THE APARTMENT WAS SILENT, save for the distant sounds of holiday cheer echoing through the city streets below. Stella sat on her couch after having finished her Sunday morning breakfast. She had been mindlessly flipping through a magazine, her thoughts distracting her from really reading the pages.
It was weird to think that Christmas was only two days away. If someone had stepped into her apartment, it would have been impossible to tell because it was void of any holiday decorations. She didn't see the point in setting up a tree and putting decorations around the apartment if nobody else was going to see them but her.
Stella was planning to sleep the days away, hoping Christmas would pass by unnoticed.
Her mother still hadn't contacted her, not that she expected her to.
Ramona Cruz had run off with Seth, some millionaire she had met over the summer while Stella was at camp. When she came back home, she was received with the news of her mother's new relationship, and then she knew it wouldn't be long before Ramona disappeared for a few months.
Her prediction was right, as it was every time. She had come home from school one rainy October afternoon to find her mother frantically looking for her passport, suitcases packed and waiting at the entrance.
Stella retrieved the passport from the kitchen drawer where her mother habitually stored it after each escapade with her latest boyfriend. Only when she handed it to her did Ramona greet her and inform her that she was going on vacation with Seth.
When Stella inquired about her return, Ramona only offered a nonchalant shrug before darting towards the entrance. Grabbing her bags, she informed Stella that the limo awaited her downstairs.
She was gone in a flash, leaving Stella to fend for herself. But it was nothing new for her, just another few weeks or months where the only person she could rely on was herself.
The days melted into one another after that, trapped in the ceaseless loop of school and weekends. She would try to make her days bearable through long phone calls with Lee and even sometimes just phoning the Stoll brothers to see what they were up to at camp.
As if Travis and Connor could sense her loneliness over the phone, they left camp the following weekend and showed up at her doorstep. They used the excuse that they just wanted to explore Manhattan, but Stella was glad they came and let them crash on her couch. They dropped by another time after that, claiming they hadn't seen enough of New York.
Meanwhile, Lee planned to spend all of his Thanksgiving break with her. They filled the week having fun all over Manhattan, successfully diverting Stella's attention from her mother's absence. Apollo had joined them on Thanksgiving day, contributing to the cooking before they all sat down together to enjoy the meal. It turned out to be a perfect day for Stella.
But then they both eventually left, and it was back to solitude.
Her most recent mission-turned-quest had briefly rescued her from the isolation, placing her amidst friends. Even though the last few days had taken a profound emotional toll on her, she still missed being away from her empty apartment.
Stella hadn't heard from Percy since he had dropped her off, but she was sure he was having fun with his mom. Annabeth was likely enjoying her time reunited with her family in San Francisco while Thalia was on whatever new adventure the Hunters were following.
All the while, she sat there alone, the quiet companionship of her apartment echoing the absence of the friends she had grown so accustomed to.
A knock echoed through the room, finally pulling Stella away from her thoughts. She frowned, not expecting any visitors.
Opening the door, she was met with the sight of Percy standing there with a crooked grin. His tousled black hair had a few rebellious strands falling across his forehead, and his sea-green eyes sparkled with mischief.
Stella couldn't help but notice how the morning light accentuated his features, emphasizing his handsomeness in a way that made her pause for a moment.
"Hey, sunshine," Percy greeted, "Mind if I come in?"
She managed a half-smile, "Sure, Percy. What are you doing here?"
He stepped inside, glancing around the apartment. "I have a proposition."
"A proposition?"
Percy chuckled, "Yeah. How about you spend Christmas with us? My mom insists. She said she can't bear the thought of anyone being alone during the holidays."
"I appreciate the offer, Percy, but I don't want to intrude," she said, her tone softer than intended.
His tall frame leaned against the doorway, his casual demeanor never wavering.
"Trust me, you wouldn't be intruding. Besides, we've got a solid Christmas Eve tradition of watching cheesy holiday movies and eating way too many cookies. Plus, Mom made it clear I'm not allowed to come home without you."
Apprehensive, she began, "Percy, I just can't—"
The grin fell from his face, and he took a step forward, a sincere look in his eyes. "Look Elle, I figured your mom hasn't been home for a while and probably won't be back soon. Please just come with me, I promise we will have a shit load of fun."
Stella bit her lip in contemplation.
"I'm not leaving until you say yes," he added, his grin returning.
She cracked a smile at his persistence, and in a split second, she decided to throw all her reservations to the wind.
"Well, if you insist, I guess I can't say no."
Percy's grin widened, "That's the spirit! Now, pack an overnight bag. I have a feeling my mom won't let you leave that easily."
Stella laughed, "Alright, alright."
Turning on her heel, she started walking towards her bedroom, glancing over her shoulder. "You coming?"
