Beyond Tartarus (A Percabeth Fanfiction)

Chapter 44- Under the Tuscan Sun

Annabeth

 I sighed, as the two of us lay on the sandy beach, heat radiating off its grains. Percy looked at me, giving me a questioning look, "Everything okay?" he asked, and I smiled. Everything was perfect, I couldn't have asked for a better honeymoon, full of sweet moments with my true love. I felt giddy, sitting next to him, on the beaches of Tuscany, our last destination before we return to the busy life of Manhattan. It had been an amazing trip, nearing its end. I had wanted nothing more to be with him, and he had outdone himself. Our road trip had led us to the quiet countryside of Tuscany, just outside of Florence. I was in awe of both cities; their stunning culture and history, their calming atmoshphere, and the food. Overall, I couldn't have been more okay with the entire experience.

 "Yeah, I'm fine," I finally replied, meeting his gaze, "I guess I'm just disappointed that this is our final day in Italy. I mean, it's been so much fun, and it just seems so sad that we have to depart."

 Percy grinned, "We can always come again, sometime. We may not have as much fun as we did, but we'll certainly find some great places to visit." He paused, "Just...maybe not the Colisseum." I laughed, and he eventually joined in too.

 The two of us spent our evening at our hotel's private beach, the soothing waves and heavy scent of saltwater the perfect combination, along with a delicate and soft sunset. As we lay under an umbrella, talking, I found myself completely at peace. Percy and I had spent so many days touring and exploring, hardly having time for one another, despite it being our honeymoon. However, in Tuscany, we had found our relaxing period, a time to value one another and enjoy each other's company. It felt so good, to be able to spend time with Percy and not worry about anything, other than him. 

Percy

 "So, what do you want to do tonight?" I asked, and Annabeth giggled. "Well, maybe, since we're leaving tomorrow, we can eat dinner at the hotel's dining hall, I'm not feeling up to going out tonight."

 "I think I have a better idea," I suggested, "Why don't we just order room service? I mean, we've eaten out every night so far, so why not try something new? Not to mention, I'm getting a little tired of trying to speak Italian." Annabeth smiled, and nodded in approval, "I'm sure that Italian room service is just as good as Italian food in general."

 When our room service arrived, the two of us sat on the bed, Annabeth in a robe after having a brief shower before dinner. I remained in my t-shirt and jeans; who cares if I don't dress European?

 As we ate, we talked, and laughed, and talked some more. It was so nice to finally sit and talk with Annabeth, it was one of my favourite things to do with her, obviously. Although, usually she was more of a conversationalist than me, at least, with just the two of us. Otherwise, I'm far more chatty with other people, and way, way more awkward. However, tonight, there was no overpowerment of Annabeth's speech, not that I would have cared. I loved listening to her talk, the way her eyes sparkled as she speaks with her typical passion and quick wit. She's so charismatic, and kind. She always knows what to say, and that's why I've found it so easy to talk to her, to love her. 

 Annabeth

 After our meal, and a bottle of wine, the two of us decided to get ready for bed, having to leave for the airport tomorrow afternoon. Our suitcases were packed, and we were ready to venture back to New York. As Percy was about to turn off the table lamp, I stopped him. 

 "Let's not go to bed just yet," I said, smiling. I leaned in closer to him, and kissed him. He grinned, returning the gesture. I crept closer, kissing him again, and the night had finally begun.

Author's Note

 Sorry this chapter is so short compared to previous, but I needed to conclude their honeymoon trip so I could write the Christmas chapter (get excited, it's going to be great!)

 By the way, just remember that this chapter dates back a few months, okay? This will be relevant for the next chapter, wink. ;) Anyway, hope you enjoyed, and please, send me your feedback please! Thanks again!

-Elisa Marie