Can’t You See The Way His Face Lights Up When He Sees You?

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

Hi, how are you? As I promised, I'm here with a new story. I mean, it's not new, but I've never posted it here. However, I already have some chapters posted elsewhere, on Tapas and Patreon in portuguese, in their original versions. They're going to be short chapters, but I still wanted to share them with you, especially in case plagiarism shows up. (Someone came along with a sad story trying to use my story and my words, you know? So I'll bring other stories here too, for documentation purposes)

We have a portuguese verson too. Right here.

This story started because I wanted to tackle something different, something very cliché, something quick that turned out to be longer and more in-depth than I wanted (I was trying to overcome the blockage of another story). Sometimes the life story of the characters speaks louder, and so the story was born. A father who's trying his best and a boy who's scraping together money to get into a top college.

As always, the characters are very OOC, quite out of character with the canon, although I've tried to keep their essence. So, consider the story more of an original than a fanfic. I decided to focus on character and world building that sounded realistic. I thought about how Percy would act and what his personality would be if he was raised in a strict and demanding way, among incredibly wealthy people and educated to be the CEO of one of the most important companies in one of the most important metropolises in the world. Nico, on the other hand, comes from a humble background, his father being involved with political figures in a small town just a few hours from the big city, raised to conform to whatever his father decided was right, but wanting more of life than to marry whoever his father told him, more than to conform to a small town life.

Basically, that's the premise of this story. Now, how these two people meet is the mystery that will soon turn into something more than pure attraction. So far I have two narrative arcs ready, the story currently at 95,000 words. There is no sex in the first 40,000 words, although there is some innuendo that sounded more interesting to me than the sex itself.

The first chapter is slightly slow, but I promise that from the second onwards things will get more interesting. The chapters are short because the monetization platform requires the chapters to be short, so I strutured the chapters this way. So every three parts would be what I usually put in a chapter. If you could read it and give me some honest feedback, I'd appreciate it. I'm thinking of deleting the entire first chapter, so your opinion might help me decide that.

Now, on to the official information:

I have two covers for this story, although I usually use the second one.

Synopsis: Okay, he told himself. Nothing personal. Sure. No big deal, just another job where Nico would stay for a few months, make some money and move on to the next job until he had enough for college. He took a few steps towards the door and climbed the few steps, these made of white and gray marble. Soon after, he rang the doorbell before his nerves got the better of him. Impatient and overcome by anxiety, Nico rang the doorbell again, pressing the button harder than he intended at the exact moment the door opened, revealing a tall man, almost seven feet tall, with messy black hair and intense green eyes that stared at him with disinterest. Okay, nothing personal.

Nico!Babysitter, Percy!Teacher-father

This is a story about a student who, in order to have money for college, becomes a babysitter, meets the children's father and develops feelings/lust for him. From then on, fantasies begin to emerge and everything becomes complicated between them.

Summary: Nico, a twenty-year-old boy, works to pay for college when he is fired from his current job. In search of another, he meets Percy Jackson, a businessman and university professor, the father of the children he will be taking care of for the next few months. From then on, Nico becomes more involved with the Jackson family than he expected.

Fandom Percy Jackson and the Olympians & Related Fandoms - All Media Types Percy Jackson and the Olympians - Rick Riordan

Ship Nico di Angelo/Percy Jackson past Will Solace/Nico di Angelo

Personagens Percy Jackson Nico di Angelo Annabeth Chase Jason Grace Hazel Levesque Will Solace Hades Alice Jackson Logan Jackson

Tags Friendship Love Anguish Alternative universe Nico!Babysitter Percy!Teacher Original characters D/s elements Age difference

The first chapter will be out in a few minutes.

Stop it! You're giving me ideas!

Imagining being Percy's children and asking your father about this certain man with whom your father cannot stand face to face, is always awkward despite having been acquainted for 10-20 years, doesn't know how to address, referring to him as 'friends' half of the time and 'it's complicated' in the rest. But also, who your father would rush to help and would rush to help your father and by association your family in kind. what a guy.

SITTER'S LOVE - Nico!Babysitter, Percy!Teacher-father - Chapter XVIII and Chapter XIX

Hi, how are you? I'm still a bit sick, but nothing to stop me from bringing you new chapters. So they'll probably come out towards the middle and end of the week, but I promise I'll be around. I hope can you enjoy it! Any feedback is welcome, because I'm thinking of turning this story into an ebook. For example, a reader told me that Nico's age was confusing. And she was right! For those who have the same doubts, Nico and Percy are around 15 years apart. That's because this story was supposed to be just smutt, but then I decided to do something more serious. That's when I decided to raise Nico's age a little. So Nicois eighteen and Percy is in his early forties.

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 / Chapter XV / Chapter XVI e Chapter XVII

Chapter XVIII

"See? It wasn't that hard." That's what Annabeth told him on Monday, the morning after the party. Fortunately, that nightmare was in the past and soon she would leave, sneaky and silent as always.

"You're absolutely right, it was so much fun. In less than two hours the kids were already tired and I had to greet twenty different people who treated me like I was a childhood friend. It was really fun.”

"Don't be dramatic. They know you, you just don't remember them.”

It's true. Percy never had patience for self-interested people with superiority complexes. He had enough of that himself.

"Daddy, can we change clothes? Nico should be here soon." Alice said, her face expressionless and her eyes drooping, dark circles surrounding them in a soft pink tone. Her dark brown hair further highlighting her paleness.

"Of course, dear. Do you have money for lunch?”

She just waved and held out her hand to Logan who slowly stood up and walked over to his sister.

Logan wasn't doing any better either, it seemed like all his joy and will to live had been taken from him, his green eyes were puffy and his back was hunched over. The saddest sight he ever saw. Annabeth had promised them a family night and what they had gotten was a lonely dinner, secluded at a table while their mother paraded Percy around the room, as to demonstrate how her trophy shone brighter and brighter than anyone else's.

In that moment, Annabeth chose to stand up as well, acting like the children and the heavy air didn't exist. She stroked Alice and Logan's hair and walked up the stairs, strutting down a runway that only she could see, never looking back.

