Ring, ring, ring.
"Paul! Can you get that, please!" I call out to my husband. We had just finished with lunch, and I was doing the dishes. The ringing of the phone is distracting and, to be honest, irritating. I still carry a bit of a trauma when it comes to phone calls because of my son.
Missing his call when he was taken from us for 9 months was still a sore spot for me. Since then, every call we receive would make my heart beat just a little bit faster, making me remember that Gods awful time.
"On it!" My husband shouted back from the living room, where he is playing with our daughter. I smiled and continued washing the dishes. "Hello! Blofis residence," I mutely heard him say, answering the phone.
I ignored him and let my mind wander to other stuff, moving in autopilot.
"Sally," I was taken out of my thoughts by Paul, standing beside me with Estelle in his arms. He was also holding the phone, poised as if to give it to me. His face had an unreadable expression; it was obvious he was troubled by whoever was on the other end of the call.
"What's the matter?" I asked, growing nervous. Paul had fielded a number of troublesome calls in the years we've been together. Calls from Percy saying he will be gone on a quest, to calls from Chiron telling us that Percy was alive but wounded.
He has gotten used to it, so his troubled look was worrying for me. I know Percy and the rest of them were ok. Otherwise he would have sent an Iris message to me.
'It's for you," Paul told me, handing me the phone and rocking Estelle. I looked at him, bewildered. He would usually leave me alone with my phone calls, but it was obvious he wasn't doing it now. I raised my brow before answering the phone.
"Hello, Sally Jackson-Blofis speaking," I said over the phone.
There was a pause before I heard the other person speak. And when she did, I was frozen in place. I now understood why my husband was acting the way he was. I never expected her to call after the last conversation we had, years ago.
"Mrs. Jackson, it's me, Annabeth."
A voice I have not heard in a long time. The voice that I once thought I would hear every day. A voice that belonged to the woman my son loved above all else. Someone he traded Godhood for, someone he fell into the Pit of hell for. The voice of someone who broke his heart.
And a voice I hated so much for a time.
'Gasp!'
Hearing Annabeth's voice brought back a lot of memories. Memories of the two of them, her and Percy. From the time they were 12 years old till the time when I learned that she had hurt my son. I felt the familiar pang of anger run through me, and I was tempted to just end the call right then and there.
But I didn't; Percy has made it clear that he has moved on and no longer harbors any anger towards her during his last visit. Not that he was looking to reconnect in any way, but he has accepted and forgiven her actions. Or so he told me.
I took a deep breath and looked to Paul, standing beside me in silent support.
"Hello, Annabeth. It's been a while," I said over the phone. I heard her sigh in relief, probably because I didn't immediately end the call. There was a pregnant pause between us, either of us wanting to be the first to start.
After a while she began to speak again. "I know I'm probably the last person you wanted to hear from. And I'm sure you have other things to do, so I won't take too much of your time," Annabeth began. Her words flowing out, fast and concise. I felt bad all of a sudden; I knew she had suffered after what happened between her and Percy. I know I didn't make things any easier. Back then, the girl looked to me as a mother figure, and I accepted her as a daughter; then I treated her as a future daughter-in-law.
Sadly, things didn't end up that way in the end. I pushed her away due to my anger for what she has done to my son.
"Okay, I'll listen," I replied, going to the living room and sitting down. Followed by Paul, who sat next to me, Estelle crawled to my lap as I waited for Annabeth to continue. "Thank you." Again I heard her take a deep breath before she started.
Her words caused my heart to beat harder. 'They know,' I thought.
I wondered how they would accept the circumstances of Percy's life now. Would they accept it when even I took a while to come to terms with it? Especially when Percy introduced Piper to me after being with Hazel.
"A little over a month ago, we sent a few campers to his place, and they learned a lot more about what has happened with them since 7 years ago." Annabeth continued, voice dull. Like she is reciting a practiced line. And I think that's exactly what she's doing.
"Last week, I finally called Percy, and we agreed to meet." Surprise was an understatement of an emotion I was feeling. The two of them will finally be meeting. And while this is a good thing. I couldn't help but wonder if this was right. She was the woman who hurt my son the most. What she did was something that can't be forgiven so easily.
"So, we decided to meet in New York. And I suggested we meet in your home." Her words caught me by surprise. I thought she would be jumping at the opportunity to be alone with my son. As much as she hurt him, I knew that deep down in her heart. My son still occupies a significant portion of it. Or rather, as a woman, I knew she's still in love with Percy and is holding on to hope of somehow getting back together.
"Why here?" I asked her. I would have thought she would go to my son's place. "I figured it would be for the best. And with what I learned about his fiancées, I may not get the best welcome in their home," was her explanation. It was logical, and I understood her wish to meet here. She is wishing I would act as a buffer between her and Percy. She knew that with me present, Percy would not lash out in any way, no matter how angry he got.
Smart.
"That's actually possible, okay." I accepted her reasoning. "When will the two of you meet?" I asked. "Percy said that he's flying out in 2 days, so we'll meet then," was the answer I got. "So, the two of you have spoken?" I was shocked; I knew this day would come sooner or later, but now that it was going to be happening, I found myself apprehensive of the idea. But the fact that my son was okay with talking with Annabeth was a huge relief to me. As much as I hated her for what she did, I didn't want my son to live with that anger in his heart.
That's why I am so thankful to Hazel. It's because of her that Percy learned to love again.
'Yes, we've spoken over the phone after the campers sent to him came back." The relief in her voice was evident as she answered, but there was something else in there too. Yearning was obvious, but guilt and reluctance were mixed in as well. I could also tell she was afraid; of what, I'm not sure.
"That's good. That's a start at least," I murmured. "Yes, it is," she replied.
"So, I will be expecting you in 2 days," I stated, already planning what to cook. It's been a while since I had my son visit after all. And if I'm right, he'll have Hazel and Piper with him. I can't imagine those two letting him meet Annabeth alone. Not because of jealousy, but because of genuine worry for Percy, after what he went through with Annabeth.
"Yes," Annabeth confirmed. There was a pause before she spoke again. "Thank you, Mrs. Jackson, for agreeing. And again, I'm sorry for all the hurt I caused your family." I could hear the sincerity in her voice. She really meant it, and my heart bled for this girl who I loved so much once upon a time.
"It's no problem, Annabeth, and for what it's worth, I hope you and Percy can learn to forgive each other." I wished for her. And I meant it too.
"Thank you! I hope so too!. Well, I won't keep you any longer," Annabeth said as she ended the conversation. "It was a surprise to hear from you, Annabeth. I'll see you in 2 days," I told her and ended the call.
As soon as the call ended, I sighed deeply as I leaned back on the sofa. Closing my eyes as I went through what just happened. I felt the phone being taken from my hand, and I opened my eyes and turned to my husband seated next to me, face full of concern and curiosity.
