Children of Loss 15

Chapter 15

Nico moved along with the other Lost Boys as the music played. Friday had finally rolled back around, and Nico was getting the hang of things. Apollo had been working him into the ground trying to learn a specific routine for tonight, and he was just relieved that he was actually managing to pull off the moves.

He swept his hand up into his hair and around his head. He ran both of his hands up into his dark locks, further messing his hair up and putting on a seductive look. It felt so weird for him, but the others had said it was to be expected at first. All that mattered was that he could keep up the appearance of being comfortable with what he was doing.

Nico stepped to the left and slid his right leg along the floor, running his hand up his thigh. He followed the Lost Boys' moves as they spun around and groped their asses. He flicked his wrist and snapped his fingers like he was instructed. He got down on the ground, like the others, and lifted his leg up into the air. He was already out of his shirt and shorts at this point, only leaving him in his boxer-briefs.

The door to the gym opened, revealing Percy. Nico couldn't help but admire his attire. He was wearing a dark grey shirt which clung to his torso perfectly, while his lower half was clad in a pair of tight black jeans that showed off his ass. He raised an eyebrow at Nico's position and walked over to the music, shutting it off. The Lost Boys all stopped moving and grinned at Percy. “I just thought I'd come see how things were going,” said Percy.

Nico hadn't seen much of him this past week. He asked Thalia and Butch about it, but they just said that Percy had his hands full with important business. Nico had been given the rest of the week off from the top floor and had been kept to the bar, which Nico had been a little thankful for. Being around that environment had gotten a little suffocating for Nico, if he were being honest.

Apollo picked himself up. “Well, we were just finishing up,” the blond informed their boss.

Percy nodded. “I just want to get a look at how he's doing.”

Apollo grinned and ran a hand up into his golden curls. “Fine by me, I have no problem sharing.”

The rest of the Lost Boys got up and got their things together. Will went to talk to Percy before he left, but he was whispering, so Nico was unable to hear their conversation. Will grinned widely, though, and rested a hand on Percy's chest. Percy smiled back and tilted his head to the side. He said something back to Will, while running a hand through Will's short blond hair.

Nico moved over to where Apollo stood, so that he could hear the two talking, while remaining inconspicuous. “So, tonight?” Will asked. “I really need to discuss some business with you.”

Percy smiled back and gripped Will's hair, pulling him closer. “Not tonight,” he whispered. “I just need to make sure everything goes smoothly.” Percy's eyes darkened. “You know, in case something goes wrong.”

Will frowned and huffed. He crossed his arms over his chest. “Why would anything go wrong? He's so perfect after all.”

Percy raised his eyebrows. “I always worry when it's someone's first performance. Need I remind you of your first performance?”

Will grumbled and shook his head. He turned around and walked off, glaring at Nico briefly before walking out the door. “Well, that went well,” Apollo said cheerfully, placing his hands on Nico's shoulders.

“Drop it,” Percy ordered, tossing Apollo a harsh look.

Apollo inhaled sharply behind Nico and cleared his throat. “So, I suppose we'll just get started.” He spun Nico around to face him. “Alright, Nico, let's show the boss what you've learned,” the blond said with a wink.

Nico nodded and situated himself as Apollo walked over to put some music on. Percy pulled up two chairs for himself and Apollo. He crossed his arms and sat back to watch Nico. The raven haired boy shifted slightly under his gaze, feeling uncomfortable all of a sudden. He had gotten comfortable with the other Lost Boys watching him, but Percy had yet to see him. It was like the night in his room, where Percy had watched him walk and talk.

“Clothes back on,” Percy instructed, tossing Nico's shirt at him. “I need to see the full thing.”

Nico nodded again and slipped his shirt over his head. He walked over to retrieve his shorts from the other side of the room. He bent over and picked them up before turning back around. Percy was leaning over and Apollo was whispering something in his ear while they both smirked at Nico. Nico pouted and grumbled to himself as he slipped his shorts back on to hide his butt.

Percy rested an elbow on Apollo's shoulder, resting his head on his fist. “Well, Nico, let's see what you have learned this past week,” Percy chuckled.

Nico felt a little sick to his stomach at having to do this in front of Percy, but he nodded and began the routine that Apollo had been drilling into his head all week. Percy kept a blank and unreadable face throughout the entire performance, unlike Apollo, who was smiling and giving him a thumbs up.

When he was finished, he rested his hands on his knees and panted. It had been a long day of practice, and he just wanted a break and a nice hot shower. Percy leaned over and whispered something to Apollo, a serious look on his face. Apollo nodded, a grin creeping onto his features. Percy made a few gestures, but ended up nodding. He stood up and glanced at Nico, tossing him a wink before walking out the door.

Nico watched him walk out in confusion. He looked back at Apollo, tilting his head to the side. Apollo stood up and clapped him on the back. “Good job, kid,” Apollo began. “He said you need some more work, but that you should be fine for tonight.”

“So, I'm clear?” Nico asked.

Apollo nodded. “You're clear.” He pushed Nico towards the door while Nico picked up his clothes on the way. “Go get cleaned up and prepare yourself for tonight.” A bright smile spread out across Apollo's face. “It should be a fun night.”

Nico nodded, slipping his clothes on. “Is there anything I need to wear?”

Apollo nodded again. “Go see Octavian, have him help you get something together.”

Nico smiled. “Alright. Thanks again, Apollo.”

Apollo placed a hand on Nico's shoulder. “It's been a pleasure, Nico,” the blond replied before walking out.

Nico sighed and bent down to tie his shoes. He was definitely starting to feel nervous. He hadn't gotten much sleep last night, and he had barely eaten at lunch. It seemed to only be getting worse as the day went along. Perhaps if he just didn't focus on the crowd? Would that help?

He sat back on the floor and rested his left arm on his knees. Nico blew out a long breath while running his other hand through his dark hair. Last weekend was the easy part, he knew that. He knew this would be the real test.

