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Reaching out, Nova gently pushed aside the curtain, her fire gauntlet glowing a soft yellow as her eyes adjusted to the dark void outside of the window. The corner of the vampire cabin and the row of towering trees beyond it were barely visible as Nova scanned the area, her gaze flicking between the grass below the window’s ledge and the tree line. 

Nova was about to close the curtain and chalk up the sound to a rogue animal when a soft groan interrupted the silence, Nova’s chest tightening as she squinted in an attempt to see through the darkness. Another pained groan drew her attention to a darkened figure leaning against her cabin, inches away from the far side of the window. 

She couldn’t control the sharp gasp that fell from her lips as a spark of recognition lit inside of her, the figure’s maroon-tipped hair, dark jewelry, and all-too-familiar black cape painting the image of the one person she didn’t want them to be. 

Nova bit her lip hard, hard enough to remind herself that what she was seeing wasn’t a hallucination or pieces of another vision. Sure, the boy crumpled against her cabin had appeared in her visions for over a decade, but it was still a jarring sight to see him so real , so present . 

The boy shifted enough for the moonlight to catch his face, enough for Nova to take in the reddened skin of his neck and the charred sleeve of his cloak. Drawing in a shaky breath, Nova realized he wasn’t just in pain - he was injured, burned , badly. 

Indecision coursed through her as she stood frozen, unable to move. Facts flew through her mind, fragments of stories and conversations she’d overheard growing up. 

Vampires don’t have any burn resistance. They aren’t taught fire safety in the way her people are from birth. Burns drain their energy and their powers. Without help, they’re as good as dead. 

“Shit,” Nova muttered to herself, already regretting what she knew she was about to do. It went against the foundation of her loyalty to her people, to her father . 

Despite that, Nova found herself creeping to the cabin door, glancing over her shoulder to make sure no one was awake to witness her moment of weakness. 

She always had been weak when it came to him . 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor knew it had been a bad idea to attempt to break up a fight that involved fire , but he felt a twisted sense of civic duty to protect the younger vampire boy that had gotten in the way of a particularly enraged daywalker. 

Really, he should’ve realized just how much of a bad idea it was when he jumped in front of the fireball hurtling towards the boy without thinking for even a second . 

He’d barely managed to peel himself off of the grass and stumble as far away as possible, not choosing to stick around to get another taste of a fire gauntlet. It’d taken five minutes for the world to stop spinning, and another ten minutes for his breathing to return to as normal as it could be post-fireball. 

Glancing around, Victor took in his surroundings, slowly realizing that the cabin he was lying against wasn’t the same shape as his cabin. It wasn’t even the right color . 

Victor was about to debate how much it would hurt to drag himself to his cabin and face the wrath of Willa for breaking curfew when the crack of a branch sounded from behind him. He spun around, his gaze catching on a figure a few feet away. They froze before darting behind the cabin, the silhouette of a short skirt and long tresses of hair spilling down their back. 

His heart beat faster as a flicker of recognition filled his mind, flashes of the daywalker girl he’d dreamed of for years overtaking his thoughts. There’s no way, he thought to himself. 

Another flash of golden hair drew his attention as the girl peeked around the cabin before ducking back into her hiding spot. Sighing, Victor bit back a groan as he sat up straighter. “I can see in the dark, you know,” he spoke aloud, his voice rough with pain and exhaustion. 

A moment passed in tense silence before a soft curse resounded in the silence and she stepped out into full view, her fire gauntlet softly glowing as she eyed him warily. Victor nodding towards her wrist, shifting painfully. "I can't really defend myself, so go ahead."

Nova looked at him for a moment before sighing, the light fading from her gauntlet. "Are you always this sarcastic?” she finally spoke, her voice softer than he’d expected. It’s not like she spoke in his visions, and he’d been too preoccupied during the Camp Rayburn plan proposal to really listen to anything may have spoken aloud.

“It’s a coping mechanism,” Victor replied, wincing as pain shot down his side where the burns were still fresh. Nova stepped closer, close enough for him to read the reluctant concern painted across her face.

He was too vulnerable to be this near to his sworn enemy; but between the pain he was in and Nova’s glittery eyeshadow that was way more distracting than it should have been, Victor realized he didn’t care. 

“What happened?” Nova asked, crouching down and running her gaze over his burnt side. “Got in the way of a fireball,” Victor choked out, another fresh wave of pain wrecking his body. He caught a flash of sympathy in her blue eyes before she stood abruptly. 

“I’ll be right back,” she whispered before she ran back to where she had been hiding behind the cabin and reappeared moments later holding a small box that looked suspiciously like a first-aid kit. 

In the back of his mind, Victor wondered how she had that just lying around but decided not to worry about when the pain returned, his vision going blurry for a moment. When it cleared, Nova was suddenly inches away, already unlocking the box and digging into its contents. 

Victor could only watch as she pulled out various items, unable to focus on the details as she pulled her bottom lip between her teeth in concentration. If this was how he was going to die, Victor didn’t mind. 

At least the last thing he’d see is a pretty girl who he definitely shouldn’t be developing feelings for. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova spread out the various rolls of gauze and packets of burn cream on the grass in front of her, ignoring the coolness of it against her legs where she was kneeling. She’d almost woke up Ray trying to retrieve the kit from under her bunk, but deep down she knew she’d need it to help Victor. 

Victor’s pained groan drew her out of her thoughts, her fingers closing around the burn cream as she looked up at him. Her heart stuttered as she took in the way his dark hair fell into his brown eyes, the way his lips were parted in pain and the silver rings on his fingers reflected the soft moonlight. 

Nova was grateful for the darkness as a warm blush spread across her cheeks. Swallowing down the butterflies, she ripped open the packet and squeezed some of the cream into her palm. “This will hurt,” she spoke, her voice shakier than she meant it to be. 

Victor’s face contorted into pain, his breathing heavy as he watched her reach up and gently tug on the collar of his cloak. “Take it off,” she whispered. Victor studied her for moment before letting the clock fall off of his shoulders, pulling his arms out of the sleeves. 

Nova tried her best not to notice the way his red t-shirt clung to his arms, instead focusing on the reddened skin on his neck and shoulder. “I’m sorry,” she apologized before spreading the burn cream over his skin. 

Victor gasped in pain, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the cloak lying in his lap. A string of curses fell from his mouth as she leaned closer, close enough to smell his cologne. 

Taking a deep breath, Nova slipped her fingers under the neckline of his t-shirt, Victor’s skin burning hot against hers as she spread the cream down his shoulder. She didn’t dare look up at him, already feeling his gaze on her. 

Pulling back, Nova reached behind her until she felt the roll of gauze, realizing with a start that she couldn’t exactly wrap his shoulder and neck with the fabric of his shirt in the way. She finally glanced up at him, her eyes flicking between the his, the gauze, and his fabric-covered chest. 

Realization seemed to dawn in Victor’s expression before a cocky smirk spread across his face. “I assume you want me to take my shirt off too?” Nova felt her face burn as she resisted tossing the gauze roll at his head. 

“You wish I did,” she shot back, before realizing she actually did want him too. But sure as hell not in the way he was implying. 

Victor chuckled lowly at her response, his eyes roaming her face. “I guess it would be hard for you to wrap my shoulder with a shirt in the way,” he replied, pulling his shirt off in a clean motion despite the pain that filled his face as he moved his shoulder. 

Nova really attempted to school her expression as she unrolled the gauze, tearing off a large piece. She also attempted not to notice how training to fight her kind clearly did him some favors. 

This whole situation was a death sentence for her emotions. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor would’ve laughed if someone had told him an hour ago he’d be shirtless on the ground outside of the daywalker cabin with their leader leaning over him, wrapping gauze around his shoulder, her long blonde hair falling into his face. 

Despite knowing he shouldn’t, he let his gaze wander over Nova’s crouched position in front of him, taking in the way the fabric of her skirt brushed against his legs and the way her floral perfume was the only thing he could focus on. 

“There,” Nova exclaimed, her face twisted in determination as she finished tying the gauze under his arm. He glanced down to see an intricate wrap job decorating his right shoulder, the gauze crossing over itself in a symmetrical pattern he never could’ve achieved on his own. 

Nova must’ve noticed his stunned silence because a soft blush spread across her cheeks, her fingers gently toying with the gauze roll in her lap. “I’ve been taught burn safety since I was young,” she explained, her gaze locking on his. “Wrapping a burn is one of the first things we learn how to do.”

Victor watched her, unable to look away. “You helped me,” he whispered, his chest tight with an unfamiliar emotion. Nova remained silent, beginning to gather the scattered supplies on the grass. He could almost feel the distance growing between them with each second. 

He felt an unexpected sense of panic as he watched her tuck the items back into the kit, snapping the lid shut. “You’re welcome,” Nova replied, her tone sharper, more distant than it had been before. 

She had just began to lift herself off the grass when Victor’s hand shot out on its own accord, his fingers gently grazing the skin of her arm and stopping her cold. Nova’s eyes widened, her gaze trained on the way his fingers rested on the soft skin of her wrist. 

“That’s it?” Victor spoke, his voice wrecked. “You’re just going to walk away?” Victor couldn’t quite believe the words coming out his mouth. It was as if his heart took control of his mind, rendering him helpless to stop the feelings threatening to spill from him. 

Nova swallowed, her arm trembling slightly under his touch as she studied him. “We’re supposed to be enemies,” she replied, her voice barely audible despite the silence of the darkness surrounding them. “I did what was right. Now it’s time to move on.”

Victor laughed cynically, his thumb brushing against her skin as noticed the way her breath hitched at the motion. “You and I both know nothing about tonight was right ,” he replied. 

Nova stilled at his words, tearing his gaze away from him. Victor couldn’t stand the wall forming between them, the way she kept pulling away from whatever was simmering in the air around them. He felt like he was about to suffocate under the weight of the unspoken emotion and unnamed tension. 

Reaching out, Victor grit his teeth against the pain in his shoulder and gently turned Nova’s face to his, his fingers resting on her cheek. The unabashed surprise painted on her face was enough to draw his body closer to hers, his other hand finding its place on her waist. 

Nova sucked in a breath at their proximity, her pink lips parting slightly as her eyes roamed Victor’s face. “What are you doing?” she whispered, shifting under Victor’s touch as his hand slid into her hair, the golden strands impossibly soft under his touch. 

“Nothing that’s right ,” he replied, his gaze falling on her mouth. Victor could feel the distance between them decreasing as she leaned into him, her bright eyes wide with surprise, with need . 

“Don’t you think it’s time we changed the rules?” he spoke again, waiting for a sign. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova’s head was swimming with conflicting emotions as she hovered inches away from Victor’s mouth, her heart pounding as his hand slid further into her hair and his other tightened around her waist. 

“Maybe,” she spoke, the word falling from her mouth before she could stop it. She couldn’t stop any of her actions anymore, helpless against the magnetic pull between herself and her sworn enemy. 

Suddenly, the word “enemy” didn’t sound right in her head. It hadn’t since she stepped outside and looked into Victor’s brown eyes. 

Nova barely had a second to realize Victor surging forward, his lips sealing over hers and his strong arms pulling her into his lap. Her hands landed on his chest, his skin smooth against her fingertips as he teased Nova’s lips open. 

Nova gasped against Victor’s mouth, threading through her fingers through his messy hair and flushing as he groaned in response. His tongue brushed hers, his right hand sliding down her leg and settling just under the hem of her skirt. 

She pressed herself closer to him, her body burning with the heat of Victor’s hands, lips, and skin. Nova couldn’t quite convince herself she wasn’t dreaming as his mouth moved against hers, particularly when he shifted so her legs were straddling his lap; his black jeans rough against her skin. 

Nova couldn’t tell if minutes or hours passed before she pulled back, struggling to draw in a breath as she took in Victor’s messy maroon hair and swollen lips; sure she looked just the same. 

A soft smile crossed Victor’s face as his gaze caught hers, his hand reaching out and tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “That felt right,” he spoke, a question dancing in his eyes. 

Nova faltered for a moment, knowing whatever she spoke next would alter things beyond her control, knowing that she was standing at the edge of a cliff that jumping off of would only lead to unknowns. 

Victor was right, nothing about tonight was right. 

But, maybe something was. 

Maybe the delicate thing between them was enough to take a step off the edge. 

Nova let a smile lift her lips as she slid her fingers between his, leaning close enough for her lips to brush Victor’s as she spoke. 

“It was right.”

A moment passed in thick silence before one of Shadyside’s council members cleared his throat, his eyebrow raised in Victor’s direction. “Your highness? Is everything alright?” the man spoke, his tone apprehensive.

Victor blinked several times before his mind registered the man’s words. “Y-Yes, Councilman,” he replied. “I apologize. I seem to have lost my train of thought.”

Victor tried to ignore the concerned looks passed around the table, squaring his shoulders as he returned his attention to the map in front of him.

He had successfully made it through three more sentences of the speech before the anger returned, stronger and heavier than the previous time. This time, Victor stumbled forward, his chest tightening with the newfound emotion and his head swimming with barely-contained rage.

“What the hell, Nova?” he muttered to himself, no longer caring if the council heard. He was already a mess in their eyes. What could she possibly be this angry about?

Looking up at the wide-eyed council members seated before him, Victor cleared his throat and smoothed the front of his cape.

“I hereby adjourn this meeting. We will reconvene in a few days to finish this discussion. Thank you for your time,” Victor spoke, trying to infuse strength into his tone.

A few members hesitated for a moment, shocked at the shortened meeting, before standing and gathering their things.

Victor waited until the last person filtered out of the room before sinking into his chair, burying his face in his hands with a groan. “Damnit,” he growled, scanning the empty room. “You have horrible timing, Nova.”

Worry soon replaced the annoyance at the interruption as Victor glanced at the clock on the wall, realizing the anger tied into his connection hadn’t quite dissipated.

Standing up, Victor made his way out of the conference room, his mind already mapping the route to the exact location he knew she’d be.

The idea of his wife in pain, or upset in any capacity, filled him with a renewed sense of purpose.

He’d protect her, no matter the distance or the cost.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova knew she should have stepped away when she had the chance. She should have backed down, apologized graciously, and excused herself to do whatever important thing the Commandress of Sunnyside did when not leading the overseeing the weekly training camps.

At least, that’s what her father would’ve wanted her to do. Nova, on the other hand, would’ve rather slept in some forest in Shadyside for a week sans-sunlight before she ever let someone walk all over her.

She was halfway through an argument with the newly-appointed, egotistical leader for the teenage training faction when Nova realized the worry lacing through her veins wasn’t just hers.

The now-familiar sensation of someone else’s feelings filled her body, causing her to stumble over her words in a fashion she’d never willingly do. She could see the surprise in the daywalker boy’s expression as she sputtered to a stop, her breathing heavy from the abrupt halt in conversation.

“Are you alright, Commandress?” The boy finally spoke after a moment, his voice uncharacteristically laced with concern instead of cocky arrogance. Nova nodded, trying to calm her racing heart. What could Victor possibly be this worried about?

“Yes, Roman. I apologize. I lost my train of thought,” she replied, a twinge of deja-vu filling the air around her as she uttered the end of the sentence.

Nova shook her head slightly, attempting to clear the familiar fog from her brain that came along with the shared emotions from her connection.

“We can discuss this later,” she continued, pretending not to notice the worried looks passed between Roman and his squad members. “Continue with the hard work. I appreciate the effort that you all have put in this week.”

The words exited Nova’s mouth in a rush as she spun around, feeling her hair messily swish across her shoulders in her haste to exit the situation.

Once there was enough distance between her and the various groups of daywalkers running through training exercises, Nova took a deep breath, leaning against a tree and letting her head tilt back until she felt the warmth of the sun against her face.

She could feel the emotions - both hers and Victor’s - swirling around inside of her, fighting for first place in the war against her nervous system. She could barely handle her own emotions, much less another person’s emotions.

Nova drank in the feeling of the sun and the soft sounds of nature surrounding her, absentmindedly twisting her wedding rings around her finger as she often did when she couldn’t think straight.

Five years had passed since Nova had figured out that her and the Shadyside Elder’s visions weren’t the only thing connecting them - their emotions had become intertwined, belonging to each other as much as they did to themselves.

The first time Nova had experienced one of his emotions, she’d been freshly eighteen, attending one of the countless preparation sessions for her crowning ceremony later that month.

Her father’s advisor had just handed her a packet of potential speeches to recite when she suddenly was filled with a sense of rage so strong it almost knocked her off of her feet.

She had stumbled forward, barely catching herself on the table and letting out a strangled gasp. The advisor was so worried she’d rushed Nova straight to the hospital.

It had taken three psychologists (which Nova was sick of after years of her father attempting to “fix” her visions of Victor) and five Sunnyside council members to realize she wasn’t crazy.

Ever since the day the whole town had realized their future leader was soul-bound, in every sense of the word, to the future leader of Shadyside, Nova had never felt quite the same.

Nova was like no other leader they’d had before, and it terrified her. The emotional connection had become easier to manage over the years, transforming from a biweekly, life-altering event to a casual inconvenience that often had bad timing.

Especially today.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova had just managed to recollect herself when the air around her shifted slightly, in the way that only he could cause. She felt the familiar warmth of a blush fill her cheeks, her hands moving to fix her messy ponytail.

She wasn’t sure how after seven years of being together, her husband still had the same effect on her; still made her flustered with his presence alone.

“Picking fights again?” an amused, yet slightly worried voice echoed behind her. She bit her lip to hold back a sheepish smile, her heart fluttering as she spun around.

Her breath caught in her throat at the sight of Victor’s wind-swept hair and regal cape, the dark colors contrasting with his silver jewelry that she was a little too obsessed with.

Crossing his arms over his chest, Nova tried not to stare at the tight fabric around his arms, instead looking anywhere but him. Her little outburst with Roman had no doubt interrupted something important, if the way Victor was looking at her was any indication.

“Hi, baby,” she replied, her voice too sweet, too calm. Victor’s lips curved up slightly, his signature disarming smirk forming at her words. She could tell with one glance that he could see right through her.

“We really need to find a way to control this emotion sharing,” Victor spoke, stepping close enough for Nova to see the soft smattering of freckles on his cheeks and smell his familiar cologne.

Nova felt a little lightheaded at his closeness, fighting the urge to reach out and intertwine their fingers. “I know,” she replied, pulling her lip back into her mouth. Victor’s eyes tracked the movement, his breathing becoming slightly heavier.

“Don’t get me wrong,” he whispered, his voice slightly wrecked. “I love knowing we’re always connected, even if we’re miles apart. However, it’s slightly inconvenient when I can feel your argument halfway through my meeting with the council.”

Nova felt her blush deepen as she laughed slightly, a soft sound that echoed in the quiet around them. “The junior faction has a new leader. He’s a little full of himself,” she explained, rolling her eyes at the memory of Roman attempting to boss her around before he realized he was talking to the Commandress. Nova guessed he hadn’t paid much attention in history class.

Victor’s teasing smile summoned butterflies in Nova’s stomach, hyperaware of the way his hand kept brushing against her waist and the way his warm brown eyes kept flickering maroon. “My firecracker,” he whispered in reply, his eyes sparkling with mischief as Nova just about melted at his words.

“Victor,” she whispered back, dragging out the syllables. He was toying with her, standing close enough to feel but not quite touching her. The smirk on his lips told her he knew just what he was doing.

Nova could feel her blood rushing as his hand finally slipped around her waist, his fingers brushing the waistband of her skirt and pulling her closer to his chest. Nova smiled to herself as his nervous excitement filtered through her veins, their connection exposing just how much she affected him.

“I had to make sure you were safe,” Victor whispered, his voice serious for a brief moment. “I hate feeling your anger or pain.” Nova softened at his words, her hands threading into his hair. “I could feel your worry, Victor. I knew you were on the way.”

Victor sighed softly as she toyed with the ends of his hair, pulling the red and black strands through her fingers. “I’ll always be there for you, Nova. No matter how far away I am.”

Nova had less than a second to react before Victor’s lips met hers, stealing away any response she could’ve come up with.

She could feel the cold metal of his wedding ring at her waist and the warmth of his mouth at the same time, her body not quite sure which sensation to process first.

After a moment, Nova pulled back, her face flushed. “I’m so glad we found each other,” she whispered, taking in the pure adoration decorating her husband’s face. Victor smiled softly, his hands running up and down Nova’s sides soothingly.

Her father had dismissed the visions early on, claiming they meant nothing, but Nova knew that wasn’t quite true. She had heard the whispers surrounding her since the day the first one appeared when she was barely five years old.

Daywalkers with visions were rare , a once in a generation occurrence that she had only heard mismatched tales of.

It was even more unheard of for the future leader of Sunnyside to have visions.

The same boy had featured in every vision; a boy around her age with messy, dark hair dyed red at the ends and a sharp jawline that never quite left her thoughts.

The visions had begun as simple flashes of his face, frozen moments in time that didn’t connect no matter how hard she tried to tie them together.

She’d been nine when the idea of keeping a record of the visions came to her, and now the worn leather pocket journal bursting with messy scribbles and quick sketches never left her side.

Nova’s fingers brushed the soft leather as she took a deep breath, flashes of the most recent vision tumbling in her mind on repeat.

“They’re longer now, more intact. I see flashes of other figures, people dressed the same way as him ,” she continued, glancing over at Ray.

He shot her a soft smile, although she could see the worry behind it. Ray had never been comfortable with her visions, especially when he figured out that the boy whose face she’d seen her entire life was likely from the enemy town; the town she’d sworn to protect her people from.

A daywalkers’ first warning in life wasn’t fire safety or control, it was to stay far, far away from any resident of Shadyside.

“I don’t know what that means either, Nov,” Ray replied, his hands twisting together the way they did when he was anxious. “You’re the only one who can truly figure that out.” Nova sighed heavily, the familiar weight of loneliness settling inside of her.

“I know,” she replied, her voice soft, unsure. “Let’s get back to practice,” Ray spoke, his usual grin spreading across his face, the tension easing slightly. Nova smiled back as they made their way to the practice field.

Without really trying, Nova’s thoughts drifted back to him , as they often did. She had spent her whole life wondering about who he was.

Was she ever going to know, or was he just a ghost that haunted her every waking thought?

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

“Victor, are you even listening?” Vera’s aggravated tone cut through the fog in Victor’s mind, his mind barely registering the fact that she stood inches away from him, her arms crossed over her chest and her sharp, familiar glare piercing into him.

Victor shook his head, the last remnants of soft blue eyes and golden hair slipping from his mind as he focused on his friend, who currently looked like she wanted to stab him. “What?” Victor replied, not bothering to hide the scowl on his face.

Vera had a habit of appearing right when he was mid-vision, ruining the few short glimpses he got of the girl who never left his thoughts, or his sketchbook.

Vera rolled her eyes, swiping a stack of papers off of the table beside her and shoving them into his hands. “Your aunt needs you to go over the harvest plan,” she spoke, her knowing gaze lingering a moment too long.

“Sure thing,” Victor replied, trying for nonchalance but failing. “Another vision?” Vera questioned with a slight raise of her eyebrow. Victor sighed, knowing he couldn’t lie to his oldest friend. She could read every inch of him like a book, even more so than Vargas.

“Yeah,” he replied, running a hand through his already messy hair, a red strand falling across his forehead. “They’re getting longer, more detailed. I can see others in the background.”

Vera sighed in response, concern flitting across her expression for a brief moment. “You’re the future elder of Shadyside, Victor,” she spoke, her tone heavy. “You shouldn’t be so…connected to a daywalker. It’s not natural or safe.”

Victor sighed heavily. “I know, Vera. I can’t really control it. She’s been a part of me since I was five.” His voice was low, defensiveness slipping into his tone before he could stop it.

Vera stood still for a moment, just watching, before she nodded and tilted her head towards the door of the study. “Duty calls. Don’t be too long,” she spoke before exiting, the door swinging shut behind her.

Victor groaned, burying his face into his hands. Why wouldn’t she leave his head? Why was he cursed with the image of a girl meant to be his enemy dancing through his thoughts every minute of the day?

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

The day of the harvest began like any other since the bloodfruit supply had run low - bright, sunny, and full of tension. Nova pulled the brush through her hair, her gaze trained on the golden strands running through her fingers as if they held the answers to every question she’d ever asked.

Last night’s vision, one that had kept her awake for far longer than necessary, filtered through her mind in broken flashes, his face replaying like a broken record every time Nova closed her eyes.

She’d seen more than usual - longer glimpses of the boy’s bedroom and the streets of Shadyside; a more clear look at the way the moonlight fell across his hair and the way his red t-shirt was just a little too tight on his arms.

Pulling her hair into the hair tie resting on her wrist, Nova shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts.

Her father wouldn’t be happy if his future heir was lost in a dream world on the most important day of their lives - the day they tried to take back the orchard, for good.

Nova attempted to dress quickly, the ticking clock beside her bed counting down the minutes until her father would inevitably appear in the doorway, expecting the most perfect version of his daughter to be standing, waiting for his signal.

However, when every piece of clothing she pulled out of the closet didn’t seem right , the fabric too stiff, the colors too bright; Nova collapsed on her bed with a huff, daring to close her eyes.

As if he’d been waiting, the boy’s face appeared before her, his lips twisted in a cocky grin that made her heart beat faster as he spoke to a figure standing in front of him. The figure was distinctly female, but their face was blurry, features obscured.

Nova tried to place where the conversation was taking place, but all she could see was moonlit sand and dark water splashing in the background.

Her gaze settled on the boy again before the vision faded and her eyes opened to her father standing in front of her, his face twisted in an unreadable expression.

“Nova, I asked you to be ready ten minutes ago.” Nova sat up, avoiding her father’s disappointed features. “Sorry, dad,” she muttered, already making her way to the closet and pulling out the first skirt and cropped jacket combo she could find.

As the door shut behind her father, Nova couldn’t quite slow her racing heart as her thoughts drifted back to the boy and the fact she’d never get to know him in the way she wanted.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor wasn’t really paying attention as the harvest group made their way to the orchard, his thoughts stuck in a loop of sparkling blonde hair and pretty pink lips.

The most recent vision had been the most clear in months; an upclose shot of the girl laughing at something a blurry male figure said in the background.

He had tried to ignore the spark of anger that came at the sight of her laughing with someone else, someone that wasn’t him.

Somehow, he’d fallen for a girl he’d never met, never even seen in person. It was torture, seeing her face and hearing the soft lilt of her laughter, but never being able to reach out and touch her, to see if her golden hair was really as soft as it looked or if her tan skin was warm to the touch the way he’d imagined.

Shit, he was spiraling again, as he often did when he thought of her. If Vera wasn’t deep in a conversation with his aunt right now, she’d probably smack him.

After an interruption from a bubbly girl with blue-and-blonde hair, the introduction of aliens (which Victor still hadn’t quite wrapped his head around), and the appearance of the rival daywalkers, Victor trailed into the clearing near the orchard, the tension so palpable he could feel it.

He wasn’t really in the mood to fight, too weak from hunger and slightly sleep-deprived from the memory of the recent vision; but he knew he had to protect his people, so Victor lifted his hand, feeling his fangs emerge and the wind begin to swirl the leaves around his feet.

The towns divided into two sides, the daywalkers a blur of gold, red, and white as flames flickered around them. Victor couldn’t make out a single face in the flurry of motion, the indistinguishable features of their faces reminiscent of his visions.

Victor shifted forward slightly, preparing for the imminent battle, when a flash of golden blonde hair and bright blue eyes flitted through his peripheral and stopped him cold, his body frozen as the past twelve years of visions filtered through his mind like a movie montage.

In that moment, her bright smile, her soft laugh, and her tan skin were the only things he could possibly see, feel, know.

Time seemed to slow as her gaze locked with his, her blue eyes widening as shock filled her features. “It’s you,” he spoke, his voice louder than he meant. He watched as she echoed his words, her pink lips forming the words in a way he couldn’t tear his gaze from.

Vera’s angry shout at a nearby daywalker pulled Victor back to reality, although his gaze never left the girl. Her blonde ponytail swished across her shoulders, her white and gold skirt just short enough to distract him more than he’d like.

As the day bled into night, discussions and reluctant peace negotiations floating in the air around them, Victor still found himself moving as slow as Addison’s zombie boyfriend because he Couldn’t. Stop. Thinking. About. Her.

She was the daywalker’s future leader. He was the vampire’s feature leader. She was all he could ever think about.

He was fucked.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova sat on the edge of her bunk, her legs swinging so fast it shook the wooden frame of the cloud-shaped bed. Her mind was racing, her cheeks still flushed from the full-body reaction she had from seeing him .

His warm brown eyes and messy red and black hair were the exact mirror of her visions; but the dark cape and silver jewelry were a new addition to the mental file folder her brain had created five years ago; when she realized the butterflies in her stomach after every vision meant something.

“Nova,” a soft voice came from her right side, causing her to break out of whatever trance he’d induced and lock eyes with Addison’s. “I can practically hear the gears spinning in your head, girl. What’s up?”

Nova laughed softly and slid off of the bed. “Just processing,” she lied a little too easily, not quite ready to spill her guts to her brand-new camp counselor.

Addison looked at Nova like she didn’t quite believe her, but smiled and rubbed the younger girl’s shoulder.

“Don’t process too late. We have camp activities bright and early!” Addison exclaimed, her voice cheery. Nova laughed, running a hand through her messy ponytail. “Goodnight!” Addison called, disappearing out of the cabin door, no doubt to locate her boyfriend.

An hour later, Nova found herself deep in her bag full of clothes attempting to find an acceptable outfit for the next day, the rejected garments scattered across the cabin floor.

Similar to that morning, nothing felt right . Nothing felt good enough. With a jolt, Nova realized she was trying to impress him .

