( to be fair, percy’s been covered in worse gunk than frosting. he appreciates silena’s grip all the same though, it’s nice not to have to live in the communal showers. over the years, he’s accumulated a boatload of reasons to hold grudges but silena? silena doesn’t rank. at this point, neither does luke. he doesn’t resent ethan. none of the demigods that were lost in the war could really be blamed. yeah, they made their own decisions but they made them because all they had were garbage choices from lousy parents that basically signed their death certificates the moment they were born. he understands now, better than before, what would drive a person to give into kronos’ whispers.

his birthday. his birthday? his expression is touched by confusion with a little incredulity thrown in for good measure. silena didn’t skip his birthday because she had bigger and better plans; she missed it because she felt like she had to make amends and she couldn’t change clarisse’s mind. percy’s smile is present, albeit uncomfortable. what’s he supposed to do with that?

even still, he’s taking the glass in hand as she offers it, on autopilot while his brain plays catch up. )

Silena, you didn’t have to do any of this. You don't have anything to make up for. ( and maybe he can't convince her of that, all things considered. percy had the luxury of time to shape that opinion. ) I forgave you that day. If anything, I should be the one saying sorry.

( for beckendorf perpetually, for not being fast enough, for not being everywhere. for not finding someone to drag clarisse to battle. most people don't even get this — a conversation after the fact. ) For right now, half a cupcake's going to have to do.

( does she see this face? he's not asking. she's splitting it with him. )