#cabinofimagines

Except two days before your party you were hanging above the toilet bowl. As you felt like you reached the bottom of your stomach you moved away and leaned against the wall. You felt a little silly about the sorrow which you felt. Certainly you were tired, but come on you just wanted a get together, to see your friends and feel celebrated. 

But you were just being silly.You weren’t up to it, so Nico called everyone with the news and the rain check. Will offered to be your personal doctor, but you were just without any energy and feeling quite miserable so you told him to just focus on everyone else instead. 

Nico didn’t want to feel too guilty about probably giving you the stomach bug. He also didn’t care about his own birthday that much- but he knew you valued birthdays. He knew because every year you organized something for him, every year Will did something because he knew you enjoyed celebrating them. Every year you try to celebrate your own birthday, making all the preparations and stressing an appropriate amount for one's birthday. Nico knew you were upset, and he knew you would pretend to be fine. Nico might not understand exactly why you care so much about birthdays, but he knew you did and just couldn’t figure out how to make it right. You were going to be sick on your birthday and he hated it. 

Whereas Will decided to focus his energy into healing you in every way possible. He had seen you get more tired the days before you officially got down with the bug. If anything, the way you deflated when you asked Nico to call everything off had his heart aching. Sure, you were firstly stressed about going to the store still, as the plan had been to go last week but it was simply too busy to go, but now you were unable to go anyways. 

At least since the bug had already passed through most of your siblings, you were staying in your cabin. Since it was already past breakfast, your boyfriends gathered up some easy to digest foods and made their way to you. Nico had their presents for you, all wrapped up. He hoped that even if you couldn’t celebrate, they could at least make you feel a little better. 

You had hoped that this morning you would miraculously feel better. Perhaps then you could still do something- hang with your lovers, maybe get some of the closer living friends together. But no, your body was against you. For birthdays to always seem so big and magical, only to just be another day when you’re sick felt like a crime to you. Mostly though you were upset at how upset you were. How did you never realize how important your birthday is to you, unless you’re missing it. At first you thought you might just have been upset at the change of plans because you had planned it all, but then you figured it was missing your friends, missing the shot to have them all come over and talk to them. Sure you never needed a reason, but having a reason on a set date was always nice. And now you were stuck in bed, hugging Beanjamin close, as you blinked away some more tears. 

“How is our birthday buddy doing?” Will’s voice sounded careful. You quickly wiped some residue tears away before turning around in your bed to face your boyfriends. You didn’t feel like sitting up just yet.  “I’m still nauseous, but it is less than yesterday.” You sighed, “Also rub it in that all I’m getting this year is puke.” 

“That’s not true,” Will mused as he crouched before your bed, “firstly you are getting some breakfast if you’re up for it, if not at least some water.” You stared at Will for a beat before slowly going to sit up. Nico was moving your pillow in no time, so you could lean against the wall next to your bed. You spotted the gift bag prepped up against your bed, but didn’t say anything. Something about being polite about it. 

Will checked once more what you wanted to eat and carefully watched while you ate. He seemed content with the fact you were at least ingesting foods now, so with a little ‘proud of you!’ and other encouragement you got down a semi decent breakfast. As soon as that was over, you leaned your head against Nico’s shoulder, as he had sat down next to you and kept Beanjamin safe from any spills. Beanjamin was his plushie, but he had lend it to you as you weren’t feeling well, a guardian of sorts. As you closed your eyes for a little, you didn’t react to the knock on the cabin door. You felt Will get up from the bag, and opened your eyes as he let someone in. 

“Special delivery from Hermes express,” said Hermes himself, as he emptied his sack full of post. After he was done he winked, before going “And a happy birthday, kiddo,” and disappearing to wherever his next delivery was. You sat up a little more, eyeing the small pile of stuff and letters on your floor. 

“Did you set this up?” you eyed Nico who just shrugged. “I didn’t ask anyone, did tell them you were bumped about not celebrating your birthday,” Nico moved off the bed, grabbing a blanket and putting it on the floor, “You want to get started? Only go so many hours on your birthday.” 

You missed the time you spent at home. Of course, you loved camp, you loved your friends, but every time the holidays came around you felt homesick to a place you would never return to. The worst part was remembering the specific traditions you used to have with your parent - and knowing that you wouldn’t get to do those this year again. You often go through this period fine, a little high strung sometimes but with your friends, and boyfriends, on your side you would get distracted enough to only get sad when you’re alone. 

And it felt wrong to celebrate the holidays without your traditions, it felt weird to bring up your traditions and it was simply hard to communicate what you wanted. Maybe you wanted to be back home, never having known demigod life, or maybe you just wanted a hug and baked a specific recipe you used to make every year, or see your living room decorated specifically like it used to be. 

Either way, the holidays come and go every year and it seems that today was simply the day that your brain decided to be sad and homesick. Thus, you figured you would just spend some time wallowing in your misery on your own instead of bringing down the general mood around camp. Maybe a part of your reasoning was that the more happy atmosphere of camp would simply make you sadder and feel worse. 

However, your boyfriend seemed to have a different idea. You see, your sour mood around the holidays didn’t go unnoticed by your lovers, as you seemed to close off a little more each day from them. Nico especially wanted to make the holidays a bit special. In the previous years, before he stayed at camp year round, the holidays had always been tinted by grief and sadness. He barely remembered how he used to celebrate when his mother and Bianca were still around, but Will and you had slowly been giving him new hope. Perhaps, with the two of you on his side, he could slowly move on, and one of the steps he wanted to take was to rejuvenate his energy around Christmas. Therefore he had made some plans for the three of you.

“I’m not really in the mood to go out today, Nico.” you looked away from your boyfriend, “I’m sorry,” 

“Please?” Nico wasn’t one to beg, but he really wanted to spend time with you, “Will’s already in my cabin.” he offered as he held out his hand to you.

“I don’t want to bring your mood down,” you explained, but you slowly took his hand anyway, unable to tell him no. 

“That’s fine,” Nico grinned a little, “If there is anyone who would bring the mood down it would be me and you know it.” Then his face flushed a little, “besides, it wouldn’t be the holidays without my family.” 

“Your family?” you asked before, softly, “oh,” Your heart stammered, he had meant you and Will as his family, you looked at him fondly, “I love you, Nico.” You stepped closer before softly sharing a kiss with him.