"They're meeting here?" he asked after a while. I nodded, my mind still whirling from the events of the last few minutes. "I hope everything turns out okay," Paul said wistfully. "I hope so too," I said in return, echoing his sentiment. Paul pushed himself off the couch and headed to the kitchen. "You want something to drink?" he called out. "No thanks!" I replied.
I looked down at my daughter on my lap as she played with a toy sword in her hand. My mind still occupied by the thought of Percy and Annabeth in one room after all that went through with them. Even worse is that since I knew Hazel and Piper will be coming with him, I worried about how Annabeth will be treated by them.
Sighing once again, I leaned back and just let myself relax. My mind drifting to the past, memories of a time when my son came to me for help after the war, asking me for advice on what to do about the decree The Fates laid down for him.
---------Flashback---------
A knock on the door broke me away from my writing. It was a sunny afternoon in New York, and I was currently alone in my apartment. My husband Paul was still at school and wouldn't be home for a few more hours. I hadn't ordered anything, and if it was a delivery, Tom, the doorman, would have called to inform us.
Knock knock knock
The knocking came again, and I was forced to stand to see who it was. I came to the door and peered through the peephole. Who I saw behind it was someone who I missed so dearly.
"gasp!"
Quickly, I wrenched the door open and stared at the person standing before me. Percy. My son, who was called to camp a month after the war with the earth itself. After being taken from me for 9 months. After my eyes made sure that he was fine, my hands reached for him and pulled him in for a hug. The bone-crushing kind.
"Percy! Your home!" I said as I crushed my son in my arms. If I had my way, he would never leave my side, but I knew that wouldn't be possible. Him being who he is. Not even I can restrain him, much like the sea. "I'm back, Mom!" He whispered against me, and I could feel his resignation.
Immediately, I was alarmed. What could have happened while he was at camp? A new quest? No, they can't do that. Still hugging my son, I pulled us into the apartment and led him to the living room. We sat down, and Percy still wouldn't let go. I figured it might be because of Annabeth, seeing as he was at camp and he couldn't really avoid her while there.
Annabeth,
I sighed as anger and disappointment surged through me. I'm still having a hard time believing the girl that kept on calling and visiting me while Percy was missing. The one person who, like me, never gave up hope of ever finding my son and bringing him home. The one I thought I would welcome to my family as a daughter-in-law could ever do something so cruel.
I guess it goes to show that you can't really ever know someone as much as you think you know them.
I was shaken out of my thoughts when I felt Percy push himself off me. He had a tired smile on his face, and immediately I knew something was up. I waited for him to open up, and my son didn't make me wait long.
"Sorry for being gone a month," he began, fingers fiddling with that pen of his. 'When did he pull that out?' I thought in my mind, "That's okay, baby. You're home now." I said to him, grabbing his hands in mine. We look at each other, like we did when he was younger, whenever he felt overwhelmed by his existence.
"Something happened, Mom, and I need your advice on what to do," Percy said, looking anywhere but at me. I've always felt proud of my son. But it's times like this that really make me proud of the man he's become. I've always tried to instill in him growing up that it's ok to ask for help sometimes.
And I've always felt honored that he's always come to me for advice. No matter how awkward it became. Although the past few months before his disappearance, that position was taken over by Annabeth. And I didn't mind; after all, that was the natural progression of things in life. And back then I still believed that the 2 of them would end up together. And I think Annabeth believed it as well, and if my son didn't find out what she did. They might have ended up like that.
"Of course, son, I'll help in any way I can!" I reassured him as I sat up, giving him my undivided attention. My son sighed and ran a hand through his hair, a nervous habit he's always had. After a few minutes he looked up and stared at me, and I braced myself for whatever he was going to ask or say.
The situation right now was reminiscent of the time he and Nico came to ask for my blessing for him to be successful in bathing in the waters of the river Styx. And that detail made me nervous and anxious. I hope it's not something like that again.
"I was called to Olympus earlier," he started, and I think my face showed my fear because he paused and reached for my hand before he continued. "Relax! Mom, they're not sending me on another quest." He assured me, and I took a deep breath hearing that. I smiled at my son, encouraging him to go on with his story. "I met Dad with Zeus and Hades in the throne room. They told me that the Fates came to them and basically ordered them to reward me for all the things I've done for them." Percy said, 'A reward from the gods,' I thought. That could both be a good thing and a bad thing.
"I tried to say that I didn't want any reward, but they said that I have to; otherwise it will be decided for me by The Fates themselves. By then I won't have any say in it and will just have to live with whatever they decide for me, including godhood, which I already turned down twice." I sighed at that. Why couldn't they just leave my son alone? Though I could also see this as an opportunity for him.
"They asked me what I wanted, and I managed to ask for a few days to decide." That was a smart decision. "So, have you decided?" I asked. "Not yet; I was hoping you could help me figure out what to ask for as a reward." I smiled as I watched Percy duck his head down, abashed about asking for advice as he rubbed the back of his head. A habit from childhood.
'He really is growing up to be a good man.'
"Of course I'll help Percy!" I promised. I will always be behind my son, supporting him and loving him. especially now, after what happened to him. "Thanks, Mom!"
"Now, before we brainstorm ideas for what you can ask, why don't you come with me, and we can go to the store and buy dinner?" I asked, wanting to spend some mother-and-son time with him. Just doing something ordinary for a change. "Sure, Mom, whatever you want."
We stood up, and I grabbed my bag and headed towards the door.
---------line break---------
We spent 2 days racking our brains trying to think of the best wishes Percy could ask the gods for. We had to think deep and hard on what will truly be beneficial for him in the long run.
"Okay, so this is it," Percy exclaimed as we sat at the kitchen table, the sun shining through the window. It was a wonderful day, the perfect day to make demands of the gods of Olympus. I look down on the notepad we have been using for the past days, seeing all the words and sentences written on it. Ideas for rewards and other stuff.
From 100 million dollars to being president. That one was just a joke, but it still made it to the list. Lots of arguments and debate happened before we came up with just 2.
"Yes, I think those 2 are the best you can ask the gods for." I replied with a smile. I picked up the note and read the 2 that was encircled. "Safety" and "Freedom." Two simple words, but the meaning behind them is far more important. One ensures his safety from monsters while the other guarantees that the gods won't be able to meddle with his life again.
That was one we both agreed was a non-negotiable point even at the start. Since he was 12 years old. My son has been fighting for the gods, doing their bidding. Being sent from quest to the next almost non-stop. It has to stop. And his wish for Freedom would make sure of it.
"Then I'll go and present it to the gods now!" Percy smiled confidently. "Are you just going straight to the Empire State Building now? I can drop you off if you want," Paul offered. He's been helping out in the last 2 days as best he can. Cooking up meals for us and reminding the two of us, Percy and me, to take a rest when it's time to sleep. I am very much thankful to my husband for his support and presence.
