Save A Fanfic Writer, Leave Comments On Old Fics

Part 1 of a comic inspired by a story prompt about the monster under the bed actually protecting the child

Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy + Text Posts

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

Good reading!

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 / CHAPTER XVIII / CHAPTER XIX / CHAPTER XX / CHAPTER XXI / CHAPTER XXII / CHAPTER XXIII

“You've been very susceptible to... suggestions. Is it just me or is it something in general?”

“Only you. I think... I trust you.”

“I’m honored,” Percy said without any irony, his low, velvety tone giving way to something more normal. “I was afraid this would happen. I will never abuse the trust you give me.”

“I know that. I never doubted it.”

“That's why I have to talk to you about something.”

Oh no. Was he in trouble?

Nico watched as Percy got up and picked up a box that was at the foot of the bed, a little bigger than a shoebox.

“What’s that?”

“It's the surprise I wanted to show you.”

Nico was afraid just to look at it. What could be so important that Percy felt the need to hide it from the rest of the family? Hesitating, Nico remained quiet, leaning against the headboard of the bed and waited for Percy to approach once more, sitting down next to him.

“I've been thinking about what you told me, that I don't take what you say seriously.”

“I know you--”

“I'm not done.” Percy didn't even speak louder, but his tone of voice demanded obedience. And Nico was already tired of fighting his instincts, so Nico just shut up and paid attention to Percy.

The problem with that was that Percy looked guilty about something, his face twisting into a grimace. Nico continued to wait, watching Percy almost fidget with anxiety. Of course, until Percy sighed and looked at him once more, looking as resigned as Nico felt.

“I didn't mean to talk to you like that.” Percy finally said, trying to sound nonchalant.

“I don't care. If you tell me to do it, I will. It's something natural for me, you know?”

“Nico.” Percy sighed once more, looking tired.

“Could you... just... do what feels natural to you, too?” When Percy raised his eyebrows in disbelief, Nico added, “It’s just a suggestion.”

“I'll think about it.”

“I mean, you always had this aura…”

“Domineering?”

“It's more like, you expect to be obeyed. And that's okay?”

“Is that a question or a statement?”

“It depends on you.” Nico ended up shrugging, trying to fake the calm he didn't feel at the moment.

“You mean to tell me that I can be domineering whenever I want and you will obey me? Without question?”

“Hm... probably?” The correct answer was “absolutely”, but that would be too much humiliation for just one person.

“Really? Even when you don’t agree with me?”

“I guess so.” Nico shrugged again and looked away from Percy. Most of the time that was what happened anyway; he didn’t want it to happen, and in the end, Percy was right. If Nico had listened to Percy in the past, he could have avoided a lot of things.

“Baby.” Then, he heard Percy's tone of voice change, becoming softer and more velvety.

It wasn't that he had an uncontrollable urge to obey, it was the knowledge that he would be very well rewarded if he decided to be a good boy. And he was, immediately after hearing that word. Percy grabbed him by the neck, making him lift his head and kissed him, joining their tongues in a sigh.

“I don't want you to feel trapped or like you have no choice.” Percy said some time later, brushing his lips against his.

“I don't feel that way. I feel free knowing that you will take care of me.”

“Are you sure?”

“I trust you.”

“Allright, then.”

Percy pulled away from Nico enough to look into his face and smiled, looking content this time, but still holding him by the neck, possessive and firm, although his voice remained soft.

“That's why I need to show you what's inside this box.”

Percy released him and picked up the box once more, placing it between them, on his lap. Percy opened it, removing the ribbon and the lid, allowing Nico to examine the contents inside.

“Wh... what is this?” Nico’s voice was weak and his hands trembled, resting over his lap.

Nico knew perfectly well what those objects were. He knew exactly what they meant, the problem was that his brain refused to believe what he saw. Why now? After so long? That's why he remained still like a statue, barely able to breathe.

“I didn't treat you like I should’ve. I ignored what was clear.” Percy said, grabbing his neck again, forcing him to look at him. “I understand why you hesitated for so long, why you still hesitate sometimes.”

“I--”

“I hesitate for the same reason.” Percy seemed to take a deep breath and took out a leather choker with precious stones adorning it. “I want you to know, I am committed and I will never run away from my responsibilities ever again.”

Nico thought he was going to faint. Was Percy proposing to him? Again? Now in a way he never expected it to happen? Nico didn't even know what to say! It was obvious, wasn't it? He had been waiting for this moment ever since he laid eyes on the tall boy who looked like he had come out of a cliché porn where the guy would hardly make the girl regret walking alone through the deserted streets. Nothing prepared him when the moment finally arrived. Percy held the delicate choker between his fingers, brought it to his neck and fastened it carefully, making sure it wouldn't be too tight.

He... Nico didn't know... was it just his imagination or... oh no, Nico wasn't mistaken. As soon as the choker settled against his skin, Percy wrapped the leather around his neck and touched the collar, massaging his skin and admiring the jewel. However, it was the look on Percy's face that stole his breath; Percy was looking at him as if he were... as if he were--

“Mine.” Percy said. “Now you're mine.”

Why was it so hard to breathe? Why was he shaking so much?

“I…”

“I know.” Percy said in the most condescending tone Nico had ever heard, almost mean, almost mocking, but still... soft, as if Percy was talking to someone who was mentally slow. “Take your time. I never thought I would do something like this myself.”

“So mean.” Nico managed to stammer, Percy was obviously giving him time to absorb the facts, still holding him by the neck, as if Nico was his possession and not a human being.

“You haven't seen anything. But I don't think we're ready for that yet.”

“Hmm…” Nico whimpered just imagining what could happen. Could he faint already? Would it be too much of a humiliation?

He heard a mocking chuckle and then hands were around him, massaging his spine and hair in the way he liked best. In the end, Percy was right once again. He wasn't ready for any of this. If just a collar around his neck could make him react like this, what would happen when... when things actually happened?

***

“Shhh... it's okay. I won't be mean to you, hm?”

“Liar.” His voice cracked and Percy laughed again, right in his ear.

“Maybe a little. I know you like it.”

“Stop it!”

Percy was right, as always. For some reason, Nico found himself laughing, slapping Percy's arm who only laughed harder, enjoying Nico’s pain.

“Okay. I'll stop. Now, let's get to the important part.”

“What part?”

“Is there anything I should know? Strong or weak boundaries? Something you don't like at all? Or like too much?”

“Oh. “It was a good question.

Nico hadn't done that many things. He'd let a few guys spank his ass and some bondage, but other than that? Nothing interesting. Nothing too good or too bad. Like, there was that one time he let two guys use his mouth, but...

“Nico?”

“I don't know. I've never done anything that different.”

“What would it be?”

Now Percy looked at him like he was going to get the truth out of Nico whether he wanted it or not.

“Hm... you know…”

“No. I don't.”

“There was this one time when some boys... I sucked some boys and... a guy used his belt on me…”

“And?

“I was tied up too.”

“Is that all?”

“I promise.”

At the time it had been quite adventurous, however, if he analyzed last night, no one had made him cum like that and made him float for so long. Maybe it was something more psychological than physical.

“Baby.” And again, that condescending tone of voice that made him so mad and made his stomach fill with butterflies came back. “What those boys in the bathroom were going to do to you is much more interesting than that. Are you sure?”

“Who do you think I am? A whore to let anyone use me?”

No! What had he just said? Nico was even afraid to look at Percy, but he did it anyway. Slowly, he turned his head towards Percy and saw a strange glint in his eyes, a somewhat cruel smile at the corner of his mouth.

“Is that any way to talk to your owner?”

Nico didn't understand what was happening until he heard the sharp, cracking sound, then came the burning sensation that made him groan, one side of his ass burning from the impact.

“I-- I'm sorry.” Nico mumbled, quietly, seeming to lose his strength, still sitting on Percy's lap.

“I understand. But a good boy doesn't talk to people like that, does he?”

Nico nodded and Percy kissed his face, massaging the slightly reddened skin.

“Now, what were we talking about?”

“Limits?”

“Yes. Is there anything I should know about it?”

“Nothing disgusting? Or... liquid.”

“I would never do that. You're my baby and I only want what's best for you.”

“And what about you?”

“Hm. I think bondage, nothing that stops me from moving. And rude, disobedient little boys.”

“What about... naughty boys?” Nico had to be sure.

“As long as you know the consequences.”

“Oh.”

Would he want to disappoint Percy to that extent? How about just a little?

“I know what you're thinking. You can stop now. You just have to ask me, no matter what it is.”

“I know. It's more fun this way.”

“You better not test me then, hm?”

