A/N: Ok, Leo's POV ended up being literally twice what I had planned, but I doubt any of you will complain. About going MIA out of nowhere... Distance makes the heart grows fonder or something? I've been doing online courses and other things, but I haven't completely abandoned you! And I didn't proofread about 80% of it, so expect mistakes. And if some parts feel rushed, they most likely were, it's 1 am but I was determined to publish it before going to sleep. Enjoy it.

Leo's POV

MONDAY, 13th February

It was mid-morning and Leo was already dreaming of lunch.

Hey, do you think it would be awkward if I dropped by the Meunier to have lunch?

It would be if we didn't call them before.

Do you think Ryan will tell us their number?

We can try. If we call now, Mrs. Purr can calculate how much food to make with time to spare.

You're right.

He slid out from under the car to search for Ryan, already planning how to convince his boss. When he finally found the man, he saw someone had beat him to it. And seeing who it was, his heart filled with both dread and longing.

What is Callie doing here?

I don't know, but I somehow doubt it's gonna end well for us. Maybe we should postpone it for five minutes.

Agreed!

Before he could take a step, Ryan noticed him watching and gestured for him to join them. Leo swallowed his protest and obeyed.

So much for stealth...

Once he joined them, he interrupted Ryan before the man could utter a single word.

"Whatever she says I did, I didn't, I swear!"

Ryan seemed confused, but Callie just rolled her eyes. Her hair had grown from the time they'd first met and now, beyond the bright green, he could also see her roots, the warm caramel tone he liked so much.

"I'm not here to accuse you of anything. I came to ask for help."

Leo blinked in surprise.

"I'm sorry, what?"

Nora invites us to her house, Claire says she thinks Piper lost Trish, and now Callie asking for help. What's with girls coming to my work and trying to shock me into silence with words?

Seeing satisfied to see them talking civilly, Ryan left them alone, clapping a hand on Leo's shoulder before disappearing back inside the shop.

Was this a 'nice to have met you' shoulder clap?

"Do you remember Nora's birthday, when Erica baked a cake?"

Leo gave her a haughty look.

"Excuse me? Don't be ignorant; she baked art, not a simple cake."

Callie rolled her eyes, but he thought he could see a tiny smile in the corner of her lips.

"Anyway, somehow word and her number got around – I suspect Nora or her parents having a hand in it – and people we've never met before have been ordering from Erica for the majority of last week. She was doing well, and I took most of her shifts so she could be free. However, the number of orders that came this weekend because of Valentine's was insane, and now she's drowning in it."

"Couldn't she refuse those orders?"

Callie crossed her arms and her expression became thunderous, but the way she was glaring at the side and not at him showed her anger was not directed at him – which was a first.

"She could, but apparently she's a bigger people pleaser than I thought. She took every single one. Thank God I had convinced her to play around and put an estimated price on her goods if she ever opened a bakery, so at least she had that figured out and isn't being taken advantage of, I think."

Honestly, knowing Erica, it's not that surprising.

But something she needs to improve if she ever opens her own bakery or something.

I agree, being a people pleaser isn't the way to run a business.

A pushover people pleaser.

"Ok... what does that have to do with me? You want me to confront Nora or something? Take responsibility for introducing you three?"

She shook her head, finding his eyes and holding them.

"No, what's done is done. I want your help."

"You already said that, but not how."

"Baking. I already spoke to your boss and he says he understands."

Ok, I need at least four days to say why this is a bad idea.

"Wait a second! I can't bake!"

Callie rolled her eyes in annoyance and this time he knew it was directed at him.

"I know. But you can separate ingredients, crack eggs, and whatnot. I just need you to assist her. Unfortunately, I can't skip my shift, so you'll have to do it, at least until five. Ideally, more people would join but I don't know who else to ask. I know you care about Erica. So, will you help her?"

It was like a light went on in his head.

"I have an idea!"

Callie looked alarmed, uncrossing her arms, and raised her hands like she was trying to calm him down.

"No, no ideas, just follow her instructions!"

"No, I promise this is a good idea. Give me ten minutes. Get Erica to pack up everything, I'll help her carry it."

"Carry it where?"

But he was already running back to the shop to talk to Ryan and didn't answer, just waved her goodbye.

***

Leo saluted his friend, opening the Meunier front door and stepping aside.

"Captain, glad you could join."

Niel took a step inside, tipping an imaginary hat at Leo.

"How could I ignore the distress call from a sinking vessel, even more from a friendly one?"

Leo gestured to the girl who had just exited the kitchen to see the newcomer. Her hair was in a bun that was half coming undone, her apron was already dirty with flour and chocolate. She had bags so dark under her eyes that Leo and Leoni weren't sure how she hadn't passed out in exhaustion.

"You already know Erica."

"Duchess."

"And this is Mrs. Purr."

She gestured to the older woman, who had been in the back of her apartment to take a call and had just rejoined them in the living room, still in her dark purple pantsuit. Niel lightly bowed his head, more serious than Leo was used to seeing him.

"Ma'am, a pleasure."

"She agreed to let us use her kitchen."

Purnima gave Leo a small smile, already reaching for the purse she had left over the sofa and shoving her phone inside.

"How could I not, when my husband's big mouth was part of the reason you're in this situation? Leoni, now I really should get back to work; and since I took my break now, I won't be back for lunch. I texted Nora to pick up Harshad from school and come help you. Just heat up the leftovers, it should be enough for everyone."

"Will do, thanks again, Mrs. Purr."

Once she left, Leo turned towards Niel with a devilish smile.

"So, ready to become the Duchess' slave?"

***

Since they had two different mixers on, Leo didn't hear the front door opening and only noticed Nora and Harshad had arrived when the girl herself entered the kitchen and yelled to be heard over the noise.

"Have you destroyed the kitchen yet?"

"Mi hermana!"

Niel stared at Leo, more suspicious than confused.

"Hermana?"

Leo answered with a wink and a smirk.

"It's because we're kindred spirits."

"Who is this?"

Nora's question was answered by Harshad rushing into the kitchen to hug the taller boy.

"Niel!"

"Ahoy, mini-me."

"Excuse me, it's LEO's mini-me for you, Captain."

Leo hadn't noticed Nora getting closer to them until she pinched his arm, making him yelp.

"Leo? Some introducing?"

"Fine, fine! This is Captain Niel, Ryan's nephew. You know, my boss? Captain, that's Nora, mini-me's sister. Don't let her fool you, she's playing nice now but she's vicious and with a mean hook."

Niel gave her a once over, nodding in recognition of her muscles, visible since she had removed her coat when she entered the apartment.

"I can respect someone who knows how to throw a punch."

"I can do more than throw a punch."

Her answer brought a smirk to Niel's face.

"A well-placed kick is always a nice addition."

Leo cursed when he felt a kick well-placed on his shin. Turning to the source, he found Erica glaring at them and wildly moving her arms and hands in clear distress. Leo gave her a sheepish smile, already moving to get back to what he was doing before Nora had arrived.

"Ok, ok, I got it. See, I'm going."

Erica started talking in ASL and while Leo had no idea what she was actually saying, he could understand she was scolding him. She was interrupted when the intercom rang and all teenagers and Harshad looked at each other. Nora was the one to ask what everyone was wondering.

