THE SOFT GLOW OF MORNING light filtered through the curtains, gently waking Stella from her restless slumber.
Yawning and stretching, she sat up, realizing she had fallen asleep on Percy's bed and that he was no longer beside her. She glanced towards the inflatable mattress, also empty, yet the bed looked worn in, the sheets tossed to the side.
As she stepped into the hallway, the scent of something delicious wafted through the air, and the sound of sizzling echoed through the apartment. Following the aroma, she found herself in the kitchen, where Sally and Percy hovered by the stove.
Bowls of batter and an array of colorful toppings adorned the countertop.
"Morning, sleepyhead," Percy grinned, spotting her.
Sally turned from the stove with a warm smile. "Good morning, Stella. Did you sleep well?"
Stella nodded, the remnants of the nightmare dissipating with the presence of familiar faces. "Yeah, thanks. What's that amazing smell?"
Percy pointed to the kitchen counter, where a stack of blue pancakes awaited their turn to be devoured. "We're making blue pancakes."
"How could I forget you and your love for blue-colored food," Stella joked.
Sally laughed, "He insists that blue pancakes taste better. Something about the magic of blue food."
Stella smiled. "Well, I'm curious. Blue pancakes it is."
"You're in for a treat," Percy declared, grabbing a plate and expertly sliding a couple of the pancakes onto it. He motioned for Stella to take a seat at the kitchen table.
As she settled into the chair, he placed the plate in front of her, a playful glint in his eyes. "Enjoy the holiday special. And, uh, feel free to drown them in syrup, I know I will."
Stella laughed, picking up her fork. "I'll keep that in mind."
Percy sat across from her, pouring himself a cup of coffee before helping himself to a couple of pancakes while Sally finished making what was left of the batter.
She took a bite, savoring the surprisingly delicious blend of flavors. "Wow, these are actually really good."
He smirked, "That's because I made them. Plus, they're blue, so that's like ten bonus points."
Percy couldn't resist joining her in her laughter, both of them finding what he had said incredibly stupid yet funny. Maybe it was the fact that they still felt tired that led them to their spontaneous burst of laughter.
In between bites of the deliciously fluffy blue pancakes, Percy caught Stella's gaze. His sea-green eyes held a gentle concern.
Percy leaned closer to her, asking quietly, "Everything okay?"
Stella nodded. "Yeah, all good. Thanks for being there last night."
"Anytime, Stella. Seriously. If you ever need to talk or anything, I'm here."
She felt a surge of gratitude for the genuine concern in his eyes. "I appreciate that, Percy."
As they continued to enjoy breakfast, Sally joined in the conversation, sharing stories about past holiday traditions and the antics Percy had pulled during Christmas mornings. After, they helped Sally clear the table, leaving the kitchen tidy and clean.
Wiping her hands on a kitchen towel, Sally looked at the two of them. "So, any plans for today?"
Percy exchanged a quick glance with Stella, and they both shrugged.
"Not really," He replied.
Sally nodded, "Well, how about going ice skating? I've got to start on lunch, and the Central Park rink is only a few blocks away."
"I'm so in! Percy?" Stella said excitedly, turning to her best friend.
He smiled, "If you're in, then you can always count me in."
With the plan set, Percy and Stella headed to bundle up for the chilly day outside. She rifled through her duffle, and after a moment of indecision, she settled on a cozy sweater, a pair of jeans, and her trusty winter boots. She made sure to grab her scarf, gloves, and a beanie to complete the ensemble.
Glancing in the mirror, she felt satisfied with her choice—warm and stylish. She was a daughter of Apollo...she had to be a little vain, at least sometimes.
They met in the living room, both looking appropriately bundled up for the cold. Sally handed them each a thermos filled with hot cocoa.
"Stay warm out there," she advised, giving them a motherly smile.
As they stepped outside into the brisk winter air, Stella couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The city was bustling with holiday energy, the day being Christmas Eve and all.
The walk to the ice skating rink was filled with laughter. Percy shared stories of previous ice skating escapades, including the numerous times he had fallen flat on the ice. Stella teased him mercilessly, picturing his clumsy attempts to master ice skating.