When you finally entered the Hades cabin you didn’t notice much to be off. Will was laying on Nico’s bed, with his feet still on the floor. You sat next to him, putting your hand on his hair. Will smiled at you. 

“Nico got you out of your cabin?” Will asked, grabbing the hand that was on his hair and pressing a kiss to the palm as you hummed. 

“He had some rather good arguments,” you elaborated, “like loving me, and loving you.” 

“I didn’t take for our sunshine to be a poet,” Will sat up as Nico sat down beside him. They kissed softly, “But your talents are uncountable,” Will finished his sentence as he broke away. Nico had a blush on his face as he stared at his boyfriend. 

As you sat there for a moment in silence you realized that for a moment the never ending sadness you had felt the past few days had gone, chased away by simply being near your boyfriends. Perhaps you should note down that your loved ones would make you feel better, as much as loved ones could also make you ache. You shuffled your body closer to Will’s, and felt his warmth against your side. 

“So what’s the plan?” You asked, looking at Nico as he came out of his little daze. 

“Well, I thought maybe,” he hesitated for a second, the slightest sliver of doubt in his mind, “that we might celebrate the holidays with the three of us. As in, we make our own tradition?” he suggested, and Will nodded slowly. 

“My mom and I used to write each other small poems,” Will said, “Or I guess songs, sort of, each year.” Will then smiled softly, “Well, we still do. She sends them in the mail and I use Hermes Express to get mine wherever she is. It’s a small way we communicate. Although, the three of us don’t have to do that, it’s honestly a bit private for me.” Will admitted. 

“Did you have any traditions, Nico?” You asked. 

Nico shrugged slowly, “I don’t remember a lot, and never really had a celebration since coming to camp.” Then he flushed slightly, “I used to go to McDonalds, and simply get a festive meal.” 

“Festive?” Will poked Nico’s side, “What, do they add Christmas lights to it?” Nico shook his head. 

“No, but the people there,” he sighed, “I suppose I just sought out the energy, okay?”

“You’re cute,”  you told him, leaning over Will to kiss Nico’s cheek. On your way back Will grabbed your cheek and pressed a kiss to it.  

“What about you?” Will let your face go. You thought about it for a moment, but it didn’t take long  as you had been sitting with these feelings for a while. 

“There wasn’t much outside the standard things-” you sighed, “I suppose for us what mattered most was to spend the time together.” after another beat you resumed, “I mean, we always made a dessert together but the recipe changed every year,” you laughed at the memory, “we really should’ve written it down somewhere. I don’t even remember the name.” 

Nico perked up a little, “Do you remember the ingredients?” but you shook your head. 

“I only remember the taste when the nectar tastes like it,” You leaned on Will’s shoulder, “Which isn’t always.” 

“Well, we can just bake a different dessert each year until we find it, starting now.” Will suggested and you rolled your eyes, “That would take ages,” you objected, but Nico ignored you.

“Where will we bake?” Nico asked, “Last time I checked anything that could serve as a kitchen here is a bit off-limits.”

“I’m pretty sure Leo can give us something to work with.” Will said, and you felt the trembles of his voice through his chest. 

“What, he’ll let us bake on top of him? He’ll lay still for twenty minutes?” You joked. 

“No, we’ll lock him in a small, metal box until the food is cooked,” Nico said and you laughed. 

Nonetheless, after you made your way to Bunker Nine it only took Leo half an hour to have a baking station set up, with the condition that he would also get a part of the dessert. 

“And kisses?” He puckered his lips, and as you stepped towards him, Nico was faster, pressing a rock he had on hand to Leo’s mouth. Leo backed away, as he grimaced. 

“Hey! That’s unhygienic!” he objected, but Nico just smiled widely. 

“I dunno, stones are rather tasty if you ask me.” Nico put the rock on the table.

“Yeah, you need minerals in your diet Leo.” Will chimed in from next to you. Leo looked unimpressed as he waved you off. 

“I’ll be somewhere on the other side working on Festus, just make sure to call me when your dessert is ready.” 

However, that was before he became a Lord of the Wild, which meant that he needed to do a lot more work around and outside of camp. At least you were allowed to go with him on his travels sometimes, but you spend less and less time with him. You didn’t blame him, but you missed him and felt him slipping away from you. Thus you decided you needed to tell him how you felt before it was too late.  

You had yet to anticipate how hard it would be to get a moment alone with him. The first time you stumbled upon your friend, you didn’t get past “how are you-” before he quickly told you he had to get going or he would be late. Late for what only the gods know, but he slipped away. 

The second attempt was slightly more successful- Grover was sitting at the campfire, and you sat down next to him. 

“Busy week, huh?” you asked and Grover’s head shot up.

“Ah, (Y/n), I hadn’t seen you come-” Grover bleated, “I’m sorry, it has been busy.” 

“Finally catching a break?” You asked, as you bumped into him lightly. Grover smiled and started leaning against you. 

“Sort of, I’ve missed you.” he said as he laid his head on your shoulder. His horns had started growing out more, and you could feel them poke in your neck, but you decided not to say anything, lest you scare the poor soul. 

“I’ve missed you too,” you let out a breath, “Hey, I need to tell you some-” 

“Hey, G-man, do you have a moment?” Percy spoke up from beside Grover, and you glared slightly at him as Grover sat up. 

“Of course! Whatcha need?” Grover sat, and Percy gestured away.

“Just wanted to check something, am I interrupting?” Percy asked. Grover looked at you, in turn. He clearly wanted to see if you needed him, but you shook your head. 

“No, not really. Go ahead, I will see you soon?” you asked Grover and he nodded excitedly as he stood up and followed Percy. 

Well, third time's the charm you thought as you saw your beloved goat boy stand not too far away. So, you almost sprinted towards him, smiling. 

“Hey Grover! Do you have a moment-” Grover looked at you, but you could already see Chiron approaching him from behind. 

“Of course I do, always for you.” he was adorable, but you shook your head, as you eyed Chiron getting closer. 

“I don’t think you do- you know what, never mind.” you pouted, “Wish I wouldn’t have to make a reservation for your time just to talk to you, but it is what it is.” Grover looked confused, but you continued, “Just come to me when you have five minutes? Me approaching you is clearly not working out.” Grover was worried about what you meant, but before he could even ask what was going on you turned around and walked away. And before he could even reach out, Chiron’s voice asked for his attention. 

Third time was not the charm it seemed. 

