Children of Loss 13

Chapter 13

Nico stared over at his alarm clock. It was a little after ten, and Nico knew he needed to be getting up. He groaned and ran his hand under the covers, adjusting himself in his boxers. It was beginning to become a common occurrence for him to dream of his boss as he had last night, and it was really becoming frustrating. Why couldn't Percy just have sex with him? Maybe he should go to one of the Lost Boys.

Nico sighed and swung his legs off the bed. He sat up and ran a hand through his messy hair. While he did admit that the Lost Boys were very attractive, he really wanted his first time to be with Percy. The problem was that Percy was being extremely stubborn in helping him out with that.

Nico stepped out of his bedroom to fix some cereal. It was a little past breakfast time, but he really didn't care. With these late nights, he took his food and sleep whenever he could get them. He reached up into the cabinet and pulled a bowl out. He grabbed his favorite box of cereal and a spoon, and poured the cereal in the bowl.

His problem with Percy was growing, he knew that. Every single day, it seemed like Nico's feelings kept growing. Being around Percy was beginning to be intoxicating to Nico. He thrived on getting time with the green eyed young man. Percy just wouldn't give in, and that confused Nico.

Percy would mess with every one of the Lost Kids, except him. Why was that? He wanted to keep Nico innocent, and he felt this was for Nico's own good, but why? Maybe he didn't find Nico sexually appealing. Perhaps Percy saw him more like a brother. Nico scoffed. That couldn't be it. Apollo treated Nico like a brother, but he still made it clear he wanted Nico in his bed.

Nico sighed as he plopped down on his couch with his bowl of cereal. Percy was, and would probably remain, a mystery to Nico. He wouldn't explain himself to Nico, so Nico would never know the answers to these questions. There was no way he would get the answers out of the Lost Kids. He might be family now, but Nico knew where their greater loyalty lay.

They were also a mystery to Nico. Whose side were they really on? Probably their own. They acted like a close family for the most part, but when it came to time on the top floor or with Percy, they were competitive with each other. Was it a game, or was it for real? Did they stick together for the most part, or would they sell each other out? Nico supposed only time would tell.

Nico reached for his phone, groaning at the time. He needed to get dressed and go see Percy. He scarfed down the rest of his cereal and tossed the bowl in the sink. He quickly got into the bathroom and turned on the shower. This was his problem. He wasn't sure if he wanted to hurry so Percy wouldn't get upset with him for being late, or if was just eager to see the black haired man.

Nico hurried through his shower, getting out and grabbing a towel. He walked back to his room and started drying himself off. He opened his closet to retrieve some clothing, noting his appearance in the mirror. It was still strange looking at himself. It seemed like an eternity for him that he was on the streets and starving to death. Now, he looked better than ever and actually had to admit he looked attractive.

He dropped his towel, running his eyes over his pale skin, not finding a single blemish. It was nice, looking at himself like this. When he first got here, he couldn't even look at himself, and now it was just a relief to see his body recovered. He let out a long sigh and retrieved some clothes for the day from his closet. Nico made haste as he finished getting ready, and soon, he was heading out the door.

Nico found Luke waiting at the elevator, the blond rolling his eyes when he noticed Nico's approach. “Oh goodie, just who I wanted to see upon waking up,” Luke mumbled.

“I'm sure you're not much fun to wake up to either,” Nico retorted.

Luke chuckled dryly. “Funny. I have plenty of people wanting my attention.”

“I can't imagine why, you're about as warm as Antarctica.”

Luke smirked and pinned Nico against the wall, Nico's hands being held above his head. “People like being dominated, Nico. Don't forget that,” Luke purred into Nico's ear, making the smaller boy squirm under Luke's intense gaze.

The elevator finally arrived and Luke released Nico, stepping onboard. He tapped his foot, pressing the button to hold the door open. Nico blushed and got inside. Luke hit the seventieth floor button, and Nico stepped forward to hit the sixty-eight floor.

“On your way to see the boss?” Luke asked.

“He wanted me to come by. Apollo said something to him about Dionysus.”

Luke's shoulders tensed up at the mention of the chubby bartender's name, a reaction that perplexed Nico. Luke didn't seem the type to be bothered by anyone. “Stay away from him,” Luke mumbled, averting his eyes from Nico.

“What does he do?”

Luke just shook his head. “Apollo told you not to take anything he gave you?” Luke growled. Nico nodded. “Good. Don't.”

The elevator opened to Percy's floor, but Nico stood and stared at Luke for a moment. The blond eventually peered over at him, narrowing his eyes at Nico. Nico bit his lip and walked out of the elevator, looking back at the blond as the elevator doors closed. “That was...strange,” Nico mumbled, continuing on his way to Percy's office. The only time Luke was actually decent to him was during lessons, but he just acted like Apollo had the night before.

He opened the door to Percy's office, finding Leo behind his desk. “Hey, Nico,” Leo greeted him.

“Hey,” Nico replied, glancing over at Rachel's desk. “Where's Rachel?”

“Out running some errands for Percy. So, what can I do for you?”

“Percy wanted me to come see him about the rules of this place.”

Leo nodded, chewing on his lip. He looked back at his computer and began typing. “Yeah, I heard about last night.”

Nico cocked his head to the side. “What exactly did you hear?”

“Nothing really.”

Nico sighed. “So, is Percy in his office?”

Leo nodded. “Yeah, he's in there,” Nico began moving for the door, “but he's with Calypso right now.”

Nico froze, his hand reaching for the doorknob. “Oh,” he mumbled, his cheeks heating up. He really didn't want to walk in on Percy with another Lost Kid.

