Warm
The sort of warmness that sinks into your very bones, that was what I woke up to. I opened my eyes and found myself wrapped in the muscular arms of one Percy Jackson, surrounded by his warmth.
A shiver ran down my spine when I felt his breath on my neck as he held me from behind, his arm's hold on my waist tightening in his sleep. Like he knew I was awake and wanted to hold me with him in bed.
Heat of the intimate kind bloomed in me when I felt his arousal against my rump. Hard, hot, and ready pressed up between my cheeks. I felt my face heat up in anticipation and want as I remembered all that we did last night and well into the early morning. I glanced at the clock beside my bed to check the time.
6:20 AM
There was still plenty of time before we had to wake up, which was ideal.
Now that Piper was coming back any day now, I knew she was going to hog Percy to herself as soon as she got back. When that happens, I won't be able to get my fill of my fiancé for days.
That simply won't do!
Feeling determined, I decided to take advantage of the time I still had him all to myself.
With a small smile on my face, I decided to tease the sleeping hunk behind me. Pressing my behind closer to him, trapping his hardness between my softness, and wiggling my hips in a way I knew would wake him up, in a way I knew would rile him up. After just a few minutes, I felt Percy start to squirm behind me. His hands, already clinging to me, started to move up my breasts, drawing a smile on my face.
"Hmmm," I moaned when I felt his lips on my neck and shoulders, making me shiver as he peppered me with kisses.
"Good morning, baby!" I greeted Percy, moving my hips even more. Telling him what I wanted without telling him. I smiled when I felt his hands hold on to my breast and started to play with them.
"What do you think you're doing, Hazel?" Percy whispered near my ear. The gruffness of his voice made my core tremble with need. "Nothing," I replied, as nonchalantly as I could, despite how turned on I was. Then I felt his hands run down my skin as they went from my breasts to my hips, making me shiver some more. His hands settled on my hips as they held onto them. "Nothing?" he asked as my hips continued to grind against him.
"Uhh huh," I said coyly. Still facing away from him.
"If you keep doing this, then we won't be getting out of bed any time soon," Percy said, his voice laden with desire, mirroring my own. "And? Is that so bad?" I responded, my hands now going up my head and grabbing him by his hair as he proceeded to kiss me behind my ears.
"No, it's not!" Percy replied and turned me until I was on my back, his lips now on mine as he devoured me for all I was worth. His tongue ran over my lips, demanding entry, and I opened my mouth to allow him. I was never able to deny him anything. Not that I ever thought of denying him anything in the first place. Just as he has never denied me anything in return.
His tongue flicked and played with mine, teasing me in ways that brought about my "wild side," as he called it. I was always the more reserved one in our relationship. It took a bit from him to make me more comfortable with expressing my desire. But when I did, I was told that it was quite an experience.
And so as I felt his hand wander all over my body, my blood started to boil, and my need for him became unbearable. Suddenly, my hands were on his shoulder, and I was pushing him off me. Then I turned him over until he was the one on his back on the bed. Then I swung my leg over him, straddling him, trapping his hard length between our bodies. All that while keeping our lips connected.
"Whoa!" Percy gasped as I pushed myself off him, bracing myself with my hands on his hard, heaving chest. I stared at his eyes as they widen in shock and awe over what I just did. "That was,." he started saying but was cut off when I began to grind on his hardness even more. Leaving no doubt as to what I wanted from him.
I smirked as I watched his eyes flutter close from the pleasure I was giving him. Pride swelled in my chest at the thought that I was the cause of this man's undoing. Something that countless Gods and Titans were unable to do.
"Too much?" I asked, making Percy's eyes open wide. "Not enough!" he answered as he made a grab of my face, pulling me down to him as we continued our heated kiss. After a while, one of my hands went and grabbed his hot length and lined it up to my needy core. Slowly, I pushed down and engulfed it as I gasped into his mouth.
"Fuck! You're so tight!" Percy groaned out as I sat on him, slowly getting used to the feeling of fullness him being inside me brought. No matter how many times we do this, the feeling of being stretched to the limit never really goes away. Add to that his large size and my petiteness bring about so much pleasure to both of us.
After a while, I got used to having him inside me. I looked down to see Percy gazing up at me with nothing but love and a whole lot of lust in his eyes. "Are you ready?" I asked as I started to lift my hips up along his length. My breath hitching with every inch of him leaving me. Then Percy placed his hands on my hips, and without looking away, pulled me down until he was sheathed all the way in me again, making me shout in pleasure.
"For you, baby, always," was Percy's response.
And so the room began to fill with the sounds of our loving making. Well into the morning, only stopping until we absolutely needed to.
---------line break---------
It was 8:30 in the morning, 2 hours since I woke up.
2 hours spent having mind-breaking sex with the son of the father of horses, the son of the Earth-shaker himself. As always, when making love with Percy, he seems to bring out the storm in me and the others that share his bed. Which is soaked now.
I laid down on the bed as I heaved, my body recovering from the pleasurable pain it went through as the son of the Earth-shaker shook me to my very core with his battering ram of an organ. Which he used with great efficiency to break down the dam to my floodgates.
I turned my head to my left and gazed at the open door to my bathroom. Where the sounds of running water can be heard, an open invitation left by Percy for me to join him in the shower. One I was so tempted to accept, except for the fact that every female in this mansion knows that Percy in the water, in any form. Is a different beast all together?
As we all found out from the times we all indulged in him in the pool. We discovered that having "Fun" with Percy while he is in water would take all of us and the better part of the day to even tire him out. The water acts as a charger for him, extending his endurance and stamina. Much to our delight and detriment. When that happens, we all need to dedicate our whole day to keeping up with him. Ending with all of us girls, exhausted and him energized and elated.
So, despite how tempting his invitation is, I wouldn't take him up for it. At least not while we have guests present. Guests, who I had no doubt heard all that happened in this room again. I sighed as I braced myself for the teasing I was going to get from Clarisse today. I closed my eyes and rested my body as I waited for Percy to finish up in the bathroom so I could clean myself up too.
The next thing I knew, I was being shaken awake by Percy, who had already finished cleaning up and was now wrapped up in a towel from the waist down. "Hazel, wake up. I'm done with the shower."
"I feel asleep?" I asked groggily as I sat up still naked. Not bothering to cover up. "You must have been tired," he said as he looked me over, eyes darkening with lust once again. "I wonder why?" I retorted as I shoved him back as he tried to get on the bed with me again. "Hey! I'm not the one who started all this!" Percy retorted back, hands up as if surrendering. Though his eyes were alight with humor.
