Tom Holland Does Rihanna’s “Umbrella” On Lip Sync Battle

character sheet for Percy in my percico college AU!

(as always, feel free to ask me any questions about this AU :) I will chat and maybe throw in a drawing)

edit: [Nico's sheet]

NÃO HÁ LUGAR COMO O LAR - PERCY/NICO AU COLEGIAL - CAPÍTULO XXVII

O que é isso! Mais de um capítulo em uma semana? Sim! Talvez tenha mais um até o fim dela. Como eu disse, tenho que aproveitar enquanto o burnout me dá um tempo.

Capítulo sem revisão, quando eu tiver uma versão mais polida, aviso aqui.

Boa leitura!

Capítulos anteriores: CAPÍTULO I / CAPÍTULO II / CAPÍTULO III / CAPÍTULO IV / CAPÍTULO V / CAPÍTULO VI / CAPÍTULO VII / CAPÍTULO VIII / CAPÍTULO IX / CAPÍTULO X / CAPÍTULO XI / CAPÍTULO XII / CAPÍTULO XIII / CAPÍTULO XIV / CAPÍTULO XV / CAPÍTULO XVI / CAPÍTULO XVII / CAPÍTULO XVIII / CAPÍTULO XIX / CAPÍTULO XX / CAPÍTULO XXI / CAPÍTULO XXII / CAPÍTULO XXIII / CAPÍTULO XXIV / CAPÍTULO XXV / CAPÍTULO XXVI

— Por favor! — Nico gritou a plenos pulmões. Sua sorte era que o resto da família estava ajudando no restaurante, então, não tinha ninguém para presenciar essa cena.

— Eu não sei. Será que você aprendeu sua lição?

Nico choramingou mais uma vez e se remexeu em seu colo.

Sabe, ele era muito paciente, quase um santo de tão caridoso e bondoso. E sabe porque? Percy tinha levado Nico até o carro, colocado suas coisas no banco de tras e dirigido tranquilamente pelos próximo quinze minutos até a casa da mãe. Tinha guardado suas bolsas, oferecido agua para Nico e o feito comer algo antes de leva-lo para o andar de cima, onde o quarto deles ficava. Então, só assim, depois de trancar a porta do quarto e colocar a chave dentro do bolso, ele se virou para Nico, deixando que o garotinho visse suas reais intenções.

— Tire as roupas. — Percy disse sem hesitar. Entretanto, foi Nico quem hesitou. O garoto olhou para a porta e depois para a janela, e por último, o encarou, incerto.

— Você tem certeza? — Nico perguntou. — Você não reagiu muito bem, antes.

Hmm... era verdade. Mas aquele momento tinha ficado no passado.

— Tire as roupas. — Percy repetiu.

Essa seria a parte onde ele geralmente estaria se movendo e ele mesmo tiraria as roupas de Nico. A questão ali não era sobre tirar a roupa ou mesmo sobre as palmadas que viriam, e sim que Nico sentisse que aquilo realmente era um castigo, e para isso acontecer o primeiro passo era fazer Nico se sentir humilhado e depois repreendido. A dor seria apenas uma forma de liberar todas essas emoções.

— O que você está esperando. Você precisa de incentivo?

— Eu... não! — Nico arregalou os olhos, surpreso, e se colocou a tirar as roupas. Ou melhor ele as arrancou de qualquer jeito e as jogou a um lado do quarto, parando em sua frente com a cabeça levemente abaixada e as mãos atras das costas.

Percy sempre se esquecia que Nico entendia como a relação entre dominação e submissão funcionava. Mesmo assim, ele observou Nico por alguns momentos. O rosto que começava a corar, a coluna curvada como se quisesse se proteger e a postura tensa de quem sabia o que estava por vir. Percy deixou o momento se arrastar por alguns minutos, sem falar, e só quando Nico começou a se remexer de ansiedade, decidiu ter misericórdia.

— Você sabe por que estamos aqui?

— Eu... te fiz passar vergonha?

Bobinho. Percy nunca teria vergonha de Nico. Não importava o motivo.

— Você acha que eu tenho vergonha de você? — Ele segurou Nico pelo queixo e o fez encará-lo. E quando Nico não faz nada além de encará-lo de volta, completamente dócil, Percy final se deu por satisfeito. Esse era o jeito que um bom garoto devia se comportar, devia ser obediente e bem-comportado e o tom avermelhado na pele oliva deixava tudo ainda melhor.

Bem, mesmo sendo um bom garoto, Nico era uma das pessoas mais teimosas que ele conhecia. E as vezes, tentar conversar sobre o problema não surtia efeito com Nico. Então, a solução era mostrar para ele. Assim, segurou Nico pelas mãos, se sentou na ponta da cama e colocou Nico sobre seu colo de barriga para baixo.

Percy poderia fazer isso de diversas formas. Nico de quatro na cama, deitado sobre um travesseiro, se ajoelhando no chão, em pé virado para a parede... mas, não, Percy queria que dessa vez fosse algo mais intimo e pessoal, pois ele tão pouco iria utilizar nenhuma ferramenta, como uma palmatoria ou até uma escova de cabelo. Ele queria que Nico sentisse cada palmada e a cada toque me sua pele, queria que Nico se arrependesse e se desculpasse. Entretanto, Percy parou por um momento e admirou a beleza de seu bebê, a pele macia, as nádegas firmes e redondas, a cintura e quadris esguios, o corpo que tremia conforme Percy acariciava a pele morena. Sabia que estava torturando Nico além do necessário, mas, no fim, ele teria certeza que a Nico não duvidaria dele nunca mais.

— Você está pronto?

É claro que aquilo não era uma pergunta, era mais um aviso. Percy não esperou que Nico respondesse e levou sua mão contra o lado direito das nádegas de Nico, e o primeiro gemido já veio. Ou será que tinha sido um resmungo?

— Eu... ah! Estou... faz tanto tempo! — Um gemido mais alto veio com a próxima palmada que veio sem avisar, permitindo a Percy vir a primeira lagrimas aparecer.

— Vou perguntar mais uma vez. Você sabe por que estamos aqui? — E então, mais uma palmada. Nico se curvou todo e segurou nos lençóis, tentando fechar as pernas. — Me responda.

— Eu fui um mal garoto.

— E o que mais?

— Eu não sei! — Nico gritou, sentindo a próxima palmada vir.

Percy estava desapontado. Quer dizer, as palmadas não eram exatamente fracas, mas não devia ser tão difícil entender por que Nico estava sendo castigado. Ele deu mais três palmadas, uma em seguida da outra e no mesmo lugar, e deixou que Nico descansasse por alguns momentos, vendo o garotinho em sua miséria extasiante; seu pequeno membro estava completamente ereto, a ponto de expelir, mas seu choro era tão intenso que Nico soluçava, ansioso e angustiado. Uma punição bem-aplicada em seu ponto de vista.

— Tudo bem, bebê. Eu vou te ajudar.

— Você vai? — Nico disse na voz mais pequena, doce e vulnerável que ele já tinha ouvido.

— Eu nunca teria vergonha de você. Então, o que poderia ser, hm?

— Eu... — Ainda chorando e fungando, Nico franziu a sobrancelha e os olhos, numa careta de concentração. — Eu estava com ciúmes?

— Não, não é isso. Você pode ter ciúmes quando quiser.

— Então...?

— É sobre confiança.

— Oh.

Ah, agora, sim! A expressão que ele queria ver, culpa e arrependimento.

— Eu confio em você. — Nico murmurou, envergonhado.

— Você acha que eu vou te trair? Te trocar por outra pessoa? Se eu não isso por dois anos, por que eu faria agora?

— Eu não sei. — Nico murmurou mais baixo ainda, as lagrimas voltando a rolar por sua pele morena. — Eu só... eu não consigo acreditar que alguém como você iria querer passar o resto da vida comigo.