“You can just take a seat,” Leo chuckled, gesturing to one of the chairs near the entrance to the office. Nico nodded and walked over to sit down. “So, it seems you weren't being honest with me when we first met.”

Nico looked up at Leo in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“You told me that you didn't have a crush on Percy, but according to the others, you do.”

Nico's cheeks darkened even more. “Does everyone know?”

Leo chuckled. “Yes, everyone knows, but don't worry about it. Having a crush on Percy is a normal occurrence for most people when they first arrive, but usually they get over it around now. Well, they still keep a physical attraction, just not the...you know, I'm going to stop rambling now,” Leo mumbled.

Nico smiled, hiding his eyes behind his bangs. “Even Percy knows?”

Leo smiled, returning to his typing. “Yes, even Percy.”

“So, how does he feel?”

“I can't answer that, Nico,” Leo groaned. “That's something for you and him to talk about. Actually, I'm not even sure how he feels, none of us are. He's being confusing right now.”

“What do you mean?”

Leo opened his mouth to reply, but Percy's door swung open, Calypso walking out while adjusting her top. She caught Nico's eye and gave him a quick wink on her way out. Percy appeared in the doorway, leaning his arm against the doorframe. “Did I get any messages?” Percy asked Leo.

Leo shook his head. “No, but Nico's here to see you,” Leo replied.

Percy looked over at Nico, smiling and nodding his head in the direction of his office. Nico stood up and walked inside, Percy shutting the door behind them. Nico stared over at the couch, which Nico could tell was what was used for Percy and Calypso's 'business discussion', noting the imprints slowly disappearing from the surface.

Nico's blush returned as he met Percy's eyes, sitting down quickly and quietly in a chair in front of Percy's desk. Percy arched an eyebrow at him as he sat down in his own chair. “Is there a problem, Nico?” Percy asked.

Nico shook his head. “N-No,” he stuttered.

“Really? Because you seem a little nervous.”

That's because he was nervous. Although, Nico wasn't sure if was because of what had just happened in the office or because of his dream the night before. “I'm fine.”

Percy looked at him skeptically. He sighed and leaned back in his chair, propping his feet up on his desk. “Alright, I need to run over a few things with you,” Percy began. “As you know, I don't really have many rules around here, but there are some things you need to know. I need to cover smoking, alcohol, sex, and drugs.”

“Ok?” Nico said hesitantly, not really sure why this needed to be said.

Percy rubbed his face. “Alright, I don't personally care if any of the Lost Kids smoke, but it's pretty frowned on. I don't really approve of it, for the health reasons, so I just say it's frowned upon.”

“Well, I don't really smoke.”

Percy smiled. “I know, I'm just saying. Next, we have sex. As you know, sex is part of the business around here, but it is also something fun for the Lost Kids to do with each other. It's also how they negotiate hours with me. So, I don't care if you have sex, just use protection at all times. Just know that this probably isn't the place you want to go picking a monogamous partner from.”

“I know,” Nico mumbled, looking down at his lap.

“Just the way it is. As far as alcohol is concerned, I'll probably eventually let you drink, just not now. The others use it as a coping mechanism, and I don't think you need it yet. That's all it's really used for around here, something to help nerves and ease pain. So, if I see that you might need some, I'll allow it, but not until then,” Percy stated. “And in general, I don't allow any of the Lost Kids to drink too much or drift into alcoholism.”

Nico nodded his head.

Percy's lips turned down into a frown. “Finally, there's my big rule. This is really the only completely enforced rule around here. I do not, under any circumstances, tolerate the use of drugs among the Lost Kids. Do I make myself clear?”

“Y-Yes,” Nico replied.

Percy's face was almost frightening. He didn't appear angry, he was just so serious looking that it gave Nico chills. His eyes were narrow and Nico couldn't help but be reminded of a snake. “I mean it, Nico. Do not take drugs. I do not allow it.”

“I won't take any, I swear. I promise not to let you down.”

Percy's face lightened, his body relaxed, and his smile returned to his face. “I'll hold you to that,” he said, winking at Nico. “So, how was your experience last night?”

“Different,” Nico confessed.

“It'll take some getting used to, but I think you can handle yourself up there.”

Nico smiled, his cheeks once again darkening. Percy smiled at him. “Thanks,” Nico mumbled. He chewed on his lip for a moment before speaking again. “Can I ask about Dionysus?”

Percy's smile instantly fell, his face cast into a shadow. Nico gulped and sat back in his chair, trying to put some distance between himself and Percy. “Just try and keep your interactions with him to a minimal.”

Nico nodded his head quickly. Obviously, they weren't going to tell him anything about the man, but Nico wasn't sure he actually wanted to go poking around like he usually did. Every time the man's name came up, everyone got really upset.

Percy sighed and stood up. He extended his hand out to Nico, but the boy was hesitant to take it. Percy chuckled and grabbed Nico's hand. “I'm not going to hurt you, Nico. I'm just trying to look out for you,” Percy explained. He helped Nico up, the raven haired boy ending up very close to Percy's firm chest. He glanced up to Percy's face, finding Percy's green eyes looking down at him intently. He brushed Nico's bangs out of his face. “I think you're too curious for your own good sometimes,” Percy whispered.

Nico bit his lip. “Everything's just confusing around here. I just want to understand things.”

Percy nodded. “I know, and I'm sure you'll get all your answers eventually.” He leaned in and whispered in Nico's ear. “Just be ready to accept the answers when they are given to you.” He leaned back and smiled down at Nico. “Now, we need to get upstairs, there's something waiting for you.”

