The Player's Proposal

38: The Dinner

Annabeth POV

The last couple of weeks were filled with amazing memories and experiences. My dad was spending a lot more time at home, which allowed us to reconnect. Our entire family was closer than ever, much to my delight.

Then, there were my friends. I loved spending time with them in school and out of school. We went to different attractions around the city and casual strolls in the park.

Most importantly, I had Percy. Time helped him with recovering from the trauma of Gabe's abuse and his mother's death. A part of him would never be cured, but he was getting better every day. And, we were getting closer to each other every day.

Every experience with him is an amazing one. Even when we are fighting, I still cherish the interaction.

I was slowly but surely falling for him.

"Why did you bring me to grocery shopping with you?" I asked. "I could be finishing my homework right now."

"You're always working, Wise Girl. I wanted to spend time with you," Percy answered.

He was pushing the cart through the breakfast aisle. The cart was filling up fast since he was shopping for the entire Grace household.

It was nice that he was sharing the responsibilities of the home. Percy didn't like charity, so he was being a good roommate. Plus, he was making good money from his job at The Jewel.

"But, this is a waste of time," I whined purposefully.

He held his chest in fake heartache. "That's so offensive, Wise Girl. I jump at every chance I get to be with you even if it's just at a grocery store"

I laughed while moving closer to him.

"Your heart is on this side, Seaweed Brain," I told him as I moved his hand along his chest. Percy grabbed my hand and held it in his own, swooping in close.

"I think," he whispered, "my heart's here."

And, he moved my hand to my chest, putting his own hand on top of mine. His sea-green eyes sparkled while gazing at me. I felt heat rising to my cheeks, and for a moment, I got lost in his beautiful eyes.

I love when he does things like this because it makes me feel like the most important person in the world. He was much better at the romantic stuff than I was.

"You're right," I said softly. "Your heart does belong to me, and don't you ever forget it."

Percy laughed as I finally pulled away. We were still in a random aisle of the grocery store. I stepped in front of him and pushed the cart forward.

His hands lingered on my butt for a few seconds before finding their place on my waist. I could feel his breath against my neck as we walked towards the checkout. I felt the warmth from his hand permeate through my body.

I smiled when he kissed my neck from behind.

As I mentioned already, we were getting closer to each other in every way. Every shared moment was significant. We were so happy and comfortable together.

***

We were loading the groceries into Percy's car when his eyes turned dark. His actions froze as he stared at something behind me.

"Wise Girl, get in the car," he whispered harshly.

"What's wrong?' I asked. I was about to turn around when Percy grabbed my arm. He pulled me towards the passenger seat and pushed me into the car.

"What's going on?" I exclaimed.

Percy didn't answer me; instead, he closed the door behind. Then, he locked the car from the outside before turning to face a man. I analyzed the middle-aged man with intrigue. He gave off a dangerous vibe with his beady eyes and drunken face.