Reviews time:

Garfungo: I wanted to write about that but I honestly didn't feel like it would be interesting. Maybe I just wanted to skip to the part I cared the most anyway.

ion boi: Hopefully this chapter helps out.

Dark Wraith: to be honest I feel flattered, I try as much as possible not to write as a teen, since I am not that. Glad to see it's paying off!

Turquoise Leaf: I feel very flattered, since I really enjoy that story, and Pertemis a weakness of mine.

jdh: I've read a bit of it and I really liked it, it did inspire me for Aphrodite to use a bit of French, though not as much as that story. For one I think it would be kinda plagiorous, and second, I'm not a native French speaker so I would be butchering that language with Google Translate.

Aphrodite found that sometimes, having too much fun could be detrimental.

Of course, it would feel good at the moment, but...

Thinking about Percy was intoxicating. And not because of thrill anymore. Because now there were no lies. No façade. No deception. It was her and him, all revealed.

And all knew.

It was a bit of a scandal.

Olympus was set aflame by the revelation she was dating the hero of the Great Prophecy, the son of Poseidon, the bane of Kronos and Gaia. While bothersome, nothing made her want to reconsider. Aphrodite was simply afraid of the repercussions for him. But Percy was probably safe, being protected by Poseidon's might.

So, she just wanted to sit back... and enjoy him... but it had been three whole days, and there were no prayers. No signal. Aphrodite felt lonely. Like she often did in the past. But this time, it wasn't like any person could fill the void.

Especially not Ares.

She was still a bit angry at Hebe. Thus, why she chose not to call her.

What time was it?

Two in the morning.

God damn it.

...

Gods don't need to sleep, biologically speaking. Was there even divine biology? Aphrodite needed to stop thinking about that. Regardless, her night of sleep was abruptly interrupted by words in her ears. Normally, prayers would not bother her, even if she chose to not outright ignore them. Most who prayed to her were often asking for a decent love life. It didn't work like that, nuh-uh!

But the words she heard now...

"Oh, goddess, bestow thou grace upon me, where I stand, your presence is required."

That was... poetic. Enchanting, one could say. But it sparked her curiosity regardless. She knew it was her love calling.

Aphrodite would comply with his prayers, appearing on the doorstep to his cabin, and knocking gently on the door. And he opened it for her. Wearing a timid smile on his face.

"You know, I thought you wouldn't appear."

"Hm?" She answered as she entered the cabin, sitting on the couch.

"Like, if you weren't... you know. You."

"Oh. Anyone who dared to use my name would be vaporized, Percy."

"I can imagine." Percy sat by her side this time, her heart beating faster in the process. "Were you sleeping?"

"How do you know? Even if my look was a mortal disguise, it is supposed to not have imperfections."

"Your eyes." He explained. "You look tired."

Aphrodite was startled by his assumption. "It's been a long week. I missed you."

"So did I." Despite his words, Percy grimaced. "But I think we... still need to talk."

The goddess's jovial mood was replaced by apprehension. "About what?"

"I'm not dumping you, okay?" Aphrodite felt like a heavy weight was lifted from her heart. "But... I don't think I want to pretend you're something that you're just not."

"I... understand.'

"You're not Jessica," Percy stated. "There's never been a Jessica. You're Aphrodite. And... I'd like to have you as such."

"Mhm." Aphrodite was not too sure she understood it too well.

Percy sighed. "I used to kinda hate you."

"You told me as much." She couldn't hide the hurt in her voice.

"It was justified." The boldness in this half-blood! Other men have been blown off the Earth for less. "But I chose to let all that slide because I believe I met the real you. Not because that wasn't you, I'm sure it was. But because I got to know you. And you're not just... someone bothersome."

"What am I to you, mon coeur?" Aphrodite inquired.

"You're a passion." He promptly answered. "A vice. Someone I cannot get away from. But I also never forget that you're like this because you are a goddess. And you're meant to be perfect."

For a moment, she stood in silence. "So?"

"Aphrodite..." It was the first time he acknowledged who she was. "I know we can't be together in a normal sense. For several reasons."

"Yes." She said, pursing her lips.