Nico cocked his head to the side, staring up at Percy in confusion. Percy just smiled at him and ruffled his hair, opening the door and walking out. Nico huffed and followed after Percy, both of them waving at Leo as they passed.

When they reached the top, Nico found all of the Lost Kids, minus Hazel, Octavian, and Silena, already present. Rachel stood in the center of them, a large cupcake in her hands. “What-What's going on?” Nico asked.

“We wanted to welcome you to the family, Neeks!” the twins exclaimed. Nico blinked at them for a moment, finally looking up at Percy.

“Well, last night was your initiation, and you passed with flying colors, so you're officially a Lost Kid now,” Percy explained, pushing Nico forward.

Rachel smiled and handed Nico the cupcake, the letters 'LK' written in frosting on top. Nico smiled at it. “Thanks,” he mumbled. His eyes widened as the group descended on him, pulling him into a massive group hug. He groaned and squirmed between them, trying to keep his cupcake intact. He jumped when he felt someone pinch his ass, trying to glare at the culprit, but unable to spot anyone.

Nico yelped as a pair of arms wrapped around him, ripping him out of the huddle. Percy chuckled down at him. He swiped a finger across the top of Nico's cupcake and sucked it off his finger, winking at Nico. “Well, he can enjoy his cupcake, all of you need to get to work,” Percy ordered.

The Lost Kids all grumbled and pouted as they made their way to the stage, Nico following after Percy as the older male sat down at the booth that he sat at last night. He slid in beside the green eyed manager, earning him a few scowls from the others. Rachel joined them, handing Percy a few documents and whispering to Percy about hotel business. Nico took a bite out of his cupcake, keeping his eyes on Percy, watching Percy's dark hair fall into his eyes as he looked down at the papers.

Some music started up and the Lost Kids started stretching. Percy grabbed Nico's cupcake and took a bite out of it, earning himself a pout from Nico. “Get your own,” Nico mumbled when the cupcake was handed back to him.

Percy chuckled. “Don't you want to share your food with me, Nico?” he asked with a smirk. He scowled at Percy and returned his attention to the stage.

As the song picked up, the Lost Kids began moving their bodies in enticing manners. His eyes lingered on Will's ass as the blond bent over to touch the floor. He noticed Nico staring at him and slapped his ass, winking at Nico. Nico averted his eyes, feeling his blush once again returning. They were all out to get him, Nico decided.

“I expect you to be able to dance like they do by Friday,” Percy said, not looking up from his paperwork.

“Exactly like they do?” Nico whispered.

Percy nodded, looking up when Nico groaned. “Calm down, Apollo is a really good dance coach. You'll be fine. I'll even have him start with you tonight, if you prefer.”

Nico nodded. “I'm not much of a dancer, so I'll probably need all the help I can get,” Nico confessed.

Percy leaned towards Nico to whisper in his ear. “Don't worry. I'm sure you'll be very appealing to watch.” Percy let out a puff of breath on Nico's neck and flicked his tongue against Nico's earlobe. He pulled back with a chuckle, noting Nico's red cheeks. “You're too easy to tease, Nico,” Percy said, returning to his work.

“You're a cruel tease,” Nico mumbled.

Percy and Rachel shared a laugh. “Well, if Rachel weren't here and bombarding me with work, perhaps I'd be more inclined to hear out your request,” Percy joked

Rachel raised an eyebrow. “Ha. Hasn't stopped you before,” she scoffed.

Percy pouted at her. “So cruel, Rachel. That was just one time, and it wasn't even my idea.”

“I'm not sure I want to hear this,” Nico interrupted them.

Percy smiled at him. “Suit yourself,” the black haired man said.

The hours passed by and Nico found himself in Apollo and Will's suite with Apollo, Will, Reyna, Travis, and Hazel. They had opted for room service, since the hotel was overly crowded for the weekend. It was also easier on them with their tight schedules for the weekend, according to Reyna.

“So, has it sunk in yet, Nico?” Hazel asked before taking a bite of her salad.

“Um. Sort of, I guess. It's still a little surreal to me,” Nico confessed.

“You'll feel like that for a while,” Travis said.

Nico turned to Apollo, who sat beside him. “So, tonight's show is supposed to be good?”

“Yes,” Apollo chuckled. “You should pay attention to the opening especially.”

“Did Percy talk to you about giving me an early lesson?” Nico asked, sticking some pasta in his mouth. Apollo nodded his head, his mouth currently full of food. “So, you want to start after we get off?”

Apollo grinned at him. “Oh, you won't be getting off until I'm done with you,” he said seductively.

Nico started coughing, his cheeks tinged pink. “Aw. Leave the poor boy alone,” Hazel said, smiling at Nico's embarrassment.

“Am I going to be around for this lesson? Because it sounds like something I want to be a part of,” Will teased, winking at Nico. Nico chuckled nervously.

Apollo nudged Nico's shoulder. “We're only kidding, dude. We're not going to rape you.”

“Unless you're into that sort of thing,” Will added.

Apollo rolled his eyes. “You're just fun to tease.”

“Glad I can be of amusement,” Nico mumbled.

Reyna sighed. “Stop torturing the poor boy, I'm starting to actually feel sorry for him,” she complained. “Between all of you boys, I'm not sure how his face ever has time to be pale.”

Travis wrapped an arm around Nico's leg, laying his head on Nico's thigh. “Aw, but we can't help it, we've never had an innocent one come along,” Travis whined.

