Who Else Gets This Kind Of Surprises? 😅

And maybe there’s something special about our first love, and something heartbreakingly unique about our second. But there’ s also just something about our third. The one we never see coming. The one that actually lasts. The one that shows us why it never worked out before.

Cuddly boyfriends (they have intense war reflexes and they kick each other in their sleep)

Hi Neil,

I'm starting out as a professional writer. What's your advice for starting in the field? I'm sure you've been asked this all the time but I felt I may as well ask

This:

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME - PERCY/NICO AU HIGH SCHOOL - CHAPTER XVIII

Hi, how are you doing? We're finally back with the English version. I took a break from the Portuguese version because I couldn't connect with my dramatic side, so in the next few days we'll have the English version. I hope you enjoy it.

Before we go any further, I'd like to know who is still interested in this story written in English. It's more work than the Portuguese version. So, if you're still interested, vote below!

CHAPTER I / CHAPTER II / CHAPTER III / CHAPTER IV / CHAPTER V / CHAPTER VI / CHAPTER VII / CHAPTER VIII / CHAPTER IX / CHAPTER X / CHAPTER XI / CHAPTER XII / CHAPTER XIII / CHAPTER XIV / CHAPTER XV / CHAPTER XVI / CHAPTER XVII

If Nico had known, he wouldn't have gotten out of bed that morning. In fact, if he had the power, he would have gone back in time to the exact moment before he fought with Annabeth at the party and done everything differently; he would’ve keep lying to Percy, pretending that everything was fine, even if at the end of the day, it was one less problem he had to deal with. Yes, he was the only one to blame for all this, for not telling what was happening with himself at the right time and for not saying enough at the wrong time. In the end, Percy was only doing what he had asked, but in a way that Nico hadn't anticipated, taking control of the situation when he least expected it. A good example of this was that morning, a Monday like any other. Or so he thought.

Nico didn't know how he hadn't noticed these things before, how much the loneliness had disappeared with Percy's presence and, in turn, the reaction he caused in people. Nico had been back for a week or two, but it seemed like the two years abroad had never happened. People still looked at him and treated him the same way, the prejudice veiled and barely hidden for anyone to see. Was it the color of his skin? Homophobia? Or it was the fact that Percy once again ignored anyone when he was around? Was a weight Nico couldn't remember feeling before. It wasn't like he could help it or had any inclination to do so, because that morning Nico had woken up the way he had always imagined impossible, with lingering kisses and caresses that made him sigh. With tight hugs that warmed his soul and made him feel safe. Of course, all this came to a halt when they had to get out of bed and go to school and face the cruel world of teenagers. 

He barely noticed the silence around them until Nico walked in with Percy for the first lesson of the day. He only understood what was happening when he saw Annabeth at the back of the class, surrounded by a group of people. 

"Don't mind her, okay?" Percy said and brought Nico's hand to his lips.

Then, everything made sense. They were holding hands, walking around the school without a care in the world. Nico bet Annabeth was doing her best to spread the latest gossip; the popular basketball player was sleeping with the newly transferred boy, even though he was sure most people remembered him.

Nico didn't have much more time to think about what people were whispering. Percy pulled him to the other side of the room and sat with him in one of the corner desks, perfectly away and protected from curious eyes. He wished he could say he hadn't been able to concentrate in class, when in fact it was the opposite; the whispers became background noise and the next thing Nico knew, another school day was drawing to a close, Nico seeing himself in the reflection of the car window, watching the avenue full of trees and stores, the bustling commerce at that time of day.

"Are you okay?" Percy asked beside him, placing a hand on his leg as he drove towards their house, or rather, towards the Jacksons' house. 

"I think so. Can we stop by my house? I wanted to get my things.”

"What's wrong? My clothes not enough?" 

Percy was joking, of course. He couldn't go on wearing the shirts that kept slipping off his shoulders or his old clothes, even if they were in very good condition.

"Per.”

"It's all right. I'll do anything for my baby." Percy flashed him a huge smile, as if he'd just told him the best joke in the world, and Nico decided to ignore it. 

Every time he said he wasn't a baby, something happened to show how right Percy was. Staying quiet, Nico put his hands over Percy's hand and held them, intertwining their fingers.

"We're almost there. Do you want me to get it or you do it?"

It was a good question. Nico didn't want to find Hades inside the house, but it had been days since he had talked to Bianca.

"Will you come with me?"

"Of course. Whatever you need." 

So, after a few minutes, Percy parked the car in front of the house and they both stopped at the door, the doorman letting him through as soon as he recognized him. Nico didn't even try to greet the man, all he wanted was to get his things as quickly as possible and talk to Bianca if she was home. Imagine his surprise when he saw his father in the living room, sitting on the couch while reading the newspaper and drinking a cup of coffee.

"Nico, what a surprise. I thought you'd forgotten where your home is.”

"That's funny." Nico replied. He didn't even bother to see his father's reaction, and looking ahead, made his way up the stairs. "I thought I didn't have a father."

"Boy! Come back here right now!”

Of course, it wasn't like he would obey a complete stranger. Nico kept on walking calmly, and even though he overheard Percy exchanging a few words with Hades, it didn't shake him. It was something common between them. Soon Percy was at his side again, offering him a smile and a friendly shoulder. Honestly? Nico didn't care. He cared less and less. He already had a family, and wasn't an irresponsible man who would make him feel guilty for ignoring someone who should be the first to support him. 