"Are we waiting for someone?"

When all eyes turned accusingly at Leo, he raised his hands in defense.

"Why are you all looking at me? I didn't invite anyone else!"

When the intercom rang again, Nora sighed and moved to answer, while everyone waited in silence. When she nodded to whatever the other person said and pushed the button to open the gate downstairs, Harshad was the one to break the silence and ask who was it.

"It's Callie."

Callie? Already?

Are we that late? But there is still light outside!

Leo searched for Erica's eyes with the unsaid question, but she seemed as surprised as he was. When Callie herself finally arrived, he was direct.

"I thought you couldn't get out of your shift until five."

She looked at him and waved a hand dismissively.

"Yeah, I found a way."

Moving inside the apartment, she stopped once her eyes found Niel, squinting them in recognition.

"I remember you."

"Ahoy."

Whether his presence disturbed him or not, she decided to ignore it and turned to her cousin.

"So, how is it going?"

Before Erica could start gesticulating, Leo cut in.

"We were thinking of taking a break and eat something."

When the mute girl made a gargled sound of disagreement, Nora raised her hand to get Erica's attention.

"He's right, you know? It's after two pm, you guys should take a break."

Niel gave the baker a concerned look.

"Duchess, when was the last time you ate a proper meal? If you worry this poor and humble Captain, I risk crashing into the reef; and you wouldn't want that, right?"

Leo could see he was turning his charm up to the max and it was working because Erica blushed and waved her hands all flustered. Leo and Nora shared a look and made sure to hide their laughs behind pursed lips.

I think that's the ASL version of stammering.

Not giving her time to protest, Nora walked into the kitchen, being quickly followed by the others, including Erica.

"And we don't have to prepare most of it, just heat up."

When Erica and Callie moved to help Nora get the leftovers from the fridge and into the microwave, Leo turned to Niel, trying to keep a poker face.

"Captain, you can deal with spicy right?"

"Are you underestimating me?"

While Niel looked slightly offended, Nora caught on Leo's intentions and sent him a tiny smirk over her shoulder, making sure to keep her voice aloof.

"Oh, no, I'm sure it's not that. We just don't want another hiccup episode."

Niel finally caught up that was something else in the conversation and did his best to sound confused and inconspicuous.

"What episode?"

Leo made a show of thinking it over.

"How to explain it... Oh, I have a video!"

Callie turned to him with a venomous glare, while Erica was just red as a tomato.

"Don't you dare!"

***

The lunch was uneventful, cut short to avoid increasing Erica's anxiety. Harshad was the last one to finish, and by the time he did it, the rest of the dishes were already made and Erica was back at work on a cake. Once they finished eating and washing the wishes, Nora set Harshad up at the dining table with his homework, joining Leo and the others in the kitchen.

With the arrival of her cousin, Erica forfeited her writing board and used only ASL, counting on Callie to translate it. Nora was assigned to break in pieces the two pounds white chocolate bar while Leo was assigned to the stove, making sure none of the melting chocolate or sugar burned. Callie was responsible to teach Niel how to assemble the bonbons, while Erica herself put in the finishing touches, delicate swirls that ended too perfect for the speed in which she made them. Leo was so distracted watching her, he almost didn't hear Nora's whisper.

"Leo! The sugar!"

He quickly lowered the fire intensity, before it got out of control, shooting Nora a sheepish smile in thanks. She nodded and went to the chocolate bar, using an old knife and meat hammer to break it in pieces. He was sure Erica had some other method to do it, but she took one look at Nora's confident expression and tools, and just shrugged in acceptance. It made for an odd soundtrack, but it was better than the silence.

Once she was sure Niel could do it alone, Callie moved to work with fondant to cover and decorate one of the cakes Erica had done in the morning and that had finally cooled down. Harshad had finished his homework and joined them in the kitchen, sitting by Callie and stealing any extra slice of fondant she cut off. At first, Leo fought she hadn't seen it, but then he noticed she kept the biggest part next to her to reuse, but the small ones she would discard in Harshad's direction. She probably could imagine how the little boy was enjoying it, feeling so smart and sneaky, and didn't want to ruin his fantasy.

You did this.

What?

You did all this.

What 'all this' is?

All of them together, working to help Erica. Except for the family relations, you're their connection, the one who got them all together.

I am not.

Yes, you are.

No, we are.

No, I wouldn't have known Nora was worth getting to know, I would have avoided Callie and Erica because of Callie and-

I'm not saying about what would have been. I'm talking about what is now, and you're part of it, as much as I am.

... Do you really think so?

I'm sure of it.

Even if-

No! No 'even if's or 'but's; WE brought these people together.

When Niel finished the bonbons he was assigned, Erica moved to inspect them. For Leo – who had been moved to dish duty while Nora took his place in the stove, melting the chocolate she had broken – they all seemed okay, but he had learned she was extremely perfectionist with her baking, as much as he was with his own projects; so he knew she was seeing imperfections that were invisible to untrained eyes. Most of the bonbons seemed to pass the test; of seventy or so, barely a dozen got rejected. After putting them in a different plate, she brought her fingers to her lips and let out a loud and long whistle, making Nora, Callie and Harshad jump in surprise since they had their attentions elsewhere, being caught unaware. Leo and Niel had been observing her, but also jumped in surprise from hearing such a loud noise coming from her.

What the hell!?

Nora seemed to be in the same wave-length as Leoni because as soon as she turned and noticed it had been Erica to do it, she had the same reaction.

"What the hell!? You can whistle!?"

Naturally, Callie was the one not surprised.

"Her vocal cords are the ones damaged, and you don't need those to whistle."

"Then why don't you whistle all the time?"

Callie smiled at Harshad, who seemed genuinely confused.

"Because she thinks whistles are rude in most of the cases."

Erica let out another whistle – this one shorter and not that loud – and when everyone focused on her, she gestured to them and then pointed at the plate with the imperfect bonbons. She didn't need ASL or more gestures to make them understand. Leo and Nora didn't waste any time and were the first ones to pop a bonbon in their mouths and moan at the flavor.

Damn it, I want to try it too!

I wish I could say you aren't missing anything special, but I would be lying.

***

When Purnima arrived a little after five pm, she entered the kitchen to find all the kids around the kitchen island. Nora bending the cartoon boxes in place, Leo and Niel filling them with the bonbons, Erica checking to see if there was any mistake before covering them to allow Callie to close each box with a string, Harshad offering her his finger to hold it in place while she did the bow.

I don't know what she was expecting, but she seems surprised.

I can't blame her; I'm also surprised this actually worked.

Except for Harshad, who had jumped from his chair to run to his mother, the teens just gave her tired nods, not interrupting their tasks. Purnima hugged her son, listening while he retold in excitement about their afternoon. Harshad was telling her disconnected facts, not making any sense, but she was nodding in encouragement. When he pulled her closer to the kitchen island, she got a better look at the tired teenagers. Raising a hand to ask for her son to stop for a moment, she sent them a gentle smile.

"You look hungry. How about I get some pizzas before you leave?"

Like on cue, Leo's stomach grumbled loud enough to be heard by everyone. Niel snickered, but Callie shot him a glare in warning, turning to Purnima with a smile.

