Parings: Walker x Leah, (Charlie x Dior)
W/c: 3,036
Summary: Leah deals with depression. Walker finds out.
TW: Depression, Anxiety, Racism.
'✵•.¸,✵°✵.｡.✰ ✰.｡.✵°✵,¸.•✵''✵•.¸,✵°✵.｡.✰ ✰.｡.✵°✵,¸.•✵'
Can't believe they messed up Annabeth's character like that 😭
Why the hell change Annie's race when it's so clear in the books? 💀
The casting for Annabeth is a total fail, they should've stayed true to the source material! 😫😭
LEAH'S GAZE RACED ACROSS THE COMMENTS, while her finger commanded the screen. Alone in her room, the blue LED lights cast an eerie glow as she perched on her bed, shrouded in a black hoodie that concealed her form, with the tips of her braids peeking out from the hood.
Leah gripped an open book, her phone strategically placed behind it, completely hidden from view. Every action had a purpose, every detail had a reason.
Since the announcement of season 2 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Leah has faced a relentless wave of hate for portraying Annabeth as a black woman. Despite hopes that fans would move past the issue of race, toxic individuals are now even angrier at the prospect of enduring another season with Leah in the role of Annabeth.
Leah was consumed by all the negativity, which made her feel terrible about herself, question her worth, and even resulted in bruises and stress-induced rashes on her sensitive skin. The impact was so severe that she withdrew from social media, rejected potential acting opportunities, and isolated herself from friends and family, sometimes going entire days without speaking to anyone.
Things took a turn for the worse one evening when Leah's parents discovered her engaging in behavior that could have brought them to tears. Rushing her to urgent care, Leah was diagnosed with Clinical Depression, exhibiting all the classic symptoms. The doctor prescribed medication and offered advice, but Leah seemed indifferent. Her parents had to constantly remind her to take her daily doses.
Mrs. Jeffries was determined to follow the doctor's advice and help Leah get back on track. That's why she decided to invite Charlie, Aryan, Dior, and Walker over for a swim on this beautiful sunny day. However, things didn't go as planned when Leah ended up staying upstairs while the others enjoyed the pool. Despite Mrs. Jeffries' warning to stay off her phone for safety reasons, Leah chose not to listen.
Leah absorbed each comment she read, feeling a wave of negative thoughts wash over her. Suddenly, the door creaked open, prompting Leah to hastily shut her book and stuff her phone away. Walker's gaze met hers, his blonde hair glistening with dampness as a towel hung loosely around his shoulders.
"God, Walker. You scared me!" Leah exclaimed, her voice dripping with annoyance.
"Sorry," Walker's apology escaped his lips, barely audible, as his voice carried the weight of his sorrow. Leah couldn't help but roll her eyes.
Regrettably, due to Leah's diagnosis, she had isolated herself from everyone, particularly her recent boyfriend, Walker Scobell. Walker was completely unaware of Leah's depression, but he was genuinely worried about her. He truly longed for the old Leah, as every action he took seemed to be met with her making him feel less.
"Don't just stand there looking dumb, What do you need?" Leah questioned, her irritation palpable.
"Why aren't you in the pool, love? Walker inquired, his voice brimming with intrigue.
"I just don't feel like it," Leah's response was nothing short of simplicity.
Walker's eyebrow arched in surprise, "Your mom invited US over," he uttered.
"I know. That was really stupid!" Leah's words echoed through the room, carrying a weight that demanded attention.
"So, you want us to go?" Walker inquired, his face a mask of surprise.
"Oh god, I'd love that," Leah responded, a grin lighting up her features. Walker's eyes widened, a hint of worry creeping into his expression.
"Leah? What's happening? You seem different," he questioned, concern evident in his voice.
Leah rolled her eyes, "Just let me alone," she retorted.
"Please, Leah," Walker pleaded. "I'm your boyfriend now. You can talk to me-"
"I SAID, LEAVE ME ALONE!" Leah's piercing scream sent the boy into a frenzy. "CAN'T YOU UNDERSTAND THAT, DUMBASS-"
"LEAH SAVA!," the echo of Mrs. Jeffries' voice reverberated. Walker shot Leah a look, then departed the room, leaving Leah in stunned silence as tears threatened to spill from her eyes.
With a mixture of annoyance and worry etched on her face, Mrs. Jeffries stormed into Leah's room.