"Nah! Stay here with Mom; I'll take care of this." Percy replied, and he stood up and looked at me. I also stood up and went to my son. He used to be so small; now I have to look up at him. His shoulders are broader now, and he is strong enough to carry the weight of the worlds upon them. Literally carried the sky on them once.
I reach up and hold his face in my hands. "I'm proud of you; I'm sure the gods will grant your wishes!" I told him honestly. I watched as he smiled and nodded. He stepped back and headed for the door with me following along. We stopped by the door, and I held his hands for a few seconds until he stepped out and closed the door.
I suddenly felt Paul's arms wrap around me. Grounding me and taking away my worries. "He'll be okay, right?" I asked no one in particular. "Of course he will be okay. He's your son, after all." Paul's words calmed me down, and I resolved myself to wait until Percy comes back with the results of his wishes.
Paul and I walk back into the apartment, trying to go about our day.
---------Flashback end---------
Remembering that time has been a particular favorite memory of mine. The time when Percy, my son, finally got his freedom and safety from the gods. I felt someone squeeze my hand, and I turned to see Paul looking at me with a frown on his face. "Are you ok?" he asked.
I smiled at him, "Just remembering the day Percy went to Olympus with the wishes," I told him with a nod. "That was a wild day," Paul replied, and I couldn't help but agree. Remembering how anxious I was waiting for Percy to return and how weirded out I was when he did return with the news of the changes that were made to him and his life because of the wishes he made.
Thinking of that brought me back to later that day. When Percy returned and shared the news that changed our way of life drastically.
---------Flashback---------
It was later in the day when the door to the apartment opened. Immediately, I bolted from the kitchen table, leaving the laptop and papers I was working on, or rather I was staring at. Unable to concentrate even a little, I haven't written even a sentence since Percy left earlier.
I rounded the corner to see my son entering. I smiled tentatively at him. Hoping against hope that everything went well. Looking at his face, though, I got the feeling not everything went as we hoped.
"Welcome back, Percy!" I greeted him as he came to me. Surprising me with a hug. I felt my son melt in my arms, and my worry for him was doubled. 'What could have happened?'
I guided him to the couch and sat him down; he sighed heavily and closed his eyes. I went and got him a glass of water and sat down next to him. "Here. Drink this." I held out the water to him, and he opened his eyes and smiled at me as he took the glass. "Thanks, Mom!"
He set the glass down on the table after draining it. "What happened?" I asked, now that he was more relaxed. "A lot!" Percy blurted out. I wanted to ask more but held my tongue. Knowing my son, I know he's currently arranging his thoughts. My patience was rewarded after a few minutes.
"They granted my wishes, so you don't have to worry about that." I breathe out in relief at his words. My son is safe now; that was all I cared for at the moment. Though I could feel a "But" coming along. I believe we could get past whatever that "but" would bring about. "That's great! I thank The Fates for that!" I exclaimed, clasping my hands together. "We can deal with whatever is causing that frown on your face."
"I wish it was that simple," Percy said tiredly, making me worry more. "Tell me what happened, Percy," I asked directly now. My son sighed and sat straight. "So I went to Olympus and I met Dad, Zeus, and Athena in the throne room." He started, and I concentrated on his words, looking to see what could have caused his mood.
"I presented the two wishes we decided on before them," Percy went on. "The Gods said that they needed time to see how they could grant it, so I spent time on Olympus." Just as I thought, something happened. But still, the most important thing was that the wishes were granted.
"When they called me back, they presented me with ways they could grant my wishes. It seems that my wishes caused them some trouble," Percy smirked at some memory. "They told me that in order for them to grant the wishes, some condition must be met first." His face turned serious, and I in turn also turned serious. This is my son's life after all.
"They said to grant my wishes, they first need to make me immortal," Percy said in a soft, resigned voice.
Immortal, undying, and unchanging.
The very same state the gods are in. "Did you accept?" I asked. Percy just nodded, and I felt my stomach drop. My son, who turned down Godhood twice, was forced to accept immortality for his safety. It is marginally better than having lived the past 17 years since I carried him in me with the fear that I would one day have to bury my son. But still, He will never grow old and die. I have lived the past 17 years with the fear that I would one day have to bury my son.
Every year since he turned 12 and went on his first quest. I dreaded every call from Chiron, fearing that he would be bringing me news of my son's death. All the time he went away and never came back was like a nightmare. And yet he always came back to me. He always survived.
A movie I watched ages ago said, "I'm not gonna bury my son! My son is going to bury me!"
And I wholeheartedly agree with that line. It's a natural progression of things. It is how life is supposed to go. Now, with this immortality granted to him, he is guaranteed to live past me, way past me, as a matter of fact. It also meant he would be witnessing the death of everyone he ever loved. That he would be the one left alone in time as those around him succumb to the passage of time.
"After I was made immortal, they went on to explain how they would grant my wishes." Percy went on, and I let him, knowing that any talk about his immortality would be for later. "To grant me Freedom from the gods, they will be giving me a piece of land somewhere. That land would be protected like the camps, only, aside from monsters not being able to get in, the gods themselves also wouldn't be able to enter as well."
"They told me that my immortal essence will be bound to the land, and as long as that land exists, I will be out of reach of the gods," he added. I was speechless; that was almost too good to be true. "Are you going to be able to leave that land, or are you going to be stuck there forever like Calypso?" I asked, remembering the Titaness that healed and saved my son when he was 14.
"No, it won't be like that. Calypso was imprisoned on that island for supporting the Titans during the first war. I would be given that land. I can leave the land at my leisure," Percy answered, assuring me that I would be able to see my son and that he won't be taken away from me.
"That seems like a good thing. Any idea where it would be?" My curiosity got the better of me. "Dad said they will get back to me when they find suitable land to gift me. Dad also said that he'll have Tyson construct a house for me there before I am sent there." Percy finished with a small smile.
Based on all he said, it seems to be a good thing that it has been given to him. Assurance that he would get to live his immortal life free of the gods interference and meddling. That was the best I could hope for. Him being able to leave that land anytime he wants was an added bonus. I could live with that as long as he could visit me from time to time. I'll just think of it like he has moved out. As he should when he goes to college, if we were a normal mother and son.
"That's for the wish of Freedom, and I have to agree. It is a great thing to be given to me." Percy started again, but this time his voice was clipped. Like he was holding back his anger about something. I wonder why that is. What could the gods have done for his other wish? "What they did, or rather what they have to do to grant me the safety I wished, I wish they found some other way."
I hated asking over and over, but I had no other way of vocalizing my worry and curiosity. "What happened? What did the gods do with your second wish?" Percy sighed heavily again, then he leaned back on the couch, bringing his arms up to his eyes. "Something I wish they didn't do!" was his heated answer. His tone making it evident that he hated what was done.