"But... I am willing to... let life go on... with you by my side."

Aphrodite cocked her head, intrigued. "Care to explain?"

"There was a time when I used to think about growing old. Having a family, children, the whole thing. With... you know..."

"Yes."

"Then we broke up. And went to service. Those years away made me realize there was more. I didn't stop wanting this... but I learned that there were different means to an end."

"I don't mind not having you completely," Percy said, unable to hide his apprehension. "It's fine for me if we can... see each other. I sure don't want to see anyone else... We don't need to be together at all times. Not even in normal relationships you can have that. And to be honest... I've accepted a long time ago that nothing in my life is ever normal."

Aphrodite brought her hand to his face, holding it gently. "I do not know how much you trust me..."

"A lot. Probably more than I should."

She gave a small chuckle. "But I don't want to be with anyone else either. To think I dumped the one person I most stayed with since I arrived on Olympus... all that because of a demigod..."

"You know I'm not gonna live forever. I wouldn't want to be immortal."

"Yes. But I am willing to bear the consequences. I am willing to accompany you... until your end... and to honor your memory after... because I love you, Percy... I really do..."

She knew Percy Jackson was tough. No man that went through as much as he did wouldn't be. But when he looked away, into the window that gave them a good view of the sea... she saw him vulnerable. Aphrodite understood that while not even her sons could make him lose his temper...

She could. But not in a malicious way.

Because love was complicated like that.

"I... I'm touched."

"I know. It's okay."

"Do I mean that much to you?"

"Of course you do."

"Why?"

Why. Why would someone love another person? That was the first question she ever asked when she reached land.

"Because of what you mean to me. Not because you are the hero, Percy Jackson. But because you charmed me. Because by your side... I can feel free. I am full by your side. You make it happen. You made me feel love for someone... in an intensity I wasn't even prepared to bear. I love you so much... and I couldn't ever hurt you. I am a goddess; I understand you think of us as flawed."

"Yes." For him to not even deny it... So bold...

"But I will try to be perfect for you. I will attempt to be your goddess. Perfect. This is what you deserve."

"I think your perfection lies in your imperfections," Percy said. "And I don't talk about looks. Not telling me who you were... well, it was... shitty, I can't lie." Aphrodite couldn't not chuckle. "But it allowed me to not be able to be away from you. I need you too... I love you too, Aphrodite. Even if loving a god is dangerous, that is what I feel."

"You were right about us two never being normal. But I will try to compensate you for that. In all the ways I can."

"Good," Percy stated, gazing at her with love and desire.

"Now, my faithful love..." Aphrodite leaned forward. "I yearn for your touch. Could you please give me a taste of what I missed out the past week?"

"With pleasure, goddess o' mine."

And judging by the way he kissed her; it seemed like it was going to be a long day... She was happy with that. Very happy.

Oh, she waited long enough to truly feel him.

And her release came, making her feel complete after an hour or two of that.

...

After the very intimate day they had, Aphrodite was happy. Happy enough to live for four more days with only the memories of that day, relishing it like she was living in the moment forever. It had been perfect, but she missed him. Dearly.

No matter, however. Because the Summer Solstice was here. And it promised to be the biggest one in ages. Many spirits, gods, titans, and even demigods were invited. Caravans from Camp Jupiter and Camp Half-Blood had arrived at the Empire State already, and Aphrodite could only get ready for the occasion.

And she made sure to be perfect. This time, choosing to appear as Jessica properly... just with some tweaks. Her divine aura, clothing that would make queens jealous, no make-up whatsoever... It was perfect. Her dark hair fell onto her shoulders, while her dark dress complemented her features.

It was perfect.

And she wanted to be perfect for him. Before, she would let others see what they most desired when gazing at her. But now, if she wanted attention, it was for all to see who she belonged. For all to see whose desire she was fulfilling.

In a matter of minutes, Aphrodite was ready. And instead of flashing to the Throne Room, she chose to walk. It wasn't too far, of course, but just enough to gather the attention of all in the crowded streets of Olympus. Yet, something told her that he wasn't here yet. But he would arrive.

She was sure of it.