Deuses, agora quem queria chorar era Percy. Ele pegou Nico no colo e o fez se sentar sobre uma de suas pernas, mantendo o pequeno membro de Nico pressionado contra sua calça jeans. Nico arfou no mesmo momento, seu membro e sua bunda dolorida sendo roçados ao mesmo tempo.

— Bem, isso não está certo. Meu bebê nunca deve duvidar de mim.

— Eu não duvido! Ah!

— Até que isso entre na sua cabeça, vamos continuar fazendo isso. De novo e de novo, até que não reste nenhuma dúvida.

— Por favor! — Nico voltou a gritar, sentindo o ardor se espalhar mais uma vez por sua pele.

Percy admitia, estava em seu momento mais sádico, eram tantas coisas que ele tinha que fazer e planejar que confessava, estava deixando o estresse sair por seus poros enquanto observava Nico gritar e implorar por misericórdia.

— Então, eu quero ver você implorar por perdão.

— Desculpa!

Ali estava, exatamente o que ele queria ouvir. A expressão de angústia no rosto de Nico era tão bonita que ele poderia gozar só de observá-lo. Percy continuou espancando a pele Nico e a cada nova palmada que era acompanhada pela “Desculpa!” gritada, mais algo dentro dele se expandia e se satisfazia, como Percy estivesse em um banquete com todos os seus pratos favoritos.

Isso é, Percy ficaria satisfeito em observar aquela cena pelo resto da vida, se não tivesse pegado o exato momento onde algo em Nico parecia ter mudado, em um momento Nico estava todo tenso e angustiado, e no próximo, bem... Nico amoleceu em seus braços, as linhas em seu rosto se suavizaram e os olhos negros se reviraram, logo em seguida se fechando no completo clímax. E se Percy não estivesse tão perto, mal teria percebido, o único indício era a pequena poça de um líquido contra seu quadril onde Nico estava se apoiando.

O que Percy podia fazer? Ele nunca disse que Nico não poderia gozar ou que não poderia curtir o momento.

***

Nico suspirou e se permitiu ser abraçado, enquanto Percy o consolava. Achava que ainda estava chorando, tremores fazendo os soluços se tornarem mais intensos do que o esperado, sua cabeça vazia e anestesiada, girava lentamente. Nico sabia que um dia Percy o mataria, mas ele morreria feliz e contente. Nada poderia o afetar naquele momento.

O que estava tudo bem. De fato, Nico não poderia estar melhor, viajando nas endorfinas que apenas uma boa sessão de dor podia trazer. Se desobedecer Percy mais vezes fosse o necessário para ser “castigado” mais vezes, Nico se tornaria o pior dos bons garotos. Ele queria rir desses pensamentos bobos, mas Percy ainda o segurava entre seus braços, ainda acariciava suas costas e ainda massageava a pele sensível de suas nádegas. Era difícil ter um pensamento coerente nesses momentos, momentos em que ele se concentrava em apenas obedecer. Nico sabia que assim que as endorfinas deixassem seu corpo, ser um bom garoto ou não, não faria diferença, porém, nesses longos minutos, sentindo as mãos de Percy sobre ele e lábios contra os seus, nada era mais importante.

— Shhhh... está tudo bem. — Percy murmurou contra seus lábios, o fazendo abrir os olhos. Nico inspirou profundamente e gemeu, sentindo os dedos molhados de Percy roçarem em sua entrada, a posição em que eles estavam perfeita para a penetração; ele sentado no colo de Percy com suas pernas rodeado a cintura de Percy.

Não demorou muito depois disso, um dedo virou dois e então a cabeça do membro estava tocando sua entrada, fazendo um pouco de pressão até entrar, deslizando na passagem apertada e o fazendo curvar a coluna, gemendo ao sentir Percy o penetrar completamente. Isso era algo que Nico não entendia, ele costumava odiar essa sensação do esticar de seus músculos, da leve ardência que o queimava sem o machucar. Agora? Ele amava sentir seu corpo se abrir e permitir que Percy entrasse dentro dele, um prazer que Nico não entendia se era completamente físico ou se também era emocional.

Nico deixou que mais um gemido saísse, sentindo a dor voltar com tudo, quando Percy segurou em suas nádegas, o fazendo se contrair todo.

— Hmm. Tão gostoso. Você gosta desse jeito, não?

Ele... Nico amava. Gostava de cada gesto e cada toque, cada palavra, cada movimento. Mas, Nico tinha um problema, tinha medo dizer o quanto gostava de cada coisa que Percy o fazia sentir, fossem emoções positivas ou negativas. Pois, ás vezes, Percy era um tanto... cruel, o dominando para além do que Nico estava confortável. Percy usava o que Nico dizia contra ele, ainda que fosse da melhor forma possível. Mesmo que Nico não quisesse admitir. E se um dia, um dia que estava muito distante de chegar, Percy o dominasse de tal forma que Nico nunca mais seria capaz de sair desse estado mental submisso e se tornasse apenas o que Percy queria que ele fosse, nada mais do que uma boneca de retalhos?

De fato, Nico sentia que isso poderia acontecer a qualquer momento, com o mínimo toque e palavras ditas docemente ao pé de seu ouvido. Sentia que sua mente iria flutuar para longe dele e apenas sobraria a parte dentro dele que vivia para satisfazer os desejos de seu dono.

— Bebê? — Ele ouviu ao longe a voz de Percy o chamando de volta, como se o puxasse com uma corda de volta para a terra. — Aqui está você. Tão bonito.

— Ah, eu vou... gozar... — Nico gemeu, estremecendo, Percy o segurando pela nuca e costas, afetuosamente, movendo sua cintura em direção a mais um orgasmo, seus ossos parecendo feitos de geleia e seus músculos completamente relaxados.

— Isso. Assim?

Nico não aguentava mais. Percy alcançou aquele lugarzinho dentro dele, a sensação vindo repentina. Em um momento ele se sentia feito manteiga derretida e no próximo, Nico se contraia, gozando, enrolando suas pernas ao redor da cintura de Percy e jogando a cabeça para trás em um grito silencioso. E sem ser tocado, expeliu, por longos momentos se sentindo esvaziar, apenas parando quando a exaustão o fez relaxar mais uma vez.

— Per. — Ele choramingou, seus nervos hiper sensíveis. A sensação vindo tão repentinamente quanto seu orgasmo.

— Está tudo bem. Estou aqui.

Um beijo foi colocado em seu pescoço, outro em seu rosto e enfim em seus lábios. E então, tudo pareceu ficar melhor. Sua respiração se acalmou e se coração desacelerava.

— Bom garoto. Tão obediente.

Se ele tivesse um rabo, Nico estaria o balançando de felicidade nesse exato momento. Pois era assim que Nico se sentia, feito um animalzinho de estimação que havia sido elogiado por um aprender um novo truque e por seu um bom garoto.

— Eu não sou um... um... — Nico não conseguiria encontrar palavras mesmo que quisesse, sua cabeça estava vazia demais para montar pensamentos complexos.

— Ah, você não é o meu bom garoto? O meu bebê? Papai vai ficar triste.

Isso era demais para seu cérebro cheio de dopamina. Nico preferiu fechar os olhos e esconder o rosto no ombro de Percy, se sentindo seguro e protegido, concordando com Percy ainda que não pudesse admitir o fato.

— Oh, meu bebê não precisa se preocupar. Tenho um presente pra você.

Nico ouviu um barulho de plástico sendo aberto e algo sendo colocado em sua mão.

— Coma.

Nico obedeceu, assim em transe. Deu uma mordida e prazer se espalhou em sua língua. Era chocolate. Bem, era um doce feito de chocolate que eles costumavam comer quando crianças. Costumava ser o seu favorito, algo que ele fazia com as próprias mãos para se lembrar de sua mãe.