Before he had come to the Lotus, no one had seen him naked since he was a toddler. Percy had been the first. He smiled to himself. That night seemed like so long ago now, but it had only been a little over a month. He had been in such poor shape, and Percy had saved him from starvation and a life of constantly being afraid. And Percy had at least been somewhat of a decent gentlemen about not ogling his body while Nico was showering. Which slightly surprised Nico, now that he knew what this place really was.

His body had been in such bad shape, and now, he was about to get paid to let people stare at it. It was an interesting way to display how far he had come since he first arrived here. He just had to keep his nerves down. He didn't want to throw up on stage. Nico groaned. That wouldn't be attractive at all.

Picking himself up with a sigh, Nico walked out of the room, heading towards the elevator. He had a little time before he had to be upstairs, and he still had to eat. But first, Nico needed to see Octavian about something to wear.

He pulled his phone out of his pocket and dialed the blond's number, frowning when Octavian didn't pick up. He rode up to the Lost Kids' floor and headed for Luke and Octavian's suite. He knocked on the door. There was a grunt on the other side, followed by a few curses.

Luke flung the door open and glared down at Nico. “You got me killed,” he grumbled.

Nico raised an eyebrow. “Sorry?”

Luke rubbed his head. “What do you want?”

“I need to see Octavian. Is he here?”

Luke grinned. “Yeah, he's in his room. Follow me,” Luke instructed, pulling Nico inside. He shut the door behind them and led Nico to the first door in the hallway. Without knocking, Luke threw the door open and Nico's face instantly flushed.

Octavian was on his bed with Travis lying on top of him, both of them fully naked. Travis was busy thrusting into Octavian, and Octavian had his nails digging into the brunet's back. Nico made to step back, but Luke held him in place. His face heated up more when he heard Octavian release a string of moans as Travis picked up his pace.

Nico couldn't help but trail his gaze across both of their naked bodies. He would be lying to himself if he said he hadn't thought about them being naked before. Hell, he had probably thought about all of the Lost Boys naked. He was a little bit more drawn to Travis's lean and naked form, though. He licked his lips as he took in Travis's sweaty torso.

Luke cleared his throat, but the two on the bed didn't stop their actions. They just looked at the door, Octavian raising an eyebrow. “What-What do you want?” Octavian panted.

Luke shoved Nico forward a little. Nico's blush worsened as Travis and Octavian both looked at him, Travis still thrusting into Octavian. “A-Apollo wanted me to come see you about helping me get some o-outfits put together,” Nico stuttered.

Travis gripped Octavian's hips and thrust harder. “Can't it wait? He's a little busy right now,” the brunet growled.

Octavian shrugged. “Or feel free to join,” he added.

Travis slowed down and stared at Nico. Was he actually waiting for Nico to answer that? “Or you can join me in my room,” Luke whispered in his ear.

Nico didn't know if his face could be any darker right now. He figured all the blood in his body had made its way to his face. Travis shrugged and went back to plowing into Octavian's ass. The blond threw his head back and released more moans.

Nico stood there, unsure of what to do. He needed Octavian's help, but he wasn't sure he wanted to wait right there for the blond to finish. “I-I'll just wait in the living room,” Nico mumbled.

Travis shrugged. “Suit yourself. I'll have him out to you in a minute.”

“Or several,” Octavian panted.

Travis grinned and leaned down to kiss Octavian. Nico cleared his throat and made his way out of the room, Luke shutting the door behind them. Luke laughed as he followed Nico into the living room. He plopped down on the couch. “That was more entertaining than I was expecting,” Luke chuckled.

“I'm so glad I could amuse you,” Nico mumbled as he sat down next to the blond.

Luke kept snickering, but handed Nico a controller.

“I object,” Nico voiced, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Aw, but you look so cute in the uniform,” Will teased him.

Octavian had spent nearly an hour helping Nico get some outfits ready for his first night. Octavian had insisted on Nico wearing the schoolboy uniform, as it fit his angle pretty well. Luke and Butch were off to the side, snickering quietly to themselves as they watched Nico pout about his outfit.

The Lost Girls that were performing tonight had also stopped by to torment him by pinching his cheeks. He had glared at them to the best of his ability, but it had not deterred them, especially not Thalia. She had cackled and walked off.

Luke chuckled and walked towards the stage, pinching Nico's cheek as well. Nico huffed at the blond's retreating back, but he didn't seem to care. “So, how is order determined?” Nico asked Will.

“Luke's going to go on first. He and Annabeth are sort of the more popular ones, I guess you could say,” Will explained.

“Well, when it comes to sex,” Butch added.

Will nodded. “Yes, when it comes to sex. Apollo excels at the performance aspect here on stage. So, they and Thalia could be considered your biggest competition.”

“Why Thalia?” Nico asked.

“It breaks down into some complicated shit,” Butch began. “Apollo is better at dancing, Annabeth is the most requested girl for private sessions, and Luke and Thalia excel with their kinkiness.”

“But it all depends on what the customer really wants,” finished Will. “Customers don't always want the same thing twice, and different people want different things.”

Butch clapped Nico on the back. “But you don't have to worry about most of that.”

Nico sat down on the couch as he listened to the music play for Luke's performance. He would be going on after Will, who was going to perform when Luke was finished. Will and Butch watched him silently, glancing at each other before going about their tasks.

Nico's heart was beating heavily in his chest, and he was feeling a little cold as he sat there. His palms were getting a little sweaty. He tried taking deep breaths, but they didn't seem to help him any. He eyed the door, debating on making a break for it, but that would not do him any good. He had come too far to back out now. He figured Percy was looking at him as more of an adult now, and he didn't want to reverse that.

As Luke's performance ended, the tall blond walked backstage with a grin on his face. He glanced at Nico before looking over to Will, his smirk only growing. That weird feeling that Nico had earlier in the week was starting to come back. He was also afraid his dinner was about to come back up. He covered his mouth and tried to slow his breathing.

Nico was getting a bad feeling about this. But everything would be alright, wouldn't it? The others had assured him that it would be fine. They had worked with him for the past two weeks after all. Everything should be fine. He knew what to do.

