PERCY.
The sleek, polished interior of the restaurant was everything I'd expected—crystal chandeliers, soft jazz playing in the background, and waiters moving gracefully between tables. Penelope and I sat across from our parents, both of whom looked impeccable as always. Our mother, in a tailored suit that matched her poised demeanor, her shiny blonde hair identical to ours was practically glowing with pride as she examined the latest sketches I'd brought along. I can't tell if this is a business meeting or a family dinner.
"Percy," she said, her eyes shining, "these designs are incredible! Truly innovative. Once the design department approves them, we'll be able to move forward with production. I think this could be your best work yet."
I nodded, trying to hide the nervous excitement that followed. It was always gratifying when she praised my work, even if her comments came with that familiar undertone of high expectations. Soon enough the attention shifted to Penelope, she animatedly talked about her recent Fashion Week looks—the new collection had turned heads. It makes me happy to see her doing what she loves. She was also showing off some of her latest makeup looks, which she described in detail, making the table laugh at her enthusiasm.
Our father, sitting beside our mother, was quietly content. His law firm was doing well—more clients, more cases, and a few promising opportunities that he kept mentioning with that understated confidence. I could tell he was proud of Penelope and me, though he never said it outright. Instead, he left the praise to mom, who seemed to think it was her job to keep us motivated.
The conversation flowed smoothly—fashion, law, future business plans. I appreciated the momentary escape into a world of success and high ambitions. But, as usual, the talk drifted toward the endless topic I always dreaded: matchmaking.
Mom leaned in slightly, her eyes twinkling with that familiar mischievous spark. "You know, Percy, I was thinking—your father's business partner's daughter, Clara, is a lovely girl. I think she'd be perfect for you. You should meet her sometime."
I forced a polite smile, feeling the familiar weight of her insistence. "Thanks, mother, but I'm not really looking—"
"Oh, come on," she interrupted, waving her hand dismissively. "You're both at that age. It's time to start thinking about dating for marriage. Besides, Clara's parents are wonderful people. I think you'd get along..."
"Mom," Penelope interrupted gently, giving her a pointed look. "He's not really looking to date right now, you know. Percy's got his own things to focus on."
Our mother sighed, disappointed but masking it quickly. "Of course, darling. I just want the best for you both. You're both talented, but sometimes I worry you're too focused on work and school to see what's out there."
I felt that familiar weight settle on my chest, the sense of being subtly pushed into a mold I didn't quite fit into. The conversation drifted into more small talks, but I was already zoning out.
The dinner wasn't bad, exactly. The food was exquisite, and the company was, well family but beneath the surface, I was feeling more drained than anything else. The conversation about future plans and 'finding someone to do life with' feels exhausting as always.
After dessert, check arrived, I was ready to leave. I excused myself quickly, thanking everyone for dinner, and stepped outside into the fresh air. The city was bustling, and I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the heaviness.
I'm in desperate need of a good night sleep, thankfully, I will be heading out to get Gemini soon. He's usually my only source of relief these days. I find myself looking forward to seeing him, to hearing his voice, to just being around someone who didn't expect me to be perfect, who didn't ask about my future plans or try to set me up with anyone. And as I waited for my car, I couldn't help but feel a flicker of anticipation—soon, I will see him, and all this tiring feelings will fade away.
The drive to the campus was quick, I had already texted him that I was on my way so I just waited outside his dorm building, resting on the hood of my car, a small smile crept across my face when I saw him walking out. He looked up eyes bright, and waved with a smile.
"Hey," I called out.
Hey," he replied with a smile. "Thanks for coming."
I nodded before asking him. "You alright?"
"Yeah, I'm alright."
He sounds tired. Must've had a long day too.
"Ready to go?"
He nodded, climbing into the car easily. I felt that familiar sense of relief settle in—just seeing him, hearing his voice, and somehow everything suddenly feels better.
As I started driving away from campus, I couldn't help but think about how strange it was—how the evening had been filled with talks of success, expectations, and random small talks that left me feeling drained. But now I suddenly feel like I can talk about anything.
We reached my house and the engine purred softly as I guided my car through the gate, the familiar hum of the city fading behind us. Gemini sat quietly beside me, eyes half-lidded, hands clasped in his lap, as if he was already retreating into his own thoughts. I glanced over, noting the faint, contemplative expression on his face.
"Hey," I said gently, breaking the silence as I turned off the engine. "How was your day?"
Gemini looked at me, his eyes slowly focusing. For a moment, he didn't say anything—just stared, as if trying to piece together what he'd experienced today. Then, softly, he began to speak, voice calm but thoughtful.
"It was pretty good," he said, eyes drifting to the window. "Classes went well… Ohio and I went to that new arcade outside campus after my shift. It was loud and bright, lots of games. I won a small plush for Ohio. She seemed really happy."
I watched him, listening closely as he recounted everything with quiet attention.
"After that, we saw some theater students. They invited us to watch their show next week. Said it was a mix of dance, drama, and visual art. I think I want to go."
He paused, then added, "It sounded interesting. I like stories like that."
I nodded, smiling at how he absorbed everything like a sponge. "I bet it'll be a cool show."
Gemini's gaze shifted to the house, his expression softening. "You…you look tired after dinner with your parents." he said softly. "The sketches on your bedside this morning were really pretty." he added making me smile. He's really trying not to ask me questions.
"Thanks for saying my designs are pretty. Once the design team approves, they'll be able to start production. And don't worry, dinner with my parents went well, I'm just tired from talking."
"Oh, that's awesome!" he said smiling.
"Yeah," I replied, feeling much better inside. "I've been working on those sketches for a while, so it's nice to see things moving forward." He nodded again, still smiling. He seems more relaxed now.
"We should go inside, Penelope must be back home too."
I chuckled softly thinking about how they're always asking about each other. "She's staying at a friend's place. It's just you and me tonight."
Gemini's gaze drifted back to the house, and I could see the quiet reflection in his eyes. He was always listening, always paying attention to the little details—like he was trying to piece together the world in his own way.
"Sounds like you had a pretty good day. Are you feeling better now?" I asked and Gemini looked at him, a faint smile touching his lips.
"Honestly, yes I do." He glanced down at his hands, then back out the window again. "Thanks for coming to pick me up. I like talking about it with you." he mumbled quietly and I reached over, ruffling his hair.
"Anytime, buddy. I like hearing about your day. Ready to head inside?"
Gemini nodded, unbuckling his seatbelt.
"Yeah. I think I'm ready."
The quiet between us was comfortable as I led him inside—just two guys, talking about our day. It's...nice.