"We couldn't accept, ma'am, you already helped us so much by lending your kitchen and appliances. We can't even repay-"

Purnima raised her hand, this time to silence Callie.

"You don't need to repay, I'm just glad to be able to help. And I'm a mother, I can't allow kids to leave my house starving; so not only you can accept, you must."

While it seemed Callie still wanted to argue, Nora cut her off.

"Thanks, Aunt Nima. Are we getting it from that pizzeria we ordered from the last time?"

After just a moment of hesitation, Purnima nodded.

"Yes, I'll try to find the pamphlet so you can all choose a flavor."

When she left, with Harshad hot in her heels and already talking a mile per hour, Leo leaned in to whisper to Nora.

"'Aunt Nima'? Since when are you so close?"

"She's my godmother, you know? It's not like she's a stranger."

"Then why were you treating her like one?"

He expected her to defend herself, but she answered honestly.

"Because I was being an idiot and lashing out on them for something it wasn't their fault."

Once he got over the surprise, he sent her a wink, just to get one back.

***

It took two trips with all of them to carry almost every sweet and cake back to Erica and Callie's apartment. When the dishes were made, everything Erica owned was again inside her bags and they were ready to leave for their third and last trip, Erica surprised them by handing each one a small box. Opening it, Leo found an assortment of bonbons, scraps of at least three different flavors of cakes, and a cream and sugar pastry Erica had told them the name but he had already forgotten. Harshad had run to show it to his mom and Nora nodded in thanks.

"You didn't have to, but I appreciate it."

Erica smiled and turned to Niel, adding at the top of his box another one, perfectly decorated with a bow like the ones she had made for her clients. She winked at him like they shared a secret.

Is she flirting with him?

Erica, flirting? And not being shy? I don't think so.

Well, what else could it be?

Oh! What if he asked her?

But she already gave us the scraps box, why- Oh!

Exactly!

He wants to gift it to Claire.

And he got her the strawberry-filled ones. Someone is in looove.

Niel took her hand and kissed it, bowing in reverence.

"Duchess, I wish you a fair wind ever and always."

Leaning closer to Leo, Nora whispered.

"What did he say?"

"He meant he wishes her luck for the future."

"Oh, ok."

***

He would have felt more guilty about what he was doing if Niel hadn't told him he would be working the next day.

Wouldn't we be spoiling the surprise?

Not if we don't mention his name.

I suppose...

Besides, he will gift his special box for her tomorrow at school, so we aren't doing anything wrong.

Maybe you're right. And she's fun to hang around.

L: Hey, you awake?

C: Yeah, I have an essay for Wednesday and was revising it.

C: What's up?

L: You said you like sweets.

L: How much do you like them?

C: Gift me a patisserie and I'll promise you my next three generations of descendants.

L: I helped a friend prepare a bunch of orders for Valentine's.

L: And she let me keep some leftovers.

C: How much is 'some'?

L: More than enough for three people. Can you eat for one and three-quarters of a person?

C: Have I already said you're the most fantastic person to ever walk this Earth and that you deserve so much happiness?

L: Damn, you really like sweets.

C: I do, but I think that even without the sweets in line, you're an amazing person and friend.

C: I can understand why Piper cares so much about you.

This took him by surprise and he froze, not knowing what to answer. Luckily, she didn't expect him to.

C: See you tomorrow!

TUESDAY, 14th February

When he saw Claire standing outside the shop and giving him a shy wave. He gestured for her to wait a minute and went on a search for his boss, finding him in his office, on the phone.

"Ryan, I'm taking my break. Wait, I can take my break, right?"

Ryan rolled his eyes and gestured for him to leave, mouthing to 'just go'. He quickly went to his apartment above the store and thoroughly washed his hands, grabbing the bag with Erica's box and water he had prepared the night before, checking for weight in his pocket for his phone, and running to join Claire outside.

"You came!"

She grabbed both his shoulders, looking into his eyes with a haunted stare.

"I almost died!"

"Why? Did you cross the road while thinking about the sweets and almost got run over?"

"No, I told Piper I was coming to see you."

"And she... didn't like it?"

I thought she was your friend?

She is! Maybe it was Trish who didn't like it?

"When she figured out you invited me to smuggle me sweets when she confiscated any extra sugar I got as a gift, she was MAD. She chased me for HOURS. I haven't run so much since collective tag in fifth grade. I still feel like dying."

Are we safe if we give her sweets?

Well, Piper would have called me if there was a problem, and I didn't hear anything.

They started walking down the street together. Their destination was too small to be called a park, but the bench with grass and some trees around was a better option than the workshop or the overbooked cafes around them.

"So, you said you got a lot of gifts?"

"Not that much. I got from Bea and Will-"

"Will?"

She must have understood his wordless question because she nodded and explained.

"Yes, your friend Will. Actually, I think it was mostly She-Will who gifted me, but he was also part of it."

"I didn't know you guys were friends."

Claire made a face, staring ahead like remembering something bad.

"She-Will and I... we were friends in middle school. We had a... falling out on freshman year. But she came to see me this weekend and apologized. I'm glad I got a cupcake from her again."

"And Piper confiscated it?"

Claire sighed in defeat, her shoulders dropping.

"I'm sure it was Trish telling her to do it. She says I can't be under the sugar influence without her supervision, which is ridiculous. Oh, and I got two other gifts!"

"Friendship or Valentine?"

"One I'm sure it's friendship, the other I'm not sure."

"Why?"

"Because it's anonymous."

That must be Niel.

They finally reached the bench and sat down, Leo already taking out the box and the water bottles.

"And the friendship one, was from Piper?"

"No, from Niel."

Wait.

He paused for a moment in confusion, before moving to open the scrap box, watching Claire's eyes shine bright like stars when she saw its contents.

"Niel sent you a friendship gift? We're talking about the same Niel, right?"

She answered him but didn't take her eyes off the little box.

"Yeah, he sent me an amazing basket of sweets and a beautiful card!"

Leo's answer came out automatically, but Claire didn't seem to notice his lack of enthusiasm.

"Oh, how nice!"

I thought Niel was going to gift her the bonbons from yesterday? Those made by Erica?

I thought so too. Didn't she gift it to him especially for Claire?

Exactly!

"Claire, how do you know the basket was from Niel? Did he give you himself?"

"No, it was waiting at my table."

"Then why do you think it was him?"

"Because there was a signed card."

"Right... and why are you so sure it was for friendship?"

"Because he invited me to hang out next Saturday, as friends."

He did what? I thought he said he was going to invite her on a date?

"And you're sure the only thing Niel wants from you is friendship?"

"Why else would he invite me to hang out as friends?"

Oh, my God, Claire... you're just so... ugh!

You know, on another day, I might have tried to help Niel take off this veil from her eyes, but today I just feel like waiting to see how this will turn out.

"You know what, you must be right! Who I am to know what passes in that head of his? I'm SURE your 'hanging out as friends' will be fantastic!"

Claire's smile was so honest he almost felt guilty she didn't catch his sarcasm.

"I think so too! Glad to know someone else agrees with me!"

"Then what does Piper think?"

"She thinks it's a date, can you believe it? I think it must be the Aphrodite in her. Boys and girls can be friends! You and I are friends, right?"