Will had made his way out onto the stage when the music started. Nico's heartbeat quickened. He was starting to find it hard to breathe. Everyone was going to be staring at him. What if he messed up? What if he fell on his face? Why was all of this just now coming to him? Why hadn't he thought about this already?

Luke and Butch stared at him the entire time Will was performing. They glanced at each other from time to time, frowning to themselves. Will came back sooner that Nico would have liked, signaling that it was his time to go on.

The world around Nico was starting to spin. Nico was feeling extremely dizzy and nauseous as Will walked over and helped him up. Will patted him on the back as they walked towards the stage. Nico silently shook his head. “You'll be fine, dude,” Will assured him with a wide grin.

Nico glanced down at his hands, which were visibly shaking. He heard the door open and Thalia, Reyna, and Calypso walked towards them. “We just wanted to see the show real quick,” voiced Thalia, but it came out as a muffled sound to Nico.

He was having a hard time focusing on his surroundings, everything just kept getting dizzier and dizzier for him. He was afraid he was going to collapse at any moment. He glanced back at Will for help, but the blond just grinned at him and shoved him forward when the music began.

Nico's eyes widened as he stumbled out onto the stage. His hands were shaking at his sides as he stared out at the audience in absolute terror. He wasn't ready for this.

The music was so muffled behind the ringing in his ears that he couldn't even hear it. Everyone was just sitting there, waiting for him to do something. He searched for Apollo on the floor, eventually finding the blond staring up at him. Apollo didn't do anything, though. He just stood there, watching Nico with interest.

Nico's eyes flew over to where Percy always set, not finding the sight any more helpful than Apollo. Percy was sat in his booth, stone-faced as he watched Nico. While it was dark on the floor, Nico could see that Percy did not look happy. His eyes darted over to where Apollo stood.

Nico jumped when he felt two pairs of hands on him. He turned to see both Luke and Butch on either side of him. Their faces were blank, so Nico couldn't tell what they were thinking, but their hands moved across Nico's body. Nico glanced back to Percy, who had relaxed back into his booth.

Luke grabbed Nico's chin and forced Nico to look at him. He grabbed the jacket on Nico and slid it off Nico's shoulders, while Butch worked to get his belt off. Butch cracked the belt. Luke yanked on Nico's tie and bent the black haired boy over, allowing Butch a chance to smack his ass with it. Nico bit back a yelp, feeling the sharp sting on his backside.

Slowly, Luke unfastened the buttons on Nico's shirt. He picked Nico up, wrapping the shorter youth's legs around his waist. He pushed on Nico's chest, urging him to lean back. Nico obeyed, pressing his hands against the stage to support himself.

Luke leaned over and licked around Nico's stomach, eliciting a small moan from his lips. Butch started to unbutton Nico's pants. Nico was eventually slid out of them, he himself ending up with his back on the stage. Luke grabbed one of his legs and rested it on his shoulder. He grabbed Nico's hair and yanked on his dark locks as he thrust against him. Luke buried his face in the crook of Nico's neck, on the side opposite the audience.

“You can thank us later,” he hissed in Nico's ear.

Luke pulled back and Nico stared up into his narrowed eyes with curiosity. They were helping him? Luke was helping him? Butch grabbed Nico's hand and yanked him up. He bent Nico over and ran his larger hand down Nico's smooth back.

It was a little awkward to be stripped by others, but at least he wasn't completely humiliated in front of everyone. The song finally came to an end and Luke and Butch made sure he took a bow. As he rose back up, he saw Percy walk over to Apollo and whisper in his ear. Percy firmly pointed a finger towards the ground and pushed Apollo towards the backstage door, following behind the blond.

Luke tossed his clothes at him once the curtain was closed. He grunted at Nico and walked towards the others, who were deadly quiet. Nico slipped back into his shorts and headed backstage. Percy was there, arms crossed, staring at the floor. He glanced up at Nico. Nico flinched at the ice in Percy's eyes.

Percy rubbed at his face. “Go,” Percy ordered, an air of finality in his words. Without an argument, the Lost Girls scampered towards their door. Luke and Butch stood off to the side, arms crossed as they stared at Percy. Will was standing close to Nico. He was also staring at Percy, but he was biting his lip. Apollo on the other hand, was refusing to meet Percy's gaze.

“I-” Apollo began, but Percy cut him off.

“Do you think I'm stupid?” Percy asked, his voice surprisingly calm. Apollo briskly shook his head. Percy's eyes turned back to Nico. Nico gulped and fidgeted quietly. “I want to see you after the show is done. Do you understand?”

Nico nodded. He wasn't sure what was going on with Percy. He had looked upset at his booth, but he was speaking so calmly right now. “Yes, sir,” Nico whispered.

Percy sighed and looked back at Apollo. “I'll need to see you, too.”

“But-” Apollo tried.

“That wasn't a question,” Percy interrupted him, a small smile spreading across his lips. “For now, I need you to get Travis off the floor and back here. Understand?”

Apollo nodded. “Y-Yes, sir,” Apollo whispered.

“What about me?” Nico asked.

“You're not going back on tonight,” Percy replied. His words bit into Nico like the very snake Nico had been comparing him to. Percy shook his head. “No, I want you to take Travis's place on the floor for the rest of the night.”

Nico nodded. He bit his lip to hide his frown. Part of him wanted to cry, but he knew this wasn't the time. Percy looked back to Apollo and blinked. Without further instruction, Apollo hurried off to fetch Travis.

Percy gestured towards the door and Nico followed him out. Percy slipped a hand into his pocket as they walked. It was slightly awkward for Nico. Percy was refusing to look at him, let alone say anything. What was happening?

Nico stood with Apollo beside Percy's booth. A few of the Lost Kids were a small distance away, gathered at a table. Percy was talking to Leo about a customer as they got out of the booth. Leo nodded and walked off, heading past Nico and Apollo. Leo caught Nico's eye and gave him a concerned look.