Aphrodite arrived in the throne room, not minding the two cyclops guarding the entrances. One look was enough to signal that she was no ordinary being, and thankfully they understood. The room was crowded already, with almost everyone present. The only ones not here were Hermes, probably still busy to the last minute, and Dionysus, who was the chief of the committee that organized the party. That made sense.

The rest were all here, and many conversations were interrupted when she entered the Throne Room. It was almost déjà-vu, the way all looked towards her like it was her first day. The desireful stares, the enviable gazes... oh, this was riveting!

She grew to her godly size, sitting on her throne, noticing how many were still fixated on her sight. Aphrodite chose to pretend she was not noticing.

After all, they were all aware. And it was the first time she was seen by anyone – except for Poseidon and Zeus, of course – since her debacle started. And judging by the whispers, not-so-subtle stares, and uneasiness... she was sure that she had been the main subject of conversations.

The meeting started well enough after the arrival of the remaining gods. Not that she cared too much. Half an hour of politics, discussions, requests, demands... none of that mattered to her. There was no 'love committee'. The best part of it all was noticing the angry yet hurt stare Ares was giving her. His ego was damaged, no doubt about that. Perhaps he had expected Poseidon to be targeting her now, and to be fair, the sea god was constantly gazing at her, but the guarantees she made had been enough to calm him down.

No, it didn't matter. All that mattered was when Zeus declared the meeting adjourned, and the doors were opened to all. Most gods left immediately, but some like Apollo, Hermes, and Dionysus, stayed, nothing abnormal. Someone who Aphrodite didn't expect to remain was Athena. Huh. It was not common for the goddess of wisdom to stick around at parties.

The least she could do was to also join.

And it immediately got off to a great start. The music was loud, the lights shining in different colors, and nymphs walked around offering food and drinks. This would be a long night; she was very aware. Still no sight of him, though...

"'Dite!" A voice spoke from behind her. It was Apollo, followed closely by Hermes. "What's up?"

"Hello to you two." Aphrodite smiled. "I'm just fine... waiting for my date to arrive."

The two gods exchanged looks. "Yeah, we heard. Is all that true?" Hermes was the one to ask.

"Mhm." She confirmed. To be frank, she wasn't even paying attention to her fellow Olympians. Her eyes were scouting the party like a hunter looking for its prey.

But nothing yet.

"I imagine some people were very pissed off," Apollo commented.

"Yes. Some were not amused. But I either don't care or have resolved any issues."

The god of light hummed. "Fair? I never expected Percy to... you know."

"Trust me, Apollo, I never expected to feel that way towards that demigod. If you excuse me..." She trailed off, not wanting to come up with an excuse to search for Percy.

Where was he? Percy told her he would be here. But there was nothing.

More than ever, she noticed the looks she was receiving. All around her stared with desire, lust, wanting to hold her, to take her, to have her. Aphrodite felt numb, not because of the attention, but because of his absence. She walked. And walked. Walked for what felt like hours, but she was aware it was mere minutes. Minutes that felt like hours.

Until...

"Hey." A hand held her shoulder, and Aphrodite turned around quickly, ready to blast whoever was stupid enough to touch her. But the moment she set her eyes on those sea-green orbs...

She melted into him.

"Where were you?" Aphrodite asked when they parted their lips, aware of the looks everywhere around them. He had shaved completely, and he was wearing a beautiful white suit with a bowtie.

Wow.

"I had to be perfect," Percy answered, holding his hands. And I got stopped by a lot of people.

"Really?" Aphrodite asked, feeling a tad bit jealous.

"Yes. I got to see Frank and Hazel... you know, the praetors."

"Mhm. I know who they are. Who else?"

Percy seemed very nervous for a second. "I bumped into Annabeth. I didn't know she was here."

"Oh. You did?" Aphrodite asked, her voice cooling down.

"Yes, but I just gave her a greeting. I promise."

While she narrowed her eyes, Aphrodite sensed no lies.

Good.

"I don't want you going around with anyone." She approached him, whispering in a sultry manner in his ear. "Do not forget who you belong now."