He closed the door behind him and followed her into the room, taking a glance around. It was different from his first visit—warmer, somehow. He felt a sense of comfort that hadn't been there before.
She grabbed a duffel from her closet and set it on her bed, "So, how do you guys spend the holidays?"
Percy winked, "You'll just have to wait and see."
"I knew I should've asked for more details before accepting," she quipped.
Stella stepped into her closet to grab a few outfits for her stay. She tossed as many clothes as she could, along with other necessities, into her duffel bag.
Percy leaned against the doorframe, watching her with a smirk. "Should've thought about that earlier. Now, it's all a surprise."
Stella rolled her eyes but grinned. "Well, surprise me, then."
She zipped up the bag and slung it over her shoulder while Percy's gaze lingered on her. There was something about the way she moved, the casual grace in her actions that captivated him.
"Ready?" she asked, raising an eyebrow as Percy seemed lost in thought.
He snapped out of his reverie, nodding. "Yeah, let's go."
They left Stella's apartment, locking the door behind them, and took the stairs to the lobby. The cold air hit them as they stepped outside, the winter morning wrapping around them. Stella buttoned up her coat, and Percy did the same, the city lights shimmering in the distance.
"So, what's the plan?" Stella asked, falling into step beside him.
Percy glanced at her, "Well, first, we'll catch the subway uptown. Then, it's a surprise holiday extravaganza. You ready for it?"
Stella rolled her eyes playfully, "I guess I'll find out soon enough. Lead the way, waterboy."
☀︎
Upon Percy swinging open the door to his apartment, a sense of warmth enveloped Stella. The inviting fragrance of holiday decorations and the aroma of Sally's cooking wafted through the air.
Percy looked down at the girl, smiling, "Welcome to our humble abode. Make yourself at home."
Sally appeared in the hallway, wearing a festive apron. Her face lit up when she saw the daughter of Apollo.
"Stella! I'm so glad you decided to join us for the holidays!" She exclaimed, embracing Stella in a hug.
She returned Sally's kind smile. "Thank you so much for having me, Mrs. Jackson."
"Oh, remember, none of that Mrs. Jackson business. Call me Sally," she insisted, leading Stella into the cozy living room with Percy following behind them.
"Percy, why don't you show Stella around while I finish up in the kitchen?"
He nodded. "C'mon, Stella, I'll give you the grand tour."
Percy showed her the living room adorned with twinkling lights and a decorated Christmas tree, the cozy kitchen where Sally was preparing lunch, and the small balcony overlooking the city lights. Then, they reached Percy's room, and he hesitated at the door.
"So, this is where you'll be staying," He announced, opening the door to reveal a room adorned with holiday lights and a small Christmas tree in the corner.
Stella's eyes widened in surprise and delight. "It's perfect! You guys really went all out."
Sally joined them, chuckling at Stella's reaction. "We're glad you like it. Percy, show her the sleeping arrangements."
He gestured toward the inflatable mattress placed next to his desk. "We thought you could crash here. Hope it's comfortable."
Stella nodded appreciatively, "Absolutely, thank you."
Sally beamed. "Of course! Now, you two get settled in. I've got some hot cocoa brewing in the kitchen, and lunch should be ready in an hour."
As Sally left them alone, Percy turned to Stella with a playful glint in his eyes. "So, what do you think?"
She smiled, "It's really more than I expected. Thank you for inviting me."
He grinned back, a sense of warmth settling between them. "Anytime, Stella. Let's make this holiday memorable, okay?"
☀︎
Sally Jackson had truly outdone herself. Not only had she made the most amazing lunch, but she had also prepared a delicious dinner. Stella and Percy had tried to contribute by making the side salad and putting the finishing touches on the plates.
After dinner, Stella couldn't shake the thought of doing something special for them so she could properly show her gratitude.
As they settled into the living room, Percy sank into the couch, and Stella perched herself on the armrest. Her gaze settled on the Christmas tree, admiring the decorations on it.
"You know," She began, looking at Percy, "I've got some last-minute shopping to do. Want to join me?"
He raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "Shopping in Midtown the day before Christmas Eve? Are you sure about that?"
Stella shrugged, a smile playing on her lips. "Why not? It's the best time to feel the holiday buzz."
With a shared glance and a nod from Sally, the duo bundled up in their winter coats and ventured into the chilly New York night.
They wandered through the vibrant streets adorned with colorful lights and decorations. Stella's thoughts whirred with ideas for gifts as she gazed into the festively adorned shop windows.
Eventually, Stella slyly suggested, "How about we split up and meet back here in, say, half an hour? I don't want to bore you and drag you through every store."
"Okay, don't wander too far, Cruz," Percy joked.