"I'm sorry, kids. This will be over soon.”

"She… she doesn't even…!" Logan sobbed and Alice hugged him tightly. "Why doesn't she love me?”

"Don't be like that." It was Percy's turn to stand up and join them, completing the hug. "Of course she loves you, she's your mother. She loves you in her own way.”

"I wish! I wish she wasn't my mother! Anyone is better than her!" Logan shouted with all the strength he had and ran up the stairs.

"It's okay, Dad. I'll take care of it." Alice tried to smile and hugged him as tightly as she had hugged Logan. 

She pulled away and followed her brother, straightening her spine and walking up the stairs, doing her best to show that everything was okay. But it wasn't, they had known for a long time that it never would be. The children were growing up and finally understanding what was happening, what had always happened. The truth was that Annabeth wanted more than to stay home and take care of children, no matter who she left behind or hurt in the process.

After that, Percy didn't even have time to finish his black coffee, the doorbell rang and he had to answer it, knowing full well who it was. He opened the door, coming face to face with Nico's dark and slightly rounded face, his black eyes as puffy as Logan's, looking down, huddled against himself at the foot of the door.

"Nico, you don't need to ring the bell, I gave you the key for a reason." Percy tried to break the bad mood.

"I wasn't sure if I should." Nico looked at him hesitantly, and remained rooted to the spot, looking like he was going to burst into tears right there.

"Nico, what happened?”

"Nothing. Nothing happened.”

"Did you get my message?”

He nodded and wiped his face.

"I wish you hadn't sent it." He then looked at him and practically begged. "You make things even more complicated.”

"More complicated, how?”

"I thought… I thought I could handle it. What should I do? Never talk to them again? Pretend it never happened? What should I do?”

"Nico, dear. It's okay.”

"Nothing is okay. Nothing will ever be! I wish I had never met you, never met Diego and still been in Italy! None of this would have happened and I would never have known--”

"Never know what?" Percy had to ask.

Nico looked at him, fidgeting in place, his lips trembling.

"I would never know what it's like to be treated well. Like I mattered. Like I was worth the effort.”

Percy waited a moment and continued to look at Nico, this boy couldn't be real. His sincerity, his affection. Percy could kiss him right there, right now. He could hold him in his arms and give him all the attention Nico could possibly want, but it wasn't right, it wasn't what Nico needed; this was just a vulnerable moment. The strange thing was that Percy didn't understand why he cared so much, even though he knew it was enough to try to help Nico. What Nico needed right now was a friend and not what Percy really wanted to give.

"Okay." He murmured back, trying to stay on the right path. In the end, he couldn’t resist. Percy touched Nico’s shoulder and slid his hand down the curve of his neck, watching Nico gasp and move closer to him, their heads a hand’s breadth apart. "Do you need help? Medical help? Money?”

"I don't want to take advantage of you." It was Nico's turn to murmur back, looking less fragile, as thought the danger had lessened.

"Our family has a partnership with an NGO. It's great for taxes. I could arrange something for you.”

"I can't." Nico shook his head, moving just a little closer.

"Please? I would feel more at ease. It’s a community-based program. You can continue to receive help even after you stop working here. It’s at the college, downtown. It’s safe, I promise.”

"I don't know, Per.”

"Or you can stay with me for a while. I have other houses.”

Nico grimaced and shook his head.

"Come on, everyone needs help.”

"Are you sure? Is it really communal?”

"I wouldn't lie to you.”

"I… thank you.”

Nico jumped into his arms and hugged him tightly around the neck, and whispered:

"No one has done anything like this for me before. I will never forget it. Never.”

Nico then kissed him on the cheek, a soft, fleeting touch, and pulled away, his face reddening more by the second.

"Uh… the pleasure is mine." Percy said. He tried hard not to step forward and end this torture. But there was no way, playing the good guy was too exhausting.

Percy sighed deeply, waved and turned his back to Nico, being greeted by an audience, because there in the entrance chamber he found the children smiling, all happy with Annabeth who was watching them like she had swallowed a whole lemon. The worst part was seeing her anger displayed for anyone to see when Annabeth had done much more than a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Well, two kisses on the cheek. Who knows, maybe the next one would be in the right place.

But no, that wasn't all. Annabeth uncrossed her arms, pushed herself off the wall and came towards him, strutting and tossing her golden hair back.

"So, you are the famous Nico.”

"Am I?" Nico asked, confused.

"Annabeth Chase, wife of the man you were hugging so tightly.”

"Hmmm… it’s a pleasure to meet you? I can finally… put a face to the name.”

"Did they talk about me? I expect only good things.”

“Of course, ma’am.” Nico looked at Percy uncertainly, and Percy nodded at Nico, patting Nico’s shoulder once more. “Kids? We’re already late.”

This is the moment when Logan and Alice ran to Nico, each of them hugging him tightly only to run out of the house, leaving Percy to grab the keys to the car that had just arrived and hand them to Nico.

"Those keys, they're not--”

"Today you will use another car. It is next to the Jeep.”

Nico shrugs and picks up the children's backpacks, going after them and leaving only the silence and Annabeth's malicious judgment on his back.

Chapter XIX

"You finally showed who you really are.”

Nico and the kids had barely left when Annabeth started. She followed him through the house to the living room and stopped in front of him, refusing to be ignored. Percy felt like rolling his eyes, but he was resigned; nothing he could say would convince her otherwise. So, Percy gave in and just sat on the couch, opening the newspaper to the business section.

"Really? Who am I?”

"A child groomer. You always preferred the younger ones. They’re more innocent, aren’t they? Easier to manipulate? You can tell me.”

He looked at Annabeth, at her bright blue-gray eyes that conveyed compassion and understanding. She had always been a good actress. But, did everyone think the same? Did he enjoy dominating the weak? Was that the impression he gave to others?

"Annabeth, how many times I will need--”

"You're cheating on me. You'll never admit it, but I know it. Is it revenge for what I did?”

