Chapter Text
Monday might have been a holiday for most of the world, but that didn’t mean anything for aspiring Olympians, so Percy rose at his usual time…alone, sadly…and went to the gym. His concession to the holiday was doing his routines here in the building, rather than going across town to Columbia.
There were a few others in the weight room, but Percy hadn’t had a chance to really meet any of them yet, so he was mostly alone with his thoughts while he worked through his workout.
Annabeth had tried to convince Ava to let her go with her to see her parents, but Ava, looking much better after a solid nine hours of sleep, had declined. She seemed much more sure of herself on Sunday morning, more certain about her decision. Percy suspected that she would go through many oscillations before this was all over. Percy fed her a breakfast of waffles, eggs and sausage before sending her on her way to her parents. Annabeth had made her promise to call.
They’d mooched about all afternoon waiting for Ava to call. Percy had baked a cake, while Annabeth had made some desolatory progress on work. When Ava called, she reported that her mother had been nearly hysterical about the whole thing, but her father had told her to pull herself together and listen. After Ava had finished explaining, her father had nodded, and told her that he would support her no matter what, and he wasn’t going to put up with someone who wouldn’t do the same for ‘his baby girl’. And that had been the end of it.
“He’s going to go with me to pack up my stuff,” she said, sounding relieved. “And I’m going to move back here, for now. Until I figure out what’s happening with school.”
“Yeah?” Annabeth asked.
“Oxford or bust, Annabeth. I’m going to study Shakespeare in England, and no one is going to stop me.”
They had been much reassured by Ava’s phone call, and they’d driven out to Annabeth’s project in New Rochelle. There hadn’t been much to see yet, just a large expanse of dirt, with evidence of some foundation work. There hadn’t been anyone around, so they’d settled for walking around the perimeter fence a bit, Annabeth carrying her plans and pointing out where things would go. Percy only picked up on about half of what she was pointing out, but he smiled happily anyway, pleased to see her so enthused.
Today, after Percy finished his training, they would be having a Memorial Day cookout with Mom, Paul and Estelle. And probably Rachel would join them, since her parents were out of town. Paul, Estelle and Annabeth would go stake out a spot in Central Park and get things set up, while Percy helped Mom pack up the food and make sure everything was prepped. One of only three days in the whole year where barbequing was allowed in the Park, Memorial Day was a very festive day in New York.
Percy wiped his brow, and reset the rowing machine to something more appropriate to the standard user, and then wiped it down with the spray and towels.
“That’s a lot of reps,” one of the other men in the gym said, as Percy was finishing. “You new here?”
“Yeah, just moved in a couple weeks ago,” Percy said. “38th floor.”
The man raised an eyebrow. “Way upstairs,” he said. “Nice.” Something in his tone of voice suggested that the compliment was automatic, and perhaps tinged with resentment.
“We like it,” Percy replied. “Percy.” He held out his hand.
“Henry.” They shook. “I’m on the 12th floor.” He tried to make it sound impressive…like it mattered what floor you were on? Percy shrugged internally.
“Nice.”
“I’ve seen you in the pool…you’ve got a tough routine, man. You do like, triathlons or something?” Henry asked.
“Something,” Percy smiled. “I’m actually headed to the pool now.”
“After all that rowing?” Henry sounded astonished.
“The body doesn’t take holidays,” he said, quoting Coach Peterson. “See you around.”
“Yeah, you too,” Henry replied, sounding dubious. Asshole, Percy thought.
The pool was already busy, but mostly in the shallow areas, where kids were already splashing around. There were a couple of lane swimmers but there was plenty of room for Percy, who peeled off his shirt, and dropped it and his towel on a bench, and went to the edge of the pool.
The one downside of the condo pool was there was no starting block. Percy had toyed with the idea of asking Rachel if he could request one…he might actually get it, if he asked through her…but for now, he would settle for just doing some laps by starting in the pool. Times weren’t the goal here today, endurance was. Fifteen hundred meters was 30 laps. He didn’t compete at that distance, but he practiced it. He’d gotten better at it…the last time he’d done it timed, he’d come close to the gold medal time from Madrid. But more importantly, he could do it without keeling over when he climbed out of the water.
He lowered himself down into the pool, set his legs against the wall, and launched off. The hardest part about long distances was trying to stay focused, but at least when he wasn’t going for time, it didn’t matter if his mind wandered a bit.