Laughing, Stella fired back. "Hope you don't get lost, Jackson."
They parted ways, and Stella knew where her first stop would be.
She ducked inside a little skateboard shop tucked between larger stores. There was a large counter surrounding the shop, showcasing an array of customized skateboards on the shelves behind it.
A lanky guy with a beanie pulled low over his forehead spotted Stella standing near the counter, her eyes scanning the skateboards on display. He flashed her a friendly grin. "Hey there! Need help finding the perfect deck?"
Stella returned the smile. "Yeah, I'm looking for something special. A Christmas present."
"Awesome! You're in the right place. What kind of design are you thinking?"
Stella's eyes flitted over the boards, searching for something that resonated with Percy's personality. The guy at the shop waited patiently, sensing her contemplation.
"How about this one?" he suggested, pulling out a skateboard with a detailed mountain landscape painted on it. "It's a classic design, and the mountain motif gives it a cool vibe."
Stella looked at the board, but it didn't exactly scream Percy to her.
"It's definitely cool but not what I'm looking for."
Undeterred, the guy nodded. "No worries. Let's find the perfect match. Anything specific you have in mind?"
Stella's eyes widened as she spotted a skateboard on the wall with a vibrant ocean pattern. It immediately caught her attention. "That one! The design is perfect."
The guy grinned. "Great choice! You've got an eye for the cool ones. This board screams waves and adventure."
She chuckled, "Exactly what I was going for."
Assuming, he remarked, "Your boyfriend will love it."
Stella corrected him as she paid for the board, "Oh, he's not my boyfriend. Just a good friend."
The guy raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Friend, huh? Well, he's lucky to have a friend like you. Let's get this wrapped up for him."
He skillfully wrapped the skateboard, careful not to leave any gaps that might give away the surprise. Stella watched, appreciating his expertise. Once he finished, he placed it in a large bag, sealing it tight.
"There you go. I'm sure he will dig it!"
Stella thanked him and left the skateboard shop with the large bag, her heart dancing with excitement at the thought of Percy's reaction.
A bell chimed as she entered the shop next door, an artisanal candle store. The rich aroma of various scents filled the air, from vanilla to lavender.
Stella browsed through the array of candles, her fingers gently tracing over the designs. As she inhaled the subtle fragrances, one candle caught her attention. It had a label that read Winter's Embrace, and its scent was a delightful blend of pine, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla.
As she approached the counter, the shopkeeper, a friendly woman with a warm smile, greeted her. "Found everything you need?"
Stella nodded, placing the two candles she had grabbed on the counter. "These are perfect. They're for a friend's mom, she's been really kind to me."
The shopkeeper wrapped the candles delicately, tying a festive ribbon around the package. "I'm sure she'll appreciate the thoughtful gift. Is there anything else you're looking for?"
Stella hesitated, glancing around the store. Then, she spotted a small, intricately designed candle holder. It resembled a crescent moon with stars, and she thought it would add a charming touch to Sally's collection.
"I'll take that too," Stella said, pointing to the moon-shaped candle holder. "And do you mind sealing the bag? I want it to be a surprise."
The shopkeeper added the candle holder to the package, creating a beautifully wrapped ensemble, and then sealed the bag. "There you go, dear."
"Thank you so much," Stella replied.
She left the candle store with a satisfied smile, holding the two bags for Percy and Sally. The chilly night air nipped at her cheeks as she made her way back to the meeting spot, where Percy was waiting.
His eyes lit up when he saw her approaching. "Find anything good?"
Stella grinned, holding up the bags containing the presents. "I'd say so. How about you?"
Percy chuckled, revealing a small bag in his hand. "I got something too. But it's a secret until the 25th."
Intrigued, Stella playfully nudged him. "You're not going to give me a hint?"
He shook his head, his sea-green eyes sparkling with mischief. "Nope, you'll have to wait."
Returning to the apartment felt like stepping into a haven, a refuge from the cold that eagerly embraced them with warmth and coziness. Sally, with a welcoming smile, acknowledged their return before bidding them goodnight.
Stella walked into Percy's bedroom, placing the two bags containing the carefully chosen presents next to her overnight bag by her makeshift bed.
Then she grabbed some clothes and her toiletries bag from her duffel so she could change in the bathroom and, of course, do her bedtime skincare routine. After brushing her teeth, she pulled an oversized hoodie over her head with a bullseye graphic on the front and slipped on a pair of her soft cotton drawstring shorts.
When she came back to the room, Percy was sitting on the edge of his bed. He was fiddling with Riptide, already changed into an oversized t-shirt and plaid pajama pants.
He glanced up from the pen, a comfortable grin spreading across his face. "Cute hoodie," he said, nodding towards her bullseye graphic.