"Absolutely! And as such, you must keep me updated on how your friendship with Niel is going, ok?"

"Sure, why not?"

Why do I feel like you just subscribed us to a soap opera channel?

Because that's exactly what I did. This should be good.

***

"Oh my God, Leo, did you see that little bird!? You know, I wish I was a bird because then I could make a nest! Then fly away and make another nest, then leave and build another nest... do you think nests are comfortable? Don't the twigs hurt the baby birds? By the way, did you know some owls put snakes in their nests? Not big snakes to eat their babies, just small snakes to eat pests. Of course, I know that the animals we call pests are actually very important to the food chain and the general functioning of the environment. It's very unfair for us to call them pests, isn't it? You know what else is unfair? The way some-"

Ok. So MAYBE Trish was right and Claire should be under supervision while on a sugar rush.

Well, then maybe she should have called! What am I supposed to do now?

When he had noticed the weight in his jeans had not been his phone but a mechanical piece he had shoved inside to later put in the back of the shop, he regretted not searching for his real phone, which was probably still back at the workshop.

"Leo! I just had the most brilliant idea!"

He was quick to grab her wrist before she left the bench, knowing from ten minutes before that once she got on her feet, he would have a lot of trouble to get her back sitting in a safe spot.

"No, no ideas!"

"But this one is really good!"

"Your other 'really good' idea was to see if you could get a random driver to stop and let you accompany them to whatever they're going."

"But can you only imagine the sheer amount of places we don't know in the city because we limit ourselves to what we're familiar with? How much more could we experience and learn if only we leave our comfort zone?"

He sighed, using the same argument he used ten minutes before when she first spouted this insane idea.

"A lot, but jumping into a stranger's car is not the way."

"Well, I wouldn't jump into a stranger's car if they stopped and introduced themselves, right?"

We need to get her home.

Yeah, but where is it?

"Claire, can you tell me where your home is?"

"I've always wondered this. How much of a home is the house and how much are the people? I know a home is something you make, but I also know there are some houses that are hard to make into homes, so how much of a home is the house? And when you have more than one place you feel like home, can you consider both of them of the same level? Or is one home always going to be more homely? In that case, can the other really be considered a home? Oh, what if-"

It had been barely twenty minutes since the sugar kicked in, but he felt he had aged twenty years.

"We're not knocking on people's door to ask them."

She looked at him in admiration.

"How did you even know I was gonna suggest that?"

"I'm psych."

His sarcasm was lost in a sugar-rushed Claire.

"Really! Why didn't you tell me this before? Is this a Hephaestus gift? Oh, I have an idea!"

Not again...

Is this me with coffee? If so, I apologize to all my siblings and friends. And my sunshine... Huh. Maybe that's why she keeps trying to convince me to take decaf.

Ryan will kill us; our break wasn't supposed to be this long.

Trust me, we'll have more reasons to fear Piper than Ryan if we leave Claire for herself.

Nico's POV

TUESDAY, 14th February

"Did you decide to keep her?"

Nico nodded to Hazel, walking beside her to their shared class.

"Cerberus adores her, so for now she'll stay with us. Annabeth said we could foster her for now and later find her a forever home."

"Do YOU like her?"

Nico shrugged, still unsure what to think of the new kitten.

"She's okay, I guess. I didn't expect her to purr so loud since she's too tiny. I don't even know how cats purr."

Hazel didn't get to answer when Lucy hit them from behind, getting in between them and hugging one arm from each demigod close to her.

What in the world is she wearing?

Hazel seemed equally confused to find Lucy, who usually wore very colorful clothes wearing a black cap and a dark hood pulled over it.

"Lucy, why are you dressed like this?"

"This is my disguise."

Nico and Hazel shared a confused look before his sister focused back on Lucy.

"Why do you even need a disguise?"

The girl between them sighed like she was suffering.

"Ok, neither of you is very up to date with the gossip, so the short version is that Vanessa and Sirena are locked in Cold War II because of a guy and since I don't have a crystal ball to know what that male Helen of Troy wants to do on Valentine's, I came to school disguised and have been avoiding Vanessa like the plague until I'm sure it's safe to come out of hiding."

How is being close to us helping her hiding? Shouldn't she avoid us, since Vanessa knows she hangs around us?

That's a good question.

But before he could do it, Hazel made her own question.

"What about cheer practice?"

"I'm thinking of getting Will to convince the nurse to forge me a leave. That's what friends are for, right?"

Maybe it was Will's mention, but Nico's next words were snappier than he was planning.

"Wow, your bravery is outstanding."

Lucy sent him an annoyed look.

"Well, my darling, it's not MY war and I don't like ANY of the participants so why should I stick out MY neck and pay for it? Thanks, but no, I have some preservation instincts. Anyway, what were you talking about before I came?"

Before he could warn his sister to not do it, she answered honestly.

"About Nanni's new cat."

"What new cat? Oh, that kitten your beast of a dog is babysitting?"

Nico sighed in defeat.

"That's the one."

"So now it's your cat, officially?"

"For now, it is."

"What's the name?"

Should I say we haven't decided?

... No, you can tell her. Them.

Are you sure?

As much as we would like to deny, Lucy is doing her best to act as a friend. She saved our lives in classes a lot of times.

She also put us in trouble.

And saved us from those troubles. Besides, it's just a name.

"Well, the real Cerberus would guard the Underworld which is full of souls. Since Cerberus is so dedicated to guarding her, and she's white... she's a soul. An Anima."

Hazel's eyes illuminated with understanding, but Lucy remained in the dark.

"A what?"

He didn't feel like explaining and luckily, his sister did it for him.

"Anima is Italian for soul."

Lucy blinked for a couple of seconds before huffing.

"... That's the stupidest name EVER."

... What?

Nico's reaction wasn't that different from Nanni's.

"Excuse me?"

"Come one! If she's a white kitten, the OBVIOUS name is Snowball. Or Snowflake."

That's a stupid name!

"I'm not naming her Snowball, that's ridiculous!"

"But she's white!"

"So, if she was black, I should call her Tarball?"

"That doesn't even exist! You're just terrible at naming pets."

I'M NOT!

He wasn't sure what made him do it, but his next words escaped his mouth before he could think it over.

"But I wasn't even the one naming her."

Nico...

Hazel was sending him a warning glance, but looking at him, Lucy didn't see it.

"Then who did it?"

"The voice inside my head did."

WHAT!?

Hazel seemed equally baffled, but Lucy just groaned and rolled her eyes.

"... You're weird by yourself, you don't need a voice inside your head for that. And even if you had one, blaming it for your weirdness is a cowardly behavior."

You're lucky she didn't believe you.

I knew she wouldn't.

Yes, let's just hope she doesn't tell Niel about this particular sentence.

I don't think this kind of gossip is her style.

Not gossiping, more like repeating it on accident in front of him.

... I hadn't thought about it.

Lucy started rambling about something he wasn't paying attention to, but on her other side, Hazel was glaring at him. He tried to look sheepish but her glare only strengthened. For someone who was usually so understanding and loving, his sister could glare.

I don't know if she thought about Niel, but she doesn't look very happy.

I know...