— Obrigado. — Ele viu dizendo entre mordidas, contente em ficar exatamente onde estavam; na cama, sentado no colo de Percy com a cabeça apoiada em seu ombro e comendo seu doce preferido.

— Meu bebê merece o melhor.

Disso Nico não tinha muita certeza. Deixaria que Percy decidisse isso por ele, como sempre fazia.

Entãoooo.... eu decidi desenvolver melhor a relação D/s deles. Eu não ia porque mal tenho energia para colocar no papel o que já tenho planejado, então, imagina adicionar mais coisas ainda. Mas... acho que não vou ter outra oportunidade tão cedo para desenvolver esse tema especifico. Espero que vocês tenham gostado. Comentários construtivos me deixaria muito feliz.

comment: great chapter, can't wait to find out how the story continues!

me, the writer: lol me too

te desejo maturidade

para saber lidar com o silêncio das coisas.

it's always so fascinating and heartbreaking when a character in a story is simultaneously idolized and abused. a chosen prophet destined for martyrdom. a child prodigy forced to grow up too fast. a powerful warrior raised as nothing but a weapon. there's just something so uniquely messed up about singing someone's praises whilst destroying them.

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME - PERCY/NICO AU HIGH SCHOOL - CHAPTER I

Hi, how are you? This is the English version of "NÃO HÁ LUGAR COMO O LAR - PERCY/NICO AU COLEGIAL ". I usually write in Portuguese, but as I saw a lot of people who read in other languages, I decided to write this one in English too. Admittedly, I used Google and corrected what I could. I hope this is an acceptable translation, even if my writing is a bit rusty in English.

Now, for those who don't know what the story is about, here's an improvised summary: Nico is returning from Italy after spending two years there and meets Percy, the best friend he left behind, but who kept in touch in that time away. The rest develops from this reunion, and very quickly! In this story I will try to be more direct.

Thanks for the support! And good reading.

"Look who's back! The Italian boy.” Nico just had time to turn around before he was pressed against broad shoulders and strong arms that hugged him so tightly they lifted him into the air, knocking him out of breath and sending his books and bag tumbling to the floor, the door of his school locker being slammed with a loud bang.

“Perseus Jackson!”

"Only my mother calls me that."

But Percy was laughing, twirling him around in the air as people around him stared at them. Well, there was a good reason. They were right in the middle of the hallway where there were several lockers, leading to the entrance of the classrooms. Nico couldn't resist, he wrapped his arms around Percy's neck and hugged him as tight as Percy had did, burying his face against Percy's neck.

"I missed you.”

"I missed you too." Nico muttered back and pulled away, finally getting to see Percy's face.

Eyes as green as he remembered, nose straight and upturned, thin lips and wide in a pretty smile. What had changed was Percy’s height, nearly seven feet tall, and all those muscles. Where he remembered a shy and a little sad boy had turned into this... this happy and full of life man. Confident. Although he could still see the kindness and friendship that they used to have, this thing between them… having to deal with those feelings so openly still was something new. He couldn't help but compare himself to the past, where he was too young and Percy was... Percy was Percy, opening the door to his home to a sad, lonely little boy.

"Two years, huh? I thought you were never coming back."

“Hm.”

"Let me see you better." It wasn't like Percy had never seen him up close or every day for those two years on video calls. Nico had forgotten how intense Percy could be, full of touches and smiles.

Percy brought one of his hands to his face and brushed his hair back, exposing his face completely. And him? Well, Nico just stared back at Percy, as focused on the boy as Percy was on him. The truth is that all the calls and video calls didn't compare to what reality showed him, making him question what had happened to make him run away from Percy, from those gestures that felt so… so affectionate and so attentive. How dare he do this to them? Leaving the person he loved most behind? He was the most cowardly person in the whole world.

"Um... Percy? Put me down, yeah?” Nico did his best to stay serious.

"Why?”

"Don’t you have shame?”

"Have I?

Then, Percy smiled even more and finally put him on the ground to then loosen his grip on his face and waist, not pulling away completely, but leaning a little over him, as if there was something in his face that Percy needed to see more closely.

"How have you been? Why didn't you tell me you were coming back this week?”

"Why? Would you pick me up at the airport?”

“Of course, my friends deserve the best.”

“And what would that be?”

“Me, of course.”

Nico swore he was trying to be serious. The way things were going, Percy wanted something more and at the moment he wasn't ready. But it was no use, Nico grabbed Percy's shoulders and laughed; he thought it was one of the worst lines he had ever heard.

"Hey, don't laugh in my face. I'm a nice guy.”

“And very humble, too.”

"Very.” Percy said and finally released him, leaning against his side in front of the lockers, making Nico sigh in relief and picking up his things from the floor, putting them in the locker.

Sometimes Percy was a little too much for him; that was what Nico had discovered over the years in the thousands of conversations they'd had in that time. He didn't know when Percy had changed from the introverted boy to this bubbly person, but he liked it. And hated it at the same time, making his stomach flutter with anxiousness.

"Now really, how have things been?"

“You know, the same." Nico shrugged and closed the closet, taking out the books he would use that day, putting them in his bag. “Bianca came with me.”

"College?” Percy asked. “And you?”

Nico shrugged once more and leaned back against Percy's side, facing him closely again, looking at him through his lashes, trying not to show how he really felt. He didn't think he'd ever would get used to his friend's good looks, now doubled as the smooth features of adolescence gave way to defined muscles and an angular, strong face, the crooked smile, the intense gaze, the confident attitude... and... well, all of that. And much more.

"What about it?"

"What brings you back?"

“I missed home.” Nico nodded to himself. “For a while I thought it was Verona, but… I kept wondering what’s going on around here.”

"So, you decided to come back?”

“Why not? I'm turning eighteen in a few months. I wanted to use this last year and see the guys again.

Well… he wanted to see a few people again and one of them was right in front of him, looking at him as if he wanted to… as if Percy wanted to see what was inside his mind. And as it used to happen, he was the first to lose in this little game to see who looked away first.

“So… did you miss it and came to stay or…”

“I'm here to stay. Hades will come later.”

"I’m glad.” Percy said, still smiling, something more sincere and cute, like he got tired of flirting. "Maybe we can see each other later. Wanna eat something?”

"Later when?”

"Today. After basketball practice. Want to see me play?”

"Oh no! That's what I was afraid of! The high school cliché!” But he was laughing, and Percy was laughing along with him, reminding him of old times.

“You know, you can't talk about me. You were all cute and shy and you came back looking like you stepped out of an eighty’s movie. Leather jacket, ripped pants and that… is it eyeliner?” Percy approached him once more and gently cupped his chin, just another excuse to touch him, of that Nico was sure; not that he was complaining. Percy could do that and much more. “You're the perfect good boy gone bad.”

“I'm still a good boy.”

That made Percy stop for a moment, still with his hands on Nico's face, and stare at him for a long time only for a crooked smile to appear along with dimples.

"Is that so? How much of a good boy are you?”

"I don't think you'll ever find out."

One more silence and one more look that in the past would send him running for cover faster than a rocket. However, that Nico had been left behind along with his innocence.

“Hm.” Was all Percy said for a few moments, and Nico swore he was moving closer towards his face when the bell rang, interrupting them.

"Right.” Nico cleared his throat, straightening his spine and looking around. “I think I have to go.

“What's your first class?”

" English class. I need to stop by the secretary first.”

" I'll go with you.

Nico didn't even try to deny it, he had missed Percy so much that stretching things a little further wouldn't hurt. He pushed himself away from the locker and, again, something he didn't expect happened. Percy took the backpack from his shoulder, carrying it for him and with the other hand, intertwined their fingers together, pulling him smoothly through the almost empty corridor towards the administration of the school.