“So mean.” Nico knew he wasn’t an easy person to deal with either. He could be spoiled and distant, lost in his own world, and he could also be unpredictable, running away from anything he didn’t like without leaving a trace. “I’ll behave.”

“Good boy.”

“And the other things inside the box?”

“That's a topic for another time. Now, let's go lie down and have a long nap. Exams are coming up and we need to be rested, yeah?”

Percy kissed his face and placed him against the pillows, lying down next to him. Percy was right, with everything that had happened Nico hadn't studied everything he needed to, so unfortunately a few hours would be spent in front of a pile of books.

***

“Think for me. Stop me from worrying about anything other than being yours. 

Pick out my clothes, take care of me all day long. Make me smile because I belong to you. 

Make me moan when you kiss me and remind me that I am yours and only yours. 

Make me gasp every time you grab me and decide to use me as you please. 

Make me tremble whenever you want to show me what it really means to be loved by you.”

Nico yawned and leaned back against the cushions, closing his journal as he felt the late afternoon sun hit his face. This way, easily disguising the thoughts he had just put on paper. Before Nico knew it, there was a week left until the start of the mid-year exams. Now, they were in the garden near the pool, tables and cushions everywhere, although Percy and his friends were not so interested in the study schedule he had created. Percy, Tyson, Luke and Grover were in the pool while he, Silena and Clarisse occupied a table, with Chris planted next to Clarisse like a lovestruck fool even after so many years.

If he could, he would be having fun too. Nico could think of several things he would like to be doing. One example of this was the surprise he had in store for Percy that he hadn't had the right opportunity to do yet. Not that he still needed to surprise Percy, but wouldn't it be nice if he tried as hard as Percy did?

Nico had to be honest. He hadn't expected Percy to take this whole dominant/submissive thing seriously. The proof was the choker around his neck and, of course, the ring on his finger. He couldn't help but touch the piece of leather on his skin, like a collar, not letting him forget the last few days. Nothing had really changed, although he felt different. More relaxed somehow. Secure. Now, Percy didn't hesitate when he wanted something from him, which was a great development. The thing was... things were almost like they used to be in the past, when they were kids and things were simpler. If he ignored the anxiety he used to feel and the lack of sex, it was like they had evolved from what they already had. Nico liked that a lot, it gave him a comfort that no gesture or words could replace.

“Nico, are you listening to me?”

“Hm?”

It was Clarisse, irritated with him. She had her arms crossed and was rolling her eyes impatiently.

“If you're going to do that, you better go there. What was the last word you read?”

It was a good question.

“Since when did you become so dependent on him?” Clarisse insisted, standing up.

“I'm not dependent on anyone. Where did you get that from?”

“Do you think you can fool anyone? He even put you on a leash!”

“I don't know what you're talking about.” Nico didn't even raise his voice, and even if it was true, he was happy to finally be collared.

“Nico! Stop playing with that necklace and pay attention!”

Clarisse walked up to him, grabbed his hand and made him stand up with her. Then, she pushed him towards the pool.

“Go on. Don't come back here until you can concentrate.”

“I don't--”

“What's going on here?”

Nico had noticed the sun had disappeared. It was just Percy standing behind him, providing shade.

“Nico misses you. Take care of it.”

With that, Clarisse sat down on the cushions once more and leaned against Cris's chest, who smiled contentedly, both returning to their books.

That wasn't fair! He didn't have a firm chest to lean against while he studied.

Nico turned toward Percy, about to say exactly that to him, stopping before he could continue. Nico remembered what had happened the other times he had raised his voice to Percy, and if he did it now Percy wouldn't hold back either.

Nico smiled, swallowing his indignation and looked at Percy, forgetting his anger for a moment. Percy was still dripping from the pool water, his hair was thrown back and he was wearing a swimsuit so tight that it didn't hide anything. Not that Percy was trying.

He opened his mouth, thought better of it, and said:

“Do you have to wear something so small?”

Percy was already smiling, coming the rest of the way towards him. Percy opened his arms and immediately Nico was wrapped in them, being pulled against Percy's chest and getting wet in the process. This was also unfair, no seventeen year old boy should be that tall or have those muscles.

“What's wrong? Tired of studying?” Percy lifted him off the floor, making him wrap his legs around him. And all Nico heard was ‘is time to go to our room?”

“Percy! You should be studying with me!”

Oh no! Nico thought, barely having time to grab Percy's shoulders, feeling the impact that even through the fabric of his shorts, made him groan.

“I know, baby.” Then, Percy held him by the chin and made him look at him, kissing him softly, making him forget that they had an audience. “We studied a lot this week. I've never been more prepared, hm? How about we rest a little? Just the two of us?”

It sounded like a question, but it wasn't one. Amidst whistles and shouts, Percy led him into the house, climbing the stairs as if Nico weighed nothing, staring at him closely as he went.

“What's the problem?”

That was the point. For the first time in a long time, Nico didn't have any worries other than passing his tests. So, he couldn't call it a problem. It was the solution, in fact. Nico was finding it strange how easily he could leave everything in Percy's hands and stay in his own little, perfect, world where nothing seemed to be able to affect him if Percy wanted it to.

“It's nothing.” He finally said when they arrived in the room and Percy sat him on the edge of the bed, kneeling on the floor between his legs. “Is everything okay?”

“Of course, baby. I've never been better.”

That was true. With each passing day, Percy had more energy and vigor, and slowly, he took charge of all the decisions that concerned both of them. Would they go on a trip? Percy decided where. What would they have for breakfast? Usually his meal would be ready before he had to ask. Like, it was always what Nico liked and the way he liked it the most, each decision seeming like something Nico would choose for himself if he had the chance. Sometimes, it was even better. Honestly? It was a burden he was very happy to be rid of. However, Nico didn't want it to become a burden for Percy, something he did out of obligation.

“Is everything really okay? Have your grades improved?”

This seemed to make Percy stop for a moment, watching him more closely. Percy didn't try to smile, he grabbed him by the back of the neck and hugged him tightly, making something in his chest still.

“Is it about our relationship? Is it too much?”

“No, I like it.” Nico denied, hugging him back as tightly as Percy had hugged him. “I worry about you.”

“Well, don't worry about that little head of yours, yeah? Everything is under control.”

“Are you sure?”

Percy kissed his neck and said:

“As long as you allow it, I will take care of everything.”

“You treat me so well. No one has done as much for me as you do.”

“I’m glad. I hope no one does it or we'll have a problem.”

Nico wanted to laugh. He also hoped no one else would, because if that were the case, it would mean they weren't together anymore. Instead of answering, Nico preferred to let Percy decide the next steps; whether it was sex, a long bath, or a midday nap, it didn't matter to Nico. As long as they were together, that was enough for him.

***

In the end, they had decided on a bath in the jacuzzi, a long and relaxing bath where Percy had massaged his back and made the tension he didn't even know he had disappear as if by magic. Percy was being so good to him that Nico had finally found the perfect opportunity to put his plan into action.

He let Percy dry him from head to toe, like any other day, carry him to bed and kiss him before Percy got up and went to put the towels in the laundry basket. Nico took advantage of this moment to grab the package from the bottom of a drawer and went into the closet, a door that was near the wardrobe and that they rarely used. Fortunately, it would finally have a use.

Ripping open the packaging, Nico took out the two pieces and held them between his fingers, realizing that he might have bought a size smaller than he had planned. The fabric was a delicious silk in a light pink color, looking like it was made from tulle, but still pretty and feminine. He thought Percy would like it, it would be an interesting contrast against his skin. Well, Nico wouldn't know until he tried it on.

Then, taking the thong, he placed his feet in the right spaces, and put on the top, feeling the silk slide over his skin.

Now Nico knew why women liked this type of lingerie so much, the fabric was so soft and thin... it was as if he wasn't even wearing anything, but yet he was being caressed.

“Nico? Where are you?” He heard Percy calling him.

It was now or never, right?

Nico didn't even grab a robe before opening the closet door. He just adjusted his thong and walked into the room, stopping near the doorframe. Did he feel a little ridiculous in that frilly outfit? Yes. However, it was all worth it the moment he found Percy in the middle of the room, seeing the expression on Percy's face go from confusion to shock and then, pure pleasure.

He walked the rest of the way and stopped in front of Percy, determined to be the best of submissives. He lowered his head slightly, showing respect and placed his hands behind his back, allowing Percy to see his front.

“So beautiful. Is all this for me?” Percy said more seriously than Nico expected. His voice sounded firmer and deeper, still without touching him.

“I wanted to surprise you. Did you like it?”

Nico waited patiently, holding his breath. That was because Percy didn't like being surprised. They had never talked about these things, but deep down Nico knew it was true. If Percy was surprised, it meant he had no control over what happened. But still, Nico wanted to see Percy's reaction, maybe then Percy wouldn't be so careful with him.