I smiled and leaned over and kissed him briefly. Then I stood up and made my way to the bathroom. "I'm going to take a shower now!" I said, then I turned around and pointed a finger at him. "And you are not invited!" I told him. I smirked as Percy looked on with shock, then I turned, entered my bathroom, and locked the door behind me.
I giggled as I heard Percy yell how I would pay for that. Then I heard the door to my room open and close, signifying him leaving to go back to his own room to dress up for the day. I sighed and went to take a shower, washing the remnants of our love-making left over my body. Making sure I was at least presentable to our friends, even though I knew they knew what I was up to last night and this morning.
After a satisfying hot shower, I was cleaned and dressed for the day. I left my room and headed down to the kitchen for a much needed breakfast. All the physical action so early in the day has got me famished. Fortunately, Ruby and Aethra were the only ones in the kitchen. Both girls who also know what it's like to be the object of Percy's desire in the morning.
"Good morning, girls!" I greeted them both as I entered the room.
"Good morning, Mistress Hazel!" they replied with knowing smiles. We've all learned to read each other's expressions during the time we've lived together. So I knew they both heard me and Percy go at it this morning. It was easier for me to ignore their knowing looks, as I too give them the same looks when they are the ones in my shoes. Such is the way our lives have been since being under the care of Percy Jackson.
"Breakfast? Or have you had your fill?" Aethra asked, teasingly as she raised an eyebrow at me. I blushed at the innuendo but nevertheless accepted her offer. "I'll have breakfast, please. I'm still hungry," I said, returning the grin back to her.
After a couple of more minutes of banter between the three of us, I finished breakfast and headed to the home office, where I would spend the rest of the day handling the admin side of running the business. Which includes answering a few emails. inquiring about the status of the two stores we run. Checking on a few orders we have ongoing and reaching out to the staff in both stores, making sure we have all bases covered.
The visits of our friends have derailed some of our plans, like visiting the two stores. But it was a worthy interruption to our routines and plans.
I was replying to some inquiries from a few designers about a possible collaboration between us when I heard a knock on the door. "Come in!" I called out, and Ruby opened the door and entered.
"Mistress, Master Percy requests that you join him in the workshop." Ruby announced all formal. This was weird; Percy never does this. I wonder what he wants now. I nodded, locked the PC, and followed Ruby out of the office to the workshop outside the mansion. I noticed how empty the place was but figured the others must be doing their own thing.
When we reached the workshop, I found not just Percy. But Clarisse, Malcolm, and Will were also present. They all smiled as they saw me, which made me smile back. But it also made me wonder what exactly was going on.
"Why are you all here?" I asked them.
"Percy told me that he was going to finish the piece he was working on today, and I wanted to see the finished product," Malcolm answered. "I've been waiting for Prissy to finish this so we can have that spar!" was Clarisse's reason. "I had nothing else to do!" was all Will said.
The three talked all at once, so I just nodded and turned to Percy standing by his workbench, smiling that trouble-making smile that makes the butterflies in my stomach have a riot. I returned his smile and stepped closer to him.
"What's with all the drama? You could have just brought the set to the office for me to see," I asked him.
Percy smiled and answered. "I could have yes, but I wanted to do something different this time."
I rolled my eyes at his reasons but decided to play along. He reached down and grabbed a rectangular red velvet box with gold lines running all over the edge. He held it up for me to open, which I did. Inside was a set of fine platinum chain necklaces with the same metal for the pendant set, with a huge sapphire in the center surrounded by diamonds. It was accompanied by a pair of blue tear-drop shaped diamond earrings set in platinum studs.
Necklace
earrings
Wonderfully crafted just like the rest of Percy's creations.
"They're perfect, Percy! I'm sure the customer will love them!" I complemented him with a wide smile. I was so proud of him and his accomplishments, which made him smile back. Seeing him smile and happy was one of the best things in the world for me.
"Thank you, Hazel!" Percy said, taking back the box and placing it back on the table. Then he reached behind him and pulled out from his back pocket a gold bracelet.
A bracelet of braided gold. here
I watched in silence as Percy took my left arm and wrapped the bracelet around my wrist. After locking it in place. He took my arm and raised it to his lips and kissed the back of my hand like a proper southern gentleman would.
"And this is for you! As thanks for all you do for me," he said while looking deep in my eye, his eyes reflecting nothing but love for me. My eye stung with tears as I gasped for breath. Overwhelmed by the sheer amount of love and adoration he had for me. My chest couldn't contain my feeling anymore, making me grab his face and pull him down so I could kiss him.
I kissed him deeply, forgetting that we had an audience, until I heard a clapping beside us. I pushed Percy away and glanced back at our friends, at Clarisse, who was wearing an all-knowing grin. And Malcolm and Will, who were blushing at the display of affection. I smiled sheepishly at them, then announced.
"Sorry about that guys, I'm afraid you'll have to excuse ourselves as we have something to discuss in private," I told them as I began to pull Percy out of the workshop and back to his room. Where I could show him how much I love and appreciate him and everything he does.
"We do?" Percy asked like an idiot as he followed me out.
"Yes, we do!" I said, looking at him. The expression on my face must have clued him in to what I wanted as he smiled lecherously.
"Oh yeah! See you guys later!" He said as he waved at the others.
Percy whistled all the way to his room. As soon as we entered and closed the door, I pushed him to his bed harshly as he landed on his back, his feet dangling off the edge.
"Whoa! Easy there!" he said, stifling his laughter.
I ignored him and began to tug on his pants, pulling them down to his ankles. Once they were off, I stood and saw that he was getting up. I hissed at him and placed my hand on his chest and pushed. His eyes widened at my actions, and he fell back down on the bed, letting me take the lead again. I placed my hand on both knees and pushed them wide apart. "Oh gods!" He gasped in surprise while I smiled at seeing what I was craving for.
Already he was hard and ready, as he always was when it came to this kind of thing. licking my lips, I kneeled between his legs and grabbed him at the base, his musk making my head heady and my mouth water. Not wanting to waste anymore time. I started to feast on the heavenly meal that is my fiancé, all laid down in front of me.
*smut scene*
I brought my face closer until my nose was pressed right under his penis. I inhaled deeply, shivering as his scent washed over my senses. "Hazel, baby! Calm down," Percy said. "You stay right there, Percy! Let me do this for you!" I replied, stroking his entire length with my right hand while my left cupped his heavy balls.
I leaned back and marveled at the perfect form of his manhood. 10 inches of pure demigod flesh. Thick enough, my hands couldn't wrap around it with one hand. Balls that were heavy with seed even though he just released 3 rounds worth of it earlier. And sturdy enough to fight against my stoking hand.
