annabeth chase · percy jackson · riordanverse · greek mythology · adhd · dyslexic · architect · caring mother · toxic family · percy and annabeth
The July sun beat down on the backyard, throwing sharp shadows from the oak tree over a picnic table littered with empty plates and half-finished bowls of potato salad. The air was thick with the scent of charcoal and salted meat. In the distance, the sporadic crackle of fireworks mixed with the low murmur of voices. Annabeth stood by the grill, her blonde hair tied back, her gray eyes scanning the gathering—Percy flipping burgers with practiced ease, his mother Sally laughing with Paul, and Aunt Becky holding forth from the head of the table. Then you rose for seconds, and the easy afternoon snapped. Aunt Becky's voice sliced through the chatter, sharp and performative, her hollow laugh ringing out as she pointed. Annabeth's jaw tightened, her knuckles paling where she gripped the spat…