Don't get him wrong, he loved every day he spent with Percy, but the... excitement of newness didn't happen as often as he would have liked. Maybe this was what they needed.

“My baby is trying to tease me, is that it?”

“Is it working?”

Nico peeked through his lashes and saw a strange glint in Percy's eyes.

At those moments, Percy's features changed completely. From calm, he became serious and... and something else that was hard to define. Sometimes he was playful, and other times, malicious, as if Percy was enjoying his anguish. Percy never lost his cool, however, it felt like something beyond that came to the surface, something that Percy hid and that only manifested itself if provoked.

“Do you want to find out?”

Well, Nico would have answered if he could, if it had been a question. It was more of a warning, a statement of what was about to happen.

Still holding his breath, Nico continued to watch Percy, as he seemed to be preparing to do something... had it been a mistake? Should he have warned him and-- Percy then moved. Just one step forward and his warm hands were on Nico, on his neck, pulling his head back and on his waist, keeping him in place. Which had been a good idea. Without any clothes to cover him, the sensations felt more intense, making him shiver from head to toe.

“We didn't talk about it. Do you know what a safe word is?”

“Oh.” He knew! Finally!

Nico had known and waited for this moment. The problem was that he found it difficult to speak. So he nodded, feeling trapped by Percy's intense eyes.

“Use your words, baby.” Nico knew the nickname was supposed to soften the moment, but he only felt himself tense up more, bracing himself for what was about to happen.

“I-- I have. Pie?”

“Are you sure? “And now there was a certain tone of humor in Percy's voice, his dimples showing.

“Not really. I know how it works, but I've never used one before.”

“Never?” Percy frowned, looking less than pleased. “That’s very irresponsible.”

“I know, but…”

“Tell me.”

“I can't talk much, you know? During.”

This seemed to turn a light on Percy's face.

“Let's keep that in mind. Now, let me see... who bought this for you?” But Percy was smiling, sliding his hands over his body. Shoulders, back, waist, moving around him and touching everywhere until he reached his ass, caressing his buttocks and slipping one of his fingers through the string of his thong towards his entrance.

“Ah!”

“Isn't that what you wanted? Should I use my gift? Hmm?”

And again, it sounded like a question, but it wasn't one. Nico remained as he was, with his hands behind his back, and only moved when Percy grabbed him by the arm, guiding him to the bed.

“Where did you learn that position, baby?” Percy said as they walked towards the bed.

“I saw it on a video…”

“Do you know what that means?”

Nico nodded, too embarrassed to say it.

“I want to hear it.”

“Servitude and obedience.”

“That's right.” Percy said, satisfied. “There's no need to rush, everything will happen in due time. I want you to relax, okay?”

That's what Nico did. He let Percy sit him on the edge of the bed and when Percy finally got closer, he closed his eyes and moaned, feeling his body react freely.

Thanks for reading!

See you next time!

*deep breath*

Dark Starker

hi im bitter about people not commenting on fics. im sad seeing all these authors get so discouraged because no one comments. it takes like 5 seconds! just do it!! dont know what to type? me neither! heres some handy pre-written comments for you! “I dont know what to comment! That was great! thank you for your hard work!” “That was lovely! I really enjoyed this chapter/fic.” “How dare you?” “AAAAAAAAAAAAA” “Extra kudos because one is not enough!” if you read a fic and dont know what to say, leave the tab open, come back later! see if theres a line you really liked! tell them if it reminded you of something dumb! tell them if your roommate saw you crying while reading it and now your roommate is reading it!!! SHARE WHATEVER. BE INCLUSIVE! everyone wants to hear SOMETHING. silence kills passion. show authors you care! show artists you care!!!! 

SITTER'S LOVE - Nico!Babysitter, Percy!Teacher-father - Chapter X, Chapter XI, Chapter XII e Chapter XIII

Hi, how are you? Today we have a few more chapters, over six thousand words. I hope you enjoy it.

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

A few chapters earlier…

“It’s the least I can do,” Percy said, forcing Nico to accept the money. He saw Nico’s face tighten, creating a cute grimace.

He couldn't help himself. Percy swore he tried to stay serious to show that his intentions were honest, but just looking at Nico made him smile. The little boy was so innocent that Percy almost couldn't resist the urge to pinch those cheeks that seemed to have a redder tone than normal.

No, that wasn't what he meant. No, it was about the money; the right thing to do was to replace what Nico had spent.

"Sir, I can't--”

“Actually, where did you buy that food? It must have been very expensive.”

Nico didn't answer him, he just took another step back and staggered. The boy closed his eyes and took a deep breath, probably not even realizing what he was doing, because while Nico was walking backwards he accidentally got closer to Percy, almost leaning against his chest. Nico crossed his arms and hesitated, tripping over his own feet.

"Nico? Are you okay?" He worried.

Giving up on respecting Nico's space, Percy grabbed him by the shoulders, keeping him standing, finding his attitude strange.

"I'm sorry. I have to go.”

"You're not even going to tell me where you bought the food?" 

And what was he sorry for?

"I… went… went to a restaurant… that sells homemade lunch boxes… in the city center.”

Percy paused for a moment, afraid to let him leave in this state, and asked, "Do you need a ride?"

Nico nodded, but he remained standing where he was. He didn't pull away from Percy for touching him without permission or blush, nor did he say a word. Nico didn't even seem to be breathing. It was when the boy collapsed in front of him that Percy's heart nearly jumped out of his throat. If it weren't for him being so close, Nico would have hit his head on the edge of the table.

“Dad!” Percy heard Alice scream and a whimper came from Logan. They rushed around the table and helped Nico sit in the chair, carefully supporting him against the back.

"Dad. Nico isn't breathing! He's not breathing!”

"Is he going to die?" Logan said and Percy for a moment didn't know what to do.

He tried to touch Nico's face, shook him gently, and even patted his pale cheek twice, but nothing happened. Nico remained motionless, passed out in his arms, growing a little paler than before, looking like he would stay that way. Then, in a flash, Percy remembered that Tyson, his younger brother, had had an asthma attack as a child; one of the few things that had helped was talking to him and encouraging him to breathe, calming him down, if Percy could.

"Stay calm, okay?" Percy told them and, contrary to what he wanted to do, he stood up with Nico and hugged him, keeping their chests together.

"Nico, pay attention to me. Can you hear me? Breathe with me.”

Percy grabbed the back of Nico's head and kept his back straight as he breathed as slowly as he could, trying to set an example. Nico looked like he was in pain, a grimace fixed on his face, but his mouth was open struggling to breathe. Relieved, Percy held Nico's neck up for better oxygenation and massaged his back, whispering softly so the boy wouldn't be startled. His skin was so cold and sweaty that Percy feared the worst. When Nico finally took a deep breath it was like a weight had been lifted off his back.

“Again." He said.

Nico obeyed like the good boy he was, taking a long breath and then letting it out even more slowly. Of course, it was at that moment when he thought the danger had passed that Nico just… relaxed, relaxed so much that his head rested on Percy's shoulder and his body leaned completely against his. Well, leaning wasn't the best word to describe it. It was more like collapsing, as if someone had cut the strings of a puppet and it had fallen, just like that, lifeless.

Percy held Nico’s face again and only then did he calm down, seeing that Nico was breathing normally and the grimace of pain had disappeared, replaced by one of happiness and contentment.

“Daddy, is he going to be okay?” Logan asked beside him once more, his childish voice sounding scared.

"Shhh… don't worry. Everything is okay now.”

***

“Do you feel better?” Percy sat up in bed with Nico and finally saw him opening his eyes. Nico seemed a little dazed and slow, looking around, but at least Nico was moving, leaning gently on his shoulder, his small hands around Percy’s neck, limp and lifeless.

Percy couldn't resist the temptation and touched Nico's face, turning him towards him. Nico didn't seem to mind the contact, and in fact, he lowered his face and rubbed himself against Percy's hand, like a needy kitten. The important thing was that it had worked, Nico was now looking at him and seemed more attentive, although he hadn't completely returned to normal yet. Percy adjusted him better and held his back, not letting him look away until Nico answered him.

"Hm." He finally said.

Well, it was more like a mutter, almost soundless. Nico looked tired, without the energy to even hold his head up. Percy wanted to ask if this was common, if he often fainted or had panic attacks. But right now, he just wanted Nico to be okay. Nothing else mattered.

"Do you need anything? Water? Pain medicine?”

Nico just blinked at Percy with those big black eyes and continued to stare at him. He licked his lips and settled himself on Percy's lap. Slowly. Distracted. Slow. He would say, even lazy.

