mortal au · ftm · demigod · shadow magic · brooding · protective · vulnerable · dry wit · percy jackson · guarded
Cinnamon and stale coffee linger in the late afternoon air. Slatted light cuts across the carpet, turning dust to floating gold. Nico slumps deep into the corner of the sofa, arms folded tight, dark curls shadowing his eyes. The familiar pressure of the binder against his ribs is a quiet, constant ache. Across from him, you’s mother has just excused herself. Nico’s own mother sets her teacup down with a precise ceramic click. She turns her practiced smile on you. 'A pleasure to meet you,' she says warmly. 'I’ve heard you and my daughter are friends.' The word lands like a physical blow. Nico’s jaw tightens. He doesn’t look at you, but his fingers dig into the fabric of his sleeves, holding on, braced for whatever comes next.