As it often did during these training sessions, Percy’s mind went to his preparations for the Olympics. There was still a lot to do, but most of it was out of his hands. The biggest unknowns would actually be after the games. He knew there were companies circling. Speedo had made no secret of its interest after the last NCAA championships, going so far as to send him a contact, all ready to sign. It had been worth more than a hundred thousand dollars. He had been very tempted, but Hazel and Rachel had pointed out that it locked him up for years, and his value would be much higher after Bueno Aires.
He’d never even believed he’d see this kind of money in his life, ever. He honestly didn’t know what he would do with it all…except spoil Annabeth rotten.
Well, there were a few other things…he wanted to put a lot of money away. His children would have the opportunity to attend the best kind of schools for them, from kindergarten through college, or wherever their lives would take them.
Estelle, too, he realized. Mom’s books were selling well enough, and Paul’s job paid well enough. But he wanted to help if he could. He could put some away for her college education.
And lately, he’d been thinking about starting a fund to help kids at Camp…the ones who were orphaned, like Leo or Thalia and Jason. Some money to help them stay on their feet, or to get them launched when they left Camp to go out on their own. Something. He needed to talk to Annabeth about it. And Chiron, probably.
He would need someone to help him with all of this. His mind rebelled at the thought of trying to negotiate his own endorsem*nt deals. He’d thought Rachel could help him, but she said he would need a real agent eventually. He didn’t know how to find one…
Abruptly, he realized he’d lost track of his laps. Damnit. This was the problem when he trained alone.
He hit the wall, and popped up panting.
“Twenty-two,” a voice said. Percy looked up, shaking the water from his face. It was the neighbor lady, Florence, watching him from the pool deck. She was smiling at him.
“Thank you,” he said, and dove back under.
When he finished his thirty, she was still there, as he rested against the wall, catching his breath.
“Very impressive,” she said.
“Thank you,” he panted. “Thanks for bailing me out on my counting. I let my mind wander too much,” he said.
“I can imagine it’s easy to lose track when you are doing long stretches like that,” she said. “I lose track after five.”
“Well, when I’m not racing against someone else, it can get a little boring,” Percy admitted. “I usually practice with others when I can, but it’s the holiday.” He shrugged. “I’m Percy, but I’m guessing Annabeth told you that.”
She nodded. “And I’m Florence. It’s nice to meet you. Your sister is so adorable.”
“Thank you, ma’am,” Percy said. “We like to think so.” He pulled himself up onto the pool deck and sat on the edge of the pool.
“Do you have plans for later on?” Florence asked.
“Yeah,” Percy said. “We’re having a cookout in the Park with family.”
Florence smiled. “Isn’t that nice,” she said. “I hope you have a good time.”
“Thanks! I hope you have a good day, too,” Percy said, heaving himself up. “I’ve gotta go get cleaned up so I can help my mom with the food.” He grabbed his towel. “Thanks again for helping me.”
“You’re welcome, dear. I’ll see you again soon, I hope.”
“Count on it,” Percy said. He smiled and headed.off.
Annabeth was up and in the kitchen when he got back to their apartment. She was making coffee. Her hair was tousled from sleep, and she was wearing one of his old t-shirts. “Hey babe,” he called.
She glanced over her shoulder. “Morning.” He came up behind her, and slipped his hands around her waist, and planted a kiss at the base of her neck. “Mmmm,” she said. “You smell like chlorine.”
“Well, that’s an occupational hazard,” he said. He nipped at her skin with his teeth. She squeaked. “I missed you this morning. I don’t like getting up without you.” Percy bunched the t-shirt up. She purred a little, and leaned forward on the counter. “Would you like me to show you how much I missed you?” he asked.
“Thought you’d never ask,” she said breathlessly.
Later, showered, dried and dressed, Annabeth pulled her hair up into a messy pony tail as Percy busied himself in the kitchen. The steak tips and the chicken wings had been marinating overnight in the fridge. His mom was bringing the green salad, and the stuff for the pasta salad. He pulled out this big pot for pasta and started water on the stove, and then got out the mixer to make frosting.
“You need any help?” Annabeth asked.
“Nah,” he said. “You can just sit there and look sexy.” He grinned at her.
“Mmm,” she said. “You’re not so bad yourself. Especially when you’re being all ‘I am the man of the kitchen’. Nothing sexier than a man who knows what he’s doing in the kitchen.” She waggled her eyebrows at him.
“Especially when he knows what he’s doing in the bedroom?” Percy added, while he added powdered sugar to the butter.
“And the living room. And in the shower.” She added, as she hopped up on the breakfast bar and watched him. She kicked her legs, as Silena jumped up into her lap.