Upon reaching the rink, they were greeted by the sight of people gracefully gliding across the ice while music played from different speakers. Stella and Percy rented a pair of skates each, lacing them up.
As they stepped onto the ice, there was a moment of wobbling and unsteady steps, but soon they found their balance.
Stella felt both excitement and nervousness, realizing it had been years since she last attempted to skate. The last memory she had at the rink was with her mother before she had even run away from home for the first time, so she must have been eight or younger.
Percy, with a confident grin, took the lead. "Haven't you been skating before?"
She chuckled nervously, her skates gliding tentatively over the smooth surface. "Yes, but it's been years. I definitely forgot how to skate."
Percy laughed, his easygoing demeanor putting her at ease. "It's like riding a bike, you never really forget."
"Okay, well then why did I forget?" She said, letting out a nervous laugh.
"Alright, Elle, just follow my lead. Arms out for balance."
Stella mimicked his stance, her arms extended to the sides. She tentatively took a few strides, her movements cautious. Percy glided beside her, offering encouraging words and occasional teasing.
The rink was alive with laughter and the sound of blades carving through the ice. Stella gradually found her rhythm, the initial uncertainty giving way to a sense of accomplishment.
Percy grinned, watching her progress. "See? You're a natural. Just like riding a bike, huh?"
She shot him a playful glare, "Fine, maybe you have a point. But don't let it get to your head, waterboy."
As they circled the rink, Percy demonstrated a few tricks, effortlessly gliding backward and executing a few spins around her. Stella watched in awe, appreciating the skill with which Percy performed them.
"You're such a showoff," She joked, rolling her eyes.
"Your turn," He said, offering a hand.
Stella hesitated, then decided to give it a try. She took a deep breath and attempted a spin, her movements awkward at first. Percy's hand provided a steadying support, and with a few more tries, she managed a graceful spin that ended in laughter.
"Not bad for a comeback," He teased, giving her a playful wink.
As the sun reached its peak, Percy and Stella decided to take a break and sat on a bench near the rink. They sipped on the hot cocoa from the thermoses Sally had prepared, the warmth seeping into their cold fingers.
Percy glanced at her, "Having fun?"
She nodded, a genuine smile on her face. "So much fun. I forgot the thousands of things you could do in the city, like ice skating."
His smile mirrored hers. "I'm glad."
As they finished their hot cocoa, Percy suggested another round of skating before heading back home. Stella agreed, feeling a newfound confidence after their break.
They returned to the ice, gliding smoothly and enjoying the atmosphere at the rink. He continued to guide her through the motions, his hand offering reassuring support whenever needed.
As they skated side by side, Percy initiated a playful race, and Stella couldn't resist the challenge. They zoomed around the rink, laughter echoing in the frosty air. The cold became an afterthought as the thrill of the moment took over.
Eventually, they slowed down, catching their breath. Stella felt a sense of exhilaration, her cheeks flushed with a combination of the chill and the excitement of the day.
"And you said you hadn't skated in years," Percy rolled his eyes.
She laughed, "I hadn't!"
"Fine, I believe you, but you can't beat me again, or I'll start to think you're taking lessons."
Eventually, they returned their skates and strolled through Central Park on their way home.
Once inside the apartment, Sally greeted them with a warm smile. The smell of lunch filled the air, making their stomachs growl in anticipation.
"Back already?" Sally said, turning to them.
"Mom, you won't believe the spins Stella pulled off out there! It was like watching a pro," Percy grinned, helping Stella with her coat.
She blushed, brushing off his compliment. "Oh, stop exaggerating. You helped me anyway. If you hadn't, I would have held onto the railing the entire time."
Sally chuckled, "Well, I'm glad you two had fun. Lunch is ready, by the way. Why don't you two freshen up and then come eat?"
Following Sally's suggestion, Percy and Stella retreated to their respective spaces to shed their winter layers and get comfortable. She changed into a cozy oversized sweater and leggings before pulling on her fuzzy holiday socks.
They reconvened in the kitchen, sitting down at the table. Sally had prepared a hearty meal—a comforting combination of tomato soup, grilled cheese sandwiches, and a side of fresh fruit.