Without making too much of a mess, Nico picked up his suitcases, his personal belongings and some boxes that had just arrived from Italy, and walked around the room, making sure he had everything.

"Is that all?" Percy asked him, looking sad.

"The rest is in Verona. I didn't know how long I'd be here.”

"What does that mean?”

Nico shrugged and checked under the bed.

"I thought you'd be dating someone. Getting ready to get married, you know? I thought I'd come back to finish school and apologize. And then... I guess go back to Italy to help my nona.”

"Really? I mean so little to you?" Percy looked hurt, but that wasn't the point.

"I didn't expect all of this.”

Nico decided to face Percy when the silence stretched longer than usual.

"I always forget what I did to you.” Percy said.

No, Nico refused to get into this argument again. He refused.

"I mean..." Nico said, trying to change the subject. "You knew where I was.”

"I did." Percy agreed. "I was planning to go after you. After I graduated.”

"Hm." Nico muttered without knowing what to say. That was a good thing, right?

"I wanted to give you time to... live.”

"I don't think I understand.”

"I didn't want you to live wondering what could have happened without my shadow hanging over you. I know that's stronger than both of us.”

When Percy talked like that, it sounded as if they had no choice, as if they had no free will. Maybe it was. Because if Percy had shown up at his door, he would have dropped everything and said yes to anything Percy suggested.

"Sorry, I didn't want to talk about it again. Let's go, okay?" Percy said and kissed his cheek, trying to smile, before picking up the suitcases and one of the boxes, leaving him to carry the lighter items. 

They went down the stairs and there was Hades blocking the way. Luckily, Bianca was there too, she took some things from his hand and tried to smile at him, just like Percy had done, trying to comfort him.

"Nico, we need to talk." Hades said, still blocking the exit door.

"Now you want to talk? What would you have to tell me?”

"We need to talk about your future.”

"Future? As long as it's away from you, I accept it.”

"I'm your father. You owe me respect!”

"What respect?”

"Nico, please." Bianca stepped between them and, pleading with her eyes, kept talking: "Could you listen to what he has to say?”

"I'm sorry." Nico said, not feeling guilty at all. "I don't want to know about his plans for me. It's your responsibility now.”

"I know we wronged you and--"

"Wronged me?" Nico shook his head, refusing to believe it. "I love you, Bia. I really do. But I have nothing to do with the Di Angelo family. He's your father much more than mine. Enjoy it.”

"Niccolas. Obey me this instant!" Hades' voice boomed through the room, deep and hoarse, like thunder. Maybe this had terrified him a few years ago, now all he felt was a deep anger.

"What are you going to do? Hit me? Isn't that your favorite way of dealing with disobedient little boys?”

The following scene became quite a spectacle in Nico's eyes. Bianca went pale as a sheet of paper, Hades got even angrier, but the most interesting reaction was to see Percy freeze like the most perfect Greek statue. Would this be another layer of guilt for Percy to “ not try to talk to him about?”

"It's okay. Go ahead." Nico said when no one else dared to say a word. "Make sure you leave at least one mark, so it's easier to hand over as evidence to the authorities. What do you think of that?”

"You wouldn't have the nerve.”

"No? Then try your luck." And yet, when Hades didn't move away from the door, Nico was forced to continue: "Are you going to force me or are you going to get out of the way?”

"You damn--"

"Nico, leave it to me. I'll take care of this." Percy said beside him, reminding him that his boyfriend was still there. It was strange. Usually these things happened when there were no witnesses.

That was it!

"You don't have to. I know Hades will make the right decision, won't he? Especially with two witnesses present?

Nico then turned to Hades and waited. Hades might be irresponsible and violent, but he wasn't stupid. 

Still fuming with anger, Hades walked away from the door, but not before saying:

"What are you going to do? Live the rest of your life on other people's money? Begging for attention?"

"What I do is none of your business. Soon you won't have any power over me or what belongs to my mother. Say goodbye to your fortune, dear Papa.”

With that, Nico turned his back on Hades and walked out the door, never to return. He would make Hades pay for everything he had done and make him return every penny that had been taken from his mother.

***

Nico felt lucky. Really.

They got his things into the car in time for Bianca to say she would call him, enough time for Percy to close the car doors and to drive away from that house. Now, why did he feel lucky? Well, he was lucky that Percy waited until they got home to hug and try to comfort him. The funny thing is, he didn't need to be comforted. This time, all Nico wanted was to hit something to see if it would take the tension out of his shoulders. What did he do? He let himself be comforted anyway. He let Percy hug him tightly, he let Percy stroke his hair in that way that made his hair stand on end, and he let Percy kiss him for a long time.

"I didn't know. I never-- why didn't you tell me?”

"I knew you'd do something stupid.”

"He hit you! And I... I did the same!”

"I wouldn't say that. Hades has never been so talented at making me cum.”

"Nico!”

"Sorry! " He ended up laughing, feeling some of the tension leave his body. "I didn't want to be sent away because of him.”