The weight of the situation hung heavy in the air, but instead of putting up a fight, Leah crumbled under the weight of her emotions. Her sobs consumed her, her head sinking into her trembling hands.
As Mrs. Jeffries observed Leah's vulnerability, her stern countenance softened, and a heavy sigh escaped her lips.
**********
Walker strolled beside Leah, his eyes darting towards her every few seconds.
After the incident at Leah's place, everyone dispersed and headed back to their respective homes. Walker took the time to update everyone on the details of what had transpired, and this only heightened the growing concern for Leah among the group. In an attempt to uplift her spirits, Mrs. Jeffries had arranged for the Percy Jackson cast to gather at the mall. They indulged in a delicious meal, explored various shops, and now found themselves leisurely sipping on slushees they had purchased while strolling through Macy's.
While Charlie, Dior, and Aryan engaged in conversation, Walker found himself lost in thoughts about Leah. Standing right beside him, she seemed completely oblivious to her surroundings, her eyes glued to her phone. Her attire remained unchanged from yesterday, except for a different ensemble.
He was taken aback by the fact that she was actively scrolling through social media, but completely disregarded over 100 notifications from various social media platforms.
Walker's optimism radiated as he extended his hand, hoping to entwine it with Leah's that hung by her side. However, she swiftly withdrew her hand, her attention still fixated on her device.
Walker's expression contorted with worry. He was deeply concerned about his princess. He really was.
Walker gently nudged Aryan's shoulder, catching his attention.
"She's still avoiding me," Walker shared, his tone laced with concern.
Aryan stole a quick glance at Leah, unable to hide the sigh that escaped his lips. "Don't worry, we'll take it one step at a time. Baby steps, okay?" he whispered reassuringly.
Walker nodded, finding solace in Aryan's words.
Leah's gaze flickered across comments once more, a whirlwind of emotions churning inside her. Could it be true? Was she not the right fit for Annabeth after all? Did her race make her portrayal less convincing? Should she give up on acting altogether? Maybe consider...letting go of life?
Just then, Leah's eyes came across a whole paragraph of a comment which left her speechless.
OH MY GOODNESS, ARE YOU KIDDING ME? THEY'RE ACTUALLY MAKING A SEASON 2? WASN'T SEASON 1 SUFFICIENT? I MEAN, SERIOUSLY, WHO CAME UP WITH THE RIDICULOUS IDEA OF MAKING ANNABETH BLACK AND CONTINUING THE SHOW? IT'S NOT EVEN FAITHFUL TO THE BOOKS BECAUSE ANNABETH JUST RUINS EVERYTHING. I SWEAR, I FEEL SO SORRY FOR WALKER. HE HAS TO ACT ALONGSIDE A REAL-LIFE WALKING PIECE OF CRAP. JUST GO AHEAD AND GIVE HER A GOOD ASS-BEATING, WALKER. MAYBE THAT'LL GET HER KICKED OFF THE SHOW SO THEY CAN RECAST. LEAH, I REALLY HOPE SOMETHING TERRIBLE HAPPENS TO YOU. THANKS A LOT FOR RUINING OUR LIVES😭
Leah's heart skipped a beat as she read the comment, causing her to drop her phone in sheer terror. Did people actually want her to be dead? Could it be that Walker wanted to harm her? Maybe he didn't like working with her at all, and now they were together.
Leah's sudden movement captured the attention of everyone in the room, their eyes fixated on her as their expressions twisted with concern.
"Leah?" Charlie's voice trembled with uncertainty, his question hanging in the air.
Dior's voice quivered with worry as she asked, "What's happening?"
Leah remained silent, her only response being the tight embrace of her own arms, desperately seeking comfort as her breaths grew shallow and rapid.
"Leah, my love-" Walker's voice trailed off as he reached out his hand, expecting a reassuring touch. However, to his astonishment, Leah flinched and retreated, distancing herself from the figure with golden locks.
Walker's eyebrow shot up, his face contorting in bewilderment. "Princess?" he murmured, his voice laced with confusion.
"Don't hurt me," Leah's plea echoed through the air as she fled, disappearing from view.
"LEAH?!" Walker's voice boomed, propelling him forward in a frantic pursuit. Yet, as he took a single stride, an unexpected obstacle halted his progress. His foot came down upon something, causing him to pause. It was Leah's phone. By some stroke of luck, he managed to avoid inflicting any damage upon the delicate device.