She shrugged, "Had to steal it from the Stoll brothers. Thought it might bring me some luck."
Percy laughed, setting Riptide aside. "Well, considering they're the sons of Hermes, I'd say it's got a fair chance of being lucky. And if not, it looks good on you."
She grinned, "Thanks, waterboy."
Stella could feel the blush that spread over her cheeks at his compliment. Ugh, get a grip, she scolded herself.
Percy stretched, a yawn escaping him. He fell back onto his mattress, "Okay, maybe it's time to get some shut-eye."
Stella nodded and settled onto the inflatable mattress, appreciating the effort Sally had put into making it comfortable.
"You know," Percy spoke up, breaking the quietude, "I'm glad you decided to join us. It wouldn't have been the same without you."
She smiled, feeling a sense of belonging that she hadn't expected to find during the holidays. "Thanks, Percy. I'm glad too."
"Goodnight, Stella."
"Goodnight."
The room settled into a serene quiet, the soft glow of the holiday lights creating a peaceful ambiance.
Stella's descent into sleep was swift, but her dreams took an unexpected turn.
She found herself standing in a vast, dark void. The emptiness was overwhelming, and a chilling wind whispered through the nothingness.
Suddenly, from the shadows emerged Zoë Nightshade and Bianca di Angelo.
Their eyes bore into Stella's soul, accusing and filled with sorrow. They were both dressed in the attire they wore last, frozen in the moments before their tragic demise.
"Why, Stella?" Zoë's voice echoed, laced with disappointment. "Why didn't you save us?"
Bianca's eyes were tearful as she joined in. "We trusted you, and you failed us."
Stella tried to speak, but her words were swallowed by the void. The weight of their accusing gazes pressed down on her, and an overwhelming guilt consumed her.
She reached out to them, but they retreated into the darkness, their voices fading as they repeated their haunting question.
"Why didn't you save us?"
The echoes reverberated, tormenting Stella in the desolate expanse. The void seemed to close in around her, and she felt a suffocating despair.
A sharp gasp escaped her lips as she was jolted awake, her heart pounding against her ribcage. Beads of sweat clung to her forehead, and her hands trembled.
Before she could fully collect herself, Percy's concerned face came into view. He was standing over her, his sea-green eyes reflecting worry. "Are you okay?" he asked softly.
She managed a weak nod, her voice barely above a whisper. "Just a nightmare, I guess."
But Percy wasn't convinced. He gestured towards his bed. "Come on, talk to me. You don't look fine."
Stella hesitated for a moment longer before conceding. She lay down beside him, settling her head on one of the pillows, the warmth of his presence momentarily distracting her.
Her gaze lingered on the ceiling of his room, the profound darkness stretching above mirroring the haunting void she had seen in her nightmare.
Percy waited patiently, his expression a mix of empathy and concern. "You want to tell me about it?"
Stella sighed, the weight of the dream lingering. "It was just...Zoë and Bianca. I couldn't save them. They blamed me."
Percy's expression softened, understanding crossing his features. "Elle, you did everything you could. Zoë, before she...passed, she told me to tell you something. She said you were brave, that you had the truest, most valiant spirit. She knew you did everything you could."
Stella turned her head, looking at him. "She—she said that?"
Percy nodded, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Yeah, she did. You're not to blame for what happened. You fought alongside them, and they knew that."
A tear welled in Stella's eye, and she sniffled. "I just—it felt so real, Percy. The guilt, the accusation. I couldn't breathe."
He pulled her into a gentle hug, offering solace in his comforting embrace. "I can't imagine how tough that is, but you're not alone, okay? You're here with us, and we've got your back."
Stella leaned into the hug, feeling the warmth and reassurance he provided. "Thanks, I think I needed to hear that."
They lay in the silence, the soft sounds of the city outside the window providing a soothing backdrop. Percy's steady presence and the gentle rise and fall of his chest acted as a calming rhythm.
As time passed, the edges of Stella's anxiety began to soften. The worry that had etched itself into Percy's expression slowly faded as well. The weight on her chest lifted, replaced by a sense of security.
She felt her eyes growing heavy, the exhaustion of the dream pulling at her. Percy adjusted the blanket, tucking it around her. Despite her initial resistance, she found herself drifting back into sleep.
Percy waited until her breathing steadied, the tension leaving her features. Carefully, he extracted himself from the bed, making sure not to disturb her peaceful slumber.
With a final glance at Stella, he moved to the inflatable mattress she had vacated.
As he settled in, Percy cast one more reassuring look toward her. The room was once again filled with the tranquil ambiance of Christmas lights. With a contented sigh, he closed his eyes, allowing the quietude of the night to embrace them both.