Percy sighed and crossed his arms, but didn't look at either Lost Boy in front of him. “Leave,” Percy barked suddenly. The Lost Kids straightened and gathered their things quickly. They made their way out in silence.

Percy paced around in front of the two remaining people in the room. He rubbed at his face from time to time, but did not speak. He let out a long breath and ran a hand through his hair. He finally looked at Apollo and Nico, glancing between the two with a frown.

“Nico, would you care to explain what happened tonight?” Percy asked calmly, once again surprising Nico. Nico blinked at him in slight shock, but Percy just stared back at him in silence. There was nothing to read on him. His eyes and face were completely blank but for a calm, almost placid, smile.

“I just froze,” Nico confessed. “I'm sorry.”

Percy nodded. “And why did you freeze?”

Nico tilted his head to the side. Wasn't it obvious? “I was nervous.”

Percy raised an eyebrow at him. “Really? Why would you be nervous? Weren't you told how to deal with your stage fright?” Percy asked. Nico shook his head, opting to remain quiet. Percy hummed to himself with a nod. He let out a chuckle.

Nico glanced over to Apollo. The blond was fidgeting to himself. He was wringing his hands in front of him. His eyes were wide and darting all over the place, almost as if they were searching for something. Nico frowned at him. What was he nervous about? Nico had been the one to mess up.

Percy rubbed his chin as he turned to Apollo with a warm smile. Apollo visibly paled under Percy's gaze. “So, you didn't teach him everything you were supposed to?” Percy asked, but it was obviously rhetorical.

“I-” Apollo tried, but Percy's laughter cut him off.

Nico tilted his head to the side. Percy was being pretty calm and cheerful, considering what had happened. He then glanced at Apollo. He was supposed to have worked with Nico about this? Why hadn't he?

“Tell me, Apollo,” Percy began, still remaining calm, “did you think I wouldn't look at you when he messed up? You should have known I would hold both of you responsible for his failure.” Percy was being very cordial about the ordeal, but his words were starting to bother Nico. Had Apollo done this on purpose? He glanced up at the tall blond with a frown, but Apollo's eyes were still glancing around the room.

“I-He-” Apollo began, but put his hands over his mouth. He looked like he was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. He flinched when Percy reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. Percy sent off a quick text and slid the device back into his pocket.

“You know, I'm actually a little surprised,” Percy continued. “I thought you were going to be a better friend to him than this, but I suppose I was wrong.” Nico's eyebrows knitted together as he listened to Percy talk. “You stabbed him in the back and left him for the dogs, that's pretty harsh.”

Nico's eyes widened. Apollo had done this on purpose? He looked to the blond, hoping he would deny it, but Apollo just silently stared down at the ground. Apollo had wanted him to fail? Why? Why would he do that? Percy sighed and ran a hand down his face. Nico could feel his eyes starting to burn as he stared at the blond.

Percy nodded his head. He opened his mouth, but he opted to speak in a foreign language. Nico wasn't quite sure what it was. It sounded like French, but he couldn't be quite sure. Percy made a few gestures as he went back to pacing. He smiled and chuckled at Apollo as he spoke, but Apollo only seemed to fidget more. Percy smiled brightly as he stared down at the ground, saying something else to Apollo. Percy shook his head, smile still in place, and said something more quietly.

Letting out a long sigh, Percy looked back at Nico. “I need you to come by and see me in my office,” Percy instructed with another smile. “Let's make it Monday, shall we?”

Nico nodded, staring in confusion at Percy. Percy nodded back and dismissed them. He sat back down at his booth with a sigh. He picked up his half-finished glass and took a long drink. Nico followed silently behind Apollo.

They descended the steps, finding the Lost Kids at the base of the stairs. Nico felt a chill run down his spine as he looked at each one of them. They were a sea of emotions. Some of them glanced at the ground in shame, others looked sadly at Apollo, and some even glared coldly at Nico.

“Well, you really are the boss's little pet,” Reyna grumbled.

“At least he fucks us, though,” Travis chuckled dryly.

“Y-you all knew?” Nico rasped out. His vision was beginning to blur from the tears.

“Don't take it so personally, Nico,” Hazel began.

“We just wanted you to fail,” continued Calypso.

“Why?” Nico sobbed.

“So, you could be like us,” Will spat. “You're so fucking perfect that the boss won't even touch you.”

Nico bit his lip and rubbed at his face. He glanced at Thalia, hoping for some support, but the girl was too busy rubbing Apollo's back. She turned an icy stare at Nico, shrugging. “You're innocent, Nico. You're not like us. Why do you think all the Lost Boys have been trying to fuck you? Someone needs to make you like us, since Percy won't,” she scoffed.

“Sort of like a game,” Will added.

Thalia nodded. “You're like this horrible image we have to look at each day. A constant fucking reminder of what we lost and will never be able to get back.”

“And then you wanted to come up here, like you didn't even appreciate what Percy was trying to do for you,” Piper snarled.

“We just decided to watch, hoping you would show some sign of becoming like us, but no,” Apollo whispered. “Why are you so special?”

“You wanted me to-” Nico clasped a hand over his mouth, fighting back another sob. They wanted him to be like them? They wanted him to hate people? They wanted him to lose the thing Percy had told him to hold on to?

“Don't take it to heart, Nico,” Connor said. “It'll be easier for you once you're like the rest of us.”

“You don't hate yourself as much this way,” Travis added. “Just like Leo and Rachel, you don't have all these people violating your body. You're just so fucking perfect and it makes us all sick.”

“It hurts to look at you, knowing you managed to do what we couldn't,” Thalia whispered. “We have to feel disgusted with ourselves every time we look at you.”

“None of us made it off the streets so lucky. How is it fair that you did?” Will growled.

“In a way, we were trying to help you, Nico. Like the twins said, it's easier once you're more like us,” Hazel mumbled, refusing to look at Nico. The others all nodded.

“And besides, why do you think Percy won't touch you?” Octavian finally voiced, having remained quiet until now.

Nico's eyes widened. “What do you mean?” Nico croaked out.