Stella took a sip of the tomato soup, savoring its rich flavor. "This is amazing, Sally. Thank you."
Sally smiled. "Of course! It's a pleasure having you over, Stella."
Percy took a big bite of his grilled cheese sandwich. "Yeah, Mom's cooking is the best."
Stella nodded in agreement, "Definitely. You should teach him your recipes, Sally."
She chuckled, "Oh, I've tried, but Percy here is more of an expert in blue pancakes and cereal."
Percy raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. "Hey, I can make more than that. I can also make... uh, well, I can make cereal really well."
As they finished the last bites, a comfortable silence settled over the table, filled only by the contented sounds of satisfied appetites.
Stella leaned back in her chair, a sense of fulfillment spreading through her. "You know, skating today was incredible. I haven't had that much fun in a while."
Percy grinned, sharing a glance with his mother.
"We're glad you're enjoying yourself. Know that you're welcome here anytime," Sally said.
Stella nodded, feeling a warmth in her chest. "Thank you, both of you. It means a lot to me."
As the afternoon sunlight painted a golden hue across the room, they lingered at the table, enjoying the simple pleasure of good company. Eventually, with satisfied smiles, they cleared the table and decided to unwind for the rest of the day.
After helping Sally with the dishes, they found themselves in the living room. Sally excused herself, mentioning she had some holiday preparations to attend to.
Percy turned to Stella, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "How about a Christmas movie marathon? I'm talking classics—Home Alone, Elf, Die Hard, the works."
Stella laughed, "Sounds like a plan. But let's not forget some cheesy holiday rom-coms too."
Percy raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "Cheesy rom-coms? Are you sure you're not secretly a daughter of Aphrodite?"
Stella playfully nudged him. "Oh, shut up. I just appreciate a good love story like The Holiday or When Harry Met Sally."
They settled on the living room couch, surrounded by the soft glow of the Christmas tree lights. They decided to start with Home Alone and then The Holiday, alternating between classics and rom-coms.
As the movie played, Percy casually draped an arm around Stella's shoulders, and she had never felt so relaxed.
Stella rested her head against Percy's shoulder, appreciating the quiet joy of the moment. For the first time in a long while, the weight of her responsibilities and the shadows of her past seemed to fade away.
They spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening engrossed in whatever holiday movie was playing. Percy and Stella, wrapped in blankets, shared laughter and commentary on the various characters and plot twists.
As the final credits rolled on the last movie, Percy glanced towards the kitchen. "Dinner should be ready soon. Mom's making her famous Christmas Eve feast. You ready for it?"
Stella nodded, "Absolutely. Your mom is an incredible cook."
They helped set the table for the festive dinner, and soon Sally joined them, presenting a spread that rivaled any holiday feast. Roast turkey, glazed ham, mashed potatoes, and an array of delectable sides adorned the table.
Sally, with a beaming smile, raised her glass for a toast. "To good company, laughter, and the joy of the holiday season. I'm grateful to have you both here with me."
Percy and Stella joined in the toast, clinking their glasses together. The clinking of glass resonated with the laughter that followed as they settled into their seats.
The Christmas Eve dinner commenced, and the trio indulged in the delicious spread. They exchanged tales of their favorite holiday memories and traditions, including Sally bringing up whatever embarrassing stories she could that Stella would cackle over.
Sally, looking at Percy with a teasing smile, said, "Remember the time you tried to decorate the tree by yourself? I found tinsel in the strangest places for weeks."
Percy chuckled, shaking his head in mock embarrassment. "In my defense, I thought the more tinsel, the better."
Between bites of turkey and sips of apple cider, Stella couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude. It was more than the delightful food or the festive ambiance—it was the sense of belonging.
After the plates were cleared and the last bites of dessert were savored, Percy and Stella insisted on taking care of the clean-up. Sally Jackson had done so much for them already, the least they could do was make the rest of the evening restful for her.
Sally hesitated, glancing at the kitchen, but Percy assured her, "We've got this, Mom. You've done enough today."
Stella chimed in, "Yeah, go relax on the couch. We'll make sure everything is spotless. You can even pick our last Christmas movie!"
Reluctantly, Sally agreed, grateful for their help. She retreated to the living room, leaving Percy and Stella in the kitchen.