Was that… a blush appearing on his face?

"I… I'm fine. I'm sorry. I have--”

"You don't need to explain yourself.”

“I want to.”

He nodded, letting Nico speak.

"When I was eight, I had a panic attack and was diagnosed with GAD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I'm always anxious, but I can usually control it without it interfering with my work. It's been years since that happened. I... I'm so sorry. Routine and feeling stable helps. I'm really sorry. I know I should have told you.”

"It's okay. It wasn't your fault.”

"No, it’s not that. I recently came off the meds. The doctor told me I would be able to control it. It’s just that…”

"What happened?" He asked curiously. Nico was like a box of surprises.

“I've been more nervous than usual. It's just... well... the change in routine…”

Percy understood exactly what he was talking about.

"I understand. I'm sorry if I caused this. It won't happen again.”

But wouldn't he? Percy worried about himself, that maybe he wouldn't be able to control himself, and about Nico, too. What if something happened while he was driving? What if it was when Nico was walking home alone? Did Nico have someone to look after him? Someone who would come to his rescue if he needed it? What if…

Percy snapped out of his thoughts when Logan and Alice entered the room. Logan was crying, his big green eyes puffy while Alice just watched attentively and quietly, both trying to smile at Nico.

Nico smiled back and he could finally breathe a little easier.

"Okay, you can rest now." He murmured when he saw that the children weren't going to say anything and Nico was almost falling asleep. "Do you have your cell phone? I'll let your family know.”

“Oh.” Nico said. He frowned, but soon raised his head.

Nico looked at Percy, stared at him closely, and then gave him the most beautiful, happiest smile Percy had ever seen.

"It's in my bag.”

And so, in the middle of the sentence, Nico closed his eyes and Percy felt as if something inside him was being stirred and rearranged in a way he didn't know was possible, but which seemed like a good change, even if painful.

Chapter XI

Percy placed Nico on the pillows, covered him with the blanket and stayed by his side for a few more moments until he was sure that the little boy was okay. Percy just watched him, his breathing calm and his face content, nestled against the sheets of his bed.

What was he doing? Why had he brought Nico to his room? Why did he keep acting so irresponsibly, like a teenager meeting his first crush? Percy knew it was a bad idea, he had known it from the moment he looked at that small, defenseless boy. Now he was sure, Nico really was defenseless, as vulnerable as a flower in the middle of a battlefield. He should--

"Daddy, is he okay?" It was Logan who asked once again. Apparently, Percy wasn't the only one who was getting attached.

No, really, he wondered: how had they become so attached to Nico in less than a week? How had this happen? Percy shook his head and decided, there was no point in thinking about such things now. It was too late.

He took the children's hands and smiled at them, leading them downstairs.

“Dad, what happened?” Alice said. She was quieter than usual, her voice almost a whisper, clutching her phone between her fingers like it could save her life.

“Nico has a disease,” Percy told her. “A type of intense anxiety. That’s why he’s so calm. If Nico gets too stressed, something like this could happen again.”

"Can anxiety do this to someone?" She asked.

"Yes. There are different levels of anxiety. Everyone has some, it's normal. When this anxiety prevents you from doing something or makes you feel sick, it is considered an illness.”

"Ah." It was Logan's turn to murmur. He had stopped crying and was now sitting on the couch with his legs up and his head resting on his knees, hugging himself.

"Do we have it too? Sometimes… I don’t feel so well." Alice confessed.

"Do you want to talk about it?”

She shrugged. 

“I mean, there’s so much to do, and exams coming up… I’ve got fencing and running, and all these exams piling up. It’s hard sometimes. I didn’t think it was anything unusual, you know? It’s always been like that. I feel like I’m going to explode sometimes.”

Percy looked at his daughter and once again felt useless. How had he never noticed this? And how had the subject only come up because their nanny had been sick? He… he was the worst father.

"It's okay, honey. We'll figure it out. Don't worry.”

He approached Alice and hugged her tightly, feeling a lump in his throat. She gasped slightly and hugged him back with all the strength an eleven-year-old could muster. Percy pulled Logan into the hug and they stayed like that for longer than they could count.

"I want you to know, you can tell me anything. It doesn't matter what it is.”

Percy heard a couple of sniffles and closed his eyes, trying to control himself. He promised himself that he would be a better father from that moment on.

***

"Come on, kids. You stay here. I'll be right back.”

And just to be sure, Percy gave each of them a tight hug before walking away. They had barely moved, watching a movie on television, but they hugged him back now with happy expressions after lunch and all the drama had passed.

He walked up the stairs, heading towards his room, and stopped in front of the door before going inside. These were the types of situations Percy least liked to face, the ones where he would be forced to be the adult one and ask the right questions. Straightening his spine and giving in, Percy couldn't prolong himself any longer than he already had; how much longer would Nico need to sleep? The morning had already passed and the afternoon was coming to an end with the sun setting on the horizon and he was still there, standing in the middle of the hallway like an idiot, avoiding what was of vital importance.

Percy pushed the bedroom door, which was half-open, and stepped inside, in his own room, where he definitely shouldn't have taken Nico to. He walked over to the bed and without making much noise, sat on the edge. Nico was there, of course he was. He was snoring softly on his back and holding the pillow against his chest, the blankets were thrown onto the floor and the lower part of his belly was exposed, making Percy notice the sparse hair that continued in a trail towards his pants... Percy closed his eyes for a moment and concentrated. He didn't understand why this boy affected him so much, to the point of awakening these feelings that he thought were buried, especially for someone so young that could be mistaken for his son.

Even knowing all this, Percy moved a little closer and placed his hand on Nico's head. First on his forehead, making sure he didn't have a fever and then, as a passing thought, he stroked his soft, long, slightly wavy black hair, combing it back so he could see his beautiful, flushed face. But Percy was a man of his word and before he could give in to temptation and do something he would regret, he moved away enough to avoid contact between them and called for Nico, touching him on the shoulder until Nico opened his eyes, heavily, as if he were going to fall asleep once more.

"I spoke to your parents.”

"Hm?" Nico murmured, blinking slowly. He rubbed his eyes and sat up in bed, staring straight ahead as if he saw nothing, and then the boy looked at him, his gaze a little lost. Something happened next, because Nico smiled at Percy, one of the sweetest expressions he had ever seen, Nico stretched out one of his hands until it rested on Percy's, which was resting on the bed.

"Thank you. With all my heart. I don't know how to thank you. You didn't have to.”

Percy swallowed and nodded. Okay. Nico was grateful and seemed to have recovered from his crisis. Was this the time to ask more questions? Try to provide some assistance? Take him to a doctor?

"You don't have to look at me like that. I promise I'm fine. It's the endorphins. My bad mood will come back soon. Don't worry.”

"Are you sure? Your mother sounded worried on the phone.”

"She worries too much. And I'm sorry about my dad.”

The fact was that Percy had not mentioned anything about the honorable Mr. Di Angelo. Let's just say it was better not to comment on him.

Nico shrugged and dragged himself out of bed, stretching and lounging as he went, as if he’d just taken a mid-afternoon nap. This time, he didn’t stagger. He searched for his discarded sneakers in the doorway of the room and turned to Percy, now looking uncertain.

“Everything is fine?”

He wanted to say yes, he wanted to pretend nothing had happened. But... what if the same thing happened again and he was the one causing these crises?

"Nico, sit with me. Please.”

"What? It was nothing.”

"I'm asking you.”

Nico huffed and his shoulders slumped forward. The important thing was that he did what Percy asked. Nico walked slowly over to him and sat on the bed, staring at him and paying attention.

“What happened today was very serious. Do you know that you stopped breathing? That you fainted and almost hit your head?”

"Well…" Nico looked away and stared at his own hands.

“Tell me.”

"It's happened a few times over the years. It was an accident. I forgot to meditate and then I ended up maybe a little bit tense and overwhelmed. Mentally. Psychologically. Sometimes… It's hard.”

It had been exactly what Alice had said, that it was difficult.

"Does meditation help?”

"Most of the time. It’s about self-knowledge and control. Not letting yourself be carried away by any emotions. It’s about accepting that we have limitations and trying to deal with problems instead of… running away from them.”

"So, that's it? You were running away?" Percy asked, curious.

"I'm not running away anymore." That's when Nico raised his head and looked him in the eyes, biting his lip. "I'm not going to do anything about it, but I'm not going to run away from it either.”

Hmm… was that really what he had heard? Nico was saying that…

Without really paying attention to what he was doing, Percy leaned towards Nico while Nico simply continued to stare at him, his dark eyes opening wider and his pupils dilating comically; Percy felt like laughing and teasing him just a little bit more… just…

“That’s not what I meant! I—I have a boyfriend!” Nico practically squeaked, though Percy could see Nico’s lips twitch in a suppressed smile, widening without his consent. “I mean that I’m not going to let these… these feelings control me anymore.”