“And everyone's so eager to break his innocence, it seems.”

“You said you wanted him to be more like us,” Will mumbled around his food.

Reyna shot him a hateful look and Nico just stared between the two. Will just shrugged, not even looking up at Reyna from his food.

Hazel cleared her throat. “I think we better get going. We don't need to be late,” she reminded them.

The trip up to the top floor was completely silent and awkward for Nico. They came to the top floor, finding it currently deserted. Nico awkwardly followed after the others as they made their way backstage to get changed. The rest of the Lost Boys working up there tonight were already present, and nearly finished with getting dressed. Nico was surprised to find Luke dressed in the same costume he had on last night. Reyna and Hazel walked through an open door, which Nico assumed led to the girls' dressing area.

“I thought he went on last night?” Nico asked Apollo.

Apollo raised his eyebrows at Nico, turning his head to look at Luke. “Oh, yeah, that's how it works. Why do you think we get competitive with hours? It gets pretty cut-throat when busy weekends are getting close, and those that put in the extra effort usually end up with an extra night on stage,” Apollo explained. “I'll be performing tomorrow night as well.”

Nico nodded, watching Travis as he undressed, Luke handing him his jester costume. Apollo pulled his shirt over his head, fully drawing Nico's attention to the blond's abs.

Apollo chuckled. “You're welcome to touch,” he said with a dazzling smile.

Nico glanced up at Apollo's face hesitantly. Apollo just rolled his eyes and grabbed Nico's hand, placing it on his stomach. Nico bit his lip, trailing his hand across blond's muscles. “You, uh, have a nice body,” Nico mumbled.

“Thanks,” Apollo chuckled, unbuttoning his pants. Nico pulled his hand away as Apollo stood there in a speedo. “Aw, Nico, do I make you nervous?” Apollo pouted and batted his eyelashes at Nico.

Nico huffed and crossed his arms over his chest. “No.”

Apollo smirked and walked over to grab his costume. “You should get out of those clothes,” he said.

Nico nodded, slipping himself out of his clothes, but keeping his eyes on Apollo as he got dressed. Apollo's costume was rather simple, compared to some of the others. He had black transparent tights, that, when left in just that, left little to the imagination. He slipped his shirt on, it too showing off his body. It was made of black feathers and lace, which split halfway down his chest, opening up to reveal his abs. He smirked at Nico once more before slipping his mask from last night on.

“What are you supposed to be?” Nico asked.

Apollo smiled and handed Nico his mask. “You'll see. I have a performance with Thalia. I think you'll like it.”

Beckendorf walked over, slipping his arm around Nico's shoulders. “I'm afraid I'm gonna have to steal this one away from you, blondie,” Beckendorf chuckled.

Apollo nodded. “Take care of him tonight, man, and remember what I said,” Apollo said.

Beckendorf nodded. “I know. I got this.”

Nico let himself be led by Beckendorf towards the door where Octavian was waiting for them. “About time. I was staring to wonder if I was going to have to get a mop to wipe up the drool from you ogling Apollo,” Octavian droned.

Nico huffed at the blond as they walked across the floor, some of the arriving customers already looking them over. Nico glanced up to Beckendorf. “What was that between you and Apollo?” Nico asked.

Beckendorf looked down at Nico with a warm smile. “Nothing, don't worry about it,” Beckendorf assured him. Nico frowned at the muscular Lost Boy as they stepped into the bar room. They had beat the girls there tonight, but Dionysus was already in his chair, drinking some liquor.

“Ah, the new kid returns,” the chubby man called after Nico as he sat down on the couch.

“He'll be here all weekend,” Beckendorf mumbled, taking a seat beside Nico, placing himself between Nico and Dionysus.

“Well then, how fortunate for me.” The man began digging in his pocket. “Ah yes, I don't suppose I could get you to deliver something for me, could I?”

Beckendorf snarled and Nico watched as Octavian's eyes narrowed at Dionysus. “What did Percy tell you?” Beckendorf growled.

“It's just for a customer,” Dionysus said innocently, holding out a small clear sealable bag, his fingers closed around its contents.

“And you know the rule,” Octavian scoffed. “You take care of it yourself.”

“But wouldn't it be better for business if a pretty little thing were delivering it, compared to me?”

“Do it yourself, if you ask him again, I'll get Percy involved,” Beckendorf warned.

“Fine, take my fun away,” Dionysus sighed.

The door opened, the Lost Girls entering the room. They instantly took in Beckendorf and Octavian's stances and fell silent from whatever they were talking about. “What's going on, baby?” Silena asked.

“This thing tried to get Nico to do his job for him,” Beckendorf barked.

“Your words are so hurtful, Charles,” Dionysus said with a frown.

Silena sat down in Beckendorf's lap, smiling at Nico. “Just tune him out, that's what we do,” she whispered to him. Nico nodded.

Zoë sat down beside Nico, flicking her hair behind her shoulder. “Well, don't get too comfortable, we have to go back out there soon,” Reyna reminded them.

“Good, the air in here is distasteful,” Octavian huffed.

“Do hurry back,” Dionysus called after them as they left.

Nico grabbed a pad and pencil, watching the others with curiosity. Why did they all dislike Dionysus? Even Percy seemed to have a certain dislike for the man. Why did Percy even have him around? Nico tried to gage the others' moods now that they were away from the man, but now that they had put their masks on, it was hard to tell without them looking at him.

Nico was in the middle of taking an order when Percy came in. Nico groaned internally, looking back at the man whose order he was taking. The other Lost Kids made their way over to Percy, and Nico knew there was no point in trying tonight. That meant he would have to be prepared tomorrow night.