'He really is perfect!' I thought as I brought my face closer again, this time my tongue came out of my mouth as I licked him from his balls, running my tongue all the way up to the tip. Lapping up the droplet of arousal that escaped the slit.
salty,
addictive,
A taste I grew to love in the time I spent with him.
I was never really a fan of oral, both giving and receiving. Even when I was with Frank, it was this aspect of sex I never really enjoyed. Until Percy, that is. Him being who he is proved that he was just better than any other man there is. His eagerness and enthusiasm to show me the pleasures of oral sex brought about a curiosity within me. A curiosity that was never piqued by Frank.
And the skill with which Percy performed this act. It was mind-boggling. His tongue took on the aspect of an eel. Slimy, wriggling, and electric. Shocking me with bolts of pleasure as it attacked my core. His endurance was proven as he lived up to his name as a son of Poseidon. Staying down under for what seems like hours before needing to come up for air.
All those made me want to give back all that he has given and done for me. At first, it was with a sense of duty that I did it. Giving back, and as a girlfriend and harem member, I was duty bound to serve him. But as time passed, I did it to him more and more. I grew to love the act itself.
Add to that his reactions to my ministrations, how I made him shiver in delight as I tasted him. To hear him moan and gasp as I took him in my mouth. To hear him pant and groan as he fought for control as I stroked him to completion. To see the love and admiration shining in his eyes as he gazed upon me while I was on my knees in front of him. Like I was a goddess and him my priest, His devotion and worship apparent despite our positions.
Well, after all that. I was hooked.
And I took to serving him with my mouth every chance I got. Which was most of the time, given that our home is an isolated slice of the world. And those who share it with us would be more than willing to do the same to him as I do.
"Fuck!" was all Percy said as his hands clutched the sheets of his bed. My tongue now roaming up and down his shaft, enjoying the warmth of his flesh against the coolness of my saliva. "Are you enjoying yourself, master?" I asked coyly. Playing the game he only allows in our beds.
"You are doing very well, pet!" He replied, playing along as he reached down and caressed my head lovingly. My heart beat widely at his touch, making me shiver down my spine. Letting go of every restraint, I sat up on my knees and opened my mouth. My tongue came out and licked and swirled around the head of his shaft, an action that earned me a groan from the man I currently had in front of me. Then finally I took it in fully in my mouth.
Inch by inch, he sank in my mouth as I swallowed his length; slowly but surely, he disappeared in my mouth. A feat that took me months of practice and dedication to perfect. Something that I was very proud of, something that I take pride in doing.
"Holy crap!" Percy exclaimed as I bottomed out. My lips are wrapped at the base of his length. He writhed in pleasure as I swallowed around him, using my throat muscles to massage his shaft. He's now holding my head in place but not pushing me down. Letting me know that I was still in control. I glanced up and saw him looking down at me, eyes shining with love, and that did it for me.
With a gulp, I pulled up while clamping my lips around him. Dragging my tongue on the underside of his rod. Once only the head was inside my mouth, I looked back at him, then I winked and dropped back down again.
"Shist!"
Was all he could say as I began to really work on him, moving at a pace I knew he liked best. Soon the room was filled with his moans and groans as I was left to gag and slurp all over him. Doing my best to give pleasure to the man who has given me the world and more.
The man who I have given my heart to and who has given me his heart in return.
*smut end*
I was sitting in front of the dresser, wiping down the mess we made on my face and trying to fix up my hair. I looked at the bed in the mirror's reflection to see my man, Percy Jackson, still lying down with a stupid grin on his face. His lower half still bare for the world to see.
Well, not really the world; I'm the only other person in the room, but it was still pretty much exposed. And it was very tempting to look at—still big even if it was soft for the moment. I learned that Percy could get in the mood at a snap. And as fun as that sounded, we have guests, and it was nearing lunch time. No doubt we would be subjected to a lot of teasing when we emerge from this room.
I sighed as I thought about what was waiting for us.
"What's wrong?" Percy asked, hearing me sigh. I turned and faced him as he sat up, still undressed from the waist down. His shaft dangling between his legs, satiated for now.
"I'm just dreading what the others are going to say when we go down for lunch," I told him.
I watched as he smiled. He stood and came over to me. He held my shoulder and squeezed. "It's going to be okay, Hazel; we're all grown ups here. They'll understand," he told me as he began rubbing my shoulders. He tried to assuage my concern. And it would have worked too, if not for his shaft almost hitting me on the face.
I pushed him away playfully and told him to get dressed.
"Get dressed already, Percy! It's almost lunch time!" I told him, earning me a snicker as he went back to the bed, pulling his pants back on. While he was getting dressed, I got up and went to the bathroom. Wanting to brush my teeth and wash my face, my attempt at looking presentable.
---------line break---------
Percy and I walked hand in hand as we made our way down to the dining room. I stopped as we came upon the entrance. Percy looked at me as I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. After a few seconds I steeled my nerves and walked in with Percy close behind me.
Immediately, all eyes were on us as we strode in and went to our seats. I could feel the stares pointed at me but chose to ignore them. I wasn't until I was seated when the first of the teasing remarks came my way.
"Oh! You're still having lunch? I would have thought you were full already!" Clarisse said, a teasing grin on her face. Malcolm looked away while Will tried to hold in his laughter. I tried to ignore her, but I figured she wouldn't stop even if I did that, so I figured why not play her own game?
"I don't know about you, Clarisse, but one serving isn't enough to satisfy me. Maybe that's enough for you, or maybe that's all Chis can give you." I retorted with a smirk, looking straight at her.
"Ohhh!" Will whooped from beside Malcolm while the son of Athena coughed in shock.
We stared at each other, willing the other to fold first, while Percy and the rest just watched in amusement. Our stalemate was broken when Rose and Blueberry came in with our lunch.
"Nice, come back, Levesque!" Clarisse stated with a grin. While that was nice and good, I wouldn't want to end this in her apparent win. So I sat up and looked her straight in the eye and said my final piece.
"Oh, I wouldn't know about that, I've never given Percy any of his comeback," I said with a grin of my own as I watched her eyes widen in shock and disbelief. Percy, sitting beside me was taken aback as he turned to me. His eye bugged out.
After a while, Clarisse began to laugh, which caused me to giggle. After laughing, we nodded at each other, and we started our lunch. We did our usual offering to the gods and proceeded to eat while enjoying each other's company.
It was a few hours after lunch, Percy and I were relaxing by the pool with the others when the alarm went off again. Expecting it this time, Clarisse and the others weren't as startled as last time. "It seems your father is here," Percy told me as he gazed past the barrier, near the road to the highway.