Percy knew very well what those feelings were.

"If this happens again, what should I do?”

"Just… talk to me? Don’t let me get hurt? It worked well.”

“Just that?”

"You don't need to worry, it won't happen again. I mean... if you want to fire me, I'll understand.”

"It’s not necessary.”

Nico smiled at him and Percy finally let his tiredness get the best of him. He ruffled Nico's hair and stood up.

"Let's eat. Then I'll take you home.”

This way, Nico happily got up and followed him out of the room.

Chapter XII

"So, this is where you live?" Percy parked the car on the road and looked around.

From the driver's seat, he could see what Nico meant by living in the countryside. The property was surrounded by wide fences, full of trees that climbed high above the barbed wire that protected the perimeter of the property, and there was a large wooden gate that allowed a view of the land that stretched for miles.

“It’s no big deal,” Nico finally said, shrugging.

Percy watched him for a while and didn't want to accept it. He wasn't that kind of man, was he...? A man who was attracted to a boy who barely had a beard on his face? Because there he was, a man in the body of a teenager, so handsome that Nico almost seemed delicate, so vulnerable that Percy began to worry for his safety.

But there it was, he couldn't deny it, this was the sign Percy needed to see, the clearest indication that something between them had changed. 

It didn't take long for Percy to realize what was happening. He noticed it just as Nico was finishing his soup and was getting into the car. What was supposed to be a trivial joke, something to see how long Nico would continue to act like this responsible and honorable person, had become something he couldn't have predicted, because, in the end, the one who had lost was him.

Soon they were on the move. Nico had followed him down the stairs, eating while he and the children watched him closely, and just as he was leaving, Nico gave the children a tight hug as if he were saying goodbye. Then he grabbed his bag from the couch and when the children finally let go of him, he walked out of the house, Percy following closely behind, afraid that he would faint at any moment. 

Still, Percy couldn't quite pinpoint what had changed. The air around them had become lighter and, at the same time, static, with a soft electricity that emanated as the minutes passed by, something that made the hairs on his arms stand on end, forcing him to pay more attention to Nico, appreciating him in a way that had a certain... fantasy involved, he admitted, something forbidden that was so close that, if Percy really wanted, he just had to reach out and take what he desired.

Nico didn't act like he used to either, it was like he suddenly felt comfortable and didn't feel the need to fill the silence with idle conversations. The look he gave him when their eyes met the few times during the car ride was an obvious "I want you, but I'm taken." Nico didn't even try to hide it, his eyes said much more than his previous words could; which in turn made him anxious and positively physically uncomfortable. 

Percy refused to accept that. Someone having a crush on you was one thing, knowing that the possibility of it was real was another. It must be cosmic revenge, Nico doing to him what Percy had done first.

"Percy." Nico called his name and in the silence of the car, it sounded hoarse and low, something intimate, just to tease him a little more.

Percy stared at him, now paying all the attention he had to offer. Nico wasn't exactly smiling, it was more the way his eyes sparkled, as though he was hiding something behind them. His lips were also relaxed, almost showing his dimples.

"I think I have a solution for you.”

"Solution?" Did Nico have a cure for… this?

"Yes, a cook." Nico said amused.

"A cook?" He repeated.

This time, Nico actually smiled and shook his head.

"You know the restaurant where I bought the food? They always accept work. Are you interested? I have their phone number.”

"Ah." Percy muttered. He ended up smiling too, feeling ridiculous.

Nico picked up his bag from the floor of the car and took his cell phone out of it.

"I'll share their phone number. Tell them Nicollas recommended you.”

"Nicollas, is it? How charming.”

Nico blushed so beautifully that Percy was happy to know that he was still capable of causing that in him. Satisfied, he got out of the car, walked around it and helped Nico out, holding him by the waist and placing him on the ground, soon after hearing a soft thank you and a deep voice coming from inside the property.

"Nico Di Ângelo! Ah, he finally graces us with his presence.”

Percy looked at the gate and there stood a tall, muscular black man, no older than forty but who looked too young to be anyone's father. Percy only recognized him because of his rough, gruff voice, the same one he had heard on the phone and with the same Italian accent that Nico had. No, Percy was lying. Nico also had the same dark eyes, thin nose and full lips.

Percy immediately put a smile on his face and approached the gate, extending his hands in greeting:

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you.”

"It's a shame I can't say the same." Mr. Di Ângelo replied. He crossed his arms and stared at him without showing any sympathy. "Aren't you ashamed? He's old enough to be your son.”

“I think--”

“Papa! What are you saying!?” Nico practically screeched beside him. He ran forward and unlocked the gate, speaking very close to his father. Unfortunately, Percy could hear every word.

"He's my boss. He was kind enough to come to my rescue. Could you be a little more polite, please?”

"Nico. This is not the behavior I expect from you. I let you date the Solace boy, now, this… straniero? What are you thinking?”

"Papa!”

"You slept at his house!”

"He had an event and I ended up falling asleep! He wasn't even there!”

"Nico.”

"You don't believe me? Okay. But don't interfere in my life.”

"Listen here! As long as you live under my roof--”

"Really? Don't worry. Soon you won't have to worry anymore.”

"Who do you think you are, you brat!”

That's when Percy saw that things were getting out of hand. Mr. Di Ângelo raised his hand and Percy feared the worst. Before he could think straight, Percy moved and placed himself in the middle of them, being hit squarely in the right shoulder. If it weren't for Percy defending himself by raising his arm, he would have been punched right in the jaw.

"Mr. Di Ângelo. Calm down, nothing happened. I never--”

"I know very well what men like you want. Fancy cars and weak little boys. Something easy to manipulate, hm?”

The man then gave a wicked little laugh that not even he could have done better and marched into the property, leaving him and Nico open-mouthed because of his fury.

***

"What just happened?”

"Welcome to my life." Nico murmured absently. He was still staring at his father's back, watching him as the man disappeared down the dirt road and into the vegetation.

"Nico." Percy said, moved. Now Percy understood everything. He understood why Nico at that age was working instead of studying.

"Oh, did you hurt yourself? My father can be heavy-handed.”

Percy stopped and watched, feeling like he was just a spectator. He watched Nico reach out and touch his shoulder and arm, he saw the careful way Nico massaged the place, looking into his eyes, asking for permission, his expression saying how guilty he felt. He couldn't help it, Percy smiled at Nico's reaction and returned the caress, touching the little boy's black hair, thinking that although he was the injured one, Nico was the one who needed help. I mean, it wasn't even hurting. Much. Just a little.

"Ouch." It escaped before he could stop it when Nico's fingers brushed against the spot Mr. Di Ângelo had hit.

“I’m so sorry!” Nico hurried to apologize. He massaged more gently and the pain eased.

"It was nothing.”

"You should fire me! In less than a day I traumatized your children and got you beaten. What kind of professional am I?”

"Nico, really.”

"No, let's put some ice in there, okay? It'll be quick.”

So, leaving the car in the middle of the road, Nico took him by the hand and guided him to the huge house in the center of the property where Percy could hear more voices, sounds of chairs and instruments rumbling only to find a group of people standing outside it.

"Mamma!" Nico ran to where his mother was and knelt on the ground with her, hugging her tightly.

"Figlio mio! Mamma was so worried. Did they take good care of you? Let me see.”

Maria took off the thick gloves she used to work the soil and held him by his face, and only when she was sure that everything was okay did she let him go, smiling slightly, and very satisfied.

"Don't do that again, okay? Now, have you eaten? Have you had a good rest?”

"Mamma, stop it. Percy is the one who needs help.”

"Percy, hmm?" She asked with a smile, winking at Nico.

"My employer " Nico made it clear.

"What an employer, huh!”

"Mamma! Don't let Papa hear you.”

"That silly old man." Maria waved her hands in denial. "He never learns.”

Percy found that interaction funny and decided to approach them. The most incredible thing was that Maria Di Ângelo was not what he would expect from a mother who lived in the countryside. She was no more than thirty years old, with light brown skin tanned by the sun, honey-brown eyes and thin lips that were now stretched into a sweet smile, identical to the way Nico had smiled at him that same afternoon.

"Welcome. I'm glad Nico is making friends." He found those words strange, but accepted the greeting when she offered her hands. "I know it must have been a hassle to come all the way here. Thank you for taking care of him.”

"Mamma! I give up, you're incorrigible." Nico shook his head, denying it to himself, but with all the affection possible.

"And you." Nico said to him "Stay here, I'll get some ice.”