He smiled at his customer as he headed back to the bar room, noting a quick change of course from Silena to follow him into the bar room. Last night, he had been suspicious about the fact that the others kept showing up in the bar room anytime Nico went back there, and this was just cementing his theory that they didn't want him to be alone with the bartender.

He pushed the door open and walked to the back of the room, handing the chubby bartender the piece of paper. Dionysus smiled at Nico and looked the order over, his eyes flickering to the door when Silena came in. “Thank you, Nico,” Dionysus said.

“Uh. Thanks?” Nico replied, eyebrows furrowing. “Just doing my job.”

“Oh, but you're doing such a good job at catching onto things, unlike our Silena over there.” Nico looked over to the dark haired girl as she tensed up. “In fact, several of the others had some struggles when they first arrived up here.”

“That's enough, Dionysus,” Silena hissed.

Dionysus blinked at her. “What?”

Silena huffed and shoved her own order at the man. Dionysus smiled and went to work on filling Nico's order. Nico wasn't sure what to do, with the two of them so tense with each other, so he just stood there awkwardly rubbing his arm.

Dionysus slid the tray with Nico's order on it towards the dark haired boy with a smile. Nico returned the smile with a nervous one of his own, brushing passed Silena on his way out. As the door swung closed, Nico heard Silena begin to snap at the man. Nico frowned at the closed door and continued on to his table, trying to put what just happened out of his mind.

Upon delivering his order, the lights went off and Nico stopped to look at the stage. The curtains opened, the two mirrors that had been hanging from the ceiling last night, were now hanging on a large black wall that had been set up on the stage. The lights on the stage lit up, becoming the only source of light in the room. Nico chuckled as the music began playing The Naked and Famous's “Young Blood”. The mirrors opened up and Travis and Piper came tumbling out. Apollo, Luke, Thalia, Will, Annabeth, and Hazel began filing out of the mirrors, reminding Nico of music box figurines as they twirled around on stage.

Nico locked onto Apollo, watching the young man rise on his feet and spin around. The blond moved with such perfect grace that Nico could not help but feel envious of. He was likely to trip and fall on his face when it came his time to get up there. The boys and girls separated to the disparate wings of the stage, Apollo and Thalia staying in the center, spinning gracefully. Thalia was dressed to match Apollo, and Nico instantly picked up on the theme. Thalia wore a black ballerina dress, one that did not really hide much of her lower areas. It was covered in black feathers, just like Apollo's was. She wore a black and silver crown on top of her head.

Nico smiled, wondering what song the two of them would perform later. Luke grabbed Annabeth as the blonde began to do a backflip, helping her pull off the move with precise grace. Travis spread his hands out in front of his face, pushing his upper body forward, and tilting his head from side to side. Piper and Hazel had umbrellas and were twirling them around before swinging them out towards the audience.

Clothing began to fall away, revealing portion after portion of flesh to the hungry customers. Will took a bow at the perfect moment in the song, sweeping his right arm behind his back and into the air. More clothing soon fell away as the song continued. Nico focused on Apollo again, as he and Thalia were moving like the music box figurines he thought of when he looked at them. They must have practiced this number a lot, because the two of them were moving in perfect synch.

The song ended and the Lost Kids made their way off stage, clapping erupting throughout the room. It was a really good opening, Nico thought, Apollo had been right. He was also right in the fact that the performances did look fun.

Nico headed back to the bar room to drop some glasses off while placing another order. To his surprise, he had managed to get into the room without being followed. Dionysus didn't say much this time, taking the order from Nico with a smile and twinkle in his eye.

“So, what did you mean earlier?” Nico voiced, glancing at the door.

“Oh, it was nothing,” Dionysus replied, filling the order while not looking at Nico. “Just that Silena, Butch, Reyna, and Luke didn't do so well when they first arrived.”

“Why not?”

Dionysus glanced at Nico from the corner of his eye, smiling to himself. “Different reasons for all of them. Butch grew up on the streets, so he wasn't much of a people person when he first arrived. Luke, on the other hand, was angry when he and Octavian first got here, snapping at anyone that touched his brother. Reyna was a similar case to Butch, not getting along well with the customers.”

“And Silena?” Nico asked.

“My, my, you are just as curious as I heard you were,” Dionysus chuckled. “A story for another time, perhaps?”

Nico sighed and nodded, taking the finished drinks from the red faced man. At least he found something out, and he didn't have to try asking one of the Lost Kids about it. It made sense he supposed. With what he knew, he could see Reyna and Luke acting like that. He didn't know anything about Luke's past, but from what he knew of Reyna's, everything fit. He was surprised to learn about Butch growing up on the streets, though. He wondered if Percy and Butch had bonded over that fact.

He wanted to ask Luke about his past, but given his past interactions with the blond, he doubted Luke would be open to telling him. Silena was the mystery from what he had just learned. Why had she had a rough time getting started here? There was still so much Nico didn't know about the Lost Kids, but he also knew it would take time for them to be willing to talk to him about it.

Walking over to his next table, he threw on a bright smile. “Good evening, gentlemen,” Nico greeted the three men at his table, probably in their late thirties, their eyes lighting up at the sight of Nico. “Is there anything I can get for you this evening?”

One of the men, a blond, licked his lips and leaned back to stare at Nico's ass. Nico smirked and spun around for the man, hooking his finger into the waistline of his speedo and peeling it back an inch. The man wagged his eyebrows and pulled his wallet out, handing Nico a five. “Make sure you keep coming back like that,” the blond ordered.