“Fuck,” she whispered, sinking into the pile of rejected crop tops and skirts. “I’m screwed.”

Nova felt the weight of her words as she uttered them, the vampire’s face flashing in her mind like a projected movie screen.

Nova never dressed to impress anyone, except maybe her father. He’d ruined her, without ever stepping into her life.

Her fingers curled around her favorite red skirt, resignation spreading through her bones.

She was slightly in love with a vampire, her sworn enemy, and for some reason, she didn’t feel guilty.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor could feel the cool breeze of the in-between’s ocean brush across his face as he watched the waves lap against the shore, his mind tracing the events of the past few weeks.

He hadn’t quite fully grasped the fact that he’d played a key role in saving both towns, with the girl of his literal dreams right by his side.

Five days prior, Nova had walked him to the border between their towns, promising to see him again. She’d stopped an inch away from the magical barrier, spinning around and jumping into his arms with a certainty that he felt in his core.

Victor had lay awake every night since, his head spinning with the memory of her floral perfume and the softness of her skin against his as he held her.

He should’ve pulled her closer. He should’ve kissed her. He should’ve done anything except let her walk away, unsure of the next time he’d ever catch a glimpse of her golden waves and blue eyes.

The soft crunch of shoes against the sand pulled Victor from his thoughts, a resigned sigh escaping him. “Not now, Vera. I need a break,” he spoke, his voice sharper than he intended.

“Glad I’m not Vera,” a voice that definitely didn’t belong to Vera echoed from behind him with a soft laugh. Victor’s heart flipped as he spun around, Nova’s soft grin stealing the breath from lungs.

“Hey, sunshine,” he whispered, watching as she stepped close enough so he could see the soft blush spreading across her cheeks at his words.

“What are you doing here?” Victor continued, fists clenched in an effort not to reach out and pull her body against his. Nova’s eyes searched his, her expression unreadable.

“I forgot something,” she whispered, stepping close enough Victor felt lightheaded, unbalanced, hopelessly gone for her.

“What would that be?” Victor replied, his voice a wreck as his hand itched to land on her waist, her cheek, her arm.

“This,” Nova replied before her lips found his and he couldn’t focus on anything besides the warmth of her mouth and the way her fingers curled around the fabric of his shirt.

“Shit, Nova,” he whispered against her lips, pulling her against his chest, his hands slipping under the hem of her top and brushing her skin - which was just as warm and soft as he’d imagined from his visions.

Nova’s tongue teased his lips, a soft groan escaping him as she threaded her fingers through his hair. Victor could feel the strands of her messy braid falling across his face, the scent of her strawberry shampoo making him lightheaded.

Victor pulled away from her lips to trail his mouth down Nova’s jawline and neck, pressing warm kisses to her collarbone and enjoying the soft sighs that escaped her as he swiped his tongue against a sensitive part under her ear.

Pulling back slightly, Victor took in the dark flush that filled Nova’s cheeks and the smudge of red lipstick at the corner of her mouth. Smiling, Victor brushed it away with his thumb, his hand other skimming the bare skin near the waistband of her skirt.

“You’re even better than I imagined,” he whispered, watching the spark light in her eyes at his words. “You’re beyond my wildest dreams,” Nova replied, her mouth already settling over his and fingers brushing the hem of his t-shirt.

Victor felt his world shift into place in that moment, over a decade of wondering, of wanting, of needing dissipating as Nova’s fingers brushed his jaw.

“For the record, your hair looks amazing when it’s down. I would kill for hair as pretty as yours, Nov,” Addison replied, wrapping her arm around Nova’s shoulders. Nova blushed slightly at the praise, tilting her head as she observed herself in the mirror.

“I’ve had my hair up for as long as I can remember,” Nova finally spoke, running a hand absentmindedly through the soft golden locks resting against her neck. “When you spend your entire life training, there isn’t much time for anything else, much less learning how to manage…this,” Nova trailed off, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

Addison’s gaze softened, squeezing Nova’s shoulder in a comforting gesture. “Leave it down,” she replied, picking up Nova’s hairbrush from the vanity and gently running it through the younger girl’s hair.

Nova bit her lip to slow the tears beginning to form. She’d never had someone take care of her the way Addison was. It was an amazing feeling.

“There,” Addison spoke, pulling back a strand of Nova’s hair with her hair clip as a finishing touch. “You look beautiful. Now go find an outfit, the bonfire is starting soon. You don’t want to keep him waiting,” she teased, gently bumping her hip against Nova’s.

The look Nova shot Addison failed to land as the older girl smirked at her before disappearing out of the cabin’s door, her soft humming echoing in the newfound silence.

Nova took one last look at herself in the mirror, her hand reaching up to touch the clip in her hair. She had never seen herself look so free; free from expectations and rules, free from the image that everyone back home had of her.

She felt like herself - the version she wanted to be. The version that she wanted him to see, even if she buried that thought as quickly as it arose.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor leaned against one of the cabins, his gaze scanning the handful of campers setting up the evening’s bonfire. If he was honest with himself, he didn’t even want to be standing where he was, watching the beginnings of an event he had little interest in.

Although he was glad progress was being made towards unlocking the orchard, he had felt more inclined to remain in his cabin for the rest of the night, a sketchbook in hand and his pencil guiding his thoughts.

Victor’s simple plan had been shattered when Zed came racing into the cabin fifteen minutes prior, a huge grin spread across his too-joyful zombie face and a piece of paper dangling from his hand. “Look, Vic! Addie, Eliza, Willa and I finally planned our first-ever camp get together!”

Zed had shoved the paper into his hand, Victor’s gaze scanning over the sketched image of a bonfire and the writing below it. “All are welcome to Camp Rayburn’s Bonfire Extravaganza , where all monsterkind can engage in friendly competitions and fun games,” Victor read aloud, his tone disinterested.

From the corner of his eye, Victor could see Zed mouthing the words as he spoke them. Glancing back up at his counselor, Victor shook his head. “Sorry, man, not interested,” he replied, already turning to locate his sketchbook.

“C’mon, Victor, it’ll look bad if my star camper doesn’t participate in the biggest event this camp has ever seen!” Zed exclaimed. Victor resisted rolling his eyes, reluctantly turning back around. “I think you mean the only event this camp has ever seen,” he replied, sarcasm dripping from his tone.

Zed, ever the ray of positivity, ignored Victor’s snide remark, stepping forward and slinging an arm around the younger boy’s shoulders. “I’m sure she’ll be there,” he whispered, a teasing lilt in his words. Victor shot a glare at Zed, shaking his head vehemently.

“I don’t care if she’s there or not,” he spit out, trying to convince himself of his words. “She’s my enemy. That’s all she’ll ever be.” As the words tumbled from his lips, Victor knew he didn’t quite believe them. Zed’s knowing smirk poked holes in Victor’s lie as he clapped his hand on Victor’s shoulder.

“The bonfire starts in ten,” Zed replied. He turned to make his way out of the cabin, and Victor let a sigh escape him, his gaze finding its way to the mirror beside his bed. “Don’t spend too long on your hair, Casanova,” Zed’s voice rang out as the cabin door closed behind him.

“Damnit,” Victor grumbled, stepping towards where his hairbrush lay on the edge of the vanity. Zed knew him too well, especially when it came to her .

As Victor slid the brush through his hair, the only image in his mind was one of golden blonde hair, sky-blue eyes, and pretty pink lips.

He was royally screwed.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova took a deep breath as she stepped out of her cabin, her red skirt swishing against her legs as she made her way down the wooden steps. She could feel the weight of her hair against her shoulders, the soft golden strands brushing against the skin her white tank didn’t fully cover.

She had just stepped into view of the already-crowded bonfire when Addison appeared in front of her with a squeal, pulling Nova into a tight hug. “Nov, you look gorgeous! I knew the hair down was the right call,” she gushed, looping an arm through Nova’s and dragging her towards a side table.

Zed glanced up at the sound of Addison’s chatter, a grin spreading across his face at the sight of his girlfriend. “Hey, Nova,” he exclaimed, his eyes widening slightly. “You have your hair down!” Nova’s cheeks warmed, brushing a hand through her hair self-consciously.

“No doubt Addie’s idea,” Zed continued, pulling Nova into a side hug. “It looks good!” Nova smiled at the warmth in his tone, nodding in acknowledgement before glancing at the array of snacks spread out on the table before them.

“I know blood fruit is scarce right now,” Addison spoke up, squeezing Nova’s hand gently. “However, Ray informed us that you guys can still have regular food, so we decided to bring a piece of Seabrook to Camp Rayburn!”

For the second time that evening, Nova blinked a few tears away, overwhelmed by the kindness of her newfound friends. “It means a lot, guys,” she whispered, leaning into Addison’s side.

“If you’ll excuse us, we have to go make sure everyone is briefed on the fire safety rules. By everyone, we mean the vampires,” Addison joked, her tone light. Nova laughed softly at Addison’s words, nodding goodbye as Zed slid his hand into Addison’s and pulled her towards the fire.

Nova was in the middle of examining a plate of spherical cakes labeled “Chocolate Cupcakes” when a voice sounded from behind her. “Weird food choices, huh?” Nova spun around to see a boy around her age stood beside her, his outfit the telltale white, red, and gold of the daywalkers.

She vaguely registered his face as one of the lead trainers for the year above her; someone she’d only had practice with a few times in recent years. “I think they’re thoughtful choices,” Nova replied, setting down the tray she’d been holding. “Zed and Addison put a lot of work into this event.”

The boy, whose name she remembered as Chris, rolled his eyes, his displeasure written across his expression as he eyed the snacks warily. “An event that puts us inches away from our enemies. It’s a disaster dressed in a peace treaty.” Nova narrowed her eyes at him, choosing to brush off his words.

Unfazed by her lack of response, Chris stepped closer, close enough for Nova to grow uncomfortable. Something about him was off-putting, in a way she couldn’t quite put into words. “As the future leader of our people, I’d expect you to see the foolishness of this event .”

Nova shifted closer to the table, her skin crawling as she watched the way his gaze trailed up and down her body. The slight smirk on his lips didn’t waver for even a moment.

“Maybe we can work together, overthrow this little charade. We’d be a powerful duo, don’t you think?” Nova barely had a second to react before his hand landed on her arm, his grip so tight it was almost painful.

Alarm bells sounded in her head at his tone, Nova’s fire gauntlet on her wrist reacting to her fear. Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind swept past her, whipping her hair around her shoulders and heading straight towards Chris.

His grip on Nova's arm loosened as he struggled to maintain his balance before the wind overpowered him, and he fell with a thud onto the hard ground beneath them.

Nova struggled to reconcile what she had just witnessed, her thoughts spinning as she realized the wind had aimed for him, expertly avoiding her as if told what to do. The word “vampire” came to her brain just as a dark figure stepped out of the tree line beyond the table.

“Victor,” Nova whispered, watching as the red faded from his brown eyes and his fangs retracted as he came closer. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t a little breathless after… that .

A pained groan from below her drew Nova’s attention to the boy on the ground. Chris’s face was twisted in barely veiled rage as he struggled to push himself to his feet, his fiery glare fixed on Victor.

Nova glanced in Victor’s direction, her face heating as she realized he hadn’t stopped watching her since the moment he appeared.

Victor’s eyes were dark as he studied her, his muscular arms crossed over his chest and a single strand of red-tipped hair falling over his forehead. Nova tore her gaze from his, thankful her blush wasn’t as visible in the moonlight.

“I’m going to kill you,” Chris's voice broke through the tense silence, Nova realizing he had finally stood up and was now stalking towards Victor. Victor merely raised an eyebrow in response, the darkstone around his neck glowing faintly as Chris approached.

“Unless you want to end up on the ground again, I’d suggest you walk away before you do something you regret,” Victor spoke, his voice steadily calm. Nova could feel the anger building in her chest as she realized he was trying to protect her.

She didn’t need protection, and she sure has hell didn’t need it from her enemy. Nova barely registered the words Chris spat at Victor as he spun around and disappeared behind the cabins.

A moment passed in charged silence before Nova spun around to face Victor, her hair swishing around her shoulders and the fabric of her skirt brushing against her legs as she marched towards him, anger radiating off of her.

“I did not need your help,” she growled, shoving Victor’s chest and fighting to ignore how solid it was. “I can handle myself!” An infuriatingly cocky smirk slid across Victor’s expression as he glanced down at Nova’s hand which was still pressed against his chest.

Nova yanked her hand away, her face hot as she tried to school her expression. “Seems like you had it,” Victor replied, sarcasm laced through his words. “That’s why he was able to touch you.” Victor’s voice caught slightly, thinly-veiled anger slipping through his tone.

Nova faltered for a moment, trying to read between the lines, to decode the emotion written across his face. “Why would you help me?” she finally spoke, her tone icy. “We’re enemies.”

An unreadable expression flickered across Victor’s face before it settled back to infuriating nonchalance. “If that’s what you want to call it,” he replied, his jaw tightening. “I wouldn’t call two people who found one of the keys to the orchard enemies .”

Nova flicked her hair back over her shoulder, noticing the way Victor’s eyes lingered on the movement before he tore his gaze away. “We simply were at the right place at the right time. There was no ‘us’,” Nova spat out, spinning on her heel and walking away from a conversation that was evidently going nowhere.

She made it all of five feet before a gust of wind, gentler this time, blew past her and caused Nova to crash into Victor’s chest; who now stood inches away, close enough she could smell his cologne and see the smattering of freckles on his nose in the soft moonlight.

“What the hell?” Nova yelped in surprise, biting back a gasp when Victor’s warm hands encircled her waist, steadying her. His fingers brushed the skin her tank top didn’t fully cover, the contact sending fire coursing through her veins.

“A simple ’thank you’ would suffice,” Victor spoke, his sharp words not quite matching the warmth in his eyes as he looked down at her.

“Like hell I’d thank you,” Nova replied, although the venom she had hoped to infuse in her words didn’t manifest. Victor merely smirked at her in reply, his thumb tracing circles on her waist and stealing the breath from her lungs.

In that moment, the world could’ve ended and Nova wouldn’t have noticed. Not when Victor was looking at her as if she was the only one he’d ever wanted to look at, not when the distance between them was slowly closing, inch by inch, until she could practically feel his lips against hers.

Why did it suddenly not seem so bad to be in the arms of her sworn enemy?

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

The warmth of Nova’s skin against Victor’s fingertips was intoxicating as he pulled her closer, close enough to smell her floral perfume, to see just how pink her lips were, how her eyes were a darker shade of blue than he’d thought.

She was overwhelming in every way possible, which may have led him to protect her when he wouldn’t have dreamed of a week prior.

It was as if his heart had taken control of his body from the moment she’d walked out of her cabin with her golden blonde hair down and flowing over her shoulders as if she’d stepped out of a fairytale.

Victor hadn’t been able to focus on a single word coming from Zed or Vargas’s mouth at the bonfire when he kept catching glimpses of Nova’s glittering hair and short red skirt. He’d resorted to camping out near the forest just so he didn’t have to pretend he wasn’t losing his damn mind.

Now, with Nova inches away from him, with his hands gripping the curve of her waist and her soft hand curling around his bicep, Victor knew things had shifted between them.

Enemies didn’t look at each other this way. Hell, even friends didn’t look at each other this way. Victor slid his hand from Nova’s waist to rest on her hip, enjoying the way her breath hitched at the motion.

“Do you still think we’re enemies?” he spoke, his voice wrecked as Nova curled his shirt into her fingers. “I-I don’t know,” Nova whispered, her voice catching on the words. That was all it took for Victor to pull her against his chest, his hands splayed over the fabric of her tank top.

“Tell me stop,” Victor growled as he leaned forward, his nose brushing hers. Nova shivered slightly when he cupped her chin in his hand, his fingers tracing her jawline.

“Don’t,” she whispered, officially severing the last shred of restraint he held. Within seconds, his mouth was on Nova’s, her soft lips moving against his with an urgency neither of them expected.

Without breaking contact, Victor pushed Nova forward until her back hit the wall of a nearby cabin, her fingers threading into his hair and tugging slightly.

Victor let out a soft groan as he pulled Nova against his chest, teasing her lips open with his tongue and swallowing the soft whimper she let out at the motion. Pressing her against the wall, Victor trailed his lips across her jaw and down her neck, lingering in the curve of her shoulder.

Nova’s soft hair fell over his face as he nuzzled against her neck, breathing in her scent. Nova’s hands moved to cup his chin, her breathing heavy as her gaze met his. “I still hate you,” she whispered, but her tone betrayed the fact that she didn’t mean it, not in the slightest.

Grinning, Victor pulled Nova back to his lips, his head spinning from the sweet taste of her mouth and the feeling of her hands carding through his hair.

It could’ve been five minutes or five hours before Victor pulled away, warmth spreading through his chest as he took in Nova’s messy golden hair, crooked hair clip, and slightly swollen pink lips.

Reaching out, Victor gently tucked a strand of hair behind Nova’s ear, watching a soft blush spread across her cheeks. “Thank you,” she spoke, her voice thick with emotion.

“So you can thank me?” Victor teased, enjoying the way her eyes sparkled at the challenge in his voice and the way her fingers toyed with the hem of his shirt absentmindedly. A moment passed in silence before Victor spoke, his tone sharp, possessive, unforgiving.

“I’d never let someone come that close to touching you again." Nova’s eyes widened at the sincerity of his tone, pulling her bottom lip into her mouth.

“Why?” Nova whispered, her voice soft. “I don’t know what will happen once we find the other keys. I don’t know if our people will find peace, or if we will become more divided than we already are.”

Victor slid a hand through Nova’s hair, his fingers sliding through the golden strands that seemed to shine even in the dim moonlight.

“I do know that what we have is something we can’t ignore,” he continued, taking in the adoration and trust painted across Nova’s expression as she looked at him.

“Fate brought us together, even if we didn’t realize it because we were blinded by our hatred. It’s about time we followed where it leads us.” Victor barely got the last word out before Nova’s lips were on his again, his mind emptying into nothing but sensation.

Something about the thrill of tucking one of Victor’s hoodies deep inside of her training bag after hours spent together was addicting; knowing that the soft threads belonged to a boy she’d never have believed could be hers. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor wasn’t blind, he was well aware of the little game Nova liked to play, one he had caught on to rather quickly a few months into their relationship. 

He secretly enjoyed the determination etched into his girlfriend’s face as she waited until he stepped out of his room, appearing a few minutes later with her red and gold training bag tucked under her arm and a sly grin on her face. 

Victor could always tell when Nova was hiding something; her over-enthusiastic responses to any word he spoke and her pink cheeks that remained for hours afterwards a dead giveaway.

Plus, when his hoodies kept disappearing and reappearing a few times a week, it wasn’t hard to narrow down the culprit. 

Nova wasn’t subtle when choosing to sport his hoodies, often showing up to late-night training sessions on the beach, or fall soccer matches between the towns; drowning in the too-large garment, her golden blonde hair spilling out of the hood and fingers peeking out of the sleeves. 

If Victor was being honest, Nova was mesmerizing in his clothes, always causing him to lose focus when he caught a glimpse of her in his dark, vampiric clothing. 

Red and black were seriously her colors. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova gently shut the bedroom door behind her, smiling to herself as she ran to Victor’s closet and pulled it open, the row of various dark-colored hoodies unfolding in front of her.

She ran her fingers over the soft fabric, lingering on a black and gold hoodie Victor favored more than the others. 

She hadn’t yet built up the courage to steal his favorite hoodie, knowing he’d notice the second it went missing.

Victor had only let her wear it a few times, claiming she’d “mess it up” or giving a half-assed explanation that sounded a lot like a lie. 

Nova had a feeling it had to do with the interwoven golden threads in its fabric that looked an awful lot like the exact shade of her hair. 

Before she could second-guess herself, Nova gently removed the hoodie from its hanger and buried her nose in the fabric, Victor’s familiar scent woven into the threads. 

With a soft grin, Nova turned to locate her bag - which had been abandoned after Victor pulled her into an impromptu make-out session an hour prior - when the door flew open, causing her to jump, the hoodie dangling from her fingers in full display. 

“Babe,” Victor spoke, his voice low. “What are you doing?” Nova’s cheeks burned as she quickly moved the hoodie behind her back, placing her other hand on her hip in what she hoped was a nonchalant gesture. 

“Nothing,” she lied, pulling her bottom lip into her mouth. Victor’s eyes tracked the movement, distracted, before he stepped closer, trying to peek behind her. 

“Is that another hoodie you’re attempting to steal?” he replied, his tone amused as he raised an eyebrow. Shock coursed through Nova’s body as the meaning of his words hit her, her eyes wide. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Nova spoke, her tone light. Victor smirked, his warm brown eyes searching her face. 

“You’re a terrible liar, Nova,” he replied, now inches away from her. Nova tried to ignore the way his fingers were gently brushing her wrist, or the way his gaze had darkened slightly. 

Before she could react, Victor reached behind her and pulled the hoodie from her grasp, her hands falling uselessly by her sides. An expression she couldn’t quite read crossed his face as he glanced at the hoodie. 

“Out of all of the hoodies currently sitting in your closet, you decided to steal this one?” Victor’s voice was tinged with amusement, deeper than usual. 

Nova racked her brain for an excuse, a valid reason for stealing her boyfriend’s most prized possession - Darkstone aside - but she came up empty handed. 

A moment passed in charged tension before Victor reached out with his free hand, pulling Nova against his chest. She felt a soft gasp fall from her lips at the action, her hand coming to rest on his chest in response. 

“You’re not as sneaky as you think you are, Sunshine,” he whispered, their faces close enough for Nova to see the soft coating of freckles dotting his nose and cheeks. 

Nova could feel her cheeks heat, the memory of every place she’d shown up dressed in his clothes flashing through her mind, the way he would look at her as if she was the only person in the world every single time.

She couldn’t come up with a single word to defend herself, rendered breathless by Victor’s closeness and the feeling of his fingers brushing against the bare skin of her waistline where her shirt didn’t fully cover. 

Nova could feel Victor’s lips brush hers slightly before he pulled back, his eyes turning a dark maroon, mixing with the usual brown, his fangs lowering just enough for her breath to catch in her throat. 

Victor flicked his hand near her waist, his bedroom door slamming in response, the gust of wind blowing back through Nova’s hair before dissipating. 

Her heart beat faster as the distance between them closed, one of Victor’s hands slipping under her hair and cupping her neck as his mouth met hers, his tongue already teasing Nova’s lips open. 

Nova responded immediately, her fingers threading through his hair, pulling just enough to draw a low growl from him, Victor’s grip tightening on her waist in response.

“Fuck,” he whispered against her lips, deepening their kiss and pushing her forward until her back hit the bedroom wall, his hand cradling her head. Her lightstone activated, her fire gauntlet warming the skin on her wrist as her heartbeat sped up.

Victor pulled back slightly, just enough so she could see the hunger in his eyes and the smear of her lipstick on his lips. “You have no idea how much I love when you steal my clothes,” he spoke, his voice wrecked. 

Nova hazily remembered the hoodie was still in his grip, the soft fabric brushing against the back of her legs. Reaching behind her, Nova pulled the hoodie out of his hands, wordlessly pulling it over her head and pushing her arms through the sleeves.

Nova’s heart fluttered at the look on Victor’s face when she pulled her hair out of the collar, letting the golden waves fall over her shoulders. His eyes flickered red, just for a second, before his lips met hers once again. 

Nova lost herself in the feeling of Victor’s hands on her waist, her hips, her back; whimpering softly when she felt his mouth on her neck and collarbone, his fangs gently brushing her heated skin. She gripped his shoulders, the leather of his jacket soft against her fingers. 

When Victor’s warm hands teased the bottom of the hoodie, Nova smiled against his lips. “I thought you loved when I wore your clothes,” she whispered, pulling back slightly. 

Victor’s eyes flashed at her teasing, his gaze dark, unwavering. “I like it even better when I can take them off of you,” he whispered, his hands already gripping the fabric at her waist. Nova’s body flushed at his words, before his lips returned to her neck and she couldn’t quite remember anything after that. 

Sometimes, her penchant for stealing her boyfriend's hoodies and her inability to lie paid off in the best way possible. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor awoke, sitting up and blinking against the sliver of sunlight spilling out of the curtains. He had just registered the time on the clock - 8:48 am - when a flash of golden blonde hair appeared in the doorway. 

His heart skipped a beat at the sight of his wife leaning against the doorway, her hair slightly messy with sleep and her blue eyes sparkling in the softly-lit bedroom. 

“You’re awake,” she spoke, her voice soft, filled with warmth and love. 

It took a moment for Victor to realize she was wearing one of his shirts, the worn red fabric falling to her thighs and her bare shoulder slipping out of the collar. Victor could feel his Darkstone react to his heightened emotions, his fangs extending for a moment before retracting.

Nova’s cheeks turned a slight pink at the display, her arms wrapping around her waist as she drew her bottom lip into her mouth. 

Victor couldn’t look away. 

“Sunshine,” he whispered, his voice already wrecked as Nova stepped forward, solidifying the fact that he wasn’t dreaming, and she really was wearing his shirt and the wedding rings that marked her as his. 

“You have no idea how much I love seeing you wear my clothes,” Victor spoke, his hands already finding her waist as she reached the side of the bed. “I think I do,” she responded, a soft laugh falling from her lips. 

Victor raised an eyebrow, pulling back the covers and standing up, their bodies inches apart. He could smell Nova’s soft floral perfume and see the flecks of gold in her blue eyes. “You do?” he whispered, his fingers teasing the hem of the shirt. 

He could feel Nova’s breath catch at the motion, enjoying the way her eyes widened slightly. Nova’s pink lips parted slightly, drawing his gaze. “I do,” she finally replied, her voice soft, breathy. “You said the same thing when you caught me stealing that hoodie.”

Victor grinned, his head ducking to gain access to her jaw, brushing his lips against Nova’s soft skin. He felt his fangs emerge, not caring to draw them back in. 

Not when his wife’s pupils were blown wide, her cheeks pink and desire painted across her expression. 

He pressed an open-mouthed kiss to the underside of her jaw, Nova’s fingers already carding through his hair and his slipping under her - no, his - shirt. 

“I still like it even better when I can take them off of you,” he whispered against her skin. Nova’s fingers caught his jaw, pulling his face up to meet hers. 

“Good,” she replied, before her lips met his, her tongue slipping into his mouth and effectively stealing all thoughts from his mind. 

She never quite understood why her father forced her to attend the endless council meetings, beyond the clear implication of his desire for her to lead her city one day. 

Nova knew her future was laid out for her from the day she was born, her birthmark an indication of the fact she she couldn’t even choose who she loved; it was predetermined by the forces of the universe, or whatever her father had told her since the day it appeared three years prior. 

She knew her freedom was dwindling with each passing day. Most daywalkers met their soulmate within a few months following their twentieth birthday, with only a select few going years without contact.

Her birthday had passed a few weeks ago, and every morning she hoped it wouldn’t be the day. Not yet. 

Nova arrived at the steps of City Hall, squaring her shoulders as she began her ascent. She had already mentally checked out of whatever useless meeting she was attending, her thoughts filled with dreams of the future she’d never be able to truly achieve as the daughter of Sunnyside’s Commander. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Victor’s mind was elsewhere as his aunt’s voice echoed across the spacious room at the top floor of Sunnyside’s City Hall; his eyes already burning from the amount of sunlight filtering in through the large glass windows surrounding him. 

Commander Bright’s booming voice interrupted his thoughts, his gaze landing on the man seated at the head of the table whose face was so red it rivaled the dyed strands in Victor’s hair. 

The Eldress of Shadyside and the Commander had never gotten along, with the meetings Victor was forced to attend by his aunt devolving into screaming matches with an hour. 

This was the first meeting Victor was allowed to attend that took place in Sunnyside, as his aunt's superstition of their rival town made it so he was never allowed to step foot in Sunnyside without an escort.

If he was being honest, Victor couldn’t understand why the two cities even tried to get along, if their leaders couldn’t hold a civil conversation.

However, that was the last thing his aunt wanted to hear during her endless lectures about Victor’s apathy towards his future role of Elder and his “slacker tendencies”, as she so kindly put.

A few moments passed before Victor decided he couldn’t sit through another minute of pointless bickering. No one at the table batted an eye when he pushed his chair back, the legs scraping across the gleaming tile as he stepped towards the exit, easily slipping through the large double doors. 

He chose an empty, darkened hallway adjacent to the conference room to explore, taking in the glimmering red and gold accents lining the white walls and the myriad photos of Sunnyside throughout the decades. Various expensive-looking golden vases perched on white stands lined the hallway every few feet. 

The silence was welcoming as Victor wandered aimlessly, not truly caring if anyone saw him. It wasn’t illegal for vampires to be in Sunnyside, just…unusual.

Victor hadn’t cared for a long time what anyone thought of him, and he wasn’t about to begin. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

“Shit,” Nova muttered, pushing through another set of doors that led to nowhere. Admittedly, she had been lost in thought when she entered City Hall, taking the wrong set of stairs and ending up somewhere she didn’t recognize. 

She probably should know her way around as the Commander’s daughter, but she had spent her childhood sanctioned to the conference rooms only, rarely venturing further into the building. 

Nova reached another nondescript set of stairs, glancing up to see nothing but darkness. Taking a deep breath, she made her way up the stairs, her hands gripping the railing tightly as the little light from the bottom landing faded. 

The silence was a stark contrast to the usual bustle of Sunnyside, the lack of any sound causing Nova’s guard to rise. She knew her city was safe the majority of the time, but she also was aware that the Shadyside Eldress and her endless slew of vampiric guards were in Sunnyside for the monthly “peace talks” her father insisted on having.

Nova prided herself on being fearless and independent; but the persistent rumors that had surrounded Shadyside’s inhabitants since her childhood had formed an image of dangerous, mysterious creatures with a taste for blood. 