"I'm so sorry.” Percy said, holding him even tighter. “You had to go through all of that and I never suspected. All makes sense now. You didn't like going home and avoided Hades at all costs.

"I didn't want to worry you.”

"Don't say that. Hades will never see you again. That's a promise.”

"What are you going to do?”

"Do you trust me?”

How could he not when Percy looked at him so seriously and with those intense green eyes?

"I do. You know that.”

"I’ll take care of you. And this time, I’ll make sure those people pay for what they did.”

And again, Nico thought about objecting. But if Percy wanted to, who was he to deny it? Nico knew he shouldn't like being put on a pedestal or being protected as if he were made of glass. The real problem was that he liked it, loved seeing the sense of possession that emanated from Percy. Was it even a problem when he allowed it to happen and even consented to Percy's actions? 

Tired of hesitating, Nico just agreed, letting Percy keep on with the kissing and the cuddling. The best part was when Sally arrived from work with Grover and Tyson. He snuggled against Percy's chest and allowed himself to enjoy the moment, watching the Jackson family's reaction. Well, seeing his family's reaction, because they were the ones who had offered him a home when he thought he had nothing. But, seeing them go from surprised to furious in less than two minutes was shamefully satisfying. It was something that warmed his soul and stroked his sense of revenge. Why try to fight his nature when he could have everything he wanted? In the end, Nico heard a lot of “I'm sorry” and “we'll take care of everything”, ending with “you're safe with us”.

Nico also knew that they weren't just saying that to comfort him, but seeing their faces full of affection and a sense of justice made something inside him calm down, a huge satisfaction bubbling out of him in the form of a smile. That shouldn't be too common, right? To start laughing when they showed so much concern? The truth was that Nico already felt vindicated just by the fact that someone knew what kind of person Hades Di Angelo really was.

"Thank you." He ended up saying when the family hugged him together, Sally almost crying while Grover and Tyson had a serious, neutral expression on their faces, reminding him of when Percy was trying to control himself so as not to destroy whatever he saw along the way; Percy might be the family member who showed his emotions the most, but behind the innocent and kind face it was Tyson who acted first.

Any thoghts? Thanks for reading!

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME - PERCY/NICO AU HIGH SCHOOL - CHAPTER XI

Hello, how you doing? Looks like I had some time in the the end. I hope you like it. I had a lot of fun writing this chapter.

Good reading!

Previous chapters: CHAPTER I / CHAPTER II / CHAPTER III / CHAPTER IV / CHAPTER V / CHAPTER VI / CHAPTER VII / CHAPTER VIII / CHAPTER IX / CHAPTER X

"Beautiful.’’

Nico ignored Percy who was lying on the bed and finished drying his hair with the towel, combing it back. He put on his t-shirt, pulled it down and buttoned his pants, pulled the zipper up and looked at himself in the mirror.

If it were up to him, he would’ve stayed in the kitchen, where he belonged, and finished helping with the preparations for the party later. Unfortunately, right after the wedding proposal, Sally had kicked him out of the kitchen, pushing him away from the stove while Percy had picked him up and carried him up the stairs until they reached Percy's bedroom. And with no choice, still full of flour in his clothes, Nico went into the bathroom without complaining, taking a long bath in the tub and then looking for clothes that still fit him. Apparently, Percy hadn't thrown away the things he’d left behind, like his favorite black jeans or his t-shirts with jokes and superheroes printed on them, or even his leather jacket, which his mother used to wear before the cancer prevented her from getting out of bed.

He admitted that the shirts that were previously baggy and reached his thighs now fit perfectly well, although a little tighter than he would like, contouring his not-so-masculine curves; apart from his broad shoulders and height, the rest was very... very thin in some parts and slender in others, impossible not to notice in those tight clothes. Nico didn't even like to think about it. Maybe that was why Percy loved so much holding his waist.

‘’Since when did you have those muscles, hm?’’ Percy asked again with good humor.

Muscles? He didn't see many. And of course, Percy could be able to fool him if it was a few years ago. Now? Nico could hear the pure jealousy behind the laughter.

"I don't know. I had free time in Italy.”

In fact, life in Verona was much easier and more uncomplicated than this first week back here. It’s like, when Percy was involved, trouble and strong emotions were guaranteed. He didn't even know why he was still complaining, things had always been like that.

‘’Don't make that face. Today is the day to celebrate. Or at least that's according to Sally.’’

"Sure.” Nico rolled his eyes and finally put on his jacket, slipping his feet inside his high-top sneakers that had also been left in Percy's wardrobe. Now, Nico was back in the past and with the complete look. He almost felt nostalgic; If it weren't for the anxiety and constant self-doubt, Nico would miss those times. "Let's go.’’

"Hold on. I bought you something.’’

‘’Another gift? What will it be now? A car?’’

‘’Do you need another one?’’ But Percy was smiling. Nico watched him get up and walk around the bed, opening the dresser drawer next to the bed. ‘’It's nothing expensive.’’

"What is that?’’ This time, the object in Percy's hands aroused his curiosity. He could see what it was, the thing was that Percy had never given him anything like this, which made him come closer and take the diary from Percy's hands, opening the hardf, black leather cover, finding simple, straight lined pages, noting a dedication on the inside of the cover, thar said: “To make sure your thoughts and ideas never get lost”. “Per?’’