“Good to know you think I’m so multi-talented,” he said, coming over and giving her a quick kiss, before returning the frosting while he made a mental checklist of the things for their picnic. Ranch and blue cheese for the wings, Italian for the salad…
“I do,” she agreed. “And I’m going to be so lonely when you’re gone in a couple of weeks,” she pouted.
“It’ll be okay,” he assured her. “It’s not super long.” He wasn’t looking forward to it either, but he had to put a positive spin on it for both of them. He pulled the blue food coloring out of the drawer. It was a good thing you could order just blue from Amazon. Otherwise they’d have dozens and dozens of the other colors. Even so, there were like five greens, reds and yellows in the drawer. Ten drops of blue gave the frosting the perfect shade, and he shut down the mixer.
“True…it’s not like we haven’t gone longer stretches.” She snorted.
“Well, not in a long time, fortunately. And we weren’t married then,” he pointed out. He disconnected the whisk from the mixer and took the bowl off the stand. He set it next to the cake. He scooped a dollop with his finger, and offered it to Annabeth.
“True,” she said, before licking his finger clean.
There was a knock at the door, and Annabeth hopped down to let in his family. They had added them to the access list, so they could get upstairs without needing to be buzzed in.
“Annabeth!” Estelle said happily, launching herself into Annabeth’s arms as she came through the door. She was growing like a weed, it seemed like she got taller every time they saw her. She had on shorts and a Finding Nemo t-shirt. Mom was wearing a flowery sundress.
“Hey, Estelle!” Annabeth said. “You excited for our picnic?”
“Yes!” She said. “Daddy’s got the wagon!”
“Hello, dear,” Mom said, entering behind Estelle. “Paul is in the lobby, Annabeth,” she said. “Do you want to take Estelle and the three of you can go find a spot? Percy and I will meet you.”
“Sounds good! Ready to go?” she asked Estelle.
“Yes!”
“See you there, Seaweed Brain,” Annabeth called, blowing a kiss over her shoulder. “Mwha!”
“Mwha! Love you, Wise Girl!” he called back. “Hi, Mom.” He would have given her a hug, but his hands were full getting the pasta ready to drop.
“Hello, Percy,” she said, setting the pasta salad ingredients on the counter. Percy dropped the pasta into the boiling water as his Mom got out the mayonnaise. “How was training this morning?”
“Good,” he said. “I did my weights, and then 30 laps in the pool.” After the pasta was stirred in, he set the timer, and then grabbed a powerbar from the box on the counter. He was starving.
“Nice,” she agreed. “I know I say it often, but I am so proud of you,” she said, smiling at him.
“Thanks, Mom,” he said, leaning over to give her a kiss on the cheek. “Appreciate it.” He finished his power bar, and took up his spatula to frost the cake. Nothing fancy today, but he wanted it to look nice.
“How’s Annabeth this morning?” she asked.
“Oh fine,” Percy said, smoothing out the frosting. It wasn’t bad. “She got to sleep in while I was working out this morning.” He bit his lip on a comment about how delicious she had looked half naked in the kitchen when he’d returned from his training, however.
“That’s nice for her. How’s work going?” She set aside the pasta salad mix and opened his freezer and took out freezer packs to put in the cooler with the meat.
“Good!” Percy said, brightening. He was so proud of the work she’d been doing, and Annabeth was really settling in. “She’s really enjoying it, and she’s really excited about the projects she’s working on.” He put the frosting bowl in the sink and washed his hands.
Mom smiled. “I’m glad for her. Where’s the cooler?”
“I’ll get it,” he said. “How’s Estelle?” Percy asked as he retrieved the cooler out of the pantry closet.
“She’s fine. She had a good time with you and Annabeth on Saturday.” Mom packed the meat first, then put the ice packs in. She then took out the chef’s knife to slice the lettuce for the green salad.
Percy grinned. “Yeah, we like having her around. I’m glad we’re back.” There had never been much of a question about moving back to New York. They’d talked a lot about it, and while there were attractions to the West Coast…the weather, continuing his training with Coach Peterson at Cal, proximity to Dr. C and the twins…it had never really been a serious suggestion. The best architecture firms were in New York, and being close to Camp outweighed most other considerations.
“Estelle told me that one of your neighbors thought she was yours,” Mom offered. There was…something…in her tone as she slid sliced tomatoes into the salad and then put the lid on the bowl. She put it in the cooler.
“Yeah,” Percy chuckled. “That’s not the first time that’s happened.” The first time had been when Estelle had been an infant, and they’d taken her for a walk through Central Park, back before they’d even graduated high school.
“Mmm,” Mom murmured. “And what do you and Annabeth think about that?”