***

Lucy had split with them to go to her own class but was waiting for them outside their classroom as soon as it was over, unsuccessfully trying to look unsuspicious in her cap with the hood pulled over.

Trying to keep her head down and hiding her face only makes she stands out.

I agree, but I doubt she would listen to us.

Beside him, Hazel sighed.

"Lucy, who long are you going to keep that up?"

"Shhh, don't say my name. And I'll keep this up until I know it's safe to reveal myself."

"Aren't you watching too many movies? Or is this an anime thing?"

"I don't watch that many movies, I don't even have the time for it. And there is no such thing as too much anime, so your concern is unfounded."

It looked to him like Hazel wanted to argue, but instead, she changed subjects.

"I need to get my Geography homework in my locker before class. Shall we?"

In the same hallway as Hazel's locker, they found Niel in the distance and Sierra next to him, whispering something to him, but he only shook his head in answer.

"Wait, what is-"

Before Hazel could complete her question, Lucy's hand shot up and covered his sister's mouth, shaking her head and whispering 'don't'. Since Lucy looked almost scared, Nico tried to follow Hazel's eyes but didn't find anything except Niel and Sierra whispering to each other, nothing too out of the ordinary. However, once they got closer, Nico finally noticed what Hazel must had.

What is that on Sierra's lips?

I don't know, lipstick? No, it looks... sticky? Chocolate?

Maybe she was eating Nutella and forgot to clean her mouth?

Before the tall girl could catch him staring, Lucy pinched him to get his attention and once she got it in the form of glare, she shook her head in 'no', a warning in her eyes.

Okay... I think we should trust her on this.

Well, between her and Sierra... the Underworld would be empty before I trusted Sierra.

He whispered to her, avoiding looking at Sierra.

"What is it?"

"Dana texted in the group chat. Trust me, you don't wanna know; neither of you do."

When Niel spotted them, he was quick to join them, with Sierra hot on his heels, looking displeased by their argument.

"Poppet, Sticks, always a pleasure. Wench, always a displeasure."

Lucy rolled her eyes in annoyance while Nico tried to hide his smile.

"Right back at you, Barnacle."

Sierra looking Lucy up and down and the smile that followed sent a shiver down Nico's spine.

"Cutiepie, more than anyone, I know how charming black can be, but isn't this one a little too... bland?"

When her smile morphed to match the smirk that now was in display in Niel's face, Nico could admire and fear the chaotic energy those two amounted together. However, before Lucy could restart her rant about Vanessa and the others, Niel spoke.

"Is Sticks rubbing off on you more than I was aware?"

"Oh, I didn't know he was rubbing on her; since when are they an item?"

The only one not surprised by Sierra's words were Niel (and Nico wouldn't put it past to him to actually prepare the stage for her); while he could hear Hazel's shock behind him, he ignored it to focus on turning his spluttering into words.

"We are NOT an item!"

Sierra grinned larger.

"It's okay, we're living in modern times."

What?

I don't- oh, God, now I got it!

Got what?

Beside him, Lucy finally got her mouth to work, her face so red he briefly wondered if he was choking in her own saliva.

"And there is no rubbing going on either!"

What?

You don't wanna know.

Ignoring his host, Nico turned to Lucy.

"What do you mean by-"

The rest of his words were cut off by Lucy slapping her hand over his mouth and leaving it there. She whispered through gritted teeth 'not here' and he decided that his former decision about who to trust between Lucy and Sierra was still valid, and nodded so she would retrieve her hand. Sierra seemed slightly put off that the game she was playing was interrupted so soon, both by Lucy and the bell ringing. Sighing in disappointment, she turned to leave their little group, winking over her shoulder and leaving with Niel, who seemed to be having too much fun for Nico's taste.

"Do you think she was serious?"

Nico and Lucy turned to Hazel, eyebrows raised.

"I mean, did she really think you two were together?"

Lucy shook her head, speed-walking with the demigods so they could each go to their classes in time.

"I have no idea. The only thing I'm certain about her is that she terrifies me."

"Really?"

Lucy turned to his sister with the same disbelief he felt.

"She doesn't terrify you? Are you blind!? Or lacking self-preservation instincts? Every time she looks at me, I feel like a bunny being watched by a panther. One whose stomach is full enough to consider me a toy instead of biting my head off in one second."

Well, at least it doesn't look like she wants to cause physical harm. I think.

To be honest, the more we have to interact with Sierra because of Niel, the more I'm convinced we shouldn't put anything past her.

Especially if she and Niel are together?

Yeah. Alone, they are unpredictable. Together... if they had been demigods, I wouldn't put past them to join Luke, depending on the circumstances. And if they had... Olympus would be ruined by now.

Who do you think would have been their parents?

Now, that's a good question.

"Nanni, what are you doing? Hurry up!"

***

H: Come, Lucy is waiting for us at the entrance.

N: What for?

If it had been Lucy to demand his presence and then not answer, he would have left her there, but the same couldn't be said about his sister; both out of respect for fear and reluctance of hearing her nagging about being impolite without reason. Unwilling to stay in school more than was requested, he decided to hurry up there and get it over with. Arriving there, he wasn't exactly surprised to see Frank standing beside Hazel, a little off to the side of the entrance, but he was a little surprised to not see Sierra around, especially since Niel was already there.

You don't think she's hiding somewhere, right?

Or simply late.

It would be better if she didn't come.

I agree.

He knew Lucy saw him arriving at their little group, but she was too busy trying to kick Niel away from her to do much. Niel, on the other hand, gave her a breather by straightening out and nodding to Nico.

"Sticks, I see you heard about the booty."

"The booty?"

Lucy was regaining her breath while sending Niel a murderous glare, tightly hugging a plastic container to her side. Casting him one last suspicious glance, which he answered with a smile too sweet to be honest, she turned to Nico with a huff.

"So, even if you guys – except Hannah – don't deserve it – because you DON'T – I got each of you a cookie, don't- HEY, FINS OFF, BARNACLE! These are MINE!"

She reclosed the lead to her container Niel had opened, hugging it close to her chest and scowling when she saw Niel had been successful in stealing a piece of something and was doing a big show of eating it.

Since she was now facing away from him, Nico couldn't be sure, but he was pretty certain at least one of her eyes was ticking.

"You know what? No more cookies for you. Damn your light fingers!"

"Aren't those brownies?"

Lucy rolled her eyes at Nico.

"Exactly, and these were a gift to me! MY gift to you is cookies."

Before he could argue he didn't want her cookies, Hazel spoke.

"Is this what Star gave you?"

"Star?"

His sister answered him with a smile.

"Lucy's friend. She is really sweet, but also very shy."

"Are you kidding me!?"

Nico turning, thinking Niel was the one responsible for Lucy's outburst, but she was glaring at him.

"Nanni, you helped those two deranged kidnap the poor girl while still in your pajamas and you can't even remember her name!?"

"In my defense, I was kidnapped just like her. And she was already in the truck by the time I entered the car."

"WHAT?"

Wincing, he saw Hazel two seconds away from doing her best to tear his ear off only by pulling it.

Right, she didn't know.

I'm going to kill Lucy.

Well, you pretty much confirmed it.

If you have any idea how to explain it so she doesn't kill us, I'm all ears.