To say she was expecting him to hold her by the waist, and possessively grab her tightly, would be a lie. "I wouldn't dare. And would you forget who you belong to?"

For some goddamn reason, his tone made her shiver intensely, and a smile slowly appeared on her lips. It was intoxicating, and after they shared their intimate moment the last time, they had seen each other, Aphrodite had practically begged for him to be possessive.

Oh, it was so good for him to acquiesce...

"I would never." Aphrodite held him back by the head. "I am yours. You know that. Consider yourself lucky."

"I know how lucky I am," Percy whispered back in her ear, making her sigh softly. "Care for a dance?"

"I would."

And so, they danced. Aphrodite was surprised to see how her moves matched his. Of course, the music at Olympian parties was different from one person to another's ears, but it worked well. Sometimes, they'd go slow... steady... one step at a time...

Then, they would go fast, and intense, their bodies wild and hot from all the movement. The alcohol they drank also made them lose their inhibitions. Aphrodite's drinks made her head pound with pain, but it only made her want to dance more. Percy ordered less strong drinks, but he was wasted by the time midnight arrived.

The night was still young, though. And they had no plans to stop their fun. They just needed a break.

So, they sat on the balcony of the party, dizzy, drunk, and happy. Aphrodite almost fell off her bench, laughing.

"I..." The goddess sobbed. "I never drink this much... oh, my..."

"I don't drink at all." Percy was less ecstatic, but still had a smile splattered over his face. "But I'm enjoying it."

"I know you are, hero..." Aphrodite kissed him slowly, leaning forward on the bench. And he responded in kind. "I love you."

"I love you too. So much."

"You're so perfect."

"You're the goddess." Percy caressed her raven hair.

"Your goddess. I miss being worshipped..." Her hand rubbed his tight, slowly.

"I'd love to worship you later." Percy kissed her neck, making her once more shiver. Though he abruptly stopped, Aphrodite noticed the way he was looking behind her. Probably at someone

And it was someone, indeed.

Oh, Athena, what was it now?

"Hi." Aphrodite coughed awkwardly, some sense of soberness returning to her. "What is it, Athena?"

"Just wanted to say hi." The goddess of wisdom drank from her small glass. Martini? "Having fun?"

"Yes, thank you." Aphrodite looked from Athena to Percy, noticing how tense he was.

"Do not worry, Perseus," Athena said to him. "I don't plan on doing anything to you today. Believe it or not, I simply find it way too amusing, the chaos you two caused. Some people are less pleased than me." Her grey eyes shined with mischief, making Percy grimace. Aphrodite could only imagine what Athena was talking about, and the possibilities made her feel... victorious. Arrogant, even.

Her prize had been claimed for good.

"Well, I'll leave you two now." Athena got up, leaving her drink on the balcony. "Today's been fruitful enough."

And with that, she disappeared into the crowd, leaving the both of them feeling very differently about the situation.

"What was she talking about, Aphrodite?" Percy asked, a bit apprehensive.

"I didn't tell you, but I had to... explain myself to your father and your uncle."

Percy raised his eyebrows. "Oh."

"And she was the one who told me I had to do that. Because Hermes was too busy laughing about the situation or something." Aphrodite drank from her liquor. "And she talked about how funny it was to see everyone so panicked because of us."

"That's... I don't even know what to say. It's funny to see Athena... act like that."

"Don't think. It's better that way." Abruptly, she finished her glass. "Fuck. I needed this."

"At least you don't need to be careful," Percy said.

"If you drank as much as I did, I'd be rushing you into a hospital." Aphrodite cleaned her mouth. "I grow tired of the party. I noticed we've been the main attraction."

"I tried my best to ignore it." Percy smiled sheepishly. "But it's getting a bit hard. Do you want to go home?"

"Only if you come with me." Aphrodite smiled, even more so when his arm enveloped her waist.

"So am I welcome to your palace?"

"You're welcome to enter even my private quarters, hero."

The following smile he gave her was hypnotizing. Oh, it wasn't sheepish anymore. It was vicious.

"I'd love to explore there with you, goddess."

And she returned the smile. To her palace, they went, soon after.

Aphrodite made sure to remain close to him the entire walk.