When We Were 'Us'

Elevator Music Makes Everything Awkward- Percy POV

Rachel and I waited at the Big House the next morning. We were supposed to all take one car to the Empire State Building so that we could go to the gods.

While we waited for Annabeth to show up, we were debating over what car to take.

"Leo's been fiddling with the silver Honda in there the most, it's probably the best for us to take." Rachel pointed out.

"If we take the one I came in then I can drive." I shrugged.

"Yes, because Annabeth will be thrilled about that."

"I don't care, let's just get going."

We both turned to see Annabeth standing there, wearing a simple white button-down and jeans. She gave me a once-over and pulled a face. "Classy."

I crossed my arms. "I don't see a need to dress up for the deities that take every chance to try and kill me."

Annabeth flicked her braid over her shoulder and put her hands on her hips. "Let's get this over with so I never have to be around you again."

Rachel sighed and nudged me. "Do you have Freddie's keys?"

"Yep." I held up the keyring that had been in my pocket. "Are we taking the Toyota then?"

"Sure, why not."

I unlocked the car and got into the driver's seat. Rachel took the passenger seat and Annabeth got in the back, propping her elbow on door armrest and staring at nothing out the window.

We sat in silence for the most part as we drove into the city. Rachel fiddled with one of her bracelets, apparently very nervous.

I was too if I was honest, going up to the gods to talk about something like this was going to be very interesting. They didn't like being contradicted.

When we got to the Empire State Building, I found a parking spot and we got out. Annabeth took the lead, marching to the building by herself while Rachel and I followed. I subtly took her hand and she chuckled, squeezing it.

The key to the 600th floor was sitting on the top of the front desk, which was empty, with a note next to it. Annabeth scooped it off the surface without a word and marched to the elevator.

I snatched the note as we walked past, curious. It was in Ancient Greek, which was good.

'Demigods going to Olympus today

Good luck.

-Victor (I'm the elevator guy)'

I smiled and waved it at Rachel as we joined Annabeth in the elevator. "Victor wishes us luck."

"Victor?" She asked in confusion, then her eyes lit up. "Oh, the man who's usually at the desk?"

I nodded and tucked the note in my pocket.

"We'll have to thank him when we get back." Rachel smiled, leaning against the wall. "Even if we don't get our way, his support is nice."

I paused.

"Rachel... If we don't get our way, we might not-"

"I don't want to think about that." Rachel shook her head.

"You're going to get your way." Annabeth said sharply as the elevator doors opened.

She didn't look at us as she left the elevator. I looked at Rachel and she shrugged, making a little 'go' motion.

I ran after Annabeth, Rachel trailing behind us.

"Annabeth."

She ignored me.

"Annabeth-" I grabbed her arm.

She whipped around, glaring at me. I took a deep breath and swallowed my pride.

"Thank you for doing this."

Annabeth paused, then looked away, crossing her arms. I could see the defensiveness in her posture.

"I do want you to be happy, Percy." She said quietly. "You were my best friend for a long time."

I paused, then took another breath. "I want you to be happy too."

"But you're not forgiving me."

I sighed. "No. Not yet."

Annabeth nodded, then turned away. "Come on, we need to go. They won't be happy if we're late."

I turned to look at Rachel, who was standing a few feet away. She offered a little smile and walked up, taking my hand.

"I wouldn't suggest doing that when we walk in." Annabeth shook her head. "They probably won't be happy."

Rachel squared her shoulders and held my hand tighter. "I don't care. I'm here to fight, and I'm going to make it clear what I want today."

Annabeth paused, then nodded. "Fair enough."

She led the way to the Throne Room. I squeezed Rachel's hand and lifted my head, trying to project as much confidence as possible.

Annabeth walked up to the doors, raising one fist and knocking sharply.

They opened inward and we stepped inside, readying for another fight. 

[A/N LordOfThePen I'M STILL CACKLING AT THIS

BEHOLD, Rachel Elizabeth Dare: the Oracle's Container]