“I thought about what you said… about not being able to express yourself.’’

"Express myself?’’

"In bed.’’ Percy said and then held his hands over the diary, making Nico face him. “I know how…how scary things can be from time to time. I want this diary to be a way for us to talk without needing all that… drama.”

Percy used the word “drama”, but for Nico it was more… “humiliation”.

“Are you going to write too?’’

"Yeah.”

"And you'll... read everything? Everything I write?”

"Only if you want.”

Nico stopped for a moment and looked at Percy, his fiancé, the love of his life, the person who always accepted him unconditionally. Percy seemed so calm and confident, so sincere… no one before had ever tried so hard to understand him.

“It doesn't have to be about that.’’ Percy said again. “You can write about anything. Or something you want me to know about.”

"Anything? Really?”

"What's wrong?” Then, Percy smiled again, carefree. “What do you still have to hide from me?”

That was the moment where the mortification took him by surprise. Nico looked away and stared at the diary they both still held, the rings shining on their fingers. If only Percy knew… Nico didn't know if it was the best or the worst idea Percy had ever had.

“Look, you don't need to force yourself. Let's leave the diary by the bed and if you feel like it, it will be here. Is that all right?’’

Percy smiled at him once again, took the diary from his hands and placed it on top of the dresser, less than a foot away from them. But that was the problem, Nico already felt the urge to flip through that notebook and write whatever came to mind, like a free writing exercise, only more stranger and embarrassing. He felt like writing and letting it all come out, like he hadn't done in years.

"No, I want it! Gimme.” And like a little kid, Nico reached out and took the diary, hugging it to his chest, feeling satisfied as he once again held that black leather notebook.

“I'm glad you liked it.’’ And acting like the daddy they both refused to admit, even though they were both the same age, Percy hugged him tightly and kissed his hair, saying: “Good boy.”

And, Of course, this had the expected effect. Nico hid his face in Percy's shoulder and groaned once again, mortified, berating himself for feeling so good and so happy with those words. Or with the care that Percy continued to show him day after day.

***

Before they left for the party, Nico put the diary away with the now empty ring box in his backpack and held Percy's hand, making Percy's chest warm with Nico's absent-minded gesture. It wasn't the most romantic or affectionate gesture he had ever seen, but Nico did everything with so much care that Percy was sure he had made the right choice by waiting until that moment. He knew that these attitudes, as much as his or Nico's, came from a painful place; of loss and abandonment, things that they both felt firsthand and wanted to avoid at all costs. That's why every moment that served to bring them closer together would be a reason to celebrate. Percy still couldn't believe that he had finally proposed to Nico. They were going to get married! There was a time when Percy thought he would never see Nico again, and even less that they would be so happy and content together, even if the little boy hid it behind an angry pout and the usual bad mood and insecurity. And who was he to judge how other people behaved when he was the worst of them? All Percy knew was that he had a plan, and he would do everything he could to make it reality. That’s why he smiled at Nico, took back the hand offered to him and the next thing he knew, one of his mother's helpers was guiding him to the outside of the house where tables were set up in the garden and people were already walking around the improvised dance floor next to a buffet table divided into three rows organized by sweet, cold and hot dishes, and there wasn't even all the food he had seen in the kitchen earlier.

“You guys went overboard this time.”

"It’s nothing out of the ordinary." Nico shrugged.

"Clearly. I wanted to--”

“Nico! I finally found you!”

Percy sighed and gave up, nnow that they were in the middle of all those people, it would be impossible to keep Nico's attention to himself. As if in slow motion, he saw Clarisse approach them in hurried steps and grab Nico in a bear hug, pulling him away from him.

"How long were you going to ignore me?’’

"I wasn't ignoring you!" Nico shouted back, but hugged Clarisse as tightly as she had done, closing his eyes with pleasure.

"Why didn't you tell me you were back? And when did that happen?’’

“It’s been… five days ago? Six?”

“I bet it's his fault.”

“Clare!”

 "Don't give me that. I want to know everything!”

"So you can tell Annabeth later? No, thank you very much.”

"That's not true. I did it once and now--”

It seemed there was no way around it. Percy left Nico with Clarisse, watching the people approach the noisy pair, and went back into the house, finding his mother now in a long black dress and high heels, although she was still pacing the kitchen, giving orders and checking the still-working ovens.

"Mother.”

“Oh, Percy, darling.” His mother came up to him in quick steps and squeezed his cheeks, then kissed them. "You could have told me before. I didn't have time to prepare anything.”

“I didn't have time either.”

That was the moment Percy hugged his mother and let himself relax.

“What is it, darling?”

“I don't think Nico wants to be with me.”

“Percy, that doesn't make any sense. Why would you think that?”  Then his mother touched his face again and looked at him affectionately.

“He changed. We seem to fight every step of the way, and now he has so many friends and things to do…”

“Percy.” Now his mother looked disappointed. “We talked about that. You need help?”

“No.” He denied, walking away. Percy didn't want to go back to endless hours at the psychiatrist or taking medication.

“Honey, Nico is growing up and you should too.”

"I know, I know. It's just... he's telling me so many things... I didn't know he felt that way.”

"That is great. That means he trusts you, right?”