"The gods told me that to grant that wish of mine, they needed to place a curse on me!" Percy started. "Gasp!" I inhaled sharply. A curse. The gods placed a curse on my son in exchange for the safety that he so rightly deserved. I was frankly half a mind to march up to Olympus and demand an answer from them myself.
"Why did they do that?" I asked incredulously. Appalled by what the gods, his father included, did.
Percy stood up and started pacing, clearly agitated. "They said that the only way to counter Lamia's curse on all demigods was with another curse." I was about to ask, but he turned and continued. "Did you know about that? The reason we, their children, are hunted down by monsters was because of their own mistake! Their own sins! And we get to pay for it!!" His anger was palpable now. "Anyway, Athena said that this curse they placed on me was the only way to completely remove the scent that gives us away as demigods!" he explained.
I just sat as my son paced and vented. That was all I could do at the moment. I also noticed how he said "placed," as in past tense. Meaning whatever the curse was, it was already placed on my son.
"What's the curse, Percy? What does it do?" My voice wavered as I asked him, worry lacing my tone. My mind went haywire with negative ideas about what the curse might bring to him. My face must have reflected my troubled state of mind because Percy took one look at me, and he was beside me in an instant, my hand in his. "Hey! Ma, relax, okay!" He tried to calm me down, but it didn't really help. "The curse, it's not really harmful," he began saying as he rubbed my hands with his thumbs. "It's more like the curse affects my way of life more than me physically," he added, and it helped calm me down marginally.
"What do you mean?" I followed up as he talked. I was on the verge of tears, and I needed to know what the gods did to my son.
Percy sighed; he's been doing that a lot since he came back from Olympus. "The curse they placed on me was," he paused, looked up at the ceiling, sighed again before he looked back at me, "the curse of the Harem."
My mind went blank, and for a minute I doubted my own ears.
Harem
"The gods granted me the curse of the Harem as a way to remove the demigod scent I am giving off," Percy repeated. "They told me that any woman that becomes a part of the harem will also be able to enjoy the same privileges as I am." My mind was slowly catching up now. That seems to be a good thing, all things considered. "In exchange for a price, of course." Percy sneered, and I knew it was too good to be true.
"A price?" I asked. I'm doing a lot of that, I noticed.
"To join the harem, the women have to pledge loyalty and obedience to me, and when they become a member, they cannot disobey a direct order from me," Percy said, his head downcast, and I could feel that he hated everything about it. 'The sea does not like to be restrained,' he and his father often say. Well, 'the sea also does not like restraining others.' This must be killing him inside.
"I hate it! I wish there was some other way, but Athena said it was the only way they could find to grant my wish!" Percy complained. I knew he hated it. "I tried to take it back, but they reminded me again how it was The Fates who demanded I be rewarded for the things I did for the Gods." Percy finished his tirade and sat back down beside me, his head falling on his hands.
I pulled him into my arms and crushed him in my embrace. I rubbed his back like how I did when he was younger until he exhaled and relaxed in my arms. I pushed him off and made him look at me.
"Did the gods tell you that you need to have women in the harem immediately?" I asked, and he shook his head. "No."
"Did they push girls into that harem of yours?" I followed up. Again he shook his head. "They said that I have to ask them to join. I also have to inform them of the harem, its rules, and the price," he answered. Even though it sounds bad, it seems the rights and freedom to choose to join are still being upheld. I was worried that Percy would be given the right and power to just pick a woman, any woman, and make her a member of his harem.
I know my son isn't the kind of man to do so, but "absolute power corrupts absolutely" was a phrase I knew very well. I hate to think of Percy being drunk on this newfound power of his, added to the fact that he is immortal now. And I don't know what the future will hold for him.
I will pray to the gods that he remain just as he is, a good man. And I will try to remind him of that fact as much as I can.
"So it seems there is no problem, for now that is. Not until you invite a girl into that harem of yours, that is," I tell him. Immediately, my mind is taken to the more physical aspect of my son having a harem. By all rights, Percy is a man now. And I'm not quite sure how far he and Annabeth have gone, but I've always thought the two of them had been physical before the trouble with the giants came up. But after what happened with them? I'm no longer sure. What I'm sure of is that the woman who will be a member of his harem will be having a sexual relationship with my son.
I hope that my son would take that as a real relationship and treat her with the respect a woman deserves. And I also hope he introduces her to me.
"That's the thing, Mom! I don't want to get with anyone! Not after!" Percy exclaimed loudly. The anger in his voice is obvious, so is the hurt from her betrayal. How he stopped speaking as he was about to say his name was indicative of just how hurt he was, is. "Not after her!" he forced after a pause. "I'm not saying you have to get into a relationship with anyone right now," I told him patiently, "or even in the near future," I added.
"All I'm saying is that, for now, you should enjoy the safety and freedom you got," I explained. "You said the gods would inform you when they found a place. And that your father will be building you a place to stay on that land. I imagine it will take even longer," added. "Until then, travel; go to places you've never been before and enjoy each place. Take advantage of the fact monsters won't be able to detect you to attack." I told him, making sure he is aware of the potential of the deal he made.
"Or stay here with me while you wait. I know you chose to stay at camp after the war even though she is there so that you won't attract monsters here, putting me and Paul in danger. But now, that danger is past. You can stay here and be at peace knowing we'll be safe from monsters and the gods." I smiled, hoping he would pick the second option.
"I didn't think of it that way," Percy murmured. I can see the idea taking hold in his mind. "Yes, you're right!" he said, looking at me now. "I'll stay here and wait," he decided to my delight. "If that's okay with you and Paul, of course," he added sheepishly.
I run my hands through his hair like I did when he was younger. "Of course it's okay. You're my son. This will always be your home. Even when your place is built and you move, you'll always have a place here," I told him as I pull him in to a hug. He's really grown, but in some ways, he's remained my little boy.
"Thanks, Mom," I heard him whisper.
"And when the time comes that you find a woman to be together with, remember to introduce her to me, okay?" I said in a teasing voice.
"Mom!" Percy rebutted as I laughed at his reaction.
---------Flashback end---------
A small smile worked its way onto my lips as I remembered that particular day. What started as a problematic and worrying day turned out to be the turning point in my son's life. From that day on, he was safe and free. There might have been some hiccups along the way, but it all turned out for the better.
Percy stayed with us for a month until his father came to take him away. He promised to Iris message me once he was settled in his new place, and then he was gone. His call came later that day, and I was shocked to know that instead of a home, he was given a huge mansion in Washington state. I was also shocked to learn that he was given 3 nature nymphs as servants.
I had to remind Percy to be good and to not take advantage of them; he promised to be on his best behavior. And I knew he would; he is my son, after all. I also knew that eventually, something would happen between the 4 of them. I found myself waiting for that day, the day that he would come and introduce someone to me. A sign that he was moving on and his heart is healing.