Grover hadn’t seen you since then. Apparently you truly wouldn’t come to him whenever he had a moment- which normally you really had a knack for finding him just as he had nothing to do. He really hoped you weren’t angry at him- and he felt like he was irrationally anxious about the possibility of you never wanting to talk to him again. That couldn’t be it right? 

So, a few days later when he hadn’t planned anything for at least an hour- a feat as far has his schedule went these days- he quickly ran to you, took your hand and dragged you away from your cabin, into the woods. 

“What-” you stammered, but Grover was quick to turn around and face you. 

“I have not much time but I asked the dryads to make sure no one finds us for a bit. It’s just us, no interruptions, nothing,” Grover wished he had a can to chew on and get his anxious energy out, “So, what do you need?” he asked, his voice turning soft and quiet at the last words in the sentence. Before answering you grabbed one of Grovers hands, an appreciative smile on your face.

“Grover, I need you,” you took a deep breath, “I need you too, I know you’re busy being lord of the wild and that it’s hard staying still but please, I need you to know I love you.” 

Grover bleated, as he hid his face behind the hand you weren’t holding. “Do you mean-” Grover slowly lowered his hand, and he saw you nod. “I love you, romantically, goat boy.” Your heart stammered, “and if you’re not ready- or not interested, it’s fine. I’m just glad to have told you.” 

“I’m too- uh I mean,” Grover shook his head, “I love you too,” You smiled, and you moved closer pressing a kiss on Grover’s cheek. “You’re all I need then,” you sighed, “now go, I know you promised the dryads something. See you at dinner?” 

Grover had a dazed expression, with a big grin on his face as he nodded. “See you, love you,” he turned around, hoping that he could quickly finish the requests he still had to do today, so he could spend time with you. 

So out you went, got dressed, got to the training arena, faced Sherman, not Nico, showed up to breakfast, ate something, waved at Will, didn’t feel any better. The day continued and around three in the afternoon you called it quits. It didn’t matter what you tried to do- nothing was giving you satisfaction, or felt like it was useful. Throughout the day your brain decided to suggest other activities that might be worth your time more than whatever you were doing, but those activities seemed to be even worse than what your initial plan was for the day. It was dreadful. Therefore, maybe doing nothing would feel good. 

Thus there you were, laying on top of your blanket, in your bed. Nobody else was in the cabin, and you were grateful for it. You had, as a good intention, grabbed your journal and a book you were currently reading, for perhaps your bed would give you enough comfort to do something. It hadn’t, however you kept the two near just in case someone would walk in. You would be able to quickly grab either and pretend to be busy to dodge any questions or requests. Or, at the least, you hoped you wouldn’t look like a depressed little shit. So, you just laid there, sometimes urging yourself to pick up the book, only to stare at the same page for ten minutes before closing your eyes. Eventually the dinner bell rang and you got up, head a little painful. You felt tired, but food might help? 

Food did help, at least with your energy level. You even found yourself a little excited to go to the campfire, more or less unable to say no to your friends. And you had spotted Nico sitting with Mr. D, and Will at the Apollo table so maybe you would be able to sit with them. 

Yet, as you made your way to the campfire surrounded by some of your friends, you didn’t see your boyfriends. After a bit you spotted Will with his siblings- ah, of course they would lead the campfire songs. He didn’t look at you, so you looked away. You couldn’t find Nico, but he might have gone to bed early.

Gods you were touch starved. Even the warmth of the campfire couldn’t make you pretend that your boyfriends were near, and the fact that that was the first thought in your mind was upsetting. You indulged in conversation with your siblings for a bit, but still, seeing Will so far away, it just made you want to lock him, Nico and yourself up in your room, in your bed and be cozy.  

And you truly thought you were making it up when Nico sat down next to you, and pressed a kiss on your cheek. After a moment of surprise you smiled at your boyfriend. 

“What are you doing back?” you asked as you reached for Nico’s hand, which he gladly gave you. “I missed you and Will,” Nico looked you over, “and I’ve been worried about you.” a pit formed in your chest, as you tried to laugh it off. “Why?” you didn’t like how your voice trembled just there, “I’ve been fine.” you tried to correct your tone, to no avail. Nico shook his head. “Don’t lie to me.” his tone was angrier than he was expecting it to be. He had known you were feeling less than okay from the date yesterday, and he realized how little he had seen you in the past weeks. He had missed Will and you and when he saw you in passing today you looked miserable, but then he hadn’t been able to find you again during the day and he got roped in the last few things he wanted to do for the troglodytes, so this was the first time he got to you again. Seeing you made his heart a little lighter, but his worry bigger. You were radiating yearning and he had seen you stare at Will from across the amphitheater. Either way, he could see that his tone had affected you, as you were no longer smiling, but instead staring at him, sadness barely contained behind your eyes, guards up. 

You weren’t saying anything, and Nico knew the feeling too. Instead he decided to stand up, tugging at your hand without words. He made eye contact with Will, and beckoned him over. Will took a moment, laughing as his siblings probably teased him, before he walked around the campfire towards the two of you. 

“What’s up with the two most beautiful people in the world?” he asked, although he could clearly sense the tension between the two of you. You looked away from your boyfriends, not wanting to face them just yet. 

“We’re going to have an intervention,” Nico said casually, and he squeezed your hand, “You coming?” You didn’t know, but Will nodded as he looked at you. He had been worried too, and this morning he had found Nico, but not you, and talked with him about how weirdly distant you felt. He knew he hadn’t found much time for you recently, and felt bad, but he did hope you would come to him if you truly felt bad, or if you at least felt ready to deal with your feelings. He hated forcing emotions out of people, but it hurt him to see you hurting. Will walked wordlessly to your other side, grabbed your hand as you looked up. You were met with a worried smile of your lover, before he softly kissed you on the cheek. “Let’s get this strong one checked out, huh.” His words were soft as your boyfriends led you to the Hades cabin. 

It hadn’t taken long to walk to the cabin, but when the warmth of the campfire was removed it seemed as if the cold hit twice as hard. You didn’t want to do this- but then again isn’t this what you had wanted? Alone time with your boyfriends? You had thought that they didn’t know, or wouldn’t notice but of course they do. Your significant others loved you, and would notice it whenever you’re unwell. 

So you walked into the Hades cabin, the lovers on your side moving to stand in front of you, neither letting go of you as they grabbed each other's hands, completing the circle. Your boyfriends looked at you, hoping you would start talking, telling them what was wrong. Instead, you tried to push their worries away. 