They both got up from the table, determined to make good on their promise. Rolling up their sleeves, they got to work.
Percy rinsed off the plates, passing them to Stella as she loaded the dishwasher. They worked in tandem, their movements synchronized as if they had been doing this for years. The clinking of dishes, the running water, and occasional splashes filled the air, creating a soothing melody of tranquility.
Percy, his hands immersed in dishwashing, stole a glance at Stella. Her sleeves were rolled up, her expression relaxed, and the glow from the kitchen lights accentuated the warmth in her eyes. He looked away quickly, refocusing on the task at hand.
Stella looked over at Percy, who seemed lost in thought as he scrubbed a particularly stubborn spot off a plate. A playful smile tugged at her lips.
"Did you ever imagine we'd be here, spending Christmas Eve together, with your mom?"
Percy looked up, a reflective glint in his eyes. "Honestly? Not really. But I'm glad you're here. It feels...right."
Stella smiled, a warmth blooming in her chest. "Yeah, it does."
They continued their clean-up, the rhythm of washing and drying becoming almost meditative. The last dish was wiped clean, and Percy turned off the faucet.
They stood there for a moment, facing each other, the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air.
And then, as if on cue, Percy's gaze shifted upwards. Stella followed his line of sight and found herself looking at a sprig of mistletoe decoratively placed above the kitchen entrance.
The atmosphere in the kitchen shifted, a subtle tension settling between them. Inexplicably, they seemed to have drawn closer. Stella's heart raced, caught between the familiarity of their friendship and the unspoken possibility hanging in the air.
Percy, looking into her eyes, seemed to mirror her internal conflict.
For a moment, time stood still as they both hesitated, caught in the uncharted territory between friendship and something more.
His gaze lingered on her lips for a moment before meeting her amber eyes again.
In that moment, Stella felt a strange awareness, a foreign magnetic pull that amplified the rhythm of her heartbeat. They were just friends, she reminded herself. Yet, the idea of a kiss, of crossing that invisible line, held somewhat of an allure.
The world outside the kitchen seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them suspended in a moment that held the promise of something deeply unfamiliar yet somewhat welcome.
What were they doing?
Was it so wrong to entertain the possibility of their lips meeting? Stella was sure she had never felt so confused but at the same time so attracted to her best friend.
Slowly, almost imperceptibly, Percy closed the distance.
Stella's breath hitched, caught in the fragile space between them as he moved in, their faces now mere inches apart. It was a dance of uncertainty, yet neither of them dared to back away.
His eyes darted around her face as if he were pleading with her to stop him, but she couldn't.
She couldn't tell him not to kiss her when his sea-green eyes bore into her that way and when she could feel the messy black strands of his hair barely touching her forehead but touching it nonetheless.
Just as their lips were about to brush against each other, a voice interrupted from the living room.
"Hey, you two! Are you almost done in there? I found the perfect movie!" Sally called out.
Startled, Percy and Stella jumped back from each other, their cheeks aflame. They exchanged a quick, almost guilty glance before Percy cleared his throat.
"Uh, yeah, Mom! We'll be right there."
The interruption left an unspoken question hanging in the air—a question that neither of them dared to voice just yet.
In the living room, they joined Sally on the couch, the movie playing as a background to the secret exchange that lingered between Percy and Stella.
As they settled back into the Christmas movie marathon, she tried to bury the strange flutter in her chest.
Yet, as Percy draped his arm casually around the back of the couch, and their eyes met in stolen glances, their interrupted moment in the kitchen resurfaced in their minds.
As the movie progressed, Sally glanced at them. "You two seem awfully quiet. Everything okay?"
Percy flashed a reassuring smile. "Yeah, Mom, just enjoying the movie."
Stella nodded in agreement, hoping her blush wasn't too obvious in the dim light.
As the credits finally rolled on the last movie, Percy stretched and yawned. "That was fun. Thanks for indulging with us in the movie marathon, Mom."
Sally smiled. "You know I can't resist a good holiday movie! Now, I think it's time for bed. Tomorrow is a big day."
Stella couldn't help but laugh as Percy wiggled his eyebrows and said, "Yeah, it's presents day."