Deep down, Percy knew this. He just wanted someone to tell him everything would be okay. But it wasn't what his mother was doing. As always, she told him what he needed to hear and not what he wanted to hear.

"What should I do?”

“Nothing you don't want to.”

“What if he only marries me out of pressure?”

“Percy!” Sally grabbed his shoulders and laughed in his face. “My little boy is growing up so fast. I remember how you ran away from any responsibility and now here we are, you worrying about someone else's well-being?”

“Mom! I'm serious!”

“Look, from my point of view, I've never seen Nico so happy or calm. He doesn't seem to be forcing himself into anything.”

“He said he didn't want to date me and I insisted! What if he told the truth?”

“Honey, none of this is your responsibility. He accepted of his own free will. Even if you want to protect him, it's Nico's decision. Whether he accepts it or not, even if in the future he decides to leave once again, it won't be your fault.”

"So whose is it?”

"It's nobody's fault. These are things that happen and we have to accept them. And being honest? It's about time, right? If you had talked to Nico, none of this would have happened.”

“You... you ruined the surprise. I should have talked to him alone.”

“Exactly, darling. Don't you see? The less you say, the more Nico will pull away from you.”

"Do you really think so?”

"Believe me. I know all about failed relationships. Don't create distance between you, okay?”

"I would never do that.”

"No? If you don't say what you feel, Nico might think you don't care.”

"I--”

“Have you talked to him in the last few days?”

"Yes, but--”

“How did he react?”

Percy wanted to roll his eyes. His mother was right, as always. Nico had been sincere back when he opened up. The worst thing was thinking that Nico had kept everything inside his chest, thinking that Percy wouldn't accept him or that Percy didn't care. At least the time he'd wasted at the psychiatrist had been useful for something.

"You are right.” Percy admitted, looking around at the people who continued walking back and forth. “I didn't want to admit defeat.”

"Darling.”

“I made Nico leave before and I don't want to be the one to blame again. Is it so bad to be careful to not destroy things again?”

"Of course not. I understand.”

“Do you really understand?” Percy then turned to face his mother again. “If you understand, can you stay out of this?”

“Fine, I won't interfere. But you should pay attention to who your friends are.”

"What does that mean?”

“That blonde friend of yours is at the party. I thought you guys didn't talk anymore?”

"Who? Annabeth?”

"She herself.”

“I didn't invite her.”

So, who invited her?” Sally and Percy stared at each other for long moments, not understanding what was happening, until Percy snapped and turned his back on his mother, going back outside. In the garden, he finds a scene he thought he would never see, Annabeth with her long golden hair, shining in the sun, looking furious and Nico, with torn pants and a black t-shirt, staring at her as if she were an earthworm about to be trampled over.

***

"What's going on here?”

The next thing Percy knew, he was standing in the middle of the crowd, seeing Annabeth and Nico staring back at him.

As if by magic, the atmosphere changed. Nico came to his side and held onto his hand, lowering his head and placing it on Percy’s shoulder like the most obedient and well-behaved little boy, while Annabeth stood there, head held high, looking even more furious with the display of affection.

“It’s nothing, Per. We were talking about old times. Isn't it, Anne?” Nico smiled, hugging him around the waist and suddenly there was silence, even the waiters and kitchen assistants were silent.

“Are you drunk, by any chance?”

"Me? Never!” He looked at Nico and Nico made a cute pout. "I would never do that.”

To prove his theory, Percy leaned over Nico and kissed him right there. This time, Nico didn't seem embarrassed at all. The little boy grabbed him tightly by the back of the neck and let himself be kissed, opening his mouth in the most shameless display of affection.

“My baby is jealous, hm?”

“I don't know what you're talking about.” But the blush on Nico's face said what Percy needed to know.

"Why don't we talk somewhere quiet? But before guiding Nico away from the crowd, Percy turned to Annabeth: “You are not invited. Go away.”

“But, Percy! You promised!”

"I didn’t promise anything.”

“Your lying--”

“I won't repeat it.”

With that, he took Nico by the hand and led him into the house, leaving behind a curious crowd and a blonde foaming with anger.

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So, I'm enjoying their progress. This time I thought it was more interesting to give Percy this insecurity and Nico a bit more of impulsiveness. I imagine that this way the characters seem more real and interesting. I hope you're enjoying it as much as I am. See you next time!

— You're hopeless at a lot of things, Merlin. Well, most things, in fact... But very occasionally, quite by accident, you say something useful. — Really? The Coming of Arthur: Part 2

Make Me Choose Challenge └ @milevenhearteyes asked: Timothée Chalamet or Tom Holland?

“The most important thing, in anything you do, is always trying your hardest, because even if you try your hardest and it’s not as good as you’d hoped, you still have that sense of not letting yourself down.”

SITTER'S LOVE - Nico!Babysitter, Percy!Teacher-father - Chapter XV

Sim, mais uma capítulo. Para compensar pela semana passada. Espero que vocês gostem.

Previous chapters: CHAPTER I / CHAPTER II / / CHAPTER III, CHAPTER IV e CHAPTER V / Chapter VI e Chapter VII / Chapter VIII e Chapter IX / Chapter X, Chapter XI, Chapter XII e Chapter XIII / Chapter XIV

Percy watched that boy and did nothing, he didn't move to give him what he deserved or try to call for help, he just witnessed that beautiful scene; Will at the foot of the stairs, fuming with rage while he hugged Nico tightly.