"Annabeth." Percy sighed, already tired of this. "If I wanted revenge, I would have done it four years ago.”

“Four years?” She gasped and took a step back. This time, it didn’t seem like an act. “You knew all this time and never said anything?”

"I wasn't sure. Until you brought your lover home, things were great. I saw you two together and it was so obvious. I couldn't keep pretending.”

"Percy, I never meant to hurt you.”

"I know, it would happen sooner or later, right? And all because of our families?”

"Percy, please. Don't complicate things.”

"No, Annabeth. I'm tired of this. Remember your part of the deal. This is my last warning.”

"Percy! Don't you realize what you're doing?" Annabeth approached him and held his hands like she hadn't done in a long time. "Don't you know what people will say?”

"He's just a kid who needs help.”

"No." She refused to accept it, holding him in place with the strength of her intense eyes. "You say that now, but what about later? When you no longer feel guilty? I know what will happen. What will they say about me when you abandon me because of a little boy?”

"You were the one who abandoned me first!”

"Yes! For an adult and independent person. Someone mature and with a career. What do you think will happen? Will you play with him for a while and then dump him?”

"Oh, I hope not. I'll play with him, dress him, feed him, and give him everything he needs." Percy said with a smile wider than the world, catching himself and Annabeth off guard. "Then I'll love him and marry him.”

"You… are you serious? You would throw away our partnership over some random child?”

"This has nothing to do with Nico. That was our agreement, you would visit the children a few days per year until the divorce was official. All that’s left is for you to sign the papers.”

"Percy! Why can't you accept this? I'll even let you play with him. Equal rights, right?" She said hopefully.

"No, thank you very much. You should have thought about that before making your decision.”

"Percy!”

He had lost interest in what Annabeth had to say. Percy sat back down on the couch and opened the newspaper once more, watching from the corner of his eye as Annabeth paced the room, her dress billowing around her as she came up with a thousand reasons to convince him why a divorce after so long would be detrimental to both of them.

The truth was, he didn't care, and he didn't care what might happen to him. Would Percy lose some money? Yes. Would his parents be furious in that passive-aggressive way that said they were going to take away any support or power he had over the family business? Absolutely. As long as Nico and the kids weren't affected, everything else could fall apart and he wouldn't lift a finger to stop it.

"Okay! But don't say I didn't warn you!" Annabeth threw her hands in the air and marched upstairs. Which seemed perfect to him, the less he had to deal with Annabeth, the less problems he would have in the future.

***

“Thank you, Jenny,” Percy said, picking up the cutlery on the table and deciding what he would eat first.

That was a pleasant early afternoon, the sun was shining brightly into the room and the food was being served on the table while Jenny, the new maid/housekeeper , arranged the dishes on the table. And Percy had to admit, he had never eaten so well before, even at his parents' house when the custom was to have a party or charity event every two weeks. It seemed that Nico was excellent at everything he did and even at finding exemplary and efficient service providers.

“Of course, Mr. Jackson. Mrs. Chase.” Jenny nodded at him and Annabeth, and walked away. She was out of the dining room and back to the kitchen faster than a rocket. Had Annabeth managed to scare away more of the staff yet?

“So…” Annabeth began. She uncovered one of the dishes and made a face. “You know I don’t eat pasta.”

"Nico eats. The children too.”

"It's your favorite dish. And I know you, everything has to be about you.”

"No, you're mistaken, I think we're talking about someone else.”

It was Percy's turn to make faces. When he was with Annabeth, he couldn't help but sink to her level. Luckily, he didn't have to wait long, as he soon heard the front door slam and hurried footsteps coming towards him. Small arms grabbed him by the neck and childish giggles followed. Percy smiled at them and kissed their happy faces, Alice and Logan, the only positive thing that would come out of this marriage. Of course, Nico came right after, out of breath, running after the children, probably worried that they might have gotten hurt.

"Oh." Nico mumbled, looking embarrassed for some reason. " I'm sorry.”

Nico took a step back and was already turning around when Percy said:

"Nico, join us.”

"I don't want to bother you.”

"I insist.”

"Yes, Nico. We insist.”

Nico turned and faced him, hesitating, and then disappeared once more with the children's backpacks down the hallway and up the stairs. When he returned, Nico simply extended his hands toward the children and they came to him, each holding one in his arms. They went up the stairs and with that, the silence that was so common when he and Annabeth were together was once again present, louder than if a lion were roaring in the dining room and right in their faces.

"Hm." Annabeth said after a while.

Yeah… maybe he had looked up at the cream-colored ceiling and then at the dishes that, even though covered, were releasing steam from the cooked food. When he looked back at her, Annabeth had her arms crossed and was leaning against the back of the chair, observing him as if she were analyzing an experiment that had an obvious conclusion.

"You are thoughtful.”

"…”

"You are… happy.”

Percy made a point of not answering her again. He wouldn't smile or make any faces. But still, Annabeth said he was happy.

"You've made up your mind.”

"I already told you--”

"Yes. But this time is serious.”

It was better for things to stay that way. He allowed himself to look at the ceiling once more and let his thoughts go wherever they wanted. He allowed himself to think about Nico's dark eyes, his easily embarrassed face, and his shy but sweet gestures. And in the end, Annabeth was right, he was just biding his time, waiting long enough for Nico to reach twenty-one so he would feel less guilty about what he was about to do.

***

Percy heard the footsteps before he saw them. Nico reappeared with the children, already changed, and guided them by the hands, helping Logan to sit in the chair while Alice sat down alone, sitting next to her brother. Silently, Logan and Alice waited for Nico who started by taking the children's plates. First Logan's, filling his plate with vegetables and a small portion of pasta. Nico did the same with Alice and even though they made faces, they both took the first bite, swallowing the vegetables practically without chewing. At least it was a start, he had never managed that feat.

"So, Nico. You're a student, right?" Annabeth said, barely letting Nico sit down.

Nico went around the table and did the same with Percy, filling his plate with vegetables, but with a much larger portion of pasta, doing the same with his own plate.

Nico nodded, sat down next to Percy, and lowered his head, shoving a forkful of pasta into his mouth.