“I am fine, now that we’re all together.” your voice wavered, but you smiled, unaware of it not reaching your eyes. Nico wanted to call out your lie again, but decided to change strategies. “You’re allowed to feel bad, love.” Nico spoke softly, careful with his tone, “ You can talk about it, or not- that’s up to you but at least let yourself feel bad. Don’t force yourself to have a good day, like you did yesterday, or feel good.” “I wasn’t forcing myself,” you objected, “the day truly got better when I hung out with you!” “But afterwards? Or today?” Nico squeezed your hand, a knowing look on his face, “You’ve been feeling bad for longer and going on a date isn’t going to fix that.” “But it helped.” your voice was quiet, “I didn’t want to ruin our first outing like that.” “It might’ve helped, still it doesn’t mean we’re not worried.” Nico matched his voice to yours, and as a short silence fell Will spoke up. 

“And you should talk to us, or anyone, even if it would ‘ruin’ a date.” Will sucked in a breath, “I know it sucks to hurt- but we would be more worried if you didn’t tell us than if you do. We care about you and want to know when you’re unwell.” There was a lot of emotion in his voice, but after his little speech the room got quiet again. He let go of your and Nico’s hands as he cupped your cheeks.

“What do you need?” Will asked, wanting to leave behind his doctor ways of prescribing help. Will acknowledge that this time you were the only one who would know how to help yourself. 

“I don’t know.” you choked back tears, you did know. It wouldn’t fix anything in the long term, but it would make you feel better.  “cuddles?” your voice came out as a whisper, gone from the emotions you were feeling. Will smiled, as he softly gave you an ‘of course, love’ and intertwined his hand with yours. Nico silently propped up the pillows on his bed, before guiding you to sit next to him. As you sat down you leaned your head on Nico’s shoulder, as he put his arm around your shoulder. 

Will laid his head on your shoulder, still tightly holding your hand and leaning on to you. You didn’t want to move- but hiccups shook your body as you let out more tears, slowly you moved your legs up, going more into a fetal position as you leaned further into Nico, but Will pushed your legs softly downwards a little, refusing to let you curl up. 

“It will feel better, I promise.” he said as he looked you in the eye. He put his palm under your chin, using his thumb to move away some of the tears. It was futile- more were forming and falling while he did it, but he tried anyways, lovingly, catching them, catching you. His face was one of concern and so, so much love, as he made a final effort of clearing your face of tears by pressing a kiss on your cheek before once again leaning against you, his head on your shoulder. 

Nico’s grip on you tightened, but he was unsure of what he could do, and wanted to do. If Nico was honest, he hadn’t gotten much, if any comfort previous to dating Will and you whenever he had breakdowns. He didn’t know how he could help- he just understood the need to be independent, and the relief when he found out he didn’t have to be that anymore. This wasn’t about him, but he would need to be told what you needed before acting. 

Nico felt guilty, most of all. Perhaps if he had kept you closer he would’ve noticed sooner, he was often the most perceptive of the three of you. Then again, you knew how important communication was, and he knew how hard it was to communicate. The cycle of emotions would never go without its stumbles, and next time Nico swore to himself he would catch you. He would much rather fall with you, and find you at the bottom of a spiral. So he held you, and would hold you until you were steady again, and hopefully long after, he would hold you in his embrace. 

But that was not what today’s story is about. Instead, it is about how your boyfriend was acting when you found him. He was basically cradling his bag, smiling suspiciously.  However, as you all knew to not hang around after a monster attack, you didn’t question him at all, and when you sneaked back into camp and went separate ways you promptly forgot about Will being suspicious.

Or rather, you would have, if he stopped acting that way the next day. Nico had grabbed Will by the arm as Will had just tried to sneak away after lunch without talking to either of you. But instead of answering to your questioning looks, he wriggled his arm out of Nico’s grip. 

“I just need to do some stuff- I will catch up with you later.” Will slipped away quickly, leaving you and Nico alone. 

“He’s hiding something” You stated and Nico nodded. 

“Since yesterday, let’s follow him.” he suggested, and you both were on your way. 

Will had seemed to leave camp, going towards Rachel’s oracle cave. He finally crouched down before something, and Nico and you silently followed him. Will seemed too preoccupied with whatever was in front of him to notice Nico and you sneaking up to him. As you came closer, something darted past Will, and as he quickly turned around, to grab the creature he spotted his lovers. 

“Oh! Hi, what are you doing here?”

“We could ask the same of you, William.” Nico stepped closer, “Whatcha got there?” 

“A smoothie-” 

“Will.” Nico sternly glared at his boyfriend. 

 Will pouted, “Remember yesterday? When we encountered those monsters?” Both you and Nico nodded. 

“Well, I found these,” Will gestured for you to come over. In his lap were a bunch of kittens. You crouched on Will’s left, as Nico did the same on his right. Three of the kittens made their way over to him, climbing on his knees. Nico panicked, and fell backwards on his butt, giving the kittens more access to his lap. Will was mindlessly petting the remaining kittens on his lap, and you were watching Nico intently. Nico reluctantly tried to push the kittens away, but he was so gentle that he ended up petting them instead. 

It was a soft moment, as Nico relaxed and got used to the kittens. But good things never last.

“I think we’re parents now,” Will declared, and you shot him a panicked look. 

“Will, love, light of my life,” you carefully grabbed a kitten from his lap, softly petting it,  “We cannot keep these?” Will pointed at Nico, who hadn't looked up from the kittens he was petting but you shook your head. 

“Nico has the cocoa puffs! Certainly cats would be fine!” He exclaimed. Nico looked up and shook his head. 

“I don’t think they would be safe at camp, or happy.” he said, still unconsciously petting the kittens on his lap, which started softly meowing. 

“Let’s ask Chiron.” You offered. 

“No!” Will quickly grabbed the kitten back from you, “He would never allow it. Look how about we just try it for a week. I’m sure you both will be convinced to keep them by the end of it.” 

You were not convinced by the end of the week. Sure, the cats were cute and even talked back whenever you addressed them. However, getting them enough food, supplies and a safe shelter while keeping them out of sight was hellish. First up was naming the cats, which Will had attempted before you arrived. However, most of the kittens looked very alike and he kept messing up, so in the end it was either settling for leaving them unnamed ( “Until!” Will had exclaimed, “We decide to keep them.” “Or we get them other forever homes, love.” Nico tried to reason, but Will shook his head.) 