She hadn’t quite been able to shake off the image, despite having met a few Shadyside council members over the years. They were surprisingly…normal. 

Nova made it to the top of the staircase, pushing open a set of doors to reveal yet another darkened, empty hallway that mirrored the several she had already passed through during her journey.

“Great,” she scoffed, stepping out of the stairwell and eyeing the usual decor that filled all Sunnyside buildings. At least she felt at home, even if she was slightly lost. 

Nova was about to turn around and retrace her steps when the sound of shattering glass echoed in the abandoned hallway, causing her to yelp in surprise. “What the hell?” she whispered. 

Leaning down, Nova slipped off her heels so she wouldn’t be heard as she crept forward, her years of self-defense training kicking in accompanied by the soft glowing of her fire gauntlet on her left wrist. 

Pressing her back to the wall, Nova made it halfway down the hallway before a dark figure moved near the opposite end, their form crouched over a shattered golden vase.

She watched in silence as the figure frantically swept broken pieces of glass into a pile, glancing over their shoulder every few seconds. 

Realizing she wasn’t in immediate danger, Nova released the tension from her shoulders, stepping away from the wall and crossing her arms over her chest. 

“That’s an expensive vase,” she called out, the figure’s form stiffening at the sound of her voice, their head whipping around to where she stood several feet away. 

Nova’s breath caught in her chest as the figure stood up and stepped closer, their face becoming clearer as they stepped into the light from a small window nearby. 

Standing before her was a boy around her age, his slightly pale skin contrasting his dark hair mixed with strands dyed a striking shade of red like nothing Nova had seen before.

Nova’s cheeks flushed as she realized just how handsome he was, his muscular arms visible through his black and red t-shirt and leather pants. 

His style was indicative of their rival town - dark, stormy, angry.

He was the exact opposite of her in every way, and she couldn’t look away. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Victor wasn’t quite sure what to make of the girl stood before him. His heart beat faster as he took in her glittering blonde hair and the way it fell over her shoulders, complimenting the soft white sundress and red cardigan she wore. Hanging from her fingers were a pair of golden heels, his gaze landing on her bare feet with a raised eyebrow. 

The girl looked down at her feet, a soft blush painting her cheeks. “I was trying to be quiet,” she muttered, setting the heels down next to her.

Victor eyed the golden bracelet glowing a soft yellow on her left arm, watching as the color extinguished as she looked him over. 

“I’d prefer not to be fried today,” Victor finally spoke, gesturing to her fire gauntlet that matched the ones he had seen the Sunnyside guards and the Commander wearing throughout the meeting. 

He was familiar with the daywalker’s defense mechanism - the ability to create fire balls at any given moment; the same way Shadyside residents could control the wind using the ruby-red pendants hung around their necks. 

The girl shot a glare at him, uncrossing her arms and placing her manicured hands on her hips. “It’s not everyday a vampire wanders around our town hall and breaks our belongings,” she replied, sarcasm dripping from her words. 

Victor stiffened slightly, realizing she knew exactly where he came from and what he was. Victor cleared his throat, leaning against the wall behind him and trying for nonchalance.

“Not my fault they’re so fragile,” he snapped back, eyeing the pile of shards lying next to his combat boots. 

“Well, you’re going to have to clean that up,” she replied, the judgement clear in her tone as she looked him up and down. Victor was tiring quickly of her superiority complex.

“With what, exactly?” he quipped, stepping off of the wall and closer to the girl, close enough for her floral perfume to hit his senses and disorient him slightly. 

She glanced around the hallway, her face twisting in annoyance as she realized what he had five minutes prior - there was nothing to clean up the mess with, not even a lone supply closet. 

“We’d need something soft to scoop up the shards,” he spoke aloud, taking in his surroundings. There wasn’t a single piece of cloth, not even curtains. Damn Sunnyside and their obsession with a bright ball of light in the sky. 

Victor’s gaze landed on the girl’s red cardigan, his eyebrow raising slightly. She caught his eye and paled slightly, shaking her head so fast her hair swung around her shoulders in a slightly mesmerizing way. She pulled the sweater tighter around her body almost protectively.

“No!” she exclaimed, louder than he was expecting. “Not my sweater.” Victor watched her for a moment, trying to figure out what button he’d pressed, before shaking his head slightly. 

A strand of his hair fell across his forehead at the motion, the girl’s eyes tracking the movement before she tore her gaze away. “Okay…” Victor trailed off.

“Then we’re out of options. Guess we’ll just have to leave it. Blame it on the wind.” With that, Victor flicked a hand towards the glass pile, a gust of wind gently stirring the pieces before dissipating. 

The girl’s eyes narrowed at the display, her arms crossing over her chest. “That’s it?” she snipped, her gaze trained on him as he turned and walked past her, his shoulder brushing hers slightly and sending sparks shooting down his arm. 

Ignoring the feeling from the brief contact, Victor kept walking, squaring his shoulders. He wasn’t about to take the fall and face the wrath of his aunt.

It would be better to disappear now and forget it had ever happened. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Nova could feel the anger radiating from her as she watched the vampire saunter away, his demeanor relaxed as if he hadn’t just committed a crime by shattering one of the most expensive pieces of art in Sunnyside. 

“Typical vampires,” she grumbled, not caring if he heard her. “Refusing to take accountability for anything, leaving their mess behind for others to clean.” Nova watched as the boy’s steps slowed, her words seeming to have hit their mark. 

She turned towards the glass pile, crouching down and gently picking up a larger shard.

A moment passed before she heard his voice behind her, his tone thick with underlying anger. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” 

Nova hummed softly to herself, laying the shard in her palm before using her other hand to select another piece. “Cleaning your mess,” she replied, her tone light. 

She felt the vampire by her side, pretending not to notice he was close enough to smell his cologne and feel the heat from his body. “Stop,” he replied, his voice low. “You’re going to hurt yourself.” 

“I can handle myself,” Nova snapped, the pile of shards growing in her hand. “Don’t make me stop you,” he growled in response. Nova stilled as his words registered, his lips inches from her ear.

Nova spun around, prepared to give him a piece of her mind, when a sharp pain sliced through her hand. She yelped in pain, the handful of shards falling back to the floor almost in slow motion.

“Shit,” the vampire whispered, his warm hands already settling over Nova’s as she bit back tears. “You’re bleeding,” he spoke, his gaze landing on the drops of blood trailing down her wrist. 

Nova hesitated slightly, not moving, unsure of what to do. Her fire gauntlet flared for a second before extinguishing, a clear warning.

“Before you get any ideas, daywalker, I don’t drink blood.” The boy’s sarcastic tone broke through Nova’s momentary paralysis, a familiar annoyance filling her at his words. 

“Don’t flatter yourself,” she gritted the lie through her teeth, breathing through another wave of sharp pain. “I wasn’t thinking that.” A smirk spread across the vampire’s face, a challenge sparkling in his brown eyes. 

“We need to stop the bleeding,” he replied, his gaze shifting to her cardigan. “At least until you can get medical attention.” Nova realized the implication in his tone a second too late, her heart jumping in fear despite the blinding pain from her hand. 

“No,” she whispered, watching the ways the boy’s eyes darkened slightly at her refusal. “This is serious,” he replied, his tone sharp. “It hasn’t slowed down. You’ll likely need stitches, but nothing can be done until we slow the bleeding.” 

Nova felt her heart constricting as she understood she’d have to make a choice. Even though the vampire didn’t seem to recognize her, she had promised her father two years prior that she would never reveal her birthmark to anyone, much less someone from Shadyside.

If the knowledge of her birthmark shape - the very thing that tied her to her soulmate - fell in the wrong hands, an enemy could reach her soulmate before her and turn them against her, or worse. 

Nova had to choose between her own safety and the safety of her city, and she was torn straight down the middle, frozen, unable to move a muscle. 

A moment passed in tense silence before the boy shifted, determination sliding across his features, an uncharacteristic softness filling his eyes. “I’m sorry for this,” he whispered, his words processing a second too late. 

In the blink of an eye, his hands slid to her shoulders, her cardigan slipping off and landing on her lap, the sleeves still around her wrists. 

Nova could feel the color drain from her face as the vampire’s eyes fell to her right collarbone, his eyes widening slightly as he took in her biggest secret. 

Fuck.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Victor felt the world slow around him as he registered the mirror image of his birthmark painted across the daywalker’s collarbone, her blonde hair doing little to cover the dark blemish coloring her tan skin. 

“No!” the girl yelled, her hands trying to come up to cover her collarbone. Her movement was quickly stopped by her cardigan, the soft fabric restricting her. 

The daywalker’s exclamation pulled Victor out of his trance, his gaze landing on her pale face, horror splayed across her pretty features. Her bright blue eyes were wide, tears shimmering on the surface. 

“Your birthmark…” Victor trailed off, unable to form the words that reflected the mess his mind currently was. The girl shook her head softly, tears now freely falling down her pink cheeks. 

“You shouldn’t have seen that,” she whispered, her eyes trained on her still-bleeding hand. 

Victor wordlessly reached out, his fingers working quickly as he tied a makeshift tourniquet with her cardigan, a soft wince coming from the girl as he pulled the fabric as tight as he could. 

“There,” he spoke, his voice soft, placating. “That should stop the bleeding.” The girl’s head remained down, her whole body trembling. 

Victor took a deep breath, his hand moving up to cup her chin, gently lifting her head until her blue eyes looked into his own. A soft gasp fell from her lips at the motion, her cheeks reddening slightly. 

At that moment, Victor abandoned any sense of subtlety he still held, deciding this moment was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to shift the trajectory of his future. 

Without speaking, Victor reached down and pulled the hem of his shirt up, just enough to reveal the dark blemish on his skin just above his waistline. 

The girl’s breath hitched, her eyes wider than he’d ever seen as she glanced between her collarbone and his waist, the concentration clear on her face as she compared the two marks. 

“You’re my soulmate,” she finally spoke, her voice barely a whisper. “Y-you’re a vampire, and you’re my soulmate.” The expression on her face was unreadable, her eyes flicking up to meet his. 

“I can’t tell if that’s an insult,” Victor quipped, the humor coming off dry as the words left his tongue. A few tears fell down the girl’s cheeks as she shook her head. 

Ignoring his common sense, Victor took her uninjured hand in his, his thumb brushing over her knuckles in a comforting gesture. 

“Victor,” he stated, squeezing her hand softly. The girl’s eyes snapped back to his, shock painting her features. “I’m Victor.” 

A moment passed before her voice broke through the silence, slightly shaky. “Nova.” That’s a beautiful name, Victor thought to himself, realizing just how fast his feelings had developed for someone he barely knew.

Someone who was from the rival town, and yet, his soulmate. 

“I-I don’t know what to do,” Nova whispered, looking anywhere but at him. “I have pretended this day wouldn’t happen for the past two years. I didn’t want to face…this,” she continued. 

Victor remained silent, his hand still grasping hers. Nova hadn’t pulled away, a sizzling tension present in the air between them. “I thought I’d be disappointed no matter the outcome,” she admitted, a words a jumble of emotions Victor couldn’t quite place. 

“Are you disappointed?” he ventured, his voice low and his filter completely gone as his gaze dropped to her mouth.

Nova’s eyes widened at his words, her pink lips parted slightly in a way he couldn’t tear his gaze from. 

“I should be,” she responded, leaning in slightly. Victor’s eyes flicked up to hers, reading the want, the need filling her expression. 

He waited in breathless anticipation, the feelings they’ve been dancing around thickening the air around them. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Nova’s face was inches from Victor’s, his eyes unabashedly trained on her lips as she struggled to breathe, the feelings she’d been pushing down since she first laid eyes on him bursting to the surface. 

She couldn’t understand how someone she had just met had such an effect on her, one so strong she was seconds away from abandoning all control and letting her feelings take over. 

Victor’s fingers brushed Nova’s leg gently, his hand tightening around hers, and that was all she needed as she jumped forward, her mouth sealing over his and drawing a shocked gasp out of him. 

Victor groaned softly, his hands working their way to Nova’s waist as her good hand slid through his messy hair, her fingers twirling through the red and black strands. 

His lips were impossibly soft as their kiss deepened, their breathing becoming heavier as Victor slid his tongue across her bottom lip.

Nova gasped into Victor’s mouth as one of his hands slid down to her thigh, his fingers toying with the hem of her sundress and causing her to shiver with pleasure. 

Victor grinned against her mouth before pulling away, his lips tracing her jaw and overwhelming her senses. She heard his name fall from her mouth involuntarily when his lips reached her neck, pressing open mouthed, warm kisses against her heated skin. 

Nova could have spent the rest of her life on the cold, hard hallway floor, Victor’s mouth on her and her hands threaded through his hair. She could feel her fire gauntlet lighting in response to her emotions, the heat warming her wrist. 

Eventually, Victor pulled away, Nova fighting her urge to pull him back to her lips and kiss him senseless. “Wow,” Nova whispered, her breathing uneven as she took in Victor’s messy hair, swollen lips, and flushed cheeks. She was sure she looked exactly the same. 

Victor’s gaze was heated, his eyes dark as he looked at her. “What next?” he asked, his voice wrecked. 

Nova sighed, fiddling with the cardigan-tourniquet attached to her left hand. “I guess we skipped over the whole introduction part,” she quipped, glancing up at him. 

Sighing, she held her good hand out and watched as he raised an eyebrow in amusement. “Hello, I’m Nova Bright.” Victor’s eyes widened, recognition dawning on his features. 

“You’re Commander Bright’s daughter?” Nova nodded slowly, uncaring of his reaction. They’d already bonded in an…unconventional way. 

“Shit,” Victor muttered, running a hand through his hair. “Well, this just got complicated.” Nova narrowed her eyes at him, confused. “How’s that?”

Victor took a deep breath, holding out his hand as she had just done moments prior. “Hello, Nova. I’m Victor, the future Elder of Shadyside.”

Nova’s world tilted slightly, blood rushing through her head as she processed his words. “The universe must be playing a joke on us!” she exclaimed. “My soulmate is not only a vampire, but he’s the future leader of our rival town?” 

Victor laughed humorlessly, his fingers still intertwined with Nova’s. “Well, I guess there’s no hiding from this.” 

Victor lifted himself off of the ground, using his boot to sweep the long-forgotten broken glass aside. Bending down, he wrapped an arm around Nova’s waist, gently lifting her off of the ground and to her feet. 

“The meeting will be wrapping up soon, so we should hurry. I’m sure neither your father or my aunt would want to miss this ,” he spoke, gesturing to her cardigan-wrapped hand and the birthmark on full display on her collarbone. 

Taking a deep breath, Nova nodded and slid her hand into Victor’s. 

Here goes nothing. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☀︎ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Victor would’ve paid his entire net worth to photograph the look on his aunt’s and Commander Bright’s faces when he and Nova burst into the conference room, their chests heaving from the ten minutes of running up and down stairs and through hallways. 

His aunt’s gaze fell on their joined hands, her eyes widening slightly. He could see a similar reaction from the Commander from the corner of his eyes. 

“Nova, you have one chance to explain what the hell is going on,” the Commander finally spoke, his voice booming. Nova stepped forward, her cardigan dangling from her injured hand as she faced her father.

“Dad, I found him,” she replied, her voice quiet yet firm. Her father’s face shifted as he realized the implication of her words, his gaze sliding over to Victor. 

Victor slowly lifted up the hem of his shift, his aunt letting out a sharp gasp as Nova slid her hair off of her shoulder, their matching birthmarks shining against their skin. 

“Well, I’ll be…” Victor’s aunt spoke, her voice tight with emotion. “Nova, do you realize what this means?” the Commander’s voice rang through the silence, his face unreadable. 

Nova took a deep breath, squeezing Victor’s hand. “Yes, I do, Dad. Our towns have fought for long enough. It’s about time we found a middle ground,” she declared, smiling softly at Victor. 

Victor hadn’t seen a more beautiful sight. 

The next few hours passed in a chaotic blur, renegotiations filling the room as the four of them poured over centuries-old laws, rulebooks, and peace treaties. 

Commander Bright had sent for a medic, who had bandaged Nova’s hand and administered medication that seemed to work miracles, if the practiced ease with which Nova engaged in negotiation debates demonstrated. 

She was mesmerizing, her leadership skills shining and lighting Victor’s heart ablaze. 

By the time the final document was signed and the final words were spoken, Victor’s eyes were heavy with sleep and his arms longed to hold Nova, but he held off, knowing her father wasn’t quite his number one fan…yet.

The Eldress and the Commander finally stepped out of the room to file away the new papers, leaving Nova and Victor alone for the first time in hours. 

Victor held out his arms, grinning as Nova dove for him, her mouth settling over his and his brain emptying as his hands grasped her waist, biting her bottom lip between his teeth, careful to keep his fangs from emerging. 

The intoxicating flavor of Nova’s mouth and her soft gasps that he kept swallowing about drove him over the edge, his fingers playing with the ends of her hair at her waist. 

Nova pulled back after a moment, her breathing heavy. “This feels like the start of something good,” she whispered, her smile bright and her blue eyes sparkling. 

Victor grinned back at her, pressing soft kisses to her hair, her cheek, her neck, finally settling his mouth on her collarbone - directly over her birthmark, the mark that linked them together eternally. 

Nova’s breath hitched as Victor gently kissed the area, before lifting his head back up to look in her eyes. “It definitely is,” he whispered, pulling her into his arms. 

“Three years ago, my business won an award we’d been working towards our entire careers. My dad flew in from Montana to attend the award ceremony. I was supposed to pick him up from the airport, but our board of directors decided it was the perfect time for a meeting that I had no choice but to attend."

"I sent my father money to take a cab to the ceremony hall. Halfway through my meeting, I-I…” Percy’s voice cracked with emotion, the words suddenly unable to form.

Percy felt Annabeth reach out, her fingers intertwining with his as she moved close enough until she was pressed against his side. He looked into her eyes, her eyes filled with warmth and compassion, and felt the strength he needed to continue.

“I got a call from an unknown number. I had half a mind not to answer it, but something inside of me told me to. I stepped out of my meeting against my better judgement and answered. It was the NYPD.”

Annabeth let out a small gasp, her face twisted in heartbreak as his words sank in. “The cab driver had hit black ice. Neither my father nor the driver made it.”

“I’m so sorry, Percy,” Annabeth exclaimed, her eyes watery with emotion and her grip on his hand tightening. “I ended up going to the award show that night, but not after an entire bottle of Crown I had in my apartment."

"Suffice to say, the acceptance speech I gave wasn’t appreciated by the crowd. It took me two years to rebuild my reputation.”

Annabeth’s face shifted to a contemplative expression and Percy worried he had revealed too much. “I became a recluse after that night, rarely leaving my office. I spent months taking on clients I never would’ve considered prior to the accident and became someone to fear in the corporate world."

"I don’t like who I became or how I acted. Neither did Frank. I may have solidified our company in the real estate field, but I lost one of my best friends and myself in the process.”

“Percy, that’s horrible. No one deserves to go through that.” Percy shook his head, brushing the tears from his cheeks.

“I pay the price of that night every day of my life. I don’t think I’ll ever be the same man I was before. I’m angry, hateful, and have no compassion. I became the ruthless business mogul I swore to never become.”

“Oh Percy,” Annabeth whispered, moving until she was kneeling in front of him, their faces inches apart. Percy could smell her sweet scent, similar to the cupcakes they’d shared earlier.

“You’re not any of those things.” Annabeth was so intoxicating, Percy couldn’t find it in himself to disagree with her words.

If she knew what he really did for work, if she knew his company was shutting down the bakery she worked for, she’d have a very different outlook on him.

A moment of silence passed as a question hung in the air between them, Percy’s gaze straying to her lips before glancing back up at her eyes again.

A soft smile was all Percy needed to wrap an arm around her waist as he had hours before, pulling her against his chest and her lips to his.

Annabeth let out a soft whimper as Percy deepened the kiss, her fingers carding through his already messy hair and his slipping under the hem of her shirt slightly.

Percy lost track of time as their lips moved together, drawing her bottom lip between his teeth and swiping his tongue across hers.

Once it felt as if they couldn’t breathe, Percy pulled back, his breathing heavy as he looked into Annabeth’s flushed face and wide eyes.

“I hope that was alright,” he whispered, his fingers running up and down Annabeth’s sides softly. A smile slowly spread across Annabeth’s face in response.

“It was more than alright.” Annabeth replied, drawing him back in once more.

~~~

Annabeth awoke with a start, registering a warmth against her side and across her waist as she blinked the sleep from her eyes and took in her surroundings.

The memories of the night prior filled her mind as her gaze landed on Percy’s sleeping form beside her, his coat draped over their bodies and his arm acting as a cushion for their heads against the cold, hard kitchen tile.

At that moment, Annabeth realized she could see clearly and noticed the light filtering in through the windows, the surrounding mall visible outside.

Sitting up slowly, Annabeth noticed Percy’s phone lying on the floor next to them, its screen lit up with an incoming call. 

Jason Grace flashed across the screen, before the call transferred to voicemail to reveal the time. “Five?!” Annabeth exclaimed a little too loudly, causing Percy to stir.

A soft groan came from his form before eyes opened, his gaze colliding with Annabeth’s and unveiled confusion crossing his features.

“Is the storm over?” Percy asked, sitting up and loosening his tie further, undoing another button on his shirt. Annabeth bit her lip at the motion before remembering his question. “It’s five…” her voice trailed off as she waited for his reaction.

Percy shot to his feet, running a hand through his hair and scooping his phone off of the floor, swiping on the screen. His eyes widened as he swiped through his notifications, pausing suddenly.

Annabeth could see the conflicting emotions on Percy’s face, curiosity coursing through her as she observed his actions.

“Jason’s here,” Percy finally spoke, his gaze snapping up to hers. “I should go let him know I’m alive.” Annabeth nodded, silently watching as he ran out of the kitchen doors.

Catching the door as it swung shut, Annabeth peeked her head out to see a tall blonde man with a matching suit pacing back and forth in front of the bakery.

The man, whom she assumed to be Jason, glanced up from his phone when Percy unlocked the door and stepped outside.

Unable to contain her curiosity, Annabeth stepped further into the lobby, pressing herself against the booths in an effort to not be seen by the two men; who looked to be having a heated conversation, if their rapid hand movements and angry expressions were any indication.

Annabeth reached the booth closest to the door and slid into it, pieces of the conversation filtering into the shop loud enough for her to hear. “Why would you help her, Perce?” Jason’s voice was unfamiliar and harsh, a vast change from Percy’s soft and open one.

“I couldn’t stop myself…she just works there…I don’t know who the owner is…” Percy’s words were jumbled and made no sense, but Annabeth couldn’t ignore the warning signs flashing in her mind as she remembered what had happened before the power went out.

“You can’t let your emotions…Jackson Industries is nothing if you give this up for one girl…don’t get attached…” Annabeth stopped listening the minute the name Jackson Industries tumbled from Jason’s lips, Percy’s stories from hours prior flashing through her mind.

His company that he built, working in commercial real estate, his self-description of being a ruthless business mogul who overtook businesses without a second thought.

Anger filled Annabeth as she slid out of the booth, rushing to the kitchen and snatching his jacket from the floor.

Annabeth barely registered her movements as she stormed to the front door, pulling it open with a force she didn’t know she had.

Both men’s heads snapped to her in surprise, their mouths frozen mid-sentence. “Jackson Industries? Seriously?” The color drained from Percy’s face as he realized that she knew everything.

Tossing the jacket in his direction, not caring whether he caught it or where it landed, Annabeth spit out a final goodbye. “I’m glad to know my business meant so little to you, even after you saved it last night. Maybe you should try a career in acting, you’re very good at it!”

Annabeth spun on her heel, making her way to the back door. “ She’s the owner, Percy? Are you an idiot? How did you not know that?”

Jason’s words echoed behind her, the pain of Percy’s lies threatening to overtake her. How could she have been so blind, so dumb, so in love with a man she’d just met that morning?

The back door slammed behind Annabeth as she rushed to her car, the tears spilling down her cheeks with each step. As she sank into the driver’s seat, she finally allowed the emotions to crash onto her.

She had fallen for the man ripping her business right out from under her, and there wasn’t a damn thing she could do about it.

~~~

Percy growled in frustration, images of Annabeth - her blonde curls, soft lips, and bright smile - filling his head as he crumpled the paper in front of him and threw it across the room.

Burying his head in his hands, Percy barely registered Jason entering the office and sinking into the chair across from him.

“Are you going to continue sulking, or get off of your ass and do something about this?” Jason’s words cut through Percy’s self-loathing, his gaze lifting to meet his friend’s. Glaring at Jason, Percy sat back up, crossing his arms over his chest.

“What do you suggest I do, Jason? She’ll never speak to me again. I’m a ruthless, evil villain plotting the demise of her business.”

Jason chuckled, ignoring Percy’s dagger-like stare. “Besides being dramatic, you could see if there’s anything you can do to alter the sale. Maybe she can buy her shop back from you.”

Percy shook his head, gesturing to the paper currently lying crumpled in the corner of the office. “I’ve already looked. I’ve looked at every damn clause, line, and word in the deed of sale. Nothing can be done to save her bakery.”

“I wouldn’t be too sure about that, Jackson.” Percy glanced at his friend, certain Jason had gone insane. “What do you mean?” Jason smiled knowingly before turning to the office door.

“Come in,” Jason called, Percy watching in apprehensive curiosity as a woman with red hair appeared in the doorway.

“This is Rachel Dare, she’s the manager of Olympus Bakery .” Percy watched as Rachel sat down next to Jason, a smile etched on her face as she faced him head-on.

“Hello, Percy. It’s nice to meet you.” Raising an eyebrow, Percy turned to his friend, confusion evident in his expression. “When the storm happened, Rachel left to find help to restore the store’s power. I found her outside of the mechanic’s, freezing and lost.”

Rolling her eyes, Rachel shot Jason a look, crossing her arms over her chest. “I wasn’t some lost damsel in distress. I had no idea what to do when I realized the mechanic was closed. Jason had come out of a nearby shop and saw me pacing.”

Unsure of where this conversation was going, Percy sat back in his chair, nodding for them to continue. “We went to a nearby cafe and she told me that the bakery was on the line, not just from the storm, but from the impending sale with our company.”

Rachel nodded, producing a folded up paper from her pocket. “Jason listened to me, more than any of your other execs did when I tried to renegotiate the deal over the past week. After some discussion, he agreed to look over the original deed of sale when Annabeth and I first bought the store over five years ago.”

Percy held out a hand, trying to understand Rachel’s words. “I thought you were the manager,” he started, watching as Jason smiled to himself in silence.

Rachel nodded, laying the paper on the desk in front of her. “I am, but I also own half of the business, while Annabeth owns the other half. I just can’t stand the term “owner”, I find it stuffy and it has too many strings attached. It’s a hell of a lot easier to refer to myself as the manager, except on paper.”

Percy found himself liking Rachel more and more as she spoke. He was beginning to understand why Jason was willing to listen to her in the first place.

Rachel slid the paper across the desk until it landed in front of Percy. Shooting a look at Jason, Percy pulled the paper towards him and skimmed its contents.

A small arrow had been drawn to a clause near the bottom of the paper, a cluster of unassuming sentences he’d probably have overlooked without the nudge.

“In the event of the sale of the entire mall, the rightful owners of Olympus Bakery have the jurisdiction to choose to remain in the original store or move to a new location, provided the entire worth of the store be provided to them as financial aid.” Percy read, his mind racing as he tried to fully comprehend the implications of the clause.

“When Annabeth and I decided to start the bakery, she knew that there was a high chance of one of us being forced to make a decision regarding the company, whether the other was present or not. It’s the nature of business, and she’d seen it happen to her mom’s flower shop before she passed.”

Percy glanced up at those words, remembering Annabeth’s avoidance of the mention of her parents. Rachel gave him a soft, knowing smile before continuing. “So, if you’ll look towards the middle of the deed,” Percy noticed another small arrow he’d missed the first time near the middle.

“We built in a failsafe in order to save our business. We trusted each other enough to make the right decision if it came down to it.”

“If one party of ownership is not present during negotiations or discussions regarding Olympus Bakery , the other is permitted to have a final say in the future of the business, no exceptions apply.” This time, it was Jason who produced another paper, placing it next to the deed.

“We don’t trust each other like that, so you’ll have to sign off on this, but I found a solution. A compromise that works for both our company and Annabeth’s.”

Rachel spoke next, leaning forward in her seat as if in anticipation. “I’m willing, and I’m sure Annabeth will be too, to move our bakery to another location and give up the mall for your company. Barring, of course, that you and Jason can find us a new location. That’s all I ask.”

Percy looked into Jason’s eyes, knowing his friend was sincere in his willingness to help. He sat in contemplation for a moment, flashes of the day he spent with Annabeth filling his mind - her touch, her lips, her hands, her smile.

It was then he realized he’d made up his decision a week ago, when he first looked into Annabeth’s eyes and chose to help her in a time of need.

Nodding slowly, Percy watched smiles spread across Jason and Rachel’s faces as he reached for a pen and in a single motion, signed his name on the new contract.

“I think we do trust each other like that, Jason,” Percy said as he slid the contract back towards his friend. “The first rule of business is read every single word of a contract, no matter how long it is. However, in this case, I won’t. I trust that you’re doing the right thing. Now let’s find these woman a damn bakery.”

As Jason stood up and pulled Percy into a hug, followed by Rachel, Percy knew deep down he’d made the right decision.

Sure, he’d lose out on some of the sale money to cover the expense of a new location for the bakery, but he didn’t care one bit.