Percy paused. “What do you mean?” he asked, looking over at her. They’d never minded before. They’d always thought it was hilarious. Why would that change now?
“Well…you’ve graduated now, and you’re getting settled….I know you’ve talked about having a family…”
“Are you fishing for grandkids, Mom?” Percy laughed. “I thought you said you weren’t going to do that.” In fact, Mom had been quite against having grandchildren, especially before they’d finished college.
“I’m not fishing!” she protested. “But it’s a reasonable question. I’ve seen the way Annabeth looks at babies lately. Is there something you’re not telling us?” She gave him a look.
“Annabeth? Looking at babies?” he shook his head. “No, Annabeth wants to get settled in her career, Mom. We talked about it last year when were were making our plans to move back.”
“And what did you talk about?”
“Well, Annabeth seemed to think we needed more time, and I agreed. I don’t want to pressure her on anything like that…I don’t want to be one of those guys who’s like ‘hey, put your whole life on hold because I want kids now’. We’re going to be collaborative about this.” Percy packed up the cake in the carrier, and set it near the cooler.
The truth was, Percy probably agreed with his Mom. He thought that they might be ready, but Annabeth had not sounded sure the last time they’d talked. And he really, really, wasn’t going to be that guy. If he hadn’t been determined before, certainly what had just happened with Ava had reinforced that determination. So he would put his feelings aside. But yeah, he wanted kids, and he’d love to start right away. The timer went off, he crossed to the stove and turned off the burner.
“Have you talked about it lately?” his mom asked.
Percy shrugged. “What’s to talk about? She’ll let me know when she’s ready.” He trusted her to let him know. He drained the pasta into the strainer and soaked it down with cold water to stop the cooking.
“What if she thinks you’re not ready?” Mom asked. She took the pasta from him and stirred it into the pasta salad mix.
Percy shook her head. “Mom, we talk about everything. It’ll be fine. We have a lot on our plate right now. Maybe we’ll talk about it again after we all get back from Buenos Aires.” If there was one thing they were good at, it was communication. When Annabeth was ready, she’d say so.
“Mmhmm.” His mother eyed him, but there was a knock at the door.
Percy called “It’s open.”
Rachel appeared, in paint splattered shorts and matching World Wildlife Foundation t-shirt, her red curls bouncing. “Hiya!” she said. “Where’s Estelle?” she asked, looking around. Silena came running over and followed Rachel into the kitchen, trying to get her paws up on Rachel’s knees..
“She and Annabeth and Paul have gone ahead to pick out our spot,” Sally said, giving the Oracle a hug.
“Can I help with anything?” she asked. Silena, unable to get up Rachel’s legs, lept up onto the counter next to Rachel and began to paw her arm.
“No, I think we’re just about all set,” Percy said, finishing with the cooler. “Pasta salad all set?”
“Yes,” Sally said, snapping the rubber cover on the bowl. “You’ve got your cooking things?”
“All packed,” Percy assured her, patting the cooler.
“Awesome,” Rachel said. Silena had managed to jump from the counter to her shoulders and was grooming her frizzy hair. “Down, girl,” she said, putting the cat down on the floor. “We’ll be back later. Anything I can carry?” she asked.
“You can carry the green salad,” Mom offered.
“Great!”
They closed the door carefully making sure Silena didn’t follow them out, and made their way down stairs, and then across the few blocks toward Central Park.
“Nice day for a picnic,” Rachel said as they walked. It was warm, but not overly so, and the sky was a bright blue.
“Yes,” Mom agreed. “Not like last year when it rained.”
“Mm,” Rachel agreed. “That wasn’t fun.”
“How have you been?” Mom asked Rachel, “It’s been a few days since we’ve seen you.”
“I’m doing okay!” Rachel said. “The gallery has been picking up, with the spring tourist season.”
Rachel worked part time in a local art gallery, the one which exhibited her works, but she also worked in youth outreach, teaching art classes to kids. In between her volunteer efforts on behalf of any number of environmental or other social causes. She was giving her father heartburn, but he hadn’t cut her off…yet.
“Oh, and I sold one of my paintings this week!” she said. “Another seascape. I blame you,” she said to Percy.
“What do I have to do with it?” Percy asked, confused.
“I dunno,” Rachel said. “I just always thought my best work would be abstract, but most of the paintings I’ve managed to sell have been seascapes….it’s your fault somehow…a therapist would probably tell me it’s my unrequited love for you.” This remark was delivered with a chuckle and an eye roll that suggested she was not serious…mostly.