"What are you studying again?”

When Nico continued chewing, showing no signs of responding, Percy spoke for him:

"He's going to be a--”

"I'm not talking to you." Annabeth said and turned to Nico, and asked again: "What do you study, boy?”

He watched things happen in slow motion. Nico wiped his mouth delicately, put his cutlery on the plate, and then stared at Annabeth, his brow furrowed. He placed his hands on his lap, somehow looking shy and yet not at all intimidated.

“You don’t scare me,” Nico said, straightening his back. “You’re not the first to think that just because I’m quiet I’d be afraid of this emotional manipulation. I’m sorry if I’m interrupting your dinner. I can leave.”

A slow smile formed on Percy's face and not even his attempt to hide it with his hands could disguise his amusement. It was funny to see the way Nico acted, the boy didn't even make an effort to move and just continued to stare at Annabeth, calm and composed, as if this was a normal occurrence. The children didn't have the same composure, laughing softly as they tried not to choke on their food, all while Annabeth seemed to take Nico's answer as a challenge.

"Ah, but it seems like you learned a lot from daddy, right? After all, he's old enough to be your father. Maybe an uncle, hmm?”

It was Percy's turn to swallow something sour.

"My father?" Nico shook his head and gave a dry chuckle. "My father would never teach me these things. I don’t have to explain myself to you.”

"You don't have to?”

"No." This time Nico looked Annabeth straight in the eye, completely serious. "You are not part of our lives. How long will it be before you disappear again? If you don’t care about this marriage, you should care about what happens to your children.”

Only silence remained. Annabeth paled and inside, where no one could see, Percy felt vindicated, so fulfilled that he could get down on one knee and ask Nico to marry him right then and there.

"I’m sorry." Nico said once more, softening his voice. "I don’t mean to intrude. But all this has a negative effect on the children. They spent the night crying. It’s not healthy. And no, everything I said here, they’re not my words, they’re theirs. Can you hear that?”

"I…" Annabeth murmured, looking at her own plate.

"Can we start over?" Nico then smiled and stood up. "Nico Di Ângelo, nice to meet you. I'm the kids' new nanny. I've been here for less than a month and I'm studying law at the community college, next semester I'll transfer to the federal college. I'm working to pay for my studies.”

Nico offered Annabeth his hand and the most incredible thing happened: Annabeth stood up and accepted the greeting, shaking Nico's hand. The children sighed in relief and Percy felt disappointed. Nico could have chased Annabeth away, right? But nothing was that simple. Annabeth and Nico sat down at the table, the plates were emptied, dessert arrived and so the children, Annabeth and Nico began to talk, telling her what had happened since Nico had arrived there. Unfortunately, Annabeth was cordial, Nico was sincere and the rest of the day passed peacefully with Annabeth and Nico putting the children to bed and wishing them a good night.

The good news is that when Nico came down the stairs to leave, he was alone. Backpack on his back and a calm expression on his face. That is, until he finished going down them and found Percy waiting for him at the bottom.

"Sorry about today. I didn't expect her to do that.”

“It’s okay.” Nico shrugged, stopping a meter away from him. “You two are alike, actually. I just needed to shock her and show her that I don’t want to hurt anyone.”

"Still, you didn't have to deal with her.”

"Percy--”

"I have something for you." Percy took a card out of his pocket and offered it to Nico. "The clinic I told you about.”

"You said it was an NGO." Nico looked at him suspiciously, but accepted the card.

"It’s a clinic that partners with an NGO. It’s the same thing.”

"No, it's not.”

Nico read the address on the card and frowned.

"Isn’t it that tall building in the city center…?”

"Well… you discovered my evil plan.”

With that, Nico looked away from the card and crossed his arms, staring at him with that grumpy little face, making a cute little grimace.”

"I said my family had a partnership with an NGO, didn't I?”

"I didn't expect it to be in that building. I mean…”

"Yes, we are those Jackson.”

"You mean, I gave a moral lesson to one of the most… famous socialites in the city?" Nico said, looking like he was going to faint, his voice slowly fading away.

"Yes, and that was the best moment of my life! Thank you very much!”

"Percy!" Nico whimpered and came at him, slamming both his fists against Percy's still aching chest. " Couldn't you have warned me?”

"No, I couldn’t." He murmured, satisfied, holding the middle of Nico’s back. He loved it when Nico approached him of his own free will. "Did I mention you were amazing? Fantastic. Magnificent. Perfect.”

"Stop it! And don't try to distract me. I can't accept it." But Nico didn't pull away as he feared, Nico hugged him by the neck and held on tightly.

“None of this.” Percy murmured against Nico’s ear. “A promise is a promise.”

"I didn't promise anything.”

"Come on, it will be good for you. And if you need to--”

"No." Nico denied, letting his arms fall away from Percy’s neck, and took a step back, looking anywhere but at him. "I can’t accept more than this.”

"I know. I understand. But I want you to know, if you ever need me, no matter what it is. I'm here.”

"I know." Nico murmured back. "And that’s the problem.”

Thanks for being here. Comments are always welcome.

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

Hello, how's it going? Thank you to everyone who voted in the poll. In fact, I didn't even know that so many people read the story in English; 49 votes, only two or three negative. So I'm glad to know I'm not writing for the walls. I've been thinking, it seems that polls are a good way of communicating. I'll use them from time to time to check if the plot is still going well. The chapters are short, but we'll get there slowly. I hope you enjoy it.

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

"Thank you. "Nico finally said when the Jackson 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 that he wouldn't destroy everything he saw along the way.

He liked that too, knowing he could count on the whole family. And since he was being honest, why not  carry on?

"You know? I haven't seen Hades in years. Is really necessary to work so hard because of him? I was thinking of something more effective.”

"Whatever you need, dear." This time, it was Sally who said it, already composing herself; the mother giving space to the businesswoman.

"I was thinking about emancipation." When no one said anything, Nico decided to close his eyes and keep on talking. "Hades has control of my mother's possessions and, as an only child, I won't have access to them until I'm twenty-one. If I speed up things, I can try to recover what is mine before Hades destroys everything.”