He’d give up everything he had built to see Annabeth smile again.

~~~

Annabeth had just taped another box shut when Rachel stepped into the kitchen, an uncharacteristically calm expression on her face despite the circumstances.

“God, Rachel, where have you been? I’ve been packing all day!” Annabeth exclaimed, her emotions spilling over as she set down the tape she’d been holding and leaned heavily against the wall beside her.

“I’m sorry, Anna,” was Rachel’s reply as she made her way to the back door, disappearing before Annabeth could get another word out. “Damnit!” Annabeth yelled, yanking her phone out of her pocket.

Already sitting on the screen was a text from Rachel that simply read, You’ll forgive me for this eventually . Now more confused than before, Annabeth stared at it for a moment before another text appeared. There’s someone waiting for you in the lobby. I promise everything will be okay. Love, Rach.

Rolling her eyes at her friend’s cryptic nonsense, Annabeth pushed open the door to the kitchen, prepared to see another sad, inquiring customer wondering why their favorite bakery was closing.

Annabeth came to an abrupt halt as she realized it wasn’t a customer, it was Percy. He stood there, in the middle of the bakery he single-handedly destroyed, wearing sweatpants and a t-shirt despite the winter weather outside.

Tears threatened to fall as Annabeth backed up, her first instinct to run and hide from him. She didn’t want to feel the sting of his betrayal for a second longer. However, something stopped her from moving, something deep down that told her to listen, just for a minute.

“What do you want?” Annabeth spit out, pretending not to notice the hurt flash across Percy’s face. His messy jet black hair fell in his eyes, a smattering of freckles across his cheeks prominent in the bakery’s warm lighting. “Please, just give me five minutes. I promise it’ll be worth it.”

Pushing down her fear, Annabeth nodded slowly, her gaze sharp and unrelenting as she stepped out of the kitchen’s doorway.

She stopped a foot away from Percy, knowing a step further would crumple her composure for good.

“The day of the storm, Jason ran into someone, someone who understood how much this bakery meant to you. Jason, ever the empath, agreed to look into the sale with Jackson Industries to see if there was anything we missed in the fine print. Turns out, there was.”

Annabeth felt as if she couldn’t take in a breath, her heart beating impossibly fast as she tried to understand Percy’s words. Percy stepped forward, a paper dangling from his outstretched hand. “In the original sale of the bakery, there was a hidden clause. See for yourself,” Percy continued, motioning to the paper.

Annabeth unfolded the paper gently, her eyes scanning the document until she noticed a small paragraph with an arrow pointing to it.

Her eyes widened as she read the sentences, her mind racing. Percy held out another paper, his green eyes filled with a warmth she had only seen when they sat on the floor of the bakery’s kitchen, trading stories and cookies a week prior.

“That clause you implemented in the contract was the best damn business decision you’ve ever made, Annabeth. You chose a good business partner.” Annabeth glanced at the second paper, her world tilting when she recognized Rachel’s signature on one of the lines.

“W-What is this?” Annabeth choked out, unable to take a breath in. “It’s a contract, between Jackson Industries and Olympus Bakery stating that we will fully fund your search for another location. In the original deed, we only had to provide the original amount of this store as financial aid, but I cannot in my right conscience do so."

"Rachel is very convincing, but I didn’t need her to decide that I wanted to help. I made that decision a week ago when I stood in this lobby.” Tears had begun to pour down Annabeth’s cheeks, but she couldn’t find it in herself to care.

“In fact, working in commercial real estate has its perks. I already found a prime location, about a mile away from here. It’s twice the size and can accommodate any growth that your business may have, which I know will happen."

"That little article stunt caused a big stir in this city. There are people protesting outside of my office building. You have a larger impact than you could have ever imagined, Annabeth, and it’s because of who you are as a person.”

Annabeth felt her knees weakening as the reality of Percy’s words sunk in, her head spinning with visions of a future - a future with a booming business, a future with Percy by her side.

“Who am I?” Annabeth whispered, looking up at Percy who was suddenly inches away from her. “You are determined, passionate, caring, stubborn as all hell,” Percy took her hands in his, looking into her eyes, “but most of all, you are beautiful and all-consuming, and the only thing I’ve been able to think about for the past week.”

Percy reached out, wiping a tear from her cheek with his thumb as his scent surrounded her, bringing her back to the week prior when she had his jacket around her shoulders.

“You did all of this for me? Even though it hurt your business?” Annabeth asked, unable to tear her gaze away from Percy’s.

“Annabeth, I’d throw everything away for you.” A soft sob escaped Annabeth’s lips as she jumped forward, enjoying the ways his muscular arms tightened around her waist as her lips collided with his.

Percy groaned softly as he guided them to the kitchen, pausing with his back pressed against the swinging door and his warm hands gripping her waist.

Pulling back slightly, Percy looked into her eyes, an open expression of adoration written across his face. “Thank God for blizzards,” he whispered, eliciting a giggle from Annabeth as she threaded her fingers into his thick, messy hair.

As the kitchen door swung shut behind them, the only thought in Annabeth’s mind was of the future; a future far better than she could have ever imagined.

A future that was right around the corner.

~~~

Annabeth brushed her hands on her apron, coating it in flour as she placed another tray of cookies on the counter.

Rachel smiled at her from her perch at the register, the line of customers stretching out of the door and onto the walkway just outside of the bakery.

Despite the busy atmosphere, Annabeth felt more at peace than she ever had as she took in the packed booth and tables, and the gorgeous view outside; a far cry from the dull parking lot of the outdoor mall.

The bell on the door announced the arrival of another customer, and Annabeth turned to retrieve the apple pie she knew was rapidly cooling in the kitchen when a deep, masculine voice interrupted her.

“You know, the line is kind of blocking the front entrance of my building,” the man said, a smirk evident in his tone.

Annabeth’s gaze snapped up to meet his, the man’s familiar green eyes and freckles coming into focus. “You’re stealing my clientele.”

Annabeth rolled her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest. “I highly doubt your big-wig corporate clients are interested in sweet treats.” The man laughed, his eyes trained on Annabeth as she stepped out from behind the counter.

“You’d be surprised. Your praline cupcakes are a big hit in the break room. I have to fight the entire HR team to get one each morning.” Annabeth laughed, now inches away from the man. “Well, they’re never in short supply, at least not for you.”

He smiled, reaching out and intertwining their fingers, his thumb brushing over her wedding rings absentmindedly. Percy reached out, pulling her against his chest, ignoring the crowd surrounding them.

“Well, Mrs. Jackson, how about you show me where I can get some more?” Grinning, Annabeth pulled Percy into the kitchen, unable to take her eyes off of the way his cheeks turned a slight shade of pink and the way his green eyes darkened as his gaze slid to her lips.

“Of course, Mr. Jackson,” Annabeth whispered before pulling her husband into a kiss, the cold metal of his wedding band shocking against the warm skin at her waist.

As the sounds of the bakery echoed all around them, Annabeth knew she had finally reached the future she had dreamed of, and it was so much better than she could have ever pictured.

~~~

“Jackson!” Jason’s voice cut through the relaxing silence of Percy’s office, a wrinkled newspaper landing on top of the desk.

Raising an eyebrow at his friend’s uncharacteristic behavior, Percy glanced at the newspaper, his heart dropping as the headline registered in the mind.

“Jackson Industries Strikes Down Local Staple Ahead of Holidays ,” Percy read aloud, his gaze connecting with Jason’s.

“Jason, this is bad.” Scoffing, Jason sunk down into one of the chairs situated in front of the desk, running a hand through his messy blonde hair. “This is worse than bad, Perce. It’s awful. The board is going to lose their minds when they catch wind of this.”

Sighing heavily, Percy buried his face in his hands, his mind spinning. He had spent over a decade building this business from the ground up, and a single article from the city’s largest media conglomerate has the chance to destroy it in one fell swoop.

Percy pulled the newspaper towards him, scanning the article before his eyes landed on the author.

“Leo Valdez, Editor In Chief,” Percy growled, standing up from the desk and loosening his tie. “I want you to get him on the phone as soon as possible,” Percy eyed his friend, who glanced up at him wearily. “I’ve tried, Perce. He’s unreachable. He refuses to speak to anyone.”

Percy crumped the newspaper into a ball, tossing it into the trash can beside his desk. “Then we go to the source.” “Leo’s the source,” Jason responded, skepticism laced in his tone.

Percy shook his head, scooping up his coat and tossing it over his shoulder. “ Olympus Bakery is the source.”

Percy made his way to the office door, about to push it open when Jason appeared in front of him, his arms crossed over his chest. “You can’t just barge in there and demand that they have the article taken down. You don’t even know if the bakery is involved with the article.”

Scowling, Percy glared at his friend in indignation. “The article is about the damn bakery, Jason. Defamation, whether direct or indirect, is a clear violation of our contract with the outdoor mall the bakery is located in. I’m just going to make sure the owner understands the consequences if the article isn’t taken down.”

Percy pushed past Jason, making his way into the hallway. “Percy.” Sighing, Percy spun back around to face his friend. “What?” “Don’t let your emotions get ahead of you. You remember what happened last time.”

“Whatever, Jason. I know what I’m doing, otherwise I wouldn’t be the CEO of this company.”

As he walked briskly to his car, Percy tried his best to push Jason’s disappointed expression out of his mind, blocking out the memories of three years prior.

He knew what he was doing, and no one would stop him from saving his company’s reputation.

~~~

Pulling to a stop in front of the shopping center, Percy glanced around until his gaze landed on Olympus Bakery, its bright storefront adorned with colorful holiday lights and pink trim glaringly obvious against the dull, half-empty mall surrounding it.

When Percy had first shown interest in purchasing the outdoor mall, it had seemed to be an easy transfer of ownership, with only a handful stores left in operation that were mere months away from declaring bankruptcy.

The area surrounding the outdoor mall had expanded over the past few years to house larger shopping complexes that drew traffic away from the mall.

What Percy hadn’t expected, however, was the lone survivor - a bakery that defied all odds and sold out every day, its line wrapping around the block each morning.

Even some of Percy’s team members were big fans of the bakery, often raving about the new desserts that were dropped each month in the company’s break room.

Percy found it trivial, obsessing over something as baseless as dessert when there was far more important matters to focus on, particularly during the corporate world’s busy season - the holidays.

As he stepped out of his car, Percy noticed the snow beginning to fall, lightly coating the parking lot. He hadn’t heard of a storm brewing, but December in Manhattan was unpredictable. He’d have to make this quick.

Within seconds, Percy found himself standing in front the bakery, squinting his eyes against the garish, bright look of the store’s décor as pulled open the door.

A soft tinkle of a bell announced Percy’s arrival, the sound barely registering in his mind as the smell of fresh-baked goods hit him like a wave, a sweet undertone of cinnamon and nutmeg following the scent.

Percy took a step forward, his gaze scanning the rows and rows of sweets in the glass case that spanned from one side of the bakery to the other, trying to recollect his thoughts and remember the reason he was standing in the bakery in the first place.

Percy was about to reach the counter when the door to the kitchen in the back of the building swung open, giving him no time to react before something slammed into his side.

Time seemed to slow as he registered that the impact had been caused by a woman wearing far too much pink and precariously balancing a tray of cupcakes.

It was at that moment that Percy realized the woman was losing her balance, and without a second thought he shot his arm out and wrapped it around her waist while gently taking the cupcake tray from her hands.

Percy spun the woman into his chest, his gaze catching hers as her soft, sweet scent overtook his senses. The woman’s wide, grey eyes captured his attention, her curly blonde hair escaping its messy braid and falling into her face.

Percy snapped back to reality as he registered the sound of clapping and whistling from the onlookers and the shocked look on the woman’s face.

Clearing his throat, Percy let go of the woman, trying to catch his breath and forget the way she felt in his arms and the warmth of her skin under his arm.

A warm blush filled the woman’s cheeks as she studied Percy, before her gaze fell on the tray of cupcakes still clutched in his arms. “Sorry,” Percy muttered, handing the tray back to the woman as he cleared his throat again, trying desperately to regain his composure.

“Thank you,” the woman replied, tucking a stray curl behind her ear. “You saved both myself and my cupcakes.” Percy smiled softly, shrugging.

“It’d be a shame to have to toss a perfectly good tray of cupcakes,” he replied, shocking himself with the joke. Percy didn’t joke, or at least he hadn’t in a long time.

“Definitely,” she replied, sliding the tray onto the counter beside her and sticking out her hand. “I’m Annabeth.” Percy couldn’t stop his heart from skipping at her words, the uniqueness of her name suiting her delicate features perfectly.

“Percy,” he replied as he shook her hand, pretending not to notice the way he didn’t want to let go or the way he wanted to pull her back into his chest like moments before.

“So, Percy, besides becoming a hero, what brings you in today?” “I’m looking for the owner,” he replied, watching as her expression shifted into cautious curiosity. “May I ask what this is for?”

Percy paused for a moment, trying to find the right words, Jason’s warning echoing in his mind. He couldn’t cause a scene, no matter how much he wanted to. “Business matters.”

Annabeth let out a soft laugh, crossing her arms across her chest and effectively causing all of Percy’s thoughts to leave his head. This woman was all-consuming, taking over his senses with every word she spoke.

“I’ll be right back, Percy,” Annabeth finally spoke, her tone suddenly apprehensive as she spun around, disappearing into the same door she had came from minutes prior. Percy took a seat at a nearby table, unable to tear his gaze away from the door.

“What just happened?” He whispered to himself, pulling his phone out of his pocket and mindlessly scrolling through emails in an effort to remind himself why he was really sitting inside of the bakery that suddenly had the power to tear his business apart.

~~~

Annabeth stood in the middle of the kitchen, her head spinning as she tried to understand the events of the past five minutes and why she was so breathless from a single customer - if he was even a customer.

An admittedly handsome man in a suit asking for the owner was never good for a business, much less one like hers that had just been bought behind her back.

Annabeth tried to push his piercing green eyes and perfectly messy dark hair out of her mind, biting her lip as she remembered the way his suit was just tight enough to reveal his toned arms.

Rachel appeared from around the corner, a tray of fresh-baked cookies in one hand before coming to a stop when she noticed Annabeth’s face.

“Anna, what’s wrong? You look pale.” Annabeth sighed, turning to face her friend as she fiddled with the string of her apron.

“Some guy in a suit is asking for the owner,” she replied, leaning against one of the fridges. Rachel laughed, setting down the cookie tray. “Okay, why didn’t you see what he wanted.”

“I don’t know, Rach…if this is what I think it is, then he’s here to talk about the sale. I don’t want it to be real.” Rachel smiled softly, wrapping an arm around Annabeth in comfort.

“It’s always going to be real, Anna. We’re just two small bakery owners in a sea of corporate sharks. The article was a good idea, but I don’t know if it will be enough to save us.”

Annabeth tried to stop the tears from forming as she glanced around her favorite place in the world, knowing it could all be gone in just seven days.

“Go and talk to him, Anna. We can’t avoid it forever.” Knowing her friend was right, Annabeth turned to exit when a loud clunk echoed through the bakery, before the whole store was plunged into darkness in a split second.

Annabeth yelped in surprise, glancing around in shock until she could see Rachel’s figure outlined in the darkness.

“What just happened?” she exclaimed, reaching her hand into her pocket for her phone before realizing with horror that it wasn’t there.

Rachel’s worried voice filtered through the silence. “I think we lost power from the storm.” “Storm?!” Annabeth racked her brain to remember any mention of a storm in her weather app this morning.

“Yeah, there was a freak winter storm headed this way. I meant to tell you but the peanut butter cookies wouldn’t bake correctly and I got distracted.” Annabeth brushed her curls out of her eyes, trying her best to squint in the pitch black of the kitchen.

“What are we going to do?” Annabeth whispered, her heart beating in fear as she realized the dozens of cupcakes, cookies, and pies on the line if they weren’t properly refrigerated.

She’d lose hundreds of dollars of baked goods if they couldn’t restore the power. Rachel slid her phone out of her pocket and turned it on, the harsh white of the screen illuminating her face. “Damn it!” she exclaimed angrily. “No service! The storm must’ve caused it to go out.”

Annabeth took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. “Rachel, go see if the mechanic across the street has anything we could use. He should still be there.”

Rachel squeezed Annabeth’s hand in confirmation before disappearing back around the corner. Annabeth held her arms out, feeling around for any corners or stray carts she might run into.

Finally, she reached the kitchen door, pushing it open to reveal an equally-dark, empty store. Annabeth gently stepped forward, her heels clicking on the floor before a deep, worried voice startled her. “What happened?”

Letting out a small scream of surprise, Annabeth spun to face a dark figure standing inches away from her. The man’s warm hand reached out, steadying her as she almost lost her balance for a second time.

“It’s just me,” the man exclaimed, amusement evident in his tone, and it took Annabeth’s brain a second to realize it was the suited man from earlier, Percy.

“You’re still here?” Annabeth exclaimed in shock, her words coming out breathless. “Yes, I figured it’d be best if I stayed put since the power went out and it’s probably not safe to drive in this storm, either.”

“I have hours worth of prepped goods in the fridges,” Annabeth burst out, unable to focus on anything other than saving her life’s work. “I don’t know what to do…” her voice cracked with emotion as she realized just how helpless she was in this situation.

A moment of silence passed before Percy responded. “I might be able to look at the fridges. I’m sure they have a failsafe built in, if they’re industrial-grade.”

Annabeth couldn’t seem to process his words, shock coursing through her as she tried to comprehend that the man who very likely worked for the company wanting to destroy her business was willing to help her save hundreds of dollars of profit.

“Are-are you sure?” Annabeth stuttered out, realizing that Percy’s hand was still resting on her arm. “Of course, Annabeth,” he replied, squeezing her arm slightly. Annabeth could feel her cheeks flush and her stomach fill with butterflies at the way he said her name.

“Okay,” she responded, her voice a whisper. “Follow me.” Percy’s hand slid down her arm until his fingers were intertwined with hers, causing her to let out a sharp breath at the contact.

“Just so you don’t fall,” Percy said, an undertone she couldn’t quite identify present in his voice. Taking a deep breath, Annabeth took a step forward, wondering just how she got herself into this situation.

~~~

Percy angled his phone’s flashlight behind the first fridge, his eyes scanning each wire, screw, and compartment, searching for something that could indicate a way to jumpstart the power.

Memories of his time bent over car engines and handmade electronic creations flashed through his mind as he fiddled with a wire.

Swallowing down the imminent pain the memories always brought, Percy hardened his expression and straightened up, placing his phone face down on the counter.

It didn’t provide much light, just enough to show Annabeth’s concerned expression. “I’m not seeing anything,” Percy admitted, trying to ignore how much the pain in Annabeth’s face affected him. It shouldn’t - she worked for the bakery currently defaming his business.

Pushing past his better judgement, Percy cleared his throat, glancing around the dark kitchen. “Do you have any coolers?” Annabeth’s glanced up at him, nodding slowly as she started walking towards the back of the kitchen and pulling open a door that revealed a small walk-in closet.

The closet’s shelves were stocked with catering supplies, with a handful of portable coolers lining the floor. “Let’s put the items in the fridge in the coolers. It isn’t a permanent solution, but it should help keep them cold for some time.” A small smile flitted across Annabeth’s face as she began hauling coolers out of the closet.

Percy couldn’t tear his gaze away from the determination on her face, the way she bit her lip as she concentrated on her task.

Even in the phone’s light, Annabeth was beautiful, there was no denying it. However, Percy knew better than to let his feelings ahead of his goal.

Feelings, emotions, whatever he wanted to call it, had almost destroyed his company three years ago. Percy sure as hell wasn’t letting it happen again. Shaking his head, Percy shoved his emotions back down and got to work.

Fifteen minutes had passed in a blur as Percy and Annabeth transferred baked goods from each fridge into the coolers, packing them together so tightly he worried they would be crushed.

Annabeth didn’t seem to worry, or if she did, he couldn’t tell. She was difficult to read, something he didn’t encounter often in the corporate world.

Percy was used to black or white business deals made by people who only cared about one thing in their lives - reaching the top. He wasn’t used to the feeling of walking on the edge of something, the feeling of looking into someone’s eyes or brushing their hand and feeling like nothing else mattered. This was dangerous.

“What are we going to do now?” Annabeth whispered, seeming to give up her composure as she sank down on the floor, the hem of her pink apron falling over her legs.

“There has to be something,” Percy replied, sitting down next to her. Annabeth glanced up at him in surprise, pulling her legs up to her chest and resting her chin on top of her knees.

This was the most relaxed Percy had seen her act since he arrived. “Does the building have a generator?” Percy asked cautiously. He knew the answer, of course.

Weeks of studying the mall’s blueprints and layout taught him where each and every machine was located. Percy figured it wasn’t the best time to make that known, so he waited for her answer instead.

Annabeth lifted her head, hope flitting across her expression. “It does! I haven’t had to use it in the five years I’ve owned the store, so my memory is fuzzy of where it’s located at.” Percy took a deep breath before speaking, choosing his words carefully. “I might have an idea of where it is.”

Annabeth looked at him, her face unreadable before she nodded slowly. “Lead the way,” she replied, accepting his hand that he held out. Lifting her gently off of the floor, Percy slid his phone back into his pocket, plunging them back into darkness.

As they made their way to the exit, Percy grabbed his coat off of the chair he had been sitting in hours ago and held it out towards Annabeth.

Annabeth shook her head, her eyes wide. “I have a coat…” she trailed off as she looked around the shop. “I don’t know where it went.” Percy took his coat and draped it over her shoulders, ignoring her protests.

“My suit jacket is more than enough. If I’m correct about the generator’s location, we’re not too far away. Please.”

Annabeth sighed, slipping her arms into his jacket which was slightly too big on her. Percy hated how attractive she was wearing his clothes, and how much he couldn’t look away.

~~~

Annabeth watched as Percy pushed open the door, the smell of his cologne engulfing her as she wrapped his jacket tightly around her body.

Shaking off the craziness of the situation, Annabeth braced herself as they stepped out into the cold, wet blizzard surrounding the shop.

Freezing flakes of snow pelted her face as she blindly held onto Percy’s arm, wondering how he was able to see where he was going when she could barely see him inches in front of her.

Within a minute, Annabeth’s hands and face were already numb, but she gritted her teeth and trudged forward, breathing a sigh of relief when Percy finally came to a stop in front of a large grey box covered in snow.

In the back of her mind, Annabeth wondered how he knew exactly where the generator was and didn’t need even the most basic of directions towards the general area of the building’s mechanical interface.

The blizzard quickly erased her mind of that thought, though, and she watched as Percy brushed the snow off of the generator and handed her his phone.

“Hold the light back here, there should be some instructions written on the back.” Annabeth studied Percy as his eyes scanned the back of the generator, a scowl crossing his face as he stood back up.

“Whoever was in charge of maintenance must’ve been slacking, the generator only has a third of a tank of fuel left. That’s enough to power one of the fridges and potentially an oven or two.”

Annabeth’s heart sank as she realized the implication of his words. There would be no heating or lighting until the storm was over and the power was restored.

“Well,” she replied, crossing her arms tightly over her chest, “It’s better than nothing.” Percy nodded gravely, crouching down and flicking a switch on the back of the generator. It roared to life, indicator lights flashing red and green.

“Yes!” Percy exclaimed, pulling Annabeth into a hug as a huge grin spread across his face. Annabeth blushed at his excitement, enjoying the warmth of his arms and the feeling of her head against his chest. After a moment, Percy pulled back, clearing his throat and avoiding her gaze.

Annabeth felt the tension between them as he held out his arm for her to take. As they made their way back to the store, Annabeth watched the man in front of her, the man who decided to help save her store in spite of his intentions when he first appeared.

All she could wonder is why he chose to help her when he very well could have left as soon as the snow began to fall; why he chose to brave the blizzard just for the chance to save her baked goods.

When they reached the front door, Percy pulled it open with ease and ushered her inside, closing and locking the door behind them.

They looked at each other for a moment before rushing towards the kitchen, their movements a flurry of transferring cupcakes, cookies, and pies from the coolers into the single working fridge - that Percy had perfectly predicted would work - and cramming in as much as possible.

They still had a full cooler by the time they filled the fridge, and Annabeth looked at it in despair, knowing that the baked goods were lost for good.

They wouldn’t last more than an hour in the cooler, much less through the rest of the blizzard.

Annabeth felt Percy’s eyes on her before he gently lifted her chin with his finger, his green eyes trained on hers. “I’m sorry we can’t save this cooler, but we can make the most of it.”

Percy grinned before reaching down, pulling out a cookie and unwrapping the cellophane.

Annabeth felt a smile cross her face as she took the cookie from Percy, biting into it. “You’re right. We should eat something anyway,” Annabeth responded, sitting in front of the cooler.

Percy mirrored her movement, his smile infectious as he bit into a cookie of his own.

Annabeth had no clue how she had gotten here, but in the moment, she didn’t care one bit.

The kitchen door swung open, revealing a pair of arms clutching overflowing grocery bags. "Perseus, I picked up some extra food for the representative from Chase & Corp. I am sure you will be hospitable."

Maggie's dark eyebrows raised in anticipation of his response. He glared at her, crossing his arms across his chest. "I already told you and Grover I don't want some incompetent lawyer in my estate."

Maggie shot him a look that effectively shut him up, setting the bags on the counter. "If you speak to the rep like you just did to me, I guarantee you will never sell this house. They will be happy to leave you here to brood in your own misery."

Percy chose to ignore her comment, retreating to the seclusion of his office on the other end of the west wing. As he closed the door behind him, he couldn't help but wonder what this representative would be like.

He hadn't spoken to another person in months beyond Maggie and Grover. Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, he made his way to the decanter placed in front of the window overlooking the expanse of the front gardens.

As he downed his glass, he tried to ignore the loneliness lacing his innermost feelings.

~~~

Annabeth rolled her suitcase up the front walkway, in awe of the beauty of estate and its respective property.

The arch lining the entrance was adorned with sprigs of cherry blossoms and ivy, adding to the evanescence of the experience.

When she reached the front door, she ran a hand through her blonde curls, adjusting her hair clip as she stepped up to the doorbell and pressed it.

A gorgeous medley of chimes resonated in the relative silence before footsteps sounded in front of the door.

The oak door opened quickly, startling Annabeth before she caught sight of the man behind of it.

She bit her lip to keep from gasping aloud. His jet black hair fell across his forehead and covered his stormy green eyes. He was the very definition of tall, dark, and handsome.

He raked his gaze over her before looking into her eyes, the anger coating his expression preventing Annabeth from speaking. "Who are you and why are you on my property?"

The malice laced in the man's voice caused Annabeth to back up slightly. She squared her shoulder, trying to exude confidence. "I'm Annabeth Chase. I'm here for the architectural appraisal on the Jackson Estate."

His gaze was like steel as he crossed his arms over his chest. "I was expecting someone...more experienced."

Annabeth scoffed. "My age or gender is not indicative of my experience in my department." He raised an eyebrow at her tone, his judgment of her clear.

"Are you sure you couldn't find someone more suitable for the appraisal?" She bit her tongue to prevent a few choice words from slipping out.

"I am looking to speak to Mr. Jackson, the owner of the estate," she snapped, adjusting her blouse as she waited in tense silence. The man glared at her. "I am Percy Jackson."

"Of course you are," she muttered under her breath. "Are you going to let me in, or should I sleep on the porch?"

Annabeth admitted it wasn't the most professional of responses, but something about Percy brought it out of her.

Percy scoffed, stepping out of the door's threshold and holding out his arm. "Right this way, Princess." He spit out the last word, earning a withering glare from Annabeth as she lugged her suitcase into the foyer.

"Your room is in the west wing. Unfortunately, it's the only location of our guest rooms." Annabeth raised an eyebrow at his tone, but followed behind him, already distracted by the stunning beauty of the 17th-century architecture.

Annabeth was about to comment when a small clicking sound interrupted them. She glanced to see a small terrier by her feet, whimpering softly as it pawed her leg.

"Awww," she cooed, bending down to pet him. Percy stopped walking, turning around to glace at the scene. He stood stiffly before relenting at her questioning gaze.

"His name is Buzz." She smiled, scratching behind the dog's ears before standing up. "Let's go," Percy said gruffly as he continued down the hall.

Before she knew it, they had reached was Annabeth assumed to be the west wing. Percy led to her a door at the end of the wing, opening the door and gesturing inside.

"There is a bathroom on the far side. I am sure you can figure out the rest. I will be in my room," Percy motioned to a large set of double doors a few feet away before he spun around and left her standing there.

Annabeth took a deep breath to calm her temper before stepping into the bedroom. She gasped softly, running her hand over the solid dark oak of the four-poster bed.

"At least the room is nice," she muttered as she sat on edge of the bed trying to prepare herself for the weeks to come.

~~~

Percy tossed and turned in his bed, unable to sleep after the day's events. He couldn't believe the representative was an admittedly stunning woman with a sharp tongue and an intolerance for his hatred for life.

He could picture the way Annabeth's curly blonde hair fell over her shoulders, the way her blouse hugged her figure just right, and how her grey eyes reflected the sun in a way that drove him crazy.

It had been long time since he had felt this way about someone, and he hated it.

How could he let his emotions get the better of him? At that moment, he vowed to avoid Annabeth as much as possible.

It was a mansion, after all. How hard could it be for Percy to avoid her? He rolled onto his side, suddenly glad he never slept in a shirt because the room felt too hot, too stuffy.

What was wrong with him?

"Buzz," he whispered softly, relieved when the dog's furry head appeared beside him. He patted him softly before drifting off into a restless sleep.

~~~

Annabeth awoke to a beam of light streaming in through the large window on the other side of the room. Sitting up slowly, she rubbed her eyes and took in her surroundings.

Adjusting the strap of her tank top, she slowly climbed out of bed and walked over to her suitcase, pulling out her workout clothes and water bottle.