“You do paint a lovely seascape, my dear,” Mom said. “It’s a just recognition of your skill.”
Rachel smiled. “Thanks!” Then she turned to Percy. “I didn’t get a chance to talk with Ava directly…she texted yesterday, but I didn’t get much. Did you guys talk to her? Does she need any help?”
Percy nodded, and explained what they’d heard.
Rachel pursed her lips. “I feel so terrible about the whole mess…but I’m glad she’s getting out now. I had a bad feeling about from the start.” She shook her head.
“An Oracle thing?” Percy asked.
“No, a Rich Brat thing. I mean, I knew of Brandon’s family before Ava ever met him…you live in my parents world, you know all the families with houses in the Hamptons eventually. I know that family…I don’t think they are over supplied with brains…and historically, they’ve been the types that haven’t put much stock in female members of the family.” Rachel shook her head. “Let’s put it this way, I know which candidates get their campaign donations…and it’s not the ones who are big on women’s rights.” She shuddered.
“Yeah, I got that impression at the wedding,” Percy agreed.
“So I’m happy she’s come to her senses now, before things get really complicated. At least they didn’t go out and get started on kids right away.” Rachel grimaced.
“Very true,” Percy agreed as they crossed into the park. They turned down toward the area where they’d agreed to meet the others.
“Speaking of kids,” Rachel said. “Are you guys happy Estelle will be starting kindergarten in the fall?”
“Yes, though she’s not,” Mom replied. “Well, that’s not totally fair. She does go back and forth. She likes preschool, and she likes that some of her friends will be going to the same school, but she isn’t happy about not being home with me all the time.” Mom snorted. “She seems to rather like the attention. I think it will be good for her to start socializing.” She glared at Rachel and Percy. “And for her to not be treated like she’s the center of the universe all the time.”
“Would we do that?” Rachel asked innocently.
“Do what?” Estelle asked, bouncing up to them.
“Nothing, Sweetie,” Rachel replied. “How are you today?”
“Great!” she replied. “We’re over here.” She tugged Rachel’s hand, pulling her in the direction of where Paul and Annabeth had the grill set up.
“You know,” Rachel said. “There is another way that she won’t be spoiled quite so much.”
“And that is?” Mom asked, arching an eyebrow.
“She could have a sibling,” she giggled.
“Who could have a sibling?” Annabeth asked.
“Estelle,” Rachel said.
“Uh,” Paul said, looking a little taken aback. He glanced at Percy.
“You know I’m right here,” Percy said, amused. Percy did not totally mind being discounted as Estelle’s sibling. On one level, he was her brother, and he would do absolutely anything for her, and it’s not like everyone didn’t know that. But he was so far distanced from her, nearly 18 years…she would never remember the time they lived together, they would never argue about chores, or fight over the television. Technically, he was old enough to be her father, though Mom undoubtedly would have murdered him for being so careless. Well…maybe not, she wouldn’t do that to Annabeth. But she would not have been happy.
“You don’t count,” Rachel said. “A younger sibling.”
“A sister?” Estelle asked, looking confused.
“Would you like that?” Rachel asked, kneeling down to get on eye level with her.
“Don’t we get some say in that?” Mom asked, sounding amused, as she helped Percy unwrap the meat. The grill was already hot and ready. He took out his tongs and lowered the first of the steak tips onto the grate. They hissed satisfactorily.
Estelle seemed to consider the question seriously. Finally she said, “No. I like being the baby.”
“You do, do you?” Annabeth asked, sitting down next to Estelle and handing her a fizzy water.
“Yes,” Estelle said. “Because Uncle Nico says that I can get away with anything because I’m thebebè.”
“Oh he does, does he?” Percy said, smirking. “I think I’m going to have to have words with Uncle Nico…”
“Mmmm.” Mom murmured in agreement.
“What if Percy and Annabeth have a baby?” Rachel asked mischievously, glancing between Percy and Annabeth. Percy gave her a look, and then looked at Annabeth, and shrugged. She looked back at him. She looked like she might say something, and then just shook her head.
Estelle furrowed her brows in thought. “But then…” she frowned. “I don’t think so.” She shook her head. “No. I’m the baby,” she said firmly.
Rachel laughed. “I think she’s proving my point here,” she said.
Percy smirked, but inside he was a little disappointed. He’d hoped that Estelle would be excited by the prospect, but he supposed it was another symptom of Estelle’s ‘I-am-the-center-of-the-world’ syndrome. Maybe she would be more excited once it was a reality. That might be a couple more years, too, so she’d have time to get used to the idea. And some of her friends might be having younger siblings by then.