***

It was strange to be there after so long. The cream-colored walls were still the same, there were the same blue benches and black tables, the same wide hallways and the same cafeteria, painted the same pastel color. He even managed to recognize some familiar faces among the younger ones. It was a dejavu, except that now he saw things from above, in a distant, almost displaced perspective, where before his days were permeated by anxiety and uncertainty, now everything seemed easier and colorless, even if a little painful, but unimportant and maybe even comfortable. Maybe it was because Percy was still holding his hand, talking to the same secretary as two years ago, a woman in her fifties, always smiling and helpful.

In the end, it didn't take long for him to get his admissions papers that he would need to show his professors.

“So, English class? Double? I also have it. Let me see your schedule.”

Nico shrugged and took his class schedule out of his bag. He watched Percy take the paper from his hands, frown in concentration and hand the paper back to him, "We have most of our classes together. “Are you in the arts and music clubs? I'm into the music too. Guitar classes.”

“Seemed to be the easiest.”

"I bet.”

"Shut up.” Nico shoved Percy by the shoulders and walked out of the office. Few people knew that he had a knack for creative things and maybe he played something for Percy over the years. Well, that was none of other people's business.

“Nico, the classes have changed! We are using the auditoriums.”

"Of course.” Nico rolled his eyes and this time he wasn't even surprised when Percy reached out and touched his shoulder, his big hands sliding down his back to his waist, gently guiding him in the right direction. In fact, he didn't remember this school having an auditorium, so he let himself be guided by Percy, a warm and comfortable presence at his side.

***

When they arrived at the auditorium, the class had already started. Professor Johnson wasn't the type to mind being late if the class wasn't disrupted, that’s why Percy stood at the main entrance to the room, away from the teacher's gaze, preferring to watch Nico go down to the podium where the teacher was and deliver the paper for her to sign.

What could Percy say? Nico was a much more interesting sight at that moment, long legs covered by tight jeans, perky ass, small waist, broad shoulders, deep-set black eyes and a small mouth that always seemed to be bitten and reddened, skin tanned, looking so soft that he couldn't resist the urge to touch him as soon as he could, just to test the theory. He admitted it, he was going too fast, but two years was enough time to know if you liked someone, wasn't it? Not counting the seven years before that. Perhaps he should have gone to Italy with Nico when Hades offered, always generous even if absent most of the time.

He was snapped out of his reverie when Nico finished talking to the teacher and walked towards him, carefree and slow, as if he had all the time in the world, parading around in his punk clothes and unpretentious attitude. Why avoid something he knew would happen sooner or later? If Percy could, he would kiss Nico then and there, to end this torture that had gone on for so many years. But he could control himself, if he had waited two years, he could wait a few more days.

"All went well?”

Nico just nodded and took his hand, leading him towards the middle of the auditorium where they could get a good view of the teacher and hear what she was talking about. Percy didn't even have time to appreciate Nico taking the initiative and touching him of his own free will, although he felt he should be more concerned with the reaction of the people around them, the indiscreet stares and murmurs buzzing in his ear; he didn't exactly date boys in public, especially since Annabeth was always around to make everyone think he was with her. It was what it was, he just hoped he didn't have to punch some faces. Because he would, and gladly.

“Per?” He heard someone call him and there was only one person who still called him that. "What chapter are we in?"

"Seven.”

"Thanks.” Nico muttered more quietly than before and began to read, completely focused on the book and what the teacher was saying. Percy was left to wonder how anyone could be so cute. So lovely. Watching a small crease appear between Nico's brows, his lips set into a frustrated pout until he seemed to find what he was looking for in the book, relaxing against the seat and settling down to jot down quick notes as the teacher discussed the matter.

Then a noise came from the row of chairs above his, someone tapping him on the shoulder. He turned around and there was Grover, his oldest childhood friend.

"Who's the new kid?"

“Nico.”

“That quiet, sad boy Sally had practically adopted?' Your Italian boy? Now I understand the obsession.”

"Dude!” Percy whispered furiously. He wasn't that obsessed…was he? Percy looked to the side, just to make sure Nico hadn't heard, seeing that the boy was still focused on the class and turned back to Grover: “We'll talk later.”

"As you wish, don Juan."

"Whatever.”

Percy faced forward, leaned over Nico, seeing where they were in the book, and ignored everything else. When Nico pushed the book toward him so the two of them could read, Percy didn't hesitate. He put his arm around Nico's shoulder, put their heads together and began to read. Maybe be if he could concentrate, the little voice in the back of his mind would stop reminding him that this would lead to more trouble than he was willing to deal with.

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I hope you liked it. Updates always in Fridays or early if a have the time.

Thanks again!

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME - PERCY/NICO AU HIGH SCHOOL - CHAPTER X

Hi, how are you? Just in time, huh? I'm trying not to split up the story too much. So, I hope it's acceptable. Feedback is always good.

Enjoy it!

Previous chapters: CHAPTER I / CHAPTER II / CHAPTER III / CHAPTER IV / CHAPTER V / CHAPTER VI / CHAPTER VII / CHAPTER VIII / CHAPTER IX

"Are you ready? I didn't tell you we were coming." Percy took his hand and pulled him out of the car.

Nico couldn't believe he was back in the house where his best memories were made. This was the house of his childhood, the place where he had discovered that love and affection were still possible after his mother death. It was the place where Nico had discovered that love could come in many shapes and sizes and be expressed in simple or complicated ways.

"Maybe we should come back later?”

"She'll be happy to see you.”

"Are you sure?”

"Nico, this is your home too. It always will be.”

Nico had to take a deep breath, stopping in front of the front door. He felt so guilty! Percy wasn't the only person he had left behind. Sally had also been one of them. His second mother, the person he could tell everything after Percy, always offering him a tight hug and an open kitchen.

"Percy, I--”

"Shhh." Percy held his hand, smiled at him and finally pushed open the door of the house, leading him inside. "Mom! We're here!”

It didn't take long. Soon they could both hear the sound of heels on the white granite floor, and appearing from one of the doors that Nico knew to be in the kitchen, Sally came almost running and with so much energy that for a moment Nico saw himself in the past, the first time he had come through that same door, seeing the simple but elegant decor. Cream-colored sofas, almost white blue walls, puffs and blankets scattered around the room and a large television. The smell was the same, the same fragrance of freshly made food, sweet and sour, making him smile immediately.

"Nico, my son." That was all he heard before Sally's attack came, thin, strong arms encircled him and long, dark brown hair fell over him, Sally's perfume was still the same.

"Gods, look how much you've grown! And those cheeks, hm? So pretty.”

"Mom!”

"Percy, look at him. Have you sorted yourselves out? I hope so! You've been gone for three days! That's the least I can hope for.”

"Sally." Nico finally said, smiling, and leaned towards her, receiving another hug from Sally with pleasure.

"I can't believe I'm getting my assistant back! Our menu has suffered with you gone. How about we discuss it tomorrow? Are you staying with us today? What a question! Of course you are.”

Sally took his hand, pulling him towards the kitchen and Nico looked back, seeing Percy shrug. He knew it would take time for Sally to grow tired of him now. And as the saying goes, "like mother, like son", or something like that. And since there was no point in fighting with any of the Jacksons, Nico let himself be carried away by Sally, not that he minded; it was always fun to spend a few hours in Sally Jackson's company, delicious food, relaxed conversation and a friendly shoulder to vent on.

***

It had been a long time since Percy had walked the streets of his neighborhood. They weren't what they used to be, from quiet and humble to full of tall buildings and noisy cars due to the subway line located a few blocks from his house. The good thing about all this was that now there was a store or a market, or even a shopping center, on practically every corner. Which was exactly what he was looking for. Walking nonchalantly, Percy went straight to a stationery store and soon found what he was searching for, a dark leather journal with a delicate and beautiful appearance, just like Nico. 