He rested his head on top of Nico's and in return, he heard Nico sigh softly, relaxing completely against Percy.

Even though he knew he shouldn't provoke people, it was something that was in his blood. He stroked Nico's back and then looked back at Will, smiling victoriously. He understood perfectly well what this would cause, it was obvious. If someone was touching what was his, as he was doing now, he would be furious too. And sure enough, Will came towards them, marching and huffing, Will puffed out his chest, preparing for battle, and stopped right in front of them, close enough for Percy to feel Will's rapid breathing on his face. Not pleasant.

"Let go of Nico, he doesn't belong to you!”

"Ohh!" Percy said, faking the happiness he didn't feel. "If he doesn't belong to me, does that mean he's yours?”

For real, that was a question that didn’t need an answer. Nico wasn’t someone’s thing. Anyway, that didn’t matter. The fact that was worth noting was that Nico gasped and pressed himself closer to him, hiding his face in his shoulder and muttering a “Please, someone kill me,” something Percy probably shouldn’t have heard. So he decided to ignore it.

"Let. Him. Go! Now!”

"What if I don't want to? You're going to scream some more, aren't you?" Percy shook his head, pretending to be disappointed and said: "You can curse me if you want. I promise to cry just for you. What do you think?”

“You fucking--!”

Percy peered over Nico's head at Will and nearly burst out laughing.

You know, it was pretty funny. A spoiled kid thinking that his angry puppy face pretending to be a fighting bull would scare anyone. And he thought he was the little wimp there. Live and learn, right? However, Will kept his promise, he came closer again and before Percy knew it, a punch was coming towards him, but because of the height difference it would hit Nico.

At the last moment, he turned around, putting Nico with his back to the wall and took another punch in his place, in the same spot where Hades had hit him. He barely felt the impact, but he knew that the next day the bruise would be much bigger than necessary.

"Per!" Nico gasped, seeming to come out of his stupor.

"It's okay, kitten." He smiled at Nico and stroked his long black hair. It didn't even hurt, he was sincere. But Nico didn't believe it. He raised his hand and massaged the place gently, making a cute grimace of sorrow.

"The skin is swollen. It even looks like a bump has formed!”

"It’s nothing. You don't need to--”

That was the moment when Hazel decided to appear, shaking the photo album and showing a specific page that they couldn't see from that direction.

"Percy, I found-- You again! What are you doing here?" She pointed at Will and crossed her arms.

Percy knew he liked her for a good reason.

"It's none of your business, Dwarf." Will said without paying attention to her.

Percy turned his head in time to see Will raising his fist once more, another punch coming his way.

"Is that so? Then, I'll call Lalá and Katty.”

Hazel whistled and two dogs appeared. They were two adult, trained German Shepherds.

"Bite." With a sweet smile on her face, was all Hazel said.

After that, everything happened very quickly. The dogs followed their owner's orders and went after Will, who ran away, disappearing faster than he had appeared.

***

"Percy, I found-- You! What are you doing here again?”

When Hazel appeared on the balcony was the moment he knew things were only going to get more complicated. She pointed at Will and crossed her arms, the photo album forgotten in her hands.

You know? That was the reason Will didn't come to their house anymore and that was also the reason they met at Will's work, hidden in some dark alley.

The truth was that things had been a bit strange between Will and his family ever since… well, ever since Will started acting so explosively. It wasn’t anyone’s fault, exactly, Will was too jealous, too bossy, sometimes it seemed like he was going to force him into something Nico didn’t want to do, and without him even realizing it. One moment they were talking and the next… they weren’t. Even though Will knew he wasn’t ready to take that step.

The thing was, Will used to be his friend, his first friend, and Nico didn't want to lose that friendship just because they weren't sexually compatible, even though Will insisted they were. He just... Nico just didn't feel that way about Will, maybe he never had. If it weren't for his father... it was hard to define if he ever loved Will or if it was the pressure from Hades putting everything on his shoulders; the problem was that Will was always there by his side, but maybe... maybe he shouldn't be anymore? Will definitely had other priorities now, like deciding who was the alpha male or marking his territory like a dog in heat.

"It's none of your business, Dwarf." Nico heard Will say, his voice sending shivers down his spine.

Nico didn't even want to see, he didn't want to hear either. Will spoke with so much anger, with so much hate... he didn't know who Will was anymore. The boy Nico knew was sweet and respectful, the best friend in the world. Now this mean, cruel and violent man? He had never heard Will speak like that to anyone, much less seen him raise his hand against anyone.

Shrinking against Percy's chest, Nico closed his eyes, ready to receive all the aggression that Will seemed to direct only at him.

"Is that so? Then I'll call Lalá and Katty.”

Hazel whistled and the two dogs appeared, the guard dogs that looked after their property, trained by Hades and Hazel since she was little.

"Bite." Hazel said and Nico relaxed, it was a relief not to have to deal with Will now.

Will ran away and finally Nico allowed himself to sigh and breathe, feeling safe with Percy around him.

"Nico, are you okay? What did he do?”