“Anything I can do?” Mom asked, looking over Percy’s shoulder at the grill.
“Nah, I got this, Ma, thanks,” he said. He touched the edge of one of the steak tips with his tongs, and then set them down. Not ready to turn yet.
“Look! Dancers!” Estelle shouted, pointing out some street performers setting up a few hundred yards down the path.
“Why don’t you take her to watch while we get set up?” Paul suggested to Rachel and Annabeth.
“Whaddya say?” Rachel asked.
“Yeah!” Estelle agreed, and she leapt to her feet, trying to drag both Annabeth and Rachel with her.
“You good, babes?” Annabeth asked Percy as she was being towed away.
“Oh, yeah, I got this. Go, have fun.” He blew her a kiss. She blew one back, and Percy turned his attention back to the grill.
“How are those wings?” Paul asked.
“Lookin’ good,” Percy said. “So, how about it?” he asked.
“How about what?” Paul asked.
“A sibling for Estelle. Have you guys thought about it?” Percy asked, genuinely curious. It would mean a lot of big changes for them. They’d have to move, eventually…well, unless they had another girl, he supposed. But still, the apartment would be awfully small for four.
Mom sighed. “Not…seriously. We’ve talked about it on and off…”
“I suppose if we were going to, now would be the time, with her off to kindergarten in the fall,” Paul allowed.
“True,” Mom sighed again. “I’m just not sure I’m up for that again.” She glanced at Percy. “And I’m not sure I’m up for a ‘Father of the Bride’ scenario here.” Paul laughed.
Percy furrowed his brows. “I don’t think I saw that one.”
“Steve Martin plays a father who’s daughter is married, and now pregnant, and his wife gets pregnant again, so his wife and daughter are pregnant at the same time,” Paul explained.
“At the very least, we’d have to do something right away, since if Estelle is going to have one, I refuse to have a child younger than my grandchild.” And she was so absolutely resolute on that that Percy had to hide a grin.
“Well, I think you’ve got some time on that,” Percy said, turning the steak tips over on the grill. “We’re not in any hurry.”
“Uh-huh,” Mom said, giving him a very skeptical look. “We’ll see.”
Percy was putting the finishing touches on the food, and Annabeth and Rachel were returning with Estelle, when there was a shimmer in the shade of the tree behind them, and Nico stepped out of the shadow.
“Nico!” Mom said, sounding pleased. “What a surprise!”
“Saluti,” he replied with his usual sardonic smile. “I was in the area, and I thought I would come by.”
“Didn’t know you were in town,” Percy said, as he began pulling wings off the grill and stacking them on a plate.
“I came in early, had some business to take care of. Will’s still visiting with his mom after he got out of school and before she goes back out on the road. He’s coming in next weekend for the summer.” He shrugged.
“Uncle Nico!” Estlle’s voice rang out, and she made a beeline for him, launching herself around her legs.
“Ciao, bebè,” he said. Estelle giggled madly, bouncing excitedly. He held out his hand, trying to look sneaky about the small sweet he was passing her.
“Ciao,” she replied, snatching it up and ripping the wrapper off and shoving it in her mouth in one motion.
“You spoil her,” Mom accused, dishing out pasta salad onto plates.
“To be fair,” Nico replied, as Estelle tried to climb his bony limbs. “I think everyone tries to spoil her. I think most of Camp thinks of her as a mascot.”
Percy knew Nico had a point. When Thalia and Reyna were around, they’d bring her souvenirs from around the world. Will would bring her trinkets from his mom’s music tours. Piper had gotten her a Taylor Swift autographed poster, through her dad. Leo always had some kind of mechanical gadget for her to play with. There was a part of Percy that was a little jealous about all this attention she got…she was his sister after all…but mostly, he just loved the fact that the people he loved, loved Estelle.
“How is Uncle Will?” Estelle asked. “Is he coming?” she had managed to clamber up his back and was not perched on his shoulders.
“No, bebè, he’s in Texas,” Nico said.
“Can’t you go and get him?” she asked. “Please?” she turned the puppy dog eyes on him.
“You know he doesn’t like the shadows,” Nico told her.
“Awww.” Estelle pouted. “Fine.”
“Some other time, bebè. When he’s back in New York, we’ll both come visit.” He promised.
Percy just shook his head. Most people found Nico creepy and unapproachable, an attitude he did little to discourage. But Estelle had always seen right through his facade, and had warmed to him immediately. Every time he visited…which was frequently, even when Percy and Annabeth had been in California, she had gone straight for him, demanding hugs, and cuddles and attention. And Nico had melted for her, though he’d made it clear that if anyone gave him a hard time about it, they’d regret it…for a long time. Watching him standing there with his little sister on his shoulders made Percy want to laugh out loud, but he didn’t dare.