***

The school court had mostly cleared out. After making Hazel promise to force him to eat his cookie, Lucy had left, still hugging her container to the chest to avoid theft from Niel, who had left soon after because he had work somewhere. Nico was glad that Frank had given some distance and privacy so he could tell his sister about the kidnapping, but a small part of him would've liked him to stay and act as a buffer against the outraged Hazel.

"I'm not sure I want you to keep being friends with him."

"Hazel-"

"I mean it. He's going to get you into trouble."

"I can take care of myself."

"You're not Nanni, and this is his life. Think about him for a moment, what about it?"

Well? You're the subject of their worry, what do you have to say on this matter.

Tell them I appreciate their concern, but that I can choose my own friends.

When he relayed Nanni's words, Hazel crossed her arms, looking ready to fight and win against a full cohort by herself.

"In that case, I will just have to talk to him myself."

"Hazel, or Hannah, I don't know who just had this idea, just drop it. You're our sister, not our mother. You have no place in our friendship with Niel, let it be."

Hazel looked desperate to say something, but she ended up just sighing in defeat.

"Fine, do whatever you want. But Nanni, Hannah wants to remind you that as a minor, if Niel does pull you into some legal mess, the authorities will call our father and we can only imagine how fun that conversation is going to be."

I guess the idea of talking to Niel about limits may have some merit...

"Aren't you going to be late for your reservation or something?"

"We're going for cotton candy, there is no way to be late for that. But fine, if you want me to leave, I will. Just think about what we said."

"Yeah, we will, now go enjoy your date."

Annabeth's POV

Annabeth swallowed a groan, exchanging a look with Jodi to express her frustrations, just to see it reflected right back at her from her friend.

Oh, come on, this amount of homework is sadistic, there is no other word.

Never in my life, I wished for a teacher to be a monster so much.

So you could kill her? That's a little psycho.

Oh, the thing is that the Mist changes everyone's memories, so this homework would disappear in smoke.

Now that sounds interesting.

Taking advantage of the teacher's distraction, Barbara turned on her chair and Annabeth leaned forward to hear her whisper.

"Please tell me this is just a nightmare; I haven't even started on the AP Chemistry homework."

Oh, gods, there was also the AP Chemistry...

... I think this deserves Greek cuss words.

"Oh, gods, you're right. I did half and completely forgot about the rest."

"We should get Jodi and split the work among us; there are simply not enough hours in the day to do it all by ourselves."

"The teacher!"

At Annabeth's warning, Barbara turned back forward and the blonde leaned back in her chair, schooling her expression into a neutral one in time to escape the teacher's glaring.

It's a bit odd to think that I now have friends and a social life that goes beyond Barbara. No wonder I now don't have enough time to keep up with the insane amount of homework.

Does it displease you?

... I don't know. It wasn't exactly my choice, it wasn't exactly me doing it, but I still had some fun.

Enough to make you want to do it when I leave?

Yeah, whenever that may be.

Hopefully, sooner than later.

***

Annabeth had noticed something in the last ten minutes of class and did her best to wait for the bell, before jumping and approaching Barbara before she completely left class.

"Barbara, what is that stain on your neck?"

Annabeth had tried to keep an empty expression while asking that but seeing her friend's alarmed eyes and hand flying to cover the 'stain' was making it hard.

"Huh... it's a... eh..."

Jodi, who had joined them a little bit later after asking something to the teacher, had heard the conversation and gave Barbara a sympathetic look.

"A mosquito bite? I hate those."

Really? Everyone can see that it's NOT a mosquito bite.

Well, she clearly tried to cover it with make-up, so I can understand Jodi giving her a way out.

"Uh... yes?"

Deciding to follow Jodi's lead, Annabeth decided to play along.

"Nasty things, mosquitos."

Jodi grinned, but there was something off about it. Annabeth understood what a second later.

"I agree. Hey, look who's there, it's Jay. HI, MOSQUITO!"

While Annabeth laughed, Barbara punched Jodi in the arm, grumbling.

"I hate you..."

***

Leaving her last class for the day, she was so numb she barely registered Percy's presence until he threw his arm around her shoulders and kissed the top of her head. Not even Annie had the energy or the will to protest it.

"Why do you look like you're leaving a three-hour marathon of giving Greek lessons to twenty newbies with ADHD?"

She couldn't fight the shiver that went down her spine at remembering the day he was referring to.

"Please, stop trying to unblock the memories of that nightmare."

"Then why the soul-detrained expression?"

"You'll not believe the amount of homework I have. I swear, the teachers must've made a bet to see how easily they can break the students; no sane person thinks we can do all that homework."

"Now you know how us mortals feel all the time."

She elbowed him at the ribs, but it lacked strength and he kissed her hair again while chuckling.

"Try to remember not to let your temper get the better of you during kickboxing, you don't want to get kicked out."

"Oh, right, I completely forgot I had kickboxing today. I must be more out of it than I thought. I mean, I slept well, I don't know why I'm feeling so tired."

"Sounds to me like you're in need of some sugar."

I swear it, if he means kisses...

"Yeah? Do you have it in an IV? Can we add caffeine to it?"

"Well, we can pass by a café, if you want. As for sugar, I was thinking cookies. My mom's recipe, of course."

"That would be perfect, except I don't have the time to breathe, let alone bake."

"Then, it's a good thing that they're already done."

She stopped walking to look at him in surprise, forcing him to stop as well.

"Please tell me you're being serious."

As an answer, he winked and reached inside his backpack, pulling a bag with at least a pound of cookies, likely more. Annabeth felt like crying and she could feel Annie's own relief. She hugged his neck and kissed him hard on the mouth for a couple of seconds.

"I love you!"

***

With Percy's arm still around her shoulders and blissfully eating her sixth cookie while leaving the school's building, Jodi's voice slightly to her left, full of outrage, made her discreetly turn her head to better see what was going on.

"You did WHAT?"

For someone who was the target of Jodi's fury, Jay didn't very apologetic.

"It was a necessary measure!"

"You're not allowed to have a date with a sort-of fling on Galentines!"

"Well, you made it clear you wouldn't allow me to have Valentines, so I had to improvise!"

"But you can't do on Galentines, it's a day for only gals!"

"Well, maybe I was identifying myself as a gal yesterday."

"No, you weren't."

"How can you be sure?"

Jordan sighed, clearly tired of the argument.

"Jay, don't treat this kind of thing as a joke."

"Fine. But I'm not apologizing."

Finally taking his attention off his phone to watch the soap opera there was his friends' bickering, Percy turned to Jordan.

"Hey, what's going on?"

The redhead, finally noticing who had been walking beside the trio, eyed Annabeth's cookies. She glared and hugged the bag closer to her chest. Probably seeing she was being serious with the silent threat of serious maiming, he gave up and answered Percy.

"Jay took Barbara out yesterday, on Galentines."

Likely eager to get some allies, Jay was quick to explain himself.

"Well, Jodi said I had no right to do it on Valentine's because we're not official, so I had to improvise!"

Percy sounded impressed, and although Annabeth would never say it out loud, she agreed with him.

"... That was actually very clever."

Jodi switched her glare from Jay to Percy.