“Like with us, you're just like one of those carnival mirrors that Percy has to look at. You are nothing more than a reminder of himself. You're disgusting to him for that reason.”

Nico sobbed as he stepped down the rest of the stairs. He walked past the Lost Kids, stopping in front of Butch and Luke, who had remained silent the entire time. They were leaned against the wall, but had been staring at Nico the entire time.

“Thank you for back there,” Nico mumbled, wiping his nose on his arm.

Luke grunted. “We only did it to help Percy,” Butch grumbled.

Nico blinked in shock at them. “Percy wouldn't have been happy if you had been a disaster and ruined business for him,” Luke spat, glancing at Apollo. “Apparently, Apollo didn't think about this.”

“We did, however, talk it over and made sure to get stage time tonight when we found out what Apollo was going to do.”

“Just in case you did fuck up,” Luke sneered.

Nico's mouth opened a few times. He stared off to the side, not wanting to meet either one of their eyes. He couldn't stop crying, and the tears were flowing heavily down his cheeks. He bit his lip and closed his eyes. He felt two pairs of hands on his shoulders and opened them to find Clarisse and Ethan guiding him away.

They guided him onto the elevator without a single word and pressed the button to Nico's floor. Nico whispered his thanks to them as he rubbed at his eyes. The doors closed and he buried his face into his hands. He rode down the rest of the way sobbing into his palms.

He had been so stupid. He had trusted them. He had trusted Apollo. Apollo. Why did it seem like the blond always hurt him the most? First, he walked in on him having sex with Percy. Now, he had been stabbed in the back by the blond.

And what the others had said, could that be true? Did they really feel that way about him? Did he really disgust all of them? He even disgusted Percy? He exited the elevator and made his way down the hall, still crying.

Well, that would explain a lot of Percy's actions, Nico thought to himself. Nico banged his head on his door. He was so stupid. He had known something was up. He saw the way Apollo acted on Monday, and Saturday before that. He had been planning this all week. He had even gotten the other Lost Kids involved.

Nico slipped inside and yanked his costume off, suddenly feeling disgusted with himself. He went to his bedroom and slid off his speedo. He couldn't stand to be dressed like one of them right now. He found the boxer-briefs he had on earlier and slid them back on. He got some sweat pants and a t-shirt, and slipped them on over his naked form.

He dragged himself back to the living room where he collapsed on the couch. He buried his face into the cushion and continued to sob there for a long time. This wasn't his fault! They were acting like he was on some pedestal, and he wasn't. He had just wanted to survive on the streets. Most of the time, he had been starving because he was too small and frail to actually manage to steal food from someone. He had to slink away from places that were occupied in order to be able to make it through the night.

But from all of that, he hadn't come to hate the world. How was that his fault? He hadn't had time to be angry, all he had felt was fear. Nico lurched and leaned over the side of the couch. He felt like he was going to be sick. They had tried to have sex with him, and it was just a game to them?

Suddenly, Nico felt alone again. He felt alone and afraid like he had when he was on the streets. They had all turned on him. He had thought he could trust them, but they had all turned on him. At least Luke and Octavian had always been honest about their feelings toward Nico. The others had masked their opinions. Did they really hate him? Did he really make them feel so bad about themselves? He didn't mean to. He had never wanted to do that. He liked them, all of them. He wanted them to be his family, but now, everything was crumbling, just like Luke had said it would.

Luke had warned him about how twisted and messed up the Lost Kids really were, and he had just brushed it off. But now, he saw they really were messed up. They were dark, just like this hotel. That's exactly what they were like, the hotel.

Getting up from the couch, Nico walked to the door. He wasn't quite sure where he was going, he just knew he needed someone. But who could he go to? He wanted Percy, but he doubted he could get to or find the green-eyed young man. Still, he was the only person Nico could really think of. So, Nico opened the door and, still sniffling, made his way down to the elevator.

He wasn't sure if the others were in their rooms, but at the moment, he didn't really care. He just wanted someone to comfort him right now, and he knew he couldn't rely on any of them. He pressed the elevator button and waited. He pursed his lips tightly as he felt another wave of tears coming on.

The elevator doors opened, and Nico sobbed at the sight of him. He buried his face in the lean torso, wrapping his arms around the owner's waist. A hand came up to rest in his hair, while the other wrapped around his waist.

“Shh. You're ok, Nico,” Percy whispered to him. He pulled Nico further into his chest and stepped back onto the elevator. “Come on.”

Nico remained silent as the elevator ascended. He continued to sob into Percy's chest as Percy ran a hand through his hair. Percy let out a long sigh and lifted him up, just like he did when he brought him into the hotel for the first time. Nico wrapped his arms around Percy's neck, letting the taller young man carry him towards his suite. Percy managed to reach a hand back for his wallet and pulled it out, sliding the keycard out with his thumb.

Nico looked up at him when Percy carried him inside, blinking up at him with uncertainty. Percy just smiled at him and let the door close behind him. He sat Nico down on the couch and walked into the kitchen. Nico fidgeted on the couch as he watched Percy move around inside the kitchen, already missing the other's touch.

“What did they say to you exactly?” Percy sighed, returning to the living room with two glasses and two bottles. One bottle was clearly a bottle of Coke, but the other contained some amber liquid. Nico finally realized what it was and his eyes widened. Percy sat down beside him and mixed the liquids together, but not touching the glasses when he was done. He glanced at Nico, waiting for an answer.

Nico rubbed his eyes, sniffling as he did so. “Th-They just said some things,” Nico mumbled.

Percy frowned. “What sort of things?”

Nico pursed his lips.

Percy ran a hand across his mouth. “Nico, Clarisse and Ethan already told me what happened. I just want to hear it from you,” he explained.

Nico chewed on his lip as he watched the drinks on the coffee table in front of them. “They said I was this horrible thing they had to look at, because I have something they lost,” Nico sobbed.

Percy sighed. He rubbed Nico's back. He reached with his free hand to pick up a glass and took a sip. “I'm sorry they said that,” he whispered. “You just have to understand, you aren't like them, but you shouldn't feel bad about it. I like that about you, Nico, I really do. I want you to keep that innocence of yours. I want you to remain untainted by the world.”