"I don't understand, Hades can't touch that money without the court's permission." Tyson said, confused.

"That's the problem. My mother had stocks and other assets that Hades has access to. Most of what he has comes from my mother.”

"Are you telling us that it was your mother who was rich and not Hades?"

Now it was Percy who seemed unhappy.

"Hades used to be a bank manager. Mama fell in love with him and I was born. In fact, Bianca is my half-sister, like you already know. My grandfather is a big farmer, you know? Mama used to help him before Hades showed up.”

"Wow. No, I did not know that." Grover muttered. "And your father is a son of a bitch.”

"He is. I didn't feel safe telling anyone this, but now that he can't hurt me, it's time to get back everything he took from me.”

"We're going to help. Tyson is going to start the preparations.”

"Can we take him by surprise? Try to get my mother's inheritance back and do the emancipation together? I don't want to give him time to fight back.”

"Of course. It's a great idea," Tyson said with a strange glint in his eyes. "He won't even notice when we catch him. I promise." 

"Okay. I trust you. If emancipation doesn't work, can you be my guardians? I never want to go back to that house again." 

"You have our word." Sally touched his shoulder, smiling at him with tears in her eyes. "We will destroy this man, even if it’s by force." 

"You don't have to promise me. I just... I don't want to be under his control anymore. I don't know what might happen."

"Is Bianca okay living with him?" 

"He's never treated Bianca the way he treats me." 

"Oh, honey." Sally said and hugged him tightly, with Percy still holding him by the waist. 

He refused to cry, refused to give Hades this pleasure, refused to continue under that man's control. While he was in Verona with his grandparents, cousins, and uncles, Hades hadn't had the courage to approach him. But now that no other adult was responsible for him, Hades thought he could boss him around. Well, Nico would prove it to that man and give him back a taste of what Hades had done to him.

"I'm fine. Is all in the past. I just want what's mine."

"We know," Percy finally said, coming out of his stupor. "I'll take care of you."

Nico knew that, Percy was saying those words so often that he was starting to believe it. Maybe they really did have a chance to get married in the future and build a family of their own, away from all this confusion and pain. Maybe if he behaved and did everything the right way, he would free himself from this nightmare, from these people who seemed determined to torture him.

***

After that, things seemed to calm down, but in a delicate way.

He said he should have kept quiet from the beginning, didn't he? Nico didn't understand exactly what was happening, but he did suspected something was going on.

Nico felt like Percy was distancing himself from him, as though he was loosening the leash of his collar to see how far Nico would go without supervision. Or maybe, that was just how he felt. Maybe Percy was giving him some space, some time for Nico to understand what was happening and take the next step with precaution. 

Where Percy used to be by his side at every moment of the day, now someone else would replace him without Nico even realizing it. It was strange, the few times he found himself alone and was able to think, the effect of what Percy wanted became the opposite. This time alone made him think about life and the possibilities that the future held for him. It scared him, the uncertainty, seeing that he would have to take the reins of his own life if he wanted to live comfortably, when, in reality, all he wanted was for someone to come and tell him what was the right path to take. 

That afternoon would be no different, making him lose himself in the succession of days, pleasant days with people who cared about him, but without the pleasure that Nico had become accustomed to receiving. Would a few days be enough for Percy to convince himself? Was he behaving as expected of him?

Nico was so tired of all that. He just got out of bed and walked around the house. He found Sally in the kitchen and declined the invitation to cook with her. He found Tyson in the study who offered to update him on the Hades case, and once again declined, passing Grover who was in the living room, going straight to the outside area of ​​the house, the only place Percy could be.

There Nico found him, watching Percy swimming at fast speed in the pool, up and down, incessant and frantic, Nico having the impression that Percy was trying to punish himself and for something he should never be blamed for. When Nico finally got close enough to get a better look at Percy's profile, he remained silent, wondering if it was a good idea to break Percy's self-imposed routine. What if this was their future and Nico was just delaying and fighting against what was hopeless? Finding himself at a dead end, Nico sat down in one of the lounge chairs and carried on watching Percy swim furiously, looking like he was trying to take out all his frustration in the water.

It wouldn't be long now. 

If Nico was still following their script, in a few minutes Percy would get out of the pool and go after him. Percy would hug him and smile at him, being all affectionate and they would spend the rest of the afternoon and part of the evening doing anything other than what they wanted to be doing. He was so tired of all this that Nico wasn't even surprised when Percy came out of the pool like someone was chasing after him, almost  walking straight past him. 

Nico felt like laughing, this was so ridiculous; Percy was ridiculous and he was ridiculous too. What were they waiting for? The trauma and the sadness to disappear so they could move on with their lives? That maybe with time and patience Nico would be a normal and mentally balanced person? The funniest thing was seeing Percy backing up and stopping next to his chair, smiling sheepishly at him. And what did Nico did? He smiled back, it was the only rational thing to do in a situation that made no sense at all.

"Hey, handsome. What are you doing here all alone?" Percy asked and crouched down, getting to his height and staring at him closely.

"I missed you." 

"Yeah?"

"I wanted to know where you were." 

"I'm here, like always." 

Nico wanted to say it was a lie. Percy might be there, but he wasn't by his side anymore.

"What's happening to us?" He asked, feeling more tired with each passing moment.

"Nothing's happening." Percy said and smiled at him, gently touching his face. And that was the problem, nothing was happening and he needed something to happen immediately, or he would go completely crazy.

Nico almost let himself be carried away by the platonic caress, almost let Percy's calm smile fool him.

"Did I... did I do something wrong?"

"That would never be possible." 

"You don't like me anymore?"

"Nico." Percy said in the calmest voice he had ever heard. "I think we should slow down.”

“More than this?”

“I…” Then the calm mask on Percy’s face broke. "I abused you. I never asked why you wouldn’t talk to your father. I never questioned why you cried and shook when you thought no one was watching. I need space. I thought it would be good for you too.”

“I don’t need space. I need you.”