With a mix of curiosity and trepidation, Walker picked up the object, only to be greeted by the unexpected sight of the Percy Jackson Instagram account. A lengthy comment sprawled across the screen, capturing his attention.
His eyes widened in disbelief as he devoured the words before him. "Oh god," he muttered under his breath, a sense of urgency gripping his every fiber. Without a moment's hesitation, Walker sprinted after Leah, the others trailing closely behind, their hearts pounding with anticipation.
Walker made a desperate attempt to catch up to Leah, but she was too quick for him. Just when he thought he had lost her, he caught sight of her disappearing into the girls' restroom.
Walker exhaled heavily.
However, he didn't give up and continued to chase after her, pushing the door open with determination. Luckily, the restroom was vacant, with only Leah inside.
"Leah?" Walker's voice reverberated through the walls, carrying with it a deep sense of concern.
In that very moment, the air was pierced by uncontrollable sobs, their echoes resonating throughout the area. The sound of a stall unlocking added to the symphony of despair, as Leah emerged, her face adorned with the vivid brushstrokes of anguish
"It's alright," Walker reassured gently as he made his way closer. With each step he took, Leah flinched, letting out soft whimpers.
"Hey, hey, lovie. I won't hurt you," Walker spoke softly, pausing his approach as he reached out his arms slightly. "Come here," he motioned, trying to comfort her.
Leah paused for a moment, contemplating her next move, before cautiously approaching the young boy with golden locks. With a gentle grace, she enveloped him in a warm embrace, her arms encircling his neck.
"That's my little princess. I missed my Leah hugs," Walker's voice caressed the air as he enveloped the girl's slender waist with his arms, embracing her with an unwavering strength. Leah cried on Walker's shoulder, her tears soaking the fabric as he gently guided her face to his neck.
"Come on," Walker commanded, his arms releasing Leah's waist, compelling her to let go of his neck as he took hold of one of her hands, leading her towards the wall. Walker lowered himself onto the gleaming white ground and motioned for Leah to sit on his lap. Leah straddled it, her arms encircling his neck while he cradled her head in the curve of his neck.
"Leah, could you please let me know what's going on??" Walker inquired gently, his hand lightly grazing her back.
Leah moved uncomfortably, her voice shaky. "It feels like everyone's got a problem with me being Annabeth, and it's all 'cause I'm black. Lately, I've been dealing with so much hate that it's been tough to handle-" Leah found herself unable to finish her sentence, her breath catching as a sob suddenly slipped out.
"I know, Leah, I got you. No worries, I'm listening," Walker's touch was gentle yet firm as he leaned in, his lips meeting Leah's cheek in a tender kiss.
"And, like, I saw this comment saying that they wish something bad happens to me and that you should hurt me so I can get recasted," Leah wept uncontrollably.
Walker's heart throbbed with an agonizing ache as he enveloped Leah in his embrace, his hands tenderly caressing her back with a gentle and deliberate motion.
"I noticed the comment when your phone dropped. I would never, ever hurt you, Leah. You mean the world to me," he provided solace, instilling a sense of calm and reassurance.
Leah's head gently bobbed against the curve of Walker's neck.
"Is that all?" inquired Walker, his voice dripping with tenderness.
Leah's delicate sniffles resonated in the air, as she slowly detached herself from the comforting embrace of Walker's neck. With a graceful motion, she positioned herself upright on his lap, locking eyes with him. In that moment, Walker's hands gently enveloped Leah's, his countenance adorned with a profound affection.
"Those haters really messed with me and gave me all kinds of rashes," Leah poured her heart out, tears cascading down her cheeks. Walker's expression was a mix of curiosity and fascination.
"One night, things got super bad and my parents caught me doing something really wrong," tears streamed down her face as she wept, her anguished sobs reverberating through the empty room. "So, like, I saw the doctor and they told me I have...depression," she uttered, fighting to regain control of her breathing.
Walker's eyes widened gently, his countenance awash with astonishment. "Wow," he whispered.
"I'm on medication. It sucks, Walker," Leah's words escaped her lips, carrying the weight of her sorrow, as her voice quivered with anguish.
Walker's nod was heavy with sorrow, his eyes filled with a deep sadness. "I know it does," he murmured, his voice laced with empathy. "But don't worry, sweet pea. We'll get through it together." With tenderness, he enveloped her in a warm embrace, cradling her fragile head against his sturdy shoulder.