“Do they hate me?” Nico whispered.

Percy shook his head. “No, they don't hate you.” He took a deep breath. “It's just like they said, you are a bad reminder for them of what they've lost. They're not innocent anymore, Nico. They lost that on the streets, in some way or the other. I don't know how you did it, but you managed to make it through with yours.” Nico bit his lip. “I'm not saying you didn't have a hard time, Nico. I'm sure you did, but for some reason, you were lucky.”

“I don't feel lucky right now.”

Percy smiled. “Well, you should.” He scooted the other glass of alcohol towards Nico.

Nico frowned. “I thought you said-”

Percy sighed. “I know, but I'm going to let it be your choice. Do you want it?” Percy asked.

Nico eyed it for a moment, contemplating his decision. While he did feel like having some at the moment, he wasn't sure if he wanted to go down that road just yet. Percy had said it was a method of coping, but it made Nico feel like if he chose it, he had run out of other options. If he took it, he would feel like he couldn't manage to deal with this stuff himself. So, he just shook his head and smiled.

Percy smiled back and slid the drink back towards himself. “So, what else did they say?” Percy asked, taking another drink.

“I feel like a snitch by telling you,” Nico mumbled.

Percy chuckled. “I'm not going to tell any of them, you have my word. I just want to know for myself. I also know you could use someone to vent all of this to, and I figured I could help. I was actually on my way to check on you, when you caught me at the elevator.”

Nico nodded, glancing into Percy's green eyes. “They wanted me to be like them, and the other Lost Boys were just playing games with me, trying to seduce me.”

Percy was silent for a while, swirling his drink around in his glass, eyeing the liquid. “I know,” he finally whispered.

“You knew?” Nico was a little shocked by Percy's response. He had known, and he hadn't done anything?

“Yes, but I had faith that you would make your own decisions and decide what was best for yourself. I told them that they had to be fair about it, and if you said no, to drop it.” Percy looked at Nico and chuckled. “Nico, if you're expecting me to be your knight in shining armor, I don't think I'm quite it. You're not a princess, you don't need saving. You're old enough to make your own decisions. You just have to be able to live with any consequences of those decisions.”

Nico looked down. He knew what Percy was saying was true, but it still would have been nice if Percy had done more about it. Maybe he really didn't care about Nico, at least not in the way Nico wanted him to.

“Continue,” said Percy. Nico looked at him, knitting his eyebrows. “I know there's more, Nico. I want to hear all of it.”

Nico took in a deep breath before letting it out. He looked at Percy, who was watching him intently. Did he really want to tell Percy about the other thing they had said? “They, uh, they said that you were like them, disgusted by the sight of me, and that's why you won't touch me.”

Percy leaned back against the couch, eyebrows furrowed. He sighed and ran a hand through his hair. He rubbed his forehead as he sat in silence for a moment, refusing to look at Nico. Nico felt like crying again. Was it really true? Was that why Percy wouldn't touch him?

“I-is it true?” Nico asked, his voice cracking.

“Yes,” Percy whispered.

Nico nodded and he let his head drop, a few tears falling from his face. Percy sat quietly beside him, unmoving as Nico cried. Nico felt sick with himself. He disgusted the guy he liked.

“But,” Percy finally continued, “that's not why I won't touch you.”

Nico turned his head to look at Percy in surprise. He opened his mouth, but Percy continued on.

“I don't touch you because I don't want to corrupt you. I'm afraid if I get involved with you, in any way, that I will break you. I don't want you losing your innocence, I told you that,” Percy whispered.

“I-”

“But it is hard for me to look at you sometimes,” Percy confessed.

“Why?”

“The same reason as the Lost Kids. You have something that I don't. You're something that I can never be, something that I can never know. I was raised on the streets, Nico. I'm far from innocent.” He turned to face Nico. “I'm also not someone you want to get involved with. I've tried to push you away, but you're so determined.” A smile found its way onto Percy's lips as he finished. He glanced up at the clock and sighed. “Do you want to sleep here tonight?”

Nico's eyes widened at the question. Percy was going to let him sleep here? With him? “You mean, in the same bed?”

“Yes, in the same bed,” Percy chuckled. He stood up and took the drinks into the kitchen, depositing them into the sink. He walked back into the room and looked at Nico. “Usually, at some point when each Lost Kid gets here, I let them when they need comforting. I just figured you finally could use it. This place has been hard on all of them when they first got here. I expected this when you said you wanted to work upstairs.”

Nico's face fell a little. He had hoped that he was special, that it wasn't common. “Oh,” Nico whispered.

Percy sighed, smiling at Nico. “Don't think of it like that. I know you need someone to comfort you, though. But I don't let any of them sleep here whenever they want to. It's just that I know this place is hard and, sometimes, they all need someone to comfort them. That can apply to you too, if you want.”

Nico nodded. He glanced up to meet Percy's gaze. “I would like to sleep here,” Nico finally told him.

Percy smiled again and extended his hand out to Nico. Nico pulled himself up and let Percy lead him back to his bedroom, turning off the lights on the way. Nico fidgeted in front of Percy's bed, as the green-eyed young man pulled his shirt off.

Percy chuckled at him. “You can get into the bed and make yourself comfortable,” Percy told him.

Nico nodded and climbed into the bed, letting out a small moan. He blushed as Percy raised an eyebrow at him. He covered his face in shame. He couldn't help it, the bed was so comfortable. He watched as Percy slid his pants off, staring at the boxer clad ass as he bent over to pick the pants up and toss them in a dirty clothes hamper. Nico's eyes dilated upon seeing Percy bent over. He had yet to see Percy naked, but he was definitely the biggest turn on, even clothed.

Percy stretched, giving Nico a good view of the front of his body. He smiled down at the black haired boy and crawled into bed “A-Aren't you going to get the lights?” Nico asked as Percy crawled on top of him.

Percy shrugged. “That depends, do you want to be able to see?”