Next up was shopping for supplies. The kittens had been staying in Rachel’s cave, as she was not currently at camp, but the slight dampness was worrying you. Therefore you had to go to a pet store. But as you got there, you found out cat supplies weren’t the cheapest and in addition you had not a clue on what to get. You had asked the clerk for help, after Will refused to do so (“I’m sure I can find out what my children need,” “I can’t believe you’re killing your own kids by being stubborn,” Nico had rebutted). At last, you had a list of things and had started putting them in the basket. Suddenly, a worried looking Nico had shown up before you, telling you to hurry up. 

“There may or may not be monsters just outside of the store.” 

“Where’s Will?” you asked worriedly. You couldn’t stop yourself though- “he’ll find more cats while we fight the monsters again, where’s he?” Nico laughed, before answering. 

“He’s already convincing the clerk to let us through the back door, to throw the monsters off.” 

After your successful trip to the store it was decided that if the cats could be taught anything then that meant they were more likely to stay away from let’s say the lava walls or other dangerous places at camp. At least, that was Nico’s condition for raising the cats. Determined, Will and him set out to teach the cats tricks. 

Setting aside a small calico cat, who was the most calm thus far, you watched as your boyfriends started their endeavor. It certainly was cute seeing them try, but they clearly weren’t built for teaching a creature with no intent of listening. The kitten kept crawling onto Nico’s lap, and after being removed from it for the fifth time, it made a beeline for you, meowing angrily. Your boyfriends sighed in defeat as you started cuddling it, an unsaid ‘I told you so’ on your tongue. 

Meanwhile, about a quarter of the people at camp had caught a whiff of the cats one way or another. Besides that a camper or two had complained about allergies (not that they were exposed to the cats-), the week was coming to an end. You knew very well it was time to rip off the band aid for Will. 

But there was one final card Will had up his sleeve. He wanted to incorporate them into date night, as it would be ‘such a cute thing! Family time!’  

That wasn’t the only reason, it was going to storm, and Rachel’s cave was out of camp borders which meant that the kittens would be caught in the middle of it. After careful consideration, you smuggled them into Nico’s cabin, where you had set out a ‘cat-proof’ blanket fort. With a cat-friendly movie on the screen cuddles ensued. Will sat in the middle, Nico on the wall side and you were on the other. All was going well, although a little chaotic at first, as the kittens wouldn’t sit down. But with enough pets, the six kittens were seemingly getting sleepy. 

That was, until Will suddenly paused the movie. After a moment, he groaned. 

“I got peed on." he picked up the evil doer, “This little one peed on me. We should get them off the bed and blankets.” 

“Ah, yeah you didn’t manage to potty train them, did you?” you laughed and moved the kittens off your lap. Nico seemed a little more worried about getting  the cats off, as it was his bed you were sitting on. When you all put the kittens in a cardboard box, Will sighed. 

“Well, where are we going to keep them now? They will for sure pee everywhere in here, and the cave is unsafe.” 

“Do you think we should tell Rachel there is cat pee all over her cave now?” Nico asked, unhelpfully. 

“Probably, maybe-” you heard a knock on the door. It wasn’t past curfew yet, so you wouldn’t be in too much trouble if you were found hanging out, but there was a different problem as the kittens were meowing loudly. The three of you had a moment-long staring contest, not speaking up, in the hopes the kittens would also quit talking, which they didn’t. 

“I know you three troublemakers are in here,” Chiron’s voice sounded loudly, “I just want to have a word.” 

“He knows,” Will whispered, looking accusingly at you. You put up your hands.

“I didn’t tell him- I swear.” you whispered back. Nico shook his head, as he made his way to the door. 

“Hello, Chiron,” he tried to sound casual, “what brings you here?” 

“Oh, I simply want to see the box and its contents that you brought over here.”

“Of course, just a moment-” Nico was interrupted. 

“Now, young man.” 

Will looked at you, panicked. You grabbed the box but Will tried to stop you. “Please (Y/n)- we can-”  But you turned around, determinedly going to Chiron. As you walked out from behind Nico, Chiron looked at the kittens. 

“So, that is why I kept finding dead mice at the front step of the Big House.” Chiron grimaced, “I am sorry to inform you that we cannot keep the cats near camp,” 

“Look, we can teach them to stay away from danger and-”

“It is not that, young man.” Chiron looked heavily at Will, “The cats will hunt the wildlife near camp, and I cannot excuse that. It is harmful for the environment to keep the cats here, and I have already heard worries from several satyrs about the sudden uptake in disappearing animals. But worry not, there is a satyr supported stray cafe not too far from here, and Sam Greenwood has offered to take the kittens there, as he was going to visit it anyways . They will be treated well, and possibly adopted by satyr approved households.” 

“stray cafe? And why would satyrs run it, aren’t they against domestication?” 

“They take in any stray animal that should not be let out in the wild. Snakes, cats, lizards and the more. Invasive species are harmful to natural habitats, and by extension if the species does not have a habitat where they do belong, as is the case with your cats, they cats are better adopted and kept inside than letting them roam around until they run out of wildlife to kill. It’s one of many efforts to clean up after humans make a mess.” 

So, you gave up the kittens. Will pouted, but he handed over the kittens. 

“It’s for the best,” Will sighed, “but maybe we can visit the café at some point?” 

“That’s a paw-mise,” you smiled, and Will groaned. “You have to be kitten me-” Nico said, and Will groaned louder. 

“The entire week they have been here and you two start when they’re gone?” Will complained.

“This was just the purr-fect moment, sunshine.” You smiled, and Will put his head on your shoulder. 

Sam had been the way to inform them. Apparently you were caught off guard when you were making your way back to the Chase place, and you had been lucky enough to have stumbled upon Sam afterwards. Magnus couldn’t move fast enough to your location, and somehow he had felt like he had been too late, even if you were still alive, but unconscious. 

“Look, if I had been around-” Magnus started but Alex gripped his shoulder. 

“You weren’t,” Alex glared at Magnus, “You couldn’t have been! So don’t fucking blame yourself when you better worry about (Y/n).” Alex took a shuddering breath, “I will not grief- let you grief when they’re not yet dead.” She had been holding on, keeping up her appearance thus far, but it was crumbling. Alex sighed, holding back the tears she could feel behind her eyes, “Just focus on regaining energy, maybe they need more healing.” 