That day came a little over a year after he started living on his land.
"What are you smiling about?" I heard Paul ask from beside me. "Just thinking about Hazel," I replied.
---------Flashback---------
I was walking down the street from my editors when my phone started ringing. I pulled it out of my bag and saw Percy's name. I still have a hard time believing that my son can now use a phone safely.
Years ago, when he was younger. Such things would have posed a danger to not just him but those around him. It's not known why or how modern technology like mobile phones attracts monsters to demigods, but now, with his wishes in place, he gets to enjoy the convenience in peace.
I accepted the call, happy and excited to hear from him after weeks of no contact.
"Hey baby! How are you?" I greeted as I answered the call.
"I'm good ma, Ma. Sorry if I was MIA for a few weeks. I was out exploring," Percy greeted back.
"That's fine, Percy! I'm happy you're taking time for yourself!" I told him honestly. I really am happy he is not just staying on his land all the time.
"I am, by the way. Are you free? I need to ask you something," Percy said as I continued to walk home. His tone had an unsure lilt in it, garnering my curiosity. "Of course, son, what do you need?"
"Well, I was out camping a few days ago when Hades came to me," Percy started. "Wait! I thought the gods couldn't go to you anymore?" I asked after I heard about Hades. "They can't give me quests or make me do shit forcefully, yes. They also can't enter my land, but they can still come to me and ask for favors. Though only Hades has actually come asking for one," Percy explained.
"Hmm," I hummed in understanding. "So, what did the Lord of the Underworld want?" I asked after a minute.
"It's actually about Hazel, you remember her? One of the first friends I made at the Roman camp," Percy continued, and I remembered him telling me about her, even showing me a picture of the small girl with curly hair. "Yes, I remember. What about her?" I asked, dodging a couple of kids running down the sidewalk.
"It seems that she's struggling, so much so that Hades took her down in the underworld so she can calm down. She was so bad Hades said she was on the brink of suicide." I gasped at that news. "The poor dear! What happened?" My heart broke for Hazel; she seems like a sweet girl based on Percy's stories.
"She broke up with Frank, her boyfriend, because he didn't have time for her anymore. Busy as he is with the legion. Add to that, she was also suffering from severe nightmares." Percy went on. "Now I don't particularly blame Frank for their breakup. I think it was the accumulation of the stress of the nightmares and her own mental state. Add to that Frank's lack of time and support for her that led to her deciding to leave Frank." Percy paused, and I took the time to digest what he just said. It really is unfair what these kids went through, and in some ways they are still going through it.
"Hades came to me to ask if I would take her in as she recovers and heals," Percy continued. "Hades said that what she needed right now is the safety being with me would bring." I understood what Hades was thinking. As a parent myself, I would always want the best for my children. It is nice to see the gods changing from how they were in the past. They are now being proper parents to their children and thinking of their well-being.
"I see nothing wrong with that, Percy. You should do it," I told Percy, showing my support. Urging him to do the right thing for his friend. I should have known my opinion on that was not going to be needed. This is my son after all, and I have raised him right. "I already accepted it, Mom. I've also talked to Hazel and explained what Hades requested of me. I even told her about the harem; I didn't want her to be surprised about it if she decided to come live with me for the time being." Percy replied, and again I was struck by how good my son has grown. So noble and kind, always willing to lend a helping hand.
It makes me proud to be his mother. It makes me wonder what he needed advice for.
"If you've already accepted the favor, Honey, then what advice are you asking for?" I asked Percy. We've already talked for a while, and I was about 5 minutes from home. "Oh yeah! I forgot!" My son exclaimed, followed by a laugh. It seems even after being turned into an immortal, the ADHD is still very much a part of who he is. "I was about to ask if you think it would be a good idea to make Hazel meet with a shrink?" Percy began to ask. "To help with her recovery," he added.
Percy's words made me pause in my steps. A professional would be a great help for anyone suffering mentally. I'm sure it would be a great help to Hazel, as long as she is actually willing to see one, of course. If she isn't, then it would only be harder for her to heal and get better.
"I think it's a great idea, Percy, but you have to ask Hazel if she's willing to see one. Otherwise, it would be counterproductive to her healing," I told my son as I continued walking. "You're right; I might have to come with her to the session as well to keep her safe," I heard him murmur. "But I do think it's a great idea; you should go with it," I suggested, agreeing with his plan. "I will, Mom! Thanks!" Percy replied happily.
We ended the call just as I entered my building.
---------Flashback end---------
After that fateful day, Percy would call me almost every week. Telling me of Hazel's progress and what they did at therapy. I was glad that he seems to be as taken with the procedures as Hazel was and that he was thinking of going to one himself. I wholeheartedly supported him and even advised him to go about it on his own time.
He did decide to find his own therapist and began going to a few sessions, and the results were evident in the way he looked and talked. Gradually the stiffness of his smile disappeared and his old carefree smile returned. His anger about what happened with him and Annabeth was also lessened, but he was still very reluctant to meet her.
And I understood; I did my part in never bringing her up, as I didn't want to cause him to backtrack in his progress.
"How are they doing? We haven't heard from them since Percy called to tell us Piper would be in the city for a month," Paul asked from beside me. I looked down on our daughter as she played on my lap. "I'm sure they are fine. They would call us if there were any issues," I answered as I remembered the day Percy and Hazel came to visit to formally introduce Hazel to me as his girlfriend.
---------Flashback---------
Knock! Knock! Knock!
Sudden knocking on my door broke my concentration. I was in the middle of writing a chapter for my book and was tempted to ignore whoever it was at my door.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
It came again just after a few seconds since the first time. It was more insistent this time. It was a pity Paul was at work; I could have ignored it completely and let him handle it. But as it were, I was the only one home with Estelle, who was asleep at the moment. I stood up before another round of knocking could begin.
"Coming!" I called out after stretching out my back. Something I needed, as it turned out. I trudged to the door and opened it without removing the chain. Our building may have a doorman, but that's not an excuse to be careless. Not for the first time, I wished our door had a peephole.
Peeking through the crack, I saw a face I will always be missing now that he's living away from me. "Hey, Mom!" Percy greeted with a smile. Quickly, I closed the door to remove the chain and opened it again to welcome him in. "Percy! What a lovely surprise!" I shouted as I flung my arms around my son in an embrace. I felt his arms wrapped around me, and then I was lifted off the floor as he spun me around in excitement.
It's times like these that remind me how much my son has grown. It used to be I was the one lifting him up in my arms; now he does so effortlessly. Then again, he has grown to be a strong, dependable man. One who has taken on the worst the world could throw at him and survived.
"Sorry for not calling first," Percy said as he put me down. "It's okay; this will always be your home," I told him with a shake of my head.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Jackson-Blofis. I hope we weren't interrupting anything," I heard a feminine voice behind me say. I turned and saw Hazel in all her curly-haired beauty standing there, hands clasped in front of her. Ever timid in my presence as the day she was first introduced to me when they asked for advice about their business.