“What?”

Percy sat back. “Unless you don't want to?”

Nico bit his lip. “Want to what?” Nico asked.

Percy sighed. “I'm going to give you something else to make a choice on, Nico. As with everything else, this is completely up to you.”

Nico blinked at him. “I don't want you to tease me again.”

Percy leaned in and nipped at Nico's neck, placing a hand behind Nico's back. “I'm not planning on pulling back this time,” Percy whispered into his ear. Nico shuddered. Percy pulled back to look at Nico in the face. “Not all the way, but I figured we could do something,” he explained.

Nico nodded his head, his eyes already hazed over. Percy chuckled and slipped Nico out of his shirt. He laid Nico down and ran his hand down Nico's torso, ghosting over the smooth skin. He held Nico's gaze as he slipped his fingers under Nico's jogging pants and slipped them off. He descended on Nico's nipple, licking and biting.

Percy gripped Nico's hip with one hand, while the other one lifted his lower half off the bed. Nico was beginning to wonder what he was doing, until he felt Percy press against him. He didn't move, he just sat there with Nico's ass pressing against his crotch. Nico's head fell back and Percy took the opportunity to suck on Nico's throat.

Nico closed his eyes as he felt Percy kiss across his body. He made his way down to Nico's navel, dipping his tongue inside. He moved over to Nico's hip, biting and sucking lightly at the skin there. Nico moaned and ran a hand down into Percy's hair. Percy then moved lower, just below where Nico's boxer-briefs ended, sucking there as well.

Nico tugged on Percy's face, trying to get him to come up to him. Percy inched back up Nico's body until he was hovering over Nico's face. Nico sat up, and Percy sat back. Nico leaned forward, inching his face closer to Percy. Percy seemed to hesitate for a brief moment before crashing his lips against Nico's.

It started off innocent enough, but soon escalated into heated kisses. Nico felt Percy slide his tongue across Nico's lips, asking for entrance. Nico didn't hesitate with granting him access. Percy's tongue slid into his mouth, sliding along Nico's own. Nico fell back down onto Percy's pillow, the kiss not breaking.

Percy's hands ended up on Nico's hips, pulling their bodies closer. Percy's tongue pulled out of his mouth, where Percy soon began sucking on Nico's lip. Nico whined when Percy pulled away. Nico was panting as he watched Percy lick his lips. He returned to Nico's sides, sucking on the skin just above the hips once again. Nico gasped and writhed beneath him. Percy chuckled against his skin, holding him in place.

“If you want me to stop, just let me know,” Percy whispered.

Nico's only reply was a moan. Was he crazy? Nico had wanted this for too long to back out now. Percy hovered over Nico as he lowered Nico's underwear, gazing down at Nico's naked form. He spread Nico's legs and kissed his way up Nico's right thigh. He halted nearby Nico's crotch, placing a long kiss on the pale boy's upper thigh. With a devilish grin, Percy bit and sucked at the skin there. Nico immediately jerked off the mattress, letting out a loud gasp. His leg squirmed, but Percy put a firm grip on it.

He continued to suck on that one place on Nico's upper thigh until Nico's head was jerking on the pillow, moaning in ecstasy. Percy ran a hand up Nico's other thigh. He settled on a spot and rubbed circles on it with his thumb.

Percy moved up to Nico's stomach where he kissed around Nico's navel. “Percy,” Nico moaned.

Percy leaned back and chuckled. “Haven't you ever heard of foreplay, Nico?”

Nico groaned. He was horny now, and he wanted more. Percy grinned up at him as he descended back to Nico's thigh, running a hand down Nico's chest. He went back to sucking on that sensitive spot on Nico's upper thigh. This time, however, he took a hold of Nico's hard dick and gave it a few jerks.

Percy moved his face a few inches to the left and sucked on the skin directly next to Nico's cock. Nico's hips seemed to move on their own as they rolled under Percy's administrations. Percy continued to suck on the skin there, while one of his hands continued to slowly stroke Nico.

Nico was about to go insane from this foreplay. His mind kept telling him to get Percy's mouth around his dick as soon as possible, but he couldn't seem to move. Percy placed a firm grip around Nico's dick, standing it straight up. He placed a final kiss to Nico's upper thigh before moving his head above Nico's arousal. He glanced up at Nico, smirking upon seeing the hazy look in Nico's eyes. He flicked his tongue out to swipe across the tip, teasing Nico with much satisfaction.

Nico moved his hands down to lace his fingers into Percy's black hair. Percy ran his tongue down the base of Nico's shaft, maintaining his eye contact the entire time. He dipped his tongue between Nico's balls before licking back up the shaft.

Percy swirled his tongue around the tip, chuckling at the moaning from Nico's mouth. “Enjoying yourself, Nico?” Percy whispered.

“Uh-huh,” Nico panted.

Percy hummed to himself as he licked around Nico's cock. He gripped Nico's balls and tugged on them while he continued to tease around the shaft. Nico yanked on his hair, trying to get him to go further, but Percy just chuckled up at him and continued his licking.

“Percy, please,” Nico said breathlessly, tightening his grip in Percy's hair.

Percy stared up at him silently for a moment, licking around the tip still. With a flick of his tongue, Percy raised himself up slightly, hovering above Nico's crotch. “Please what, Nico?” Percy whispered seductively.

Nico moaned and bucked his hips. “You know what.”

Percy smirked. “I want to hear you say it.”

Nico groaned and rested an arm over his eyes, hiding his eyes from Percy. “Suck me, please?” Nico mumbled.

Percy hummed and licked the tip again. “I'm sorry, I didn't quite hear that.”

“Please suck my dick, Percy!” Nico shouted. His cheeks darkened from his outburst and he still refused to move his arm.

He let out a gasp when he felt Percy's warm mouth envelop his erection. He moved his arm and stared down at Percy. His dark locks had fallen into his face as he slowly descended down Nico's shaft. Nico moaned as Percy reached the base. Percy locked gazes with Nico as he slid back up, sliding his tongue along the base as he did.