Nico smiled and winked. The man next to the blond, a red headed man with faint stubble on his chin, cleared his throat. “I'll take a gin and tonic,” the man said and Nico nodded his head, scribbling down the order.

Nico turned to the third man, a brunet with traces of grey starting to appear in his his curly hair. “Give me three shots of vodka, if you please,” he said, staring down at Nico's smooth legs.

“And you, sir?” Nico asked, turning back to the blond.

“I'll have some Malt Scotch, and tell Dionysus to come out and bring my special order. Tell him it's Barkman,” the blond said with a smile.

Nico nodded and headed off for the bar room, finding Octavian already in the room. Octavian blinked at him while waiting for Dionysus to finish his order. Nico walked over and slipped the slip of paper to Dionysus.

“Thank you, Nico,” Dionysus stated.

“Oh, Mr. Barkman is here and asked for his order,” Nico informed him, tilting his head to the side. Dionysus glanced over at Nico with his usual smile before glancing at Octavian, who was glaring at the chubby man.

Dionysus nodded. “Tell him I'll have it out to him in a bit.”

“What, no pressuring the boy?” Octavian scoffed.

“Octavian, I'm surprised at you. Why do all of you treat me so harshly? All I try to do is help,” Dionysus frowned.

“Bullshit,” Octavian growled, his hand snapping up the drinks that Dionysus had just finished for him. He didn't leave, though. He just stood there while Dionysus started Nico's order, leering at the side of Dionysus's face.

“I'm not supposed to take his order to him?” Nico asked.

Dionysus grinned and handed Nico his tray of drinks. “Oh, that would be very helpful, Nico,” Dionysus said, but Octavian cleared his throat, “but I can handle it.”

“Watch yourself, Mr. D,” Octavian threatened before walking to the door and waiting for Nico. Nico frowned at the bartender, feeling a little sorry for the man. Why were they all treating him like this? He seemed so nice.

Nico turned around and walked towards Octavian, following him back onto the floor. He went back to his table and handed out the three men's drinks. They pulled their wallets out and waved money at Nico. Nico chuckled, trying to hide his discomfort as he let them slip the bills into the waistband of his speedo.

Nico glanced over at Percy's table, where Octavian was tending to Percy. The blond was telling Percy something and neither one of them looked happy about it. Percy's eyes flickered to Nico for a brief second before returning to the blond in front of him. He waved a hand in front of himself, letting Octavian know he was done talking about the issue. Nico frowned as he watched Octavian walk off, catching his eye for a split second.

Nico turned his attention back to the stage as the music began again. This time, Apollo, Luke, and Will were on the stage, only in their speedos and masks. He watched them strut around on stage and flex their muscles, turning around and showing off their asses to the crowd.

“The blond trio,” Beckendorf chuckled. Nico turned his head to look at the tall man. “Since we have a few blonds, the group changes from time to time to fit Octavian into the group, but those three are usually the ones together.”

Nico watched their bodies move, unconsciously biting his lower lip. “So, there are groups that perform together?” Nico asked, unable to look away from the stage as Will groped himself.

“Yeah. Butch and myself, the brothers, the blonds, Piper and Silena, Zoë and Thalia, plus Annabeth and Thalia usually perform together.” Nico licked his lips as Apollo slapped his ass, a look of pure seduction on the blond's face. “Then on big weekends, Apollo and Thalia, Luke and Annabeth, and Silena and I will usually put on a performance.”

The song came to an end, the blond boys basking in the attention from the crowd. Will met Nico's eye and gave him a wink. Nico blushed and turned back to Beckendorf, giving the dark skinned man a smile before walking off.

The next performance must have been the one Apollo had said to watch, because he and Thalia had made their way out onto the stage. Nico smiled at them as he heard the music began to play. It sounded familiar to him. The two began to move slowly, Apollo running his hand down Thalia's chest as she lay back in his arm. Thalia's leg rose into the air and Apollo spun them around gracefully. Nico eventually placed the song, “Perfection” from the movie Black Swan. Nico's mind finally clicked on their attire. Thalia's was an exact replica to the one Natalie Portman wore in the movie, while Apollo's was a male adaptation of the costume.

Apollo released Thalia as she swayed away from Apollo, pulling her body to and fro. Apollo came up to her and placed his hands on her hips, lifting her into the air. Thalia wrapped a leg around Apollo's waist as he arched her body towards the ground before lifting her back up. He threw her out, where she began spinning with much force.

Apollo pulled off a ballon while Thalia was spinning. Thalia began to act the part of a swan, flapping her arms through the air. It was really a mesmerizing performance, and Nico could really tell why Apollo said he would enjoy the blond's performances. Apollo was right. He did incorporate his dance lessons into his stage time.

Thalia's dress was pulled away by Apollo, letting the lace and silk fall to the floor as he dipped Thalia with the dark haired girl's arm around his neck. As Apollo released her, she pulled Apollo's top off, revealing his delicious chest to the crowd. Nico moaned to himself as he watched Thalia's nails rake down the blond's abs.

The two began spinning, beginning with their arms above their heads and slowly bringing them down to pull away another article of clothing. Thalia's top fell to the ground, while Apollo's tights joined his shirt where it lay. As the music turned light, the two slowed down, Thalia running at Apollo, and the blond lifting her above his head, letting his hand slip up her thigh.

The crowd really seemed to enjoy the elegant performance, the two receiving a standing ovation for their performance. Apollo and Thalia blew kisses to their beloved customers before linking fingers and making their way backstage.