And wasn't that an unforeseen thing, my son running a business? Back then all I wished for him was to be able to live past his 16th birthday; now I find myself rooting for his success in this endeavor of his.
"Hello, Hazel! It's good to see you again!" I stepped away from Percy to engulf the smaller woman in an embrace I reserve for people I consider family. And that is what she is now, family. After almost a year of her living with my son, even being a business partner. And if I'm right, based on how she has been looking at my son and the blush on her cheeks every time I catch her doing so. It won't be long before she gets upgraded from close friend to girlfriend.
"Let's go inside, shall we?" I invited the two, and I ushered them in, closing the door behind me. I followed as Percy led the way with me and Hazel trailing behind. Percy went straight to the kitchen, heading towards the cupboard where I usually keep the snacks while I lead Hazel to take a seat at the table. "You want anything to drink, dear?" I asked the girl as I tried to tidy up my papers and make space on the table.
"Just water, please, thank you!" came the reply. I cleaned up and grabbed three glasses and filled them with water. By the time I came back to the table, Percy was already sitting beside Hazel with a bowl of choco-chip cookies. Ordinary ones, unfortunately, not blue ones. I didn't know he was visiting, so I hadn't prepared some blue ones for him.
"You two should visit more often," I said as I sat down in front of them. "Sorry," Percy said around a mouthful of cookies while Hazel tried to reply with an apologetic smile. "So, what brings you two here today? Is everything okay? Is the business doing good?" I asked as a way to break the ice. Asking about their business seems to be a good start.
"Everything is going great! We actually just finished our first custom order! The customer loved it!" Percy answered proudly. I was happy for him; for years he grappled with his self-worth. believing he was only good for fighting and nothing else, now he's found something he could be great in. Aside from being a hero and fighting mythical beings.
"That's great! I'm happy for you! For the both of you," I said with a wide smile.
"But that's not why we're here," Percy suddenly said in a serious tone. I watched as he sat up straight while Hazel took on a nervous look. She started to fidget in her seat, and she couldn't look me in the eye. 'Ah! I see,' I thought as I saw both of the reactions.
'Finally'
I held back a smile as I waited for either of them to announce what I already knew, what I had been waiting for. What I have foreseen would happen since Percy told me Hazel will be living with him. 'They are finally together.'
"I,..." Percy started but was corrected by Hazel immediately. "We, we have something important to tell you." I waited, letting them take the lead in this. I could see the nervousness in Hazel, and I smiled again at her to encourage her. She looked at me and took a deep breath. "I confessed to your son last week," she began. "And I accepted." Percy interrupted, pulling his hand from under the table, which was holding Hazel's tightly in his grasp.
"Basically, we're saying that Hazel and I are dating now," Percy finally said. "We wanted to let you know personally," Hazel added.
"Finally!" I exclaimed, clasping my hands on my chest. "Wait, finally?" Percy asked with a frown on his face. "Oh Percy! I knew this would happen from the day you told me Hazel would be living with you!" I said with a laugh. "How?" he asked, still frowning.
"Because I know you, my son. Your kindness and loyalty to the people around you just draw them in." I started, "And given the closeness you and Hazel would have after living together, well, it was a foregone conclusion that she would end up falling for you." I added.
"And I saw how Hazel's feelings for you changed over time." I continued, now facing the blushing girl beside my son. "Yes, my dear, I saw how you looked at my son every time you two visited. It changed from trusting and admiration to loving and affectionate," I added as Hazel hid her face behind Percy's shoulder, an action that made me giggle.
"It was very obvious how you felt about Percy, you know, how your eyes would sparkle and shine whenever you talked about him, or how your eyes would follow him around whenever you visited." I teased, making Hazel squirm as she tried to hide from me.
Cute!
"And you were no better, Percy! It always made me giggle how in tune you are to Hazel, like how you are always there whenever she needed something, no matter how trivial." I turned to my son now. "Or how you seem to always be touching a part of her whenever you think no one is looking!" It was now Percy's turn to blush, though he didn't try to hide but rather face me head-on.
"So yes! I saw this coming a mile away!" I declared to the stunned couple. "And congratulations to you two! I'm happy for the both of you!" I added, feeling happy for my son. He was finally. truthfully moving on from what happened with Annabeth. And for Hazel as well, she has recovered and is better now.
May the both of them find happiness with each other. Happiness they both deserve.
Though there is one other thing I need to clarify with them.
"I do have to ask something," I started, my tone taking a serious note. Percy and Hazel nodded, hands still holding each other. I took a deep breath before asking. "Is she a member of your harem?" I asked Percy, staring at him. Willing him to answer, but it was Hazel who responded.
"Yes! I am," she answered in an even voice.
---------Flashback end---------
"I'm worried about them meeting here, honey." Paul's words pulled me out of my memories. "Huh?" I asked, not sure if I heard correctly. "To be clear, I'm worried about how the girls will treat Annabeth. After all, they are both very protective of your son."
"I'm sure they'll be on their best behavior," I assured him. "Although, Piper could be a bit over the top when it comes to Percy," I added, truthfully. "I'd say!" Paul replied with a scoff.
Piper.
Another of my son's women, the second official member of his harem. And a daughter of the Goddess of Love. I was a bit more apprehensive of her when Percy told me of how she was sent to him by Lady Aphrodite for almost the same reason as with Hazel. As happy as I am that my son was so trusted by the divine for the care of their children.
Being a Child of Love did come with certain expectations.
Expectations that I knew for a fact would materialize eventually in the form of the girl falling for my son just as Hazel did. And the added worry that she might get pregnant quite early due to her lineage.
I was happy and surprised to be wrong on that one. As Percy, it turns out, could now control when he made children. So I guess that is one silver lining to having a literal harem of women, all willing to bear his children should he desire it. And my son, being who he is, would never force his will on any of them. If they are to be pregnant with his child, then it would be through mutual desire to do so.
"The sea does not like to be restrained, and it doesn't like to restrain others as well," as my son likes to say.
Thinking of Piper made me remember when I met her for the first time.
---------Flashback---------
It was in the middle of April; Paul, Estelle, and I were currently getting out of the taxi in front of an upscale shopping building. The kind where designer brands are sold at exorbitant prices.
Now normally we wouldn't be going to such places; our finances are not really up to par for such expensive items. Nor do I actually like to wear such things. I would rather save that money for Estelle's future rather than spend it on one item whose price tag could afford half a semester's tuition.
Unfortunately, or rather fortunately, we needed to be here today. We were invited to the opening of a luxury jewelry store that is going to happen in this building. "Celestial Creations" is the brand that caters to and sells high-class, luxurious, masterfully crafted jewelry pieces. Run and founded by none other than my son, together with his girlfriend, Hazel. Is opening its first physical store here in New York.