"Aethra, darling, can you go and welcome our guest outside the border, please?" Percy asked one of the nymphs. I was about to stand and go with her when Clarisse stood up. "I'm going with her; I'm dying of boredom here!" She said as she joined Aethra in welcoming our newest guest.
"I really need to get to that spar with her," Percy said as we watched the two of them walk down the driveway to the edge of the clearing. "You can go at it tomorrow," I told him, making him smile and kiss me on the cheek.
"Let's go back inside and wait for them there," I announced as I stood up, Percy and the rest following behind me. We all went to the hall by the front door and waited to welcome the newest addition to our home. It took around 5 minutes of waiting until we heard people on the other side of the door. I held Percy's hand in nervousness, and he brought our hands to his lips and kissed mine, in show of support and love.
The door opened, and Aethra came in, followed by Clarisse and someone I haven't seen in a long time. I stared as my half brother, Nico, came in my home. I watched as Nico stared back at me, then he glanced at the others before looking around the place. Then he turned back to Percy again. I held my breath, waiting for him to speak, but he stepped towards us instead.
Before I knew it, I was engulfed in Nico's arms as he embraced me tightly. I haven't noticed, but Nico is a lot taller than me now, about half a foot taller. So much time has gone by that he's grown into a good-looking man while I was away. I felt a bit guilty for hiding my whereabouts, but I knew it was necessary.
I returned his hug just as tightly. "I missed you," Nico whispered. "Me too," I replied.
We hugged for a few minutes, then we parted and smiled as we gazed at each other. Then Percy stepped up and came beside us with a smile of his own. "Hey Nico! It's been a while." He greeted my brother, his hands out intending to shake hands.
I watch as Nico turns to Percy, looks at his outstretched hand, and backs to him. Nico lifted his hand, and I thought he was going to take Percy's, but he didn't.
"Smack!" "Thud"
"Nico!" I yelled as I saw my brother punch my fiancé. Before the protective instinct of being a harem member could kick in, I saw Nico reach down to Percy, who was down on the floor with his hand. Percy, who was holding his jaw, grabbed the hand and pulled himself up.
"Nice punch!" was all Percy said.
"That's for disappearing for 7 years!" Nico growled as he pulled Percy up.
I saw Percy about to answer when Nico surged forward and wrapped his arms around the older men in a tight embrace. Percy, stunned for a bit, returned the hug just as tightly.
"This is for helping Hazel," I heard Nico say from within Percy's embrace.
I watched with teary eyes as the two most important men in my life reconnect once more.
---------line break---------
After that dramatic scene, I took Nico to the pool area, where we could talk privately. I asked Rose for some drinks and a light snack we could share as we discussed things, as I knew Nico would have questions for me.
As we sat down, I took a moment to really study Nico. He was taller, yes, but more importantly, he was healthier. His body might not be as muscular as Percy's, but he was fit. And his eyes had that glow in them. Gone was the apathetic look from his eyes, replaced by a happier glow.
I was glad and very happy with that.
I was taken out of my thoughts by Nico asking me a question. A question I have been asked multiple times now. But it was still very much a loaded question.
"Are you okay, Hazel?"
Nico's question wasn't just about my physical well-being. But my overall wellness, including the situation I have with Percy, with him being sent here by our father, I knew the harem was already explained to him, so that was a load off my shoulder.
I smiled and tried to convey that I really was okay and that I was happy here. "Yes, Nico, I'm okay."
"And you're sure about Percy?" he followed up. I smiled; he was acting how I think a brother would act when finding out his sister was with a boy. A bit late in my case since Percy was more than just a boyfriend, he's my fiancé. But it was still cute and endearing.
"I've never been more sure of anything, Nico," I answered full of conviction.
Nico was quiet for a bit as he got my answer. "Well, congratulations on your engagement then," he finally said, scratching the back of his head. A habit that he shared with Percy. I suddenly remembered that Nico basically grew up looking up to Percy. And I found that very funny.
"What happened, Hazel? Why did you leave?" Nico suddenly asked, and I sighed.
"If I tell you, you have to promise me that you won't go and attack Frank, okay?" I asked Nico. I wouldn't want for my ex to be the subject of Nico's ire.
"Father already explained that he was blameless in this, I promise," he retorted when I started at him, making him agree to my request.
I smiled, then I braced myself.
"It started the day I ended things with Frank." I started as the scenes of that faithful day played in my mind.
---------flashback---------
Grey
Grey as far as my eyes can see. Such was the scene unfolding before me. But I knew it shouldn't be. I have left this place behind, taken from here by my brother. And brought back to the world of color and light.
So why was I again surrounded by nothing by gray and the spirits of the dead that wander aimlessly, muttering words that have no meaning? Looking at me with eyes devoid of life.
I shouldn't be here, I thought to myself, and yet, I knew this is where I originally belonged. Decades I've spent here, wandering like the listless spirits going around me. Dead like the rest of them.
No! I shouted deep in my mind. I am Hazel Levesque, a daughter of Pluto. Lord of the dead. I aided in the fight against the giants and Gaia herself. One of the prophesied seven. I was not supposed to end up here.
I tried to walk away when I suddenly found myself unable to take a step. I looked down and stared in horror.
No!
My feet were turning into roots, digging deep in the barren soil of asphodel. Rooting me in place. I bent down and tried to tug them free to no avail. Panic started to overwhelm me as the implications of what was happening dawned on me.
I was not leaving this place, not for the second time.
No! I shouted, but no sound came from my lips. Like the countless shades milling about, I was silent as a grave. Try as I might, no one was here to hear me.
Frantically, I turned towards the direction of my father's palace. Only to find that it was so far away in the distance I would be unseen no matter what I do. I tried praying to my father, but the dead's prayers never reached his ears.
I trashed and pulled at my feet, all to escape, but I was powerless to do anything.
I cried at the injustice.
I cried at the unfairness.
I cried for the gray that was enveloping me.
I cried, for it was all I could do.
Suddenly, my eyes opened. I took a deep breath and found my throat to be hurting. I looked around and despaired. Darkness and gray. That was all I could see. I cried and I heard myself scream.
"No!" I screamed and screamed. Until my throat hurt so much, yet I screamed some more. I curled and found I could move, and I curled into a ball, and I screamed and cried some more.
I don't remember how long I cried. Curled into a ball in the darkness when suddenly, light pierced through the darkness and blinded me, making me close my eyes.
"Hazel!"
I heard a familiar voice call my name; suddenly I was being shaken. Hands pried, my arms coiled around my head. I fought against it, screaming for it to let me go. I screamed and screamed until my head was forced to look upon the intruder's face, and suddenly I was silenced.