Nico didn’t hesitate, he threw himself into Percy’s lap and hugged him tightly, feeling a lump form in his throat.

“Nico. I… I feel guilty. I’m just another one who wants to abuse you.” The important thing was that Percy hugged him back, tightly, holding him by the back of his neck and whispered in his ear. "I want to see you at my feet and I want to see you obeying everything I tell you to do. I want you to look only at me and think only about me. Do you think this is any different from what Hades was doing to you?”

“I don’t care.” There, he said it. “I want to do all of this for you.”

“Nico, please.”

“I’m tired. Why can’t I have what I want? Why is it so wrong to be under someone else’s control?”

He heard Percy groan and before he could react, Percy pulled him by the hair and made him face Percy, his green eyes blazing, as if Percy was about to devour him right there.

“You’re going to kill me. You know that? I’m trying to take care of you. I’m doing what’s best for you.”

“I don’t want the best, I just want to not feel so miserable all the time.”

Percy stared at him for a long moment, looking like he was going to break down at any moment, but finally his wish was granted; Percy pressed his lips against his and stayed like that for a few moments, allowing him to feel the warmth and touch that he had missed so much. And suddenly, it was enough for Nico. It wasn't the sex he missed, it was the warmth of Percy's body on his, the affection, the caring touch, the release of tension, the connection he hadn't found anywhere else.

Unfortunately, the moment was broken some time later. Percy's hands were still on his skin and he was still sitting on Percy's lap, they were still staring at each other as if the other would disappear if they looked away.

"I never wanted you to feel this way," Percy finally said, swallowing hard. "I feel like a monster. I'll-- I'll get over this, I just need some time." 

"Do we need to stay apart? I don't want to learn about law from Tyson or about sports from Grover, I don't even want to learn new recipes from Sally. I promise I won't bother you." 

"How can you say this to me?" That was all Percy said before he buried his face in his neck and Nico felt tears hit his skin, Percy's arms tightening around his waist.

"Oh." Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to corner Percy after all. 

Nico was convinced of that when he heard the first sob. Why did everything he did go wrong? With a tight chest, Nico pulled Percy up and lay down with him on the lounger. He would obey Percy's wishes and give him the space he needed.

Suggestions or comments? Thank you for reading!

pjo takes that would have gottten me crucifed in 2014

okay, some of these probably aren't so bad but idk

rachel isn't that bad of a character. You guys just hated her because she "got in the way of percabeth

Octavian isn't that bad of a character. He was just really poorly written. If Rick gave him a sob story you guys would be falling at his knees.

Caleo sucks ass. The age gap is just rlly weird (not in a good way)

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) dir. David Heyman

SITTER'S LOVE - Nico!Babysitter, Percy!Teacher-father - Chapter XXVII and Chapter XXVIII

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 / Chapter XV / Chapter XVI e Chapter XVII / Chapter XVIII and Chapter XIX / Chapter XX and Chapter XXI / Chapter XXII and Chapter XXIII / Chapter XXIV, Chapter XXV and Chapter XXVI

Chapter XXVII

Nico rang the doorbell and swore to himself that today was the day. Percy opened the door and smiled at him, and for a moment it was like everything had returned to normal, he could even visualize Percy bending down and hugging him tightly. But then the spell was broken and Percy looked away, closing the door behind them. No “good morning” or “how are the therapy sessions going?” Percy just turned his back on Nico and walked towards the kitchen, forcing him to follow him through the entrance hall, the living room and finally the kitchen and dining room.

It seemed that in the end nothing but Percy's behavior had changed. As most of the time, the children were already at the table, Percy pulled out a chair inviting him to sit, and without looking at him, he sat next to Percy, all while remaining silent. This would be the perfect moment, wouldn't it? Everyone ate calmly, seeming to be more asleep than awake.

Turning to the side, Nico looked at Percy who was already looking back at him.

“Yes?” Percy murmured, as if Nico had asked a question. Was he that obvious? Or was Percy just paying attention? And besides, should he be happy that Percy still cared? Or should he be irritated that he felt watched? Nico shook his head and denied it. The truth was, he didn’t know what to say. Would it be fair for him to accuse Percy of something when Percy was doing exactly what he had asked?

"It's nothing," He said back. "Do you still need me to sleep here on Friday?”

Percy made a confused face and he found himself smiling.

"Your parents' event?”

"Damn! I forgot their anniversary present. They've been married for thirty years.”

"That’s cool. I’m glad you have two days until then." Nico suggested discreetly.

Percy opened his eyes wide and jumped out of his chair, as if he had been shocked. However, it was Nico who was shocked. Percy grabbed him by the back of the neck, kissed his cheek and murmured, “Thank you, baby.”

Distracted, Percy disappeared from the dining room faster than Nico could follow, leaving only the sound of the front door slamming shut along with his heart beating rapidly. For some reason, Nico felt bad, like he had done something wrong. And according to the doctor, if something seemed wrong and he wasn't sure, it was better not to do it. Or at least to analyze whether he could face the consequences. 

So, the solution was to pretend that nothing had happened, avoid the curious gaze of the children and spend the rest of the day thinking about what had happened. Relief soon came when it was time to take them to school. He studied a little during the rest of the morning and helped the cook make lunch. Nico knew it wasn't part of his job as a caregiver, but it calmed him, made him relax while the sound of pots and pans and the voice of Beca, the head chef, kept him company.

It was time to pick up the kids once again and dinner began. It was another day that Percy would arrive late, probably after dinner, and that was okay. Percy always showed up before the kids went to bed, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem was all his when, watching a series with them, the three of them fell asleep under the light of the television, the darkness of the early evening and the sound of the actors' voices slowly lulling them. When Nico realized the time, it was another one of those days when he had slept past work, the clock hands showing fifty past nine. He rubbed his eyes to see better and saw that the kids were still sleeping, resting on his shoulders, their arms crossed over his belly, as though he were their teddy bear.

"Comfortable?" Percy asked him. He sat on the couch and watched him from there, his arms crossed and legs apart, sitting in the dark, analyzing him, while his green eyes passed over the scene of him and the children, sleeping together and peacefully.