He paid for it, walked around the mall and found himself standing in front of a familiar Jewelry store, remembering going into that place years ago and buying something special, but never going through with his plan. Now, a few hours later, he was on his way home. Imagine his surprise when his mother's helpers came in with bags after bags of food and pots and pans. Percy wasn't even surprised anymore. In fact, it was a familiar sight, but one he hadn't seen since Nico had left, the house full and the scent of sweets and snacks permeating the air.

Well, it looked like his present would have to wait.

Without being seen, he went to his room, left the bag on the bed and opened the first drawer of the dresser, finding the rings he had bought. Could this be the moment he had been waiting for? After all, they had already made it clear that they loved each other, so why not take the next step? He had learned that the best thing to do was never to assume anything, and if he didn't speak up, how would Nico know? Percy couldn't wait to see Nico's reaction.

So, exchanging the rings for the diary, he took the box with the rings and put the diary in the drawer, feeling confident. Percy left the bedroom and headed towards the kitchen, almost running into a girl wearing an apron from his mother's restaurant. She apologized and hurried out of the house, without the usual flattery. He hoped this one would last longer than the others. It wasn't that his mother was a bad boss, the problem was that most people didn't have the same enthusiasm as she or Nico had when it came to cooking.

Percy finally entered the kitchen and was faced with a full feast. He saw roasted, fried and boiled meats, grains and pasta of all kinds, not to mention sweets and salty foods that weren't all that healthy.

“Are we having a gala dinner or what?" He had to ask as soon as he entered the kitchen. It was kind of funny. Sally and Nico were there, along with several helpers, covered in flour and other things Percy couldn't identify, all wearing identical aprons and moving around in such an organized way that they looked like worker ants.

"You're right, darling!" His mother exclaimed. She wiped her hand on a towel, as energetic as he'd seen her in a long time, or at least not at this "child who ate too much sugar" level, and hugged him tightly, before walking back into the kitchen to check the oven and make sure everything was in order. "Call your friends! Call your friends' friends. No, better yet, call your friends' parents too.”

Percy wasn't sure about that. Did he even still has that many friends left? Percy shrugged, about to do what his mother had asked when Nico appeared in front of him, trying to find a place to put some sort of whitish cake on the table.

"I will help you.”

Percy moved some things around and finally found a space, taking the dish from Nico's hands and placing it on the counter.

"Here's my baby. Where have you been?”

"I'm not your baby.”

“ You are not?”

Was now a good time? No matter how Nico was dressed, in his school uniform or in his tight pants, and even now with flour from head to toe, Nico would always be the prettiest and cutest thing Percy would ever see, especially when he tried not to be embarrassed by this public display of affection.

Percy put his hand in his pocket, touched the box and watched for a moment, seeing Nico lower his head, his black hair protected by a hairnet, allowing him to see the blush spreading strongly across his dark face and down his long, elegant neck. Percy didn't hold back, he grabbed the back of Nico's neck and pulled him close, kissed him slowly and longingly, and only stopped when he heard a moan and the sudden silence that followed; the murmurs around them stopped and so did the sound of banging pots and pans.

"Per," Nico whispered in an almost non-existent voice and grabbed his arm, his face now on fire. So shy and so sweet, Percy could feel the sugar on Nico's tongue and the sweetness in his gentle touch. 

But just when he thought Nico would pull away, as he often had in the past, Nico just stood there, clinging to his arm, looking at him without knowing what to do. Maybe this wasn't the right moment, because if Nico had reacted like this to just one kiss, caught off guard and all anxious, what would Nico do if he got down on one knee in the middle of the kitchen? 

Unfortunately, when something like that used to happen, Nico wouldn’t know what to do. He would freeze from head to toe, and as if he had no script for this kind of situation, Nico rather do nothing for fear of making a mistake.

"Beautiful. Give me a hug, hm?”

Nico blinked slowly and bit his lips, looking unsure. In the end, Nico did as Percy asked. He put his arms around Percy's waist and hugged him tightly for a long moment, hiding his face against his neck, Percy hugged him back and stroked Nico's long hair, comforting him.

"Right.” Percy raised his head and, still hugging Nico, looked around at each of his mother's helpers, which had the desired effect.

Everyone began to move as one and the atmosphere returned to normal. He thought about apologizing to Nico, but the thought of Nico understanding that kissing him in front of other people was wrong made his stomach churn. Nico was a very perceptive being, and if he understood that he was doing something wrong, Nico would never do it again, like the time they were talking to some people, Nico laughed too loudly and someone scolded him, after that, it took him months to see Nico smiling in public.

"What you got for me?”

"Have you ever had Japanese cake?" Nico seemed relieved by the change of subject and let go of his waist. He took Percy's hand and led him to a light, spongy cake, unlike anything he had ever eaten.

Nico cut off a piece and put it on a plate for him. As soon as he took a bite, the cake melted on his tongue, something so delicious that Percy couldn't explain it, so he just moaned, closing his eyes in pleasure.

"That good?”

"Everything my baby does is exemplary.”

"Thank you.”

Percy stopped eating and paid attention to Nico. In fact, he stopped and watched him. Nico looked happy and content in his apron and flour-stained clothes. He looked like a little chef, proud of a job well done.

"I saw it in a restaurant in Verona and wanted to try it.”

"Beautiful.”

"You should study cooking." This time it was Sally who spoke, finishing a chocolate tart and watching them discreetly. She approached them and put one of her hands on Nico's shoulders. "Have you thought about it?”

***

"You should study cooking. Have you thought about it?”

Nico blinked slowly, trying to concentrate on anything other than the way Percy was looking at him, who almost missed the moment when Sally approached the corner where they were standing.

"Hm?”

"Have you decided on your graduation course?”

"Ah." Nico glanced at Percy out of the corner of his eye, but focused on Sally. "I don't know. Hades wants me to do administration.”

"Why not something you're talented at? Like music or cooking? Arts?”

"I... I'd like that very much. I don't know if Hades would allow it.”

"You know, the other day this nice, polite man brought his family over for dinner. He said that the place where he works has an excellent cooking course." Nico took a good look at Sally, trying to figure out what that meant. "Why don't you do a double degree? I have his contact if you're interested.”

"It's also close to home." Percy added.

Nico stopped everything and leaned on the edge of the bench, trying not to get his hopes up.

"I couldn't.”

"Darling, you don't have to worry about the details. Have a look, will you? I'll take care of everything.”

"No, Sally. You don't have to... I never--”

"It’s okay, darling. Money is not a problem." Then Sally smiled at him all radiant and caught him off guard once again, hugging him tightly. "No matter what you choose. We'll support you, now and always.”

"Oh." It was all that escaped his throat, a choked, muffled sound against Sally's shoulder. His vision blurred, and his throat tightened, but his heart beat strongly, a delicious warmth heating his chest as Percy's hands touched his shoulders, embracing him and Sally at once.

"Mom is right. We'll support you no matter what, even if I have to go to Italy with you.”

"Did you plan this? To surprise me and not let me think about it?”

"Nico, of course not, silly!" Sally exclaimed energetically and grabbed his shoulders, her big light brown eyes hitting him right in the middle of the chest. "Percy did some vocational and aptitude tests last year and since then we've been looking for the best options. You have to do them too, they're pretty accurate. Does next week sound good? Ah, we have so much to do!”

And so, as if talking about his future was something ordinary, Sally  continued again, mixing something in a large glass pot with a spatula.

"That's right, then. College decided. Will we have a wedding?”

"Wedding?”

"Of course! The sooner we set the date, the better! What about a house? You'll be near us, right? And... Percy didn’t talk to you yet?”