All of a sudden, memories came back to me. Recognition came upon my mind as I saw the concerned face looking upon me.
Frank.
My boyfriend.
I wasn't back in the underworld,
Nightmare.
"Frank?" I asked tentatively, still reeling from the visions and the nightmare. "Yes, Hazel, it's me. Your safe," Frank said softly, hands rubbing my arms. I cried the moment clarity came over me. I launched myself at him and buried myself in his chest. I felt his arms go around me, holding me in place as he rubbed my back and whispered assurances in my ear.
After a while, I was calm enough to figure that Frank was still wearing his praetor toga, meaning he's just come back from the Senate. Not for the first time he's been gone all night or he's stayed late working. Being praetor comes with such hardships; I've accepted it. I've anticipated it even, I was praetor too at some point. But the weight of that responsibility made my mental burden even worse than it already was. So I did the most logical thing to do, I gave it up and focused on getting better.
For months now, I tried to get a better handle on my mentality. But it seems to be getting worse and worse. Tonight was the worst attack I've had. But what made it even worse was that there was no one here with me. Resentment bubbled up in me as I figured out that I woke up from my nightmare hours ago. I woke up in the darkness of the bedroom and was alone.
"You were gone," I said as I pushed myself off Frank. Anger replacing the dread I felt earlier. Unreasonable as it may be, I felt very angry at him at the moment. Even though I understood why he was gone. My fractured, unreasonable mind chose to target him instead.
"I was alone, and YOU were GONE!" I was starting to raise my voice now, and Frank was stunned. I could see how taken aback he is by my reaction. I pushed off the bed and started pacing the room. "Hazel, I'm sorry, but I just got back," he tried to say. His reason was valid, I admit. But I wasn't willing to accept it.
"You are always gone!" I shouted, facing him now. "I needed you, and you weren't here!" Tears were flowing down my eyes now. Frustration and anger overwhelming me. And Frank just sat there on the bed, like a deer in headlights. I can see the confusion in his eyes, he really didn't know what to do. How can he help me if he doesn't know what to do in this scenario?
"I'm really sorry, Hazel, the meeting," I cut him off, not interested in his excuses. No matter how valid they are.
"I don't care about that! I needed you and you're always gone!" I was being really unreasonable, and I saw Frank getting fed up with it. This wasn't the first time he's had to deal with my nightmares or my reactions to them. But this has been the worst it's been. And he didn't have a clue how to navigate it. And I didn't have the patience to wait for him to learn.
"Well, I'm sorry! I have responsibilities! Duties I need to fulfill for the city! Duties you left for me to take care of!" Frank exploded, standing up and towering over me. I gaped at him. Is he really blaming me for choosing to take care of myself instead of leading an entire city of adults and warriors? Is he really putting the blame of him not having enough time for me on my decision to retire from praetorship.
Is he really saying that he could find the time to balance his duties and his relationships?
Hearing that made me snap.
How dare he place the blame on me?
Other couples could and would talk and find away to fix their problems without blaming each other. But it seems that all we've done since the end of the war was fight and isolate ourselves from each other. Instead of working to get closer, we've gradually pushed each other away.
Me, pulling back and leaving Frank to deal with the duties of leadership.
Him burying himself with his responsibilities in leading, he forgot about me.
Well, maybe he didn't forget me. But he clearly has not prioritized me and instead has chosen to focus on his duties. He may have valid reasons, but for me, it was the wrong ones.
"So it's my fault?" I retorted.
"No! That's not what I meant!" He tried to explain, but he was very clear with his words earlier.
"Clearly it was! You're blaming me for leaving you behind to lead!" I shot back.
I watched him run his hands over his face in frustration, unable to find words to calm me down. I don't think there would be words that could do that at this point.
"I don't know what else to say, Hazel. I'm not trying to blame you or anything, but I've got my duties. I can't leave them for anybody else," Frank said softly, the heat in his voice gone as he finally calmed down.
Hearing the resignation in his voice took out all the fight from me. I collapsed on the bed and accepted there was no fixing this.
"So you chose to leave me behind," I said after a while. Hearing me, Frank tried to reach out, but I held up my hand.
"That was not my intent, Hazel," he said, trying to justify his act.
"It doesn't matter what your intent was, Frank. The fact is you chose your duty for the legion over me. I needed help, and you weren't here to offer it. I need someone beside me, and I was left all alone even though you were supposed to be beside me," I said, letting it all out.
"I don't think it's working between us, Frank," I said truthfully. "Not anymore" I added with an air of finality.
"What do you mean?" he asked, playing dumb. Or maybe he still didn't get it.
"It means we are done, Frank. I can't keep living like this. I can't always be the one waiting to see if you will have any spare time for me or not." I decided to spell it out for him. No more confusing words or unannounced thoughts.
I gave it to him. Plain and simple.
"You don't mean that, Hazel; give me time I can," he started to say, but again I cut him off.
"Stop Frank! Let's not make it any harder for ourselves." I held out my hand and stopped him, my mind made up, my heart shattering.
"It was great between us when we had the same goal. But now we were like two rivers going down two different directions," I explained as he hung his head, defeated.
I stood and came by his side and held his hands. "Thank you for staying by me until now, Frank. I hope you happiness in the future." I wished him well, and when I let go of his hand, he held on for a minute longer before letting go.
I looked up at Frank, studying his face for the last time. Then I left, heading for my place in the city. A place I have not been in for the last few months.
---------flashback end---------
I paused, looking at Nico as he digested what I just shared with him. He was silent as he gazed away, chewing his bottom lip, deep in thought. I don't know what he knows about my break up with Frank. But I believe my father would have told him at least something.
"So, Frank didn't break up with you?" Nico asked after a while.
"What? No! I broke up with him," I clarified.
Nico sighed, then he looked at me. His mouth was moving as if to ask a question, but he wasn't sure how to say it. I waited for him, knowing he would get to it eventually.
"So after you left Frank, what happened next?" he asked finally, though I'm sure it wasn't the question he had trouble asking.
'How cute,' I thought, deciding to humor him for now.
"After I left, I went back to my room in the city. I stayed there for about 2 days, just crying all alone." I started. "I didn't sleep all that time, and it took a toll. Finally, I called out to father, and thankfully, he answered."
"He appeared right after, and he took one look at me and took me in his arms." I felt myself smile at the memory. "Father held me for a long time before he told me of what he planned to do in order to help me," I added.
"His plan to send you to Percy?" Nico asked, head tilted to the side.