And they invited us to the festivities. With my daughter in my husband's arms, we enter the building and go straight to the boutique my son has acquired for his store. Entering the boutique, we are welcomed by the sight of glass shelves filled with exquisite pieces of jewelry, most of which belong to the rich and powerful.
Soft music wafts through the air as a few guests mingle about the space. In one corner stands a table laden with finger foods next to the open bar. Both of which are manned by two beautiful women who I recognize as nature spirits. Though not the ones under my son's employ.
Looking around, I see some familiar faces, some I've seen on TV or in magazines. I recognize them as people who have bought some of my son's creations. The others not so much. I search for my son, or maybe Hazel, in the small crowd and see him talking with a tall, handsome man. The man looks really familiar, though I couldn't put my finger on where I know him from.
Not wanting to disturb my son from a potential business talk, I continue my search for the next familiar face, Hazel's. Searching for a bit, I saw her by one counter at the end of the store; she was talking to a tall, pale man in a black suit. I gestured to Paul to follow me, and together we crossed the floor when all of a sudden, I was blocked by a tall woman with dark hair. She had a bejeweled hair clip in the shape of a feather attached to a braid of her hair on one side of her head. Her eyes were the most mysterious I've seen. A kaleidoscope of colors that swirls like whirlpools filled with emotions.
She sported a smile so wide it's like she was filled with happiness and excitement at the moment. Like a child who just met their childhood hero. I felt Paul come near me in support when the unknown woman reached over for my hand and squeezed it tight.
"It's so nice to finally meet you in person!" She greeted, and I figured she must be one of Percy's new friends or an employee. I just smiled, unsure how to react to her enthusiasm. "Percy has told me so much about you!" she continued to gush, "And you must be Paul, his stepfather. It's good to meet you too!" She turned to Paul, standing behind me with his hand on the small of my back.
"And this must be Estelle! She's so cute, just like Percy mentioned!" The woman almost squealed as she stepped up to us and focused on my daughter. Feeling a bit lost now, I figured I'd ask who she was. "I'm sorry, but who are you again?" I asked directly. I saw her eyes widen as she took a step back. "Oh! Right, we haven't been introduced yet!" She uttered in shock, and then she stood straight and looked right at us.
"I'm sorry for not introducing myself earlier!" she began with a beautiful smile. "My name is Piper Mclean." I was sure there was a look of recognition on my face as I heard her name. 'That's why she acted so familiar to me, us.' I thought she was the second one Percy took in to help out with her mental problems. Like what he did for Hazel back then.
"I've heard so much about you from Percy!" I told her as I took a step towards her with a smile of my own. Now that I recognize her, I am feeling a lot more comfortable with her. "Only the good things, I hope?" she replied to what I said. "Of course," I nodded. I then turned and introduced Paul and Estelle to her. "This is Paul, my husband," I said, gesturing to him as he shuffled a squirming baby in his arms. "And this bundle of joy is Estelle." I beam at my daughter. Piper joins me and coos at the cuteness of Percy's little sister.
"She is perfect! I wish my future babies will be just as adorable as her!" Piper gushed as she watched Estelle fuss in her father's arms. Her words made me pause for a minute, thinking of a possibility I thought of when I was informed of her living with my son. I wanted to ask her about her relationship with my son, but the timing was not right.
I guess my thoughts are evident on my face, or maybe I'm just that easy to read. But Piper looked back at me, and she frowned at what she saw. After a minute of contemplation, she put on a serious look and began to speak to me and Paul. "I wanted to let Percy be the one to tell you this, but I can see that you have already begun to notice," she began. "The truth is Percy and I have begun dating," she said truthfully, confirming what I thought. "And I have also joined as the second member of his harem," she added.
"I know that you are worried about what that might mean for us, but I want to assure you I did so after falling in love with your son." She added after a second of quiet. "Just like how it was with Hazel, I fell for Percy's caring and loving nature," she said with a smile. "But unlike with Hazel, I came into his life with the expectation of falling in love with him," she confessed.
"What do you mean you expected it?" Paul asked, beating me to it. Piper smiled softly at him before answering. "I am a daughter of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. When she went to Percy to ask for help for me, she did so thinking of my well-being, physically, mentally, and emotionally," she explained. "I was a broken woman when I came to my mother, both in my mind and heart. I had just broken up with a girl I was seeing after being told that Jason, my ex, was killed." She continued, and I felt for her. All of them have gone through so much.
"So when my mother told me she was going to send me to Percy to heal, I knew she wasn't only talking about me mentally, but also my heart. She didn't need to tell me what she hoped would happen to me, to us, in the long run." She said with a smirk as if she was amused at her mother's antics. "And to be honest, I was reluctant to be what I am now to your son. after my part with the fallout with him and Annabeth," she went on. "But I know now that I was not at fault for that," she uttered while looking away. "And I am happy to be where I am today," she said as she turned to Percy, still talking to that man I saw him with earlier.
"I love your son! Mrs. Jackson. And I know he loves me too," she declared with a sureness that left me speechless. "And being a daughter of love, I know that to be true," she said then, turning back to me. "I hope to get your blessing and acceptance in being your son's girlfriend, some day at least" She told me straight. Her devotion and obvious love for my son left me reeling. But at the same time, It also assured me that she will be loyal and loving to him. And as a mother, what more could I ask for?
"You have it, Piper. I wish you happiness with my son." I gave her what she wanted, willingly. Causing her to break out with perhaps the most beautiful smile I have seen.
"Thank you! I promise to make him happy! Just as he makes me happy," she swore as she replied.
"And you do make me happy!" A male voice sounded from beside us. I turned and saw Percy walking up to us, followed by the man he was speaking to. I saw him smile as he reached for Piper and wrapped his arms around her waist. Piper allowed herself to be pulled against my son, and she clung to him as he kissed her softly.
"Mom! I'm happy you made it!" Percy smiled widely, coming over and kissing me on the cheek. "we wouldn't miss it for anything!" I replied. He looked to Paul and greeted him as well before plucking his sister off his arms.
"And how is the little princess this day!" Percy shouted as he lifted Estelle high and spun her around. My daughter squealed in delight as her brother lavished her with attention. I just knew she was going to be spoiled rotten by him. After a few minutes of having fun with his sister, Percy returned her to me with a smile.
"Mom, this is Tristan Mclean, Piper's father. Tristan, this is Sally, my mom." Percy introduced us to each other. "Hello, it is nice to meet all of you." Tristan greeted with a beaming smile, which I returned. "Likewise, this is my husband Paul and our daughter Estelle." Paul, now freed from carrying Estelle, hurriedly reached over and grabbed Tristan's hands for a handshake. "Hello! Pleasure to meet you! I'm a huge fan of your works!" He blurted out, and I was confused by what he meant.