Nico didn't know if he was ready for such a big step, he didn't even know if he could finish high school without self-destructing himself, let alone… marriage.

"Mom!" Percy grumbled. "She's joking. Don't listen to what she says.”

It was Percy who said it, but his gaze was intense on him, thoughtful and analytical. And... maybe... maybe Sally wasn't joking,  if it were for the disappointed expression on Percy's face.

"Since when have you been planning these things? “

"Since…”

"Since when?”

"Ever since I realized that waking up next to you was the best part of my day.”

Nico thought there was something strange in his eyes, they wouldn't stop watering. It must have been sinusitis. Yes, that was it. Maybe an allergy.

"Aren't you going to say anything?" Percy insisted, and suddenly the world disappeared and only the two of them mattered; the sound of banging pots and whispers disappeared, even the hurried murmurs around them vanished.

"What was I supposed to say? Are you asking me to marry you?”

This was the best and worst moment of his life. Percy smiled at him and reached into his pocket, pulling out a delicate velvet box. And then, the worst came, Percy knelt down on the floor full of flour and sugar, and opened the box, showing him that inside were two identical gold-plated rings with a small diamond in the center, one large and the other smaller, with delicate engravings around the rings, the rings so delicate that Nico was afraid to touch them.

"You can't be serious!”

"I bought them before you ran away to Italy. I wish I'd told you sooner. I was afraid it would drive you away again.”

And without asking permission, Percy took hia hand and slid the smallest of the rings onto the ring finger of Nico’s right hand.

"This ring is proof of my commitment and fidelity to you. It's my promise to always be by your side and to always give you whatever you need and want. No matter what or where.”

"Percy, stop it! Right now! You don't want this." Nico pulled away from Percy's hands and tried to take the ring off, feeling anxious, but he couldn't get it off. Something inside him stopped Nico.

"Of course I want it. I love you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you." Percy kept smiling and remained kneeling, as if paying for his sins in a prayer of love.

Percy crawled on his knees until he was close enough to touch again and offered Nico the box, saying: "It's your turn to put it on me. Will you marry me?”

"Gods!" Nico whimpered, that tightness in his heart and warmth in his chest spreading like hellish flames through his veins. "You'll regret this. You'll regret it so much. Then, don't blame me for what happens.”

"I take full responsibility.”

Sniffling, Nico knelt down too and did the same as Percy, placing the ring on the ring finger of Percy's right hand and observing their hands together. Not even in his wildest dreams could Nico have imagined something like this.

"Satisfied now?”

"And my kiss, hm?”

Still feeling anxious and shaky, Nico jumped into Percy's lap and kissed him with everything he had, being greeted by the strong embrace of the person Nico loved most in the whole world.

Another drawing of Percy. . . Yay!🙌🏼🌊

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME - PERCY/NICO AU HIGH SCHOOL - CHAPTER XXIV

Good reading!

CHAPTER I / CHAPTER II / CHAPTER III / CHAPTER IV / CHAPTER V / CHAPTER VI / CHAPTER VII / CHAPTER VIII / CHAPTER IX / CHAPTER X / CHAPTER XI / CHAPTER XII / CHAPTER XIII / CHAPTER XIV / CHAPTER XV / CHAPTER XVI / CHAPTER XVII / CHAPTER XVIII / CHAPTER XIX / CHAPTER XX / CHAPTER XXI / CHAPTER XXII / CHAPTER XXIII

“You've been very susceptible to... suggestions. Is it just me or is it something in general?”

“Only you. I think... I trust you.”

“I’m honored,” Percy said without any irony, his low, velvety tone giving way to something more normal. “I was afraid this would happen. I will never abuse the trust you give me.”

“I know that. I never doubted it.”

“That's why I have to talk to you about something.”

Oh no. Was he in trouble?

Nico watched as Percy got up and picked up a box that was at the foot of the bed, a little bigger than a shoebox.

“What’s that?”

“It's the surprise I wanted to show you.”

Nico was afraid just to look at it. What could be so important that Percy felt the need to hide it from the rest of the family? Hesitating, Nico remained quiet, leaning against the headboard of the bed and waited for Percy to approach once more, sitting down next to him.

“I've been thinking about what you told me, that I don't take what you say seriously.”

“I know you--”

“I'm not done.” Percy didn't even speak louder, but his tone of voice demanded obedience. And Nico was already tired of fighting his instincts, so Nico just shut up and paid attention to Percy.

The problem with that was that Percy looked guilty about something, his face twisting into a grimace. Nico continued to wait, watching Percy almost fidget with anxiety. Of course, until Percy sighed and looked at him once more, looking as resigned as Nico felt.

“I didn't mean to talk to you like that.” Percy finally said, trying to sound nonchalant.

“I don't care. If you tell me to do it, I will. It's something natural for me, you know?”

“Nico.” Percy sighed once more, looking tired.

“Could you... just... do what feels natural to you, too?” When Percy raised his eyebrows in disbelief, Nico added, “It’s just a suggestion.”

“I'll think about it.”

“I mean, you always had this aura…”

“Domineering?”

“It's more like, you expect to be obeyed. And that's okay?”

“Is that a question or a statement?”

“It depends on you.” Nico ended up shrugging, trying to fake the calm he didn't feel at the moment.

“You mean to tell me that I can be domineering whenever I want and you will obey me? Without question?”

“Hm... probably?” The correct answer was “absolutely”, but that would be too much humiliation for just one person.

“Really? Even when you don’t agree with me?”

“I guess so.” Nico shrugged again and looked away from Percy. Most of the time that was what happened anyway; he didn’t want it to happen, and in the end, Percy was right. If Nico had listened to Percy in the past, he could have avoided a lot of things.

“Baby.” Then, he heard Percy's tone of voice change, becoming softer and more velvety.

It wasn't that he had an uncontrollable urge to obey, it was the knowledge that he would be very well rewarded if he decided to be a good boy. And he was, immediately after hearing that word. Percy grabbed him by the neck, making him lift his head and kissed him, joining their tongues in a sigh.

“I don't want you to feel trapped or like you have no choice.” Percy said some time later, brushing his lips against his.

“I don't feel that way. I feel free knowing that you will take care of me.”

“Are you sure?”

“I trust you.”

“Allright, then.”

Percy pulled away from Nico enough to look into his face and smiled, looking content this time, but still holding him by the neck, possessive and firm, although his voice remained soft.

“That's why I need to show you what's inside this box.”

Percy released him and picked up the box once more, placing it between them, on his lap. Percy opened it, removing the ribbon and the lid, allowing Nico to examine the contents inside.

“Wh... what is this?” Nico’s voice was weak and his hands trembled, resting over his lap.

Nico knew perfectly well what those objects were. He knew exactly what they meant, the problem was that his brain refused to believe what he saw. Why now? After so long? That's why he remained still like a statue, barely able to breathe.

“I didn't treat you like I should’ve. I ignored what was clear.” Percy said, grabbing his neck again, forcing him to look at him. “I understand why you hesitated for so long, why you still hesitate sometimes.”

“I--”

“I hesitate for the same reason.” Percy seemed to take a deep breath and took out a leather choker with precious stones adorning it. “I want you to know, I am committed and I will never run away from my responsibilities ever again.”

Nico thought he was going to faint. Was Percy proposing to him? Again? Now in a way he never expected it to happen? Nico didn't even know what to say! It was obvious, wasn't it? He had been waiting for this moment ever since he laid eyes on the tall boy who looked like he had come out of a cliché porn where the guy would hardly make the girl regret walking alone through the deserted streets. Nothing prepared him when the moment finally arrived. Percy held the delicate choker between his fingers, brought it to his neck and fastened it carefully, making sure it wouldn't be too tight.