"Yes, he did tell me that he needed to talk to Percy first, so he took me down in the underworld while he went to Percy," I answered before continuing.
"And how did the meeting with Percy go?" he asked, and I got the feeling it was this question he tried to ask earlier. I paused for a moment, getting my thoughts in order.
"It went well, all things considered," I replied, then I went and told him about meeting Percy.
---------Flashback---------
I was sitting in my room in my father's palace in the underworld. It's been 2 days since he took me down here and informed me that he will be sending me to Percy. I wanted to go to him immediately after he told me of him, but father said he needed to ask Percy first. Something about his place being forbidden to gods or something like that.
I was very excited when I heard that I was going to be sent to him. It's been years since he disappeared, and I missed him a lot. I was among the first to try to look for him when he went away, and I was among the ones that never really forgave Annabeth for what she'd done.
Honestly, I never understood how she could have done such a thing to him.
I was taken out of my thoughts when I heard a knock on my door. A moment later I opened it to reveal my father, standing behind it with a small smile on his face. "How are you, Hazel?" he asked as a way of greeting. "I'm good," I replied with a nod, smiling in return.
"I just here to tell you that Perseus has agreed with my request. He just needs to talk to you first, so he can explain the rules and a few other things before you decide if you want to start living with him in his land." father said as I came to stand before him.
"So, when do we meet?" I asked quite excitedly. As thankful as I am to my father, I still did not like spending time in the underworld. The call of asphodel was too strong given it's proximity.
"Now," my father said, surprising me.
"Now?" I repeated.
"He is waiting for you in the eastern garden," was all Father said before he disappeared in a swirl of shadows. I stood there petrified. I was not ready, I wasn't even presentable! While I was sure Percy wouldn't care how I looked. I did. Quickly, I closed the door and went to the bathroom. I took a quick shower, dressed and left the room. Heading to the garden as pointed out by father, excited to meet my long lost friend.
When I reached the garden, I went to the center, where the fountain with a few benches was located. I saw a tall, muscular man standing by the fountain. I noticed the water of the fountain floating, morphing into all sorts of shapes. I smiled until I remembered that the water in the fountain was from the river Styx.
'How is he doing that?' I asked myself, watching in wonder as Percy played with the water from a river in the underworld, a river that was outside of his father's influence. I suddenly remembered a story about Percy I heard back at camp. About how Percy managed to control all five of the underworld's rivers. Something that was believed to be an impossibility. But he managed to do it anyway.
Shaking my head, I continued on my way and called for him when I was only steps away. "Percy!" I shouted as I ran to him. I saw him turn toward me as I jumped to his arms. Immediately, muscled arms wrapped around my form as he spun me around and around. "Hey Hazel, it's good to see you," Percy said with a smile as he looked down on me while setting me back down. I smiled back, but quickly, I leaned my head to his chest. Burying my face in his chest as I felt myself let go of all the frustrations and hurt I've had.
Tears streamed down my face as I cried, letting go and giving myself to his care as I clung to him for all I was worth. Percy, for his part, just held me, his hands rubbing my back as he kept silent while I wailed and cried in his arms.
We stayed like that for a while until I felt all cried out. I pushed myself off him and blushed as I saw a wet patch on his shirt from my tears. I smiled as I sniffled. "Sorry about that," I told him, looking at his shirt as I rubbed my eyes. Percy looked down and smiled, and with a wave of his hand, he dried his shirt instantly. "Don't worry about it." He said as he held my hand and led me to one of the benches around.
Once we were sitting down, Percy sat down and looked at me with a serious expression. "Hades told me what happened. Are you sure you want to stay with me?" he asked, all serious. I took a minute to compose myself some more before replying. "It's better than staying alone either here or up top," I answered.
Percy studied me for a minute as I started at him. Then he nodded. "I've already agreed with Hades, but before you make your decision, there are things I must tell you about me and the land granted to me," he said. I saw a little bit of nervousness and apprehension in his eyes, and I braced myself for what he was going to tell me.
"Have you been told of what happened to me? Of why I left and what was given to me as a reward?" He asked first. "I was told about the land and that it was protected against the gods; that's why Father had to go and ask you first." I explained what I knew.
Percy nodded, then he closed his eyes and sighed deeply. Once he opened them again, there was a determined expression on his face. "That's right, gods or any other immortals cannot enter my domain without my permission. It also means that they cannot force me to do anything for them. That's why hades had to ask me for this favor. But that was only one of my two wishes," he said before pausing.
"That was the wish for Freedom I asked of them. The other was for Safety, safety from monsters, I mean. What that meant was that me and anybody that is connected to me would be free from monsters attacking them. It means that me and anybody with me would be free from the scent and won't be hunted by monsters again." He continued, shocking me.
"Why was this not given to us before?" I asked in my shock. wondering why the gods withheld this from us.
Percy gave me a wan smile. "That's because, to grant it, the gods had to curse the person," he said, adding to my shock. "That means," I started, but he cut me off. "That meant I am cursed, yes," he said with a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
I reached out and grasped his hands. "Are you okay?" I asked, worried for him. "I'm fine, Hazel, really." He tapped my hand, then he continued. "The curse doesn't really affect me physically, or in any other way. Unless certain conditions are met, only then will it's effects affect me. And those that are around me, or with me." He babbled; his explanation didn't make any sense. What kind of curse was it?
"Then what effects does the curse have on you? What was the curse anyway?" I asked, now extremely curious. Percy looked at me, hesitating to answer. He looked down for a minute, then he sighed and looked back at me. "Before I tell you, I need you to understand that I had no choice in the matter. And that I'll accept whatever you decide to do at the end," he said, then he swallowed and continued. And what he told me after shocked me to the very core of my being.
"The curse the gods placed on me was The curse of the harem." Percy said. "What?" I asked again, thinking I heard wrong. Percy sighed, rubbed his temples, and repeated his words. "The curse of the Harem, you heard right the first time, Hazel." Hearing it the second time didn't really clear things up for me. What was going on here? A harem? Is that what I think it is? And why did my father think of sending me to a Harem? Even if it was with Percy?
I was sure my face was showing the shock I felt, based on Percy's eye widening as he looked at me. His mouth opened, but I beat him to speaking. "Is my father sending me off to you as a slave?" I asked him incredulously. Percy let go of my hand and waved them in front of me. "What! No!" He denied it, but what could it be other than that? A harem he said. "Let me explain! Please!" His pleading was so immediate and sincere, I was taken aback. I paused and thought for a bit. In the end I agreed to listen to him first.