"No, it was very underhanded! How could you say that!?"

Jay, being either the most stupid person in the world or the most loyal friend, opened his mouth and redirected Jodi's anger back to him.

"It's not like you were going out with her yesterday and she canceled for me, why are you complaining?"

"That doesn't change anything!"

Did it occur to any of them to ask Barbara what she thinks of it?

I don't think her opinion matters in this.

What? They're talking about dates with her. How can she not matter?

I think they always argue about anything, Barbara is just the most recent. Like siblings fighting for the new toy. It's not necessarily about the toy, it's about competing and winning.

***

Tightening her ponytail and wincing at the headache that decided to grace her as soon as she stepped foot inside the gym, Annabeth entered the mat and joined Savannah, who looked at her worried.

"Are you okay?"

"Not really, just having a really off day."

"If it helps, I heard that Jake isn't coming today."

"Well, small blessings are always welcome."

"Hey, could it be your period?"

"It isn't; not for another four days."

"It could be early."

"I hope not! Now that would just be the icing on the cake."

***

Hugging herself under the gym's shower, Annabeth tried to breathe out the pain.

This is all Sav's fault.

She just had to jinx it.

Annabeth heard knocking against her shower stall before Olivia's voice followed it.

"Annie, is it you here?"

"Yes."

"Savannah said you needed a tampon?"

"Yeah, I forgot my bag at home. Sorry."

AND our phone ran out of battery!

Because nothing in our day can work like it should, of course!

"No worries, sweetie, it happens to the best of us. Do you need help getting out of the shower?"

"No, thank you."

Changing her mind when her cramps piked up, she was quick to add.

"But could you stay around just to be safe?"

"Of course, sweetie."

***

Stepping outside the gym, Annabeth wasn't really surprised to see Percy waiting outside; all four parts had agreed he would pick her up so they could spend a couple of hours together on Valentine's. However, the part of her brain who was now irrationally angry at the world cursed him not knowing this was a bad time. And he saw it in her expression.

"Well, someone doesn't seem happy."

"Well, some people don't get periods and should keep their mouths shut."

"Your period? But isn't it-".

"Four days early, I know."

Seriously!?

What!?

He KNOWS our period is early!?

Annie, your period, unlike mine, it's like clockwork. Percy knows how I get when I get my period. Unifying both information, are you really that surprised that he noticed a pattern? My boyfriend is not stupid, you know?

But that means Peter knows my menstrual cycle!

So!? I would think you'd know that periods are normal, part of life, all that!

Yes, ok, if he was ACTUALLY my boyfriend or even my close friend, that would be one thing, but we literally barely exchanged a couple of words until some months ago, and we still didn't actually talk just us. It's weird!

... I can see that.

... I sense a 'but'.

But it's too late now.

Well, I hate that!

I know!

Deep down, Annabeth knew that Percy's smile was most likely designed to be comforting, but her anger at the surprise Annie's body pulled at them made it difficult to see it as anything other than mocking and condescending.

"So that's why you felt like dying earlier and inhaled half-pound of cookies."

She narrowed her eyes at her boyfriend.

"What are implying? What are you trying to say?"

He took a step back and raised his hands in surrender.

"Nothing, absolutely nothing."

"Then don't bother opening your mouth."

When a gush of cold wind hit her, Annabeth doubled over the spike of pain and cursed leaving the house with a coat that barely reached past her waist.

This.

Is.

Hell.

I hate this.

You aren't even in control right now, why are you complaining!?

In case you forgot, if it's a sensation I'm familiar with or a really strong one, I CAN feel it. And this cramp ticks both boxes!

I'm sure you're not feeling as strong as I am, so stop compl-

Annabeth cut off her rant when she felt Percy reaching behind her. Before she could ask what he was doing, she felt the weight of his coat over her lower back. Probably too stunned, neither Annie nor Annabeth said anything when he tied the sleeves around her waist. She stared dumbly at him, not knowing what to say. Horrified, she felt her eyes starting to fill with unshed tears. Percy looked slightly alarmed, before letting out a short laugh.

"Are we at this level? How have you been holding up?"

"I don't know!"

A sniffle escaped her.

Noooo, I don't wanna cry in front of him!

Neither do I!

Then don't!

He's being sweet, leave me be!

You always think he's sweet!

"Well, it's only... what, ten, fifteen minutes walking to your house? Yeah, we think Peter's body can do it."

She looked at him like he just had single-handedly sent Gaea to sleep and spared them the mess of pain and exhaustion that was that race against the clock. She handed her gym bag to him and tightened his coat around her lower back and waist.

Do what?

I love him.

Wow, breaking news. And again, do what?

Not bothering to answer Annie, Annabeth walked behind Percy and, with a little more effort than it'd have taken in her own body, climbed his back. It took some adjusting, but once she was secure and he started walking, she snuggled in bliss into his body heat.

... Well, I suppose it's fine this time.

Hm... he feels so warm.

Shouldn't he be cold without a coat?

Percy always feels like a personal heater in winter.

And apparently, he shares this with Peter.

***

Halfway to their house, Annabeth suggested a break. She could see Percy was determined to carry her all the way, but she also knew how tiring was to carry someone on her back for an extended period of time and knew he would appreciate the rest. Choosing a bus stop where she could sit up and curl up to try and soothe the cramps that were picking up once she was Percy's body heat, she observed him stretching his arms and shoulders.

"I'm sorry."

"What for?"

"Cancelling our Valentines."

"Really, Wise Girl?"

He gave her a look and she huffed, wincing in pain from her cramps.

"I'm not apologizing, I just feel sorry we couldn't do it."

"And I feel sorry your period snuck on you and left you in these conditions."

"You're lucky you're a guy."

He chuckled and gestured for her to turn around, sat down, and hugged her from behind.

"And so you say every month."

Relaxing into his hug, she leaned her head back into his shoulder, sighing in frustration about the whole situation.

"I mean it."

"I know you do."

"And thank you for this."

She didn't specify and he didn't need her to.

"Anything for you, you know that. Oh, you don't know!"

Grumbling in annoyance how his random excitement caused him to move and dislodge her from the comfortable position she was in, she waited until he corrected their hug to continue the conversation.

"Don't know what?"

"Remember Jay and Jodi throwing punches about who got to take Barbara out today?"

I still think she should be made aware of it.

"Throwing punches is an exaggeration. And we've seen Jodi beat the hell out of Jordan with a book for real. She was really calm today."

"Oh, right. Yeah, today was just a normal argument. No, I was referring to when they actually got physical about it."

Wait, what?

She started turning her head to look at him, but changed her mind, going back to her original position.

"What!? When was that?"

"I think... a week ago, or something? Remember when I asked you to keep Barbara busy and you got annoyed that I didn't tell you why? It was to prevent her from seeing their fight."

"Why?"

"Because she would've put an end to it and they needed to blow off some steam? A sane person doesn't get in between two campers settling a score. Same principle."

Is it the same thing?

Well, it's not like either of us knows them better than Peter or even Percy. If they say that's how it's, I'll believe it.

"Huh. Do they fight a lot?"

"Nothing that puts a strain on their friendship. Those three are like three squabbling siblings. They have these disagreements all the time."

"So I was right. Barbara is just the new toy, it's not about her."