Magnus wasn’t a stranger to losing a loved one, but it had become rarer. He knew now that he could heal people, and that’s all you needed to get round, right? When he was around pain wouldn’t last long- yet somehow he hadn’t been enough to heal you. There weren’t any physical wounds, but why hadn’t you woken yet? Magnus wasn’t entirely stunned- he had noticed that when he tried to heal you, he hadn’t caught any glimpses of your memories and consciousness. Magnus normally didn’t have control over it happening, but when bringing one back from the brink of death if had always happened, and yet, with you, it hadn’t. Were you too far gone? Or did Magnus know you too well to need to catch your memories?

Alex didn’t want to face the reality- the fact that even in this world of gods, you might die. Alex had seen the impossible happen again and again, yet right now the possibility of losing you seemed so real. And she didn’t face any of this- not yet, not when you were still breathing. She wouldn’t mourn, cry, panic until you were truly six feet under. She had to be strong, she’s always had to be strong. 

It took you three days to wake up. Throughout these days you were never alone, Magnus and Alex took shifts, barely able to put up with the other while you were struggling. It wasn’t t that they blamed each other- it was their own inabilities to face their feelings and be vulnerable while you weren’t yet gone. You wouldn’t be gone is what they both wanted to believe, but crying over your unconscious form together was too close to admitting the dire situation. There was strength in denial. 

And then your eyes shifted, your mouth felt dry but your body didn’t hurt. You were uncomfortable- that was sure, but as you tried to move your arm to rub your eyes you were met with resistance. As you stretched your hand you notice another hand holding it tightly. Softly, you heard Magnus’s voice whisper your name, and you wanted to respond but it came out as a groan. The warmth- oh, the hand holding yours had been sweaty- left your hand, and you moved your fingers, bringing your arm to your face and finally rubbing your eyes, ridding it of some grub that had seemed to keep them closed. 

As you opened your eyes the room seemed too bright, and for a second you considered you had, somehow, arrived in Heaven. But, luckily, Magnus’s face disproved that theory. 

He helped you up, and at the same time Alex made his way into the room, carrying a tray. As his eyes looked at you, he moved quickly, putting down the tray next to your bed and helping Magnus to sit you up. 

As you drank your water, Alex realized he had been crying. He no longer needed to be strong, because you were back and breathing. There were still things to worry about but your imminent death had passed- and that allowed him the breather he needed to feel the emotions he had been denying himself for the past few days. 

Your glass was discarded- whether by your own hands or by Alex grabbing it as you finished neither of you know, but you are quickly engulfed in a hug. 

“Never do this again.” Alex demanded but you knew you couldn’t promise it, so you simply hummed in response. Magnus hesitantly joined the hug, not wanting to overwhelm you as you had just recovered, but he didn’t want to stay back either. After a moment you broke apart, although neither of your lovers let go of you entirely. Alex had unexpectedly kept his hand on yours, while Magnus had moved to sit next to you on the bed, entangling his arm with yours. 

“Well, dear child, I do not remember any tasks given to you.” Chiron spoke as he walked closer to the campfire, “Perhaps a belated prophecy as our Oracle?” he suggested. Rachel perked up. Her eyes widened as green smoke started to come from her mouth.

(Y/n) will return alone, after collecting the stone, and repairing a parents shrine, Only then, all shall be fine.

 Will’s grip on your hand suddenly got tight, as Nico sat up from his position, clearly distressed. The green smoke faded and Chiron quickly caught Rachel as she fell down. 

“(Y/n),” Chiron addressed you as he made sure Rachel was sat safely, “it is most unusual that you have been directly addressed by name. This most likely is a quest from your godly parent, do you accept this quest?” You could feel the eyes of your boyfriends on you, their worried gazes burning into your head. You knew they would not want you to go, but it was your parent, who chose you to do this. 

“I do.” you said, and you heard protests from your boyfriends. 

“I will-” Nico started, “I mean we will go with (Y/n).” the son of Hades looked at Chiron, who shook his head slowly. “I fear that that is not possible, my child.” Chiron stated calmly, “As the prophecy demands (Y/n) to go alone.” Chiron turned to you, “It probably is best if we go over possible details at this moment, so you can leave in the morning if you wish.” 

You started to stand up, and so did your boyfriends. 

“Will, Nico, I-” you purse your lips. “I want to know the details-” Will started but you shook your head. “How about you go to my cabin while I discuss this with Chiron?” You grabbed both a hand of Nico and one of Will, “That way will probably be quicker, and I will tell you the details afterwards, okay?” Reluctantly your boyfriends nodded their heads, as they watched you walk off. 

───────────

“I don’t care what the prophecy says!” Will grumbled as you were packing your bags, “What about the rule of three!” “That contradicts ‘will return alone’ Will, we’ve been over this.” you sighed, a slight tremble in your voice, “I don’t want to go without you, but I will not” you glared at your boyfriend, “needlessly endanger the loves of my life by ignoring the prophecy.” you waved your hand, “besides, it’s like Chiron said, just a small thing to do for my godly parent and then I will be back! Nothing to worry about.” You heard Will sigh from behind you as you went over your belongings one more time. 

“I don’t like it.” Nico stated, “I want to protect you, you shouldn’t have to go in alone.” You turned around to see your boyfriends sitting together on an empty bunk bed. You walked forward and motioned them to scootch apart, worming yourself between them. You softly grabbed both their hands, squeezing them softly. Nico leaned his head on your shoulder. 

“It’s not like we have much of a choice. It’s either going alone, or most definitely get you two mortally wounded, if not outright killed.” “But what if you get hurt?” Will whispered, “What if I am not there to help you?” “You will be, after all,” you looked at Will, meeting his eyes, “You taught me how to do first aid, don’t tell me you’re doubting your skills as a mentor?” Will grimaced as his gaze softened. 

“We will still be worried about you, love.” Will slowly moved towards you and gave you a careful kiss, “and we’ll miss you.” 

“I will miss you both.” you sighed, “I think that might be the worst part.” You felt Nico snuggle into your neck, “Just promise me you’ll wait at camp for me?” “I guess,” Nico mumbled, “But if I catch any wind of you being in danger I don’t think Will would stop me.” Will nodded his head in agreement. “Nico!” you paused, “Gods I love you both Will, please make sure Nico won’t do anything stupid,” Will hummed in agreement, as Nico protested with a weak ‘Hey!’ “Oh and Nico, please make sure Will doesn’t do anything either-” Now it was time for Will to feign hurt.