I nodded, then I leaned back away from him. I saw him sigh in relief, and I had to stop myself from smiling. It was just like Percy to be like that. "Thanks," he thanked me before continuing. "First of all, you are not being sent to me as a slave or anything like that. I was just explaining to you what was done to me by the gods, so you won't be surprised when you choose to live with me," he started. "If I decide," I reminded him. He nodded. "Secondly, just because your going to be living with me doesn't mean you have to be a member of the Harem." he added, confusing me. "What? But you said," I said, but this time, he cut me off. "I said I was gifted the harem curse, not that you have to join. It's just that I would rather you know what's happening around you instead of being kept in the dark," he explained.
"Why tell me about it though?" I asked. "Because I don't want to keep it a secret, and like I said, if you do decide to live with me, then you'll know about it immediately, since the others living with me know about it too." Percy's words shocked me again. 'Others,' he said. He already had people in his harem. "So, you have people in your harem already?" I asked, my tone accusing. Percy quickly shook his head in denial. "No, I don't! There is no one in the Harem at the moment! Aside from me, that is!" He told me, his words doing nothing but confusing me. "But you said the others would tell me about it if I chose to go with you!" I replied in anger. Why couldn't he explain it clearly? "There are others living with me, yes! But they are servants given to me by the gods! They are not members of the harem!" "Servants?" I repeated. "Yes, when I was given my land. The gods also gave me 3 nymphs to help manage it."
I was just getting more confused the more he spoke, so I decided to just ask why he needed to tell about the harem again. "Let's push that aside for now. Let's go back to why I needed to know about the harem." I told him, and he nodded. "Alright, the reason you are being sent to live with me is so you can be safe as you recover and heal. And Hades believes that you can't do that while you are being hunted by every monster in a 3-mile radius of you. And also while you are in a place that would most likely remind you of the past, both camps included. And you can't stay here apparently either," he started his explanation. "With all those taken into consideration, the only other place possible would be my land, with me," he added, gesturing to himself. "As you know, it is protected from not just monsters but from the gods themselves. In there you will be safe." I nodded at that, finally understanding his point. And if there are other people living with him, then I really would learn about the harem from them.
"But that's not all the reason I told you about the harem," Percy suddenly said. "While you will be safe inside the border of my land, the same can't' be said once you go outside of it." I nodded. "Okay, so just like with the camps then, I can deal with that," I told him. Why was he telling me this? "I know you can, Hazel, but I'm saying this because there is a way to extend that protection to the outside as well." I gaped at him and his words. A way to remain safe from monsters and the gods outside the protection of the land given to him. I wanted that so much. "How?" I asked in a small but hopeful voice.
Percy regarded me for a short minute before answering.
"By becoming a member of the Harem." was the answer he gave me.
I was about to ask further, but he didn't let me. He went on to explain the why's and the how on his own. "As a member, they get all the benefits of my gifts, meaning that just like me, they will be unreachable to the gods. The gods won't be able to force them to do anything. The gods won't be able to make them go anywhere. They will be safe from the gods in every sense of the word," Percy said, explaining the point that I wholeheartedly wanted.
"At the same time, as a member, their demigod scent is also removed, meaning monsters won't be able to hunt them or recognize them out in the world." His words were compelling me to join. Despite my reluctance, Safety in the mortal world was something every demigod wanted, me included. "Meaning that the members of my Harem will have the chance to live a somewhat normal mortal life out in the mortal world," Percy finished and waited for my response.
I took my time. I sat back and thought really hard. The safety and freedom he is offering are really tempting. But being a member of a harem, I'm not sure I could stomach that. It's not like I'm not attracted to Percy; I am. He's a very handsome man, and I've always looked up to him since I met him. I even developed a crush on him, but I don't think I could be physical with anyone without a genuine feelings for the person.
And being in a harem will require us to be physical. And he will be the master; I don't think he will be the kind of master I've read about—abusive and selfish. But still, being a member of his harem would mean that I would need to have sex with him. And I'm not sure how I feel about that.
Thinking back to his words, I paused as I noticed a particular part of his speech. 'the chance to live a somewhat normal mortal life,' he said. Why somewhat? I decided to ask.
I turned back to Percy, who was still looking at me. "You said that members of your harem get to live somewhat of a normal mortal life. What do you mean by that?" I asked, and I saw him release a breath before answering.
"You noticed that, huh? Well, what I meant about that is that. While members get the benefits, they also must pay a price to be a member of the harem," he explained. "A price?" I repeated. "Yes, just as with every gift from the gods. There is a price one must pay, in this case. One must agree to a few rules before they can become a member of the harem," Percy said as he ran his hands on his hair.
"So in exchange for the safety and freedom of being a member of your harem, I pay, what?" I asked. Percy smiled, then he turned away. "If you decide to become a member, you must pledge your obedience and loyalty to me. This is a lot like swearing on the Styx's name, meaning that if you break it at anytime, then there will be consequences. And those will be more severe than what the breaking an oath to the Styx will be." Percy's word made me think about what I would do.
As I was deep in thought, Percy took my hand and made me look at him. "I'm telling you this Hazel, not because I want you to be a member of my harem. I'd like it if the Harem remains memberless actually. I did this because I didn't want you to be taken unaware. Like what hades asked, you can stay with me and be safe from the gods and monsters until you're better and ready to face the world again. You don't need to be a member of the harem for that," Percy told me, once again proving his character to me.
I smiled and squeezed his hands. He's still the same man I knew.
"Give me a few days to think about it, Percy," I asked, and he nodded in reply. "Take your time, Hazel, then let your father know."
---------Flashback end---------
I was smiling widely now as I finished this part of the story. Nico was still staring, his eyes wide as he took in all I had shared with him.
"So, you were informed beforehand," he asked after a while.
"Of course! It's part of the rules, and that's just how Percy is," I replied. "Anyway, it took me 2 days to decide. Then I told father that I agreed to live with Percy, and he informed Percy of my decision. That very same day, father took me to the border, where I met Percy, who was waiting to welcome me to his home. And the rest is history."
"Hmm," Nico hummed in agreement.
We sat in silence for a while until he asked another thing.
"And then? What happened after you started living with him?" was his question this time. Same as I did earlier, I answered him.
"After I came to live with Percy, the first thing we did was to get me to a therapist. Percy came with me for every session. It took months, but slowly I got better." I smiled again as the memories of that time flitted through my mind. "Percy and the nymphs did their best to accommodate me and my needs. Before I knew it, I was already in love with Percy." I was sure my face was red at the moment due to the memories.
"The nymphs were the ones who pushed me to confess to Percy; actually, they noticed how I felt about him and convinced me to make my move. I was reluctant, of course, after what happened with him and Annabeth. And what I've gone through with Frank. Still, as the days went by, I found myself being unable to hold back," I added.