“Hiya Nico,” Rachel said. “How’s it going?”
“Tolerable,” he replied.
“What have you been up to?” Annabeth asked.
“Oh, you know. This and that…helping father…deal with some things.” He shrugged. He was always reluctant to discuss the work he did for his father among mixed mortal/demigod company, and especially in front of Estelle, as if her mere presence warded off the spectre of death.
“How is Will?” Mom asked.
“He had a rough year at school…his classes were really tough, and he’s already starting to prep for the MCAT. But he survived. He’s looking forward to the summer.”
“I’ll bet,” Annabeth said. “I knew some premed folks at Cal, and they were about the most burned out-over caffeinated people I knew.”
Nico nodded.
“What’s over-caffeinated mean?” Estelle asked.
“It means he drinks too much coffee, bebè,” Nico explained. “Are you ready to get down? Your brother looks like he’s got your plate ready.”
“Ok.”
Percy used his tongs to lift one of the grates off the little grill, and then blessed the fire in the way that Chiron had taught him years ago, so they could give their offerings to the gods before eating. It wasn’t something they did every day, but when they gathered for celebrations, they usually made the effort. They all put something in, even Paul. Percy found it amusing and endring how much Paul had become absorbed into their world…he’d met many of the gods, and had become more and more comfortable with their traditions and practices. He wondered what Paul’s family would think if they knew how Greek he’d become.
They sat around the picnic blanket, eating and enjoying the warm weather. Everyone agreed the food was delicious. Percy was especially pleased with how the steak tips had come out, since he had made his own marinade. After they had eaten dinner, they feasted on the cake he had baked. Everyone said it tasted wonderful, though Estelle asked if she could ice cream with it, so they took to one of the many ice cream trucks that were parked around the park and gotten a small bowl of soft serve for her to put her cake in. Then Percy, Annabeth and Rachel played tag and frisbee with her to run off the sugar. Paul had insisted on doing most of the cleanup, since Percy and Sally had done most of the cooking. Nico offered to help, since, affection for Estelle aside, he was not a fan of most physical activities that weren’t associated with combat.
Most of the families were packing up and leaving Central Park to only those groups who either didn’t have kids to put to bed, or didn’t have to go to work on Tuesday morning. The police presence was becoming higher and Percy saw more than a few folks being corralled for failing to follow New York City’s open container laws.
“My feet are tired,” Estelle complained.
“I got you, Little Fish,” Percy said. He crouched down. “Hop up.”
She climbed up on his back. “All set?” he asked.
“Yes.”
“Do you want to come hang out?” Annabeth asked Nico.
“Thanks, but nah,” Nico said. “I’ll help get stuff put away but then I’m going to head back to camp…I’ve had a long day.”
“I hear that,” Percy said. They were walking ahead of Paul, Mom, and Rachel. They’d loaded most everything into the wagon, and Paul was pulling it along. Mom and Rachel were talking about Mom’s publisher.
“How’s the training going?” Nico asked.
“Fine,” Percy said. He was getting tired of answering those questions, but he understood why people asked.
“You leave in, what, two weeks?”
“A little bit more, but yeah. Things get going on June 15th,” Percy replied. He was getting nervous in a way. He knew he was going to make the team, but this would be the first time in a while he’d be able to test himself against real competition.
“Percy?” Estelle asked from behind his head..
“Yes, Little Fish?”
“Are you and Annabeth going to have a baby?” she asked, sounding concerned.
“What?” Nico asked, eyes going wide. “Did I miss something?”
“No, no,” Percy hastened to assure him. “Rachel making jokes earlier.” He turned his attention to his little sister. “No, Fishy,” he said. “Not right now, anyway.”
“Okay….but maybe later?” she asked, sounding unsure. Like maybe she was rethinking her original opposition.
“Later, yes. Someday.”
“Wouldn’t you like that?” Annabeth asked her.
She was silent for another minute. “Will I still be your Little Fish even if you have a baby?” she asked Percy, sounding a little worried.
“You’ll always be my Little Fish,” Percy promised her, biting his lip and swallowing a little bit.
“I’ll think about it,” Estelle said finally.
They all laughed, and Percy, trying to surreptitiously wipe the corner of his eye said, “You do that, Fishy.”
They got Estelle settled at home, and the wagon unpacked, everything put away until the next time. Then Percy, Annabeth, Rachel and Nico bade their farewells. Nico said his goodbyes, and melted into the shadows in an ally as they walked back toward their own building.