Percy sucked on Nico's dick as Nico writhed beneath him. Sweat was starting to build up on Nico's body as he let out a continuous string of moans. Was this real? This is what he had wanted, and he was having a hard time wrapping his head around the fact that this was really happening. But that could be blamed on the fact that he was having a hard time forming any sort of coherent thought. This was different from his time with Apollo. At least then he was able to get a few words out, but Percy was reducing him to an incoherent mess.

Percy sucked on the head for a while, his cheeks having sunk in. He hummed as he bobbed up and down on Nico's shaft. Nico bucked up into Percy's mouth, trying to get more out of it. Percy eventually held his hips down, gripping them tightly.

Nico propped himself up on his elbows and looked down at Percy, still sucking on his dick. He pulled on Percy's hair and pulled him off. Percy tilted his head to the side as Nico made him sit back. He slid into Percy's lap and wrapped his arms around Percy's neck.

Nico pecked Percy on the lips, and Percy smiled back at him. Percy leaned in and nipped at Nico's bottom lip. Nico rolled his hips in Percy's lap, eliciting a growl from Percy. They kissed for a few more seconds before Nico pulled back for air.

Nico bit his lip. Percy tried to lay him back down on the bed, but Nico wouldn't let him. He rocked his hips against Percy's lap. Percy took a deep breath as his eyes darkened. Percy moaned and gripped Nico's hips, thrusting up against Nico's ass.

Nico ran his hands down Percy's lean torso as Percy continued to thrust against him. He was a little entranced by the exposed flesh in front of him. So close, and he was finally able to really touch it. Nico buried his face into Percy's neck and mumbled something.

Percy pulled back and looked at him in confusion. “What was that?” Percy asked.

“I said I want to suck your dick,” muttered Nico.

Percy smirked. “You don't have to do that.”

“But I want to.”

Percy lowered his gaze, his eyebrows furrowing. He was silent for around a minute before looking back at Nico. “No,” he said with a voice of finality.

Nico blinked at him. “No?”

Percy nodded. “You're not sucking me off.”

Nico frowned. “Can I at least see you naked?”

Percy stared at him for a moment before nodding. He got off the bed and stood in front of Nico. Nico slid his legs off the side of the bed and sat on the edge, watching as Percy hooked his fingers under the hem of his black boxers.

Nico licked his lips as the fabric was slowly lowered from Percy's hips. Percy's hardened length bounced out from behind the material and Nico had to bit his lip to mask a moan. Percy was bigger than the average dick size, a fact that Nico found himself liking very much. It was perfect, just like the rest of him.

Percy stepped out of his boxers and brushed at his bangs. “Is that better?” Percy chuckled.

Nico stared at it in fascination. Percy smirked and stepped forward. Nico reached around to feel up Percy's ass. Percy smiled and turned around, giving Nico a full view of his backside. Nico moaned. How could one guy look so perfect? He didn't even have any tan lines. Percy turned back around, smile still in place, and slid his fingers into Nico's dark locks.

A mischievous spark appeared in Percy's eyes as he pushed Nico back on the bed. “Don't think we are done yet,” he chuckled. “I'm still going to take care of you.”

Percy reached over to his nightstand and opened the drawer. Nico watched as Percy retrieved a bottle of lube and dropped it on the bed. He hovered over Nico for a moment before leaning down to kiss his way back down Nico's chest. Percy lapped at Nico's navel again before returning to Nico's thigh. Sucking rather harshly there, Percy returned to his earlier activity of sucking on Nico's arousal.

Nico let his head fall back as he let himself enjoy Percy's administrations. Somewhere in the back of Nico's mind, he heard the click of the bottle, but he couldn't be bothered to pay too much attention to it. Percy's lips felt so amazing around his erection.

Nico yelped and jerked his hips up when he felt a cold finger pressing against his entrance. Percy sat up and chuckled at him. “Calm down,” said Percy.

“What was that?”

Percy raised an eyebrow. “I was going to finger you.”

Nico's cheeks blushed. “Oh, uh, sorry,” he mumbled.

Percy smirked and returned to sucking on Nico's cock. The finger once again pressed against Nico's entrance, but this time Nico didn't jerk away. His face did contort slightly from the uncomfortable feeling it was presenting him.

Percy pulled off of him and came up to nibble on his collarbone. “Relax,” he whispered.

Nico took a deep breath and nodded. Percy's finger slid into him as the owner returned to lick along Nico's shaft. It was still a little uncomfortable, but Nico could handle it. He let out a long moan when he felt Percy's mouth go back down on him at the same time that his fingers brushed against something inside of Nico.

Nico's mouth fell open as Percy continued to press his finger against that spot inside of him. His hands fell into the sheets, getting a firm grip on the fabric. A second finger was added, and the feeling uncomfortable feeling returned, but to a lesser degree.

Percy pressed directly against his prostate, dragging a loud moan from Nico's lips. Nico's breathing became ragged as Percy increased his suction. Every now and then, Percy would spread his two fingers apart and then go back to striking Nico's prostate. Nico felt like he might pass out from all of this. His vision was starting to blur, but his mouth was still working just fine, as he could not stop moaning.

He gasped and dug a hand into Percy's hair, trying to tug him off, but Percy swatted his hand away. Nico tried to open his mouth to warn Percy, but all that came out was a moan. He propped himself up on his elbows as he looked down at Percy. His head fell back when Percy kept his fingers against his prostate, massaging it. Percy looked up at Nico and they held gazes as Nico reached his climax. Nico saw white as he felt himself release into Percy's mouth before collapsing on the bed.

Nico whimpered as Percy's fingers were removed from him. Percy got off the bed and walked into his bathroom. Nico's eyes were starting to droop when Percy returned. Percy smirked and flipped the light switch, casting them into shadow.

 Nico felt Percy crawl into the bed beside him. He felt a hand settle onto his waist and he was pulled against the warm body behind him. Nico's eyes opened and closed a few times, trying to keep himself awake, but he was too spent. His head relaxed against the pillow, and soon he drifted off to sleep.