I glanced at Percy as Paul started a conversation with Piper's father; my son caught my questioning looks and answered me. "Tristan is a movie actor, which is how he caught Aphrodite's attention in the first place," Percy told me, and I looked back at the two men conversing in front of me. It seems Paul had successfully taken a selfie with the actor.
"How cute." Percy and I turned around after hearing those words. What I saw went beyond words could ever portray. Having been a clear-sighted mortal, I usually see through the veil that masks the mystical and the divine from mortal eyes. Although my sight isn't as clear as it was when I was younger, it was still better than an ordinary mortal's. The woman standing behind us defied any worldly description. She was simultaneously all that I envisioned to be beautiful, as close to perfection as a being is able to get.
Immediately, I knew her to be Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty. Piper's mother and the most dangerous goddess to anger. I felt Percy come near me as well as Piper; it made me feel safe to be near them, especially my son. "I didn't expect to see you here, Aphrodite," greeted Percy, addressing the goddess with a nod of his head. "Oh, I wouldn't miss this for the world, darling!" The goddess exclaimed with her arms spread wide as she came to Percy to wrap him in a tight hug, which he returned.
"Thanks for coming," Percy told Aphrodite after they separated. "I'm glad to be here!" The smile on the goddess's face lit up the room.
---------Flashback end---------
Remembering the amount of gods and goddesses I met that night made my mind spin. The things I was told and the things I learned absolutely floored me. Some of which were so bizarre I still have a hard time believing them.
The things Aphrodite shared with me went so far above my head; some of them I'm glad I wouldn't be alive to witness. Remembering what Paul said that made me remember such scenes, I turned to him to see that he was still staring at me, waiting for me to continue.
"But if you're really worried, I can talk to Percy about it," I said, acknowledging my husband's concerns. "As much as I hate making him tell the girls to do something, I will if it makes you feel more at ease," I offered. "No need; I'm sure it will be fine. I'm sure they'll behave themselves," Paul replied with a small smile. "Yes, they will!" I confirmed his words. I leaned in to give him a kiss, but before our lips could meet. A loud clatter sounded, followed by a cry from the toddler sitting on my lap.
I turn to see Estelle fussing, empty hands flailing about. I leaned down and saw her plastic toy sword on the floor. Now whether she threw it or not was unimportant. Because unlike my son's treasured sword. The one on the floor wouldn't return to my daughter's hand on its own.
"Yes, yes, I'll get it." I cooed to the still crying girl as I reached down to grab the toy. "Here you go, my little warrior!" I said as I handed the sword to her. Immediately, Estelle stopped crying and went back to playing and babbling as she swung the toy around. Just like how Percy did it when he was young.
"I'll go get dinner ready," Paul said as he pushed himself off the couch, and I smiled at my fortune in being able to be with such a kind and generous man. After Poseidon and Gabe, he really is as close to the perfect husband I could have prayed for. All those years ago.
I followed him with my eyes as he made his way to the kitchen, feeling an overwhelming urge to put Estelle to sleep early so I could show him just how much I appreciate him and all that he does for me and our family. But now wasn't the time, so I allowed myself to just show him a smile filled with love as I promised myself to postpone what I really wanted to do, at least until nighttime, when our daughter is asleep and I have him alone in our bedroom. All to myself.
---------line break---------
10:25 PM
I was putting down a sleeping Estelle in her crib in our room when the phone in my pocket vibrated. I have gotten into the habit of putting my phone on silent whenever I'm at home, especially at night. So as to not wake my daughter while she slept. I kissed her on the forehead and left the room, pulling my phone out in the process.
I smiled when Percy's name flashed on the screen. I accepted the call, already knowing why he was calling me at such an hour.
"Hello, Percy! You forgot about the time difference again, haven't you?" I said before he could speak. "Shit! I forgot. It's about midnight there, right?" I heard him say as mixed with the sounds of giggling in the background. "It's almost 11 here, son," I told him with a shake of my head.
"I can call back tomorrow?" I heard him say, and I could just picture him scratching the back of his head while Hazel and Piper are giggling somewhere around him in that huge mansion of his. "It's fine; I just put Estelle to sleep, so we're free now," I said as I moved to the living room. I saw Paul in the kitchen and mouthed Percy's name at him. He nodded as he placed the kettle on the stove, preparing for our late-night tea.
I sat at the table and watched Paul move about as I waited for Percy to continue. "I see, that's good," he started, voice low, clearly unsure how to broach the subject I already was aware of. After enough time has passed to allow the water in the kettle to boil and my son has still not begun to speak, I decided to do it for him. "I'm fine with it, you know!" I told him over the phone, catching him off guard. "What?" he asked me, bewildered. "You're calling about meeting Annabeth here in two days, right?" I clarified to the stunned demigod on the other end of the line.
"How did you know?" he asked after a beat of silence. "Annabeth called earlier; she informed me that you already spoke over the phone and decided to meet here in person to talk." I answered him.
"Huh!" was the response I got. "I told her I will let you know," he muttered in a low voice. I think he was talking to either Hazel or Piper rather than me, so I waited some more. "You know her, Percy: impulsive and impatient," I said, testing the waters of how he would react to the reminder that he once was very close to Annabeth. "I know; I was just taken by surprise that you already knew," Percy explained, and I was very happy with his response.
The calmness and acceptance in his voice. It was evidence that he had moved on from the anger he felt for the daughter of Athena. Gone was the rage that was present every time he was forced to speak about her. The anger that he exuded at even the mention of her name was also gone from him. Only a calm, quiet acceptance that they had a past together remained, replacing all other negative emotion that used to rule his very being.
I have to give thanks to the girls around him. Not just Hazel or Piper, but the three nymphs as well. For they are the ones who helped heal his heart and allowed him to feel and love again. Even if it came with immortality and a harem of all things.
As long as he lives a happy, fulfilled life. I am happy.
"But are you really okay though?" Percy questioned, making sure I was fine with all of them being here. Worried about how I would react, I'm sure. "Yes, Percy, I'm sure," I assure him.
"If you're sure then, thanks, Mom!" he followed, gratitude in his voice. "Any time, son," I replied.
"I won't keep you any longer. We'll see you in two days!" Percy said just as I heard the farewell and goodnight wishes from Hazel and Piper in the background. "I can't wait! Tell those lovely girls good night for me!" I shouted before ending the call.
I sighed heavily, but with a smile on my face as I thought of my son and his fiancée's visiting. Paul came over and placed a cup of hot tea in front of me. "It's been one hell of a day, huh?" he said, dropping on the seat in front of me. "It has," I nodded as I took a sip.
"And tomorrow I have to go and prepare dinner for four more people," I said with a smile as I began to think about what I would cook for my would-be visitors.
I took another sip as I looked forward to what I'm sure is going to be an eventful day.