As she pulled on her sports bra and managed her into a ponytail, she couldn't help but wonder where Percy was, or what he was doing. She had slept in later than intended, hence her insistence to begin her daily run.

As she stepped out into the hallway, Annabeth's gaze landed on the doors to Percy's room, but she quickly looked away and made her way through the estate's seemingly endless maze of hallways before arriving at the back door leading to the gardens and vineyard lining the property. Annabeth grinned. It was perfect for a run.

She had just reached the back of the property line when she heard movement from the distance. Annabeth was a tough woman, she had learned from a young age how to handle danger.

Clutching her water bottle, she continued jogging, scanning her surroundings every so often before she caught a glimpse of another person running in the same direction.

Annabeth gasped slightly as she recognized the man's jet black hair and confident stride, surprised that Percy was a runner.

He didn't seem to see her, so she continued until her hunger became too much to ignore. As she made her way back to the estate, she wondered if she would run into Percy when she prepared breakfast.

He seemed set on avoiding her, but she knew she would eventually have to sit down and discuss their plan with him. "Can't wait," Annabeth muttered sarcastically, pushing open the door at the back entrance to the kitchen.

She made her way to the fridge, pulling out the egg carton and packet of bacon. Annabeth had just started frying the bacon when the door to the kitchen slammed open, causing her to yelp in surprise.

Percy's head shot up at the sound, his scowl deepening as he realized her presence.

Annabeth also noticed the way his eyes lingered on her attire, but when she glanced up at him he tore his gaze away and lifted up the hem of his shirt to wipe the sweat from his forehead.

Annabeth bit the inside of her cheek hard at the sight of his sculpted stomach, spinning back around and busying herself with plating the bacon and eggs. "I made some breakfast," she spoke up, her voice far too chipper for the situation.

Percy appeared by her side, snatching the carton of milk and chugging from it. Annabeth glared up at him, appalled at his lack of basic manners. "Have you ever heard of a glass?"

He lowered the carton, shaking his head and muttering something under his breath. "I can take care of my own breakfast," Percy snapped, scooping an apple out of the bowl on the counter and storming out the room.

Annabeth stared down at her plate, trying to ignore the hurt flaring in her chest. What was so unlikeable about her?

~~~

Percy crumpled up the piece of paper in front of him, throwing it across the room as he buried his face in his hands. He couldn't concentrate when he could hear the clicking of Annabeth's heels outside of his office door constantly.

What in the world could she possibly be doing that required so much walking back and forth? Percy stood abruptly, startling Buzz who had been sleeping soundly at his feet.

"Sorry," he muttered to the dog as he stepped out of his office and spotted Annabeth standing on a step ladder, perched on her tip toes as she ran a gloved hand over a section of the crown molding lining the place where the wall met the ceiling.

"What are you doing?" he demanded a bit louder than he had meant to, causing Annabeth to jump at the sound of his voice in the silent hallway. She seemed to jump quite a bit.

"These pieces are polystyrene," she responded, ignoring his question. "They're quite dated. These could easily add thousands to the value of the house." Percy laughed without humor, stepping closer to her. "Look, I don't care what adds value or how you come across it. Just try to be more quiet."

Annabeth's face fell at his tone, and he could feel the guilt deep in his gut at the look on her face. "I-" he began but suddenly Annabeth tipped back, and he jumped to action, reaching out just in time to catch her as she fell off the ladder.

Her eyes fluttered open as she looked up at him, and he realized just how close their faces were. Annabeth smelled like an intoxicating floral perfume that caused his senses to go haywire as he gently set her on feet and stepped away from her slowly.

"Thank you," she whispered before turning back around and grabbing her bag, quickly walking down the hallway and into the front room.

Percy scrubbed a hand down his face, trying desperately to forget how soft Annabeth's skin had been and the way she made him feel.

The sound of clicking behind him reminded him that he had to feed Buzz, who had appeared at his feet and was now whimpering. Percy sighed. "C'mon, it's time to eat."

~~~

Annabeth squinted at the laptop's screen in front her, trying to reconcile the list of numbers with the notes she had taken earlier in the day.

The creak of the door caused her to glance up, surprised when no one appeared in the doorway. Suddenly, Buzz jumped up onto the bed, curling up in her lap.

She grinned, leaning down to kiss his head and settling back into the pillows and typing away. Her father was expecting the spreadsheet with projected data the next morning and she had yet to finish.

An hour passed when the sound of footsteps drew her out of her thoughts. Her door opened to reveal Percy standing there - sans shirt - which did things to her heart that she refused to admit.

"Annabeth? What are you still doing awake at 2 in the morning?" His voice was gruff from sleep, his eyes landing to Buzz curled up in her lap.

She glanced up at him, chancing a soft smile before responding. "My dad - he wants me to turn in some projections tomorrow morning. I haven't finished yet." Percy raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised at her answer.

"He's sending you work on top of the appraisal?" Annabeth nodded, lowering her eyes to her lap. "He expects a lot of me. And I'm not one to disappoint."

Percy cleared his throat, gesturing to Buzz. "He's not the type of dog to like to cuddle. I can't believe he's taken to you so quickly." Annabeth bit her lip. "I guess he likes me." Percy nodded, his ever-present scowl still gracing his face but lessened.

"Get some rest, Annabeth. We have a lot to do tomorrow. My estate carer Maggie will give you a proper tour tomorrow."

Annabeth nodded, closing her laptop's lid and curling under the covers, listening to Percy's steps retreating.

~~~

"This is the solarium," Maggie announced, opening a side door to reveal a breathtaking room. Its walls were lined with stained glass windows and a gorgeous rose bush sat in the center, its petals coating the floor.

Maggie lowered her voice, leading Annabeth further into the room. "Percy refuses to let me clean this room. In fact, if he knew we were in here, he would kill me. His mother..." Maggie trailed off, running a hand over the windowsill in front of her.

"Percy's mother was an amazing woman. She loved this room. Since she passed, he had refused to step foot in here."

Annabeth laid a hand on Maggie's arm. "I'm so sorry, I had no idea." Maggie shot Annabeth a wan smile. "Oh, well. The past is the past, you know?"

Annabeth was about to ask another question when Percy's voice echoed through the silence. Maggie's eyes widened, and the older woman gently led Annabeth towards the exit. "Let's go. We don't need to make him upset."

Annabeth stopped Maggie in the hallway before they reached the kitchen. "Thank you for being so kind. It's a nice change." Maggie gave Annabeth a knowing look before pulling her into a hug.

"You've lasted much longer than most would. I think you're wearing Percy down." Annabeth laughed softly. "I'm sure my constant one-sided conversations with him aren't doing me any favors."

Maggie shook her head adamantly. "You don't see the whole picture, honey. He's eaten every plate of food you've left for him and saved each of the notes. Your efforts aren't going unnoticed."

Annabeth couldn't help but smile at Maggie's words. For the past two weeks, Annabeth had prepared herself a plate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and then left a plate in the fridge or on the counter with a simple note for Percy.

She couldn't believe he had actually saved her notes. In fact, they had fallen into a sort of routine during her stay. Each morning, Annabeth would go for a run and see Percy.

She had even waved a few times, of course he barely acknowledged her despite her efforts. She would spend the rest of the day studying the estate and charting her findings.

Percy would emerge from his office at exactly eight each evening, and nod at her before making his way to his bedroom for the night.

Annabeth glanced back at the solarium before an idea struck her. It was risky, but it was necessary.

As she followed Maggie into the kitchen, she formulated the plan and hoped that in the end it would be worth it.

~~~

Percy returned from his weekly trip to the town, stepping into the house and registering the silence. He had grown used to the sound of Annabeth walking around, appraising the house.

Percy made his way through the estate, confused as to where she could be before he stumbled upon the hallway that contained the solarium, his heart stopping as he realized the door was propped open.

He quickened his pace, throwing open the door to reveal Annabeth sweeping the floor, her back turned to him as she hummed softly. His gaze landed on the rose bush in the center of the room, its leaves trimmed and flowers missing.

"What are you doing in here?" Percy boomed. Annabeth whirled around, her gaze wide and innocent. It only made him angrier. "I-I just felt it could use some care..." Annabeth's explanation trailed off when he stepped closer to her.

"This room is off-limits! You had no right to be in here," he snapped. The shock on Annabeth's face faded into indignation. "Do you want to sell this estate or not, Percy?"

"What are you talking about? Of course I do!" Percy's voice rose with each word, filling the space around them.

"This room is a serious selling point! If it looks like a mess, do you think someone is going to want to buy this estate?"

"Watch what you say about my estate," he growled. Annabeth sighed exasperatedly. "I was just trying to help, Percy!"

He could feel his vision tinting red as the memories of his mom filtered through the cracks of his carefully-constructed walls. "Mind your own business, Ms. Chase. I hired you to appraise the house, not to play housekeeper. I advise you to leave this room."

Annabeth simply stood there, her grey eyes boring into his. "What is so wrong about me being in here? You hired me to appraise the whole house, not just selected rooms that I have permission to enter. Stop trying to control me."

Percy couldn't take her infuriating logic anymore. "You are my client, AND YOU WILL OBEY MY RULES!" He swept his hand across the room and accidently hit the rose bush, sending it crashing to the ground.

Annabeth yelped, jumping back to avoid the shattered vase. He glanced up, suddenly realizing what a mistake he had just made. "Annabeth, I-" he began, but she quickly cut him off.

"This is the last time you will speak to me, Mr. Jackson! You have been nothing but rude to me since I arrived, and I have tried to be civil but I can't handle it anymore! You're so full of hate and misery that you take it out on those who try to help you! I quit!"

Tears glittered in Annabeth's eyes as she slowly backed out of the room. "I hope it was worth it, Percy," she whispered just loud enough for him to catch before she turned and fled down the hallway.

Percy sunk to the soil-coated floor, burying his head in his hands. What had he done?

~~~

Annabeth had almost made it to her car when Maggie's voice called out from behind her, stopping her in her tracks.

When she turned around, Maggie took in her tear-stained cheeks and broken expression and pulled her into a tight hug. "What happened, sweetie?"

"He yelled at me, and broke his mother's rose bush. I quit, Maggie. I couldn't take it anymore." Maggie's expression was grave as she listened.

She led Annabeth to a nearby bench, motioning for her to sit. "Wait here. I have something I must do."

Annabeth nodded sullenly, sinking onto the bench's cold surface.

~~~

"PERSEUS JACKSON!" Maggie's shrill voice pulled Percy from his misery. He flinched at her tone and made his way into the kitchen, where Maggie stood with her arms crossed over her chest, a positively murderous expression on her usually sweet features.

"How dare you shout at Annabeth! That girl has been nothing but nice to you since she arrived despite your horrible attitude towards life, and yet you drive her away! Your mother would be so disappointed in you!"

Percy looked up, the realization of his serious mistake weighing on his shoulders. "She's sitting on the bench on the front lawn. Now you take your sorry butt outside and apologize for your behavior and hope to God she decides to stay!"

He nodded, muttering a "Yes, ma'am," before making his way to the front door.

He immediately spotted Annabeth's slumped form, his heart pounding with regret as he came closer and noticed how red her eyes were from crying.

She glanced up as he approached and curled into herself, refusing to make eye contact with him. He sat on the edge of the bench, keeping a respectable distance between them before clearing his throat.

"Annabeth, I am so sorry. I don't know what got into me. I must have been the memories that room resurfaced..." he trailed off, staring at the ground in shame.

Percy felt Annabeth shift beside him, before her hand settled on his arm. He looked up at her, and noticed the hurt in her eyes had faded.

"Percy, it's okay. It doesn't excuse your behavior, but I understand." They locked eyes for a moment before Percy stood up, holding out a hand and relishing the feeling as Annabeth slipped her hand into his. "Come with me. I'd like to show you something."

Annabeth nodded as he led her back into the house and up into the east wing. When they reached a picture frame hung on the wall, he stopped but remained holding Annabeth's hand.

"This was my mom, Sally Jackson," he explained. Annabeth gasped softly, running her eyes over the painting.

"She was beautiful, Percy." He smiled softly. "Yes, she was." But he wasn't looking at the picture.

He was looking at Annabeth.

~~~

"Percy, I can't believe you got away with that," Annabeth gasped, giggling as she took a sip of her wine. Percy's green eyes sparkled as he grinned in response. "I was in high school. What can I say?"

Annabeth glanced around at the living room her and Percy had been sitting in for the past three hours, sharing a bottle and trading stories of their childhoods.

She couldn't believe how much Percy had transformed from the gruff, uncaring man he been not only a week ago.

Ever since the incident in the solarium, Annabeth and Percy had become a lot closer. It was tentative at first, but soon they became a team not only as client and representative, but also as housemates.

They began eating their meals together, and Percy had even taken Annabeth on a moonlight tour through the vineyard. A week prior, Annabeth would have laughed if someone had told her that her and Percy would become friends - or something more than that.

Percy stood up, holding out a hand. Annabeth shot him a curious look before allowing him to pull her up. He leaned over and switched on the stereo, causing soft music to filter through the speakers.

"Dance with me," he asked, his eyes twinkling. Annabeth laughed softly before allowing him to pull her into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck as his wrapped around her waist.

She sunk into his embrace, resting her head on his chest. A few moments passed in blissful silence before Percy reached down and lifted her chin up, his gaze holding hers.

"Annabeth, I never thanked you," he whispered. "For what?" He smiled, cupping her face in his hand. "For changing my outlook on life. For being you."

Annabeth's heart fluttered as she looked up at him. "Of course, Percy." His eyes asked a silent question, and as soon as she nodded, he crushed her to his chest and captured her mouth in his.

She gasped softly as he gripped her waist, kissing her so thoroughly she was surprised she was still standing. A soft whimper escaped her as he walked her backward until they fell onto the couch behind them.

Percy pulled back to look at her, and she couldn't help but stare at his eyes which were much more blue than green up close, and the way the blush on his cheeks highlighted his freckles.

"You don't know what you do to me, Annabeth," he whispered before pulling her back to his lips.

~~~

Annabeth shot up with a gasp, gulping in air as she realized that what she had saw was simply a nightmare.

Her expansive bedroom seemed too empty, too large, so she pulled back the covers and used the light of her phone and the moonlight filtering through the large floor-to-ceiling windows to make her way to Percy's room.

She gently pushed open the doors, her gaze landing on his (shirtless, she might add) sleeping form. Annabeth bit her lip before making her way to the other side of his bed, gently pushing back the covers and climbing underneath.

They smelled so much like him she would have been content stealing one of his blankets and curling up in it, but she felt Percy shift beside her before his arm snaked around her waist and pulled her against his chest.

"Missed me?" Percy's voice, rough with sleep, whispered in her ear. She shivered at the sound and curled into his chest. "Nightmare," she whispered.

He hooked a finger under her chin and smiled softly as he kissed her, biting her bottom lip between his teeth. "It's okay, Beth. I'm here." She smiled and rested her hand on his chest, drifting off into a peaceful sleep for the first time in a long time.

Annabeth woke the next morning to a weight pressed against her side and an overwhelming sense of happiness bubbling inside of her.

She sat up slowly, relishing the feeling of Percy's arm still draped across her. He shifted before sitting up as well, running a hand through his hair which she found unfairly attractive.

Annabeth was sure her hair looked terrible, but Percy seemed only focus on her face - or more accurately, her lips.

He took a deep breath before taking her hand and turning her to face him fully. "Annabeth, there's something I've been wanting to ask you and since you're leaving soon I don't want to wait any longer. I know it's only been a month since we met but I can't deny the way I feel about you, and how much I want to make you mine."

Annabeth gasped as the meaning of his words hit her fully. "Annabeth Chase, there is no one else in the world that I would rather spend the rest of my life with. I want to wake up next to you every morning, I want to make a family with you, and I want to grow old with you."

Percy took a deep breath, reaching up and wiping a few of the tears that were now trailing down her cheeks in abundance. "Will you make me the happiest man alive, and marry me?"

Annabeth choked back a sob and nodded vigorously, jumping into Percy's arms. "Of course I'll marry you, Perseus Jackson," she answered before attacking his face with persistent kisses and causing them both to fall back onto the bed.

Annabeth realized in that moment that home wasn't a place, it was a person. And she had found hers.

~~~

"I'm home!" Annabeth's voice rang through the silence, causing Percy to look up in anticipation of seeing his wife for the first time in a week after her business trip.

Percy jumped up, making his way out of the west wing and into the estate's kitchen where Annabeth stood, looking radiant as the afternoon sunlight reflected off of her golden curls and the rings on her finger.

He scooped her into his arms, loving the feeling of her body against his and the way her lipstick tasted of strawberries as he kissed her senseless. Annabeth pulled back, running her hand across his cheek before stepping back.

Percy immediately crouched down and placed his hand on her swollen stomach, tears gathering in his eyes as he looked at the child they had created.

"I can't wait to meet you and be your daddy," he whispered to her stomach before standing back up and wrapping an arm around her waist.

"We have some time to make up for," Percy murmured in Annabeth's ear, grinning at the way she blushed profusely at his words. "I love you, Mr. Jackson," she whispered in response before pulling him down for another kiss that left his head spinning.

"Shit," Annabeth muttered, glancing at the various flashing lights on her dash.

Pulling from her limited memory of driver's ed classes she took in high school, Annabeth turned her wheel towards the shoulder of the highway, gently guiding her car to a stop on the side of the road.

Within seconds, the car completely stopped, all of the lights shutting off and an unsettling silence filling the air.

Annabeth took in her surroundings, miles of farmland stretching as far as she could see in either direction.

Sliding her phone out of her purse, she turned it on and sighed in relief when she realized she still had a few bars of signal.

Quickly pulling up a search engine, Annabeth frantically typed in "nearest tow service" and watched with anticipation as the screen loaded to show a disappointingly short list of tow companies.

Her heart sank as she noted that all of them were miles away and would take hours to reach her.

She was about to swipe out of the screen when her gaze landed on a website just below the tow company list, Jackson Auto Shop its only defining feature.

Annabeth took in a breath when she noticed it was only two miles from her location, and a small green Open symbol was listed next to the link.

"Here goes nothing," Annabeth spoke aloud before clicking on the linked phone number, waiting as it rang in anticipation. After the fifth ring, Annabeth sighed, listening as the voicemail kicked in.

"Damnit," Annabeth exclaimed, gripping her phone so tightly she was surprised she didn't break it.

What the hell was she going to do now?

~~~

"Jackson, I don't know how we have any business when you can't even answer the damn phone," Leo called from his position under the car they were working on.

Rolling his eyes, Percy ran a hand through his messy hair, ignoring the fact that his hands were covered in oil from the pan he had just replaced.

"Valdez, the phone isn't just for me. You can answer it too," Percy replied, scowling at his best friend.

Leo rolled out from under the car, sitting up and wiping his hands on an a nearby oil rag.

“No can do, Perce,” he replied, standing up and pulling open a drawer. “You know I prefer to stay behind the scenes.”

Percy was about to reply to Leo’s idiotic comment when a knock echoed throughout the garage, both men’s heads turning to the door leading to the office.

Leo grinned, gripping a wrench in his hand as he began to slide underneath the car. “Good luck, Perce.”

Vowing to strangle his best friend and only employee later, Percy made his way over to the office door.

He pulled open the door to reveal a sight he had not prepared himself for, his brain trying to reconcile the sight before him.

Standing in the doorway was a very angry looking woman wearing a blouse, heels, and dress pants, her curly blonde hair spilling out of its ponytail and curls falling into her face.

In his five years of operating Jackson Auto Shop, Percy had grown accustomed to a specific customer archetype; small-town farmers and blue collar workers who spent their days outside working with their hands, or the occasional person from the nearby town who needed a more complicated fix that required outsourcing from the town’s mechanic.

The woman who stood before him, however, was the exact opposite of who he expected to walk through his doors.

This woman seemed to step straight out of corporate America, her disheveled appearance jarring against her expensive attire and handbag dangling from her right arm.

The woman’s glare didn’t lessen as she looked up at Percy, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. “Can I help you, ma’am?” Percy asked, stepping forward slightly.

“I called your shop thirty minutes ago,” she snipped, her tone accusatory. “I am sorry about that, ma’am. We are deep into a restoration for a long-time client.”

Eyeing Percy, the woman glanced past him and raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, you seem very busy,” she replied, sarcasm dripping from her words.

Percy stiffened, crossing his arms over his chest and looking the woman in the eye. “Is there is anything I can help you with?”

Although he tried to keep a professional demeanor, he couldn’t help but let a slight bit of animosity seep into his tone.

Something about this woman brought it out of him, despite his mother’s years of teaching him to speak respectfully at all times.

The woman sighed, fiddling with the shiny new smartphone in her manicured hands. “I was on my way to a business conference about an hour away when my car broke down with no warning. I had to walk here, on foot, for a half an hour, since you apparently don’t know how to operate a phone.”

Percy smirked at the woman’s words, stepping back and holding his arm out in a sweeping gesture.

“We can discuss repairs in my office,” he replied, watching as the woman’s face soured before she pushed her way past him, her intoxicating floral perfume filling the air, her arm brushing against his.

Percy couldn’t tear his gaze away from the way her blouse hugged her waist, or the click of her pink heels on his garage floor.

She was overwhelming in every way possible, but somehow, Percy couldn’t wait to see what came next.

~~~

Annabeth narrowed her eyes at the man in front of her, pretending not to notice how handsome he was or the way his deep voice and cocky smirk made her feel.

Clearing her throat, she glanced over the pricing sheet in front of her, pushing it back toward Percy.

“Should we even be discussing prices when I was forced to walk two miles to be sitting here?”

Percy’s eyes darkened at her tone, a tense silence stretching between them before Percy sat back in his chair, picking up the pricing sheet and tearing it down the middle, his eyes never leaving Annabeth’s.

“Consider it a favor. It isn’t the first time I’ve been given shit for not answering the phone today,” Percy stated, amusement dancing across his features.

Annabeth couldn’t help but smile at his words, before catching herself and schooling her expression.

“Thank you, Percy. Now, what happens next? I have important meetings to attend for the next twenty-four hours.”

Percy remained silent for a moment before folding his hands together. “Leo just left to retrieve your car from the highway. So for now, we have to play the waiting game.”

Annabeth shook her head fervently, upcoming deadlines flashing through her mind. “I thought you said this would be a simple fix,” she replied, skeptical.

“That was until you described the car shutting down with multiple engine lights flashing,” Percy replied, his tone steady.

“More than likely, something went out in your engine, which means a complicated, costly repair ninety percent of the time. Until I can look at the car myself, I have to assume the worst.”

Sighing, Annabeth sunk against the chair, pieces of her ponytail falling into her vision.

“Whatever needs to be done,” she relented, her dreams of solidifying herself as the lead on the Larson deal slipping from her grasp.

Percy’s gaze lingered on her for a moment, an unreadable expression crossing his face, before he cleared his throat and stood up from the desk.

“Let me check on Leo’s ETA,” he muttered, disappearing into the garage.

Annabeth slumped down in her chair, resting her head in her hands. Good thing her office was hybrid and allowed video meetings in case of an emergency.

She’d endure Nico’s snide comments about her commitment level as long as she attended her meetings in some form.

Her head spun as she realized the long day ahead of her, stuck with a man who couldn’t even bother to answer his damn office phone on time.

~~~

“Damnit!” Percy exclaimed, the wrench he was holding slipping out of his grasp and clattering to the garage floor.

Leo poked his head out from his position under the hood, an eyebrow raised at Percy’s exclamation.

“Perce, you need a break. You’ve been at this nonstop for the past five hours. It’s dark outside and we both need rest.”

Percy shook his head, frustration brewing inside of him. “Not until it’s fixed,” he growled in response.

Leo’s expression was unreadable as he fiddled with his tool belt. “Okay,” he relented, ducking back under the hood.

Percy could tell there was more his friend wanted to say, but he wasn’t in the mood to be questioned.

For some reason, Percy couldn’t step away from this fix. He tried to convince himself it was because it was a complicated engine repair that required hands-on labor, but deep down, he knew that wasn’t the real reason.

The real reason was sitting on the other side of the wall, her soft voice filtering through the walls as she took her third meeting of the day. Percy admired her dedication.

It couldn’t be easy working from his cramped, messy office desk covered in unorganized papers and empty coffee cups.

Percy had just finished installing a new belt on the car’s engine when the office door creaked open, the soft clicking of heels sounding against the concrete floor.

Percy rolled out from under the car, glancing up to see Annabeth standing a few feet away, two steaming cups of coffee in her hands and a pensive expression on her face.

“I figured you’d need a refill,” she spoke, nodding towards the three abandoned cups littering the area near the car. “Plus, I don’t think I can look at my computer for another minute without losing my mind,” she muttered, eliciting a chuckle from Percy.

“Thank you,” he replied, wiping his hands and taking the cup from her, their fingers brushing momentarily, Percy’s heart jumping at the brief contact.

He didn’t miss the way Annabeth’s cheeks filled with blush before she averted her gaze, glancing around the garage.

“How’s the engine coming along?” Annabeth’s tone was conversational, a hint of worry underlying it that Percy knew well from years of working as a mechanic.

Percy took a sip of his coffee, his gaze drifting to the car in front of them.

“Honestly, I can’t say for sure,” he responded, struggling to find the right words. “I have fixed some of the smaller issues, but it’s hard to tackle the bigger repairs by myself. I sent Leo home hours ago, his wife would’ve come here and dragged him away herself if I made him stay.”

Annabeth laughed at his words, her soft smile lighting up her face in a way Percy couldn’t look away from.

She glanced under the car’s hood, her lips pursed in concentration. “Is there anything I can help with?”

Percy jerked his head up in surprise, trying to reconcile her words with the fiery, attractive woman he had met hours prior.

Annabeth smirked at his reaction, kneeling down on the floor next to him, not seeming to care about dirtying her clothes.

“Believe it or not, but I’ve grew up helping my dad fix cars. It’s been years, but I’m sure I can still remember the basics.” Annabeth replied, reaching up and tying her hair into a bun.

Percy tracked the movement with his gaze, a smile growing on his face.

This woman was infectious, lighting a fire inside of him with each time she looked his way or spoke a word.

Working side-by-side with her on the car would test his feelings, but Percy found that didn’t really care.

“Sure,” he replied, crossing his arms over his chest. “As long as you can keep up,” he replied, a challenge in his tone.

A sparkle appeared in Annabeth’s eye at his words, her smile solidifying the feelings he’d been denying since the moment she walked into his garage.

~~~

“Feed the wire through this opening,” Percy explained, his voice muffled from his position under the car.

Annabeth bit her lip in concentration, carefully threading the red wire in her grasp through the small opening in between the engine and its plastic casing.

“Good, now hold it until I can reattach it,” Percy replied, his tan skin and dark hair barely visible from where she stood, bent under the hood.

Annabeth had long since lost track of the time, the past few hours spent buried in mechanical terminology and grease.

Percy slid out from under the car, his hair a mess and grease smeared across his cheek.

Annabeth couldn’t believe how attractive he was under the florescent lights of the garage. Sitting up, Percy sighed, glancing up at Annabeth.

“Let’s give her a go,” he exclaimed, climbing into the open driver’s seat and placing his hand on the keys dangling from the ignition switch.

His green eyes met Annabeth’s, hope and exhaustion decorating his features. Annabeth took a deep breath, praying it would finally work this time.

The engine roared to life, Percy’s face lighting up with excitement. Clambering out of the car, Percy moved to where Annabeth was standing, wrapping her in a tight hug and spinning her around.

Annabeth giggled, overcome with an emotion she’d never felt before, one she couldn’t quite name.

Time seemed to slow as Percy gently set Annabeth back on her feet, their faces inches apart and their breathing heavy.

Percy’s eyes darkened as his gaze slid down to her lips, his fingers brushing against the bare skin at her waist where her blouse didn’t fully cover.

Annabeth felt herself move, the space between them diminishing in a heartbeat as her lips met his, Percy’s hands tightening on her waist in response.

All coherent thought left her mind as Percy guided her backwards, her back pressing against the side of the car.

Threading her fingers through Percy’s messy hair, Annabeth deepened the kiss, gasping softly as he slid his tongue over her bottom lip.

She felt him smile against her mouth before he pulled back, a breathless silence stretching between them.

“I’m sorry,” Annabeth whispered, attempting to step back. Percy shook his head, reaching out and swiping his thumb across her cheek.

“Grease,” he murmured, open adoration displayed on his face. “Annabeth, there is no need to be sorry. That was the best damn two minutes of my life,” he replied, his gaze steady with hers.

Annabeth blushed, butterflies filling her stomach at his sweet words. “I’m heading back to the city tomorrow,” she whispered, the reality of her situation weighing on her. “I know,” Percy replied, his voice wavering.

“We’ve got a few hours until sunrise,” he continued, gesturing to a clock on the wall she hadn’t noticed. “Let’s get some rest and see what happens in the morning.”

Annabeth watched as Percy opened a nearby cabinet to reveal a few rolled-up sleeping bags.

“I spend a lot of late nights here, much to Leo’s chagrin,” Percy explained, selecting two bags and unrolling them on the floor next to the car. “It’s no hotel bed, but I hope it works.”

Annabeth smiled, walking over to where he stood and pressing her lips against his for a moment before pulling away.

“After everything you’ve done for me, I’d sleep on the cold hard floor. It’s perfect.”

Percy green eyes sparkled as they crawled into their bags, his warm smile and freckled cheeks filling her vision as she drifted to sleep.

~~~

Percy tried to ignore the pain in his chest as he filled up the second coffee cup, his mind a mess of jumbled thoughts as he stirred in a splash of creamer and placed a lid on the cup.

Taking a deep breath, he walked out of the office and into the garage, his gaze landing on Annabeth’s figure as she slid her laptop into its bag.