Sally hugged them both, wishing them a good night before heading to her room.
Percy and Stella stood up from the couch, and she headed directly to the bathroom to get ready for bed while also getting her thoughts together without him next to her.
Once in the bathroom, she felt a mix of relief and uncertainty. The events of the day had been magical, filled with laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging. Yet, the mistletoe moment lingered, casting a shadow of doubt.
After changing back into the comfortable hoodie she had slept in the night prior, she headed to Percy's bedroom. She knocked, seeing the door was closed.
"Come in!" His voice resonated from the other side of the door.
Stella opened the door right as Percy slid his navy hoodie over his head, catching a glimpse of his lower abs before he adjusted the hoodie over his tall frame.
"Hi," She said, slightly blushing as she walked into the room.
"Hey, yourself," He replied, sitting on his bed.
She kneeled at her duffel, organizing her things, "I just wanted to thank you for today. I know I must sound like a broken record, but I genuinely appreciate everything you guys have done for me."
Percy spoke up. "It's the least we can do. You know you are never a bother to us."
Stella nodded, getting back on her feet. "I know...but still, family has been a rare thing in my life, but you and your mom have made me feel so at home."
He flashed her a genuine smile, "Well, you can always find a home here, whenever."
"I can't believe it's Christmas tomorrow," She said as she sat on the inflatable mattress.
Percy's eyebrows raised, "Yeah, we've got a full day ahead of us. We should probably get some rest. Feel free to sleep in though, we don't open presents until everybody's ready."
She smiled, feeling a strange mix of emotions. "Goodnight, Percy."
"Goodnight, Stella."
They each got into their respective beds, the room bathed in the soft glow of the holiday lights around the room. Stella lay there, staring at the ceiling, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts.
She turned onto her side, facing away from Percy's bed. The mattress crinkled beneath her as she curled into a comfortable position.
The mistletoe moment replayed in her mind over and over.
What did it mean? Were they crossing a line that shouldn't be crossed, or was it a natural progression of their friendship?
She couldn't deny the flutter in her chest, the lingering curiosity about what might have happened if the interruption hadn't occurred.
Closing her eyes, she tried to silence the conflicting emotions swirling within her.
Lost in her contemplation, she didn't realize that Percy, too, lay awake, his thoughts mirroring hers.
And so, in the soft glow of holiday lights, Percy and Stella drifted into a restless sleep, the promise of Christmas morning waiting just beyond the realm of dreams.
☀︎
Christmas morning unfolded in a cascade of warmth and excitement. Stella stirred awake to the sound of cheerful holiday tunes playing softly in the kitchen. The scent of coffee and something sweet filled the air, coaxing her into full wakefulness.
Carefully, she rose from the inflatable mattress, trying not to disturb the peaceful slumber of her best friend.
The Christmas tree stood sentinel, adorned with ornaments and lights. Stella grabbed the two presents she had bought the other night for Percy and Sally and set them at the base of the tree, along with the other gifts.
Stella settled onto the couch, drawing her knees to her chest. The quietude allowed her thoughts to unravel, contemplating the almost kiss of the previous evening.
As she sat there, Percy emerged from his room, a yawn escaping his lips. He wore a disheveled smile, the remnants of sleep still evident in his sea-green eyes.
"Morning," he mumbled, ruffling his messy hair.
"Morning," she replied, a smile escaping her.
Percy yawned again, taking a seat beside her on the couch. "Excited for today?"
Stella nodded, "Yeah, of course. I'm curious to see what mysterious gift you bought the other night."
He laughed, "Right back at you."
They settled in a comfortable albeit tense silence until Percy spoke. "Stella, about last night—"
She interrupted, "Percy, I—"
They exchanged a brief, uncertain glance before laughing in unison. The tension eased, the unspoken question lingering but momentarily set aside.
"Let's not overthink it, okay?" Percy suggested, a smile on his lips.
Stella nodded, relieved. "Agreed. We can just...enjoy the holiday."
Sally breezed into the living room, a tray of steaming mugs in hand. "Good morning, you two! Hot cocoa to start the day?"
Stella accepted the mug with a grateful smile.