He looked to the side and there was the angel with black skin and golden eyes, she was so tall and so kind that most of the time Nico forgot that she was only eleven years old.

"It was nothing. You know, the usual.”

"If it were me, I would have already kicked his ass so hard that Will would never sit down again." She nodded, as though imagining the whole scene, and took Nico's hand, leading them inside the house.

Percy followed closely behind him, his hands guiding his back and making him feel good. That is, until they reached the dining room where everyone was still sitting, no one was drinking or eating like before, all of them looking at their forks or laps, avoiding looking at him, or almost; Hades was the exception. He had one of the most neutral expressions Nico had ever seen in his life.

"Come on, sit down. Finish eating.”

Nico looked at the plate and his stomach turned. The food must have gone cold and the wine made him want to vomit.

"No, thanks. I'll take Perc--”

"It was you? The one who called that boy here?" Hazel said, still standing at the entrance to the dining room. "Only you would do something like that.”

"Hazel, respect your father." Maria finally spoke. She muttered, standing up and walking around the table until she was in front of her daughter. "The important thing is that the problem has been solved.”

"Solved? What was solved? That man came in here again!”

“Hazel,” Hades murmured, scolding her. “You’re right. I talked to him. I thought Will had changed, that he was worried about Nico keeping him waiting last night. I didn’t ask him to come.”

"So, you admit it! You've been talking to him behind our backs!”

"Not exactly. Mr. Solace is the mayor, how could I not talk to them?”

"Is this all because of money? I don't believe it! Is that why Nico forces himself to put up with that daddy's boy son of a b****? Cause you would lose their political support? Ahg!" Hazel looked at her father in disgust and ran out of the room, but before she went, she turned around and said: "If you ever do that to me, I'll report you for mistreatment of minors. How could you do that to your own son?”

With that, Hazel ran up the stairs and from where they were, they could hear the door slam with a loud thud.

***

"Yeah, well…" He turned to Percy and ignored everything else, almost hiding back against the man's chest. Instead, he tried to smile and look apologetic. It probably didn't work. But he was surprised, Percy brought his hands to his face and wiped away the tears he hadn't even noticed were falling.

"No need to cry, it's okay.”

“I--”

"Really. It was my fault. You don't have to be sad about it. Hmm?" Percy smiled at him, showing that small smirk, and touched his hair, stroking it slowly, calming him with just a gentle gesture and sweet words.

Strangely reassured, Nico felt a weird sensation in the pit of his stomach and observed Percy's eyes, clear as the sea, firm and warm in his touch, determined, affectionate. He didn't know what to say, that gesture seemed more than a simple caress, its meaning expanding each time Percy did something like that; the gesture becoming more familiar and intimate than before. But Nico had promised, he wouldn't run away from his feelings. So he continued to look at him and let the moment drag on until the minutes passed and Will's memory slowly faded.

Percy just stood there with Nico, hugging him around the waist, massaging his hair and smiling at him.

“Are you okay?” Percy finally spoke, whispering close to his ear, like a secret.

Nico mumbled something back, something nonsensical. Percy smiled, his voice coming out in a deep cat-like purr, the laughter echoing through his chest and broad shoulders, making Nico feel it in his hands, still resting on Percy's shoulders.

"Do you want to come with me? I don't blame you. I would run away from here too if I could.”

Nico smiled at Percy. Yes, he found himself smiling. Nico smiled because it was the only thing to do at that moment, the only logical thing that would keep him sane; mostly, Nico smiled because that was the effect Percy had on him, even when the man acted like a jerk his reaction was to laugh, whether he was happy, angry or... something else, his reaction would always be that.

“I’ll walk you to the door?” Nico asked. He wouldn’t mind spending some more time with him. However, it was already dark and he didn’t want Percy to get home too late.

So Nico took him by the hand and led him along the path between the vegetations until they reached the wooden gate at the entrance to the property.

"Thanks for bearing with me. It was a fun night.”

"I bet." Nico muttered back.

Super fun.

Percy smiled at him and took a step back, preparing to leave when he stopped in his tracks and turned to Nico, now more sober.

"I was serious about you coming with me. For as long as you need.”

"I-- I can't. It wouldn't be..." The word Nico was looking for was "good" or "healthy," but what came out was something else. "...fair. You've done so much for me. I don't know how to thank you.”

"You don't have to. Never. I wouldn't ask for what you're not willing to give. And I don't expect you to give me anything back.”

Percy's response to his ears sounded ambiguous, with more meaning than he was ready to accept. So Nico just nodded and waited for Percy to walk away, looking down and feeling strangely disappointed, sensing that something was changing again and in such a short time. However, before Percy had completely walked away, Nico saw Percy coming back with hurried steps and… and he hadn't expected that.

Holding his breath, Nico saw Percy stop in front of him and... and hold his shoulder, watched those hands go up to his neck and stop there, firm and warm. It was then that Percy looked at him very closely and... and kissed his face, too close to his mouth and, at the same time, far away.

Percy pressed his mouth there for longer than necessary, massaging his hair, and slowly released him. Only then did Nico realize how possessive Percy's touch seemed, much more intense than the other times. Yes, this time Percy didn't smile, and neither did he do it. Percy looked at Nico as if memorizing his features and finally pulled away, hesitating.