Percy eyes met Annabeth’s as he approached, the same expression of heartbreak spread across her beautiful features. He hated knowing he was the cause of it, the one who led her to feel this way.

“A splash of cream, just how you like it,” he spoke, holding out the coffee towards her.

Annabeth smiled softly, her eyes glittering with unshed tears. “Thank you, Percy,” she whispered, gripping the cup with both hands tighter than needed.

A few moments of silence stretched between them before she sighed, placing the coffee on the hood of her car.

“Twenty-four hours ago, I couldn’t wait to leave the second I was done, now, I want to throw it all away, all for someone I met a day ago.” Annabeth’s voice was laced with amusement, despite the pain in her expression.

“I wouldn’t let you,” Percy responded, stepping forward and taking her hands. “Your career is the priority, Beth. I’ll wait for you, as long as it takes.”

Annabeth shook her head, her hands trembling in his grasp. “I couldn’t ask you to do that. You deserve someone who can be there for you.”

Percy reached out, tucking a curl that had fallen from her ponytail behind her ear. “You’re worth waiting for, whether you want to believe it or not. You have been worth it since you stormed in here and scolded me for not answering my phone.”

Annabeth laughed softly at his words, a tear trailing down her cheek.

Percy led Annabeth to the driver’s door, pulling her against his chest. “I may not be good at answering the shop’s phone, but I will sure as hell answer any call from you. We will find a way to make this work, even if it takes time.”

Percy barely finished his sentence before Annabeth’s mouth was on his, her tears mixing into their kiss.

Percy poured his heart into their embrace, despite the uncertainty surrounding their relationship.

Their careers and locations proved a difficult barrier, but he had faith they’d push through.

It’s not everyday you fall in love at first sight, but somehow, he had.

He wasn’t about to let go of this kind of love anytime soon.

~~~

The bell above the door chimed as it opened, revealed a frazzled young woman dressed in a blouse and heels, her hair falling out of its ponytail as she rushed over to the desk.

Annabeth smiled knowingly from where she leaned against the counter behind the desk, setting down the stack of receipts she had been examining.

“Breakdown?” Annabeth questioned, her tone soft and understanding. The woman odded, her purse sliding down her shoulder as she sank into the chair facing the desk.

“How’d you know?” she asked, her tone weary. “Experience,” Annabeth replied, a soft laugh following.

“It just stopped about a mile down the road,” the woman explained, her words rushed with panic.

Annabeth began to respond when the door behind the desk swung open, a handsome man with dark, messy hair and sparkling green eyes emerging.

“Man, that sounds familiar,” he replied, smiling broadly at the woman. Annabeth laughed, instinctively moving closer to the man.

“It sure does,” she replied, feeling the man’s arm slide around her waist. “You won’t believe it, but the same thing happened to me three years ago.”

The woman’s eyes widened at Annabeth’s words, glancing between Annabeth and the man. “I was on my way to a business conference, and my car stopped a mile away from here. I tried calling, but this one,” she jerked her thumb at the man, a smirk sliding across his face, “didn’t answer. I had to walk a mile in heels to get here.”

The woman gasped, the panic subsiding from her face at their banter. “Did everything turn out okay?” Annabeth could hear a hint of hope in the woman’s voice.

Smiling, Annabeth placed her hand on Percy’s chest, her wedding rings glittering in the office’s florescent lighting.

“I’d say so. I walked in with a broken car, and walked out with a fixed car and a husband,” she replied, watching the realization and shock at her words fill the woman’s face. “I’m Annabeth, and this is my husband Percy. You’re in good hands.”

Percy spun Annabeth into his chest, uncaring of the fact they had an audience, albeit a panicked one. “I’m glad I didn’t answer the phone,” he whispered, leaning in and capturing her lips in his.

Annabeth sank into her husband’s kiss, his wedding ring cold against the warm skin at her waist.

The man's green eyes sparkled with amusement as he gestured to his shirt. "The uniform didn't give it away?" 

Deep Sea Escapades was printed in the corner of the shirt, a corny picture of a coral reef resting beneath the name. 

Suddenly, the man's uncanny ability to get underneath Annabeth's skin made much more sense. 

Deep Sea Escapades was a new store that had just opened across from Annabeth's quaint bookstore Forever Between The Pages, drawing away her business for the past two weeks. 

"You're from that place?" Annabeth spit out, unable to keep the malice from her voice. The man's eyebrows raised, the corners of his lips turning up further. 

"Do you have something against my store?" Annabeth sighed as the true meaning of his words sunk in. He didn't just work there, the man was the owner. 

"Yes," she exclaimed, her hands on her hips. "You've been taking my best costumers for the past two weeks. I had to cut one of my bestselling books from the delivery order because I couldn't afford to pay for it anymore!" 

The man at least had the decency to look slightly guilty as he ran his hand through his hair again.

Annabeth tried not to watch the way the muscles in his arm flexed as he did so, and the way his black shirt stretched across his broad chest. 

"I apologize if my business is successful," he snapped, his gaze raking over Annabeth's pale pink blouse, short tan skirt, and beige wedges. She turned her face away to hide her blush. 

Rolling her eyes, she glanced across the square at his store. "What do you even sell?" she asked, surprising herself. Since he moved in, she had only overheard talk of his shop but not specifics. 

Raising an eyebrow, the man held out his hand. Annabeth glanced at it warily, looking back up at him.

"I don't bite," he chuckled. "I decided it's about time to introduce myself if I'm going to show you my store despite your hatred for it."

Annabeth bit her lip, slowly sliding her hand into his and biting back a gasp at the almost-electric feeling she got from the simple touch. "I'm Percy Jackson, owner of Deep Sea Escapades." 

Annabeth cleared her throat, unable to look away from their clasped hands. "Annabeth Chase. I own Forever Between The Pages, the local bookstore which used to very successful."

The last part she said with a pointed glare, secretly enjoying the way his eyes darkened at her words. 

Suddenly realizing they were still holding hands, Annabeth yanked hers back and crossed her arms protectively across her chest. "Now are you going to show me your store, or are we going to stand here all night?" 

Percy swept out his arm in an exaggerated gesture. "Let's go." Annabeth rolled her eyes at his sarcastic tone, making her way across the road leading to the other side of the town square. 

~~~

Percy generally considered himself to be a respectful man - his mother wouldn't have raised him any other way.

Yet, something about the firecracker blonde currently leading the way across the square, her annoyingly attractive skirt swaying against her legs, brought the malice out of him. 

When he had first seen her perched on a ladder out of his store's window, he couldn't take his eyes off of her.

Although he had seen glimpses of Annabeth throughout the past two weeks, he hadn't truly realized how beautiful she was until that moment. 

What he hadn't expected was the spitfire he encountered, nor had he expected how much he would enjoy fighting with her.

He also hadn't planned on inviting her to his shop, but the selfish part of him wanted to spend more time with her even if it was under the guise of showing off his store. 

Percy increased his pace to keep up with her, trying and failing to keep from admiring the way her pink blouse curved around her waist. He reached the door, holding it open for her. 

Annabeth smiled slightly before stepping in, her calculating grey eyes roaming over the shelves stocked with various underwater gear and the display cases housing expensive air tanks. 

"A scuba supply shop?" she commented, her tone holding an air of surprise. "Not what you expected?" he inquired, moving past her to flip on the lights.

"No," Annabeth admitted, running a manicured hand over a case filled with air pressure instruments. "Honestly, I thought it was a fishing store." 

Percy chuckled, making his way back behind the counter. "Fishing isn't my thing. Plus, we live on a saltwater coastline. It's easier to dive than fish." 

Annabeth hummed her agreement, slowly walking around the store and taking in each item.

Percy felt oddly self-conscious watching her take in his shop, wondering what she thought of his life's work. 

She stepped up to the counter, looking up at him with curiosity in her expression. "What about this shop makes it so appealing to my loyal customers?" 

Percy laughed slightly, unable to look away from the girl in front of him. "I was wondering the same thing. What connection is there between a bookstore and a scuba gear store?" 

She laughed, a beautiful sound he wanted to hear for the rest of his life. "How about I show you Forever Between The Pages and we can decide for ourselves?" 

Percy grinned, flipping off the lights and making his way out of his shop.

There was something special about the bookstore's owner, and he was determined to figure out how a girl he just met could make him feel the way he did.

~~~

Annabeth handed the bag to one of her regulars, smiling widely as she waved goodbye. Mr. Curtis was a sweet old man who came every Friday to buy a book for his wife who was bedridden.

Annabeth's heart melted every time Mr. Curtis talked of her, his face lit up with innocent adoration. 

She glanced at her watch, reaching to turn off her "open" sign when she happened to glance across the street.

Her gaze caught on Percy, as it often did over the past week. She knew she kept looking because she liked him, more than she cared to admit.

This time, though, she noticed his demeanor was different. Usually, he had on his heart-stopping smile while speaking to a customer, but now he had his head in his hands, his hair a mess. 

Frowning to herself, she went to balance the register but instead found herself stepping out from behind the counter and making her way across the street. Something drew her to him, and it wasn't simply attraction. 

Annabeth pulled open the door to Deep Sea Escapades, watching as Percy's head rose from his desk.

His eyes widened as he realized her presence. In that moment, Annabeth could see the exhaustion and stress laced in his features. 

"Annabeth! What are you doing here?" Percy exclaimed, sliding out from behind the counter. Annabeth blushed slightly, realizing she didn't have a real reason for coming other than noticing his obvious distress. 

"I...I saw you through my window. You looked stressed. I figured..." she trailed off, biting her lip as she took in Percy's reaction to her words. Something crossed his face, an expression she couldn't place. 

"Wow, was I that obvious?" he chuckled drily, running his hand through his hair. Annabeth blushed harder, chiding herself for allowing her emotions to get the best of her. "I mean...yes, but I wanted to make sure you were okay." 

Percy caught her gaze, the surprise in his features evident. "If I'm being honest, I'm beyond stressed and overwhelmed. I just received an order from the marina. They want seventy five scuba gear bundles, and there's only one of me. I don't think I'm ever going to get the order completed in time." 

Annabeth gasped softly, understanding how he felt. "Wow...that's a huge order. That will do wonders for your business," she ventured, hoping to help him see the silver lining. 

Percy smiled softly, looking around at his shop. "That's true. I just haven't had the time or funds to hire employees yet. I don't know if I can do it by myself." 

Annabeth grinned, making a quick decision she knew would put her heart on the line. "Well, good thing you're not alone." Percy's head snapped up, hope and apprehension flitting across his face. 

"Annabeth, are you sure? This is a lot of work and I know you have your shop." She shook her head, stepping closer to him and trying to ignore how much she enjoyed the scent of his cologne.

"I'm closed for the day. If we work together you will finish much quicker than you ever could by yourself." 

Percy held her stare, searching her face. "Okay," he replied, a small smile turning up the corners of his mouth. "You'd help me even though I steal your customers?" 

Annabeth laughed softly, making her way behind his counter. "I guess there is some goodness in my heart."

Percy grinned, stepping up next to her, his eyes lingering her on lips for a second too long. "Let's get to work."

Percy turned around to grab a piece of paper behind him, and Annabeth took that time to collect herself.

She was in too deep to back out now, and if she was being honest, she didn't want to. 

She may be gambling her emotions, but something deep inside told her Percy was worth the risk. 

~~~

Percy handed Annabeth the last wet suit, watching as she carefully packed it into the box and closed the lid with a triumphant smile. "We did it," she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with accomplishment. 

Percy laughed, running a hand across his forehead. It had taken them three hours to pack up all of the items in the order, but they had done it - together. 

Throughout those three hours, Percy and Annabeth had talked nonstop. Percy had never felt such an instant connection to someone before, had never been able to open up so quickly and know they would listen and understand. 

If he was being honest with himself, he was falling for the owner of the bookstore, hard. Unfortunately, he didn't know if she felt the same way. He hoped to God she did. 

"I don't think I could ever thank you enough," Percy began, turning to face Annabeth who had hopped up on the counter behind him. She blushed slightly, the color complimenting her features. 

"Don't mention it," she replied, her eyes widening as he stepped closer. "Annabeth, you helped me despite us being rivals. I think there's another reason you came over here." 

Annabeth looked away, her hands smoothing her skirt over and over. Percy hooked a finger underneath her chin, gently turning her face towards his. Annabeth bit her lip, and Percy had a hard time looking away. 

"I think there might have been another reason," she whispered, finally looking him in the eye. Percy stepped closer until he was against the counter, his hands hovering near her waist.

"I'm going to kiss you," he murmured, enjoying the way her eyes lit up at his words. "If you don't want me to, I will back away now."

Annabeth shook her head, lacing her arms around his neck. "I think you should stop talking and kiss me, Jackson." Percy grinned before pulling her against his chest, crushing his mouth against hers.

She sighed, a soft whimper escaping her that only made him kiss her harder. She wrapped her legs around him, allowing Percy to pick her up off of the counter and set her on the floor. 

He ran his hands up and down her sides, his fingers brushing against the hem of her blouse and the soft skin underneath.

After a few blissful minutes, Percy pulled back, resting his forehead against hers as they struggled to catch their breath. "Wow," Annabeth whispered, her eyes sparkling. 

Percy used his thumb to wipe away a smudge of her lipstick in the corner of her mouth, knowing he was likely wearing most of it. Annabeth smoothed down her hair, glancing around the empty shop with a giggle. 

"I have to say, I've never imagined I would kiss a guy in the middle of a scuba gear shop," she said, lacing her fingers with Percy's. He chuckled, pulling her into his side.

"I wouldn't have it any other way," he replied, gently kissing the side of her head. 

Her floral perfume overtook his senses as he held her for a moment, trying to comprehend that she was his. He had never been so lucky. 

"Even though we don't hate each other anymore, don't think we aren't still rivals," Annabeth teased.

"May the best shop win," Percy replied, watching that familiar spark light in Annabeth's eye that he loved so much before pulling her into another kiss. 

~~~

"It's a bit early for Christmas decorations," a deep voice from behind Annabeth exclaimed. Annabeth scoffed, spinning around to face the man. "It's Black Friday. It's officially the Christmas season." 

Annabeth stepped closer to the man as she spoke, her eyes trained on his cocky smile. "Last I checked, the Christmas season starts on Christmas day."

She crossed her arms across her chest, the rings on her finger glinting in the multicolored Christmas lights behind her. 

"We've talked about this," Annabeth replied, chest-to-chest with the dark-haired man in front of her. "I'll decorate my shop when I feel like it, Mr. Jackson." 

The man grinned, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her against his chest. "It's still too early, Mrs. Jackson." She rolled her eyes, pulling her husband into a kiss.

"It's never too early," she whispered against his lips, giggling when he lifted her off of her feet. 

~~~

Annabeth stepped out of the connecting gate into the airport, glancing around in wonder at the snowy peaks visible outside of the building’s glass windows.

Making her way down the main walkway, she spotted the baggage claim and dashed over, scanning the large screens for her flight’s number. 

Placing the second claim area as hers, she stood in front of it, mindlessly scrolling on her phone and swiping away yet another of Nico’s emails.

A loud buzzer sounded, the baggage conveyor beginning to move and suitcases pouring out of the chute in the opposite wall. 

After a few moments, Annabeth caught sight of her suitcase, its bright pink handle striking against the muted tones of the bags surrounding it.

Smoothing her skirt, she reached out to grab the handle at the same time as another hand gripped the bag, pulling it away from her. 

Letting out a shocked gasp, Annabeth spun to face the culprit, her cheeks flushing as she took in the attractive man currently clutching her suitcase, his muscular arms prominent against the long-sleeved green shirt and khakis he was sporting. 

Briefly, she wondered why he was wearing sunglasses indoors. Paired with a backwards cap, Annabeth couldn’t tell much from his features. 

“Excuse me!” Annabeth exclaimed, stepping up to the man, ignoring the fact that she was a good five inches shorter than him, even in heels.

The man raised an eyebrow, an annoyingly cocky smirk spreading across his face at her outburst. “Can I help you?” he replied, removing his cap and running his free hand through his messy, jet-black hair. 

Her traitorous eyes tracked the motion as she crossed her arms over her chest, trying to appear intimidating. “That’s my suitcase,” she stated, motioning to it with a wave of her hand.

The man chuckled, glancing down at the bag and examining it. “Pretty sure it’s mine, ma’am.” 

Lifting her chin, Annabeth looked the man in his sunglass-covered eyes and ignored the butterflies forming in her stomach. “With the pink handle?”

The side of the man’s mouth lifted slightly at her tone and he nodded slowly, as if he was addressing a child. 

“I marked mine with pink tape so someone wouldn’t try to take it.” Annabeth scoffed, shaking her head. “I did the same thing. I guess great minds think alike,” she replied, watching as the man looked her up and down, his gaze pausing on her mouth for half a second before snapping back up to her eyes. 

“I guess there’s only one way to find out who is the true owner,” he stated, laying the suitcase flat on the ground and reaching for the zipper.

“Wait!” Annabeth shouted, drawing attention from those around them. Smiling sheepishly, she dove in front of the suitcase and placed her hand on top of it. 

The man looked at her in shock, holding his hands up in the air as if he were being arrested. “Woah, what do you have in there? Something top secret?”

Glaring at him, Annabeth lifted her hand and looked him in the eye. “I’d prefer if a stranger didn’t see all of my belongings.” Annabeth could feel her cheeks heating as the recognition dawned on the man’s face. 

“Okay, you can look first,” he said, evidently holding back a laugh at Annabeth’s crazed expression.

Gently pulling the zipper towards her, Annabeth peered into the suitcase and immediately spotted her prized writing journal surrounded by a plethora of floral skirts and sundresses. 

“It’s mine,” she announced, pulling a sundress out of the bag and holding it out for the man to see.

He looked at it for a moment before looking back at her, an unreadable expression etched across his face. His fists clenched at his side, highlighting his muscular forearms. 

Nodding, the man pushed the suitcase towards Annabeth, the cocky smirk returning to his face as if it’d never left.

“Can’t say I own one of those,” he replied, gesturing to the dress Annabeth was stuffing back into the suitcase. Annabeth lifted herself off of the ground, pulling the suitcase to her side. 

“Thank you,” she stated. “I hope you find your bag.” With that, Annabeth turned on her heel, ready to begin her rapid exit away from the situation.

The man’s deep voice echoed behind her, resonating through her. Looking back, Annabeth watched as he lowered his sunglasses, revealing a striking pair of forest-green eyes. 

“Let’s hope there’s not another poor soul who tries to take your bag.” 

Shooting the man a deadly glare over her shoulder, Annabeth rushed away, her high ponytail swishing across her shoulders with each step.

Annabeth couldn’t wait until she was finally alone, tucked in her cabin away from the world. 

More importantly, away from that man and his luggage-stealing ways. 

~~~

The key slid into the lock perfectly, eliciting a smile from Annabeth as she pushed open the heavy wooden door to reveal a gorgeous mountain cabin, complete with a large fireplace, lavish furniture, and floor-to-ceiling windows reflecting the grandiose landscape blanketing the cabin. 

Pulling her suitcase behind her, Annabeth made her way into the main living room, spinning in a circle with a large grin.

“This is perfect,” she exclaimed, setting her keys on the kitchen table and heading towards the stairs in hopes of finding a king-sized bed to fall into for the next few hours. 

When she made it to the second floor, she scanned the various doors, deciding on one perfectly tucked away at the end of the hallway.

Pushing open the door, Annabeth was too focused on making sure her suitcase made it over the edge of the doorframe to notice the body lying in the bed. 

Annabeth’s eyes landed on the bed, a scream erupting from her as she registered the head lying on the pillow, the person’s mop of jet-black hair concealing their face.

The man jerked awake, shooting up and meeting Annabeth’s fear-filled face with a pair of oddly familiar green eyes. 

“You?!” Annabeth exclaimed, unclenching her grip on the suitcase and stepping back slightly in shock.

Placing a hand over his chest, the man pulled the sheets back towards him; strands of his perpetually messy hair falling in front of his eyes.

“You?!” he echoed, his chest rising and falling at a rapid pace as he studied her, his eyes darting around in all directions. “What are you doing in my cabin?”

Annabeth let out a shocked laugh. “Your cabin? It’s mine! I booked it last week!” 

The man laughed in response, crossing his arms over his chest. Annabeth couldn’t help but stare at the way his plain white t-shirt stretched over his chest in response to the movement. “I booked mine two weeks ago. Seems like it’s more my cabin than yours.” 

Annabeth huffed, stepping closer to the man, enjoying the way his eyes widened slightly at her approach.

“This trip is very important to me. So if you don’t mind, you can pack up and find a different accommodation.” 

The man scoffed loudly, an incredulous expression forming on his face. “Seriously? If anyone needs to pack up and leave, it’s you. I was here first and I booked the cabin before you did.”

“I don’t know that. You could just be lying,” Annabeth retorted, her hands resting on hips in what she hoped was a defiant stance. 

“Don’t accuse me of lying when you’re standing in my cabin, claiming it’s yours!” The man jumped out of the bed, ready to open his mouth again when Annabeth’s shocked, flustered expression stopped him in his tracks. 

“Oh,” Annabeth whispered, her face beet red as she did her best to ignore the fact that the man was only wearing boxers and a tight t-shirt. 

She had no idea what to do next. 

~~~

Shit.

Percy felt as if he had just stepped into one of his nightmares.

Standing there, in only his boxers and a t-shirt, he looked into the eyes of the most beautiful, angry women he’d ever encountered and realized there was nothing he could do to fix the situation. 

Scrambling for cover, Percy yanked one of the pillows off of the bed and covered his torso with it, hoping the small decorative pillow was large enough to cover the important parts.

The girl spun around, her floral skirt swirling around her legs as Percy's eyes lingered on the movement. 

“I’m so sorry,” Percy exclaimed, his heavy breathing evident in the otherwise silent bedroom. “It’s okay, how about you, uh, get dressed, and we can discuss this later?”

Percy sighed in relief, echoing his agreement and watching as she rushed out of the bedroom, the door shutting behind her and leaving Percy with his thoughts. 

He was not looking forward to the conversation he was about to have. 

Thirty minutes later, Percy sat fully clothed at the massive kitchen island, pretending to be engrossed in one of the apples that had been sitting in a bowl in the center of the island.

He stiffened when he heard the click-clack of heels behind him, turning slowly to reveal the woman he had just flashed, her face significantly less red but still wary. 

“I’m Percy. Percy Jackson,” he stated, stepping off the kitchen stool and standing in front of her.

He watched with enjoyment as the blush returned to her cheeks, her bottom lip sliding into her mouth in the most distracting way. 

“Annabeth Chase,” she replied, holding out her hand. Percy hadn’t heard such a name before, but it fit her perfectly.

“Do you usually argue with others about stolen luggage?” Percy asked, unable to resist teasing her. Her eyes lit up with challenge, a scowl sliding onto her face. 

“Do you usually flash unsuspecting victims in their own homes?” Percy rolled his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. “Once again, it’s not your home.”

Annabeth sighed heavily, leaning a hip against the kitchen island and studying him. 

“Look, there’s clearly been a mixup. I tried to call the rental agency earlier, but they didn’t respond. Something about their office being closed today. I found a nice hotel a few miles from here. I will move there until I can find out who is the true owner of the cabin for the next two weeks.” 

Percy raised an eyebrow, surprised at her relenting. He thought he’d have to fight for his place in this cabin. “Alright,” he responded, glancing at the luggage placed by the door.

“Let me at least help with your bags.” Looking at him for a moment, Annabeth nodded slowly and followed him to the front door. 

She put her hand on the handle and pulled it open to reveal several feet of snow coating the ground, swirls of falling snow obstructing their view of the driveway and beyond.

She let out a small gasp, her hand sliding into her purse and pulling out a cell phone. 

Percy watched as she furiously typed on the phone before a defeated look crossed her face. “There’s a blizzard forecasted for the next twenty-four hours. The roads are closed in every direction.”

Percy couldn’t stop the smirk from crossing his face at Annabeth's words. “So you’re stuck with me?”

Annabeth glowered at him, her cheeks pink with anger and her stormy grey eyes ablaze. “Like hell I am. I’ll just walk.”

Percy laughed incredulously, looking down at the fiery woman before him. “No, you’re not. I’m not adding assisted manslaughter to my to-do list today.” 

Annabeth shook her head, grabbing the pink handle of her suitcase and pushing it out the door. Percy didn’t think before reaching out, wrapping his arm around Annabeth’s waist and pulling her out of the doorway.

Her back pressed against his chest, her free hand clutching his wrist as they watched the door slam closed by a particularly strong gust of wind. 

Percy could feel Annabeth’s heavy breaths as she freed herself from his grip, spinning to face him.

He couldn’t help but watch as her golden blonde curls landed perfectly against her shoulders, her face close enough for him to make out the soft smattering of freckles on her nose and the flakes of gold in her grey eyes. 

Unable to stop himself, Percy leaned in closer, enthralled with the way her eyes widened and her lips parted at his closeness.

“I’ll stay out of your way, City Girl, if you stay out of mine. It’ll be like I’m not here,” he whispered.

Annabeth’s eyes darkened at his words, her eyes trained on his lips before catching his. 

“We have a deal, as long as you don’t call me City Girl,” was Annabeth’s response. “No promises,” Percy let go of her waist, stepping backwards.

Annabeth was captivating, all-consuming, and hated his guts - a recipe for disaster for Percy’s heart. 

This was shaping up to be the most interesting twenty-four hours of his life, and he couldn’t wait to see where it led. 

~~~

Annabeth had spent the last four hours stationed in the cabin’s office; her laptop, journal, and various crumpled sheets of paper and notecards spread across the glossy surface of the ornate desk she was seated at. This office had been a selling point for Annabeth when she was searching for properties to book. 

Little did she know the office would also come with the world’s most aggravating, sarcastic, egotistical Greek God of a man.

Annabeth had done her best to ignore Percy’s presence in the cabin, pretending not to notice every footstep, door closing, or cabinet slamming since she had learned they were stuck together. 

Annabeth meant it when she said she would stay out of his way - Percy Jackson was the very definition of a distraction, a temptation she couldn’t indulge in no matter the cost.

Luckily, he had relented the master bedroom to Annabeth as an apology, meaning Annabeth had a massive bed to look forward to at the end of the day. 

She had just finished introducing a new character to her story when a soft knock on the office door startled her, causing her arm to knock over one of the many stacks of paper placed next to her laptop.

Scowling, Annabeth scooped up the papers and threw them back onto the desk, spinning her chair around to face the office doors. 

Percy peered at her through the glass doors, his ever-present smirk situated on his face as he balanced a plate in his hand. Narrowing her eyes, Annabeth stood up and pulled open the door, eyeing her new cellmate warily. 

“I figured you were hungry since you haven’t left this room in hours. I thought I’d make you a plate.” Annabeth’s heart beat faster at Percy’s words, her mind trying to reconcile this kind, thoughtful action with the cocky asshole she had met earlier that day. 

Percy chuckled, glancing down at the sandwich on the plate. “It’s not poisoned, City Girl. Believe it or not, I know how to cook.”

Rolling her eyes at his sarcastic tone, Annabeth took the plate, picked up the sandwich, and examined it before taking a tentative bite. 

The sandwich’s flavors exploded in her mouth, every single bite one of perfection as she scarfed the first half of the sandwich down.

Percy watched in amusement as she blushed scarlet, wiping crumbs from her mouth. “I take it you like it?” 

Annabeth nodded, looking at Percy in awe. How did this man know how to cook so well? Turning back to the office, Annabeth glanced over her shoulder and gave Percy a slight smile.

“Thank you,” she whispered, before shutting the door behind her, sinking into her chair with a smile. 

Eyeing her laptop as an idea formed in her mind, Annabeth set the plate next to her before pulling up Google and typing Percy Jackson into the search box.

Taking a deep breath, she hit “Enter” and sucked in a breath at the pages of results that appeared. 

Her eyes skimmed the headlines, pausing on the most recent one from two days prior. “Celebrity chef Percy Jackson disappeared from the Hollywood scene just days before the annual Chef Showdown on Food Network. Jackson was up against Luke Castellan, his strongest competitor in years. Sources from Jackson’s team state that they have been unable to reach the star, with only his lifelong best friend and manager Jason Grace aware of his whereabouts…” 

Annabeth could feel her jaw drop as she processed the information in front of her. Suddenly, it all made sense. From the moment they met, she had felt a sense of familiarity with Percy Jackson she couldn’t place.

Memories of Piper’s gushing over her favorite celebrity chef filled her head, Percy’s name in Piper’s voice echoing in her mind. How could she have not seen it sooner? 

Percy was more than some guy she was stuck with - he was M.I.A from Hollywood, the man everyone was looking for.

No wonder he had been wearing sunglasses indoors. He was on the run. 

Annabeth’s problems seemed small in comparison now. All she knew for sure was she was now in deeper than she could have ever expected. 

~~~

Percy scowled at his phone, throwing it on the bed as it buzzed once again, Jason’s name flashing across the screen.

Deep down, Percy felt bad ignoring his best friend of twenty-four years, knowing they had a history that ran so deep that he couldn’t truly hide from Jason and his persistence. 

Running his hands through his already messy hair, Percy made his way down the stairs and into the main room, looking out the window as the snow battered against the glass panes, the land outside barely visible in the thick blizzard. 

He had just decided to sharpen his lucky set of knives for the hundredth time when he sensed another presence in the area, turning around to see Annabeth leaning against the doorway, her arms crossed over her chest and that damn flowery pink skirt hugging her waist perfectly.

“What are you doing?” Annabeth asked conversationally, making her way into the main room and pausing a few feet away from him.

“I don’t know yet. I didn’t quite have a plan when I booked this place. I just…” he trailed off, unsure of how much to reveal to the virtual stranger in front of him. 