“Do you guys want to come up?” Rachel asked. “I’ve got a great bottle of wine that I just opened.”
“You can go,” Percy told Annabeth, “if you want. But I’m going to get ready for bed. I’m exhausted, and I’ll be up early again tomorrow.” He sighed. He was already feeling like he was ready to crash.
“I’m good,” she said. ‘Sorry, Rache, maybe next weekend. But I’ve got an 8 am meeting in New Rochelle, so I’m going to pass.” She put her arm around Percy’s waist and leaned into him. Automatically, he put an arm around her shoulder.
“That’s fine,” Rachel replied. “I get it. I don’t have to be in till 10. Can I swing by and say hello to Silena before I head upstairs?”
“Of course!” Annabeth said.
“I still can’t believe how big Estelle is getting,” Rachel said, as they rode up together. “And off to school in the fall.”
“She goes to preschool three afternoons a week,” Percy pointed out.
“Not the same, and you know it,” Rachel replied. “She’s starting real school in the fall.”
“It’s a big step,” Annabeth agreed. “But I agree with Sally on the spoiling part. We all spoil her. School will be good for her.”
“I’m surprised how pro-school you guys seem to be. School never did you guys any favors.”
“Estelle is not a demigod,” Percy pointed out. Rachel had a point, but Estelle wouldn’t have any of their problems…well, he supposed it was possible that she could be ADHD, or dyslexic, without being a demigod. But hopefully not. She hadn’t shown any signs so far, and Percy had his fingers crossed.
“She’ll be all right,” Annabeth said. “And she’s liked it so far.”
“What about your kids?” Rachel asked. “What are you going to do for school for them?”
“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there,” Annabeth said. “With Percy’s money, we’ll be able to afford the best schools when the time comes.”
“That’s true!” Rachel laughed. “Maybe you’ll send your girls to Forrester as day students. Wouldn’t the Alumni office love that.”
“Well, we sure as hell won’t be sending them to New Hampshire,” Annabeth said.
“Gods no,” Percy laughed. “Never. The only away school my kids will go to will be Camp,” he said.
“Does it count as going away, if you’ll be there with them?” Rachel asked.
“I suppose not,” Percy said, as they got off on their floor.
“You’re still thinking of working at Camp after you finish swimming?” Rachel asked.
“Probably?” Percy replied. “We’ve talked about it, but I figure that’s at least a decade away.” They opened the door, and Silena met them, meowing loudly to be fed. Annabeth went to the cabinet as Percy unpacked the gear from the cookout.
To be honest, Percy hadn’t really given his post swimming career much thought in a while. Working at Camp was still out there, of course. But it was so far away…he had much more immediate concerns. His post swimming career would take care of itself when the time came.
Rachel said her goodnights to them, and to Silena, before heading upstairs to her own apartment.
“I’m exhausted,” Percy said to Annabeth. “Are you ready to head to bed?” he asked.
“I’ll be along in a minute,” she said. “Get the shower ready, I just need to make sure my notes are packed for tomorrow’s meeting. Won’t be behind you by much,” she promised.
“I’ll hold you to that,” Percy replied, as he went down the hall toward the bathroom. He turned on the water and then stripped down, tossing his clothes in the hamper. By the time he got in the shower, Annabeth was getting herself ready, and they exchanged a kiss as he got out and she got in.
They curled up together in bed, Annabeth’s head on his chest while he stroked her curls. She sighed and snuggled closer. “Good day,” she said.
“Yeah.” He yawned. “You all set for your meeting tomorrow?” She nodded. “You’re going to kick ass.” He assured her.
“Thanks.”
“Anything else this week?” he asked.
“We’ve got an appointment with Doc this week,” she said. “But one of us needs to make some calls about switching our doctors around with our new healthcare…and once we get that figured out I’ve got to find a new OB/GYN and set up an appointment. This whole process has been a nightmare…I mean, our plan is great, but figuring this all out practically requires an advanced degree.” She sighed.
“We’ll get there,” he assured her. “I mean, at least if we need emergency care, we can go to Camp or something.”
“True,” she sighed. “Ready to turn out the light?” she asked with a yawn.
“Yeah, just about.” He reached over to turn off the light. There was a thump on the end of the bed as Silena jumped up, and a moment later, Percy felt her settle in on the corner where she usually slept. Annabeth rolled over, and Percy curled behind her. “Night Wise Girl, love you.”
“Love you, Seaweed Brain,” she said. “Night.”