"Ice?" Maria said.

"It was a little accident--”

"Papa hit him. Can you believe it?" Nico said as he walked away, making him feel a little embarrassed, but enjoying himself more than he should in a situation like this. It was funny, it had been over a decade since he felt like he was going to meet the parents of a new girlfriend. Or boyfriend. Percy wasn't the prejudiced type.

Maria put her hand over her mouth and gasped. He had to laugh, it was exactly how Nico would act. Well, it was exactly how Nico had acted, all over the place and dramatic.

"I'm so sorry, Percy. I don't know how to apologize.”

"It's no problem. It was just a graze, nothing a good night's sleep can't cure.”

"You are very polite. Thank you for understanding. We want the best for Nico. I would like you to consider that.”

Consider… oh. Did they really think…?

"Ma'am, there's nothing to consider. I pay Nico to take care of my children.”

"Just that?" She placed her hands in her lap and looked down. "Nico is an impressionable boy. He never had many friends, you know? So when men, especially like you, show up…

“Ma’am.” Percy sighed, wearily. “Nico is too young. I would never… consider that.”

"I'm glad. As long as we can protect him, that's what we'll do. We're afraid that the worst will happen at college.”

“And what would that be?" He wanted to know.

"That I act like a slut." Percy heard Nico's voice coming from behind him and turned around. And indeed, Nico was carrying an ice pack in his hands. "Even though they know I have a boyfriend.”

“Hm.” Percy said, not commenting on it. Because at that moment, Nico didn’t seem like the innocent and shy or even vulnerable person that everyone thought he was. No, Percy could see someone who would be successful in the future, someone capable, someone who wouldn’t let anything get in his way.

He liked that.

"You want me to…" Nico showed him the ice pack and he understood.

Percy shrugged and, right there, in front of those people, took off his shirt and let Nico place the ice against the red spot on his shoulder that was starting to turn purple.

He gasped and Nico stared at him, his eyes wide and full of guilt.

“Sir…”

"I thought that had stayed in the past.”

"Percy. I'm really sorry.”

But Percy didn't feel it. How could Percy when Nico looked at him like that and touched his shoulder so gently? How could he be angry when those sweet eyes looked at him with such concern?

He heard someone clear their throat beside him, making him turn towards them. It was a little girl with curly hair the same shade as Maria and the same honey-colored eyes that lit up even more vividly under the sun's rays.

"Hi, I'm Hazel. And this is Bianca. And that's Thanatos." She smiled at Percy and indicated each person, each ranging from thirteen to thirty years old.

"Nice to meet you. "He said back, still distracted by Nico's hands that were now sliding the ice pack over his reddened skin, only now realizing that maybe they were too close.

Chapter XIII

“Nice to meet you,” Percy said. And him? Nico continued to run the ice over Percy’s broad shoulders, allowing himself to look. Maybe touch a little. What? Weren’t they so sure he was a whore? Nico was just trying to live up to their expectations.

Unfortunately, Nico had to pay attention to Hazel when she started talking and making conversation with Percy. Nico loved his sister, he really did. Hazel was his favorite person in the whole world, but Nico felt like if he didn't butt in, they'd even ask about the tenth generation of Percy's family. Nico knew he rarely brought people home, the only one being Will, so maybe they weren't so wrong after all?

It didn't matter, before the massacre could happen, Nico turned to his brothers, glaring at them.

"Yeah, everything's great. Now it's time for me to walk Percy to the door.”

"Nooo! We never have visitors. And no one is so--”

"Hazel!”

"I was going to say, generous.”

Hazel let out a soft chuckle, her eyes sparkling and he looked at Bianca, asking for help with his eyes. She shrugged, seeming to enjoy the show while Thanatos, his adoptive brother, just watched everything with a smirk on his lips.

"Percy has to stay for dinner! Dad even cooked.”

"I don't want to abuse the hospitality." Percy smiled at Hazel and something inside him turned, seeing them like this, so... comfortable with each other. Hazel practically hanging on to Percy's uninjured arm and Percy smiling, all charming, still holding the shirt in his hand.

He took a deep breath and opened his eyes again, seeing that Hazel was already dragging Percy into the house. His brothers followed them happily, of course, while his mother just laughed as happily as they did, still kneeling in the dirt, going back to making holes in the soil and throwing the seeds to fill the holes again.

In the end, Nico reluctantly followed them into the house. He followed them in, took off his shoes, and walked through the front door, leaving his bag by the foot of the door. The house was a compact but a spacious building, built in ancient times. From where he stood, he could see the entrance to the dining room, an open space that divided the living room, right in front of the exit door and next to the kitchen, with the bedrooms and most of the bathrooms located upstairs.

He didn't think much, he walked barefoot to the table where all his brothers and father sat and stopped in front of Percy. He barely paid attention to the smile on the man's face, he just took the shirt and the ice pack from his hands and went to get rid of them. He hung the shirt on the coat rack that was in a corner of the room and took the ice pack to the kitchen, putting more ice on it and returned to the room. He placed the ice pack on Percy's shoulder once more and then took his plate, putting pasta, meatballs and salad on it.

"Do you like wine?”

"Nico, it's not necessary--”

Nico wasn't really listening; of course Percy liked it, he had seen several types of drinks at Percy's house. He opened the bottle of dry wine that was on the table, poured a shot for Percy and in the other glass, he put some water, finally sitting down and making his own plate.

"Percy, do you need help? Let me…" He didn't even pay attention to what he was doing, he cut the meatballs for Percy and then, he heard a noise. Someone cleared their throat, breaking the silence that Nico didn't even realize was happening.

Nico looked up and put down his cutlery. Why were they looking at him like that? He was just helping, it had become a habit in the few days he had worked for Percy.

"Did I do something wrong?" Nico turned to Percy since it seemed like no one was going to tell him.

"Of course not, dear.”

It was his turn to remain silent, as the one who had answered him and called him “dear” had been Percy.

"I'm not your, dear.”

“That's what it looks like when you do these things.”

"Oh." So that was it?

However, Percy didn't speak to him in that ironic tone, it was more like he was trying to show Nico something without shocking him too much.

“But thank you." Percy finished.

Percy brought his hands to Nico's shoulders and squeezed gently, his smile sincere and small. Nico swallowed, of course, preferring to look at Percy rather than face his family watching them. Maybe inviting Percy in hadn't been such a good idea, maybe if he ran to his room he could escape the humiliation.

In slow motion, Nico watched Percy take the first bite of pasta to his lips and groan before swallowing, feeling something uncomfortable and warm take over his body. Fortunately, that was the moment Hades decided to interrupt the path his thoughts were taking.

"Percy Jackson, hmm? Why haven't I heard anything about you until now?”

So it was going to be like this? Straight to the point?

"I started working for him a week ago.”

Another silence fell and perhaps he was beginning to understand their reason.

"Did you know each other before?”

“No, sir,” Percy replied this time, his smile changing, becoming sharper.

No, gods! Don't say anything. Don't say anything. Don't say anything... was all Nico could think. Though he knew what was about to happen by the way Percy tilted his head, listening in disbelief to what came next:

"It must be our chemistry.”

Nico saw Hades' face turn red with fury while Hazel lowered her head, laughing discreetly. Bianca, unlike her, threw her head back and laughed like she had heard the best joke of all times.

"My little brother is finally learning. He even seems like a normal person. I'm so proud!" Bianca said happily and put her hand over her heart, her eyes tearing up from laughing so much. And Nico? All that was left was to cover his face and not burst into flames instantly.

***

"No, no! He's joking. Right?" Nico said as soon as he was sure he wouldn't die of embarrassment.

"Of course, Nico. We're just playing around.”

Someone help him, please!

"I'm sorry." It was Percy's turn to laugh. He grabbed Nico's shoulder again and didn't seem the least bit sorry, staring at him for a long moment.

Percy came closer and whispered so that no one but them could hear.

"I'm sorry. I promised I wouldn't do that again. Are you okay? I'll behave now, seriously.”

"Whatever." Nico sighed in defeat. "You always do that.”

"I won't do it anymore. It's just that you're so easy to tease. And your father is even easier, he's so hot-headed.”

"Could you please not bring me any more trouble? Could you?”

"I can. I promise. I'm really sorry.”

Percy then pulled away a little and caressed the back of Nico's neck, massaging the hair there and making him gasp softly. Nico didn't know where this gesture had come from, but he knew he shouldn't allow this to happen. Mainly because he knew Percy only did this to annoy Hades even more.

Well, that was the moment he realized his mistake; they were standing too close, whispering in each other's ears. How could Nico say that there was nothing between him and Percy when they were showing the exact opposite to his family? He had even… even taken Percy to meet them! It was like Nico was introducing his new boyfriend!