“Wanted to hide?” she finished, his gaze snapping up to hers in shock. Did she know? Was she going to rat him out? Was he no longer in hiding? 

“I get that,” Annabeth continued, sinking onto one of the many armchairs spread across the room.

“That’s partly why I came here. I guess you could say I’m hiding too, hiding from a deadline, from what everyone expects of me.” 

Percy raised an eyebrow, suddenly intrigued. He sat down across from Annabeth, watching as she fiddled with a well-worn leather-bound notebook in her hands.

Her bright pink nails stood out against the muted brown tone of the notebook’s surface. 

“I’m an author,” she admitted, gesturing to the notebook she held. “Romantic mysteries. It’s in high demand these days; part thriller, part romantic comedy. The pressure from my publisher is intense, so I felt like a change of scenery would help my writer’s block.” 

Annabeth’s words resonated with Percy more than she could imagine. It felt as if he was speaking to himself, just in a different context - an author instead of a famous chef. 

“I’m in the same boat, in a way,” Percy began, wringing his hands together. It seemed Annabeth had connections, and one slip from her could give away his location.

“I needed a change in scenery as well. Sometimes, staying in the same place, repeating the same motions over and over again, can only make things worse.” 

Annabeth studied him, her eyes stormy as she contemplated his words. It seemed as if she wanted to say something, but wasn’t sure how to.

She had just begun to speak when a loud boom resounded through the cabin, the entire room going dark. Annabeth let out a squeak of surprise, her face barely visible in the dim light from the windows. 

Percy slid his phone out of his pocket, switched on the flashlight, and laid it face-down on the coffee table before them.

Annabeth’s fear-filled face was visible in the harsh white light, her eyes shining as she looked at him. “What the hell just happened?” she whispered, clutching her notebook tightly in her lap. 

“Looks like we lost power. I doubt there’s a backup generator in this place. I have some friends who live in Colorado who swear off generators. They like to boast that their properties never lose power. I think it’s moronic.” Annabeth laughed softly at Percy’s tone, her eyes tracking his movement. 

“I’ll get a fire going and gather some blankets. It’s about to get freezing in this place.”

Percy could feel Annabeth’s eyes on him as she stood up, smoothing out her skirt. “Okay, I’ll check all of the linen closets and the bedrooms.” 

As she disappeared up the stairs, Percy took a deep breath. It was getting harder and harder to hide his true identity from Annabeth. 

She was messing with his head in every way possible. 

~~~

An hour later, Annabeth sat in front of the fire, a cup of tea resting in her hands. Percy had surprised her with fire-steeped tea when she returned with the blankets, stating that it would help “regulate their internal body temperatures”.

However, Annabeth felt there was more to the gesture judging by the way Percy kept sneaking looks at her, his eyes darkening with each glance. 

“So, are you going to tell me how you know how to make such a killer sandwich and this fire tea?” Annabeth questioned, glancing at the man across from her. She could see the conflict across his face as he contemplated her question. 

“How about you tell me why you ran from your publisher first?” Percy shot back, his eyes shining with a challenge. Annabeth’s heart skipped a beat, her fingers tightening around the mug she held.

“There’s not much to tell,” she finally spoke, studying the fire’s flames intently. 

“I wrote a New York Times Best Seller two years ago. It launched my career and transformed my hobby into something real. However, it’s always harder the second time around. Everyone has their ideas of how the sequel should play out, about how it should end. My first draft was rejected by the publisher. Nico felt it was too stale, too underwhelming.”

Percy winced sympathetically, his face reflecting her pain. Annabeth took a breath, continuing. “Since then, I’ve been stuck in a rut. No matter what I type, it doesn’t feel right. My best friend Piper suggested I take a vacation somewhere scenic to inspire me. When I saw this cabin, it felt like a step in the right direction.” 

“Until you found me in your bed,” Percy finished, his face still, unchanging. Annabeth’s heart ached at the pain in his expression.

“It’s not your fault, Percy. I think writing isn’t in my future anymore. I was stupid to think some wood cabin could rewrite destiny.” 

Percy took a deep breath, setting down his mug and moving closer to her. Annabeth felt the butterflies reignite in her stomach as he came face-to-face with her, just inches away.

“What lies in the past isn’t indicative of your future, Sonia. You can’t let one success or failure determine the rest of your life.” Percy spoke as if he was citing a monologue, his eyes locked on hers. 

Annabeth took in a sharp breath, the words echoing in her head. She remembered writing those exact words four years prior, her hands shaking with nerves as she added them to the draft.

“My mother’s murder has yet to be solved. I may have changed one person’s life, but I don’t think it’s possible to change mine, Charles,” Annabeth finished, her voice cracking at the end. 

“You read my book?” she whispered, her head swirling with emotion. Percy smiled softly, reaching out and tucking a stray curl behind her ear.

“It was recommended to me by my childhood best friend. He’s been a fan of your work for years. That line has always stuck with me.”

Annabeth contemplated a second before speaking, hoping she wouldn’t overstep. “Then why are you running from your future, Chef Jackson?”

Percy’s eyes flared in shock as her words landed, his face draining of color. 

“I should’ve let you walk to that damn hotel,” Percy growled, backing away. “Are the paps already on their way? Did Castellan pay you enough to destroy my life?”

Annabeth’s heartbeat was impossibly fast as she realized what he thought of her. 

“You’d seriously believe I’d sell you out to the press for a paycheck? I know what it’s like in the limelight; every word you speak, every action you take, analyzed and dissected.”

Annabeth glared at the man in front of her, her heart shattering into hundreds of pieces. “I thought my book resonated with you, Percy,” she spit out, standing up and backing away from him.

Spinning on her heel, Annabeth glanced over her shoulder to see an incredibly conflicted Percy, his green eyes as dark as the night sky and his fists clenched at his sides. “I hope it was worth it, Percy Jackson.” 

With that final word, Annabeth walked out of the room, the only sound the crackling of the fireplace and the click of her heels on the polished wood floor. 

~~~

“Fuck!” Percy yelled, watching as Annabeth swiped a jacket from the coat rack near the door and slammed the door behind her, the snow filtering into the foyer and coating the floor.

Without a second’s hesitation, Percy threw on his coat and yanked open the door, squinting against the barrage of icy snow and darkness of the horizon. 

“Annabeth!” he screamed, making his way down the driveway. Relief spread through him when he spotted her car still parked outside, untouched.

“Annabeth! It’s not safe out here!” Percy yelled into the horizon, no response to be found. 

Fifteen minutes passed with nothing but the howling wind and his thoughts as company, his chest tightening with each minute.

Finally, about a mile down the road, he spotted a flash of pink. “Annabeth!” he shouted, his voice echoing in the mountain air. 

“What do you want, Jackson?” a female voice shouted back, allowing Percy to breathe for the first time since she disappeared.

“Get your ass back to the cabin! You’re crazy!” Annabeth suddenly appeared in front of him, her nose and cheeks pink from the cold and her blonde hair sprinkled with snow.

“You’re crazy if you think I wanted to be stuck in that damn cabin with you,” she retorted, her eyes shining with fury.

Percy reached out, wrapping his arm around her waist and pulling her into his chest, not intending to let go of her anytime soon. 

Leaning close enough to smell Annabeth’s intoxicating floral perfume, Percy cupped her chin in his hands and whispered, “You’re crazy if you think I’m going to let you run out into a storm without making things right.”

Annabeth stood still for a moment, her grey eyes sparkling and her lips parted slightly, and Percy couldn’t take it anymore. 

In a split second, his lips were inches from Annabeth’s and his eyes were locked on hers, a question dancing in their depths.

Annabeth smiled softly and that was all it took for Percy to capture her mouth in his, a soft whimper escaping her as she threaded her hands through Percy’s hair. 

Blissfully ignorant of the snow swirling around them, Percy deepened their kiss, his tongue sliding into her mouth and his hands running up and down her sides; fingers teasing the hem of her blouse and the warm skin beneath. 

In that moment, Percy couldn’t have cared less about the scandal waiting for him back in Hollywood.

All he could see was Annabeth, smiling at him from the finish line. 

Maybe that’s all he’ll ever need. 

~~~

Cameras flashed in Percy’s face as he made his way off of the stage, Jason appearing by his side in record time.

“Perce, you did phenomenal! The judges loved your dishes, particularly the carbonara. I heard Mr. Kinsworth raving about it to his wife backstage.” 

Percy smiled at his friend, brushing his hair off of his face as he followed Jason to the car parked outside.

“Thank you, man. It means a lot. I’m sure the tabloids will be all over my comeback,” Percy replied, climbing into the backseat and leaning towards the driver. 

“I can’t be late, Leo, the signing is in fifteen minutes!” Leo turned to face Percy, smiling broadly. “Don’t worry, Jackson, I’ll make sure you get there in time.” 

With that, the car sped off, Percy nervously checking his watch every few minutes.

After what felt like an eternity, the car pulled in front of a large warehouse, a line of people spilling out of the main entrance, identical books clutched in each of their hands. 

Leo guided the car into an alley off to the side, sliding open Percy and Jason’s doors and grinning as they climbed out. “Good luck, Perce!”

Percy waved at his friend, following Jason into a back door on the side of the building, his eyes scanning the area for a glimpse of blonde curls and a killer smile. 

Jason ushered him to the side of the stage just moments before the panel began, the members filing onto the stage and taking their places in front of small microphones. The middle seat, however, remained empty. 

“Welcome to The Ivy Beneath tour! I am excited to present to you the author of the four-time New York Times Bestselling Author, Annabeth Chase!”

The crowd went wild at the announcer’s words, but all sound disappeared when Annabeth stepped on stage, her forest-green dress highlighting the gold tones in her hair and perfectly conforming to her figure. 

Percy’s heart burst with love and excitement as he watched her speak in front of the crowd, her words full of confidence and wisdom.

When the line of fans finally tapered off, retreating to their seats with their newly signed books, Jason nudged Percy with a whisper, “Go get her, Perce.” 

Taking a deep breath, Percy confidently strode into the crowd, tuning out the shocked gasps and whispers. Annabeth’s stormy grey eyes landed on him, her face lighting up in shock.

Standing in front of the stage, he held out his hand and grinned as she slid off of the stage, landing in front of him. 

“What are you doing here?” Annabeth questioned, a smile spreading across her face. “Watching my wife celebrate her fourth New York Times Best Seller, of course,” Percy replied, watching the blush fill Annabeth’s cheeks as she took in his appearance. 

“Did you just come from the Chef Showdown ?” she exclaimed, crossing her arms over her chest, the rings adorning her left hand glittering in the stage lights.

“Anything for the woman who changed my life,” Percy whispered, pulling her towards him and capturing her mouth in his. 

Percy smiled against his wife’s lips as she kissed him back, both of them ignoring the flashing phone cameras and cheers surrounding them. 

In his crazy, fame-filled world, Annabeth shined brighter than all of the cameras. 

It took Percy a few seconds to reorient himself and assess his situation, which lead to the discovery that his arms were currently wrapped around the waist of the girl who had crashed into him.

When he looked up at her from where she had landed on top of him, she looked slightly dazed before her gaze drifted to her phone lying a few feet away, the large crack in the glass visible from their position on the hard tile floor.

She scowled so fiercely it made him uneasy as she pushed herself off of him, scampering over to the device and scooping it up.

Spinning on her heel, she marched over to where he was still sprawled on the floor and leaned down, her startling grey eyes glaring daggers at him as she dangled her phone in his face. "Thanks a lot, jerk," she snarled.

Percy pulled himself off of the floor into a standing position, quickly realizing he was at least six inches taller than her, even with the white heels she was wearing.

He also took that time to take in the rest of her appearance. Her curly blonde hair spilled over her shoulders, complimenting the off-the-shoulder floral blouse and jeans she wore.

He held up his hands in surrender. "I'm sorry! I didn't see you." She rolled her eyes at him, crossing her arms over her chest. "Of course you didn't."

Percy narrowed his eyes at her, trying to gauge her motive. It wasn't every day random girls verbally assaulted him in the grocery store.

"What is that supposed to mean?" She huffed, looking him straight in the eye. "Wouldn't you like to know," she muttered, raking her gaze over him.

If there was one thing Percy didn't like, it was unjustified judgement - and this girl was dangerously close to crossing the line. "Look, I'm just trying to get medicine. Now if you wouldn't mind, you're in my way."

He hadn't meant for the sentence to come out in the way it did. Sally Jackson raised her son well, but he couldn't control the venom dripping off of the words. Something about this girl pulled it out of him.

The girl moved an inch to the side, crossing her arms defiantly. Percy rolled his eyes, moving past her to grab the box off of the shelf until he realized he could still feel her angered stare on his back.

He spun around, tucking the box under his arm. "What?" She laughed bitterly. "Nothing, nothing at all."

Percy had enough of this girl's superiority complex. He stepped closer to her, watching her eyes widen slightly as he approached.

"Just tell me what I could have possibly done to bother you, Princess." He spit the last word out, silently enjoying the indignation that flared across her face. "Don't call me that," she sneered, poking her finger into his chest.

"You're just so-so..." she trailed off, gesturing wildly at his form. He glanced down at his plain leather jacket before raising an eyebrow at her. "I'm not sure I follow."

She sighed angrily, and he could practically see the gears turning in her head.

She opened her mouth to reply when suddenly the lights switched off, and Percy suddenly registered the dead silence that followed. "What the..." he trailed off, his head swirling with questions.

The girl gasped, glancing down at her watch before stomping her heel. She gave him a look filled with such hatred he was surprised she didn't strangle him. "The store closes at ten, you idiot!" She exclaimed.

Percy took the time to glance down at his own watch, the numbers revealing the thirty minutes he had spent arguing with the girl a few feet away.

"Don't they normally clean at the end of the day?" Percy wondered aloud, momentarily forgetting the furious woman in front of him. He could hear the outrage as she replied.

"It's a holiday weekend, meaning the employees go home early and they clean on Monday night." He rolled his eyes at her deliberate, berating tone. "Right. Well, what are we going to do now? My sister needs this medicine."

In the dim light provided by the nearby freezer section, Percy could see the girl's expression soften slightly. Leave it to Estelle to have an impact on someone who doesn't even know her.

"Is...is she okay?" The girl's voice was timid, a complete one eighty from the anger laced through it not two minutes ago. He nodded in response. "She has a fever. My mom and stepdad weren't able to go to the store, so they asked me. But it looks as though she won't be receiving this medicine anytime soon."

A few seconds passed in silence before the girl gripped his hand, startling him. "C'mon," she exclaimed urgently, pulling him through the aisles and towards the front of the store.

They skidded to a stop in front of the large glass sliding doors. The girl stepped towards them, reaching out her hand. They waited for a moment before he could see her shoulders slump in defeat.

She turned to him, the regret evident on her face. "I'm sorry," she whispered. Percy resisted the urge to reach out and pull her into his arms - then immediately wondered where the thought came from.

He just met this girl thirty minutes ago, but something about her drew him in. He wanted to know more about her, even with the hostility she had shown him not ten minutes prior.

"It's alright," he replied honestly. He reached into his pocket to text him mother and tell her the news before cursing under his breath. The girl's head snapped up at the sound. "What's wrong?" She asked, the concern evident in her face. "I left my phone in my car."

She glanced at him regretfully before holding up her own phone. "And mine's dead. That's why I ran into you, I was trying to finish an email before it died."

He couldn't resist smirking at her words. "Ah, so you finally admit that you ran into me?" She scowled at him. "Don't push your luck, Mr. Leather Jacket," she quipped in response.

Percy's grin widened at the nickname. "Well, Princess, what do you suggest we do about this?" "Stop calling me that," she grumbled, glancing around the expansive space surrounding them. "We're just going to have to wait it out. I don't think anyone will come until around nine in the morning tomorrow."

He nodded, gesturing to an aisle that was illuminated by the light from the freezer section. "Let's sit down." She followed him, sitting across from him and tucking her legs underneath her. "So..." he began, unable to decide where the conversation should go.

"I think I should know your name if you want me to stop calling you Princess, no promises though." The slight smile that accompanied her reaction made the teasing worth it for him.

"I'm Annabeth," she replied, and Percy found himself letting the name slide off of his tongue. "Annabeth...that suits you."

She grinned slightly, eyeing him. "Only fair you tell me yours," she replied. "I'm Percy."

When her eyes sparkled in the dim light, Percy knew that this girl was someone he wanted to get to know.

12:48am

"Percy, where is the cookie dough ice cream?" Annabeth's voice reverberated through the empty store. Percy glanced up from his position crouched in front of the lawn chairs.

"Freezer section," he yelled in response, scooping two large chairs in his arms before making his way to where Annabeth was standing in front of one of the many freezers.

"I know that, smart-alek," she snipped, accepting the chair he handed her. "I meant which freezer. If I don't get ice cream, I'm going to have a meltdown."

He grinned at the borderline insane look on her face before pointing towards the freezer behind her, the ice cream container perched on the top shelf. Annabeth glanced at it and back at him, her predicament clear in her expression.

In response, Percy leaned against one of the shelves, crossing his arms across his chest and shooting her a challenging glace. She glared at him, causing his heart to flutter slightly.

He admitted that the past three hours with her had caused some feelings to emerge, but he chose to bury them. It didn't mean he couldn't tease her, though.

"Something wrong?" he asked, enjoying the exasperation in her expression. "No," Annabeth replied indignantly, spinning around and yanking the door open, lifting herself up onto her tippy-toes.

Percy watched with amusement as Annabeth tried her best to reach the top shelf, trying his hardest to ignore the curve of her waist as she stretched.

After a few more seconds of struggling, she stepped down and faced him, her face twisted in defeat accompanied by a slight blush tinting her cheeks. "Can you help?" She muttered, refusing to meet his gaze.

He smirked, walking up to the freezer and easily grabbing the container off of the shelf.

When Percy handed her the ice cream, Annabeth looked up at him, a stray curl falling into her eyes, and Percy could feel himself falling for her harder than he already was.

2:17am

Annabeth giggled loudly, her spoon scraping the bottom of the empty ice cream container as she smacked Percy in the arm. "I can't believe you said that to your teacher, Perce!"

He grinned in response, his gut hurting from laughing so hard. "You know me, I attract conflict," he drawled sarcastically, enjoying the way Annabeth rolled her eyes in retaliation.

"You wish you did." Annabeth yawned slightly, setting the container on the ground beside of her. "I have a meeting tomorrow at noon..." she trailed off, and Percy nodded in understanding.

"I wasn't able to find any blankets or sleeping bags that weren't packaged," he noted, eyeing Annabeth's reaction.

She sighed before gesturing towards the floor. "Well, at least I can cross 'slept on the floor of a grocery store' off of my bucket list," she quipped, eliciting a chuckle from Percy.

Percy allowed her to lie down first, not even bothering to hide the fact that he was watching the way she curled up, her heels abandoned by the chair she previously occupied.

He followed her motion, respectfully keeping his distance from her form. "Good night, Annabeth," he whispered, smiling when he heard a soft, "Night, Perce," in response.

4:29am

Percy awoke to a sound coming from near him. Glancing over, he noticed Annabeth's sleeping frame shaking as she curled further into herself. He quickly realized that she had no sweater or coat with her, and they were sleeping in the freezer section.

Percy didn't think before shrugging off his leather jacket - the same one she had made fun of hours before - and gently making his way over to where she was. He draped the jacket over her, smiling slightly when he realized it covered her entirely.

Percy wanted to pull her into him to keep her warm, but he resisted, moving back to his original spot. A few minutes had passed before he felt movement next to him and a soft voice whispered his name.

He turned on his side, glancing up at Annabeth's sleepy face framed by her curls. "I'm still cold," she whispered, a blush spreading across her face.

He smiled softly, opening his arms and watching her curl up against him, her head buried in his chest as his arms wrapped around her small waist.

Annabeth placed her hand on his chest, glancing up at him. "Thank you. For everything." Percy tightened his grip on her in response. "Of course, Beth."

She smiled sleepily before placing a feather-light kiss on his cheek. He spent the next few minutes lying awake as her intoxicating lemon scent surrounded him; her soft breathing filling the silence as he wondered how he got so lucky.

7:05am

Percy awoke with a warmth pressed against his side, and it took him a few moments to remember where he was. When he did, he couldn't stop the smile spreading across his face as he glanced down at the girl in his arms.

Annabeth had her back facing him, her fingers tangled with his with his leather jacket wrapped around her body. Suddenly, she shifted, her eyes fluttering open as she took in her surroundings.

When she glanced down at the arm curled around her waist, she turned around to face him, an adorable blush spreading across her cheeks.

"Hey," she whispered, and Percy grinned. "Hey, Princess." She smacked his chest weakly, grinning nonetheless. Annabeth sat up fully, before looking him in eye.

"Look...I know I already said it but thank you for staying with me. I don't do well on my own." He gently pushed a strand of hair out of her eyes before responding.

"Of course, Beth. It's not like I could have gone anywhere, anyway," he teased, causing her to glare at him slightly. "Shut up," she replied, but the malice in her words was nonexistent.

Their eyes locked and Percy felt the rightness of the situation all through him. He pulled her closer, taking in her sparking grey eyes, pink cheeks, and messy blonde hair.

He glanced down at Annabeth's lips, then back at her, hoping she could read the question written in his eyes. She looked up him before nodding, her lips spreading into a grin.

He slipped his arms around her waist, his hands brushing the skin underneath her blouse slightly as hers went around his neck. "You ready, Beth?" he whispered, enjoying the ways her eyes lit up. "Always," was all she could respond before his mouth settled over hers.

Percy's heart beat quicker as a soft sigh escaped her mouth before she threaded her fingers into his hair, making it more of a mess than it already was.

He cupped her cheek with one hand, deepening the kiss and gently biting her bottom lip. Her soft whimper that followed his movement caused him to grin into the kiss, before pulling her onto his lap fully and kissing her deeply.

Annabeth's hands continued to mess his hair as his slipped under her blouse slightly. She shivered, pulling herself closer to him and running a hand across his jaw.

She pulled back after a few moments and Percy took in her kiss-swollen lips and her dark pink cheeks, his face pulling into a soft dreamy smile that he didn't bother to disguise.

"Beth," he whispered, catching her gaze. "Do you want to go on a date with me? A real one." She grinned, pulling his mouth down to hers for another mind-numbing kiss that was too short in his opinion. "Of course, you idiot."

With that, he pulled her down next to him, peppering kisses over her face. "This has got to be the weirdest meet-cute in the history of meet-cutes, ever," she giggled and he smothered his grin in her neck, breathing in her lemony scent.

"But it lead me to you," he whispered, pressing his lips to hers.

9:17am

Percy placed a chaste kiss on his sister's head before kissing his mom's cheek in goodbye, shutting the door behind him.

He climbed into his car, turning towards Annabeth who sat in his passenger seat and grabbing her hand, a dreamy smile plastered on his face as they drove away.

~~~

9:55pm

"Percy, we have to hurry!" the girl exclaimed, gripping his hand as she pulled him through the aisles, the exasperation evident in her features.

Percy smiled at the familiarity of the situation, allowing his wife to tug him towards the medicine aisle. "We have five minutes until the store closes, and Charlie needs the medicine." "I know, Princess. We don't need a repeat of what happened five years ago," he winked at her, causing her to roll her eyes.

"Stop it, Perce. This is serious." Percy plucked the box off of the shelf, tucking it under his arm and slipping the other around Annabeth's waist as they rushed towards the check out.

11:37pm

Percy gently closed the bathroom door behind him, walking over to the drawer to grab a shirt.

He glanced up and his gaze landed on Annabeth's sleeping form in the bed, her curly blonde hair splayed across the pillow and one of his old shirts hanging off of her small frame. He grinned, pulling the shirt over his head and slipping under the covers.

Annabeth shifted beside him, turning to face him as a sleepy smile spread across her face. "I love you," she whispered, curling into his side.

Her left hand splayed across his chest, the soft light of the moon through the window catching on the glittering diamonds of her wedding rings.

Percy picked up her hand, kissing it before turning towards her, pulling her closer by the waist and kissing her thoroughly on the mouth.

He couldn't help but enjoy the way her soft lips moved against his, reminding him of all of those years ago on the floor of the grocery store.

~~~

The minute the car pulled into the campground’s entrance, Annabeth felt her positive outlook sour at the scene before her.

Her mother would sometimes go on “glamping” trips with her college friends, and Annabeth had created an image in her head filled with massive tents decorated with flowers, pillows, and fairy lights. 

This was a far cry from her vision; with its sprawling acres of woods accompanied by wood cabins, bonfires, and a handful of small tents littered around the property.

She watched as children splashed in a large lake near the cabins, their parents grilling or lounging by the nearby fire. 

“Isn’t this wonderful, Annabeth?” Frederick exclaimed, gesturing at the property with a wide grin. “Fresh mountain air and a chance to connect with nature!”

Annabeth could only nod in response, already dreading the next seven days. “Yes, dad, it’s very…pretty.” Her father shot her a look, climbing out of the car and opening the trunk.

Undoing her seatbelt, Annabeth stepped out, her heels immediately sinking into the dirt below her. Scowling, she pried her feet from the ground and carefully walked to where her father stood. 

“Annabeth, do you really need this many clothes?” He asked, gesturing to her two full-sized suitcases spread out in front him. “I wanted options,” was her only reply, grasping a suitcase in each hand and making her way towards a large wooden building with a sign reading “Commons” adorning its entrance. 

Annabeth knew she was out of place the moment she stepped foot into the Commons’ main room, staring up in awe at the seemingly endless ceiling and dozens of deer heads decorating the walls.

A massive chandelier made of wooden logs hung in the center of the building, shining down on a circular seating area complete with a fireplace and tree trunks serving as tables. 

Her heels clicked across the floor as she made her way to the front desk, ignoring all of the eyes trained on her. Annabeth was used to attention, as she had spent her childhood attending various charity dinners and cocktail parties with her world-famous architect mother. This, however, was a different type of attention. 

Clearing her throat, she smoothed her skirt and smiled at the skeptical concierge behind the ornate wooden desk. “Hello, I’m here to check-in!” “You don’t have to check in,” the concierge responded, bemusement written across his face. 

Annabeth could feel her confidence slipping as she glanced around the room, her gaze landing on the various signs stating “No Check-In Required”. “Just find the cabin number that was given to you when you booked," he continued, a placating smile resting on his lips. 

Footsteps resounded behind Annabeth, a hand coming to rest on her shoulder. “I apologize, sir. This is her first time camping,” Frederick exclaimed, earning a glare from Annabeth. “It’s no problem, sir. We always welcome newcomers.” 

“One of our tour guides will show you to your cabin and go over your itinerary for the next three days,” the concierge - whose name tag read George - explained, gesturing to the seating area nearby. “He is currently on his way. You are welcome to the coffee bar in the meantime.” 

“Finally, something I can get behind,” Annabeth thought to herself, making her way to the coffee bar as her father continued conversing with George. 

Annabeth had just picked up a handful of sweetener packets, emptying their contents into her cup when a voice sounded from behind her, causing her yelp in surprise.

“I think your coffee is sweet enough.” Annabeth spun around, coming face to face with a cocky smirk, deep green eyes, and jet-black hair. 

Glaring at the boy in front of her, Annabeth did her best to focus on anything other than his muscular arms crossed over his chest or the smattering of freckles across his nose and cheeks.

"Excuse me?” Annabeth replied, glancing down at the small mound of sugar at the bottom of the cup. “I like it sweet.”

Raising an eyebrow, the boy swept his gaze over her, eliciting a warm blush to spread across her cheeks at his scrutiny. He narrowed his eyes at her shoes, looking back up at her.

“You do know you’re at a campground, right?” His condescending tone lit a spark in Annabeth, her glare sharpening. “I am well aware, thank you very much. I am an expert at walking in heels.” 

The boy laughed, the sound grating on Annabeth’s nerves. “We’ll see about that.” Annabeth crossed her arms across her chest, surveying him.

She realized in that moment he was wearing a uniform of sorts, dark black jeans paired with a tight polo shirt embroidered with the campground’s logo. A name tag identical to the concierge’s was pinned to his chest, “Percy” etched onto the surface. 

Percy smirked at her incredulous expression before speaking. “I’m assuming you’re Annabeth?” The way her name rolled off of his tongue cause butterflies to flap in her stomach, which she tried her hardest to shoo away.

There was no chance in hell she could be attracted to this cocky, egotistical boy standing before her. 

“Who’s asking?” Annabeth responded, raising her chin in defiance. “Your tour guide,” Percy deadpanned, watching in amusement as horror filled Annabeth’s expression. Annabeth opened her mouth to reply when her father’s voice cut her off. 

“This must be our tour guide!” Percy’s cocky smirk transformed into a sweet smile at her father’s words.

Annabeth watched in unabashed anger as Percy charmed her father, his demeanor one of a sweet, polite teenage boy instead of the one Annabeth had witnessed just moments prior. 

“If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you to your cabin,” Percy began, his gaze catching on Annabeth as she trailed behind her father, clutching her coffee cup so tightly it was a wonder it didn’t crumple in her hands. 

“Your first activity of the day will be a guided bird-watching tour by the camp’s resident expert, followed by a hike in the woods where you’ll be able to see all different kinds of wildlife. Later tonight…” 

Annabeth tuned out Percy’s voice as she contemplated the best way to get out of these activities. Her father had failed to mention this was a guided camping experience until halfway through the ride to the campsite. 

This week was going to be the death of her. 

~~~

“Perce!” Jason’s voice echoed throughout the staff lounge, jerking Percy out of thoughts. “What’s going on, man?” Jason questioned, his piercing gaze trained on Percy. “You’ve been distracted all evening.”

“It’s probably that hot New York chick he’s guiding this week,” Leo piped up, his brown eyes twinkling with mischief. 