"So I confessed, and to my surprise and delight, he accepted. At the same time I also asked to be accepted into his Harem. He declined at first! Because of course he would. This is Percy we're talking about." I giggled, remembering how flustered Percy was when I asked.
"It took me 2 days to convince him to let me join. After that, I became the first member of the Harem. And I never doubted my choice nor do I regret it," I last said, looking at Nico straight in his eyes. Showing him my conviction. Letting him see just how true my words are.
"After living with him for almost a year, after countless therapy sessions and so many nights dreaming of being with him. Really being with him. I was finally with the man I wanted. Someone who I loved and who, by some chance, loved me and wanted me too." I could feel the smile form on my face as I described my feelings for Percy. And as always, whenever I think of my fiancé, the yearning for him begins to rear up inside me.
"That's my story, Nico; that's how I fell in love with Percy. And that's how I became a member of his Harem. WIllingly," I explained, making sure he understood that there was nothing he should be worried about.
Nico was silent for a bit, and I waited for him patiently. After a while, Nico shook himself and smiled back at me. He nodded and took my hand. "I understand now. Thanks for explaining." His response made me very happy. I have missed my brother, and while I never regretted my choice in leaving. I admit having him here makes me happier. Him knowing that I was safe and happy takes a weight that has been a burden of mine.
We smiled at each other for a bit, basking in the familiar presence of family the other brought us. It was a few minutes later when Nico asked the other question I knew he was going to ask sooner or later.
"So, who's the other member?"
Nico asked sheepishly, making me giggle. I wanted to tell him who it is, but I decided to leave it for later.
"She will be coming home tomorrow, so you'll find out then," I said, making Nico pout cutely. I reached over and messed his hair up. "Stop pouting! You're a grown man now!" I joked.
Nico swatted my hand away, and for a moment we were children again. The kind that we should have been if we were not demigods. We enjoyed some good natured banter as we enjoyed each other's company.
After we've settled back down on the bench, I asked Nico something I have been curious about.
"So Nico, tell me about you and Will?" I teased, watching Nico blush at the mention of his boyfriend. Now that I think about it, he will be staying here no doubt. I smirked at him as I imagined where he would be staying tonight, or rather, whose room.
"Will and I are fine; we were still together," Nico answered as he tried to do it nonchalantly, despite his heavy blush and eyes looking everywhere else but me.
"That's good! I'm happy for you two!" I said happily.
I was very happy with the fact that we, two children of the underworld, have been blessed with love, Something that has been denied to our past siblings. Thinking of that fact made me decide to dedicate my offering to Lady Venus, to thank her for her blessing.
As we were talking, we heard the footsteps of someone approaching us. I turned and saw Ruby rounding the corner from the mansion. I smiled as she neared us, waiting for her to speak.
"I'm sorry for intruding, mistress, but dinner is served," Ruby said while bowing.
"Thank you, Ruby! We'll be there shortly," I replied, and Ruby went back first. I stood and walked with Nico beside me, heading back to the mansion to share a meal with my friends, my family, and my love.
---------line break---------
We were in the middle of dinner, enjoying the feast the nymphs prepared for all of us, when Nico suddenly announced something.
"Percy, is it okay for me to stay here tonight? I plan on going back to camp together with them," Nico said, asking Percy for permission. I turned to Percy and saw him set his fork down and face Nico.
"That's fine. Blueberry, can you get one more room ready for tonight, please?" Percy agreed readily, turning to the blue-haired nymph sitting on the other end of the table. I saw Blueberry nod when Nico spoke up again.
"No need for a room; I'll just share Will's," Nico declared with a slightly red face. I smirked at that and saw Will turn red like a tomato, avoiding everyone's eyes while nodding in agreement. I turn back to Percy to see him gawking at Nico in shock. I giggled and nudged him; he shook his head and agreed with Nico's choice of room.
Taking the chance, I decided to make an announcement as well. "Everyone, since she is going to be arriving tomorrow, I think this is the perfect time to announce the identity of the second Harem member," I said, looking to Percy to see if he has anything against my decision. Percy smiled and nodded at me, making me smile in return for his support.
I reached over with my right hand, opening it and asking for his own, which he gave to me freely. With a squeeze of his hand, I turned and faced everyone and took a deep breath before announcing the name of my future sister-wife.
"It's Piper"
I watched as my announcement brought forth a mixture of reactions. From shock to confusion and even acceptance from one of them. I turned to Percy and saw his mouth open, as he too was shocked by the response from our friends.
"I was expecting a bit more of a reaction from you guys, to be honest," Percy said after a while. Malcolm stayed quiet, while Will said, "Nothing about you surprises me anymore." Clarisse mentioned that she figured it out when she and I talked while Nico stared at Percy, in shock no doubt.
Nico turned to me, and I smiled at him. I knew he was going to ask me if I was okay with it, and I intended to tell him I truly was. Instead of asking me, though, Nico surprised me by saying something else.
"If Hazel says she's okay with it, then I'm also going to be okay with it," Nico said after releasing a heavy sigh. Hearing him say that caused happiness to surge through me. His acceptance of my way of life was fulfilling for me.
"I am okay with it, Nico," I replied, confirming his words.
We went back to our meal after that exchange. Resuming our talks about random topics. After the meal, we all went out to the pool area to relax and enjoy the cool night air. We shared drinks as we talked and joked with each other until it was time to retire for the night.
After saying goodnight to Nico, who followed Will to his room, I made my way to my own bedroom, where I found one Percy Jackson. Lounging naked on my bed with a troublesome smirk on his immaculate face, just like I was 2 nights ago.
"What do you think you're doing, Percy?" I asked, even though I already knew what was going to happen. "We have unfinished business, you and I, Hazel," he said, his voice nice and low. Making me shiver in the obvious want in his tone. I watched as he stretched his arm to me, beckoning me to him. I stepped through the door and closed it behind me, rushing to get to him.
He grabbed me by the waist and pulled me down under him on the bed when I reached him, quickly pining me under him. "Besides, with your brother with Will here. I'm sure they'll be doing a lot of catching up on. And I for one don't want to be showed up under my own roof," he said as his hand got busy taking my clothes off.
I rolled my eyes at his childish reasons, then my eyes rolled when I felt his lips on my neck. His lips trailed kisses along my jaw until they came upon my lips. Soon we were kissing, and our tongues were performing a dance under the tune of Love and Need.
And as the night wore on, Me and Percy shared another sleepless night and enjoyed each other till the wee hours of the morning.