He... Nico didn't know... was it just his imagination or... oh no, Nico wasn't mistaken. As soon as the choker settled against his skin, Percy wrapped the leather around his neck and touched the collar, massaging his skin and admiring the jewel. However, it was the look on Percy's face that stole his breath; Percy was looking at him as if he were... as if he were--

“Mine.” Percy said. “Now you're mine.”

Why was it so hard to breathe? Why was he shaking so much?

“I…”

“I know.” Percy said in the most condescending tone Nico had ever heard, almost mean, almost mocking, but still... soft, as if Percy was talking to someone who was mentally slow. “Take your time. I never thought I would do something like this myself.”

“So mean.” Nico managed to stammer, Percy was obviously giving him time to absorb the facts, still holding him by the neck, as if Nico was his possession and not a human being.

“You haven't seen anything. But I don't think we're ready for that yet.”

“Hmm…” Nico whimpered just imagining what could happen. Could he faint already? Would it be too much of a humiliation?

He heard a mocking chuckle and then hands were around him, massaging his spine and hair in the way he liked best. In the end, Percy was right once again. He wasn't ready for any of this. If just a collar around his neck could make him react like this, what would happen when... when things actually happened?

***

“Shhh... it's okay. I won't be mean to you, hm?”

“Liar.” His voice cracked and Percy laughed again, right in his ear.

“Maybe a little. I know you like it.”

“Stop it!”

Percy was right, as always. For some reason, Nico found himself laughing, slapping Percy's arm who only laughed harder, enjoying Nico’s pain.

“Okay. I'll stop. Now, let's get to the important part.”

“What part?”

“Is there anything I should know? Strong or weak boundaries? Something you don't like at all? Or like too much?”

“Oh. “It was a good question.

Nico hadn't done that many things. He'd let a few guys spank his ass and some bondage, but other than that? Nothing interesting. Nothing too good or too bad. Like, there was that one time he let two guys use his mouth, but...

“Nico?”

“I don't know. I've never done anything that different.”

“What would it be?”

Now Percy looked at him like he was going to get the truth out of Nico whether he wanted it or not.

“Hm... you know…”

“No. I don't.”

“There was this one time when some boys... I sucked some boys and... a guy used his belt on me…”

“And?

“I was tied up too.”

“Is that all?”

“I promise.”

At the time it had been quite adventurous, however, if he analyzed last night, no one had made him cum like that and made him float for so long. Maybe it was something more psychological than physical.

“Baby.” And again, that condescending tone of voice that made him so mad and made his stomach fill with butterflies came back. “What those boys in the bathroom were going to do to you is much more interesting than that. Are you sure?”

“Who do you think I am? A whore to let anyone use me?”

No! What had he just said? Nico was even afraid to look at Percy, but he did it anyway. Slowly, he turned his head towards Percy and saw a strange glint in his eyes, a somewhat cruel smile at the corner of his mouth.

“Is that any way to talk to your owner?”

Nico didn't understand what was happening until he heard the sharp, cracking sound, then came the burning sensation that made him groan, one side of his ass burning from the impact.

“I-- I'm sorry.” Nico mumbled, quietly, seeming to lose his strength, still sitting on Percy's lap.

“I understand. But a good boy doesn't talk to people like that, does he?”

Nico nodded and Percy kissed his face, massaging the slightly reddened skin.

“Now, what were we talking about?”

“Limits?”

“Yes. Is there anything I should know about it?”

“Nothing disgusting? Or... liquid.”

“I would never do that. You're my baby and I only want what's best for you.”

“And what about you?”

“Hm. I think bondage, nothing that stops me from moving. And rude, disobedient little boys.”

“What about... naughty boys?” Nico had to be sure.

“As long as you know the consequences.”

“Oh.”

Would he want to disappoint Percy to that extent? How about just a little?

“I know what you're thinking. You can stop now. You just have to ask me, no matter what it is.”

“I know. It's more fun this way.”

“You better not test me then, hm?”

“So mean.” Nico knew he wasn’t an easy person to deal with either. He could be spoiled and distant, lost in his own world, and he could also be unpredictable, running away from anything he didn’t like without leaving a trace. “I’ll behave.”

“Good boy.”

“And the other things inside the box?”

“That's a topic for another time. Now, let's go lie down and have a long nap. Exams are coming up and we need to be rested, yeah?”

Percy kissed his face and placed him against the pillows, lying down next to him. Percy was right, with everything that had happened Nico hadn't studied everything he needed to, so unfortunately a few hours would be spent in front of a pile of books.

***

“Think for me. Stop me from worrying about anything other than being yours. 

Pick out my clothes, take care of me all day long. Make me smile because I belong to you. 

Make me moan when you kiss me and remind me that I am yours and only yours. 

Make me gasp every time you grab me and decide to use me as you please. 

Make me tremble whenever you want to show me what it really means to be loved by you.”

Nico yawned and leaned back against the cushions, closing his journal as he felt the late afternoon sun hit his face. This way, easily disguising the thoughts he had just put on paper. Before Nico knew it, there was a week left until the start of the mid-year exams. Now, they were in the garden near the pool, tables and cushions everywhere, although Percy and his friends were not so interested in the study schedule he had created. Percy, Tyson, Luke and Grover were in the pool while he, Silena and Clarisse occupied a table, with Chris planted next to Clarisse like a lovestruck fool even after so many years.

If he could, he would be having fun too. Nico could think of several things he would like to be doing. One example of this was the surprise he had in store for Percy that he hadn't had the right opportunity to do yet. Not that he still needed to surprise Percy, but wouldn't it be nice if he tried as hard as Percy did?

Nico had to be honest. He hadn't expected Percy to take this whole dominant/submissive thing seriously. The proof was the choker around his neck and, of course, the ring on his finger. He couldn't help but touch the piece of leather on his skin, like a collar, not letting him forget the last few days. Nothing had really changed, although he felt different. More relaxed somehow. Secure. Now, Percy didn't hesitate when he wanted something from him, which was a great development. The thing was... things were almost like they used to be in the past, when they were kids and things were simpler. If he ignored the anxiety he used to feel and the lack of sex, it was like they had evolved from what they already had. Nico liked that a lot, it gave him a comfort that no gesture or words could replace.

“Nico, are you listening to me?”

“Hm?”

It was Clarisse, irritated with him. She had her arms crossed and was rolling her eyes impatiently.

“If you're going to do that, you better go there. What was the last word you read?”

It was a good question.

“Since when did you become so dependent on him?” Clarisse insisted, standing up.

“I'm not dependent on anyone. Where did you get that from?”

“Do you think you can fool anyone? He even put you on a leash!”

“I don't know what you're talking about.” Nico didn't even raise his voice, and even if it was true, he was happy to finally be collared.

“Nico! Stop playing with that necklace and pay attention!”

Clarisse walked up to him, grabbed his hand and made him stand up with her. Then, she pushed him towards the pool.

“Go on. Don't come back here until you can concentrate.”

“I don't--”

“What's going on here?”

Nico had noticed the sun had disappeared. It was just Percy standing behind him, providing shade.

“Nico misses you. Take care of it.”

With that, Clarisse sat down on the cushions once more and leaned against Cris's chest, who smiled contentedly, both returning to their books.

That wasn't fair! He didn't have a firm chest to lean against while he studied.

Nico turned toward Percy, about to say exactly that to him, stopping before he could continue. Nico remembered what had happened the other times he had raised his voice to Percy, and if he did it now Percy wouldn't hold back either.

Nico smiled, swallowing his indignation and looked at Percy, forgetting his anger for a moment. Percy was still dripping from the pool water, his hair was thrown back and he was wearing a swimsuit so tight that it didn't hide anything. Not that Percy was trying.

He opened his mouth, thought better of it, and said:

“Do you have to wear something so small?”