"Sorry, I ended up falling asleep." Nico cringed and looked at the children in his arms, feeling embarrassed, like a little boy who had done something naughty.

"Why are you still here?" Percy said.

"I know I shouldn't have fallen asleep, but--”

"No, what are you still doing working here. Didn't I give you enough money? Do you need more?”

That's when Nico realized, Percy wasn't accusing him. He was being sincere and asking if Nico needed help. Nico denied it, he wouldn't need money for a long time.

"So, what's the problem? I know that the universities are still accepting applications.”

“I…”

"Isn't that why you're here? To make money?" Percy insisted. The man didn't move or try to comfort Nico like he would have before, Percy just stared at him seriously and intensely, waiting for an answer.

"I don’t need money." With a clear and concise voice, Nico decided to be honest, but he couldn’t look at him while he said it.

"So, what do you need?”

Nico found himself smiling, this was so cliché! Did Percy expect him to say “what I need is you”? He couldn’t do that.

"I don’t need anything. I want…" Nico raised his head and forced himself to say: "I wanted to spend some more time with the children before I leave.”

Percy stood up and gave him one of those crooked smiles. However, this was one of the worst he had ever seen. It was cynical and mean, full of bad intentions.

"I understand. The children will be very sad to see you go.”

"Are you… firing me?" Nico asked in disbelief.

“Nico,” Percy said. He walked around the coffee table, stopped right next to Nico, and bent down until he was at the right height, touching him gently. First in his hair, then sliding his hands down to rest on his neck. “You can’t keep wasting your time here. You deserve better than to be catering to the whims of a rich man.”

Was Percy talking about himself? And admitting that he was playing with him?

"I know I can be stubborn and bossy. I like things my way and I can't stand being rejected. But this isn't about me, it's about your future. When are you going to start thinking more about yourself and less about others? Can you promise me that?”

"Promise what?" Nico said, too distracted by Percy's closeness. It was the result of those hands stroking the back of his neck.

"That you will do what is best for you. That you will follow your heart.”

"Percy." Nico didn't know what to say. Why was this happening?

"I'll be honest, I have contacts at the college. I know classes start next month. Why don't you stop by? I'm sure they'll help you.”

"You are… I can't accept this.”

"Why not? You already have a guaranteed spot. I'll just speed up the process.”

"Do you want to get rid of me that much? I didn't mean to hurt you.”

"Don't be silly, you didn't hurt me, you just hurt my pride. I'll survive.”

Nico found himself smiling again, Percy's sincerity always amused him.

"Are you… sure? I didn’t expect things to get this complicated.”

"Don't worry, I get it. You don't want to be with me. I'm big enough to take a no.”

"No, I didn't mean to--”

"So, it's decided. This will be your last week, they expect you on Monday morning.”

Percy stood up, taking his heat away from him and Nico fell back, sinking into the beanbag.

"So mean." Alice muttered against Nico’s shoulder.

"Bad daddy." Logan agreed from the other side.

Nico could only sigh and help them up, while he put away their notebooks, books and pens. Nico put them to bed and escaped downstairs before Percy had the idea of taking him home.

Chapter XXVIII

"So, it's decided. This will be your last week, they expect you on Monday morning.”

Percy stood up, taking his heat away from him and Nico fell back, sinking into the beanbag.

"So mean." Alice muttered against Nico’s shoulder.

"Bad daddy." Logan agreed from the other side.

He sighed and helped them up. The three of them, in a joint effort, put away their notebooks, gathered their books, and put their pens inside their pencil cases. Then, taking the children's hands, Nico led them to their beds, covered them with the sheets, and escaped the house before Percy had the idea of driving him home. Unfortunately, Nico had the misfortune of findingJason in the living room waiting for him when he arrived at the apartment, exactly as a good, responsible adult would wait for his child who had broken curfew.

"How was your day? Did anything different happen?" He heardJason say as he walked past the living room, heading straight to the kitchen, trying to avoid the questionnaire. AndJason? He went straight to the microwave, pressed a few buttons and then brought out a bowl of pasta with sugo sauce, one of his favorite dishes.

"Hm." Nico murmured, without confirming anything. He accepted the food, almost putting his head inside the plate.

"Nico, what's going on? Why did Percy call me asking me to help you move out?”

“I knew it!” he thought triumphantly, even though Nico didn’t feel victorious at all.

"He fired me.”

“Why?”

"Do you remember about my scholarship?”

"I remember."Jason confirmed.

"It's still available.”

"Didn't you need money for the expenses?”

"Yes." Nico lowered his head, feeling embarrassed to say the rest.

“So?”

"I have the money. It will probably last the entire course. I think there is still some left for a P.H.D.”

He watchedJason's face change from concern to a familiar mocking smile.

"Oh, you mean he gave you all that money?”

"Not exactly. I worked a lot of overtime. Sometimes I slept overnight. I stayed up late…”

"I know, you are a model worker. We should all strive to be like you!”

"Blake! I didn't ask him to give me any money!”

"But you feel bad anyway.”

Nico nodded, defeated. He felt like he was selling himself, this exchange that was supposed to be between employer and employee far more intimate and intense than was advisable.

"What do I do? Give him his money back?”

"I can't tell you what to do.”

“But?”

"You are so close to achieving your dream. Why don't you think of it as a loan from a friend who cares? There's nothing stopping you from paying it back when you can.”

"Maybe. So… why do I still feel so bad? It's like he's paying for something I can't offer.”

“Ah,”Jason murmured, seeming to understand. “The solution might be to walk away from him.”

Nico nodded once more and lowered his head to the table. He had thought about this before, it was what he had been trying to do for the past few days. For some reason, this distance between him and Percy also felt wrong, like something was missing. Why did everything have to be so complicated? Why did he have to leave behind all the people he loved the most?

“What’s wrong, Nico?” This timeJason’s voice was soft, his hand resting on his arm.

"Why does this have to happen? Why do I have to stay away from everyone?”

"Everyone?”

"Percy, my father, my family. Why?”