“Why is he not allowed to do anything stupid, and I am not allowed to do anything?” Will put a hand over his heart. 

“Love, I think you’ll be too busy looking after Nico.” you shrugged, “and the last time we let you do stuff you somehow came back with six cats to take care of so,” 

Will sighed as he went back to leaning on you, “I am going to miss you,” he pressed a kiss on your shoulder. 

“I’ll miss you too, but if all goes according to plan I will be back in a fortnight!” you promised your boyfriends.

───────────

The next day you were off, leaving behind two worried boyfriends. With a positive attitude, and your sword on your side, you were sure this would all be a piece of cake. However, the first obstacle was already in your way after only a few hours of traveling. 

You sighed as you checked the map. The first part of the quest was to find the right material to repair the shrine, and sadly the Home Depot you went to was all out of it, so the first ‘easy’ part was getting harder with the second. What should you do, rent an Uber to bring you to the next closest Home Depot (you did not have that much money on you), ask the Gray Sisters to do it instead (that would be a near death experience) or try stealing some from a museum? The last one might not be the smartest, but then why would there be a museum right next to the Home Depot? 

On your way you went. 

───────────

The sun was setting and it had been a few days since you left. Nico and Will sat together as they looked out over the strawberry fields, definitely not in case you were going to suddenly show up from outside the border. 

“I miss them.” Nico sighed, “But they will be okay, right?” “I hope so,” Will leaned his head on Nico’s shoulder, “What do you think they ate for dinner?” Will felt Nico sink down a little. “I don’t know, what if they didn’t have any?” Nico tensed a little, “What if they are stuck in a hole right now, desperately trying to get out?” Will huffed. “Do you think they drank enough water?” Will asked and Nico made a non committal noise, and Will sensed his worry, “What if they found a new kind of demigod and became ambassador for their godly parent there without telling us?”  “What do you-” Nico gasped, “Hey! It would have been dangerous to introduce Camp Half-Blood to Camp Jupiter at the time!” Nico protested, roughly sitting up. Will swiftly followed his movement. Nico glared at Will, “I am seriously worried about them, okay?” 

“I know, Nico, my sunshine,” Will smiled, “But what if they get accused of kidnapping their parent and become a wanted criminal throughout the entire states?” Nico’s glare faltered. “I think it’s more likely that they lose their memory,” Nico hesitated, “to get raised by wolves for a bit, before they arrive at Camp Jupiter. At least then we will find them again.” Will softly cupped Nico’s cheek with his hand

“They will come back to us,” Will kissed Nico, “We just need to trust them.” 

───────────

Nico paled when he realized where you were. He had heard the story of Em’s emporium from Percy and Annabeth. Why were you here? 

“Stupid cyclops with it’s stupid hands and fucking-” you walked into frame. Nico tried to move closer, but he noticed he was stuck. Stuck as a statue. “Take a breath (Y/n),” you looked around, “Improvise, adapt, overcome. There must be statues around here somewhere, it won’t be as fancy but it will be enough.” 

You walked up to Nico, staring directly into his eyes. 

“This one should do.” You brazed yourself, and pushed him to the ground. 

Nico woke up in a cold sweat, shaking. Why were you in his dreams- his nightmares? You seemed to be alright, but he knew this was not part of the discussed plan- you were in danger- what if-

Nico started to sit up, only to feel his hand press into another body. 

“Ouch-,” Will groaned as Nico recoiled, “Love?” Nico rested his back against the wall, counting the timing of his breaths- in for four, hold for five and out- in, hold out.

“Nico?” Will entered his vision, “Nightmare?” Nico nodded, reminding himself that you were alright even if you were in his dreams. Will positioned himself next to Nico, not touching him, but he could feel the bed shift. Will recounted a few times where Nico had nightmares, and he fell into a routine the three of you had set up. 

“Do you want to talk, or for me to try to guess what it is?” Will asked and Nico nodded, “Talk?” Nico shook his head.

“About down there?” Will asked, Nico signaled ‘no’, “Your past?” Nico shook his head again, “I don’t know uhm,” Will felt Nico nudge his hand, and he carefully grabbed it, “Can you help me out, love?” Nico licked his lips. 

“(Y/n),” his breath hitched. Will squeezed his hand as he tensed. “Are they alright?” he whispered, and Nico softly nodded, “But you’re scared because they’re in your dreams?” and Nico nodded again, leaning against Will now. Will engulfed his boyfriend in his arms. Will softly rubbed Nico’s back. “It’s okay to be scared,” Will whispered, “I am too,” and Will realized he could no longer promise Nico that you would be alright. He just hoped you would be. 

───────────

After the last nightmare, the nights became restless. If the planning would have been right, you should have been back two days ago but you were not. Nico was scared that the next time he would dream it would be about your dead body, and he continuously attempted to sense your soul. You were getting further away, but you were not dead.

Yet. 

He hadn’t had a new dream about you, and Will got permission form Chiron to stay over most nights. Together they talked, but whenever the topic turned to you the conversation quickly quieted, both of the boys in their own worlds of worry. At some point, Will had put on your favorite movie, putting out the snacks you normally ate. But, the gummy worms went untouched, and as Nico hugged Beanjamin close -his weighted goose plushie - he slowly dozed off. 

Will was worried. He noticed the growing bags under Nico’s eyes, but how could he help? Austin nowadays reassured him multiple times a day that you would be back any moment now, but would you? Will didn’t blame his boyfriend for having a nightmare about you, however Nico and nightmares were never a good sign. What if it just meant you were gone? 

As Will leaned closer, he could already hear Nico whimper from another nightmare. 

Oh no.

Nico turned around, suddenly face to face with his lover. You looked beaten, but not injured. Dirt stains covered your clothes and face, and Nico tried to reach out to you, only to phase right through you. 

“Why the fuck is this tunnel not ending yet!”  You huffed, before sitting down on the floor and leaning against the wall, “This will be easy they said,” you mumbled, holding in a sob, “easy my fucking ass” 

Nico stepped forward, “(Y/n), please” You closed your eyes in defeat. “keep going for me-” he begged you before the dream faded away. 

Will hated how deep Nico could sleep when he was having nightmares. Every time it felt like the dreams would suck Nico in, only letting him go when he had seen everything. “Nico please-” Will called out just as Nico shot up, hitting his head against Will’s head.