Nico found himself in a crowded elevator with the rest of the Lost Kids, currently being pressed against both Luke and Piper. He finally was released from his tight space when the elevator opened to their floor. The girls walked down their hall, waving and yawning back at the boys as they went to their respective rooms. Luke, Octavian, and Beckendorf were the first of the boys to come to their rooms, the first two heading into the room on the left, while Beckendorf went to his on the right. Will and Travis continued down the hall, while Apollo stopped with Nico at his door.

“Ready to begin?” Apollo asked with a smirk.

“I guess,” Nico sighed. His body was exhausted, but he knew it would be better for him to get an early lesson. He slid his card into the slot and the two entered his suite. Apollo set his wallet and phone on the island in Nico's kitchen before turning to Nico.

“Don't look so scared, Nico, this is an enjoyable process of learning to dance.”

“That's what I'm afraid of,” Nico mumbled.

Apollo chuckled and slipped his arm around Nico's waist, guiding Nico further into the living room. Apollo pushed Nico's coffee table out of the way so they could have some room. “Alright, I'm just going to keep it brief tonight. I'm sure you're tired, I know I am, and we both want to get to bed, though I'd be willing to crash here, if you wanted.” Apollo winked at Nico.

Nico scowled at the blond, who just smiled back at him innocently. “Let's just get started.”

“Fine,” Apollo pouted, “have it your way.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, I take it you have been watching the performances?”

Nico nodded. “Yes, and I get what you mean now about it being fun.”

Apollo smiled. “Good. Now, you've done a good job with interacting with customers, but this is a bit different. This is all about using your body to entice the people in the audience. You don't have the ability to speak, so it's about your actions.” Nico nodded as Apollo popped his lips. “Would you prefer to watch me, or just jump into me guiding you through techniques?”

“Can we start with you?” Nico asked.

Apollo smirked. “Wanna see me naked again, eh?”

Nico's cheeks heated up. “Shut up,” he mumbled.

Apollo retrieved his phone and scrolled through some music until he found a suitable song. He sat the phone back down and began gyrating his body. “Just watch how I move,” Apollo instructed. “You have to move perfectly.”

Nico nodded. He watched as the blond slid his hand down his clothed chest. Apollo gripped the hem of his shirt and slowly pulled it up, keeping his hips moving the entire time. Inch by inch of flesh was revealed to Nico's eyes, and Nico found himself licking his lips. Apollo tossed his shirt at Nico once it was off his head, smirking at the blushing black haired boy.

Apollo's hips were still gyrating as he stepped out of his sandals. He stepped up to Nico and pushed the smaller boy down onto the couch. Nico gulped as he stared up at the stripping blond, trying to bite back a moan.

Apollo's fingers gripped the button of his pants, letting his mouth fall open with a moan as it came undone. Nico's breathing had increased, feeling his heart pounding against his chest. Apollo slipped his pants down, thrusting his hips out toward Nico. He grinned down at the nervous boy, running a hand through Nico's hair.

Once the pants were off, Apollo went back to gyrating his hips. He turned around and bent over, reaching up to slap his perfectly clad ass. A moan slipped from Nico's lips and Apollo chuckled at him. He stood back up and slipped his fingers underneath the fabric of his speedo, slowly lowering the fabric to reveal the top portion of his ass to Nico.

“Alright, I think that's good,” Apollo said, smiling as he sat down beside Nico.

Nico sat there for a moment, still in mild shock at the show he had just received. “That-that was...hot-I mean good,” Nico stuttered, his face turning red.

Apollo leaned in, pressing himself against Nico, bringing his face a few inches away from Nico's. “Thank you, Nico,” Apollo moaned, bringing forth a moan from Nico's lips. These lessons were going to be the death of him.

Apollo chuckled and pulled away. “Let me guess, you're a tease like Percy,” Nico mumbled.

Apollo's eyes dilated as he leaned back towards Nico, bringing his lips just an inch away from Nico's. “Just say the word and I'll gladly finish whatever I start.”

Nico pulled away, finding himself panting rather heavily. “I-I don't know,” he mumbled.

Apollo frowned. “If you're afraid I'll tell Percy, you can be assured it'll just stay between us. That's something we don't report to Percy, our personal sex lives. Though, odds are, he knows about them anyway.” Apollo sighed and leaned back. “Just give it some thought. In the meantime, it's time for you to get started.”

Nico nodded and stood up. Apollo got up and went for his phone, looking for a song for Nico. “So, how does this work?” Nico asked.

“I'm going to be guiding you as you move. Think of it like riding a bike, when the kid first starts, a parent is usually there to keep them from falling. That's what I'll be doing for now.” He grinned at Nico. “I'll try to keep my hands to myself as little as possible.”

Nico rolled his eyes. “Lovely.”

The song that Apollo had selected began and Apollo stepped up to Nico, placing his hands on Nico's waist. “Alright, an easy technique is to keep your hips moving. Gyrate them, thrust them, sway them, whatever you can think of to draw attention to them. You'd be surprised at how entertaining the hips are,” Apollo instructed, guiding Nico's hips into a steady pace.

Nico felt his cheeks burn as he felt Apollo's breath on his neck. “I just feel weird with the thought of taking off my clothes.”

“Well, you might have the wrong job,” Apollo chuckled.

“I mean in a seductive manner.”

Apollo nodded, grabbing Nico's hands. He had Nico grip his shirt and slowly raised it up Nico's torso, taking one of Nico's hands and sliding it along Nico's pale torso. The shirt came off and Nico let it fall to the floor, letting his body be guided by Apollo's firm hands.

