Mix everything together now, until the batter is smooth, and I'll get the pan started.

[ it's a temporary diversion tactic nico makes intentionally, almost not wanting to think about what percy's saying. it had nearly torn his heart to shreds bringing percy to his father that day in the underworld, even when he'd thought his father wouldn't hurt percy. but his father turning against him hadn't hurt nearly as much as losing percy's trust. hearing now that percy doesn't blame him makes something in his chest tighten and he has to swallow hard around the lump threatening to form in his throat.

so he distracts himself by grabbing a pan and coating it with a good amount of cooking spray before setting it on the burner. once done, there's nothing left to do but turn back towards where percy is and check on the son of poseidon. ]

Yeah. [ quietly as he gazes down into the bowl of batter, unwilling to lift his gaze to percy's. ]

I never thought we'd do anything like this together. Maybe... maybe we could do it more often?