Percy was already smiling, coming the rest of the way towards him. Percy opened his arms and immediately Nico was wrapped in them, being pulled against Percy's chest and getting wet in the process. This was also unfair, no seventeen year old boy should be that tall or have those muscles.

“What's wrong? Tired of studying?” Percy lifted him off the floor, making him wrap his legs around him. And all Nico heard was ‘is time to go to our room?”

“Percy! You should be studying with me!”

Oh no! Nico thought, barely having time to grab Percy's shoulders, feeling the impact that even through the fabric of his shorts, made him groan.

“I know, baby.” Then, Percy held him by the chin and made him look at him, kissing him softly, making him forget that they had an audience. “We studied a lot this week. I've never been more prepared, hm? How about we rest a little? Just the two of us?”

It sounded like a question, but it wasn't one. Amidst whistles and shouts, Percy led him into the house, climbing the stairs as if Nico weighed nothing, staring at him closely as he went.

“What's the problem?”

That was the point. For the first time in a long time, Nico didn't have any worries other than passing his tests. So, he couldn't call it a problem. It was the solution, in fact. Nico was finding it strange how easily he could leave everything in Percy's hands and stay in his own little, perfect, world where nothing seemed to be able to affect him if Percy wanted it to.

“It's nothing.” He finally said when they arrived in the room and Percy sat him on the edge of the bed, kneeling on the floor between his legs. “Is everything okay?”

“Of course, baby. I've never been better.”

That was true. With each passing day, Percy had more energy and vigor, and slowly, he took charge of all the decisions that concerned both of them. Would they go on a trip? Percy decided where. What would they have for breakfast? Usually his meal would be ready before he had to ask. Like, it was always what Nico liked and the way he liked it the most, each decision seeming like something Nico would choose for himself if he had the chance. Sometimes, it was even better. Honestly? It was a burden he was very happy to be rid of. However, Nico didn't want it to become a burden for Percy, something he did out of obligation.

“Is everything really okay? Have your grades improved?”

This seemed to make Percy stop for a moment, watching him more closely. Percy didn't try to smile, he grabbed him by the back of the neck and hugged him tightly, making something in his chest still.

“Is it about our relationship? Is it too much?”

“No, I like it.” Nico denied, hugging him back as tightly as Percy had hugged him. “I worry about you.”

“Well, don't worry about that little head of yours, yeah? Everything is under control.”

“Are you sure?”

Percy kissed his neck and said:

“As long as you allow it, I will take care of everything.”

“You treat me so well. No one has done as much for me as you do.”

“I’m glad. I hope no one does it or we'll have a problem.”

Nico wanted to laugh. He also hoped no one else would, because if that were the case, it would mean they weren't together anymore. Instead of answering, Nico preferred to let Percy decide the next steps; whether it was sex, a long bath, or a midday nap, it didn't matter to Nico. As long as they were together, that was enough for him.

***

In the end, they had decided on a bath in the jacuzzi, a long and relaxing bath where Percy had massaged his back and made the tension he didn't even know he had disappear as if by magic. Percy was being so good to him that Nico had finally found the perfect opportunity to put his plan into action.

He let Percy dry him from head to toe, like any other day, carry him to bed and kiss him before Percy got up and went to put the towels in the laundry basket. Nico took advantage of this moment to grab the package from the bottom of a drawer and went into the closet, a door that was near the wardrobe and that they rarely used. Fortunately, it would finally have a use.

Ripping open the packaging, Nico took out the two pieces and held them between his fingers, realizing that he might have bought a size smaller than he had planned. The fabric was a delicious silk in a light pink color, looking like it was made from tulle, but still pretty and feminine. He thought Percy would like it, it would be an interesting contrast against his skin. Well, Nico wouldn't know until he tried it on.

Then, taking the thong, he placed his feet in the right spaces, and put on the top, feeling the silk slide over his skin.

Now Nico knew why women liked this type of lingerie so much, the fabric was so soft and thin... it was as if he wasn't even wearing anything, but yet he was being caressed.

“Nico? Where are you?” He heard Percy calling him.

It was now or never, right?

Nico didn't even grab a robe before opening the closet door. He just adjusted his thong and walked into the room, stopping near the doorframe. Did he feel a little ridiculous in that frilly outfit? Yes. However, it was all worth it the moment he found Percy in the middle of the room, seeing the expression on Percy's face go from confusion to shock and then, pure pleasure.

He walked the rest of the way and stopped in front of Percy, determined to be the best of submissives. He lowered his head slightly, showing respect and placed his hands behind his back, allowing Percy to see his front.

“So beautiful. Is all this for me?” Percy said more seriously than Nico expected. His voice sounded firmer and deeper, still without touching him.

“I wanted to surprise you. Did you like it?”

Nico waited patiently, holding his breath. That was because Percy didn't like being surprised. They had never talked about these things, but deep down Nico knew it was true. If Percy was surprised, it meant he had no control over what happened. But still, Nico wanted to see Percy's reaction, maybe then Percy wouldn't be so careful with him.

Don't get him wrong, he loved every day he spent with Percy, but the... excitement of newness didn't happen as often as he would have liked. Maybe this was what they needed.

“My baby is trying to tease me, is that it?”

“Is it working?”

Nico peeked through his lashes and saw a strange glint in Percy's eyes.

At those moments, Percy's features changed completely. From calm, he became serious and... and something else that was hard to define. Sometimes he was playful, and other times, malicious, as if Percy was enjoying his anguish. Percy never lost his cool, however, it felt like something beyond that came to the surface, something that Percy hid and that only manifested itself if provoked.

“Do you want to find out?”

Well, Nico would have answered if he could, if it had been a question. It was more of a warning, a statement of what was about to happen.

Still holding his breath, Nico continued to watch Percy, as he seemed to be preparing to do something... had it been a mistake? Should he have warned him and-- Percy then moved. Just one step forward and his warm hands were on Nico, on his neck, pulling his head back and on his waist, keeping him in place. Which had been a good idea. Without any clothes to cover him, the sensations felt more intense, making him shiver from head to toe.

“We didn't talk about it. Do you know what a safe word is?”

“Oh.” He knew! Finally!

Nico had known and waited for this moment. The problem was that he found it difficult to speak. So he nodded, feeling trapped by Percy's intense eyes.

“Use your words, baby.” Nico knew the nickname was supposed to soften the moment, but he only felt himself tense up more, bracing himself for what was about to happen.

“I-- I have. Pie?”

“Are you sure? “And now there was a certain tone of humor in Percy's voice, his dimples showing.

“Not really. I know how it works, but I've never used one before.”

“Never?” Percy frowned, looking less than pleased. “That’s very irresponsible.”

“I know, but…”

“Tell me.”

“I can't talk much, you know? During.”

This seemed to turn a light on Percy's face.

“Let's keep that in mind. Now, let me see... who bought this for you?” But Percy was smiling, sliding his hands over his body. Shoulders, back, waist, moving around him and touching everywhere until he reached his ass, caressing his buttocks and slipping one of his fingers through the string of his thong towards his entrance.

“Ah!”

“Isn't that what you wanted? Should I use my gift? Hmm?”

And again, it sounded like a question, but it wasn't one. Nico remained as he was, with his hands behind his back, and only moved when Percy grabbed him by the arm, guiding him to the bed.

“Where did you learn that position, baby?” Percy said as they walked towards the bed.

“I saw it on a video…”

“Do you know what that means?”

Nico nodded, too embarrassed to say it.

“I want to hear it.”

“Servitude and obedience.”

“That's right.” Percy said, satisfied. “There's no need to rush, everything will happen in due time. I want you to relax, okay?”

That's what Nico did. He let Percy sit him on the edge of the bed and when Percy finally got closer, he closed his eyes and moaned, feeling his body react freely.

Thanks for reading!

See you next time!