Leo Valdez- Learning to Live

Chapter 8

So. We're going to delve a little into Leo's backstory today. That means mentions of both physical and sexual abuse, though there's nothing graphic at all. But it's there.

I didn't really want to come up with any details, so it's pretty vague. Probably a few things in there you'll recognize from other stories, b/c I read a lot of them and they've clearly influenced me. :P

Anyway. Yes. Idk what else to say.

I don't own anything.

Piper paced back and forth outside the infirmary door. How long could it possibly take Will to do whatever the heck he was doing in there?

After Nico had told them about his and Leo's conversation the day before, they had all agreed to give Leo some space for the rest of day. Some of them, particularly Piper, had agreed more reluctantly than others.

Due to a mixture of pleading and threats on Piper's part, Will had promised her that she could see Leo first the next day. But it was already after lunch, and Will still hadn't let her in yet!

Finally, the door opened, and a very tired-looking Will emerged. Piper practically jumped on him.

"WILL! It's been forever, let me in already!"

"Oh hey, hold on, Piper. Wait just a minute."

"Don't tell me to wait! Not anymore! What on earth have you been doing, anyway?"

Will sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Well, we had to get him to eat, which was a trial in and of itself. Then I had to check his cuts and make sure they weren't infected or anything, and gods know he didn't like that. And I thought he might feel better if he took a shower, but we had to be very careful, you understand."

Piper took a closer look at Will, and immediately felt guilty. Will had taken on the responsibility of looking after Leo more than anyone else, and it was clearly taking a toll. He had huge bags under his eyes; he looked liked he hadn't slept for days. Maybe he hadn't.

"Yes, of course, you're right. I'm sorry."

Will offered her a weak smile. "No worries."

"But... can I see him now?" Piper ventured.

"Yes. But remember, he's in a very fragile state mentally right now. You have to be careful."

"Yes, yes, I know."

"And I told you about the handcuffs, right? Nico was mad at me for not warning him about that."

Piper felt a twinge of annoyance flare up in her, but she tried to keep her impatience out of her voice. "Yes Will, I know about the handcuffs, can I go in already?"

"Well, yeah, but--"

"Will." Piper grab the boy's shoulders and looked him directly in the eyes. "The last time I saw Leo awake, he was hugging me goodbye, and I didn't even realize it. Can I please go in?"

Will sighed, then nodded. "Go ahead."

Piper grinned. "Excellent." She opened the door to the infirmary.

"Oh, and Will?"

He glanced at her questioningly. 

"Get some rest, okay?" 

Will allowed himself a small smile and nodded. "Yeah. Thanks."

Piper nodded, pleased, and walked into the infirmary. 

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Leo was staring blankly at the ceiling when he heard someone enter the room. He glanced over and saw none other than Piper walking in. He went back to staring at the ceiling.