Sally settled into a chair, her eyes bright with anticipation. "So, any special Christmas morning traditions in your family, Stella?"
She hesitated, thoughts drifting to the distant memories of her childhood. "Not really. We didn't celebrate much."
Percy nudged her playfully, "Then get ready for a Jackson Christmas. We take our holidays seriously."
"Well, considering it's nearly 11 o'clock, why don't we have a late breakfast and then open presents? Does that sound good?" Sally suggested.
Stella nodded, "Sounds perfect."
They enjoyed a leisurely breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and bacon. As the meal came to an end, Percy's eyes met Stella's, a silent understanding passing between them. The moment still lingered, yet neither seemed ready to fully address it.
After breakfast, they gathered around the Christmas tree, the air buzzing with excitement.
Sally, her eyes twinkling with delight, handed Stella a beautifully wrapped box adorned with a shiny silver bow.
"For you," She said, her smile warm.
Stella thanked her and carefully unwrapped the gift, revealing a journal with intricate leather binding. Her initials were meticulously stitched into the top right corner, a personal touch that made the gift all the more meaningful.
"Oh, Sally, this is beautiful. Thank you so much," Stella exclaimed, running her fingers over the smooth leather.
Sally beamed. "I'm glad you like it. I thought it might be a good place for you to jot down your thoughts and memories."
Percy nudged Stella, a playful smile on his face. "Okay, your turn to give a present."
Stella grinned, reaching for one of the two presents she had placed under the tree.
"Merry Christmas, Sally," Stella said, handing the bag from the candle store to her.
She watched eagerly as Sally unwrapped the candles. The shopkeeper's expert packaging had preserved the surprise well.
Sally's eyes widened with appreciation as she revealed the Winter's Embrace-scented candles and the moon-shaped candle holder.
"Oh, Stella, these are lovely!" Sally exclaimed, holding up the candles and examining the intricate holder. "These candles smell amazing! And this candle holder is so unique. Thank you!"
She smiled, "I thought they would add a nice touch to your collection. Consider it a small token of gratitude."
Sally pulled Stella into a warm hug, expressing her appreciation. "You're such a sweet girl. Thank you for thinking of me."
Percy, unable to contain his excitement, picked up a gift from under the tree. "Okay, another one for you, Mom. From your favorite and only child."
Sally turned her attention to Percy's gift, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. She carefully unwrapped the package, revealing a bag of blue candies and a soft, new scarf.
Percy leaned in, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Open the bag."
Sally chuckled, complying with his request. As she opened the bag of blue candies, her face lit up with surprise and joy. "Blue Jellybeans!
He grinned, "Of course. It couldn't be a complete gift without it."
She laughed, popping a blue jellybean into her mouth. "I love it. Thank you, Percy."
Still savoring the sweet surprise, Sally grabbed a box from under the tree neatly wrapped in blue holiday paper. She turned to Percy, "Alright, your turn, mister."
Percy pretended to pout, "Aw, Mom, you know I'm not good at waiting."
"Patience, my dear."
As he unwrapped the gift, his eyes widened in surprise. Nestled within the wrapping was a vintage Sony Walkman.
"No way!" Percy exclaimed, lifting the Walkman with excitement. "How did you find this?"
She chuckled, "A little bit of searching and a lot of luck. Thought you might appreciate a touch of nostalgia."
His eyes gleamed with gratitude. "Mom, this is amazing! I've been wanting one for ages. Thank you."
Percy pulled her into a tight hug, the sentiment of the gift not lost on him. Sally smiled, patting his back.
Stella couldn't help but feel a warm glow inside, witnessing the joy between mother and son. Her heart ached, wondering where her mother was on this Christmas morning.
As far as she knew, Ramona Cruz was nowhere near Manhattan. She was probably relaxing on some tropical sun-kissed island with Seth.
Sally's voice drew her out of her thoughts. "Okay, we've got two gifts left under the tree," She announced.
Stella looked at the bag containing the skateboard and grinned, "I'll go."
Snatching the sizable bag, she dropped it in front of Percy, "Merry Christmas, waterboy."
"Okay, this huge bag has got me intrigued. Let's see..." he said, tearing at the wrapping paper as Stella laughed.