“Fuck!” both boys exclaimed. 

“Sorry,” Will said after a moment, “I should not have been hovering above you, I guess.” 

“What are you sorry for?” Nico sighed, “It’s not like you could’ve known.” They both sat in silence, not looking at one another. 

“I heard you say their name,” Will hesitated, “Are they alright?” Nico swallowed harshly. “They didn’t look injured-” Nico clenched his fists. “But?” Will prompted. “Something must be wrong.” Nico sighed, “They were crying, something about a tunnel- I don’t-” Nico looked Will in the eye, “I think we should go.” “Okay, but we need to discuss it with Chiron, tomorrow.” Will said. 

“But!” Nico shook his head, “I guess you are right, fuck.” 

“I know, I am sorry.”

─────────── 

The conversation with Chiron did not go well. Nico was seething, standing at the border of camp as Will held him tightly. 

“They are hurt Will! I can’t just sit here and wait for them to die!” 

“I promised them I wouldn’t let you do anything stupid!” Will tightened his grip, “I promised, Nico.” 

“But what about protecting them?” Nico was no longer yelling, “What about loving them?” Will tensed and he wished to fucking scream at Nico. Instead, he decided to be the bigger person and he took a deep breath. 

“I love them and I love you.” a pause, “and I cannot stand that you are making me choose.” Will felt his shirt slowly get damp. He hated it when Nico cried, but it was better than when he was angry. Will closed his eyes as he felt Nico’s arm sneak around his waist. 

“I can’t lose them,” Nico mumbled, “I can’t lose you but-” he gasped for air, “I’m sorry, I’m terrified.” Will held his boyfriend in silence, pressing his lips to the top of Nico’s head, as he slowly let his own tears flow. The wind blew around them, leaves rustling as they both tried to calm down. Slowly their breaths synchronized. 

And suddenly another pair of arms engulfed the two of them. 

“What-” Will quickly pushed the third person away, as Nico stepped back. “Geez guys, I know that I haven’t showered yet but this is excessive-” “It’s you,” Nico’s voice quivered. “It’s me,” You smiled painfully, “I need to go to the infirmary-” you clutched your side, and before you could even move Will and Nico were at your side, holding you up, “Sorry I took so long.” “I love you, and would love to talk,” Will grimaced, “But my priority is healing you, my love.” 

“Thank you.”

─────────── 

Much to Will’s chagrin, Austin stood on taking care of your wounds as he was on shift. He had tried to object, but Austin was right that perhaps he was not in the most emotionally stable state to professionally assess the injuries you had sustained. So, Nico and him were just standing outside of the infirmary until you were properly patched up. Next to him, Nico had his eyes closed, and if Will didn’t know better he would think Nico was relaxing. However, Will did know better, and the creasing of Nico’s eyebrows worried him. 

“How are they doing?” Will asked. Nico’s eyes sprung open, as he was surprised by the voice of his boyfriend. Nico had been concentrating on the feeling of your soul, which seemed too far away but so close. He had fully forgotten that Will was there with him, waiting on you too.

“Their souls wavers sometimes,” Nico let out a breath, “Which is normal for injured people, I guess.” Will nodded in response. He had to remind himself that Austin had as much skill as he had, and that you were not in any mortal danger when you arrived. You had to be fine, you would be fine. 

These thoughts did not stop Will’s heart from stopping when Austin walked out, looking a little dejected. “How’s-” Will started. “They kept correcting me on what I was doing,” Austin laughed, “A bit embarrassing for me, but they are alright.” 

“Thanks, can we go in?” Nico asked, ignoring Austin’s comment. Austin stepped aside, and Will and Nico made their way inside the infirmary. 

As your boyfriends approached you, they saw the awful state you were in. Nico went to stand on the right side of the infirmary bed you were in, and Will on the left.Neither of your boyfriends dared to step closer, as you were barely sitting upright. Instead they each grabbed a chair and sat down within reach of you, wordlessly.

“Did you get any ambrosia yet? Nectar?” Will slowly moved closer as his stomach churned at the sight of your weakened state. You tried to shake your head, but quickly stopped as you closed your eyes in pain. “I am at my limit already, didn’t really have time to properly heal up on my way here.” your voice came out rough, but steady, “How are you two holding up? Missed me?” Nico’s gaze went from your face to your hand. It was wrapped in a bandage, much like the rest of your upper arm. 

“We were worried about you, my love.” Nico heard Will speak as he softly grabbed the blanket instead of your hand. He didn’t want to accidentally hurt you, and your form seemed so bruised and broken. His ears still picked up Will, who was retelling all that happened since you were gone, but his brain did not process it. Instead, he feared that just being here was already weakening you. He knew his presence wouldn’t hurt but- but what if the essence of death brought you closer? What if he made his nightmares come true? 

“... has been having dreams about you. That’s why we were at the border.” At the mention of his name, Nico looked up, releasing the deathgrip he had on the blanket. 

“Oh?” you looked at the son of Hades, “all good dreams I hope?” Nico’s head stopped any thought it had when he looked into your eyes. Your shining, alive, eyes and your handsome face. “That doesn’t matter,” Nico muttered as he sat more upright, a feeling of ease coming over him, “Now that you’re back, it doesn’t matter.” Nico was never going to let you go alone again, as he promised himself to keep protecting you no matter what. 

Will looked at his boyfriend, as he smiled. The past few weeks had been rough on them, even worse on you, but the three of you were finally together. You still looked tired, but less so after your talk. Will knew that he would need to wait until you were better and as Austin walked back into the infirmary he stood up. 

“I think we should let (Y/n) rest, Nico.” he wanted to hold you in his arms until you fell asleep, but you needed uninterrupted sleep for now. Nico nodded as he too stood up. Tomorrow he would hold you, if you were better. He will wait until you are healed.

“Sleep well. Love you.” Will said as he waited for Nico to be at his side. “Love you, (Y/n). See you later.” Nico had a ghost of a smile on his face. 

You carefully laid down, before saying a final ‘I love you’ to your boyfriends, as you could finally relax.

But just before your boyfriends went away there was one more promise to be made to them.

“I’ll see you tomorrow?” Will knew that he and Nico would wait forever for them, if they needed it to heal. He didn’t know when this journey would end, but he would walk besides you and Nico, hand in hand. Nico knew he couldn’t promise you a kind road, or a fair sky, but he knew that he would protect you and besides you in any way he can.