That's what I like to hear. Although we approve of your activities, I implore you to be cautious, so you don't end up with a surprise baby."
Paul pointed to Percy. "I also need to give this one another round of 'man' talks so you don't get pregnant."
"Gods not another one of those," Percy muttered.
They found themselves back on the bus after their dinner and 'date' were over.
"I'm sorry about that whole 'talk' that we got," Percy said. "My parents can be a bit overbearing sometimes."
Annabeth shook her head. "If I had you as a son, I would be too." He gave her a look and she laughed. "Anyways, it's great that you're going to a big brother."
"Yep. Still can't believe it. Maybe I'll be the best big brother ever."
"We'll have to wait and see." She had no doubt that he would. Percy was good with kids. Many of the younger campers adored him and her half-brothers, Matthew and Bobby thought Percy was coolest person ever. She herself wasn't as good with kids. Her patience wore thin sometimes around little kids which caused for unpleasant situations.
They got off near Annabeth's dorm with Percy being the gentleman that he is, carrying Annabeth's bag for her on one shoulder.
"You really did pack the entire dorm with you in the bag?" He muttered as they were walking down the street.
"I only bought the essentials I'll have you know."
"Yeah, essentially everything in the dorm."
Annabeth chortled, then held her hand out which Percy took up a second later. They continued walking in the moonlight and streetlight of Manhattan, passing a couple pedestrians in the process.
"What was your mom going to ask you while we were having lunch?" Annabeth asked. She turned to face him.
Percy scratched the back of his neck. "Ah that. It was nothing important. She just wanted to know how the SAT prep was going." He said uneasily.
Annabeth didn't buy it for a second, but the pleading look he was giving her as if saying 'please drop it' made her change her mind. She sighed. "Ok Percy, I don't know what you're up to, but please promise me, whatever it is you're doing, it won't get you in trouble."
"Me in trouble? Since when has that happened?" He responded with fake innocence. She raised her eyebrows at him which only caused him to smirk.
She squeezed his hand tighter. "I'm being serious Percy. I can't have you being killed or going to jail right before going to college."
He dropped his smirk. "Calm down Annabeth. I'm not doing anything bad…it's just like a little secret project I'm working on. Nothing bad will happen."
"Can I know what it is?" The curiosity was killing her. Maybe she could take a page out of his book and try the 'baby seal eyes.' In her case what would they be? Baby owl eyes?
"I think you may have missed the keyword 'secret' in that last sentence." He said poker faced.
She breathed out slightly in frustration. "Fine, I won't ask what it is. But I find you in jail one of these days I swear to gods I'm going to-"
She was interrupted when Percy leaned in and kissed her. Instinctively her hands went to behind his neck while his went to her back and hips. They stayed together for what seemed like an eternity. They split apart and she smiled then leaned into his chest, resting her head where his neck is. She took a deep breath, taking in his usual ocean breeze scent.
He started patting her back gently while she wrapped her arms around his back. And they stood together for a couple moments before continuing with their walk to her dorm. They walked in comfortable silence for several more minutes before reaching her dorm. They climbed the stairs and then stood at the top step, right where the doors were.
They stood in front of each other, holding hands as they looked into each other's eyes. He leaned in to kiss her again and she accepted, letting his lips touch hers again like it was the first time. This time, both of her hands tugged at his t-shirt to pull him closer. One of his hands were on her waist while the other ventured a bit lower to her ass where he didn't hesitate to give her a light squeeze. Annabeth smirked and released one her hands from his shirt to reach to his ass and give him a squeeze. She felt his smile morph into a smirk as they continued kissing.
They broke apart but were still holding in each in an intimate position. Percy leaned in and gently bit her ear which caused her to quietly gasp. Gods if they were someplace more private and not in front of her dorm, she wouldn't hesitate to take him to bed. He released his bite and whispered humorously, "we shouldn't be getting horny Annabeth."
Annabeth rolled her eyes. She placed her head on his neck and give him a soft bite which caused his breath to hitch. She released him, "You started it Seaweed Brain when you squeezed my ass."
He shrugged. "How could I resist when it was right there for the taking? And you also squeezed mine."
She laid her hand on his chest while resting her head on his shoulder. "We really need to control these hormonal tendencies." She felt him kiss the top of her head. She moved her hands to his waist, and he likewise did the same. He lowered his head so he could rest it on her shoulder.
She wasn't sure how long they stayed together but she guessed it must have been a while since they were rudely interrupted by one of the girls from the dorm. "Oh, for god's sake, you guys have been together for hours now, break it up already."
They both jumped back at the disturbance. Annabeth saw a couple girls looking at them from the front room windows of the dorm. She glared at them, "don't you guys have a life?"
"Sometimes what happens in the streets is more entertaining than what's going on inside here," one of them responded.
Annabeth turned back around to see Percy's bemused expression. He looked at her. "Guess that's my cue to head out." He took her backpack of his shoulder and handed it to her. He gave her quick kiss on the forehead. "Goodnight Annabeth."
"Goodnight Percy," she said. She moved in closer and gave him quick kiss on the lips. He made his way down the steps and turned around. He smiled and then waved her goodbye. She waved back and then saw as his figure disappeared onto the Manhattan streets.
Annabeth heard the girls talking from their windows.
'He was pretty cute don't you think.'
'Yeah, he was totally my type.'
'What did she say his name was?'
'I think I heard her say Percy.'
Annabeth turned to glare at the girls at the window. "We're just kidding!"
Annabeth made her way to her dorm room where Victoria was on her bed drawing on her sketchpad. She greeted her as Annabeth went inside to lay her bag down and sit her on her bed.
"So…how was your date with Mister Greek God?" Victoria asked wryly.
"Oh, gods not you too," Annabeth breathed. She put her hands on her eyes and laid down her bed.
Victoria gave a light laugh. "I can see why you picked that song last night." Annabeth took her hands off her eyes then looked at her roommate. "He really is as you said so tall and handsome as hell." She teased.
A blush was beginning to grow on Annabeth's face. She didn't expect that song to come back to her today.
"Now tell me," Victoria began. She was giving the blond a mischievous look. Annabeth had a feeling something embarrassing was about to be said. "Is he so bad, but he does it so well?" The extra emphasis on the last couple words didn't escape Annabeth's notice.
"Th-that's none of your business," she stammered. Her roommate laughed then went back to her drawings.
"I'm taking that a yes then."
"Shut up. Go back to drawing your special editions."
AN: So, Victoria is a huge Percabeth fangirl (like the rest of us) and draws manga. I think I was reading Wotakoi when I wrote this chapter, and I based Victoria off Narumi Momose who draws manga and had her boyfriend strike poses for her. That whole section with Victoria and students behind Annabeth was really fun to write. I feel Annabeth would be more likely to notice people hitting on Percy than Percy himself.
Also for special editions, if you know, you know.
Chalice of the Gods comes out in September, and I have no idea how its going to turn out. I just know that it takes place before TOA so sometime from September-Early January. In the book I want to see Percy losing his shit when he finds out he needs to do more quests which I kind of wrote here when he read the letter.
Also, I was listening to 'Wildest Dreams' while writing part of this chapter so that's the reason for the song being there lol.
See you all in the next one!