"See you on Monday.”

Percy turned his back on him, got into his giant jeep and sped away. Before he knew it, Percy was long gone, leaving him with nothing but silence and his own thoughts, and maybe a little discomfort between his legs.

See you soon!

I bet the person who said to the TV Producer “Hey, let’s let the unknown guy from Kazakhstan go first. How bad could that turn out?” got fired so hard for this. Turn on the sound. You will NOT regret it. For those who don’t know, this is a singing competition in China in 2017. They brought in the best singers around China and decided to bring in a “Wild Card” to spice up the competition. That wild card was Dimash Kudaibergen. No one was ready for him. And the look of absolute SHOCK on the other contestants faces is a joy.

Eu conheço você

Prompt: Fio vermelho, ligados pelo destino, alma gêmeas

Tema: primeiro encontro

Nico se sentou na arquibancada do campo de futebol e olhou ao redor, procurando por alguém, alguém que ele não sabia quem era, mas sabia que o reconheceria se o visse. Sabe, ele geralmente prefere ficar sozinho, com seus livros e músicas e videogames, mas hoje, hoje algo dentro dele o disse para ir até ali, falou para ele se sentar naquelas mesmas arquibancadas e esperar. Só esperar. 

Depois disso, não demorou muito. O time de futebol entrou na quadra e… desde quando aquela faculdade tinha um time profissional de futebol. Não, isso não podia ser verdade. Ele se negava a socializar com um.. um atleta! Nico se levantou, tentando sair discretamente do campo quando um cara alto parou em frente a ele, o fazendo dar de cara com um peito largo e mãos que o seguraram pela cintura.

— Você está bem?

Não! Ele já tinha escutado aquela voz em seus sonhos, ele já tinha sentindo aquelas mãos fortes em sua pele e já… tinha encarado aqueles olhos verdes e tempestuosos que o encavam sorridentes. Mas ele se negava, por isso, Nico juntou sua mochila que tinha caído no chão e se virou, sem respondê-lo.

— Niccolas? Esse é o seu nome, certo?

Nico teve que se virar para o homem de seus sonhos. Ninguém o chamava por esse nome, porque ninguém além de sua família já morta sabia dele. Ele era Nico, e não Niccolas. 

— Como você sabe meu nome?

Percy deu de ombros. — Eu apenas sei. Como você sabe o meu.

— Perseu. Percy? — Nico arfou, sentindo a cabeça rodar. Não, o Percy de seus sonhos era gentil, inteligente e engraçado, não um… 

— Eu sei o que você está pensando--

— Como você poderia saber?

— Bem, eu imagino.

— O quê? Não. É melhor se a gente fingir que isso nunca aconteceu.

Sim, Nico disse a si mesmo. Seria bem melhor, ele se preparou para virar as costas para Percy quando sentiu mãos grandes o segurarem pela nuca, um corpo grande envolvendo o seu em um abraço que tirou seu fôlego. Rosto contra rosto, e lábios contra seu ouvido, beijando a pele sensível e o fazendo derreter.

— Me dê uma chance. Só uma. Você não vai se arrepender.

— O quê? — Nico murmurou, se sentindo bêbado. Isso não parecia normal, como Percy poderia saber de seu ponto fraco?

Nico fechou os olhos e se surpreendeu quando ele mesmo levou as mãos às costas de Percy e deixou que seus dedos levantasse a camisa de Percy e navegassem pela pele macia e músculos bem definidos.

— Percy, quem é esse homem? — Nico escutou alguém dizer a eles. 

Ele abriu os olhos e deu de cara com uma garota loira, alta e com agressivos olhos cinza-azulados.

Nico sabia que era bom demais para ser verdade.

Ele se afastou de Percy, empurrando o peito largo para longe dele e olhou uma última vez para Percy. Ah, como ele havia sonhado com aqueles olhos. Era uma pena mesmo. Ele colocou a mochila nas costas e… de novo, Percy o pegava pelo braço, não o deixando partir.

— Onde você indo?

— Para o dormitório.

— Por quê?

— Você tem uma namorada.

— Não por muito tempo.

— Percy! — Ele escutou a garota reclamar, a ignorando.

— Não. Não é certo. — Ele disse negando com a cabeça.

— Não é você quem decide isso.

— Então, é você?

— Sim, sou eu.

Percy se inclinou sobre ele e o segurou novamente pela nunca, sussurrando:

— Até agora eu respeitei sua vontade. Mas você veio até mim. Agora que você está aqui, eu não vou te deixar escapar.

Nico arfou e empurrou Percy mais uma vez.

— Você não está falando sério. 

— Eu estou. — Percy acenou, firme e decidido. — Eu sempre te vejo pelos corredores. Sempre distraído e sozinho. Por quê você veio aqui, hoje? Por quê?

— Eu…

— Olha, eu não estou pedindo que você se case comigo, eu--

— Quer me conhecer melhor?

Percy acenou novamente e continuou segurando em sua mão. 

A verdade é que se Nico quisesse ele já teria ido embora, mas havia algo tão magnético em Percy que o fazia querer ficar e saber o que poderia acontecer. Talvez… talvez fosse o destino lhe dando um empurrãozinho.