Trying to hide it, he moved away from Percy as if he had been shocked and looked at Hades. He was looking at him seriously, neither angry nor happy. There was something calculating, almost analytical in his gaze, as if his father was making up his mind, dissecting the information he had received.

"What do you do, again?”

"I am a researcher and have a master's degree from a federal university.”

"What exactly does that mean?”

"I develop theses, I do tests if necessary and I am a teacher.”

"Interesting. In what areas?”

"History, art, finance and administration.”

"Wow, that's so cool!" Hazel commented.

"So, you're a scholar. Does that make money?" Hades asked again.

"Not at first. My parents have a biophysics lab and a pharmacy. So I usually help them with the financial side.”

What was going on? His father was…

“Children?”

"Two. They love Nico.”

"Wife?”

"Technically, yes.”

W-what?

"Alright." Hades finally said.

"Everything okay? What was okay? Are you guys speaking in a language I don't understand? What's okay here?”

"Nico, I think Hades is deciding your future… again." Bianca said beside him.

"Percy Jackson!" He said through gritted teeth.

Percy just smiled at Nico and raised his hands, as if in surrender.

"Come on, don't be like that. You told me about yourself and introduced me to your family, the least I can do is tell you about mine.”

"Are you serious?”

"I am. It's no big deal. It's nice to know who's taking care of my kids. That way everyone knows what we're dealing with.”

Percy stood up, took a card out of his pocket and placed it on the table.

"In case you want to talk to me.”

This was shaping up to be one of the most awkward and embarrassing moments of Nico's life. But at least it seemed to lighten the mood. Hades relaxed back into his chair just in time for Maria to enter the room and everyone to start eating. It was like none of it had happened as the platters of food were passed around the table and more arrived from the kitchen.

Comments are welcome. See you next Monday!

10 Things I Hate About You (1999) dir. Gil Junger

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

Hi, how's everyone? Sorry I've been so absent, I had to take a break. Sometimes that happens, but don't worry, I'll be back. I hope you like it

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

Hades relaxed back against his chair just in time for Maria to enter the room and so everyone began to eat. It was as if none of that had happened as the platters of food were passed around the table and some more arrived from the kitchen.

This was a moment Nico hadn't expected to witness. He leaned back in his chair and picked up his glass of wine, closing his eyes as he felt the sweet and slightly bitter liquid go down his throat. He had eaten so much that he thought he would explode, making him sluggish and sleepy. That must be why he felt so good and so free. He knew he shouldn't be so relaxed, so comfortable with Percy in the middle of his family, and most importantly, he shouldn't accept without question the easy way Percy mingled with them. The conversation flowed so naturally that it was like this dinner was a common occurrence between all of them; Percy's arm on his chair, keeping them close, and the fingers that still caressed the back of his neck in that soft and gentle way lulled him without him even realizing it, while Percy's nails massaging him made everything seem even more natural. And so, finally realizing what was happening, Nico found himself wrapped in that tranquility and contentment that he hadn't felt before Percy appeared in his life, like this was another common thing between them. Even Hades, who had been rude before, seemed not to care about the display of affection.

“… thing. I never would have guessed that.” Percy said beside Nico, close to his ear, the husky murmur caressing his nerves. “What a brave little boy.”

Percy squeezed Nico's shoulders and he felt himself grow warm. Nico just wanted them to stop telling stories about his childhood, there was nothing special about it.

“He was the cutest child in the world. So righteous and innocent.” Bianca continued.

“Really? Tell me more.” Percy raised his own glass of wine to his lips and looked at Nico playfully. But there was something in his eyes. Nico never knew when Percy was been serious.

“Please, no.” It was his turn to murmur.

“Ah, but I have to tell him.”

“Bianca, I beg you!”

Bianca just smiled at Nico, all satisfied and leaned towards him and Percy. The truth is that everyone at the table was a little drunk and since Hades made the wine, he liked it very strong.

“No, I insist.” Percy murmured beside him, perhaps a little closer than necessary, a little hoarsely, too. Well, it was to be expected, they had been laughing for over half an hour. At his expense, of course. Apparently he was a very creative child. And brave. And cute. And innocent. The adjectives were endless.

“So, it happened like this. Hazel was still very little, you know? We still lived in Italy.”

“Please.” Nico begged once more.

“She didn't even realize that the other kids were being mean.”

“I promise to do your laundry for a week!”

“Nico saw this and--” She continued, her face red from the wine.

“One month. No, two--”

“Shhh…” That's when he felt Percy approaching him again. He… Percy placed his index finger on Nico's lips and said very quietly: “Your sister is talking. Be a good boy.”

Nico was unable to disobey. The air fled from his lungs, but unlike what had happened before, it was thought they were suddenly very full, so hot that Nico felt like he was being scorched. The strangest thing about this was that no one seemed to find it strange. Not Percy's arm around his shoulders or his rough fingers against his lips, much less the way that their chairs, for some mysterious reason, were much closer than before, seeming that with each passing moment the distance between them was decreasing.

Half-airy and light, still hearing the words “good boy”, Nico watched Bianca continue to tell her little anecdote of a little boy defending his defenseless little sister through punches. And on top of that, winning the fight.

“I remember that!” Hazel said. She pushed her chair back and stood up, beaming with happiness. “We have pictures!”

“No!” Nico said, defeated.

“Yes!” Hazel exclaimed.

With no other choice left, Hazel left the table and ran upstairs without looking back.

“Percy!” But Nico was laughing, hiding his face in Percy's shoulder, feeling like he was going to melt from embarrassment or bury his head in the ground like an ostrich.

“It’s okay,” Percy told him, the smile in his voice making him relax. “I promise not to hold it against you.”

A kiss was placed on the side of his face and Nico melted completely. He couldn't remember the last time someone had kissed him like that, full of affection and without expecting anything in return. Nico had to lift his head and look back at Percy. When Nico had first met him, it hadn't occurred to him that Percy Jackson could be someone so kind and loving, yet somewhat shameless. Raising his hand, Nico placed it on Percy's face and--

— Nico Di Ângelo! — An angry voice echoed through the room.

The front door slammed against the wall and there stood the person Nico least expected to see, someone he had completely forgotten about. Will Solace was there. Yes, Will, his boyfriend, the person he should be smiling with, the person Nico should be touching with so much affection and care, but never had the desire to do so.

Everyone looked at Will and, too late, Nico realized that Percy was still holding him by the shoulders and he still had his hands on Percy's face. He saw in slow motion Will march towards them and stop in front of the table, only then realizing that he shouldn't be touching Percy, much less in front of his boyfriend. He looked back at Percy and let his hands rest on his strong shoulders, still unprepared to let go.

What… what was he doing?

“I'm sorry.” Nico said to Percy. For some reason Nico addressed Percy and not Will. The truth is that he felt bad, he felt strange, all that drama made him feel like he was betraying Percy, which only made him more confused.

“What the hell are you doing! And who is this guy?”

“I-- I… this… this is Percy Jackson.” He mumbled weakly, not knowing what to say. “And this is Will Solace, my… my boyfriend.”

“What the fuck, Nico!” Will got closer to where he was and yelled in his face. “Come with me, now!”

Nico didn't know what to do, so he went. He stood up and looked one last time at Percy and his family who were watching everything in bewilderment, letting Will grab him by the arm and drag him away. He even heard his mother say "Oh my!" That is, until he realized that Percy wasn't going to let go. He looked at Percy and saw that the man was frowning, looking at him with concern. "Is that your boyfriend?"

“What's that got to do with you? Don't you think you're a little old to be hanging around little boys?”

He couldn't believe what he was hearing! Nico gasped and stood in front of them.

“It's okay, we'll talk--”

Percy stood up and straightened his spine, puffing out his chest in a way Nico had never seen him do before. Percy stopped in front of Will and looked down at him, the blond boy looking so small and helpless next to the nearly seven-foot tall man that it almost made Nico laugh.

“I'm sorry, I don't think I understood. Can you repeat that?” Percy said. He smiled at Will and kept Nico behind him. Nico could imagine how threatening Percy was now.

Will swallowed hard, but stared back at Percy, his grip on Nico's arm tightening.

“That's what you heard, old man.”

“You better let Nico go. He doesn't want to talk to you.”

“Who do you think--”

“If I were you, I would be careful with your next words.”

With that the room fell silent, Will and Percy staring at each other and their family frozen where they sat.

Percy was the first to break the tension. He turned to Nico and gently held him on the shoulder, leaned in until he was very close to his ear and whispered:

“Are you sure he’s your boyfriend?” Nico just looked at Percy, feeling like laughing for some reason, watching Percy laugh back at him. “He feels like an older brother. I don’t see any love or attraction, or affection coming from him. And if that’s how he treats you… why are you still with him?”