“Now, you'll have to get the hang of this, because no one is going to be on the stage with you to help you through this,” Apollo reminded him.

“I know,” Nico whispered, letting Apollo guide his hands across his chest. Apollo smirked and pinched Nico's nipple, eliciting a yelp from the smaller boy.

“Whoops,” Apollo said innocently.

Nico elbowed Apollo in the stomach, but it didn't seem to effect the blond, as he chuckled in Nico's ear. Apollo gripped Nico's hands again and guided them down to his shoes, trying to slip them off with as much grace as possible.

“This is why we don't wear shoes on stage,” Apollo told him. “It makes the process more complicated and clunky. So, don't wear shoes while we are practicing.”

“Thanks.”

“That's what I'm here for.”

Nico let his hands be guided to the button on his pants, and then sliding his pants to the ground. Apollo's hands tugged Nico's around to his butt, where Nico's hands were made to feel up his clothed flesh. Apollo's fingers slipped between Nico's. Nico's head fell to the side as he felt Apollo descend upon his neck, placing light kisses upon the dark haired boy's pale flesh.

Nico felt his legs begin to shake, and if not for Apollo's grip around his waist, he was sure he would have collapsed under the blond's touch. Apollo turned Nico around and wrapped Nico's smaller hands around his neck, guiding them towards the couch.

Nico moaned as Apollo continued to ravish his neck, feeling the blond's hands slip beneath his speedo. One of Apollo's hands groped his ass as Apollo brought his face above Nico's. Apollo descended upon Nico's lips, immediately sucking on the lower one. Nico moaned as his legs were placed around Apollo's hips.

Apollo thrust his hips against Nico and Nico's head fell back, breaking the kiss. Apollo slipped Nico out of his speedo, quickly making work of his own as well. Nico licked his lips as he raked his eyes across Apollo's naked body, taking in every inch of flawless skin.

Nico stared up into Apollo's lust filled eyes, trying to bite back a moan. His brain was trying to catch up with what was going on, but then Apollo kept kissing him, making his brain return to mush. Nico placed his hands on Apollo's chest, feeling the tight muscles there. Apollo's hands had found their way to Nico's hips, using them to pull Nico against him with each thrust.

“S-Stop,” Nico blurted out, his face burning hot and his breath ragged.

Apollo stopped moving and leaned back to blink at Nico. “You're-You're serious?” he asked.

Nico nodded his head, trying to look away from Apollo's blue eyes.

Apollo sat back on his haunches, running a hand through his curly blond hair with a sigh. “Nico, you are so confusing.”

“I'm sorry,” Nico mumbled.

Apollo slipped his legs out from under him and sat down on the couch. “It's fine,” he sighed. “I just thought you wanted to do it. I mean, you certainly seem ready to lose your virginity to Percy, but since he's not giving you any, I thought I could...help.”

Nico sat up next to the blond, neither of them having made a move to get their clothes back on. Nico brushed some of his hair behind his ear. “It's not your fault. You're really attractive, don't get me wrong, I just don't know.”

“What's so special about Percy for you?” Apollo turned his head to look at Nico, waiting for an answer.

“He saved me, for one thing. Maybe it's that he isn't having sex with me, makes him more desirable. He's taken care of me since I got here.”

Apollo nodded with another sigh. “Well, we all feel like that when we first get here. Well, except for the him not having sex with you part.”

“It's stupid, forget I said anything,” Nico mumbled.

Apollo smiled and rolled his eyes. He ruffled Nico's hair. “You're alright, kid. I won't tell the boss what you said.”

“Thanks.”

“Now, we need to do a little more work before we go to bed,” Apollo said, picking up his speedo and slipping it back on. He got up and handed Nico his clothes, while he got his own back on. Nico slipped himself back into his clothes, trying to keep his eyes averted from Apollo.

“I-I mean...I'm not saying I might not ever have sex with you, just not-”

“I got it, Nico,” Apollo chuckled. “Come find me when you're ready.”

Nico nodded, slipping his shirt back on. “So, what else do we need to do?”

Apollo sat back on the couch. “I just need to run over a few details with you, things you need to remember.” Apollo ran a hand through his curls. “Keep your body moving in a seductive manner at all times. I will spend time with you, or with a group, running you through routines. Make sure to do things like wink at the audience, they love shit like that.”

Nico rubbed his eyes, trying to stifle a yawn. “What else?” Nico asked.

“Well, you can feel free to talk to others about group routines. Some of the other guys, and girls on big weekends, may want to partner with you, depending on how you do. We'll be making another trip back to Aphrodite's shop in a few weeks to get you some more costumes, including your Christmas one. You'll occasionally do routines with an audience member, perhaps if it's someone's birthday. So, you'll need to know how to give a lap dance.”

“Really?” Nico groaned.

“Don't worry, I'll teach you.” Apollo let out a long breath. “Just keep in mind the dancing I'm going to be showing you, and you should be fine.”

Nico smiled at the blond. “Thanks, Apollo.”

Apollo frowned and looked off to the side. “Don't mention it, Nico,” he mumbled. He rose to his feet and gave Nico a minute smile. “Well, I think we both could use some sleep.” He walked over and retrieved his stuff. He stepped over to the door, turning back to Nico. “I'll see you in the morning, kid.”

 Nico nodded at him as his door was shut. He brushed his hair out of his face as he stared off into space. He yawned and rose to his feet, his body finding its way to his bedroom on its own.