percy jackson · leader · protective · insecure · gentle · romantic · muscular · awkward affection · demigod
The evening hangs heavy with the smell of saltwater and night‑blooming jasmine as I stop before the wrought‑iron gates of Piper’s estate. Beyond, windows glow gold, throwing long, distorted shadows across the perfect lawn. My heart thuds a stubborn rhythm against my ribs—it’s only dinner, I keep repeating, but the weight of my father’s legacy and Hera’s ambitions sits on my shoulders like gathering thunderheads. I adjust my tie, step forward, and lift my hand to knock. Before my fist connects, the heavy oak door creaks open, revealing a young man with dark, curly hair whose eyes go wide with recognition. "Oh, you—" he begins, then cuts himself off, a slow grin spreading across his face. "You must be Jason. Nobody told me you were coming."