Nico felt himself burn under Percy's intense gaze and instead of answering him, he pushed Percy's shoulder lightly, not really wanting to move away, looking at him disapprovingly and muttering so that only Percy could hear: “You're doing this on purpose. I'll be right back.”

So, Nico walked away from Percy, ignoring that little smile that was already very familiar to him, and went outside where Will was waiting for him.

***

As soon as Nico turned his back on them, being pulled by his boyfriend and dragged by the arm, Percy turned around and faced that family that five minutes ago seemed to be the best in the world compared to his. Now, he wasn't so sure. Whether it was the way Nico's older brothers went back to eating, just looking at their plates or the sad way Maria Di Ângelo looked through the door where Nico had left, the worst thing was definitely looking at Hades and seeing the resigned expression on his rough and tired face.

Percy sat down at the table and put his hand to his temples, feeling a headache coming on. He filled his glass with more wine and downed it in one go. Why was he so worried? Why did he feel so possessive? In the end, Will Solace was right, this was none of his business, none of it was.

Even so, Percy turned to Hades, giving him a disapproving look. Hades looked at him and it was then that he realized,  the man would do nothing to stop something bad from happening to Nico. 

Percy didn't believe that! He would do anything for Alice and Logan, he would never let other people abuse them, much less offer them up on a golden platter, handing them over to the dogs. Percy took a deep breath and tried to ignore the tension in the air, so strong it could be cut with a knife. However, it didn't take long for a murderous expression to form on the patriarch's face; not even thirty seconds later they heard furious shouts coming from outside the house. The clearest were "You're mine! Acting like a whore won't solve things" and "Is it because of him that you don't want to marry me?"

Everyone remained in a somber silence that was only broken when Hazel entered the room, her shoes making noise against the wooden floor. Hades grimaced in disgust and he couldn't take it anymore, downing the third glass of wine in less than two minutes.

“You know, I may like fancy cars and innocent little boys, but I would never do that to Nico.”

“As if you were different.” Hades tells him.

“I would never call Nico those things and I would never force him to do anything he doesn't want to do. Can you say the same about Will? If I were you, I would be careful about who you let into your home.”

Hades made another face, as if he had eaten something bitter, but Percy didn't care, he got up from the table and went after Nico.

If it had been anyone else in his place, he would have said that the scene he found when he opened the door was something out of a murder movie about to happen, or perhaps the beginning of physical abuse. He couldn't decide, especially if it was the way Will was looking at Nico, with so much anger and disgust, practically pressing him against the wall; Will even had his fist slightly raised, close to his body, his hand clenched and tense. Nico, on the other hand, seemed to have given up on fighting back and was just trying to defend himself with his hands over his face.

Percy couldn't wait any longer, he walked over to Nico and stood in their midst, running when he saw what was about to happen. However, Percy had to stop before he reached him, coming across something he never expected to see; the little boy who had seemed so brave and courageous was now huddled against the wall, trying to make himself smaller, crying so hard that he was sobbing.

He did the only thing he could in a situation like this. He approached slowly and tried to talk to him, without scaring him.

“Nico? It's me, Percy.”

“I'm sorry! I didn't-- I didn't--” Nico screamed with all the strength he could muster and raised his hands, trying to keep the threat away from him, soon after shrinking even further against the wall and crouching on the floor, covering his head with his hands.

“It's okay. Tell me what happened, hmm?”

“Oh.” Nico said softly, almost without strength.

With a broken sob, Nico raised his head and looked at him, his face twisted with pain. Nico didn't say a word, he just stood up quickly and jumped against Percy, hugging him desperately and crying even harder.

“Shhh… what’s wrong? No need to cry, you’re safe.”

“Per…” Another hiccup and the first sniff.

“Come on, it's okay. Don't you trust me?”

Nico nodded, his face all wet and swollen, trying to smile, relaxing a little more. At least Percy now knew Nico wouldn't have a panic attack.

“Do you want to talk?”

Nico denies it and stays exactly where he was, curled up against Percy's chest and with his eyes squeezed shut, trying to control the sobs that were slowly fading away. Only when he was sure that Nico wouldn't lose control again did he look at the boyfriend. Big piece of shit. A selfish and spoiled little boy, from what he could see. And who apparently didn't even care if Nico suffered or not.

Percy didn't do anything other than hug Nico, he didn't move to give that kid what he deserved or try to call for help, Will didn't do anything either, looking at him like he wanted to kill him, ignoring Nico who finally stopped crying. In the end, he was the one who had lost; it was Percy who held Nico in his arms, it was Percy who slowly caressed his back and it was Percy who comforted him. Will should give up while he still had time.

See you next time!

Writer’s Guide to Unreliable Narrators

Unreliable narrators are narrators who intentionally or subconsciously mislead the reader with their own bias and lies. I love nothing more than a narrator who deceives me. There is something incredibly charged about not being able to rely on your guide through a story. So how can we write them?

Determine What Kind of Unreliable Narrator your Narrator is.

There are five kinds of unreliable narrator we see in fiction, each with their own way of leading the audience astray.

The Unstable: This narrator is usually an unstable character with problems with grasping reality or having trouble accepting it so they bend it to their own tastes. Example: Arthur Fleck in Joker & Amy Elliot Dunne in Gone Girl

The Exaggerator: the one who spins fanciful lies to embellish the facts of the story around them. Usually they embellish it in such a way to make themselves look good.

The Child: Though children can be a font of truth, they often have a way of muddling facts and being confused by certain aspects of the story they are not versed in. Example. Bran in A Song of Ice and Fire & Scout Finch in To Kill A Mockingbird

The Biased: The biased Narrator is usually an outsider. They enter the world with preconceptions of the world and/or characters around them. Usually they get disabused of their biases by story’s end but not always. Example Damen/Damianos of Akielos in The Captive Prince Trilogy

The Liar: The Liar is simply just a liar liar pants on fire. They twist the narrative and outwardly lie about their actions and the reactions of others. The liar is self-serving, usually narcissistic. Example Cersei Lannister from A Song of Ice and Fire.

How to Write Your Unreliable Narrator

The thing you must remember is that your audience immediately trusts your narrator, they have no other choice. It is a given. However, it is your job to break that trust.

Allow the narrator to outwardly lie. Let them spout half truths or full out lies in the narrative. The audience will take what your character says as the gosphel until slapped with a conflicting account or detail. It provides a wham to the story that becomes a turning point. Perhaps the best example of this is Amy Elliott Dunne in Gone Girl (I recommend). She introduces herself as a sweet housewife who loves her husband despite her fears over his temper. However, in the section of the book she narrates she quickly flips Nick’s account of the events leading up to her disappearance, turning the audience on their head so fast none of us have a chance.

Allow the character to mislead your audience with the absence of details. Your story is one big chain, omit a link and the thing is useless & subject to the questioning you want to draw out of the audience. For example, Daenerys Targaryen believes wholeheartedly that the house with the red door is in Braavos. However, she vividly remembers a lemon tree outside her window and sunsine. But lemon trees cannot grow Braavos and it is notoriously damp and cold. #lemongate

Speak to your audience through the events of the story, bypassing the narrator to get through to the audience. Sometimes the best reveal that the narrator cannot be trusted is showing the audience evidence that they are either not seeing what’s happening or they are ignoring it. For example in Captive Prince, it is almost explicitly suggested that the Regent molested his nephew Laurent as a child. If one ignores Damen’s narration, the signs are there to see from Laurent’s reaction to his Uncle’s presence and in some of Laurent’s words. Damen chalks this down to Laurent being a brat and the Regent just being a villain. He has to be told despite the audience realising or at least suspecting it from the second book onward.

Play off your secondary characters. Use the characters around your narrator to disprove their account if the story and completely flip the story on its head. Usually, I trust the secondary characters when it comes to Unreliable Narrators. For example, Cersei Lannister gets her own POV in a Feast of Crows. Up until this point she has been very mercurial in her reactions in the first few books, to the point where other characters and the audience are confused about who the real Cersei is: the shrewd polictian or the wine mom with way too much faith in herself and her spawn. In truth, Cersei is incredibly paranoid about those around her and she thinks herself the cleverest player in the game. However, from others such as Tyrion, Tywin, Littlefinger and the members of the Small Council (who yes, all have a touch of misgyny to their criticisms of Cersei but really most of their points have a point since she is mad as a box of frogs) we see that Cersei tends to make enemies out of allies, assume the worst in others and make political choices to spite others or to put her faith in those who offer her little more than flattery.