“Shut up, Leo,” Percy grumbled, tossing a french fry at his friend’s head. Jason spun around, the controller dangling from his hand.

“Hot New York chick?” Percy rolled his eyes at his friends, running a hand through his messy black hair. “Both of you can shut up.”

Leo shook his head, a shit-eating grin spread across his face. “No can do, Perce!” Jason raised an eyebrow, training his eyes on Percy.

“What’s this about a New York girl?” Percy sighed, trying his hardest to ignore the way her image in his head made him feel. 

“It’s nothing to write home about,” Percy responded, trying for nonchalance. “Her and her father are my tour for this week. Nothing special, just giving them the generic bird-watching, hiking, and canoeing tour.”

Leo slid onto the couch next to him, swinging an arm around Percy’s shoulders. “Percy forgot to mention that’s she gorgeous.” 

Glaring at his friend, Percy freed himself from Leo and paced around the room, ignoring his friends’ knowing looks.

The only thing playing through his mind was Annabeth - her long, blonde curls that fell down her back, the way her tight pink sundress hugged her figure, its skirt swishing around her legs, and the click of her bright pink heels against the tile of the Commons. 

She was all-consuming, despite her stuck-up, stuffy city girl exterior. The way her sharp grey eyes shined as she countered all of his quick remarks played on repeat in his head, her soft vanilla scent still evident in the air around him - or maybe that was just in his head. 

The only thing that Percy knew for sure was that he had to keep his distance from Annabeth.

She was dangerous for his senses, and he had vowed to steer clear of distractions after his dad passed away two summers prior. 

Percy had long since placed the idea of love far in the back of his mind, the memory of his mom’s sleepless, tear-filled nights fresh in his mind.

He knew deep down he couldn’t handle facing the same heartbreak she had, building carefully-constructed walls around his heart and closing the doors for good. 

His newfound jaded, dark personality had kept most girls away from him, which is exactly what he wanted.

As long as he continued to play his role as the cold, egotistical teenage boy he was skilled at, Annabeth would be a distant memory by the end of the three days. 

But deep down, Percy knew it wouldn’t be as easy as he kept telling himself to stay away from Annabeth Chase and her New York charm. 

~~~

Annabeth closed the final drawer of the dresser, surveying the space before her. Her room consisted of a queen-sized four-poster bed with a frame made of wooden logs, a mahogany dresser and nightstand, and a small bathroom tucked into the corner.

Her father stepped into the room holding a small green pamphlet. “There’s a bird-watching tour in about a half an hour, as Percy mentioned earlier.”

Annabeth grimaced at the mention of his name, her previous anger reemerging. “Let’s get ready and we can head out together." 

Annabeth opened her mouth to decline before realizing she didn’t have anything better to do. “Sure,” she replied, sighing. “At least it’s not canoeing or horseback riding.” Frederick smiled widely, gesturing to the cabin’s door. 

“I’ll meet you on the porch in fifteen minutes. Remember, it’s outdoors, so dress appropriately,” Frederick continued. Annabeth looked down at her outfit, shaking her head.

“I see nothing wrong with this,” she grumbled to herself, turning on her heel towards her dresser. 

Annabeth surveying the various dresses, blouses, and skirts neatly folded inside. She knew enough about the outdoors to know walking long distances wouldn’t be easy in a skirt, but a nice, summery dress would do the trick and still allow her to express her penchant for fashion. 

No matter where she was, Annabeth found a way to incorporate style into any situation.

Whatever her father or Percy thought be damned, Annabeth knew just what she was in for. 

~~~

Thirty minutes later, Annabeth and her father walked side-by-side down a wooded trail, the soft ground crunching beneath her purple flats.

A pair of binoculars hung around her neck, a notebook clutched in one hand and her cell phone in the other.

She had just found a bar of signal to respond to Piper’s text when a commanding voice addressed the group. “Hello, everyone, and welcome to Sunset Peak’s birdwatching tour!”

Annabeth glanced up front beyond the people in front of her, her gaze landing on a young guy around her age with bright blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. 

“My name is Jason and I am the camp’s resident avian expert and current undergraduate student in wildlife studies. I will be leading your tour today…” 

Annabeth tuned Jason’s voice out as she glanced at her surroundings, preparing herself for the boredom that awaited her. 

The trail was standard, a straight shot through a line of massive trees on either side, the leaves creating a cover and casting a speckled shadow over the path.

Just beyond the tree line, a large body of water was visible, glimmering in the afternoon sunlight. 

Annabeth took in a deep breath, enjoying the fresh air and soft warmth of the sun on her skin.

Lifting her binoculars to her eyes, she scanned the trees, spotting a few sparrows perching on branches. 

She had just spied a particularly colorful bird when her binoculars caught glimpse of a body slicing through the lake, arms lifting in and out of the water as they swam laps in a small area. 

Annabeth watched in wonder as the person expertly navigated the waters of the lake. A head lifted out of the water, and the man ran a hand through his jet-black hair, shaking the water out of it. 

Shock coursed through Annabeth as she realized who the mystery swimmer was. “Percy?” she whispered to herself, lowering her binoculars. She hadn’t expected him to be such a strong swimmer, but it made sense for someone who worked at a campground. 

Once again, Percy had built permanent residence in Annabeth’s mind, images of him flashing before her eyes and painting her cheeks with an unwanted blush. 

“Stop it,” she spit out, pinching her arm. “You cannot afford to have feelings for someone, much less an egotistical prick like Percy.” 

But deep down, Annabeth knew she couldn’t avoid her feelings for the jaded boy whom she would be stuck with for the next three days. 

~~~

Percy slid onto the log next to Jason, taking a sip from the cup of hot chocolate he held. “How was the bird tour?” he asked, raising an eyebrow at Jason.

Jason smirked, sliding his phone into his pocket and turning to face Percy. “Want to know about a certain someone?” he teased, elbowing Percy. 

Percy scowled, shaking his head. “I don’t care about her, Jase. Just making conversation.” Jason grinned broadly, his eyes sparkling with humor. “Sure, Perce, whatever you say,” he teased. 

Percy opened his mouth to respond when a crunch of footsteps sounded from behind him, leading Jason to turn around.

A grin similar to Leo’s from earlier formed on his face as his eyes followed a figure in Percy’s peripheral. 

“New York chick,” Jason whispered, that stupid smirk never disappearing. Percy tried not to react to his friend’s words, tried to ignore the magnitude of her presence nearby.

He barely knew this girl, yet the minute she walked into a room he couldn’t keep her out of his mind. Turning his head slightly, Percy took in her soft yellow sundress that highlighted her figure just right, her hair bouncing around her shoulders as if she was the star of some shampoo commercial. They were in the woods, for crying out loud. 

“Careful, Perce. You’re going to make her think you’re some stalker if you keep staring the way you are.” Percy’s gaze snapped back to his friend. “I am not staring. I was just looking.” 

“Mhm, whatever you say, man. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some s’mores to make with Leo. We’re competing to see who can put the most marshmallows on one. Loser has to swim laps in bear cove.” 

Percy shook his head at his friends’ stupidity, his traitorous eyes drifting back to Annabeth, who stood by the s’mores table, studying its contents. Before he could stop himself, Percy stood up and made his way over to her. 

“It’s called a s’more,” he teased, watching as Annabeth spun around, a scowl already fixed on her face. Percy clenched his fist in an effort to not react to how stunning she was when angry. 

“I know what a s’more is, Percy.” Grinning, he picked up a marshmallow, stabbing it onto the end of a metal stick. “Wasn’t sure, City Girl.”

Annabeth huffed, gripping the graham cracker in her hand so tight he was surprised it didn’t crumble into thousands of pieces. 

“City Girl? Really?” her voice was sharp as she placed a couple of marshmallows onto her plate. “That’s what you are, isn’t it?” 

Annabeth stepped closer to him, close enough for her perfume to permeate his senses again. “That’s not all I am, Country Boy,” she retorted, walking towards the fire.

The anger in Annabeth’s expression deepened when he sat down next to her on a log. 

Her arm brushed up against Percy as she held her stick out towards the fire, goosebumps spreading down his arm in response.

“Don’t you have some stargazing tour to lead?” Annabeth questioned after a few moments of silence. 

Chuckling, Percy reached out and laid his hand on top of hers, rotating her stick so her marshmallow wouldn’t burn.

Annabeth’s cheeks filled with pink as she watched his movements, her grey eyes wide. 

“You have to turn it, otherwise the marshmallow would burn. It’s all in the wrist movement.” Annabeth remained silent, studying him as she pulled the marshmallow out of the fire, its golden-brown crust evident in the soft light of the bonfire.

“Perfect,” she whispered, looking up at him. Percy could feel his world shift at this one glance. He could feel himself falling into the depths of her eyes, the softness of her lips, the warmth of her skin.

He stood up abruptly, wiping his hands of the crumbs clinging to them. 

“Have a good night, City Girl. Don’t get lost on the way back.” Percy could feel Annabeth’s eyes on him as he walked away, faster than he meant to. The effect she had on him was more than he could handle. 

She was magnetic, drawing him into something he couldn’t climb back out of.

~~~

Annabeth scooted her pancake around her plate, the fork scraping against the bottom of it as she stared off into space. She couldn’t get the interaction with Percy the night prior out of her mind. 

The way he looked at her, the way he touched her hand, the way he abruptly turned cold and ran away…none of it made sense.

She hadn’t felt such an instant connection, whether it be good or bad, with someone before. 

“What are we doing today?” she asked, looking at her dad who sat across from her, typing away on his laptop. “It’s the big hike today,” he responded, sliding the pamphlet across the table in her direction.

“It’s eight miles long and will last all day, around six hours of walking with stops in between. We’re going to see hundreds of different wildlife and foliage!” 

Holding back a comment in protest, Annabeth opened the pamphlet and flipped through the pages until she landed on the spread titled “All-Day Hike: An Outdoor Adventure To Remember!”

Her father’s descriptions of the hike were sprawled across the pages, her stomach sinking with each word she read. 

Annabeth hadn’t signed up for this trip, and she sure as hell hadn’t signed up for a six-hour hike through the middle of nowhere.

“I can just stay back at the cabin, make sure no bears break in,” she replied, closing the pamphlet and setting it down on the table. 

Frederick glanced up at her, his expression stern as he adjusted his glasses. “You’re coming with. I paid for both of us to participate in this trip. It will be good for you.”

Annabeth sighed heavily, scooping up her plate and depositing it in the sink. “We’ll see about that,” she replied, making her way to her bedroom. 

“What have I gotten myself into?” she exclaimed, sinking down onto the mattress. Six hours hiking in the heat, with Percy as their guide?

She hadn’t missed his name in the pamphlet, listed under the “Guides” section.

According to the blurb about him, Percy had worked at the camp for three years and had been a participant since he was five years old.

He had history with this place, which made him even more of an enigma she couldn’t keep out of her head. 

Now, she was going to spend the next six hours avoiding him at all costs and trying not to get lost along the way. 

“Here we go,” Annabeth muttered, pulling open a drawer and searching through her clothes for the perfect outfit for a six hour hike. 

~~~

The late-morning sun danced across Annabeth’s skin as the group made their way deeper into the forest, the sounds of various animals filling the air along with the crunch of the ground under everyone’s feet. 

She had spent the past forty-five minutes ignoring Percy’s presence at the front of the group, pretending to be engrossed in the hiking booklet they were given at the beginning of the activity. 

Annabeth had been pleased to learn that there was a “checkpoint” of sorts every hour that had a food and water station.

At least she wouldn’t be hungry or thirsty on this modern-day torture method disguised as a hike. 

Percy’s voice floated in her direction, his commanding tone evident in the speech he was currently making about the history of the trail they were on. 

After the longest fifteen minutes of Annabeth’s life, they finally reached the first checkpoint. 

Annabeth made her way over to the small table covered in water bottles and various snacks, scooping up a bag of trail mix and digging in.

Setting her bag down, she leaned against the table and checked her phone, a chuckle escaping her at the photo Piper had sent of her and Rachel at the mall, wearing ridiculous outfits. 

Annabeth had just finished off the last cashew when the other tour guide, Leo, began to speak.

“Okay, folks, let’s continue this adventure! We are going to head off onto the next offshoot of the trail, known as the rainbow trail due to its colorful foliage and wildlife.” 

Annabeth threw away her wrapper in the trashcan next to the table and joined the group, steeling herself for the next five hours. 

It was thirty minutes later when Annabeth realized she was not, in fact, wearing her backpack.

“Shit,” she exclaimed, causing the people in front of her to turn around and stare. “Sorry,” Annabeth whispered. 

“Dad,” she whispered, “I forgot my backpack at the last checkpoint!” Frederick sighed, gesturing behind them. “Go get it, before it gets too far away. 

“Yes,” she replied quickly, already spinning around. “I’ll be back,” she called behind her, speed-walking away from the group and into the unknown. 

~~~

Percy had just finished telling an elderly couple about the life cycle of caterpillars when he realized with a start he hadn’t seen Annabeth in over an hour.

He had began the hike stealing glimpses of her every few minutes, unable to keep his gaze away from her captivating blue sundress and the blue bow fluttering behind her in the soft breeze. 

Scanning the group, she was nowhere to be seen, the space next to her father empty.

Excusing himself, Percy made his way to where Frederick Chase was standing, scribbling in a journal. 

“Mr. Chase, do you know where Annabeth is? Just trying to keep a headcount.” Frederick looked at him, his expression neutral. “She left her backpack at the last checkpoint. She went back to get it.” 

Fear coursed through Percy as he stared wide-eyed at the man in front of him. “How long ago did she leave?”

“Around fifteen minutes ago. She should be on her way back now, but knowing Annabeth, she probably is taking her time trying to find a signal for her phone.”

Surprised at Annabeth’s father’s apathy toward the situation, Percy dashed over to Leo and whispered, “Annabeth is missing. Take over the group for me. Don’t let the others know she’s gone.” 

Leo nodded, his gaze determined. “Be safe, Perce.” “Don’t worry, man. I know these woods like the back of my hand.” Percy spun on his heel, his gaze set on the horizon. 

Despite his willingness to stay away from Annabeth, he wasn’t about to let her put herself in danger. 

Fifteen minutes passed uneventfully as Percy made his way backwards on the trail, calling out Annabeth’s name in hopes she’d hear.

He had just passed one of the trail’s offshoots when a crunch of leaves resounded, causing Percy to whip his head towards the sound.

“Annabeth?” he called, stepping closer to the offshoot. More crunching sounded in response, drawing Percy deeper into the woods.

Unclipping his flashlight from his belt, he held it in his hand, ready to turn it on when the tree cover became too dark to let any light shine through. 

Percy kept making his way forward, shifting slightly left or right based on where the crunching sound was coming from.

Eventually, he had ventured so far into the forest that he had no idea what direction he was headed in. 

He was about to call out her name again when a muffled voice interrupted the silence. “Hello?” “Annabeth!” Percy yelled, turning left sharply towards the sound.

“Percy?” Annabeth exclaimed, emerging from behind a nearby tree. 

Relief flooded Percy’s body as he ran towards her, taking in her messy ponytail and dirt-stained blue dress, her makeup smudged under her eyes and her cheeks pink from the sun.

“Oh my God, Annabeth,” Percy exclaimed, coming to a stop inches away from her. “You found me,” she whispered, her grey eyes wide in fear. “I thought I was done for.” 

“Oh, Annabeth,” was all Percy could manage, reaching out slightly before stopping himself. “Are you hurt?” he asked, clearing his throat.

“Just a few scratches,” Annabeth replied, pulling up the hem of her dress to reveal a few long, red scratches on her right thigh. 

Ignoring the heat filling his cheeks at the sight, Percy reached out and gently touched Annabeth’s leg, running his thumb across her skin.

“Once we get back I’ll grab the first aid kit from Leo. I was too worried about finding you to remember to bring it.” “I’m just glad you found me,” she responded, smoothing out her dress. 

Percy sighed, glancing up at the sky. “It’s starting to get dark. We should start heading back now before we lose the light. It’s going to take a while to make it back, you really put us out of the way of the main camp on your little adventure.” 

Glowering at him, Annabeth rubbed her arms, looking around. “Why is it so cold? It’s July,” she muttered. Percy barked out an incredulous laugh, enjoying the way her cheeks flushed in anger at his reaction. 

“Welcome to the woods, City Girl. The tree covering is blocking any remaining heat from the sunset.” 

Rolling her eyes, Annabeth stood up and brushed off her skirt with unveiled aggression. “There’s no way you find any of this enjoyable,” she muttered and turned her back to Percy. 

“If you hadn’t gotten yourself lost, you could be in a warm bed right about now,” Percy retorted, watching in amusement as Annabeth whirled around to face him, her grey eyes sparkling with anger. 

“You really know how to be an asshole, Percy,” Annabeth replied, her expression hard as she crossed her arms over her chest. Percy averted his gaze, clenching his fists in an effort not to react to the movement. 

“There’s a difference between honesty and being an asshole,” Percy responded, stepping forward until their faces were inches apart; a soft dusting of freckles visible across Annabeth’s nose and drawing Percy’s attention. 

Annabeth scoffed, a moment of silence passing between them before she finally spoke, her expression unreadable. “You can’t take me seriously.” 

Raising an eyebrow, Percy glanced over her outfit before replying. “I don’t tend to take people seriously who wear dresses and bows on an eight-mile hike.” “Are you complaining?” Annabeth snipped in reply. 

Percy watched as her cheeks filled with blush at her own words, her fists clenched tightly by her sides. "No,” he replied after a moment. “I’m not. However, you can’t blame me for judging you. You did get lost in the woods on your first hike.” 

The familiar annoyance and anger returned to Annabeth’s face as she leaned forward slightly, her vanilla perfume filling the area around them. 

“If I hadn’t been dragged on this stupid hike by my absentee father, I wouldn’t have gotten lost in the first place, and I wouldn’t be stuck in the damn woods with the world’s biggest asshole,” she snipped, her eyes shining with fury.

Percy smirked, her anger only serving to make him further attracted to the girl in front of him. “That’s a lot of “if’s’,” he whispered, their faces mere inches apart from each other. 

“God, you’re infuriating,” Annabeth exclaimed, opening her mouth to speak further when Percy’s sense of self-control abandoned him, his arm reaching out and pulling her against his chest; the soft material of her sundress at her waist warm against his hand. 

“Am I really?” Percy asked, waiting. Waiting for a sign.

~~~

Annabeth’s heart was beating impossibly fast as she registered Percy’s arm around her waist, his forest-green eyes wide and his messy black hair perfectly tousled despite the day’s events. 

This boy was sensory overload, breaking down her walls and working his way right into her heart. She knew her anger was simply a facade, poorly concealing her strong attraction for her tour guide. 

As Percy kept his gaze trained on her, Annabeth struggled to hold back the feelings she’d been fighting since the first time she’d laid her eyes on him, at the coffee bar in the Commons.

“You’re infuriating as hell,” Annabeth whispered, and that was all she could manage to say before his lips landed on hers, his hands grasping onto her sides as hers intertwined into his impossibly soft hair. 

Groaning softly, Percy guided them backwards until his back was against the tree behind him, pulling Annabeth against his toned chest and deepening their kiss.

Annabeth smiled against Percy’s mouth as his hands trailed up and down her sides, his fingers mapping every inch of her waist and hips. 

She feverishly kissed him back, his tongue sliding across her bottom lip in response. It was only when she felt as if her lungs couldn’t hold any more air that she pulled back, the remnants of her ponytail falling into her face and the strap of her dress sliding down her shoulder. 

A few moments passed in silence as they both caught their breath, the reality of the past two minutes washing over them.

“I-I’m so sorry,” Annabeth whispered, beginning to step away. His arms tightened around her waist, pulling her back against his chest. 

“Don’t apologize for the best two minutes of my entire life,” Percy whispered, Annabeth’s cheeks warming at his words.

“Are you sure about that, Country Boy? It’s not the first time you rode a horse, or swam in the lake?” Percy smiled softly, shaking his head. 

“You are the best thing this camp has brought me, despite how much you drive me crazy, Annabeth.” Butterflies filling her stomach, Annabeth glanced down at her hands; a smile spread across her face. 

In that moment, Annabeth knew she had found something real, something tangible.

Something a lot like love. 

~~~

“Alright everyone,” Percy exclaimed, guiding the group towards the Commons with practiced ease. “We have made it back to home base. Feel free to explore from here, and if you have any questions, I will stick around for a few more minutes to answer them!” 

Chatter broke out among the group as families decided where to head to next. Percy had just slid his phone out of his pocket to check what time his next tour was when a voice broke through his focused silence.

“Excuse me, I have a question?” Percy glanced up, his gaze falling on a woman standing a few feet away, a dark-haired toddler perched on her hip. 

The woman’s blonde hair fell in soft curls over her shoulders, her grey eyes calculative as she made her way to where Percy was standing.

The little boy on the woman’s hip smiled happily as they approached, babbling incoherently. 

The woman paid no mind to the boy’s actions as she stood distractingly close to Percy, her vanilla perfume overtaking his senses and his ability to think clearly. 

“I’m looking for the camp director,” the woman began, leveling her gaze with Percy. Holding back a smile, Percy crossed his arms over his chest.

“You found him,” he replied, enjoying the spark that lit in the woman’s eye at his words. 

Stepping forward, the woman smiled knowingly as Percy’s gaze slid down her body. “It’s unprofessional to check out clientele,” the woman remarked, her pink cheeks giving away just how much Percy was affecting her. 

“Not when they share my last name,” Percy replied, reaching out and sliding his arm around his wife’s waist, pulling her against his chest.

Her hand came to rest on his chest, her wedding rings glittering in the warm light of the chandelier above them. 

“Dada!” the toddler in her arms exclaimed, reaching out towards Percy.

His heart filled with warmth as he looked at his family, kissing his son on the head before capturing Annabeth’s lips with his, enjoying the soft sigh she let out as he deepened the kiss. 

She glanced down at said phone, ignoring the large crack in its surface, rolling her eyes at the how ridiculously early it was. Just as the doors were about to slide shut, leaving Annabeth to relish the silence and peace, a hand stuck through the small gap, effectively stopping the door's retreat.

Annabeth resisted the urge to scream in frustration, sinking even further back into the corner and burying her head in her phone.

She vaguely registered a person step into the already-cramped space until they exclaimed in an all-too-familiar deep, teasing voice, "Same floor! Would you look at that, princess."

Annabeth flinched at the use of the nickname, grating her teeth in an attempt to reign in her growing anger. "We're project partners, idiot. Of course we're going to the same floor."

Her eyes met his sparkling green ones as a smirk spread across his face. He raised an eyebrow at her tone. "Someone wake up on the wrong side of the bed this morning?"

Annabeth clenched her fists, gripping onto the metal bar behind her with a strength she didn't know she had.

"Oh, we're talking about beds, are we? How about we talk about the fact that I waited three hours for you to tell me you finished your half of the project, and when you didn't, I had to sacrifice three whole hours of my sleep to finish it for you?"

She could see the confusion take over his features, and something else followed it - hurt? Anger? Before ultimately settling on anger.

But she didn't have time to dwell on it before he spoke up, dragging a hand through his perpetually-messy raven hair. "Typical. You always do this," he muttered. "Excuse me? I always do what?"

Annabeth's voice raised slightly as she stepped towards him. He rolled his eyes. "Jump to conclusions. Decide that your work is better than anyone else's and do it for them because they couldn't possibly do it better than Little Miss Perfect."

She gasped, tightening her grip on her the stack of papers she still clutched, certain they were wrinkled from her death grip on them.

"What did you just call me?" He sneered in response, stepping closer to her. She tried her hardest to ignore his intoxicating scent - a delicious ocean scent that made her weak in the knees. "Little. Miss. Perfect," he replied, bridging the gap between them with each word.

She glared at him. "Lazy, infuriating, slacker," she shot back, poking her finger into his surprisingly well-toned chest. She once again saw something flash across his gaze, but this time, there was unfamiliar undertone that followed.

He scowled, leaning down and fishing something out of his backpack sitting by feet. She barely had time to register what he was doing before a flash of white shot into her vision, landing with a decisive plop at her feet.

She could make out the title to his half of the report spread across of the top, and the scattered pile revealed just how long it was - past the required page count. She stared at it for a moment before slowly lifting her gaze, looking to his eyes.

He crossed his arms over his chest. "Guess you have a decision to make," he clipped, gesturing to the papers in her arm. "Trust me or implement your failsafe."

She straightened at his words, huffing indignantly as she brushed a lock of blonde hair out of her face that was falling out of her impossibly messy braid.

"Failsafe?" she scoffed, watching his eyes light with a fire that made her heart flutter - no, fill with contempt and hatred, that's what she meant.

"Yes, failsafe. Your favorite method. Since you can't seem to look past your own pride," he replied. "I can't believe how unbelievably-" A loud thud resounded in the elevator, cutting off the rest of her shout.

A delayed jolt caused her to violently lurch sideways, slamming against the wall. She sat up with a renewed purpose, the adrenaline overriding her soon-to-be throbbing hip. He still stood there, only having moved an inch or so to latch onto the metal bar next to them.

She scowled at him, marching over to the button panel. "What the Hades just happened?" she half-screamed, jabbing at random buttons so vigorously she was surprised she hadn't shattered the glass covering them.

"The elevator stopped," a voice came from behind her, and she stomped her heel, whirling around to face him. "I got that, genius. What are we supposed to do now? I can't be late, but I'm sure you could."

He rolled his eyes at her comment, sauntering up to the panel and pressing a large red button labeled "Emergency" in a much calmer manner than she had done moments prior.

A moment later, it beeped, and he picked up the small hand-held telephone she seemed to have overlooked, glancing at her with a smug smile as he waited for a moment before speaking.

"Yes, the elevator just stopped in the middle of the ride, and it won't move again." He glanced up at the frozen display above the panel. "Floor 34," he replied. "Yes, it's just myself and my project partner," he answered, shooting her a look to which she responded with a scowl.

He hung up the phone a second later, pointedly stepping into her line of vision to force her to hold his gaze. "Thirty minutes." He held up a hand to silence her protests. "She's calling our boss. For now, you're stuck with me."

She rolled her eyes skyward, taking a deep breath. "Whatever. Now, if I remember correctly, we were discussing your comments on my hard work."

He sighed, shoving a hand through his perpetually messy hair. "Like I said," he began, glancing down at the papers still scattered across the floor from earlier. "You have a decision to make."

Her anger flared with new purpose as she stepped back in front of him, glaring up at his tall frame. "I have no such decision to make, Jackson. Don't get some fantasy in your head."

His eyes danced with enmity as he held her gaze. "Fantasy, huh, princess?" She stomped her foot, the clack of her heel echoing off of the tiled floor.

"That is not what I meant! Now if you'd actually do something for once in your life, and stop being a infuriating-" She was cut off again, but this time by a twisted mix of her worst possible nightmare and her favorite dream.

She barely had time to take a breath before she was suddenly being pushed against the elevator's wall, her back digging into the metal bar as his eyes caught hers, a silent question dancing in their depths.

She barely processed her nod before his lips slammed against hers, causing her to gasp sharply as he smiled against her lips. One of his hands dug into her hair, causing her braid falling apart, while the other rested on her waist as he pulled her closer.

Overcoming her shock, she began to kiss him back feverishly, her hand playing with his hair as his lips moved against hers. She wasn't sure how much time passed before she pulled back, gasping for breath, her face burning and her heart beating wildly.

He bit his lip, and it took everything in her not to pull him back down for another go-around. "What," she gasped, "-was that?" He smirked, his hand still firmly wrapped around her waist.

"The only way to get you to stop yelling at me," he whispered, his lips inches from hers.

She bit her own lip, wincing at the pain from the bruises that were sure to be forming. But she shook it off, dropping her stack of crinkled papers that she still held to the floor and watched as they scattered on the floor, mingling with the ones he had thrown down.

"We have a week," she whispered, enjoying the ways his eyes stayed fixed to her lips as she talked. "Until the project is due. What do you say that we change it up a bit? Work on it together."

Her ability to form complete sentences flew out the window when she was around him, but oddly, she didn't mind - not after that kiss.

Don't get her wrong, he was still the most infuriating, annoying, aggravating person on Earth, but Styx, did he know how to kiss. Maybe she was wrong about him. He had done his half of the project, after all.

Percy grinned, his chuckle sending butterflies flapping away in her stomach. "Thank you, princess," he whispered, tilting his head. "For trusting me." She smiled before throwing her arms around his neck, pulling him back down for another breathtaking kiss.

When the firefighters arrived twenty minutes later, it took all it had in her to pull away from him. She couldn't keep the grin off of her face, intertwining their fingers and squeezing his hand as the doors slid open.

~~~

Annabeth absently stirred the pot on the stove, her mind wandering as she tapped her foot to the rhythm of the soft music floating in from the nursery.

She had just turned off the stove when she heard the front door unlock, biting her lip as a smile broke out on her face.

Not a moment later, a pair of arms wrapped around her waist, and she giggled, turning around and burying her face in his neck. "You're home," she whispered, enjoying the way his arms tightened around her before he pulled back and studied her.

The look of pure adoration and love in his eyes as his gaze traveled over her outfit - his old t-shirt that hung off of her small frame, the edges of her black gym shorts peeking out from under its hem - made her heart flutter uncontrollably.

"Hey, princess," Percy whispered, pulling her into a kiss that never failed to make her blush like a schoolgirl with a crush. She smiled as he pulled away, kissing him on the cheek before turning around and pulling the pot off of the stove.

"Go away before the food gets too cold," she whined, pushing his chest. He chuckled before shooting her a grin. "I'll be right back."

When he returned two minutes later, their two-year old son resting in his arms with a sleepy smile, Annabeth swore she fell in love with her husband all over again.