In that moment, the door swung open, causing Walker to tense with apprehension. Yet, as his gaze met Charlie, Dior, and Aryan's concerned eyes, his expression softened. Leah, disentangling herself from Walker's lap, sought solace by snuggling against his side.
"Are y'all alright?" Aryan inquired, the trio drawing closer.
"We are," Walker reassured them, his voice steady. "It was just hate."
Charlie nodded gently, understanding the weight of their ordeal.
"Wanna tell them about the other thing?" Walker leaned in close to Leah, his voice barely above a whisper. Leah paused, taking a moment to contemplate before finally finding the courage to speak up.
"Recently, I found out I have depression," Leah's words echoed through the room, heavy with the weight of her confession.
The three teenagers were stunned, Dior embraced the situation, but unexpectedly, her face showed a sense of calm.
"I get it," Dior uttered, her tone resonating with understanding. Leah arched an eyebrow, imitating Walker's look that mirrored Aryan's.
Dior then settled on the ground, with Aryan and Charlie joining her, creating a circle with the five of them.
A faint smile appeared on Dior's face, barely touching her lips before she began to speak.
"Before we even started shooting season 1, I found out I had an anxiety disorder. It all started from my past acting gigs, plus the pressure from dancing and music. Season 1 just added," Dior unveiled. Leah, Aryan, and Walker absorbed her words, causing a grin to appear on Charlie's face while he gently rubbed her back.
"Are you on meds?" Leah inquired. "I am," she replied, her voice filled with a tinge of shame.
Dior's eyes met Leah's, filled with uncertainty. "Occasionally," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's okay," she reassured, a small smile tugging at her lips.
Aryan's curiosity peaked. "Are we the first to know?" he inquired.
Dior shook her head, memories flooding back. "Charlie was," she revealed.
Leah's voice was gentle. "Were you scared?"
Dior's eyes flickered with vulnerability. "Yes," she confessed, her gaze dropping.
Charlie's touch was tender as he kissed her temple, a silent promise of support.
"Hey Leah, your depression might actually bring you and Walker closer together, you know?" Charlie's words lingered in the air, a glimmer of hope in the midst of darkness.
Leah's eyes widened, a spark of curiosity igniting within her. "Could it really?" she inquired, her voice barely above a whisper.
"You guys can make up signs and codes for when you're feeling low. It'll bond you two even more," Charlie elucidated.
Walker and Leah locked eyes, their gazes brimming with curiosity as their lips curved into enchanting smiles.
"Do you and Dior have some?" Leah inquired, her eyes gleaming with a warm intensity.
Charlie's lips curved into a tender smile, his touch delicately caressing the necklace that adorned his neck. "This necklace is one. The pendant has all these different textures that can help with coping," he elucidated.
Walker and Leah exchanged knowing glances, touched by the depth in Charlie's words.
"We've been using this since, like, the very first day she told me," Charlie declared. In that moment, he lifted his finger and stretched out his pinky, causing Dior to smile as she wrapped her own pinky around his. Their gazes lingered on their intertwined pinkies before locking onto each other's eyes, leaning in until their lips finally met in a passionate kiss.
Walker and Leah beamed with joy, feeling their hearts fill with love.
"What does that mean?" Walker's question hung in the air, heavy with curiosity.
Charlie's smile was gentle as he replied, "It means It's gonna be okay. It always is."
Leah's grin mirrored his own.
Walker's fingers brushed Leah's side as he declared, "Looks like we have some work to do."
Leah's smile was radiant as she gazed up at him, and their lips met in a tender kiss.
Suddenly, the sound of a throat being cleared shattered the moment, and the two turned to see Aryan's uncomfortable gaze fixed upon them.
"Um... can we get back to shopping or whatever we were doing?" Aryan's voice broke the silence.
Walker's head bobbed in agreement, a soft chuckle slipping past his lips, causing a ripple of laughter to cascade through the room. With a unified motion, they all rose from their seats, leaving the confines of the bathroom behind.
Leah and Dior hurried away, embarking on their own adventures while the boys remained behind.
Walker looked at Leah, a sense of contentment washing over him. He grinned and spoke up, his tone laced with curiosity. "Do you think she'll be fine?" he inquired.
Charlie's smile was gentle. "Absolutely. I promise," he replied.
Walker nodded, a smile grazing his lips.
Suddenly, the girls hurried over to where the boys were standing.
"Almost forget our wallets," Dior said, taking hold of Charlie's hand. Leah quickly grabbed Walker and Aryan, pulling them along
The trio of boys grinned.