"Do you miss them? Your family?”

Nico didn't answer, but it was obvious. He just buried his head deeper into his arms and pushed the food away, trying to take a deep breath.

"It's okay. You don't have to avoid them if you don't want to, just a little distance is enough.”

"Just a little?" Nico didn't know if he understood.

"You know, I still visit Zeus. I have dinner with him every week.”

"He… he’s a horrible person.”

"He is, but he's my father and I miss him.”

"Does Thalia know about this?”

"She knows. She respects my decision.”

"I don't feel comfortable with that.”

"Are you uncomfortable or do you want to get revenge on them for everything they did to you?”

He lifted his head and stared atJason.

"You can forgive them or not, that's your choice. Wanting them to suffer as much as you suffered is not healthy.”

"I don't want that. I never wanted it.”

“Not consciously,”Jason told him in a patient tone. “Our subconscious mind likes to play tricks on us. The important thing here is that you feel happy and satisfied with your life. Do you miss them? Go visit them. Do you feel hurt? Walk away. Sometimes we have to choose between what’s right and what’s good for us, even if it hurts other people.”

When he just looked at his friend,Jason smiled at him and gently touched his shoulder.

"I want you to think about this. Right now, what makes you feel good? Is it giving Percy his money back or following your dream?”

There was something there that Nico had never thought about.

***

A few days later, Nico was still thinking about whatJason had suggested. What made him happy? Wasn't it strange that he had never thought about it? He kept wondering what Hades would do if he knew how he lived, if Will would be mad if he did what he wanted, he even remembered wondering if Bianca and Hazel would approve of his decision. Now, asking himself that question, wondering what made him happy, hadn't crossed his mind untilJason pointed it out to his face. He just wanted some peace, whatever came of it was a bonus.

The door opened and Percy smiled at him, hugging him tightly, just like Percy used to do before all this drama happened, and he, putting his worries aside, decided that enjoying that moment, melting against his broad chest, was the best thing he could do in that situation. Did Percy and his big hugs make him happy? Much more than Nico could explain. But then, why did he feel so sad?

"Am I a happy person?" He asked Percy when the man released him and closed the door.

Percy slowly turned towards him and looked at him strangely, still smiling, and ruffled his black hair, shaking his head.

"You don't know if you're happy? I would say yes. But only you can answer that." Percy looked at him once more and finally looked worried. "Are you okay?”

Nico didn't know how to respond. So he looked down, feeling strangely embarrassed.

"It's nothing.Jason told me something last night…”

"Is that so?”

"Whether I do what makes me happy or whether I do what other people expect of me." He looked at him and asked again: "Do you think I do what other people want me to do?”

"Nico, I don't want you to feel bad. It's not exactly a bad thing.”

"Oh." Nico murmured, half numb.

"You rarely say no to anyone and you always help everyone. You are someone who likes to feel useful. There is nothing wrong with that. But, yes, I think it is a good question. What makes you happy? For a long time I did what would make my parents happy. It did not turn out well for me. Even though I am in a privileged position right now.”

“I understand.”

"Doing what other people want for a while doesn't mean you have to do it forever.”

Well, it made sense. That's what was happening, wasn't it? He'd done what his family wanted for a long time, and now he was free to go his own way.

"You're right." Nico said to Percy. Nico hugged him tightly around the neck and kissed the face he loved to look at so much. "You always say the right thing.”

"It's a talent " Percy murmured back, hugging him equally tightly around the waist, almost lifting him off the ground. "Unfortunately, we have a change of plans.”

"Hmm?" Nico questioned, confused by the abrupt change.

"My parents want to see the children.”

"I know." He could already imagine the situation. "I don't have any clothes.”

"Of course! How could I forget?”

Percy pulled him by the hand and right there in the middle of the living room were three-foot-long racks filled with suits, blazers, and full-length coats. All of them appeared to be his size. He had forgotten how manipulative Percy could be; it was so obvious that this had been planned that it made his blood boil.

"Percy Jackson!”

Nico marched the rest of the distance to the clothes and checked them, they still had the store tag on them. A very exclusive and expensive one at that.

"Did you like it? If you want, you can take home what we don't use today.”

You know what was the most ridiculous thing? Percy's posture. He had a straight spine, a puffed-out chest, and a bright smile on his lips. And to top it all off, Nico could hear the children's voices laughing from the kitchen.

"When did you have time to buy all this?”

"It was nothing, just a phone call.”

"You're kidding me, aren't you?”

Percy scratched his head and looked at Nico, pretending to be embarrassed.

"Would you believe me if I told you that the clothes were lost in our wardrobe?”

"No." Nico heard another pair of laughs and couldn't hold it in. "And you guys, what are you doing, hiding there?”

The children came running and hugged him around the waist, happy and content.

"Yesterday when you left early, we stopped by the mall and bought half a store!" Logan said excitedly. "It's our gift to you.”

"Don't be mad at Daddy." Alice finished for Logan.

This was a plot against him.

"That's not fair. How could I be mad at you?”

"So, did you like it?" Percy asked again, calm and smiling. But the way he looked at him was as if… as if Percy had found something very interesting; which made him uncomfortable and, at the same time, happy.

"If you think you can buy me because of what you did… you don't have to. It's okay. It was my decision, you just respected me.”

"Nico, I'm not trying to buy you. It's just a gesture of gratitude. You've done a lot for our family. We want to reward you.”

"I don't need that. Seeing you happy is enough for me.”

"We know." Alice said.

Nico looked at Alice and saw that she was already looking at him. She had changed so much that he was even surprised; it seemed magical the way the little girl who hid behind her long black hair transformed into this confident teenager who faced her problems head on.

"We'll never forget you!" Logan said. "And you have to promise to call.”

Nico smiled at them and waved, trying not to show how much more their words meant, something that those clothes that must have cost an entire year of his pay, could never compare.

“I promise.”

Olá, como tudo bem? Esse é o primeiro post do projeto "Escrevendo histórias". Serão posts semanais, as quintas ou nas sextas. Espero que eles possam te inspirar!