She watched nervously as he revealed the skateboard.
The guy from the skate shop had done an excellent job wrapping it, and the vibrant ocean pattern caught Percy's attention immediately.
"Whoa," Percy exclaimed, running his fingers over the design. "This is amazing! Look at those waves!"
She chuckled, "I thought you might like it. A little touch of the sea."
Percy's eyes sparkled with gratitude and surprise. "Stella, this is...incredible. Thank you!"
He pulled her into a spontaneous hug, joy radiating from him. Stella couldn't help but feel satisfaction at having chosen the perfect gift for him.
When Percy finally released her, he looked at the skateboard again, a wide grin on his face. "I can't wait to take this for a spin. You really know how to pick gifts."
Stella beamed, appreciating the happiness in Percy's eyes. "I'm glad you like it. Just don't blame me if you end up with a few more bumps and bruises."
Percy winked, "I'll take my chances."
He then reached for a small, elegantly wrapped box from under the tree. "Now, for the mysterious gift I got the other night."
Stella raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued.
He handed it to Stella with a smile. "Merry Christmas, Elle."
She took the box, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling within her. As she opened it, her eyes widened at the sight of a beautiful necklace.
A golden lyre charm hung from the chain, catching the light with a subtle glimmer.
"Oh, Percy, it's beautiful," she whispered, her fingers tracing the intricate details of the charm.
"I remembered when you played that guitar shaped like your dad's lyre back at the junkyard. I thought this might bring a bit of that music back into your life," He explained.
Stella was speechless, touched by the thoughtful gift. She hugged him tightly.
"Thank you, Percy. This means more to me than you know," she said, looking back at the delicate necklace.
He grinned, "Turn around, let me put it on you."
Stella turned, lifting her hair as Percy fastened the necklace around her neck. The pendant rested against her collarbone, a subtle and elegant accessory.
"There you go," He said, stepping back to admire his handiwork.
Stella touched the charm, her eyes meeting his. "Really, thank you. It's perfect."
With the gift exchange complete, they settled back on the couch, surrounded by the remnants of wrapping paper and the glow of holiday lights.
As the day unfolded, Stella found herself immersed in the warmth of the Jackson family's Christmas traditions.
From decorating cookies to watching even more classic holiday movies, the festive spirit enveloped them. The tension that lingered from the previous night dissipated, replaced by the comforting atmosphere of friendship.
The night quickly approached, and Percy and Stella found themselves on the small balcony overlooking the city that sparkled with a myriad of lights. They were wrapped in warm blankets, gazing at the skyline.
The atmosphere was serene, the distant sounds of the city harmonizing with the soft conversation between them.
"This view never gets old," Percy mused, his gaze fixed on the city lights.
Stella nodded, a wistful smile playing on her lips. "It's like a sea of stars in its own way."
They sat in companionable silence for a while, savoring the quietude of the night.
Then, Stella took a deep breath, breaking the silence, "Percy, there's something I need to tell you."
His brows furrowed in concern. "What's on your mind?"
She hadn't yet told him about Chrion's request.
Deep down, she knew it was due to her desire to cling to the holiday, to the precious moments that felt too fleeting.
Stella hesitated, choosing her words carefully as she fiddled with her new necklace. "I have to leave tomorrow morning. Chiron wants me to spend the spring at camp."
Percy's expression shifted. "Camp? But why now?"
She sighed, "He thinks it's important for me to focus on training before the summer, especially with my powers. I need to learn to control them better."
Percy nodded, though a hint of sadness flickered in his eyes. "I get it. Training is important, and you need to be where you can learn the most."
A bittersweet smile touched Stella's lips. "I know. It's just...I've enjoyed every moment here with you guys."
Percy placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You're always welcome here, Elle. And I'll be at camp during the summer. We can keep in touch."
She smiled, grateful for his words. "You promise to Iris Message?"
He chuckled, "Promise."
They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of her impending departure settling between them.
The city lights twinkled below them, a reminder that life moved forward, and sometimes, the path led in different directions.
But for that night, on the balcony overlooking the city, Percy and Stella found solace in the friendship that had grown stronger through the December month.