GEMINI.
The morning sun seeped softly through the curtains, casting a warm, amber glow across the room. I stirred slowly, my eyelids fluttering open to the familiar sight of Percy's bedroom. The air smelled faintly of fresh coffee and something sweet—probably Penelope's cooking from downstairs, Percy did say she loved cooking. I blinked a few times, trying to orient myself, still surprised at how last night had unfolded.
For a moment, I just lay there, listening to the quiet hum of the house—the distant clatter of dishes, the faint rustle of Penelope moving about, and Percy's steady breathing beside me. This is not the first time I've slept over yet, I still find it strange, waking up in a place that wasn't my own, but oddly comforting.
I shifted slightly, trying not to wake Percy, and sat up carefully. My muscles felt a little stiff from sleeping awkwardly, but I was grateful for a good night rest. I hope Percy was able to sleep well too.
After a while, footsteps approached the doorway—Penelope, she opened the door gently, her long blonde hair tied back in a loose bun. She peeked in with a bright smile.
"Good morning, sweetie!" she greeted quietly, setting a tray of breakfast on the table. "Did you sleep okay?"
I nodded, still a little groggy but honestly feeling better than I had in a while. "Yeah, I did. Thanks for asking."
Percy stirred, rubbing his eyes as he sat up, stretching like a cat. "Morning," he mumbled, voice still thick with sleep, but a smile tugging at his lips. "Did you sleep well?"
I chuckled softly. "I should be asking you that but yes, I slept better than I expected."
Percy nodded with a smile. "Yeah, I slept well too. Sorry I attacked you last night, I guess I was more tired than I thought. It's been a long week."
"Good God, Percy! What did you do to him last night?" Penelope exclaimed.
"No, no, no! It's not like that!" I rushed to defend Percy, my voice rising. "He didn't actually attack me... He just held me while we were sleeping," I trailed off, my cheeks flushing as I noticed both of them looking at me. Penelope grinned from ear to ear, while Percy wore a look of amusement, a faint smile on his lips.
Penelope let out a warm laugh. "Well, come on, you two. Let's eat while it's still fresh." She urged us toward the couch, her smile still in place.
"Thanks, Pen." Percy said softly as his sister handed him a mug.
"I thought you might want something sweet." Penelope said smiling as she gave me a cup of hot chocolate and I nodded in appreciation.
I watched them for a moment, feeling a strange warmth inside—she takes care of her brother like a mother would. Strangely enough, she has added me to the mix. It's all so surreal. There's no way I found these two on my own, especially knowing how much I suck with people. It's hard to imagine that I haven't always known both of them. Is this what being part of a friend group feels like? Can I even call this that!
Percy looked at me, his expression softened like he could read my thoughts.
"Alright," he said. "Let's eat. You need something in your stomach before you head back to your dorm."
We all settled into the couch in Percy's bedroom, the breakfast tray is filled with pancakes, eggs, and fruit. Penelope kept chatting about her plans for the day—something about a new recipe she wants to try when she has time, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Percy kept stealing bites of her pancakes, grinning like a kid, and I found myself smiling too. Never in a million years did I ever imagine I would see both of them like this, so simple, so carefree. It feels really good—normal, even.
After breakfast, Percy stood up, stretching his body. "Do you want to shower before heading out?" he asked, his tone casual but friendly.
I nodded as Penelope gathered our breakfast plates. "Yeah, a quick shower before heading out would be nice."
Percy looked at me thoughtfully, then hesitated before speaking. "What time should I come to pick you up tonight?"
I thought for a moment, then shrugged. "Actually, you can come a little later than yesterday. I'll be hanging out with Ohio after my part-time job. We're just going to hangout, probably hit up that new arcade downtown."
"Ohio, huh? Friend of yours?" Penelope asked with a smile.
I smiled, feeling a bit bashful for some reason. "Yeah, she's been wanting to check out that place."
Penelope giggled softly, setting down her cup. "Well, tell Ohio I said hi! And don't forget to take a break from your part time job once in a while, Gem. You're already working hard in school."
I nodded, feeling grateful for her kindness. "Will do. Thanks, Penelope."
"You're welcome, sweetie." she replied before excusing herself.
I quickly showered and got ready to head out. As I headed out the door, Penelope waved cheerfully, as Percy led me to his car.
"Take care, Gem. And don't forget—stay safe, okay?" she called after me.
"Thanks! I'll see you tonight." I called back feeling warm on the inside again.
The drive to the campus was quick, Percy dropped me off and as I grabbed my bag to get out of the car, he looked at me with a serious expression. "Hey, text me if anything comes up."
I nodded, a little smile forming on my face. "I will, thanks"
He smiled back, "See you later."
I got out and watched him drive away. Outside, the air was crisp and fresh, the city waking up around me. I took a deep breath, feeling good. The day ahead is full of routine, but somehow, it feels different—easier, brighter.
And as I made my way into the building, I couldn't help but think about how good it is to have a place to come back to—whether it was Percy's house, my dorm, it feels like I'm finally making a life for myself.