NICO POV
That evening at the campfire, Leo told his story. He spoke about the Physician's cure, Festus, Calypso and their return. And all I could think after it all was - that boy is fucking insane. The physician's cure could have failed and so he'd basically risked his life for all of us. I made sure to tell him the same. However, his reply was actually the most memorable part.
It was just the two of us, in my cabin - in my truly naked cabin. He was the only one who knew how I felt and so there was nothing for me to hide from him and I knew he felt the same with me. And I'd only ever had Bianca but I assumed this is what having a best friend felt like. I put my emo rock and sketched while he tinkered, both of us hardly speaking. Until I told him he was so brave for risking his life for us. At first he just smiled at me - but not the hyper Leo smile everyone saw - a small sad smile. Then he said, " Why don't you think about yourself the same way?" You've risked your life for others more times than you can count. You've been through Tartarus alone. You fought like everyone else and carried the Athena Parthenon across half the world. After all of that, you still hide your emotions and pretend to be strong so you don't hurt the ones you love the most." His tone softened as he added, "And most importantly, I know how many battles you've fought against yourself. So if you, Nico di Angelo are not brave then bravery must not exist on this Earth."
I was going to scoff because hell, I'm not brave. I cut to find peace. I attempted thrice. That's not bravery. That's fucking cowardice. But then at the same time a little piece of my brain thought - what if he's right? If I don't trust who will I trust. So I didn't scoff but I didn't entirely believe him either. And while my brain argued, I saw Leo continue to tinker with a satisfied smile.
Because that was the first time he had complimented me and I hadn't argued back.
Another short chapter because this friendship is my favourite thing. But it's my favourite thing after Solangelo so I kinda wanna get back to the romance. And the 3 days in the infirmary of course.
YOU ARE READING
LIABILITY - WILCO SOLANGELO
FanfictionNico's more than a little broken. He feels as though he's a liability to everyone around him. He feels hated and unwanted and he desperately wants and needs someone to save him. Will is busy helping in the infirmary but a part of him still is focus...
