Forever ● Sequel to Sanctuary

8

As I wait, I let my thoughts travel. When is Leo announcing the monster-proof phones? When will Percy and I go on another date? I think of everything that won't make me depressed. After about half an hour, Percy mumbles something inaudible in his sleep.

I grab his hand and run my thumb down his knuckles, hoping it helps if he's having a nightmare. After a couple more minutes, he mumbles again.

"Annabeth..."

I frown, thinking about what happened between the two. I forgot about it for a little bit until now.

Percy mumbles her name again, and I shush him. He wakes up a moment after.

"Hey, sleepy head." I welcome.

He groans and struggles to sit up. I push him back down.

"Rest. You've got another half an hour before you're released." I explain.

He lays his head back on a pillow, "How long you been here?"

"How long have you been here?"

He thinks for a moment, before coming to a conclusion, "No idea."

I sigh, "You're helpless."

"That's why I have you." he says.

I blush, looking away. After a few moments, I decide to ask him about his dream.

"Were you having another nightmare...?"

His usual smiles fades, and he nods, "Yeah. Tartarus."

That's all he needs to say. I understand how bad those night,sees could get. At least he wasn't alone, or he may not have been sitting here right now.

"It's okay." I assure him.

He nods. I lean over and kiss his cheek, leaving him blushing.

"Thanks."He says.

I smile, "You got me worried, idiot."

"Sorry," he blurts. "I didn't mean to."

I shake my head, "Don't be an idiot again, okay?"

"No promises."

"I know, Kelp Head."

"Death Boy."

"Seaweed Brain."

"Edge King."

We went back and forth like that until we heard a commotion from outside.