"I mean, I don't think they see her as an object, but..."

"If she wasn't in the picture, they would just find something else to fight about it."

"Pretty much."

Told you.

I don't see how it makes it better.

"Still, why couldn't I know they were fighting a week ago?"

"Because I know you have a blood-thirst vein that would make you want to watch the fight and I needed you with Barbara."

She fought the smile that came out at that, thanking that we couldn't see her, and did her best to infuse her voice with as much disappointment as she could.

"And here I was, stupid girl, thinking you loved me."

"I do love you."

"What happened to 'anything for you'?"

"Jordan sent me the video from the camera he set up ahead of time."

Even without turning, she was sure he knew she was narrowing her eyes.

"Is this your way of saying you're sorry?"

And still, without turning, she knew he was smiling,

"Does it work?"

"A little bit. Who won?"

"By match, neither. But by points? Definitely Jodi. I can see her as one of your sisters."

"I can see it too. So, why did you bring them up?"

He nodded behind her in excitement, hugging her a little tighter.

"Right! So, you know how in every fight, there is always someone who just wants to see the world burn?"

"Is that you or Jordan?"

"In this particular case, Jordan. He told Barbara everything. Well, not everything, but about the constant argument. I'm sure if you check your phone, you'll likely see tons of texts from her."

"It ran out of battery. Which is why I didn't warn you to not come or to ask one of Annie's parents to come to get us."

"Fair enough. Anyway, she wasn't that happy from what he told me. She privately texted Jodi and Jay wanting to meet with them. Neither gloated to the other because they didn't want it interrupted. So they both showed up. To the same place. To find Barbara wanting to act as a mediator and get them to resolve their petty fight. Obviously, Jordan is there just to watch the chaos unfold."

She tried to imagine the argument from earlier with adding Barbara in the middle and her brain hurt.

"Oh, gods..."

Percy, on the other hand, sounded way too excited about it.

"I know, sounds glorious! By the way, how mentally stable is Barbara? Should I text Jordan to drag her out of there before she suffers a mental breakdown?"

What do you say?

I mean, I don't know how crazy they can get, but we already underestimated Barbara when Jay asked her on a date, I don't think we should do it again.

Fair enough.

"Annie said we should be safe. Barbara is more mentally stable than it seems."

"Works for me. Shall we keep going?"

"Yeah, I want to dive under my comforter and stay there at least until dinner."

He released her and stood up. She saw a flash of his bare forearms before he turned with his back to her. Picking up his cue, she climbed his back again, allowing him to adjust her position against him before relaxing against his back with a sigh.

What was that?

What was what?

That emotion.

What emotion?

I don't know, the one you just felt, when he was pushing his sleeves up.

Oh.

Oh? So you know what I'm referring to?

Yeah, I do.

Are you going to share with the class?

I just miss seeing Percy's arms like that.

Uh... sleeves pushed up?

No, without the legion tattoo.

Wait, I remember you saying it was a Roman thing?

It is.

And Percy is Greek? Why does he have the legion tattoo? I don't remember you telling me that? Did you?

I don't remember, maybe I skipped. I don't really like the tattoo.

Why, is it ugly? Or you don't like tattoos in general?

I don't like how the legion burns the skin of their demigods like cattle.

Burns?

Percy told me it just gets magically burned into your skin. And it's not really a choice, once you pass your probation, you're part of the legion. And as such, they need to permanently mark you, like declaring to the world that you belong to their cattle.

Oh, okay. For a moment, I thought Percy chose to get so you were scared of him leaving you for a Roman girl. You did say Reyna hit on him at one point, didn't you?

First of all, Percy would not leave me. I know I have some abandonment issues, but after his amnesia, the Parthenos, and the pit, if I still doubt him, my own mother would disinherit me for being stupid. Second, I don't blame Reyna. She was lonely, desperate, cornered, and saw a powerful demigod that would help her, and was willing to use anything to get him on her side. And while I admire the Romans for a lot of things, I'm also Greek all the way, so I don't agree with a lot of things our 'cousins' do.

Like marking demigods like cattle.

Like marking them as property.

Are you sure that is the message they are trying to convey?

What do you think is the message?

I don't know, I'm not a demigod, let alone Roman, but maybe is about belonging in a community? Not like property, but by bonds, shared experience.

We do that at camp, with our beads.

And while I personally would prefer a necklace to have my arm burned... you can remove a necklace. You can steal it, hide it, destroy it. A tattoo is part of you. Like saying, even when you're naked as when you were born, your community, your friends, your bonds, your connections, they can't be taken away from you.

In that case, shouldn't it be done by choice?

But you said it yourself, that a lot of demigods have trouble feeling like they belong. Forcing the tattoo is like saying 'even if you don't believe it yet, you're one of us, you belong somewhere'.

We do that, everyone gets a bead, having been part of the event that inspired its design or not.

But don't you think like this excludes people?

What do you mean?

If you were part of that event, great, it's an excellent memory. Take the Golden Fleece. You were part of that quest, it holds a special meaning to you, but to someone who was in camp the whole time? I imagine it feels a little empty. I get that the Fleece is now part of the camp, but you can't say that it holds a special meaning to the others that didn't go on that quest. At least at the Roman camps, everyone is marked the same.

Yes, but they also have New Rome, a city made only of former legionaries, so they don't feel the need to leave camp.

Is that a bad thing?

When you put the two together, doesn't it sound a bit cult-like?

... Ok, maybe a little. But I thought you and Percy were supposed to go to New Rome for university?

We are, but that's mostly for Percy. He sneezes and three monsters surround him. The closest thing he had of a break since finding out he was a demigod was the six months of slumber Hera forced him into. And considering he was kidnapped for it, woke up amnesiac, fighting for his life again, and being manipulated by immortals, I don't know how much it counts.

So, you're only going because of him?

Honestly, going to college without worrying about being cornered by monsters either in class, cafes, dorm or library does have its appeal.

A/N: I know Annabeth sounded a bit whining, but I don't know... I see her yelling at her broken ankle but wanting to cry with period cramps. My boyfriend saw precisely one PMS and a normal period before I started taking the pill and, four years later, he still makes fun of me for crying over stupid things and whining in pain, while he also saw me wax different places of my body every month or two without even flinching. It's the irony for him and the cursed hormones for me. And I once carried my 3yo cousin on my back for almost ten minutes. And while she was tiny, she didn't get the whole concept of 'don't move and just hug me', so yeah, I know Percy needed a break. My boyfriend would likely carry me for full fifteen minutes, but he's an adult man a foot taller and almost twice my weight. Peter's body is a seventeen scrawny teen, he needs a break from carrying someone almost as big as him. Fanfic writers, remember this kind of physical limitations.

And I know I dropped out of Earth's surface out of nowhere, but I just couldn't find the motivation to write or even check Wattpad for months. But I'm in a better place now, mentally and emotionally speaking. More motivated to live, like my mom said (I wasn't depressed or anything, just didn't feel like it. It's not my first time toying with the idea of depression just to bounce back out of nowhere before anyone really gets worried). While I can't promise when the next chapter is coming up, mostly it doesn't have anything in it at the moment except 45 words of possible ideas, I should be a little more present.